bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bioactive Properties of Tabebuia impetiginosa-Based Phytopreparations and Phytoformulations: A Comparison between Extracts and Dietary Supplements
Authors: Pires Tânia , Dias Maria , Calhelha Ricardo , Carvalho Ana , Queiroz Maria-João , Barros Lillian , Ferreira Isabel
Published: December 2015

Tabebuia impetiginosa (Mart. ex DC.) Standl. has been used in traditional medicine for many centuries, being nowadays marketed as dried plant material (inner bark) for infusions, pills, and syrups. The main objective of the present work was to validate its popular use through the bioactivity evaluation of the inner bark (methanolic extract and infusion) and of two different formulations (pills and syrup) also based on the same plant-material. The antioxidant activity was evaluated by in vitro assays testing free radical scavenging activity, reducing power and inhibition of lipid peroxidation in brain homogenates. The cytotoxicity was determined in four human tumor cell lines (MCF-7, NCI-H460, HeLa and HepG2, and also in non-tumor cells (porcine liver primary cells, PLP2)). Furthermore, the sample was chemically characterized regarding free sugars, organic acids, fatty acids, and tocopherols. Syrup and methanolic extract showed the highest antioxidant activity, related to their highest amount of phenolics and flavonoids. Methanolic extract was the only sample showing cytotoxic effects on the tested human tumor cell lines, but none of the samples showed toxicity in PLP2. Glucose and oxalic acid were, respectively, the most abundant sugar and organic acid in the sample. Unsaturated predominated over the saturated fatty acids, due to oleic, linoleic, and linolenic acids expression. α- and γ-Tocopherols were also identified and quantified. Overall, T. impetiginosa might be used in different phytoformulations, taking advantage of its interesting bioactive properties and chemical composition.
Fatty Acid Profile and Biological Activities of Linseed and Rapeseed Oils
Authors: Lewinska Anna , Zebrowski Jacek , Duda Magdalena , Gorka Anna , Wnuk Maciej
Published: December 2015

It has been postulated that fatty acids found in edible oils may exert beneficial health effects by the modulation of signaling pathways regulating cell differentiation and proliferation, especially in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. In the present study, the biological effects of selected edible oils—linseed (LO) and rapeseed (RO) oils—were tested in vitro on fibroblast cells. The fatty acid profile of the oils was determined using gas chromatography and FTIR spectroscopy. LO was found to be rich in α-linolenic acid (ALA), whereas oleic acid was the most abundant species in RO. Fatty acids were taken up by the cells and promoted cell proliferation. No oxidative stress-mediated cytotoxic or genotoxic effects were observed after oil stimulation. Oils ameliorated the process of wound healing as judged by improved migration of fibroblasts to the wounding area. As ALA-rich LO exhibited the most potent wound healing activity, ALA may be considered a candidate for promoting the observed effect.
The Sensitivity of Endodontic Enterococcus spp. Strains to Geranium Essential Oil
Authors: Łysakowska Monika , Sienkiewicz Monika , Banaszek Katarzyna , Sokołowski Jerzy
Published: December 2015

Enterococci are able to survive endodontic procedures and contribute to the failure of endodontic therapy. Thus, it is essential to identify novel ways of eradicating them from infected root canals. One such approach may be the use of antimicrobials such as plant essential oils. Enterococcal strains were isolated from endodontically treated teeth by standard microbiological methods. Susceptibility to antibiotics was evaluated by the disc-diffusion method. The minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of geranium essential oil was investigated by microdilution in 96-well microplates in Mueller Hinton Broth II. Biofilm eradication concentrations were checked in dentin tests. Geranium essential oil inhibited enterococcal strains at concentrations ranging from 1.8–4.5 mg/mL. No correlation was shown between resistance to antibiotics and the MICs of the test antimicrobials. The MICs of the test oil were lower than those found to show cytotoxic effects on the HMEC-1 cell line. Geranium essential oil eradicated enterococcal biofilm at concentrations of 150 mg/mL. Geranium essential oil inhibits the growth of endodontic enterococcal species at lower concentrations than those required to reach IC50 against the HMEC-1 cell line, and is effective against bacteria protected in biofilm at higher concentrations. In addition, bacteria do not develop resistance to essential oils. Hence, geranium essential oil represents a possible alternative to other antimicrobials during endodontic procedures.
Tuning Microparticle Porosity during Single Needle Electrospraying Synthesis via a Non-Solvent-Based Physicochemical Approach
Authors: Gao Yuan , Bai Yuntong , Zhao Ding , Chang Ming-Wei , Ahmad Zeeshan , Li Jing-Song
Published: December 2015

Porous materials, especially microparticles (MP), are utilized in almost every field of engineering and science, ranging from healthcare materials (drug delivery to tissue engineering) to environmental engineering (biosensing to catalysis). Here, we utilize the single needle electrospraying technique (as opposed to complex systems currently in development) to prepare a variety of poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) MPs with diverse surface morphologies (variation in pore size from 220 nm to 1.35 µm) and architectural features (e.g., ellipsoidal, surface lamellar, Janus lotus seedpods and spherical). This is achieved by using an unconventional approach (exploiting physicochemical properties of a series of non-solvents as the collection media) via a single step. Sub-micron pores presented on MPs were visualized by electron microscopy (demonstrating a mean MP size range of 7–20 μm). The present approach enables modulation in morphology and size requirements for specific applications (e.g., pulmonary delivery, biological scaffolds, multi-stage drug delivery and biomaterial topography enhancement). Differences in static water contact angles were observed between smooth and porous MP-coated surfaces. This reflects the hydrophilic/hydrophobic properties of these materials.
Correction: Tilly, N. et al. Fusion of Plant Height and Vegetation Indices for the Estimation of Barley Biomass. Remote Sens. 2015, 7, 11449–11480
Authors: Tilly Nora , Aasen Helge , Bareth George
Published: December 2015

n/a
Robust Road Condition Detection System Using In-Vehicle Standard Sensors
Authors: Castillo Aguilar Juan , Cabrera Carrillo Juan , Guerra Fernández Antonio , Carabias Acosta Enrique
Published: December 2015

The appearance of active safety systems, such as Anti-lock Braking System, Traction Control System, Stability Control System, etc., represents a major evolution in road safety. In the automotive sector, the term vehicle active safety systems refers to those whose goal is to help avoid a crash or to reduce the risk of having an accident. These systems safeguard us, being in continuous evolution and incorporating new capabilities continuously. In order for these systems and vehicles to work adequately, they need to know some fundamental information: the road condition on which the vehicle is circulating. This early road detection is intended to allow vehicle control systems to act faster and more suitably, thus obtaining a substantial advantage. In this work, we try to detect the road condition the vehicle is being driven on, using the standard sensors installed in commercial vehicles. Vehicle models were programmed in on-board systems to perform real-time estimations of the forces of contact between the wheel and road and the speed of the vehicle. Subsequently, a fuzzy logic block is used to obtain an index representing the road condition. Finally, an artificial neural network was used to provide the optimal slip for each surface. Simulations and experiments verified the proposed method.
Urban Residential Land Use Reconstruction under Dual-Track Mechanism of Market Socialism in China: A Case Study of Chengdu
Authors: Yang Yongchun , Zhang Deli , Meng Qingmin , McCarn Corrin
Published: December 2015

We study urban residential land use changes by analyzing the massive migration and relocation of two typical social classes: employees in government departments (EGD) and urban demolition displaced households (UDDH). After the reform and opening-up of China that has taken place during the last 30 years, the residential land use of both the EGD and UDDH groups has been notable in terms of the changing urban landscape in China’s cities. A considerable number of studies highlight the large scale relocations of weaker groups usually through sample surveys at a microscopic scale, which sheds light on the relationships between market forces and government intervention and power. However, employees hired by state government departments and related branches (Shiye Danwei) have been neglected. Bridging the empirical research gap and using Chengdu as a case study, we compare residential relocations of EGD and UDDH groups in Chengdu. Our analysis based on field surveys conducted from 2009–2013 indicates that the relocations of EGD and UDDH are spatially agglomerated due to China’s unique dual-track mechanism driven by market forces and government power since the late 1970s. The study shows that most of the UDDH are migrated from urban centers to fringes, while a large number of EGD still agglomerate close to urban centers. Government interventions differentiate residential relocations of EGD and UDDH, and market mechanisms reinforce these relocations. Potential problems caused by the dual-track mechanism are finally discussed and summarized.
Effects of Employees’ Work Values and Organizational Management on Corporate Performance for Chinese and Taiwanese Construction Enterprises
Authors: Lin Jeng-Wen , Shen Pu , Hsu Yin-Sung
Published: December 2015

Through questionnaire surveys, this study explored the discrepancies in work values and organizational management between employees and cadre members of construction enterprises on the two sides of the Taiwan Strait. Statistical methods including data reliability, regression analysis, and tests of significance were utilized for modelling a case study. The findings of this study included: (1) in terms of work values, employees from China focused on their lives “at present”, while those from Taiwan focused on their lives “in the future”, expecting to improve the quality of their lives later on through advanced studies and promotion; (2) according to the data obtained from the questionnaires, the answers regarding income and welfare in terms of work values and satisfaction were contradictory on the two sides of the Strait, which could be interpreted in terms of influence from society; and (3) there was a significant influence of organizational management on employees’ intentions to resign. If enterprises could improve current organizational management systems, their employees’ work attitudes would be improved and the tendency to resign would be reduced.
Combining Expert and Stakeholder Knowledge to Define Water Management Priorities in the Mékrou River Basin
Authors: Reynaud Arnaud , Markantonis Vasileios , Carmona Moreno Cesar , N’Tcha M’Po Yèkambèssoun , Sambienou Gédéon , Adandedji Firmin , Afouda Abel , Agbossou Euloge , Mama Daouda
Published: December 2015

Participatory approaches to water management, and specifically to transboundary river management, have been widely applied over recent decades. Regarding transboundary rivers, the active involvement of key actors in policy planning is of great importance. In this context, a participatory approach has been used to identify sectors of interest and priorities related to water and development in the Mékrou transboundary River Basin involving three countries: Benin, Burkina Faso and Niger. We conducted a web-based survey to quantify expert opinion on sectors of water management policy and priorities for the Mékrou River Basin. The same set of questions was then put to a sample of local stakeholders living in this river basin. Our analysis reveals some points of convergence and some discrepancies between the opinions of experts and local stakeholders. Overall, it provides a comparative analysis of how experts and local stakeholders prioritize water policy measures, which could influence decision-making.
Analysis of Liver-Directed Therapies in U.S. Cancer Patients
Authors: Alese O.B. , Kim S. , Chen Z. , Ramalingam S.S. , Owonikoko T.K. , El-Rayes B.F.
Published: December 2015

Background: The liver is a common site of primary and metastatic cancer. Liver-directed therapies are commonly used to treat cancer involving the liver. We report on the patterns, predictors, and outcomes of liver-directed therapies in hospitalized cancer patients in the United States. Methods: Data were obtained from all U.S. states that contributed to the Nationwide Inpatient Sample maintained by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality between 2006 and 2010. Univariate and multivariate testing was used to identify factors significantly associated with patient outcome. Results: For the 5-year period of interest, 12,540 patient discharges were identified. Mean age in the sample was 60 years. Primary liver lesions (n = 8840) made up 26.9% of the sample; the remaining cases were metastases. Most procedures were performed in large (79%) urban (98%) hospitals and in patients with insurance (97.9%). The most common intervention was partial hepatectomy (42.7%), followed by open (9.9%), percutaneous (7.2%), and laparoscopic (5.04%) ablation of liver lesions; embolization (9.8%); and liver transplantation (2.64%). The incidence of in-hospital mortality was very low (2.4%), and the complication rate was 12.2%. Complications such as acute liver necrosis, ascites, hepatic coma, hepatorenal syndrome, liver abscess, and high number of comorbid illnesses (>8) accounted for 60% of the in-hospital mortality. Conclusions: The low rate of morbidity and mortality associated with liver-directed therapies in hospitalized cancer patients supports the continuing utility of such procedures in the management of primary and metastatic liver cancer. The patterns of health disparities observed with respect to the use of liver-directed therapies are concerning.
Application of biclustering of gene expression data and gene set enrichment analysis methods to identify potentially disease causing nanomaterials
Authors: Williams Andrew , Halappanavar Sabina
Published: December 2015

Background: The presence of diverse types of nanomaterials (NMs) in commerce is growing at an exponential pace. As a result, human exposure to these materials in the environment is inevitable, necessitating the need for rapid and reliable toxicity testing methods to accurately assess the potential hazards associated with NMs. In this study, we applied biclustering and gene set enrichment analysis methods to derive essential features of altered lung transcriptome following exposure to NMs that are associated with lung-specific diseases. Several datasets from public microarray repositories describing pulmonary diseases in mouse models following exposure to a variety of substances were examined and functionally related biclusters of genes showing similar expression profiles were identified. The identified biclusters were then used to conduct a gene set enrichment analysis on pulmonary gene expression profiles derived from mice exposed to nano-titanium dioxide (nano-TiO2), carbon black (CB) or carbon nanotubes (CNTs) to determine the disease significance of these data-driven gene sets.

Results: Biclusters representing inflammation (chemokine activity), DNA binding, cell cycle, apoptosis, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and fibrosis processes were identified. All of the NM studies were significant with respect to the bicluster related to chemokine activity (DAVID; FDR p-value = 0.032). The bicluster related to pulmonary fibrosis was enriched in studies where toxicity induced by CNT and CB studies was investigated, suggesting the potential for these materials to induce lung fibrosis. The pro-fibrogenic potential of CNTs is well established. Although CB has not been shown to induce fibrosis, it induces stronger inflammatory, oxidative stress and DNA damage responses than nano-TiO2 particles.

Conclusion: The results of the analysis correctly identified all NMs to be inflammogenic and only CB and CNTs as potentially fibrogenic. In addition to identifying several previously defined, functionally relevant gene sets, the present study also identified two novel genes sets: a gene set associated with pulmonary fibrosis and a gene set associated with ROS, underlining the advantage of using a data-driven approach to identify novel, functionally related gene sets. The results can be used in future gene set enrichment analysis studies involving NMs or as features for clustering and classifying NMs of diverse properties.
Dependence of Strength Enhacement on Shock Front Overpressure: The Case of RC Structures
Authors: Juocevičius Virmantas
Published: December 2015

The paper considers problems related to the assessment of the effect of loading rate on mechanical properties of concrete and reinforcing steel. The attention is focused on the evaluation of varying straining rate of RC structure subjected to explosive loading. The key problem considered in the paper is the derivation of the relation between the rate of pressure increase and incident overpressure. The paper considers approaches to modelling the influence of straining rate on mechanical properties of concrete and reinforcing steel. The main conclusion following from the paper is that the deterministic models used for the assessment of effect of straining rate on the mechanical properties of concrete and reinforcing steel and models used for modelling of incident overpressure are fairly imprecise and require for the stochastic modelling of this phenomena.
Ergonominių rizikos veiksnių tyrimo metodų apžvalga ir jų taikymo Lietuvos statybos industrijoje ypatumai
Authors: Jokantaitė Simona
Published: December 2015

Lietuvoje nėra didelės ergonominių rizikos veiksnių vertinimo metodų taikymo praktikos, ji tik kuriama. Šios srities specialistų ir tiriamųjų darbų nėra daug, todėl tai ypač aktualu. Tyrimas atliktas naudojant aprašomąjį ir anketinės apklausos metodą, o rezultatai apdoroti statistiniais metodais. Nustatyta, kad dažniausiai taikyti metodai yra: REBA ir RULA, anketiniai tyrimai, LST EN 1005-2, LST EN 1005-4, LST EN 1005-5, fizinio darbo intensyvumo tyrimas taikant Brouha ir Rohmerto kriterijus, MAC, NIOSH-KRS, OCRA (OCRA rodiklis, OCRA patikros lapas). Galima daryti išvadą, kad REBA ir RULA metodai yra dažniausiai naudojami, nes lengvai pritaikomi, gaunamas konkretus balas ir pateikiamos gautų balų vertės. Taikant kitus metodus, sugaištama daugiau laiko, reikia atlikti daugiau matavimų, tyrėjui paliekama didesnė laisvė interpretuoti.
LAMOST OBSERVATIONS IN THE KEPLER FIELD: SPECTRAL CLASSIFICATION WITH THE MKCLASS CODE
Authors: Gray R. O. , Corbally C. J. , Cat P. De , Fu J. N. , Ren A. B. , Shi J. R. , Luo A. L. , Zhang H. T. , Wu Y. , Cao Z. , Li G. , Zhang Y. , Hou Y. , Wang Y.
Published: December 2015

The LAMOST-Kepler project was designed to obtain high-quality, low-resolution spectra of many of the stars in the Kepler field with the Large Sky Area Multi Object Fiber Spectroscopic Telescope (LAMOST) spectroscopic telescope. To date 101,086 spectra of 80,447 objects over the entire Kepler field have been acquired. Physical parameters, radial velocities, and rotational velocities of these stars will be reported in other papers. In this paper we present MK spectral classifications for these spectra determined with the automatic classification code MKCLASS. We discuss the quality and reliability of the spectral types and present histograms showing the frequency of the spectral types in the main table organized according to luminosity class. Finally, as examples of the use of this spectral database, we compute the proportion of A-type stars that are Am stars, and identify 32 new barium dwarf candidates.
A SYSTEMATIC SURVEY FOR BROADENED CO EMISSION TOWARD GALACTIC SUPERNOVA REMNANTS
Authors: Kilpatrick Charles D. , Bieging John H. , Rieke George H.
Published: December 2015

We present molecular spectroscopy toward 50 Galactic supernova remnants (SNRs) taken at millimeter wavelengths in 12CO J = 2 − 1. These observations are part of a systematic survey for broad molecular line (BML) regions indicative of interactions with molecular clouds (MCs). We detected BML regions toward 19 SNRs, including 9 newly identified BML regions associated with SNRs (G08.3–0.0, G09.9–0.8, G11.2–0.3, G12.2+0.3, G18.6–0.2, G23.6+0.3, 4C–04.71, G29.6+0.1, and G32.4+0.1). The remaining 10 SNRs with BML regions confirm previous evidence for MC interaction in most cases (G16.7+0.1, Kes 75, 3C 391, Kes 79, 3C 396, 3C 397, W49B, Cas A, and IC 443), although we confirm that the BML region toward HB 3 is associated with the W3(OH) H ii region, not the SNR. Based on the systemic velocity of each MC, molecular line diagnostics, and cloud morphology, we test whether these detections represent SNR–MC interactions. One of the targets (G54.1+0.3) had previous indications of a BML region, but we did not detect broadened emission toward it. Although broadened 12CO J = 2 − 1 line emission should be detectable toward virtually all SNR–MC interactions, we find relatively few examples; therefore, the number of interactions is low. This result favors mechanisms other than supernova feedback as the basic trigger for star formation. In addition, we find no significant association between TeV gamma-ray sources and MC interactions, contrary to predictions that SNR–MC interfaces are the primary venues for cosmic ray acceleration.
SPECTROSCOPIC VARIABILITY OF IRAS 22272+5435
Authors: Začs Laimons , Musaev Faig , Kaminsky Bogdan , Pavlenko Yakiv , Grankina Aija , Sperauskas Julius , Hrivnak Bruce J.
Published: December 2015

A time series of high-resolution spectra was observed in the optical wavelength region for the bright proto-planetary nebula IRAS 22272+5435 (HD 235858), along with a simultaneous monitoring of its radial velocity and BV R

C
magnitudes. The object is known to vary in light, color, and velocity owing to pulsation with a period of 132 days. The light and color variations are accompanied by significant changes in spectral features, most of which are identified as lines of carbon-bearing molecules. According to the observations, the C2 Swan system and CN Red system lines are stronger near the light minimum. A photospheric spectrum of the central star was calculated using new self-consistent atmospheric models. The observed intensity variations in the C2 Swan system and CN Red system lines were found to be much larger than expected if due solely to the temperature variation in the atmosphere of the pulsating star. In addition, the molecular lines are blueshifted relative to the photospheric velocity. The site of formation of the strong molecular features appears to be a cool outflow triggered by the pulsation. The variability in atomic lines seems to be mostly due variations of the effective temperature during the pulsation cycle. The profiles of strong atomic lines are split, and some of them are variable in a timescale of a week or so, probably because of shock waves in the outer atmosphere.
A review of the Anomaloninae (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae, Anomaloninae) from the Ukrainian Carpathians
Authors: Nuzhna Anna , Varga Oleksandr
Published: December 2015

The Ukrainian Anomaloninae fauna is relatively poorly known. The presence of large under-collected areas, such as the Carpathians, makes taxonomic and faunistic studies concerning these parasitoids from Ukraine urgently relevant.

Based on our ongoing surveys on the Anomaloninae of the Ukrainian Carpathians, we report here the new distribution records for some species. In total 24 Anomaloninae species, belonging to 8 genera (Anomalon Panzer, 1804, Agrypon Förster, 1868, Aphanistes Förster, 1868, Barylypa Förster, 1868, Heteropelma Wesmael, 1849, Perisphincter Townes, 1961, Therion Curtis, 1829, and Trichomma Wesmael, 1849), were recorded from the studied region for the first time. Nine species, Agrypon batis Ratzeburg, 1955, A. scutellatum Hellén, 1926, Aphanistes gliscens Hartig, 1838, A. klugii Hartig, 1838, Heteropelma amictum Fabricius, 1775, Perisphincter gracilicornis Schnee, 1978, Therion giganteum Gravenhorst, 1829, Trichomma fulvidens Wesmael, 1849 and T. occisor Habermehl, 1909 were recorded for the first time in Ukraine. Seasonal dynamics and high-altitude zone of Anomaloninae species' distribution are discussed.
Natural History Museum Sound Archive I: Orthoptera: Gryllotalpidae Leach, 1815, including 3D scans of burrow casts of Gryllotalpa gryllotalpa (Linnaeus, 1758) and Gryllotalpa vineae Bennet-Clark, 1970
Authors: Baker Ed , Broom Yoke-Shum
Published: December 2015

The Natural History Museum (NHM) sound archive contains recordings of Gryllotalpidae, and the NHM collection holds plaster casts of the burrows of two species. These recordings and burrows have until now not been made available through the NHM's collection database, making it hard for researchers to make use of these resources.

Eighteen recordings of mole crickets (three identified species) held by the NHM have been made available under open licenses via BioAcoustica. 3D scans of the burrows of Gryllotalpa gryllotalpa (Linnaeus, 1758) and Gryllotalpa vineae Bennet-Clark, 1970 have been made available via the NHM Data Portal.
Lactobacillus plantarum NCIMB8826 ameliorates inflammation of colon and skin in human APOC1 transgenic mice
Authors: Mariman R. , Reefman E. , Tielen F. , Persoon-Deen C. , van de Mark K. , Worms N. , Koning F. , Nagelkerken L.
Published: December 2015

Genetic predisposition and environmental factors, including the gut microbiota, have been suggested as major factors in the development and progression of atopic dermatitis. Hyperlipidemic human APOC1+/+ transgenic mice display many features of human atopic dermatitis, such as scaling, lichenification, excoriations, and pruritus, along with a disturbed skin barrier function. Cytokine analysis of serum shows an increase of various pro-inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin (IL)-12p40, IL-6, and IL-1α, but lower levels of interferon-γ. These mice also display aspects of colitis evident from macroscopic and histological abnormalities. Genome-wide transcriptome analysis of the intestine shows up-regulation of several genes associated with mast cells and eosinophils and this observation was confirmed by demonstrating increased numbers of IgE+ and FcRε+ mast cells in the colon and in the skin. Oral treatment with Lactobacillus plantarum NCIMB8826 resulted in decreased numbers of mast cells in the colon. Moreover, this L. plantarum strain ameliorated skin pathology, evident from improved skin barrier integrity, absence of skin thickening, and less excoriations. These results suggest that modulation of intestinal immune homeostasis contributes to the suppression of atopic dermatitis.
Absence of adverse events in healthy individuals using probiotics – analysis of six randomised studies by one study group
Authors: Tapiovaara L. , Lehtoranta L. , Poussa T. , Mäkivuokko H. , Korpela R. , Pitkäranta A.
Published: December 2015

Consumption of live bacteria as probiotic supplements is increasing. There is, however, a lack of information on the safety of ingested probiotics. The main objective of this study was to investigate the adverse events (AEs) of specific probiotics (Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) alone or LGG in combination with L. rhamnosus Lc705, Propionibacterium freudenreichii JS, Bifidobacterium lactis BB12, or Bifidobacterium breve 99) studied in six of our study groups’ clinical trials, by analysing individual participant data. A secondary objective was to study AEs associated with the consumed probiotic species and mixtures in three specific categories; ‘gastrointestinal disorders’, ‘respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders’ and ‘infections and infestations’. Six randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical studies by our study group were included in this AE analysis (study population n=1,909). All AE data were classified according to the National Cancer Institute’s Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) v4.0. From the 26 CTCAE System Organ Classes, we identified AEs in 20 classes among 1,909 subjects. Probiotic ingestion did not result in statistically significant differences in AEs in different groups, when compared to placebo. A subgroup analysis of gastrointestinal, respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders, infections and infestations, found no differences between the intervention groups or for different probiotic combinations (risk ratio (RR) = 0.97, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.93-1.02, P=0.30; RR=0.99, 95% CI: 0.97-1.01, P=0.35; RR=0.99, 95% CI: 0.93-1.06, P=0.62, respectively). As a conclusion, ingestion of probiotic supplementations containing LGG alone, or LGG in combination with L. rhamnosus Lc705, P. freudenreichii JS, B. breve 99, or B. lactis BB12 did not seem to cause AEs in young and elderly subjects in this analysis.
Oral administration of kefiran exerts a bifidogenic effect on BALB/c mice intestinal microbiota
Authors: Hamet M.F. , Medrano M. , Pérez P.F. , Abraham A.G.
Published: December 2015

The activity of kefiran, the exopolysaccharide present in kefir grains, was evaluated on intestinal bacterial populations in BALB/c mice. Animals were orally administered with kefiran and Eubacteria, lactobacilli and bifidobacteria populations were monitored in faeces of mice at days 0, 2, 7, 14 and 21. Profiles obtained by Denaturing Gradient Gel Electrophoresis (DGGE) with primers for Eubacteria were compared by principal component analysis and clearly defined clusters, correlating with the time of kefiran consumption, were obtained. Furthermore, profile analysis of PCR products amplified with specific oligonucleotides for bifidobacteria showed an increment in the number of DGGE bands in the groups administered with kefiran. Fluorescent In Situ Hybridisation (FISH) with specific probes for bifidobacteria showed an increment of this population in faeces, in accordance to DGGE results. The bifidobacteria population was also studied on distal colon content after 0, 2 and 7 days of kefiran administration. Analysis of PCR products by DGGE with Eubacteria primers showed an increment in the number and intensity of bands with high GC content of mice administered with kefiran. Sequencing of DGGE bands confirmed that bifidobacteria were one of the bacterial populations modified by kefiran administration. DGGE profiles of PCR amplicons obtained by using Bifidobacterium or Lactobacillus specific primers confirmed that kefiran administration enhances bifidobacteria, however no changes were observed in Lactobacillus populations. The results of the analysis of bifidobacteria populations assessed on different sampling sites in a murine model support the use of this exopolysaccharide as a bifidogenic functional ingredient.
Prophage-mediated modulation of interaction of Streptococcus thermophilus J34 with human intestinal epithelial cells and its competition against human pathogens
Authors: Guigas C. , Faulhaber K. , Duerbeck D. , Neve H. , Heller K.J.
Published: December 2015

The human intestinal microbiota plays an important role in human health. While adhesion to gastrointestinal mucosa is a prerequisite for colonisation, inhibition of adhesion is a property which may prevent or reduce infections by food borne pathogens. Streptococcus thermophilus and Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus represent the two lactic bacteria constituting the yoghurt culture. These starter cultures have been claimed to be probiotic. In our study we compared two S. thermophilus strains (i.e. lysogenic strain J34 and corresponding non-lysogenic [prophage-cured] strain J34-6), with respect to (1) their in vitro adhesion properties to HT29 cells and (2) their cell surface hydrophobicities. Effects of the two strains on inhibition of adhesion of the pathogens Listeria monocytogenes Scott A, Staphylococcus aureus 6732 and Salmonella enteritidis S489 were studied in vitro with HT29 cell cultures. Lysogenic strain J34 was shown to be considerably more effective than the non-lysogenic derivative strain J34-6.
The impact ofBacillus thuringiensis technology on the occurrence of fumonisins and other mycotoxins in maize
Authors: Díaz-Gómez J. , Marín S. , Capell T. , Sanchis V. , Ramos A.J.
Published: December 2015

In many developing countries, maize is both a staple food crop and a widely-used animal feed. However, adventitious colonisation or damage caused by insect pests allows fungi to penetrate the vegetative parts of the plant and the kernels, the latter resulting in mycotoxin contamination. Maize seeds contaminated with fumonisins and other mycotoxins pose a serious threat to both humans and livestock. However, numerous studies have reported a significant reduction in pest damage, disease symptoms and fumonisin levels in maize hybrids expressing theBacillus thuringiensis (Bt) genecry1Ab, particularly in areas where the European corn borer is prevalent. When other pests are also present, thecry1Ab gene alone offers insufficient protection, and combinations of insecticidal genes are required to reduce damage to plants caused by insects. The combination of Cry1Ab protein with other Cry proteins (such as Cry1F) or Vip proteins has reduced the incidence of pests and, indirectly, mycotoxin levels. Maize hybrids expressing multiple Bt genes, such as SmartStax®, are less susceptible to damage by insects, but mycotoxin levels are not routinely and consistently compared in these crops. Bt maize has a greater economic impact onFusarium toxins than aflatoxins. The main factors that determine the effectiveness of Bt hybrids are the type of pest and the environmental conditions, but the different fungal infection pathways must also be considered. An alternative strategy to reduce mycotoxin levels in crops is the development of transgenic plants expressing genes that protect against fungal infection or reduce mycotoxin levels byin situ detoxification. In this review article, we summarise what is known about the relationship between the cultivation of Bt maize hybrids and contamination levels with different types of mycotoxins.
Modelling the anorectic potencies of food-borne trichothecenes by benchmark dose and incremental area under the curve methodology
Authors: Male D. , Mitchell N.J. , Wu W. , Bursian S. , Pestka J. , Wu F.
Published: December 2015

Fusarium spp. fungi produce a spectrum of trichothecene mycotoxins that often simultaneously contaminate cereal grains. These have the potential to contribute jointly to adverse effects such as anorexia and emesis. For the purposes of risk assessment and regulation, it is desirable to assign toxic equivalency factors (TEFs) to each of these trichothecenes, as has been successfully done for anthropogenic toxicants such as polyhalogenated aromatic hydrocarbons. As a first step towards this end, we employed a mouse model to compare the anorectic potencies of deoxynivalenol (DON), 3-acetyldeoxynivalenol (3-ADON), 15-acetyldeoxynivalenol (15-ADON), nivalenol (NIV), fusarenon-X (FUS-X), T-2 and HT-2 toxin (T-2 and HT-2) following oral exposure by gavage using two approaches. In the first approach, the US Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) benchmark dose (BMD) method for continuous data was used to calculate the BMD relative to DON 2 h after dosing. The order of potency based on BMD values was: DON(1) ≈ 3-ADON(1) ≈ 15-ADON(1) < NIV(3) < HT-2(5) < FUS-X(9) << T-2(124). In a second approach, time course effects of each toxin at fixed doses were measured by calculating the incremental area under the curve (IAUC) over 16 h. DON caused significant feed refusal within the first 30 min after exposure, lasting only 3 h while for 3-ADON and 15-ADON, feed refusal lasted 6 h. NIV, FUS-X, T-2, and HT-2 toxins caused the longest duration of feed refusal, lasting up to 16 h. Based on IAUC values, the order of relative potency was as follows: DON(1) < 3-ADON(2) ≈ 15-ADON(2) < NIV(7) < FUS-X(10) << T-2(31) < HT-2(34). These results provide a foundation for developing consensus TEFs that will be amenable to future risk assessment of trichothecene mixtures.
Rare genetic variants: making the connection with breast cancer susceptibility
Authors: Nguyen-Dumont Tú , Stewart Jenna , Winship Ingrid , Southey Melissa C.
Published: December 2015

The practice of clinical genetics in the context of breast cancer predisposition has reached another critical point in its evolution. For the past two decades, genetic testing offered to women attending clinics has been limited to BRCA1 and BRCA2 unless other syndromic indicators have been evident (e.g. PTEN and TP53 for Cowden and Li-Fraumeni syndrome, respectively). Women (and their families) who are concerned about their personal and/or family history of breast and ovarian cancer have enthusiastically engaged with clinical genetics services, anticipating a genetic cause for their cancer predisposition will be identified and to receive clinical guidance for their risk management and treatment options. Genetic testing laboratories have demonstrated similar enthusiasm for transitioning from single gene to gene panel testing that now provide opportunities for the large number of women found not to carry mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2, enabling them to undergo additional genetic testing. However, these panel tests have limited clinical utility until more is understood about the cancer risks (if any) associated with the genetic variation observed in the genes included on these panels. New data is urgently needed to improve the interpretation of the genetic variation data that is already reported from these panels and to inform the selection of genes included in gene panel tests in the future. To address this issue, large internationally coordinated research studies are required to provide the evidence-base from which clinical genetics for breast cancer susceptibility can be practiced in the era of gene panel testing and oncogenetic practice.

Two significant steps associated with this process include i) validating the genes on these panels (and those likely to be added in the future) as bona fide1
breast cancer predisposition genes and ii) interpreting the variation, on a variant-by-variant basis in terms of their likely “pathogenicity”—a process commonly referred to as “variant classification” that will enable this new genetic information to be used at an individual level in clinical genetics services. Neither of these fundamental steps have been achieved for the majority of genes included on the panels.

We are thus at a critical point for translational research in breast cancer clinical genetics—how can rare genetic variants be interpreted such that they can be used in clinical genetics services and oncogenetic practice to identify and to inform the management of families that carry these variants?
Models for Cooperation Continuing Educations of Specialist with Life Cycle of E-Learning Resources and Educational Programs
Authors: Krevskiy Igor , Glotova Tatiana , Deev Mikhail , Matyukin Sergey , Sheremeteva Elena
Published: December 2015

The concept of continuing education is topical for professionals in every sphere. Processes of continuing training professionals, creation and development of educational programs, support for e-learning resources are closely tied and require complex automation to provide quality and relevant education. We develop the models for life cycles of specialist, e-learning resources and educational programs. Prototype of CALS-system for e-learning resources is developed on the basis of these models. For online synchronization of the developed models it is needed networking environment for creating community of universities and industry. The practical implementation of networking organization of continuing training on the basis of network learning environment with LMS and structure of the information environment for organization of the educational process on joint network programs are proposed.
Implementation of Embedded Systems and Networks in E-Learning
Authors: Sumzina Larisa , Fedulin Alexander
Published: December 2015

This chapter is the result of joint research and development on the basis of the signed agreement on cooperation between the HHH University and the Russian State University for Tourism and Service. The authors of the chapter based on the results of their own research, published earlier and created by IBM a new discipline to support the development of services in the computer industry offer the basics of the science of the service. This chapter brings the sciences of services to a new level, to implementation of embedded systems & networks and is becoming to Sciences of Services with the Cyber Control and Engineering(SSCC&E). The service is considered as a cyber-physical system with built-in computing, networking, and other electronic educational research and training tools of E-Learning. Established a science of services allows predicting the optimal balance between the real economy and its service support for every subject in Russian Federation.
Adhesion and Degradation of Organic and Hybrid Organic-Inorganic Light-Emitting Devices
Authors: Momodu D.Y. , Tong T. , Zebaze Kana M.G. , Soboyejo W.O.
Published: December 2015

This paper presents the results of a combined analytical, computational and experimental study of adhesion and degradation of Organic Light Emitting Devices (OLEDs). The adhesion between layers that are relevant to OLEDs is studied using force microscopy during Atomic Force Microscopy. The interfacial failure mechanisms associated with blister formation in OLEDs and the addition of TiO2nanoparticles (into active regions) are then elucidated using a combination of fracture mechanics/finite element modeling and experiments. The blisters observed in the models are shown to be consistent with the results from adhesion and interfacial fracture mechanics models. The implications of the work are discussed for the future design of OLED structures with improved lifetimes and robustness.
Ability of Tuta absoluta (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) to develop on alternative host plant species
Authors: Bawin Thomas , Dujeu David , De Backer Lara , Francis Frédéric , Verheggen François J.
Published: December 2015

The tomato leafminer, Tuta absoluta Meyrick (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae), is a widespread devastating pest reported to develop on economically important solanaceous crops. The characterisation of its host range could help to understand and prevent the dispersion behaviour of the insect in the environment. In this study, the ability of T. absoluta to develop on 12 cultivated or non-cultivated plants including Solanaceae, Amaranthaceae, Convolvulaceae, Fabaceae, and Malvaceae species under laboratory conditions was assessed. For each plant species, we monitored the development times of immature stages, survival, sex ratios, and adult fecundity rates. All the six tested non-solanaceous plants, including Chenopodium Linnaeus (Amaranthaceae), Convolvulus Linnaeus (Convolvulaceae), and Malva Linnaeus (Malvaceae) species, were not able to sustain (i.e., allow growth and development) T. absoluta larvae. Solanum Linnaeus (Solanaceae) species were the most suitable host plants for the pest, but others could be opportunistically colonised with fewer incidences. Tuta absoluta appears to be strongly related to solanaceous plants that would predominantly support self-sustaining field populations. Preventing crop infestation by removing potential host plants in the immediate field vicinity and culture rotations with non-solanaceous crops is of primary importance.
Severity of depression and anxiety in patients with alopecia areata in Bandar Abbas, Iran
Authors: Baghestani Shahram , Zare Shahram , Seddigh Seyed Hamzeh
Published: December 2015

Alopecia areata (AA) is a chronic disease which esthetic outcomes may result in deep effects on mental disorders of patients. In this case-control study, we compared the mental health of 68 patients diagnosed with AA with 68 healthy individuals using Hamilton anxiety and depression rating scales. There were significant differences between the case and control groups regarding the prevalence of anxiety and depression. The means of anxiety scores in cases and control group were 12.76±7.21 vs 8.54±6.37, P=0.003. Likewise, the means of depression scores for the groups were 12.84±4.03 vs 6.22±4.95, P=0.001. Furthermore, patients with AA were exposed to depression approximately five times and to anxiety about three times more than normal people. Our study revealed a high prevalence of anxiety and depression in AA patients. Dermatologists should pay more attention on psychological effect of the disease on the patients.
EVALUATION OF GLUTATHIONE-S-TRANSFERASE P1 POLYMORPHISM AND ITS RELATION TO BONE MINERAL DENSITY IN EGYPTIAN CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS WITH BETA- THALASSEMIA MAJOR
Authors: Ragab Seham
Published: December 2015

Background:Osteoporosis is a major problem in beta thalassemia major (TM) patients. Increased oxidative stress and its controlling genes were linked to osteoporosis. Glutathione S-transferase P1 (GSTP1),Ile105 Val variant  is a functional  mutation with  reduced ant-oxidative property  .No data are available about this variant  or its association with osteoporosis  among thalassemia patients yet. Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate Ile105Val polymorphism and its possible association with bone mineral density (BMD) values in a group of TM  children. Methods:Thirty five TM patients and 30 age and sex matched healthy controls were included. Liver and renal functions, serum ferritin, calcium, phosphorous, alkaline phosphatase and osteocalcin were assayed. BMD was determined by DXA with calculation of  Z-scores at lumbar spine (Ls) and femoral neck (Fn).Height for age z- score (HAZ) adjusted BMD Z-scores were considered . GSTP1 Ile105Val polymorphism was studied by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism. Results:The relative frequency of 105 Val allele was significantly higher in TM patients than the controls (P<0.0001). Significant association between genotype subgroups and BMD parameters was detected. Mutant homozygotes had significant lower BMD , Z –score and haz -adjusted BMD  Z-score at both Ls and Fn compared to wild homozygotes ( Ps =0.029, 0.008, 0.011, 0.001,0.02, 0.001) with significant higher osteocalcin level compared to heterozygotes and wild homozygotes (P=0.012 and P=0.013,respectively). Conclusion:  The results indicated that 105Val allele was frequent among TM patients and could increase their susceptibility to osteoporosis. Large sample studies are required to confirm these findings.
Use of marrow scintigraphy to confirm compensatory marrow rather than active myeloma
Authors: Bartel Twyla , Yarbrough Tracy , De Blanche Lorraine
Published: December 2015

We present the case of a 40-year-old male with multiple myeloma for whom bone marrow scintigraphy was utilized to help differentiate between active bony myelomatous disease versus treated lesions with compensatory marrow uptake. This case demonstrates technetium (Tc-99m) sulfur colloid imaging as an inexpensive technique to quickly distinguish between active focal bone disease and reactive marrow.