bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preparation and characterization of iron oxide nanoparticles coated with chitosan for removal of Cd(II) and Cr(VI) from aqueous solution
Authors: Shalaby Th. I. , Fikrt N. M. , Mohamed M. M. , El Kady M. F.
Published: September 2014

This study investigated the applicability of magnetite Fe3O4 nanoparticles coated with chitosan (CMNs) for the removal of some toxic heavy metals from simulated wastewater. Magnetic nanomaterials were synthesized using the co-precipitation method and characterized by transmission electron microscope, scanning electron microscope, X-ray diffraction, and Fourier transformer infrared spectroscopy. The magnetic properties of the prepared magnetic nanoparticles were determined by a vibrating-sample magnetometer. Batch experiments were carried out to determine the adsorption kinetics of Cr(VI) and Cd(II) by magnetic nanoparticles. It is noteworthy that CMNs show a highly efficient adsorption capacity for low concentration Cr(VI) and Cd(II) ions solution, which can reach 98% within 10 min.
Characterization of methane flux from photosynthetic oxidation ponds in a wastewater treatment plant
Authors: Detweiler Angela M. , Bebout Brad M. , Frisbee Adrienne E. , Kelley Cheryl A. , Chanton Jeffrey P. , Prufert-Bebout Leslie E.
Published: September 2014

Photosynthetic oxidation ponds are a low-cost method for secondary treatment of wastewater using natural and more energy-efficient aeration strategies. Methane (CH4) is produced during the anaerobic digestion of organic matter, but only some of it is oxidized in the water column, with the remaining CH4 escaping into the atmosphere. In order to characterize the CH4 flux in two photosynthetic oxidation ponds in a wastewater treatment plant in northern California, the isotopic compositions and concentrations of CH4 were measured in the water column, in bubbles and in flux chambers, over a period of 12 to 21 months to account for seasonal trends in CH4 emissions. Methane flux varied seasonally throughout the year, with an annual average flux of 5.5 g CH4 m−2 d−1 Over half of the CH4 flux, 56.1–74.4% v/v, was attributed to ebullition. The oxidation efficiency of this system was estimated at 69.1%, based on stable carbon isotopes and a calculated fractionation factor of 1.028. This is the first time, to our knowledge, that a fractionation factor for CH4 oxidation has been empirically determined for oxidation ponds. Quantifying CH4 emissions from these systems is essential to properly identify their contribution and to mitigate their impact on global warming.
A comparative study for pathogen removal using different filter media during vermifiltration
Authors: Arora Sudipti , Rajpal Ankur , Kumar Tarun , Bhargava Renu , Kazmi A. A.
Published: September 2014

The present study focuses on the effect of filter media (riverbed gravel, mud balls, coal and glass balls) for the removal of pathogens during vermifiltration of domestic wastewater. This novel study was conducted for the first time on different vermifilters (VFs) with different media, and pathogen removal was extensively investigated for a period of 3 months. Results indicated that vermifilter with riverbed material (VFR) showed maximum biochemical oxygen demand and chemical oxygen demand removal of 76 and 67%, respectively and vermifilter with mud balls (VFM) showed maximum log removal of total coliforms (2.8), fecal coliforms (2.7), fecal streptococci (2.2), Salmonella (2.1) and Escherichia coli (2.1). The area-based bacterial removal rate constant (k) was found in the range of 2.96–6.68 m/d, which is very high in comparison to the reported values. The population of total heterotrophic bacteria and total fungi was found to be 2-log (99%) higher in VFR and VFM, as compared to other media. The growth rate of Eisenia fetida was higher (42% increase in biomass) in glass balls vermifilter (VFG), and also the abrasions on the body wall of earthworms in VFG showed fewer injuries. Overall, the results of the study described the importance and role of each filter medium.
Community structure of ammonia-oxidizing microorganisms in the Grand Canal, Zhenjiang, of Jiangsu Province, China
Authors: Liu Biao , Wu Chundu , Zhou Xiaohong
Published: September 2014

In this study, we simultaneously investigated the community structure and abundance of ammonia-oxidizing archaea (AOA) and ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AOB) in the Grand Canal (the Zhenjiang section). Both clone library and qPCR (quantitative polymerase chain reaction) indicated that the abundance and diversity of AOB were higher than AOA in the Grand Canal for all four seasons. Among the 109 archaeal amoA sequences retrieved, 62.39 and 37.61% fell within the Nitrosopumilus and Nitrososphaera clusters, respectively. The 128 bacterial amoA gene sequences obtained in this study were grouped with known AOB sequences in the Nitrosomonas and Nitrosospira genera, which occupied 81.25 and 18.75% of the AOB group, respectively. The AOA abundance was significantly and positively correlated with the NH4-N. The AOB abundance did not show significant correlations with the measured parameters. Obvious differences were observed for the AOA community compositions obtained from different seasons. The community structure of AOB changed slightly. It indicated that AOB seemed to play a more important role for the nitrification process than AOA in this environment, and was more adapted to this environment.
Solid-state fermentation of soybean residues for bioflocculant production in a pilot-scale bioreactor system
Authors: Zulkeflee Zufarzaana , Sánchez Antoni
Published: September 2014

An innovative approach using soybean residues for the production of bioflocculants through solid-state fermentation was carried out in 4.5 L near-to-adiabatic bioreactors at pilot-scale level. An added inoculum of the strain Bacillus subtilis UPMB13 was tested in comparison with control reactors without any inoculation after the thermophilic phase of the fermentation. The flocculating performances of the extracted bioflocculants were tested on kaolin suspensions, and crude bioflocculants were obtained from 20 g of fermented substrate through ethanol precipitation. The production of bioflocculants was observed to be higher during the death phase of microbial growth. The bioflocculants were observed to be granular in nature and consisted of hydroxyl, carboxyl and methoxyl groups that aid in their flocculating performance. The results show the vast potential of the idea of using wastes to produce bioactive materials that can replace the current dependence on chemicals, for future prospect in water treatment applications.
Assessing material flows in urban systems: an approach to maximize the use of incomplete data sets
Authors: Espinosa G. , Otterpohl R.
Published: September 2014

Data scarcity and uncertainty are the main limiting factors for an integral evaluation of the urban water and wastewater management system (WWMS) in developing countries. The present research shows an approach to use incomplete data sets to analyse the flows of water and nitrogen and to make an integral evaluation of the WWMS at a case study city. By means of data validation and model adaptations the use of literature values is kept at the minimum possible and so the current trends for water consumption and pollution in the city are identified. The material flows were calculated as central values with a certain confidence range and met the selected plausibility criteria. Thus, the first essential step needed to identify the challenges and opportunities of future improvement strategies at the WWMS of the city was possible.
Markers of inflammation and antioxidant enzyme activities in restenosis following percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Pantovic Snezana , Bozovic Dragica , Nikolic Goran , Martinovic Milica , Mitrovic Predrag , Radulovic Lenka , Isakovic Aleksandra , Markovic Ivanka
Published: September 2014

The efficacy of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is often compromised
by the need for repeat revascularization, because of restenosis development.
Numerous studies have tried to establish the predictive value of different
biochemical markers of restenosis, with conflicting results. The aim of this
study was to assess the prognostic significance of inflammatory and lipid
markers, and major antioxidant enzyme activity for the development of
in-stent restenosis (ISR) following PCI. Serum high sensitive C-reactive
protein (hs-CRP), soluble intercellular cell adhesion molecule-1 (sICAM-1),
transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-?), lipoprotein(a) and oxidized
low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) levels, as well as serum extracellular
superoxide dismutase (EC-SOD) and catalase (CAT) activity were determined in
44 patients before stent implantation procedure, and after 6-month follow-up.
Results after follow-up revealed that, in patients that developed
angiografically confirmed ISR, the increase in serum hs-CRP levels was
significanty higher, compared to those without stenosis. Stent implantation
induced compensatory increase in serum antioxidant enzyme activities at
follow-up, with significantly lower CAT activity in patients with ISR,
possibly contributing to stenosis development. No significant changes in
circulating levels of ICAM-1, TGF-?, oxLDL and Lp(a) were observed between
the groups. In conclusion, serum hs-CRP level and CAT activity may be
considered as useful biochemical markers for monitoring patients during
follow-up after stent implantation.
Orthodontic bracket slot dimensions as measured from entire bracket series
Authors: Brown Paul , Wagner Warren , Choi Hyden
Published: September 2014

Objective: 

To measure the slot dimensions of an entire series of metal orthodontic brackets.

Materials and Methods: 

Ten bracket series approximating five complete sets of brackets each were imaged and measured. Descriptive statistics were generated.

Results: 

Slot dimension varied significantly from series to series as well as within the series themselves. About one-third of the brackets would not accommodate a full-size wire, and 15% to 20% are 0.001 inches or larger than the nominal advertised size.

Conclusion: 

The clinician is unlikely to have on hand complete sets (upper and lower 5-5) of ideal brackets and should both expect and be able to be accommodate tooth movement through wire bending in three planes of space to overcome any bracket deficiencies.
Understanding biology to tackle the disease: Multiple myeloma from bench to bedside, and back
Authors: Bianchi Giada , Anderson Kenneth C.
Published: September 2014

Answer questions and earn CME/CNE

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a cancer of antibody‐producing plasma cells. The pathognomonic laboratory finding is a monoclonal immunoglobulin or free light chain in the serum and/or urine in association with bone marrow infiltration by malignant plasma cells. MM develops from a premalignant condition, monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS), often via an intermediate stage termed smoldering multiple myeloma (SMM), which differs from active myeloma by the absence of disease‐related end‐organ damage. Unlike MGUS and SMM, active MM requires therapy. Over the past 6 decades, major advancements in the care of MM patients have occurred, in particular, the introduction of novel agents (ie, proteasome inhibitors, immunomodulatory agents) and the implementation of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in suitable candidates. The effectiveness and good tolerability of novel agents allowed for their combined use in induction, consolidation, and maintenance therapy, resulting in deeper and more sustained clinical response and extended progression‐free and overall survival. Previously a rapidly lethal cancer with few therapeutic options, MM is the hematologic cancer with the most novel US Food and Drug Administration‐approved drugs in the past 15 years. These advances have resulted in more frequent long‐term remissions, transforming MM into a chronic illness for many patients. CA Cancer J Clin 2014;64:422–444. © 2014 American Cancer Society.
Greener and Sustainable Chemistry
Authors: Varma Rajender
Published: September 2014

In the pursuit towards attaining sustainability, arrays of greener pathways are being carved to address the needs of the diverse chemical universe. The evolving area of green and sustainable chemistry envisions minimum hazard as the performance criterion while designing new chemical processes. Green Chemistry is defined as "the utilization of a set of principles that reduces or eliminates the use or generation of hazardous substances in the design, manufacture, and application of chemical products" [1]. Sustainable processes are being sought to explore alternatives to conventional chemical syntheses and transformations. Among several thrust areas for achieving this target includes: the utility of alternative feedstocks, preferably from renewable materials or waste from other industries; unconventional efficient reaction conditions and eco-friendly reaction media to accomplish the desired chemical transformations with minimized by-products or waste generation, and ideally avoiding the use of conventional volatile organic solvents, wherever possible. Other avenues for achieving this objective are to explore the generation of efficient catalytic processes, particularly magnetically retrievable nano-catalysts [1,2,3,4]. In addition to greener synthesis, the recyclability and reuse aspects for catalytic systems are extremely significant particularly when it boils down to the use of endangered elements and precious catalysts. Several friendlier applications in catalysis have been advanced via magnetically recoverable and recyclable nano-catalysts for oxidation, reduction, and multi-component condensation reactions [1,2,3,4] and this has made a terrific impact on the development of green chemical pathways [1]. The greener preparation of nanoparticles has been exemplified via the use of vitamins B1, B2, C, and tea [5] and wine polyphenols [6], beet juice [7] and other agricultural residues which function both as reducing and capping agents. This avoids the need to deploy toxic reducing agents, such as borohydrides or hydrazines and empowers simple and aqueous green synthetic methods to produce bulk quantities of nano-catalysts without the requirement for large amounts of insoluble templates [8]. [...]
IDEAhaus: A Modular Approach to Climate Resilient UK Housing
Authors: Keeffe Greg , McHugh Ian
Published: September 2014

This paper describes the result of a project to develop climate adaptation design strategies funded by the UK’s Technology Strategy Board. The aim of the project was to look at the threats and opportunities presented by industrialized and house-building techniques in the light of predicted future increases in flooding and overheating due to anthropogenic climate change. The paper shows that the thermal performance of houses built to the current UK Building Regulations is not adequate to cope with changing weather patterns, and in light of this, develops a detailed design for a new house: one that is industrially produced and climatically resilient, but affordable. This detailed concept IDEAhaus of a modular house is not only flood-proof to a water depth of 750 mm, but also is designed to utilize passive cooling, which dramatically reduces the amount of overheating, both now and in the future.
Mechanisms of Hepatocyte Growth Factor Activation in Cancer Tissues
Authors: Kawaguchi Makiko , Kataoka Hiroaki
Published: September 2014

Hepatocyte growth factor/scatter factor (HGF/SF) plays critical roles in cancer progression through its specific receptor, MET. HGF/SF is usually synthesized and secreted as an inactive proform (pro-HGF/SF) by stromal cells, such as fibroblasts. Several serine proteases are reported to convert pro-HGF/SF to mature HGF/SF and among these, HGF activator (HGFA) and matriptase are the most potent activators. Increased activities of both proteases have been observed in various cancers. HGFA is synthesized mainly by the liver and secreted as an inactive pro-form. In cancer tissues, pro-HGFA is likely activated by thrombin and/or human kallikrein 1-related peptidase (KLK)-4 and KLK-5. Matriptase is a type II transmembrane serine protease that is expressed by most epithelial cells and is also synthesized as an inactive zymogen. Matriptase activation is likely to be mediated by autoactivation or by other trypsin-like proteases. Recent studies revealed that matriptase autoactivation is promoted by an acidic environment. Given the mildly acidic extracellular environment of solid tumors, matriptase activation may, thus, be accelerated in the tumor microenvironment. HGFA and matriptase activities are regulated by HGFA inhibitor (HAI)-1 (HAI-1) and/or HAI-2 in the pericellular microenvironment. HAIs may have an important role in cancer cell biology by regulating HGF/SF-activating proteases.
Iron, Magnesium, Vitamin D, and Zinc Deficiencies in Children Presenting with Symptoms of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Villagomez Amelia , Ramtekkar Ujjwal
Published: September 2014

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder increasing in prevalence. Although there is limited evidence to support treating ADHD with mineral/vitamin supplements, research does exist showing that patients with ADHD may have reduced levels of vitamin D, zinc, ferritin, and magnesium. These nutrients have important roles in neurologic function, including involvement in neurotransmitter synthesis. The aim of this paper is to discuss the role of each of these nutrients in the brain, the possible altered levels of these nutrients in patients with ADHD, possible reasons for a differential level in children with ADHD, and safety and effect of supplementation. With this knowledge, clinicians may choose in certain patients at high risk of deficiency, to screen for possible deficiencies of magnesium, vitamin D, zinc, and iron by checking RBC-magnesium, 25-OH vitamin D, serum/plasma zinc, and ferritin. Although children with ADHD may be more likely to have lower levels of vitamin D, zinc, magnesium, and iron, it cannot be stated that these lower levels caused ADHD. However, supplementing areas of deficiency may be a safe and justified intervention.
Computational Models of the NF-KB Signalling Pathway
Authors: Williams Richard , Timmis Jon , Qwarnstrom Eva
Published: September 2014

In this review article, we discuss the current state of computational modelling of the nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-ΚB) signalling pathway. NF-ΚB is a transcription factor, which is ubiquitous within cells and controls a number of immune responses, including inflammation and apoptosis. The NF-ΚB signalling pathway is tightly regulated, commencing with activation at the cell membrane, signal transduction through various components within the cytoplasm, translocation of NF-ΚB into the nucleus and, finally, the transcription of various genes relating to the innate and adaptive immune responses. There have been a number of computational (mathematical) models developed of the signalling pathway over the past decade. This review describes how these approaches have helped advance our understanding of NF-ΚB control.
Multiscale Modeling of the Early CD8 T-Cell Immune Response in Lymph Nodes: An Integrative Study
Authors: Prokopiou Sotiris , Barbarroux Loic , Bernard Samuel , Mafille Julien , Leverrier Yann , Arpin Christophe , Marvel Jacqueline , Gandrillon Olivier , Crauste Fabien
Published: September 2014

CD8 T-cells are critical in controlling infection by intracellular pathogens. Upon encountering antigen presenting cells, T-cell receptor activation promotes the differentiation of naïve CD8 T-cells into strongly proliferating activated and effector stages. We propose a 2D-multiscale computational model to study the maturation of CD8 T-cells in a lymph node controlled by their molecular profile. A novel molecular pathway is presented and converted into an ordinary differential equation model, coupled with a cellular Potts model to describe cell-cell interactions. Key molecular players such as activated IL2 receptor and Tbet levels control the differentiation from naïve into activated and effector stages, respectively, while caspases and Fas-Fas ligand interactions control cell apoptosis. Coupling this molecular model to the cellular scale successfully reproduces qualitatively the evolution of total CD8 T-cell counts observed in mice lymph node, between Day 3 and 5.5 post-infection. Furthermore, this model allows us to make testable predictions of the evolution of the different CD8 T-cell stages.
Genetic Segregation and Genomic Hybridization Patterns Support an Allotetraploid Structure and Disomic Inheritance for Salix Species
Authors: Barcaccia Gianni , Meneghetti Stefano , Lucchin Margherita , De Jong Hans
Published: September 2014

The Salix alba L. (white willow)—Salix fragilis L. (crack willow) complex includes closely related polyploid species, mainly tetraploid (2n = 4x = 76), which are dioecious and hence obligate allogamous. Because little is known about the genome constitution and chromosome behavior of these pure willow trees, genetic analysis of their naturally occurring interspecific polyploid hybrids is still very difficult. A two-way pseudo-testcross strategy was exploited using single-dose AFLP markers in order to assess the main inheritance patterns of tetraploid biotypes (disomy vs. tetrasomy) in segregating populations stemmed from S. alba × S. fragilis crosses and reciprocals. In addition, a genomic in situ hybridization (GISH) technology was implemented in willow to shed some light on the genome structure of S. alba and S. fragilis species, and their hybrids (allopolyploidy vs. autopolyploidy). The frequency of S. alba-specific molecular markers was almost double compared to that of S. fragilis-specific ones, suggesting the phylogenetic hypothesis of S. fragilis as derivative species from S. alba-like progenitors. Cytogenetic observations at pro-metaphase revealed about half of the chromosome complements being less contracted than the remaining ones, supporting an allopolyploid origin of both S. alba and S. fragilis. Both genetic segregation and genomic hybridization data are consistent with an allotetraploid nature of the Salix species. In particular, the vast majority of the AFLP markers were inherited according to disomic patterns in S. alba × S. fragilis populations and reciprocals. Moreover, in all S. alba against S. fragilis hybridizations and reciprocals, GISH signals were observed only on the contracted chromosomes whereas the non-contracted chromosomes were never hybridized. In conclusion, half of the chromosomes of the pure species S. alba and S. fragilis are closely related and they could share a common diploid ancestor, while the rest of chromosomes are morphologically differentiated in either S. alba or S. fragilis and they should derive from distinct diploid ancestors.
Preliminary Examinations for the Identification of U.S. Domestic and International Cotton Fibers by Near-Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Fortier Chanel , Rodgers James
Published: September 2014

Cotton is and has been a large cash crop in the United States and abroad for many years. Part of the widespread interest and utility of this product is due to its attractive chemical and physical properties for use in textiles. The textile industry could benefit from the presentation of a quick, reliable method to classify U.S. from foreign cottons so that the appropriate tariffs can be levied for non-American cottons. In addition, there is some interest in avoiding cotton identity theft. Thus, an accurate and precise instrumental method would be of interest to correctly identify the country of origin of cotton. This study provides an analytical method to identify domestic and foreign cotton fibers using near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy coupled with principal component analysis (PCA). Samples from American cottons were evaluated along with a representative amount of international samples. The results provide a proof of concept that indicates that PCA analysis can be used to separate the respective domestic and foreign cotton groups.
Constraints on Non-Standard Gravitomagnetism by the Anomalous Perihelion Precession of the Planets
Authors: Acedo Luis
Published: September 2014

In 2008, a team of astronomers reported an anomalous retrograde precession of the perihelion of Saturn amounting to \(\Delta \dot{\omega}_{\mathrm{SATURN}}=-0.006(2)\) arcsec per century (arcsec cy\(^{-1}\)). This unexplained precession was obtained after taking into account all classical and relativistic effects in the context of the highly refined EPM2008 ephemerides. More recent analyzes have not confirmed this effect, but they have found similar discrepancies in other planets. Our objective in this paper is to discuss a non-standard model involving transversal gravitomagnetism generated by the Sun as a possible source of these potential anomalies, to be confirmed by further data analyses. In order to compute the Lense–Thirring perturbations induced by the suggested interaction, we should consider the orientation of the Sun's rotational axis in Carrington elements and the inclination of the planetary orbits with respect to the ecliptic plane. We find that an extra component of the gravitomagnetic field not predicted by General Relativity could explain the reported anomalies without conflicting with the Gravity Probe B experiment and the orbits of the geodynamics satellites.
Orbital Motions and the Conservation-Law/Preferred-Frame α3 Parameter
Authors: Iorio Lorenzo
Published: September 2014

We analytically calculate some orbital effects induced by the Lorentz-invariance momentum-conservation parameterized post-Newtonian (PPN) parameter \(\alpha_3\) in a gravitationally bound binary system made of a primary orbited by a test particle. We neither restrict ourselves to any particular orbital configuration nor to specific orientations of the primary's spin axis \( {\hat{\psi}}\). We use our results to put preliminary upper bounds on \(\alpha_3\) in the weak-field regime by using the latest data from Solar System's planetary dynamics. By linearly combining the supplementary perihelion precessions \(\Delta\dot\varpi\) of the Earth, Mars and Saturn, determined by astronomers with the Ephemerides of Planets and the Moon (EPM) 2011 ephemerides for the general relativistic values of the PPN parameters \(\beta=\gamma=1\), we infer \(|\alpha_3|\lesssim 6\times 10^{-10}\). Our result is about three orders of magnitude better than the previous weak-field constraints existing in the literature and of the same order of magnitude of the constraint expected from the future BepiColombo mission to Mercury. It is, by construction, independent of the other preferred-frame PPN parameters \(\alpha_1,\alpha_2\), both preliminarily constrained down to a \(\approx 10^{-6}\) level. Future analyses should be performed by explicitly including \(\alpha_3\) and a selection of other PPN parameters in the models fitted by the astronomers to the observations and estimating them in dedicated covariance analyses.
Enteric Pathogen Survival Varies Substantially in Irrigation Water from Belgian Lettuce Producers
Authors: Van Der Linden Inge , Cottyn Bart , Uyttendaele Mieke , Berkvens Nick , Vlaemynck Geertrui , Heyndrickx Marc , Maes Martine
Published: September 2014

It is accepted that irrigation water is a potential carrier of enteric pathogens, such as Salmonella and E. coli O157:H7 and, therefore, a source for contamination of fresh produce. We tested this by comparing irrigation water samples taken from five different greenhouses in Belgium. The water samples were inoculated with four zoonotic strains, two Salmonella and two E. coli O157:H7 strains, and pathogen survival and growth in the water were monitored up till 14 days. The influence of water temperature and chemical water quality was evaluated, and the survival tests were also performed in water samples from which the resident aquatic microbiota had previously been eliminated by filter sterilization. The pathogen’s survival differed greatly in the different irrigation waters. Three water samples contained nutrients to support important growth of the pathogens, and another enabled weaker growth. However, for all, growth was only observed in the samples that did not contain the resident aquatic microbiota. In the original waters with their specific water biota, pathogen levels declined. The same survival tendencies existed in water of 4 °C and 20 °C, although always more expressed at 20 °C. Low water temperatures resulted in longer pathogen survival. Remarkably, the survival capacity of two E. coli 0157:H7 strains differed, while Salmonella Thompson and Salmonella Typhimurium behaved similarly. The pathogens were also transferred to detached lettuce leaves, while suspended in two of the water samples or in a buffer. The effect of the water sample on the pathogen’s fitness was also reproduced on the leaves when stored at 100% relative humidity. Inoculation of the suspension in buffer or in one of the water samples enabled epiphytic growth and survival, while the pathogen level in the other water sample decreased once loaded on the leaves. Our results show that irrigation waters from different origin may have a different capacity to transmit enteric pathogens and an important impact on the fitness of the pathogens to sustain and even grow on the leaf surface.
Isolation and Structure Characterization of an Antioxidative Glycopeptide from Mycelial Culture Broth of a Medicinal Fungus
Authors: Wu Jian-Yong , Chen Xia , Siu Ka-Chai
Published: September 2014

A novel glycopeptide (Cs-GP1) with an average molecular weight (Mw) of 6.0 kDa was isolated and purified by column chromatography from the lower Mw fraction of exopolysaccharide (EPS) produced by a medicinal fungus Cordyceps sinensis Cs-HK1. Its carbohydrate moiety was mainly composed of glucose and mannose at 3.2:1.0 mole ratio, indicating an O-linked glycopeptide. The peptide chain contained relatively high mole ratios of aspartic acid, glutamic acid and glycine (3.3–3.5 relative to arginine) but relatively low ratios of tyrosine and histidine. The peptide chain sequence analyzed after trypsin digestion by LC-MS was KNGIFQFGEDCAAGSISHELGGFREFREFLKQAGLE. Cs-GP1 exhibited remarkable antioxidant capacity with a Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity of 1183.8 μmol/g and a ferric reducing ability of 611.1 μmol Fe(II)/g, and significant protective effect against H2O2-induced PC12 cell injury at a minimum dose of 10 μg/mL. This is the first report on the structure and bioactivity of an extracellular glycopeptide from the Cordyceps species.
Hyperthermia Induces Apoptosis through Endoplasmic Reticulum and Reactive Oxygen Species in Human Osteosarcoma Cells
Authors: Hou Chun-Han , Lin Feng-Ling , Hou Sheng-Mon , Liu Ju-Fang
Published: September 2014

Osteosarcoma (OS) is a relatively rare form of cancer, but OS is the most commonly diagnosed bone cancer in children and adolescents. Chemotherapy has side effects and induces drug resistance in OS. Since an effective adjuvant therapy was insufficient for treating OS, researching novel and adequate remedies is critical. Hyperthermia can induce cell death in various cancer cells, and thus, in this study, we investigated the anticancer method of hyperthermia in human OS (U-2 OS) cells. Treatment at 43 °C for 60 min induced apoptosis in human OS cell lines, but not in primary bone cells. Furthermore, hyperthermia was associated with increases of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and caspase-3 activation in U-2 OS cells. Mitochondrial dysfunction was followed by the release of cytochrome c from the mitochondria, and was accompanied by decreased anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL, and increased pro-apoptotic proteins Bak and Bax. Hyperthermia triggered endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, which was characterized by changes in cytosolic calcium levels, as well as increased calpain expression and activity. In addition, cells treated with calcium chelator (BAPTA-AM) blocked hyperthermia-induced cell apoptosis in U-2 OS cells. In conclusion, hyperthermia induced cell apoptosis substantially via the ROS, ER stress, mitochondria, and caspase pathways. Thus, hyperthermia may be a novel anticancer method for treating OS.
The Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Lidocaine- Loaded Biodegradable Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) Microspheres
Authors: Liu Jianming , Lv Xin
Published: September 2014

The purpose of this study was to develop novel lidocaine microspheres. Microspheres were prepared by the oil-in-water (o/w) emulsion technique using poly(d,l-lactide-co-glycolide acid) (PLGA) for the controlled delivery of lidocaine. The average diameter of lidocaine PLGA microspheres was 2.34 ± 0.3 μm. The poly disperse index was 0.21 ± 0.03, and the zeta potential was +0.34 ± 0.02 mV. The encapsulation efficiency and drug loading of the prepared microspheres were 90.5% ± 4.3% and 11.2% ± 1.4%. In vitro release indicated that the lidocaine microspheres had a well-sustained release efficacy, and in vivo studies showed that the area under the curve of lidocaine in microspheres was 2.02–2.06-fold that of lidocaine injection (p < 0.05). The pharmacodynamics results showed that lidocaine microspheres showed a significant release effect in rats, that the process to achieve efficacy was calm and lasting and that the analgesic effect had a significant dose-dependency.
A Proteomic Analysis of Human Follicular Fluid: Comparison between Younger and Older Women with Normal FSH Levels
Authors: Hashemitabar Mahmoud , Bahmanzadeh Maryam , Mostafaie Ali , Orazizadeh Mahmoud , Farimani Marzieh , Nikbakht Roshan
Published: September 2014

The follicular fluid (FF) is produced during folliculogenesis and contains a variety of proteins that play important roles in follicle development and oocyte maturation. Age-related infertility is usually considered as a problem that can be solved by assisted reproduction technology. Therefore, the identiﬁcation of novel biomarkers that are linked to reproductive aging is the subject of this study. FF was obtained from healthy younger (20–32 years old) and older (38–42 years old) women undergoing intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) due to male factor infertility. The FF was analyzed by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE). The power of two-dimensional gel electrophoresis and the identiﬁcation of proteins were exploited using matrix-assisted laser desorption-ionization time-of-flight/time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF-TOF) mass spectrometry. Twenty three protein spots showed reproducible and significant changes in the aged compared to the young group. Of these, 19 protein spots could be identified using MALDI-TOF-TOF-MS. As a result of MASCOT search, five unique downregulated proteins were identified in the older group. These were identified as serotransferrin, hemopexin precursor, complement C3, C4 and kininogen. A number of protein markers were found that may help develop diagnostic methods of infertility.
Does Avoiding Judicial Isolation Outweigh the Risks Related to “Professional Death by Facebook”?
Authors: Eltis Karen
Published: September 2014

What happens when judges, in light of their role and responsibilities, and the scrutiny to which they are subjected, fall prey to a condition known as the “online disinhibition effect”? More importantly perhaps, what steps might judges reasonably take in order to pre-empt that fate, proactively addressing judicial social networking and its potential ramification for the administration of justice in the digital age? The immediate purpose of this article is to generate greater awareness of the issues specifically surrounding judicial social networking and to highlight some practical steps that those responsible for judicial training might consider in order to better equip judges for dealing with the exigencies of the digital realm. The focus is on understanding how to first recognize and then mitigate privacy and security risks in order to avoid bringing justice into disrepute through mishaps, and to stave off otherwise preventable incidents. This paper endeavors to provide a very brief overview of the emerging normative framework pertinent to the judicial use of social media, from a comparative perspective, concluding with some more practical (however preliminary) recommendations for more prudent and advised ESM use.
A Passive Pressure Sensor Fabricated by Post-Fire Metallization on Zirconia Ceramic for High-Temperature Applications
Authors: Luo Tao , Tan Qiulin , Ding Liqiong , Wei Tanyong , Li Chao , Xue Chenyang , Xiong Jijun
Published: September 2014

A high-temperature pressure sensor realized by the post-fire metallization on zirconia ceramic is presented. The pressure signal can be read out wirelessly through the magnetic coupling between the reader antenna and the sensor due to that the sensor is equivalent to an inductive-capacitive (LC) resonance circuit which has a pressure-sensitive resonance frequency. Considering the excellent mechanical properties in high-temperature environment, multilayered zirconia ceramic tapes were used to fabricate the pressure-sensitive structure. Owing to its low resistivity, sliver paste was chosen to form the electrical circuit via post-fire metallization, thereby enhancing the quality factor compared to sensors fabricated by cofiring with a high-melting-point metal such as platinum, tungsten or manganese. The design, fabrication, and experiments are demonstrated and discussed in detail. Experimental results showed that the sensor can operate at 600 °C with quite good coupling. Furthermore, the average sensitivity is as high as 790 kHz/bar within the measurement range between 0 and 1 Bar.
Cellular Transport Mechanisms of Cytotoxic Metallodrugs: An Overview beyond Cisplatin
Authors: Spreckelmeyer Sarah , Orvig Chris , Casini Angela
Published: September 2014

The field of medicinal inorganic chemistry has grown consistently during the past 50 years; however, metal-containing coordination compounds represent only a minor proportion of drugs currently on the market, indicating that research in this area has not yet been thoroughly realized. Although platinum-based drugs as cancer chemotherapeutic agents have been widely studied, exact knowledge of the mechanisms governing their accumulation in cells is still lacking. However, evidence suggests active uptake and efflux mechanisms are involved; this may be involved also in other experimental metal coordination and organometallic compounds with promising antitumor activities in vitro and in vivo, such as ruthenium and gold compounds. Such knowledge would be necessary to elucidate the balance between activity and toxicity profiles of metal compounds. In this review, we present an overview of the information available on the cellular accumulation of Pt compounds from in vitro, in vivo and clinical studies, as well as a summary of reports on the possible accumulation mechanisms for different families of experimental anticancer metal complexes (e.g., Ru Au and Ir). Finally, we discuss the need for rationalization of the investigational approaches available to study metallodrug cellular transport.
Phytochemical Analysis of Pfaffia glomerata Inflorescences by LC-ESI-MS/MS
Authors: Felipe Daniele , Brambilla Lara , Porto Carla , Pilau Eduardo , Cortez Diógenes
Published: September 2014

Pfaffia glomerata contains high levels of β-ecdysone, which has shown a range of beneficial pharmacological effects. The present study demonstrated that inflorescences of P. glomerata contain other important bioactive compounds in addition to β-ecdysone. The identification of compounds from inflorescences using liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-MS/MS) was performed for the first time. The eight compounds identified were β-ecdysone, flavonoid glycosides such as quercetin-3-O-glucoside, kaempferol-3-O-glucoside and kaempferol-3-O-(6-p-coumaroyl)-glucoside, oleanane-type triterpenoid saponins such as ginsenoside Ro and chikusetsusaponin IV, in addition to oleanonic acid and gluconic acid. This study provided information on the phytochemicals contained in P. glomerata inflorescences revealing the potential application of this plant part as raw material for the phytotherapeutic and cosmetic industries.
Finding God through the Spirituality of the 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous
Authors: Sandoz Jeff
Published: September 2014

The 12 Step program of Alcoholics Anonymous has provided relief for individuals recovering from alcoholism for over 75 years. The key to the recovery process is a spiritual experience as the result of practicing the daily discipline of the 12 Steps, a process which evokes a psychic change sufficient to recover from this disease. Although a relatively new spiritual discipline, the 12 Step program is built upon a foundation of much older and more traditional paths to God including devotion, understanding, service and meditation. Recent research provides insights into the 12 Step program. Specifically, the path of recovery is highlighted by the reduction of resentment and the promotion of forgiveness which are key factors of recovery.
Addiction: Alcohol and Substance Abuse in Judaism
Authors: Loewenthal Kate
Published: September 2014

This article outlines a history of rulings and beliefs about addiction in Judaism, covering alcohol and substance use and addiction, in the context of a brief account of the development of the status of addiction. It examines the prevalence of alcohol and substance use and abuse among Jews, including a discussion of some of the difficulties in estimating prevalence and of factors involved in changing patterns of use and abuse. Community beliefs and attitudes are examined, using published material and interviews with community leaders and members. Some conclusions are suggested about the impact of religious rulings and of other factors on addiction among Jews. Attention is given to the phenomenon of denial. Therapeutic practices and organisations are described. The scope for further research is identified.
Quantifying Forest Spatial Pattern Trends at Multiple Extents: An Approach to Detect Significant Changes at Different Scales
Authors: Frate Ludovico , Saura Santiago , Minotti Michele , Di Martino Paolo , Giancola Carmen , Carranza Maria
Published: September 2014

We propose a procedure to detect significant changes in forest spatial patterns and relevant scales. Our approach consists of four sequential steps. First, based on a series of multi-temporal forest maps, a set of geographic windows of increasing extents are extracted. Second, for each extent and date, specific stochastic simulations that replicate real-world spatial pattern characteristics are run. Third, by computing pattern metrics on both simulated and real maps, their empirical distributions and confidence intervals are derived. Finally, multi-temporal scalograms are built for each metric. Based on cover maps (1954, 2011) with a resolution of 10 m we analyze forest pattern changes in a central Apennines (Italy) reserve at multiple spatial extents (128, 256 and 512 pixels). We identify three types of multi-temporal scalograms, depending on pattern metric behaviors, describing different dynamics of natural reforestation process. The statistical distribution and variability of pattern metrics at multiple extents offers a new and powerful tool to detect forest variations over time. Similar procedures can (i) help to identify significant changes in spatial patterns and provide the bases to relate them to landscape processes; (ii) minimize the bias when comparing pattern metrics at a single extent and (iii) be extended to other landscapes and scales.
A Sensorized Nuss Bar for Patient-Specific Treatment of Pectus Excavatum
Authors: Betti Stefano , Ciuti Gastone , Ricotti Leonardo , Ghionzoli Marco , Cavallo Filippo , Messineo Antonio , Menciassi Arianna
Published: September 2014

Pectus Excavatum is an anatomical deformation characterized by a depression of the anterior chest wall. Nuss technique (representing the current clinical golden standard) consists in the introduction of a corrective metal bar, in order to raise the sternum in its anatomic natural position. Nowadays, the bar plays purely a mechanical/corrective action and is kept implanted for about three years, supporting up to a maximum force of 250 N. Our study aims at optimizing the procedure of correction, in terms of monitoring the bar effect, minimizing the body response, and facilitating the bar removal. The sensorized Nuss bar prototype inserted in a platform for telemedicine described in this article is able to monitor in vitro pressure data variations, with more than 150 discrete measurements during the operating period. This behavior is promising for future clinical applications, in which the device could be exploited to monitor the forces at work, thus, providing a customized therapeutic protocol, which in turn may optimize the period of implant. The sensorized bar was also provided with a polymeric coating, able to influence human dermal fibroblast behavior in vitro. This highlights the possibility to minimize, in future in vivo applications, tissue fibrotic responses.
Handling Real-World Context Awareness, Uncertainty and Vagueness in Real-Time Human Activity Tracking and Recognition with a Fuzzy Ontology-Based Hybrid Method
Authors: Díaz-Rodríguez Natalia , Cadahía Olmo , Cuéllar Manuel , Lilius Johan , Calvo-Flores Miguel
Published: September 2014

Human activity recognition is a key task in ambient intelligence applications to achieve proper ambient assisted living. There has been remarkable progress in this domain, but some challenges still remain to obtain robust methods. Our goal in this work is to provide a system that allows the modeling and recognition of a set of complex activities in real life scenarios involving interaction with the environment. The proposed framework is a hybrid model that comprises two main modules: a low level sub-activity recognizer, based on data-driven methods, and a high-level activity recognizer, implemented with a fuzzy ontology to include the semantic interpretation of actions performed by users. The fuzzy ontology is fed by the sub-activities recognized by the low level data-driven component and provides fuzzy ontological reasoning to recognize both the activities and their influence in the environment with semantics. An additional benefit of the approach is the ability to handle vagueness and uncertainty in the knowledge-based module, which substantially outperforms the treatment of incomplete and/or imprecise data with respect to classic crisp ontologies. We validate these advantages with the public CAD-120 dataset (Cornell Activity Dataset), achieving an accuracy of 90.1% and 91.07% for low-level and high-level activities, respectively. This entails an improvement over fully data-driven or ontology-based approaches.
Evaluating Classifiers to Detect Arm Movement Intention from EEG Signals
Authors: Planelles Daniel , Hortal Enrique , Costa Álvaro , Úbeda Andrés , Iáez Eduardo , Azorín José
Published: September 2014

This paper presents a methodology to detect the intention to make a reaching movement with the arm in healthy subjects before the movement actually starts. This is done by measuring brain activity through electroencephalographic (EEG) signals that are registered by electrodes placed over the scalp. The preparation and performance of an arm movement generate a phenomenon called event-related desynchronization (ERD) in the mu and beta frequency bands. A novel methodology to characterize this cognitive process based on three sums of power spectral frequencies involved in ERD is presented. The main objective of this paper is to set the benchmark for classifiers and to choose the most convenient. The best results are obtained using an SVM classifier with around 72% accuracy. This classifier will be used in further research to generate the control commands to move a robotic exoskeleton that helps people suffering from motor disabilities to perform the movement. The final aim is that this brain-controlled robotic exoskeleton improves the current rehabilitation processes of disabled people.