bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of pMOS dosimeters in low-field mode for radiation dose measurements which could be used in radiotherapy
Authors: Pejovic Svetlana , Pejovic Momcilo , Stojanov Dragan
Published: February 2017

The pMOS dosimeters sensitivity (Tyndall National Institute, Cork, Ireland)
to gamma and X-ray irradiation and 2000 h fading at room temperature is
presented. The radiation fields were created using a 60Co source for two dose
ranges (1-5 Gy and 10-50 Gy) as well as for X-ray units of a 280 kV spectrum
for a single dose range from 0.1 to 1 Gy. Irradiation was performed in
low-field mode (no gate bias during irradiation, Virr = 0 V), sensitivity
characterized by the threshold voltage shift as a function of the absorbed
radiation dose and time after irradiation. Linear dependence between the
threshold voltage shift and the absorbed radiation dose was only established
for pMOS dosimeters which were irradiated by gamma rays in the dose range of
1 to 5 Gy. Obtained results show that the sensitivity of these components is
much higher in case of X-ray radiation than in that of gamma ray radiation.
Moreover, the fading of irradiated pMOS dosimeters with X-rays is higher than
in the ones irradiated with gamma rays.
Lifetime characteristics of Gaiger-Muller counters
Authors: Kartalovic Nenad , Perazic Luka , Belic Cedomir , Jeftenic Ilija
Published: February 2017

This paper discusses the process of functional aging of Geiger-Muller
counters. Two types of Geiger-Muller counter chambers were characterized in
an experiment using a combined constant voltage. Chamber A had a coaxial
geometry and chamber B had a plan-parallel geometry. The experimental results
indicate that the aging process was faster in the case of chambers with a
coaxial geometry. The results are explained based on the process of
electrical discharges in gasses.
Glucagon-Like Peptide 1 Protects Pancreatic β-Cells From Death by Increasing Autophagic Flux and Restoring Lysosomal Function
Authors: Zummo Francesco P. , Cullen Kirsty S. , Honkanen-Scott Minna , Shaw James A.M. , Lovat Penny E. , Arden Catherine
Published: February 2017

Studies in animal models of type 2 diabetes have shown that glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists prevent β-cell loss. Whether GLP-1 mediates β-cell survival via the key lysosomal-mediated process of autophagy is unknown. In this study, we report that treatment of INS-1E β-cells and primary islets with glucolipotoxicity (0.5 mmol/L palmitate and 25 mmol/L glucose) increases LC3 II, a marker of autophagy. Further analysis indicates a blockage in autophagic flux associated with lysosomal dysfunction. Accumulation of defective lysosomes leads to lysosomal membrane permeabilization and release of cathepsin D, which contributes to cell death. Our data further demonstrated defects in autophagic flux and lysosomal staining in human samples of type 2 diabetes. Cotreatment with the GLP-1 receptor agonist exendin-4 reversed the lysosomal dysfunction, relieving the impairment in autophagic flux and further stimulated autophagy. Small interfering RNA knockdown showed the restoration of autophagic flux is also essential for the protective effects of exendin-4. Collectively, our data highlight lysosomal dysfunction as a critical mediator of β-cell loss and shows that exendin-4 improves cell survival via restoration of lysosomal function and autophagic flux. Modulation of autophagy/lysosomal homeostasis may thus define a novel therapeutic strategy for type 2 diabetes, with the GLP-1 signaling pathway as a potential focus.
Amplifikasi Gen CRY1 dan Analisis Genom Isolat Bacillus thuringiensis Lokal
Authors: Suryanto Dwi
Published: February 2017

A study on amplification of Cry1 gene and genome analysis of local isolate of Bacillus thuringiensis TU1 has been done. Amplification was done for cryI gene by PCR-technique. Genome analysis was performed using pulsed-field gel electrophoresis. Insecticidal specificity assay of the isolate to larvae was done in larvae of Heliothis armigera, Plutella xylostella, Aedes aegypti, and Culex sp. Isolate of commercial strain, B. thuringiensis var kurstaki strain HD-7, was used as control for amplification of cryI gene, genome analysis, and insecticidal specificity assay. The result showed that insecticidal specificity assay of the isolates of both TU1 and commercial have similar spectrum of toxicity to the larvae. Amplification of cry1 gene resulted to a fragment of approximately 550 bp in both TU1 and commercial. Genome profiles of TU1 and commercial strain were similar.
Aboriginal Incarceration in Canada since 1978: Every Picture Tells the Same Story
Authors: Roberts Julian V. , Reid Andrew A.
Published: February 2017

Sentencing in Canada is beset by many problems, yet one weakness stands above the rest: the disproportionately high rates of Aboriginal incarceration. This article documents current and historical trends in levels of Aboriginal incarceration at the provincial/territorial and federal levels since 1978. We pay particular attention to the years following two important Supreme Court judgements (in 1999 and 2012) that directed the courts to use custody with greater restraint when sentencing an Aboriginal offender. The primary data derive from the annual Adult Correctional Services survey conducted by Statistics Canada. In 2014, Aboriginal persons accounted for just over one quarter of all provincial and territorial admissions, significantly higher than the percentage recorded in 1978 (16%). In fact, over the past 20 years, all jurisdictions save one have experienced an increase in the percentage of Aboriginal admissions to provincial and territorial correctional institutions. Despite judgements from the Supreme Court and provincial courts of appeal, as well as several other remedial interventions, such as the creation of so-called Gladue courts and an alternate form of custody that would be served in the community, the problem of Aboriginal over-incarceration has worsened, not improved.
The Spectacular Traveling Woman
Authors: Galletly Sarah
Published: February 2017

This article applies recent scholarship concerned with transatlantic mobility
and print cultures to a comparative study of images of transpacific travel for
women during the interwar period. During the 1920s and 1930s female travelers
splashed spectacularly across the pages of mainstream, popular magazines
produced in America, Britain, and the wider Anglophone world. Focusing on
two magazines that launched in this era, The Australian Woman’s Mirror (1924–
1961) and Chatelaine (1928–), this article explores Australian and Canadian
fi ctional portrayals of the traveling woman of the interwar years to examine
the ways in which the mobility of the modern girl became a screen for anxieties
and fantasies of these two national print imaginaries. By paying attention to
the different portrayals of female mobility through the Pacific from both sides
of the ocean, this article also considers the intersection between actual travel,
ideas about travel, and notions of gendered social mobility.
The Art and Design of London's Mobility
Authors: López Galviz Carlos
Published: February 2017

Designology, London Transport Museum

Covent Garden Piazza

London WC2E 7BB, United Kingdom

Admission: Adults £17/Concession £14.50

www.ltmuseum.co.uk/whats-on/exhibitions
Diffusion tractography imaging–guided frameless linear accelerator stereotactic radiosurgical thalamotomy for tremor: case report
Authors: Kim Won , Sharim Justin , Tenn Stephen , Kaprealian Tania , Bordelon Yvette , Agazaryan Nzhde , Pouratian Nader
Published: February 2017

Essential tremor and Parkinson's disease–associated tremor are extremely prevalent within the field of movement disorders. The ventral intermediate (VIM) nucleus of the thalamus has been commonly used as both a neuromodulatory and neuroablative target for the treatment of these forms of tremor. With both deep brain stimulation and Gamma Knife radiosurgery, there is an abundance of literature regarding the surgical planning, targeting, and outcomes of these methodologies. To date, there have been no reports of frameless, linear accelerator (LINAC)–based thalomotomies for tremor.

The authors report the case of a patient with tremor-dominant Parkinson's disease, with poor tremor improvement with medication, who was offered LINAC-based thalamotomy. High-resolution 0.9-mm isotropic MR images were obtained, and simulation was performed via CT with 1.5-mm contiguous slices. The VIM thalamic nucleus was determined using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI)–based segmentation on FSL using probabilistic tractography. The supplemental motor and premotor areas were the cortical target masks. The authors centered their isocenter within the region of the DTI-determined target and treated the patient with 140 Gy in a single fraction. The DTI-determined target had coordinates of 14.2 mm lateral and 8.36 mm anterior to the posterior commissure (PC), and 3 mm superior to the anterior commissure (AC)–PC line, which differed by 3.30 mm from the original target determined by anatomical considerations (15.5 mm lateral and 7 mm anterior to the PC, and 0 mm superior to the AC-PC line). There was faint radiographic evidence of lesioning at the 3-month follow-up within the target zone, which continued to consolidate on subsequent scans. The patient experienced continued right upper-extremity resting tremor improvement starting at 10 months until it was completely resolved at 22 months of follow-up.

Frameless LINAC-based thalamotomy guided by DTI-based thalamic segmentation is a feasible method for achieving radiosurgical lesions of the VIM thalamus to treat tremor.
Reduction of inflammation after administration of interleukin-1 receptor antagonist following aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage: results of the Subcutaneous Interleukin-1Ra in SAH (SCIL-SAH) study
Authors: Galea James , Ogungbenro Kayode , Hulme Sharon , Patel Hiren , Scarth Sylvia , Hoadley Margaret , Illingworth Karen , McMahon Catherine J. , Tzerakis Nikolaos , King Andrew T. , Vail Andy , Hopkins Stephen J. , Rothwell Nancy , Tyrrell Pippa
Published: February 2017

OBJECTIVE

Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) is a devastating cerebrovascular event with long-term morbidity and mortality. Patients who survive the initial bleeding are likely to suffer further early brain injury arising from a plethora of pathological processes. These may result in a worsening of outcome or death in approximately 25% of patients and may contribute to longer-term cognitive dysfunction in survivors. Inflammation, mediated by the cytokine interleukin-1 (IL-1), is an important contributor to cerebral ischemia after diverse forms of brain injury, including aSAH. Its effects are attenuated by its naturally occurring antagonist, IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra [anakinra]). The authors hypothesized that administration of additional subcutaneous IL-1Ra would reduce inflammation and associated plasma markers associated with poor outcome following aSAH.

METHODS

This was a randomized, open-label, single-blinded study of 100 mg subcutaneous IL-1Ra, administered twice daily in patients with aSAH, starting within 3 days of ictus and continuing until 21 days postictus or discharge from the neurosurgical center, whichever was earlier. Blood samples were taken at admission (baseline) and at Days 3–8, 14, and 21 postictus for measurement of inflammatory markers. The primary outcome was difference in plasma IL-6 measured as area under the curve between Days 3 and 8, corrected for baseline value. Secondary outcome measures included similar area under the curve analyses for other inflammatory markers, plasma pharmacokinetics for IL-1Ra, and clinical outcome at 6 months.

RESULTS

Interleukin-1Ra significantly reduced levels of IL-6 and C-reactive protein (p < 0.001). Fibrinogen levels were also reduced in the active arm of the study (p < 0.002). Subcutaneous IL-1Ra was safe, well tolerated, and had a predictable plasma pharmacokinetic profile. Although the study was not powered to investigate clinical effect, scores of the Glasgow Outcome Scale–extended at 6 months were better in the active group; however, this outcome did not reach statistical significance.

CONCLUSIONS

Subcutaneous IL-1Ra is safe and well tolerated in aSAH. It is effective in reducing peripheral inflammation. These data support a Phase III study investigating the effect of IL-1Ra on outcome following aSAH.

Clinical trial registration no.: EudraCT: 2011-001855-35 (www.clinicaltrialsregister.eu)
Retinopathy of prematurity and its association with neonatal factors
Authors: Shahidullah Mohammod , Dey Arjun Chandra , Ahmed Firoz , Jahan Ismat , Dey Sanjoy Kumer , Choudhury Nuzhat , Mannan M. A.
Published: February 2017

Retinopathy of prematurity is considered as an important cause of blindness. This prospective study was undertaken to document the frequency and the associated factors of retinopathy of prematurity among 97 preterm newborn weighing <2000 g and/or with a gestation of <35 weeks. The first eye examination was performed by an ophthalmologist at 4 weeks of postnatal age for the infants born at ?30 weeks of gestation or birth weight ?1200 g and at 3 weeks of postnatal age for the infants <30 weeks of gestation or birth weight <1200 g. The overall incidence of retinopathy of prematurity was 23.7%. Premature newborn with retinopathy was having significant low mean birth weight (p=0.001) and the mean gestational age (p=<0.001) when compared with newborns without retinopathy of prematurity. Newborns with retinopathy of prematurity were requiring a longer duration of oxygen (p=0.005) than that of non-retinopathy of prematurity newborns. Logistic regression shows the duration of oxygen in the hospital and lower gestational age were independent risk factors of retinopathy of prematurity. Prematurity and longer duration of oxygen administration were the risk factors for the development of retinopathy of prematurity.
Comparative study of resin sealant and resin modified glass ionomer as pit and fissure sealant
Authors: Malek Shirin , Hossain Mozammal , Gafur Md. Abdul , Rana Md. Shahjalal , Moral Md. Ali Asgor
Published: February 2017

The purpose of the present study was to compare the marginal integrity of resin modified glass ionomer cement with that of resin sealant, in vitro. Forty artificial pit and fissure cavities were prepared in occlusal surface of extracted premolar teeth by using ¼ round carbide bur. Cavities were condensed with artificial organic debris followed by cleaning with prophylaxis pumice brush and paste and then separated into two treatment groups. In Group A, 15 fissure cavities were sealed by resin sealant and in Group B, 15 fissure cavities were sealed by resin modified glass ionomer sealant. These specimens were subjected to thermo-cycling followed by dye penetration test. The remaining 5 cavities from each group were analyzed for debris score by the SEM. The results of the microleakage test showed that the efficacy of preventing microleakage of samples sealed by resin modified glass ionomer sealant was higher than the samples sealed by resin sealant. However, no significant differences were found. It can be concluded that use of resin modified glass ionomer sealant is a good alternative for sealing pits and fissures.
Robust Backstepping Control of Wing Rock Using Disturbance Observer
Authors: Wu Dawei , Chen Mou , Gong Huajun , Wu Qingxian
Published: February 2017

Wing rock is a highly nonlinear phenomenon when the aircraft suffers undesired roll-dominated oscillatory at high angle of attack (AOA). Considering the strong nonlinear and unsteady aerodynamic characteristics, an uncertain multi-input and multi-output (MIMO) nonlinear wing rock model is studied, and system uncertainties, unsteady aerodynamic disturbances and externaldisturbancesareconsideredinthedesignofwingrockcontrollaw. Tohandletheproblemof multipledisturbances,arobustcontrolschemeisproposedbasedontheextendedstateobserver(ESO) and the radial basis function neural network (RBFNN) technique. Considering that the effectiveness of actuators are greatly decreased at high AOA, the input saturation problem is also handled by constructing a corresponding auxiliary system. Based on the improved ESO and the auxiliary system, a robust backstepping control law is proposed for the wing rock control. In addition, the dynamic surface control (DSC) technique is introduced to avoid the tedious computations of time derivatives for the virtual control laws in the backstepping method. The stability of the closed-loop system is guaranteed via rigorously Lyapunov analysis. Finally, simulation results are presented to illustrate the effectiveness of the ESO and the proposed wing rock control approach.
Glutamine-Glutamate Cycle Flux Is Similar in Cultured Astrocytes and Brain and Both Glutamate Production and Oxidation Are Mainly Catalyzed by Aspartate Aminotransferase
Authors: Hertz Leif , Rothman Douglas
Published: February 2017

The glutamine-glutamate cycle provides neurons with astrocyte-generated glutamate/γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and oxidizes glutamate in astrocytes, and it returns released transmitter glutamate/GABA to neurons after astrocytic uptake. This review deals primarily with the glutamate/GABA generation/oxidation, although it also shows similarity between metabolic rates in cultured astrocytes and intact brain. A key point is identification of the enzyme(s) converting astrocytic α-ketoglutarate to glutamate and vice versa. Most experiments in cultured astrocytes, including those by one of us, suggest that glutamate formation is catalyzed by aspartate aminotransferase (AAT) and its degradation by glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH). Strongly supported by results shown in Table 1 we now propose that both reactions are primarily catalyzed by AAT. This is possible because the formation occurs in the cytosol and the degradation in mitochondria and they are temporally separate. High glutamate/glutamine concentrations abolish the need for glutamate production from α-ketoglutarate and due to metabolic coupling between glutamate synthesis and oxidation these high concentrations render AAT-mediated glutamate oxidation impossible. This necessitates the use of GDH under these conditions, shown by insensitivity of the oxidation to the transamination inhibitor aminooxyacetic acid (AOAA). Experiments using lower glutamate/glutamine concentration show inhibition of glutamate oxidation by AOAA, consistent with the coupled transamination reactions described here.
Comparison of Efficiencies and Mechanisms of Catalytic Ozonation of Recalcitrant Petroleum Refinery Wastewater by Ce, Mg, and Ce-Mg Oxides Loaded Al2O3
Authors: Chen Chunmao , Chen Yu , Yoza Brandon , Du Yuhao , Wang Yuxian , Li Qing , Yi Lanping , Guo Shaohui , Wang Qinghong
Published: February 2017

The use of catalytic ozonation processes (COPs) for the advanced treatment of recalcitrant petroleum refinery wastewater (RPRW) is rapidly expanding. In this study, magnesium (Mg), cerium (Ce), and Mg-Ce oxide-loaded alumina (Al2O3) were developed as cost efficient catalysts for ozonation treatment of RPRW, having performance metrics that meet new discharge standards. Interactions between the metal oxides and the Al2O3 support influence the catalytic properties, as well as the efficiency and mechanism. Mg-Ce/Al2O3 (Mg-Ce/Al2O3-COP) reduced the chemical oxygen demand by 4.7%, 4.1%, 6.0%, and 17.5% relative to Mg/Al2O3-COP, Ce/Al2O3-COP, Al2O3-COP, and single ozonation, respectively. The loaded composite metal oxides significantly increased the hydroxyl radical-mediated oxidation. Surface hydroxyl groups (–OHs) are the dominant catalytic active sites on Al2O3. These active surface –OHs along with the deposited metal oxides (Mg2+ and/or Ce4+) increased the catalytic activity. The Mg-Ce/Al2O3 catalyst can be economically produced, has high efficiency, and is stable under acidic and alkaline conditions.
Pitted Corrosion Detection of Thermal Sprayed Metallic Coatings Using Fiber Bragg Grating Sensors
Authors: Deng Fodan , Huang Ying , Azarmi Fardad , Wang Yechun
Published: February 2017

Metallic coatings using thermal spraying techniques are widely applied to structural steels to protect infrastructure against corrosion and improve durability of the associated structures for longer service life. The thermal sprayed metallic coatings consisting of various metals, although have higher corrosion resistance, will still corrode in a long run and may also subject to corrosion induced damages such as cracks. Corrosion and the induced damages on the metallic coatings will reduce the effectiveness of the coatings for protection of the structures. Timely repair on these damaged metallic coatings will significantly improve the reliability of protected structures again deterioration. In this paper, an inline detection system for corrosion and crack detection was developed using fiber Bragg (FBG) grating sensors. Experimental results from laboratory accelerated corrosion tests showed that the developed sensing system can quantitatively detect corrosion rate of the coating, corrosion propagations, and cracks initialized in the metallic coating in real time. The developed system can be used for real-time corrosion detection of coated metal structures in field.
A Prospective Treatment Option for Lysosomal Storage Diseases: CRISPR/Cas9 Gene Editing Technology for Mutation Correction in Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells
Authors: Christensen Chloe , Choy Francis
Published: February 2017

Ease of design, relatively low cost and a multitude of gene-altering capabilities have all led to the adoption of the sophisticated and yet simple gene editing system: clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats/CRISPR-associated protein 9 (CRISPR/Cas9). The CRISPR/Cas9 system holds promise for the correction of deleterious mutations by taking advantage of the homology directed repair pathway and by supplying a correction template to the affected patient’s cells. Currently, this technique is being applied in vitro in human-induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to correct a variety of severe genetic diseases, but has not as of yet been used in iPSCs derived from patients affected with a lysosomal storage disease (LSD). If adopted into clinical practice, corrected iPSCs derived from cells that originate from the patient themselves could be used for therapeutic amelioration of LSD symptoms without the risks associated with allogeneic stem cell transplantation. CRISPR/Cas9 editing in a patient’s cells would overcome the costly, lifelong process associated with currently available treatment methods, including enzyme replacement and substrate reduction therapies. In this review, the overall utility of the CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing technique for treatment of genetic diseases, the potential for the treatment of LSDs and methods currently employed to increase the efficiency of this re-engineered biological system will be discussed.
Financial Reforms, Financial Development, and Economic Growth in the Ivory Coast
Authors: Sanogo Vassiki , Moussa Richard
Published: February 2017

This study investigates the relationship between financial development and economic growth in the Ivory Coast over the period from 1961 to 2014. The final goal of this research is to develop a procedure to identify the effects of financial reforms for the Ivory Coast economic growth. Therefore, to achieve this goal, we first conducted a common component analysis (CCA) on our time series data to create: (1) a variable that would be the most appropriate proxy for the financial development; and (2) a vector of control variables for economic growth. Second, a vector autoregression model (VAR) with restriction was used as an appropriate specification of the dynamic relationship between the proxy of financial development, economic growth and other important factors of that growth (vector of control variables). Results suggest that in the Ivory Coast, growth in financial development is synonymous with the overall economic growth of the national economy. This study addresses the controversy over the appropriate proxy for the financial development in the Ivory Coast and it establishes a causal relationship between the financial development and the national economic growth.
A Cyber Physical Model Based on a Hybrid System for Flexible Load Control in an Active Distribution Network
Authors: Wang Yun , Liu Dong , Sun Chen
Published: February 2017

To strengthen the integration of the primary and secondary systems, a concept of Cyber Physical Systems (CPS) is introduced to construct a CPS in Power Systems (Power CPS). The most basic work of the Power CPS is to build an integration model which combines both a continuous process and a discrete process. The advanced form of smart grid, the Active Distribution Network (ADN) is a typical example of Power CPS. After designing the Power CPS model architecture and its application in ADN, a Hybrid System based model and control method of Power CPS is proposed in this paper. As an application example, ADN flexible load is modeled and controlled with ADN feeder power control by a control strategy which includes the normal condition and the underpowered condition. In this model and strategy, some factors like load power consumption and load functional demand are considered and optimized. In order to make up some of the deficiencies of centralized control, a distributed control method is presented to reduce model complexity and improve calculation speed. The effectiveness of all the models and methods are demonstrated in the case study.
Optimization of External Envelope Insulation Thickness: A Parametric Study
Authors: Touloupaki Eleftheria , Theodosiou Theodoros
Published: February 2017

Almost four years after the implementation deadline of the energy performance of buildings Directive recast (2010/31/EU) and after being referred to the Court of Justice of the EU by the European Commission, Greece has not yet proceeded with the necessary calculations and legislative measures on the minimum, cost-optimal energy performance requirements for buildings. This paper aims to identify the optimal thickness of insulation that is cost-effective to apply in urban multi-family domestic buildings in the four climate zones of Greece. A reference building is selected in order to perform calculations over ten scenarios of external insulation thickness for each climate zone on a basic and three sensitivity analysis calculations according to the EU comparative methodology framework. The resulting energy savings for each insulation scenario are calculated, and then the cost-effectiveness of the measure is examined in financial and macroeconomic perspective for an economic lifecycle of 30 years. The results demonstrate the inadequacy of the national regulation’s current insulation limits and the externalities (funding gaps) that need to be addressed in order to achieve the effective improvement of energy efficiency in Greek homes.
Fuzzy Logic-Based Operation of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESSs) for Enhancing the Resiliency of Hybrid Microgrids
Authors: Hussain Akhtar , Bui Van-Hai , Kim Hak-Man
Published: February 2017

The resiliency of power systems can be enhanced during emergency situations by using microgrids, due to their capability to supply local loads. However, precise prediction of disturbance events is very difficult rather the occurrence probability can be expressed as, high, medium, or low, etc. Therefore, a fuzzy logic-based battery energy storage system (BESS) operation controller is proposed in this study. In addition to BESS state-of-charge and market price signals, event occurrence probability is taken as crisp input for the BESS operation controller. After assessing the membership levels of all the three inputs, BESS operation controller decides the operation mode (subservient or resilient) of BESS units. In subservient mode, BESS is fully controlled by an energy management system (EMS) while in the case of resilient mode, the EMS follows the commands of the BESS operation controller for scheduling BESS units. Therefore, the proposed hybrid microgrid model can operate in normal, resilient, and emergency modes with the respective objective functions and scheduling horizons. Due to the consideration of resilient mode, load curtailment can be reduced during emergency operation periods. Numerical simulations have demonstrated the effectiveness of the proposed strategy for enhancing the resiliency of hybrid microgrids.
Assessment of Textural Differentiations in Forest Resources in Romania Using Fractal Analysis
Authors: Andronache Ion , Fensholt Rasmus , Ahammer Helmut , Ciobotaru Ana-Maria , Pintilii Radu-Daniel , Peptenatu Daniel , Drăghici Cristian-Constantin , Diaconu Daniel , Radulović Marko , Pulighe Giuseppe , Azihou Akomian , Toyi Mireille , Sinsin Brice
Published: February 2017

Deforestation and forest degradation have several negative effects on the environment including a loss of species habitats, disturbance of the water cycle and reduced ability to retain CO2, with consequences for global warming. We investigated the evolution of forest resources from development regions in Romania affected by both deforestation and reforestation using a non-Euclidean method based on fractal analysis. We calculated four fractal dimensions of forest areas: the fractal box-counting dimension of the forest areas, the fractal box-counting dimension of the dilated forest areas, the fractal dilation dimension and the box-counting dimension of the border of the dilated forest areas. Fractal analysis revealed morpho-structural and textural differentiations of forested, deforested and reforested areas in development regions with dominant mountain relief and high hills (more forested and compact organization) in comparison to the development regions dominated by plains or low hills (less forested, more fragmented with small and isolated clusters). Our analysis used the fractal analysis that has the advantage of analyzing the entire image, rather than studying local information, thereby enabling quantification of the uniformity, fragmentation, heterogeneity and homogeneity of forests.
Historical and Clinical Experiences of Gene Therapy for Solid Cancers in China
Authors: Li Bo , Gao Ning , Zhang Zhuang , Chen Qian‐Ming , Li Long‐Jiang , Li Yi
Published: February 2017

Based on the theoretical and clinical development of modern medicines, gene therapy has been a promising treatment strategy for cancer and other diseases. The practice of gene therapy is nearly 27 years old, since the first authorized gene transfer study took place at the National Institute of Health in 1989. However, gene therapy was not readily adopted worldwide, until recently. Several gene therapy clinical trials have been carried out in China since 1998, and medical research in China has flourished. In this report, we review the history of gene therapy in China, focusing on treatment protocol, the administration cycle, dosage calculation, and the evaluation of therapeutic effects, in order to provide more information for the additional development of this promising treatment strategy.
Consumption of Sugar-Sweetened Beverages in Mississippi: Is There A Disparity? Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, 2012
Authors: Qobadi Mina , Payton Marinelle
Published: February 2017

Although consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) is a key contributor to epidemic obesity and has dramatically increased over the past decade in the United States, little is known about its prevalence and associated factors. Data from the 2012 Behavior Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) were used to estimate the prevalence of SSB consumption and to explore the associations between socio-demographic characteristics, behavioral factors and SSB intake in Mississippi (n = 7220). Descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests and logistic regressions were conducted using SAS Proc Survey procedures, to account for the BRFSS′s multistage complex survey design and sample weights. Overall prevalence of self-reported daily SSB intake was 41.1%. Our findings showed that males (aOR = 1.4, 95% CI: 1.2–1.7, ref = female), blacks (aOR = 1.7, 95% CI: 1.4–2.1, ref = whites), adults aged 18–24 years (aOR = 5.0, 95% CI: 3.4–7.5, ref = 65 years or older), those with less than high school education (aOR = 1.9, 95% CI: 1.4–2.6, ref = college graduate), annual income <$25,000 (aOR = 1.3, 95% CI: 1.1–1.7, ref ≥ $50,000) and $25,000–49,999 (aOR = 1.3, 95% CI: 1.1–1.6, ref ≥ $50,000), those with no physical activity (OR = 1.3, 95% CI: 1.1–1.6, ref = physically active), daily smokers (aOR = 2.2, 95% CI: 1.7–2.7, ref = non-smokers), and those who reported eating at fast food or chain restaurants (aOR = 1.8, 95% CI: 1.2–2.5, ref = do not eat at fast food or chain restaurants) were more likely to consume SSBs, raising concerns about overweight and obesity in Mississippi.
NANOG Expression as a Responsive Biomarker during Treatment with Hedgehog Signal Inhibitor in Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Kakiuchi Seiji , Minami Yosuke , Miyata Yoshiharu , Mizutani Yu , Goto Hideaki , Kawamoto Shinichiro , Yakushijin Kimikazu , Kurata Keiji , Matsuoka Hiroshi , Minami Hironobu
Published: February 2017

Aberrant activation of the Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway is involved in the maintenance of leukemic stem cell (LSCs) populations. PF-0444913 (PF-913) is a novel inhibitor that selectively targets Smoothened (SMO), which regulates the Hh pathway. Treatment with PF-913 has shown promising results in an early phase study of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). However, a detailed mode of action for PF-913 and relevant biomarkers remain to be elucidated. In this study, we examined bone marrow samples derived from AML patients under PF-913 monotherapy. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) revealed that PF-913 treatment affected the self-renewal signature and cell-cycle regulation associated with LSC-like properties. We then focused on the expression of a pluripotency factor, NANOG, because previous reports showed that a downstream effector in the Hh pathway, GLI, directly binds to the NANOG promoter and that the GLI-NANOG axis promotes stemness and growth in several cancers. In this study, we found that a change in NANOG transcripts was closely associated with GLI-target genes and NANOG transcripts can be a responsive biomarker during PF-913 therapy. Additionally, the treatment of AML with PF-913 holds promise, possibly through inducing quiescent leukemia stem cells toward cell cycling.
Pancreatic Cancer-Induced Neutrophil Extracellular Traps: A Potential Contributor to Cancer-Associated Thrombosis
Authors: Abdol Razak Norbaini , Elaskalani Omar , Metharom Pat
Published: February 2017

Pancreatic cancer (PaCa) is a highly metastatic cancer, and patients are at high risk of developing venous thromboembolism (VTE). Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) have been associated with cancer metastasis and cancer-associated thrombosis, but the ability of cancer to stimulate NET release is not known. The release of NETs has been shown to be a slow process and requires reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Studies suggest that activated platelets are important mediators in the release. Here, we show that PaCa cells can stimulate the rapid release of NETs, independently of ROS production. We further assessed the role of platelets in PaCa-induced NETs and observed a trend of increased the NET release by PaCa-primed platelets. Additionally, NETs promoted thrombus formation under venous shear stress ex vivo. Taken together, our results suggest that PaCa-induced NETs can contribute to the high risk of venous thromboembolism development in PaCa patients, and reveal NETs as a potential therapeutic target.
Progranulin and Its Related MicroRNAs after Status Epilepticus: Possible Mechanisms of Neuroprotection
Authors: Körtvelyessy Peter , Huchtemann Tessa , Heinze Hans-Jochen , Bittner Daniel
Published: February 2017

The current knowledge about neuroprotective mechanisms in humans after status epilepticus is scarce. One reason is the difficulty to measure possible mediators of these neuroprotective mechanisms. The dawn of microRNA detection in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and the recent advancements in measuring proteins in the CSF such as progranulin, which is, e.g., responsible for neurite outgrowth and limiting exceeding neuroinflammatory responses, have given us new insights into putative neuroprotective mechanisms following status epilepticus. This should complement the animal data. In this review, we cover what is known about the role of progranulin as well as the links between microRNA changes and the progranulin pathway following status epilepticus in humans and animals hypothesizing neuroprotective and neurorehabilitative effects. Progranulin has also been found to feature prominently in the neuroprotective processes under hypoxic conditions and initiating neurorehabilitative processes. These properties may be used therapeutically, e.g., through drugs that raise the progranulin levels and therefore the cerebral progranulin levels as well with the goal of improving the outcome after status epilepticus.
Hotspot Selective Preference of the Chimeric Sequences Formed in Multiple Displacement Amplification
Authors: Tu Jing , Lu Na , Duan Mengqin , Huang Mengting , Chen Liang , Li Junji , Guo Jing , Lu Zuhong
Published: February 2017

Multiple displacement amplification (MDA) is considered to be a conventional approach to comprehensive amplification from low input DNA. The chimeric reads generated in MDA lead to severe disruption in some studies, including those focusing on heterogeneity, structural variation, and genetic recombination. Meanwhile, the generation of by-products gives a new approach to gain insights into the reaction process of φ29 polymerase. Here, we analyzed 36.7 million chimeras and screened 196 billion chimeric hotspots in the human genome, as well as evaluating the hotspot selective preference of chimeras. No significant preference was captured in the distributions of chimeras and hotspots among chromosomes. Hotspots with overlaps for 12–13 nucleotides (nt) were most likely to be selected as templates in chimera generation. Meanwhile, a regularly selective preference was noticed in overlap GC content. The preferences in overlap length and GC content was shown to be pertinent to the sequence denaturation temperature, which pointed out the optimization direction for reducing chimeras. Distance preference between two segments of chimeras was 80–280 nt. The analysis is beneficial for reducing the chimeras in MDA, and the characterization of MDA chimeras is helpful in distinguishing MDA chimeras from chimeric sequences caused by disease.
TNFα Increases RANKL Expression via PGE2-Induced Activation of NFATc1
Authors: Park Hyun-Jung , Baek Kyunghwa , Baek Jeong-Hwa , Kim Hyung-Ryong
Published: February 2017

Tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) is known to upregulate the expression of receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL). We investigated the role of the calcineurin/nuclear factor of activated T-cells (NFAT) signaling pathway in TNFα-induced RANKL expression in C2C12 and primary cultured mouse calvarial cells. TNFα-induced RANKL expression was blocked by the calcineurin/NFAT pathway inhibitors. TNFα increased NFAT transcriptional activity and subsequent RANKL promoter binding. Mutations in the NFAT-binding element (MT(N)) suppressed TNFα-induced RANKL promoter activity. TNFα increased prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) production, which in turn enhanced NFAT transcriptional activity and binding to the RANKL promoter. MT(N) suppressed PGE2-induced RANKL promoter activity. TNFα and PGE2 increased the expression of RANKL, NFAT cytoplasmic-1 (NFATc1), cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB), and cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2); which increment was suppressed by indomethacin, a COX inhibitor. Mutations in the CRE-like element blocked PGE2-induced RANKL promoter activity. PGE2 induced the binding of CREB to the RANKL promoter, whereas TNFα increased the binding of both CREB and NFATc1 to this promoter through a process blocked by indomethacin. The PGE2 receptor antagonists AH6809 and AH23848 blocked TNFα-induced expression of RANKL, NFATc1, and CREB; transcriptional activity of NFAT; and binding of NFATc1 or CREB to the RANKL promoter. These results suggest that TNFα-induced RANKL expression depends on PGE2 production and subsequent transcriptional activation/enhanced binding of NFATc1 and CREB to the RANKL promoter.
Fibroblast Fatty-Acid Oxidation Flux Assays Stratify Risk in Newborns with Presumptive-Positive Results on Screening for Very-Long Chain Acyl-CoA Dehydrogenase Deficiency
Authors: Olpin Simon , Clark Shirley , Dalley Jane , Andresen Brage , Croft Joanne , Scott Camilla , Khan Aneal , Kirk Richard , Sparkes Rebecca , Chard Marisa , Chan Alicia , Glamuzina Emma , Bastin Jean , Manning Nigel , Pollitt Rodney
Published: February 2017

Very-long chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency (VLCADD) is a clinically heterogeneous disorder with three major phenotypes: severe neonatal/infantile, milder childhood and late onset myopathic. VLCADD is genetically heterogeneous with numerous pathogenic mutations and variants of uncertain significance. VLCADD is included in many newborn screening programs but these suffer from high false positive rates, primarily due to positive screens in heterozygotes. Separating these and newborns with two low-risk “mild” variants from clinically at risk patients can be problematic, as clinical and biochemical markers are often unreliable, particularly in stable neonates. We have measured fibroblast fatty acid oxidation flux using [9,10-H3]myristic acid and [9,10-H3]oleic acid from 69 clinically presenting VLCADD patients including myopathic and infantile phenotypes and 13 positive newborn screened patients. We also measured fibroblast VLCADD enzyme activity by UV-HPLC detection of product in a sub-set of patients and compared these results to oleate FAO-flux. Fibroblast enzyme assay by UV-HPLC detection failed to clearly discriminate between some clinically presenting VLCADD patient cell lines and cell lines from some simple heterozygotes. FAO-flux clearly discriminated between clinically presenting VLCADD patients and the false positive screened patients. FAO-flux at 37 °C provides information as to the likely clinical phenotype but FAO-flux at 41 °C is the best discriminator for identifying clinically at risk patients.
Improved FIFO Scheduling Algorithm Based on Fuzzy Clustering in Cloud Computing
Authors: Li Jian , Ma Tinghuai , Tang Meili , Shen Wenhai , Jin Yuanfeng
Published: February 2017

In cloud computing, some large tasks may occupy too many resources and some small tasks may wait for a long time based on First-In-First-Out (FIFO) scheduling algorithm. To reduce tasks’ waiting time, we propose a task scheduling algorithm based on fuzzy clustering algorithms. We construct a task model, resource model, and analyze tasks’ preference, then classify resources with fuzzy clustering algorithms. Based on the parameters of cloud tasks, the algorithm will calculate resource expectation and assign tasks to different resource clusters, so the complexity of resource selection will be decreased. As a result, the algorithm will reduce tasks’ waiting time and improve the resource utilization. The experiment results show that the proposed algorithm shortens the execution time of tasks and increases the resource utilization.
An Image Compression Scheme in Wireless Multimedia Sensor Networks Based on NMF
Authors: Kong Shikang , Sun Lijuan , Han Chong , Guo Jian
Published: February 2017

With the goal of addressing the issue of image compression in wireless multimedia sensor networks with high recovered quality and low energy consumption, an image compression and transmission scheme based on non-negative matrix factorization (NMF) is proposed in this paper. First, the NMF algorithm theory is studied. Then, a collaborative mechanism of image capture, block, compression and transmission is completed. Camera nodes capture images and send them to ordinary nodes which use an NMF algorithm for image compression. Compressed images are transmitted to the station by the cluster head node and received from ordinary nodes. The station takes on the image restoration. Simulation results show that, compared with the JPEG2000 and singular value decomposition (SVD) compression schemes, the proposed scheme has a higher quality of recovered images and lower total node energy consumption. It is beneficial to reduce the burden of energy consumption and prolong the life of the whole network system, which has great significance for practical applications of WMSNs.
The Crucial Role of Biofilms in Cryptococcus neoformans Survival within Macrophages and Colonization of the Central Nervous System
Authors: Aslanyan Lilit , Sanchez David , Valdebenito Silvana , Eugenin Eliseo , Ramos Raddy , Martinez Luis
Published: February 2017

Cryptococcus neoformans is an encapsulated yeast-like fungus capable of causing life threatening meningoencephalitis in patients with impaired immunity. This microbe primarily infects the host via inhalation but has the ability to disseminate to the central nervous system (CNS) either as a single cell or inside of macrophages. Upon traversing the blood brain barrier, C. neoformans has the capacity to form biofilm-like structures known as cryptococcomas. Hence, we will discuss the C. neoformans elements contributing to biofilm formation including the fungus’ ability to survive in the acidic environment of a macrophage phagosome and inside of the CNS. The purpose of this mini-review is to instill fresh interest in understanding the importance of biofilms on fungal pathogenesis.
Sino-Austrian High-Tech Acupuncture Network—Annual Report 2015
Authors: Litscher Gerhard
Published: February 2017

The Sino-Austrian High-Tech Acupuncture Research Network was founded in 2005 and has been growing ever since. The network comprises many partners from China and is highly involved in research and education activities. This report introduces the network’s activities in the year 2015.
Effects of EMS Induced Flow on Solidification and Solute Transport in Bloom Mold
Authors: Fang Qing , Ni Hongwei , Wang Bao , Zhang Hua , Ye Fei
Published: February 2017

The flow, temperature, solidification, and solute concentration field in a continuous casting bloom mold were solved simultaneously by a multiphysics numerical model by considering the effect of in-mold electromagnetic stirring (M-EMS). The mold metallurgical differences between cases with and without EMS are discussed first, and then the solute transport model verified. Moreover, the effects of EMS current intensity on the metallurgical behavior in the bloom mold were also investigated. The simulated solute distributions were basically consistent with the test results. The simulations showed that M-EMS can apparently homogenize the initial solidified shell, liquid steel temperature, and solute element in the EMS effective zone. Meanwhile, the impingement effect of jet flow and molten steel superheat can be reduced, and the degree of negative segregation in the solidified shell at the mold corner alleviated from 0.74 to 0.78. However, the level fluctuation and segregation degree in the shell around the center of the wide and narrow sides were aggravated from 4.5 mm to 6.2 mm and from 0.84 to 0.738, respectively. With the rise of current intensity the bloom surface temperature, level fluctuation, stirring intensity, uniformity of molten steel temperature, and solute distribution also increased, while the growth velocity of the solidifying shell in the EMS effective zone declined and the solute mass fraction at the center of the computational outlet (z = 1.5 m) decreased. M-EMS with a current intensity of 600 A is more suitable for big bloom castings.