bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A New Method To Determine
In Vivo
Interactomes Reveals Binding of the Legionella pneumophila Effector PieE to Multiple Rab GTPases
Authors: Mousnier Aurélie , Schroeder Gunnar N. , Stoneham Charlotte A. , So Ernest C. , Garnett James A. , Yu Lu , Matthews Steve J. , Choudhary Jyoti S. , Hartland Elizabeth L. , Frankel Gad
Published: August 2014

Legionella pneumophila
, the causative agent of Legionnaires’ disease, uses the Dot/Icm type IV secretion system (T4SS) to translocate more than 300 effectors into host cells, where they subvert host cell signaling. The function and host cell targets of most effectors remain unknown. PieE is a 69-kDa Dot/Icm effector containing three coiled-coil (CC) regions and 2 transmembrane (TM) helices followed by a fourth CC region. Here, we report that PieE dimerized by an interaction between CC3 and CC4. We found that ectopically expressed PieE localized to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and induced the formation of organized smooth ER, while following infection PieE localized to the
Legionella
-containing vacuole (LCV). To identify the physiological targets of PieE during infection, we established a new purification method for which we created an A549 cell line stably expressing the
Escherichia coli
biotin ligase BirA and infected the cells with
L. pneumophila
expressing PieE fused to a BirA-specific biotinylation site and a hexahistidine tag. Following tandem Ni
2+
nitrilotriacetic acid (NTA) and streptavidin affinity chromatography, the effector-target complexes were analyzed by mass spectrometry. This revealed interactions of PieE with multiple host cell proteins, including the Rab GTPases 1a, 1b, 2a, 5c, 6a, 7, and 10. Binding of the Rab GTPases, which was validated by yeast two-hybrid binding assays, was mediated by the PieE CC1 and CC2. In summary, using a novel, highly specific strategy to purify effector complexes from infected cells, which is widely applicable to other pathogens, we identified PieE as a multidomain LCV protein with promiscuous Rab GTPase-binding capacity.

IMPORTANCE
The respiratory pathogen
Legionella pneumophila
uses the Dot/Icm type IV secretion system to translocate more than 300 effector proteins into host cells. The function of most effectors in infection remains unknown. One of the bottlenecks for their characterization is the identification of target proteins. Frequently used
in vitro
approaches are not applicable to all effectors and suffer from high rates of false positives or missed interactions, as they are not performed in the context of an infection. Here, we determine key functional domains of the effector PieE and describe a new method to identify host cell targets under physiological infection conditions. Our approach, which is applicable to other pathogens, uncovered the interaction of PieE with several proteins involved in membrane trafficking, in particular Rab GTPases, revealing new details of the
Legionella
infection strategy and demonstrating the potential of this method to greatly advance our understanding of the molecular basis of infection.
Can training in advanced clinical skills in obstetrics, neonatal care and leadership, of non-physician clinicians in Malawi impact on clinical services improvements (the ETATMBA project): a process evaluation
Authors: Ellard David R , Chimwaza Wanangwa , Davies David , O'Hare Joseph Paul , Kamwendo Francis , Quenby Siobhan , Griffiths Frances
Published: August 2014

Objectives

The ‘enhancing human resources and the use of appropriate technologies for maternal and perinatal survival in sub-Saharan Africa’ (ETATMBA) project is training emergency obstetric and new-born care (EmONC) non-physician clinicians (NPCs) as advanced clinical leaders. Our objectives were to evaluate the implementation and changes to practice.

Design

A mixed methods process evaluation with the predominate methodology being qualitative.

Setting

Rural and urban hospitals in 8 of the 14 districts of northern and central Malawi.

Participants

54 EmONC NPCs with 3 years’ plus experience.

Intervention

Training designed and delivered by clinicians from the UK and Malawi; it is a 2-year plus package of training (classroom, mentorship and assignments).

Results

We conducted 79 trainee interviews over three time points during the training, as well as a convenience sample of 10 colleagues, 7 district officers and 2 UK obstetricians. Trainees worked in a context of substantial variation in the rates of maternal and neonatal deaths between districts. Training reached trainees working across the target regions. For 46 trainees (8 dropped out of the course), dose delivered in terms of attendance was high and all 46 spent time working alongside an obstetrician. In early interviews trainees recalled course content unprompted indicating training had been received. Colleagues and district officers reported cascading of knowledge and initial changes in practice indicating early implementation. By asking trainees to describe actual cases we found they had implemented new knowledge and skills. These included life-saving interventions for postpartum haemorrhage and eclampsia. Trainees identified the leadership training as enabling them to confidently change their own practice and initiate change in their health facility.

Conclusions

This process evaluation suggests that trainees have made positive changes in their practice. Clear impacts on maternal and perinatal mortality are yet to be elucidated.
The positive pharmacy care law: an area-level analysis of the relationship between community pharmacy distribution, urbanity and social deprivation in England
Authors: Todd Adam , Copeland Alison , Husband Andy , Kasim Adetayo , Bambra Clare
Published: August 2014

Objectives

To: (1) determine the percentage of the population in England that have access to a community pharmacy within 20 min walk; (2) explore any relationship between the walking distance and urbanity; (3) explore any relationship between the walking distance and social deprivation; and (4) explore any interactions between urbanity, social deprivation and community pharmacy access.

Design

This area level analysis spatial study used postcodes for all community pharmacies in England. Each postcode was assigned to a population lookup table and lower super output area (LSOA). The LSOA was then matched to urbanity (urban, town and fringe or village, hamlet and isolated dwellings) and deprivation decile (using the Index of Multiple Deprivation score).

Primary outcome measure

Access to a community pharmacy within 20 min walk.

Results

Overall, 89.2% of the population is estimated to have access to a community pharmacy within 20 min walk. For urban areas, that is 98.3% of the population, for town and fringe, 79.9% of the population, while for rural areas, 18.9% of the population. For areas of lowest deprivation (deprivation decile 1) 90.2% of the population have access to a community pharmacy within 20 min walk, compared to 99.8% in areas of highest deprivation (deprivation decile 10), a percentage difference of 9.6% (8.2, 10.9).

Conclusions

Our study shows that the majority of the population can access a community pharmacy within 20 min walk and crucially, access is greater in areas of highest deprivation—a positive pharmacy care law. More research is needed to explore the perceptions and experiences of people—from various levels of deprivation—around the accessibility of community pharmacy services.
Transcatheter versus surgical aortic valve replacement: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised and non-randomised trials
Authors: Nagaraja Vinayak , Raval Jwalant , Eslick Guy D , Ong Andrew T L
Published: August 2014

Introduction

Many patients deemed inoperable for surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) have been treated successfully by transcatheter aortic-valve replacement (TAVR). This meta-analysis is designed to evaluate the performance of TAVR in comparison with SAVR.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted using MEDLINE, PubMed, EMBASE, Current Contents Connect, the Cochrane library, Google Scholar, Science Direct and Web of Science. Original data were abstracted from each study and used to calculate a pooled OR and 95% CI.

Results

Among three randomised controlled trials (RCTs), differences between the two cohorts were not statistically significant for the frequency of stroke (OR=1.94, 95% CI=0.813 to 4.633), incidence of myocardial infarction (MI), (OR=0.765, 95% CI=0.05 to 11.76) 30-day mortality rate, 1-year mortality rate (0.82, 95% CI=0.62 to 1.09) and acute kidney injury incidence rate. The non-RCTs demonstrated that the TAVR group had an amplified frequency aortic regurgitation at discharge (OR=5.465, 95% CI=3.441 to 8.680). While differences between the two cohorts were not statistically significant for the incidence of MI (OR=0.697, 95% CI=0.22 to 2.21), stroke (OR=0.575, 95% CI=0.263 to 1.259), acute renal failure requiring haemodialysis (OR=0.943, 95% CI=0.276 to 3.222), 30-day mortality (OR=0.869, 95% CI=0.621 to 1.216) and the need for a pacemaker (OR=1.832, 95% CI=0.869 to 3.862), a lower incidence of patients needing transfusion (OR=0.349, 95% CI=0.121 to 1.005) and new-onset atrial fibrillation (OR=0.296, 95% CI=0.124 to 0.706) was seen in the TAVR group.

Conclusions

Randomised and observational evidence adjusted on the baseline patient’s characteristics finds a similar risk for 30 days mortality, 1-year mortality, stroke, MI and acute kidney injury in TAVR and SAVR.
The reduced cost of providing a nationally recognised service for familial hypercholesterolaemia
Authors: Pears Robert , Griffin Michael , Watson Melanie , Wheeler Rebecca , Hilder Debbie , Meeson Beverley , Bacon Sallie , Byrne Christopher D
Published: August 2014

Objective

Familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH) affects 1 in 500 people in the UK population and is associated with premature morbidity and mortality from coronary heart disease. In 2008, National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommended genetic testing of potential FH index cases and cascade testing of their relatives. Commissioners have been slow to respond although there is strong evidence of cost and clinical effectiveness. Our study quantifies the recent reduced cost of providing a FH service using generic atorvastatin and compares NICE costing estimates with three suggested alternative models of care (a specialist-led service, a dual model service where general practitioners (GPs) can access specialist advice, and a GP-led service).

Methods

Revision of existing 3 year costing template provided by NICE for FH services, and prediction of costs for running a programme over 10 years. Costs were modelled for the first population-based FH service in England which covers Southampton, Hampshire, Isle of Wight and Portsmouth (SHIP). Population 1.95 million.

Results

With expiry of the Lipitor (Pfizer atorvastatin) patent the cost of providing a 10-year FH service in SHIP reduces by 42.5% (£4.88 million on patent vs £2.80 million off patent). Further cost reductions are possible as a result of the reduced cost of DNA testing, more management in general practice, and lower referral rates to specialists. For instance a dual-care model with GP management of patients supported by specialist advice when required, costs £1.89 million.

Conclusions

The three alternative models of care are now <50% of the cost of the original estimates undertaken by NICE.
Comparative analysis of sewer physical condition grading protocols for the City of Edmonton
Authors: Khazraeializadeh Soroush , Gay Leon F. , Bayat Alireza
Published: August 2014

Condition assessment is a key component of successful asset management, and many diverse condition assessment protocols exist for sewer mains. These protocols are used to generate condition grades for sewer mains after inspection. Condition assessment protocols are important because renewal actions for sewers are prioritized based on condition grades. If condition grades assigned to sewers do not reflect actual pipe conditions close enough, the resulting allocation of resources will not be the best. This paper presents a comparison of three possible sewer condition assessment protocols for the City of Edmonton: the Pipeline Assessment and Certification Program quick grading method, the Manual of Sewer Condition Classification fourth edition, and the City of Edmonton’s Sewer Physical Condition Classification Manual. The results show that structural sewer condition grades depend significantly on the protocol used; therefore, protocol selection has significant financial consequences for asset management programs in the city.
Convergence results for two Kähler–Ricci flows
Authors: Zhang Zhou
Published: August 2014

In this note, we provide some general discussion on the two main versions in the study of Kähler–Ricci flows over closed manifolds, aiming at smooth convergence to the corresponding Kähler–Einstein metrics with assumptions on the volume form and Ricci curvature form along the flow.
Top-quark mass at hadron colliders
Authors: Castro Andrea
Published: August 2014

Top-quarks can be produced abundantly at hadron colliders like the Tevatron at Fermilab and the Large Hadron Collider at CERN, and a variety of measurements of top-quark properties have been gathered in the recent years from four experiments: CDF and D0 at the Tevatron and ATLAS and CMS at the Large Hadron Collider. In this review the most recent results on the measurement of the top-quark mass by the four different collaborations, with various techniques and considering different topologies, are reported.
Positron annihilation measurements in high energy alpha irradiated undoped indium antimonide
Authors: Pan Sandip , Mandal Arunava , Mukherjee Subrata , Saha Achintya Kumar , Roychowdhury Anirban , Das Dipankar , Sengupta Asmita
Published: August 2014

Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy and Doppler broadening annihilation line-shape measurements were carried out in 40 MeV alpha-irradiated undoped InSb. After irradiation the sample was subjected to an isochronal annealing over temperature region of 25°C–400°C with annealing time of 30 min at each set temperature. After each annealing the positron measurements were carried out at room temperature. Formation of radiation induced defects and their recovery with annealing temperature were investigated. A three component positron lifetime analysis was undertaken to observe the trapping of positrons in the sample after irradiation and during annealing. The average positron lifetime value τ avg = 313 ps at room temperature after irradiation indicated the presence of defects and the high value of τ2 at room temperature suggested that the probable defects were divacancies. A two stage recovery of defects was observed during post irradiation isochronal annealing over the temperature region 25°C–400°C. The variations in line-shape parameter (S) and defect specific parameter (R) during annealing in the temperature region 25°C–400°C resembled the behavior of τ avg indicating the migration of vacancies, formation of vacancy clusters and the disappearance of defects between 300°C to 400°C.
An Expert System for Selection of Components of Compound Die
Authors: Kashid Sachin , Kumar Shailendra
Published: August 2014

Selection of die components is an important activity for the design of a compound die. The traditional methods of carrying out this task are complex, time-consuming, and skill-intensive. This paper describes the research work involved in the development of an expert system for selection of components of compound die. The proposed system is constructed in the form of eight modules. For development of system modules, domain knowledge acquired from different sources of knowledge acquisition is refined and then framed in the form of "IF-Then" variety of production rules. System modules are coded in AutoLISP language and user interface is created using Visual Basic (VB). The system is capable of imparting expert advices for selection of type and size of all major die components including die block, die gages, stripper, stripper springs, punches, punch plate, die-set, fasteners, and knockout bar. The proposed system can be implemented on a PC having VB and AutoCAD softwares. Therefore, the implementation cost of proposed system is low and hence easily affordable for small scale stampingindustries.
Interpreting Innovation Dynamics with Complexity Theory
Authors: Zhao Yuanyuan
Published: August 2014

Capturing and understanding innovation dynamics is a continuous challenge due to the difficulty of collecting process data and because it often involves multiple levels and units of analysis. Interest has been increasingly focused on applying complexity theory in explaining temporal and nonlinear characteristics of innovation because of its systematic paradigm for examining change in complex systems. Until recently, however, there is relatively little empirical support. This paper fulfills this objective by examining longitudinal data of Nylon innovation. Results reveal an attractor-shifting pattern accompanied by four adaptive cycles in the Nylon innovation process.
The Effect of Vision, Artifacts, and Leader Values on Contextual Performance Behavior and Success in Technology Challenging Projects: Qualitative Evidence
Authors: Aronson Zvi H. , Shenhar Aaron J. , Wenzhou Wang
Published: August 2014

In high-tech projects, which we refer to as technology challenging projects, all or mostly new technologies are used. While an effective project manager may be the source for a project team's spirit, there are other possibilities, like the satisfying nature of the technical challenge of high-tech projects or the opportunity for new learning on the job. In the current case study, we center on the views of partakers' in successful and failed technology challenging projects, and examine the importance of maintaining and managing a project's spirit, regardless of the level of spirit partakers bring to the project, and irrespective of the satisfying level of the technical challenge. The project cases highlight the value of managing employees' emotions, attitudes and behavioral norms that are focused on expected project outcomes, termed spirit, in technology challenging projects. Qualitative findings imply that leaders can be trained to execute behaviors that generate spirit in high-tech projects, which boosts contextual performance behavior and increases success.
The Aharonov–Bohm effect and its stationary scattering states from the flat circular annulus U(1) holonomy
Authors: Avossevou Gabriel Y. H. , Ahounou Bernadin D.
Published: August 2014

In this paper we study the stationary scattering problem of the Aharonov–Bohm (AB) effect. To achieve this goal we construct a Hamiltonian from the most general representations of the Heisenberg algebra. Such representations are defined on a non-simply-connected manifold which we set as the flat circular annulus. By means of the von Neumann's self-adjoint extensions formalism, the scattering data are then provided. No solenoid is considered in this paper. The corresponding Hamiltonian is based on a topological quantum degree of freedom inherent in such representations. This variable stands for the magnetic vector gauge potential at quantum level. Our outcomes confirm the topological nature of this effect.
Basalt fiber reinforced porous aggregates-geopolymer based cellular material
Authors: Luo Xin , Xu Jin-Yu , Li Weimin
Published: August 2014

Basalt fiber reinforced porous aggregates-geopolymer based cellular material (BFRPGCM) was prepared. The stress–strain curve has been worked out. The ideal energy-absorbing efficiency has been analyzed and the application prospect has been explored. The results show the following: fiber reinforced cellular material has successively sized pore structures; the stress–strain curve has two stages: elastic stage and yielding plateau stage; the greatest value of the ideal energy-absorbing efficiency of BFRPGCM is 89.11%, which suggests BFRPGCM has excellent energy-absorbing property. Thus, it can be seen that BFRPGCM is easy and simple to make, has high plasticity, low density and excellent energy-absorbing features. So, BFRPGCM is a promising energy-absorbing material used especially in civil defense engineering.
Using geological well testing for improving the selection of appropriate reservoir models
Authors: Hamdi Hamidreza , Ruelland Philippe , Bergey Pierre , Corbett Patrick W.M.
Published: August 2014

Analytical well-test solutions are mainly derived for simplified and idealized reservoir models and therefore cannot always honour the true complexity of real reservoir heterogeneities. Pressure transients in the reservoir average out heterogeneities, and therefore some interpretations may not be relevant and could be misleading. Geological well testing refers to the numerical simulation of transient tests by setting up detailed geological models, within which different scales of heterogeneity are present. The concept of geological well testing described in this paper assists in selecting from multiple equi-probable static models. This approach is used to understand which heterogeneities can influence the pressure transients. In this paper, a low-energy multi-facies fluvial reservoir is studied, for which data from a well test of exceptionally long duration are available. The pervasive low reservoir quality facies and restricted macro cross-flow between the reservoir layers give rise to an effective commingled system of flow into the wellbore (i.e. zero or very low vertical cross-flow between the reservoir units). In our model, facies transitions produce lateral cross-flow transients that result in a ‘double-ramp-effect’ signature in the test response. A sophisticated multi-point statistical (MPS) facies modelling approach is utilized to simulate complex geological heterogeneities and to represent facies spatial connectivity within a set of generated static models. The geological well-test model responses to a real well-testing cycle are then evaluated using dynamic simulation. The pressure match between simulated and recorded data is improved by generating multiple facies and petrophysical realizations, and by applying an engineering-based hybridization algorithm to combine different models that match particular portions of the real well-test response. In this example, the reservoir dynamics are controlled by subtle interaction between high-permeability channels and low-permeability floodplain deposits. Effective integration of geology and dynamic data using modern methods can lead to better reservoir characterization and modelling of such complex reservoir systems.
A Lightweight Data Location Service for Nondeterministic Exascale Storage Systems
Authors: Sun Zhiwei , Skjellum Anthony , Ward Lee , Curry Matthew L.
Published: August 2014

In this article, we present LWDLS, a lightweight data location service designed for Exascale storage systems (storage systems with order of 10
18
bytes) and geo-distributed storage systems (large storage systems with physically distributed locations). LWDLS provides a search-based data location solution, and enables free data placement, movement, and replication. In LWDLS, probe and prune protocols are introduced that reduce topology mismatch, and a heuristic flooding search algorithm (HFS) is presented that achieves higher search efficiency than pure flooding search while having comparable search speed and coverage to the pure flooding search. LWDLS is lightweight and scalable in terms of incorporating low overhead, high search efficiency, no global state, and avoiding periodic messages. LWDLS is fully distributed and can be used in nondeterministic storage systems and in deterministic storage systems to deal with cases where search is needed. Extensive simulations modeling large-scale High Performance Computing (HPC) storage environments provide representative performance outcomes. Performance is evaluated by metrics including search scope, search efficiency, and average neighbor distance. Results show that LWDLS is able to locate data efficiently with low cost of state maintenance in arbitrary network environments. Through these simulations, we demonstrate the effectiveness of protocols and search algorithm of LWDLS.
Design and Prototype of a Solid-State Cache
Authors: Saxena Mohit , Swift Michael M.
Published: August 2014

The availability of high-speed solid-state storage has introduced a new tier into the storage hierarchy. Low-latency and high-IOPS solid-state drives (SSDs) cache data in front of high-capacity disks. However, most existing SSDs are designed to be a drop-in disk replacement, and hence are mismatched for use as a cache.

This article describes
FlashTier
, a system architecture built upon a
solid-state cache
(SSC), which is a flash device with an interface designed for caching. Management software at the operating system block layer directs caching. The FlashTier design addresses three limitations of using traditional SSDs for caching. First, FlashTier provides a unified logical address space to reduce the cost of cache block management within both the OS and the SSD. Second, FlashTier provides a new SSC block interface to enable a warm cache with consistent data after a crash. Finally, FlashTier leverages cache behavior to silently evict data blocks during garbage collection to improve performance of the SSC.

We first implement an SSC simulator and a cache manager in Linux to perform an in-depth evaluation and analysis of FlashTier's design techniques. Next, we develop a prototype of SSC on the OpenSSD Jasmine hardware platform to investigate the benefits and practicality of FlashTier design. Our prototyping experiences provide insights applicable to managing modern flash hardware, implementing other SSD prototypes and new OS storage stack interface extensions.

Overall, we find that FlashTier improves cache performance by up to 168% over consumer-grade SSDs and up to 52% over high-end SSDs. It also improves flash lifetime for write-intensive workloads by up to 60% compared to SSD caches with a traditional flash interface.
Role of STAT5 and epigenetics in lactation-associated upregulation of multidrug transporter ABCG2 in the mammary gland
Authors: Wu Alex Man Lai , Yang Mingdong , Dalvi Pooja , Turinsky Andrei L. , Wang Wei , Butcher Darci , Egan Sean E. , Weksberg Rosanna , Harper Patricia A. , Ito Shinya
Published: August 2014

The multidrug resistance efflux transporter ATP-binding cassette subfamily G member 2 (ABCG2) is not only overexpressed in certain drug-resistant cancers but is also highly expressed in the mammary gland during lactation, carrying xenobiotics and nutrients into milk. We sought to investigate the molecular mechanisms involved in the upregulation of ABCG2 during lactation. Expression profiling of different mouse Abcg2 mRNA isoforms (E1a, E1b, and E1c) revealed that E1b is predominantly expressed and induced in the lactating mouse mammary gland. Despite this induction, analyses of CpG methylation status and published ChIP-seq datasets reveal that E1b promoter sequences in the virgin gland are already hypomethylated and marked with the open chromatin histone mark H3K4me2. Using a forced-weaning model to shut down lactation, we found that within 24 h there was a significant reduction in Abcg2 mRNA expression and a loss of signal transducer and activator of transcription-5 (STAT5) occupancy at the mouse Abcg2 gene. Luciferase reporter assays further showed that some of these STAT5-binding regions that contained interferon-γ-activated sequence (GAS) motifs function as an enhancer after prolactin treatment. We conclude that Abcg2 is already poised for expression in the virgin mammary gland and that STAT5 plays an important role in Abcg2 expression during lactation.
Regenerative Medicine in Rotator Cuff Injuries
Authors: Randelli Pietro , Randelli Filippo , Ragone Vincenza , Menon Alessandra , D’Ambrosi Riccardo , Cucchi Davide , Cabitza Paolo , Banfi Giuseppe
Published: August 2014

Rotator cuff injuries are a common source of shoulder pathology and result in an important decrease in quality of patient life. Given the frequency of these injuries, as well as the relatively poor result of surgical intervention, it is not surprising that new and innovative strategies like tissue engineering have become more appealing. Tissue-engineering strategies involve the use of cells and/or bioactive factors to promote tendon regeneration via natural processes. The ability of numerous growth factors to affect tendon healing has been extensively analyzedin vitroand in animal models, showing promising results. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a whole blood fraction which contains several growth factors. Controlled clinical studies using different autologous PRP formulations have provided controversial results. However, favourable structural healing rates have been observed for surgical repair of small and medium rotator cuff tears. Cell-based approaches have also been suggested to enhance tendon healing. Bone marrow is a well known source of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Recently,ex vivohuman studies have isolated and cultured distinct populations of MSCs from rotator cuff tendons, long head of the biceps tendon, subacromial bursa, and glenohumeral synovia. Stem cells therapies represent a novel frontier in the management of rotator cuff disease that required further basic and clinical research.
Microbial Corrosion of API 5L X-70 Carbon Steel by ATCC 7757 and Consortium of Sulfate-Reducing Bacteria
Authors: Abdullah Arman , Yahaya Nordin , Md Noor Norhazilan , Mohd Rasol Rosilawati
Published: August 2014

Various cases of accidents involving microbiology influenced corrosion (MIC) were reported by the oil and gas industry. Sulfate reducing bacteria (SRB) have always been linked to MIC mechanisms as one of the major causes of localized corrosion problems. In this study, SRB colonies were isolated from the soil in suspected areas near the natural gas transmission pipeline in Malaysia. The effects of ATCC 7757 and consortium of isolated SRB upon corrosion on API 5L X-70 carbon steel coupon were investigated using a weight loss method, an open circuit potential method (OCP), and a potentiodynamic polarization curves method in anaerobic conditions. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) were then used to determine the corrosion morphology in verifying the SRB activity and corrosion products formation. Results from the study show that the corrosion rate (CR) of weight loss method for the isolated SRB is recorded as 0.2017 mm/yr compared to 0.2530 mm/yr for ATCC 7757. The Tafel plot recorded the corrosion rate of 0.3290 mm/yr for Sg. Ular SRB and 0.2500 mm/yr forDesulfovibrio vulgaris. The results showed that the consortia of isolated SRB were of comparable effects and features with the single ATCC 7757 strain.
CT Perfusion in the Characterisation of Renal Lesions: An Added Value to Multiphasic CT
Authors: Mazzei Francesco Giuseppe , Mazzei Maria Antonietta , Cioffi Squitieri Nevada , Pozzessere Chiara , Righi Lorenzo , Cirigliano Alfredo , Guerrini Susanna , D’Elia Domenico , Ambrosio Maria Raffaella , Barone Aurora , del Vecchio Maria Teresa , Volterrani Luca
Published: August 2014

Objective.To prospectively evaluate if computed tomography perfusion (CTp) could be a useful tool in addition to multiphasic CT in renal lesion characterisation.Materials and Methods.Fifty-eight patients that were scheduled for surgical resection of a renal mass with a suspicion of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) were enrolled. Forty-one out of 58 patients underwent total or partial nephrectomy after CTp examination, and a pathological analysis was obtained for a total of 49 renal lesions. Perfusion parameters and attenuation values at multiphasic CT for both lesion and normal cortex were analysed. All the results were compared with the histological data obtained following surgery.Results.PS and MTT values were significantly lower in malignant lesions than in the normal cortex (P<0.001andP=0.011, resp.); PS, MTT, and BF values were also statistically different between oncocytomas and malignant lesions. According to ROC analysis, the accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity to predict RCC were 95.92%, 100%, and 66.7%, respectively, for CTp whereas they were 89.80%, 93.35%, and 50%, respectively, for multiphasic CT.Conclusion.A significant difference between renal cortex and tumour CTp parameter values may suggest a malignant renal lesion. CTp could represent an added value to multiphasic CT in differentiating renal cells carcinoma from oncocytoma.
Effects of Marine Phospholipids Extract on the Lipid Levels of Metastatic and Nonmetastatic Prostate Cancer Patients
Authors: Küllenberg de Gaudry Daniela , Taylor Lenka A. , Kluth Jessica , Hübschle Tobias , Fritzsche Jonas , Hildenbrand Bernd , Pletschen Lars , Schilli Karin , Hodina Arwen , Griffith Lee S. , Breul Jürgen , Unger Clemens , Massing Ulrich
Published: August 2014

High intake of omega-3 fatty acids (n-3 FAs) from fish has shown to reduce metastatic progression of prostate cancer. This clinical trial investigated the influence of high n-3 FA intake (marine phospholipids, MPL) on the FA composition of blood lipids, lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC), and on lipoproteins in prostate cancer patients and elderly men without prostate cancer. MPL supplementation resulted in a significant increase of n-3 FAs (eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acid) in blood lipids, while arachidonic acid (n-6 FA) decreased significantly. Low density lipoprotein (LDL) and high density lipoprotein (HDL) increased significantly, but the LDL increase was observed only in subjects with an inactive tumour. Similarly, LPC plasma concentration increased significantly only in patients without tumour. The missing increase of LDL and LPC after MPL supplementation in patients with actively growing (metastasizing) prostate cancer suggests that tumour cells have an elevated demand for LDL and LPC. Due to the MPL-induced increase of n-3 FAs in these blood lipids, it can be assumed that especially actively growing and metastasizing prostate cancer cells are provided with elevated amounts of these antimetastatic n-3 FAs. A hypothetic model explaining the lower incidence of metastatic progression in prostate cancer patients with high fish consumption is presented.
Macrophages, Neutrophils, and Cancer: A Double Edged Sword
Authors: Mantovani Alberto
Published: August 2014

The tumor microenvironment is a well-recognized framework, in which myeloid cells play important roles in cancer development from tumor initiation to metastasis. Immune cells present in the tumor microenvironment can promote or inhibit cancer formation and development. Diversity and plasticity are hallmarks of cells of the monocyte-macrophage lineage. In response to distinct signals the cells of the monocyte-macrophage lineage have the ability to display a wide spectrum of activation states; classical Ml or alternative M2 macrophages represent extremes of a continuum of this activation. Tumor-associated macrophages generally acquire an M2-like phenotype that is relevant for their participation in tumor growth and progression. There is now evidence that also neutrophils can be driven towards distinct phenotypes in response to microenvironmental signals. In fact they can interact with distinct cell populations and produce a wide number of cytokines and effector molecules. Therefore, macrophages and neutrophils are both integrated in the regulation of the innate and adaptive immune responses in various inflammatory situations, including cancer. These findings have triggered efforts to target tumor-associated macrophages and neutrophils. In particular, “reeducation” to activate their antitumor potential or elimination of tumor promoting cells is a new strategy undergoing preclinical and clinical evaluation.
Modeling and Investigation of the Swelling Kinetics of Acrylamide-Sodium Acrylate Hydrogel
Authors: Kipcak Azmi Seyhun , Ismail Osman , Doymaz Ibrahim , Piskin Sabriye
Published: August 2014

The acrylamide-sodium acrylate hydrogel was synthesized by free radical polymerization of the method of solution polymerization. Dynamic swelling tests were conducted at 25, 40, and 60°C temperatures, in order to investigate the swelling properties of the synthesized hydrogel. The results have shown that swelling content and swelling rate of the hydrogel increase with increasing the swelling water temperature. The diffusivity values changed from1.81×10-7to2.97×10-7 m2 s−1over the temperature range. The activation energies were found as 3.56, 3.71, and 3.86 kJ mol−1at 25, 40, and 60°C, respectively. The experimental drying curves obtained were fitted to a three different models, namely, Peleg’s, first-order absorption kinetic, and exponential association equation models. All the models applied provided a good agreement with the experimental data with high values of the coefficient of determination (R2), the least values of the reduced chi-square (χ2), and root mean square error (RMSE). Comparing the determination of coefficient, reduced chi-square, and root mean square error values of three models, it was concluded that the exponential association equation model represents swelling characteristics better than the others.
An Incidental Finding of Mucinous Colon Cancer by18F-Choline PET/CT Determining a Change in Clinical Management of a Patient with Recurrent Prostate Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Tuscano Carmelo , Russi Elvio Grazioso , Al Sayyad Said , Pergolizzi Stefano
Published: August 2014

A 66-year-old-man underwent a PET/CT scan after a biochemical relapse for a prostate cancer previously treated with a laparoscopic surgical procedure which revealed a focal uptake in the posterior wall of sigmoid colon. The biopsy demonstrated a colon cancer with mucinous differentiation producing a shift in clinical priority. To the best of our knowledge this is the first report in the English literature describing the detection by18F-choline PET/CT of a colorectal cancer with mucinous differentiation.
Does Inhibitory Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Augment Functional Task Practice to Improve Arm Recovery in Chronic Stroke?
Authors: Rose Dorian K. , Patten Carolynn , McGuirk Theresa E. , Lu Xiaomin , Triggs William J.
Published: August 2014

Introduction. Restoration of upper extremity (UE) functional use remains a challenge for individuals following stroke. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a noninvasive modality that modulates cortical excitability and is being explored as a means to potentially ameliorate these deficits. The purpose of this study was to evaluate, in the presence of chronic stroke, the effects of low-frequency rTMS to the contralesional hemisphere as an adjuvant to functional task practice (FTP), to improve UE functional ability.Methods. Twenty-two individuals with chronic stroke and subsequent moderate UE deficits were randomized to receive 16 sessions (4 times/week for 4 weeks) of either real-rTMS or sham-rTMS followed by 1-hour of paretic UE FTP.Results. No differences in UE outcomes were revealed between the real-rTMS and sham-rTMS intervention groups. After adjusting for baseline differences, no differences were revealed in contralesional cortical excitability postintervention. In a secondary analysis, data pooled across both groups revealed small, but statistically significant, improvements in UE behavioral measures.Conclusions. rTMS did not augment changes in UE motor ability in this population of individuals with chronic stroke. The chronicity of our participant cohort and their degree of UE motor impairment may have contributed to inability to produce marked effects using rTMS.
Characterization of Zebrafish Pax1b and Pax9 in Fin Bud Development
Authors: Chen Xuemei , Huang Huizhe , Wang Hua , Guo Fengjin , Du Xiaogang , Ma Linqiang , Zhao Liang , Pan Zhuma , Gui Haibo , Yuan Taixian , Liu Xin , Song Lin , Wang Yiquan , He Junling , Lei Han , Gao Rui
Published: August 2014

Both Pax1 and Pax9 belong to the important paired box gene family (PAX), which mainly participates in animal development and sclerotome differentiation. To date, the precise molecular mechanism and related signaling pathway of Pax1 remain unclear. In our study, microinjection of morpholino- (MO-) modified antisense oligonucleotides againstpax1binduced pectoral fin bud defects. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the phenotypes caused by the knockdown of Pax1b in zebrafish could not be phenocopied bypax9MO and could not be rescued by either Pax1a or Pax9 overexpression. We further find that Pax1b affects the expression ofcol2a1, Uncx4.1, Noggin3, andaggrecan, confirming the role of Pax1b in chondrocyte differentiation and bone maturation. Moreover, we identify an interaction between PAX1 and FOXO1 and find that the interaction was enhanced under hypoxia stress. Together, this evidence for cell death caused bypax1bknockdown provides new insight into the role of the Pax protein family in cell fate determination and tissue specification.
The CEV Model and Its Application in a Study of Optimal Investment Strategy
Authors: Wang Aiyin , Yong Ls , Wang Yang , Luo Xuanjun
Published: August 2014

The constant elasticity of variance (CEV) model is used to describe the price of the risky asset. Maximizing the expected utility relating to the Hamilton‐Jacobi‐Bellman (HJB) equation which describes the optimal investment strategies, we obtain a partial differential equation. Applying the Legendre transform, we transform the equation into a dual problem and obtain an approximation solution and an optimal investment strategies for the exponential utility function.
Multiobjective Genetic Algorithms Program for the Optimization of an OTA for Front-End Electronics
Authors: Dendouga Abdelghani , Oussalah Slimane , Thienpont Damien , Lounis Abdenour
Published: August 2014

The design of an interface to a specific sensor induces costs and design time mainly related to the analog part. So to reduce these costs, it should have been standardized like digital electronics. The aim of the present work is the elaboration of a method based on multiobjectives genetic algorithms (MOGAs) to allow automated synthesis of analog and mixed systems. This proposed methodology is used to find the optimal dimensional transistor parameters (length and width) in order to obtain operational amplifier performances for analog and mixed CMOS-(complementary metal oxide semiconductor-) based circuit applications. Six performances are considered in this study, direct current (DC) gain, unity-gain bandwidth (GBW), phase margin (PM), power consumption (P), area (A), and slew rate (SR). We used the Matlab optimization toolbox to implement the program. Also, by using variables obtained from genetic algorithms, the operational transconductance amplifier (OTA) is simulated by using Cadence Virtuoso Spectre circuit simulator in standard TSMC (Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company) RF 0.18 μm CMOS technology. A good agreement is observed between the program optimization and electric simulation.
Multiple Sclerosis Presents with Psychotic Symptoms and Coexists with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Özcan Muhammed Emin , İnce Bahri , Karadeli Hasan Hüseyin , Asil Talip
Published: August 2014

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a demyelinating disease of the central nervous system. Psychiatric symptoms are not infrequent during MS, yet onset of MS with psychosis is rarely encountered. A 27-year-old Caucasian male was admitted due to numbness in his right arm and difficulty in walking. His clinical and laboratorial exams lead to the MS diagnosis. Nine months earlier, he also developed psychotic disorder, not otherwise specified (PD-NOS). His sudden onset of PD-NOS, his rapid and complete response to antipsychotics, and a relatively short interval between psychiatric and neurological signs indicate a high likelihood that PD-NOS was a manifestation of underlying MS. He also suffers from hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM). The patient’s neurological complaints were recovered with methylprednisolone (1 g/day, i.v.) given for five days. Glatiramer acetate (1 × 1 tb.s.c.) was prescribed for consolidation and, after nine months of his admission, the patient fully recovered from neurological and psychiatric complaints. Interestingly, very recent studies indicate specific alpha-actinin antibodies in MS and alpha-actinin mutations cause HOCM. Thus, concurrence of MS with HOCM can be even a new syndrome, if further genetic studies prove.
Unions of Parafree Lie Algebras
Authors: Ekici Naime , Velioğlu Zehra
Published: August 2014

We consider unions of parafree Lie algebras and we prove that such unions are again parafree under some conditions.
High-Efficiency Glass and Printable Flexible Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells with Water-Based Electrolytes
Authors: Moudam Omar , Villarroya-Lidon Silvia
Published: August 2014

The performance of a flexible and glass dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) with water-based electrolyte solutions is described. High concentrations of alkylamidazoliums were used to overcome the deleterious effect of water and, based on this variable, pure water-based electrolyte DSSCs were tested displaying the highest recorded efficiency so far of 3.45% and 6% for flexible and glass cells, respectively, under a simulated air mass 1.5 solar spectrum illumination at 100 mWcm−2. An improvement in the Jsc with high water content and the positive impact of GuSCN on the enhancement of the performance of pure water-based electrolytes were also observed.
Sex Steroid Metabolism in Benign and Malignant Intact Prostate Biopsies: Individual Profiling of Prostate Intracrinology
Authors: Gianfrilli Daniele , Pierotti Silvia , Pofi Riccardo , Leonardo Costantino , Ciccariello Mauro , Barbagallo Federica
Published: August 2014

In vitrostudies reveal that androgens, oestrogens, and their metabolites play a crucial role in prostate homeostasis. Most of the studies evaluated intraprostatic hormone metabolism using cell lines or preprocessed specimens. Using anex vivomodel of intact tissue cultures with preserved architecture, we characterized the enzymatic profile of biopsies from patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or cancer (PC), focusing on 17β-hydroxy-steroid-dehydrogenases (17β-HSDs) and aromatase activities. Samples from 26 men who underwent prostate needle core biopsies (BPHn= 14; PCn= 12) were incubated with radiolabeled3H-testosterone or3H-androstenedione. Conversion was evaluated by TLC separation and beta-scanning of extracted supernatants. We identified three major patterns of conversion. The majority of BPHs revealed no active testosterone/oestradiol conversion as opposed to prostate cancer. Conversion correlated with histology and PSA, but not circulating hormones. Highest Gleason scores had a higher androstenedion-to-testosterone conversion and expression of 17β-HSD-isoenzymes-3/5.Conclusions. We developed an easy tool to profile individual intraprostatic enzymatic activity by characterizing conversion pathways in an intact tissue environment. In fresh biopsies we found that 17β-HSD-isoenzymes and aromatase activities correlate with biological behaviour allowing for morphofunctional phenotyping of pathology specimens and clinical monitoring of novel enzyme-targeting drugs.