bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermal properties of defective fullerene
Authors: Li Jian , Zheng Dong-Qin , Zhong Wei-Rong
Published: September 2016

We have investigated the thermal conductivity of defective fullerene (C[Formula: see text] by using the nonequilibrium molecular dynamics (MD) method. It is found that the thermal conductivity of C[Formula: see text] with one defect is lower than the thermal conductivity of perfect C[Formula: see text]. However, double defects in C[Formula: see text] have either positive or negative influence on the thermal conductivity, which depends on the positions of the defects. The phonon spectra of perfect and defective C[Formula: see text] are also provided to give corresponding supports. Our results can be extended to long C[Formula: see text] chains, which is helpful for the thermal management of C[Formula: see text].
Structural, optoelectronic, and thermoelectric properties of AZn13 (A=Na, K, Ca, Sr, Ba) compounds
Authors: Basit Abdul , Murtaza G. , Mahmood Asif , Yar Abdullah , Muhammad S.
Published: September 2016

We report the structural, electronic, optical, and thermoelectric properties of the five cubic alkali-earth transition-metals AZn[Formula: see text] (A-Na, K, Ca, Sr, Ba) using density functional theory. Structural properties, electronic structures and optical behaviors are calculated explicitly via highly accurate contemporary full potential-linearized augmented plane wave (FP-LAPW) method. The investigated ground state data of these materials is quite close to the experimental information. The modified Becke–Johnson (mBJ) predicts the intermetallic nature of AZn[Formula: see text] (A-Na, K, Ca, Sr, Ba) materials. The complex dielectric function of these intermetallic compounds has been calculated and the observed noticeable peaks are examined through mBJ. With the help of complex dielectric function, the other important optical parameters like reflectivities, conductivities and refractive indices of AZn[Formula: see text] (A-Na, K, Ca, Sr, Ba) have been calculated as a function of energy. The optical response suggests that AZn[Formula: see text] (A-Na, K, Ca, Sr, Ba) compounds can be used for the optoelectronic devices. Further, the thermoelectric properties have been calculated through BoltzTraP program, the calculated values for different thermoelectric parameters recommend that these AZn[Formula: see text] (A-Na, K, Ca, Sr, Ba) materials are the suitable candidates for thermoelectric applications.
Stochastic resonance and stability for an ecological vegetation growth system driven by colored noises and multiplicative signal
Authors: Wang Kang-Kang , Wang Ya-Jun , Wu Jian-Cheng
Published: September 2016

In this paper, we investigate the steady-state properties and the transition rate for an ecological vegetation growth system induced by the terms of the colored multiplicative and additive noises. Numerical results indicate that the multiplicative noise and the additive one can reduce the stability of the ecological system and slow down the development velocity of the vegetation, while two noise self-correlation times can increase the stability of the system and speed up the expansion process of the vegetation system. With respect to the stochastic resonance (SR) phenomenon caused by noise terms and a multiplicative weak periodic signal, the results show that the additive noise always enhances the SR effect, two noise self-correlation time terms can produce SR phenomenon, but play opposite roles in enhancing or inhibiting the SR effect under different parameter conditions. In particular, the two self-correlation times can keep up the maximum of the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) invariant in specific situations. Analogously, the multiplicative noise can not only improve the SNR, but also restrain the SR phenomenon in different cases.
Improving Resilience of Software Systems: A Case Study in 3D-Online Game System
Authors: Lu Wei , Wang Weidong , Bao Ergude , Xing Weiwei , Zhu Kai
Published: September 2016

Resilience is the property that enables a system to continue operating properly when one or more faults occur. Nowadays, as software systems become more and more complex, their hardware execution platforms also become more heterogenous with larger scale. Software systems may fail due to some faults such as node breakdown, communication failure, or data processing failure. In this paper, we propose a ring-based resilience mechanism, which implements fault detection and recovery. (1) To solve the problem that the central server may have high burden of network traffic, we design a ring-based heartbeat algorithm for crash fault detection. (2) We also design a light-weight recovery mechanism to recover from crash faults as compared with the current system-specific mechanisms. To evaluate our mechanism, we use a 3D-online game system as a case study. By injecting faults, we test the effectiveness and overhead of the proposed mechanism. Compared with other mechanisms, the experimental results show that our mechanism can support resilience very well and is better at dealing with the crash fault caused by high cluster workload with acceptable overhead.
On Kottler's path: Origin and evolution of the premetric program in gravity and in electrodynamics
Authors: Hehl Friedrich W. , Itin Yakov , Obukhov Yuri N.
Published: September 2016

In 1922, Kottler put forward the program to remove the gravitational potential, the metric of spacetime, from the fundamental equations in physics as far as possible. He successfully applied this idea to Newton’s gravitostatics and to Maxwell’s electrodynamics, where Kottler recast the field equations in premetric form and specified a metric-dependent constitutive law. We will discuss the basics of the premetric approach and some of its beautiful consequences, like the division of universal constants into two classes. We show that classical electrodynamics can be developed without a metric quite straightforwardly: the Maxwell equations, together with a local and linear response law for electromagnetic media, admit a consistent premetric formulation. Kottler’s program succeeds here without provisos. In Kottler’s approach to gravity, making the theory relativistic, two premetric quasi-Maxwellian field equations arise, but their field variables, if interpreted in terms of general relativity, do depend on the metric. However, one can hope to bring the Kottler idea to work by using the teleparallelism equivalent of general relativity, where the gravitational potential, the coframe, can be chosen in a premetric way.
Investigation of Bohr Hamiltonian in the presence of time-dependent Manning–Rosen, harmonic oscillator and double ring shaped potentials
Authors: Sobhani Hadi , Hassanabadi Hassan
Published: September 2016

This paper contains study of Bohr Hamiltonian considering time-dependent form of two important and famous nuclear potentials and harmonic oscillator. Dependence on time in interactions is considered in general form. In order to investigate this system, a powerful mathematical method has been employed, so-called Lewis–Riesenfeld dynamical invariant method. Appropriate dynamical invariant for considered system has been constructed. Then its eigen functions and the wave function are derived. At the end, we discussed about physical meaning of the results.
Analysis of Large-Sag Extensible Catenary with Free Horizontal Sliding at One End by Variational Approach
Authors: Phanyasahachart Thongchai , Athisakul Chainarong , Chucheepsakul Somchai
Published: September 2016

A variational approach for the static equilibrium configuration analysis of a large-sag extensible catenary with free horizontal sliding at one end is developed, considering the virtual work done by the catenary self-weight and the horizontal tension at the free sliding end support. The virtual work of the cable system is expressed in terms of the vertical coordinate, which is a function of the unstrained arc length of the cable. The stationary condition is applied to the virtual work functional to obtain the equilibrium configuration of the catenary. The validity of the variational approach is ensured by Euler’s equation, which is identical to the one derived by the force equilibrium consideration of a catenary segment. The finite element method is used to evaluate the numerical results. A parametric study is performed to demonstrate the effect of axial deformation on the equilibrium configuration of a large-sag extensible free horizontal sliding catenary. The results indicate that as the axial deformation increases, the total arc-length and horizontal span length of the cable also increase. Particularly, the very large-sag catenary configurations are studied and exhibited in this study.
Trends and Typology of Emerging Antenna Propagation Technologies: Citation Network Analysis
Authors: Takano Yasutomo , Kajikawa Yuya , Ando Makoto
Published: September 2016

The detection of emerging technologies is vital for R&D managers and policymakers; hence, the bibliometric approach to analyzing papers and patents was developed. In this study, we proposed a new method, the research classification schema (RCS). We used citation network analysis to classify technologies into four categories: change-maker, breakthrough, matured, and incremental. Each technology is then plotted on the RCS based on its publication profile. A case study in the field of antennas was undertaken to evaluate the relevance and effectiveness of the RCS. The RCS method demonstrates the usefulness of the identification process of promising technologies, and therefore, the convenience of target designing research projects in universities and companies. We also discussed the effect of the resolution limit of clustering algorithms on the RCS to improve reliability.
Multisensor systems based on phthalocyanines for monitoring the quality of grapes
Authors: Rodriguez-Mendez Maria Luz , García-Hernandez Celia , Medina-Plaza Cristina , García-Cabezón Cristina , de Saja Jose Antonio
Published: September 2016

Arrays of phthalocyanine-based sensors with complementary activity have been used to develop voltammetric electronic tongues. Such systems have demonstrated to be useful in enology for the evaluation of quality of wines in different production stages, from grapes to bottles. In this paper, the state of the art of multisensor systems based on phthalocyanines dedicated to the analysis of musts (juices obtained from crushed grapes) is described. Such multisensor systems cover different types of sensors from simple Carbon Paste Electrodes, to sophiticated nanostructured sensors, including Langmuir–Blodgett or Layer by Layer thin films and biomimetic biosensors where phthalocyanines play a crucial role as electron mediator between enzymes and electrodes. In all cases, multisensor systems based on phthalocyanines have been able to discriminate musts prepared from different varieties of grapes. The performance of these systems can be improved by combining non-specific sensors with biosensors containing enzymes selective to phenols. In this case, excellent relationships have been found between the responses provided by the array and the content in phenols and acids provided by traditional chemical analysis.
Simulation of Dynamic Rigidity Modulus of Brain Matter by that of Agar Gel
Authors: Chakroun Moez , Ben Ghozlen Med Hédi
Published: September 2016

Agar gel is a linear viscoelastic material with low deformations ([Formula: see text]). Here, characterization technique used is the rheometer-type Carri-Med “CSL 100”. This rheometer offers us the opportunity to study the gel in static and dynamic shear. The study is done at low frequencies ([Formula: see text]–[Formula: see text]). Mechanical characterization of the agar gel in terms of dynamic modulus is performed for different concentrations. The dynamic rigidity of the gel decreases with increasing concentration. The 8% agar gel simulates very well the dynamic rigidity of brain tissue at low frequency. The range of low frequencies is rarely studied for this material (brain) in the literature. Most tests done on brain tissue are in a frequency range between [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. Yet, the Maxwell–Kelvin–Voigt model simulates very well the 8% agar gel. The instant elasticity derived from mathematical modeling of agar gel is similar to that measured in the literature for the brain tissue. Hence agar gel can be used in the construction of physical models of the human head used to analyze the dynamic response of the head to shock or to an inertial load.
Application of Microfluidic Technique in Drug Delivery
Authors: Guan Wenjian , Zhang Yi
Published: September 2016

Drug delivery as a strategy to improve the effect of therapeutic treatment is gaining tremendous interest in biomedical research. The recent advancement in microfluidic technique designed to precisely control the liquid at micro or nano liter level has shed some new lights on reshaping the ongoing drug delivery research. In this aspect, this present mini-review gives an overview on the potential applications of microfluidic technique in the area of drug delivery, which basically covers the fabrication of drug delivery carriers and the design of microfluidic-based smart systems for localized in vivo drug delivery.
Silicon detectors for the neutron flux and beam profile measurements of the n_TOF facility at CERN
Authors: Musumarra Agatino , Cosentino Luigi , Barbagallo Massimo , Colonna Nicola , Damone Lucia , Pappalardo Alfio , Piscopo Massimo , Finocchiaro Paolo
Published: September 2016

The demand of new and high precision cross section data for neutron-induced reactions is continuously growing, driven by the requirements from several fields of fundamental physics, as well as from nuclear technology, medicine, etc. Several neutron facilities are operational worldwide, and new ones are being built. In the coming years, neutron beam intensities never reached up to now will be available, thus opening new scientific and technological frontiers. Among existing facilities, n_TOF at CERN provides a high intensity pulsed neutron beam in a wide energy range (thermal to GeV) and with an extremely competitive energy resolution that also allows spectroscopy studies. In order to ensure high quality measurements, the neutron beams must be fully characterized as a function of the neutron energy, in particular by measuring the neutron flux and the beam transverse profile with high accuracy. In 2014 a new experimental area (EAR2), with a much higher neutron flux, has been completed and commissioned at n_TOF. In order to characterize the neutron beam in the newly built experimental area at n_TOF, two suitable diagnostics devices have been built by the INFN-LNS group. Both are based on silicon detectors coupled with 6Li converter foils, in particular Single Pad for the flux measurement and Position Sensitive (strips and others) for the beam profile. The devices have been completely characterized with radioactive sources and with the n_TOF neutron beam, fulfilling all the specifications and hence becoming immediately operational. The performances of these devices and their high versatility, in terms of neutron beam intensity, make them suitable to be used in both n_TOF experimental areas. A description of the devices and the main results obtained so far will be presented.
Nondestructive wood discrimination: FTIR – Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy in the characterization of different wood species used for artistic objects
Authors: Buoso Maria Crista , De Poli Mario , Matthaes Peter , Silvestrin Luca , Zafiropoulos Demetre
Published: September 2016

Wooden artifacts represent a significant component of past cultures. Successful conservation of wooden artifacts depends on the knowledge of wood structure and types. It is critical that conservators know the category of wood that they are treating in order to successfully conserve it. Recently, vibrational spectroscopy has been successfully applied to determine the chemical structure of wood and to characterize wood types. FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared) is a useful nondestructive or micro-destructive analytical technique providing information about chemical bonding and molecular structure. Its application in the discrimination between softwoods (conifers) and hardwoods (broad-leafs) has already been reported. The aim of the present study was to investigate the potential of FTIR as a tool for the discrimination between different wood types belonging to the same genus. Three different hardwood species, namely poplar (Populus spp), lime (Tilia spp) and birch (Betula spp), were investigated by means of FTIR spectroscopy. The woods were first inspected using a light microscope to certify the wood essence types through micrographic and morphoanatomical features. The FTIR spectra in the 4000 cm[Formula: see text] to 450 cm[Formula: see text] region were recorded using a Perkin-Elmer Spectrum 100 spectrometer. To enhance the qualitative interpretation of the IR spectra, second derivatives of all spectra were calculated using the Spectrum software to separate superimposed bands and to extract fine spectral details. To obtain a comprehensive characterization, the essences under investigation were also analyzed by means of Raman Spectroscopy. Clear differences were found in the spectra of the three samples confirming FTIR to be a powerful tool for wood type discrimination.
Exclusive CHIPS-TPT algorithms for simulation of neutron-nuclear reactions
Authors: Kosov Mikhail , Savin Dmitriy
Published: September 2016

The CHIPS-TPT physics library for simulation of neutron-nuclear reactions on the new exclusive level is being developed in CFAR VNIIA. The exclusive modeling conserves energy, momentum and quantum numbers in each neutron-nuclear interaction. The CHIPS-TPT algorithms are based on the exclusive CHIPS library, which is compatible with Geant4. Special CHIPS-TPT physics lists in the Geant4 format are provided. The calculation time for an exclusive CHIPS-TPT simulation is comparable to the time of the corresponding inclusive Geant4-HP simulation and much faster for mono-isotopic simulations. In addition to the reduction of the deposited energy fluctuations, which is a consequence of the energy conservation, the CHIPS-TPT libraries provide a possibility of simulation of the secondary particles correlation, e.g. secondary gammas or n–[Formula: see text] correlations, and of the Doppler broadening of the [Formula: see text]-lines in the simulated spectra, which can be measured by germanium detectors.
Neutron transport-burnup code MCORGS and its application in fusion fission hybrid blanket conceptual research
Authors: Shi Xue-Ming , Peng Xian-Jue
Published: September 2016

Fusion science and technology has made progress in the last decades. However, commercialization of fusion reactors still faces challenges relating to higher fusion energy gain, irradiation-resistant material, and tritium self-sufficiency. Fusion Fission Hybrid Reactors (FFHR) can be introduced to accelerate the early application of fusion energy. Traditionally, FFHRs have been classified as either breeders or transmuters. Both need partition of plutonium from spent fuel, which will pose nuclear proliferation risks. A conceptual design of a Fusion Fission Hybrid Reactor for Energy (FFHR–E), which can make full use of natural uranium with lower nuclear proliferation risk, is presented. The fusion core parameters are similar to those of the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor. An alloy of natural uranium and zirconium is adopted in the fission blanket, which is cooled by light water. In order to model blanket burnup problems, a linkage code MCORGS, which couples MCNP4B and ORIGEN-S, is developed and validated through several typical benchmarks. The average blanket energy Multiplication and Tritium Breeding Ratio can be maintained at 10 and 1.15 respectively over tens of years of continuous irradiation. If simple reprocessing without separation of plutonium from uranium is adopted every few years, FFHR–E can achieve better neutronic performance. MCORGS has also been used to analyze the ultra-deep burnup model of Laser Inertial Confinement Fusion Fission Energy (LIFE) from LLNL, and a new blanket design that uses Pb instead of Be as the neutron multiplier is proposed. In addition, MCORGS has been used to simulate the fluid transmuter model of the In-Zinerater from Sandia. A brief comparison of LIFE, In-Zinerater, and FFHR–E will be given.
Determination of the activity concentration levels of the artificial radionuclide137Cs in soil samples collected from Qatar using high-resolution gamma-ray spectrometry
Authors: Al-Sulaiti Huda , Nasir Tabassum , Al Mugren K. S. , Alkhomashi N. , Al-Dahan N. , Al-Dosari M. , Bradley D. A. , Bukhari S. , Regan P. H. , Santawamaitre T. , Malain D. , Habib A. , Al-Dosari Hanan , Daar Eman
Published: September 2016

The goal of this study was to establish the first baseline measurements for radioactivity concentration of the artificial radionuclide [Formula: see text]Cs in soil samples collected from the Qatarian peninsula. The work focused on the determination of the activity concentrations levels of man-made radiation in 129 soil samples collected across the landscape of the State of Qatar. All the samples were collected before the most recent accident in Japan, “the 2011 Fukushima Dai-ichi nuclear power plant accident”. The activity concentrations have been measured via high-resolution gamma-ray spectrometry using a hyper-pure germanium detector situated in a low-background environment with a copper inner-plated passive lead shield. A radiological map showing the activity concentrations of [Formula: see text]Cs is presented in this work. The concentration was[Formula: see text]found to range from 0.21 to 15.41 Bq/kg. The highest activity concentration of [Formula: see text]Cs was observed in sample no. 26 in North of Qatar. The mean value was found to be around 2.15 ± 0.27 Bq/kg. These values lie within the expected range relative to the countries in the region. It is expected that this contamination is mainly due to the Chernobyl accident on 26 April 1986, but this conclusion cannot be confirmed because of the lack of data before this accident.
G20 Hangzhou Summit: A Possible Turning Point for Global Governance
Authors: Bradford Colin I.
Published: September 2016

The 2016 G20 Summit in Hangzhou takes place within a tense global political context. The outcome of the UK Brexit referendum in June revealed the deep divide between the politics of competitive nationalism and the commitment to international cooperation. It also reflected the depth of public reaction to global economic integration and the absence of response to public anxieties about social well-being and environmental sustainability from the political middle in many countries. China’s hosting of the G20 Summit presents an opportunity to turn a corner in global summitry by strengthening global leadership at this critical juncture, while China’s ability to do so depends on the willingness of other G20 members to comprehensively address public anxieties. The UN 2030 Agenda and the Paris Climate Agreement, both reached in 2015, do provide political and policy answers to the public anxieties. The question is the effectiveness of the initiatives governments are taking to implement them, which could be framed together to achieve sustainability for all in the face of serious, demonstrable systemic risks. Many governments may resist this level of ambition and prefer to strike a lower profile as the world shifts its focus from goal setting in 2015 to goal implementation in 2016. Yet even with this less ambitious approach, there are ways that G20 countries can initiate processes that engage stakeholders in envisioning the future and developing alternative approaches and pathways to move their nations toward where they need to be by 2030 in terms of social, economic, and environmental sustainability. As people-centered and planet-centered agendas, the sustainable development goals (SDGs) set in the UN 2030 Agenda and the Paris Climate Agreement have the policy content necessary to provide hope and direction for anxious publics. Similarly, it is hopeful that G20 leaders can develop narratives and define commitments to address the economic insecurity of their people and in the meantime strengthen the G20’s role in global governance.
Report of the 10th Asia-Pacific Federation of Societies for Surgery of the Hand Congress (Organising Chair and Scientific Chair)
Authors: A. Roohi Sharifah , Abdullah Shalimar
Published: September 2016

A report on the 10th Asia-Pacific Federation of Societies for the Surgery of the Hand and 6th Asia-Pacific Federation of Societies for Hand Therapists is submitted detailing the numbers of attendees participating, papers presented and support received as well the some of the challenges faced and how best to overcome them from the local conference chair and scientific chair point of view.
A Universal Application Storage System Based on Smart Card
Authors: Shen Jie , Cai Yingjue , Ren Yang , Yang Xiao
Published: September 2016

Nowadays, electronic commerce (e-commerce) has brought facilitation to people’s daily lives. Smart-card-based systems are widely used as an implementation, where smart cards act as a secure carrier for small-sized data. However, most of these systems are developed and managed by each service provider individually and repeatedly, which causes both unnecessary work and difficulties in future maintenance. Besides, advantages of smart card technology are not full-fledged for the lack of enough consideration in flexibility and security. To propose a solution, this article presents a Universal Application Storage System, including card side, terminal side, and back-end system. The card side provides a universal and secured infrastructure for data storage, where data are organized and stored in a card file system with several security mechanisms. In the terminal side, a framework for accessing various forms of secure element is presented to simplify the procedures involved in manipulating smart cards. Through this framework, the back-end system is able to establish a direct connection to the card, and performs authorized operations by exchanging commands in a secure channel. The validity of the proposed system is verified at the end of this article, illustrated by an e-coupon system.
Rethinking Randomness
Authors: Denning Peter J.
Published: September 2016

In Part 1, Jeff Buzen discussed the basic principles of his new approach to randomness, which is the topic of his book Rethinking Randomness. He continues here with a more detailed discussion of models that have been used successfully to predict the performance of systems ranging from early time sharing computers to modern web servers.

Peter J. Denning

Editor in Chief
Transparency, Replication, and Cumulative Learning: What Experiments Alone Cannot Achieve
Authors: Dunning Thad
Published: September 2016

Replication of simple and transparent experiments should promote the cumulation of knowledge. Yet, randomization alone does not guarantee simple analysis, transparent reporting, or third-party replication. This article surveys several challenges to cumulative learning from experiments and discusses emerging research practices—including several kinds of prespecification, two forms of replication, and a new model for coordinated experimental research—that may partially overcome the obstacles. I reflect on both the strengths and limitations of these new approaches to doing social science research.
Role of endogenous carbon monoxide in the control of breathing in zebrafish (Danio rerio)
Authors: Tzaneva Velislava , Perry Steve F.
Published: September 2016

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a gaseous signaling molecule and is produced in vivo from the intracellular breakdown of heme via the heme oxygenase (HO) family of enzymes. In this study we investigated the role of the HO-1/CO system in the control of ventilation in zebrafish, Danio rerio. Immunohistochemistry revealed the presence of HO-1 in the chemoreceptive neuroepithelial cells (NECs) of larvae (4 days postfertilization) and adults, indicating the potential for endogenous CO production in the NECs. Hypoxia (20 min, water Po2of 30 mmHg) caused a significant increase in HO-1 activity in whole larvae and in the gills of adult fish. Zebrafish with reduced HO-1 activity (via HO-1 knockdown in larvae or zinc protoporphyrin IX treatment in adults) exhibited increased ventilation frequency ( Vf) under normoxic but not hypoxic conditions. The addition of exogenous CO restored resting Vfin fish with diminished CO production, and in some cases (e.g., hypoxic sham larvae) CO modestly reduced Vfbelow resting levels. Larval fish were treated with phenylhydrazine (PHZ) to eliminate the potential confounding effects of CO-hemoglobin interactions that might influence ventilation. PHZ treatment did not cause changes in Vfof normoxic larvae, and the addition of CO to PHZ-exposed larvae resulted in a significant decrease in sham and HO-1-deficient fish under normoxic conditions. This study demonstrates for the first time that CO plays an inhibitory role in the control of breathing in larval and adult zebrafish.
Carotid baroreflex function at the onset of cycling in men
Authors: Barbosa Thales C. , Vianna Lauro C. , Hashimoto Takeshi , Petersen Lonnie G. , Olesen Niels D. , Tsukamoto Hayato , Sørensen Henrik , Ogoh Shigehiko , Nóbrega Antonio C. L. , Secher Niels H.
Published: September 2016

Arterial baroreflex function is important for blood pressure control during exercise, but its contribution to cardiovascular adjustments at the onset of cycling exercise remains unclear. Fifteen healthy male subjects (24 ± 1 yr) performed 45-s trials of low- and moderate-intensity cycling, with carotid baroreceptor stimulation by neck suction at −60 Torr applied 0–5, 10–15, and 30–35 s after the onset of exercise. Cardiovascular responses to neck suction during cycling were compared with those obtained at rest. An attenuated reflex decrease in heart rate following neck suction was detected during moderate-intensity exercise, compared with the response at rest ( P < 0.05). Furthermore, compared with the reflex decrease in blood pressure elicited at rest, neck suction elicited an augmented decrease in blood pressure at 0–5 and 10–15 s during low-intensity exercise and in all periods during moderate-intensity exercise ( P < 0.05). The reflex depressor response at the onset of cycling was primarily mediated by an increase in the total vascular conductance. These findings evidence altered carotid baroreflex function during the first 35 s of cycling compared with rest, with attenuated bradycardic response, and augmented depressor response to carotid baroreceptor stimulation.
A fate-mapping approach reveals the composite origin of the connecting tubule and alerts on “single-cell”-specific KO model of the distal nephron
Authors: Trepiccione Francesco , Soukaseum Christelle , Iervolino Anna , Petrillo Federica , Zacchia Miriam , Schutz Gunther , Eladari Dominique , Capasso Giovambattista , Hadchouel Juliette
Published: September 2016

The distal nephron is a heterogeneous part of the nephron composed by six different cell types, forming the epithelium of the distal convoluted (DCT), connecting, and collecting duct. To dissect the function of these cells, knockout models specific for their unique cell marker have been created. However, since this part of the nephron develops at the border between the ureteric bud and the metanephric mesenchyme, the specificity of the single cell markers has been recently questioned. Here, by mapping the fate of the aquaporin 2 (AQP2) and Na+-Cl−cotransporter (NCC)-positive cells using transgenic mouse lines expressing the yellow fluorescent protein fluorescent marker, we showed that the origin of the distal nephron is extremely composite. Indeed, AQP2-expressing precursor results give rise not only to the principal cells, but also to some of the A- and B-type intercalated cells and even to cells of the DCT. On the other hand, some principal cells and B-type intercalated cells can develop from NCC-expressing precursors. In conclusion, these results demonstrate that the origin of different cell types in the distal nephron is not as clearly defined as originally thought. Importantly, they highlight the fact that knocking out a gene encoding for a selective functional marker in the adult does not guarantee cell specificity during the overall kidney development. Tools allowing not only cell-specific but also time-controlled recombination will be useful in this sense.
The impact of postexercise essential amino acid ingestion on the ubiquitin proteasome and autophagosomal-lysosomal systems in skeletal muscle of older men
Authors: Dickinson Jared M. , Reidy Paul T. , Gundermann David M. , Borack Michael S. , Walker Dillon K. , D’Lugos Andrew C. , Volpi Elena , Rasmussen Blake B.
Published: September 2016

Essential amino acid (EAA) ingestion enhances postexercise muscle protein synthesis, and, in particular, the anabolic response of older adults appears sensitive to the quantity of ingested leucine. The effect of leucine ingestion on muscle breakdown following resistance exercise (RE) is less understood. The purpose of this study was to identify the impact of postexercise leucine ingestion on the ubiquitin proteasome and autophagosomal-lysosomal systems following acute RE in older men. Subjects (72 ± 2 yr) performed RE and 1 h postexercise ingested 10 g of EAA containing a leucine quantity similar to quality protein (control, 1.8 g leucine, n = 7) or enriched in leucine (leucine, 3.5 g leucine, n = 8). Stable isotope infusion and muscle biopsies (vastus lateralis) obtained at rest and 2, 5, and 24 h postexercise were used to examine protein content (Western blot), mRNA expression (RT-quantitative PCR), and muscle protein fractional breakdown rate (FBR). Muscle-specific RING finger 1 mRNA increased in both groups at 2 and 5 h ( P < 0.05). LC3 mRNA increased, and the LC3BII-to-LC3BI ratio decreased at all postexercise time points in control ( P < 0.05). Conversely, LC3 mRNA only increased at 2 h, and the LC3BII-to-LC3BI ratio only decreased at 2 and 5 h in leucine ( P < 0.05). Tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor-6 mRNA increased ( P < 0.05) in control at 5 h. FBR was not statistically different between groups or from basal 24 h postexercise ( P > 0.05). These data indicate that ingesting a larger quantity of leucine following RE may further reduce postexercise skeletal muscle autophagy in older men; however, it does not appear to influence the acute postexercise elevation in markers of the ubiquitin proteasome system or the breakdown of intact proteins.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY The impact of postexercise leucine ingestion on processes of skeletal muscle breakdown in older adults is not well understood. Additional postexercise leucine ingestion appears to further reduce autophagy, but it does not interfere with the increase in ubiquitin proteasome system markers or the breakdown of intact proteins in skeletal muscle of older men. Postexercise leucine ingestion may promote a healthier protein pool and favorable muscle adaptations in older adults through greater accretion of myofibrillar proteins.
Soluble Receptor for Advanced Glycation End Product Ameliorates Chronic Intermittent Hypoxia Induced Renal Injury, Inflammation, and Apoptosis via P38/JNK Signaling Pathways
Authors: Wu Xu , Gu Wenyu , Lu Huan , Liu Chengying , Yu Biyun , Xu Hui , Tang Yaodong , Li Shanqun , Zhou Jian , Shao Chuan
Published: September 2016

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) associated chronic kidney disease is mainly caused by chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH) triggered tissue damage. Receptor for advanced glycation end product (RAGE) and its ligand high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) are expressed on renal cells and mediate inflammatory responses in OSA‐related diseases. To determine their roles in CIH‐induced renal injury, soluble RAGE (sRAGE), the RAGE neutralizing antibody, was intravenously administered in a CIH model. We also evaluated the effect of sRAGE on inflammation and apoptosis. Rats were divided into four groups: (1) normal air (NA), (2) CIH, (3) CIH+sRAGE, and (4) NA+sRAGE. Our results showed that CIH accelerated renal histological injury and upregulated RAGE‐HMGB1 levels involving inflammatory (NF‐κB, TNF‐α, and IL‐6), apoptotic (Bcl‐2/Bax), and mitogen‐activated protein kinases (phosphorylation of P38, ERK, and JNK) signal transduction pathways, which were abolished by sRAGE but p‐ERK. Furthermore, sRAGE ameliorated renal dysfunction by attenuating tubular endothelial apoptosis determined by immunofluorescence staining of CD31 and TUNEL. These findings suggested that RAGE‐HMGB1 activated chronic inflammatory transduction cascades that contributed to the pathogenesis of the CIH‐induced renal injury. Inhibition of RAGE ligand interaction by sRAGE provided a therapeutic potential for CIH‐induced renal injury, inflammation, and apoptosis through P38 and JNK pathways.
Altered Striatocerebellar Metabolism and Systemic Inflammation in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Yu Chiun-Chieh , Chen Meng-Hsiang , Lu Cheng-Hsien , Huang Yung-Cheng , Chen Hsiu-Ling , Tsai Nai-Wen , Wang Hung-Chen , Yang I-Hsiao , Li Shau-Hsuan , Lin Wei-Che
Published: September 2016

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the most second common neurodegenerative movement disorder. Neuroinflammation due to systemic inflammation and elevated oxidative stress is considered a major factor promoting the pathogenesis of PD, but the relationship of structural brain imaging parameters to clinical inflammatory markers has not been well studied. Our aim was to evaluate the association of magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) measures with inflammatory markers. Blood samples were collected from 33 patients with newly diagnosed PD and 30 healthy volunteers. MRS data including levels of N‐acetylaspartate (NAA), creatine (Cre), and choline (Cho) were measured in the bilateral basal ganglia and cerebellum. Inflammatory markers included plasma nuclear DNA, plasma mitochondrial DNA, and apoptotic leukocyte levels. The Cho/Cre ratio in the dominant basal ganglion, the dominant basal ganglia to cerebellum ratios of two MRS parameters NAA/Cre and Cho/Cre, and levels of nuclear DNA, mitochondrial DNA, and apoptotic leukocytes were significantly different between PD patients and normal healthy volunteers. Significant positive correlations were noted between MRS measures and inflammatory marker levels. In conclusion, patients with PD seem to have abnormal levels of inflammatory markers in the peripheral circulation and deficits in MRS measures in the dominant basal ganglion and cerebellum.
Evaluation of the Impacts of Assimilating the TAMDAR Data on 12/4 km Grid WRF-Based RTFDDA Simulations over the CONUS
Authors: Zhang Yongxin , Liu Yubao , Nipen Thomas
Published: September 2016

An analysis of the impacts of assimilating the Tropospheric Airborne Meteorological Data Report (TAMDAR) data with the Weather Research and Forecasting- (WRF-) real-time four-dimensional data assimilation (RTFDDA) and forecasting system over the Contiguous US (CONUS) is presented. The impacts of the horizontal resolution increase from 12 km to 4 km on the WRF-RTFDDA simulations are also examined in conjunction with the TAMDAR data impacts. The assimilation of the TAMDAR data reduces the root mean squared error of the moisture field predictions and increases the correlation between the predictions and the observations for both domains with 12 km and 4 km grid spacings. The TAMDAR data reduce the model dry biases in the middle and lower levels by adding moisture at those levels. Assimilating the TAMDAR data improves temperature predictions at middle to high levels and wind speed predictions at all levels especially for the 12 km domain. Increasing the horizontal resolution from 12 km to 4 km results in significantly larger impacts on surface variables than assimilating the TAMDAR data.
The Relationship between Body Mass Index and Depression among High School Girls in Ahvaz
Authors: Tashakori Ashraf , Riahi Forough , Mohammadpour Amin
Published: September 2016

Objective. Today, obesity and depression are two major illnesses that are on the rise all over the world and threaten human health. This research was done to determine the relationship between Body Mass Index (BMI) and depression among Ahvaz high school female students.Method. In a descriptive-analytical study using stratified random sampling, 400 female high school students in academic year of 2013-2014 were picked and their height and weight were measured. BMI was classified based on World Health Organization classification. To assess the severity of depression, Beck depression questionnaire was used. In order to analyze the data, descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation test were used.Results. In terms of BMI 9% of students were slim, 77% were at an acceptable level, and 14% were overweight. Also, the prevalence of depression was 86.20% major depression and 13.79% moderate depression for obese persons, 10.41% major depression and 70.83% moderate depression for overweight persons, 8.78% major depression and 12.97% moderate depression for normal weight persons, and 9% moderate depression for slim persons. The relationship between BMI and depression among high school students is positive and significant (P<0.001;  r=0.555).Conclusion. There is a positive and significant relationship between BMI and the severity of depression among Ahvaz high school female students.
Comparative Proteomic Analysis of Differential Proteins in Response to Aqueous Extract of Quercus infectoria Gall in Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Khairon Radhiah , Zin Noraziah Mohamad , Abdul Rahman Mariati , Basri Dayang Fredalina
Published: September 2016

The aim of this study is to analyze the differential proteins in MRSA ATCC 33591 treated with aqueous extract from Q. infectoria gall. Protein extracts were obtained from MRSA cells by sonication and were separated by 2D polyacrylamide gels. Protein spots of interest were extracted from the gels and identified using LC-ESI-QTOF MS. The concentration of Q. infectoria extract used for 2D-gel electrophoresis was subinhibitory concentration. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) value of the extract against MRSA was 19.50 μg/mL with bacteriostatic action at 1x MIC from time-kill assay. However, the extract exhibited dose-dependent manner and was bactericidal at 4x MIC with more than 3 log10 CFU/mL reduction at 4 h. 2D-GE map showed that 18 protein spots were upregulated and another six were downregulated more than twofold (p<0.05) after treatment with subinhibitory concentration. Out of six proteins being downregulated, four proteins were identified as ferritin and catalase, branched-chain alpha-keto acid dehydrogenase subunit E2, and succinyl-CoA ligase [ADP-forming] subunit beta. Seven upregulated proteins which have been successfully identified were 3-hydroxyacyl-CoA dehydrogenase, NAD binding domain protein, formate C-acetyltransferase, 3-hydroxyacyl-[acyl-carrier-protein] dehydratase FabZ, NAD dependent epimerase/dehydratase family protein, and phosphopantothenoyl cysteine decarboxylase. It is postulated that the main mechanism of aqueous extract from gall of Q. infectoria was most likely involved in energy metabolism and protein stress.
Scleral Buckling for Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment Associated with Pars Planitis
Authors: Kim Yong-Kyu , Yoon Wontae , Ahn Jae Kyoun , Park Sung Pyo
Published: September 2016

Purpose. To evaluate the surgical outcome of scleral buckling (SB) in rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) patients associated with pars planitis.Methods. Retrospective review of RRD patients (32 eyes of pars planitis RRD and 180 eyes of primary RRD) who underwent SB. We compared primary and final anatomical success rates and visual outcomes between two groups.Results. Primary and final anatomical success were achieved in 25 (78.1%) and 31 (96.8%) eyes in the pars planitis RRD group and in 167 eyes (92.7%) and 176 eyes (97.7%) in primary RRD group, respectively. Both groups showed significant visual improvement (p<0.001) and there were no significant differences in final visual acuity. Pars planitis RRD group was associated with higher rate of postoperative proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) development (12.5% versus 2.8%,p=0.031). Pars planitis and high myopia were significant preoperative risk factors and pseudophakia was borderline risk for primary anatomical failure after adjusting for various clinical factors.Conclusions. Pars planitis associated RRD showed inferior primary anatomical outcome after SB due to postoperative PVR development. However, final anatomical and visual outcomes were favorable. RRD cases associated with pars planitis, high myopia, and pseudophakia might benefit from different surgical approaches, such as combined vitrectomy and SB.
Successful Tocilizumab Therapy for Macrophage Activation Syndrome Associated with Adult-Onset Still’s Disease: A Case-Based Review
Authors: Watanabe Eri , Sugawara Hitoshi , Yamashita Takeshi , Ishii Akira , Oda Aya , Terai Chihiro
Published: September 2016

We report the case of a 71-year-old Japanese woman with adult-onset Still’s disease (AOSD) in whom macrophage activation syndrome (MAS) developed despite therapy with oral high-dose prednisolone and intravenous methylprednisolone pulse therapy twice. She was successfully treated with tocilizumab (TCZ). Soon afterward, her fever ceased and high levels of both ferritin and C-reactive protein levels decreased. Her course was complicated by disseminated intravascular coagulation, cytomegalovirus infection, andPneumocystis jiroveciipneumonia. After these were resolved, AOSD-associated MAS was well controlled. She was discharged on hospital day 87. Although biologics such as TCZ are becoming established for the treatment of AOSD, there is no recommended therapy for AOSD-associated MAS. Several biologics have been tried for this complication, but their efficacy and safety remain controversial. We reviewed reported cases of AOSD-associated MAS successfully treated with various biologics. TCZ initiation after adequate nonselective immunosuppressive therapy, such as methylprednisolone pulse therapy or a prednisolone-based combination of immunosuppressants, can be an effective treatment for AOSD-associated MAS. On the other hand, biologics given after insufficient immunosuppressive therapy may cause MAS. A strategy combining adequate immunosuppression and a biologic could be safe if special attention is given to adverse events such as opportunistic infections or biologic-associated MAS.
Selective Electrochemical Detection of Epinephrine Using Gold Nanoporous Film
Authors: Fouad Dina M. , El-Said Waleed A.
Published: September 2016

Epinephrine (EP) is one of the important catecholamine neurotransmitters that play an important role in the mammalian central nervous system. Therefore, it is necessary to determine the change of its concentrations. Nanoporous materials have wide applications that include catalysis, energy storages, environmental pollution control, wastewater treatment, and sensing applications. These unique properties could be attributable to their high surface area, a large pore volume, and uniform pore sizes. A gold nanoporous layer modified gold electrode was prepared and applied for the selective determination of epinephrine neurotransmitter at low concentration in the presence of several other substances including ascorbic acid (AA) and uric acid (UA). The constructed electrode was characterized using scanning electron microscopy and cyclic voltammetry. The resulting electrode showed a selective detection of epinephrine with the interferences of dopamine and uric acid over a wide linear range (from 50 μM to 1 mM). The coverage of gold nanoporous on the surface of gold electrode represents a promising electrochemical sensor with high selectivity and sensitivity.