bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance indices for water network partitioning and sectorization
Authors: Di Nardo A. , Di Natale M. , Santonastaso G. F. , Tzatchkov V. G. , Alcocer-Yamanaka V. H.
Published: June 2015

Water network partitioning in district metering areas, or sectorization, is an important process for improving water network management. It can help water utilities to implement active leakage control, conduct pressure management, and prevent network contamination. It is generally achieved by closing some network pipes, thus reducing pipe redundancy and affecting system performance. No systematic set of performance indices has been defined to evaluate a sectorization design and thus allow for a comparison of different possible sectorizations on a formal basis. In this paper, several performance indices for water network partitioning are proposed and tested using two real water supply systems: Parete in Italy and Matamoros in Mexico. Both systems' sectorizations were previously designed by a novel effective automatic technique recently developed by the authors. For both the original and sectorized networks, the proposed performance indices considered energy dissipated in the network, network resilience, pressure variation, fire-fighting capacity, water age, and mechanical redundancy. Network resilience appears to be the most representative index for the entire network, whereas pressure variation indices are more appropriate for describing individual districts. Except for fire-fighting capacity in one network, system performance did not appear to be affected significantly after sectorization.
Effects of different coagulants on flocculation performance and floc properties in northwest China raw water treatment
Authors: Liu Jian , He Junguo , Yuan Yixing , Zhang Jie
Published: June 2015

The water of northwest China, characterized by low turbidity, low temperature, and micro-pollution, has posed difficult problems for water treatment plants. This study deployed a pilot-scale grid flocculation system to treat melt water from the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau in northwest China. A range of traditional coagulants were used on the low temperature, low turbidity, and micro-polluted melt water, to investigate the effect of coagulant types on flocculation performance and floc properties. Flocculation performance varied, depending upon the coagulant used. Turbidity and organic matter were removed with the greatest efficiency by polyaluminum chloride (PAC), followed by polyaluminum ferric chloride, followed by aluminum sulfate (alum). At a PAC dosage of 25 mg/L, the settled water's residual turbidity was lower than 1 NTU, meeting the Chinese national water-quality standard. Floc fractal dimensions of the three coagulants initially decreased, and then increased as the flocculation process yielded larger particles. This suggested that low turbidity could significantly affect the floc fractal dimension. Studying floc size distribution indicated that floc size in the grid flocculation tank was relatively uniform; the floc size distribution of PAC was the narrowest. The results could be used to inform operations of the Xining water treatment plant.
Assessment of various carbon-based adsorbents for separation of BTX from aqueous solution
Authors: Faiz Haddad Husam , Prabhu Azhagapillai , Al Shoaibi Ahmed , Srinivasakannan Chandrasekar
Published: June 2015

The adsorption of benzene, toluene and xylene (BTX) was investigated covering different types of commercially available activated carbons with varied surface area and surface functional groups. The physico-chemical properties were characterized by Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area analysis, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and the Boehm titration method. Experiments to assess the adsorption isotherms and kinetics of adsorption were performed and the results are presented. An increase in the surface acid functional groups was found to decrease the adsorption capacity, with the highest adsorption capacity corresponding to carbon with lowest acid functionality.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Acute Gout at a University Hospital Emergency Department
Authors: Schlesinger Naomi , Radvanski Diane C , Young Tina C , McCoy Jonathan V , Eisenstein Robert , Moore Dirk F
Published: June 2015

Background :

Acute gout attacks account for a substantial number of visits to the emergency department (ED). Our aim was to evaluate acute gout diagnosis and treatment at a University Hospital ED.

Methods :

Our study was a retrospective chart review of consecutive patients with a diagnosis of acute gout seen in the ED 1/01/2004 - 12/31/2010. We documented: demographics, clinical characteristics, medications given, diagnostic tests, consultations and whether patients were hospitalized. Descriptive and summary statistics were performed on all variables.

Results :

We found 541 unique ED visit records of patients whose discharge diagnosis was acute gout over a 7 year period. 0.13% of ED visits were due to acute gout. The mean patient age was 54; 79% were men. For 118 (22%) this was their first attack. Attack duration was ≤ 3 days in 75%. Lower extremity joints were most commonly affected. Arthrocentesis was performed in 42 (8%) of acute gout ED visits.

During 355 (66%) of ED visits, medications were given in the ED and/or prescribed. An anti-inflammatory drug was given during the ED visit during 239 (44%) visits. Medications given during the ED visit included: NSAIDs: 198 (56%): opiates 190 (54%); colchicine 32 (9%) and prednisone 32 (9%). During 154 (28%) visits an anti-inflammatory drug was prescribed. Thirty two (6%) were given no medications during the ED visit nor did they receive a prescription. Acute gout rarely (5%) led to hospitalizations.

Conclusion :

The diagnosis of acute gout in the ED is commonly clinical and not crystal proven. Anti-inflammatory drugs are the mainstay of treatment in acute gout; yet, during more than 50% of ED visits, anti-inflammatory drugs were not given during the visit. Thus, improvement in the diagnosis and treatment of acute gout in the ED may be required.
Diabetes Susceptibility Genes Pdx1 and Clec16a Function in a Pathway Regulating Mitophagy in β-Cells
Authors: Soleimanpour Scott A. , Ferrari Alana M. , Raum Jeffrey C. , Groff David N. , Yang Juxiang , Kaufman Brett A. , Stoffers Doris A.
Published: June 2015

Mitophagy is a critical regulator of mitochondrial quality control and is necessary for elimination of dysfunctional mitochondria to maintain cellular respiration. Here, we report that the homeodomain transcription factor Pdx1, a gene associated with both type 2 diabetes and monogenic diabetes of the young, regulates mitophagy in pancreatic β-cells. Loss of Pdx1 leads to abnormal mitochondrial morphology and function as well as impaired mitochondrial turnover. High-throughput expression microarray and chromatin occupancy analyses reveal that Pdx1 regulates the expression of Clec16a, a type 1 diabetes gene and itself a key mediator of mitophagy through regulation of the E3 ubiquitin ligase Nrdp1. Indeed, expression of Clec16a and Nrdp1 are both reduced in Pdx1 haploinsufficient islets, and reduction of Pdx1 impairs fusion of autophagosomes containing mitochondria to lysosomes during mitophagy. Importantly, restoration of Clec16a expression after Pdx1 loss of function restores mitochondrial trafficking during mitophagy and improves mitochondrial respiration and glucose-stimulated insulin release. Thus, Pdx1 orchestrates nuclear control of mitochondrial function in part by controlling mitophagy through Clec16a. The novel Pdx1-Clec16a-Nrdp1 pathway we describe provides a genetic basis for the pathogenesis of mitochondrial dysfunction in multiple forms of diabetes that could be targeted for future therapies to improve β-cell function.
Intake of Lactobacillus reuteri Improves Incretin and Insulin Secretion in Glucose-Tolerant Humans: A Proof of Concept
Authors: Simon Marie-Christine , Strassburger Klaus , Nowotny Bettina , Kolb Hubert , Nowotny Peter , Burkart Volker , Zivehe Fariba , Hwang Jong-Hee , Stehle Peter , Pacini Giovanni , Hartmann Bolette , Holst Jens J. , MacKenzie Colin , Bindels Laure B. , Martinez Ines , Walter Jens , Henrich Birgit , Schloot Nanette C. , Roden Michael
Published: June 2015

OBJECTIVE

Ingestion of probiotics can modify gut microbiota and alter insulin resistance and diabetes development in rodents. We hypothesized that daily intake of Lactobacillus reuteri increases insulin sensitivity by changing cytokine release and insulin secretion via modulation of the release of glucagon-like peptides (GLP)-1 and -2.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A prospective, double-blind, randomized trial was performed in 21 glucose-tolerant humans (11 lean: age 49 ± 7 years, BMI 23.6 ± 1.7 kg/m2; 10 obese: age 51 ± 7 years, BMI 35.5 ± 4.9 kg/m2). Participants ingested 1010 b.i.d. L. reuteri SD5865 or placebo over 4 weeks. Oral glucose tolerance and isoglycemic glucose infusion tests were used to assess incretin effect and GLP-1 and GLP-2 secretion, and euglycemic-hyperinsulinemic clamps with [6,6-2H2]glucose were used to measure peripheral insulin sensitivity and endogenous glucose production. Muscle and hepatic lipid contents were assessed by 1H-magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and immune status, cytokines, and endotoxin were measured with specific assays.

RESULTS

In glucose-tolerant volunteers, daily administration of L. reuteri SD5865 increased glucose-stimulated GLP-1 and GLP-2 release by 76% (P < 0.01) and 43% (P < 0.01), respectively, compared with placebo, along with 49% higher insulin (P < 0.05) and 55% higher C-peptide secretion (P < 0.05). However, the intervention did not alter peripheral and hepatic insulin sensitivity, body mass, ectopic fat content, or circulating cytokines.

CONCLUSIONS

Enrichment of gut microbiota with L. reuteri increases insulin secretion, possibly due to augmented incretin release, but does not directly affect insulin sensitivity or body fat distribution. This suggests that oral ingestion of one specific strain may serve as a novel therapeutic approach to improve glucose-dependent insulin release.
Gene-Environment Interactions of Circadian-Related Genes for Cardiometabolic Traits
Authors: Dashti Hassan S. , Follis Jack L. , Smith Caren E. , Tanaka Toshiko , Garaulet Marta , Gottlieb Daniel J. , Hruby Adela , Jacques Paul F. , Kiefte-de Jong Jessica C. , Lamon-Fava Stefania , Scheer Frank A.J.L. , Bartz Traci M. , Kovanen Leena , Wojczynski Mary K. , Frazier-Wood Alexis C. , Ahluwalia Tarunveer S. , Perälä Mia-Maria , Jonsson Anna , Muka Taulant , Kalafati Ioanna P. , Mikkilä Vera , Ordovás José M. ,   for the CHARGE Nutrition Study Group
Published: June 2015

OBJECTIVE

Common circadian-related gene variants associate with increased risk for metabolic alterations including type 2 diabetes. However, little is known about whether diet and sleep could modify associations between circadian-related variants (CLOCK-rs1801260, CRY2-rs11605924, MTNR1B-rs1387153, MTNR1B-rs10830963, NR1D1-rs2314339) and cardiometabolic traits (fasting glucose [FG], HOMA-insulin resistance, BMI, waist circumference, and HDL-cholesterol) to facilitate personalized recommendations.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We conducted inverse-variance weighted, fixed-effect meta-analyses of results of adjusted associations and interactions between dietary intake/sleep duration and selected variants on cardiometabolic traits from 15 cohort studies including up to 28,190 participants of European descent from the Cohorts for Heart and Aging Research in Genomic Epidemiology (CHARGE) Consortium.

RESULTS

We observed significant associations between relative macronutrient intakes and glycemic traits and short sleep duration (<7 h) and higher FG and replicated known MTNR1B associations with glycemic traits. No interactions were evident after accounting for multiple comparisons. However, we observed nominally significant interactions (all P < 0.01) between carbohydrate intake and MTNR1B-rs1387153 for FG with a 0.003 mmol/L higher FG with each additional 1% carbohydrate intake in the presence of the T allele, between sleep duration and CRY2-rs11605924 for HDL-cholesterol with a 0.010 mmol/L higher HDL-cholesterol with each additional hour of sleep in the presence of the A allele, and between long sleep duration (≥9 h) and MTNR1B-rs1387153 for BMI with a 0.60 kg/m2 higher BMI with long sleep duration in the presence of the T allele relative to normal sleep duration (≥7 to <9 h).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that lower carbohydrate intake and normal sleep duration may ameliorate cardiometabolic abnormalities conferred by common circadian-related genetic variants. Until further mechanistic examination of the nominally significant interactions is conducted, recommendations applicable to the general population regarding diet—specifically higher carbohydrate and lower fat composition—and normal sleep duration should continue to be emphasized among individuals with the investigated circadian-related gene variants.
End-to-end ureteral anastomosis and double-pigtail ureteral stent placement for treatment of iatrogenic ureteral trauma in two dogs
Authors: Wormser Chloe , Clarke Dana L. , Aronson Lillian R.
Published: June 2015

Case Description—A 6-month-old spayed female Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier and 8-month-old spayed female Shih Tzu were referred because of complications related to inadvertent ureteral ligation and transection during recent ovariohysterectomy.

Clinical Findings—The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier had a 2-day history of stranguria and polyuria that began after ovariohysterectomy. Initial examination findings were unremarkable with the exception of high rectal temperature. The Shih Tzu had a 10-day history of pyrexia, vomiting, diarrhea, and stranguria that began after ovariohysterectomy. On examination, the dog had signs of depression; clinicopathologic tests revealed hypoalbuminemia, neutrophilia, lymphocytosis, and monocytosis. Abdominal ultrasonography was performed for both dogs, revealing severe unilateral pyelectasia and hydroureter (proximal portion).

Treatment and Outcome—Both dogs underwent exploratory celiotomy; ureteral ligation and transection was confirmed. Ventral cystotomy was performed to allow retrograde placement of a double-pigtail ureteral stent into the affected ureter and renal pelvis. End-to-end ureteral anastomosis was performed over the stent with the aid of an operating microscope. Stent position was confirmed via fluoroscopy, and incisions were closed routinely. Dogs continued to have intermittent signs of stranguria until stent removal via cystoscopy 6 or 7 weeks after surgery. Ultrasonographic examination of the urogenital tract was performed 2 or 4 months after surgery, revealing resolution of pyelectasia and hydroureter.

Clinical Relevance—The surgical technique used provided a viable option for preserving renal function in dogs with focal, iatrogenic ureteral trauma. Use of a ureteral stent facilitated ureteral anastomosis and minimized postoperative complications.
Medical and surgical management of an intra-abdominal abscess of hepatic origin in a horse
Authors: Cypher Elizabeth E. , Kendall Anna T. , Panizzi Luca , Stewart Allison J. , Taylor Sarah L. , Bodaan Christa J. , Riley Chris B. , Gordon Stuart J. G. , Whitfield Lisa K.
Published: June 2015

Case Description—A 4-year-old Arabian-cross mare was examined because of a 48-hour history of pyrexia, lethargy, and signs of abdominal discomfort.

Clinical Findings—On initial evaluation, the horse was in good body condition, but febrile, tachycardic, tachypneic, and icteric and had signs of colic. Findings on CBC and serum biochemical analysis indicated marked systemic inflammation and hepatocellular damage. Serial abdominal ultrasonographic examinations revealed progressive, localized hepatic parenchymal abnormalities in the left ventral aspect of the abdomen in proximity to the left liver lobes, and eventual identification of an irregularly marginated, hyperechoic walled region of heterogenous echogenicity consistent with an encapsulated hepatic abscess.

Treatment and Outcome—Medical treatment was initiated with administration of doxycycline and flunixin meglumine. After 7 days, the horse's clinical signs and hematologic values improved. After 14 days, the horse was discharged from the hospital and prescribed continuation of doxycycline treatment for 14 days. One week following hospital discharge, the horse was reevaluated for recurrent signs of colic and pyrexia. The horse was sedated, and the region overlying the caudal aspect of the seventh rib was desensitized with an inverted L nerve block by local infiltration with 2% lidocaine. While the horse was standing and sedated, drainage of an encapsulated intra-abdominal abscess was followed by rib resection and removal of a portion of necrotic left lateral liver lobe. The development of a pneumothorax following rib resection represented the only major surgical complication. Twelve months later, the horse was clinically normal and had returned to its previous level of performance.

Clinical Relevance—Rib resection in standing sedated horses, together with appropriate medical management, should be considered an option for removal of well-encapsulated cranially located intra-abdominal abscesses that are adherent to the ventrolateral aspect of the body wall in horses.
Formulation and Evaluation of Oro dispersible Tablets of Fosinopril Sodium
Authors: Mamatha T , Zubair Md , Nasreen N Sarah , Ahmeduddin Md
Published: June 2015

The purpose of present research was to formulate and evaluate oro dispersible tablets (ODTs) of fosinopril sodium (FS). It has been developed at 20 mg dose and was prepared using different types of superdisintegrants such as (sodium starch glycolate, Ac-Di-Sol, crospovidone (CP), different types of subliming agents such as ammonium bicarbonate (AB) and camphor at different concentrations by direct compression method. The formulations were evaluated for uniformity of weight, content, hardness, friability, wetting time, in vitro dispersion time and dissolution rate. All formulations showed satisfactory mechanical strength, uniform weight, uniform drug content, and lesser wetting time and dispersion time. All the formulations showed more than 90% of drug release within 15 minutes. Among 10 formulations, formulation A5 (consisting of 2 % CP) and F4 (consisting of 15 % AB) were found to yield best results in terms of wetting time, in vitro dispersion time and dissolution rate.Dhaka Univ. J. Pharm. Sci. 14(1): 11-16, 2015 (June)
Alkaloids, Coumarin and Cinnamic Acid Derivative from Murraya koenigii (Linn.) Spreng.
Authors: Tahia Faiza , Sikder Md Al Amin , Haque Mohammad Rashedul , Shilpi Jamil A , Awang Khalijah , Mansur Md Abdullah Al , Rashid Mohammad A
Published: June 2015

A total of seven compounds were isolated from the methanol extract of leaves of Murraya koenigii (Linn.) Spreng. The isolated compounds were characterized as arborinine (1), ferulic acid (2), umbelliferone (3), mahanimbine (4), koenimbine (5), koenidine (6) and O-demethyl murrayanine (7) by extensive spectroscopic studies, including high field NMR analysis as well as co-TLC with authentic samples, whenever possible. This is the first report of occurrence of arborinine (1) and ferulic acid (2) from Murraya species.Dhaka Univ. J. Pharm. Sci. 14(1): 29-33, 2015 (June)
Antioxidant, Total Phenolic and Flavonoid Content of Selected Nigerian Medicinal Plants
Authors: Agbo Matthias Onyebuchi , Uzor Philip Felix , Akazie Nneji Uchenna Nneamaka , Eze Odurukwe Chidozie Uzoma , Ogbatue Uchenna Basilia , Mbaoji Emmanuel Chukwunwike
Published: June 2015

Plant phenolics and flavonoids play a great role in scavenging free radicals in the body and act as antioxidants. Thus their determination is sometimes nedded. Total antioxidant capacity, total phenolic and flavonoid contents of the extracts of 10 medicinal plants (Lochnera rosea, Allamanda cathartica, Asplenium platyneuron, Euphorbia prostrate, Baphia nitida, Crotolaria retusa, Zapoteca portoricensis, Platycerium bifurcatum, Mussaenda afzelii and Craterosiphon scandens) from 7 botanical families growing in the tropical rainforest of Nigeria were included in this study. The total antioxidant capacity of the extracts was assessed by using the phosphomolybdate method. The phenolic content was determined by using Folin-Ciocalteau assay, while the total flavonoid was determined by the aluminium chloride colorimetric assay. The results obtained showed that the total antioxidant capacity for all the extracts were in the range of 0.888 ± 0.75 to 0.938 ± 0.00 mg EAA/g. The results showed that E. prostrate, P. bifurcatum and A. platyneuron were found to be the richest source of phenolic (97.77 ± 0.77, 87.62 ± 1.22 and 82.33 ± 0.30 mg GAE/g) while B. nitida and M. afzelii had the least total phenolic content (11.67 ± 0.09 and11.18 ± 0.30 mg GAE/g). The highest total flavonoid content was revealed in P. bifurcatum (648.67 ± 12.3 mg QE) while M. afzelii also had the least total flavonoid content (3.67 ± 0.00 mg QE/g). The ratio of flavonoid to the phenolic in each extract was also determined to ascertain extracts that are rich in flavonoids.Dhaka Univ. J. Pharm. Sci. 14(1): 35-41, 2015 (June)
Evaluation of Antioxidant, Analgesic and Cytotoxic Activities of Typha angustata L. Root
Authors: Islam Fahrima , Hossain Amir , Hossain Md Golam , Murshid Gazi Md Monjur , Rahman Md Mustafizur
Published: June 2015

Ethanolic extract of the root of Typha angustata was evaluated for antioxidant, analgesic and cytotoxic activities. T. angustata extract exhibited DPPH free radical scavenging activity with IC50 value of 124.96 ± 0.93 ?g/ml. The total phenolic and tannin content were found to be 596.73 ± 1 mg GAE/100 g and 319.68 ± 64 mg GAE/100 g of dried plant material, respectively. Analgesic activity was determined using acetic acid induced writhing inhibition in mice model. The root extract, at doses of 250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg body weight, showed inhibition of writhing reflex by 33.55% (p < 0.01) and 56.78% (p<0.001), respectively. Cytotoxicity of the extract was measured by brine shrimp lethality bioassay where the LC50 against brine shrimp nauplii was found to be 41.54?g/ml.Dhaka Univ. J. Pharm. Sci. 14(1): 55-59, 2015 (June)
Tea Extract Prevents Arsenic-mediated DNA Damage and Death of Murine Thymocytes in vitro
Authors: Akter Masuma , Islam Nafisa Nawal , Sumit Ahmed Faisal , Ahsan Nazmul , Hossain Shahanoor , Ahmed Mamun , Akhand Anwarul Azim
Published: June 2015

Groundwater contamination by arsenic has created a major health hazard in Bangladesh by affecting millions of people. In this study, we report cytotoxic effects of arsenic in primary culture of murine thymocytes and the counteractive actions of tea extract to reduce this cytotoxic effects. When murine thymocytes were incubated for shorter period (1 h) with higher concentrations (50 and 100 ?M) of sodium arsenite (NaAsO2), cell viability was decreased to 79.06 ± 0.52% and 62.53 ± 0.23%, respectively. In case of longer incubation (16 hrs) with a wide range of NaAsO2 concentration (1-100 ?M), cell viability was reduced from 89.30 ± 0.84% to 79.0 ± 0.52% by 1 ?M NaAsO2, and this reduction was continued with increasing concentration reaching to 29.60 ± 0.72% by 100 ?M. Tea is known to possess antioxidant property and we found that this tea extract reduced NaAsO2-mediated death of the cells in culture. After 16 h of incubation, the chromosomal DNA of 5 ?M NaAsO2-exposed cells was found degraded suggesting apoptotic death of the cells. Interestingly, this degradation of chromosomal DNA was blocked by tea extract. All of these results together suggest a future therapeutic application of tea extract to reduce or block arsenic toxicity.Dhaka Univ. J. Pharm. Sci. 14(1): 79-85, 2015 (June)
Effect of Channeling Agents on Release Kinetics of Stavudine from Methocel K100 LVCR and Ethocel 20 cps Based Matrix Tablets
Authors: Tajrin Nazia , Mamun Md Elias Al , Rahman Md Habibur , Reza Md Selim
Published: June 2015

The study was performed to investigate the effect of channeling agent on the release profile of Stavudine from Methocel K100 LVCR and Ethocel 20 cps based matrix systems. Stavudine, a nucleoside analog drug, is used in the treatment of acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). Stavudine matrix tablet was prepared using Methocel K100 LVCR and Ethocel 20 cps as polymer and also using PEG 3350 and PEG 6000 as channeling agents. The drug release mechanisms from different matrix tablets were explored and explained by zero order, first order, Higuchi, Korsmeyer and Hixson-Crowell equations. The release rate, extent and mechanisms were found to be governed by polymer type used and the content of the channeling agent. It was found that the release of drug from the matrix tablet was increased with the increasing concentration of channeling agent. However, PEG 6000 enhanced the release of drug greater than PEG 3350 from the matrix. On the other hand, Stavudine matrix containing Ethocel 20 cps showed a strong tendency to retard the drug release to 51-56% after 8 hours of dissolution, whereas the release was found to be increased for the Methocel containing matrix to 90-100%. Kinetic modeling of dissolution profiles revealed drug release mechanism ranged from diffusion controlled or Fickian transport to anomalous type or non- Fickian transport, which was mainly dependent on the presence of relative amount of channeling agent and type of polymer. These studies indicate that the proper balance between a matrix forming agent and a channeling agent can produce optimum drug dissolution kinetics from Stavudine matrix tablet. The mechanism was also revealed by Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) pictures taken at various intervals of dissolution which showed that the extent of pore formation in the matrix increases with the increasing amount of channeling agent and also the hydrophilic nature of the polymer used in the formulation.Dhaka Univ. J. Pharm. Sci. 14(1): 91-101, 2015 (June)
Pharmacological Evaluation of Stem Bark of Callicarpa arborea Roxb.
Authors: Shihan Mahbubul Hoque , Mahmud Zobaer Al , Qais Nazmul , Riaz Mohammad
Published: June 2015

The ethanol extract of stem bark of Callicarpa arborea and its different fractions were investigated for various pharmacological properties. In the acetic acid-induced writhing inhibition assay, the ethanol extract and its chloroform and ethyl acetate soluble fractions at a dose of 200 mg/kg body weight significantly inhibited writhing response with 42.7%, 70.3% and 32.8% of inhibition, respectively. In the antioxidant assay by DPPH, the ethanol extract and its pet ether and chloroform soluble partitionates demonstrated significant free radical scavenging activity with IC50 values of 41.53, 14.59 and 71.2 ?g/mL, respectively. In the disc diffusion method, the carbon tetrachloride soluble materials showed potential antimicrobial activity against all the tested organisms with zone of inhibition ranging from 19-22 mm at a concentration of 400 ?g/disc. On the other hand, the pet ether soluble fraction induced significant clot lysis (30.43%) when compared to negative control. Our findings from the studies clearly indicate that the stem bark of C. arborea possesses potential antinociceptive, antioxidant, antimicrobial and thrombolytic activities, which further warrant its systematic chemical investigation in order to isolate the biologically active molecules.Dhaka Univ. J. Pharm. Sci. 14(1): 111-116, 2015 (June
Rifampicin Niosome: Preparations, Characterizations and Antibacterial Activity Against Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis Isolated from Acne
Authors: Begum Kohinur , Khan Ashfia Fatima , Hana Humayera Kabir , Sheak Jakaria , Jalil Reza Ul
Published: June 2015

Niosomes, a vesicular formulation, has been explored extensively for topical application to enhance skin penetration as well as to improve skin retention of drugs. In this study, three different rifampicin (1% w/w) niosomal formulations were prepared. Span 60, propylene glycol, dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), methanol and distilled water were used in the formulations. Different rifampicin niosomal formulations containing 12% (RN-F1), 16% (RNF2) and 20% (RN-F3) of Span 60 were prepared by injection method. Rifampicin content of each formulation was determined by UV spectrophotometer at 475 nm. Niosome particle size was measured by laser scattering method using Mastersizer 2000. Volume average diameter, d50 of different formulations were found 8.488 nm (RN-F1), 12.533 nm (RN-F2) and 12.375 (RN-F3). Niosome preparations were also characterized by entrapment efficiency and in vitro drug release and pH stability test. Results of entrapment efficiency were found to be 55.11%, 57.66% and 60.17% for RN-F1, RN-F2 and RN-F3, respectively. Drug release pattern of RN-F2 and RN-3 formulations showed sustained release at controlled rate. All formulations were more stable at pH 5.8 to 7.0. Antibacterial effect of rifampicin niosomes was evaluated against S. epidermidis and S. aureus isolated from acne by antibiotic sensitivity and time kill study. The results of time kill study revealed that up to 96% of bacteria were killed within 4 hours. In this experiment, rifampicin niosomes were successfully prepared for the intention of targeting antibacterial effect in acneDhaka Univ. J. Pharm. Sci. 14(1): 117-123, 2015 (June)
Air Temperature and Death Rates in the Continental U.S., 1968–2013
Authors: Hart John
Published: June 2015

A previous test of global warming theory, on a local level, for Texas revealed inverse correlations between air temperature and death rates. The present study expands the test field to the continental U.S. Using an ecological design, mean daily maximum air temperature (“temperature”) in the 48 contiguous states plus the District of Columbia by year from 1968–2013 was compared to age-adjusted all-cause mortality (“deaths”) in these same jurisdictions for the same years using Pearson correlation (n = 46 years). The comparison was made for three race categories, white, black, and all races, where each category included all ages and both genders. There was 5.0 degree F range for the years studied (62.7–67.7 degrees F). Correlations were moderate strength, inverse, and statistically significant, as follows. Whites: r = −0.576, p < 0.0001; Blacks: r = −0.556, p = 0.0001; and all races: r = −0.577, p < 0.0001. These correlations are consistent with the Texas study, both of which indicated that warmer years tended to correlate with decreased death rates. A limitation to this research is its (ecological) design, but is an initial step towards further investigation.
Natural Gradient Flow in the Mixture Geometry of a Discrete Exponential Family
Authors: Malagò Luigi , Pistone Giovanni
Published: June 2015

In this paper, we study Amari’s natural gradient flows of real functions defined on the densities belonging to an exponential family on a finite sample space. Our main example is the minimization of the expected value of a real function defined on the sample space. In such a case, the natural gradient flow converges to densities with reduced support that belong to the border of the exponential family. We have suggested in previous works to use the natural gradient evaluated in the mixture geometry. Here, we show that in some cases, the differential equation can be extended to a bigger domain in such a way that the densities at the border of the exponential family are actually internal points in the extended problem. The extension is based on the algebraic concept of an exponential variety. We study in full detail a toy example and obtain positive partial results in the important case of a binary sample space.
Evaluation of a Blade Force Measurement System for a Vertical Axis Wind Turbine Using Load Cells
Authors: Rossander Morgan , Dyachuk Eduard , Apelfröjd Senad , Trolin Kristian , Goude Anders , Bernhoff Hans , Eriksson Sandra
Published: June 2015

Unique blade force measurements on an open site straight-bladed vertical axis wind turbine have been performed. This paper presents a method for measuring the tangential and normal forces on a 12-kW vertical axis wind turbine prototype with a three-bladed H-rotor. Four single-axis load cells were installed in-between the hub and the support arms on one of the blades. The experimental setup, the measurement principle, together with the necessary control and measurement system are described. The maximum errors of the forces and accompanying weather data that can be obtained with the system are carefully estimated. Measured forces from the four load cells are presented, as well as the normal and tangential forces derived from them and a comparison with theoretical data. The measured torque and bending moment are also provided. The influence of the load cells on the turbine dynamics has also been evaluated. For the aerodynamic normal force, the system provides periodic data in agreement with simulations. Unexpected mechanical oscillations are present in the tangential force, introduced by the turbine dynamics. The measurement errors are of an acceptable size and often depend on the measured variable. Equations are presented for the calculation of measurement errors.
Congestion Control Algorithm in Distribution Feeders: Integration in a Distribution Management System
Authors: Vandoorn Tine , Van de Vyver Jan , Gevaert Louis , Degroote Lieven , Vandevelde Lieven
Published: June 2015

The increasing share of distributed energy resources poses a challenge to the distribution network operator (DNO) to maintain the current availability of the system while limiting the investment costs. Related to this, there is a clear trend in DNOs trying to better monitor their grid by installing a distribution management system (DMS). This DMS enables the DNOs to remotely switch their network or better localize and solve faults. Moreover, the DMS can be used to centrally control the grid assets. Therefore, in this paper, a control strategy is discussed that can be implemented in the DMS for solving current congestion problems posed by the increasing share of renewables in the grid. This control strategy controls wind turbines in order to avoid congestion while mitigating the required investment costs in order to achieve a global cost-efficient solution. Next to the application and objective of the control, the parameter tuning of the control algorithm is discussed.
Current Mode Control for LLC Series Resonant DC-to-DC Converters
Authors: Jang Jinhaeng , Pidaparthy Syam , Choi Byungcho
Published: June 2015

Conventional voltage mode control only offers limited performance for LLC series resonant DC-to-DC converters experiencing wide variations in operational conditions. When the existing voltage mode control is employed, the closed-loop performance of the converter is directly affected by unavoidable changes in power stage dynamics. Thus, a specific control design optimized at one particular operating point could become unacceptable when the operational condition is varied. This paper presents a new current mode control scheme which could consistently provide good closed-loop performance for LLC resonant converters for the entire operational range. The proposed control scheme employs an additional feedback from the current of the resonant tank network to overcome the limitation of the existing voltage mode control. The superiority of the proposed current mode control over the conventional voltage mode control is verified using an experimental 150 W LLC series resonant DC-to-DC converter.
Transcriptional Profiling Reveals Differential Gene Expression of Amur Ide (Leuciscus waleckii) during Spawning Migration
Authors: Cui Jun , Xu Jian , Zhang Songhao , Wang Kai , Jiang Yanliang , Mahboob Shahid , Al-Ghanim Khalid , Xu Peng
Published: June 2015

Amur ide (Leuciscus waleckii), an important aquaculture species, inhabits neutral freshwater but can tolerate high salinity or alkalinity. As an extreme example, the population in Dali Nor lake inhabits alkalized soda water permanently, and migrates from alkaline water to neutral freshwater to spawn. In this study, we performed comparative transcriptome profiling study on the livers of Amur ide to interrogate the expression differences between the population that permanently inhabit freshwater in Ganggeng Nor lake (FW) and the spawning population that recently migrated from alkaline water into freshwater (SM). A total of 637,234,880 reads were generated, resulting in 53,440 assembled contigs that were used as reference sequences. Comparisons of these transcriptome files revealed 444 unigenes with significant differential expression (p-value ≤ 0.01, fold-change ≥ 2), including 246 genes that were up-regulated in SM and 198 genes that were up-regulated in FW. The gene ontology (GO) enrichment analysis and KEGG pathway analysis indicated that the mTOR signaling pathway, Janus kinase-signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK-STAT) signaling pathway, and oxidative phosphorylation were highly likely to affect physiological changes during spawning migration. Overall, this study demonstrates that transcriptome changes played a role in Amur ide spawning migration. These results provide a foundation for further analyses on the physiological and molecular mechanisms underlying Amur ide spawning migration.
A Comparative Proteomic Analysis of the Buds and the Young Expanding Leaves of the Tea Plant (Camellia sinensis L.)
Authors: Li Qin , Li Juan , Liu Shuoqian , Huang Jianan , Lin Haiyan , Wang Kunbo , Cheng Xiaomei , Liu Zhonghua
Published: June 2015

Tea (Camellia sinensis L.) is a perennial woody plant that is widely cultivated to produce a popular non-alcoholic beverage; this beverage has received much attention due to its pleasant flavor and bioactive ingredients, particularly several important secondary metabolites. Due to the significant changes in the metabolite contents of the buds and the young expanding leaves of tea plants, high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis and isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ) analysis were performed. A total of 233 differentially expressed proteins were identified. Among these, 116 proteins were up-regulated and 117 proteins were down-regulated in the young expanding leaves compared with the buds. A large array of diverse functions was revealed, including roles in energy and carbohydrate metabolism, secondary metabolite metabolism, nucleic acid and protein metabolism, and photosynthesis- and defense-related processes. These results suggest that polyphenol biosynthesis- and photosynthesis-related proteins regulate the secondary metabolite content of tea plants. The energy and antioxidant metabolism-related proteins may promote tea leaf development. However, reverse transcription quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) showed that the protein expression levels were not well correlated with the gene expression levels. These findings improve our understanding of the molecular mechanism of the changes in the metabolite content of the buds and the young expanding leaves of tea plants.
Characterization of Shrimp Oil from Pandalus borealis by High Performance Liquid Chromatography and High Resolution Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Jiao Guangling , Hui Joseph , Burton Ian , Thibault Marie-Hélène , Pelletier Claude , Boudreau Josée , Tchoukanova Nadia , Subramanian Balaji , Djaoued Yahia , Ewart Stephen , Gagnon Jacques , Ewart Kathryn , Zhang Junzeng
Published: June 2015

Northern shrimp (Pandalus borealis) oil, which is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, was recovered from the cooking water of shrimp processing facilities. The oil contains significant amounts of omega-3 fatty acids in triglyceride form, along with substantial long-chain monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs). It also features natural isomeric forms of astaxanthin, a nutritional carotenoid, which gives the oil a brilliant red color. As part of our efforts in developing value added products from waste streams of the seafood processing industry, we present in this paper a comprehensive characterization of the triacylglycerols (TAGs) and astaxanthin esters that predominate in the shrimp oil by using HPLC-HRMS and MS/MS, as well as 13C-NMR. This approach, in combination with FAME analysis, offers direct characterization of fatty acid molecules in their intact forms, including the distribution of regioisomers in TAGs. The information is important for the standardization and quality control, as well as for differentiation of composition features of shrimp oil, which could be sold as an ingredient in health supplements and functional foods.
Structural Characterization of New Peptide Variants Produced by Cyanobacteria from the Brazilian Atlantic Coastal Forest Using Liquid Chromatography Coupled to Quadrupole Time-of-Flight Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Sanz Miriam , Andreote Ana , Fiore Marli , Dörr Felipe , Pinto Ernani
Published: June 2015

Cyanobacteria from underexplored and extreme habitats are attracting increasing attention in the search for new bioactive substances. However, cyanobacterial communities from tropical and subtropical regions are still largely unknown, especially with respect to metabolite production. Among the structurally diverse secondary metabolites produced by these organisms, peptides are by far the most frequently described structures. In this work, liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization coupled to high resolution quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry with positive ion detection was applied to study the peptide profile of a group of cyanobacteria isolated from the Southeastern Brazilian coastal forest. A total of 38 peptides belonging to three different families (anabaenopeptins, aeruginosins, and cyanopeptolins) were detected in the extracts. Of the 38 peptides, 37 were detected here for the first time. New structural features were proposed based on mass accuracy data and isotopic patterns derived from full scan and MS/MS spectra. Interestingly, of the 40 surveyed strains only nine were confirmed to be peptide producers; all of these strains belonged to the order Nostocales (three Nostoc sp., two Desmonostoc sp. and four Brasilonema sp.).
Persistent Contamination of Octopuses and Mussels with Lipophilic Shellfish Toxins during Spring Dinophysis Blooms in a Subtropical Estuary
Authors: Mafra Luiz , Lopes Daiana , Bonilauri Vanessa , Uchida Hajime , Suzuki Toshiyuki
Published: June 2015

This study investigates the occurrence of diarrhetic shellfish toxins (DSTs) and their producing phytoplankton species in southern Brazil, as well as the potential for toxin accumulation in co-occurring mussels (Perna perna) and octopuses (Octopus vulgaris). During the spring in 2012 and 2013, cells of Dinophysis acuminata complex were always present, sometimes at relatively high abundances (max. 1143 cells L−1), likely the main source of okadaic acid (OA) in the plankton (max. 34 ng L−1). Dinophysis caudata occurred at lower cell densities in 2013 when the lipophilic toxins pectenotoxin-2 (PTX-2) and PTX-2 seco acid were detected in plankton and mussel samples. Here, we report for the first time the accumulation of DSTs in octopuses, probably linked to the consumption of contaminated bivalves. Perna perna mussels were consistently contaminated with different DSTs (max. 42 µg kg−1), and all octopuses analyzed (n = 5) accumulated OA in different organs/tissues: digestive glands (DGs) > arms > gills > kidneys > stomach + intestine. Additionally, similar concentrations of 7-O-palmytoyl OA and 7-O-palmytoly dinophysistoxin-1 (DTX-1) were frequently detected in the hepatopancreas of P. perna and DGs of O. vulgaris. Therefore, octopuses can be considered a potential vector of DSTs to both humans and top predators such as marine mammals.
Physical Properties, Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activity of Chitosan Films Containing Carvacrol and Pomegranate Peel Extract
Authors: Yuan Gaofeng , Lv Hua , Yang Bingjie , Chen Xiaoe , Sun Haiyan
Published: June 2015

Chitosan-based active films were developed by incorporation of carvacrol (10 g/L), pomegranate peel extract (PPE, 10 g/L) and carvacrol + PPE (10 g/L of each) and their physical, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties were investigated. Incorporation of carvacrol and carvacrol + PPE into the films significantly decreased the water vapor permeability, tensile strength and percentage of elongation at break. Incorporation of carvacrol, PPE and carvacrol + PPE into the films decreased the transparency, but significantly increased the total phenol content and antioxidant activity. All the films, with the exception of PPE-incorporated film, exhibited antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. In addition, the antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus of the film incorporated with carvacrol + PPE was moderately higher than that incorporated with carvacrol or PPE alone, suggesting a synergistic action between carvacrol and PPE.
Pathogens Best Paper Awards for 2015
Authors: Young Lawrence
Published: June 2015

Pathogens is instituting annual awards to recognize the most outstanding papers in the areas of all aspects of pathogens and pathogen-host interactions published in Pathogens. [...]
Effects of a Formula Containing Two Types of Prebiotics, Bifidogenic Growth Stimulator and Galacto-oligosaccharide, and Fermented Milk Products on Intestinal Microbiota and Antibody Response to Influenza Vaccine in Elderly Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Nagafuchi Shinya , Yamaji Taketo , Kawashima Akihiro , Saito Yukiko , Takahashi Takeshi , Yamamoto Takayuki , Maruyama Mitsuo , Akatsu Hiroyasu
Published: June 2015

We investigated the effect of a formula containing two different prebiotics (bifidogenic growth stimulator and galacto-oligosaccharide) and fermented milk products on intestinal microbiota and antibody responses to an influenza vaccine in enterally fed elderly in-patients. Patients were administered either formula containing prebiotics and fermented milk products (group F: n = 12, 79.9 ± 9.5 years old) or standard formula (group C: n = 12, 80.7 ± 10.1 years old) via percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy during a 14-week intervention period. Subjects were immunized with an influenza vaccine (A/H1N1, A/H3N2, and B) at week 4 of the intervention. Blood biochemical indices, intestinal bacteria populations and antibody titers were analyzed. Bifidobacterium counts increased significantly in group F compared with group C. The enhanced antibody titers against A/H1N1 were maintained in group F for a longer period compared with group C. The titers against A/H3N2 were unchanged between both groups, and those against B were significantly lower in group F than in group C, although few subjects had seroprotective titers against A/H3N2 and B. These results suggest that administration of the formula containing prebiotics and fermented milk products may maintain antibody titers for longer periods through the improvement of intestinal microbiota.
Flavonoids as Natural Stabilizers and Color Indicators of Ageing for Polymeric Materials
Authors: Masek Anna
Published: June 2015

Few changes have occurred in the use of various stabilizers over recent years. In the current literature, phosphate derivatives are used as anti-ageing additives in polymers, and the most popular of these are sterically hindering cyclic amines. However, most of these compounds are carcinogenic. Synthetic phenols have been increasingly used as antioxidants in food and in polymers. Ecological standards encourage the elimination of harmful additives in polymeric products that come in contact with food or with the human body. This article presents application of flavonoid (silymarin/flavonoligand) for polymer stabilization and use of natural phytocompounds such as color indicators of polymers ageing time. In this research, I propose two ways of application: traditional, during processing; and the new one, by using impregnation method. Based on the change of deformation energy (ageing coefficient K), FTIR, oxidative induction time (OIT) evaluated by differential scanning calorimetry (OIT), thermogravimetry analysis (TG), spectrophotometric color measurements in terms of CIE-Lab color space values, I confirmed the high antioxidant activity of flavonoids in EPM. They provide coloration of the polymeric materials that changes cyclically as a function of aging time. Additionally, the use of phytocompounds in polymers provides similar stabilizing effect to those of synthetic antioxidants.