bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrating Expert Knowledge in Cereal Food Manufacturing Processes
Authors: Kansou Kamal , Della Valle Guy , Ndiaye Amadou
Published: August 2013

We present a procedure of knowledge representation based on a qualitative algebra, to predict the wheat flour dough behaviour from mixing settings. The procedure guarantees the consistency of the knowledge base and provides a concise and explicit representation of the knowledge. The qualitative model is implemented as a knowledge-based system (KBS) accessible and understandable by scientists and technologists in breadmaking. The KBS is a record of the domain knowledge, mainly know-how, and a tool to confront predictions of the dough condition with real observations. An example of such a confrontation about the wheat flour dough mixing process is shown; the results gives insight into ill-known relations between the process settings and the dough condition.
The Effect of Cylinder Bore Distortion on Lube Oil Consumption and Blow-By
Authors: Kagnici Fatih , Akalin Ozgen
Published: August 2013

It is well-known that cylinder bore deformations during engine operation cause a number of problems in piston ring lubrication. Particularly, the deterioration of piston ring and cylinder bore conformability results in a significant increase in lubricating oil consumption (LOC). Therefore, measurement and identification of cylinder bore distortion has been an important subject for engine designers.

In this study, an analytical lubricating oil consumption model was developed for a diesel engine. Piston stiffness was identified as an important input parameter for the oil consumption model, and the stiffness matrix of the piston was calculated using finite element simulations. In addition, finite element analysis was performed to determine the distorted cylinder block shape in engine running conditions. Pressure curves obtained in actual engine tests were used in the analysis. The Fourier coefficients of a distorted cylinder bore was calculated which characterize the deformed bore orders. Using these Fourier coefficients, several distorted bore shapes were regenerated, including a straight bore and the effect of each order on total lube oil consumption was investigated by means of the oil consumption model.
Correlation Law Between Functions and Environmental Impact for Smart Products
Authors: Favi Claudio , Germani Michele , Mengoni Maura
Published: August 2013

Smart products are becoming more present in everyday life. They are prevalent in different markets such as electronic devices, cars and household appliances. One important dimension of product smartness is “multi-functionality”. When choosing a product, the consumer takes into account subjective and objective purchase drivers. Price, brand, aesthetics, environmental impact and functionalities represent an important set of these. In this context the work are interested in correlating two drivers: functions and eco-sustainability. Generally, this last characteristic should be maximized taking into consideration a correct balance with product functionalities. The aim of this work is to investigate this correlation. It can be measured by a suitable correspondence in order to determine a quantitative law. This relationship can be useful to the designers to determine the product features during the product design phase, but it can be also used by consumers to compare similar products. This paper reports the problem domain, approach for correlation law definition and, finally, the experimental analysis of product functions vs. environmental sustainability. Two case studies in the household appliances sector will exemplify the proposed analysis.
Functional Work Space Estimation of a Robot Using Forward Kinematics, D-H Parameters, and Shape Analyses
Authors: Urbanic R. J. , Gudla A.
Published: August 2013

The functional work space for a given orientation is a subset of the work envelope and is not intuitive to define for 6 axis industrial robots. A 2D boundary curve is derived for each desired end effector orientation and tool vector. This is done via a geometric analysis and using the Denavit-Hartenberg notation for the forward kinematic representation. The feasible region for all orientations is determined by the use of Boolean intersections. Disjoint regions may occur. Assessing these elements establishes the boundary limits for subsequent evaluation and optimization tasks. An ABB IRB 140 robot is used to highlight the methodology.
Gear Train Internal Dynamics in Large Offshore Wind Turbines
Authors: Rasekhi Nejad Amir , Xing Yihan , Moan Torgeir
Published: August 2013

Today in the wind turbine global analysis codes such as Hawc2 [1] or FAST [2], the entire gear train is modelled by one degree of freedom constant stiffness torsional spring. This is because the focus in the global analysis programs lies mainly on the aerodynamic loads and the dynamic behaviour of structural members. For the small size gear trains, since the internal natural frequencies are expected in a frequency range above the overall wind turbine harmonics, this approach can be justified. However, as the industry trend is toward the larger drivetrains in offshore developments, the internal dynamic of gear trains are required to be modelled more accurately. Moreover, the development in generator technology with low, medium and high speed options has brought a variety of gear train design options with specific dynamic behaviour.

In this paper the natural modes and internal dynamic excitations of high ratio wind turbine gear trains is investigated. Case study gear trains of 0.6, 2, 5 and 10 MW are modelled by pure torsional elements in a Multi Body Simulation (MBS) program; Simpack [3], where the natural modes are obtained and possible excitation are evaluated. The results show the resonance trend in various size wind turbine gear trains.
Dose optimization in cardiac x‐ray imaging
Authors: Gislason‐Lee Amber J. , McMillan Catherine , Cowen Arnold R. , Davies Andrew G.
Published: August 2013

Purpose:

The aim of this research was to optimize x‐ray image quality to dose ratios in the cardiac catheterization laboratory. This study examined independently the effects of peak x‐ray tube voltage (kVp), copper (Cu), and gadolinium (Gd) x‐ray beam filtration on the image quality to radiation dose balance for adult patient sizes.

Methods:

Image sequences of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) phantoms representing two adult patient sizes were captured using a modern flat panel detector based x‐ray imaging system. Tin and copper test details were used to simulate iodine‐based contrast medium and stents/guide wires respectively, which are used in clinical procedures. Noise measurement for a flat field image and test detail contrast were used to calculate the contrast to noise ratio (CNR). Entrance surface dose (ESD) and effective dose measurements were obtained to calculate the figure of merit (FOM), CNR2/dose. This FOM determined the dose efficiency of x‐ray spectra investigated. Images were captured with 0.0, 0.1, 0.25, 0.4, and 0.9 mm Cu filtration and with a range of gadolinium oxysulphide (Gd2O2S) filtration.

Results:

Optimum x‐ray spectra were the same for the tin and copper test details. Lower peak tube voltages were generally favored. For the 20 cm phantom, using 2 Lanex Fast Back Gd2O2S screens as x‐ray filtration at 65 kVp provided the highest FOM considering ESD and effective dose. Considering ESD, this FOM was only marginally larger than that from using 0.4 mm Cu at 65 kVp. For the 30 cm phantom, using 0.25 mm copper filtration at 80 kVp was most optimal; considering effective dose the FOM was highest with no filtration at 65 kVp.

Conclusions:

These settings, adjusted for x‐ray tube loading limits and clinically acceptable image quality, should provide a useful option for optimizing patient dose to image quality in cardiac x‐ray imaging. The same optimal x‐ray beam spectra were found for both the tin and copper details, suggesting that iodine contrast based imaging and visualization of interventional devices could potentially be optimized for dose using similar x‐ray beam spectra.
Measurements of lateral penumbra for uniform scanning proton beams under various beam delivery conditions and comparison to the XiO treatment planning system
Authors: Rana Suresh , Zeidan Omar , Ramirez Eric , Rains Michael , Gao Junfang , Zheng Yuanshui
Published: August 2013

Purpose

: The main purposes of this study were to (1) investigate the dependency of lateral penumbra (80%–20% distance) of uniform scanning proton beams on various factors such as air gap, proton range, modulation width, compensator thickness, and depth, and (2) compare the lateral penumbra calculated by a treatment planning system (TPS) with measurements.

Methods

: First, lateral penumbra was measured using solid–water phantom and radiographic films for (a) air gap, ranged from 0 to 35 cm, (b) proton range, ranged from 8 to 30 cm, (c) modulation, ranged from 2 to 10 cm, (d) compensator thickness, ranged from 0 to 20 cm, and (e) depth, ranged from 7 to 15 cm. Second, dose calculations were computed in a virtual water phantom using the XiO TPS with pencil beam algorithm for identical beam conditions and geometrical configurations that were used for the measurements. The calculated lateral penumbra was then compared with the measured one for both the horizontal and vertical scanning magnets of our uniform scanning proton beam delivery system.

Results

: The results in the current study showed that the lateral penumbra of horizontal scanning magnet was larger (up to 1.4 mm for measurement and up to 1.0 mm for TPS) compared to that of vertical scanning magnet. Both the TPS and measurements showed an almost linear increase in lateral penumbra with increasing air gap as it produced the greatest effect on lateral penumbra. Lateral penumbra was dependent on the depth and proton range. Specifically, the width of lateral penumbra was found to be always lower at shallower depth than at deeper depth within the spread out Bragg peak (SOBP) region. The lateral penumbra results were less sensitive to the variation in the thickness of compensator, whereas lateral penumbra was independent of modulation. Overall, the comparison between the results of TPS with that of measurements indicates a good agreement for lateral penumbra, with TPS predicting higher values compared to measurements.

Conclusions

: Lateral penumbra of uniform scanning proton beams depends on air gap, proton range, compensator thickness, and depth, whereas lateral penumbra is not dependent on modulation. The XiO TPS typically overpredicted lateral penumbra compared to measurements, within 1 mm for most cases, but the difference could be up to 2.5 mm at a deep depth and large air gap.
Computational Modeling of
ERBB2
-Amplified Breast Cancer Identifies Combined ErbB2/3 Blockade as Superior to the Combination of MEK and AKT Inhibitors
Authors: Kirouac Daniel C. , Du Jin Y. , Lahdenranta Johanna , Overland Ryan , Yarar Defne , Paragas Violette , Pace Emily , McDonagh Charlotte F. , Nielsen Ulrik B. , Onsum Matthew D.
Published: August 2013

Computational modeling of signaling feedback in ErbB2-positive breast cancer predicts improved combination therapies.
Nontoxigenic Clostridium difficile Protects Hamsters against Challenge with Historic and Epidemic Strains of Toxigenic BI/NAP1/027 C. difficile
Authors: Nagaro Kristin J. , Phillips S. Tyler , Cheknis Adam K. , Sambol Susan P. , Zukowski Walter E. , Johnson Stuart , Gerding Dale N.
Published: August 2013

Nontoxigenic
Clostridium difficile
(NTCD) has been shown to prevent fatal
C. difficile
infection in the hamster model when hamsters are challenged with standard toxigenic
C. difficile
strains. The purpose of this study was to determine if NTCD can prevent
C. difficile
infection in the hamster model when hamsters are challenged with restriction endonuclease analysis group BI
C. difficile
strains. Groups of 10 hamsters were given oral clindamycin, followed on day 2 by 10
6
CFU of spores of NTCD strain M3 or T7, and were challenged on day 5 with 100 CFU of spores of BI1 or BI6. To conserve animals, results for control hamsters challenged with BI1 or BI6 from the present study and controls from previous identical experiments were combined for statistical comparisons. NTCD strains M3 and T7 achieved 100% colonization and were 100% protective against challenge with BI1 (
P
≤ 0.001). M3 colonized 9/10 hamsters and protected against BI6 challenge in the colonized hamsters (
P
= 0.0003). T7 colonized 10/10 hamsters, but following BI6 challenge, cocolonization occurred in 5 hamsters, 4 of which died, for protection of 6/10 animals (
P
= 0.02). NTCD colonization provides protection against challenge with toxigenic BI group strains. M3 is more effective than T7 in preventing
C. difficile
infection caused by the BI6 epidemic strain. Prevention of
C. difficile
infection caused by the epidemic BI6 strain may be more challenging than that of infections caused by historic BI1 and non-BI
C. difficile
strains.
In VitroActivity of Fosfomycin against a Collection of Clinical Pseudomonas aeruginosa Isolates from 16 Spanish Hospitals: Establishing the Validity of Standard Broth Microdilution as Susceptibility Testing Method
Authors: Díez-Aguilar María , Morosini María-Isabel , del Campo Rosa , García-Castillo María , Zamora Javier , Cantón Rafael
Published: August 2013

The broth microdilution method for fosfomycin andPseudomonas aeruginosawas assessed and compared with the approved agar dilution method in 206 genetically unrelatedP. aeruginosaclinical isolates. Essential agreement between the two methods was 84%, and categorical agreement was 89.3%. Additionally, Etest and disk diffusion assays were performed. Results validate broth microdilution as a reliable susceptibility testing method for fosfomycin againstP. aeruginosa. Conversely, unacceptable concordance was established between Etest and disk diffusion results with agar dilution results.
Microcalorimetry Assay for Rapid Detection of Voriconazole Resistance in Aspergillus fumigatus
Authors: Furustrand Tafin Ulrika , Meis Jacques F. , Trampuz Andrej
Published: August 2013

We describe a calorimetric assay for detection of voriconazole-resistant
Aspergillus fumigatus
within 8 h. Among 27 genetically distinct strains, all 21 resistant and all 6 susceptible strains were correctly identified by measurement of fungal heat production in the presence of voriconazole. This proof-of-concept study demonstrates the potential of microcalorimetry for rapid detection of azole resistance in
A. fumigatus
.
Metagenomic Sequencing of Prokaryotic Microbiota from Tropical Surface Seawater
Authors: Chan Xin Yue , Arumugam Ramitha , Choo Siew Woh , Yin Wai Fong , Chan Kok Gan
Published: August 2013

Tropical seawater harbors a rich diversity of microorganisms as a result of its nutrient-rich environment, constant supply of sufficient sunlight, and warm climate. In this report, we present the complexity of the microbial diversity of the surface seawater of the Georgetown coast as determined using next-generation sequencing technology.
Cytoadherence of Plasmodium berghei-Infected Red Blood Cells to Murine Brain and Lung Microvascular Endothelial CellsIn Vitro
Authors: El-Assaad Fatima , Wheway Julie , Mitchell Andrew John , Lou Jinning , Hunt Nicholas Henry , Combes Valery , Grau Georges Emile Raymond
Published: August 2013

Sequestration of infected red blood cells (iRBC) within the cerebral and pulmonary microvasculature is a hallmark of human cerebral malaria (hCM). The interaction between iRBC and the endothelium in hCM has been studied extensively and is linked to the severity of malaria. Experimental CM (eCM) caused byPlasmodium bergheiANKA reproduces most features of hCM, although the sequestration of RBC infected byP. bergheiANKA (PbA-iRBC) has not been completely delineated. The role of PbA-iRBC sequestration in the severity of eCM is not well characterized. Using static and flow cytoadherence assays, we provide the first directin vitroevidence for the binding of PbA-iRBC to murine brain and lung microvascular endothelial cells (MVEC). We found that basal PbA-iRBC cytoadherence to MVECs was significantly higher than that of normal red blood cells (NRBC) and of RBC infected withP. bergheiK173 (PbK173-iRBC), a strain that causes noncerebral malaria (NCM). MVEC prestimulation with tumor necrosis factor (TNF) failed to promote any further significant increase in mixed-stage iRBC adherence. Interestingly, enrichment of the blood for mature parasites significantly increased PbA-iRBC binding to the MVECs prestimulated with TNF, while blockade of VCAM-1 reduced this adhesion. Our study provides evidence for the firm, flow-resistant binding to endothelial cells of iRBC from strain ANKA-infected mice, which develop CM, and for less binding of iRBC from strain K173-infected mice, which develop NCM. An understanding ofP. bergheicytoadherence may help elucidate the importance of sequestration in the development of CM and aid the development of antibinding therapies to help reduce the burden of this syndrome.
No Holes Barred: Invasion of the Intestinal Mucosa by Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis
Authors: Bannantine John P. , Bermudez Luiz E.
Published: August 2013

The infection biology of
Mycobacterium avium
subsp.
paratuberculosis
has recently crystallized, with added details surrounding intestinal invasion. The involvement of pathogen-derived effector proteins such as the major membrane protein, oxidoreductase, and fibronectin attachment proteins have been uncovered. Mutations constructed in this pathogen have also shed light on genes needed for invasion. The host cell types that are susceptible to invasion have been defined, along with their transcriptional response. Recent details have given a new appreciation for the dynamic interplay between the host and bacterium that occurs at the outset of infection. An initial look at the global expression pathways of the host has shown a circumvention of the cell communication pathway by
M. avium
subsp.
paratuberculosis
, which loosens the integrity of the tight junctions. We now know that
M. avium
subsp.
paratuberculosis
activates the epithelial layer and also actively recruits macrophages to the site of infection. These notable findings are summarized along with added mechanistic details of the early infection model. We conclude by proposing critical next steps to further elucidate the process of
M. avium
subsp.
paratuberculosis
invasion.
Haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis presenting as liver failure following Epstein-Barr and prior hepatitis A infections
Authors: Pinto-Patarroyo Gineth Paola , Rytting Michael E , Vierling John Moore , Suarez-Almazor Maria E
Published: August 2013

Haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is associated with high mortality even after prompt diagnosis. We present a young man with HLH triggered by two common viral diseases, infectious mononucleosis and hepatitis A. This patient presented with fever, rapidly progressive liver failure, anasarca and cholestasis, followed by anaemia and neutropenia. His carbohydrate antigen 19-9 reached over 9000 U/mL. Initial bone marrow and liver biopsies did not show histological features of malignancy or HLH. The patient was finally diagnosed and treated almost 1 year after the initial symptoms started, and had an excellent response with etoposide and dexamethasone. This case is unusual because it was triggered following mononucleosis in a patient with positive total antibodies against hepatitis A, with rapidly developing liver failure, and also because the patient's response was excellent despite the delay in treatment. It underscores the importance of suspecting HLH when severe systemic illness develops after a viral infection, even in the absence of clear histological features.
Plantar fascia calcification a sequelae of corticosteroid injection in the treatment of recalcitrant plantar fasciitis
Authors: Fox Thomas Peter , Oliver Govind , Wek Caesar , Hester Thomas
Published: August 2013

We report the case of a 72-year-old woman suffering with severe plantar fasciitis who received a therapeutic corticosteroid injection. Two-and-a-half years after the injection she developed a small calcified lump under the skin which subsequently caused ulceration and infection. She went on to develop a diabetic foot infection requiring an extended course of intravenous antibiotics.
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: non-invasive investigation and risk stratification
Authors: Dyson J K , McPherson S , Anstee Q M
Published: August 2013

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) encompasses a histological spectrum of liver disease, from simple steatosis through to cirrhosis. As the worldwide rates of obesity have increased, NAFLD has become the commonest cause of liver disease in many developed countries, affecting up to a third of the population. The majority of patients have simple steatosis that carries a relatively benign prognosis. However, a significant minority have non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, and have increased liver related and cardiovascular mortality. Identifying those at risk of progressive disease is crucial. Liver biopsy remains the gold standard investigation for assessing stage of disease but its invasive nature makes it impractical for widespread use as a prognostic tool. Non-invasive tools for diagnosis and disease staging are required, reserving liver biopsy for those patients where it offers clinically relevant additional information. This review discusses the non-invasive modalities available for assessing steatosis, steatohepatitis and fibrosis. We propose a pragmatic approach for the assessment of patients with NAFLD to identify those at high risk of progressive disease who require referral to specialist services.
Sensitivity and specificity of blood leukocyte counts as an indicator of mortality in horses after colic surgery
Authors: Salciccia A. , Sandersen C. , Grulke S. , de la Rebière de Pouyade G. , Caudron I. , Serteyn D. , Detilleux J.
Published: August 2013

The objectives of this study were to describe and relate perioperative changes in blood leukocyte counts to the outcome of surgical colic horses, determine a cut‐off value in the early postoperative period to obtain an indicator of the outcome, and compare the obtained value to a validation population of horses. Fifty‐three horses undergoing colic surgery were included in the descriptive part of the study. Total leukocyte counts were performed before, during and serially after surgery. A receiver operating characteristic analysis was performed on the leukocyte counts of 45 of these horses to determine a cut‐off value for the outcome. The results obtained were validated on a second set of 50 horses that underwent colic surgery in similar conditions. The kinetics of blood leukocytes in survivors was higher than in non‐survivors during the first days. Non‐survivor horses were more likely to have at least one blood leukocyte count ≤3.9×103/mm3between 28 and 60 hours after surgery than survivor horses. This cut‐off value was confirmed in the validation population. These results suggest that routine values of blood leukocyte counts can be used as an additional prognostic indicator after colic surgery alongside other predictors previously associated with the outcome.
Auxin–ethylene interaction in transversal and longitudinal growth in maize primary root
Authors: Alarcón M. Victoria , Lloret Pedro G. , Salguero Julio
Published: August 2013

The auxin—ethylene interaction in regulating root elongation and radial expansion was analysed through the application of the ethylene precursor 1-aminocyclopropane-1- carboxylic acid (ACC) and the synthetic auxin 1-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA). NAA and ACC, in the concentration range of 0.01–0.1 μmol/L and 1–5 μmol/L, respectively, inhibited root elongation and increased root diameter in a concentration-dependent manner. The inhibitory effect of auxin on root elongation was increased by ethylene applied at low as well as high concentrations. Auxin-induced radial expansion was also enhanced by ethylene, although this effect depended on the level of auxin applied. In the presence of very low exogenous auxin (0.01 μmol/L NAA), ethylene stimulated radial growth at both low and high levels (1–5 μmol/L ACC), whereas the effect of higher auxin concentrations (>0.025 μmol/L NAA) was only enhanced by high ethylene production (5 μmol/L ACC). Interaction was analysed by two-way ANOVA; the results showed that both the effect of each hormone and the interactions responsible for controlling elongation and radial expansion were concentration-dependent. The relative effects of auxin and ethylene on the two growth parameters were also analysed; they showed different types of behaviour. In summary, the results obtained suggest that auxin is the main hormone involved in regulating root growth but that ethylene may modulate its effects. Our research also suggests that root elongation and radial expansion may be independently regulated despite being closely related.
A mechanistic study of the [La2(OCH3)2]4+- and [(1,5,9-triazacyclodo-decane):Zn:(OCH3)]+-catalyzed methanolysis of carbonates: possible application for the recycling of bisphenol A polycarbonates
Authors: Neverov Alexei A. , Chen Leanne D. , George Sean , Simon David , Maxwell Christopher I. , Brown R. Stan
Published: August 2013

The kinetics of the methanolysis of seven methyl aryl carbonates (3) and two methyl alkyl carbonates (4) promoted by [12[ane]N3:Zn:(OCH3)]+ and [La2(OCH3)2]4+ catalysts (1 and 2, respectively) have been studied at 25.0 °C. Brønsted plots of the [Formula: see text] values for methanolysis versus aryloxy and alkoxy leaving group (LG) [Formula: see text] or [Formula: see text] values (the pKa values of the parent ArOH or ROH in methanol) for substrates 3 and 4 show an apparent downward break at [Formula: see text] ∼16.6 and 15.2 with [12[ane]N3:Zn:(OCH3)]+ and [La2(OCH3)2]4+, respectively. The breakpoint is not due to a change in rate-limiting step in a two-step process involving metal ion delivery of a coordinated methoxide to a transiently associated substrate and the subsequent breakdown of a tetrahedral intermediate to form product. The more satisfactory explanation is that the break arises when one correlates the rate constants for two dissimilar sets of substrates, namely aryloxy- and alkoxy-substituted 3 and 4. DFT calculations for the 1-promoted reactions of methyl 4-nitrophenyl carbonate (3b), which has a good aryloxy leaving group, and methyl isopropyl carbonate (4b), which has a relatively poor alkyl one, indicate that the catalyzed processes involve two steps. Accordingly, the methanolysis of all 3 having [Formula: see text] values for the parent phenols ≤15.3 involves rate-limiting nucleophilic attack and fast breakdown. For the isopropyl alkyl derivative (4b) having a [Formula: see text] > 18.13, the rate-liming step is the metal ion promoted breakdown of a tetrahedral intermediate. The catalytic system employing 2 has utility for the catalytic decomposition of poly(bisphenol A carbonate). In a semi-optimized system where 1000 mg of poly(bisphenol A carbonate), treated at 100 °C for 30 min in 2 mL of 60:40 chloroform−methanol containing La(OTf)3:NaOMe (5:7.5 mmol L−1), the reaction gave an 84% yield of bisphenol A, corresponding to >300 turnovers per catalyst.
Probiotic treatment by indigenous bacteria decreases mortality without disturbing the natural microbiota of Salvelinus fontinalis
Authors: Boutin Sébastien , Audet Céline , Derome Nicolas
Published: August 2013

Next-generation sequencing is revealing the complex interactive networks of host–bacteria interactions, as it is now possible to screen in detail the microbiota harbored by a host. This study investigated the influence of a probiotic treatment on the survival and microbiota of brook charr (Salvelinus fontinalis), focusing on its disturbance of the natural microbiota (dysbiosis). The results indicated that an indigenous probiotic strain (identified as Rhodococcus sp.) colonized neither the fish skin mucus nor the water following the probiotic treatment. Instead, the probiotic strain was detected only in the biofilm of the test tank. Nevertheless, a substantial beneficial effect of the probiotic treatment was observed: the population of the pathogen Flavobacterium psychrophilum decreased in the treated tank water. This study clearly shows that the indigenous strain chosen for the probiotic treatment did not disturb the natural fish skin mucus microbiota but acted directly through the production system to control the growth of the pathogen and, as a consequence, to enhance fish survival.
Solid quantization for nonpoint particles
Authors: Wang P.
Published: August 2013

In quantum field theory, elemental particles are assumed to be point particles. As a result, the loop integrals are divergent in many cases. Regularization and renormalization are necessary to get the physical finite results from the infinite, divergent loop integrations. We propose new quantization conditions for nonpoint particles. With this solid quantization, divergence could be treated systematically. This method is useful for effective field theory, which is on hadron degrees of freedom. The elemental particles could also be nonpoint ones. They can be studied in this approach as well.
Nonsurgically induced disuse muscle atrophy and neuromuscular dysfunction upregulates alpha7 acetylcholine receptors
Authors: Khan Mohammed A.S. , Sahani Nita , Neville Kevin A. , Nagashima Michio , Lee Sangseok , Sasakawa Tomoki , Kaneki Masao , Martyn J.A. Jeevendra
Published: August 2013

Previous models of muscle disuse have invariably used surgical methods that require the repetitive application of plaster casts. A method of disuse atrophy that does not require such repetitive applications is described herein. Modified plastic pipette tubing was applied to a single hindlimb (mouse), from thigh to foot, resulting in immobilization of the knee in the extension position, and the ankle in the plantar flexion position. This method resulted in the loss of soleus muscle to 11%, 22%, 39%, and 45% of its original mass at 3, 7, 14, and 21 days, respectively, in association with a significant decrease of tibialis twitch (25%) and tetanic tensions (26%) at 21 days, compared with the contralateral side and (or) sham-immobilized controls. Immunohistochemical analysis of the soleus using fluorescent α-bungarotoxin revealed a significant increase in the number of synapses per unit area (818 + 31 compared with 433 + 16/mm2) and an increase in muscle fibers per unit area (117 compared with 83/mm2), most likely related to the atrophy of muscle fibers bringing synapses closer. A 3-fold increase in alpha7 acetylcholine receptor (α7AChR) protein expression, along with increased expression of α1AChR subunit in the immobilized side compared with the contralateral side was observed. The physiology and pharmacology of the novel finding of upregulation of α7AChRs with disuse requires further study.
THE HADRONIC CONTRIBUTION TO THE MUON MAGNETIC ANOMALOUS MOMENT
Authors: BODENSTEIN SEBASTIAN
Published: August 2013

Theoretical input, in the form of the operator product expansion, is used to quench the contribution of the e+e-data used to calculate the lowest-order hadronic contribution to the g-2 of the muon. This procedure reduces the current 3.6σ discrepancy between the experimental and theoretical results for the g-2 of the muon by 1.2σ. In addition, a clear discrepancy between the operator product expansion and the e+e-data is found.
ELECTRONIC BAND STRUCTURE OF CARBON NANOTUBES WITH QUINOID STRUCTURE
Authors: HIEU NGUYEN NGOC , ANH NGUYEN PHAM QUYNH
Published: August 2013

In this paper, we fully describe the geometry of atomic structure of carbon nanotube with quinoid structure. Electronic energy band structure of carbon nanotubes with quinoid structure is studied by tight-binding approximation. In the presence of bond alternation, calculations show that only armchair (n, n) carbon nanotube (without twisting) remains metallic and zigzag (3ν - 1, -3ν + 1) CNT becomes metallic at the critical elongation. Effect of deformation on the change of band gap is also calculated and discussed.
THE PIONIC DRELL–YAN PROCESS: A BRIEF SURVEY
Authors: CHANG WEN-CHEN , DUTTA DIPANGKAR
Published: August 2013

The Drell–Yan process is an invaluable tool for probing the structure of hadrons, and the pion-induced Drell–Yan process is unique in its sensitivity to several subtleties of the partonic structure. This is a brief review of the pionic Drell–Yan process with particular emphasis on the dilepton angular distributions and nuclear modification of the parton distributions (the EMC effect).
SYSTEMATIC STUDY OF NUCLEAR SOFTNESS OF SUPERDEFORMED BANDS IN A = 190 MASS REGION
Authors: SHARMA NEHA , MITTAL H. M.
Published: August 2013

A four parameter formula has been applied to obtain the nuclear softness parameter (σ) for all the superdeformed (SD) bands observed in A = 190 mass region. The nuclear softness parameter values of most of the SD bands are found to be smaller than those of the normal deformed bands, implying more rigidity. The results of this work includes the variation of nuclear softness parameter against the gamma ray energy ratio R(I) = Eγ(I→(I-2))/Eγ((I-2)→(I-4)) of SD bands in A = 190 mass region. The variation of R(I) and the nuclear softness parameter of these SD bands are studied with the product of valence proton and neutron numbers (NpNn). The systematics also includes the variation of σ with the neutron number N. It is also found that the value of softness parameter of signature partner SD bands observed in A = 190 mass region is also the same. We present for the first time the study of softness parameter of SD bands with NpNn scheme.
LOCV CALCULATION OF DENSITY DEPENDENCE OF NUCLEAR SYMMETRY ENERGY AT DIFFERENT SPIN STATES
Authors: BIGDELI MOHSEN
Published: August 2013

In this paper, we use the lowest order constrained variational method to study the behavior of nuclear symmetry energy versus density and spin states of neutrons and protons with AV18 potential. The dependency of incompressibility at saturation density on isospin asymmetry, ferromagnetic spin states and antiferromagnetic spin states is also investigated.
INFLUENCE OF LONG-RANGE CORRELATION ON THE SCALING PROPERTIES OF THE NORMALIZED FACTORIAL CORRELATORS IN RELATIVISTIC HEAVY-ION COLLISIONS
Authors: BAI X. Z. , YANG C. B.
Published: August 2013

The effect of multiplicity correlation between two bins to the dynamical fluctuations is investigated for a second-order phase transition from quark–gluon plasma (QGP) to hadrons, within the Ginzburg–Landau description for the transition. Normalized factorial correlators are used to characterize the dynamical fluctuations. A scaling behavior among the correlators is found, and an approximate universal exponent is obtained with very weak dependence on the details of the phase transition.
GEOMETRY INDUCED DELAYS OF SLIME MOULD PROPAGATION
Authors: ADAMATZKY ANDREW
Published: August 2013

Slime mould Physarum polycephalum propagates on nutrient substrates similarly to auto-waves in nonlinear media. In experimental laboratory studies we uncover that the width of geometrically constrained substrate affects the speed of Physarum propagation. We show that Physarum slows down when the width of the substrate increases. The slime mould propagates quicker from the vertex of a triangle to its base than from the base to the vertex. Physarum grows quicker in narrow channels than in wider channels. One can also slow down Physarum propagation by making a finite size expansion of the otherwise narrow channel. In computational experiments with a binary state cellular automaton model we demonstrate that a limitation on the slime mould's body mass production rate could be an underlying mechanism for the width-dependent slowdown of Physarum propagation.
CREEP BEHAVIOR OF ANISOTROPIC FUNCTIONALLY GRADED ROTATING DISCS
Authors: RATTAN MINTO , CHAMOLI NEERAJ , SINGH SATYA BIR , GUPTA NISHI
Published: August 2013

The creep behavior of an anisotropic rotating disc of functionally gradient material (FGM) has been investigated in the present study using Hill's yield criteria and the creep behavior in this case is assumed to follow Sherby's constitutive model. The stress and strain rate distributions are calculated for disc having different types of anisotropy and the results obtained are compared graphically. It is concluded that the anisotropy of the material has a significant effect on the creep behavior of the FGM disc. It is also observed that the FGM disc shows better creep behavior than the non-FGM disc.
Along-arc geochemical variations in Quaternary magmas of northern Kyushu Island, Japan
Authors: Shibata Tomoyuki , Yoshikawa Masako , Itoh Jun’ich , Ujike Osamu , Miyoshi Masaya , Takemura Keiji
Published: August 2013

We analysed major and trace elements and Sr–Nd–Pb isotope ratios of Himeshima, Futagoyama and Aso volcanoes, northern Kyushu, Japan. The purpose of the study was to investigate the petrogenesis of Quaternary arc magmas of the northern Kyushu arc, Japan, through along-strike variations. The northern Kyushu arc is underlain by the Philippine Sea Plate, which is divided by the Kyushu–Palau Ridge into the Palaeogene West Philippine Basin segment (60–40 Ma) and the Miocene Shikoku Basin segment (26–15 Ma). The Sr/Y ratios of the arc lavas decrease from north to south along the volcanic front. Mixing relations in Sr–Nd–Pb isotope space suggest recycling of the subducted slab materials from the Philippine Sea Plate to the arc. The
87
Sr/
86
Sr ratios decrease with increasing Sr/Y and SiO
2
, which argues against a genetic link of fractional crystallization between adakites and basaltic magmas. The observations further suggest that partial melting of the hot and young Shikoku Basin slab produces the high Sr/Y component visible in the arc magmas in the north, whereas dehydration of the older West Philippine Basin slab produces the low Sr/Y arc magmas in the south.
l-Arginine supplementation improves antioxidant defenses through l-arginine/nitric oxide pathways in exercised rats
Authors: Shan Lingling , Wang Bin , Gao Guizhen , Cao Wengen , Zhang Yunkun
Published: August 2013

l-Arginine (l-Arg) supplementation has been shown to enhance physical exercise capacity and delay onset of fatigue. This work investigated the potential beneficial mechanism(s) of l-Arg supplementation by examining its effect on the cellular oxidative and nitrosative stress pathways in the exercised rats. Forty-eight rats were randomly divided into six groups: sedentary control; sedentary control with l-Arg treatment; endurance training (daily swimming training for 8 wk) control; endurance training with l-Arg treatment; an exhaustive exercise (one time swimming to fatigue) control; and an exhaustive exercise with l-Arg treatment. l-Arg (500 mg/kg body wt) or saline was given to rats by intragastric administration 1 h before the endurance training and the exhaustive swimming test. Expression levels and activities of the l-Arg/nitric oxide (NO) pathway components and parameters of the oxidative stress and antioxidant defense capacity were investigated in l-Arg-treated and control rats. The result show that the l-Arg supplementation completely reversed the exercise-induced activation of NO synthase and superoxide dismutase, increased l-Arg transport capacity, and increased NO and anti-superoxide anion levels. These data demonstrate that l-Arg supplementation effectively reduces the exercise-induced imbalance between oxidative stress and antioxidant defense capacity, and this modulation is likely mediated through the l-Arg/NO pathways. The findings of this study improved our understanding of how l-Arg supplementation prevents elevations of reactive oxygen species and favorably enhances the antioxidant defense capacity during physical exercise.
Diagnostic and Therapeutic Value of ERCP in Acute Cholangitis
Authors: Buyukasik Kenan , Toros Ahmet Burak , Bektas Hasan , Ari Aziz , Deniz Mehmet Mehdi
Published: August 2013

Cholangitis, with a clinical spectrum between acute ascending cholangitis and acute fulminant cholangitis, the mildest and the most severe forms, respectively, is the infection of bile ducts with a potential of serious mortality and morbidity. Obstruction of the bile ducts followed by infection, withE. colibeing the most commonly isolated agent, is common to all forms of cholangitis. Biliary obstruction is caused by choledocholithiasis mostly. “Choledochal pressure” is the most important factor, determining morbidity. If the pressure exceeds 25 cm H2O, which is the critical value, immune dysfunction ensues. Sepsis is common if the infection of biliary ducts is suppurative. Mortality and morbidity are inevitable if left untreated or drained late. The objective of this study is, in the stand point of the current literature, to analyse the diagnostic, therapeutic success and complication rates of ERCP (Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography) in patients with a diagnosis of acute purulent cholangitis with no response to medical treatment.
Obesity Index That Better Predict Metabolic Syndrome: Body Mass Index, Waist Circumference, Waist Hip Ratio, or Waist Height Ratio
Authors: Bener Abdulbari , Yousafzai Mohammad T. , Darwish Sarah , Al-Hamaq Abdulla O. A. A. , Nasralla Eman A. , Abdul-Ghani Mohammad
Published: August 2013

Aim. The aim was to compare body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), waist hip ratio (WHR), and waist height ratio (WHtR) to identify the best predictor of metabolic syndrome (MetS) among Qatari adult population.Methods. A cross-sectional survey from April 2011 to December 2012. Data was collected from 1552 participants followed by blood sampling. MetS was defined according to Third Adult Treatment Panel (ATPIII) and International Diabetes Federation (IDF). Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve analysis was performed.Results. Among men, WC followed by WHR and WHtR yielded the highest area under the curve (AUC) (0.78; 95% CI 0.74–0.82 and 0.75; 95% CI 0.71–0.79, resp.). Among women, WC followed by WHtR yielded the highest AUC (0.81; 95% CI 0.78–0.85 & 0.79; 95% CI 0.76–0.83, resp.). Among men, WC at a cut-off 99.5 cm resulted in the highest Youden index with sensitivity 81.6% and 63.9% specificity. Among women, WC at a cut-off 91 cm resulted in the highest Youden index with the corresponding sensitivity and specificity of 86.5% and 64.7%, respectively. BMI had the lowest sensitivity and specificity in both genders.Conclusion. WC at cut-off 99.5 cm in men and 91 cm in women was the best predictor of MetS in Qatar.
Interferon-α-Induced Changes to Natural Killer Cells Are Associated with the Treatment Outcomes in Patients with HCV Infections
Authors: Shimoda Shinji , Sumida Kosuke , Iwasaka Sho , Hisamoto Satomi , Tanimoto Hironori , Nomura Hideyuki , Dohmen Kazufumi , Takahashi Kazuhiro , Kawano Akira , Ogawa Eiichi , Furusyo Norihiro , Akashi Koichi , Hayashi Jun
Published: August 2013

Aim. We analyzed the pretreatment natural killer (NK) cell functions with the aim of predicting the sustained virological response (SVR) or the interleukin (IL) 28B polymorphism that is strongly associated with the treatment response. Methods. The peripheral NK cells from chronic hepatitis patients with HCV genotype 1 and high virus titers were activated using a Toll-like receptor (TLR) 4 ligand and IFN-α. The cell surface markers were evaluated using a flow cytometric analysis, and IFN-γ production was evaluated using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The genotyping of the polymorphisms in the IL28B gene region (rs8099917) on chromosome 19 was performed on the DNA collected from each patient. Results. The production of IFN-γ was significantly higher in the SVR patients compared with the no-response (NR) patients, whereas the cell surface markers were similar between the SVR and the NR patients. There were no significant differences found in the IL28B genotype distribution associated with the production of IFN-γ. Conclusion. Differences in the NK cell functions were observed between the SVR patients and the NR patients, suggesting that NK cells play a potential role in the treatment response independent of the IL28B genotype.
High Prevalence and Genotypic Diversity of the Human Papillomavirus in Amazonian Women, Brazil
Authors: Rocha Danielle Albuquerque Pires , Barbosa Filho Roberto Alexandre Alves , de Queiroz Francisca Andrade , dos Santos Cristina Maria Borborema
Published: August 2013

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of human papillomavirus (HPV) in a women population living within the state of Amazonas, Brazil, and to determine the viral genotypes found. The study included 361 sexually active women over 18 years of age. We performed the Pap test and the molecular diagnosis for HPV DNA using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The amplicons obtained were sequenced in automatic sequencer for genotyping. The presence of HPV DNA was found in 29.1% (105) of the women. Only 321 women presented satisfactory slides for cytological diagnosis, 97.9% (314) had normal cytology (negative for cancer), and 2.1% (7) had abnormal cytology (4 ASCUS, 1 LSIL, and 2 HSIL). The types more frequently found were HPV 16 (58.1%) and HPV 58 (20.0%). Additionally, we found more 13 types of HPV. Compared with previous studies in Brazil, our data confirmed a high prevalence and genotypic diversity of HPV in Brazilian women.
Molecular‐Dynamics Simulation of Self‐Diffusion of Molecular Hydrogen in X‐Type Zeolite
Authors: Du Xiaoming
Published: August 2013

The self‐diffusion of hydrogen in NaX zeolite has been studied by molecular‐dynamics simulations for various temperatures and pressures. The results indicate that in the temperature range of 77–293 K and the pressure range of 10–2700 kPa, the self‐diffusion coefficients are found to range from 1.61 × 10−9 m2·s−1 to 3.66 × 10−8 m2·s−1 which are in good agreement with the experimental values from the quasielastic neutron scattering (QENS) and pulse field gradients nuclear magnetic resonance (PFG NMR) measurements. The self‐diffusion coefficients decrease with increasing pressure due to packing of sorbate‐sorbate molecules which causes frequent collusion among hydrogen molecules in pores and increase with increasing temperature because increasing the kinetic energy of the gas molecules enlarges the mean free path of gas molecule. The activated energy for hydrogen diffusion determined from the simulation is pressure‐dependent.
Primary Carcinoid Tumour of the Kidney: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Omiyale Ayodeji O. , Venyo Anthony Kodzo-Grey
Published: August 2013

Context. Primary renal carcinoid tumours are rare. Their pathogenesis is unknown and the clinical presentation is similar to other renal tumours thus posing diagnostic dilemmas for clinicians.Objectives. To review the literature for case reports of primary renal carcinoids.Methods. Literature was extensively searched for case reports for primary renal carcinoids. Reports of metastatic carcinoids to the kidneys were excluded.Results. Approximately less than 90 cases of primary carcinoid tumours of the kidney have been reported in the literature. A total of 29 cases of primary renal carcinoids were reviewed. The mean age of presentation was 48 years (range 29–75) with both right kidney (48.3%) and left kidney (44.8%) being equally affected. 28.6% of the cases reviewed were diagnosed as an incidental finding. The mean followup time was 20 months with 73.1% of patients without evidence of disease after surgical treatment (radical or partial nephrectomy). Primary carcinoid tumours of the kidney are often well differentiated tumours. They are often misdiagnosed because of their rarity and similar presentation with other renal tumours.Conclusions. Primary carcinoid tumours of the kidney are rare tumours with an indolent course with frequent metastasis. Metastatic work up and followup is required in their management.