bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of African-Bred Maize Germplasm Lines for Resistance to Aflatoxin Accumulation
Authors: Brown Robert , Williams W. , Windham Gary , Menkir Abebe , Chen Zhi-Yuan
Published: April 2016

Aflatoxins, produced by the fungus Aspergillus flavus, contaminate maize grain and threaten human food and feed safety. Plant resistance is considered the best strategy for reducing aflatoxin accumulation. Six maize germplasm lines, TZAR101–TZAR106, were released by the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture-Southern Regional Research Center (IITA-SRRC) maize breeding collaboration for use in African National Programs and U.S. maize breeding programs. The present investigation was conducted to evaluate aflatoxin reduction by these lines in a U.S. environment. As germplasm lines, resistance was demonstrated by the lines tested in 2010 and 2014 trials. In 2010, TZAR106 was among the lines with the lowest toxin accumulation, and in 2014, along with TZAR102, supported low aflatoxin. When evaluated as single cross hybrids in 2012, 2013 and 2014, several crosses involving IITA-SRRC lines accumulated low toxin. In 2012, TZAR103 × HBA1 was one of 4 lines with the lowest concentration of aflatoxin. In 2014, five IITA-SRRC hybrids were among the lowest with TZAR102 × Va35 and TZAR102 × LH132 being the two lowest. Results demonstrate significant aflatoxin reduction by IITA-SRRC lines in a U.S. aflatoxin-conducive environment (at Mississippi State University). Further testing in different locations and environments is needed to further evaluate the potential usefulness of these germplasm lines.
Foreign Direct Investment, Trade, and Economic Growth: An Empirical Analysis of Bangladesh
Authors: Hussain Mohammed , Haque Mahfuzul
Published: April 2016

The study reveals that there is a relationship between foreign direct investments, trade, and growth rate of per capita GDP for Bangladesh with the help of annual time series data for 1973 to 2014. The Vector Error Correction Model (VECM) analysis shows that there is a long-term relationship between these variables. To check the validity of the VECM model, we did a few post-estimation diagnostic tests, and found that the residuals of the regressions have a normal distribution and do not show any auto-correlation. The trade and foreign investment variables have a significant impact on the growth rate of GDP per capita. Because FDI and trade are two important components of economic growth in Bangladesh, it is important to frame policies that promote growth and reduce the barriers for capital flows.
Burn Severity Dominates Understory Plant Community Response to Fire in Xeric Jack Pine Forests
Authors: Pinno Bradley , Errington Ruth
Published: April 2016

Fire is the most common disturbance in northern boreal forests, and large fires are often associated with highly variable burn severities across the burnt area. We studied the understory plant community response to a range of burn severities and pre-fire stand age four growing seasons after the 2011 Richardson Fire in xeric jack pine forests of northern Alberta, Canada. Burn severity had the greatest impact on post-fire plant communities, while pre-fire stand age did not have a significant impact. Total plant species richness and cover decreased with disturbance severity, such that the greatest richness was in low severity burns (average 28 species per 1-m2 quadrat) and plant cover was lowest in the high severity burns (average 16%). However, the response of individual plant groups differed. Lichens and bryophytes were most common in low severity burns and were effectively eliminated from the regenerating plant community at higher burn severities. In contrast, graminoid cover and richness were positively related to burn severity, while forbs did not respond significantly to burn severity, but were impacted by changes in soil chemistry with increased cover at pH >4.9. Our results indicate the importance of non-vascular plants to the overall plant community in this harsh environment and that the plant community is environmentally limited rather than recruitment or competition limited, as is often the case in more mesic forest types. If fire frequency and severity increase as predicted, we may see a shift in plant communities from stress-tolerant species, such as lichens and ericaceous shrubs, to more colonizing species, such as certain graminoids.
Nutritional Prescriptions for Eucalyptus Plantations: Lessons Learned from Spain
Authors: Viera Márcio , Ruíz Fernández Federico , Rodríguez-Soalleiro Roque
Published: April 2016

Eucalyptus globulus Labill is the main exotic broadleaf species planted and managed for pulp and energy production in Spain, where it covers an area of more than 0.6 million ha. The climatic and soil conditions of the planting areas range from the predominantly acidic or fertile soils developed over limestone in Atlantic areas of the north and northwest of the Iberian Peninsula to the less weathered soils developed from slates, sandy deposits or limestone in the drier southwest. The widely varying conditions explain the large differences in proposed fertilizer prescriptions. This review paper provides an analysis of the proposed practices and prescriptions by considering trial results and the need to develop site specific prescriptions for seedling standards and fertilization at planting establishment. Analysis of nutritional studies and of nutrient balances over a whole rotation is presented in order to provide basic information for defining maintenance fertilization, identified as the main bottleneck for sustainable wood production in these stands. Different fertilization practices are used by non industrial owners and Spanish pulp companies, with the last one applying a more intense management relying in more fertilization. A complete consideration of nutrition-related operation and decisions is shown to be essential for maintaining potential productivity, reduce biotic and abiotic damages and reduce mineral fertilization needs.
Isolation and Characterization of Aquatic-Borne Klebsiella pneumoniae from Tropical Estuaries in Malaysia
Authors: Barati Anis , Ghaderpour Aziz , Chew Li , Bong Chui , Thong Kwai , Chong Ving , Chai Lay
Published: April 2016

Klebsiella pneumoniae is an opportunistic pathogen that is responsible for causing nosocomial and community-acquired infections. Despite its common presence in soil and aquatic environments, the virulence potential of K. pneumoniae isolates of environmental origin is largely unknown. Hence, in this study, K. pneumoniae isolated from the estuarine waters and sediments of the Matang mangrove estuary were screened for potential virulence characteristics: antibiotic susceptibility, morphotype on Congo red agar, biofilm formation, presence of exopolysaccharide and capsule, possession of virulence genes (fimH, magA, ugE, wabG and rmpA) and their genomic fingerprints. A total of 55 strains of K. pneumoniae were isolated from both human-distributed sites (located along Sangga Besar River) and control sites (located along Selinsing River) where less human activity was observed, indicated that K. pneumoniae is ubiquitous in the environment. However, the detection of potentially virulent strains at the downstream of Kuala Sepetang village has suggested an anthropogenic contamination source. In conclusion, the findings from this study indicate that the Matang mangrove estuary could harbor potentially pathogenic K. pneumoniae with risk to public health. More studies are required to compare the environmental K. pneumoniae strains with the community-acquired K. pneumoniae strains.
The Variation Characteristic of Sulfides and VOSc in a Source Water Reservoir and Its Control Using a Water-Lifting Aerator
Authors: Shi Jian-Chao , Huang Ting-Lin , Wen Gang , Liu Fei , Qiu Xiao-Peng , Wang Bao-Shan
Published: April 2016

Sulfides and volatile organic sulfur compounds (VOSc) in water are not only malodorous but also toxic to humans and aquatic organisms. They cause serious deterioration in the ecological environment and pollute drinking water sources. In the present study, a source water reservoir—Zhoucun Reservoir in East China—was selected as the study site. Through a combination of field monitoring and in situ release experiments of sulfides, the characteristics of seasonal variation and distribution of sulfides and VOSc in the reservoir were studied, and the cause of the sulfide pollution was explained. The results show that sulfide pollution was quite severe in August and September 2014 in the Zhoucun Reservoir, with up to 1.59 mg·L−1 of sulfides in the lower layer water. The main source of sulfides is endogenous pollution. VOSc concentration correlates very well with that of sulfides during the summer, with a peak VOSc concentration of 44.37 μg·L−1. An installed water-lifting aeration system was shown to directly oxygenate the lower layer water, as well as mix water from the lower and the upper layers. Finally, the principle and results of controlling sulfides and VOSc in reservoirs using water-lifting aerators are clarified. Information about sulfides and VOSc fluctuation and control gained in this study may be applicable to similar reservoirs, and useful in practical water quality improvement and pollution prevention.
Corporate Governance Rating and Ownership Structure in the Case of Turkey
Authors: Gurarda Sevin , Ozsoz Emre , Ates Abidin
Published: April 2016

By using corporate governance data on 22 publicly traded Turkish companies we estimate the determinants of corporate governance ratings for these companies with a focus on ownership structure. Our results show that company earnings, financial risk and firm size positively influence the corporate governance ratings (CGR) that Turkish firms receive. In the meantime, we find some weak evidence that family ownership has a negative and foreign ownership has a positive impact on CGR scores.
Intra-Articular Injection of Cross-Linked Hyaluronic Acid-Dexamethasone Hydrogel Attenuates Osteoarthritis: An Experimental Study in a Rat Model of Osteoarthritis
Authors: Zhang Zhiwei , Wei Xiaochun , Gao Jizong , Zhao Yu , Zhao Yamin , Guo Li , Chen Chongwei , Duan Zhiqing , Li Pengcui , Wei Lei
Published: April 2016

Cross-linked hyaluronic acid hydrogel (cHA gel) and dexamethasone (Dex) have been used to treat knee osteoarthritis (OA) in clinical practice owing to their chondroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects, respectively. The aim of the present study was to compare the treatment effects of the cHA gel pre-mixed with/without Dex in a surgery-induced osteoarthritis model in rats. Anterior cruciate ligament transection (ACLT) surgery was performed on the right knee of rats to induce OA. Male 2-month-old Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into five groups (n = 10/per group): (1) ACLT + saline; (2) ACLT + cHA gel; (3) ACLT + cHA-Dex (0.2 mg/mL) gel; (4) ACLT + cHA-Dex (0.5 mg/mL) gel; (5) Sham + saline. Intra-joint injections were performed four weeks after ACLT in the right knee. All animals were euthanized at 12 weeks post-surgery. Cartilage damage and changes in the synovial membrane were assessed by micro X-ray, Indian ink articular surface staining, Safranin-O/Fast Green staining, immunohistochemistry, hematoxylin and eosin staining of the synovial membrane, and quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction for changes in gene expression. Micro X-ray revealed that the knee joint treated with the cHA-Dex gel was wider than those treated with cHA gel alone or saline. The cHA-Dex gel group had less Indian ink staining (indicator of cartilage fibrillation) than the cHA gel or saline injection groups. Safranin-O/Fast Green staining indicated that increased proteoglycan staining and less cartilage damage were found in the cHA-Dex gel group compared with the cHA gel or saline injection groups. Quantification of histology findings from saline, cHA gel, cHA-Dex (0.2 mg/mL) gel, cHA-Dex (0.5 mg/mL) gel, and sham groups were 5.84 ± 0.29, 4.50 ± 0.87, 3.00 ± 1.00, 2.00 ± 0.48, and 0.30 ± 0.58 (p < 0.05), respectively. A strong staining of type II collagen was found in both the cHA-Dex gel groups compared with saline group or cHA alone group. Similar result was found for the mRNA level of aggrecan and opposite result for type X collagen. Hematoxylin and eosin staining in the synovial membrane showed less synovial lining cell layers and reduced inflammatory cell infiltration in cHA-Dex gel-treated animals compared with saline or cHA only groups. Altogether, cHA-Dex gel has better chondroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects in rat surgery-induced osteoarthritis than cHA alone.
Development and Characterization of a Humanized Anti-HER2 Antibody HuA21 with Potent Anti-Tumor Properties in Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Li Ruilin , Hu Siyi , Chang Yan , Zhang Zhihui , Zha Zhao , Huang Hui , Shen Guodong , Liu Jing , Song Lihua , Wei Wei
Published: April 2016

Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) is one of the most studied tumor-associated antigens for cancer immunotherapy. An engineered anti-HER-2 chimeric A21 antibody (chA21) is a chimeric antibody targeted to subdomain I of the HER2 extracellular domain. Here, we report the anti-tumor activity of the novel engineered monoclonal antibody humanized chA21 (HuA21) that targets HER2 on the basis of chA21, and we describe the underlying mechanisms. Our results reveal that HuA21 markedly inhibits the proliferation and migration of HER2-overexpressing breast cancer cells and causes enhanced antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity potency against HER2-overexpressing tumor cells. In particular, HuA21, but not trastuzumab (Tra), markedly suppresses growth and enhances the internalization of the antibody in Tra-resistant BT-474 breast cancer cells. These characteristics are highly associated with the intrinsic ability of HuA21 to down-regulate HER2 activation and inhibit the extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) and protein kinase B (Akt) signaling pathways. Furthermore, the combination of HuA21 with Tra synergistically enhances the anti-tumor effects in vitro and in vivo and inhibits HER2 activation and the ERK1/2 and Akt signaling pathways. Altogether, our results suggest that HuA21 may represent a unique anti-HER2 antibody with potential as a therapeutic candidate alone or in combination with other anti-HER2 reagents in cancer therapy.
Profilings of MicroRNAs in the Liver of Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio) Infected with Flavobacterium columnare
Authors: Zhao Lijuan , Lu Hong , Meng Qinglei , Wang Jinfu , Wang Weimin , Yang Ling , Lin Li
Published: April 2016

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play important roles in regulation of many biological processes in eukaryotes, including pathogen infection and host interactions. Flavobacterium columnare (FC) infection can cause great economic loss of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) which is one of the most important cultured fish in the world. However, miRNAs in response to FC infection in common carp has not been characterized. To identify specific miRNAs involved in common carp infected with FC, we performed microRNA sequencing using livers of common carp infected with and without FC. A total of 698 miRNAs were identified, including 142 which were identified and deposited in the miRbase database (Available online: http://www.mirbase.org/) and 556 had only predicted miRNAs. Among the deposited miRNAs, eight miRNAs were first identified in common carp. Thirty of the 698 miRNAs were differentially expressed miRNAs (DIE-miRNAs) between the FC infected and control samples. From the DIE-miRNAs, seven were selected randomly and their expression profiles were confirmed to be consistent with the microRNA sequencing results using RT-PCR and qRT-PCR. In addition, a total of 27,363 target genes of the 30 DIE-miRNAs were predicted. The target genes were enriched in five Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways, including focal adhesion, extracellular matrix (ECM)-receptor interaction, erythroblastic leukemia viral oncogene homolog (ErbB) signaling pathway, regulation of actin cytoskeleton, and adherent junction. The miRNA expression profile of the liver of common carp infected with FC will pave the way for the development of effective strategies to fight against FC infection.
Molecular Mechanisms of the Anti-Obesity and Anti-Diabetic Properties of Flavonoids
Authors: Kawser Hossain Mohammed , Abdal Dayem Ahmed , Han Jihae , Yin Yingfu , Kim Kyeongseok , Kumar Saha Subbroto , Yang Gwang-Mo , Choi Hye , Cho Ssang-Goo
Published: April 2016

Obesity and diabetes are the most prevailing health concerns worldwide and their incidence is increasing at a high rate, resulting in enormous social costs. Obesity is a complex disease commonly accompanied by insulin resistance and increases in oxidative stress and inflammatory marker expression, leading to augmented fat mass in the body. Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disorder characterized by the destruction of pancreatic β cells or diminished insulin secretion and action insulin. Obesity causes the development of metabolic disorders such as DM, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and inflammation-based pathologies. Flavonoids are the secondary metabolites of plants and have 15-carbon skeleton structures containing two phenyl rings and a heterocyclic ring. More than 5000 naturally occurring flavonoids have been reported from various plants and have been found to possess many beneficial effects with advantages over chemical treatments. A number of studies have demonstrated the potential health benefits of natural flavonoids in treating obesity and DM, and show increased bioavailability and action on multiple molecular targets. This review summarizes the current progress in our understanding of the anti-obesity and anti-diabetic potential of natural flavonoids and their molecular mechanisms for preventing and/or treating obesity and diabetes.
Current Insights into Long Non-Coding RNAs in Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Seles Maximilian , Hutterer Georg , Kiesslich Tobias , Pummer Karl , Berindan-Neagoe Ioana , Perakis Samantha , Schwarzenbacher Daniela , Stotz Michael , Gerger Armin , Pichler Martin
Published: April 2016

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) represents a deadly disease with rising mortality despite intensive therapeutic efforts. It comprises several subtypes in terms of distinct histopathological features and different clinical presentations. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are non-protein-coding transcripts in the genome which vary in expression levels and length and perform diverse functions. They are involved in the inititation, evolution and progression of primary cancer, as well as in the development and spread of metastases. Recently, several lncRNAs were described in RCC. This review emphasises the rising importance of lncRNAs in RCC. Moreover, it provides an outlook on their therapeutic potential in the future.
Physical Characteristics of the Leaves and Latex of Papaya Plants Infected with the Papaya meleira Virus
Authors: Magaña-Álvarez Anuar , Vencioneck Dutra Jean , Carneiro Tarcio , Pérez-Brito Daisy , Tapia-Tussell Raúl , Ventura Jose , Higuera-Ciapara Inocencio , Fernandes Patricia , Fernandes Antonio
Published: April 2016

Sticky disease, which is caused by Papaya meleira virus (PMeV), is a significant papaya disease in Brazil and Mexico, where it has caused severe economic losses, and it seems to have spread to Central and South America. Studies assessing the pathogen-host interaction at the nano-histological level are needed to better understand the mechanisms that underlie natural resistance. In this study, the topography and mechanical properties of the leaf midribs and latex of healthy and PMeV-infected papaya plants were observed by atomic force microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Healthy plants displayed a smooth surface with practically no roughness of the leaf midribs and the latex and a higher adhesion force than infected plants. PMeV promotes changes in the leaf midribs and latex, making them more fragile and susceptible to breakage. These changes, which are associated with increased water uptake and internal pressure in laticifers, causes cell disruption that leads to spontaneous exudation of the latex and facilitates the spread of PMeV to other laticifers. These results provide new insights into the papaya-PMeV interaction that could be helpful for controlling papaya sticky disease.
Myoelectric Manifestations of Fatigue after ACL Reconstruction: A Cross-Sectional Study after Postoperative Rehabilitation
Authors: Beretta-Piccoli Matteo , Schneebeli Alessandro , Egloff Michele , Cescon Corrado , Clijsen Ron , Togninalli Danilo , Barbero Marco
Published: April 2016

An increased fatigability associated with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury may persist several months after surgery. The purpose of this study was to investigate the behavior of muscle fiber conduction velocity (CV) as a descriptor of myoelectric fatigue, at different stages after rehabilitation, post-ACL reconstruction. Nineteen subjects acted as control group (CG), 10 patients had undergone surgery within 12 months (R12), and 23 patients were more than 24 months post-surgery (R24+). Surface electromyography (EMG) signals were detected from the quadriceps femoris using bidimensional arrays during isometric contractions at 20% and 60% maximal voluntary contraction (MVC). We observed a lower fatigability in the R24+ group during the 60% MVC contraction, with respect to the other groups. Lower fatigability of quadriceps muscle after ACL reconstruction in the long term may be linked to a recovery from a transitory altered motor unit recruitment strategy due to surgery, observed in the R12 group. Therefore, the findings of this study do not suggest an impaired fatigability of the quadriceps muscle during sustained isometric contractions in active patients in the long term.
SiO2-CaO-P2O5 Bioactive Glasses: A Promising Curcuminoids Delivery System
Authors: Nicolini Valentina , Caselli Monica , Ferrari Erika , Menabue Ledi , Lusvardi Gigliola , Saladini Monica , Malavasi Gianluca
Published: April 2016

In this paper, we report the study of the loading and the release of curcuminoids by bioactive glasses (BG) and mesoporous bioactive glasses (MBG). Through a detailed spectroscopic study, it was possible to determine the amount and the type of molecules released in water and in simulated body fluid (SBF). In particular, curcumin and K2T21 show a good ability to be released in di-keto and keto-enolic form, depending from the pH. However, after 24 h, the amount of pristine curcumin release is very low with a consequent increment of degradation products derived by curcuminoids. The presence of –OH groups on curcuminoids is a fundamental pre-requisite in order to obtain a high loading and release in polar solution such as water and SBF. The substrate on which we loaded the drugs does not seem to affect significantly the loading and the release of the drugs. The environment, instead, affects the release: for all the drugs, the release in SBF, buffered at pH of 7.4, is slightly worse than the release in water (basic pH values).
Physicochemical and Biological Characterization of Fucoidan from Fucus vesiculosus Purified by Dye Affinity Chromatography
Authors: Zayed Ahmed , Muffler Kai , Hahn Thomas , Rupp Steffen , Finkelmeier Doris , Burger-Kentischer Anke , Ulber Roland
Published: April 2016

A comparative study concerning the physicochemical, monomeric composition and biological characters among different fucoidan fractions is presented. Common purification techniques for fucoidan usually involve many steps. During these steps, the important structural features might be affected and consequently alter its biological activities. Three purified fractions were derived from Fucus vesiculosus water extract which, afterwards, were purified by a recently-developed dye affinity chromatography protocol. This protocol is based on dye-sulfated polysaccharide interactions. The first two fractions were obtained from crude precipitated fucoidan at different pH values of the adsorption phase: pH 1 and 6. This procedure resulted in fucoidan_1 and 6 fractions. The other, third, fraction: fucoidan_M, however, was obtained from a buffered crude extract at pH 1, eliminating the ethanol precipitation step. All of the three fractions were then further evaluated. Results revealed that fucoidan_M showed the highest sulfur content (S%), 12.11%, with the lowest average molecular weight, 48 kDa. Fucose, galactose, and uronic acid/glucose dimers were detected in all fractions, although, xylose was only detected in fucoidan_1 and 6. In a concentration of 10 µg·mL−1, Fucoidan_6 showed the highest heparin-like anticoagulant activity and could prolong the APTT and TT significantly to 66.03 ± 2.93 and 75.36 ± 1.37 s, respectively. In addition, fucoidan_M demonstrated the highest potency against HSV-1 with an IC50 of 2.41 µg·mL−1. The technique proved to be a candidate for fucoidan purifaction from its crude extract removing the precipitation step from common purification protocols and produced different fucoidan qualities resulted from the different incubation conditions with the immobilized thiazine toluidine blue O dye.
Effect of Welding Speed on Defect Features and Mechanical Performance of Friction Stir Lap Welded 7B04 Aluminum Alloy
Authors: Zhang Huijie , Wang Min , Zhang Xiao , Zhu Zhi , Yu Tao , Yang Guangxin
Published: April 2016

Friction stir lap welding of 7B04 aluminum alloy was conducted in the present paper, and the effect of welding speed on the defect features and mechanical performance of lap joints was investigated. The results indicate that the hook defect at the advancing side (AS) can reduce the effective thickness of the top sheet, and the sheet thinning level is gradually lowered by increasing the welding speed. The cold lap defect at the retreating side (RS) can result in effective thickness reduction in both top and bottom sheets, and the total height of the cold lap defect varies slightly with the welding speed. The tensile properties of the lap joints are largely related to the sheet thinning levels caused by the defects. The fracture strength of AS-loaded lap joints is progressively increased with increasing welding speed, while that of RS-loaded lap joints evolves slightly with welding speed. It is found that the affecting characteristic of loading configuration on the joint performance is also dependent on the welding speed. At lower welding speeds, the AS-loaded lap joints show lower fracture strength than the RS-loaded lap joints. When the welding speed is high, the AS-loaded lap joints present superior tensile properties to RS-loaded lap joints.
Optofluidic Device Based Microflow Cytometers for Particle/Cell Detection: A Review
Authors: Zhang Yushan , Watts Benjamin , Guo Tianyi , Zhang Zhiyi , Xu Changqing , Fang Qiyin
Published: April 2016

Optofluidic devices combining micro-optical and microfluidic components bring a host of new advantages to conventional microfluidic devices. Aspects, such as optical beam shaping, can be integrated on-chip and provide high-sensitivity and built-in optical alignment. Optofluidic microflow cytometers have been demonstrated in applications, such as point-of-care diagnostics, cellular immunophenotyping, rare cell analysis, genomics and analytical chemistry. Flow control, light guiding and collecting, data collection and data analysis are the four main techniques attributed to the performance of the optofluidic microflow cytometer. Each of the four areas is discussed in detail to show the basic principles and recent developments. 3D microfabrication techniques are discussed in their use to make these novel microfluidic devices, and the integration of the whole system takes advantage of the miniaturization of each sub-system. The combination of these different techniques is a spur to the development of microflow cytometers, and results show the performance of many types of microflow cytometers developed recently.
Dendrimers and Dendrons as Versatile Building Blocks for the Fabrication of Functional Hydrogels
Authors: Kaga Sadik , Arslan Mehmet , Sanyal Rana , Sanyal Amitav
Published: April 2016

Hydrogels have emerged as a versatile class of polymeric materials with a wide range of applications in biomedical sciences. The judicious choice of hydrogel precursors allows one to introduce the necessary attributes to these materials that dictate their performance towards intended applications. Traditionally, hydrogels were fabricated using either polymerization of monomers or through crosslinking of polymers. In recent years, dendrimers and dendrons have been employed as well-defined building blocks in these materials. The multivalent and multifunctional nature of dendritic constructs offers advantages in either formulation or the physical and chemical properties of the obtained hydrogels. This review highlights various approaches utilized for the fabrication of hydrogels using well-defined dendrimers, dendrons and their polymeric conjugates. Examples from recent literature are chosen to illustrate the wide variety of hydrogels that have been designed using dendrimer- and dendron-based building blocks for applications, such as sensing, drug delivery and tissue engineering.
New Inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase and Cyclooxygenase-2 Inhibitors, Nalidixic Acid Linked to Isatin Schiff Bases via Certain l-Amino Acid Bridges
Authors: Naglah Ahmed , Ahmed Atallah , Wen Zhi-Hong , Al-Omar Mohamed , Amr Abd , Kalmouch Atef
Published: April 2016

A series of new Schiff bases were synthesized by condensation of isatins with the nalidixic acid-l-amino acid hydrazides. Prior to hydrazide formation, a peptide linkage has been prepared via coupling of nalidixic acid with appropriate l-amino acid methyl esters to yield 3a–c. The chemical structures of the new Schiff bases (5b and 5d–h) were confirmed by means of IR, NMR, mass spectroscopic, and elemental analyses. The anti-inflammatory activity of these Schiff bases was evaluated via measurement of the expressed inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) in the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophage cells model. The Schiff bases exhibited significant dual inhibitory effect against the induction of the pro-inflammatory iNOS and COX-2 proteins with variable potencies. However, they strongly down-regulated the iNOS expression to the level of 16.5% ± 7.4%–42.2% ± 19.6% compared to the effect on COX-2 expression (<56.4% ± 3.1% inhibition) at the same concentration (10 μM). The higher iNOS inhibition activity of the tested Schiff bases, relative to that of COX-2, seems to be a reflection of the combined suppressive effects exerted by their nalidixic acid, isatins (4a–c), and l-amino acid moieties against iNOS expression. These synthesized nalidixic acid-l-amino acid-isatin conjugates can be regarded as a novel class of anti-inflammatory antibacterial agents.
Analysis and Testing of Bisphenol A—Free Bio-Based Tannin Epoxy-Acrylic Adhesives
Authors: Jahanshahi Shayesteh , Pizzi Antonio , Abdulkhani Ali , Shakeri Alireza
Published: April 2016

A tannin-based epoxy acrylate resin was prepared from glycidyl ether tannin (GET) and acrylic acid. The influence of the reaction condition for producing tannin epoxy acrylate was studied by FT-MIR, 13C-NMR, MALDI-TOF spectroscopy and shear strength. The best reaction conditions for producing tannin epoxy acrylate resin without bisphenol A was by reaction between GET and acrylic acid in the presence of a catalyst and hydroquinone at 95 °C for 12 h. FT-MIR, 13C-NMR and MALDI-TOF analysis have confirmed that the resin has been prepared under these conditions. The joints bonded with this resin were tested for block shear strength. The results obtained indicated that the best strength performance was obtained by the bioepoxy-acrylate adhesive resin prepared at 95 °C for a 12-h reaction.
Modification of Spherical Polyelectrolyte Brushes by Layer-by-Layer Self-Assembly as Observed by Small Angle X-ray Scattering
Authors: Tian Yuchuan , Li Li , Han Haoya , Wang Weihua , Wang Yunwei , Ye Zhishuang , Guo Xuhong
Published: April 2016

Multilayer modified spherical polyelectrolyte brushes were prepared through alternate deposition of positively charged poly(allylamine hydrochloride) (PAH) and negatively charged poly-l-aspartic acid (PAsp) onto negatively charged spherical poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) brushes (SPBs) on a poly(styrene) core. The charge reversal determined by the zeta potential indicated the success of layer-by-layer (LBL) deposition. The change of the structure during the construction of multilayer modified SPBs was observed by small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS). SAXS results indicated that some PAH chains were able to penetrate into the PAA brush for the PAA-PAH double-layer modified SPBs whereas part of the PAH moved towards the outer layer when the PAsp layer was loaded to form a PAA-PAH-PAsp triple-layer system. The multilayer modified SPBs were stable upon changing the pH (5 to 9) and ionic strength (1 to 100 mM). The triple-layer modified SPBs were more tolerated to high pH (even at 11) compared to the double-layer ones. SAXS is proved to be a powerful tool for studying the inner structure of multilayer modified SPBs, which can establish guidelines for the a range of potential applications of multilayer modified SPBs.
Moral and Cultural Awareness in Emerging Adulthood: Preparing for Multi-Faith Workplaces
Authors: Herzog Patricia , Beadle De , Harris Daniel , Hood Tiffany , Venugopal Sanjana
Published: April 2016

The study evaluates a pilot course designed to respond to findings from the National Study of Youth and Religion (NSYR) and similar findings reporting changes in U.S. life course development and religious participation through an intervention based on sociological theories of morality. The purpose of the study is to investigate the impacts of a business course in a public university designed to prepare emerging adults for culturally and religiously diverse workplaces. The intended outcomes are for students to better identify their personal moral values, while also gaining cultural awareness of the moral values in six different value systems: five major world religions and secular humanism. The study response rate was 97 percent (n = 109). Pre- and post-test survey data analyze changes in the reports of students enrolled in the course (primary group) compared to students in similar courses but without an emphasis on morality (controls). Qualitative data include survey short answer questions, personal mission statements, and student essays describing course impacts. Quantitative and qualitative results indicate reported increases in identification of personal moral values and cultural awareness of other moral values, providing initial evidence that the course helps prepare emerging adults for multi-faith workplaces.
Antenna Deployment for the Localization of Partial Discharges in Open-Air Substations
Authors: Robles Guillermo , Fresno José , Sánchez-Fernández Matilde , Martínez-Tarifa Juan
Published: April 2016

Partial discharges are ionization processes inside or on the surface of dielectrics that can unveil insulation problems in electrical equipment. The charge accumulated is released under certain environmental and voltage conditions attacking the insulation both physically and chemically. The final consequence of a continuous occurrence of these events is the breakdown of the dielectric. The electron avalanche provokes a derivative of the electric field with respect to time, creating an electromagnetic impulse that can be detected with antennas. The localization of the source helps in the identification of the piece of equipment that has to be decommissioned. This can be done by deploying antennas and calculating the time difference of arrival (TDOA) of the electromagnetic pulses. However, small errors in this parameter can lead to great displacements of the calculated position of the source. Usually, four antennas are used to find the source but the array geometry has to be correctly deployed to have minimal errors in the localization. This paper demonstrates, by an analysis based on simulation and also experimentally, that the most common layouts are not always the best options and proposes a simple antenna layout to reduce the systematic error in the TDOA calculation due to the positions of the antennas in the array.
Graphite Based Electrode for ECG Monitoring: Evaluation under Freshwater and Saltwater Conditions
Authors: Thap Tharoeun , Yoon Kwon-Ha , Lee Jinseok
Published: April 2016

We proposed new electrodes that are applicable for electrocardiogram (ECG) monitoring under freshwater- and saltwater-immersion conditions. Our proposed electrodes are made of graphite pencil lead (GPL), a general-purpose writing pencil. We have fabricated two types of electrode: a pencil lead solid type (PLS) electrode and a pencil lead powder type (PLP) electrode. In order to assess the qualities of the PLS and PLP electrodes, we compared their performance with that of a commercial Ag/AgCl electrode, under a total of seven different conditions: dry, freshwater immersion with/without movement, post-freshwater wet condition, saltwater immersion with/without movement, and post-saltwater wet condition. In both dry and post-freshwater wet conditions, all ECG-recorded PQRST waves were clearly discernible, with all types of electrodes, Ag/AgCl, PLS, and PLP. On the other hand, under the freshwater- and saltwater-immersion conditions with/without movement, as well as post-saltwater wet conditions, we found that the proposed PLS and PLP electrodes provided better ECG waveform quality, with significant statistical differences compared with the quality provided by Ag/AgCl electrodes.
Intra-Tissue Pressure Measurement in Ex Vivo Liver Undergoing Laser Ablation with Fiber-Optic Fabry-Perot Probe
Authors: Tosi Daniele , Saccomandi Paola , Schena Emiliano , Duraibabu Dinesh , Poeggel Sven , Leen Gabriel , Lewis Elfed
Published: April 2016

We report the first-ever intra-tissue pressure measurement performed during 1064 nm laser ablation (LA) of an ex vivo porcine liver. Pressure detection has been performed with a biocompatible, all-glass, temperature-insensitive Extrinsic Fabry-Perot Interferometry (EFPI) miniature probe; the proposed methodology mimics in-vivo treatment. Four experiments have been performed, positioning the probe at different positions from the laser applicator tip (from 0.5 mm to 5 mm). Pressure levels increase during ablation time, and decrease with distance from applicator tip: the recorded peak parenchymal pressure levels range from 1.9 kPa to 71.6 kPa. Different pressure evolutions have been recorded, as pressure rises earlier in proximity of the tip. The present study is the first investigation of parenchymal pressure detection in liver undergoing LA: the successful detection of intra-tissue pressure may be a key asset for improving LA, as pressure levels have been correlated to scattered recurrences of tumors by different studies.
A Fiber Bragg Grating Sensing-Based Micro-Vibration Sensor and Its Application
Authors: Li Tianliang , Tan Yuegang , Zhou Zude
Published: April 2016

This paper proposes a fiber Bragg grating sensing-based micro-vibration sensor. The optical fiber has been directly treated as an elastomer to design the micro-vibration sensor, which possesses two FBGs. The mass is fixed on the middle of the fiber, and the vertical vibration of the mass has been converted into the axial tension/compression of the fiber. The principle of the sensor has been introduced, and the experiment conclusions show that the sensor sensitivity is 2362 pm/g within the range of 200–1200 mm/s2, which is consistent with theoretical analysis sensitivity of 2532.6 pm/g, and it shows an excellent linearity of 1.376%, while the resonant frequency of the sensor is 34 Hz, and the flat frequency range resides in the 0–22 Hz range. When used to measure micro-vibrations, its measured frequency relative error is less than 1.69% compared with the values acquired with a MEMS accelerometer, and the amplitude values of its measured vibration signal are consistent with the MEMS accelerometer under different excitation conditions too, so it can effectively realize the micro-vibration measurements.
Local Dynamics in an Infinite Harmonic Chain
Authors: Lee M.
Published: April 2016

By the method of recurrence relations, the time evolution in a local variable in a harmonic chain is obtained. In particular, the autocorrelation function is obtained analytically. Using this result, a number of important dynamical quantities are obtained, including the memory function of the generalized Langevin equation. Also studied are the ergodicity and chaos in a local dynamical variable.
Ochratoxin A: Molecular Interactions, Mechanisms of Toxicity and Prevention at the Molecular Level
Authors: Kőszegi Tamás , Poór Miklós
Published: April 2016

Ochratoxin A (OTA) is a widely-spread mycotoxin all over the world causing major health risks. The focus of the present review is on the molecular and cellular interactions of OTA. In order to get better insight into the mechanism of its toxicity and on the several attempts made for prevention or attenuation of its toxic action, a detailed description is given on chemistry and toxicokinetics of this mycotoxin. The mode of action of OTA is not clearly understood yet, and seems to be very complex. Inhibition of protein synthesis and energy production, induction of oxidative stress, DNA adduct formation, as well as apoptosis/necrosis and cell cycle arrest are possibly involved in its toxic action. Since OTA binds very strongly to human and animal albumin, a major emphasis is done regarding OTA-albumin interaction. Displacement of OTA from albumin by drugs and by natural flavonoids are discussed in detail, hypothesizing their potentially beneficial effect in order to prevent or attenuate the OTA-induced toxic consequences.
Use of general practice services 5 years after an episode of mental illness: case–control study using electronic records
Authors: Wildeboer Renée M , van der Hoek Lucas , Verhaak Peter FM
Published: April 2016

Background

Depression, anxiety, and emotional distress occur frequently and are usually treated in general practice. Little has been reported about the long-term course of these conditions and the long-term use of medical services.

Aim

To follow up patients with depression, anxiety, and emotional distress in general practice for 5 years and examine the length and number of index episodes, prescribing behaviour, and the use of services in general practice.

Design and setting

A case–control study using data from electronic medical records.

Method

Three cohorts of patients with depression (n= 453), anxiety (n= 442), and emotional distress (n= 185) were compared against a cohort of control patients (n= 4156) during a 5-year follow-up from 2007 to 2011. The occurrence or recurrence of the index disorders, other psychological disorders or medical conditions, the numbers of prescriptions, and the number of contacts with the general practice were all examined.

Results

Patients in the depression group had 1.1 followup episodes of depression, those in the anxiety group had 0.9 follow-up episodes of anxiety, and those in the emotional distress group had 0.5 follow-up episodes of emotional distress during the 5 years. All three groups had more consultations (for both psychological and somatic reasons) during each of the follow-up years than control patients. Furthermore, the groups with mental health disorders were given more prescriptions for psychopharmacological treatment.

Conclusion

Five years after the index episode in 2007, patients with an episode of depression, anxiety, or emotional distress are still not comparable with control patients, in terms of the prevalence of mental health conditions, the number of prescriptions, and healthcare use.
Effectiveness of personalised support for self-management in primary care: a cluster randomised controlled trial
Authors: Eikelenboom Nathalie , van Lieshout Jan , Jacobs Annelies , Verhulst Frank , Lacroix Joyca , van Halteren Aart , Klomp Maarten , Smeele Ivo , Wensing Michel
Published: April 2016

Background

Self-management support is an important component of the clinical management of many chronic conditions. The validated Self-Management Screening questionnaire (SeMaS) assesses individual characteristics that influence a patient’s ability to self-manage.

Aim

To assess the effect of providing personalised self-management support in clinical practice on patients’ activation and health-related behaviours.

Design and setting

A cluster randomised controlled trial was conducted in 15 primary care group practices in the south of the Netherlands.

Method

After attending a dedicated self-management support training session, practice nurses in the intervention arm discussed the results of SeMaS with the patient at baseline, and tailored the self-management support. Participants completed a 13-item Patient Activation Measure (PAM-13) and validated lifestyle questionnaires at baseline and after 6 months. Data, including individual care plans, referrals to self-management interventions, self-monitoring, and healthcare use, were extracted from patients’ medical records. Multilevel multiple regression was used to assess the effect on outcomes.

Results

The PAM-13 score did not differ significantly between the control (n= 348) and intervention (n= 296) arms at 6 months. In the intervention arm, 29.4% of the patients performed self-monitoring, versus 15.2% in the control arm (effect sizer= 0.9,P= 0.01). In the per protocol analysis (controln= 348; interventionn= 136), the effect of the intervention was significant on the number of individual care plans (effect sizer= 1.3,P= 0.04) and on self-monitoring (effect sizer= 1.0,P= 0.01).

Conclusion

This study showed that discussing SeMaS and offering tailored support did not affect patient activation or lifestyle, but did stimulate patients to self-monitor and use individual care plans.
Le droit de chacun à respirer un air qui ne nuise pas à sa santé
Authors: Moliner-Dubost Marianne
Published: April 2016

La loi sur l'air de 1996 a reconnu à chacun le droit à respirer un air qui ne nuise pas à sa santé. Ce droit est cependant présenté comme l'objectif d'une politique à laquelle toute personne, publique ou privée, physique ou morale, doit concourir. Il formule ainsi réthoriquement un devoir de contribution à l'amélioration de la qualité de l'air dont l'accomplissement nécessitait la reconnaissance d'un droit à l'information sur la qualité de l'air et ses effets. Garanti par l'Etat et assuré par l'organisation des missions de service public correspondantes (surveillance et diffusion), ce droit présente le caractère d'un « droit- créance ». En poussant le raisonnement, on en vient dès lors à se demander si finalement ce droit à l'information sur la qualité de l'air ne serait pas le volet procédural de ce droit sans substance qu'est le « droit à l'air ».
Konstanzprüfung der Systemlinearität von Aktivimetern mittels 99mTc
Authors: Knoop Bernd , Vehrenkamp Iris , Rudolf Frank , Geworski Lilli , Schütze Christian
Published: April 2016

Das Aktivimeter ist eines der wichtigsten und am häufigsten eingesetzten Messinstrumente zur Bestimmung der Aktivität in der Nuklearmedizin. Um eine gleichbleibende Qualität der Aktivitätsmessungen zu gewährleisten, ist unter anderem die Konstanzprüfung der Systemlinearität in regelmäßigen Abständen durchzuführen, typischerweise gemessen mit 99mTc. Das aus einem 99Mo/99mTc-Generator gewonnene 99mTc-Eluat enthält eine Molybdän-Verunreinigung. Wird der Molybdän-Verunreinigungsanteil nicht berücksichtigt, so kann die für die Konstanzprüfung erlaubte Toleranzgrenze der Abweichung zum Referenzwert von maximal 5% trotz fehlerfreier Messfunktion des Aktivimeters überschritten werden. Wesentliche Ursachen für diese Verunreinigung sind neben dem reinen Verunreinigungsanteil auch dessen relativer Anstieg in Abhängigkeit von der Gesamtdauer der Messung (hohe Startaktivitäten). Ergebnis: Im Rahmen dieser Arbeit wurde der Einfluss der Molybdän-Verunreinigung auf die Ergebnisse der Konstanzprüfung zur Systemlinearität untersucht und für bestimmte Verunreinigungen die maximalen Startaktivitäten ermittelt, bei denen die systematischen Abweichungen in der Systemlinearität im Rahmen der Konstanzprüfung unter 5% liegen. Schlussfolgerung: Sofern bestimmte Randbedingungen eingehalten werden, kann bei der Auswertung auf eine Korrektur bezüglich der Molybdänverunreinigung verzichtet werden.