bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Are three-dimensional airway evaluations obtained through computed and cone-beam computed tomography scans predictable from lateral cephalograms? A systematic review of evidence
Authors: Eslami Ehsan , Katz Eliot S , Baghdady Mariam , Abramovitch Kenneth , Masoud Mohamed I
Published: July 2016

Objective: To systematically review the literature correlating upper airway parameters between lateral cephalograms (LC) and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) or computed tomography (CT) scans to determine the utility of using LC to predict three-dimensional airway parameters.

Materials and Methods: Both electronic and manual searches of the included studies were performed by two reviewers, and the quality of the studies that met selection criteria were assessed.

Results: A total of 11 studies from the literature met the selection criteria. Assessed outcome variables showed correlation r < .7 between the LC and CT scans. The correlation between the LC and CBCT ranged from weak to strong with −.78 ≤ r and r ≤ .93 reported in the nasopharyngeal segment. In the oropharyngeal segment, a weak to strong correlation was reported with a range of −37 ≤ r and r ≤ .83 between the CBCT and LC. All associations in the hypopharyngeal segment showed a weak correlation. Four of studies were of weak quality, five were of moderate quality, and two were rated to be of strong quality.

Conclusion: No strong correlations were reported between the LC and CT scans. However, the LC-derived adenoid-nasopharyngeal ratio and the linear measurement (posterior nasal spine, PNS, to posterior pharyngeal wall) had a strong correlation with upright nasopharyngeal area and volume in the CBCTs. The area measurement in conventional LC can be also used as an initial screening tool to predict the upright three-dimensional oropharyngeal volumetric data. The variability of the hypopharyngeal segment cannot be predicted by LCs. However, more well-designed studies are needed to determine the clinical utility of using LC to predict airway size.
Intensive Glycemic Therapy in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes on β-Blockers
Authors: Tsujimoto Tetsuro , Sugiyama Takehiro , Noda Mitsuhiko , Kajio Hiroshi
Published: July 2016

OBJECTIVE

Recent studies have suggested that β-blockers may decrease the adverse influence of hypoglycemia and reduce hypoglycemia-associated cardiac arrhythmias and death. We evaluated whether intensive glycemic therapy in patients with diabetes receiving treatment with β-blockers showed beneficial effects for the prevention of cardiovascular events without increased mortality compared with a standard glycemic therapy.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We used Action to Control Cardiovascular Risk in Diabetes (ACCORD) trial data to assess the risks of cardiovascular events, all-cause death, and cardiovascular death in patients with diabetes receiving treatment with β-blockers (n = 3,079) and not receiving treatment with β-blockers (n = 7,145) using Cox proportional hazard models.

RESULTS

In patients receiving treatment with β-blockers, the cumulative event rates for cardiovascular events were significantly lower in the intensive therapy group compared with the standard therapy group (hazard ratio [HR] 0.81; 95% CI 0.67–0.97; P = 0.02), whereas those rates in patients not receiving treatment with β-blockers were not significantly different (HR 0.92; 95% CI 0.78–1.09; P = 0.36). Conversely, the cumulative event rates for all-cause and cardiovascular deaths in patients receiving treatment with β-blockers were not significantly different between the standard therapy and intensive therapy groups (all-cause death: HR 1.08; 95% CI 0.83–1.42; P = 0.54; cardiovascular death: HR 1.05; 95% CI 0.72–1.51; P = 0.79), whereas in patients not receiving treatment with β-blockers, the event rates were significantly higher in the intensive therapy group compared with the standard therapy group (all-cause death: HR 1.25; 95% CI 1.02–1.52; P = 0.02; cardiovascular death: HR 1.43; 95% CI 1.03–1.98; P = 0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

Intensive glycemic therapy may be effective in patients with type 2 diabetes receiving treatment with β-blockers.
In vitro effects of cysteine protease inhibitors on Trichomonas foetus–induced cytopathic changes in porcine intestinal epithelial cells
Authors: Tolbert M. Katherine , Brand Mabre D. , Gould Emily N.
Published: July 2016

OBJECTIVE To investigate the effects of specific cysteine protease (CP) inhibitors on cytopathic changes to porcine intestinal epithelial cells induced by Tritrichomonas foetus isolated from naturally infected cats.

SAMPLE T foetus isolates from 4 naturally infected cats and nontransformed porcine intestinal epithelial cells.

PROCEDURES T foetus isolates were treated with or without 0.1 to 1.0mM of the CP inhibitors antipain, cystatin, leupeptin, and chymostatin and the vinyl sulfone inhibitors WRR-483 and K11777. In-gel gelatin zymography was performed to evaluate the effects of these inhibitors on CP activity of T foetus isolates. Each treated or untreated isolate was also cocultured with monolayers of porcine intestinal epithelial cells for 24 hours, and cytopathic effects of T foetus were evaluated by light microscopy and crystal violet spectrophotometry.

RESULTS Results of in-gel gelatin zymography suggested an ability of WRR-483, K11777, and cystatin to target specific zones of CP activity of the T foetus isolates. These inhibitors had no effect on T foetus growth, and the cytopathic changes to the intestinal epithelium induced by all 4 T foetus isolates were significantly inhibited.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE This study revealed that certain protease inhibitors were capable of inhibiting regions of CP activity (which has been suggested to cause intestinal cell damage in cats) in T foetus organisms and of ameliorating T foetus–induced cytopathic changes to porcine intestinal epithelium in vitro. Although additional research is needed, these inhibitors might be useful in the treatment of cats with trichomonosis.
Comparison of humoral insulin-like growth factor-1, platelet-derived growth factor-BB, transforming growth factor-β1, and interleukin-1 receptor antagonist concentrations among equine autologous blood-derived preparations
Authors: Ionita Christiane R. , Troillet Antonia R. , Vahlenkamp Thomas W. , Winter Karsten , Brehm Walter , Ionita Jean-Claude
Published: July 2016

OBJECTIVE To compare humoral insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1, platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-BB, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1, and interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra) concentrations in plasma and 3 types of equine autologous blood-derived preparations (ABPs).

SAMPLE Blood and ABP samples from 12 horses.

PROCEDURES Blood samples from each horse were processed by use of commercial systems to obtain plasma, platelet concentrate, conditioned serum, and aqueous platelet lysate. Half of the platelet concentrate samples were additionally treated with a detergent to release intracellular mediators. Humoral IGF-1, PDGF-BB, TGF-β1, and IL-1Ra concentrations were measured with ELISAs and compared statistically.

RESULTS Median IGF-1 concentration was highest in conditioned serum and detergent-treated platelet concentrate, followed by platelet concentrate and plasma; IGF-1 was not detected in platelet lysate. Mean PDGF-BB concentration was highest in platelet lysate, followed by detergent-treated platelet concentrate and conditioned serum; PDGF-BB was not detected in plasma and platelet concentrate. Median TGF-β1 concentration was highest in detergent-treated platelet concentrate, followed by conditioned serum, platelet lysate, and platelet concentrate; TGF-β1 was not detected in most plasma samples. Median IL-1Ra concentration was highest in platelet lysate, followed by conditioned serum; IL-1Ra was not detected in almost all plasma, detergent-treated platelet concentrate, and platelet concentrate samples.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Each ABP had its own cytokine profile, which was determined by the specific processing method. Coagulation and cellular lysis strongly increased humoral concentrations of cell-derived cytokines. No ABP had the highest concentrations for all cytokines. Further studies are needed to assess clinical relevance of these findings.
Efficacy of vitamin D in children with pneumonia: a randomized control trial study
Authors: Dhungel A , Alam MS
Published: July 2016

Background and Objectives: Pneumonia is the inflammation of parenchyma of lungs. It strictly represents any inflammatory condition that involves the lungs along with the visceral pleura, airways, alveoli, connective tissues and vascular structures. The objective of the study was to see the efficacy of vitamin D in children with pneumonia.Material and Methods: A randomized control study was conducted in Department of Pediatric Medicine, Mayo Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan. One hundred patients with pneumonia received vitamin D along with appropriate antibiotics and one hundred were treated with antibiotics but without vitamin D. The patients were discharged after the fast breathing and chest in drawing settled. The duration of hospital stay was noted. They were followed up for next 90 days after discharge from hospital and any new episode of pneumonia was noted and recorded.Results: The mean number of days to recovery were similar between the group receiving vitamin D (5.7 ± 2.7 days) and the group not receiving vitamin D (6.1 ± 2.8days), (p=0.28). While comparing repeat episode of pneumonia within next three months, the repeat episode of pneumonia was significantly lower in the intervention group (2%) than the group without supplementation (9%; p = 0.002) within 30 days of supplementation of vitamin D.Conclusion: Vitamin D supplementation in a single dose to the children diagnosed as pneumonia significantly reduces the occurrence of new episodes of pneumonia within one month of discharge.Janaki Medical College Journal of Medical Sciences (2015) Vol. 3 (1):5-13
Clinical profile of Otomycosis: a hospital based study at central terrain region of Nepal
Authors: Lageju N , Shahi SC , Goil NK
Published: July 2016

Background and Objectives: Otomycosis is the fungal infection of ear with some complications involving middle ear cavity and mastoid cavity. It is one of commonly encountered problem in otolaryngology clinics. It is commonly present in hot, humid with moisture, high temperature. So, this research is to study the clinical profile of otomycosis in central terrain region of Nepal.Material and Methods: The study was conducted in department of ENT- head and neck surgery in Janaki medical college and teaching hospital from August 2015 to June 2016. All the clinically diagnosed cases were enrolled in the study with typical symptoms and characteristics fungal debris in the external auditory canal (EAC). All the data regarding age, sex, occupation, presenting complaints, type of fugal debris, presence of acute otitis externa, findings of tympanic membrane (TM) taken.Results: Total of 77 patients were enrolled. Among them 27(35.1%) were male and 50(64.9%) were female. The most common presenting complaint is itching followed by earache, ear discharge, hearing loss. Itching was present in 77.9% of the cases followed by earache in 72.7%, aural fullness in 29%, ear discharge in 46.8% and hearing loss in 31.2%. Based on type of fungal debris on otoscopy, blackish was the commonest with frequency of 38 patients (49.4%) followed by whitish debris in 27 patients (35.1%) and yellowish among 12 patients (15.6%).Conclusion: Otomycosis is one of the most common presenting problems in otorhinolaryngology OPD. Females are affected more. Aspergillus niger implicated the most and ear itching is the most common presenting symptom.Janaki Medical College Journal of Medical Sciences (2015) Vol. 3 (1):20-24
Chandra Anuloma Viloma Pranayama modifies Cardiorespiratory Functions
Authors: Prakash S , Upadhyay-Dhungel K
Published: July 2016

Background and Objectives: In recent years, there has been considerable interest in scientific research on yoga, especially on Pranayama. Nostril breathing exercises including Alternate nostril breathing, Left nostril breathing and right nostril breathing exercises is getting attention in the east and in the west. Left nostril breathing exercises is also called Chandra Nadisuddhi Pranayama or Chandra anulomaa vilomaa Pranayama (CAV). Very few have carried out research on Chandra Anuloma Viloma Pranayama (CAV). This study was carried out to see the effects of CAV on experienced yoga practitioners and naïves.Material and Methods: The study consisted of 36 subjects divided into two groups, first group consist of 26 medical students who were naïve and the next group consist of 10 yoga practitioners. All the subjects performed 12 rounds of Chandra Nadisuddhi Pranayama in each session for 24 days. Variables were entered into SPSS Program and were analyzed.Results: This study depicts fall in Pulse rate, respiratory rate, systolic blood pressure and Diastolic blood pressure after CAV Pranayama in both Naïves and Yoga practitioners. But the significant drop was observed in SBP only (at p < 0.05) among Naives and in all parameters except respiratory rate among Yoga Practitioners.Conclusion: The effect of the Chandra Anuloma Viloma (CAV) in this study was more eminent in the yoga practitioners than in the naïve group.Janaki Medical College Journal of Medical Sciences (2015) Vol. 3 (1):45-51
Application of Resin-Bound Reagents for the Synthesis of Benzimidazole Derivatives
Authors: Ismail M. Mohsen , Refaat Hanan M. , Kamel Mona M. , Nemr M. Tawfik Mohamed
Published: July 2016

In an efficient exploitation of solid-phase chemistry, this work describes the preparation of the new resin-bound 4-( N-arylamino)-3-aminobenzoates and their successful cyclocondensations with the sodium bisulfite adducts of different aldehydes and triethyl orthoformate or triethyl orthoacetate, followed by resin cleavage to produce the target 1,2-diaryl- and 1-aryl-2-(un)substituted benzimidazole-5-carboxylic acid derivatives, respectively. In another variation, the cyclocondensation of the resin-bound 4-( N-arylamino)-3-aminobenzoates with carbon disulfide afforded the corresponding resin-bound thioxobenzimidazoles, which upon cleavage gave the corresponding 2-thioxobenzimidazoles. S-Alkylation of the resin-bound thioxobenzimidazoles with benzyl chloride and 4-bromophenacyl bromide furnished 2-benzylsulfanyl benzimidazoles and 4-bromophenyl-2-oxoethylsulfanyl-benzimidazoles, respectively. Reacting the resin-bound 4-( N-arylamino)-3-aminobenzoates with phenyl isothiocyanate gave the open-form 4-(arylamino)-3-(3-phenylthioureido) benzoic acids. Moreover, the reaction of the resin-bound 4-( N-arylamino)-3-aminobenzoates with N,N-carbonyldiimidazole yielded the corresponding 2-bezimidazolones.
Classifying Four Carbon Fiber Fabrics via Machine Learning: A Comparative Study Using ANNs and SVM
Authors: Zhao Min , Li Zijun , He Wanfei
Published: July 2016

Carbon fiber fabrics are important engineering materials. However, it is confusing to classify different carbon fiber fabrics, leading to risks in engineering processes. Here, a classification method for four types of carbon fiber fabrics is proposed using artificial neural networks (ANNs) and support vector machine (SVM) based on 229 experimental data groups. Sample width, breaking strength and breaking tenacity were set as independent variables. Quantified numbers for the four carbon fiber fabrics were set as dependent variables. Results show that a multilayer feed-forward neural network with 21 hidden nodes (MLFN-21) has the best performance for classification, with the lowest root mean square error (RMSE) in the testing set.
Multi-Response Optimization of Granaticinic Acid Production by Endophytic Streptomyces thermoviolaceus NT1, Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Roy Sudipta , Halder Suman , Banerjee Debdulal
Published: July 2016

Streptomyces thermoviolaceus NT1, an endophytic isolate, was studied for optimization of granaticinic acid production. It is an antimicrobial metabolite active against even drug resistant bacteria. Different media, optimum glucose concentration, initial media pH, incubation temperature, incubation period, and inoculum size were among the selected parameters optimized in the one-variable-at-a-time (OVAT) approach, where glucose concentration, pH, and temperature were found to play a critical role in antibiotic production by this strain. Finally, the Box–Behnken experimental design (BBD) was employed with three key factors (selected after OVAT studies) for response surface methodological (RSM) analysis of this optimization study.RSM analysis revealed a multifactorial combination; glucose 0.38%, pH 7.02, and temperature 36.53 °C as the optimum conditions for maximum antimicrobial yield. Experimental verification of model analysis led to 3.30-fold (61.35 mg/L as compared to 18.64 mg/L produced in un-optimized condition) enhanced granaticinic acid production in ISP2 medium with 5% inoculum and a suitable incubation period of 10 days. So, the conjugated optimization study for maximum antibiotic production from Streptomyces thermoviolaceus NT1 was found to result in significantly higher yield, which might be exploited in industrial applications.
A Proximal Point Algorithm for Minimum Divergence Estimators with Application to Mixture Models
Authors: Al Mohamad Diaa , Broniatowski Michel
Published: July 2016

Estimators derived from a divergence criterion such as φ - divergences are generally more robust than the maximum likelihood ones. We are interested in particular in the so-called minimum dual φ–divergence estimator (MDφDE), an estimator built using a dual representation of φ–divergences. We present in this paper an iterative proximal point algorithm that permits the calculation of such an estimator. The algorithm contains by construction the well-known Expectation Maximization (EM) algorithm. Our work is based on the paper of Tseng on the likelihood function. We provide some convergence properties by adapting the ideas of Tseng. We improve Tseng’s results by relaxing the identifiability condition on the proximal term, a condition which is not verified for most mixture models and is hard to be verified for “non mixture” ones. Convergence of the EM algorithm in a two-component Gaussian mixture is discussed in the spirit of our approach. Several experimental results on mixture models are provided to confirm the validity of the approach.
Environmental and Economic Performance of an Li-Ion Battery Pack: A Multiregional Input-Output Approach
Authors: Sanfélix Javier , De la Rúa Cristina , Schmidt Jannick , Messagie Maarten , Van Mierlo Joeri
Published: July 2016

In this paper, the environmental and economic impacts of the life cycle of an advanced lithium based energy storage system (ESS) for a battery electric vehicle are assessed. The methodology followed to perform the study is a Multiregional Input–Output (MRIO) analysis, with a world IO table that combines detailed information on national production activities and international trade data for 40 countries and a region called Rest of the World. The life cycle stages considered in the study are manufacturing, use and recycling. The functional unit is one ESS with a 150,000 km lifetime. The results of the MRIO analysis show the stimulation that the life cycle of the EES has in the economy, in terms of production of goods and services. The manufacturing is the life cycle stage with the highest environmental load for all the impact categories assessed. The geographical resolution of the results show the relevance that some countries may have in the environmental performance of the assessed product even if they are not directly involved in any of the stages of the life cycle, proving the significance of the indirect effects.
Glutathione Transferases Superfamily: Cold-Inducible Expression of Distinct GST Genes in Brassica oleracea
Authors: Vijayakumar Harshavardhanan , Thamilarasan Senthil , Shanmugam Ashokraj , Natarajan Sathishkumar , Jung Hee-Jeong , Park Jong-In , Kim HyeRan , Chung Mi-Young , Nou Ill-Sup
Published: July 2016

Plants, as sessile organisms, can suffer serious growth and developmental consequences under cold stress conditions. Glutathione transferases (GSTs, EC 2.5.1.18) are ubiquitous and multifunctional conjugating proteins, which play a major role in stress responses by preventing oxidative damage by reactive oxygen species (ROS). Currently, understanding of their function(s) during different biochemical and signaling pathways under cold stress condition remain unclear. In this study, using combined computational strategy, we identified 65 Brassica oleracea glutathione transferases (BoGST) and characterized them based on evolutionary analysis into 11 classes. Inter-species and intra-species duplication was evident between BoGSTs and Arabidopsis GSTs. Based on localization analyses, we propose possible pathways in which GST genes are involved during cold stress. Further, expression analysis of the predicted putative functions for GST genes were investigated in two cold contrasting genotypes (cold tolerance and susceptible) under cold condition, most of these genes were highly expressed at 6 h and 1 h in the cold tolerant (CT) and cold susceptible (CS) lines, respectively. Overall, BoGSTU19, BoGSTU24, BoGSTF10 are candidate genes highly expressed in B. oleracea. Further investigation of GST superfamily in B. oleracea will aid in understanding complex mechanism underlying cold tolerance in plants.
Acute Generalized Exanthematous Pustulosis: Pathogenesis, Genetic Background, Clinical Variants and Therapy
Authors: Feldmeyer Laurence , Heidemeyer Kristine , Yawalkar Nikhil
Published: July 2016

Acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP) is a severe, usually drug-related reaction, characterized by an acute onset of mainly small non-follicular pustules on an erythematous base and spontaneous resolution usually within two weeks. Systemic involvement occurs in about 20% of cases. The course is mostly benign, and only in rare cases complications lead to life-threatening situations. Recent studies highlight the importance of genetic variations in interleukin-36 receptor antagonist gene (IL-36RN) in the pathogenesis of this disease. The physiopathology of AGEP remains unclear, but an involvement of innate and acquired immune cells together with resident cells (keratinocytes), which recruit and activate neutrophils via production of cytokines/chemokines such as IL-17, IL-36, granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) and chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 8 (CXCL8)/IL-8, has been postulated. Treatment is based on the removal of the causative drug, supportive care, infection prevention and use of potent topical or systemic steroids.
Distinct Effects of Nalmefene on Dopamine Uptake Rates and Kappa Opioid Receptor Activity in the Nucleus Accumbens Following Chronic Intermittent Ethanol Exposure
Authors: Rose Jamie , Karkhanis Anushree , Steiniger-Brach Björn , Jones Sara
Published: July 2016

The development of pharmacotherapeutics that reduce relapse to alcohol drinking in patients with alcohol dependence is of considerable research interest. Preclinical data support a role for nucleus accumbens (NAc) κ opioid receptors (KOR) in chronic intermittent ethanol (CIE) exposure-induced increases in ethanol intake. Nalmefene, a high-affinity KOR partial agonist, reduces drinking in at-risk patients and relapse drinking in rodents, potentially due to its effects on NAc KORs. However, the effects of nalmefene on accumbal dopamine transmission and KOR function are poorly understood. We investigated the effects of nalmefene on dopamine transmission and KORs using fast scan cyclic voltammetry in NAc brain slices from male C57BL/6J mice following five weeks of CIE or air exposure. Nalmefene concentration-dependently reduced dopamine release similarly in air and CIE groups, suggesting that dynorphin tone may not be present in brain slices. Further, nalmefene attenuated dopamine uptake rates to a greater extent in brain slices from CIE-exposed mice, suggesting that dopamine transporter-KOR interactions may be fundamentally altered following CIE. Additionally, nalmefene reversed the dopamine-decreasing effects of a maximal concentration of a KOR agonist selectively in brain slices of CIE-exposed mice. It is possible that nalmefene may attenuate withdrawal-induced increases in ethanol consumption by modulation of dopamine transmission through KORs.
Supplementation with Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Psychiatric Disorders: A Review of Literature Data
Authors: Bozzatello Paola , Brignolo Elena , De Grandi Elisa , Bellino Silvio
Published: July 2016

A new application for omega-3 fatty acids has recently emerged, concerning the treatment of several mental disorders. This indication is supported by data of neurobiological research, as highly unsaturated fatty acids (HUFAs) are highly concentrated in neural phospholipids and are important components of the neuronal cell membrane. They modulate the mechanisms of brain cell signaling, including the dopaminergic and serotonergic pathways. The aim of this review is to provide a complete and updated account of the empirical evidence of the efficacy and safety that are currently available for omega-3 fatty acids in the treatment of psychiatric disorders. The main evidence for the effectiveness of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) has been obtained in mood disorders, in particular in the treatment of depressive symptoms in unipolar and bipolar depression. There is some evidence to support the use of omega-3 fatty acids in the treatment of conditions characterized by a high level of impulsivity and aggression and borderline personality disorders. In patients with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, small-to-modest effects of omega-3 HUFAs have been found. The most promising results have been reported by studies using high doses of EPA or the association of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. In schizophrenia, current data are not conclusive and do not allow us either to refuse or support the indication of omega-3 fatty acids. For the remaining psychiatric disturbances, including autism spectrum disorders, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, eating disorders and substance use disorder, the data are too scarce to draw any conclusion. Concerning tolerability, several studies concluded that omega-3 can be considered safe and well tolerated at doses up to 5 g/day.
Electrospun Scaffolds for Corneal Tissue Engineering: A Review
Authors: Kong Bin , Mi Shengli
Published: July 2016

Corneal diseases constitute the second leading cause of vision loss and affect more than 10 million people globally. As there is a severe shortage of fresh donated corneas and an unknown risk of immune rejection with traditional heterografts, it is very important and urgent to construct a corneal equivalent to replace pathologic corneal tissue. Corneal tissue engineering has emerged as a practical strategy to develop corneal tissue substitutes, and the design of a scaffold with mechanical properties and transparency similar to that of natural cornea is paramount for the regeneration of corneal tissues. Nanofibrous scaffolds produced by electrospinning have high surface area–to-volume ratios and porosity that simulate the structure of protein fibers in native extra cellular matrix (ECM). The versatilities of electrospinning of polymer components, fiber structures, and functionalization have made the fabrication of nanofibrous scaffolds with suitable mechanical strength, transparency and biological properties for corneal tissue engineering feasible. In this paper, we review the recent developments of electrospun scaffolds for engineering corneal tissues, mainly including electrospun materials (single and blended polymers), fiber structures (isotropic or anisotropic), functionalization (improved mechanical properties and transparency), applications (corneal cell survival, maintenance of phenotype and formation of corneal tissue) and future development perspectives.
Sinularin Induces Apoptosis through Mitochondria Dysfunction and Inactivation of the pI3K/Akt/mTOR Pathway in Gastric Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Wu Yu-Jen , Wong Bing-Sang , Yea Shu-Hao , Lu Chi-I , Weng Shun-Hsiang
Published: July 2016

Sinularin is an active compound isolated from the cultured soft coral Sinularia flexibilis. In this study, we investigated the effects of sinularin on two human gastric cancer cell lines, AGS and NCI-N87. Our results demonstrated that sinularin suppressed the proliferation of gastric cancer cells in a dose-dependent manner and induced apoptosis. In addition, the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, the release of cytochrome C, the activation of Bax, Bad and caspase-3/9, and the suppression of p-Bad, Bcl-xL and Bcl-2 were observed in the cells treated with sinularin. This finding suggests that sinularin-induced apoptosis is associated with mitochondria-mediated apoptosis and occurs through caspase-dependent pathways. Furthermore, sinularin inhibited the phosphoinositol 3-kinase/Akt/mechanistic target of the rapamycin signaling pathway. Taken together, our results show that sinularin-induced apoptosis is mediated by activation of the caspase cascade and mitochondrial dysfunction. Our findings suggest that sinularin merits further evaluation as a chemotherapeutic agent for human gastric cancer.
Robust Decentralized Nonlinear Control for a Twin Rotor MIMO System
Authors: Belmonte Lidia , Morales Rafael , Fernández-Caballero Antonio , Somolinos José
Published: July 2016

This article presents the design of a novel decentralized nonlinear multivariate control scheme for an underactuated, nonlinear and multivariate laboratory helicopter denominated the twin rotor MIMO system (TRMS). The TRMS is characterized by a coupling effect between rotor dynamics and the body of the model, which is due to the action-reaction principle originated in the acceleration and deceleration of the motor-propeller groups. The proposed controller is composed of two nested loops that are utilized to achieve stabilization and precise trajectory tracking tasks for the controlled position of the generalized coordinates of the TRMS. The nonlinear internal loop is used to control the electrical dynamics of the platform, and the nonlinear external loop allows the platform to be perfectly stabilized and positioned in space. Finally, we illustrate the theoretical control developments with a set of experiments in order to verify the effectiveness of the proposed nonlinear decentralized feedback controller, in which a comparative study with other controllers is performed, illustrating the excellent performance of the proposed robust decentralized control scheme in both stabilization and trajectory tracking tasks.
Near-Space TOPSAR Large-Scene Full-Aperture Imaging Scheme Based on Two-Step Processing
Authors: Zhang Qianghui , Wu Junjie , Li Wenchao , Huang Yulin , Yang Jianyu , Yang Haiguang
Published: July 2016

Free of the constraints of orbit mechanisms, weather conditions and minimum antenna area, synthetic aperture radar (SAR) equipped on near-space platform is more suitable for sustained large-scene imaging compared with the spaceborne and airborne counterparts. Terrain observation by progressive scans (TOPS), which is a novel wide-swath imaging mode and allows the beam of SAR to scan along the azimuth, can reduce the time of echo acquisition for large scene. Thus, near-space TOPS-mode SAR (NS-TOPSAR) provides a new opportunity for sustained large-scene imaging. An efficient full-aperture imaging scheme for NS-TOPSAR is proposed in this paper. In this scheme, firstly, two-step processing (TSP) is adopted to eliminate the Doppler aliasing of the echo. Then, the data is focused in two-dimensional frequency domain (FD) based on Stolt interpolation. Finally, a modified TSP (MTSP) is performed to remove the azimuth aliasing. Simulations are presented to demonstrate the validity of the proposed imaging scheme for near-space large-scene imaging application.
Multiwalled carbon nanotube hybrids as MRI contrast agents
Authors: Kuźnik Nikodem , Tomczyk Mateusz Michał
Published: July 2016

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is one of the most commonly used tomography techniques in medical diagnosis due to the non-invasive character, the high spatial resolution and the possibility of soft tissue imaging. Contrast agents, such as gadolinium complexes and superparamagnetic iron oxides, are administered to spotlight certain organs and their pathologies. Many new models have been proposed that reduce side effects and required doses of these already clinically approved contrast agents. These new candidates often possess additional functionalities, e.g., the possibility of bioactivation upon action of particular stimuli, thus serving as smart molecular probes, or the coupling with therapeutic agents and therefore combining both a diagnostic and therapeutic role. Nanomaterials have been found to be an excellent scaffold for contrast agents, among which carbon nanotubes offer vast possibilities. The morphology of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), their magnetic and electronic properties, the possibility of different functionalization and the potential to penetrate cell membranes result in a unique and very attractive candidate for a new MRI contrast agent. In this review we describe the different issues connected with MWCNT hybrids designed for MRI contrast agents, i.e., their synthesis and magnetic and dispersion properties, as well as both in vitro and in vivo behavior, which is important for diagnostic purposes. An introduction to MRI contrast agent theory is elaborated here in order to point to the specific expectations regarding nanomaterials. Finally, we propose a promising, general model of MWCNTs as MRI contrast agent candidates based on the studies presented here and supported by appropriate theories.
Methods and Tools for Enabling Employees to Contribute to Technological Progress
Authors: Jeretin-Kopf Maja , Wuttke Claas Christian , Haas Rüdiger , Wiesmüller Christian
Published: July 2016

This paper introduces an interdisciplinary continuing professional development concept aiming at providing engineers and technicians with the appropriate skills to foster the Simultaneous Working & Learning programs (SWLP) in their enterprises. It is furthermore shown, how the need of qualification for the technical personnel can be detected using internal and external sources. In addition the derivation process of individual qualification needs for each employee depending on his function and position in the companies’ organization is demonstrated. For each of the above mentioned task appropriate tools are proposed.
Green Convergence in Emerging Nations
Authors: Chakrabarti Gagari , Sen Chitrakalpa
Published: July 2016

Convergence in growth for emerging nations has always been an important topic of economic discourse. This study looks into the growth convergence of selected basket of emerging nations towards selected basket of developed nations using Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) framework. The findings of the study show that not only the economic indicators of the respective emerging nations are responsible towards narrowing the per capita GDP differential between developed and emerging nations, but also the differentials of economic indicators between developed and emerging nations are important. This helps towards answering the paradoxical question why in spite of taking the best measures the developing countries are unable to match up with their developed counterparts' per capita GDP. Finally, the study shows significant positive relationship between GDP growth rate and carbon dioxide emission.
An Introduction to Sustainable Supply Chain Management and Business Implications
Authors: Vijayan Gowri , Kamarulzaman Nitty Hirawaty
Published: July 2016

The chapter will explain the concept of sustainability in supply chain management. Sustainability in business operations is fast becoming a vital element to successful global acceptance. It is also one of the major marketing strategies for Points-of-Difference (POD) product positioning. It is necessary to have a basic knowledge of how sustainability is brought about in supply chains in order to truly comprehension the opportunities from it. An understanding of the basic elements to sustainability in supply chain management and global models adopted for implementation of sustainability by corporations is essential. The chapter further focuses on introducing the concept of reverse logistics as sustainability supply chain process and the strategic advantage for industries from adoption of reverse logistics across the supply chain. An insight into United Nations Global Compact program for sustainability across businesses and sustainability governance has been provided.
Utilization from Okara to Replace Wheat Flour in Ice-Cream Cone
Authors: Phuenpipob Chompoonuch , Thomthong Duangmanee , Sakdumrong Tanagorn
Published: July 2016

Research objectives were to study the formula, process and the ratio of Okara (Dry basis) to reduce the amount of wheat flour to produce the ice-cream cone. Gluten is a protein composite found in wheat (Triticum spp.) and related grains, including barley and rye which causes health problems in sufferers of celiac disease and some cases of wheat allergy. The Okara was prepared by dried at 70 degree Celsius, 10 hours after that grind and screen size unless 60 mesh. The experimental design was CRD at 3 levels (Okara:wheat flour) such as 30:70, 35:65 and 40:60. Use 9 Points Hedonic Scale test was performed for each treatment. Thirty panelists were most acceptable at 35:65 the result found the characteristic for odor was 6.80+ 1.03, taste was 7.23+ 0.97, texture was 7.23+ 0.72, and overall acceptance was 7.30+ 0.70 there were significant differences (p<0.05) which was well accepted with score 6-7 (like slightly-like moderately) which there was significant differences (p<0.05) with 30:70 and 40:60. The finished product had Aw 0.31±0.05, 16.12±0.58 %hardness, and could be stored at room temperature for 23 days and not found Staphylococcus aureus, yeast and mold. Nutrients content 1.55±0.05%fiber, 17.22±0.05%fat, 13.56±0.04%protein, 63.61±0.24%carbohydrate and 1.14±0.02%ash.
Design of Experiment of High Pressure Steel Tank Using Tandem Submerged Arc Welding
Authors: Boonkanit Prin , Pansong Wittaya
Published: July 2016

The objective of this research is to investigate the appropriated Tandem Submerged Arc Welding (TSAW) by Punch through technique for high pressure steel tank in ship building industry. Electrode Type AWS A5.17 EM12K and powder flux type AWS A5.17 F7A6 have been applied with electric current at AC+ 550-700 Amp/DC 460-610 Amp. The welding travel speed is controlled between 515-590 mm/min with arc length between 25-30 mm which SM400 steel type is 25 mm thickness. The welding is in horizontal position without any bevel on the steel piece. Studying the suitable parameters from the experiment type 24 of this procedure experiment, the result has been found that the most suitable parameter set up for this welding is DC460, AC550, ST515, AL25. The experiment follows AWS D1.1 standard with 100% full penetration, tensile value at 542.61 N/mm2. Welding line supports impact test at 0°C with average value of 66 Joules, average hardness value at 156.4 HV, bending at 180°. With out any defected found. Moreover, this method can be reduced welding cost around18,482 baht/day and also increased the welding lenght around 168%.
Characteristics of Cultivated Sulfur Oxidizing Bacteria Community Isolated from Coal Mine Treatment Plant in H2S Removal
Authors: Nicomrat Duongruitai
Published: July 2016

Sulfur cycling based on biological oxidation of sulfide to sulfate involves sulfur-oxidizing reducing microbial communities associated with sulfide which normally oxidize sulfide in acidic environment to sulfate. The chemolithotrophic sulfur oxidizing bacteria (SOB) usually use organic and/ or inorganic sulfide initially oxidizing and subsequently released sulfate under aerobic or subaerobic condition. This study was to understand SOB community isolated from coal mine treating plant at Mae Moh, Lampang and their potentials in hydrogen sulfide (H2S) removal. In this result, with common heterotrophic medium supplemented with glucose 10 mg/ L and sulfur 0.001%, the cultured SOB were successfully cultivated based on most probable number method. Their activity showed an increase in sulfate concentration over time correspondent to an increase in culturable SOB communities. The SOB community could also develop their own microbial niches in the present of continuously aerated H2S in the medium at 30-40°C during 7 day incubation. They could remove H2S between 200-500 ppm from wastewater. These sulfur oxidized H2S contaminated in wastewater treatment facilities or drainage. Their species will be further isolated and characterized by molecular analysis.
Application of Microbial Community for Enhancing Nutritional and Appealing Fermented Juice
Authors: Nicomrat Duongruitai , Chamutpong Siriphatr
Published: July 2016

Varieties of long known traditional fermented beverages are developed since their unique delicious and aroma. Additional nutrition value added in fermented drinks revealing their health benefits are especially interesting for the consumers nowadays. In the fermentation process isolated indigenous microbes habituated on the fruit surface as well as inoculated commercial species or niches have been shown for their success in Saccharification process. In this study, the researchers have applied our identified microbial mixtures isolated to be anticipating community starter in sugar production process. In addition, they were aimed to do enhancing nutritional value to the fermented juice. The selective cultures were obtained from fermented banana juice including yeasts Saccharomyces spp. and bacteria Lactobacillus sp., and Bacillus sp., yielding high protein contents, sweet aroma, and organic acids. Moreover, it was observed that weak acidity with pH 3-4 together with high reducing sugar and nutritious protein contents could be detected if particularly prior activated microbes were incubated for at least 10-15 days in fragrant bananas juice and two banana varieties; Naamwa banana (Musa sapientum L.) and lady finger banana. The modified wine fermentation approach of microbe mixtures can considerably use to improve the unique characteristics of wine that are nutritive protein supplementation as well as juice fermentation savour.
Pesticides Contaminated in Rice Paddy Soil Affecting on Cultivated Microorganism Community
Authors: Nicomrat Duongruitai , Tharajak Jirasak , Kanthang Paisan
Published: July 2016

It has been known for the diversified microbes living in the soil are basic indicators of changes in the ecosystem especially in paddy soil. The effects of continuous application of pesticides in rice field are widely discussed but still disregarded due to unclear and underestimated by the users and the chemicals also need time to accumulate and slowly affect the environment and health. The objective of this research was to understand the effects of pesticides on microorganism community in rice field. Both the numbers and the types of useful soil microorganisms including nitrogen fixing and common habituated microorganisms were compared in between using and not using chemical pesticides samples. The results showed that productivity of cultured microorganisms in the paddy applied with pesticides has dropped only slightly (approximately 9% reduction), however, more spore-forming Gram positive bacteria were detected. Additionally, increases in common microorganisms in the soil at a depth below than 20-50 cm were observed that could possibly be because of less pesticide availability there comparing to the surface of paddy soil. Although the changes in numbers and types of culturable microbes in the paddy soil contaminated with chemical pesticides were less than the actual diversity of species and cultivars, this study could help primarily indicate the adverse effects of the use of chemical pesticides. They thus interfered the ecological balance of the number and type of microorganisms especially at the site doing pesticide application.
Dyeing Studies of Cotton Towel Product with Natural Dyes and Effect of Cationization on Colour Characteristics
Authors: Sarikanon Cholthicha , Yabdee Sudakan , Manarungwit Kasem , Sarikanon Chamlong , Mongkholrattanasit Rattanaphol , Jitkrajaisaeng Visan
Published: July 2016

This research was concerned with dye extraction from lac, purple corn cob, golden shower tree seed pods, garcinia dulcis bark and dried mangosteen leaves and application on cotton towel product dyeing by the use of exhaustion process. Cotton towel was pretreated using cationizing agent (Sarcat PD) before dyeing. Cotton towel dyed in the solution extracting from lac showed pink shade. The sample dyed with purple corn cob and golden shower tree seed pods resulted in violetish-brown and dark brown shades, respectively. With garcinia dulcis bark and dried mangosteen leaves the colour was yellow and brownish orange. The results showed that the dyes K/S values of the treated cotton towel were improved compared with those of the un-treated one.
An Analysis of Paper Towels Shearing Properties
Authors: Kan Chi Wai , Leung Maggie Hoi Man , Mongkholrattanasit Rattanaphol
Published: July 2016

In this paper, we collected 12 commercially available paper towels from the local market and their shearing properties were evaluated by Kawabata Evaluation System for Fabric (KES-F). Three properties namely: (i) shear rigidity (G), (ii) shear stress at 0.5º (2HG) and (iii) shear stress at 5º (2HG5) were studied. Experimental results revealed that the shearing properties varied within the products. G was used as the key property for discussing the shearing properties of paper towels. However, in correlating different shearing properties, it was found that 2HG and 2HG5 had strong Pearson correlation. However, no significant statistically relationship between weight and thickness to G was found. This study may provide data for the industry for the improvement of shearing properties of paper towels for local market.
Using KES-F System for Determining the Bending Properties of Paper Towels
Authors: Kan Chi Wai , Leung Maggie Hoi Man , Mongkholrattanasit Rattanaphol
Published: July 2016

12 commercially available paper towels were collected from the local market and studied in this paper. Kawabata Evaluation System for Fabric (KES-F) was used for evaluating their bending properties. Two bending properties namely: (i) bending rigidity (B) and (ii) bending moment (2HB) were evaluated. Experimental results indciated that the bending properties varied within the products. B was used as the key property for discussing the bending properties of paper towels. When the correlations of different bending properties were investigated, it was found that no significant was found between B and 2HB. However, there was significant statistically relationship between weight and B but no relationship between thickness and B. With the use of the results, the product developer could improve the bending properties of the paper towels.
Moisture Properties Analysis of Commercially Available Innerwear
Authors: Kan Chi Wai , Tam Hiu Tung , Mongkholrattanasit Rattanaphol
Published: July 2016

In this study, three commercially available innerwears were collected from the market. Their moisture management properties were measured. Experimental results revealed that the fibre content played an important role in affecting the moisture management properties of the innerwears.
Ultraviolet Protection Properties of Single Jersey Knit Outerwear: Part III - Effect of Colour
Authors: Kan Chi Wai , Cheung Kin , Mongkholrattanasit Rattanaphol
Published: July 2016

In this study, 6 commercially available single jersey knit outerwears with different colour were collected from the market which claimed to have ultraviolet protection factor of 25. In vitro method with the use of spectrophotometer was used for evaluating their ultraviolet protection properties. Experimental results revealed that the L* values has a higher correlation with UPF but a* and b* values do not have a significant correlation with UPF of fabrics. Moreover, all samples had a UPF value higher than 25.