bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of physical fitness on antioxidant activity and malondialdehyde level in healthy older adults
Authors: Bouzid Mohamed Amine , Hammouda Omar , Matran Régis , Robin Sophie , Fabre Claudine
Published: February 2015

The aim of this study was to investigate how physical fitness level could affect antioxidant activity and malondialdehyde (MDA) level at rest and in response to exhaustive exercise in healthy older adults. Fifty older adults (average age: 66.1 ± 3.8 years) were divided according to their physical fitness level into an unfit group (UG) (n = 15), a low fitness level group (LFG) (n = 18), and a high fitness level group (HFG) (n = 17). Fitness status was classified based on answers to a questionnaire about physical activity in the previous 12 months. Before and after an incremental cycle ergometer test to exhaustion, the following markers were assessed: superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), glutathione reductase, ascorbic acid, α-tocopherol, and MDA. At rest, SOD, GPX, and α-tocopherol activities were higher in the HFG (p < 0.05), whereas MDA level was lower in the LFG in comparison with the 2 other groups (p < 0.05). During the postexercise period, antioxidant activity increased only in the LFG and the HFG (GPX, SOD, and α-tocopherol). MDA level increased in all groups after the exercise (p < 0.05). In addition, MDA level was higher during the recovery period in the HFG as compared with the others groups. This study concluded that both low and high physical fitness levels help maintain better antioxidant defenses in older adults. However, a higher physical fitness level, rather than a lower physical fitness level, could increase lipid peroxidation.
Property T for locally compact quantum groups
Authors: Chen Xiao , Ng Chi-Keung
Published: February 2015

In this short paper, we obtained some equivalent formulations of property T for a general locally compact quantum group 𝔾, in terms of the full quantum group C*-algebras [Formula: see text] and the *-representation of [Formula: see text] associated with the trivial unitary corepresentation (that generalize the corresponding results for locally compact groups). Moreover, if 𝔾 is of Kac type, we show that 𝔾 has property T if and only if every finite-dimensional irreducible *-representation of [Formula: see text] is an isolated point in the spectrum of [Formula: see text] (this also generalizes the corresponding locally compact group result). In addition, we give a way to construct property T discrete quantum groups using bicrossed products.
A topological obstruction to the removal of a degenerate complex tangent and some related homotopy and homology groups
Authors: Elgindi Ali M.
Published: February 2015

In this paper, we derive a topological obstruction to the removal of an isolated degenerate complex tangent to an embedding of a 3-manifold into ℂ3 (without affecting the structure of the remaining complex tangents). We demonstrate how the vanishing of this obstruction is both a necessary and sufficient condition for the (local) removal of the isolated complex tangent. The obstruction is a certain homotopy class of the space 𝕐 consisting of totally real 3-planes in the Grassmannian of real 3-planes in ℂ3(= ℝ6). We further compute additional homotopy and homology groups for the space 𝕐 and of its complement 𝕎 consisting of "partially complex" 3-planes in ℂ3.
Some uniqueness results for singular elliptic problems
Authors: Caso L. , D'Ambrosio R.
Published: February 2015

We prove some uniqueness results for Dirichlet problems for second-order linear elliptic partial differential equations in non-divergence form with singular data in suitable weighted Sobolev spaces, on an open subset Ω of ℝn, n ≥ 2, not necessarily bounded or regular.
Induction of α-Phellandrene on Autophagy in Human Liver Tumor Cells
Authors: Hsieh Lan-Chi , Hsieh Shu-Ling , Chen Chi-Tsai , Chung Jing-Gung , Wang Jyu-Jye , Wu Chih-Chung
Published: February 2015

α-Phellandrene (α-PA) is a cyclic monoterpene. To investigate the induction of autophagy by α-PA and its mechanism, human liver tumor cells (J5) were incubated with α-PA and analyzed for cell viability and the molecular regulation of pre-autophagosome origination and autophagosome formation. According to the results, PI3K-I, mTOR, and Akt protein levels were decreased after α-PA treatment compared to those of the control group (p < 0.05). The phosphorylation of Bcl-2, and PI3K-III, LC3-II and Beclin-1 protein levels in J5 cells were increased after α-PA treatment (p < 0.05). In addition, α-PA up-regulated nuclear p53 and down-regulated cytoplasmic p53 expression in J5 cells. The NF-κB pathway was activated, as indicated by increase in cytosolic phosphorylated IκB, nuclear NF-κB levels, and the DNA-binding activity of NF-κB after α-PA treatment in J5 cells (p < 0.05). These results suggest that α-PA can induce J5 cell autophagy by regulating mTOR and LC-3II expression, p53 signaling, and NF-κB activation in J5 cells.
Hole intersubband transitions in wurtzite and zinc-blende strained AlGaN/GaN quantum wells and its interband interaction dependence
Authors: Saidi Hosni , Ridene Said , Bouchriha Habib
Published: February 2015

Valence intersubband transitions of the wurtzite (WZ) strained AlGaN/GaN quantum wells are examined theoretically and compared with those of the zinc-blende (ZB) ones. In particular, the effect of the interband interaction between conduction (CB) and valence (VB) bands has been taken into account explicitly. We have used the 8-bands k.p model for both WZ and ZB structures to calculate subband energies and wavefunctions of Al 0.3 Ga 0.7 N/GaN quantum wells (QWs). The results indicate that, the prominent transitions for both ZB and WZ QWs were found to be essentially related to the heavy- and light-hole subbands. For the x-polarization, we have shown that it is necessary to take into account explicitly the interband interaction between CB and VB. Finally, we can predict that WZ QWs are more convenient than ZB QWs in most applications involving intersubband transitions, especially for the z-polarized light.
Effect of SW defect on structural and transport properties of silicene nanoribbons
Authors: Zha Dace , Chen Changpeng , Wu Jinping , Wang Manman
Published: February 2015

Using density functional theory and nonequilibrium Green's function technique, we performed theoretical investigations on the structural and transport properties of zigzag silicene nanoribbons (SiNRs) with Stone–Wales (SW) defect. The calculated formation energy is significantly lower than that of graphene and silicene, which implies the high stability of such defect in SiNRs. Negative differential resistance (NDR) can be observed within certain bias voltage range in both perfect and SW-defected SiNRs. In order to elucidate the mechanism, the NDR behavior, the transmission spectra and molecular projected self-consistent Hamiltonian (MPSH) states are discussed in details.
Numerical investigation of dynamics of unsteady sheet/cloud cavitating flow using a compressible fluid model
Authors: Chen Guang-Hao , Wang Guo-Yu , Huang Biao , Hu Chang-Li , Wang Zhi-Ying , Wang Jian
Published: February 2015

In this paper, a compressible fluid model is proposed to investigate dynamics of the turbulent cavitating flow over a Clark-Y hydrofoil. The numerical simulation is based on the homogeneous mixture approach coupled with filter-based density correction model (FBDCM) turbulence model and Zwart cavitation model. Considering the compressibility effect, the equation of state of each phase is introduced into the numerical model. The results show that the predicted results agree well with experimental data concerning the time-averaged lift/drag coefficient and shedding frequency. The quasi-periodic evolution of sheet/cloud cavitation and the resulting lift and drag are discussed in detail. Especially, the present compressible-mixture numerical model is capable of simulating the shock waves in the final stage of cavity collapse. It is found that the shock waves may cause the transient significant increase and decrease in lift and drag if the cavity collapses near the foil surface.
Large and tunable thermoelectric effect in single layer graphene on bilayer graphene
Authors: Alisultanov Z. Z.
Published: February 2015

The conductivity and thermopower of a trilayer graphene based system have been studied within the framework of a simple model. It has been shown that kinks of the conductivity and peaks of the thermopower of the monolayer graphene formed on a tunable bilayer graphene appear near the edges of the band gap of the tunable bilayer graphene.
Inflation, string theory and cosmic strings
Authors: Chernoff David F. , Tye S.-H. Henry
Published: February 2015

At its very beginning, the universe is believed to have grown exponentially in size via the mechanism of inflation. The almost scale-invariant density perturbation spectrum predicted by inflation is strongly supported by cosmological observations, in particular the cosmic microwave background (MB) radiation. However, the universe's precise inflationary scenario remains a profound problem for cosmology and for fundamental physics. String theory, the most-studied theory as the final physical theory of nature, should provide an answer to this question. Some of the proposals on how inflation is realized in string theory are reviewed. Since everything is made of strings, some string loops of cosmological sizes are likely to survive in the hot big bang that followed inflation. They appear as cosmic strings, which can have intricate properties. Because of the warped geometry in flux compactification of the extra spatial dimensions in string theory, some of the cosmic strings may have tensions substantially below the Planck or string scale. Such strings cluster in a manner similar to dark matter leading to hugely enhanced densities. As a result, numerous fossil remnants of the low tension cosmic strings may exist within the galaxy. They can be revealed through the optical lensing of background stars in the near future and studied in detail through gravitational wave emission. We anticipate that these cosmic strings will permit us to address central questions about the properties of string theory as well as the birth of our universe.
Investigation of Instability for a Sub-Framed Steel Structure at Elevated Temperatures
Authors: Hu Y. , Plank R. J.
Published: February 2015

Experimental evidence demonstrates the complexity of beam-to-column connections at elevated temperatures and its performance has been identified in association with instability of steel members or steel-framed structures. This paper presents a research work on the inelastic behavior of a sub-framed structure at high temperatures, adopting a component-based model to represent restraints to steel members, then produced by finite element simulation, to demonstrate performance of sub-framed structures at elevated temperatures. The finite element simulation demonstrates that instability of steel members in a sub-framed structure is associated with temperature-dependent material properties (e.g. strength or deformation) of bolted connections at the ends of steel members. In addition, connection failure mechanism is very much dependent on connection components already identified, and their strength and ductility. Instability of steel members in catenary action has also been discussed for high temperatures in this paper.
Dimeric 1:2 adduct of β,β′-bis(diphenylphosphino)porphyrin with silver(I) chloride
Authors: Fujimoto Keisuke , Yorimitsu Hideki , Osuka Atsuhiro
Published: February 2015

A 2,18-bis(diphenylphosphino)porphyrin ligand undergoes complexation with silver(I) chloride to afford a stable phosphine-silver complex. X-ray crystallographic analysis of the complex revealed a dimeric structure of a 1:2 adduct of the diphosphine and silver(I) chloride, where each phosphorus atom coordinates a silver atom. The four AgCl units construct a distorted cubic cluster with small metallophilic interaction. Variable temperature 31 P NMR study exhibited a slow ligand exchange process between 107 Ag and 109 Ag at high temperature.
An Integrated Device View on Photo-Electrochemical Solar-Hydrogen Generation
Authors: Modestino Miguel A. , Haussener Sophia
Published: February 2015

Devices that directly capture and store solar energy have the potential to significantly increase the share of energy from intermittent renewable sources. Photo-electrochemical solar-hydrogen generators could become an important contributor, as these devices can convert solar energy into fuels that can be used throughout all sectors of energy. Rather than focusing on scientific achievement on the component level, this article reviews aspects of overall component integration in photo-electrochemical water-splitting devices that ultimately can lead to deployable devices. Throughout the article, three generalized categories of devices are considered with different levels of integration and spanning the range of complete integration by one-material photo-electrochemical approaches to complete decoupling by photovoltaics and electrolyzer devices. By using this generalized framework, we describe the physical aspects, device requirements, and practical implications involved with developing practical photo-electrochemical water-splitting devices. Aspects reviewed include macroscopic coupled multiphysics device models, physical device demonstrations, and economic and life cycle assessments, providing the grounds to draw conclusions on the overall technological outlook.
Oceanic Forcing of Ice-Sheet Retreat: West Antarctica and More
Authors: Alley Richard B. , Anandakrishnan Sridhar , Christianson Knut , Horgan Huw J. , Muto Atsu , Parizek Byron R. , Pollard David , Walker Ryan T.
Published: February 2015

Ocean-ice interactions have exerted primary control on the Antarctic Ice Sheet and parts of the Greenland Ice Sheet, and will continue to do so in the near future, especially through melting of ice shelves and calving cliffs. Retreat in response to increasing marine melting typically exhibits threshold behavior, with little change for forcing below the threshold but a rapid, possibly delayed shift to a reduced state once the threshold is exceeded. For Thwaites Glacier, West Antarctica, the threshold may already have been exceeded, although rapid change may be delayed by centuries, and the reduced state will likely involve loss of most of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet, causing >3 m of sea-level rise. Because of shortcomings in physical understanding and available data, uncertainty persists about this threshold and the subsequent rate of change. Although sea-level histories and physical understanding allow the possibility that ice-sheet response could be quite fast, no strong constraints are yet available on the worst-case scenario. Recent work also suggests that the Greenland and East Antarctic Ice Sheets share some of the same vulnerabilities to shrinkage from marine influence.
Electrostatic Coating Technologies for Food Processing
Authors: Barringer Sheryl A. , Sumonsiri Nutsuda
Published: February 2015

The application of electrostatics in both powder and liquid coating can improve the quality of food, such as its appearance, aroma, taste, and shelf life. Coatings can be found most commonly in the snack food industry, as well as in confectionery, bakery, meat and cheese processing. In electrostatic powder coating, the most important factors influencing coating quality are powder particle size, density, flowability, charge, and resistivity, as well as the surface properties and characteristics of the target. The most important factors during electrostatic liquid coating, also known as electrohydrodynamic coating, include applied voltage and electrical resistivity and viscosity of the liquid. A good understanding of these factors is needed for the design of optimal coating systems for food processing.
Organization of Artificial Superlattices Utilizing Nanosheets as a Building Block and Exploration of Their Advanced Functions
Authors: Ma Renzhi , Sasaki Takayoshi
Published: February 2015

This review covers some of the latest developments in the organization of artificial superlattice assemblies utilizing colloidal oxide or hydroxide nanosheets bearing a negative or positive charge, respectively. Various solution-based procedures, e.g., flocculation, electrostatic sequential adsorption, and Langmuir-Blodgett deposition, have been introduced for the self-assembly of 2D nanosheets. Superlattice composites or films integrated with different nanosheets may yield concerted or synergistic modulation, e.g., soft coupling or new electronic states at interfaces. This behavior offers an unprecedented opportunity for the exploration of high-performance devices, as well as advanced or novel functions that cannot be achieved with a single-component material.
Stereotype Threat in Organizations: Implications for Equity and Performance
Authors: Walton Gregory M. , Murphy Mary C. , Ryan Ann Marie
Published: February 2015

Over the past 20 years, a large body of laboratory and field research has shown that, when people perform in settings in which their group is negatively stereotyped, they may experience a phenomenon called stereotype threat that can undermine motivation and trust and cause underperformance. This review describes that research and places it into an organizational context. First, we describe the processes by which stereotype threat can impair outcomes among people in the workplace. Next, we delineate the situational cues in organizational settings that can exacerbate stereotype threat, and explain how and why these cues affect stereotyped individuals. Finally, we discuss relatively simple empirically based strategies that organizations can implement to reduce stereotype threat and create conditions in which employees and applicants from all groups can succeed.
Upconversion of Rare Earth Nanomaterials
Authors: Sun Ling-Dong , Dong Hao , Zhang Pei-Zhi , Yan Chun-Hua
Published: February 2015

Rare earth nanomaterials, which feature long-lived intermediate energy levels and intraconfigurational 4f-4f transitions, are promising supporters for photon upconversion. Owing to their unique optical properties, rare earth upconversion nanomaterials have found applications in bioimaging, theranostics, photovoltaic devices, and photochemical reactions. Here, we review recent advances in the photon upconversion processes of these nanomaterials. We start by considering energy transfer models involved in the study of upconversion emissions, as well as well-established synthesis strategies to control the size and shape of rare earth upconversion nanomaterials. Progress in engineering energy transfer pathways, which play a dominant role in determining upconversion emission outputs, is then discussed. Lastly, representative optical applications of these materials are considered. The aim of this review is to provide inspiration for researchers to explore novel upconversion nanomaterials and extended optical applications.
Experiments in International Relations: Lab, Survey, and Field
Authors: Hyde Susan D.
Published: February 2015

At conferences, at seminars, and on political science blogs, the potential utility of experimental methods for international relations (IR) research continues to be a hotly contested topic. Given the recent rise in creative applications of experimental methods, now is a useful moment to reflect more generally on the potential value of experiments to study international affairs, how these inherently micro-level methods can shed light on bigger-picture questions, what has been learned already, what goals are probably out of reach, and how various research agendas in IR might productively incorporate experiments.
Effects of chronic hypoxia on cardiac function measured by pressure-volume catheter in fetal chickens
Authors: Jonker Sonnet S. , Giraud George D. , Espinoza Herbert M. , Davis Erica N. , Crossley Dane A.
Published: February 2015

Hypoxia is a common component of many developmental insults and has been studied in early-stage chicken development. However, its impact on cardiac function and arterial-ventricular coupling in late-stage chickens is relatively unknown. To test the hypothesis that hypoxic incubation would reduce baseline cardiac function but protect the heart during acute hypoxia in late-stage chickens, white Leghorn eggs were incubated at 21% O2 or 15% O2. At 90% of incubation (19 days), hypoxic incubation caused growth restriction (−20%) and increased the LV-to-body ratio (+41%). Left ventricular (LV) pressure-volume loops were measured in anesthetized chickens in normoxia and acute hypoxia (10% O2). Hypoxic incubation lowered the maximal rate of pressure generation (ΔP/Δ tMax; −22%) and output (−57%), whereas increasing end-systolic elastance ( ELV; +31%) and arterial elastance ( EA; +122%) at similar heart rates to normoxic incubation. Both hypoxic incubation and acute hypoxia lengthened the half-time of relaxation (τ; +24%). Acute hypoxia reduced heart rate (−8%) and increased end-diastolic pressure (+35%). Hearts were collected for mRNA analysis. Hypoxic incubation was marked by decreased mRNA expression of sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase 2, Na+/Ca2+ exchanger 1, phospholamban, and ryanodine receptor. In summary, hypoxic incubation reduces LV function in the late-stage chicken by slowing pressure generation and relaxation, which may be driven by altered intracellular excitation-contraction coupling. Cardiac efficiency is greatly reduced after hypoxic incubation. In both incubation groups acute hypoxia reduced diastolic function.
Transcriptomes reveal alterations in gravity impact circadian clocks and activate mechanotransduction pathways with adaptation through epigenetic change
Authors: Casey Theresa , Patel Osman V. , Plaut Karen
Published: February 2015

Few studies have investigated the impact of alterations in gravity on mammalian transcriptomes. Here, we describe the impact of spaceflight on mammary transcriptome of late pregnant rats and the effect of hypergravity exposure on mammary, liver, and adipose transcriptomes in late pregnancy and at the onset of lactation. RNA was isolated from mammary collected on pregnancy day 20 from rats exposed to spaceflight from days 11 to 20 of gestation. To measure the impact of hypergravity on mammary, liver, and adipose transcriptomes we isolated RNA from tissues collected on P20 and lactation day 1 from rats exposed to hypergravity beginning on pregnancy day 9. Gene expression was measured with Affymetrix GeneChips. Microarray analysis of variance revealed alterations in gravity affected the expression of genes that regulate circadian clocks and activate mechanotransduction pathways. Changes in these systems may explain global gene expression changes in immune response, metabolism, and cell proliferation. Expression of genes that modify chromatin structure and methylation was affected, suggesting adaptation to gravity alterations may proceed through epigenetic change. Altered gravity experiments offer insights into the role of forces omnipresent on Earth that shape genomes in heritable ways. Our study is the first to analyze the impact of alterations in gravity on transcriptomes of pregnant and lactating mammals. Findings provide insight into systems that sense gravity and the way in which they affect phenotype, as well as the possibility of sustaining life beyond Earth's orbit.
Natal Teeth: A Case Report and Reappraisal
Authors: Malki Ghadah A. , Al-Badawi Emad A. , Dahlan Mohammad A.
Published: February 2015

The presence of teeth at birth (natal teeth) or within a month after delivery (neonatal teeth) is a rare condition. Natal and neonatal teeth are conditions of significant importance to pediatric dentists and pediatricians. This report discusses a case in which a five-day-old infant required extraction of a mobile mandibular natal tooth to avoid the risk of aspiration and interference with feeding. Also, a review of the literature was conducted to discuss the etiology, clinical features, complications, and management of natal and neonatal teeth.
Genetic Variability ofCandida albicansSap8 Propeptide in Isolates from Different Types of Infection
Authors: Carvalho-Pereira Joana , Vaz Catarina , Carneiro Catarina , Pais Célia , Sampaio Paula
Published: February 2015

The secreted aspartic proteases (Saps) are among the most studied virulence determinants inCandida albicans. These proteins are translated as pre-pro-enzymes consisting of a signal sequence followed by a propeptide and the mature enzyme. The propeptides of secreted proteinases are important for the correct processing, folding/secretion of the mature enzyme. In this study, the DNA sequences ofC. albicansSaps were screened and a microsatellite was identified inSAP8propeptide region. The genetic variability of the repetitive region of Sap8 propeptide was determined in 108C. albicansindependent strains isolated from different types of infection: oral infection (OI), oral commensal (OC), vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC), and bloodstream infections (BSI). Nine different propeptides for Sap8 processing were identified whose frequencies varied with the type of infection. OC strains presented the highest gene diversity while OI isolated the lowest. The contribution of the Saps to mucosal and systemic infections has been demonstrated and recently Sap8 has been implicated in the cleavage of a signalling glycoprotein that leads to Cek1-MAPK pathway activation. This work is the first to identify a variable microsatellite in the propeptide of a secreted aspartic protease and brings new insights into the variability of Sap8.
Cardiopulmonary Bypass and Oxidative Stress
Authors: Zakkar Mustafa , Guida Gustavo , Suleiman M-Saadeh , Angelini Gianni D.
Published: February 2015

The development of the cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) revolutionized cardiac surgery and contributed immensely to improved patients outcomes. CPB is associated with the activation of different coagulation, proinflammatory, survival cascades and altered redox state. Haemolysis, ischaemia, and perfusion injury and neutrophils activation during CPB play a pivotal role in oxidative stress and the associated activation of proinflammatory and proapoptotic signalling pathways which can affect the function and recovery of multiple organs such as the myocardium, lungs, and kidneys and influence clinical outcomes. The administration of agents with antioxidant properties during surgery either intravenously or in the cardioplegia solution may reduce ROS burst and oxidative stress during CPB. Alternatively, the use of modified circuits such as minibypass can modify both proinflammatory responses and oxidative stress.
Proinflammatory Cytokines in Prostate Cancer Development and Progression Promoted by High-Fat Diet
Authors: Xu Hua , Hu Meng-bo , Bai Pei-de , Zhu Wen-hui , Liu Sheng-hua , Hou Jun-yao , Xiong Zu-quan , Ding Qiang , Jiang Hao-wen
Published: February 2015

Background. We aimed to examine whether proinflammatory cytokines participated in prostate cancer (PCa) development and progression promoted by high-fat diet (HFD).Methods. TRAMP (transgenic adenocarcinoma mouse prostate) mice were randomly divided into two groups: normal diet group and HFD group. Mortality rate and tumor formation rate were examined. TRAMP mice were sacrificed and sampled on the 20th, 24th, and 28th week, respectively. Levels of proinflammatory cytokines, including IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α, were tested by FlowCytomix. Prostate tissue of TRAMP mice was used for histology study.Results. A total of 13 deaths of TRAMP mice were observed, among which 3 (8.33%) were from the normal diet group and 10 (27.78%) from the HFD group. The mortality rate of TRAMP mice from HFD group was significantly higher than that of normal diet group (P=0.032). Tumor formation rate at 20th week of age of HFD group was significantly higher than that of normal diet group (P=0.045). Proinflammatory cytokines levels, including IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α, were significantly higher in HFD TRAMP mice.Conclusions. HFD could promote TRAMP mouse PCa development and progression with elevated proinflammatory cytokines levels. Proinflammatory cytokines could contribute to PCa development and progression promoted by HFD.
SALMO and S3M: A Saliva Model and a Single Saliva Salt Model for Equilibrium Studies
Authors: Crea Francesco , De Stefano Concetta , Milea Demetrio , Pettignano Alberto , Sammartano Silvio
Published: February 2015

A model of synthetic saliva (SALMO, SALiva MOdel) is proposed for its use as standard medium inin vitroequilibrium and speciation studies of real saliva. The concentrations come out from the literature analysis of the composition of both real saliva and synthetic saliva. The chief interactions of main inorganic components of saliva, as well as urea and amino acids, are taken into account on the basis of a complex formation model, which also considers the dependence of the stability constants of these species on ionic strength and temperature. These last features allow the modelling of the speciation of saliva in different physiological conditions deriving from processes like dilution, pH, and temperature changes. To simplify equilibrium calculations, a plain approach is also proposed, in order to take into account all the interactions among the major components of saliva, by considering the inorganic components of saliva as a single 1 : 1 salt (MX), whose concentration iscMX=(1/2)∑ci(ci= analytical concentration of all the ions) andzion charge calculated asz=±(I/cMX)1/2= ±1.163. The use of the Single Saliva Salt Model (S3M) considerably reduces the complexity of the systems to be investigated. In fact, only four species deriving from internal ionic medium interactions must be considered.
Muscle IGF-1-Induced Skeletal Muscle Hypertrophy Evokes Higher Insulin Sensitivity and Carbohydrate Use as Preferential Energy Substrate
Authors: Christoffolete Marcelo Augusto , Silva William Jose , Ramos Gracielle Vieira , Bento Mirella Ribeiro , Costa Monique Oliveira , Ribeiro Miriam Oliveira , Okamoto Maristela Mitiko , Lohmann Tania Helena , Machado Ubiratan Fabres , Musarò Antonio , Moriscot Anselmo Sigari
Published: February 2015

We characterized the metabolic profile of transgenic mice exhibiting enhanced muscle mass driven by increased mIGF-1 expression (MLC/mIGF-1). As expected, 6-month-old MLC/mIGF-1 mice were heavier than age-matched wild type (WT) mice (37.4 ± 0.3 versus 31.8 ± 0.6 g, resp.). MLC/mIGF-1 mice had higher respiratory quotient when compared to WT (0.9 ± 0.03 versus 0.74 ± 0.02, resp.) suggesting a preference for carbohydrate as the major fuel source. MLC/mIGF-1 mice had a higher rate of glucose disposal when compared to WT (3.25 ± 0.14 versus 2.39 ± 0.03%/min, resp.). The higher disposal rate correlated to ∼2-fold higher GLUT4 content in the extensor digitorum longus (EDL) muscle. Analysis of mRNA content for the glycolysis-related gene PFK-1 showed ∼3-fold upregulation in MLC/mIGF-1 animals. We also found a 50% downregulation of PGC1αmRNA levels in MLC/mIGF-1 mouse EDL muscle, suggesting less abundant mitochondria in this tissue. We found no difference in the expression of PPARαand PPARβ/δ, suggesting no modulation of key elements in oxidative metabolism. These data together suggest a shift in metabolism towards higher carbohydrate utilization, and that could explain the increased insulin sensitivity of hypertrophied skeletal muscle in MLC/mIGF-1 mice.
Analysis of Vibrations Generated by the Presence of Corrugation in a Modeled Tram Track
Authors: Real Herráiz Julia I. , Morales-Ivorra Silvia , Zamorano Martín Clara , Soler Basauri Vicente
Published: February 2015

In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the development of the railway system. Despite the huge benefits of railways, one of the main drawbacks of this mode of transport is vibrations caused by vehicles in service, especially in the case of trams circulating in urban areas. Moreover, this undesirable phenomenon may be exacerbated by the presence of irregularities in the rail-wheel contact. Thus, an analytical model able to reproduce the vibrational behavior of a real stretch of tram track was implemented. Besides, a simulation of different types of corrugation was carried out by calculating in an auxiliary model the dynamic overloads generated by corrugation. These dynamic overloads fed the main model to obtain the vibrations generated and then transmitted to the track.
Diabetic Complications among Adult Diabetic Patients of a Tertiary Hospital in Northeast Ethiopia
Authors: Abejew Asrat Agalu , Belay Abebe Zeleke , Kerie Mirkuzie Woldie
Published: February 2015

Background.The diabetic complications are becoming common community problems. The outcomes of diabetic complications are increased hospitalization, increased direct patient costs, and mortality. In Dessie, the prevalence of the diabetic complications is not well studied so far. Thus, the aim of this study is to assess prevalence of diabetic complications and associated factors among adult diabetic patients of Dessie Referral Hospital, Northeast Ethiopia.Methods.Cross-sectional study was conducted in the diabetic clinic of Dessie Referral Hospital from April to May 31, 2013. All diabetic patients who visited the clinic during the study period were included. Data was collected using interview guided self-administered questionnaire. Presence of complications and the type of medications the patient was on were identified through review of patient records. Data were cleaned, coded, and entered into SPSS for Windows version 17.0. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were carried out to meet the stated objective.The Results.Overall 129 (59.7%) of the patients were found to have been affected by one or more of the diabetic complications. Complications were identified mainly among type II diabetic patients. The age of patients (Pvalue-0.048), type of diabetes (Pvalue-0.00), and medication (Pvalue-0.00) were strongly associated with the occurrence of diabetic complication but self-reported adherence, attitude, and knowledge level of patients and the family history were not associated with the presence of complication.Conclusion.The prevalence of complications among diabetic patients in Dessie Referral Hospital was high. Targeted counseling and health information provision to the patients by the clinical staff will be helpful in reducing avoidable morbidity and mortality in the patients.
Glutathione Suppresses Cerebral Infarct Volume and Cell Death after Ischemic Injury: Involvement of FOXO3 Inactivation and Bcl2 Expression
Authors: Song Juhyun , Park Joohyun , Oh Yumi , Lee Jong Eun
Published: February 2015

Ischemic stroke interrupts the flow of blood to the brain and subsequently results in cerebral infarction and neuronal cell death, leading to severe pathophysiology. Glutathione (GSH) is an antioxidant with cellular protective functions, including reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging in the brain. In addition, GSH is involved in various cellular survival pathways in response to oxidative stress. In the present study, we examined whether GSH reduces cerebral infarct size after middle cerebral artery occlusionin vivoand the signaling mechanisms involved in the promotion of cell survival after GSH treatment under ischemia/reperfusion conditionsin vitro. To determine whether GSH reduces the extent of cerebral infarction, cell death after ischemia, and reperfusion injury, we measured infarct size in ischemic brain tissue and the expression of claudin-5 associated with brain infarct formation. We also examined activation of the PI3K/Akt pathway, inactivation of FOXO3, and expression of Bcl2 to assess the role of GSH in promoting cell survival in response to ischemic injury. Based on our results, we suggest that GSH might improve the pathogenesis of ischemic stroke by attenuating cerebral infarction and cell death.
A Prenatally AscertainedDe NovoTerminal Deletion of Chromosomal Bands 1q43q44 Associated with Multiple Congenital Abnormalities in a Female Fetus
Authors: Sismani Carolina , Christopoulou Georgia , Alexandrou Angelos , Evangelidou Paola , Donoghue Jacqueline , Konstantinidou Anastasia E. , Velissariou Voula
Published: February 2015

Terminal deletions in the long arm of chromosome 1 result in a postnatally recognizable disorder described as 1q43q44 deletion syndrome. The size of the deletions and the resulting phenotype varies among patients. However, some features are common among patients as the chromosomal regions included in the deletions. In the present case, ultrasonography at 22 weeks of gestation revealed choroid plexus cysts (CPCs) and a single umbilical artery (SUA) and therefore amniocentesis was performed. Chromosomal analysis revealed a possible terminal deletion in 1q and high resolution array CGH confirmed the terminal 1q43q44 deletion and estimated the size to be approximately 8 Mb. Following termination of pregnancy, performance of fetopsy allowed further clinical characterization. We report here a prenatal case with the smallest pure terminal 1q43q44 deletion, that has been molecularly and phenotypically characterized. In addition, to our knowledge this is the first prenatal case reported with 1q13q44 terminal deletion and Pierre-Robin sequence (PRS). Our findings combined with review data from the literature show the complexity of the genetic basis of the associated syndrome.
The Influence of Tea Tree Oil (Melaleuca alternifolia) on Fluconazole Activity against Fluconazole-ResistantCandida albicansStrains
Authors: Mertas Anna , Garbusińska Aleksandra , Szliszka Ewelina , Jureczko Andrzej , Kowalska Magdalena , Król Wojciech
Published: February 2015

The aim of this study was to evaluate the activity of fluconazole against 32 clinical strains of fluconazole-resistantCandida albicans, andC. albicansATCC 10231 reference strain, after their exposure to sublethal concentrations of tea tree oil (TTO) or its main bioactive component terpinen-4-ol. For all tested fluconazole-resistantC. albicansstrains TTO and terpinen-4-ol minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) were low, ranging from 0.06% to 0.5%. The 24-hour exposure of fluconazole-resistantC. albicansstrains to fluconazole with sublethal dose of TTO enhanced fluconazole activity against these strains. Overall, 62.5% of isolates were classified as susceptible, 25.0% exhibited intermediate susceptibility, and 12.5% were resistant. For all of the tested clinical strains the fluconazole MIC decreased from an average of 244.0 μg/mL to an average of 38.46 μg/mL, and the fluconazole minimal fungicidal concentrations (MFC) decreased from an average of 254.67 μg/mL to an average of 66.62 μg/mL. Terpinen-4-ol was found to be more active than TTO, and strongly enhanced fluconazole activity against fluconazole-resistantC. albicansstrains. The results of this study demonstrate that combining natural substances such as TTO and conventional drug such as fluconazole, may help treat difficult yeast infections.
A Novel Antioxidant Multitarget Iron Chelator M30 Protects Hepatocytes against Ethanol-Induced Injury
Authors: Xiao Jia , Lv Yi , Lin Bin , Tipoe George L. , Youdim Moussa B. H. , Xing Feiyue , Liu Yingxia
Published: February 2015

The multitarget iron chelator, M30, is a novel antioxidant and protective agent against oxidative stress in a spectrum of diseases. However, there is no report regarding its role in liver diseases. Since oxidative stress is one of the major pathological events during the progression of alcoholic liver diseases, the protective effects and mechanisms of M30 on ethanol-induced hepatocyte injury were investigated in this study. Rat hepatocyte line BRL-3A was pretreated with M30 prior to ethanol treatment. Cell death, apoptosis, oxidative stress, and inflammation were examined. Specific antagonists and agonists were applied to determine the involvements of hypoxia inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF-1α) and its upstream adenylate cyclase (AC)/cyclic AMP (cAMP)/protein kinase A (PKA)/HIF-1α/NOD-like receptor 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome pathway. We found that M30 significantly attenuated ethanol-induced cellular death, apoptosis, production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and secretion of inflammatory cytokines and inhibited activation of the AC/cAMP/PKA/HIF-1α/NLRP3 inflammasome pathway. Inhibition and activation of the AC/cAMP/PKA/HIF-1αpathway mimicked and abolished the effects of M30, respectively. In conclusion, inhibition of the AC/cAMP/PKA/HIF-1α/NLRP3 inflammasome pathway by M30 partially contributes to its attenuation of hepatocyte injury caused by ethanol exposure.
Toxicant Exposure and Bioaccumulation: A Common and Potentially Reversible Cause of Cognitive Dysfunction and Dementia
Authors: Genuis Stephen J. , Kelln Kasie L.
Published: February 2015

Juxtaposed alongside the ongoing rise in the incidence and prevalence of dementia, is the surge of recent research confirming widespread exposure and bioaccumulation of chemical toxicants. Evidence from sources such as the Centers for Disease Control reveals that most people have accrued varying degrees of assorted toxic pollutants including heavy metals, flame retardants, and pesticide residues within their bodies. It has been well established that many of these toxicants have neurodegenerative as well as neurodevelopmental impact as a result of various pathophysiologic mechanisms including neuronal mitochondrial toxicity and disruption of neurotransmitter regulation. Elimination of stockpiled toxicants from the body may diminish adverse toxicant impact on human biology and allow restoration of normal physiological function. Incorporating a review of medical literature on toxicant exposure and dementia with a case history of a lead-exposed individual diagnosed with dementia, this paper will discuss a much overlooked and potentially widespread cause of declining brain function and dementia.
Transient Stability Enhancement of Multimachine Power System Using Robust and Novel Controller Based CSC‐STATCOM
Authors: Gupta Sandeep , Tripathi Ramesh Kumar
Published: February 2015

A current source converter (CSC) based static synchronous compensator (STATCOM) is a shunt flexible AC transmission system (FACTS) device, which has a vital role as a stability support for small and large transient instability in an interconnected power network. This paper investigates the impact of a novel and robust pole‐shifting controller for CSC‐STATCOM to improve the transient stability of the multimachine power system. The proposed algorithm utilizes CSC based STATCOM to supply reactive power to the test system to maintain the transient stability in the event of severe contingency. Firstly, modeling and pole‐shifting controller design for CSC based STATCOM are stated. After that, we show the impact of the proposed method in the multimachine power system with different disturbances. Here, applicability of the proposed scheme is demonstrated through simulation in MATLAB and the simulation results show an improvement in the transient stability of multimachine power system with CSC‐STATCOM. Also clearly shown, the robustness and effectiveness of CSC‐STATCOM are better rather than other shunt FACTS devices (SVC and VSC‐STATCOM) by comparing the results in this paper.
Effect of Maternal Iron Deficiency Anemia on the Iron Store of Newborns in Ethiopia
Authors: Terefe Betelihem , Birhanu Asaye , Nigussie Paulos , Tsegaye Aster
Published: February 2015

Iron deficiency anemia among pregnant women is a widespread problem in developing countries including Ethiopia, though its influence on neonatal iron status was inconsistently reported in literature. This cross-sectional study was conducted to compare hematologic profiles and iron status of newborns from mothers with different anemia status and determine correlation between maternal and neonatal hematologic profiles and iron status in Ethiopian context. We included 89 mothers and their respective newborns and performed complete blood count and assessed serum ferritin and C-reactive protein levels from blood samples collected from study participants. Maternal median hemoglobin and serum ferritin levels were 12.2 g/dL and 47.0 ng/mL, respectively. The median hemoglobin and serum ferritin levels for the newborns were 16.2 g/dL and 187.6 ng/mL, respectively. The mothers were classified into two groups based on hemoglobin and serum ferritin levels as iron deficient anemic (IDA) and nonanemic (NA) and newborns of IDA mothers had significantly lower levels of serum ferritin (P=0.017) and hemoglobin concentration (P=0.024). Besides, newborns’ ferritin and hemoglobin levels showed significant correlation with maternal hemoglobin (P=0.018;P=0.039) and ferritin (P=0.000;P=0.008) levels. We concluded that maternal IDA may have an effect on the iron stores of newborns.
Structural and Ferroic Properties of La, Nd, and Dy Doped BiFeO3 Ceramics
Authors: Kumar Ashwini , Sharma Poorva , Varshney Dinesh
Published: February 2015

Polycrystalline samples of Bi0.8RE0.2FeO3 (RE = La, Nd, and Dy) have been synthesized by solid-state reaction route. X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns of Bi0.8La0.2FeO3 and Bi0.8Nd0.2FeO3 were indexed in rhombohedral (R3c) and triclinic (P1) structure, respectively. Rietveld refined XRD pattern of Bi0.8Dy0.2FeO3 confirms the biphasic (Pnma + R3c space groups) nature. Raman spectroscopy reveals the change in BiFeO3 mode positions and supplements structural change with RE ion substitution. Ferroelectric and ferromagnetic loops have been observed in the Bi0.8RE0.2FeO3 ceramics at room temperature, indicating that ferroelectric and ferromagnetic ordering coexist in the ceramics at room temperature. The magnetic measurements at room temperature indicate that rare-earth substitution induces ferromagnetism and discerns large and nonzero remnant magnetization as compared to pristine BiFeO3.
Beta-Human Chorionic Gonadotropin Producing Osteosarcoma of the Sacrum in a 26-Year-Old Woman: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Glass Ryan , Asirvatham Jaya Ruth , Kahn Leonard , Aziz Mohamed
Published: February 2015

Ectopic secretion of beta-human chorionic gonadotropin is considered a poor prognostic marker in epithelial tumors. However, very few cases have been reported in sarcomas. We present the case of a 26-year-old female who presented with a metastatic osteosarcoma. She underwent usual testing prior to starting treatment and was found to have elevated levels of beta-human chorionic gonadotropin. As the patient was not pregnant, another source of beta-human chorionic gonadotropin secretion had to be considered. The tumor cells demonstrated positive staining for beta-human chorionic gonadotropin by immunohistochemistry, and serum levels of beta-human chorionic gonadotropin were used to monitor tumor progression and response to chemotherapy. We review the literature and discuss a potential role of beta-human chorionic gonadotropin in the treatment of such patients.
Regularization Methods for Phase Retrieval and Phase Contrast Tomography
Authors: Sixou Bruno
Published: February 2015

Phase contrast tomography is a high sensitivity medical imaging technique. Several regularization methods have been used in the literature to obtain stable solutions for the phase retrieval or the phase contrast tomography problems. Yet, the functional framework and the convergence properties of the methods have not been studied in detail. In this work, the convergence properties of regularization approaches for phase retrieval and phase contrast tomography are investigated.