bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cohort profile of BIOMArCS: the BIOMarker study to identify the Acute risk of a Coronary Syndrome—a prospective multicentre biomarker study conducted in the Netherlands
Authors: Oemrawsingh Rohit M , Akkerhuis K Martijn , Umans Victor A , Kietselaer Bas , Schotborgh Carl , Ronner Eelko , Lenderink Timo , Liem Anho , Haitsma David , van der Harst Pim , Asselbergs Folkert W , Maas Arthur , Oude Ophuis Anton J , Ilmer Ben , Dijkgraaf Rene , de Winter Robbert-Jan , The S Hong Kie , Wardeh Alexander J , Hermans Walter , Cramer Etienne , van Schaik Ron H , Hoefer Imo E , Doevendans Pieter A , Simoons Maarten L , Boersma Eric
Published: December 2016

Purpose

Progression of stable coronary artery disease (CAD) towards acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is a dynamic and heterogeneous process with many intertwined constituents, in which a plaque destabilising sequence could lead to ACS within short time frames. Current CAD risk assessment models, however, are not designed to identify increased vulnerability for the occurrence of coronary events within a precise, short time frame at the individual patient level. The BIOMarker study to identify the Acute risk of a Coronary Syndrome (BIOMArCS) was designed to evaluate whether repeated measurements of multiple biomarkers can predict such ‘vulnerable periods’.

Participants

BIOMArCS is a multicentre, prospective, observational study of 844 patients presenting with ACS, either with or without ST-elevation and at least one additional cardiovascular risk factor.

Methods and analysis

We hypothesised that patterns of circulating biomarkers that reflect the various pathophysiological components of CAD, such as distorted lipid metabolism, vascular inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, increased thrombogenicity and ischaemia, diverge in the days to weeks before a coronary event. Divergent biomarker patterns, identified by serial biomarker measurements during 1-year follow-up might then indicate ‘vulnerable periods’ during which patients with CAD are at high short-term risk of developing an ACS. Venepuncture was performed every fortnight during the first half-year and monthly thereafter. As prespecified, patient enrolment was terminated after the primary end point of cardiovascular death or hospital admission for non-fatal ACS had occurred in 50 patients. A case–cohort design will explore differences in temporal patterns of circulating biomarkers prior to the repeat ACS.

Future plans and dissemination

Follow-up and event adjudication have been completed. Prespecified biomarker analyses are currently being performed and dissemination through peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations is expected from the third quarter of 2016. Should identification of a ‘vulnerable period’ prove to be feasible, then future research could focus on event reduction through pharmacological or mechanical intervention during such periods of high risk for ACS.

Trial registration number

NTR1698 and NTR1106.
Cholesterol paradox: a correlate does not a surrogate make
Authors: DuBroff Robert
Published: December 2016

The global campaign to lower cholesterol by diet and drugs has failed to thwart the developing pandemic of coronary heart disease around the world. Some experts believe this failure is due to the explosive rise in obesity and diabetes, but it is equally plausible that the cholesterol hypothesis, which posits that lowering cholesterol prevents cardiovascular disease, is incorrect. The recently presented ACCELERATE trial dumbfounded many experts by failing to demonstrate any cardiovascular benefit of evacetrapib despite dramatically lowering low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and raising high-density lipoprotein cholesterol in high-risk patients with coronary disease. This clinical trial adds to a growing volume of knowledge that challenges the validity of the cholesterol hypothesis and the utility of cholesterol as a surrogate end point. Inadvertently, the cholesterol hypothesis may have even contributed to this pandemic. This perspective critically reviews this evidence and our reluctance to acknowledge contradictory information.
Dynamics of pulse wave velocity and vascular augmentation index in association with endothelial progenitor cells in SLE
Authors: Korsten Peter , Patschan Daniel , Henze Elvira , Niewold Timothy B , Müller Gerhard Anton , Patschan Susann
Published: December 2016

Patients with SLE display a significantly higher cardiovascular risk (CVR). Pulse wave velocity (PWV) has meanwhile been established as a reliable parameter of end-organ damage. Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) are critically involved in vascular repair under both physiological and pathological conditions. The aim of the study was to analyse PWV and the Vascular Augmentation Index (VAI) and EPC numbers/regeneration in a well-defined German SLE cohort. Thirty patients were included. Only two individuals displayed a PWV of above 10 m/s. There was no correlation between PWV percentiles and disease activity as reflected by the SLE Disease Activity Index. Neither EPC colonies nor percentages of circulating EPCs (CD133+/KDR+) correlated with PWV/VAI in a positive or negative manner. Thus, it can be questioned whether pulse wave analysis and/or EPC proliferation and circulating cell numbers are truly useful for CVR assessment in SLE.
Mechanical thrombectomy for basilar artery thrombosis: a comparison of outcomes with anterior circulation occlusions
Authors: Alonso de Leciñana María , Kawiorski Michal M , Ximénez-Carrillo Álvaro , Cruz-Culebras Antonio , García-Pastor Andrés , Martínez-Sánchez Patricia , Fernández-Prieto Andrés , Caniego José Luis , Méndez Jose Carlos , Zapata-Wainberg Gustavo , De Felipe-Mimbrera Alicia , Díaz-Otero Fernando , Ruiz-Ares Gerardo , Frutos Remedios , Bárcena-Ruiz Eduardo , Fandiño Eduardo , Marín Begoña , Vivancos José , Masjuan Jaime , Gil-Nuñez Antonio , Díez-Tejedor Exuperio , Fuentes Blanca ,   Madrid Stroke Network
Published: December 2016

Background and purpose

The benefits of mechanical thrombectomy (MT) in basilar artery occlusions (BAO) have not been explored in recent clinical trials. We compared outcomes and procedural complications of MT in BAO with anterior circulation occlusions.

Methods

Data from the Madrid Stroke Network multicenter prospective registry were analyzed, including baseline characteristics, procedure times, procedural complications, symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (SICH), modified Rankin Scale (mRS), and mortality at 3 months.

Results

Of 479 patients treated with MT, 52 (11%) had BAO. The onset to reperfusion time lapse was longer in patients with BAO (median (IQR) 385 min (320–540) vs 315 min (240–415), p<0.001), as was the duration of the procedures (100 min (40–130) vs 60 min (39–90), p=0.006). Moreover, the recanalization rate was lower (75% vs 84%, p=0.01). A trend toward more procedural complications was observed in patients with BAO (32% vs 21%, p=0.075). The frequency of SICH was 2% vs 5% (p=0.25). At 3 months, patients with BAO had a lower rate of independence (mRS 0–2) (40% vs 58%, p=0.016) and higher mortality (33% vs 12%, p<0.001). The rate of futile recanalization was 50% in BAO versus 35% in anterior circulation occlusions (p=0.05). Age and duration of the procedure were significant predictors of futile recanalization in BAO.

Conclusions

MT is more laborious and shows more procedural complications in BAO than in anterior circulation strokes. The likelihood of futile recanalization is higher in BAO and is associated with greater age and longer procedure duration. A refinement of endovascular procedures for BAO might help optimize the results.
Lower coronary plaque burden in patients with HIV presenting with acute coronary syndrome
Authors: O'Dwyer E J , Bhamra-Ariza P , Rao S , Emmanuel S , Carr A , Holloway C J
Published: December 2016

Objective

Treated HIV infection is associated with a higher incidence of coronary artery disease and myocardial infarction, although the mechanisms remain unclear. We sought to characterise the burden of coronary artery disease in men with HIV using retrospective data from invasive coronary angiograms in patients presenting with acute coronary syndrome (ACS).

Methods

Demographic and coronary angiographic data were obtained from 160 men with ST elevation myocardial infarction, non-STEMI or high-risk chest pain; 73 HIV-infected cases and 87 age-matched controls. The burden of coronary disease was calculated using the Gensini Angiographic Scoring System by 2 independent cardiologists blinded to HIV status.

Results

The 2 groups were matched for age, sex and cardiac event subtype and there was no difference in rates of smoking or cholesterol levels. Compared with control participants, patients with HIV had higher usage of antihypertensives (46 (63%) vs 30 (35%), p<0.001) and statins (47 (64%) vs 29 (33%), p<0.001). There was no difference in plaque distribution between both groups; however, the Gensini score was 42% lower in cases with HIV than in controls (p<0.03). C reactive protein was higher in cases with HIV (13.4±15.4 vs 3.7±3.6).

Conclusions

Men with HIV presenting with ACS paradoxically had a lower burden of coronary plaque than matched controls, despite more aggressive risk factor management, suggesting that plaque vulnerability, rather than total burden of atherosclerosis, may be important in the pathophysiology of coronary artery disease in men with HIV.
High prevalence of modifiable stroke risk factors identified in a pharmacy-based screening programme
Authors: Sandhu Roopinder K , Dolovich Lisa , Deif Bishoy , Barake Walid , Agarwal Gina , Grinvalds Alex , Lim Ting , Quinn F Russell , Gladstone David , Conen David , Connolly Stuart J , Healey Jeff S
Published: December 2016

Background

Population-based screening for atrial fibrillation (AF) is a promising public health strategy to prevent stroke. However, none of the published reports have evaluated comprehensive screening for additional stroke risk factors such as hypertension and diabetes in a pharmacy setting.

Methods

The Program for the Identification of ‘Actionable’ Atrial Fibrillation in the Pharmacy Setting (PIAAF-Pharmacy) screened individuals aged ≥65 years, attending community pharmacies in Canada, who were not receiving oral anticoagulation (OAC). Participants were screened for AF using a hand-held ECG device, had blood pressure (BP) measured, and diabetes risk estimated using the Canadian Diabetes Risk Assessment Questionnaire (CANRISK) questionnaire. ‘Actionable’ AF was defined as unrecognised or undertreated AF. A 6-week follow-up visit with the family physician was suggested for participants with ‘actionable’ AF and a scheduled 3-month visit occurred at an AF clinic.

Results

During 6 months, 1145 participants were screened at 30 pharmacies. ‘Actionable’ AF was identified in 2.5% (95% CI 1.7 to 3.6; n=29); of these, 96% were newly diagnosed. Participants with ‘actionable AF’ had a mean age of 77.2±6.8 years, 58.6% were male and 93.1% had a CHA2DS2-VASc score ≥2. A BP>140/90 was found in 54.9% (616/1122) of participants and 44.4% (214/492) were found to be at high risk of diabetes. At 3 months, only 17% of participants were started on OAC, 50% had improved BP and 71% had confirmatory diabetes testing.

Conclusions

Integrated stroke screening identifies a high prevalence of individuals who could benefit from stroke prevention therapies but must be coupled with a defined care pathway.
Emergency department interpretation of CT of the brain: a systematic review
Authors: Evans Lachlan R , Fitzgerald Mark C , Mitra Biswadev , Varma Dinesh
Published: December 2016

Background and objectives

CT of the brain (CTB) is one of the most common radiological investigations performed in the emergency department (ED). Emergency clinicians rely upon this imaging modality to aid diagnosis and guide management. However, their capacity to accurately interpret CTB is unclear. This systematic review aims to determine this capacity and identify the potential need for interventions directed towards improving the ability of emergency clinicians in this important area.

Methods

A systematic review of the literature was conducted without date restrictions. We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane databases and studies reporting the primary outcome of concordance of CTB interpretation between a non-radiologist and a radiology specialist were identified. Studies were assessed for heterogeneity and a subgroup analysis of pooled data based on medical specialty was carried out to specifically identify the concordance of ED clinicians. The quality of evidence was assessed using the GRADE criteria.

Results

There were 21 studies included in this review. Among the included studies, 12 reported on the concordance of emergency clinicians, 5 reported on radiology trainees and 4 on surgeons. Clinical and statistical heterogeneity between studies was high (I2=97.8%, p<0.01). The concordance in the emergency subgroup was the lowest among all subgroups with a range of 0.63–0.95 and a clinically significant error rate ranging from 0.02 to 0.24.

Conclusions

Heterogeneity and the presence of bias limit our confidence in these findings. However, the variance in the interpretation of CTB between emergency clinicians and radiologists suggests that interventions towards improving accuracy may be useful.
Rhipicephalus sanguineus importation into the UK: surveillance, risk, public health awareness and One Health response
Authors: Hansford K. M. , Phipps L. P. , Cull B. , Pietzsch M. E. , Medlock J. M.
Published: December 2016

As part of Public Health England's assessment of vectorborne disease risk to public health in the UK, tick specimens are regularly submitted by veterinarians for identification via the Tick Surveillance Scheme. Recently, a number of these specimens have been identified as the brown dog tick, Rhipicephalus sanguineus. This species is non‐endemic to the UK and presents a risk to both human and animal health due to its role in the transmission of various tickborne pathogens. Although current climatic conditions in the UK are unlikely to permit the survival of this species outdoors, indoor infestations can occur and this can present a risk of disease transmission within an infested property. This paper documents 40 importation events involving R sanguineus on recently travelled or imported dogs into the UK since 2012. It also provides details of the response following these detections in line with the One Health concept. With the increasing number of dogs travelling or being imported, it is likely that importation and infestation events in the UK will continue and may result in pathogen transmission. It is therefore important to raise awareness of this risk and share lessons learned to improve our prevention and response strategies to this emerging issue.
Transgenic overexpression of macrophage matrix metalloproteinase-9 exacerbates age-related cardiac hypertrophy, vessel rarefaction, inflammation, and fibrosis
Authors: Toba Hiroe , Cannon Presley L. , Yabluchanskiy Andriy , Iyer Rugmani Padmanabhan , D’Armiento Jeanine , Lindsey Merry L.
Published: December 2016

Advancing age is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) is secreted by macrophages and robustly increases in the left ventricle (LV) with age. The present study investigated the effect of MMP-9 overexpression in macrophages on cardiac aging. We compared 16- to 21-mo-old C57BL/6J wild-type (WT) and transgenic (TG) male and female mice ( n = 15–20/group). MMP-9 overexpression amplified the hypertrophic response to aging, as evidenced by increased LV wall thickness and myocyte cross-sectional areas ( P < 0.05 for both). MMP-9 overexpression reduced LV expression of the angiogenesis-related factors ICAM-1, integrins α3 and β3, platelet/endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1, thrombospondin-1, tenascin-c, and versican (all P < 0.05). Concomitantly, the number of vessels in the TG was lower than WT LV ( P < 0.05). This led to a mismatch in the muscle-to-vessel ratio and resulted in increased cardiac inflammation. Out of 84 inflammatory genes analyzed, 16 genes increased in the TG compared with WT (all P < 0.05). Of the elevated genes, 14 were proinflammatory genes. The increase in cardiac inflammation resulted in greater accumulation of interstitial collagen in TG ( P < 0.05). Fractional shortening was similar between groups, indicating that global cardiac function was still preserved at this age. In conclusion, overexpression of MMP-9 in macrophages resulted in exacerbated cardiac hypertrophy in the setting of vessel rarefaction, which resulted in enhanced inflammation and fibrosis to augment the cardiac-aging phenotype. Our results provide evidence that macrophage-derived MMP-9 may be a therapeutic target in elderly subjects.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY The present study was the first to use mice with transgenic overexpression of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) in macrophages to examine the effects of macrophage-derived MMP-9 on cardiac aging. We found that an elevation in macrophage-derived MMP-9 induced a greater age-dependent cardiac hypertrophy and vessel rarefaction phenotype, which enhanced cardiac inflammation and fibrosis.

Listen to this article's corresponding podcast at http://ajpheart.podbean.com/e/macrophage-mmp-9-accelerates-cardiac-aging/ .
Roles of estrogen receptor-alpha in mediating life span: the hypothalamic deregulation hypothesis
Authors: Gouw Arvin M. , Efe Gizem , Barakat Rita , Preecha Andrew , Mehdizadeh Morvarid , Garan Steven A. , Brooks George A.
Published: December 2016

In several species caloric restriction (CR) extends life span. In this paper we integrate data from studies on CR and other sources to articulate the hypothalamic deregulation hypothesis by which estrogen receptor-alpha (ER-α) signaling in the hypothalamus and limbic system affects life span under the stress of CR in mammals. ER-α is one of two principal estrogen-binding receptors differentially expressed in the amygdala, hippocampus, and several key hypothalamic nuclei: the arcuate nucleus (ARN), preoptic area (POA), ventromedial nucleus (VMN), antero ventral periventricular nucleus (AVPV), paraventricular nucleus (PVN), supraoptic nucleus (SON), and suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). Estradiol signaling via ER-α is essential in basal level functioning of reproductive cycle, sexually receptive behaviors, physiological stress responses, as well as sleep cycle, and other nonsexual behaviors. When an organism is placed under long-term CR, which introduces an external stress to this ER-α signaling, the reduction of ER-α expression is attenuated over time in the hypothalamus. This review paper seeks to characterize the downstream effects of ER-α in the hypothalamus and limbic system that affect normal endocrine functioning.
Roles of pRB in the Regulation of Nucleosome and Chromatin Structures
Authors: Uchida Chiharu
Published: December 2016

Retinoblastoma protein (pRB) interacts with E2F and other protein factors to play a pivotal role in regulating the expression of target genes that induce cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, and differentiation. pRB controls the local promoter activity and has the ability to change the structure of nucleosomes and/or chromosomes via histone modification, epigenetic changes, chromatin remodeling, and chromosome organization. Functional inactivation of pRB perturbs these cellular events and causes dysregulated cell growth and chromosome instability, which are hallmarks of cancer cells. The role of pRB in regulation of nucleosome/chromatin structures has been shown to link to tumor suppression. This review focuses on the ability of pRB to control nucleosome/chromatin structures via physical interactions with histone modifiers and chromatin factors and describes cancer therapies based on targeting these protein factors.
Distinct patterns of B-cell receptor signaling in non-Hodgkin lymphomas identified by single-cell profiling
Authors: Myklebust June H. , Brody Joshua , Kohrt Holbrook E. , Kolstad Arne , Czerwinski Debra K. , Wälchli Sébastien , Green Michael R. , Trøen Gunhild , Liestøl Knut , Beiske Klaus , Houot Roch , Delabie Jan , Alizadeh Ash A. , Irish Jonathan M. , Levy Ronald
Published: December 2016

Key Points

Contrasting patterns of basal phosphorylation levels and α-BCR–induced signaling between CLL and MCL tumors. Direct association between BCR-induced signaling strength and CD79B level, but inverse association with BTK and SYK inhibitor efficacy.
Importance of the antenniform legs, but not vision, for homing by the neotropical whip spider,Paraphrynus laevifrons
Authors: Bingman Verner P. , Graving Jacob M. , Hebets Eileen A. , Wiegmann Daniel D.
Published: December 2016

Amplypygids, or whip spiders, are nocturnal, predatory arthropods that display a robust ability to navigate to their home refuge. Prior field observations and displacement studies in amblypygids demonstrated an ability to home from distances as far away as 10 meters. In the current study, micro-transmitters were used to take morning position fixes of individual Paraphrynus laevifrons following an experimental displacement of 10 m from their home refuge. The intent was to assess the relative importance of vision compared to sensory input acquired from the antenniform legs for navigation as well as other aspects of their spatial behavior. Displaced individuals were randomly assigned to three treatment groups : (i) control individuals-C, (ii) vision deprived individuals-VD, and (iii) individuals with sensory input from the tips of their antenniform legs compromised-AD. C and VD subjects were generally sucessful in returning home, and the direction of their movement on the first night following displacement was homeward oriented. By contrast, AD subjects experienced a complete loss of navigational ability, and movement on their first night indicated no hint of homeward orientation. The data strongly support the hypothesis that sensory input from the tips of the antenniform legs is necessary for successful homing in amblypygids following displacement to an unfamiliar location, and we hypothesize an essential role of olfaction for this navigational ability.
Analyzing Time on Sample During Nanoindentation
Authors: Bhattacharyya A. S. , Kumar P , Rajak N , Kumar R.P , Sharma A , Acharya G , Ranjan V
Published: December 2016

Nanoindentation is an effective way of finding mechanical properties at nanoscale. They are especially useful for thin films where elimination of the substrate effect is required. The mechanism is based upon depth sensing indentation based on Oliver and Pharr modeling. The load-depth curves as well as time on sample were analyzed. Indentation impulse was found to have significant contribution in the nature of failure zone during indentation. Fracture toughness was also related to time on the sample.
Physicochemical Analysis of Ground Water Samples of South Coastal Areas of Kanniya kumari in the Post-Tsunami Scenario
Authors: Arunachalam Krishna , Sukumaran Monikandon , Tanveer Mohammad , Devarayan Kesavan
Published: December 2016

In this study, the effect of ‘natural/self cleaning’ of ground water by precipitation after a decade of tsunami is evaluated along the coast of Kanniyakumari district, Tamil Nadu, India. The samples were collected from five stations namely Colachel, Muttom, Periyakadu, Manakudy, and Kanniyakumari. The physicochemical parameters such as turbidity, total dissolved solids, electrical conductivity, pH, alkalinity, total hardness, calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, chloride, and fluoride were evaluated and compared with the database of the pre-tsunami sample collected in 2004. The results indicated that the ‘natural cleaning’ has improved the quality of the ground water over the years after tsunami.
2016 and all that…
Authors: Mortensen Neil
Published: December 2016

After a tumultuous 12 months at home and abroad, here's to a brighter 2017 for the Bulletin and beyond.
Vicious circle
Authors: Marx Clare
Published: December 2016

Lack of resources for health and social care leads to lack of hospital beds.
Building aspirations… building ambitions?
Authors: Gandhi Shan
Published: December 2016

Much has been written of late on the requirements of a patient-centred hospital environment suitable for healing. So much so that, within healthcare, the theoretical concept is referred to as ‘evidence-based design’, in which – through form and function – the positive interaction and outcomes that buildings and their environments can have on the health, recovery, safety and wellbeing of patients and carers – and on the health and morale of its staff – is considered.

In view of Birmingham’s new £50 million Dental Hospital and School of Dentistry opening its doors to the public earlier this year, this article provides a précis of the establishment, and illustrates how evidence-based healthcare design concepts have been woven into its design.
Policy spotlight
Authors: Davies John
Published: December 2016

This regular feature aims to provide key political news in relation to dentistry and an update on the Faculty’s policy activities. You can find out more in the Government Relations and Media sections of the FDS website.
Aspectos pedagógicos e administrativos da creche e da pré-escola catarinense
Authors: Wiggers Verena
Published: December 2016

O artigo decorre de pesquisa mais ampla que teve como principal objetivo identificar os aspectos teóricos e metodológicos que fundamentam as proposições pedagógicas para a creche e a pré-escola. Para a coleta de dados utilizou-se de um questionário, com 73 questões, enviado a todos os municípios do estado de Santa Catarina. As principais conclusões apontam para a insuficiência do conteúdo apresentado nos documentos e, ainda, que o Referencial Curricular Nacional para a Educação Infantil (1998) é o documento mais conhecido e mais utilizado para subsidiar as propostas e as práticas pedagógicas em causa. A pesquisa buscou problematizar as limitações das perspectivas pedagógicas apresentadas, como também dos dados administrativos que constituem a realidade dos municípios catarinenses.
Simondon on Datafication. A Techno-Cultural Method
Authors: Coté Mark , Pybus Jennifer
Published: December 2016

This article proposes the techno-cultural workshop as an innovative method for opening up the materiality of computational media and data flows and order to increase understanding of the socio-cultural and political-economic dimensions of datafication. Building upon the critical, creative hacker ethos of technological engagement, and the collective practice of the hackathon, the techno-cultural workshops is directed at humanities researchers and social and cultural theorists. We conceptually frame this method via Simondon as a practice-led opportunity to rethink the contested relationship between the human, nature and technology, with a view to challenging social and cultural theory that ignores the human reality of the technical object. We outline an exemplar techno-cultural workshop which explored mobile apps as i) an opportunity to use new digital tools for empirical research, and ii) as technical objects and elements for better understanding their social and cultural dimensions. We see political efficacy in the techno-cultural method not only in augmenting critical and creative agency, but as a practical exploration of the concept of data technicity, an inexhaustible relationality that exceeds the normative and regulatory utility of the data we generate and can be linked anew into collective capacities to act.
On generalized K-Fibonacci sequence by two-cross-two matrix
Authors: Wani Arfat Ahmad , Rathore G. P. S. , Sisodiya Kiran
Published: December 2016

In this study we define a new generalized k-Fibonacci sequence associated with its two cross two matrix called generating matrix. After use the matrix representation we find many interesting properties such as nth power of the matrix, Cassini's Identity of generalized k-Fibonacci sequence as well as Binet's formula for generalized k-Fibonacci sequence by the method of matrix diagonalization.
Logistics of Trainsets Creation with the Use of
Simulation Models
Authors: Sedláček Michal , Pavelka Hynek
Published: December 2016

This paper focuses on rail transport in following
the train formation operational processes problem using
computer simulations. The problem has been solved using
SIMUL8 and applied to specific train formation station in
the Czech Republic. The paper describes a proposal simulation
model of the train formation work. Experimental
modeling with an assessment of achievements and design
solution for optimizing of the train formation operational
process is also presented.
An iterative method to calculate the thermal
characteristics of the rock mass with inaccurate
initial data
Authors: Rysbaiuly Bolatbek , Yunicheva Nadiya , Rysbayeva Nazerke
Published: December 2016

The paper discusses the coefficient inverse problem
for one-dimensional heat equation with inaccurate
initial data. A conjugate difference problem is developed
on difference level. The problem is solved by method of
interval analysis. Condition of applicability of Thomas
method and its computational convergence are obtained.
Estimates of the interval width of solutions of difference
problems and functions of Thomas method are also
gained.
A tridimensional model for the motion of nanobots
at high viscosity coeflcient environment based on
Navier-Stokes’ Equation, by applying Oseen’s
approximation
Authors: Jorkesh Alireza , Ghaffari Amir Hossein , Suratgar Amir Abolfazleh , Afify Mahmoud Dehghan
Published: December 2016

Till now, various models of the motion of
nanobots have been submitted; the pioneer models, in
spite of being exact in mathematics, had their own kind of
problems. The most recent challenge is to describe a model
whose attitude can be practical so that these motions can
be estimated. Considering the massive uses of nanobots,
the kinds of motions and velocities of these very small
robots need to be studied in a more accurate way. In this
essay, we tried to develop a three-dimensional model. The
three dimensional model is based on 7 spheres and 6 arms
and describes a kind of movement requiring 2 spheres at
each arm. The velocity of each kind has also been evaluated.
Furthermore, two kinds of three-dimensional movements
have been issued and compared as well. That will
result in the simplicity of the equations. By applying Oseen’s
approximation in the Stokes’ equation, the velocity
in various media has been calculated and modulated.
Electrodeposition and characterization of
one-dimensional CuInSe2 nanostructures in
mesoporous silicon templates
Authors: De La Luz-Merino S. , Calixto M. E. , Méndez-Blas A. , Marí-Soucase B.
Published: December 2016

In this work, the electrodeposition and characterization
of 1D CuInSe2 (CIS) nanostructures formed by
the assistance of porous silicon (PSi) templates is presented.
The formation of CIS was found to be potential dependent
on the specific substrate being used. The filling
process of the pores of PSi template was studied directly
by the current transient response during electrodeposition
of nanostructured CIS and results were compared with FESEM
images. CIS nanostructures were fully characterized
by using FE-SEM, FIB, XRD, and Raman spectroscopy, in
order to know their physical properties.
Role of single walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs)
on the airway smooth muscle
Authors: Gonzalez Carmen , Salazar-García Samuel , Maldonado-Ortega Daniel Alberto , Ramirez-Lee Manuel A. , Gutiérrez-Hernandez José Manuel
Published: December 2016

The aim of this work was to evaluate the effects
induced by single walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) on
the airway smooth muscle tone, using an isolated rat tracheal
rings model and monitoring nitric oxide (NO) as a
possible mediator involved in the effects. Exposure of tracheal
rings to SWCNTs did not modify the smooth muscle
tone per se; however,when the ringswere pre-treated with
the contractile agent acetylcholine (ACh), all SWCNTs concentrations
(0.1-10 μg/mL) induced a transient contractile
effect similar to that induced by ACh alone. Interestingly,
the NO production was not modified by SWCNTs regardless
of the presence of ACh 10 μM. Thus, the data suggest
that NO is not involved in the airway smooth muscle contraction
induced by SWCNTs. Further investigations are required
to understand the effects, mediator(s) and mechanisms
of action induced by this type of porous nanomaterial,
as well as their fine interactions with the respiratory
system structures.
Investigations of optical and surface properties of Ag single thin film coating as semitransparent heat reflective mirror
Authors: Domaradzki J. , Kaczmarek D. , Mazur M. , Wojcieszak D. , Halarewicz J. , Glodek S. , Domanowski P.
Published: December 2016

The paper presents results of optical and surface morphology investigations of semitransparent silver single thin films deposited on glass substrate in relation to their heat radiation treatment. The thickness of 15 nm for the silver thin films was selected using computer designing of optical spectra and the films were deposited using electron beam evaporation process. Optical transmission and reflection were investigated for as deposited samples and after exposition to heat radiation from quartz-halogen lamp. The changes in the optical spectra were observed which suggested degradation of deposited heat mirrors. Structure and surface morphology studies performed using scanning electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and atomic force microscopy allowed us to conclude about formation of nanometric silver islands, regularly distributed over the surface of the glass substrate after exposure to heat treatment.
First principle calculation of structural, electronic and elastic properties of rare earth nitride
Authors: Bhardwaj Purvee , Singh Sadhna
Published: December 2016

First principle calculation of the electronic and elastic properties of CeN nitride, which crystallizes in the rock-salt structure, is reported in the present paper. The ground state properties, such as lattice constant (a0), bulk modulus (B) and its pressure derivative (B′) are reported. These results show good agreement with the experimental and other theoretical results. Besides, we have studied the Murnaghan’s equation of state, and used it to fit the theoretical electronic ground state energy and obtain thermodynamic quantities such as the bulk modulus. Furthermore the electronic band structure, total density of states and partial density of states of CeN are also discussed.
Defending Turkey on Global Stages: The Young Turk Reşit Saffet’s Internationalist Strategy in 1919
Authors: Liebisch Carolin
Published: December 2016

The article investigates the internationalist activities of a Turkish nationalist during his Swiss exile at the outset of the postwar settlements in early 1919. Reşit Saffet, a devoted Young Turk and Ottoman diplomat on leave, moved in the internationalist milieus in Berne while his agenda remained utterly nationalist. Drawing on pan-Turkic, pan-Islamic, anti-imperialist, socialist, and Wilsonian ideas, he adapted his rhetoric to the internationalist conferences he attended; he thus sought to disguise and to defend his otherwise discredited nationalist cause on these global stages. The article traces Reşit Saffet’s internationalist activities as a strategy to engage with the ‘Paris moment’ and the Ottoman question beyond official politics and governmental discourse. In a time when Ottoman diplomacy was in deadlock as a result of the Empire’s exclusion from the peace conference and Reşit Saffet’s career faced an unknown future in the face of the Ottoman collapse, internationalism seemed a promising option. The case illustrates the increasingly blurred border between state diplomacy and non-governmental influence, and thus questions exclusively state-centered approaches. It reveals the appeal and potential held by civil society internationalism, not only for Western pacifists and socialists, but also for anti-imperialist nationalists confronted with the disappointment of the ‘Wilsonian moment’.
Re-Presenting the Past: A New Archaeological Outreach Strategy for the Canadian Territory of Nunavut
Authors: Griebel Brendan , Diesel Torsten , Rast Tim
Published: December 2016

In 2013, an Arctic-based organization known as the Inuit Heritage Trust spearheaded a new
campaign to increase archaeological awareness in the Canadian territory of Nunavut. While Nunavut remains
an Inuit-centered territory—founded on the knowledge and values that have long sustained its predominantly
Inuit population—the rules and regulations surrounding archaeological resources are largely grounded in
more scientific, and distinctly non-Inuit, valuations of the past. For multiple reasons, Inuit and non-Inuit
traditions for understanding and preserving heritage resources have proved difficult to reconcile, despite
numerous attempts at community outreach programs and the regular hosting of archaeological fieldschools.
For many Inuit, the methodological and impersonal approach to history endorsed by incoming archaeologists
remains a foreign concept. This paper will present a series of community resources developed as part of the
Inuit Heritage Trust’s new archaeological awareness campaign, produced in partnership with archaeologists
Brendan Griebel and Tim Rast. These resources seek to address the question of how to educate about Nunavut’s
past through a framework that aligns with the interests and realities of both professional archaeologists and
Inuit populations. To date, this campaign has produced two unique resources: the first, a guidebook series
that explores archaeology’s relevance to community members, students and heritage workers in Nunavut, and
the second, a portable excavation and experimental archaeology kit. While the campaign does not intend to
change the way that either Inuit or archaeologists value the past, it does attempt to create a mutual awareness
of differing worldview so that both groups might better navigate the complex landscape of regulation and
interaction ascribed to Nunavut’s heritage resources.
Linear Pottery Houses and Their Inhabitants
Authors: Pavlů Ivan
Published: December 2016

Neolithic houses can be classified into different types according to their construction; therefore,
we tried to find whether the inhabitants of different types of Neolithic houses engaged in different
economic activities. The existing interpretation of the function of individual parts of Neolithic houses was
broadened to include a hypothesis based on an exceptional case from the Harta settlement in Hungary.
We used the revised analysis of animal bones from the Bylany settlement as a starting point to assess
the means of subsistence of the inhabitants of Neolithic houses. The way that food was handled and
consumed was observed in the distribution of formal functional types of pottery according to the number
and the lipid compounds. Based on current results, we can prove that inhabitants of different types of
Neolithic houses used different means of subsistence. Food was shared similarly in all types of houses;
however, the processing and preparation of food differed. Therefore, we can support the hypothesis that
the inhabitants of a single settlement were of different genetic and historical origins.
N-alkyl-2-(1,2-diferrocenylvinyl)-4,5-dihydrooxazolinium salts, multi-component synthesis and breaking of their heterocyclic systems
Authors: Sánchez García Jessica J. , Flores-Alamo Marcos , Martínez Klimov Mark E. , Klimova Elena I.
Published: December 2016

A new multicomponent method for the synthesis of N-alkyl-2-(Z-1,2-diferrocenylvinyl)-4,5-dihydrooxazolinium salts 3a–f, 5-(N-alkyl-2′,3′-diferrocenyl-acryloylamido)-3-aza-3-alkylpentanols 4a–d, (E)-N-alkyl-N-(2-morpholinoethyl)-2,3-diferrocenylacrylamides 9a,b,e,f and (E)-N-alkyl-N-(2-piperidinoethyl)-2,3-diferrocenylacrylamides 10a,c from reactions of 2,3-diferrocenylcyclopropenone 1 with bis-1,4-N,O-nucleophiles in the presence of triethyloxonium tetrafluoroborate, alkyl iodides, morpholine, piperidine and Et3N is described. The characterization of the new compounds was done by IR, 1H- and 13C-NMR spectroscopy, mass-spectrometry, elemental analysis and X-ray diffraction studies.
Numerical aspects of applying the fluctuation dissipation theorem to study climate system sensitivity to external forcings
Authors: Gritsun Andrey , Branstator Grant
Published: December 2016

The fluctuation dissipation theorem (FDT), a classical result coming from statistical mechanics, suggests that, under certain conditions, the system response to external forcing can be obtained using the statistics of natural fluctuation of the system. The application of the FDT to the most sophisticated climate models and the real climate system represents a difficult problem due to the huge dimensionality of these systems and the lack of the data available for proper sampling of the system natural variability. As a consequence, one has to use some regularization procedures constraining the form of permitted perturbations. Naturally, the skill of the FDT depends on the type and parameters of the regularization procedure. In the present paper we apply FDT to predict the response of a recent version of the NCAR climate system model (CCSM4) to salinity and temperature forcing anomalies in the North Atlantic. We study the sensitivity of our results to the amount of available data and to key parameters used in our numerical algorithm.
Greimas embodied: How kinesthetic opposition grounds the semiotic square
Authors: Pelkey Jamin
Published: December 2016

According to Greimas, the semiotic square is far more than a heuristic for semantic and literary analysis. It represents the generative “deep structure” of human culture and cognition which “define the fundamental mode of existence of an individual or of a society, and subsequently the conditions of existence of semiotic objects”. The veracity of this bold hypothesis has received little attention in the literature. In response, this paper traces the history and development of the square of opposition from Aristotle to Greimas and beyond, to propose that the relations modeled in these diagrams are rooted in gestalt memories of kinesthesia and proprioception from which we derive basic structural awareness of opposition and contrast—including verticality, bilaterality, transversality, markedness and analogy. The paper draws on findings in the phenomenology of movement, recent developments in the analysis of logical opposition, recent scholarship in (post)Greimasian semiotics and prescient insights from Greimas himself. The argument is further tested via multimodal content analyses of a popular music video—highlighting relationships the semiotic square shares with mundane cultural ideologies and showing how these relationships might be traced to memory structures of bodily movement. The paper highlights the neglected relevance of embodied chiasmus and illustrates the enduring relevance of Greimasean thought.
Corrosion and Corrosion Inhibition of Aluminum Alloys A5052 and A5754 in Sulfuric Acid Solutions by Some Inorganic Inhibitors
Authors: El-Rehim S.S. Abd , Deyab M.A. , Hassan H.H. , El-Moneim Ahamed Abd
Published: December 2016

The corrosion of aluminum alloys (A5052 and 5754) in sulfuric acid solutions was investigated using potentiodynamic polarization curves, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), scanning electron microscope (SEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) methods. For comparison, the corrosion of pure aluminum in sulfuric acid was examined potentiodynamically. The data reveal that increasing sulfuric acid concentrations and solution temperature enhance the corrosion rate of aluminum alloys. The two aluminum alloys exhibit higher corrosion resistance than pure aluminum. Moreover, A5052 involves more corrosion resistance than A5754. The effect of WO2−4and MoO2−4anions as inorganic inhibitors on the corrosion of aluminum alloys in 0.3 M H2SO4solution has also been studied. Results show that the presence of either WO2−4or MoO2−4anions in the acid solution decreases the corrosion of aluminum alloys. The Langmuir isotherm is found to be an accurate isotherm describing the adsorption of these oxyanions on the alloys surface.
The Superior Temporal Sulcus Is Causally Connected to the Amygdala: A Combined TBS-fMRI Study
Authors: Pitcher David , Japee Shruti , Rauth Lionel , Ungerleider Leslie G.
Published: December 2016

Nonhuman primate neuroanatomical studies have identified a cortical pathway from the superior temporal sulcus (STS) projecting into dorsal subregions of the amygdala, but whether this same pathway exists in humans is unknown. Here, we addressed this question by combining theta burst transcranial magnetic stimulation (TBS) with fMRI to test the prediction that the STS and amygdala are functionally connected during face perception. Human participants (N= 17) were scanned, over two sessions, while viewing 3 s video clips of moving faces, bodies, and objects. During these sessions, TBS was delivered over the face-selective right posterior STS (rpSTS) or over the vertex control site. A region-of-interest analysis revealed results consistent with our hypothesis. Namely, TBS delivered over the rpSTS reduced the neural response to faces (but not to bodies or objects) in the rpSTS, right anterior STS (raSTS), and right amygdala, compared with TBS delivered over the vertex. By contrast, TBS delivered over the rpSTS did not significantly reduce the neural response to faces in the right fusiform face area or right occipital face area. This pattern of results is consistent with the existence of a cortico-amygdala pathway in humans for processing face information projecting from the rpSTS, via the raSTS, into the amygdala. This conclusion is consistent with nonhuman primate neuroanatomy and with existing face perception models.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTNeuroimaging studies have identified multiple face-selective regions in the brain, but the functional connections between these regions are unknown. In the present study, participants were scanned with fMRI while viewing movie clips of faces, bodies, and objects before and after transient disruption of the face-selective right posterior superior temporal sulcus (rpSTS). Results showed that TBS disruption reduced the neural response to faces, but not to bodies or objects, in the rpSTS, right anterior STS (raSTS), and right amygdala. These results are consistent with the existence of a cortico-amygdala pathway in humans for processing face information projecting from the rpSTS, via the raSTS, into the amygdala. This conclusion is consistent with nonhuman primate neuroanatomy and with existing face perception models.
Degradation of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon Pyrene by Biosurfactant-Producing Bacteria Gordonia cholesterolivorans AMP 10
Authors: Kurniati Tri Handayani , Rusmana Iman , Suryani Ani , Mubarik Nisa Rachmania
Published: December 2016

Pyrene degradation and biosurfactant activity by a new strain identified as Gordonia cholesterolivorans AMP 10 were studied. The strain grew well and produced effective biosurfactants in the presence of glucose, sucrose, and crude oil. The biosurfactants production was detected by the decreased surface tension of the medium and emulsification activity.  Analysis of microbial growth parameters showed that AMP10 grew best at 50 µg mL-1 pyrene concentration, leading to 96 % degradation of pyrene within 7 days. The result of nested PCR analysis revealed that this isolate possessed the nahAc gene which encodes dioxygenase enzyme for initial degradation of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon (PAH). Observation of both tensio-active and emulsifying activities indicated that biosurfactants which produced by AMP 10 when grown on glucose could lower the surface tension of medium from 71.3 mN/m to 24.7 mN/m and formed a stable emulsion in used lubricant oil with an emulsifying index (E24) of 74%. According to the results, it is suggested that the bacterial isolates G. cholesterolivorans AMP10 are suitable candidates for bioremediation of PAH-contaminated environments.

How to Cite

Kurniati, T. H.,  Rusmana, I. Suryani, A. & Mubarik, N. R. (2016). Degradation of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon Pyrene by Biosurfactant-Producing Bacteria Gordonia cholesterolivorans AMP 10. Biosaintifika: Journal of Biology & Biology Education, 8(3), 336-343. 