bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strategies for herbivory mitigation by capybaras Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris in a riparian forest under restoration in the São Francisco river basin Brazil
Authors: Guimarães L. C. , Rodrigues F. H. G. , Scotti M. R.
Published: July 2014

This study investigated the potential use of diversionary feeding and behavior‐contingent sonic deterrents to mitigate the herbivory impacts of capybaras Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris on a riparian forest restoration site in the watershed of the Velhas River, the main tributary of the S. Francisco River in southeastern Brazil. Paspalum notatum, popularly known as batatais or bahia grass, was chosen as a diversionary food candidate and motion‐activated sonic alarms were used as deterrents. A field experiment was conducted to compare the plant cover and the damage incidence in a fenced‐off control on open plots with and without sonic deterrents. In these plots, P. notatum was cultivated alongside other restoration species of interest. Capybaras distinctly preferred P. notatum, which suffered 8.14‐fold greater damage than other species and suffered coverage losses of up to 40% outside of the control plots, whereas the remaining species showed no difference from the control. The sonic deterrents did not influence the soil cover by any of the species, but did mitigate the damage to P. notatum independently of time. The damage was 93% more prevalent in the plots without deterrents. This success was partial, however, because damage also occurred in the presence of the deterrents. P. notatum was efficient at attracting and concentrating the interest of capybaras and therefore showed promise as a cover crop to protect other species of interest. Overall, the results of this study suggest that P. notatum is more efficient than electronic deterrents to protect a forest under restoration process against capybara damage.
Living amidst a sea of agriculture: predicting the occurrence of Canada lynx within an ecological island
Authors: Montgomery Robert A. , Roloff Gary J. , Millspaugh Joshua J. , Nylen‐Nemetchek Marcy
Published: July 2014

Carnivore populations are increasingly confined to reserves surrounded by anthropogenic development. The boundaries of ecological islands are risky because of habitat loss and human—carnivore conflict. From snow track survey data collected over a 5‐winter period we developed a population‐level resource selection function for Canada lynxLynxcanadensisin Riding Mountain National Park, Canada. This park has been characterized as an ‘ecological island situated amidst a sea of agricultural land’ and while lynx are protected within the park, they are subject to harvest outside of the park. Winter resource selection of lynx increased with higher elevation and in highly suitable habitat for snowshoe hareLepus americanusand decreased in habitat with greater proportions of agriculture and grasslands, both of which are common along the edge of the park. Habitat with medium to high relative probabilities of lynx occurrence tended to be distributed in the interior of the park. However, the highest relative probability of lynx occurrence was associated with habitat near the southeast border of the park in close proximity to a human community and a lake where snowmobiling, skiing, and snowshoeing are common recreational pursuits. We attribute this relationship to a 25‐year old fire which presently created successional habitat highly suitable for snowshoe hare and correspondingly for lynx in this area. Our results suggest that Canada lynx occurrence tends to be associated with habitat that is highly suitable for their primary prey even if that habitat is located near to sources of human recreational activity.
The Subte as Looking Machine into the City
Authors: Masterson-Algar Araceli
Published: July 2014

Moebius (1996) is the first cinematographic production of the “Universidad del Cine” of Buenos Aires. It is the collective project of forty-five film students under the general direction of Gustavo Mosquera. The film narrates the mysterious disappearance of a subway train along the last addition to its underground network: the “línea perimetral.” In search for answers, a topologist named Daniel Pratt initiates an allegorical journey into Moebius, a subway trajectory that is timeless but includes all times. This article explores the role of Moebius' subway as a metaphor to understand the urban. Drawing from Buenos Aires' urban history this filmic analysis ties the Subte to Buenos Aires' processes of capital accumulation and unveils the fissures of its modern spaces.
Endoscopic third ventriculostomy and choroid plexus cauterization in infants with hydrocephalus: a retrospective Hydrocephalus Clinical Research Network study
Authors: Kulkarni Abhaya V. , Riva-Cambrin Jay , Browd Samuel R. , Drake James M. , Holubkov Richard , Kestle John R. W. , Limbrick David D. , Rozzelle Curtis J. , Simon Tamara D. , Tamber Mandeep S. , Wellons John C. , Whitehead William E.
Published: July 2014

Object

The use of endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) with choroid plexus cauterization (CPC) has been advocated as an alternative to CSF shunting in infants with hydrocephalus. There are limited reports of this procedure in the North American population, however. The authors provide a retrospective review of the experience with combined ETV + CPC within the North American Hydrocephalus Clinical Research Network (HCRN).

Methods

All children (< 2 years old) who underwent an ETV + CPC at one of 7 HCRN centers before November 2012 were included. Data were collected retrospectively through review of hospital records and the HCRN registry. Comparisons were made to a contemporaneous cohort of 758 children who received their first shunt at < 2 years of age within the HCRN.

Results

Thirty-six patients with ETV + CPC were included (13 with previous shunt). The etiologies of hydrocephalus were as follows: intraventricular hemorrhage of prematurity (9 patients), aqueductal stenosis (8), myelomeningocele (4), and other (15). There were no major intraoperative or early postoperative complications. There were 2 postoperative CSF infections. There were 2 deaths unrelated to hydrocephalus and 1 death from seizure. In 18 patients ETV + CPC failed at a median time of 30 days after surgery (range 4–484 days). The actuarial 3-, 6-, and 12-month success for ETV + CPC was 58%, 52%, and 52%. Time to treatment failure was slightly worse for the 36 patients with ETV + CPC compared with the 758 infants treated with shunts (p = 0.012). Near-complete CPC (≥ 90%) was achieved in 11 cases (31%) overall, but in 50% (10 of 20 cases) in 2012 versus 6% (1 of 16 cases) before 2012 (p = 0.009). Failure was higher in children with < 90% CPC (HR 4.39, 95% CI 0.999–19.2, p = 0.0501).

Conclusions

The early North American multicenter experience with ETV + CPC in infants demonstrates that the procedure has reasonable safety in selected cases. The degree of CPC achieved might be associated with a surgeon's learning curve and appears to affect success, suggesting that surgeon training might improve results.
Flow Cytometry based Diagnosis of Primary Immunodeficiency Disorders
Authors: Roy Chandan Kumar
Published: July 2014

No AbstractDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjmm.v6i1.19350 Bangladesh J Med Microbiol 2012; 06(01): 1-2
Isolation of Acinetobacter species and their antimicrobial resistance pattern in an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of a tertiary care hospital in Dhaka, Bangladesh
Authors: Nahar Azizun , Anwar Shaheda , Saleh Ahmed Abu , Miah Md. Ruhul Amin
Published: July 2014

Critically ill patients acquire an infection during their stay in an intensive care unit (ICU) and the frequency of these infections varies considerably in different populations and clinical settings. The purpose of this study was to know the antimicrobial sensitivity pattern of Acinetobacter isolates from tracheal aspirate, blood from central venous catheter, peripheral blood, urine and endotracheal tube of patients admitted in ICU at BSMMU(Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University) hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh over a one year period from January 2010 to December 2010. A total 95 ICU samples were studied of which 32(33.7%) were Acinetobacter species. Acinetobacter species isolated from endotracheal tube (100%), tracheal aspirate (54.3%), blood from central venous catheter (36.4%), peripheral blood (13.6%), and urine (12.5%). Acinetobacter isolates were 100% resistant to amoxicillin, ceftriaxone cefuroxime and gentamicin. Higher level of resistance was recorded for amikacin (68.4%) and imipenem (66.7%). Lower resistance only showed in colistin (10.5%). The findings of this study will help our clinician to apply antibiotics for treatment of the patients admitted in ICU. Producing a local antibiogram database will improve the knowledge of antimicrobial resistance patterns in Bangladesh and will also help to improve treatment strategies.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjmm.v6i1.19352 Bangladesh J Med Microbiol 2012; 06(01): 3-6
Enterococcal Virulence Determinants In Urinary Tract Infection Patients
Authors: Akhter Jabin , Anwar Shaheda , Ahmed Sharmeen
Published: July 2014

Urinary tract infection caused by Enterococci has become frequent occurrences in health care settings. Currently they emerged with increasing resistance to multiple antibiotics.  Haemolysin, gelatinase and biofilm production are some markers that have been proposed as possible Enterococcal virulence factors. In view of the increasing importance of Enterococcal infection, the present study was designed to isolate and identify the Enterococci to the species level from urine of urinary tract infection patients and to investigate their possible virulence factors. Biofilm was detected on polystyrene microtitre plate to see the adherence of microorganism. Haemolysin production and gelatin hydrolysis detected by standard microbiological method. Fifty nine enterococcal isolates were speciated by conventional microbiological method and examined for their ability to form biofilm by microtitre plate assay. In this study, biofilm formations by Enterococci were found in 83.33% isolates from catheterized and 56.09% from non-catheterized patients. Aong them, E.faecalis & 50% E.faecium produced biofilm. About 43.63% E.faecalis & 10% E.faecium produced haemolysin and only one isolate were found to be gelatinase positive. Frequency of virulence factors (VFs) in combination was observed in this study. Two VFs (haemolysin and biofilm) were observed in 27.11% in combination and 3 VFs ( haemolysinm biofilm and gelatinase) were present in 1.69% isolates. These results suggest that although there may not be an absolute role for individual virulence determinants in infectivity, combinations of factors may play a role in allowing a biofilm infection to be more resistant to therapy.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjmm.v6i1.19361 Bangladesh J Med Microbiol 2012; 06(01): 14-17
Medical Laboratory Accreditation  A benchmark for performance
Authors: Anwar Shaheda
Published: July 2014

Accreditation of health laboratories is the process by which an independent and authorized agency accredits the quality system and competence of a laboratory on the basis of certain pre-defined standards. Accreditation is done at regular intervals to ensure maintenance of standards and reliability of results generated to support clinical and public health activities by the laboratories.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjmm.v6i1.19363 Bangladesh J Med Microbiol 2012; 06(01): 22-28
Pattern of dermatophyte in Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University
Authors: Rahim Mst. Rummana , Saleh Ahmed Abu , Miah Md. Ruhul Amin , Anwar Shaheda , Rahman Md. Muzibur
Published: July 2014

Dermatophytes are by far the most significant fungi because of their widespread involvement of population at large and their prevalence all over the world. This is an attempt to observe the spectrum of dermatophytes among the clinically suspected cases of dermatophytosis attending the outpatient department of Dermatology and Venereology, Bangabandhu Sheik Mujib Medical University, Dhaka. Three hundred and twenty clinically suspected cases of dermatophytosis were subjected to mycological studies. One hundred and five cases (32.8%) were positive for fungus in direct microscopy while 97(30.3%) were culture positive. Tinea unguium was the most common clinical type encountered followed by tinea corporis. Dermatophytosis was more common in the age group of 21-30 years. The male to female ratio was 1.54:1. Trichophyton rubrum 84(86.6%) was found common etiological dermatophyte species followed by Trichophyton mentagrophytes 8(8.2%) and Epidermophyton floccosum 5(5.2%).DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjmm.v6i2.19370 Bangladesh J Med Microbiol 2012; 06(02): 11-14
Conjunctival bacterial flora in healthy individuals and health care workers (HCWs)
Authors: Nahar Najmun , Barua Ripon , Razia Sultana , Anwar Shaheda , Miah Md. Ruhul Amin
Published: July 2014

This study was designed to see the pattern of conjunctival bacterial flora in healthy individuals and health care workers. This prospective study was conducted during the period of January 2011 to December 2011 in BSMMU. A total of 480 conjunctival swabs were collected from both eyes of 200 healthy individuals and 40 HCWs of BSMMU. Significant number of culture was positive in HCWs (52.5%) compared to healthy individuals (23.75%). Staphylococcus epidermidis was predominant in healthy individuals (65.26%) and HCWs (66.66%). Isolation of Enterocooci (11.9%) was significantly higher in HCWs. Bilateral culture positivity was significantly higher in HCWs (71.43%) than that from healthy individual (40%) and in healthy individuals, unilateral culture positivity was 60%, which was higher than that of HCWs (28.57%).DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjmm.v6i2.19371 Bangladesh J Med Microbiol 2012; 06(02): 15-19
Measles eradication, is it feasible?
Authors: Sultana Sarmin
Published: July 2014

No AbstractDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjmm.v6i2.19373 Bangladesh J Med Microbiol 2012; 06(02): 24-28
Healthcare associated infections caused by non-fermenting Gram negative rods (NFGNR): six years of experience of a tertiary hospital
Authors: Hasan Zahidul , Islam Md. Kamrul , Hossain Arifa
Published: July 2014

Recently non-fermenting Gram negative rods (NFGNR) are playing an important role in healthcare associated infections. This observational study in a tertiary care hospital of Dhaka city conducted during 01August 2007 to 30 June 2013 found that 34.8% isolated organisms from patients with healthcare associated infections were NFGNR. Majority (74.3 %) of these infections were occurring inside critical care areas. Pseudomonas and Acinetobacter together constituted 79.6% of the total NFGNR whereas Burkholderia cephacia complex (15.4%), Stenotrophomonas (4.3%) and Chryseobacterium species (0.7%) combined constituted remaining 20.4%. Out of total NFGNRs, Pseudomonas was responsible for highest number of catheter associated urinary tract infections (55.6%), ventilator associated pneumonia (46.3%), respiratory tract infection (65.8%) and surgical site infection (70.6%). Blood stream infection was predominantly caused by Burkholderia cephacia complex (33.5%) and Acinetobacter spp. (39.5%). Other than colistin most of the organisms were resistant to antibiotics commonly recommended for NFGNR.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjmm.v7i2.19326 Bangladesh J Med Microbiol 2013; 07(02): 6-12
Antimicrobial Resistance pattern of Common Bacterial Pathogens in Tertiary Care Hospitals in Dhaka City
Authors: Chowdhury Durdana , Jhora Sanya Tahmina , Saha Mili Rani , Nahar Najmun
Published: July 2014

Bacterial pathogens were isolated from  pus, wound swab, urine, blood and throat swab. A total  of 300 samples were collected from Sir Salimullah Medical College & Mitford Hospital (SSMC & MH), BIRDEM and National Medical College (NMCH) and processed following standard microbiological methods. Antibiotic susceptibility testing were performed on pure culture isolates by employing Kirby-Bauer disc-diffusion method for the commonly used antibiotics. 326 (93.33%) bacterial pathogens were isolated from 300 patients. Single bacterial pathogen was present in 78% cases and mixed bacterial pathogens were in 15.40% cases.  Staphylococcus aureus was the predominant species (38.66%) followed by Escherichia coli (38%), Pseudomonas spp. (13.33%), Proteus spp. (8.33%), CoNS (7.66%), Serratia spp (2.85%), Klebsiella spp. (2.00%) and  Acinetobacter spp. (0.97%). Resistance rate towards amoxicillin, ciprofloxacin, co-trimoxazole and  ceftriaxone were high among both Gram-positive and Gram-negative isolates. However, both groups showed good susceptibility to gentamicin and levofloxacin. S. aureus and CoNS showed 100% sensitivity to vancomycin and all isolated Gram negative organisms showed 98-100% sensitivity to imipenem.These results indicate that gentamicin and levofloxacin may be convenient alternative antimicrobial agent for both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and vancomycin for Gram positive and imipenem for Gram negative bacteria as well.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjmm.v7i2.19327 Bangladesh J Med Microbiol 2013; 07(02): 13-16
Quasi-Linear Polarized Modes in Y-Rotated Piezoelectric GaPO4 Plates
Authors: Caliendo Cinzia , Castro Fabio
Published: July 2014

The propagation of both surface and flexural acoustic plate modes along y-rotated x-propagation GaPO4 piezoelectric substrates was studied for several y-cut angles: the phase velocity and coupling coefficient dispersion curves were theoretically calculated for two different electroacoustic coupling configurations. The investigation of the acoustic field profile across the plate thickness revealed the presence of thin plate modes having polarization predominantly oriented along the propagation direction, and hence suitable for operation in liquid environment. These modes include the linearly polarized Anisimkin Jr. and the quasi longitudinal plate modes, AMs and QLs, showing a phase velocity close to that of the longitudinal bulk acoustic wave propagating in the same direction. The temperature coefficient of delay (TCD) of these longitudinal modes was investigated in the −20 to 420 °C temperature range, in order to identify thermally stable or low TCD cuts. The power flow angle, i.e., the angle between the phase and group velocity vectors, was also estimated to evaluate the substrate anisotropy effect on the acoustic wave propagation. The GaPO4 intrinsic properties, such as its resistance to high temperature and its chemical inertness, make it especially attractive for the development of acoustic waves-based sensors for applications in harsh liquid environment.
A Role for Acyclic Retinoid in the Chemoprevention of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Therapeutic Strategy Targeting Phosphorylated Retinoid X Receptor-α
Authors: Sakai Hiroyasu , Shimizu Masahito , Moriwaki Hisataka
Published: July 2014

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is an aggressive disease with poor prognosis due to its high rate of recurrence after the initial curative treatment. Therefore, development of effective therapeutic strategies that can prevent recurrence and secondary tumor formation is required to improve the clinical outcomes of HCC patients. Malfunctioning of the retinoid X receptor-s (RXRs) of HCC patient by activation of the Ras- mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway is strongly associated with hepatocarcinogenesis. Acyclic retinoid (ACR), a synthetic retinoid, prevents HCC recurrence by inhibiting Ras-MAPK activation and the subsequent RXRα phosphorylation, thereby improving patient prognosis. Here, we have reviewed the detailed effects of ACR on the prevention of HCC development, with particular references to the results of our previous basic and clinical research.
A Critical Review of Wireless Power Transfer via Strongly Coupled Magnetic Resonances
Authors: Wei Xuezhe , Wang Zhenshi , Dai Haifeng
Published: July 2014

Strongly coupled magnetic resonance (SCMR), proposed by researchers at MIT in 2007, attracted the world’s attention by virtue of its mid-range, non-radiative and high-efficiency power transfer. In this paper, current developments and research progress in the SCMR area are presented. Advantages of SCMR are analyzed by comparing it with the other wireless power transfer (WPT) technologies, and different analytic principles of SCMR are elaborated in depth and further compared. The hot research spots, including system architectures, frequency splitting phenomena, impedance matching and optimization designs are classified and elaborated. Finally, current research directions and development trends of SCMR are discussed.
Native Roadside Vegetation that Enhances Soil Erosion Control in Boreal Scandinavia
Authors: Jägerbrand Annika , Alatalo Juha
Published: July 2014

This study focused on identifying vegetation characteristics associated with erosion control at nine roadside sites in mid-West Sweden. A number of vegetation characteristics such as cover, diversity, plant functional type, biomass and plant community structure were included. Significant difference in cover between eroded and non-eroded sub-sites was found in evergreen shrubs, total cover, and total above ground biomass. Thus, our results support the use of shrubs in order to stabilize vegetation and minimize erosion along roadsides. However, shrubs are disfavored by several natural and human imposed factors. This could have several impacts on the long-term management of roadsides in boreal regions. By both choosing and applying active management that supports native evergreen shrubs in boreal regions, several positive effects could be achieved along roadsides, such as lower erosion rate and secured long-term vegetation cover. This could also lead to lower costs for roadside maintenance as lower erosion rates would require less frequent stabilizing treatments and mowing could be kept to a minimum in order not to disfavor shrubs.
Climate Change and Cerebrospinal Meningitis in the Ghanaian Meningitis Belt
Authors: Codjoe Samuel , Nabie Vivian
Published: July 2014

Cerebrospinal meningitis (CSM) is one of the infectious diseases likely to be affected by climate change. Although there are a few studies on the climate change-CSM nexus, none has considered perceptions of community members. However, understanding public perception in relation to a phenomenon is very significant for the design of effective communication and mitigation strategies as well as coping and adaptation strategies. This paper uses focus group discussions (FGDs) to fill this knowledge lacuna. Results show that although a few elderly participants ascribed fatal causes (disobedience to gods, ancestors, and evil spirits) to CSM infections during FGDs, majority of participants rightly linked CSM infections to dry, very hot and dusty conditions experienced during the dry season. Finally, community members use a suite of adaptation options to curb future CSM epidemics.
Microbial-Catalyzed Biotransformation of Multifunctional Triterpenoids Derived from Phytonutrients
Authors: Shah Syed , Tan Huey , Sultan Sadia , Faridz Muhammad , Shah Mohamad , Nurfazilah Sharifah , Hussain Munawar
Published: July 2014

Microbial-catalyzed biotransformations have considerable potential for the generation of an enormous variety of structurally diversified organic compounds, especially natural products with complex structures like triterpenoids. They offer efficient and economical ways to produce semi-synthetic analogues and novel lead molecules. Microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi could catalyze chemo-, regio- and stereospecific hydroxylations of diverse triterpenoid substrates that are extremely difficult to produce by chemical routes. During recent years, considerable research has been performed on the microbial transformation of bioactive triterpenoids, in order to obtain biologically active molecules with diverse structures features. This article reviews the microbial modifications of tetranortriterpenoids, tetracyclic triterpenoids and pentacyclic triterpenoids.
Secondary Metabolite Profiling of Curcuma Species Grown at Different Locations Using GC/TOF and UPLC/Q-TOF MS
Authors: Lee Jueun , Jung Youngae , Shin Jeoung-Hwa , Kim Ho , Moon Byeong , Ryu Do , Hwang Geum-Sook
Published: July 2014

Curcuma, a genus of rhizomatous herbaceous species, has been used as a spice, traditional medicine, and natural dye. In this study, the metabolite profile of Curcuma extracts was determined using gas chromatography-time of flight mass spectrometry (GC/TOF MS) and ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography–quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC/Q-TOF MS) to characterize differences between Curcuma aromatica and Curcuma longa grown on the Jeju-do or Jin-do islands, South Korea. Previous studies have performed primary metabolite profiling of Curcuma species grown in different regions using NMR-based metabolomics. This study focused on profiling of secondary metabolites from the hexane extract of Curcuma species. Principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least-squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) plots showed significant differences between the C. aromatica and C. longa metabolite profiles, whereas geographical location had little effect. A t-test was performed to identify statistically significant metabolites, such as terpenoids. Additionally, targeted profiling using UPLC/Q-TOF MS showed that the concentration of curcuminoids differed depending on the plant origin. Based on these results, a combination of GC- and LC-MS allowed us to analyze curcuminoids and terpenoids, the typical bioactive compounds of Curcuma, which can be used to discriminate Curcuma samples according to species or geographical origin.
Quantification of the Resveratrol Analogs trans-2,3-Dimethoxy-stilbene and trans-3,4-Dimethoxystilbene in Rat Plasma: Application to Pre-Clinical Pharmacokinetic Studies
Authors: Ng Shermain , Cardullo Nunzio , Yeo Samuel , Spatafora Carmela , Tringali Corrado , Ong Pei-Shi , Lin Hai-Shu
Published: July 2014

trans-2,3-Dimethoxystilbene (2,3-DMS) and trans-3,4-dimethoxystilbene (3,4-DMS) are two synthetic resveratrol (trans-3,5,4'-trihydroxystilbene) analogs. In this study, a simple HPLC method was developed and validated to determine 2,3-DMS and 3,4-DMS in rat plasma. Chromatographic separation was obtained with a reversed-phase HPLC column through a 12.5-min gradient delivery of a mixture of acetonitrile and water at the flow rate of 1.5 mL/min at 50 °C. The lower limit of quantification was 10 ng/mL. After successful validation, the pharmacokinetic profiles of 2,3-DMS and 3,4-DMS were subsequently studied in Sprague-Dawley rats. Upon single intravenous administration (4 mg/kg), 2,3-DMS had a medium volume of distribution of the central compartment (Vc = 2.71 ± 0.51 L/kg), quite rapid clearance (Cl = 52.0 ± 7.0 mL/min/kg), moderate mean transit time (MTT0→last = 131.0 ± 4.5 min) but a fairly long terminal elimination half-life (t1/2 λZ = 288.9 ± 92.9 min). Interestingly, 3,4-DMS displayed a pharmacokinetic profile apparently distinct from 2,3-DMS and it had more extensive distribution (Vc = 5.58 ± 1.73 L/kg), faster clearance (Cl = 143.4 ± 40.5 mL/min/kg) and shorter residence (MTT0→last = 61.4 ± 27.1 min). Following single oral administration (10 mg/kg), 2,3-DMS had low and erratic plasma exposure (Cmax = 37.5 ± 23.7 ng/mL) and poor oral bioavailability (2.22% ± 2.13%) while the oral bioavailability of 3,4-DMS was even poorer than 2,3-DMS. Clearly, the location of the methoxy groups had a significant impact on the pharmacokinetics of resveratrol analogs. This study provided useful information for the design of resveratrol derivatives in future study.
Combined Kinetic Studies and Computational Analysis on Kojic Acid Analogs as Tyrosinase Inhibitors
Authors: Lima Carlyle , Silva José , De Tássia Carvalho Cardoso Érica , Silva Edilene , Lameira Jerônimo , Do Nascimento José , Do Socorro Barros Brasil Davi , Alves Cláudio
Published: July 2014

Tyrosinase is a key enzyme in melanin synthesis and widely distributed in plants and animals tissues. In mammals, this enzyme is related to pigment production, involved in wound healing, primary immune response and it can also contribute to catecholamines synthesis in the brain. Consequently, tyrosinase enzyme represents an attractive and selective target in the field of the medicine, cosmetics and bio-insecticides. In this paper, experimental kinetics and computational analysis were used to study the inhibition of tyrosinase by analogous of Kojic acid. The main interactions occurring between inhibitors-tyrosinase complexes and the influence of divalent cation (Cu2+) in enzymatic inhibition were investigated by using molecular docking, molecular dynamic simulations and electrostatic binding free energy by using the Linear Interaction Energy (LIE) method. The results showed that the electrostatic binding free energy are correlated with values of constant inhibition (r2 = 0.97).Thus, the model obtained here could contribute to future studies of this important system and, therefore, eventually facilitate development of tyrosinase inhibitors.
Cytotoxic and Antiproliferative Effect of Tepary Bean Lectins on C33-A, MCF-7, SKNSH, and SW480 Cell Lines
Authors: Valadez-Vega Carmen , Morales-González José , Sumaya-Martínez María , Delgado-Olivares Luis , Cruz-Castañeda Areli , Bautista Mirandeli , Sánchez-Gutiérrez Manuel , Zuñiga-Pérez Clara
Published: July 2014

For many years, several studies have been employing lectin from vegetables in order to prove its toxic effect on various cell lines. In this work, we analyzed the cytotoxic, antiproliferative, and post-incubatory effect of pure tepary bean lectins on four lines of malignant cells: C33-A; MCF-7; SKNSH, and SW480. The tests were carried out employing MTT and 3[H]-thymidine assays. The results showed that after 24 h of lectin exposure, the cells lines showed a dose-dependent cytotoxic effect, the effect being higher on MCF-7, while C33-A showed the highest resistance. Cell proliferation studies showed that the toxic effect induced by lectins is higher even when lectins are removed, and in fact, the inhibition of proliferation continues after 48 h. Due to the use of two techniques to analyze the cytotoxic and antiproliferative effect, differences were observed in the results, which can be explained by the fact that one technique is based on metabolic reactions, while the other is based on the 3[H]-thymidine incorporated in DNA by cells under division. These results allow concluding that lectins exert a cytotoxic effect after 24 h of exposure, exhibiting a dose-dependent effect. In some cases, the cytotoxic effect is higher even when the lectins are eliminated, however, in other cases, the cells showed a proliferative effect.
Ruthenium Complexes as NO Donors for Vascular Relaxation Induction
Authors: De Lima Renata , Silva Bruno , Da Silva Roberto , Bendhack Lusiane
Published: July 2014

Nitric oxide (NO) donors are substances that can release NO. Vascular relaxation induction is among the several functions of NO, and the administration of NO donors is a pharmacological alternative to treat hypertension. This review will focus on the physicochemical description of ruthenium-derived NO donor complexes that release NO via reduction and light stimulation. In particular, we will discuss the complexes synthesized by our research group over the last ten years, and we will focus on the vasodilation and arterial pressure control elicited by these complexes. Soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC) and potassium channels are the main targets of the NO species released from the inorganic compounds. We will consider the importance of the chemical structure of the ruthenium complexes and their vascular effects.
Novel Cinnamic Acid Derivatives as Antioxidant and Anticancer Agents: Design, Synthesis and Modeling Studies
Authors: Pontiki Eleni , Hadjipavlou-Litina Dimitra , Litinas Konstantinos , Geromichalos George
Published: July 2014

Cinnamic acids have been identified as interesting compounds with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and cytotoxic properties. In the present study, simple cinnamic acids were synthesized by Knoevenagel condensation reactions and evaluated for the above biological activities. Compound 4ii proved to be the most potent LOX inhibitor. Phenyl- substituted acids showed better inhibitory activity against soybean LOX, and it must be noted that compounds 4i and 3i with higher lipophilicity values resulted less active than compounds 2i and 1i. The compounds have shown very good activity in different antioxidant assays. The antitumor properties of these derivatives have been assessed by their 1/IC50 inhibitory values in the proliferation of HT-29, A-549, OAW-42, MDA-MB-231, HeLa and MRC-5 normal cell lines. The compounds presented low antitumor activity considering the IC50 values attained for the cell lines, with the exception of compound 4ii. Molecular docking studies were carried out on cinnamic acid derivative 4ii and were found to be in accordance with our experimental biological results.
Characterization of Phytochemicals and Antioxidant Activities of Red Radish Brines during Lactic Acid Fermentation
Authors: Jing Pu , Song Li-Hua , Shen Shan-Qi , Zhao Shu-Juan , Pang Jie , Qian Bing-Jun
Published: July 2014

Red radish (Raphanus L.) pickles are popular appetizers or spices in Asian-style cuisine. However, tons of radish brines are generated as wastes from industrial radish pickle production. In this study, we evaluated the dynamic changes in colour properties, phenolics, anthocyanin profiles, phenolic acid composition, flavonoids, and antioxidant properties in radish brines during lactic acid fermentation. The results showed that five flavonoids detected were four anthocyanins and one kaempferol derivative, including pelargonidin-3-digluoside-5-glucoside derivatives acylated with p-coumaric acid, ferulic acid, p-coumaric and manolic acids, or ferulic and malonic acids. Amounts ranged from 15.5–19.3 µg/mL in total monomeric anthocyanins, and kaempferol-3,7-diglycoside (15–30 µg/mL). 4-Hydroxy-benzoic, gentisic, vanillic, syringic, p-coumaric, ferulic, sinapic and salicylic acids were detected in amounts that varied from 70.2–92.2 µg/mL, whereas the total phenolic content was 206–220 µg/mL. The change in colour of the brine was associated with the accumulation of lactic acid and anthocyanins. The ORAC and Fe2+ chelation capacity of radish brines generally decreased, whereas the reducing power measured as FRAP values was increased during the fermentation from day 5 to day 14. This study provided information on the phytochemicals and the antioxidative activities of red radish fermentation waste that might lead to further utilization as nutraceuticals or natural colorants.
Ionic Liquid-Based Vacuum Microwave-Assisted Extraction Followed by Macroporous Resin Enrichment for the Separation of the Three Glycosides Salicin, Hyperin and Rutin from Populus Bark
Authors: Chen Fengli , Mo Kailin , Liu Zhaizhi , Yang Fengjian , Hou Kexin , Li Shuangyang , Zu Yuangang , Yang Lei
Published: July 2014

An effective ionic liquid vacuum microwave-assisted method was developed for extraction of the thermo- and oxygen-sensitive glycosides salicin, hyperin and rutin from Populus bark due to the strong solvating effects of ionic liquids on plant cell walls. In this study, [C4mim]BF4 solution was selected as the extracting solution for extraction of the target analytes. After optimization by single factor experiments and response surface methodology, the optimum condition parameters were achieved, which included 1.0 M [C4mim]BF4, 2 h soaking time, −0.08 MPa vacuum, 20 min microwave irradiation time, 400 W microwave irradiation power and 25 mL/g liquid/solid ratio. Under the optimum conditions, higher extraction yields of salicin (35.53 mg/g), hyperin (1.32 mg/g) and rutin (2.40 mg/g) were obtained. Compared with other extraction methods, the developed method provided higher yields of the three target components after a relatively shorter extraction time (20 min). No obvious degradation of the target analytes was observed under the optimum conditions in performed stability studies and the proposed method had a high reproducibility. Meanwhile, after adsorption and desorption on macroporous D101 resin, the target analytes can be effectively separated from the [C4mim]BF4 ionic liquid extraction solution and the yields of salicin, hyperin and rutin were 89%, 82% and 84%, respectively. The recovered [C4mim]BF4 ionic liquid presented a good extraction effect on the three analytes after recycling five times.
Nanoporous Anodic Alumina Platforms: Engineered Surface Chemistry and Structure for Optical Sensing Applications
Authors: Kumeria Tushar , Santos Abel , Losic Dusan
Published: July 2014

Electrochemical anodization of pure aluminum enables the growth of highly ordered nanoporous anodic alumina (NAA) structures. This has made NAA one of the most popular nanomaterials with applications including molecular separation, catalysis, photonics, optoelectronics, sensing, drug delivery, and template synthesis. Over the past decades, the ability to engineer the structure and surface chemistry of NAA and its optical properties has led to the establishment of distinctive photonic structures that can be explored for developing low-cost, portable, rapid-response and highly sensitive sensing devices in combination with surface plasmon resonance (SPR) and reflective interference spectroscopy (RIfS) techniques. This review article highlights the recent advances on fabrication, surface modification and structural engineering of NAA and its application and performance as a platform for SPR- and RIfS-based sensing and biosensing devices.
Terrestrial and Aerial Laser Scanning Data Integration Using Wavelet Analysis for the Purpose of 3D Building Modeling
Authors: Kedzierski Michal , Fryskowska Anna
Published: July 2014

Visualization techniques have been greatly developed in the past few years. Three-dimensional models based on satellite and aerial imagery are now being enhanced by models generated using Aerial Laser Scanning (ALS) data. The most modern of such scanning systems have the ability to acquire over 50 points per square meter and to register a multiple echo, which allows the reconstruction of the terrain together with the terrain cover. However, ALS data accuracy is less than 10 cm and the data is often incomplete: there is no information about ground level (in most scanning systems), and often around the facade or structures which have been covered by other structures. However, Terrestrial Laser Scanning (TLS) not only acquires higher accuracy data (1–5 cm) but is also capable of registering those elements which are incomplete or not visible using ALS methods (facades, complicated structures, interiors, etc.). Therefore, to generate a complete 3D model of a building in high Level of Details, integration of TLS and ALS data is necessary. This paper presents the wavelet-based method of processing and integrating data from ALS and TLS. Methods of choosing tie points to combine point clouds in different datum will be analyzed.
Characterization of a Proposed Dichorhavirus Associated with the Citrus Leprosis Disease and Analysis of the Host Response
Authors: Cruz-Jaramillo José , Ruiz-Medrano Roberto , Rojas-Morales Lourdes , López-Buenfil José , Morales-Galván Oscar , Chavarín-Palacio Claudio , Ramírez-Pool José , Xoconostle-Cázares Beatriz
Published: July 2014

The causal agents of Citrus leprosis are viruses; however, extant diagnostic methods to identify them have failed to detect known viruses in orange, mandarin, lime and bitter orange trees with severe leprosis symptoms in Mexico, an important citrus producer. Using high throughput sequencing, a virus associated with citrus leprosis was identified, belonging to the proposed Dichorhavirus genus. The virus was termed Citrus Necrotic Spot Virus (CNSV) and contains two negative-strand RNA components; virions accumulate in the cytoplasm and are associated with plasmodesmata—channels interconnecting neighboring cells—suggesting a mode of spread within the plant. The present study provides insights into the nature of this pathogen and the corresponding plant response, which is likely similar to other pathogens that do not spread systemically in plants.
Assessment of the medial collateral ligament as an intra-operative anatomical landmark for tibial plateau levelling osteotomy
Authors: Daubs B. , Bader J. , Silverman E. , Ley B.
Published: July 2014

Objectives: To determine whether the medial collateral ligament can be a reliable intra-operative anatomical landmark for rotation of the tibial plateau in the tibial plateau levelling osteotomy (TPLO) procedure, thus providing a tibial plateau rotation equal to that obtained using standard preoperative measurements.

Methods: Tibial plateau levelling osteotomy procedures were performed on pelvic limbs (n = 42) from canine cadavers with or without a history of cranial cruciate ligament deficiency. The rotation of the proximal fragment was performed such that the orientation of the fibres of the medial collateral ligament were aligned parallel to the caudal tibial cortex at the location of the osteotomy. Statistical analysis was performed to evaluate the difference between calculated rotation to achieve a postoperative tibial plateau angle of five degrees and the actual rotation achieved by aligning the medial collateral ligament and caudal tibial cortex.

Results: The rotation performed by alignment of the medial collateral ligament fibres with the caudal tibial cortex resulted in a significantly greater rotation than the calculated movement required to achieve a postoperative angle of five degrees. The mean over-rotation was 2.1 ± 1.73 mm.

Clinical significance: Use of the medial collateral ligament alignment with the caudal tibial cortex will reliably result in over-rotation of the tibial plateau and should not be used as an intra-operative guideline for tibial plateau rotation during TPLO procedures.
Double layer effects in a model of proton discharge on charged electrodes
Authors: Wiebe Johannes , Spohr Eckhard
Published: July 2014

We report first results on double layer effects on proton discharge reactions from aqueous solutions to charged platinum electrodes. We have extended a recently developed combined proton transfer/proton discharge model on the basis of empirical valence bond theory to include specifically adsorbed sodium cations and chloride anions. For each of four studied systems 800–1000 trajectories of a discharging proton were integrated by molecular dynamics simulations until discharge occurred. The results show significant influences of ion presence on the average behavior of protons prior to the discharge event. Rationalization of the observed behavior cannot be based solely on the electrochemical potential (or surface charge) but needs to resort to the molecular details of the double layer structure.
Chronic kidney disease of unknown etiology in Sri Lanka: Quest for understanding and global implications
Authors:   RTI International, Elledge Myles , Hoponick Redmon Jennifer , Levine Keith , Wickremasinghe Rajitha , Wanigasariya Kamani , Peiris-John Roshini
Published: July 2014

This research brief examines chronic kidney disease of unknown etiology (CKDu) in Sri Lanka. A new and growing public health challenge that has emerged in Sri Lanka, CKDu is epidemic in selected geographic areas of the country, primarily in its central and eastern dry zones. CKDu is not attributed to diabetes, hypertension, or other factors commonly associated with chronic kidney disease. A number of risk factors point to environmental triggers for the onset of CKDu, but evidence so far is insufficient to accurately pinpoint the potential cause or causes. Small studies conducted to date attempt to associate CKDu with agrochemicals, ayurvedic (traditional) medicines, water quality, or other environmental or lifestyle factors. This complex emerging health crisis requires an interdisciplinary approach, following strict field protocols and a rigorous environmental health risk assessment framework. Research and analysis to better understand CKDu are important for Sri Lanka and have global implications for understanding of similar geographic CKDu “hot spots” in Central America, Eastern Europe, and South Asia.
ECONOMETRIC METHODOLOGY OF MONOPOLIZATION PROCESS EVALUATION
Authors: Skoruks Dmitrijs , Šenfelde Maija
Published: July 2014

The research “Econometric Methodology of Monopolization Process Evaluation” gives a perspective description of monopolization process’ nature, occurrence source, development procedure and internal conjuncture specifics, as well as providing an example of modern econometrical method application within a unified framework of market competition analysis for the purpose of conducting a quantitative competition evaluation on an industry level for practical use in both private and public sectors.

The main question of the aforementioned research is the definition and quantitative analysis of monopolization effects in modern day globalized markets, while constructing an empirical model of the econometric analysis, based on the use of international historical experience of monopoly formations standings, with the goal of introducing a further development scheme for the use of both econometrical and statistical instruments in line with the forecasting and business research need of enterprises and regulatory functions of the public sector. The current research uses a vast variety of monopolization evaluation ratios and their econometrical updates on companies that are involved in the study procedure in order to detect and scallar measure their market monopolizing potential, based on the implemented acquired market positions, turnover shares and competition policies.
POTENTIALS AND PROBLEMS OF INTERNET AS A SOURCE OF PURCHASING INFORMATION – EXPERIENCES AND ATTITUDES OF UNIVERSITY STUDENTS IN CROATIA
Authors: Knezevic Blazenka , Jakovic Bozidar , Strugar Ivan
Published: July 2014

Gathering information online prior to offline purchase became the common way of using Internet within student population. On the other hand, there are more and more Internet users and online shoppers at all Central European Countries. In the CEE region companies are searching the way how to approach students as a target group via their web sites. The purpose of this research was to explain (1) how student population in Croatia use Internet as a tool for gathering information on products and services and (2) to assess perceived problems and potential of Internet as a retail information source. The paper is based on a primary research – a survey on attitudes of Croatian students towards Internet and online shopping. Results are analyzed by using descriptive and inferential statistical method. Discussion of the results brings us to conclusions that there are statistically different attitudes among groups according to gender and according previous experience with the on-line shopping. For illustration: (a) males and females differ in assortment that they are choosing and buying online, (b) male students have a more positive attitude towards online shopping benefits than female students, and (c) online shoppers have more positive attitudes towards security issues than non-online shoppers.
The Risks of Future Defence Capability Development
Authors: Piatkowski Andrzej
Published: July 2014

In the post-Cold War era the main purpose behind developing defence capabilities in NATO countries has been to achieve a technological advantage over the potential enemy. While it is reasonable in its own right, the complexity and the cost of newly developed military equipment are becoming an issue at both strategic and operational levels. Taking into account all the potential threats in the near future, I will argue that this struggle for ultimate technological superiority might actually decrease the overall effectiveness of the modern armed forces. To analyse this notion, I will describe and assess the current trends in developing armament and, based on the outcome, try to predict the long term effects.