bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Studies of the Impact of Occupational Exposure of Pharmaceutical Workers on the Development of Antimicrobial Drug Resistance
Authors: Sarker Md. Moklesur Rahman , Islam Kamrun Nahar , Huri Hasniza Zaman , Rahman Monzur , Imam Hasan , Hosen Md. Biplob , Mohammad Nur , Sarker Md. Zaidul Islam
Published: June 2014

Studies of the Impact of Occupational Exposure of Pharmaceutical Workers on the Development of Antimicrobial Drug Resistance: Md. Moklesur Rahman SARKER, et al. Department of Pharmacy, School of Science, Primeasia University, Bangladesh—

Objectives

Pharmaceutical workers involved with the production of antimicrobial drugs are exposed to various antimicrobial chemicals in different steps of manufacturing such as grinding, sieving, compression, granulation, mixing and filling. These exposures may lead to the development of multidrug resistance (MDR) in bacteria. Scientific reports on the occupational health hazard of pharmaceutical workers involved in manufacturing antibiotics are scarce. The present study aimed to compare the degree of bacterial resistance in pharmaceutical workers in Bangladesh to that of individuals not involved in the pharmaceutical field.

Methods

Twenty male workers from five local pharmaceutical companies and twenty male subjects not involved in the pharmaceutical field (non‐pharmaceutical subjects) were randomly selected. Nasal fluid, mucus/cough and stool specimens were collected from each subject and were cultured separately at 37°C for 24 hours to obtain bacterial growth. The cultured species were then identified, isolated and subjected to microbial sensitivity testing against 18 different antibiotics from eight different groups by the disk diffusion method. Staphylococcus spp., Pseudomonas spp. and Escherichia coli were identified and isolated from the culture of nasal fluids, mucuses and stools, respectively.

Results

All the isolated species of bacteria exhibited significant enhancement of the degree of MDR in pharmaceutical workers compared with non‐pharmaceutical subjects. Workers with a longer working history had greater degree of antibiotic resistance and vice versa. It can be certainly considered that the exposure of pharmaceutical workers to antibiotic agents resulted in a high incidence of multidrug resistance.

Conclusions

Effective steps should be taken to minimize inherent exposure of pharmaceutical workers to antibiotics during work to prevent antimicrobial drug resistance.
Southern Countries’ Youth and The Dream Of Immigration
Authors: Akli Faradji Mohamed
Published: June 2014

In Algeria the issue of youth is not the major concern of some existing work in the field of sociology, despite the weight and importance of this age group in the demographic structure of our society, and the phenomena that emerge are many. We can count in recent years a number of social phenomena that have arisen in this category, most of which are a great source of concern, such as immigration (haragas), suicide, delinquency... The main question that we propose to analyze in this publication is to examine the sociological question of future choices of young Algerians and their vision about their own future.
A Different Aspect of the Architectural Education
Authors: Mutlu Danaci Hacer
Published: June 2014

Vernacular materials and construction techniques are very important in architecture. However, information about vernacular architecture education is generally not given to the student in architectural education. Conservation of the vernacular texture in the rural cultural landscape is important issue in the last years. It has vernacular architectural property 90% of the world's structuring. It is a living area of 800 million people. However, vernacular architecture researches as important as urbanely and structuring researches. In addition, a questionnaire is developed to architectural students who from different countries and levels about willingness to learn vernacular architecture.
The Woman Manager at Work: Between Personal Growth And Professional Development
Authors: Ahouari Zahir
Published: June 2014

There is a significant rise in women as managers in various fields, but they are subject of segregation due to the glass-ceiling policy adopted when dealing with human resources management. How do women react and go beyond the glass-ceiling policy, and do they struggle to improve their professional positions? We aim through this research to demonstrate whether women managers consider the work as a means of development and emancipation or just a way to meet their vital needs. In our study, we worked on 23 women executives working in three companies. They hold positions in food industry economic companies. We employed a qualitative method using interviews as instruments. For results, a thematic analysis was used. This study revealed that the personal and professional characteristics of women executives such as the degree, the nature of the training and professional trajectory, determine the conception of the women managers in relation to career towards the obstacles they encounter and their work expectations.
Mathematics Teachers Discourse Practices in Teaching Lesson Content Using Non-Native Language
Authors: Md-Ali Ruzlan , Mohd-Yusof Fahainis , Veloo Arsaythamby
Published: June 2014

Change in the medium of instruction for Mathematics in schools policy was deemed necessary to ensure that Malaysians are able to keep abreast with scientific and technological development that is mostly recorded in the English language. This change of the medium of instruction may affect the dynamics of teaching and learning Science and Mathematics in the multilingualism classroom. In this paper we draw on our research projects in Malaysia to describe and discuss the oral competencies, communication and discourse practices of secondary school mathematics teachers when delivering the lesson content using English as the medium of instruction. Qualitative data was obtained via interviews with the teachers and the students, as well as observations of teachings episodes encapsulated within video recordings and the employment of retrospective techniques to understand teachers’ actions and explanations of mathematics lesson content. Through our descriptions and discussion, we argue that while at a general pedagogical level it makes sense for teachers to be encouraged and use code-switching as learning and teaching strategy because teaching mathematics lesson content to learners whereby English is not their mother-tongue language is not a straight forward matter. We suggest a teaching model signified by these mathematics teachers, who themselves are not native English speakers, to overcome the challenges in communicating mathematics content to their students. Furthermore, we show how the movement across mathematical discourses relates to movement between languages in classroom communication and the quality of mathematics teaching and learning that had resulted.
Integration In Italian Primary Schools: Immigrant Children’s Voices
Authors: Dusi Paola , Steinbach Marilyn , Falcon Inmaculada Gonzalez
Published: June 2014

In Italy, the presence of immigrant children is constantly increasing. During their school attendance they met significant academic and educational difficulties. This study tried to find some answers in order to support their integration. To consider their points of view could be helpful in order to develop some useful reflections on their experiences and needs, and to design educational interventions to support their integration, based on their point of view as "sophisticated thinkers and communicators". We conducted a qualitative research. The main questions were: "How was your experience in Italian schools? What difficulties did you encounter? Who helped you? What would you suggest to help the integration of a new immigrant child in class?". Research participants were 15 children, aged 10 to 11. These children were born outside of Italy and primary school was their first encounter with the Italian educational system. We used: a. focus group in order to identify the most important areas of investigation; b. conversational interview. All interviews were recorded and transcribed. During the focus group and interviews, the children's teacher helped to create a reassuring atmosphere for the children. In the process of their socio-academic integration, the children we interviewed emphasized: the role of personal relationships with classmates and teachers in order to promote a sense of belonging in class, in school and in the host society; the importance of mastering the second language to be able to enter into the new world. Because of the limited size of our sample, these findings shouldn’t be viewed as representative, yet they seem to confirm the results of previous research. There are still unanswered questions and a need for further research in the study of the successful long-term integration process of migrant children.
Reassurance Supportive Therapy for Reducing Depression in Paraplegic Patients Due to Bantul Earthquake
Authors: Fauzia Rahmi , Sholihah Qomariyatus
Published: June 2014

Background Bantul earthquake caused about 350 people got spinal cord injury that made their lower body paralysis. Because of that, they became a person that does not function as used to. Depression symptoms appears then due to their condition. Aims This study aimed to determine the role of reassurance supportive therapy to lower levels of depression in patients with paraplegia Bantul earthquake survivors. Depression can be seen from the symptoms that shown during the research include the manifestation of emotional, cognitive, motivational, physiological and vegetative. Method ABAB single subject design applied to experiment. First, few survivors with paraplegia selected by Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). Then, interviews were conducted to six survivors, two of them participated as the study participants. The main phase of research conducted over four weeks. The data obtained during the study period ie self-monitoring records, recording the process of providing reassurance and supportive therapy daily reflection records. Self-monitoring data were analyzed using visual inspection. Data recording process reassurance therapy and daily reflection notes were analyzed qualitatively using a phenomenological approach by Cresswell. Results & Conclusions The results showed that reassurance supportive therapy may decrease levels of depression with varied patterns between one to another symptoms. This variation also occurred among participants with one another. Qualitative research results indicate reassurance supportive therapy can change the consciousness of participants in self understanding, and affect they attitude to face the problems. All participants in this study were women. Problems are often experienced conflict with husband. Reassurance supportive therapy help participants understand the source of the problems that happened. Moreover, they are aware of their potential that they have at this time so as to reduce dependence on others. This study does not free from influence of external factors, so that the dynamics change of the environment that occur and influences the participant should get special attention.
Revealing the electronic band structure of quasi-free trilayer graphene on SiC(0001)
Authors: Coletti C. , Forti S. , Principi A. , Emtsev K.V. , Zakharov A.A. , Daniels K.M. , Daas B.K. , Chandrashekhar M.V.S. , MacDonald A.H. , Polini M. , Starke U.
Published: June 2014

Recently, much attention has been devoted to trilayer graphene because it displays stacking and electric field dependent electronic properties well-suited for electronic and photonic applications [1-8]. Several theoretical studies have predicted the electronic dispersion of Bernal (ABA) and rhombohedral (ABC) stacked trilayers. However, a direct experimental visualization of a well-resolved band structure has not yet been reported. In this work, we obtain large area highly homogenous quasi-free trilayer graphene (TLG) on 6H-SiC(0001) and measure its electronic bands via angle resolved photoemission spectroscopy (ARPES). We demonstrate by low energy electron microscopy measurements that that trilayer domains on SiC extend over areas of tens of square micrometers. By fitting tight-binding bands to the experimental data we extract the interatomic hopping parameters for Bernal and rhombohedral stacked trilayers. For ABC stacks and in the presence of an electrostatic asymmetry, we detect the existence of a band-gap of about 120 meV. Notably our results suggest that on SiC substrates the occurrence of ABC-stacked TLG is significantly higher than in natural bulk graphite. Hence, growing TLG on SiC might be the answer to the challenge of controllably synthesizing ABC-stacked trilayer – an ideal material for the fabrication of a new class of gap-tunable devices.
Inkjet Printing Graphene-Based Transparent Conductive Films
Authors: He Pei , Derby Brian
Published: June 2014

Graphene is a strong contender as a material to replace indium tin oxide as the transparent conductor of choice for electronic applications due to its exceptional electrical and optical properties. In this work, we present a study of graphene oxide (GO) films produced by inkjet-printing. The printed GO films are reduced using hydriodic acid (HI) and acetic acid vapour at low temperature. The reduced GO (rGO) films displayed good optical and electrical properties with a sheet resistance 6.8 kΩ/□ at a transmittance of 80%. In addition, we show that the conductivity of rGO films is related to both the size of individual GO sheets in the ink and the thickness of printed films. The rGO films using large size GO sheets displayed a thickness-independent conductivity of ∼ 4 × 104S/m, while the rGO films using small size GO sheets showed a thickness-independent conductivity of ∼ 1.7 × 104S/m. These properties are comparable to graphene films produced by solvent exfoliation. In summary, we demonstrate a scalable and potentially low-cost technique to produce rGO transparent films and a route to improve the conductivity of rGO films by controlling size of GO sheets in the ink.
Image and color sensitive detector based on double p-i-n/p-i-n a-SiC:H photodiode
Authors: Vieira M. , Fernandes M. , Louro P. , Fantoni A. , Vygranenko Y. , Lavareda G. , Carvalho C.N.
Published: June 2014

A two terminal image and color sensitive detector based on two stacked sensing/switching p-i-n a-SiC:H diodes is presented. The imaging is performed in a write-read simultaneous process: the write exposure, which converts the optical image into a localized packet of charges and the readout which performs the charge to current conversion by detecting the photocurrent generated by a light beam scanner. By sampling the absorption region at appropriated voltages it is possible to extract separately the RGB integrated information with a good rejection ratio. Readout of 1000 lines per second is achieved allowing continuous and fast color recognition and image detection. A trade-off between the sensing and the switching diodes thicknesses is established in order to enhance the green recognition. When it is used a thin a-SiC:H, optimized for red transmittance and blue collection, and a switching absorber thick enough to absorb most of the incoming green light,the detector behaves itself as a filter giving information about the wavelength and the position of the optical image.
Nitrification and Yield for Delayed‐Flood Rice as Affected by a Nitrification Inhibitor and Coated Urea
Authors: Fitts P. W. , Walker T. W. , Krutz L. J. , Golden B. R. , Varco J. J. , Gore J. , Corbin J. L. , Slaton N. A.
Published: June 2014

Laboratory experiments were conducted in 2010, 2011, and 2012 in Stoneville, MS, utilizing urea fertilizer to quantify the nitrification potential of southern soils, and to evaluate a nitrification inhibitor aimed to reduce nitrification rates on clay soils. Field research was conducted from 2011 to 2013 evaluating the effectiveness of dicyandiamide (DCD) and sulfur‐polymer coated urea at reducing N loss compared to urea alone on clay soil. The number of days when half the total recovered inorganic N was in the NH4+–N form (half‐life for ammonium) for each soil and stabilizer for the nitrification potential and N stabilizer experiments was determined. Nitrogen was applied to the soil at 0.115 g kg−1 for both laboratory experiments while DCD was applied at three different rates for the N stabilizer experiment. These studies confirmed that the Sharkey clay soil (very‐fine, smectitic, thermic Chromic Epiaquerts) at Stoneville, MS, had significantly higher nitrification potential compared to three other soil types studied and DCD increased half‐life for ammonium by approximately threefold when compared to non‐amended urea. Field experiment data indicated that increasing DCD rate to 17 kg ha−1 increased rice (Oryza sativa L.) grain yield response and resulted in yields comparable to the standard treatment, which was urea applied 1 day before flood establishment (dbf). The sulfur‐polymer coated urea applied 12 dbf reduced nitrification; however, it yielded less than the standard treatment. Products that limit nitrification and subsequent denitrification can optimize N efficiency, resulting in greater potential for increased yields and decreased production costs.
Defining Sufficiency Levels of Nitrogen in Cool‐Season Turfgrass Lawns Using Macy's Concept
Authors: Geng Xingyuan , Guillard Karl , Mangiafico Salvatore S. , Morris Thomas F.
Published: June 2014

Few correlation or calibration studies have been conducted to determine or validate sufficiency levels of N concentrations in the clippings of turfgrass for color and growth responses. In a series of field experiments conducted across six consecutive growing seasons (2007–2012) in Connecticut, clipping samples of Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis L.) and tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea Schreb.) lawns were used to estimate yields and then analyzed for N concentrations. Chlorophyll and normalized difference vegetative index (NDVI) meters were used to quantify turf color before sampling. Macy's concept of three nutritional zones of plant tissue nutrient concentration was used to identify minimum and critical concentrations of N in the clippings that define sufficiency ranges for color and growth responses, in addition to luxury consumption. Averaged across all variables and seasons (spring, summer, and fall), the sufficiency ranges of N concentration in the clippings were estimated to be 32 to 46 g kg–1 for Kentucky bluegrass, and 28 to 42 g kg–1 for tall fescue. Differences in minimum and critical concentrations among seasons and between species were thought to be due to demand‐driven nutrient uptake. Luxury consumption of N was observed in both species. When used in context with local conditions, tissue analysis for N concentrations in cool‐season turfgrass clippings can provide an objective basis for guiding N fertilization.
Predicting Tree Species Origin of Soil Organic Carbon with Near‐Infrared Reflectance Spectroscopy
Authors: Román Dobarco Mercedes , Van Miegroet Helga , Gruselle Marie-Cécile , Bauhus Jürgen
Published: June 2014

Near‐infrared reflectance spectroscopy (NIRS) and partial least squares regression were used to develop prediction models for identifying the species of origin of soil organic C (SOC) in semiarid montane forests of quaking aspen (Populus tremuloides Michx.) and mixed conifers in Utah. Artificial mixtures of mineral soils (0–15 cm) sampled under pure aspen and pure conifer cover (n = 415) at four locations were divided into a calibration–validation set (n = 265) for model development and an independent validation set (n = 150) to test model robustness. Models in the 10,000 to 4000 cm−1 spectral region were developed separately with original soil spectra (OS) and organic matter spectra (OM) using the full and truncated (10th–90th percentile) sample sets. The OS models performed better than OM models, and the best OS models showed good prediction ability at the validation step, with R2 = 76%, ratio of standard deviation of reference value to standard error of prediction (RPD) = 2.1 for aspen SOC, and R2 = 74%, RPD = 2.0 for conifer SOC. Model performance decreased at independent validation (R2 = 33– 49%, RPD = 1.2–1.6), probably due to unaccounted variability of site‐specific factors in SOC chemical composition within and among aspen and conifer soils. Current models are still somewhat limited for accurately predicting contributions of aspen vs. conifers in independent samples. More detailed site information, such as texture, mineralogy, geology, and land use history is needed to improve models so that they can be used to provide insight into SOC properties changes along a continuum of aspen to conifer forests in the western United States.
Irrigation water governance in practice: the case of the Canale Emiliano Romagnolo district, Italy
Authors: Munaretto Stefania , Battilani Adriano
Published: June 2014

Irrigation is an essential element of agricultural production whose absence would create great economic hardship in many regions of the global South. Yet irrigated agriculture uses 70% of global fresh water withdrawals, putting major pressure on global water resources. Whilst much research has focused on technological solutions to improve irrigation efficiency, irrigation water governance arrangements remain poorly investigated. This paper examines the irrigation water governance arrangements in place in the Canale Emiliano Romagnolo (CER) district in Italy. The objective is to understand key factors driving or hindering irrigation efficiency, and to identify context-relevant policy-making dynamics that could enable greater efficiency. The analysis is conducted following the Policy Arrangement Approach, which describes a policy domain in terms of actors, rules, resources and discourses, and identifies opportunities for change in the interplay of these dimensions. Findings suggest that the existing governance arrangements have led to improvements in irrigation efficiency over the past decades in the CER district. Key factors of this performance include public financial investment in research and farm modernization, the existence of local capacity building and social capital, and the presence of a public–private organization with capacity to raise resources and to generate and transfer knowledge to both policy-makers and farmers.
Assessing potential of water rights and energy pricing in making groundwater use for irrigation sustainable in India
Authors: Bassi Nitin
Published: June 2014

Groundwater emerged as a major source of irrigation in India during the mid-1970s. However, a large expansion in well irrigation due to a massive rural electrification programme, government policies of promoting private tube well construction and large subsidies on electricity for agricultural use resulted in groundwater over-abstraction in many semi-arid and arid regions of India. In addition, most of the direct and indirect measures to regulate groundwater use have met with little success and have been largely ineffective in arresting groundwater over-exploitation. This paper reviews the institutional and market-based instruments that are now being advocated by scholars and practitioners as potential instruments for sustainable groundwater use. The review mainly focuses on research that examined the viability and impacts of establishing private and tradable water rights in groundwater and pro rata pricing of electricity for irrigation use as instruments to arrest the problems of groundwater over-exploitation in India.
Histamine Releasing Factor/Translationally Controlled Tumor Protein: History, Functions and Clinical Implications
Authors: M. MacDonald Susan
Published: June 2014

Histamine Releasing Factor (HRF) also known as Translationally Controlled Tumor Protein (TCTP) is a ubiquitous, novel protein that has both intracellular and extracellular functions. The purpose of this review is to highlight the background history of the molecule, the clinical implications and focus on the extracellular functions. Specifically the cells and the cytokines that are produced when stimulated by HRF/TCTP will be delineated as well as the signal transduction pathway that HRF/TCTP elicits will be described. Originally it was thought that HRF/TCTP interacted with IgE. Subsequently, cells that do not bind IgE also respond to HRF/TCTP and the interaction with IgE was questioned. Now, very recently, HRF/TCTP or at least its mouse counterpart appears to interact with some, but not all IgE and IgG molecules. HRF/TCTP has been shown to activate multiple human cells including basophils, eosinophils, T cells and B cells. Many of the cells that are activated by HRF/TCTP participate in the allergic response, leading to the conclusion that the extracellular functions of HRF/TCTP could exacerbate the allergic, inflammatory response.
Identification of Novel Autoantibodies in Type 1 Diabetic Patients Using a High-Density Protein Microarray
Authors: Koo Bo Kyung , Chae Sehyun , Kim Kristine M. , Kang Min Jueng , Kim Eunhee G. , Kwak Soo Heon , Jung Hye Seung , Cho Young Min , Choi Sung Hee , Park Young Joo , Shin Choong Ho , Jang Hak C. , Shin Chan Soo , Hwang Daehee , Yi Eugene C. , Park Kyong Soo
Published: June 2014

Autoantibodies can facilitate diagnostic and therapeutic means for type 1 diabetes (T1DM). We profiled autoantibodies from serum samples of 16 T1DM patients, 16 type 2 diabetic (T2DM) patients, and 27 healthy control subjects with normal glucose tolerance (NGT) by using protein microarrays containing 9,480 proteins. Two novel autoantibodies, anti-EEF1A1 and anti-UBE2L3, were selected from microarrays followed by immunofluorescence staining of pancreas. We then tested the validity of the candidates by ELISA in two independent test cohorts: 1) 95 adults with T1DM, 49 with T2DM, 11 with latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA), 20 with Graves disease, and 66 with NGT and 2) 33 children with T1DM and 34 healthy children. Concentrations of these autoantibodies were significantly higher in T1DM patients than in NGT and T2DM subjects (P < 0.01), which was also confirmed in the test cohort of children (P < 0.05). Prevalence of anti-EEF1A1 and anti-UBE2L3 antibodies was 29.5% and 35.8% in T1DM, respectively. Of note, 40.9% of T1DM patients who lack anti-GAD antibodies (GADA) had anti-EEF1A1 and/or anti-UBE2L3 antibodies. These were also detected in patients with fulminant T1DM but not LADA. Our approach identified autoantibodies that can provide a new dimension of information indicative of T1DM independent of GADA and new insights into diagnosis and classification of T1DM.
Mitochondria-Associated Endoplasmic Reticulum Membrane (MAM) Integrity Is Required for Insulin Signaling and Is Implicated in Hepatic Insulin Resistance
Authors: Tubbs Emily , Theurey Pierre , Vial Guillaume , Bendridi Nadia , Bravard Amélie , Chauvin Marie-Agnès , Ji-Cao Jingwei , Zoulim Fabien , Bartosch Birke , Ovize Michel , Vidal Hubert , Rieusset Jennifer
Published: June 2014

Mitochondria-associated endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membranes (MAMs) are functional domains between both organelles involved in Ca2+ exchange, through the voltage-dependent anion channel (VDAC)-1/glucose-regulated protein 75 (Grp75)/inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate receptor (IP3R)-1 complex, and regulating energy metabolism. Whereas mitochondrial dysfunction, ER stress, and altered Ca2+ homeostasis are associated with altered insulin signaling, the implication of MAM dysfunctions in insulin resistance is unknown. Here we validated an approach based on in situ proximity ligation assay to detect and quantify VDAC1/IP3R1 and Grp75/IP3R1 interactions at the MAM interface. We demonstrated that MAM integrity is required for insulin signaling and that induction of MAM prevented palmitate-induced alterations of insulin signaling in HuH7 cells. Disruption of MAM integrity by genetic or pharmacological inhibition of the mitochondrial MAM protein, cyclophilin D (CypD), altered insulin signaling in mouse and human primary hepatocytes and treatment of CypD knockout mice with metformin improved both insulin sensitivity and MAM integrity. Furthermore, ER-mitochondria interactions are altered in liver of both ob/ob and diet-induced insulin-resistant mice and improved by rosiglitazone treatment in the latter. Finally, increasing organelle contacts by overexpressing CypD enhanced insulin action in primary hepatocytes of diabetic mice. Collectively, our data reveal a new role of MAM integrity in hepatic insulin action and resistance, providing a novel target for the modulation of insulin action.
Prohibitin Overexpression in Adipocytes Induces Mitochondrial Biogenesis, Leads to Obesity Development, and Affects Glucose Homeostasis in a Sex-Specific Manner
Authors: Ande Sudharsana R. , Nguyen K. Hoa , Padilla-Meier G. Pauline , Wahida Wahida , Nyomba B.L. Grégoire , Mishra Suresh
Published: June 2014

Adipocytes are the primary cells in the body that store excess energy as triglycerides. To perform this specialized function, adipocytes rely on their mitochondria; however, the role of adipocyte mitochondria in the regulation of adipose tissue homeostasis and its impact on metabolic regulation is not understood. We developed a transgenic mouse model, Mito-Ob, overexpressing prohibitin (PHB) in adipocytes. Mito-Ob mice developed obesity due to upregulation of mitochondrial biogenesis in adipocytes. Of note, Mito-Ob female mice developed more visceral fat than male mice. However, female mice exhibited no change in glucose homeostasis and had normal insulin and high adiponectin levels, whereas male mice had impaired glucose homeostasis, compromised brown adipose tissue structure, and high insulin and low adiponectin levels. Mechanistically, we found that PHB overexpression enhances the cross talk between the mitochondria and the nucleus and facilitates mitochondrial biogenesis. The data suggest a critical role of PHB and adipocyte mitochondria in adipose tissue homeostasis and reveal sex differences in the effect of PHB-induced adipocyte mitochondrial remodeling on whole-body metabolism. Targeting adipocyte mitochondria may provide new therapeutic opportunities for the treatment of obesity, a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes.
Distinct Developmental Profile of Lower-Body Adipose Tissue Defines Resistance Against Obesity-Associated Metabolic Complications
Authors: Pinnick Katherine E. , Nicholson George , Manolopoulos Konstantinos N. , McQuaid Siobhán E. , Valet Philippe , Frayn Keith N. , Denton Nathan , Min Josine L. , Zondervan Krina T. , Fleckner Jan ,   the MolPAGE Consortium, McCarthy Mark I. , Holmes Chris C. , Karpe Fredrik
Published: June 2014

Upper- and lower-body fat depots exhibit opposing associations with obesity-related metabolic disease. We defined the relationship between DEXA-quantified fat depots and diabetes/cardiovascular risk factors in a healthy population-based cohort (n = 3,399). Gynoid fat mass correlated negatively with insulin resistance after total fat mass adjustment, whereas the opposite was seen for abdominal fat. Paired transcriptomic analysis of gluteal subcutaneous adipose tissue (GSAT) and abdominal subcutaneous adipose tissue (ASAT) was performed across the BMI spectrum (n = 49; 21.4–45.5 kg/m2). In both depots, energy-generating metabolic genes were negatively associated and inflammatory genes were positively associated with obesity. However, associations were significantly weaker in GSAT. At the systemic level, arteriovenous release of the proinflammatory cytokine interleukin-6 (n = 34) was lower from GSAT than ASAT. Isolated preadipocytes retained a depot-specific transcriptional “memory” of embryonic developmental genes and exhibited differential promoter DNA methylation of selected genes (HOTAIR, TBX5) between GSAT and ASAT. Short hairpin RNA–mediated silencing identified TBX5 as a regulator of preadipocyte proliferation and adipogenic differentiation in ASAT. In conclusion, intrinsic differences in the expression of developmental genes in regional adipocytes provide a mechanistic basis for diversity in adipose tissue (AT) function. The less inflammatory nature of lower-body AT offers insight into the opposing metabolic disease risk associations between upper- and lower-body obesity.
Increased Immune Cell Infiltration of the Exocrine Pancreas: A Possible Contribution to the Pathogenesis of Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Rodriguez-Calvo Teresa , Ekwall Olov , Amirian Natalie , Zapardiel-Gonzalo Jose , von Herrath Matthias G.
Published: June 2014

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) results from a complex interplay between genetic susceptibility and environmental factors that have been implicated in the pathogenesis of disease both as triggers and potentiators of β-cell destruction. CD8 T cells are the main cell type found in human islets, and they have been shown in vitro to be capable of killing β-cells overexpressing MHC class I. In this study, we report that CD8 T cells infiltrate the exocrine pancreas of diabetic subjects in high numbers and not only endocrine areas. T1D subjects present significantly higher CD8 T cell density in the exocrine tissue without the presence of prominent insulitis. Even T1D donors without remaining insulin-containing islets and long disease duration show elevated levels of CD8 T cells in the exocrine compartment. In addition, higher numbers of CD4+ and CD11c+ cells were found in the exocrine tissue. Preliminary data in type 2 diabetic (T2D) subjects indicate that overall, there might be a spontaneous inflammatory infiltration of the exocrine tissue, common to both T1D and T2D subjects. Our study provides the first information on the precise tissue distribution of CD8 T cells in pancreata from T1D, T2D, autoantibody-positive, and healthy control subjects.
Do Experiences Consistent With a Medical-Home Model Improve Diabetes Care Measures Reported by Adult Medicaid Patients?
Authors: Stevens Gregory D. , Shi Leiyu , Vane Christina , Peters Anne L.
Published: June 2014

OBJECTIVE

The patient-centered medical home has gained much traction. Little is known about the relationship between the model and specific health care processes for chronic diseases such as diabetes. This study assesses the impact of features of a medical home on diabetes care.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A cross-sectional survey of 540 patients with Medicaid (Medi-Cal) health insurance and type 2 diabetes in Los Angeles County was performed. The Primary Care Assessment Tools was used to measure seven features of medical-home performance.

RESULTS

The response rate of the patient survey was 68.9%. Patient-reported medical-home performance averaged a score of 2.85 ± 0.29 (on a 1–4 scale, with 4 equaling the best care). Patients who received more timely and thorough diabetes care reported higher medical-home performance in every feature except for the comprehensiveness-services available. For example, the first-contact access feature score was higher among patients who had an HbA1c test in the past 6 months versus those who did not (2.38 vs. 2.25; P < 0.05). Before and after adjusting for sociodemographics and health status, total medical-home performance was positively associated with each diabetes care measure. A 1-point increase in total medical-home score was associated with 4.53 higher odds of an HbA1c test in the past 6 months and 1.88 higher odds of an eye exam in the past year.

CONCLUSIONS

Features consistent with higher medical-home performance are associated with improvements in patient-reported diabetes care process measures, even in this low socioeconomic status setting. The patient-centered medical-home model may help in caring for people with type 2 diabetes.
Intelligent Predicting System for Modeling of Flexurally – Strengthened Reinforced Concrete Beams with CFRP Laminates
Authors: Metwally Ibrahim M.
Published: June 2014

In the last years, a great number of experimental tests have been performed to determine the ultimate strength of reinforced concrete (RC) beams retrofitted in flexure by means of externally bonded carbon fiber-reinforced polymers (CFRP). Most of design proposals for flexural strengthening are based on a regression analysis from experimental data corresponding to specific configurations which makes it very difficult to capture the real interrelation among the involved parameters. To avoid this, an intelligent predicting system such as artificial neural network (ANN) has been developed to predict the flexural capacity of concrete beams reinforced with this method. An artificial neural network model was developed using past experimental data on flexural failure of RC beams strengthened by CFRP laminates. Fourteen input parameters cover the CFRP properties, beam geometrical properties and reinforcement properties; the corresponding output is the ultimate load capacity. The proposed ANN model considers the effect of these parameters which are not generally account together in the current existing design codes with the purpose of reaching more reliable designs. This paper presents a short review of the well-known American building code provisions (ACI 440.2R-08) for the flexural strengthening of RC beams using FRP laminates. The accuracy of the code in predicting the flexural capacity of strengthened beams was also examined with comparable way by using same test data. The study shows that the ANN model gives reasonable predictions of the ultimate flexural strength of the strengthened RC beams. Moreover, the study concludes that the ANN model predicts the flexural strength of FRPstrengthened beams better than the design formulas provided by ACI 440
A Study on High Strength Concrete with Moderate Cement Content Incorporating Limestone Powder
Authors: Rashad Alaa M. , Seleem Hosam.El Din H.
Published: June 2014

This paper presents the results of an investigation to assess the validity of producing high strength concrete (HSC) using moderate cement content to reduce the consumption of the binders. Cement content is lowered from 500 kg/m3 to 400 kg/m3. The difference in cement content is compensated by the addition of fine limestone (LS) powder. Pozzolans were incorporated as an addition to cement. Different coarse aggregate types were employed. Workability, compressive strength, tensile strength, permeability and drying shrinkage were measured. Test results revealed that HSC with a compressive strength up to 79 MPa (at 90 days age) could be produced with moderate cement content. The mixtures consistency and drying shrinkage are greatly enhanced due to employing LS powder and the permeability is satisfactory. To provide better solution to some concrete disadvantages like cracking and drying shrinkage, using an economic rate for cement are believed to reduce these disadvantages.
Solar and Green Building Guidelines for Hot Arid Climate in India
Authors: Brar Tejwant Singh , Munoth Navneet
Published: June 2014

There are, presently, two schools of thought when it comes to designing buildings that promote sustainable development. One school emphasizes materials use and ‘‘green’’ buildings, while the other emphasizes energy use and energy efficient buildings. The promoters of ‘‘green’’ buildings often claim that the reduced energy use during operation of the low energy and solar buildings is counteracted by the increased embodied energy in these buildings. This paper gives categorical analysis of the technologies available for Low energy and green architecture and emphasizes the need to integrate both in residential buildings to of lower the energy use in operation during the lifetime in a residential building in hot arid climate. The results also show that there should be little difference between the approaches of the two schools of thought. The best buildings will generally be those that are both low energy, and ‘‘green’’. This paper also gives policy guidelines to integrate them in the building bye-laws for hot arid climate
Identification of Plasmodiophora brassicae Wor. isolate suppressing clubroot resistance in ‘Kilaxy’ F1 white cabbage
Authors: Wesołowska Maria
Published: June 2014

The purpose of this study was the evaluation of the pathogenicity of Plasmodiophora brassicae Wor. field isolates gathered from clubroot-infected white cabbage Brassica oleracea var. capitata L. f. alba plants grown in different areas of Poland. The virulence of seven isolates of the pathogen was tested. Breeding materials from white cabbage resistant and susceptible to P. brassicae were used as standard objects for isolate virulence screening. Cabbage seeds were infected by submerging them into a resting-spore suspension. A screening of plant resistance using a nine-degree scale based on root symptoms was carried out at the eight-week-old plantlets stage and at harvest time on afield infected by P. brassicae spores. Isolates from Pobiednik and Grębałów were defined as more virulent. The P isolate from Pobiednik also infested plants of the clubroot resistant ‘Kilaxy’ F1 cultivar, which indicated the suppression of clubroot resistance. Its reaction to the other six isolates confirmed the resistance of this cultivar. The susceptible HTM line was characterised by the highest infestation level. A difference in the susceptibility level was noticed between lines derived from those with resistant genes, i.e. Oregon123 and ‘Badger Shipper’. The Oregon123 line was less susceptible to the applied isolates. The effect of the isolates used for seed inoculation on the reaction of the dormant plants to the pathogen on the clubroot field was observed.
Numerical Evaluation of Grasslands Dominated by Sesleria Juncifolia Agg. in Serbia
Authors: Kabaš Eva , Vukojičić Snežana , Alegro Antun , Surina Boštjan , Kuzmanović Nevena , Šegota Vedran , Lakušić Dmitar
Published: June 2014

Phytosociological and numerical analyses of grasslands dominated by Sesleria juncifolia s.l. in Serbia were performed in order to resolve their syntaxonomy and nomenclature. Twelve releves were sampled on Mt. Mučanj (western Serbia), which were then compared with similar releves from other parts of the Balkan Peninsula by means of numerical analyses. The releves were classified using cluster analysis, while the ordination was conducted using Detrended Correspondence Analysis (DCA). The results suggest the occurrence of two floristically well defined Dinaric associations in Serbia: Seslerio juncifoliae-Edraianthetum graminifolii ass. nova from Mt. Mokra Gora (Oxytropidion urumovii, Elyno-Seslerietea) and Diantho petraeae-Seslerietum juncifoliae ass. nova (Chrysopogono-Saturejion, Festuco-Brometea) from Mt. Mučanj.
Dry Grassland Types in the Prespa National Park (Nw Greece), Including the Southernmost Occurrence of the Priority Habitat Type “Pannonic Sand Steppes” (Code 6260)
Authors: Fotiadis Georgios , Vrahnakis Michael , Kazoglou Yannis , Tsiripidis Ioannis
Published: June 2014

A recently completed project on the Natura 2000 sites of Prespa National Park revealed that the area hosts 49 habitat types according to the EU classification, of which eight have a narrowly restricted distribution in Greece. The priority habitat type “*6260 Pannonic sand steppes” is reported here for the first time for Greece. The new locality represents its southernmost occurrence on the Balkan Peninsula. The aim of this paper therefore is to describe the Greek stands of this habitat type, investigate the factors affecting its occurrence and discuss the associated conservation issues. This is based on a total of 87 releves sampled for this study and 8 additional releves from the literature. The releves were classified by applying TWINSPAN and ordinated using Detrended Correspondence Analysis (DCA). Six vegetation units could be distinguished. One of these corresponds to the habitat type *6260 and was found exclusively on inland sand dunes. Syntaxonomically, we assigned this unit to the alliance Sileno conicae-Cerastion semidecandri s.l. of the class Koelerio-Corynephoretea. Its occurrence in the study area seems to be determined by climatic factors, as well as by the sandy substrate, while anthropogenic disturbances such as grazing also appear to be beneficial to some degree. Apart from the Koelerio-Corynephoretea, another five grassland classes were distinguished in the national park, namely the Thero-Brachypodietea, Stellarietea mediae, Festuco-Brometea, Daphno-Festucetea and Juncetea trifidi.
Tiso Adjustable Filter with Controllable Controlled–Gain Voltage Differencing Current Conveyor
Authors: Jerabek Jan , Sotner Roman , Vrba Kamil
Published: June 2014

The main aim of this paper is to present solution of triple-input single-output (TISO) filter with independently adjustable pole frequency, quality factor, bandwidth and also gain. Filter is universal, operates in current mode and includes only one active element - the so-called Controlled-Gain Voltage Differencing Current Conveyor (CG-VDCC) with two controllable parameters: transconductance (gm) and gain of output currents (BX ). Implementation of CG-VDCC element in 0.18 μm CMOS technology is also included and this model is used in proposed filter simulations.
Application of a Chaotic Oscillator in an Autonomous Mobile Robot
Authors: Tlelo-Cuautle Esteban , Ramos-López Hugo C. , Sánchez-Sánchez Mauro , Pano-Azucena Ana D. , Sánchez-Gaspariano Luis A. , Núñez-Pérez José C. , Camas-Anzueto Jorge L.
Published: June 2014

Terrain exploration robots can be of great usefulness in critical navigation circumstances. However, the challenge is how to guarantee a control for covering a full terrain area. That way, the application of a chaotic oscillator to control the wheels of an autonomous mobile robot, is introduced herein. Basically, we describe the realization of a random number generator (RNG) based on a double-scroll chaotic oscillator, which is used to guide the robot to cover a full terrain area. The resolution of the terrain exploration area is determined by both the number of bits provided by the RNG and the characteristics of step motors. Finally, the experimental results highlight the covered area by painting the trajectories that the robot explores.
A Runway Surface Monitor using Internet of Things
Authors: Troiano Amedeo , Pasero Eros
Published: June 2014

The monitoring of runway surfaces, for the detection of ice formation or presence of water, is an important issue for reducing maintenance costs and improving traffic safety. An innovative sensor was developed to detect the presence of ice or water on its surface, and its repeatability, stability and reliability were assessed in different simulations and experiments, performed both in laboratory and in the field. Three sensors were embedded in the runway of the Turin-Caselle airport, in the north-west of Italy, to check the state of its surface. Each sensor was connected to a GPRS modem to send the collected data to a common database. The entire system was installed about three years ago, and up to now it shows correct work and automatic reactivation after malfunctions without any external help. The state of the runway surface is virtual represented in an internet website, using the Internet of Things features and opening new scenarios.
Cost–Efficient Phase Noise Measurement
Authors: Perić Ana , Bjelica Milan
Published: June 2014

In this paper, an automated system for oscillator phase noise measurement is described. The system is primarily intended for use in academic institutions, such as smaller university or research laboratories, as it deploys standard spectrum analyzer and free software. A method to compensate the effect of instrument intrinsic noise is proposed. Through series of experimental tests, good performances of our system are verified and compliance to theoretical expectations is demonstrated.