bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Study of Prevalence of Helicobacter Pylori in Patients with Acne Rosacea
Authors: Bhattarai S , Agrawal S , Rijal A , Majhi S , Pradhan B , Dhakal SS
Published: September 2014

Background Acne rosacea is an inflammatory disease affecting the central part of the face characterized by erythema, papules, papulo pustules and telangiectasias of unknown etiology. More recently numerous studies have described an association with Helicobacter pylori (Hp) and the extra gastric symptoms of cutaneous origin. Objectives To establish the prevalence of Helicobacter pylori (Hp) infection in the stomach in patients with rosacea based on standard Hp serological test. Methods All patients with the clinical staging of 2, 3 and 4 rosacea attending the Dermatology Out Patient Department from May 2009 – April 2010 were included in the study. Quantitative serological test using the SERION ELISA classic Helicobacter pylori IgG was done. Result A total of 26 patients were enrolled in the study with the age ranging from 26- 82 years. There were 14 males and 12 females and the male: female ratio was 1.6:1. Three (11.53%) patients presented with Grade IV rosacea, a severe clinical presentation and symptoms suggestive of acid peptic diseases were found in 14/26 (53.8%) patients. A positive serology to H. pylori was found in 17/26 (65.4%) of patients. A statistically significant correlation was found when association of H.pylori positivity in patients of rosacea compared with the seropositivity in controls. However correlation in the seropositivity was not found amongst the patients having gastritis and rosacea. Conclusion There still proves to find a correlation of Hp infection with patients with rosacea but it can still be hypothesised as a cutaneous manifestation of an internal peptic ulcer disease . DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kumj.v10i4.10995 Kathmandu Univ Med J 2012;10(4):49-52
Augmented Post-Induction Therapy for Children with High-Risk Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia and a Slow Response to Initial Therapy
Authors: Rahman ATMA , Gupta SK , Mannan MA , Nahar K
Published: September 2014

Background Children with high-risk acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) who have a slow response to initial chemotherapy (more than 25 percent blasts in the bone marrow on day 7) have a poor outcome despite intensive therapy. We conducted a randomized trial in which such patients were treated with either an augmented intensive regimen of post-induction chemotherapy or a standard regimen of intensive post-induction chemotherapy. Objective To compare the effect of augmented therapy with standard intensive post induction therapy in children with high-risk ALL who entered remission after a slow response to initial therapy. Methods Between January 2005 and December 2011, 311 children with newly diagnosed ALL who were either 1 to 9 years of age with white cell counts of at least 50,000 per cubic millimeter or 10 years of age or older, had a slow response to initial therapy, and entered remission at the end of induction chemotherapy were randomly assigned to receive standard therapy (156 children) or augmented therapy (155). Those with lymphomatous features were excluded. Event-free survival and overall survival were assessed from the end of induction treatment. Results The outcome at five years was significantly better in the augmented-therapy group than in the standard-therapy group. The difference between treatments was most pronounced among patients one to nine years of age, all of whom had white-cell counts of at least 50,000 per cubic millimeter (P<0.001). Risk factors for an adverse event in the entire cohort included a white-cell count of 200,000 per cubic millimeter or higher (P=0.004). The toxic effects of augmented therapy were considerable but manageable. Conclusion Augmented post-induction chemotherapy results in an excellent outcome for most patients with high-risk ALL and a slow response to initial therapy. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kumj.v10i4.10996 Kathmandu Univ Med J 2012;10(4):53-59
Avenues for Professional Development: Faculty Perspectives from an Indian Medical School
Authors: Abraham RR , Pallath V , AM C , Ramnarayan K , Kamath A
Published: September 2014

Background Medical school faculty in India are challenged to balance teaching and professional development. Melaka Manipal Medical College (MMMC), Manipal Campus, Manipal University, India offers the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) program. The institution incorporates certain effective practices based on adult learning principles which are aimed at fostering the professional development of faculty members. Objectives The present study was undertaken to explore the perceptions of faculty members regarding the scope for professional development at Melaka Manipal Medical College, Manipal Campus. Methods In September 2009, a questionnaire comprising items (23) focusing on five adult learning principles (active participation, relevant learning, constructive feedback, safe, non-threatening environment and previous experiences) was designed and faculty members (n=23) were asked to respond to it on a 5-point Likert scale. Additionally, a force field analysis was conducted by asking the faculty to identify three factors which facilitated them to consciously get involved in professional development activities. They were also asked to identify three unfavorable factors that hindered their professional development. Results Among the five characteristics, relevant learning was found to have a high mean score. Frequency analysis of responses revealed that at Melaka Manipal Medical College, there was ample scope for relevant self-learning that fosters professional development (91.3%). Force field response analysis revealed Melaka Manipal Medical College offered considerable flexibility and opportunities for continuing professional development along with faculty members’ prevailing role as teachers. Nevertheless, the need for more research facilities and funds was highlighted. Conclusions Adherence to adult learning principles may provide avenues for professional development in medical schools. An organized attempt to make the medical school faculty aware of the scope of these practices appears to be necessary to nurture professional development in settings where there are resource constraints. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kumj.v10i4.10997 Kathmandu Univ Med J 2012;10(4):60-65
Rare Case of Servelle Martorelle Syndrome
Authors: Bhatnagar A , Deshpande M
Published: September 2014

Servelle Martorelle Syndrome is a congenital vascular malformation associated with soft tissue hypertrophy and bony hypoplasia. This rarely involves whole of an extremity, with involvement of part of limbs reported in literature. We present a case of a twelve year boy who presented to the Department of Plastic Surgery SGPGIMS in April 2011 ,with history of circumferential soft tissue hypertrophy involving whole of left upper limb, scapular region and axilla since birth. The entire left upper limb length was lesser than the right upper limb. Hence this is a very rare case of Servelle Martorelle Syndrome having extensive limb involvement at a very young age. Highlighted is the role of conservative treatment and close follow-up to understand the natural history of the diseases, with prompt treatment of complications. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kumj.v10i4.11011 Kathmandu Univ Med J 2012;10(4):91-94
Translocal Practices on the Tibetan Plateau: Motorised Mobility of Pastoralists and Spatial Transformations
Authors: Iselin Lilian
Published: September 2014

Tibetan pastoralist communities in Amdo, the north-eastern region of the Tibetan plateau, have undergone tremendous change due to a number of state induced modernisation processes. Road infrastructure is but one development that aims to facilitate transition from subsistence to a market economy and to link remote pastoralist production into the global or regional market. This paper starts from the local perspective and examines how the expansion of road infrastructure and increased ownership of motorised vehicles has impacted on the mobility of pastoralists. It argues that motorisation and the increased availability of roads creates an interface for pastoralists through which they negotiate a newly emerging translocality. Roads are embedded into everyday movements and provide pastoralists with ways to integrate new developments into their lives.
Ethiopia's Pastoralist Policies: Development, Displacement and Resettlement
Authors: Fratkin Elliot
Published: September 2014

Ethiopia's current economic plans call for extensive development along its riverine resources in lowland regions, areas typically occupied by pastoral and agro-pastoral peoples. These plans include the development of large dams for hydroelectric power and irrigating large agricultural estates producing sugar, cotton and rice in state-run and privately owned businesses. Nearly all of these projects entail the relocation and resettlement of populations away from the rivers, and threaten the livelihoods and way of life of small but distinct ethnic groups. Although criticised widely by international human rights organisations, the Ethiopian government maintains these developments will ultimately benefit both affected populations and the country as a whole. This paper reviews particular development projects on the Omo River and Awash River and in Gambela Region, and refers to works by NGOs and human rights organisations seeking alternative approaches to resettlement.
Cattle Reduction and Livestock Diversification among Borana Pastoralists in Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Boru Did , Schwartz Moshe , Kam Michael , Degen A. Allan
Published: September 2014

Recurring droughts have induced many pastoralist groups in Africa to raise more drought-tolerant livestock as a coping strategy. Borana, traditional cattle pastoralists in southern Ethiopia, are one of these groups and have resorted to including more drought-tolerant camels and shoats (sheep and goats) among their livestock. We hypothesised that this livestock diversification would vary according to geographic location (drought severity, proximity to Somalis and to an urban centre) and resources available (wealth, labour) and predicted that: (1) wealthier Borana would be more inclined towards the risky but promising strategy of raising camels, whereas poorer ones would prefer the less prestigious but also less risky shoats; (2) more labour would allow more flexibility in livestock diversification; and (3) the biggest shift in livestock composition would occur in Bulbul, as this
kebele
(pastoralist association) is the most drought-prone. To test our predictions, we combined qualitative and quantitative methods to examine four
kebeles
in the Liben
wereda
(district) of southern Ethiopia. From 2000 to 2011, number of cattle declined by 25.1 and 41.4 head per household (or between 41.9 per cent and 69.0 per cent) in the four
kebeles
. There was a significant positive relationship between present-day camel numbers and cattle numbers and between the change in camel numbers between 2000 and 2011 and the number of cattle in 2000 in all
kebeles
. Thus, as predicted, wealthier households - that is, those with the most present day cattle - have the most camels and households that had the most cattle in 2000 were able to add the most camels over the past 11 years. Number of wives had a significant effect on cattle, camels, shoats and total livestock units (TLU) in all
kebeles
, except Siminto. In Siminto, number of wives affected camels and shoats and number of girls affected cattle and TLU. Siminto, the
kebele
closest to an urban centre, turned more to land cultivation than the other
kebeles
, which occupied much of the wives' time. Of the four
kebeles
, livestock numbers and diversification were lowest in Siminto and, thus, livestock husbandry required the least amount of labour. Girls were able to contribute positively towards this labour. Our prediction that the biggest shift in livestock would occur in Bulbul was not supported. Camels and shoats were most common in Hadhessa and Qorati, which are close to camel-raising Somalis, implying that Borana in these
kebeles
learnt camel husbandry from the Somalis. Many Borana still preferred cattle to other livestock, but were becoming increasingly aware of the economic value of camels and of the importance of shoats.
The Persistence of Bedouin Identity and Increasing Political Self-Representation in Lebanon and Syria
Authors: Chatty Dawn
Published: September 2014

This paper examines the persistence of tribal identity and authority and the increasingly public self-representation of Bedouin in the Badia of Syria and the Bekaa of Lebanon. It sets out the significant challenges to Bedouin tribal identity and authority over the past three decades. The paper argues that, despite the formal annulling of the Bedouin tribes' legal status in Syrian law in 1958 and the 'silenced' legal status of most Bedouin in Lebanon, tribal identity and the authority attached to traditional leaders continues to exist.
Producing (Tribal) History: Gendered Representations of Genealogy and Warfare in Northern Syria
Authors: Lange Katharina
Published: September 2014

Based on ethnographic fieldwork and readings of local publications, this article explores the multifaceted production of tribal history in northern Syria. Focussing on the representations of genealogy and warfare, it traces how historiography is used to re-order representations of social and political relations in the area. The article explores the gendered aspects of tribal history making, suggesting that standard perceptions of this field as an exclusively male domain need to be revised. Finally, the article explores how and to what ends history as a particular mode of knowledge is constructed in the emergent genre of tribal historiography.
Bedouinity on Stage. The Rise of The Bedouin Soap Opera (Musalsal Badawi) in Arab Television
Authors: Prager Laila
Published: September 2014

Despite a growing research interest in studies focusing on the modern media in the Arab world, including the field of the Middle Eastern film and television industries, there is one particular type of TV series that has been largely neglected by contemporary scholarship, though the serials in question are among the most popular formats throughout the entire Arab world: we are talking about the Bedouin soap operas usually designated as
musalsal badawi or drama badawiyya
which have been broadcast continuously since the 1970s onwards. This paper gives a first overview of the genre of Bedouin soap operas by discussing the perspectives both of the producers and of different categories of viewers. To this end the article unfolds with a historical outline of the rise of the Bedouin
musalsalat
within the Arab film industries, particularly by focusing on the transition from the national to the transnational contextualisation of contemporary Bedouin TV serials. Then the focus turns to the production processes of the soap operas by taking into account the various perspectives of the financiers, producers, script writers, directors and Bedouin advisors. Attention is also given to the different motivations of viewers for following such series, as well as to the exemplary plotlines on which the Bedouin soap operas are usually predicated.

Moreover, the paper explores to what extent the musalsalat have become markers of tribal identity and memory, thereby mirroring competing perspectives on 'authenticity' and historical 'truth'. Finally, the Bedouin soap operas are contextualised within the overarching discourse on the revival of cultural heritage that is increasingly gaining prominence in many countries of the Arab world.
Changing Performance Traditions and Bedouin Identity in the North Badiya, Jordan
Authors: Hood Kathleen , Al-Oun Mohammad
Published: September 2014

Although performance traditions have long been important parts of Bedouin identity in the North Badiya, Jordan, many factors have affected these traditions over the years, especially since the latter part of the twentieth century, resulting in the loss of some genres and the retention of others. This study examines how the traditions that remain, particularly poetry that is spoken or sung to the accompaniment of the
rababa
, are traditions from the male and public spheres, while the traditions that have been abandoned are those from the female and private spheres. Because of the separation of male/public and female/private realms, the male genres are the only ones that can be seen by outsiders, and thus are selected to be the public face of Bedouin identity.
The New Rise of Tribalism in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Maisel Sebastian
Published: September 2014

This paper explores the new relationship between tribe and state in Saudi Arabia as well as the position of tribes within Saudi society. It is based on anthropological fieldwork in the area and an analysis of online discussion boards. It is argued that a new generation of tribal members has emerged who express their tribal identity through new forms of communication, aiming at a reinterpretation of the tribes' social and political role in the kingdom.
Bedouin Place Names in the Eastern Desert of Egypt
Authors: Hobbs Joseph J.
Published: September 2014

This paper analyses Ma'aza Bedouin toponymy in the northern half of Egypt's Eastern Desert. Ma'aza people started naming places as they began immigrating from northwest Arabia about 250 years ago. The main place objects are valleys, mountains, water sources, trees and tracks. These are named after individuals and groups, historic events, perennial plants, animals and their behaviour, material culture and environmental perceptions. Place naming helps assert the people's claim to this land. The named cultural landscape is a kind of autobiography that continues to be written and is perpetuated only orally. For nomadic pastoralists, place names help to reduce risk in a challenging environment and to conserve natural resources, especially woody trees that sustain livestock during drought. Sedentarisation is threatening this rich body of oral tradition.
Bedouins' politics of place and memory: a case of unrecognised villages in the Negev
Authors: Hall Bogumila
Published: September 2014

Israeli laws and the state's dominant discourse depict Bedouins as rootless nomads and classify the Negev as historically dead, no-man's land. This characterisation implies that the Bedouins from the Negev have no ties to the land and therefore cannot claim ownership of it. It also transforms residents of 'unrecognised villages' into trespassers on state land whom the state must evict. This article examines how the subordinated Bedouin population asserts its agency and, contests the systemic marginalisation. It explores Bedouins' counter-narratives and practices through which an alternative understanding of 'Bedouinity' emerges, and through which the Bedouins challenge the state's policy and colonisation of the community's everyday life.
Bisphenol A Disrupts Transcription and Decreases Viability in Aging Vascular Endothelial Cells
Authors: Ribeiro-Varandas Edna , Pereira H. , Monteiro Sara , Neves Elsa , Brito Luísa , Ferreira Ricardo , Viegas Wanda , Delgado Margarida
Published: September 2014

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a widely utilized endocrine disruptor capable of mimicking endogenous hormones, employed in the manufacture of numerous consumer products, thereby interfering with physiological cellular functions. Recent research has shown that BPA alters epigenetic cellular mechanisms in mammals and may be correlated to enhanced cellular senescence. Here, the effects of BPA at 10 ng/mL and 1 µg/mL, concentrations found in human samples, were analyzed on HT29 human colon adenocarcinona cell line and Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells (HUVEC). Quantitative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR) transcriptional analysis of the Long Interspersed Element-1 (LINE-1) retroelement showed that BPA induces global transcription deregulation in both cell lines, although with more pronounced effects in HUVEC cells. Whereas there was an increase in global transcription in HT29 exclusively after 24 h of exposure, this chemical had prolonged effects on HUVEC. Immunoblotting revealed that this was not accompanied by alterations in the overall content of H3K9me2 and H3K4me3 epigenetic marks. Importantly, cell viability assays and transcriptional analysis indicated that prolonged BPA exposure affects aging processes in senescent HUVEC. To our knowledge this is the first report that BPA interferes with senescence in primary vascular endothelial cells, therefore, suggesting its association to the etiology of age-related human pathologies, such as atherosclerosis.
NLRP3 Inflammasome Sequential Changes in Staphylococcus aureus-Induced Mouse Model of Acute Rhinosinusitis
Authors: Wang Yan-Jun , Gong Guo-Qing , Chen Shan , Xiong Li-Yan , Zhou Xing-Xing , Huang Xiang , Kong Wei-Jia
Published: September 2014

The NLR pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome plays a crucial role in lung disease and may have a similar role in upper respiratory tract inflammation. We therefore constructed a C57BL/6 mouse model of acute rhinosinusitis induced by Staphylococcus aureus and investigated the role of the NLRP3 inflammasome in this model. Mice were classified as non-inoculated group (group A) and inoculated groups (groups B, C, D and E, sacrificed 1, 3, 7 and 14 days after inoculation, respectively). Hematoxylin-eosin staining showed that each group had inflammatory cell infiltration, except group A. The damage of the nasal mucosa was aggravated gradually over time. Western blot and immunofluorescence showed that the structural proteins of the NLRP3 inflammasome (NLRP3, ASC (apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing CARD), procaspase-1) in groups B, C, D and E were increased gradually. But they were reduced in group B compared with group A, except for NLRP3. Western blot showed that the cleavage fragment of procaspase-1, p20 in groups B, C, D and E was increased gradually. Real-time PCR showed that the corresponding mRNAs of the structural proteins were changed the same as their proteins. IL-1β mRNA and mature IL-1β protein were increased gradually in groups A, B, C, D and E. These results indicate that NLRP3 inflammasome activation was associated with the acute rhinosinusitis, and that there was a positive correlation between the expression level of the NLRP3 inflammasome and the severity of acute rhinosinusitis.
The Influence of IL-10 and TNFα on Chondrogenesis of Human Mesenchymal Stromal Cells in Three-Dimensional Cultures
Authors: Jagielski Michal , Wolf Johannes , Marzahn Ulrike , Völker Anna , Lemke Marion , Meier Carola , Ertel Wolfgang , Godkin Owen , Arens Stephan , Schulze-Tanzil Gundula
Published: September 2014

Chondrogenic differentiated mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are a promising cell source for articular cartilage repair. This study was undertaken to determine the effectiveness of two three-dimensional (3D) culture systems for chondrogenic MSC differentiation in comparison to primary chondrocytes and to assess the effect of Interleukin (IL)-10 and Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF)α on chondrogenesis by MSCs in 3D high-density (H-D) culture. MSCs were isolated from femur spongiosa, characterized using a set of typical markers and introduced in scaffold-free H-D cultures or non-woven polyglycolic acid (PGA) scaffolds for chondrogenic differentiation. H-D cultures were stimulated with recombinant IL-10, TNFα, TNFα + IL-10 or remained untreated. Gene and protein expression of type II collagen, aggrecan, sox9 and TNFα were examined. MSCs expressed typical cell surface markers and revealed multipotency. Chondrogenic differentiated cells expressed cartilage-specific markers in both culture systems but to a lower extent when compared with articular chondrocytes. Chondrogenesis was more pronounced in PGA compared with H-D culture. IL-10 and/or TNFα did not impair the chondrogenic differentiation of MSCs. Moreover, in most of the investigated samples, despite not reaching significance level, IL-10 had a stimulatory effect on the type II collagen, aggrecan and TNFα expression when compared with the respective controls.
Small Engine, Big Power: MicroRNAs as Regulators of Cardiac Diseases and Regeneration
Authors: Joladarashi Darukeshwara , Thandavarayan Rajarajan , Babu Sahana , Krishnamurthy Prasanna
Published: September 2014

Cardiac diseases are the predominant cause of human mortality in the United States and around the world. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that have been shown to modulate a wide range of biological functions under various pathophysiological conditions. miRNAs alter target expression by post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression. Numerous studies have implicated specific miRNAs in cardiovascular development, pathology, regeneration and repair. These observations suggest that miRNAs are potential therapeutic targets to prevent or treat cardiovascular diseases. This review focuses on the emerging role of miRNAs in cardiac development, pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases, cardiac regeneration and stem cell-mediated cardiac repair. We also discuss the novel diagnostic and therapeutic potential of these miRNAs and their targets in patients with cardiac diseases.
Antibacterial Properties of Tough and Strong Electrospun PMMA/PEO Fiber Mats Filled with Lanasol—A Naturally Occurring Brominated Substance
Authors: Andersson Richard , Martínez-Abad Antonio , Lagaron José , Gedde Ulf , Mallon Peter , Olsson Richard , Hedenqvist Mikael
Published: September 2014

A new type of antimicrobial, biocompatible and toughness enhanced ultra-thin fiber mats for biomedical applications is presented. The tough and porous fiber mats were obtained by electrospinning solution-blended poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) and polyethylene oxide (PEO), filled with up to 25 wt % of Lanasol—a naturally occurring brominated cyclic compound that can be extracted from red sea algae. Antibacterial effectiveness was tested following the industrial Standard JIS L 1902 and under agitated medium (ASTM E2149). Even at the lowest concentrations of Lanasol, 4 wt %, a significant bactericidal effect was seen with a 4-log (99.99%) reduction in bacterial viability against S. aureus, which is one of the leading causes of hospital-acquired (nosocomial) infections in the world. The mechanical fiber toughness was insignificantly altered up to the maximum Lanasol concentration tested, and was for all fiber mats orders of magnitudes higher than electrospun fibers based on solely PMMA. This antimicrobial fiber system, relying on a dissolved antimicrobial agent (demonstrated by X-ray diffraction and Infrared (IR)-spectroscopy) rather than a dispersed and “mixed-in” solid antibacterial particle phase, presents a new concept which opens the door to tougher, stronger and more ductile antimicrobial fibers.
Therapeutic Effects of Melatonin Receptor Agonists on Sleep and Comorbid Disorders
Authors: Laudon Moshe , Frydman-Marom Anat
Published: September 2014

Several melatonin receptors agonists (ramelteon, prolonged-release melatonin, agomelatine and tasimelteon) have recently become available for the treatment of insomnia, depression and circadian rhythms sleep-wake disorders. The efficacy and safety profiles of these compounds in the treatment of the indicated disorders are reviewed. Accumulating evidence indicates that sleep-wake disorders and co-existing medical conditions are mutually exacerbating. This understanding has now been incorporated into the new Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5). Therefore, when evaluating the risk/benefit ratio of sleep drugs, it is pertinent to also evaluate their effects on wake and comorbid condition. Beneficial effects of melatonin receptor agonists on comorbid neurological, psychiatric, cardiovascular and metabolic symptomatology beyond sleep regulation are also described. The review underlines the beneficial value of enhancing physiological sleep in comorbid conditions.
Inclusion and Functionalization of Polymers with Cyclodextrins: Current Applications and Future Prospects
Authors: Folch-Cano Christian , Yazdani-Pedram Mehrdad , Olea-Azar Claudio
Published: September 2014

The numerous hydroxyl groups available in cyclodextrins are active sites that can form different types of linkages. They can be crosslinked with one another, or they can be derivatized to produce monomers that can form linear or branched networks. Moreover, they can form inclusion complexes with polymers and different substrates, modifying their physicochemical properties. This review shows the different applications using polymers with cyclodextrins, either by forming inclusion complexes, ternary complexes, networks, or molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs). On one hand, the use of cyclodextrins enhances the properties of each polymer, and on the other the use of polymers decreases the amount of cyclodextrins required in different formulations. Both cyclodextrins and polymers contribute synergistically in several applications such as pharmacological, nutritional, environmental, and other industrial fields. The use of polymers based on cyclodextrins is a low cost easy to use potential tool with great future prospects.
20 Years of Fatty Acid Analysis by Capillary Electrophoresis
Authors: De Oliveira Marcone , Porto Brenda , Faria Isaura , De Oliveira Patricia , De Castro Barra Patricia , Castro Renata , Sato Renata
Published: September 2014

A review taking into account the literature reports covering 20 years of fatty acid analysis by capillary electrophoresis is presented. This paper describes the evolution of fatty acid analysis using different CE modes such as capillary zone electrophoresis, non-aqueous capillary electrophoresis, micellar electrokinetic capillary chromatography and microemulsion electrokinetic chromatography employing different detection systems, such as ultraviolet-visible, capacitively coupled contactless conductivity, laser-induced fluorescence and mass spectrometry. In summary, the present review signals that CE seems to be an interesting analytical separation technique that is very useful for screening analysis or quantification of the usual fatty acids present in different matrices, offering short analysis times and a simple sample preparation step as inherent advantages in comparison with the classical methodology, making it a separation technique that is very attractive for quality control in industry and government agencies.
Inorganic Materials as Supports for Covalent Enzyme Immobilization: Methods and Mechanisms
Authors: Zucca Paolo , Sanjust Enrico
Published: September 2014

Several inorganic materials are potentially suitable for enzymatic covalent immobilization, by means of several different techniques. Such materials must meet stringent criteria to be suitable as solid matrices: complete insolubility in water, reasonable mechanical strength and chemical resistance under the operational conditions, the capability to form manageable particles with high surface area, reactivity towards derivatizing/functionalizing agents. Non-specific protein adsorption should be always considered when planning covalent immobilization on inorganic solids. A huge mass of experimental work has shown that silica, silicates, borosilicates and aluminosilicates, alumina, titania, and other oxides, are the materials of choice when attempting enzyme immobilizations on inorganic supports. More recently, some forms of elemental carbon, silicon, and certain metals have been also proposed for certain applications. With regard to the derivatization/functionalization techniques, the use of organosilanes through silanization is undoubtedly the most studied and the most applied, although inorganic bridge formation and acylation with selected acyl halides have been deeply studied. In the present article, the most common inorganic supports for covalent immobilization of the enzymes are reviewed, with particular focus on their advantages and disadvantages in terms of enzyme loadings, operational stability, undesired adsorption, and costs. Mechanisms and methods for covalent immobilization are also discussed, focusing on the most widespread activating approaches (such as glutaraldehyde, cyanogen bromide, divinylsulfone, carbodiimides, carbonyldiimidazole, sulfonyl chlorides, chlorocarbonates, N-hydroxysuccinimides).
Motion Field Estimation for a Dynamic Scene Using a 3D LiDAR
Authors: Li Qingquan , Zhang Liang , Mao Qingzhou , Zou Qin , Zhang Pin , Feng Shaojun , Ochieng Washington
Published: September 2014

This paper proposes a novel motion field estimation method based on a 3D light detection and ranging (LiDAR) sensor for motion sensing for intelligent driverless vehicles and active collision avoidance systems. Unlike multiple target tracking methods, which estimate the motion state of detected targets, such as cars and pedestrians, motion field estimation regards the whole scene as a motion field in which each little element has its own motion state. Compared to multiple target tracking, segmentation errors and data association errors have much less significance in motion field estimation, making it more accurate and robust. This paper presents an intact 3D LiDAR-based motion field estimation method, including pre-processing, a theoretical framework for the motion field estimation problem and practical solutions. The 3D LiDAR measurements are first projected to small-scale polar grids, and then, after data association and Kalman filtering, the motion state of every moving grid is estimated. To reduce computing time, a fast data association algorithm is proposed. Furthermore, considering the spatial correlation of motion among neighboring grids, a novel spatial-smoothing algorithm is also presented to optimize the motion field. The experimental results using several data sets captured in different cities indicate that the proposed motion field estimation is able to run in real-time and performs robustly and effectively.
Sensor-Based Vibration Signal Feature Extraction Using an Improved Composite Dictionary Matching Pursuit Algorithm
Authors: Cui Lingli , Wu Na , Wang Wenjing , Kang Chenhui
Published: September 2014

This paper presents a new method for a composite dictionary matching pursuit algorithm, which is applied to vibration sensor signal feature extraction and fault diagnosis of a gearbox. Three advantages are highlighted in the new method. First, the composite dictionary in the algorithm has been changed from multi-atom matching to single-atom matching. Compared to non-composite dictionary single-atom matching, the original composite dictionary multi-atom matching pursuit (CD-MaMP) algorithm can achieve noise reduction in the reconstruction stage, but it cannot dramatically reduce the computational cost and improve the efficiency in the decomposition stage. Therefore, the optimized composite dictionary single-atom matching algorithm (CD-SaMP) is proposed. Second, the termination condition of iteration based on the attenuation coefficient is put forward to improve the sparsity and efficiency of the algorithm, which adjusts the parameters of the termination condition constantly in the process of decomposition to avoid noise. Third, composite dictionaries are enriched with the modulation dictionary, which is one of the important structural characteristics of gear fault signals. Meanwhile, the termination condition of iteration settings, sub-feature dictionary selections and operation efficiency between CD-MaMP and CD-SaMP are discussed, aiming at gear simulation vibration signals with noise. The simulation sensor-based vibration signal results show that the termination condition of iteration based on the attenuation coefficient enhances decomposition sparsity greatly and achieves a good effect of noise reduction. Furthermore, the modulation dictionary achieves a better matching effect compared to the Fourier dictionary, and CD-SaMP has a great advantage of sparsity and efficiency compared with the CD-MaMP. The sensor-based vibration signals measured from practical engineering gearbox analyses have further shown that the CD-SaMP decomposition and reconstruction algorithm is feasible and effective.
Graphene-Based Nanoresonator with Applications in Optical Transistor and Mass Sensing
Authors: Chen Hua-Jun , Zhu Ka-Di
Published: September 2014

Graphene has received significant attention due to its excellent properties currently. In this work, a nano-optomechanical system based on a doubly-clamped Z-shaped graphene nanoribbon (GNR) with an optical pump-probe scheme is proposed. We theoretically demonstrate the phenomenon of phonon-induced transparency and show an optical transistor in the system. In addition, the significantly enhanced nonlinear effect of the probe laser is also investigated, and we further put forward a nonlinear optical mass sensing that may be immune to detection noises. Molecules, such as NH3 and NO2, can be identified via using the nonlinear optical spectroscopy, which may be applied to environmental pollutant monitoring and trace chemical detection.
WSNs Data Acquisition by Combining Hierarchical Routing Method and Compressive Sensing
Authors: Zou Zhiqiang , Hu Cunchen , Zhang Fei , Zhao Hao , Shen Shu
Published: September 2014

We address the problem of data acquisition in large distributed wireless sensor networks (WSNs). We propose a method for data acquisition using the hierarchical routing method and compressive sensing for WSNs. Only a few samples are needed to recover the original signal with high probability since sparse representation technology is exploited to capture the similarities and differences of the original signal. To collect samples effectively in WSNs, a framework for the use of the hierarchical routing method and compressive sensing is proposed, using a randomized rotation of cluster-heads to evenly distribute the energy load among the sensors in the network. Furthermore, L1-minimization and Bayesian compressed sensing are used to approximate the recovery of the original signal from the smaller number of samples with a lower signal reconstruction error. We also give an extensive validation regarding coherence, compression rate, and lifetime, based on an analysis of the theory and experiments in the environment with real world signals. The results show that our solution is effective in a large distributed network, especially for energy constrained WSNs.
Estimation of Resource Productivity and Efficiency: An Extended Evaluation of Sustainability Related to Material Flow
Authors: Wang Pin-Chih , Lee Yuh-Ming , Chen Chiu-Yang
Published: September 2014

This study is intended to conduct an extended evaluation of sustainability based on the material flow analysis of resource productivity. We first present updated information on the material flow analysis (MFA) database in Taiwan. Essential indicators are selected to quantify resource productivity associated with the economy-wide MFA of Taiwan. The study also applies the IPAT (impact-population-affluence-technology) master equation to measure trends of material use efficiency in Taiwan and to compare them with those of other Asia-Pacific countries. An extended evaluation of efficiency, in comparison with selected economies by applying data envelopment analysis (DEA), is conducted accordingly. The Malmquist Productivity Index (MPI) is thereby adopted to quantify the patterns and the associated changes of efficiency. Observations and summaries can be described as follows. Based on the MFA of the Taiwanese economy, the average growth rates of domestic material input (DMI; 2.83%) and domestic material consumption (DMC; 2.13%) in the past two decades were both less than that of gross domestic product (GDP; 4.95%). The decoupling of environmental pressures from economic growth can be observed. In terms of the decomposition analysis of the IPAT equation and in comparison with 38 other economies, the material use efficiency of Taiwan did not perform as well as its economic growth. The DEA comparisons of resource productivity show that Denmark, Germany, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, United Kingdom and Japan performed the best in 2008. Since the MPI consists of technological change (frontier-shift or innovation) and efficiency change (catch-up), the change in efficiency (catch-up) of Taiwan has not been accomplished as expected in spite of the increase in its technological efficiency.
Examination of Green Building Drivers in the South African Construction Industry: Economics versus Ecology
Authors: Windapo Abimbola
Published: September 2014

There is a large body of literature on green buildings, but few studies have focused on the motivation behind the construction of green buildings globally, and in South Africa in particular. This paper investigates the key drivers of green building in the Western Cape Construction Industry of South Africa and examines whether these drivers have changed over time. A comprehensive literature review was undertaken to provide an overview of green building issues globally and in South Africa, followed by an empirical investigation into the drivers of green building in South Africa using a multi-case study approach. The findings reveal that the key drivers of green building include rising energy costs, the industry’s Green Star rating system, competitive advantages and legislation. The study also indicates that these key drivers have not changed significantly over time. Taken together, these results suggest that the increase in green building has little to do with ecological factors and more to do with economic factors—operational costs and stakeholder demands. The paper concludes that as long as the cost of energy continues to increase and there are recognised industry rating systems in place, the need for green buildings is likely to remain.
The Human Umbilical Cord Tissue-Derived MSC Population UCX®Promotes Early Motogenic Effects on Keratinocytes and Fibroblasts and G-CSF-Mediated Mobilization of BM-MSCs when Transplanted In Vivo
Authors: Miranda Joana P. , Filipe Elysse , Fernandes Ana Sofia , Almeida Joana M. , Martins José P. , De La Fuente Alexandre , Abal Miguel , Barcia Rita N. , Cruz Pedro , Cruz Helder , Castro Matilde , Santos Jorge M.
Published: September 2014

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) play an important role in tissue regeneration mainly through the secretion of trophic factors that enhance the repair of damaged tissues. The main goal of this work was to study the paracrine mechanisms by which an umbilical cord tissue-derived MSC population (UCX®) promotes the migration capacity of human dermal fibroblasts and keratinocytes, which is highly relevant for skin regeneration. Furthermore, the differences between paracrine activities of MSCs from the umbilical cord tissue and the bone marrow (BM-MSCs) were also evaluated. In vitro scratch assays revealed that conditioned media (CM) obtained from both growing and stationary-phase UCX®cultures induced human dermal fibroblast (HDF) and keratinocyte (HaCaT) migration. These assays showed that the motogenic activity of UCX®CM to HaCaTs was significantly higher than to HDFs, in opposition to the effect seen with CM produced by BM-MSCs that preferentially induced HDF migration. Accordingly, a comparative quantification of key factors with vital importance in the consecutive stages of wound healing revealed very different secretome profiles between UCX®and BM-MSCs. The relatively higher UCX®expression of EGF, FGF-2, and KGF strongly supports early induction of keratinocyte migration and function, whereas the UCX®-specific expression of G-CSF suggested additional roles in mobilization of healing-related cells including CD34-/CD45-precursors (MSCs) known to be involved in tissue regeneration. Accordingly, in vitro chemotaxis assays and an in vivo transplantation model for chemoattraction confirmed that UCX®are chemotactic to CD34-/CD45-BM-MSCs via a cell-specific mobilization mechanism mediated by G-CSF. Overall, the results strongly suggest different paracrine activities between MSCs derived from different tissue sources, revealing the potential of UCX®to extend the regenerative capacity of the organism by complementing the role of endogenous BM-MSCs.
Will Whale Watchers Sacrifice Personal Experience to Minimize Harm to Whales?
Authors: Kessler Megan , Harcourt Robert , Bradford Wylie
Published: September 2014

Humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) watchers off Sydney, Australia were surveyed using stated preference techniques to investigate whether they were prepared to prioritize minimizing impact on whales over other factors of their whale-watching experience. Differences between
shore- and boat-based whale watchers (343 and 1,133 participants, respectively) to hypothetical whale-watching situations were investigated. Both groups had a strong preference for minimizing impact on the animals. Boat-based whale watchers placed a slightly higher priority on receiving environmental
education. Both groups expressed a preference for approaching closer to the whales than currently permitted (i.e., to 50 m), but the high levels of satisfaction of boat-based whale watchers suggest closer approach distances are not necessary to ensure a positive whale-watching experience.
Recent Advances in Whale-Watching Research: 2012–2013
Authors: Scarpaci Carol , Parsons E. C. M.
Published: September 2014

Whale-watching research encompasses a wide variety of disciplines and fields of study, including monitoring the biological impacts of whale-watching activities on cetaceans and assessments of the effectiveness of whale-watching management and regulations, to the sociological and economic
aspects of whale watching on communities hosting such activities. This article is the latest in a series of annual digests, which describes the variety and findings of whale-watching studies published over the past year, since June 2012.
Transitions in photoperiodic flowering are common and involve few loci in wild sunflowers (Helianthus; Asteraceae)
Authors: Henry Lucas P. , Watson Ray H. B. , Blackman Benjamin K.
Published: September 2014

• Premise of the study: Evolutionary changes in how flowering time responds to photoperiod cues have been instrumental in expanding the geographic range of agricultural production for many crop species. Locally adaptive natural variation in photoperiod response present in wild relatives of crop plants could be leveraged to further improve the present and future climatic ranges of cultivation or to increase region‐specific yields. Previous work has demonstrated ample variability in photoperiod response among wild populations of the common sunflower, Helianthus annuus. Here, we characterize patterns of photoperiod response variation throughout the genus and examine the genetic architecture of intraspecific divergence.

• Methods: The requirement of short day lengths for floral induction was characterized for a phylogenetically dispersed sample of Helianthus species. In addition, flowering time was assessed under short days and long days for a population of F3 individuals derived from crosses between day‐neutral and short‐day, wild H. annuus parents.

• Key results: An obligate requirement for short‐day induced flowering has evolved repeatedly in Helianthus, and this character was correlated with geographic ranges restricted to the southern United States. Parental flowering times under long days were recovered in high proportion in the F3 generation.

• Conclusions: Together, these findings (1) reveal that substantial variation in the nature of flowering time responses to photoperiod cues has arisen during the evolution of wild sunflowers and (2) suggest these transitions may be largely characterized by simple genetic architectures. Thus, introgression of wild alleles may be a tractable means of genetically tailoring sunflower cultivars for climate‐specific production.