bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Urban Allotment Gardens During Precarious Times: From Motives to Lived Experiences
Authors: Partalidou Maria , Anthopoulou Theodosia
Published: November 2015

Food production was mostly perceived as an agricultural issue grounded in a rural hinterland. However, with the social, political and economic crisis especially in the European South urban agriculture is rapidly developing and becoming increasingly important for city dwellers. Drawing on a case‐study of a municipal allotment garden in Northern Greece this article set out to explore the motives of urban dwellers for engaging in urban gardening. We elaborate a typology of gardeners using statistical analysis and Maslow's hierarchy of human needs. We then move from motives to placemaking and argue that despite the recent surge of gardens as places of production and satisfaction of basic level needs, new needs are emerging from lived experiences. Meanings, emotions and memories are embedded in the garden. Self‐actualisation needs are fulfilled, new skills are developed and virtual communities are also grown. This symbiotic relationship of agriculture and the city has yet to reach its full potential in helping city dwellers to overcome what they are deprived of due to the crisis, not only material goods and social benefits but moreover a sense of belonging and self‐respect.
Introduction
Authors: Blakeman Bree , Keen Ian
Published: November 2015

This Introduction to the volume briefly reviews the anthropological literature on the emotions and morality, and their relations to language and discourse. It then outlines the articles in the volume.
Activation of autophagy by unfolded proteins during endoplasmic reticulum stress
Authors: Yang Xiaochen , Srivastava Renu , Howell Stephen H. , Bassham Diane C.
Published: November 2015

Endoplasmic reticulum stress is defined as the accumulation of unfolded proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum, and is caused by conditions such as heat or agents that cause endoplasmic reticulum stress, including tunicamycin and dithiothreitol. Autophagy, a major pathway for degradation of macromolecules in the vacuole, is activated by these stress agents in a manner dependent on inositol‐requiring enzyme 1b (IRE1b), and delivers endoplasmic reticulum fragments to the vacuole for degradation. In this study, we examined the mechanism for activation of autophagy during endoplasmic reticulum stress in Arabidopsis thaliana. The chemical chaperones sodium 4–phenylbutyrate and tauroursodeoxycholic acid were found to reduce tunicamycin‐ or dithiothreitol‐induced autophagy, but not autophagy caused by unrelated stresses. Similarly, over‐expression of BINDING IMMUNOGLOBULIN PROTEIN (BIP), encoding a heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) molecular chaperone, reduced autophagy. Autophagy activated by heat stress was also found to be partially dependent on IRE1b and to be inhibited by sodium 4–phenylbutyrate, suggesting that heat‐induced autophagy is due to accumulation of unfolded proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum. Expression in Arabidopsis of the misfolded protein mimics zeolin or a mutated form of carboxypeptidase Y (CPY*) also induced autophagy in an IRE1b‐dependent manner. Moreover, zeolin and CPY* partially co‐localized with the autophagic body marker GFP–ATG8e, indicating delivery to the vacuole by autophagy. We conclude that accumulation of unfolded proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum is a trigger for autophagy under conditions that cause endoplasmic reticulum stress.
New insight into the systematics of Tomoceridae (Hexapoda, Collembola) by integrating molecular and morphological evidence
Authors: Yu Daoyuan , Zhang Feng , Stevens Mark I. , Yan Qibao , Liu Manqiang , Hu Feng
Published: November 2015

Tomoceridae is common but among the most problematic groups of Collembola. Its position within Collembola and the relationships within the family remain obscure. This also extends to the generic division of the subfamily Tomocerinae that remains controversial. This study examines these issues by integrating both molecular and morphological evidence. Our molecular phylogeny based on rDNA sequences supports the monophyly of Tomoceridae and the sister relationship between Tomocerinae and Lepidophorellinae. Reconstructions and tree topology tests constraining monophyly did not resolve the relationships between Tomoceridae and other collembolan groups. We also examined the morphology of the first instar (primary) larvae, which has significant phylogenetic value among higher Collembola. Mapping primary chaetotaxy onto our molecular phylogeny provided further evidence for the unique position of Tomoceridae within Entomobryomorpha and Collembola. The monophyly and subfamilial classification within Tomoceridae were validated here, whereas its position among Collembola will need further studies in a broader consideration across the major collembolan orders. Within Tomocerinae, the monophyly of Pogonognathellus was demonstrated, but the status of Tomocerus and Tomocerina is still to be resolved.
Conditional Conservatism and the Cost of Equity Capital: Information Precision and Information Asymmetry Effects
Authors: Biddle Gary C. , Ma Mary L. Z. , Wu Feng
Published: November 2015

Prior studies report negative or insignificant relations between conditional conservatism and the cost of equity capital, arguing that conservatism reduces information risk. Using accounting-based conditional conservatism proxies, however, we find a significantly positive association between conditional conservatism and the cost of equity. This positive relation operates via improving information precision about negative earnings shocks and generally inflating information asymmetry among investors, both of which increase the cost of equity. We further find that the cost of equity effect of conditional conservatism disappears in the period after the enactment of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX), consistent with the notion that nationwide improvement of information precision about negative news and diminished information asymmetry are engendered by the SOX regulation. This study adds to researches on conditional conservatism, SOX, and the cost of equity, and also has policy implications.
Efecto de la actitud de los directivos frente al riesgo en la orientación exportadora de las empresas. Un estudio empírico en Colombia
Authors: Gálvez Edgar Julián
Published: November 2015

El artículo presenta una investigación desarrollada con 308 empresas
colombianas exportadoras con el fin de indagar cómo influye la actitud
de los directivos frente al riesgo (AFR) en la orientación exportadora (OE)
de las empresas. Para esto se abordaron organizaciones exportadoras
tradicionales y empresas Born Global utilizando como método estadístico
las regresiones lineales múltiples. Los resultados muestran que dichas
empresas tiene un nivel medio tanto de AFR como de OE, y que la primera
variable afecta positiva y muy significativamente la segunda. Se concluye
que cuando los directivos asumen más riesgos, las organizaciones tienen
mayor orientación hacia mercados externos. Futuras investigaciones
podrían revisar esta relación en los llamados sectores de clase mundial
de Colombia y en otros países en vía de desarrollo.
Impact of vicarious learning through peer observation during simulation on student behavioural measures
Authors: Livsey Kae , Lavender-Stott Erin
Published: November 2015

Introduction: Having student peers observe and provide feedback has been found to aid learning in nursing and other health professions training settings (Cushing, Abbott, Lothian, Hall, & Westwood, 2011; Eldridge, Bear, Wayne, & Perea, 2013). Prior studies have documented student perceptions about the value of these experiences, but few studies examine the impact of these modalities on student behavioural outcomes. In this study, we describe the use of peer observation to evaluate student performance during a home visit simulation scenario using a standardised patient to explore whether serving as a peer observer supports vicarious learning to promote skill development in areas of assessment, communication, critical thinking and technical skills. Methods: Groups of four students were subdivided into dyads, with one pair of students serving as peer evaluators and one pair being engaged in a home visit simulation scenario using a standardised patient. Students then reversed roles. Peer observers and faculty members rated student behaviours using the Creighton Simulation Evaluation Instrument (CSEI), which examines technical, critical thinking, assessment and communication skills. Results: Groups of students who witnessed the scenario as peer evaluator prior to engaging in the simulation experience scored significantly higher mean scores on communication and assessment measures than those participating in the scenario first. In addition, peers tended to score their colleagues lower than faculty evaluators. Conclusions: Findings from this study indicate that integrating peer observation into simulation experiences can enhance student learning, particularly in the areas of assessment and communication.
Comparative study of ITO and TiN fabricated by low-temperature RF biased sputtering
Authors: Simon Daniel K. , Tröger David , Schenk Tony , Dirnstorfer Ingo , Fengler Franz P. G. , Jordan Paul M. , Krause Andreas , Mikolajick Thomas
Published: November 2015

Radio frequency (RF) biasing induced by a second plasma source at the substrate is applied to low-temperature sputtering processes for indium tin oxide (ITO) and titanium nitride (TiN) thin films. Investigations on crystal structure and surface morphology show that RF-biased substrate plasma processes result in a changed growth regime with different grain sizes and orientations than those produced by processes without a substrate bias. The influence of the RF bias is shown comparatively for reactive RF-sputtered ITO and reactive direct-current-sputtered TiN. The ITO layers exhibit an improved electrical resistivity of 0.5 mΩ cm and an optical absorption coefficient of 0.5 × 104 cm−1 without substrate heating. Room-temperature sputtered TiN layers are deposited that possess a resistivity (0.1 mΩ cm) of 3 orders of magnitude lower than, and a density (5.4 g/cm3) up to 45% greater than, those obtained from layers grown using the standard process without a substrate plasma.
Impact of size, secondary structure, and counterions on the binding of small ribonucleic acids to layered double hydroxide nanoparticles
Authors: Rodriguez Blanca V. , Pescador Jorge , Pollok Nicole , Beall Gary W. , Maeder Corina , Lewis L. Kevin
Published: November 2015

Use of ribonucleic acid (RNA) interference to regulate protein expression has become an important research topic and gene therapy tool, and therefore, finding suitable vehicles for delivery of small RNAs into cells is of crucial importance. Layered double metal hydroxides such as hydrotalcite (HT) have shown great promise as nonviral vectors for transport of deoxyribose nucleic acid (DNA), proteins, and drugs into cells, but the adsorption of RNAs to these materials has been little explored. In this study, the binding of small RNAs with different lengths and levels of secondary structure to HT nanoparticles has been analyzed and compared to results obtained with small DNAs in concurrent experiments. Initial experiments established the spectrophotometric properties of HT in aqueous solutions and determined that HT particles could be readily sedimented with near 100% efficiencies. Use of RNA+HT cosedimentation experiments as well as electrophoretic mobility shift assays demonstrated strong adsorption of RNA 25mers to HT, with twofold greater binding of single-stranded RNAs relative to double-stranded molecules. Strong affinities were also observed with ssRNA and dsRNA 54mers and with more complex transfer RNA molecules. Competition binding and RNA displacement experiments indicated that RNA-HT associations were strong and were only modestly affected by the presence of high concentrations of inorganic anions.
Dellen and corneal perforation after bilateral pterygium excision in a patient with no risk factors
Authors: González Gomez Ana , González de Gor Crooke José Luis , García-Ben Antonio , García-Campos Jose Manuel
Published: November 2015

Corneal perforation associated with dellen is a rare but serious complication of a primary pterygium excision. In this case report, we describe a 60-year-old man who underwent a corneal perforation in the centre of corneal dellen in his right eye and corneal dellen in his left eye after the surgical treatment of a bilateral pterygium with a bare sclera technique without adjunctive therapy. He was successfully treated with lamellar keratoplasty in his right eye and a conservative approach in his left eye, consisting of the use of artificial tears, antibiotic ointment and a patch. The clinical evidence from this brief interventional case report indicates that topical lubricants are proper therapy for corneal dellen. However, if corneal perforation is observed, lamellar keratoplasty is a good option.
New modified cellulose nanoparticles for solid-phase extraction of some metal ions in biological and water samples
Authors: Kenawy Ibrahim M.M. , Mortada Wael I. , Abou El-Reash Yasmeen G. , Hawwas Abdulqader H.
Published: November 2015

A preconcentration procedure for heavy metal ions in biological and water samples has been presented. The procedure is based on the sorption of Cu2+, Cd2+, Hg2+, and Pb2+ on cellulose nanoparticles modified with folic acid. The prepared adsorbent was characterized by FT-IR, SEM, TEM, and BET measurements. Potentiometric titration is used to prove the complexation between metal ions and the modified cellulose as well as to calculate the cation-exchange capacity of the sorbent. The influences of the analytical parameters including pH, amount of adsorbent, shaking time, temperature, conditions of desorption, and the effects of matrix ions were studied. Under the optimized conditions, the calibration curves for Cu2+, Cd2+, Hg2+, and Pb2+ were linear in the range of 2.7–200, 0.5–50, 0.37–150, and 10–300 μg L−1, respectively. The detection limits (3s, n = 10) for Cu2+, Cd2+, Hg2+, and Pb2+ were 0.81, 0.15, 0.11, and 3.9 μg L−1, respectively. The proposed method offers a preconcentration factor of 200 for all of the ions studied and an enhancement factor for Cu2+, Cd2+, Hg2+, and Pb2+ of 40.0, 30.8, 40.4, and 34.2, respectively. The accuracy of the suggested method was tested by analyzing spiked samples. The method was successfully applied to the determination of these metal ions in water and blood samples.
A detailed first principle study on the structural, elastic, and electronic properties of indium arsenide (InAs) under induced pressure
Authors: Kabita Kh. , Jameson M. , Sharma B.I. , Brojen R.K. , Thapa R.K.
Published: November 2015

An ab initio calculation of the structural, elastic, and electronic properties of indium arsenide (InAs) under induced pressure is investigated using density functional theory with modified Becke–Johnson potential within the generalised gradient approximation of the Perdew–Burke–Ernzerhof scheme. The lattice parameters are found to be in good agreement with experimental and other theoretical data. The pressure-induced structural phase transition of InAs zinc blende to rock salt structure is found to occur at 4.7 GPa pressure with a 17.2% of volume collapse. The elastic properties of both the zinc blende and rock salt structures at different pressures are studied. The electronic band structures at different pressures for both the structures are investigated using the total and partial density of states. The energy band gap of the InAs zinc blende phase is increased with increasing pressure while in rock salt the phase the conduction band crosses towards the valence band and thus shows metallic behaviour.
From Observational Studies to Causal Rule Mining
Authors: Li Jiuyong , Le Thuc Duy , Liu Lin , Liu Jixue , Jin Zhou , Sun Bingyu , Ma Saisai
Published: November 2015

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) are the most effective approach to causal discovery, but in many circumstances it is impossible to conduct RCTs. Therefore, observational studies based on passively observed data are widely accepted as an alternative to RCTs. However, in observational studies, prior knowledge is required to generate the hypotheses about the cause-effect relationships to be tested, and hence they can only be applied to problems with available domain knowledge and a handful of variables. In practice, many datasets are of high dimensionality, which leaves observational studies out of the opportunities for causal discovery from such a wealth of data sources. In another direction, many efficient data mining methods have been developed to identify associations among variables in large datasets. The problem is that causal relationships imply associations, but the reverse is not always true. However, we can see the synergy between the two paradigms here. Specifically, association rule mining can be used to deal with the high-dimensionality problem, whereas observational studies can be utilised to eliminate noncausal associations. In this article, we propose the concept of causal rules (CRs) and develop an algorithm for mining CRs in large datasets. We use the idea of retrospective cohort studies to detect CRs based on the results of association rule mining. Experiments with both synthetic and real-world datasets have demonstrated the effectiveness and efficiency of CR mining. In comparison with the commonly used causal discovery methods, the proposed approach generally is faster and has better or competitive performance in finding correct or sensible causes. It is also capable of finding a cause consisting of multiple variables—a feature that other causal discovery methods do not possess.
Model Checking Existential Logic on Partially Ordered Sets
Authors: Bova Simone , Ganian Robert , Szeider Stefan
Published: November 2015

We study the problem of checking whether an existential sentence (i.e., a first-order sentence in prefix form built using existential quantifiers and all Boolean connectives) is true in a finite partially ordered set (a poset). A poset is a reflexive, antisymmetric, and transitive digraph. The problem encompasses the fundamental embedding problem of finding an isomorphic copy of a poset as an induced substructure of another poset.

Model checking existential logic is already NP-hard on a fixed poset; thus, we investigate structural properties of posets yielding conditions for fixed-parameter tractability when the problem is parameterized by the sentence. We identify width as a central structural property (the width of a poset is the maximum size of a subset of pairwise incomparable elements); our main algorithmic result is that model checking existential logic on classes of finite posets of bounded width is fixed-parameter tractable. We observe a similar phenomenon in classical complexity, in which we prove that the isomorphism problem is polynomial-time tractable on classes of posets of bounded width; this settles an open problem in order theory.

We surround our main algorithmic result with complexity results on less restricted, natural neighboring classes of finite posets, establishing its tightness in this sense. We also relate our work with (and demonstrate its independence of) fundamental fixed-parameter tractability results for model checking on digraphs of bounded degree and bounded clique-width.
Fog Computing Distributing Data and Intelligence for Resiliency and Scale Necessary for IoT
Authors: Byers Charles C. , Wetterwald Patrick
Published: November 2015

The Internet of Everything (IoE) is more than a $19 trillion opportunity over 10 years. Fifty billions of devices will be connected to various networks in 2020. This is bringing new technical challenges in all domains and specifically in the data processing. Distributed intelligence is one of the key technological answers. We call it "fog computing." Fog can provide intelligent connection of people, processes, data, and things in hierarchical Internet of Things networks. By supplementing the cloud and providing intermediate layers of computation, networking, and storage, fog nodes can optimize IoE deployments---greatly enhancing latency, bandwidth, reliability, security, and overall IoE network performance. The article will analyze the architecture and main design choices of this technology.
On finding residue integrals for a class of systems of non-algebraic equations
Authors: Kytmanov A. A. , Kytmanov A. M. , Myshkina E. K.
Published: November 2015

A method of finding residue integrals for systems of non-algebraic equations containing analytic functions is presented. Such integrals are connected to the power sums of roots for a certain system of equations. The described approach can be used for developing methods for the elimination of unknowns from systems of non-algebraic equations.
Deterministic root finding in finite fields
Authors: De Feo Luca , Petit Christophe , Quisquater Michaël
Published: November 2015

Finding roots of polynomials with coefficients in a finite field is a special instance of the polynomial factorization problem. The most well known algorithm for factoring and root-finding is the Cantor-Zassenhaus algorithm. It is a Las Vegas algorithm with running time polynomial in both the polynomial degree and the field size. Its running time is quasi-optimal for the special case of root-finding.

No deterministic polynomial time algorithm for these problems is known in general, however several deterministic algorithms are known for special instances, most notably when the characteristic of the finite field is small.

The goal of this poster is to review the best deterministic algorithms for root-finding, in a systematic way. We present, in a unified way, four algorithms:

• Berlekamp's Trace Algorithm [2] (BTA),

• Moenk's Subgroup Refinement Method [7] (SRM),

• Menezes, van Oorschot and Vanstone's Affine Refinement Method [5, 10] (ARM), and

• Petit's Successive Resultants Algorithm [8] (SRA).

It is the first time that these algorithms are presented together in a comprehensive way, and that they are rigorously analysed, implemented and compared to each other.

In doing so, we obtain several new results:

• We significantly improve the complexity ARM, matching that of BTA and SRA.

• We highlight a profound duality relationship between ARM and SRA.

• We show how to combine ARM with SRM to obtain a new algorithm, which always performs better, and of which ARM and SRM are special instances. The new algorithm considerably extends the range of finite fields for which deterministic polynomial time root-finding is possible.

• We present several practical and asymptotic improvements to special instances of the algorithms.

Part of these results were submitted in response to the call for papers of ISSAC '15, but were rejected. This poster corrects some minor imperfections, improves the asymptotic complexities of some algorithms, and presents a new algorithm not previously known.
A multivariate quadratic challenge toward post-quantum generation cryptography
Authors: Yasuda Takanori , Dahan Xavier , Huang Yun-Ju , Takagi Tsuyoshi , Sakurai Kouichi
Published: November 2015

Multivariate polynomials over finite fields have found applications in Public Key Cryptography (PKC) where the hardness to find solutions provides the "one-way function" indispensable to such cryptosystems. Several schemes for both encryption and signature have been proposed, many of which are using quadratic (degree 2) polynomials. Finding a solution to such systems in general is called MQ problem, which easiest "generic" instances are NP-hard. An important feature of this Multivariate Pubic Key Cryptography (MPKC) is the resistance to quantum computers: no faster quantum algorithm than classical ones to solve MQ problem is known. Besides being thereby a candidate for Post-Quantum Cryptography, signatures are much shorter than to other candidates. We have established an open public "MQ Challenge" (https://www.mqchallenge.org) to stimulate progress in the design of efficient algorithms to solve MQ problem, and thus test limit parameters guaranteeing security of MPKC.
Upregulation of EMMPRIN (OX47) in Rat Dorsal Root Ganglion Contributes to the Development of Mechanical Allodynia after Nerve Injury
Authors: Wang Qun , Sun Yanyuan , Ren Yingna , Gao Yandong , Tian Li , Liu Yang , Pu Yanan , Gou Xingchun , Chen Yanke , Lu Yan
Published: November 2015

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are widely implicated in inflammation and tissue remodeling associated with various neurodegenerative diseases and play an important role in nociception and allodynia. Extracellular Matrix Metalloproteinase Inducer (EMMPRIN) plays a key regulatory role for MMP activities. However, the role of EMMPRIN in the development of neuropathic pain is not clear. Western blotting, real-time quantitative RT-PCR (qRT-PCR), and immunofluorescence were performed to determine the changes of messenger RNA and protein of EMMPRIN/OX47 and their cellular localization in the rat dorsal root ganglion (DRG) after nerve injury. Paw withdrawal threshold test was examined to evaluate the pain behavior in spinal nerve ligation (SNL) model. The lentivirus containing OX47 shRNA was injected into the DRG one day before SNL. The expression level of both mRNA and protein of OX47 was markedly upregulated in ipsilateral DRG after SNL. OX47 was mainly expressed in the extracellular matrix of DRG. Administration of shRNA targeted against OX47 in vivo remarkably attenuated mechanical allodynia induced by SNL. In conclusion, peripheral nerve injury induced upregulation of OX47 in the extracellular matrix of DRG. RNA interference against OX47 significantly suppressed the expression of OX47 mRNA and the development of mechanical allodynia. The altered expression of OX47 may contribute to the development of neuropathic pain after nerve injury.
A Low Complexity Subspace-Based DOA Estimation Algorithm with Uniform Linear Array Correlation Matrix Subsampling
Authors: Yoo Do-Sik
Published: November 2015

We propose a low complexity subspace-based direction-of-arrival (DOA) estimation algorithm employing a direct signal space construction method (DSPCM) by subsampling the autocorrelation matrix of a uniform linear array (ULA). Three major contributions of this paper are as follows. First of all, we introduce the method of autocorrelation matrix subsampling which enables us to employ a low complexity algorithm based on a ULA without computationally complex eigenvalue decomposition or singular-value decomposition. Secondly, we introduce a signal vector separation method to improve the distinguishability among signal vectors, which can greatly improve the performance, particularly, in low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) regime. Thirdly, we provide a root finding (RF) method in addition to a spectral search (SS) method as the angle finding scheme. Through simulations, we illustrate that the performance of the proposed scheme is reasonably close to computationally much more expensive MUSIC- (MUltiple SIgnal Classification-) based algorithms. Finally, we illustrate that the computational complexity of the proposed scheme is reduced, in comparison with those of MUSIC-based schemes, by a factor ofO(N2/K), whereKis the number of sources andNis the number of antenna elements.
Characterization and Bone Differentiation of Nanoporous Structure Fabricated on Ti6Al4V Alloy
Authors: Su Yingmin , Komasa Satoshi , Sekino Tohru , Nishizaki Hiroshi , Okazaki Joji
Published: November 2015

The optimal temperature for the alkaline treatment and subsequent heat treatment is determined to optimize the nanoporous structures formed on Ti6Al4V titanium alloy plates. Surface characterization of the alkali‐heat treated samples was performed by scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and X‐ray diffraction. The effects of heating temperatures on albumin adhesion, rat bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs) adhesion, alkaline phosphatase activity, osteocalcin production, calcium deposition, and Runx2 mRNA expression were evaluated. The nanotopography, surface chemistry, and surface roughness were unchanged even after heat treatments at 200, 400, and 600°C. Only the amorphous sodium titanate phase changed, increasing with the temperature of the heat treatments, which played a crucial role in promoting superior cell adhesion on the nanoporous surface compared with the sodium hydrogen titanate obtained by a single alkali treatment. The heat treatment at 800°C did not enhance cell attachment on the surface because the nanostructure was dramatically destroyed with the reappearance of Al and V. This study reveals that nanoporous structures with amorphous sodium titanate were fabricated on Ti6Al4V surface through an amended alkali‐heat treatment process to improve BMMSCs adhesion.
Adaptive Neural Back-Stepping Control with Constrains for a Flexible Air-Breathing Hypersonic Vehicle
Authors: Wang Pengfei , Wang Jie , Shi Jianming , Luo Chang , Tan Shili , Xu Qiyun
Published: November 2015

The design of an adaptive neural back-stepping control for a flexible air-breathing hypersonic vehicle (AHV) in the presence of input constraint and aerodynamic uncertainty is discussed. Based on functional decomposition, the dynamics can be decomposed into the velocity subsystem and the altitude subsystem. To guarantee the exploited controller’s robustness with respect to parametric uncertainties, neural network (NN) is applied to approximate the lumped uncertainty of each subsystem of AHV model. The exceptional contribution is that novel auxiliary systems are introduced to compensate both the tracking errors and desired control laws, based on which the explored controller can still provide effective tracking of velocity and altitude commands when the actuators are saturated. Finally, simulation studies are made to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed control approach in spite of the flexible effects, system uncertainties, and varying disturbances.
CTAB‐Assisted Hydrothermal Synthesis of WO3 Hierarchical Porous Structures and Investigation of Their Sensing Properties
Authors: Meng Dan , Wang Guosheng , San Xiaoguang , Shen Yanbai , Zhao Guodong , Zhang Yajing , Meng Fanli
Published: November 2015

WO3 hierarchical porous structures were successfully synthesized via cetyltrimethylammonium bromide‐ (CTAB‐) assisted hydrothermal method. The structure and morphology were investigated using scanning electron microscope, X‐ray diffractometer, transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectra, Brunauer‐Emmett‐Teller nitrogen adsorption‐desorption, and thermogravimetry and differential thermal analysis. The result demonstrated that WO3 hierarchical porous structures with an orthorhombic structure were constructed by a number of nanoparticles about 50–100 nm in diameters. The H2 gas sensing measurements showed that well‐defined WO3 hierarchical porous structures with a large specific surface area exhibited the higher sensitivity compared with products without CTAB at all operating temperatures. Moreover, the reversible and fast response to H2 gas and good selectivity were obtained. The results indicated that the WO3 hierarchical porous structures are promising materials for gas sensors.
Safety Evaluation of the Coagulase-Negative Staphylococci Microbiota of Salami: Superantigenic Toxin Production and Antimicrobial Resistance
Authors: Soares Casaes Nunes Raquel , Mere Del Aguila Eduardo , Paschoalin Vânia Margaret Flosi
Published: November 2015

The risks of contracting staphylococci food poisoning by the consumption of improperly manufactured salami and the possibility of this food being reservoirs for antibiotic resistance were evaluated. Nineteen coagulase-negative staphylococci (CNS) strains were found in commercial and artisanal salami. The species in commercial salami wereS. saprophyticus,S. sciuri,S. xylosus, andS. carnosus. Artisanal salami showedS. succinus,S. epidermidis, andS. hominisbut noS. carnosus. Phylogenetic analyses grouped the strains into three major staphylococcal species groups, comprised of 4 refined clusters with similarities superior to 90%. Fifteen strains harbored multiple enterotoxin genes, with high incidence ofseb/secandsea, 57% and 50%, respectively, intermediate incidence ofsed/seh/selmandsei/seln/tst-H, 33% and 27%, correspondingly, and low incidence ofsee/selj/seloandseg, of respectively 13% and 1%. Real time RT-PCR and enzyme-linked-immunosorbent assays confirmed the enterotoxigenicity of the strains, which expressed and produced enterotoxinsin vitro. The CNS strains showed multiresistance to several antimicrobials of therapeutic importance in both human and veterinarian medicine, such asβ-lactams, vancomycin, and linezolid. The effective control of undue staphylococci in fermented meat products should be adopted to prevent or limit the risk of food poisoning and the spread of antimicrobial-resistant strains.
Comparing the Air Abrasion Cutting Efficacy of Dentine Using a Fluoride-Containing Bioactive Glass versus an Alumina Abrasive: AnIn VitroStudy
Authors: Tan Melissa H. X. , Hill Robert G. , Anderson Paul
Published: November 2015

Air abrasion as a caries removal technique is less aggressive than conventional techniques and is compatible for use with adhesive restorative materials. Alumina, while being currently the most common abrasive used for cutting, has controversial health and safety issues and no remineralisation properties. The alternative, a bioactive glass, 45S5, has the advantage of promoting hard tissue remineralisation. However, 45S5 is slow as a cutting abrasive and lacks fluoride in its formulation. The aim of this study was to compare the cutting efficacy of dentine using a customised fluoride-containing bioactive glass Na0SR (38–80 μm) versus the conventional alumina abrasive (29 μm) in an air abrasion set-up. Fluoride was incorporated into Na0SR to enhance its remineralisation properties while strontium was included to increase its radiopacity. Powder outflow rate was recorded prior to the cutting tests. Principal air abrasion cutting tests were carried out on pristine ivory dentine. The abrasion depths were quantified and compared using X-ray microtomography. Na0SR was found to create deeper cavities than alumina (p<0.05) despite its lower powder outflow rate and predictably reduced hardness. The sharper edges of the Na0SR glass particles might improve the cutting efficiency. In conclusion, Na0SR was more efficacious than alumina for air abrasion cutting of dentine.
Effects of Sacrificing Tensor Tympani Muscle Tendon When Manubrium of Malleus Is Foreshortened in Type I Tympanoplasty
Authors: Vadiya Sohil
Published: November 2015

The current study aims at observing effects of sacrificing the tensor tympani tendon when manubrium of malleus is foreshortened or retracted on graft uptake, hearing improvement, and occurrence of complications if any during type I tympanoplasty surgery for central perforations. 42 patients were included in group A where the tensor tendon was sectioned and 42 patients were included in group B where the tensor tympani tendon was retained and kept intact. Graft uptake rates are very good in both groups but hearing improvement was found significantly better in group A than group B. No unusual or undesired complications were seen in any of the cases. Sectioning of tensor tympani tendon is safe and effective procedure in cases where manubrium is foreshortened.
On Distributions of Emission Sources and Speed-of-Sound in Proton-Proton (Proton-Antiproton) Collisions
Authors: Gao Li-Na , Liu Fu-Hu
Published: November 2015

The revised (three-source) Landau hydrodynamic model is used in this paper to study the (pseudo)rapidity distributions of charged particles produced in proton-proton and proton-antiproton collisions at high energies. The central source is assumed to contribute with a Gaussian function which covers the rapidity distribution region as wide as possible. The target and projectile sources are assumed to emit isotropically particles in their respective rest frames. The model calculations obtained with a Monte Carlo method are fitted to the experimental data over an energy range from 0.2 to 13 TeV. The values of the squared speed-of-sound parameter in different collisions are then extracted from the width of the rapidity distributions.
Sublethal Photothermal Stimulation with a Micropulse Laser Induces Heat Shock Protein Expression in ARPE-19 Cells
Authors: Inagaki Keiji , Shuo Takuya , Katakura Kanae , Ebihara Nobuyuki , Murakami Akira , Ohkoshi Kishiko
Published: November 2015

Purpose/Aim of the Study.Subthreshold micropulse diode laser photocoagulation is an effective treatment for macular edema. The molecular mechanisms underlying treatment success are poorly understood. Therefore, we investigated the effects of sublethal laser energy doses on a single layer of densely cultured ARPE-19 cells as a model of the human retinal pigment epithelium (RPE).Materials and Methods.A single layer of densely cultured human ARPE-19 cells was perpendicularly irradiated with a micropulse diode laser. Nonirradiated cells served as controls. Sublethal laser energy was applied to form a photocoagulation-like area in the cultured cell layers. Hsp70 expression was evaluated using quantitative polymerase chain reaction and immunocytochemistry.Results.Photocoagulation-like areas were successfully created in cultured ARPE-19 cell layers using sublethal laser energy with our laser irradiation system.Hsp70mRNA expression in cell layers was induced within 30 min of laser irradiation, peaking at 3 h after irradiation. This increase was dependent on the number of laser pulses. Hsp70 upregulation was not observed in untreated cell layers. Immunostaining indicated that Hsp70 expression occurred concentrically around laser irradiation sites and persisted for 24 h following irradiation.Conclusion.Sublethal photothermal stimulation with a micropulse laser may facilitate Hsp70 expression in the RPE without inducing cellular damage.
Percutaneous Ethanol Sclerotherapy of Symptomatic Nodules Is Effective and Safe in Pregnant Women: A Study of 13 Patients with an Average Follow-Up of 6.8 Years
Authors: Solymosi Tamas , Melczer Zsolt , Szabolcs Istvan , Nagy Endre V. , Goth Miklos
Published: November 2015

Background.Because of the increased risk of surgery, thyroid nodules causing compression signs and/or hyperthyroidism are concerning during pregnancy.Patients and Methods.Six patients with nontoxic cystic, four with nontoxic solid, and three with overt hyperthyroidism caused by toxic nodules were treated with percutaneous ethanol injection therapy (PEI). An average of 0.68 mL ethanol per 1 mL nodule volume was administered. Mean number of PEI treatments for patients was 2.9. Success was defined as the shrinkage of the nodule by more than 50% of the pretreatment volume (V0) and the normalization of TSH and FT4 levels. The average V0 was 15.3 mL. Short-term success was measured prior to labor, whereas long-term success was determined during the final follow-up (an average of 6.8 years).Results.The pressure symptoms decreased in all but one patient after PEI and did not worsen until delivery. The PEI was successful in 11 (85%) and 7 (54%) patients at short-term and long-term follow-up, respectively. Three patients underwent repeat PEI which was successful in 2 patients.Conclusions.PEI is a safe tool and seems to have good short-term results in treating selected symptomatic pregnant patients. Long-term success may require repeat PEI.
Radiosensitizing and Hyperthermic Properties of Hyaluronan Conjugated, Dextran‐Coated Ferric Oxide Nanoparticles: Implications for Cancer Stem Cell Therapy
Authors: Thapa Ranjeeta , Galoforo Sandra , Kandel Sunil M. , El-dakdouki Mohammad H. , Wilson Thomas G. , Huang Xuefei , Roth Bradley J. , Wilson George D.
Published: November 2015

Cytotoxicity, radiosensitivity, and hyperthermia sensitivity of hyaluronan‐mediated dextran‐coated super paramagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (HA‐DESPIONs) were assessed in CD44‐expressing head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) cell lines at clinically relevant radiation dose and temperatures. Low‐passage HNSCC cells were exposed to HA‐DESPIONs and cytotoxicity was assessed using MTT assay. Radiosensitizing properties of graded doses of HA‐DESPIONs were assessed in both unsorted and CD44‐sorted cells using clonogenic assay in combination with 2 Gy exposure to X‐rays. Hyperthermia‐induced toxicity was measured at 40°C, 41°C, and 42°C using clonogenic assay. Cell death was assessed 24 hours after treatment using a flow cytometry‐based apoptosis analysis. Results showed that HA‐DESPIONs were nontoxic at moderate concentrations and did not directly radiosensitize the cell lines. Further, there was no significant difference in the radiosensitivity of CD44high and CD44low cells. However, HA‐DESPIONs enhanced the effect of hyperthermia which resulted in reduced cell survival that appeared to be mediated through apoptosis. We demonstrated that HA‐DESPIONs are nontoxic and although they do not enhance radiation sensitivity, they did increase the effect of local hyperthermia. These results support further development of drug‐attached HA‐DESPIONs in combination with radiation for targeting cancer stem cells (CSCs) and the development of an alternating magnetic field approach to activate the HA‐DESPIONs attached to CSCs.
Expression of HGF and c-Met Proteins in Human Keratoconus Corneas
Authors: You Jingjing , Wen Li , Roufas Athena , Hodge Chris , Sutton Gerard , Madigan Michele C.
Published: November 2015

Keratoconus (KC) is a progressive degenerative inflammatory-related disease of the human cornea leading to decreased visual function. The pathogenesis of KC remains to be understood. Recent genetic studies indicate that gene variants of an inflammation-related molecule, hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), are associated with an increased susceptibility for developing KC. However HGF protein expression in KC has not been explored. In this initial study, we investigated late-stage KC and control corneas for the expression of HGF and its receptor mesenchymal-epithelial transition factor (c-Met/Met). KC buttons (~8 mm diameter) (n=10) and whole control corneas (n=6) were fixed in 10% formalin or 2% paraformaldehyde, paraffin embedded and sectioned. Sections were immunolabelled with HGF and c-Met antibodies, visualised using immunofluorescence, and examined with scanning laser confocal microscopy. Semiquantitative grading was used to compare HGF and c-Met immunostaining in KC and control corneas. Overall, KC corneas showed increased HGF and c-Met immunostaining compared to controls. KC corneal epithelium displayed heterogeneous moderate-to-strong immunoreactivity for HGF and c-Met, particularly in the basal epithelium adjacent to the cone area. Taken together with the recent genetic studies, our results further support a possible role for HGF/c-Met in the pathogenesis of KC.
Kidney Injury Molecule-1 and Cardiovascular Diseases: From Basic Science to Clinical Practice
Authors: Medić Branislava , Rovčanin Branislav , Basta Jovanović Gordana , Radojević-Škodrić Sanja , Prostran Milica
Published: November 2015

Despite the recent findings concerning pathogenesis and novel therapeutic strategies, cardiovascular disease (CVD) still stays the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with renal dysfunction, especially acute kidney injury (AKI). Early detection of patients with impaired renal function with cardiovascular risk may help ensure more aggressive treatment and improve clinical outcome. Kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1) is a new, promising marker of kidney damage which is currently the focus of countless studies worldwide. Some recent animal and human studies established KIM-1 as an important marker of acute tubular necrosis (ATN) and reliable predictor of development and prognosis of AKI. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in USA acclaimed KIM-1 as an AKI biomarker for preclinical drug development. Recent data suggest the importance of monitoring of KIM-1 for early diagnosis and clinical course not only in patients with various forms of AKI and other renal diseases but also in patients with cardiorenal syndrome, heart failure, cardiopulmonary bypass, cardiothoracic surgical interventions in the pediatric emergency setting, and so forth. The aim of this review article is to summarize the literature data concerning KIM-1 as a potential novel marker in the early diagnosis and prediction of clinical outcome of certain cardiovascular diseases.
Primary Mucoepidermoid Carcinoma Arising from Ectopic Salivary Tissue within an Intraparotid Lymph Node
Authors: Faras Fatemah , Abo-Alhassan Fawaz , Bastaki Jassem , Al-Sihan Mutlaq K.
Published: November 2015

Ectopic salivary tissue is commonly found in intraparotid and periparotid lymph nodes. Warthin tumor is the most common tumor arising in ectopic salivary gland tissue and in intraparotid lymph nodes. Although rare, neoplastic transformation of the ectopic salivary tissues is conceivable and other types of salivary gland neoplasms arising in intraparotid lymph nodes have been reported. Herein we report a rare case of a 32-year-old Kuwaiti male who presented with a mass in the right parotid gland. A preoperative fine needle aspiration suggested Warthin tumor. The patient underwent a superficial parotidectomy. The specimen showed a mass within the parotid parenchyma abutting the deep margin. Hematoxylin and Eosin stained sections of the lesion showed solid islands and cysts composed of epidermoid cells, mucus cells, and intermixed smaller “intermediate” cells within an intraparotid lymph node. The tumor was seen infiltrating the parotid parenchyma at the deep margin. Metastasis from distant sites was ruled out clinically, and the diagnosis rendered was MEC, low-grade, arising from ectopic salivary tissue in an intraparotid lymph node. Such cases are extremely rare and the presence of malignancies within lymph nodes may pose a diagnostic pitfall, which can affect patient management.
Inhibition of ACE Retards Tau Hyperphosphorylation and Signs of Neuronal Degeneration in Aged Rats Subjected to Chronic Mild Stress
Authors: AbdAlla Said , el Hakim Ahmed , Abdelbaset Ahmed , Elfaramawy Yasser , Quitterer Ursula
Published: November 2015

With increasing life expectancy, Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and other types of age-associated dementia are on the rise worldwide. Treatment approaches for dementia are insufficient and novel therapies are not readily available. In this context repurposing of established drugs appears attractive. A well-established class of cardiovascular drugs, which targets the angiotensin II system, is such a candidate, which currently undergoes a paradigm shift with regard to the potential benefit for treatment of neurodegenerative symptoms. In search for additional evidence, we subjected aged rats to chronic unpredictable mild stress, which is known to enhance the development of AD-related neuropathological features. We report here that four weeks of chronic mild stress induced a strong upregulation of the hippocampal angiotensin-converting enzyme (Ace) at gene expression and protein level. Concomitantly, tau protein hyperphosphorylation developed. Signs of neurodegeneration were detected by the significant downregulation of neuronal structure proteins such as microtubule-associated protein 2 (Map2) and synuclein-gamma (Sncg).Acewas involved in neurodegenerative symptoms because treatment with the brain-penetratingACEinhibitor, captopril, retarded tau hyperphosphorylation and signs of neurodegeneration. Moreover,ACEinhibitor treatment could counteract glutamate neurotoxicity by preventing the downregulation of glutamate decarboxylase 2 (Gad2). Taken together,ACEinhibition targets neurodegeneration triggered by environmental stress.