bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Why is the Tc So High in Fe-Based Pnictide and Chalcogenide Superconductors?
Authors: Lv Bing , Deng Liangzi , Wu Zheng , Wei Fengyan , Zhao Kui , Meen James K. , Xue Yu-Yi , Wang Li-Li , Ma Xu-Cun , Xue Qi-Kun , Chu Ching-Wu
Published: September 2014

Recently, the detection of non-bulk superconductivity with unexpectedly high onset-Tcs up to 49 K in Pr-doped CaFe2As2 [(Ca,Pr)122] single crystals and the report of a Tc up to 65 K in one-unit-cell (1UC) FeSe epi-films, offer an unusual opportunity to seek an answer to the question posed in the title. Through systematic compositional, structural, resistive, and magnetic investigations on (Ca,Pr)122 single crystals, we have observed a doping-level-independent Tc, the simultaneous appearance of superparamagnetism and superconductivity, large magnetic anisotropy, and the existence of mesoscopic-2D structures in these crystals, thus providing clear evidence consistent with the proposed interface-enhanced Tc in these naturally occurring rareearth-doped Fe-based superconductors, (Ca,R)122. Similar resistive and magnetic measurements were also made on the 3–4UC FeSe ultrathin epi-films. We have detected weak links in the Meissner state below 20 K, weakly coupled small superconducting patches between 20–45 K, and collective excitations of spin and/or superconducting nature between 45–80 K. The unusual frequency dependences of the diamagnetic moment observed in the films in different temperature ranges will be presented and their implications discussed.
UV Organic Semiconductor Photoconductor with Low Dark Current at High Electric Field
Authors: Shafique Umar , Karim Karim S.
Published: September 2014

Organic semiconductor technology paves the way to low cost lightweight, flexible, printable electronics circuits and sensors. A novel lateral multilayer organic semiconductor photosensor is fabricated using small molecule organic semiconductor. A specialized interface layer is introduced between the metal electrodes and the organic semiconductor layer. The interface layer material is a large band gap and low electronic conductivity material. The use of interface layer limits the charge injection from the electrodes to the organic semiconductor and overall improves the photosensor dark current performance with an additional advantage to apply high voltage for improved collection. This design has low dark current with high photo-to-dark current ratio and can be set to high bias mode of operation.

Lateral interdigitated photodetector, with bottom contact Metal Semiconductor Metal (MSM) is fabricated consisting of interface layer and organic semiconductor bilayer. Small molecule organic semiconductor 3,4,9,10 perylenetetracarboxylic bisbenzimidazole (PTCBI) and Copper-Phthalocyanine (CuPc) are used as the active bilayer, where as polyamide forms the interface layer. Current through the sensor is measured in both dark and in light (wavelength 400nm). The dark current density in a 1mm2 photosensor area with 5μm lateral electrode spacing at 10V/μm measured equal to 10-5mA/cm2 and a photocurrent density of 10-3 mA/cm2 under 0.3mW/cm2 incident optical power. The photo to dark current ratio is measured to be equal to ∼103.

This photosensor has an application in large area imaging for example portable lightweight detectors. Other applications of this sensor include indirect medial imaging and as a biosensor in UV Spectroscopy study of bacteria cultures.
Relative importance of environmental, geographic, and spatial variables on zooplankton metacommunities
Authors: Dallas Tad , Drake John M.
Published: September 2014

Understanding the factors responsible for structuring ecological communities is a central goal in community ecology. Previous work has focused on determining the relative roles of two classes of variables (e.g., spatial and environmental) on community composition. However, this approach may ignore the disproportionate impact of variables within classes, and is often confounded by spatial autocorrelation leading to collinearity among variables of different classes. Here, we combine pattern‐based metacommunity and machine learning analyses to characterize metacommunity structure of zooplankton from lakes in the northeast United States and to identify environmental, spatial, and geographic covariates associated with metacommunity structure. Analyses were performed for the entire metacommunity and for three zooplankton subsets (cladocerans, copepods, and rotifers), as the variables associated with community structure in these groups were hypothesized to differ. Species distributions of all subsets adhered to an environmental, spatial, and/or geographic gradient, but differed in metacommunity pattern, as copepod species distributions responded independently of one another, while the entire zooplankton metacommunity, cladocerans, and rotifers replaced one another in discrete groups. While environmental variables were nearly always the most important to metacommunity structure, the relative importance of variables differed among zooplankton subsets, suggesting that zooplankton subsets differ in their environmental tolerances and dispersal‐limitation.
Challenges for Evidence-Based Care for Children With Developmental Delays in Nicaragua
Authors: Salinas-Miranda Abraham A. , Storch Eric A. , Nelson Robert , Evans-Baltodano Claudia
Published: September 2014

Evidence of successful models for promoting early childhood development and for effectively addressing developmental delays is available, yet the adoption of evidence-based strategies is limited in low-income countries. Nicaragua, a low-income country on the Central American isthmus, faces policy-, organizational-, and community-level obstacles which prevent families from receiving the benefits of early child development programs as well as other necessary services for children at risk of or with developmental delays. Failing to address developmental delays in a timely manner leads to detrimental social and economic consequences for families and society at large. In this article, we examine existing information on early childhood development in Nicaragua and discuss some programmatic implications for the recognition and early intervention of developmental delays in Nicaragua.
Imbibition and Water Blockage In Unconventional Reservoirs: Well-Management Implications During Flowback and Early Production
Authors: Bertoncello A.. , Wallace J.. , Blyton C.. , Honarpour M.. , Kabir C.S.. S.
Published: September 2014

Driven by field logistics in an unconventional setting, a well may undergo weeks to months of shut-in after hydraulic-fracture stimulation. In unconventional reservoirs, field experiences indicate that such shut-in episodes may improve well productivity significantly while reducing water production. Multiphase-flow mechanisms were found to explain this behavior. Aided by laboratory relative permeability and capillary pressure data, and their dependency on stress in a shale-gas reservoir, the flow-simulation model was able to reproduce the suspected water-blocking behavior. Results demonstrate that a well-resting period improves early productivity and reduces water production. The results also indicate that minimizing water invasion in the formation is crucial to avoid significant water blockage.
Gas-Production-Data Analysis of Variable-Pressure-Drawdown/Variable-Rate Systems: A Density-Based Approach
Authors: Zhang Miao , Ayala H. Luis F.
Published: September 2014

This study demonstrates that production-data analysis of variable-bottomhole-flowing-pressure/variable-rate gas wells under boundary-dominated flow (BDF) is possible by use of a density-based approach. In this approach, governing equations are expressed in terms of density variables and dimensionless viscosity/compressibility ratios. Previously, the methodology was successfully used to derive rescaled exponential models for gas-rate-decline analysis of wells primarily producing at constant bottomhole pressure (Ayala and Ye 2013a, b; Ayala and Zhang 2013; Ye and Ayala 2013; Zhang and Ayala 2014). For the case of natural-gas systems experiencing BDF, gas-well-performance analysis has been made largely possible by invoking the concepts of pseudotime, normalized pseudotime, or material-balance pseudotime. The density-based methodology rigorously derived in this study, however, does not use any type of pseudotime calculations, even for variable-rate/variable-pressure-drawdown cases. The methodology enables straightforward original-gas-in-place calculations and gas-well-performance forecasting by means of type curves or straight-line analysis. A number of field and numerical case studies are presented to showcase the capabilities of the proposed approach.
Applying and influence of polymer materials for packaging dairy beverages
Authors: Milanovic Spasenija , Pejic Biljana , Lazic Vera , Konstantinovic Bojan , Blagojevic Milan
Published: September 2014

Functional food is positioned above the traditional, with the potential to
improve human health. Thanks to very good physico-mechanical and barrier
properties polymers became very popular in food industry as a packaging
materials. Wild range of fermented dairy products could be packed in this
packaging materials according to their?s inertness as well. Functional milk
beverage was obtained from milk with 0,9% milk fat content by applying 10%
v/v of kombucha?s inoculum cultivated on a black tea sweetened with sucrose.
The beverage was packed in a different packaging materials:
polyamid-polyethylen (PA/PE) coextruded foil bags and polyprophylen (PP) cups
closed with aluminium (Al) foil lids under atmospheric conditions (ATM).
Beverages were storaged for 15 days at 4?C. The quality of kombucha inoculum,
milk and obtained kombucha fermented milk beverage were analysed.
Characterization of the packaging materials was done by investigating
physico-mechanical, barrier and structural properties. The composition and
changes in the headspace atmosphere, after production and during the storage,
were analysed. The influence of packaging material properties and packaging
conditions on the biochemical transformations of the milk?s components (the
content of: lactose, L-lactic acid, D-galactose, ethanol, B1 and B2 vitamins)
influenced by kombucha starter were analysed as well. On the bases of the
obtained results of characterisation of packaging materials, it can be
concluded that PA/PE and PP materials are proper to be used for analysed
beverage?s packaging. Also, there is no significant difference in content of
components which were quantified, between analysed materials in correlation
with the packed fermented milk beverage.
Efficacy and Safety of Mirogabalin (DS-5565) for the Treatment of Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathic Pain: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo- and Active Comparator–Controlled, Adaptive Proof-of-Concept Phase 2 Study
Authors: Vinik Aaron , Rosenstock Julio , Sharma Uma , Feins Karen , Hsu Ching , Merante Domenico
Published: September 2014

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to identify doses of mirogabalin (DS-5565) providing clinically meaningful efficacy with manageable side effects for treatment of diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain (DPNP).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Adults (≥18 years) with type 1 or 2 diabetes, HbA1c ≤10% at screening, and DPNP for ≥6 months were eligible for study participation. Subjects (n = 452) were randomized (2:1:1:1:1:1:1 ratio) to placebo, dose-ranging mirogabalin (5, 10, 15, 20, and 30 mg/day), or pregabalin (300 mg/day) for 5 weeks. The primary end point was weekly change in average daily pain score (ADPS; 0 to 10 numeric rating scale) from baseline to week 5 (minimally meaningful effect, ≥1.0-point decrease versus placebo). ANCOVA was conducted using last observation carried forward, and treatment effect least squares (LS) means were provided for each contrast. Safety assessments included adverse events (AEs), clinical laboratory tests, and electrocardiograms.

RESULTS

LS mean differences in change in ADPS from baseline to week 5 versus placebo were –0.22, –0.53, –0.94, –0.88, and –1.01 for the mirogabalin 5-, 10-, 15-, 20-, and 30-mg/day treatment groups, respectively, and –0.05 in the pregabalin group (P < 0.05 versus placebo for mirogabalin 15, 20, and 30 mg/day). Most frequent AEs (n = 277) were primarily mild to moderate dizziness (9.4%), somnolence (6.1%), and headache (6.1%); otherwise, mirogabalin was well tolerated.

CONCLUSIONS

Mirogabalin 15, 20, and 30 mg/day had statistically significant reductions in ADPS versus placebo, and mirogabalin 30 mg/day also met the criteria of minimally meaningful effect. Mirogabalin may be a promising new treatment option for patients with DPNP.
Sport and Social Deviations - a Prognostic Attitude
Authors: Kosiewicz Jerzy
Published: September 2014

The author focuses his attention first of all on social deviations which play a negative role in highly competitive sport. He tries to define - from the viewpoint of philosophy - how they will influence its future form.

He proclaims that in philosophy there are at least two options: a. the one negating justifiability of philosophical statements on the future, b. the one affirming that justifiability - after Aurelius Augustine and Hegel.

The author takes into account the second viewpoint and comes to the conclusion that as a philosopher (not a futurologist) he has the right to formulate hypothetical statements (referring to assumptions of the metaphysical hypothesis) on the influence of deviations on sport in the future.

He pays attention first of all to increasing aggression - both in forms permitted and not permitted by the regulations - and the growing number of injuries among athletes. He maintains that both those injuries as well as phenomena connected with commercialization - such as reification, atomization and alienation (constituting reasons for possible disorders in the field of physical, mental and relational health) will contribute to worsening the image and deformation of sense and essence neither of sport as such, nor of particular sports. This also applies to corruption, poaching, fans’ frustration and aggression, doping, alcoholism and nicotinism.

He maintains also that social deviations coming from political, ideological, religious, racial and other similar factors will be less and less significant (admittedly they will not disappear, but their number and influence will be considerably limited).
Elevation changes and dynamic provinces of Jakobshavn Isbræ, Greenland, derived using generalized spatial surface roughness from ICESat GLAS and ATM data
Authors: Herzfeld Ute C. , McDonald Brian , Wallin Bruce F. , Krabill William , Manizade Serdar , Sonntag John , Mayer Helmut , Yearsley William Alex , Chen Phillip A. , Weltman Alexander
Published: September 2014

Our objective is to map dynamic provinces and investigate dynamic changes in Jakobshavn Isbræ, Greenland. We use an approach that combines structural glaciology and remote-sensing data analysis, facilitated by mathematical characterization of generalized spatial surface roughness that provides parameters related to ice dynamics, deformation and interaction of the ice with bed topography. The approach is applied to derive time series of elevation and roughness changes and to attribute changes during rapid retreat. Different dynamic types of fast- and slow-moving ice can be mapped from ICESat Geoscience Laser Altimeter System data (2003–09) and Airborne Topographic Mapper data, using spatial roughness characterization, validated with ASTER and bed-topographic data. Results of comparative analysis of elevation changes and roughness changes of Jakobshavn south ice stream indicate (1) surface lowering of 10–15 m a-1 between 2004 and 2009 and (2) no change in surface roughness and dynamic types. These findings are consistent with a front retreat as part of a fjord-glacier cycle or following warming of fjord water and with climatic warming, but not with an internal dynamic acceleration as a cause of the observed changes during rapid retreat. Relationships to changes in basal water pressure are discussed. All glaciodynamic changes appear to have initiated near the front and propagated up-glacier.
Progress and controversies: Radiation therapy for prostate cancer
Authors: Martin Neil E. , D'Amico Anthony V.
Published: September 2014

Answer questions and earn CME/CNE

Radiation therapy remains a standard treatment option for men with localized prostate cancer. Alone or in combination with androgen‐deprivation therapy, it represents a curative treatment and has been shown to prolong survival in selected populations. In this article, the authors review recent advances in prostate radiation—treatment techniques, photon versus proton radiation, modification of treatment fractionation, and brachytherapy—all focusing on disease control and the impact on morbidity. Also discussed are refinements in the risk stratification of men with prostate cancer and how these are better for matching patients to appropriate treatment, particularly around combined androgen‐deprivation therapy. Many of these advances have cost and treatment burden implications, which have significant repercussions given the prevalence of prostate cancer. The discussion includes approaches to improve value and future directions for research. CA Cancer J Clin 2014;64:389–407. © 2014 American Cancer Society.
Patterns of Macroinvertebrate and Fish Diversity in Freshwater Sulphide Springs
Authors: Greenway Ryan , Arias-Rodriguez Lenin , Diaz Pete , Tobler Michael
Published: September 2014

Extreme environments are characterised by the presence of physicochemical stressors and provide unique study systems to address problems in evolutionary ecology research. Sulphide springs provide an example of extreme freshwater environments; because hydrogen sulphide’s adverse physiological effects induce mortality in metazoans even at micromolar concentrations. Sulphide springs occur worldwide, but while microbial communities in sulphide springs have received broad attention, little is known about macroinvertebrates and fish inhabiting these toxic environments. We reviewed qualitative occurrence records of sulphide spring faunas on a global scale and present a quantitative case study comparing diversity patterns in sulphidic and adjacent non-sulphidic habitats across replicated river drainages in Southern Mexico. While detailed studies in most regions of the world remain scarce, available data suggests that sulphide spring faunas are characterised by low species richness. Dipterans (among macroinvertebrates) and cyprinodontiforms (among fishes) appear to dominate the communities in these habitats. At least in fish, there is evidence for the presence of highly endemic species and populations exclusively inhabiting sulphide springs. We provide a detailed discussion of traits that might predispose certain taxonomic groups to colonize sulphide springs, how colonizers subsequently adapt to cope with sulphide toxicity, and how adaptation may be linked to speciation processes.
Mechanisms Underlying the Anti-Aging and Anti-Tumor Effects of Lithocholic Bile Acid
Authors: Arlia-Ciommo Anthony , Piano Amanda , Svistkova Veronika , Mohtashami Sadaf , Titorenko Vladimir
Published: September 2014

Bile acids are cholesterol-derived bioactive lipids that play essential roles in the maintenance of a heathy lifespan. These amphipathic molecules with detergent-like properties display numerous beneficial effects on various longevity- and healthspan-promoting processes in evolutionarily distant organisms. Recent studies revealed that lithocholic bile acid not only causes a considerable lifespan extension in yeast, but also exhibits a substantial cytotoxic effect in cultured cancer cells derived from different tissues and organisms. The molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the robust anti-aging and anti-tumor effects of lithocholic acid have emerged. This review summarizes the current knowledge of these mechanisms, outlines the most important unanswered questions and suggests directions for future research.
Prognostic DNA Methylation Markers for Prostate Cancer
Authors: Strand Siri , Orntoft Torben , Sorensen Karina
Published: September 2014

Prostate cancer (PC) is the most commonly diagnosed neoplasm and the third most common cause of cancer-related death amongst men in the Western world. PC is a clinically highly heterogeneous disease, and distinction between aggressive and indolent disease is a major challenge for the management of PC. Currently, no biomarkers or prognostic tools are able to accurately predict tumor progression at the time of diagnosis. Thus, improved biomarkers for PC prognosis are urgently needed. This review focuses on the prognostic potential of DNA methylation biomarkers for PC. Epigenetic changes are hallmarks of PC and associated with malignant initiation as well as tumor progression. Moreover, DNA methylation is the most frequently studied epigenetic alteration in PC, and the prognostic potential of DNA methylation markers for PC has been demonstrated in multiple studies. The most promising methylation marker candidates identified so far include PITX2, C1orf114 (CCDC181) and the GABRE~miR-452~miR-224 locus, in addition to the three-gene signature AOX1/C1orf114/HAPLN3. Several other biomarker candidates have also been investigated, but with less stringent clinical validation and/or conflicting evidence regarding their possible prognostic value available at this time. Here, we review the current evidence for the prognostic potential of DNA methylation markers in PC.
A Multi-Scale–Multi-Stable Model for the Rhodopsin Photocycle
Authors: Tavanti Francesco , Tozzini Valentina
Published: September 2014

We report a multi-scale simulation study of the photocycle of the rhodopsins. The quasi-atomistic representation (“united atoms” UA) of retinal is combined with a minimalist coarse grained (CG, one-bead-per amino acid) representation of the protein, in a hybrid UA/CG approach, which is the homolog of QM/MM, but at lower resolution. An accurate multi-stable parameterization of the model allows simulating each state and transition among them, and the combination of different scale representation allows addressing the entire photocycle. We test the model on bacterial rhodopsin, for which more experimental data are available, and then also report results for mammalian rhodopsins. In particular, the analysis of simulations reveals the spontaneous appearance of meta-stable states in quantitative agreement with experimental data.
Pharmacological Effects of “Jutsu” (Atractylodis rhizome and Atractylodis lanceae rhizome) on 1-(2,5-Dimethoxy-4-iodophenyl)-2-aminopropane (DOI)-Induced Head Twitch Response in Mice (I)
Authors: Murayama Chiaki , Wang Ching-Chiung , Michihara Seiwa , Norimoto Hisayoshi
Published: September 2014

Hallucinations are a common non-motor symptom of Parkinson’s disease and various forms of dementias. Yokukansan and Yokukansankachimpihange have attracted attention due to their effectiveness in the treatment of hallucinations of dementia. To clarify which component in these formulas contribute to the effects, at first, we focused on their differences in compositions to examine the pharmacological effects on the selective 5-HT2A/2C agonist 1-(2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodophenyl)-2-aminopropane (DOI)-induced head-twitch response (HTR) in mice that has been used as animal hallucination model. Results indicated that water extract of Byaku-jutsu (Atractylodes japonica) showed a stronger inhibitory effect on DOI-induced HTR than that of So-jutsu (A. lancea) corresponding to their major constituents of atractylenolide III and β-eudesmol, and suggested that the major constituents should be active constituents contributing to the antihallucination effects of Byaku- and So-jutsu. Besides, the part B–C ring (butenolide) in atractylenolide III was found to be similar to the structure of serotonin and suggested that the B–C ring may partially play role in antagonistic activity against serotonin receptors. Thus, a novel, rational design of butenolide-related compounds may as potential lead compounds for new drug development. Analysis of the chemical components of Byaku- and So-jutsu and further study on their structure-activity relationships are currently in progress.
Synthesis of New Quinoxalines Containing an Oxirane Ring by the TDAE Strategy and in Vitro Evaluation in Neuroblastoma Cell Lines
Authors: Montana Marc , Correard Florian , Khoumeri Omar , Esteve Marie-Anne , Terme Thierry , Vanelle Patrice
Published: September 2014

Neuroblastoma is an aggressive pediatric malignancy with significant chemotherapeutic resistance. In order to obtain new compounds active on neuroblastoma cell lines, we investigated the reactivity of carbanion formed via TDAE in quinoxaline series. The new synthesized compounds were tested for their anti-proliferative activity on two neuroblastoma cell lines, and seven oxirane derivatives obtained interesting activities.
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of New 1,3-Thiazolidine-4-one Derivatives of 2-(4-Isobutylphenyl)propionic Acid
Authors: Vasincu Ioana , Apotrosoaei Maria , Panzariu Andreea-Teodora , Buron Frédéric , Routier Sylvain , Profire Lenuta
Published: September 2014

New thiazolidine-4-one derivatives of 2-(4-isobutylphenyl)propionic acid (ibuprofen) have been synthesized as potential anti-inflammatory drugs. The structure of the new compounds was proved using spectral methods (FR-IR, 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, MS). The in vitro antioxidant potential of the synthesized compounds was evaluated according to the total antioxidant activity, the DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging assays. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and free radicals are considered to be involved in many pathological events like diabetes mellitus, neurodegenerative diseases, cancer, infections and more recently, in inflammation. It is known that overproduction of free radicals may initiate and amplify the inflammatory process via upregulation of genes involved in the production of proinflammatory cytokines and adhesion molecules. The chemical modulation of acyl hydrazones of ibuprofen 3a–l through cyclization to the corresponding thiazolidine-4-ones 4a–n led to increased antioxidant potential, as all thiazolidine-4-ones were more active than their parent acyl hydrazones and also ibuprofen. The most active compounds are the thiazolidine-4-ones 4e, m, which showed the highest DPPH radical scavenging ability, their activity being comparable with vitamin E.
Dietary Regulation of Keap1/Nrf2/ARE Pathway: Focus on Plant-Derived Compounds and Trace Minerals
Authors: Stefanson Amanda , Bakovic Marica
Published: September 2014

It has become increasingly evident that chronic inflammation underpins the development of many chronic diseases including cancer, cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Oxidative stress is inherently a biochemical dysregulation of the redox status of the intracellular environment, which under homeostatic conditions is a reducing environment, whereas inflammation is the biological response to oxidative stress in that the cell initiates the production of proteins, enzymes, and other compounds to restore homeostasis. At the center of the day-to-day biological response to oxidative stress is the Keap1/Nrf2/ARE pathway, which regulates the transcription of many antioxidant genes that preserve cellular homeostasis and detoxification genes that process and eliminate carcinogens and toxins before they can cause damage. The Keap1/Nrf2/ARE pathway plays a major role in health resilience and can be made more robust and responsive by certain dietary factors. Transient activation of Nrf2 by dietary electrophilic phytochemicals can upregulate antioxidant and chemopreventive enzymes in the absence of actual oxidative stress inducers. Priming the Keap1/Nrf2/ARE pathway by upregulating these enzymes prior to oxidative stress or xenobiotic encounter increases cellular fitness to respond more robustly to oxidative assaults without activating more intense inflammatory NFκB-mediated responses.
An Evaluation of the Effects of the Australian Food and Health Dialogue Targets on the Sodium Content of Bread, Breakfast Cereals and Processed Meats
Authors: Trevena Helen , Neal Bruce , Dunford Elizabeth , Wu Jason
Published: September 2014

The Australian Food and Health Dialogue set sodium reduction targets for three food categories (breads, ready-to-eat breakfast cereals and processed meats) to be achieved by December, 2013. Sodium levels for 1849 relevant packaged foods on the shelves of Australian supermarkets between 2010 and 2013 were examined. Changes in mean sodium content were assessed by linear mixed models, and the significance of differences in the proportion of products meeting targets was determined using chi-squared or McNemar’s tests. The mean sodium level of bread products fell from 454 to 415 mg/100 g (9% lower, p < 0.001), and the proportion reaching target rose from 42% to 67% (p < 0.005). The mean sodium content of breakfast cereals also fell substantially from 316 to 237 mg/100 g (25% lower, p < 0.001) over the study period. The decline in mean sodium content of bacon/ham/cured meats from 1215 to 1114 mg/100 g (8% lower, p = 0.001) was smaller, but associated with a rise in the proportion meeting the target from 28% to 47%. Declines in mean sodium content did not appreciably differ between companies that did and did not make public commitments to the targets. These data show that the Australian food industry can reduce salt levels of processed foods and provide a strong case for broadening and strengthening of the Food and Health Dialogue (FHD) process.
Biopolymer Electrolyte Based on Derivatives of Cellulose from Kenaf Bast Fiber
Authors: Rani Mohd , Rudhziah Siti , Ahmad Azizan , Mohamed Nor
Published: September 2014

A cellulose derivative, carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), was synthesized by the reaction of cellulose from kenaf bast fiber with monochloroacetic acid. A series of biopolymer electrolytes comprised of the synthesized CMC and ammonium acetate (CH3COONH4) were prepared by the solution-casting technique. The biopolymer-based electrolyte films were characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy to investigate the formation of the CMC–CH3COONH4 complexes. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy was conducted to obtain their ionic conductivities. The highest conductivity at ambient temperature of 5.77 × 10−4 S cm−1 was obtained for the electrolyte film containing 20 wt% of CH3COONH4. The biopolymer electrolyte film also exhibited electrochemical stability up to 2.5 V. These results indicated that the biopolymer electrolyte has great potential for applications to electrochemical devices, such as proton batteries and solar cells.
Perspectives on Drug Addiction in Islamic History and Theology
Authors: Ali Mansur
Published: September 2014

How does Islam view substance addiction? What happens to the soul of the person suffering from addictive disorder? What happens to his relationship with God? These are some of the questions that this article tries to answer. Three models on drug addiction from an Islamic theological perspective will be explored here. Two of them are preventative models based on an understanding of society rooted in shame-culture, while the third model, called Millati Islami, practiced in the USA, is founded on the Islamic understanding of tawba (repentance). Furthermore, drugs and addiction in scripture, as well as medieval Muslims society’s attitude towards them are explored. As a whole, the models discussed in the article demonstrate that Islamic theology possesses the intellectual and theoretical tools to develop fully-fledged theological models of addiction, and a suggestion to explore one model is made in the conclusion.
Calibration of Action Cameras for Photogrammetric Purposes
Authors: Balletti Caterina , Guerra Francesco , Tsioukas Vassilios , Vernier Paolo
Published: September 2014

The use of action cameras for photogrammetry purposes is not widespread due to the fact that until recently the images provided by the sensors, using either still or video capture mode, were not big enough to perform and provide the appropriate analysis with the necessary photogrammetric accuracy. However, several manufacturers have recently produced and released new lightweight devices which are: (a) easy to handle, (b) capable of performing under extreme conditions and more importantly (c) able to provide both still images and video sequences of high resolution. In order to be able to use the sensor of action cameras we must apply a careful and reliable self-calibration prior to the use of any photogrammetric procedure, a relatively difficult scenario because of the short focal length of the camera and its wide angle lens that is used to obtain the maximum possible resolution of images. Special software, using functions of the OpenCV library, has been created to perform both the calibration and the production of undistorted scenes for each one of the still and video image capturing mode of a novel action camera, the GoPro Hero 3 camera that can provide still images up to 12 Mp and video up 8 Mp resolution.
Estimation of Eye Closure Degree Using EEG Sensors and Its Application in Driver Drowsiness Detection
Authors: Li Gang , Chung Wan-Young
Published: September 2014

Currently, driver drowsiness detectors using video based technology is being widely studied. Eyelid closure degree (ECD) is the main measure of the video-based methods, however, drawbacks such as brightness limitations and practical hurdles such as distraction of the drivers limits its success. This study presents a way to compute the ECD using EEG sensors instead of video-based methods. The premise is that the ECD exhibits a linear relationship with changes of the occipital EEG. A total of 30 subjects are included in this study: ten of them participated in a simple proof-of-concept experiment to verify the linear relationship between ECD and EEG, and then twenty participated in a monotonous highway driving experiment in a driving simulator environment to test the robustness of the linear relationship in real-life applications. Taking the video-based method as a reference, the Alpha power percentage from the O2 channel is found to be the best input feature for linear regression estimation of the ECD. The best overall squared correlation coefficient (SCC, denoted by r2) and mean squared error (MSE) validated by linear support vector regression model and leave one subject out method is r2 = 0.930 and MSE = 0.013. The proposed linear EEG-ECD model can achieve 87.5% and 70.0% accuracy for male and female subjects, respectively, for a driver drowsiness application, percentage eyelid closure over the pupil over time (PERCLOS). This new ECD estimation method not only addresses the video-based method drawbacks, but also makes ECD estimation more computationally efficient and easier to implement in EEG sensors in a real time way.
Dynamics of Cryoprotectant Permeation in Porcine Heart Valve Leaflets
Authors: Lakey Jonathan R. T. , Helms Lisa M. H. , Moser Gabrielle , Lix Bruce , Slupsky Carolyn M. , Rebeyka Ivan M. , Sykes Brian D. , Mcgann Locksley E.
Published: September 2014

Valve replacement is a common cardiovascular procedure for the treatment of a variety of congenital and acquired defects. Many surgical programs rely on cryopreserved heart valves from regional tissue bank programs to meet clinical demands. Current cryopreservation strategies for heart valves are empirically derived. The aim of this study was to use proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR) to monitor changes in cryoprotectant concentration in isolated heart valve leaflets. Porcine aortic valves were locally obtained, freshly isolated, and allowed to equilibrate at various experimental temperatures (22°C, 10°C, 4°C) for 1 h prior to immersion in 1 M Me2SO solution. At defined intervals (0, 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2, 6, and 24 h) the valves were removed from the Me2SO and the leaflets were rapidly dissected and equilibrated in deuterium oxide (D2O). Using previously described techniques the Me2SO concentration in the heart valve leaflets was determined by NMR and the diffusion coefficient was calculated as a function of time and temperature. Heart valve leaflets were fully equilibrated with Me2SO after approximately 2 h of exposure at 22°C while equilibrium was not reached >6 h or more at 10°C and 4°C. These results indicate that that permeation of Me2SO in heart valves is strongly temperature dependent. Furthermore, this study provides a quantitative measure of Me2SO permeation and cryoprotectant at equilibration in heart valve leaflets. The clinical applications of these findings may help to optimize the balance between the protective and toxic effects of cryoprotectants and lead to improved methods of preservation of heart valves.
Ultrastructural Characterization of Dissociated Embryonic Ventral Mesencephalic Tissue Treated with Neuroprotectants
Authors: Ahn Young Hwan , Emgård Mia , Brundin Patrik
Published: September 2014

Poor survival and differentiation of grafted dopamine neurons limits the application of clinical transplantation in Parkinson's disease. The survival of grafted dopamine neurons is only improved by a factor of 2–3 by adding neuroprotectants during tissue preparation. We used dye exclusion cell viability and electron microscopy to investigate the effects of the caspase inhibitor ac-YVAD-cmk and the lazaroid tirilazad mesylate on ultrastructural changes in dissociated embryonic mesencephalic cells. In addition, we examined whether the neuroprotectants selectively counteracted specific signs of neurodegeneration. Cell viability decreased significantly over time in both control and treated cell suspensions, but the number of viable cells remaining was significantly higher in tirilazad mesylate-treated cell suspensions. In control samples, the proportion of cells with an ultrastructure consistent with healthy cells decreased from 70%, immediately after dissociation, to 30% after 8 h of incubation. Similar changes were also observed in cell suspensions treated with neuroprotectants. Thus, the neuroprotectants examined did not block the development of specific morphological signs of neurodegeneration. However, when also taking into account that dead cells lysed and disappeared from each cell suspension with time, we found that the total number of remaining viable cells with healthy nuclear chromatin or intact membrane integrity was significantly higher in the tirilazad mesylate-treated group. The results indicate that tirilazad mesylate protects only a small subpopulation of embryonic mesencephalic cells from degeneration induced by mechanical trauma during tissue dissection and dissociation.
Transplantation of Motoneuron-Enriched Neural Cells Derived from Mouse Embryonic Stem Cells Improves Motor Function of Hemiplegic Mice
Authors: Chiba Shunmei , Iwasaki Yasumasa , Sekino Hiroaki , Suzuki Noboru
Published: September 2014

Embryonic stem (ES) cells are expected to be a potential donor source for neural transplantation. We have obtained motoneuron-enriched neural progenitor cells by culturing mouse ES cells with retinoic acid (RA). The cells also expressed mRNA of a neurotrophic factor, neurotrophin-3 (NT-3). The left motor cortex area of mice was damaged by cryogenic brain injury, and the neural cells were transplanted underneath the injured motor cortex, neighboring to the paraventricular region. We found that the cells expressing neuronal phenotypes not only remained close to the implantation site, but also exhibited substantial migration penetrating into the damaged lesion, in a seemingly directed manner up to cortical region. We found that some of the neural cells differentiated into Islet1-positive motoneurons. It seems likely that the ability of the ES cell-derived neural progenitor cells to respond in vivo to guidance cues and signals that can direct their migration and differentiation may contribute to functional recovery of the recipient mice. We found that an “island of the mature neuronal cells” of recipient origin emerged in the damaged motor cortex. This may be associated with the neuroprotective effects of the ES cell-derived neural cells. The ES cells differentiated into CD31+ vasculoendothelial cells with the RA treatment in vitro. Furthermore, the grafted cells may provide sufficient neurotrophic factors such as NT-3 for neuroprotection and regeneration. The grafted neural cells that migrated into residual cortex and differentiated into neurons had purposefully elongated axons that were stained with anti-neurofilament middle chain (NFM) antibody. Our study suggests that motoneurons can be induced from ES cells, and ES cells become virtually an unlimited source of cells for experimental and clinical neural cell transplantation.
In Vitro Production of Functionally Mature Hepatocytes from Prospectively Isolated Hepatic Stem Cells
Authors: Suzuki Atsushi , Nakauchi Hiromitsu , Taniguchi Hideki
Published: September 2014

Hepatocyte transplantation and artificial organ hepatic support require a number of functionally mature hepatocytes. However, their growth activity and functional behaviors are much smaller in culture after isolation from the liver. We examined whether continuously differentiating hepatocytes from multipotent hepatic stem cells that were isolated by using flow cytometry and propagated clonally in culture could be a source of clinical application. They actually gave rise to cells that were functionally equal to mature hepatocytes found in the adult liver, which secreted albumin into culture medium and metabolized harmful ammonium into urea. These data suggest that stem cell-derived hepatocytes are a useful cell source for developing therapeutic strategies, such as cell transplantation, gene therapy, and artificial liver organ to treat various liver disorders.
Establishment of an Immortalized Human Hepatic Stellate Cell Line to Develop Antifibrotic Therapies
Authors: Shibata Norikuni , Watanabe Takamasa , Okitsu Teru , Sakaguchi Masakiyo , Takesue Michihiko , Kunieda Takemi , Omoto Kenji , Yamamoto Shinichiro , Tanaka Noriaki , Kobayashi Naoya
Published: September 2014

Because human hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) perform a crucial role in the progress of hepatic fibrosis, it is of great value to establish an immortalized human cell line that exhibits HSC characteristics and grows well in tissue cultures for the development of antifibrotic therapies. Thus, we engineered an immortalized human hepatic stellate cell (HSC) line TWNT-4 by retrovirally inducing human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) into LI 90 cells established from a human liver mesenchymal tumor. Parental LI 90 entered replicative senescence, whereas TWNT-4 showed telomerase activity and proliferated for more than population doubling level (PDL) 200 without any crisis. TWNT-4 expressed platelet-derived growth factor-β receptor (PDGF-βR), α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), and type I collagen (α1) and was considered to be an activated form of HSCs. Treatment of TWNT-4 cells with either 100 U/ml of IFN-γ or 1 ng/ml of rapamycin (Rapa) for 14 days led to lower expression of type I collagen (α1) at RNA and protein levels. Exposure of TWNT-4 cells to both of IFN-γ (10 U/ml) and Rapa (0.1 ng/ml) for 14 days effectively decreased the expression of type I collagen (α1), PDGF-βR, and α-SMA expression and suppressed TGF-β1 secretion of TWNT-4 cells. We successfully induced apoptosis by transducing TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) into TWNT-4 cells using adenovirus vectors Ad/GT-TRAIL and Ad/PGK-GV-17. These findings suggested that immortalized activated HSC line TWNT-4 would be a useful means to develop antifibrotic therapies.
Basic Studies on the Clinical Applications of Platelet-Rich Plasma
Authors: Yazawa Masaki , Ogata Hisao , Nakajima Tatsuo , Mori Taisuke , Watanabe Naohide , Handa Makoto
Published: September 2014

Platelets, which contain many growth factors such as platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), are being used in clinical applications as platelet-rich plasma (PRP). Only a few studies, however, have been conducted on the growth factors present in PRP and on the clinical applications using the drug delivery system (DDS). For the purpose of clinical application, we first modified the PRP preparation method and assessed the amounts of growth factors contained in the human platelet concentrates. Furthermore, we assessed fibrin glue as a DDS of platelet concentrates. Platelet precipitations were made by twice centrifuging human whole blood. The precipitated platelet was resuspended to yield the platelet concentrates. The growth factor concentrations were measured. Fibrin glue sheets containing this platelet concentrate were implanted in rabbit pinna and samples were obtained for immunostaining (anti-PDGF antibody) to assess the use of PRP over time using the fibrin glue as the DDS. The mean concentration of growth factors present in the platelet concentrates was three times or greater than that of conventional PRP. Furthermore, the results indicated that when the platelet concentrate was used with fibrin glue as a carrier, the contents were released over a period of about 1 week. This raises the possibility that this system may be useful in clinical applications.
Healing in Transplanted Teeth with Periodontal Ligament Cultured In Vitro
Authors: Saito A. , Saito E. , Kawanami M. , Shimada A.
Published: September 2014

Regeneration of connective tissue attachment is the ultimate goal of periodontal therapy. It has been suggested that periodontal ligament cells possess the potential to create new connective tissue attachment. However, as cells from gingiva and alveolar bone occupy the root surface during initial wound healing, population by periodontal ligament cells is limited in vivo. We have been developing a new periodontal regeneration technique using in vitro tissue culture of periodontal ligament remaining on a periodontally involved root. The purpose of this study was to examine the periodontal healing after transplantation of teeth with reduced periodontal ligament that had been cultured in vitro. Twenty-five incisors from four beagles were used. After the teeth were extracted, the periodontal ligament and cementum were removed from coronal part of the roots and the roots were planed. The periodontal ligament of the apical part was retained. Fourteen teeth of the experimental group were transplanted following culture for 6 weeks. Eleven teeth of the control group were similarly prepared and immediately transplanted without tissue culture. Four weeks after transplantation, the specimens were prepared for histological analysis. Downgrowth of junctional epithelium on the root of experimental group was significantly less than control. Most of the root planed surfaces of experimental group were covered with periodontal ligament fibers oriented parallel or inclined to the root surfaces and limited new cementum formation was observed near the apical end of the planed root. There was no significant difference between groups in observations on the root surface with remaining periodontal ligament. From the above results, it was concluded that periodontal tissue culture of teeth with root planed surface and remaining periodontal ligament could reduce the extent of epithelium downgrowth and increase connective tissue adhesion on the root planed surface, as well as minimize damage to remaining periodontal ligament, after transplantation of teeth.