bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Изоферментный профиль аденозиндезаминазы в аденокарциноме молочной железы
Authors: Барсукова М. А. , Хомутов Е. В. , Дмитриев Л. С. , Якубенко Е. Д. , Зинкович И. И.
Published: November 2017

Резюме: Изменение активности АДА сопряжено со многими патологическими процессами, в том числе с малигнизацией. В организме человека функционируют и проявляют плейотропные свойства две изоформы АДА: АДА1 и АДА2.

Целью работы является исследование особенностей распределения активности изоферментов АДА в аденокарциноме молочной железы и смежной с ней тканью.

Материалы и методы. Материалом послужили биоптаты аденокарциномы молочной железы и смежной с ней ткани (TxNxMx). Исследуемые изоферменты выделяли методом гель-фильтрации, ферментативную активность определяли спектрофотометрически.

Результаты.  Обнаруженная в узлах аденокарциномы высокая активность АДА обусловлена гиперэкспрессией обоих ее изоферментов.  Так, активности АДА1 и АДА2 в опухолевых узлах в среднем превышают таковые в смежной ткани в 2,1 и 2,2 раза, соответственно. Установлено, что в обеих группах изученных образцов (опухолевый узел и смежная с ним ткань) преобладает экспрессия АДА1. В биоптатах смежной ткани в среднем ее активность в 5,5 раз превышает соответствующий показатель для АДА2. В узлах опухолевой ткани активность АДА1 в среднем выше активности АДА2 в 4,9 раза.

Заключение. Показанная нами высокая активность обоих изоферментов АДА является характерной для озлокачествленной железистой ткани. Показатель соотношения активностей изоферментов АДА1 и АДА2 сохраняется на одном уровне как в опухолевом узле, так в смежных с ним тканях, не имеющих признаков злокачественной трансформации.
Влияние старения на окислительный потенциал плазмы крови у онкологических больных
Authors: Зуйков С. А. , Зинкович И. И.
Published: November 2017

Цель: изучить состояния про- и антиоксидантной системы, а также показатели свободно-радикального окисления белков плазмы крови у больных раком желудка в зависимости от возраста.

Материалы и методы: материалом исследования послужила плазма крови 35 больных раком желудка в возрасте 40-79 лет. Изучили активность ферментов обмена пуриновых нуклеотидов – аденозиндезаминазу (АДА) и ксантиноксидазу (КО), как показатели прооксидантной системы; антиоксидантную защиту – глутатионпероксидазу (ГПО) и супероксиддисмутазу (СОД); показатели окислительной модификации белков (ОМБ) – 2,4-динитрофенилгидразоны. Методом изучения активностей ферментов и уровня 2,4‑динитрофенилгидразонов была спектрофотометрия.

Результаты: установлено, что при старении организма у больных происходит усиление прооксидантного статуса плазмы крови, за счет повышения активностей аденозиндезаминазы и ксантиноксидазы, а также уровня 2,4‑динитрофенилгидразонов на фоне снижения активностей ферментов антиоксидантной защиты – супероксиддисмутазы и глутатионпероксидазы.

Выводы: обнаружены разнонаправленные изменения активностей ферментативного звена антиоксидантной защиты у больных раком желудка.
La colaboración en la cadena de suministros: una revisión al estado del arte
Authors: Tamayo Arguello Bernardo Antonio , Romero Quiroga Olga Rosana , Becerra Fernández Mauricio
Published: November 2017

El presente artículo busca identificar las tendencias, las características y los aspectos clave en torno al concepto de Colaboración en la Cadena de Suministros, lo cual permita proveer un estado del arte, teniendo presente que la información que se encuentra al respecto es limitada, dado que este concepto es relativamente nuevo en el ambiente logístico. La revisión y el análisis de publicaciones científicas fue dividida en tres fases: la primera, trata de la recolección de información por medio de la definición de artículos relevantes; la segunda, se enfoca en clasificar estos artículos mediante la identificación de tendencias; y, la tercera, busca plasmar los hallazgos en este documento para referencia en investigaciones futuras.
PENGARUH PENDEKATAN PEMBELAJARAN KETERAMPILAN PROSES DENGAN MODEL PEMBELAJARAN PROBLEM BASED INSTRUCTION TERHADAP PENINGKATAN KEMAMPUAN BERPIKIR KRITIS MAHASISWA PADA MATA KULIAH PENDIDIKAN KEPENDUDUKAN DAN LINGKUNGAN HIDUP (PKLH)
Authors: Astuti Irnin Agustina Dwi , Ahmad Deni Nasir
Published: November 2017

Telah dilakukan penelitian yang bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh pendekatan pembelajaran keterampilan proses dengan model pembelajaran Problem Based Instruction (PBI) terhadap peningkatan kemampuan berpikir kritis. Pendidikan Kependudukan dan Lingkungan Hidup (PKLH) merupakan sebuah proses yang bertujuan dalam membangun populasi dunia yang berkesadaran dan memiliki kepedulian terhadap lingkungan secara keseluruhan dari berbagai problem yang terkait dengannya dan merupakan salah satu mata kuliah di Universitas Indraprasta PGRI. Secara umum mahasiswa hanya memahami secara konsep saja mengenai lingkungan hidup tetapi masih kurang dalam konkret atau nyata. Subyek penelitian ini adalah mahasiswa Pendidikan Fisika semester 6 dengan sampel peserta didik kelas R6A sebagai kelas eksperimen dan kelas R6B sebagai kelas kontrol. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah metode quasi eksperimen dengan teknik analisis menggunakan uji t. Kelas eksperimen menggunakan model pembelajaran PBI, sedangkan kelas kontrol menggunakan pembelajaran studi kasus. 1.    Terjadi peningkatan kemampuan berpikir kritis mahasiswa dengan Pendekatan Pembelajaran Keterampilan Proses dengan metode atau model Problem Based Instruction (PBI) pada mata kuliah Pendidikan Kependudukan dan Lingkungan Hidup (PKLH); 2) Terjadi peningkatan Kemampuan Berpikir Kritis dengan metode Pemberian Tugas Studi Kasus pada mata kuliah Pendidikan Kependudukan dan Lingkungan Hidup (PKLH); dan 3) Terjadi perbedaan hasil pembelajaran dimana metode atau model pembelajaran Problem Based Instruction lebih tinggi atau lebih baik dari pada metode pembelajaran Pemberian Tugas Studi Kasus pada mata kuliah Pendidikan Kependudukan dan LingkunganHidup (PKLH).
PEMANFAATAN BATU ZEOLIT SEBAGAI MEDIA AKLIMATISASI UNTUK MENGOPTIMALKAN PERTUMBUHAN ANGGREK BULAN (Phalaenopsis) HIBRIDA
Authors: Kurniasih Wiwin , Nabiila Alyaa , Nurul Karimah Silviyani , Farhan Fauzan Muhammad , Riyanto Aji , Putra Rinaldi Rizal
Published: November 2017

Tanaman anggrek bulan (Phalaenopsis) hibrida merupakan salah satu dari sekian banyak tanaman hias yang memiliki nilai ekonomi dari keindahan bunganya, dan permintaan pasar cenderung meningkat setiap tahunnya. Salah satu faktor yang memengaruhi akan ketersediaan anggrek bulan adalah pada saat fase aklimatisasi. Media tanam anggek pada fae aklimatisasi yang umum digunakan adalah akar pakis, namun permintaan akar pakis yang semakin banyak akan mengurangi ketersediaan pakis di alam. Salah satu alternatif yang dapat digunakan sebagai media aklimatisasi anggrek adalah batu zeolit alami yang memiliki sifat-sifat fisika dan kimia yang unik yaitu sebagai penyerap, penukar ion, penyaring molekul, dan mampu mempertahankan kelembaban. Tujuan dari penelitian ini untuk memperoleh media batu zeolit yang tepat sebagai media aklimatisasi anggrek bulan (Phalaenopsis) hibrida. Metode penelitian ini menggunakan tanaman anggrek bulan (Phalaenopsis) hibrida umur 3 bulan. Media batu zeolit yang diperoleh dari pertambangan kemudian diaktivasi, baik secara kimia maupun fisika. Tanaman ditumbuhkan pada berbagai media perlakuan, antara lain: zeolit, kombinasi zeolit + akar pakis, kombinasi zeolit + arang kayu, kombinasi zeolit + batu bata, serta akar pakis. Pengamatan dilakukan selama 15 minggu dengan mengamati parameter pertumbuhan berupa jumah daun, jumlah akar, dan panjang daun. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa penggunaan zeolit berpengaruh terhadap peningkatan jumlah akar tanaman anggrek yang di aklimatisasi, tetapi tidak berpengaruh terhadap jumlah daun dan ukuran panjang daun. Media kombinasi zeolit + akar pakis memberikan pengaruh lebih baik dalam peningkatan jumlah akar, walaupun tidak memberikan pengaruh pada peningkatan jumlah dan ukuran daun. Dari hasil penelitian ini, dapat disimpulkan bahwa kombinasi media zeolit + akar pakis dapat meningkatkan jumlah akar tanaman anggrek Phalaenopsis hibrida pada tahap aklimatisasi.Kata kunci : Anggrek, Phalaenopsis, aklimatisasi, media tanam, batu zeolit
PENGARUH DOSIS PUPUK NPK MAJEMUK DAN PGPR (PLANT GROWTH PROMOTING RHIZOBACTERIA) TERHADAP BOBOT BASAH DAN KADAR KLOROFIL DAUN TANAMAN PAKCOY (Brassica rapa L.)
Authors: Rosyida Rosyida , Nugroho Ary Susatyo
Published: November 2017

Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) ialah kelompok mikroorganisme tanah yang menguntungkan bagi kesuburan tanah dan tanaman. Mikroorganisme yang hidup di daerah perakaran tersebut memiliki 3 peran utama bagi tanaman yaitu : 1) sebagai biofertilizer, 2) sebagai biostimulan, dan 3) sebagai bioprotektan. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk memperlihatkan efek suplementasi PGPR dalam dosis pemberian pupuk majemuk NPK terhadap bobot basah dan kadar klorofil daun pada tanaman pakchoy (Brassica rapa L.). Perlakuan pada penelitian ini meliputi 5 taraf perlakuan, yaitu: variasi kombinasi dosis pupuk majemuk NPK dan PGPR: NPK 100% (A0P0), NPK 75% + PGPR 25% (A1P1), NPK 50% + PGPR 50% (A2P2), NPK 25% + PGPR 75% (A3P3), PGPR 100% (A4P4). Masing – masing perlakuan diulang 5 kali. Desain percobaan adalah Rancangan Acak Lengkap (RAL), hasil percobaan dianalisis dengan ANOVA (P < 0,05), dilanjutkan dengan uji Duncan. Berdasarkan hasil percobaan, disimpulkan bahwa bahwa ada pengaruh yang nyata pada suplementasi PGPR dalam dosis pupuk majemuk NPK pada parameter bobot basah dan kadar klorofil daun tanaman pakchoy. Bobot basah tertinggi ditunjukkan pada tanaman pakchoy yang diberi perlakuan NPK 25% + PGPR 75% (A3P3), sedangkan pada tanaman yang diberi perlakuan NPK 75% + PGPR 25% (A1P1) mampu mengakumulasi kadar klorofil tertinggi diantara daun tanaman lainnya. Kata Kunci: Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR), Pupuk, NPK, Pakchoy
HIV epidemic among men who have sex with men in the Czech Republic, 2016: high time for targeted action
Authors: Mravčík Viktor , Pitoňák Michal , Hejzák Robert , Janíková Barbara , Procházka Ivo
Published: November 2017

Reported incidence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection in the Czech Republic increased steeply over the past decade from 90 new cases in 2005 to 266 in 2015. This increase is almost exclusively attributed to sexual transmissions between men who have sex with men (MSM). In 2015, there were 79% (n=210) newly diagnosed cases among MSM, 17% (n=45) were attributed to heterosexual transmission and 1% (n=3) to people who inject drugs. Interventions targeted at MSM have not yet been prioritised in the broadly focused national HIV prevention strategy which this is envisaged to change in the programme set out for 2018 to 2022. The national budget for HIV prevention has been reduced, however, and this remains. Availability of voluntary counselling and testing has decreased substantially in the past decade. Post- and pre-exposure prophylaxis for sexual intercourse among MSM are not part of the HIV prevention policy and the concept of treatment as prevention is not fully recognised. Provision of a combined prevention strategy with a focus on MSM, reflecting the above factors including stigmatisation, should contribute to reverse the development of a concentrated HIV epidemic among MSM in the Czech Republic.
Naming, Claiming, and Framing Marie Chauvet
Authors: Jean-Charles Régine Michelle
Published: November 2017

This essay offers a metacritical reading of the discourses surrounding Haitian author Marie Chauvet (1916–1973). I argue that paying attention to the naming (how she is described), claiming (how scholars and authors define their investment in her work), and framing (how her work is analyzed by scholars) of Chauvet reveals a dominant discourse that influences our study of the author. Taking a feminist approach to the interpretations of her work, I argue that ultimately these Chauvet narratives reveal more about anxieties surrounding gender than they do about her body of work.
Registration of ‘Tamcot G11’ Upland Cotton Cultivar
Authors: Smith C. W. , Hague S. , Hequet Eric , Jones Don C.
Published: November 2017

‘Tamcot G11’ upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) cultivar (Reg. No. CV‐135, PI 682743) was developed by Texas A&M AgriLife Research and released in 2017 as part of an ongoing effort to create cultivars and germplasm with combinations of improved fiber quality parameters, especially upper half mean length (UHML) and fiber bundle strength. Tamcot G11 is a conventional cultivar that is competitive in lint yield potential with current upland cultivars available for production in central and south Texas. Tamcot G11 exhibited significantly longer UHML, measured by high volume instrument (HVI), than the average of all comparison cultivars in 16 of 17 performance trials across central and south Texas during 2013 through 2016. Micronaire of Tamcot G11 was within the premium range in 12 of the 17 performance trials, while the control cultivars averaged the premium range in only 3 or the 17 trials. Strength of Tamcot G11 and the mean of all controls were equal in all except two trials, whereas Tamcot G11 tended to have lower fiber elongation at break. Lint yield of Tamcot G11 was equal to or greater than the average of all control cultivars in 16 of the 17 trials. Lint percentage of Tamcot G11 was acceptable yet below that of most current upland cultivars. Tamcot G11 provides producers with a competitive, high‐quality conventional cultivar with UHML sufficient to reduce the probability of discounts based on fiber length.
Comparative Study of Evaluation of Efficacy and Safety of Combination of Erythromycin and Benzyl Peroxide with Benzyl Peroxide alone in the Treatment of Acne Vulgaris
Authors: Yeasmin Monira , Islam AZM Maidul
Published: November 2017

Objective: Acne vulgaris is the disease of the teenagers as 90% of them being affected. So many treatment modalities are there - systemic , topical and physical . Among them topical therapy is the main stay of treatment. Our study was to determine the efficacy and safety of combination of erythromycin/benzyl peroxide compared with benzyl peroxide alone in the treatment of mild to moderate acne.Method: Patients attended in a Charity Foundation were enrolled for the study after fulfilling the criteria. Among total 50 patients 25 were selected for group A and another 25 for group B.. Group A were treated with 3% erythromycin and 5% Benzyl peroxide combination and GroupB with 5% Benzyl peroxide only. Total acne lesions were counted at base line and after 4 , 8 and 12 weeks of follow up. Reduction of total no of lesions were seen and analyzed.Result: At baseline mean of total acne score was 33.60 ± 5.98 and 33.53 ± 5.68 in group A and B (p=0.965). After 12 week it was 2.27 ± 1.08 and 6.27 ± 1.57 respectively in group A and B (p=0.001). Percent reduction of acne severity from base line to final follow up was 93.24 ± 3.11 in group A and 81.17 ± 4.22 in group B (p=0.001). So we can see better reduction of lesion count in Group A than Group B.Conclusion: We conclude that Group A is safer and more effective than that of Group B. So the combination of Benzyl peroxide and erythromycin is better than Benzyl peroxide alone.J Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2017; 35(4): 174-178
Different Models for Forecasting Wind Power Generation: Case Study
Authors: Barbosa de Alencar David , De Mattos Affonso Carolina , Limão de Oliveira Roberto , Moya Rodríguez Jorge , Leite Jandecy , Reston Filho José
Published: November 2017

Generation of electric energy through wind turbines is one of the practically inexhaustible alternatives of generation. It is considered a source of clean energy, but still needs a lot of research for the development of science and technologies that ensures uniformity in generation, providing a greater participation of this source in the energy matrix, since the wind presents abrupt variations in speed, density and other important variables. In wind-based electrical systems, it is essential to predict at least one day in advance the future values of wind behavior, in order to evaluate the availability of energy for the next period, which is relevant information in the dispatch of the generating units and in the control of the electrical system. This paper develops ultra-short, short, medium and long-term prediction models of wind speed, based on computational intelligence techniques, using artificial neural network models, Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) and hybrid models including forecasting using wavelets. For the application of the methodology, the meteorological variables of the database of the national organization system of environmental data (SONDA), Petrolina station, from 1 January 2004 to 31 March 2017, were used. A comparison among results by different used approaches is also done and it is also predicted the possibility of power and energy generation using a certain kind of wind generator.
A Multifunctional Isolated and Non-Isolated Dual Mode Converter for Renewable Energy Conversion Applications
Authors: Wang Yiwang , Gan Chun , Ni Kai , Li Xinhua , Tang Houjun , Yang Yong
Published: November 2017

In this paper, a multifunctional isolated and non-isolated dual-mode low-power converter was designed for renewable energy conversion applications such as photovoltaic power generation to achieve different operating modes under bi-directional electrical conversion. The proposed topology consists of a bidirectional non-isolated DC/DC circuit and an isolated converter with a high-frequency transformer, which merge the advantages of both the conventional isolated converter and non-isolated converter with the combination of the two converter technologies. Compared with traditional converters, the multifunctional converter can not only realize conventional bi-directional functions, but can also be applied for many different operation modes and meet the high output/input ratio demands with the two converter circuits operating together. A novel control algorithm was proposed to achieve the various functions of the proposed converter. An experimental platform based on the proposed circuit was established. Both the simulation and experimental results indicated that the proposed converter could provide isolated and non-isolated modes in different applications, which could meet different practical engineering requirements.
Methods for Involving Older People in Health Research—A Review of the Literature
Authors: Schilling Imke , Gerhardus Ansgar
Published: November 2017

Demographic change has increased the need for research on healthcare for older people. Recently there has been a growing awareness that research might benefit from actively involving patients and the public in study design and conduct. Besides empowering patients and democratizing research, involvement enhances the quality of research and the development of equitable healthcare solutions. Little is known about how to involve older people. This review aims to support scientists intending to involve older people in health research by systematically identifying and describing studies involving older people and analyzing associated facilitators and challenges. Old people were operationalized as people living with old-age-related conditions. We conducted a systematic search in PubMed, CINAHL (Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature), and Cochrane library for the period 2007 to July 2017 and also manually searched reference lists of the nine retrieved articles and other relevant sources. While involvement of older people in research is feasible, specific challenges related to this group need be taken into account. Strategies to enhance effective involvement comprise a thoughtful choice of location, use of visualization and accessible communication, building good relationships and flexible approaches. Further research is needed on the involvement of people in care homes or with vision, hearing or mobility limitations.
Bioaccumulation and Toxicity of Carbon Nanoparticles Suspension Injection in Intravenously Exposed Mice
Authors: Xie Ping , Yang Sheng-Tao , He Tiantian , Yang Shengnan , Tang Xiao-Hai
Published: November 2017

Carbon nanoparticles suspension injection (CNSI) has been widely used in tumor drainage lymph node mapping, and its new applications in drug delivery, photothermal therapy, and so on have been extensively investigated. To develop new clinical applications, the toxicity of CNSI after intravenous exposure should be thoroughly investigated to ensure its safe use. Herein, we studied the bioaccumulation of CNSI in reticuloendothelial system (RES) organs and the corresponding toxicity to mice. After the intravenous injection of CNSI, no abnormal behavior of mice was observed during the 28-day observation period. The body weight increases were similar among the exposed groups and the control group. The parameters of hematology and serum biochemistry remained nearly unchanged, with very few of them showing significant changes. The low toxicity of CNSI was also reflected by the unchanged histopathological characteristics of these organs. The injection of CNSI did not induce higher apoptosis levels either. The slight oxidative stress was observed in RES organs at high dosages at day 7 post-exposure. The implication to the clinical applications and toxicological evaluations of carbon nanomaterials is discussed.
Immunohistochemical Characterization of Connexin43 Expression in a Mouse Model of Diabetic Retinopathy and in Human Donor Retinas
Authors: Mugisho Odunayo , Green Colin , Zhang Jie , Binz Nicolette , Acosta Monica , Rakoczy Elizabeth , Rupenthal Ilva
Published: November 2017

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) develops due to hyperglycemia and inflammation-induced vascular disruptions in the retina with connexin43 expression patterns in the disease still debated. Here, the effects of hyperglycemia and inflammation on connexin43 expression in vitro in a mouse model of DR and in human donor tissues were evaluated. Primary human retinal microvascular endothelial cells (hRMECs) were exposed to high glucose (HG; 25 mM) or pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and TNF-α (10 ng/mL each) or both before assessing connexin43 expression. Additionally, connexin43, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), and plasmalemma vesicular associated protein (PLVAP) were labeled in wild-type (C57BL/6), Akita (diabetic), and Akimba (DR) mouse retinas. Finally, connexin43 and GFAP expression in donor retinas with confirmed DR was compared to age-matched controls. Co-application of HG and cytokines increased connexin43 expression in hRMECs in line with results seen in mice, with no significant difference in connexin43 or GFAP expression in Akita but higher expression in Akimba compared to wild-type mice. On PLVAP-positive vessels, connexin43 was higher in Akimba but unchanged in Akita compared to wild-type mice. Connexin43 expression appeared higher in donor retinas with confirmed DR compared to age-matched controls, similar to the distribution seen in Akimba mice and correlating with the in vitro results. Although connexin43 expression seems reduced in diabetes, hyperglycemia and inflammation present in the pathology of DR seem to increase connexin43 expression, suggesting a causal role of connexin43 channels in the disease progression.
A New Bone Substitute Developed from 3D-Prints of Polylactide (PLA) Loaded with Collagen I: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Ritz Ulrike , Gerke Rebekka , Götz Hermann , Stein Stefan , Rommens Pol Maria
Published: November 2017

Although a lot of research has been performed, large segmental bone defects caused by trauma, infection, bone tumors or revision surgeries still represent big challenges for trauma surgeons. New and innovative bone substitutes are needed. Three-dimensional (3D) printing is a novel procedure to create 3D porous scaffolds that can be used for bone tissue engineering. In the present study, solid discs as well as porous cage-like 3D prints made of polylactide (PLA) are coated or filled with collagen, respectively, and tested for biocompatibility and endotoxin contamination. Microscopic analyses as well as proliferation assays were performed using various cell types on PLA discs. Stromal-derived factor (SDF-1) release from cages filled with collagen was analyzed and the effect on endothelial cells tested. This study confirms the biocompatibility of PLA and demonstrates an endotoxin contamination clearly below the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) limit. Cells of various cell types (osteoblasts, osteoblast-like cells, fibroblasts and endothelial cells) grow, spread and proliferate on PLA-printed discs. PLA cages loaded with SDF-1 collagen display a steady SDF-1 release, support cell growth of endothelial cells and induce neo-vessel formation. These results demonstrate the potential for PLA scaffolds printed with an inexpensive desktop printer in medical applications, for example, in bone tissue engineering.
Modelling of Orthogonal Craniofacial Profiles
Authors: Dai Hang , Pears Nick , Duncan Christian
Published: November 2017

We present a fully-automatic image processing pipeline to build a set of 2D morphable models of three craniofacial profiles from orthogonal viewpoints, side view, front view and top view, using a set of 3D head surface images. Subjects in this dataset wear a close-fitting latex cap to reveal the overall skull shape. Texture-based 3D pose normalization and facial landmarking are applied to extract the profiles from 3D raw scans. Fully-automatic profile annotation, subdivision and registration methods are used to establish dense correspondence among sagittal profiles. The collection of sagittal profiles in dense correspondence are scaled and aligned using Generalised Procrustes Analysis (GPA), before applying principal component analysis to generate a morphable model. Additionally, we propose a new alternative alignment called the Ellipse Centre Nasion (ECN) method. Our model is used in a case study of craniosynostosis intervention outcome evaluation, and the evaluation reveals that the proposed model achieves state-of-the-art results. We make publicly available both the morphable models and the profile dataset used to construct it.
Effect of Different Welding Processes on Electrochemical and Corrosion Behavior of Pure Nickel in 1 M NaCl Solution
Authors: Wang Xijing , Wang Boshi , Zhang Liangliang , Yang Chao , Yang Yan
Published: November 2017

A plasma arc welding (PAW)-tungsten inert gas (TIG) hybrid welding process is proposed to weld pure nickel. In PAW-TIG welding, the arc of the PAW was first to be ignited, then TIG was ignited, while in PAW welding, only the PAW arc was launched. This paper investigated the effect of different welding processes on electrochemical and corrosion performance of between a pure nickel joint and a base metal in an aerated 1 M NaCl solution, respectively. The average grain size of the joint fabricated by PAW welding (denoted as JP joint) is 463.57 μm, the joint fabricated by PAW-TIG welding(denoted as JP-T joint) is 547.32 μm, and the base metal (BM) is 47.32 μm. In this work, the passivity behaviors of samples were characterized for two welding processes by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), open circuit potential versus immersion time (OCP-t), and the potentiodynamic polarization plots. EIS spectra, attained with different immersion times, were analyzed and fitted by an equivalent electrical circuit. Photomicrographs of BM, JP, and JP-T were also taken with a scanning electron microscope (SEM) to reveal the morphological structure of the pit surfaces. Electrochemical tests show that the sequence of the corrosion resistance is BM > JP > JP-T. The size and quantity of the hemispherical corrosion pits of all samples are different. The corrosion morphology observations found a consistency with the consequence of the electrochemical measurements. The results show that an increase of the grain dimensions due to different heat treatments decreased the pure nickel stability to pitting corrosion.
Antifungal Activity and Action Mode of Cuminic Acid from the Seeds of Cuminum cyminum L. against Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. Niveum (FON) Causing Fusarium Wilt on Watermelon
Authors: Sun Yang , Wang Yong , Han Li , Zhang Xing , Feng Jun
Published: November 2017

In order to develop a novel biofungicide, the antifungal activity and action mode of cuminic acid from the seed of Cuminum cyminum L. against Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. niveum (FON) on watermelon was determined systematically. In this study, the median effective concentration (EC50) value for cuminic acid in inhibiting mycelial growth of FON was 22.53 μg/mL. After treatment with cuminic acid, the mycelial morphology was seriously influenced; cell membrane permeability and glycerol content were increased markedly, but pigment and mycotoxin (mainly fusaric acid) were significantly decreased. Synthesis genes of bikaverin (Bike1, Bike2 and Bike3) and fusaric acid (FUB1, FUB2, FUB3 and FUB4) both were downregulated compared with the control, as confirmed by quantitative RT-PCR. In greenhouse experiments, cuminic acid at all concentrations displayed significant bioactivities against FON. Importantly, significant enhancement of activities of SOD, POD, CAT and decrease of MDA content were observed after in vivo cuminic acid treatment on watermelon leaves. These indicated that cuminic acid not only showed high antifungal activity, but also could enhance the self-defense system of the host plant. Above all, cuminic acid showed the potential as a biofungicide to control FON.
Enhanced Intestinal Permeability of Bufalin by a Novel Bufalin-Peptide-Dendrimer Inclusion through Caco-2 Cell Monolayer
Authors: Chan Chi-on , Jing Jing , Xiao Wei , Tan Zhexu , Lv Qiuyue , Yang Jingyu , Chen Sibao
Published: November 2017

Bufalin (BFL) has excellent physiological activities such as defending tumors, improving cardiac function, and so on. However, due to its poor water-solubility and bioavailability, the clinical application of BFL remains limited. In order to improve bioavailability of BFL, in our previous research, a novel peptide-dendrimer (PD) was synthesized and applied to encapsulate BFL. In the present study, we investigate the absorption property and mechanism of BFL in free form and BFL-peptide-dendrimer inclusion (BPDI) delivery system by using the Caco-2 cell monolayer model in vitro. The apparent permeability coefficient (Papp) values of BFL in free or BPDI form were over 1.0 × 10−6 cm/s. Meanwhile, their almost equal bi-directional transport and linear transport percentage with time and concentration course indicated that BFL in both forms was absorbed mainly through passive diffusion. The most important result is that the Papp values of BFL increased about three-fold more BPDI than those of its free form, which indicated the intestinal permeability of BFL could be improved while BFL was encapsulated in BPDI form. Therefore, PD encapsulation may be a potential delivery system to increase the bioavailability of BFL.
In Vivo Activity of LCB 01-0699, a Prodrug of LCB 01-0648, against Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Oh Sang-Hun , Park Hee-Soo , Lee Jun-Hyung , Baek Sung-Yun , Chae Sang-Eun , Oh Kyuman , Cho Young Lag , Kwak Jin-Hwan
Published: November 2017

LCB01-0648 is a novel oxazolidinone compound that shows potent antibacterial activities against most Gram-positive cocci, including the multi-drug resistant Staphylococcus aureus. In this study, in vivo activity of LCB01-0699, a LCB01-0648 prodrug, against S. aureus was evaluated in comparison with that of Linezolid. The results of the systemic infection study demonstrated that LCB01-0699 was more potent than Linezolid against methicillin-susceptible and -resistant S. aureus strains. The in vivo efficacy of LCB01-0699 against methicillin-susceptible and -resistant S. aureus strains in a skin infection model showed more potent activity than Linezolid. LCB01-0699 shows potent in vivo activity against methicillin-susceptible and -resistant S. aureus strains, suggesting that LCB01-0699 would be a novel candidate for the treatment of these infectious diseases caused by S. aureus.
The Antitumor Constituents from Hedyotis Diffusa Willd
Authors: Wang Changfu , Zhou Xuegang , Wang Youzhi , Wei Donghua , Deng Chengjie , Xu Xiaoyun , Xin Ping , Sun Shiqin
Published: November 2017

As a TCM, Hedyotis diffusa Willd. has been using to treat malignant tumors, and many studies also showed that the extracts from Hedyotis diffusa Willd. possessed evident antitumor activities. Therefore, we carried out chemical study on Hedyotis diffusa Willd. and investigated the cytotoxicity of the obtained compounds on a panel of eight tumor cell lines. As a result, four new compounds were isolated from Hedyotis diffusa Willd., including three iridoid glycosides of Shecaoiridoidside A–C (1–3) and a cerebroside of shecaocerenoside A (4). Also, six known iridoid compounds (5–10) were also obtained. The cytotoxicity of all compounds against human tumor cell lines of HL-60, HeLa, HCT15, A459, HepG2, PC-3, CNE-2, and BCG-823 were also evaluated in vitro. New compound 3 exhibited evident cytotoxicity to all tumor cell lines except the Hela, and the IC50 values are from 9.6 µM to 62.2 µM, while new compound 4 showed moderate cytotoxicity to all the cell lines, and the IC50 values are from 33.6 µM to 89.3 µM. By contrast, new compound 1 and known compound 9 showed moderate cytotoxicity to HCT15, A459, and HepG2 selectively. Known compound 7 also exhibited moderate cytotoxicity to HCT15 and A459 selectively.
In Vivo and In Vitro Activities and ADME-Tox Profile of a Quinolizidine-Modified 4-Aminoquinoline: A Potent Anti-P. falciparum and Anti-P. vivax Blood-Stage Antimalarial
Authors: Basilico Nicoletta , Parapini Silvia , Sparatore Anna , Romeo Sergio , Misiano Paola , Vivas Livia , Yardley Vanessa , Croft Simon , Habluetzel Annette , Lucantoni Leonardo , Renia Laurent , Russell Bruce , Suwanarusk Rossarin , Nosten Francois , Dondio Giulio , Bigogno Chiara , Jabes Daniela , Taramelli Donatella
Published: November 2017

Natural products are a prolific source for the identification of new biologically active compounds. In the present work, we studied the in vitro and in vivo antimalarial efficacy and ADME-Tox profile of a molecular hybrid (AM1) between 4-aminoquinoline and a quinolizidine moiety derived from lupinine (Lupinus luteus). The aim was to find a compound endowed with the target product profile-1 (TCP-1: molecules that clear asexual blood-stage parasitaemia), proposed by the Medicine for Malaria Venture to accomplish the goal of malaria elimination/eradication. AM1 displayed a very attractive profile in terms of both in vitro and in vivo activity. By using standard in vitro antimalarial assays, AM1 showed low nanomolar inhibitory activity against chloroquine-sensitive and resistant P. falciparum strains (range IC50 16–53 nM), matched with a high potency against P. vivax field isolates (Mean IC50 29 nM). Low toxicity and additivity with artemisinin derivatives were also demonstrated in vitro. High in vivo oral efficacy was observed in both P. berghei and P. yoelii mouse models with IC50 values comparable or better than those of chloroquine. The metabolic stability in different species and the pharmacokinetic profile in the mouse model makes AM1 a compound worth further investigation as a potential novel schizonticidal agent.
First Results of Using a UVTron Flame Sensor to Detect Alpha-Induced Air Fluorescence in the UVC Wavelength Range
Authors: Crompton Anita , Gamage Kelum , Bell Steven , Wilson Andrew , Jenkins Alex , Trivedi Divyesh
Published: November 2017

In this work, a robust stand-off alpha detection method using the secondary effects of alpha radiation has been sought. Alpha particles ionise the surrounding atmosphere as they travel. Fluorescence photons produced as a consequence of this can be used to detect the source of the alpha emissions. This paper details experiments carried out to detect this fluorescence, with the focus on photons in the ultraviolet C (UVC) wavelength range (180–280 nm). A detector, UVTron R9533 (Hamamatsu, 325-6, Sunayama-cho, Naka-ku, Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka Pref., 430-8587, Japan), designed to detect the UVC emissions from flames for fire alarm purposes, was tested in various gas atmospheres with a 210Po alpha source to determine if this could provide an avenue for stand-off alpha detection. The results of the experiments show that this detector is capable of detecting alpha-induced air fluorescence in normal indoor lighting conditions, as the interference from daylight and artificial lighting is less influential on this detection system which operates below the UVA and UVB wavelength ranges (280–315 nm and 315–380 nm respectively). Assuming a standard 1 r 2 drop off in signal, the limit of detection in this configuration can be calculated to be approximately 240 mm, well beyond the range of alpha-particles in air, which indicates that this approach could have potential for stand-off alpha detection. The gas atmospheres tested produced an increase in the detector count, with xenon having the greatest effect with a measured 52% increase in the detector response in comparison to the detector response in an air atmosphere. This type of alpha detection system could be operated at a distance, where it would potentially provide a more cost effective, safer, and faster solution in comparison with traditional alpha detection methods to detect and characterise alpha contamination in nuclear decommissioning and security applications.
Symbiotic Sensing for Energy-Intensive Tasks in Large-Scale Mobile Sensing Applications
Authors: Le Duc , Nguyen Thuong , Scholten Hans , Havinga Paul
Published: November 2017

Energy consumption is a critical performance and user experience metric when developing mobile sensing applications, especially with the significantly growing number of sensing applications in recent years. As proposed a decade ago when mobile applications were still not popular and most mobile operating systems were single-tasking, conventional sensing paradigms such as opportunistic sensing and participatory sensing do not explore the relationship among concurrent applications for energy-intensive tasks. In this paper, inspired by social relationships among living creatures in nature, we propose a symbiotic sensing paradigm that can conserve energy, while maintaining equivalent performance to existing paradigms. The key idea is that sensing applications should cooperatively perform common tasks to avoid acquiring the same resources multiple times. By doing so, this sensing paradigm executes sensing tasks with very little extra resource consumption and, consequently, extends battery life. To evaluate and compare the symbiotic sensing paradigm with the existing ones, we develop mathematical models in terms of the completion probability and estimated energy consumption. The quantitative evaluation results using various parameters obtained from real datasets indicate that symbiotic sensing performs better than opportunistic sensing and participatory sensing in large-scale sensing applications, such as road condition monitoring, air pollution monitoring, and city noise monitoring.
Different patterns of dopaminergic and serotonergic dysfunction in manic, depressive and euthymic phases of bipolar disorder
Authors: Müller Hans-Wilhelm , Hautzel Hubertus , Nikolaus Susanne
Published: November 2017

A variety of alterations in brain neurotransmitter systems has been proposed as the cause of bipolar disorder (BD). We conducted a PUBMED search, which provided a total of 45 in vivo investigations with PET and SPECT, in which binding to serotonin transporter (SERT), 5-HT1A receptor (R), 5-HT2AR, dopamine transporter (DAT), vesicular monoamine transporter (VMAT2), D1R, D2R, muscarinic M2R and nicotinic ß2-nAChR as well as dopamine synthesis and/or dopamine release were assessed in BD patients in the manic (6 studies, 39 patients, 77 controls), depressive (15 studies, 248 patients, 488 controls) or eu- thymic condition (18 studies, 265 patients, 293 controls) and in mixed collectives of BD patients (6 studies, 55 patients, 80 controls). The retrospective analysis revealed a complex pattern of dysregulations within and between neurotransmitter systems, which is causally linked to the acute and euthymic states of BD. While increased mesencephalic, limbic and parietotemporoccipital serotonin and increased frontal dopamine underlie mania, the depressive state is characterized by decreased frontal and limbic serotonin, increased frontal and limbic acetylcholine and increased frontal dopamine. Also in euthymia, no normalization of receptor and transporter densities was observed. Alterations of regulation states of bindings sites, however, act together to achieve a normalization of mesencephalic, limbic and cortical serotonin.
Amplified cross-linking efficiency of self-assembled monolayers through targeted dissociative electron attachment for the production of carbon nanomembranes
Authors: Koch Sascha , Kaiser Christopher D , Penner Paul , Barclay Michael , Frommeyer Lena , Emmrich Daniel , Stohmann Patrick , Abu-Husein Tarek , Terfort Andreas , Fairbrother D Howard , Ingólfsson Oddur , Gölzhäuser Armin
Published: November 2017

The determination of the negative ion yield of 2′-chloro-1,1′-biphenyl (2-Cl-BP), 2′-bromo-1,1′-biphenyl (2-Br-BP) and 2′-iodo-1,1′-biphenyl (2-I-BP) upon dissociative electron attachment (DEA) at an electron energy of 0 eV revealed cross section values that were more than ten times higher for iodide loss from 2-I-BP than for the other halogenides from the respective biphenyls (BPs). Comparison with dissociative ionization mass spectra shows that the ratio of the efficiency of electron impact ionization induced fragmentation of 2-I-BP, 2-Br-BP, and 2-Cl-BP amounts to approximately 1:0.7:0.6. Inspired by these results, self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) of the respective biphenyl-4-thiols, 2-Cl-BPT, 2-Br-BPT, 2-I-BPT as well as BPT, were grown on a Au(111) substrate and exposed to 50 eV electrons. The effect of electron irradiation was investigated by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), to determine whether the high relative DEA cross section for iodide loss from 2-I-BPT as compared to 2-Br-BP and 2-Cl-BP is reflected in the cross-linking efficiency of SAMs made from these materials. Such sensitization could reduce the electron dose needed for the cross-linking process and may thus lead to a significantly faster conversion of the respective SAMs into carbon nanomembranes (CNMs) without the need for an increased current density. XPS data support the notation that DEA sensitization may be used to achieve more efficient electron-induced cross-linking of SAMs, revealing more than ten times faster cross-linking of 2-I-BPT SAMs compared to those made from the other halogenated biphenyls or from native BPT at the same current density. Furthermore, the transfer of a freestanding membrane onto a TEM grid and the subsequent investigation by helium ion microscopy (HIM) verified the existence of a mechanically stable CNM created from 2-I-BPT after exposure to an electron dose as low as 1.8 mC/cm2. In contrast, SAMs made from BPT, 2-Cl-BPT and 2-Br-BPT did not form stable CNMs after a significantly higher electron dose of 9 mC/cm2.
Quand les morts passent un scanner
Authors: Schnegg Céline , Rey Séverine
Published: November 2017

Lors de son passage en médecine légale, dans les cas d’homicides ou de morts dites suspectes, le cadavre subit une série d’épreuves techniques et scientifiques, qui visent à le “faire parler” et à identifier les causes du décès. En plus de l’autopsie conventionnelle, des techniques d’imagerie médicale sont désormais intégrées dans le dispositif d’enquête médico-légale. Sur la base d’observations ethnographiques menées dans un centre suisse de médecine légale à la pointe de l’imagerie médico-légale, nous analysons les variations ontologiques du corps mort en lien avec sa prise en charge et les différentes techniques de visualisation utilisées par les experts. Les différentes « épreuves du corps », et tout particulièrement les techniques d’autopsie virtuelle, font varier les frontières entre vivant et mort, animé et inerte, personne et cadavre. La reconfiguration de ces frontières répond à des exigences scientifiques, techniques, mais aussi normatives et morales.
Faire naître à la maison en France
Authors: Sestito Rosanna
Published: November 2017

En France, même si la majorité des accouchements se déroule à l’hôpital, certaines femmes demandent à accoucher à domicile avec une sage-femme, comme autrefois. Toutefois, depuis quelques années, de nombreuses sages-femmes travaillant à domicile sont radiées par leurs paires siégeant à l’Ordre National des Sages-Femmes. À partir d’une enquête sociologique menée en France entre 2015 et 2016 sur les plaintes conduisant à ces radiations et à une interdiction à vie de pratiquer l’accouchement, l’article présente les réflexions de certaines d’entre elles autour de la technicisation de la naissance. Il analyse leurs discours dans lesquels les relations de pouvoir entre elles et le monde médical, l’antagonisme entre modèles d’accompagnement différents et les prises de position féministes et écologistes occupent une place centrale.
Well-Being, Motives and Experiences in Live and Online Game Settings
Authors: Brkljačić Tihana , Lučić Lana , Sučić Ines
Published: November 2017

Traditional mind sports are extremely suitable for online environment, so various specialized platforms, were developed for this purpose. Although online games are technically superior and popular, many players argue that online play lacks “the game spirit”. The aim of this article was to compare motives and experiences of live and online games of Bridge. The authors conducted ten semi-structured online interviews with bridge players. All participants confirmed that Bridge significantly improved their quality of life. The participants reported benefits in accordance with Major (2001) serious leisure benefits and partially in accordance with the DRAMMA model of five factors related to leisure activities (Newman, Tay and Diener, 2014). Results showed that online bridge was generally perceived as less challenging and demanding, but appropriate for training purposes. The most important difference in motivation is related to boredom – frequent motive of online bridge, while not existent in live settings.
Factors Influencing the Use of E-Commerce by Small Enterprises in Nigeria
Authors: Ekanem Ignatius , Abiade Gbolahan Emeka
Published: November 2017

The aim of this article is to assess the factors influencing the use of e-commerce by small enterprises in Nigeria. The study adopts a qualitative methodology which involves in-depth, semi-structured interviews and direct observation in order to derive answers to such questions as ‘why' the system is adopted and ‘how' the Nigeria economic conditions influence the system. The article suggests that the main factors which motivate the adoption of e-commerce by small businesses in Nigeria are market expansion and reduced market costs. The findings also indicate that increasing access to the Internet and changing lifestyle enable the success of e-commerce in Nigeria. The implications of the study are discussed.
О расширении транзитивных действий групп Ли
Authors: Gorbatsevich Vladimir Vitalyevich
Published: November 2017

Приводится алгебраическая конструкция, дающая расширения произвольных транзитивных действий разрешимых групп Ли на компактных многообразиях. Подробно рассмотрен вопрос о возможной размерности таких расширений. Рассмотрены также некоторые обобщения этой конструкции и вопрос о построении расширений транзитивных действий групп Ли в ряде частных случаев.
Библиография: 7 наименований.