bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
GLUCOSE DETECTION IN BLOOD USING NEAR-INFRARED SPECTROSCOPY: SIGNIFICANT WAVELENGTH FOR GLUCOSE DETECTION
Authors: Abd Rahim Intan Maisarah , Abdul Rahim Herlina , Ghazali Rashidah , Ismail Ruhaizan , Omar Julia
Published: July 2016

World Health Organization (WHO) stated in 2004, about 347 million people suffered from diabetes and from this statistic, about 3.4 million died from the complication of kidney failure, heart attack, body part amputation and adequately reported suffered from blindness. There are several non-invasive techniques in measuring the blood glucose level developed nowadays and among the popular technique is the near-infrared (NIR) measurement, ultrasonic sensor implementation, multisensory systems, absorbance of transmittance, bio-impedance, voltage intensity, and thermography. Among these techniques, there are several approaches that displayed a lot of potential; nonetheless some of them have produced unsatisfying results. The NIR technique has been applied in some of previous research, however the wavelength used vary for different researcher. There are several points of views on the significant wavelength range that contains suitable information regarding the peaks of glucose in blood. This paper is focusing on the experimental data collection using the near-infrared spectroscopy technique. This paper furthermore discussing on determine the significant peaks of glucose that is suitable to be used as the indicator of the glucose in blood. The highest significant peaks of blood glucose detected from the range around 1450nm and 1930nm.
A REVIEW ON AIR POLLUTANTS MEASUREMENT TECHNIQUES AND ITS FUTURE ADVANCEMENT
Authors: Dahari Nur Azie , Wahid Herman , Md. Yunus Mohd Amri , Abdul Rahim Herlina , Sulaiman Mohammad Dzubhair
Published: July 2016

Recently, the issues of air pollutants have become a major topic that is currently being debated among researchers and authority as it give negative impacts to the environment.  This paper will discuss thoroughly on techniques that are currently being applied in monitoring air pollution. Techniques that are quite familiar in monitoring air pollution are such as the absorption spectroscopy technique, ozone monitoring instrument (OMI) and solid state gas sensor. Throughout this paper, the equipment used and the outcome from a number of methods will be reviewed. For future improvements, a new sensor for air monitoring will be proposed which is envisaged capable to detect ultrafine particles (UFPs) (i.e. with a diameter less than 100 nm).
A REVIEW OF APPLICATION ELECTRICAL RESISTANCE TOMOGRAPHY FOR ROOTED HERB TREE DETECTION
Authors: Ishak Syafiqah , Fazalul Rahiman Mohd Hafiz , Sayyidi Hamzah Salman , Thiam Siow Lean , Mar Ali Nur Atikah , Tan Wan Kiat Thomas , Ang Wei Neng Vernoon
Published: July 2016

This paper presents the measurement strategy of Electrical Resistance Tomography (ERT) for a system using underground investigation and comparison with other application such as conducting vessel pipe and concrete. Measurement of electrical strategy commonly used are adjacent strategy, opposite strategy, diagonal strategy and bounding conducting. This paper also discussed in measurement strategy for underground such as the Wenner-alpha configuration, Pole-Dipole array, cross bore-hole ERT and pseudo-section. This paper focuses on the principle and advantages measurement strategy for underground investigation and for other system such as conducting vessel pipe. The soil resistivity testing was described for related with rooted tree detection in soil.
ANALYSIS ON THE EFFECT OF STIMULATOR PARAMETERS IN ELECTRICAL STIMULATION PROCEDURE ON THE HUMAN BICEP MUSCLE
Authors: Wong Azman Amelia , Naeem Jannatul , Mohd Mustafah Yasir , Mohamad Saforazuridi , Khan Sheroz , Zahirul Alam A. H. M , Habaebi Hadi
Published: July 2016

While electrical stimulation has proven to produce positive outcome among patients, electrical stimulation in post stroke rehabilitation faced one main limitation – muscle fatigue. Muscle fatigue limits the training time, hence, affecting the recovery process. This work analyzes the occurrence of muscle fatigue with respect to the different stimulator parameters; amplitude, pulse shape and frequency. The detection of muscle fatigue will be monitored as force where the force sensitive resistor (FSR) sensors are used to detect the variations of the force exerted by the muscle. In this work, it is assumed that the fatigue in muscle will happen when the force recorded reduces to 60% from its initial force over the stimulation period. The experiment results proof that the stimulator parameters, amplitude, pulse shape and frequency, have different effect to the upper limb muscle with respect to muscle fatigue. The results also show that the exponential waveform can be considered in future rehabilitation program since the onset of muscle fatigue is delayed later in the experiment when compared to the other signals. This allows extended training duration among stroke patients to benefit from the recovery window time frame especially for patients who are still in their early recovering stage.
SINGLE CHANNEL ELECTROENCEPHALOGRAM FEATURE EXTRACTION BASED ON PROBABILITY DENSITY FUNCTION FOR SYNCHRONOUS BRAIN COMPUTER INTERFACE
Authors: Shawkany Hazim Muhammad Shaufil Adha , Mat Safri Norlaili , Othman Mohd Afzan
Published: July 2016

Over recent years, there has been an explosive growth of interest in Electroencephalogram (EEG) based-Brain Computer Interface (BCI). Technically any architecture of a BCI is designed to have the ability of extracting out a set of features from brain signal. This paper demonstrated the extraction process based on Probability Density Function (PDF).A shared control scheme was developed between a mobile robot and subject. In general, subjects were required to synchronously imagine a star rotating and mind relaxation at specific time and direction. The imagination of a star would trigger a mobile robot suggesting that there is an object at certain direction. The mobile robot was then looking for a target based on probability value assigned to it. The result shows that 95% of theta activity was concentrated at target’s direction (during star imagination) and reduced when there is no target (during mind relaxation).
HEAVY VEHICLES SPEED PROFILING ON URBAN EXPRESSWAY: THE CASE OF FEDERAL HIGHWAY
Authors: Hashim Wardati , Arshad Ahmad Kamil , Mustaffa Masria , Kamaluddin Noor Azreena
Published: July 2016

The presence of heavy vehicles on expressways will have an impact on the traffic performance. The geometrical design of expressways with the purpose of providing a better performance towards vehicles especially passenger cars, is also a prudent facility to the heavy vehicles, especially when it comes to speed. Though national allowable speed for heavy vehicles has been set, the actual situation may differ according to the general observation. This study attempts to explore the speed distribution of heavy vehicles typical urban expressways in Malaysia with Federal Highway Shah Alam-Kuala Lumpur being the case study.  Extensive data was collected through video recording before being abstracted and processed by utilizing the TRAIS software. Then, statistical analysis showing the speed distribution and profiling are presented. The results showed that in average heavy vehicles drive at speed of more than the allowable limit for the determined expressway section. The 85th percentile also indicates that thespecial speed limit of heavy vehicle on expressway is violated and therefore speeding enforcement would be appropriate instead of adjust in posted speed limit.
A REVIEW ON CRACK RELIEF LAYER IN AIRPORT RUNWAY
Authors: Ahmad Zaini Ashraf , A. Aziz Md Maniruzzaman , Kassim Khairul Anuar , Mustafa Khairul Hafiz
Published: July 2016

This article reviews the behaviour and function of the crack relief layer (CRL) in a pavement. The significance and effectiveness of implementing CRL into pavement layers to prevent reflective cracking are also included. Over the years, crack in pavement has been a major problem that causes obstacle to transportation system which has cost multi-millions of dollars. This is especially true in airport runway business industry where the traffic flow of aircrafts cannot be easily diverted or disturbed as it involve many parties and would jeopardize public safety. The characteristic of the CRL will be thoroughly investigated to achieve it desirable functional capability to act as the crack relieving agent. CRL is a layer made out of hot mixed asphalt that to the strata of the pavement with thickness of 100 to 150mm on top of base layer and under surface course. The significant of this hot mixed asphalt layer is in its capability to reduce reflective cracks development by separating bound and unbound layer and acting as buffer zone between those layers. Thus the layer designed to be semi-unbound layer to efficiently in creating the buffer zone for the crack transfer from the bottom to the top of the pavement. The layer also acts as the reducer by allowing cracks to  develop on the layer thus the crack generate on top of the pavement surface would decrease in the process.
SHARING OF GIS SPATIAL DATA IN TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING
Authors: Mohd Yunus Mohd Zulkifli
Published: July 2016

Geographic Information System (GIS) is classified as an information technology to solve various spatial problems in civil engineering. GIS provides spatial information to the system and therefore, complex spatial analysis of problem could be carried out. The objective of this paper is to promote the use of GIS as a tool for civil engineering problem solving. This paper describes the work undertaken to demonstrate the potential use of GIS in civil engineering via a prototype project. The presentation of this article is mainly focused on the applications of GIS in transportation engineering including transportation, highway and traffic. Moreover, this study could also contribute relevant and benefit guidance to the public and private sectors with techniques in determining potential activity using the GIS software. The utilisation of GIS can prepare and contributes towards a profitable cost and effective service. The end product should be an effective information system and a final potential GIS map. With GIS support, it could assist user to make a more effective and efficient decision on any difficulties that will arise. Compared to the conventional methods, the system provides a proper and an effective, update and accessible result of spatial analysis.
STUDY ON THE EFFECTS OF RECEIVER DISTANCE, HEIGHT AND MASS OF DROPPING STEEL BALLS ON SASW TEST RESULTS
Authors: Ismail Norfarah Nadia , Md Yusoff NurIzzi , Sabarudin Syuraizat , Mohd Nayan Khairul Anuar , Abd Rahman Norinah , Ismail Amiruddin
Published: July 2016

A series of surface wave tests, namely the Spectral Analysis of Surface Wave (SASW) test, was done on asphalt pavement to study the effect of receiver distance, S; the height of dropping steel balls, H; and the mass of the source, m on the results of SASW evaluation. For each test, four steel balls with different masses, namely0.067kg, 0.228kg, 0.537kg, and 1.805kg, were used as sources, and the balls were dropped from varying heights, 0.25m and 0.50m. This test was conducted with two different configurations, in which the receivers were located 0.15m and 0.30m apart. This paper presents the results of the test in terms of maximum and minimum wavelength. The results proved that larger receiver distance yields large wavelength, and vice versa. The similar trend is observed when the mass of the dropping ball is increased. The height of the falling steel ball, however, did not have significant impact on the results of the SASW evaluation.
AN OVERVIEW OF MOISTURE DAMAGE PERFORMANCE TESTS ON ASPHALT MIXTURES
Authors: Mohd Jakarni Fauzan , Rosli Muhammad Fudhail , Md Yusoff Nur Izzi , A Aziz Md Maniruzzaman , Muniandy Ratnasamy , Hassim Salihudin
Published: July 2016

This paper presents a review of moisture damage performance tests on asphalt mixtures. The moisture damage remains to be a detriment to the durability of the Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) pavement. Moisture damage can be defined in forms of adhesive failure between bitumen and aggregates and cohesive failure within bitumen. Aggregate mineralogy, bitumen characteristics and anti-stripping additive dominantly influence the performance of asphalt mixtures towards moisture damage alongside construction methods, climate and traffic loading. Various laboratory test methods have been developed to quantify the moisture damage performance of asphalt mixtures by resembles the action in the field, including qualitative test such as Boiling Water Test (ASTM D3625) and quantitative tests such as Modified Lottman Test (AASHTO T283). Both of these tests consist of two phases, which are conditioning and evaluation phase. This paper will review the effectiveness of the selected available tests based on various asphalt mixtures materials. Generally, this study indicates that asphalt mixtures consisted of limestone aggregates, modified bitumen and addition of anti-stripping additives will provide more resistant towards moisture damage.
EXPERIMENTAL EVALUATION OF ANTI-STRIPPING ADDITIVES ON POROUS ASPHALT MIXTURES
Authors: Mohd Shukry Nurul Athma , Abdul Hassan Norhidayah , Hainin Mohd Rosli , Abdullah Mohd Ezree , Mohamed Abdullah Nor Asniza , Mahmud Mohd Zul Hanif , Putrajaya Ramadhansyah , Mashros Nordiana
Published: July 2016

The open structure of porous asphalt mix influences its strength and durability against air, water and clogging materials. These factors cause loss of adhesion between binder-aggregate interface and loss of cohesion within the binder film.  This could lead to stripping problem which contribute to premature failures as well as deterioration in the performance and service life of porous asphalt. Therefore, this study is aimed to evaluate the potential of diatomite as anti-stripping additives in porous asphalt and compared with hydrated lime and Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC). Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) test and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy analysis (EDX) were conducted to investigate the microstructure and chemical composition of the anti-stripping additives. A number of gyratory compacted samples of porous asphalt mixture with Malaysian gradation were prepared. Each sample was incorporated with 2% of anti-stripping additives as filler then mixed with polymer modified bitumen of PG76. The samples were measured for air voids content, permeability rate, resilient modulus and abrasion loss. The results indicate that samples prepared with hydrated lime show higher permeability rate and lower abrasion loss compared to samples with OPC and diatomite. However, the samples prepared with diatomite show enhanced resilient modulus compared to those with hydrated lime and OPC.
RHEOLOGICAL PROPERTIES OF STYRENE BUTADIENE RUBBER MODIFIED BITUMEN BINDER
Authors: Yaacob Haryati , Ali Mughal Moazzam , Putra Jaya Ramadhansyah , Hainin Mohd Rosli , Jayanti Dewi Sri , Che Wan Che Norazman
Published: July 2016

The study investigates the rheological properties of bitumen of 60-70 penetration grade modified with Styrene Butadiene Rubber (SBR). SBR is an elastomer which is an important sort of synthetic rubber. It is a copolymer whose molecular structure primarily consists of organic compound styrene and butadiene chain. Bitumen is visco-elastic in nature. The rate of load application and temperature has a great influence on its performance. Various fundamental properties of bitumen were evaluated, namely complex shear modulus (G*), short-term ageing, long-term ageing, viscosity, penetration and softening point by using Dynamic Shear Rheometer (DSR), Rolling Thin Film Oven Test (RTFOT), Pressure Aging Vessel (PAV), Rotational Viscometer (RV), Penetrometer and Ring and Ball Test, respectively. The binders were mixed with varying percentage of SBR i.e. 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5% by the weight of bitumen binder. The use of SBR has played an active role in improving the viscoelastic properties of bitumen. The use of SBR modifier changes the rheological behavior of bitumen by increasing its complex shear modulus (G*) and the resistance of mixture against permanent deformation (rutting). It was also found that increasing the content of SBR led to the increase in viscosity of modified bitumen, which helps in elevating the mixing and compaction temperature of asphalt mixtures.
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES AND STORAGE STABILITY OF GEOPOLYMER MODIFIED ASPHALT BINDER
Authors: Ibrahim Ahmad Nazrul Hakimi , Md. Yusoff Nur Izzi , Mohd Akhir Norliza , Borhan Muhamad Nazri
Published: July 2016

This study was conducted to investigate the physical properties and storage stability of the 80/100 penetration grade asphalt modified with geopolymer. In this research, fly ash and alkali activators, namely sodium silicate (Na2SiO3) and sodium hydroxide (NaOH), were used as geopolymer components. The penetration, Ring and Ball softening point, ductility, and viscosity tests were conducted to determine the physical properties of geopolymer modified asphalt (GMA). Five samples of asphalt binders with varying percentages of geopolymer, namely 0, 3, 5, 7 and 9%, by weight of asphalt binder were studied. Results show that geopolymer has good compatibility with asphalt binder. The addition of geopolymer into asphalt binder resulted in improved permanent deformation resistance of the modified binder compared to that of the conventional asphalt. In conclusion, geopolymer could be considered as a potential alternative in the modification of the properties of asphalt binder.
Finite Element Modeling of Tire With Validation Using Tensile and Frequency Response Testing
Authors: Bastiaan Jennifer M. , Khajepour Amir
Published: July 2016

A physical testing program is performed in support of finite element model creation for a 50-series passenger car tire. ABAQUS finite element analysis software is used along with its standard material models. Uniaxial tension testing of tire samples cut from the tread composite, tread rubber and sidewall composite is performed in order to obtain material properties. Hyper-elastic material coefficients for tread rubber are fit using uniaxial tension test data. Results show that the Arruda-Boyce hyper-elastic material model fits the test data well and it predicts reasonable overall behavior in uniaxial tension and uniaxial compression. Most other hyperelastic material models are found to predict unrealistic behavior in uniaxial compression for the tire samples, especially in the 0 to 20% compressive strain range.

Frequency response testing of two inflated passenger car tires of different sizes, makes and models is also performed to assist in defining the viscoelastic material model for tread rubber. Test results show that tire modal damping is in the 2 to 4% range for most modes below 200 Hz, and the response curves, modal density and modal damping are remarkably similar for the two tires tested. The tire finite element model with updated material properties is simulated for nine combinations of air inflation pressure and vertical load in order to calculate static loaded radius. The analysis results are compared with physical test results and the analysis results are found to deviate at most by 3% compared to the tests.
Control of Electric Vehicles Using a Model Predictive Controller With Closed Form Solution
Authors: Jalaliyazdi Milad , Khajepour Amir , Kasaiezadeh Alireza , Litkouhi Bakhtiar , Chen Shih-Ken
Published: July 2016

In this paper, the problem of vehicle stability control using model predictive technique is addressed. The vehicle under consideration is an electric vehicle with an electric motor driving each wheel independently. For the purpose of stability control, it is required that the vehicle tracks a desired yaw rate at all times therefore, extending the linear range of the vehicle dynamics. The desired yaw rate is defined based on vehicle speed, steering wheel angle and road surface friction.

The vehicle stability control system considered in this paper consists of a high-level controller that compares the current states of the vehicle with its desired states to determine the required forces and moments at the center of mass, and a low-level controller to track those C.G. forces and moments by adjusting the motor torques on each wheel. It will be shown that a non-predictive low-level controller can have a closed form solution. In order to avoid saturation of the tires, the low-level controller has a penalty function that increases exponentially when the tire forces are close to the limits of saturation to reduce tire forces to keep them within the tires force capacity.

In this paper, a model predictive controller is designed as the low-level controller to predict the tire forces and the yaw moment at the C.G. to minimize the tracking error of desired C.G. forces and moments. To keep the tire forces within the tires capacity limit, a penalty function is used at each sample time to penalize control actions that result in excessive tire forces. This adds a level of anticipation to the low-level controller to detect in advance when tires are about to saturate and to choose control actions to prevent that from happening.

Since tire capacity limit is treated with an analytical penalty function, it is still possible to find a closed form solution for the model predictive low-level controller. The proposed controller is tested with simulations and the results are compared with a similar non-predictive controller.
On the enigmatic birth of the Pacific Plate within the Panthalassa Ocean
Authors: Boschman Lydian M. , van Hinsbergen Douwe J. J.
Published: July 2016

Reconstruction of how the Pacific Plate originated at a point improves plate reconstructions of the vast ocean around Pangea.
Chimpanzee sanctuaries open door to more research
Authors: Grimm David
Published: July 2016

Collaboration aims to beef up science at retirement centers.
Innovation competition empowers young entrepreneurs
Authors: Romero Juan David
Published: July 2016

Science, technology, and local concerns fuel ideas from the developing world
Living in a microbial world
I Contain Multitudes The Microbes Within Us and a Grander View of Life
Ed Yong
HarperCollins, 2016. 363 pp.
Authors: Perkins Susan
Published: July 2016

Microbes take center stage in a charming tour of Earth's microscopic menagerie
Interpreting evolution
History Within The Science, Culture, and Politics of Bones, Organisms, and Molecules
Marianne Sommer
University of Chicago Press, 2016. 552 pp.
Authors: Meloni Maurizio
Published: July 2016

A probing history sheds light on the social and cultural biases that have shaped the study of human origins
Modification of Three Amino Acids in Sodium Taurocholate Cotransporting Polypeptide Renders Mice Susceptible to Infection with Hepatitis D Virus
In Vivo
Authors: He Wenhui , Cao Zhiliang , Mao Fengfeng , Ren Bijie , Li Yunfei , Li Dan , Li Huiyu , Peng Bo , Yan Huan , Qi Yonghe , Sun Yinyan , Wang Fengchao , Sui Jianhua , Li Wenhui
Published: July 2016

Sodium taurocholate cotransporting polypeptide (NTCP) was identified as a functional receptor for hepatitis D virus (HDV) and its helper hepatitis B virus (HBV). In cultured cell lines, HDV infection through mouse NTCP is restricted by residues 84 to 87 of the receptor. This study shows that mice with these three amino acids altered their corresponding human residues (H84R, T86K, and S87N) in endogenous mouse NTCP support
de novo
HDV infection
in vivo
. HDV infection was documented by the presence of replicative forms of HDV RNA and HDV proteins in liver cells at day 6 after viral inoculation. Monoclonal antibody specifically binding to the motif centered on K86 in NTCP partially inhibited HDV infection. These studies demonstrated specific interaction between the receptor and the viral envelopes
in vivo
and established a novel mouse model with minimal genetic manipulation for studying HDV infection. The model will also be useful for evaluating entry inhibitors against HDV and its helper HBV.

IMPORTANCE
NTCP was identified as a functional receptor for both HDV and HBV in cell cultures. We recently showed that neonatal C57BL/6 transgenic (Tg) mice exogenously expressing human NTCP (hNTCP-Tg) in liver support transient HDV infection. In this study, we introduced alterations of three amino acids in the endogenous NTCP of FVB mice through genome editing. The mice with the humanized NTCP residues (H84R, T86K, and S87N) are susceptible to HDV infection, and the infection can be established in both neonatal and adult mice with this editing. We also developed a monoclonal antibody specifically targeting the region of NTCP centered on lysine residue 86, and it can differentiate the modified mouse NTCP from that of the wild type and partially inhibited HDV infection. These studies shed new light on NTCP-mediated HDV infection
in vivo
, and the NTCP-modified mice provide a useful animal model for studying HDV infection and evaluating antivirals against the infection.
Transcriptomic Analysis of the Activity of a Novel Polymyxin against Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Zhao Jinxin , Cheah Soon-Ee , Roberts Kade D. , Nation Roger L. , Thompson Philip E. , Velkov Tony , Du Zongjun , Johnson Matthew D. , Li Jian
Published: July 2016

S. aureus
is currently one of the most pervasive multidrug-resistant pathogens and commonly causes nosocomial infections. Clinicians are faced with a dwindling armamentarium to treat infections caused by
S. aureus
, as resistance develops to current antibiotics. This accentuates the urgent need for antimicrobial drug discovery. In the present study, we characterized the global gene expression profile of
S. aureus
treated with FADDI-019, a novel synthetic polymyxin analogue. In contrast to the concentration-dependent killing and rapid regrowth in Gram-negative bacteria treated with polymyxin B and colistin, FADDI-019 killed
S. aureus
progressively without regrowth at 24 h. Notably, FADDI-019 activated several vancomycin resistance genes and significantly downregulated the expression of a number of virulence determinants and enterotoxin genes. A synergistic combination with sulfamethoxazole was predicted by pathway analysis and demonstrated experimentally. This is the first study revealing the transcriptomics of
S. aureus
treated with a novel synthetic polymyxin analog.
Expanding the range of immunopathology in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder
Authors: Massey Jennifer , Buckland Michael E , Barnett Yael , Sutton Ian
Published: July 2016

Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) spectrum disorder typically associates with a pathognomonic antibody response directed against aquaporin 4 and a unique immunopathological signature characterised by loss of aquaporin 4 expression. We describe a tumefactive presentation of NMO in which a biopsy specimen demonstrated active demyelination and reactive astrocytes with preserved surface aquaporin 4 immunoreactivity and dystrophic processes. While the astrocytic pathology is more typical of classical multiple sclerosis, a positive NMO-IgG (1:80) and subsequent clinical presentation with an area postrema syndrome is consistent with a diagnosis of NMO spectrum disorder. This report expands the immunopathological features that have been reported in NMO spectrum disorder.
Ciprofloxacin and statin interaction: a cautionary tale of rhabdomyolysis
Authors: Goldie Fraser Charles , Brogan Amy , Boyle James Graham
Published: July 2016

A 62-year-old woman presented to hospital, on general practitioner (GP) advice, with a 15-day history of slowly progressing muscle weakness. Results showed newly deranged liver function and creatine kinase (CK) of >24 000. Prior medical history includes previous myocardial infarction and recurrent urinary tract infection. 4 days prior to symptom onset, the patient developed typical urinary tract infection symptoms, treated with ciprofloxacin. The patient had been taking simvastatin (40 mg nocte) for 13 years and had never previously taken ciprofloxacin. Initial management included intravenous crystalloid fluids and discontinuation of simvastatin. CK level fell, liver function slowly improved and renal function remained stable. Muscle weakness improved and the patient became independently able to perform activities of daily living. While the interactions between statins and other antibiotics are well documented, the interaction between statins and ciprofloxacin is less so. The consequences of this interaction can have potentially serious outcomes.
Patterns of weight change after the diagnosis of type 2 diabetes in Scotland and their relationship with glycaemic control, mortality and cardiovascular outcomes: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Aucott Lorna S , Philip Sam , Avenell Alison , Afolabi Ebenezer , Sattar Naveed , Wild Sarah
Published: July 2016

Objectives

To determine weight change patterns in Scottish patients 2 years after diagnosis of type 2 diabetes and to examine these in association with medium-term glycaemic, mortality and cardiovascular outcomes.

Setting

Using a retrospective cohort design, ethical approval was obtained to link the Scottish diabetes care database to hospital admission and mortality records.

Participants

29 316 overweight/obese patients with incident diabetes diagnosed between 2002 and 2006 were identified with relevant information for ≥2 years.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Weight records over time provided intrapatient weight change and variation and glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) gave measures of glycaemic control. These characteristics and demographic variables at diagnosis were linked with notifications of death (2–5 years after diagnosis) and cardiovascular events (0–5 year after diagnosis).

Results

By 2 years, 36% of patients had lost ≥2.5% of their weight. Increasing age, being female and a higher body mass index at diagnosis were associated with larger proportions of weight lost (p<0.001). Multivariable modelling showed that inadequate glycaemic control at 2 years was associated with being younger at baseline, being male, having lower levels of obesity at diagnosis, gaining weight or being weight stable with weight change variability, and starting antidiabetic medication. While weight change itself was not related to mortality or cardiovascular outcomes, major weight variability was independently associated with poorer survival and increased cardiovascular outcome risks, as was deprivation.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that weight loss or being weight stable with little weight variability early after diabetes diagnosis, are associated with better glycaemic control and we identified groups less able to lose weight. With respect to mortality and cardiovascular outcomes, although weight change at 2 years was a weak predictor, major weight variability appeared to be the more relevant factor.
Association of dental and periodontal disease with chronic kidney disease in patients of a single, tertiary care centre in Thailand
Authors: Ausavarungnirun R , Wisetsin S , Rongkiettechakorn N , Chaichalermsak S , Udompol U , Rattanasompattikul M
Published: July 2016

Background

Several studies have shown an association between oral diseases and chronic kidney disease (CKD), and regular oral care may be an important strategy for reducing the burden of CKD. The objective of this study was therefore to evaluate the association between dental and periodontal diseases in Thai patients with various stages of CKD.

Methods

This was designed as a cross-sectional study and was performed between 2011 and 2012. The inclusion criteria were age >20 years and a diagnosis of CKD for at least 90 days. Data from medical records were collected, clinical oral examination was performed, and data were statistically analysed.

Results

A total of 129 patients with different stages of CKD were included. Ninety-eight (76%) were men. The age range was 30–86 years. The Decay, Missing and Filling Tooth Index and the number of missing teeth were higher in the group with moderate CKD than in the control group (21 vs 17.5, p=0.045, 13 vs 8 p=0.01, respectively). Serum albumin levels decreased when estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was in decline (γ=0.33; p=0.002). Severe periodontitis was significantly higher in the ‘more severe CKD group’ (eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m2) than in the ‘less severe CKD group’ (eGFR 60–90 mL/min/1.73 m2; 24% vs 9%, p=0.03). Severe periodontitis, eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73 m2and brushing teeth more than once a day were associated with hypoalbuminaemia (defined as <3.8 g/dL) (OR (95% CI) 5.88 (1.64 to 21.11), 5.80 (1.58 to 21.35) and 0.16 (0.05 to 0.60), respectively).

Conclusions

Severe periodontal diseases were more prevalent in patients with more severe CKD than in those with less severe CKD. The novel association of serum albumin levels with periodontal status was demonstrated in progressive stages of CKD. Dental intervention may be beneficial from the early stages of CKD.
Novel germline mutations in the calreticulin gene: implications for the diagnosis of myeloproliferative neoplasms
Authors: Szuber Natasha , Lamontagne Bruno , Busque Lambert
Published: July 2016

Mutations in the calreticulin (CALR) gene are found in the majority of Janus kinase 2-negative myeloproliferative neoplasms MPN and, thus far, have exclusively been reported as acquired, somatic mutations. We assessed the mutational status of exon 9 of the CALR gene in 2000 blood samples submitted to our centre and identified 12 subjects (0.6%) harbouring distinctive CALR mutations, all with an allelic frequency of 50% and all involving indels occurring as multiples of 3 bp. Buccal cell samples obtained from these patients confirmed the germline nature of the mutations. Importantly, these germline mutations were not diagnostic of MPN. We thus report for the first time the identification and confirmation of germline mutations in CALR distinct from those somatic mutations that define classical MPN. The finding of a non-standard CALR mutation with an allelic frequency of 50% should raise suspicion of the possibility of a germline CALR mutation and these cases investigated further.
The Chic-Choc Mountains are the last southern refuge for Arctic lichens in eastern North America
Authors: McMullin Richard Troy , Dorin Briann C.
Published: July 2016

Endemic and disjunct populations of vascular plants and cryptogams occurring in the Chic-Choc Mountains on the Gaspé Peninsula in eastern Québec, Canada, have been attracting botanists for over a century. Although controversial, these ancient mountains have been hypothesized to have been nunataks during the Wisconsin glaciation in part because they contain vascular plants that are not known to colonize nearby mountains with similar environments that were not thought to be nunataks. To determine whether there are lichen species that have the same pattern as the vascular plants, we examined the North American distribution of all the approximately 600 lichens known from the Chic-Chocs. Fifteen Arctic-alpine species were found to reach the edge of their southeastern North American range in the Chic-Chocs. Six of these species are not known to occur again for over 1000 km to the north. These results provide an additional layer of biogeographic knowledge about the unusual flora of the Chic-Chocs and lend some support to the hypothesis that the Chic-Chocs might have been nunataks during the last glacial period. Any Arctic-alpine species occurring in the Chic-Chocs are good candidates for monitoring the effects of climate change, but the 15 lichen species that reach their southeastern limit in this range might be the most vulnerable.
Germination associated ROS production and glutathione redox capacity in two recalcitrant-seeded species differing in seed longevity
Authors: Moothoo-Padayachie Anushka , Varghese Boby , Pammenter Norman W. , Govender Patrick , Sershen
Published: July 2016

This study investigated the relationship between germination rate and storage lifespan in two recalcitrant-seeded species, Avicennia marina (Forssk.) Vierh. and Trichilia dregeana Sond., in relation to water uptake and oxidative metabolism. Seeds of A. marina had a higher germination rate and shorter hydrated storage lifespan than T. dregeana. Rapid germination of A. marina seeds was associated with high water uptake rates and an early increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and decline in GSH:GSSG ratio. Slower germination in T. dregeana seeds was associated with lower water uptake rates, delayed onset of the ROS-based trigger for germination, and high GSH:GSSG ratio. Positive correlations (p < 0.05) between ROS production and percent water uptake, and inhibition of germination by ROS scavenging agents confirmed the requirement for heightened ROS levels for germination in both species. Germination rate in recalcitrant seeds appears to be governed by the rate of water uptake and ROS production; the latter being dependent on antioxidant activity. We propose that poor longevity in recalcitrant seeds, such as those of A. marina, is based on high rates of water uptake and low levels of ROS scavenging activity that promote the ROS-based trigger for germination during hydrated storage.
A computational investigation into the catalytic activity of a diselenolene sulfite oxidase biomimetic complex
Authors: Bushnell Eric A.C.
Published: July 2016

Molybdenum is the only 4d metal found in almost all life. One such molybdenum-containing enzyme is sulfite oxidase, which also contains the dithiolene-molybdopterin ligand. Sulfite oxidase is essential in the degradation of sulfur-containing compounds such as cysteine and methionine. Past work has shown parallels in the chemistry of dithiolene–metal and diselenolene–metal complexes. Thus, in this present work, the oxygen atom transfer mechanism for a diselenolene sulfite oxidase biomimetic complex was investigated using computational tools, the results of which were compared to the analogous dithiolene biomimetic complex. From the results obtained, the molybdenum-diselenolene sulfite oxidase biomimetic complex is able to catalyse the oxygen atom transfer and does so with a marginally lower value of ΔrG‡than that for the analogous dithiolene complex. In particular, it was found that on average, the diselenolene complex had an activation energy 1.2 kJ mol–1lower in energy than the analogous dithiolene complex. However, the calculated value of ΔrG suggests that the oxidation of sulfite is more favourable for the dithiolene complex where the average difference in reaction aqueous Gibbs reaction energy was –9.4 kJ mol–1relative to the diselenolene complex. It is noted that with the use of D3 and D3BJ corrections in combination with the B3LYP functional, the barrier for oxygen atom transfer is lowered by more than 30.0 kJ mol–1for both the diselenolene and dithiolene complexes. Such results suggest that to study such oxo-transfer reactions, the proper treatment of dispersion interaction is necessary.
Structural features of the carbon–sulfur chemical bond: a semi-experimental perspective
Authors: Penocchio Emanuele , Mendolicchio Marco , Tasinato Nicola , Barone Vincenzo
Published: July 2016

In this work, semi-experimental (SE) and theoretical equilibrium geometries of 10 sulfur-containing organic molecules, as well as 4 oxygenated ones, are determined by means of a computational protocol based on density functional theory. The results collected in the present paper further enhance our online database of accurate SE equilibrium molecular geometries, adding 13 new molecules containing up to 8 atoms, for 12 of which, to the best of our knowledge, the first SE equilibrium structure is reported. We focus in particular on sulfur-containing compounds, aiming both to provide new accurate data on some rather important chemical moieties, only marginally represented in the literature of the field, and to examine the structural features of carbon–sulfur bonds in the light of the previously presented linear regression approach. The structural changes issuing from substitution of oxygen by sulfur are discussed to get deeper insights on how modifications in electronic structure and nuclear potential can affect equilibrium geometries. With respect to our previous work, we perform nonlinear constrained optimizations of equilibrium SE structures, using a new general and user-friendly software under development in our group with updated definitions of useful statistical indicators.
Assessment of size selectivity in hydraulic clam dredge fisheries
Authors: Sala Antonello , Brčić Jure , Herrmann Bent , Lucchetti Alessandro , Virgili Massimo
Published: July 2016

In hydraulic dredge clam fisheries, the onboard mechanical sorting can be considered as the main catch selection process. The catch is mechanically sorted by a sieve made up of a series of successive grids with holes of decreasing diameter. The effect of the grid hole diameter and sorting speed of the vibrating sieve of a hydraulic dredger was investigated in a field study to determine its clam selection properties and to formulate proposals aimed at improving fishery management. Data analysis demonstrates that it is technically impossible to achieve a knife-edge selection and that there is scope for improving the size selection process, for instance by increasing grid hole diameter, which, however, can be accompanied by a reduced catch of both undersized and commercial-sized individuals. An increase in the hole diameter to 21.71 mm, while ensuring less than 5% retention of undersized individuals, would entail a retention of 67% of the commercial sizes. The modelling approach applied can be extended to investigations of other dredge gear types and nonmobile benthic species.
Genome-wide identification and expression analysis of the apple ASR gene family in response to Alternaria alternata f. sp. mali
Authors: Huang Kaihui , Zhong Yan , Li Yingjun , Zheng Dan , Cheng Zong-Ming
Published: July 2016

The ABA/water stress/ripening-induced (ASR) gene family exists universally in higher plants, and many ASR genes are up-regulated during periods of environmental stress and fruit ripening. Although a considerable amount of research has been performed investigating ASR gene response to abiotic stresses, relatively little is known about their roles in response to biotic stresses. In this report, we identified five ASR genes in apple (Malus × domestica) and explored their phylogenetic relationship, duplication events, and selective pressure. Five apple ASR genes (Md-ASR) were divided into two clades based on phylogenetic analysis. Species-specific duplication was detected in M. domestica ASR genes. Leaves of ‘Golden delicious’ and ‘Starking’ were infected with Alternaria alternata f. sp. mali, which causes apple blotch disease, and examined for the expression of the ASR genes in lesion areas during the first 72 h after inoculation. Md-ASR genes showed different expression patterns at different sampling times in ‘Golden delicious’ and ‘Starking’. The activities of stress-related enzymes, peroxidase (POD), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL), and polyphenoloxidase (PPO), and the content of malondialdehyde (MDA) were also measured in different stages of disease development in two cultivars. The ASR gene expression patterns and theses physiological indexes for disease resistance suggested that Md-ASR genes are involved in biotic stress responses in apple.
Cytological and molecular analysis of wheat – Agropyron cristatum translocation lines with 6P chromosome fragments conferring superior agronomic traits in common wheat
Authors: Song Liqiang , Lu Yuqing , Zhang Jinpeng , Pan Cuili , Yang Xinming , Li Xiuquan , Liu Weihua , Li Lihui
Published: July 2016

Agropyron cristatum (2n = 4x = 28, PPPP) is a wild relative of common wheat and confers several desirable agronomic traits to wheat, such as high grain number per spike and enhanced resistance to certain diseases. Development of wheat – A. cristatum 6P translocation lines facilitates its utilization in wheat improvement. In this study, 26 wheat – A. cristatum 6P translocation lines were characterized by in situ hybridization (ISH) and 6P-specific sequence-tagged-site (STS) markers. These translocation lines carried different 6P chromosomal segments, which covered the whole 6P chromosome. FISH results showed that 15, 5, and 6 lines were translocated onto wheat A, B, and D genomes, respectively. Compared with the previous reports, a fine physical map of 6P chromosome was constructed, consisting of 31 chromosomal bins with 255 STS markers. Twelve translocation lines containing 6PS13∼14 chromosomal bins were highly resistant to leaf rust. Two lines showed high grain number per spike, and three lines displayed both enhanced grain number per spike and thousand-grain weight. Development of wheat – A. cristatum 6P translocation lines will not only provide novel wheat germplasm for wheat breeding but also be helpful to broaden the genetic basis of common wheat.
A Review of Some Recently Proposed Topologies for Multilevel DC–AC Conversion
Authors: Agrawal Rekha , Jain Shailendra
Published: July 2016

Multilevel inverter (MLI) is gaining rapid popularity in high/medium power applications due to low THD and high quality output waveform. Recently, the MLI topologies with reduced part count has attracted the researchers by offering higher number of output voltage level with reduced part count as compared to classical topologies (CHB, NPC and FC). It is observed that these recently proposed topologies are aimed to increase the output level with less number of components but the discussion over their suitability for a particular application is not yet explored completely. The main purpose of this paper is to provide an instructive review and analysis of existing MLIs with reduced part count. An exhaustive comparison of MLIs are assessed based on the number of switches, standing/blocking voltage across the switches, conduction losses, switching losses and cost. With the outcome of comparison results, suitable structure of MLI can be judged with reduced number of components and losses for given applications.
Tachyonic matter cosmology with exponential and hyperbolic potentials
Authors: Pourhassan B. , Naji J.
Published: July 2016

In this paper, we consider tachyonic matter in spatially flat Friedmann–Robertson–Walker (FRW) universe, and obtain behavior of some important cosmological parameters for two special cases of potentials. First, we assume the exponential potential and then consider hyperbolic cosine type potential. In both cases, we obtain behavior of the Hubble, deceleration and EoS parameters. Comparison with observational data suggest the model with hyperbolic cosine type scalar field potentials has good model to describe universe.
DEVELOPING ANALYTICAL MODELS OF PREDICTING SKIN TEMPERATURE AND DAMAGE EXTENT FROM SINGLE-LAYER INTO MULTI-LAYER ONES
Authors: MAZLOOMZADEH M. , SABOONCHI A.
Published: July 2016

As a starting point for developing analytical models of predicting skin temperature and damage extent into multi-layer ones, a double-layer model consisting of two distinguished and attached layers is considered: a tissue layer containing blood vessels and a tissue layer containing no blood vessels. The Pennes model is applied for the tissue containing blood vessels. Applying the Laplace transform, then the inversion theorem for Laplace transforms and the Cauchy residue theorem, the desired skin temperature function is obtained. Applying the temperature function in a damage model, the severity and degree of damage can be determined. Validating this model against previous analytical, numerical and experimental data, the error rate is determined.