bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparing environmental impacts of tertiary wastewater treatment technologies for advanced phosphorus removal and disinfection with life cycle assessment
Authors: Remy C. , Miehe U. , Lesjean B. , Bartholomäus C.
Published: April 2014

Different technologies for tertiary wastewater treatment are compared in their environmental impacts with life cycle assessment (LCA). Targeting very low phosphorus concentration (50–120 μg/L) and seasonal disinfection of wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) secondary effluent, this LCA compares high-rate sedimentation, microsieve, dual media filtration (all with UV disinfection), and polymer ultrafiltration or ceramic microfiltration membranes for upgrading the large WWTP Berlin-Ruhleben. Results of the LCA show that mean effluent quality of membranes is highest, but at the cost of high electricity and chemical demand and associated emissions of greenhouse gases or other air pollutants. In contrast, gravity-driven treatment processes require less electricity and chemicals, but can reach significant removal of phosphorus. In fact, dual media filter or microsieve cause substantially lower specific CO2 emissions per kg P removed from the secondary effluent (180 kg CO2-eq/kg P, including UV) than the membrane schemes (275 kg CO2-eq/kg P).
Effects of Low-Dose-Gamma Rays on the Immune System of Different Animal Models of Disease
Authors: Shimura Noriko , Kojima Shuji
Published: April 2014

We reviewed the beneficial or harmful effects of low-dose ionizing radiation on several diseases based on a search of the literature. The attenuation of autoimmune manifestations in animal disease models irradiated with low-dose γ-rays was previously reported by several research groups, whereas the exacerbation of allergic manifestations was described by others. Based on a detailed examination of the literature, we divided animal disease models into two groups: one group consisting of collagen-induced arthritis (CIA), experimental encephalomyelitis (EAE), and systemic lupus erythematosus, the pathologies of which were attenuated by low-dose irradiation, and another group consisting of atopic dermatitis, asthma, and Hashimoto's thyroiditis, the pathologies of which were exacerbated by low-dose irradiation. The same biological indicators, such as cytokine levels and T-cell subpopulations, were examined in these studies. Low-dose irradiation reduced interferon (IFN)-gamma (γ) and interleukin (IL)-6 levels and increased IL-5 levels and the percentage of CD4+CD25+Foxp3+Treg cells in almost all immunological disease cases examined. Variations in these biological indicators were attributed to the attenuation or exacerbation of the disease's manifestation. We concluded that autoimmune diseases caused by autoantibodies were attenuated by low-dose irradiation, whereas diseases caused by antibodies against external antigens, such as atopic dermatitis, were exacerbated.
Correlations between the in vitro antiproliferative activity, structure and thermal stability of some macrocyclic dinuclear Cu(II) complexes
Authors: Tanaskovic Sladjana , Antonijevic-Nikolic Mirjana , Holló Berta , Drazic Branka , Stanojkovic Tatjana , Mészáros Szécsényi , Vuckovic Gordana
Published: April 2014

Seven macrocyclic dinuclear Cu(II) complexes with tpmc =
N,N',N",N'"-tetrakis(2-pyridylmethyl)-1,4,8,11-tetraazacyclotetradecane of
coordination formulae [Cu2tpmc](ClO4)4 (1), [Cu2(X)tpmc](ClO4)3?nH2O, X= F-,
n = 0 (2), X = Cl-, n = 1 (3), X = Br-, n = 0 (4), X= I-, n = 1 (5), X =
NO2-, n = 0 (6), [Cu2(NCS)2tpmc](ClO4)2 (7) were evaluated for their
cytotoxic activity against human cervix adenocarcinoma (HeLa), human melanoma
(Fem-x) and human colon carcinoma (LS174) cell lines. The results were
compared with the corresponding data for the
cis-dichlorido-diammineplatinum(II) (CDDP) as referent cytostatic together
with the free ligands and solvent dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) as controls. The
complexes showed considerable antiproliferative effect, although
significantly less than CDDP. The thermal decomposition pattern of the
complexes was determined by simultaneous TG/DSC measurements. The thermal
stability of the compounds 2-7 followed the trend of their antiproliferative
activity against HeLa cell line, as well as their corresponding stability
constants. The highest thermal stability and cytotoxicity belonged to complex
[Cu2tpmc](ClO4)4, with no anionic co-ligand. Complex [Cu2(NO2)tpmc](ClO4)3
exhibited a selective cytotoxicity against LS174 cells, at the level of the
most active [Cu2tpmc](ClO4)4.
Altered Glucose Metabolism in Mouse and Humans Conceived by IVF
Authors: Chen Miaoxin , Wu Linda , Zhao Junli , Wu Fang , Davies Michael J. , Wittert Gary A. , Norman Robert J. , Robker Rebecca L. , Heilbronn Leonie K.
Published: April 2014

In vitro fertilization (IVF) may influence the metabolic health of children. However, in humans, it is difficult to separate out the relative contributions of genetics, environment, or the process of IVF, which includes ovarian stimulation (OS) and embryo culture. Therefore, we examined glucose metabolism in young adult humans and in adult male C57BL/6J mice conceived by IVF versus natural birth under energy-balanced and high-fat–overfeeding conditions. In humans, peripheral insulin sensitivity, as assessed by hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp (80 mU/m2/min), was lower in IVF patients (n = 14) versus control subjects (n = 20) after 3 days of an energy-balanced diet (30% fat). In response to 3 days of overfeeding (+1,250 kcal/day, 45% fat), there was a greater increase in systolic blood pressure in IVF versus controls (P = 0.02). Mice conceived after either OS alone or IVF weighed significantly less at birth versus controls (P < 0.01). However, only mice conceived by IVF displayed increased fasting glucose levels, impaired glucose tolerance, and reduced insulin-stimulated Akt phosphorylation in the liver after 8 weeks of consuming either a chow or high-fat diet (60% fat). Thus, OS impaired fetal growth in the mouse, but only embryo culture resulted in changes in glucose metabolism that may increase the risk of the development of metabolic diseases later in life, in both mice and humans.
Weight Loss, Glycemic Control, and Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors in Response to Differential Diet Composition in a Weight Loss Program in Type 2 Diabetes: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Rock Cheryl L. , Flatt Shirley W. , Pakiz Bilge , Taylor Kenneth S. , Leone Angela F. , Brelje Kerrin , Heath Dennis D. , Quintana Elizabeth L. , Sherwood Nancy E.
Published: April 2014

OBJECTIVE

To test whether a weight loss program promotes greater weight loss, glycemic control, and improved cardiovascular disease risk factors compared with control conditions and whether there is a differential response to higher versus lower carbohydrate intake.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This randomized controlled trial at two university medical centers enrolled 227 overweight or obese adults with type 2 diabetes and assigned them to parallel in-person diet and exercise counseling, with prepackaged foods in a planned menu during the initial phase, or to usual care (UC; two weight loss counseling sessions and monthly contacts).

RESULTS

Relative weight loss was 7.4% (95% CI 5.7–9.2%), 9.0% (7.1–10.9%), and 2.5% (1.3–3.8%) for the lower fat, lower carbohydrate, and UC groups (P < 0.001 intervention effect). Glycemic control markers and triglyceride levels were lower in the intervention groups compared with UC group at 1 year (fasting glucose 141 [95% CI 133–149] vs. 159 [144–174] mg/dL, P = 0.023; hemoglobin A1c 6.9% [6.6–7.1%] vs. 7.5% [7.1–7.9%] or 52 [49–54] vs. 58 [54–63] mmol/mol, P = 0.001; triglycerides 148 [134–163] vs. 204 [173–234] mg/dL, P < 0.001). The lower versus higher carbohydrate groups maintained lower hemoglobin A1c (6.6% [95% CI 6.3–6.8%] vs. 7.2% [6.8–7.5%] or 49 [45–51] vs. 55 [51–58] mmol/mol) at 1 year (P = 0.008).

CONCLUSIONS

The weight loss program resulted in greater weight loss and improved glycemic control in type 2 diabetes.
Prevention of Recurrent Foot Ulcers With Plantar Pressure–Based In-Shoe Orthoses: The CareFUL Prevention Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Ulbrecht Jan S. , Hurley Timothy , Mauger David T. , Cavanagh Peter R.
Published: April 2014

OBJECTIVE

To assess the efficacy of in-shoe orthoses that were designed based on shape and barefoot plantar pressure in reducing the incidence of submetatarsal head plantar ulcers in people with diabetes, peripheral neuropathy, and a history of similar prior ulceration.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Single-blinded multicenter randomized controlled trial with subjects randomized to wear shape- and pressure-based orthoses (experimental, n = 66) or standard-of-care A5513 orthoses (control, n = 64). Patients were followed for 15 months, until a study end point (forefoot plantar ulcer or nonulcerative plantar forefoot lesion) or to study termination. Proportional hazards regression was used for analysis.

RESULTS

There was a trend in the composite primary end point (both ulcers and nonulcerative lesions) across the full follow-up period (P = 0.13) in favor of the experimental orthoses. This trend was due to a marked difference in ulcer occurrence (P = 0.007) but no difference in the rate of nonulcerative lesions (P = 0.76). At 180 days, the ulcer prevention effect of the experimental orthoses was already significant (P = 0.003) when compared with control, and the benefit of the experimental orthoses with respect to the composite end point was also significant (P = 0.042). The hazard ratio was 3.4 (95% CI 1.3–8.7) for the occurrence of a submetatarsal head plantar ulcer in the control compared with experimental arm over the duration of the study.

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that shape- and barefoot plantar pressure–based orthoses were more effective in reducing submetatarsal head plantar ulcer recurrence than current standard-of-care orthoses, but they did not significantly reduce nonulcerative lesions.
Evaluation of thromboelastography for prediction of clinical bleeding in thrombocytopenic dogs after total body irradiation and hematopoietic cell transplantation
Authors: Bucknoff Melissa C. , Hanel Rita M. , Marks Steven L. , Motsinger-Reif Alison A. , Suter Steven E.
Published: April 2014

Objective—To determine whether thromboelastography is more accurate than conventional methods of evaluating hemostasis for the prediction of clinical bleeding in thrombocytopenic dogs following total body irradiation (TBI) and bone marrow transplantation (BMT).

Animals—10 client-owned thrombocytopenic dogs with multicentric lymphoma.

Procedures—Results of a kaolin-activated thromboelastography assay, platelet count, and buccal mucosal bleeding time were evaluated for correlation to clinical bleeding.

Results—Maximum amplitude, derived via thromboelastography, was the only hemostatic variable with significant correlation to clinical bleeding. Buccal mucosal bleeding time had a high sensitivity but poor specificity for identifying dogs with clinical bleeding.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Compared with buccal mucosal bleeding time and platelet count, thromboelastography was more reliable at identifying thrombocytopenic dogs with a low risk of bleeding and could be considered to help guide the use of transfusion products in dogs undergoing TBI and BMT.
Efficacy of a flexible schedule for administration of a Leptospira borgpetersenii serovar Hardjo bacterin to beef calves
Authors: Cortese Victor S. , Gallo Guillermo F. , Cleary Diane L. , Galvin Jeffrey E. , Leyh Randy D.
Published: April 2014

Objective—To determine whether a flexible vaccination regimen provides protection against challenge exposure with a virulent Leptospira borgpetersenii serovar Hardjo isolate.

Animals—Fifty-five 4-week-old calves seronegative for antibodies against L borgpetersenii serovar Hardjo.

Procedures—Calves were assigned to 3 groups and administered 2 doses of adjuvant (control calves; n = 11), 1 dose of serovar Hardjo bacterin and 1 dose of adjuvant (22), or 2 doses of the serovar Hardjo bacterin (22); there was a 16-week interval between dose administrations. Three weeks after the second dose, all calves were challenge exposed by use of conjunctival instillation of a heterologous strain of L borgpetersenii serovar Hardjo for 3 consecutive days. Urine samples for leptospiral culture were collected for 5 weeks after challenge exposure; at that time, all calves were euthanized and kidney samples collected for leptospiral culture.

Results—Antibody titers increased in both leptospiral-vaccinated groups of calves. A significant increase in antibody titers against L borgpetersenii serovar Hardjo was detected after administration of the second dose of L borgpetersenii serovar Hardjo bacterin and challenge exposure. In 10 of 11 adjuvant-treated control calves, serovar Hardjo was isolated from both urine and kidney samples. Leptospira borgpetersenii serovar Hardjo was not isolated from the urine or kidney samples obtained from any of the 21 remaining calves that received 1 dose of bacterin or the 20 remaining calves that received 2 doses of bacterin.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Protection in young calves was induced by vaccination with 1 or 2 doses of a serovar Hardjo bacterin.
Evaluation of antioxidant activity and DNA cleavage protection effect of naphthyl hydroxamic acid derivatives through conventional and fluorescence microscopic methods
Authors: Singh Priyanka , Khare Deepesh , Pande Rama
Published: April 2014

Antioxidant capacity of N-(1-naphthyl)valerohydroxamic acid (NVHA) and N-(1-naphthyl)phenylacetohydroxamic acid (NPAHA) has been evaluated by a novel approach employing the fluorescence microscopic single molecule observation method. This method allows direct observation of the changes in single DNA molecules. The DNA cleavage protection activity of the compounds was also assessed by the gel electrophoresis method. The applied methods confirmed that both compounds are capable of inhibiting the free radical mediated DNA damage. Free radical scavenging activity was assessed via the 2,2′-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl free radical (DPPH) and lipid peroxidation inhibition methods. The effective concentration causing a 50 % inhibition of the DPPH concentration, EC50, was found to be 371.54 mM for NVHA and 365.95 mM for NPAHA. Its lipid peroxidation inhibition ability was calculated to be 40.91 % at 371.54 mM for NVHA and 41.14 % at 365.95 mM for NPAHA. These results show the antioxidant potential of the naphthyl hydroxamic acids.
A facile synthetic route for antineoplastic drug GDC-0449
Authors: Cao Meng , Hu Hua-You , Zhao Hu-Cheng , Zhang Xi-Quan , Gu Hong-Mei , Yang Ling , Cai Jin , Wang Peng , Hu Bing , Ji Min
Published: April 2014

In the current study a facile synthetic route for preparing antineoplastic drug GDC-0449 is investigated. Starting with pyridine-1-oxide and 1-iodo-3-nitrobenzene, the intermediate product 2-(2-chloro-5-nitrophenyl) pyridine was prepared by cross-coupling, deoxidation and halogenation. The final compound was then synthesised by reduction of the nitro group followed by amidation. This synthetic route avoids the use of unstable organometallic or organic boride compounds; it employs relatively inexpensive and bench-stable reagents, involves readily controllable reaction conditions, and achieves a relatively high yield.
In-situ catalytic growth of MgAl2O4 spinel whiskers in MgO–C refractories
Authors: Zhu Boquan , Wei Guoping , Li Xiangcheng , Ma Zheng , Wei Ying
Published: April 2014

Upon application of nano-sized metallic Ni particles as catalyst, the in-situ synthesis mechanism of spinel whiskers in MgO–C refractories was studied. Their phase composition and morphology were determined by means of X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy supported by energy dispersive spectroscopy. The results show that when the catalyst of nano-sized Ni was added in MgO–C refractories, the granular MgAl2O4 (MA) spinels transformed into the shape of whiskers at 1 200 °C. The presence of Ni catalyst can accelerate the generation of Mg vapor, which can react with Al vapor to form MA spinel whiskers. Through dissolution and precipitation, MA spinel crystals nucleate directly and grow into whiskers from the catalytic droplets of nano-sized metallic Ni particles. The growth of spinel whiskers follows a typical vapor–liquid–solid (V–L–S) growth mechanism.
Crevice corrosion resistance of high alloyed materials in 3.5 % NaCl solution
Authors: Alar Vesna , Stojanović Ivan , Šimunović Vinko , Novak Tomislav
Published: April 2014

The effects of applied torque on the corrosion behaviour of W.-Nr. 1.4404 and 1.4462 stainless steels and W.-Nr. 2.4605 and 2.4858 nickel alloys with crevices were investigated using the cyclic potentiodynamic polarization method. Crevice corrosion (material-to-polytetrafluoroethylene) was tested in 3.5 % NaCl solution at 22 °C. The corroded surface was examined using scanning electron microscopy. The results indicate similar trends in susceptibility to crevice corrosion with increasing torque. Among the four specimens, the W.-Nr. 1.4404 is the most susceptible to crevice corrosion.
Thermophysical properties of solid phase rhodium measured by the pulse calorimetry technique over a wide temperature range
Authors: Milošević Nenad
Published: April 2014

This paper presents experimental results on four thermophysical properties of pure polycrystalline rhodium samples over a wide temperature range. Specific heat capacity and specific electrical resistivity were measured from 300 to 2 200 K, while hemispherical total and normal spectral emissivities were measured from 1 200 to 2 200 K. All the properties were obtained by means of the electrical pulse calorimetry technique using specimens in the form of a thin rod, of about 2 mm in diameter and 200 mm in length. For necessary corrections, literature data on thermal linear expansion have been used. All the results are compared with available literature data and discussed.
Comparison of fatigue crack growth rate of selective laser sintered RapidSteel via computational fracture mechanics
Authors: Okyar Ali Fethi , Uzunsoy Deniz , Ozsoy Burak
Published: April 2014

The fatigue-crack growth behavior of materials manufactured by means of selective laser sintering was studied. In the process, specimens were prepared from metal powders (316 steel) into the desired shape by additive manufacturing technology, followed by sintering and infiltration in a suitable molten metal. The latter process was aimed at eliminating the inherent porosity associated with powder metallurgy. Porosity is known to adversely affect the fatigue-crack growth rate behavior of powder metallurgy components. Carefully conducted fatigue-crack growth rate tests (single-edge-notch four-point bending type) were carried out on RapidSteelTMand the results were compared with data of infiltrated low carbon steel in the literature. Finite element analysis was carried out as an intermediate step in order to validate the geometry factor calculations provided by empirical formulae. It was found that the fracture resistance of RapidSteel was higher compared with low-carbon copper infiltrated steel tempered at 177 °C and 428 °C, and same as that tempered at 704 °C.
Influence of hot working on mechanical and physical properties of an Fe – Ni – Co alloy
Authors: Abbasi Seyed Mehdi , Momeni Amir , Morakkabati Maryam , Mahdavi Rashid
Published: April 2014

The flow behavior, mechanical and physical properties of alloy Fe-29 Ni-17 Co were studied using hot compression and hot rolling tests over the temperature range of 900 °C to1 200 °C and strain rates of 0.001 s−1 to 1 s−1. At temperatures below 1 100 °C, the flow curves were similar to those of dynamic recovery; whereas, at higher temperatures, faint peaks appeared on the flow curves. A modified power-law constitutive equation was used to model the dependences of flow stress on temperature and strain rate in different deformation regimes. The Kocks–Mecking equation was used to model the flow curves and to measure the mean flow stress of the material in hot rolling. The samples hot rolled at 1 100 – 1 200 °C to a reduction of 30 – 40 % showed the best combination of ductility and strength and low thermal expansion coefficient. Microstructures of the hot rolled samples indicated that hot rolling at 1 100 – 1 200 °C to reduction of 30 – 40 % leads to complete dynamic recrystallization.
Surgical Closure of Sacral Pressure Sores by Gluteal Skin Flap.
Authors: Khan Mohammad Rabiul Karim , Mannan Md Abdul , Dhar Liman Kumar , Khondoker Md Sazzad , Kalam Md Abul
Published: April 2014

Pressure sores are an ancient medical problem; even found during autopsies of Egyptian mummies. This prospective study was carried out in the Department of Plastic Surgery, Dhaka Medical College & Hospital (DMCH), Dhaka between January 2012 to December 2012 to evaluate the outcome of surgical closure of sacral pressure sores by Gluteal skin flaps. Twenty two patients admitted into DMCH with stage III & IV sacral pressure sores were included. Over two-thirds (68.2%) of the ulcers were in Stage-III and over three-quarters (77.3%) had signs of local infection. The average horizontal and vertical lengths of the defects before excision were 10.4 and 8.8 cm respectively which increased to 12.6 and 10.6 cm respectively after excision of dead and devitalized tissues. The average medial advancement of the flap was 6.3 cm. Postoperative flap-monitoring did not reveal infection, seroma or hematoma in any of the patients. Only 2(9.1%) patients had marginal flap loss. Marginal flap losses developed in two cases were excised and direct-suturing (secondary closure) were done. More than 90% of the patients exhibited good outcome. The study concluded that Gluteal skin flap produces good result in majority of the patients with large sacral sores with almost no complications or recurrences. The Gluteal skin flap has the advantages of muscle sparing, less donor site morbidity, versatility in design and less effort to harvest DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bdjps.v4i1.18684 Bangladesh Journal of Plastic Surgery January 2013, 4(1): 05-09
Use of Muscle Flaps in Burn Reconstruction
Authors: Abdullah Sk Nishat , Das Kishore Kumar , Hossain Md Zakir , Awwal Rayhana , Khondoker Md Sazzad , Kalam Md Abul
Published: April 2014

Electric burns are deep burns that by once-only or continuing stimulation of the nerves and striated muscles causes massive muscle contractions which can cause ruptures, ligamentous tears, fractures, and joint dislocations.High resistance of bone to the passage of electric current results in periosteal necrosis. Deep burns particularly electric burns when exposes structures valuable for important functions like joints, demands reconstructive options consisting robust viability and huge vascularity. The study was conducted in Department of plastic surgery and burn, Dhaka Medical College Hospital,Dhaka from June, 2011 to January, 2012. 18 patients were included in this series. Among them in ten patients gastrochnemius flap was applied, Lattissimus dorsi muscle flap was applied in 4 cases, Trapezius flap was applied in 2 cases and each of the other two patients were treated with Tensor fascia lata and Transverse Rectus Abdominis myocutaneous flap. Fifteen patients were adult and three patients were from paediatric age group. 88% of flaps were primarily used to cover exposed structures (bones and joints) and others were used to correct deformities. Complications include partial graft loss (3), joint stiffness(3), wound infection(1) and flap loss(1). Though these flaps are very commonly used in trauma reconstruction, their use in reconstruction in burn patients are included in this series. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bdjps.v4i1.18690 Bangladesh Journal of Plastic Surgery January 2013, 4(1): 29-31
Measures of Causality in Complex Datasets with Application to Financial Data
Authors: Zaremba Anna , Aste Tomaso
Published: April 2014

This article investigates the causality structure of financial time series. We concentrate on three main approaches to measuring causality: linear Granger causality, kernel generalisations of Granger causality (based on ridge regression and the Hilbert–Schmidt norm of the cross-covariance operator) and transfer entropy, examining each method and comparing their theoretical properties, with special attention given to the ability to capture nonlinear causality. We also present the theoretical benefits of applying non-symmetrical measures rather than symmetrical measures of dependence. We apply the measures to a range of simulated and real data. The simulated data sets were generated with linear and several types of nonlinear dependence, using bivariate, as well as multivariate settings. An application to real-world financial data highlights the practical difficulties, as well as the potential of the methods. We use two real data sets: (1) U.S. inflation and one-month Libor; (2) S&P data and exchange rates for the following currencies: AUDJPY, CADJPY, NZDJPY, AUDCHF, CADCHF, NZDCHF. Overall, we reach the conclusion that no single method can be recognised as the best in all circumstances, and each of the methods has its domain of best applicability. We also highlight areas for improvement and future research.
Exploiting Multimedia in Creating and Analysing Multimedia Web Archives
Authors: Hare Jonathon , Dupplaw David , Lewis Paul , Hall Wendy , Martinez Kirk
Published: April 2014

The data contained on the web and the social web are inherently multimedia and consist of a mixture of textual, visual and audio modalities. Community memories embodied on the web and social web contain a rich mixture of data from these modalities. In many ways, the web is the greatest resource ever created by human-kind. However, due to the dynamic and distributed nature of the web, its content changes, appears and disappears on a daily basis. Web archiving provides a way of capturing snapshots of (parts of) the web for preservation and future analysis. This paper provides an overview of techniques we have developed within the context of the EU funded ARCOMEM (ARchiving COmmunity MEMories) project to allow multimedia web content to be leveraged during the archival process and for post-archival analysis. Through a set of use cases, we explore several practical applications of multimedia analytics within the realm of web archiving, web archive analysis and multimedia data on the web in general.
Cineradiographic Analysis of Mouse Postural Response to Alteration of Gravity and Jerk (Gravity Deceleration Rate)
Authors: Hasegawa Katsuya , De Campos Priscila , Zeredo Jorge , Kumei Yasuhiro
Published: April 2014

The ability to maintain the body relative to the external environment is important for adaptation to altered gravity. However, the physiological limits for adaptation or the disruption of body orientation are not known. In this study, we analyzed postural changes in mice upon exposure to various low gravities. Male C57BL6/J mice (n = 6) were exposed to various gravity-deceleration conditions by customized parabolic flight-maneuvers targeting the partial-gravity levels of 0.60, 0.30, 0.15 and μ g (<0.001 g). Video recordings of postural responses were analyzed frame-by-frame by high-definition cineradiography and with exact instantaneous values of gravity and jerk. As a result, the coordinated extension of the neck, spine and hindlimbs was observed during the initial phase of gravity deceleration. Joint angles widened to 120%–200% of the reference g level, and the magnitude of the thoracic-curvature stretching was correlated with gravity and jerk, i.e., the gravity deceleration rate. A certain range of jerk facilitated mouse skeletal stretching efficiently, and a jerk of −0.3~−0.4 j (g/s) induced the maximum extension of the thoracic-curvature. The postural response of animals to low gravity may undergo differential regulation by gravity and jerk.
Computational Redox Potential Predictions: Applications to Inorganic and Organic Aqueous Complexes, and Complexes Adsorbed to Mineral Surfaces
Authors: Arumugam Krishnamoorthy , Becker Udo
Published: April 2014

Applications of redox processes range over a number of scientific fields. This review article summarizes the theory behind the calculation of redox potentials in solution for species such as organic compounds, inorganic complexes, actinides, battery materials, and mineral surface-bound-species. Different computational approaches to predict and determine redox potentials of electron transitions are discussed along with their respective pros and cons for the prediction of redox potentials. Subsequently, recommendations are made for certain necessary computational settings required for accurate calculation of redox potentials. This article reviews the importance of computational parameters, such as basis sets, density functional theory (DFT) functionals, and relativistic approaches and the role that physicochemical processes play on the shift of redox potentials, such as hydration or spin orbit coupling, and will aid in finding suitable combinations of approaches for different chemical and geochemical applications. Identifying cost-effective and credible computational approaches is essential to benchmark redox potential calculations against experiments. Once a good theoretical approach is found to model the chemistry and thermodynamics of the redox and electron transfer process, this knowledge can be incorporated into models of more complex reaction mechanisms that include diffusion in the solute, surface diffusion, and dehydration, to name a few. This knowledge is important to fully understand the nature of redox processes be it a geochemical process that dictates natural redox reactions or one that is being used for the optimization of a chemical process in industry. In addition, it will help identify materials that will be useful to design catalytic redox agents, to come up with materials to be used for batteries and photovoltaic processes, and to identify new and improved remediation strategies in environmental engineering, for example the reduction of actinides and their subsequent immobilization. Highly under-investigated is the role of redox-active semiconducting mineral surfaces as catalysts for promoting natural redox processes. Such knowledge is crucial to derive process-oriented mechanisms, kinetics, and rate laws for inorganic and organic redox processes in nature. In addition, molecular-level details still need to be explored and understood to plan for safer disposal of hazardous materials. In light of this, we include new research on the effect of iron-sulfide mineral surfaces, such as pyrite and mackinawite, on the redox chemistry of actinyl aqua complexes in aqueous solution.
Role of MicroRNA in Response to Ionizing Radiations: Evidences and Potential Impact on Clinical Practice for Radiotherapy
Authors: Cellini Francesco , Morganti Alessio , Genovesi Domenico , Silvestris Nicola , Valentini Vincenzo
Published: April 2014

MicroRNAs (miRNA) are small, non-coding, RNAs with gene expression regulator roles. As an important class of regulators of many cellular pathways, miRNAs are involved in many signaling pathways and DNA damage repair processes, affecting cellular radiosensitivity. Their role has led to interest in oncological implications to improve treatment results. MiRNAs represent a great opportunity to enhance the efficacy of radiotherapy treatments—they can be used to profile the radioresistance of tumors before radiotherapy, monitor their response throughout the treatment, thus helping to select intensification strategies, and also to define the final response to therapy along with risks of recurrence or metastatization. Even though many interesting studies support such potential, nowadays most studies on patient data are limited to experiments profiling tumor aggressiveness and response to radiotherapy. Moreover many studies report different although not conflicting results on the miRNAs evaluated for each tumor type. Without doubt, the clinical potential of such molecules for radiotherapy is striking and of high interest.
Quantification, Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activity of Phenolics Isolated from Different Extracts of Capsicum frutescens (Pimenta Malagueta)
Authors: Nascimento Patrícia , Nascimento Talita , Ramos Natália , Silva Girliane , Gomes José , Falcão Rosângela , Moreira Keila , Porto Ana , Silva Tania
Published: April 2014

This paper presents the quantification, antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of capsaicin, dihydrocapsaicin and the flavonoid chrysoeriol isolated from different extracts (hexane and acetonitrile extracts from whole fruit, peel and seed) of Capsicum frutescens (pimenta malagueta). The acetonitrile extract of the seeds, peel and whole fruits contained capsaicin as a major component, followed in abundance by dihydrocapsaicin and chrysoeriol. The antimicrobial activity of the isolated compounds against seven microorganisms showed chrysoeriol was the most active compound. In the antioxidant test, the acetonitrile extract from the whole fruit showed the highest activity. The antioxidant activity of pimenta malagueta may be correlated with its phenolic content, principally with the most active compound, capsaicin.
Two Ellagic Acids Isolated from Roots of Sanguisorba officinalis L. Promote Hematopoietic Progenitor Cell Proliferation and Megakaryocyte Differentiation
Authors: Gao Xiaoping , Wu Jianming , Zou Wenjun , Dai Yanping
Published: April 2014

Using a bioassay-directed chromatographic separation, two ellagic acids were obtained from the ethyl acetate extract of the roots of Sanguisorba officinalis L. On the basis of chemical and spectroscopic methods, the two ellagic acids were identified as 3,3',4-tri-O-methylellagic acid-4'-O-β-d-xyloside and 3,3',4-tri-O-methylellagic acid. Stimulation of cell proliferation was assayed in hematopoietic progenitor cells using the Cell Counting kit-8 method. The megakaryocyte differentiation was determined in human erythroleukemia (HEL) cells using Giemsa staining and flow cytometry analysis. The ellagic acids significantly stimulated the proliferation of Baf3/Mpl cells. Morphology analysis and megakaryocyte specific-marker CD41 staining confirmed that the ellagic acids induced megakaryocyte differentiation in HEL cells. This is the first time that 3,3',4-tri-O-methylellagic acid or 3,3',4-tri-O-methylellagic acid-4'-O-β-d-xyloside are reported to induce megakaryopoiesis, suggesting a class of small molecules which differ from others non-peptidyl, and appears to have potential for clinical development as a therapeutic agent for patients with blood platelet disorders.
Obesity and Lifespan Health—Importance of the Fetal Environment
Authors: Tarantal Alice , Berglund Lars
Published: April 2014

A marked increase in the frequency of obesity at the population level has resulted in an increasing number of obese women entering pregnancy. The increasing realization of the importance of the fetal environment in relation to chronic disease across the lifespan has focused attention on the role of maternal obesity in fetal development. Previous studies have demonstrated that obesity during adolescence and adulthood can be traced back to fetal and early childhood exposures. This review focuses on factors that contribute to early developmental events, such as epigenetic modifications, the potential for an increase in inflammatory burden, early developmental programming changes such as the variable development of white versus brown adipose tissue, and alterations in organ ontogeny. We hypothesize that these mechanisms promote an unfavorable fetal environment and can have a long-standing impact, with early manifestations of chronic disease that can result in an increased demand for future health care. In order to identify appropriate preventive measures, attention needs to be placed both on reducing maternal obesity as well as understanding the molecular, cellular, and epigenetic mechanisms that may be responsible for the prenatal onset of chronic disease.
Non-Destructive Quality Evaluation of Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) Seeds Using LED-Induced Hyperspectral Reflectance Imaging
Authors: Mo Changyeun , Kim Giyoung , Lee Kangjin , Kim Moon , Cho Byoung-Kwan , Lim Jongguk , Kang Sukwon
Published: April 2014

In this study, we developed a viability evaluation method for pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) seeds based on hyperspectral reflectance imaging. The reflectance spectra of pepper seeds in the 400–700 nm range are collected from hyperspectral reflectance images obtained using blue, green, and red LED illumination. A partial least squares–discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) model is developed to classify viable and non-viable seeds. Four spectral ranges generated with four types of LEDs (blue, green, red, and RGB), which were pretreated using various methods, are investigated to develop the classification models. The optimal PLS-DA model based on the standard normal variate for RGB LED illumination (400–700 nm) yields discrimination accuracies of 96.7% and 99.4% for viable seeds and nonviable seeds, respectively. The use of images based on the PLS-DA model with the first-order derivative of a 31.5-nm gap for red LED illumination (600–700 nm) yields 100% discrimination accuracy for both viable and nonviable seeds. The results indicate that a hyperspectral imaging technique based on LED light can be potentially applied to high-quality pepper seed sorting.
Floor Sensing System Using Laser Reflectivity for Localizing Everyday Objects and Robot
Authors: Pyo Yoonseok , Hasegawa Tsutomu , Tsuji Tokuo , Kurazume Ryo , Morooka Ken'ichi
Published: April 2014

This paper describes a new method of measuring the position of everyday objects and a robot on the floor using distance and reflectance acquired by laser range finder (LRF). The information obtained by this method is important for a service robot working in a human daily life environment. Our method uses only one LRF together with a mirror installed on the wall. Moreover, since the area of sensing is limited to a LRF scanning plane parallel to the floor and just a few centimeters above the floor, the scanning covers the whole room with minimal invasion of privacy of a resident, and occlusion problem is mitigated by using mirror. We use the reflection intensity and position information obtained from the target surface. Although it is not possible to identify all objects by additionally using reflection values, it would be easier to identify unknown objects if we can eliminate easily identifiable objects by reflectance. In addition, we propose a method for measuring the robot’s pose using the tag which has the encoded reflection pattern optically identified by the LRF. Our experimental results validate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
The Enhanced Locating Performance of an Integrated Cross-Correlation and Genetic Algorithm for Radio Monitoring Systems
Authors: Chang Yao-Tang , Wu Chi-Lin , Cheng Hsu-Chih
Published: April 2014

The rapid development of wireless broadband communication technology has affected the location accuracy of worldwide radio monitoring stations that employ time-difference-of-arrival (TDOA) location technology. In this study, TDOA-based location technology was implemented in Taiwan for the first time according to International Telecommunications Union Radiocommunication (ITU-R) recommendations regarding monitoring and location applications. To improve location accuracy, various scenarios, such as a three-dimensional environment (considering an unequal locating antenna configuration), were investigated. Subsequently, the proposed integrated cross-correlation and genetic algorithm was evaluated in the metropolitan area of Tainan. The results indicated that the location accuracy at a circular error probability of 50% was less than 60 m when a multipath effect was present in the area. Moreover, compared with hyperbolic algorithms that have been applied in conventional TDOA-based location systems, the proposed algorithm yielded 17-fold and 19-fold improvements in the mean difference when the location position of the interference station was favorable and unfavorable, respectively. Hence, the various forms of radio interference, such as low transmission power, burst and weak signals, and metropolitan interference, was proved to be easily identified, located, and removed.
The Use of Recently Developed Histochemical Markers for Localizing Neurotoxicant Induced Regional Brain Pathologies
Authors: Sarkar Sumit , Raymick James , Schmued Larry
Published: April 2014

Neuronal and vascular brain components are interrelated morphologically, physiologically and developmentally. Due to this close interrelationship, it is often difficult to understand the cause and effect relationship between neuronal vs. vascular dysfunction and pathology. This review will discuss four of the more promising recent developments for detecting vascular pathology, and will compare them with the labeling pattern seen with markers of glial and neuronal pathology; following exposure to well characterized neurotoxicants. To detect the vascular dysfunction in the brain, we recently developed a Fluoro-Turquoise gelatin conjugate (FT-gel), a fluorescent probe that helps to delineate between healthy vs. sclerotic vessels. Similarly, we have investigated the potential for Fluoro-Gold to label in vivo all the endothelial cells in the brain as they co-localize with RECA, an endothelial cell marker. We have also developed Amylo-Glo, a fluorescent tracer that can detect neurotoxic A-beta aggregates in the brain. In this article, we will discuss the potential use of these novel histochemical markers to study the neurotoxicant induced brain. We will also discuss neurovascular strategies that may offer novel therapeutic opportunities for neurodegenerative disorders.
Review and Research Needs of Bioretention Used for the Treatment of Urban Stormwater
Authors: Liu Jia , Sample David , Bell Cameron , Guan Yuntao
Published: April 2014

The continued development of urban areas in recent decades has caused multiple issues affecting the sustainability of urban drainage systems. The increase of impervious surface areas in urban regions alters watershed hydrology and water quality. Typical impacts to downstream hydrologic regimes include higher peak flows and runoff volumes, shorter lag times, and reduced infiltration and base flow. Urban runoff increases the transport of pollutants and nutrients and thus degrades water bodies downstream from urban areas. One of the most frequently used practices to mitigate these impacts is bioretention. Despite its widespread use, research on bioretention systems remains active, particularly in terms of mix design and nitrogen treatment. Recent research focusing on bioretention is reviewed herein. The use of mesocosms provides the ability to isolate particular treatment processes and replicate variability. Computational models have been adapted and applied to simulate bioretention, offering potential improvements to their operation, maintenance, and design. Maintenance practices are important for sustained operation and have also been reviewed. Predicting maintenance is essential to assessing lifecycle costs. Within these research areas, gaps are explored, and recommendations made for future work.
Preemptive Tolerogenic Delivery of Donor Antigens for Permanent Allogeneic Islet Graft Protection
Authors: Wang Shusen , Zhang Xiaomin , Zhang Lei , Bryant Jane , Kheradmand Taba , Hering Bernhard J. , Miller Stephen D. , Luo Xunrong
Published: April 2014

We have previously developed a robust regimen for tolerance induction in murine models of islet cell transplantation using pre- and posttransplant infusions of donor splenocytes (SPs) treated with a chemical cross-linker ethylcarbodiimide (ECDI). However, the requirement for large numbers of fresh donor SPs for ECDI coupling impairs its clinical feasibility, and additionally, the compatibility of this tolerance regimen with commonly used immunosuppressive drugs is largely unknown. In the current study, we demonstrate that equivalent tolerance efficacy for islet cell transplantation can be successfully achieved not only with a significantly lower dose of ECDI-SPs than originally established but also with culture-expanded donor B-cells or with soluble donor antigens in the form of donor cell lysate, which is ECDI coupled to recipient SPs. We further demonstrate that tolerance induced by donor ECDI-SPs is dependent on a favorable apoptotic-to-necrotic cell ratio post-ECDI coupling and is not affected by a transient course of conventional immunosuppressive drugs including tacrolimus and mycophenolate mofetil. While splenic antigen-presenting cells of the recipient play an important role in mediating the tolerogenic effects of donor ECDI-SPs, splenectomized recipients can be readily tolerized and appear to employ liver Kupffer cells for uptaking and processing of the ECDI-SPs. We conclude that infusion of donor ECDI-SPs is a versatile tolerance strategy that has a high potential for adaptation to clinically feasible regimens for tolerance trials for human islet cell transplantation.
Application of Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells in Liver Diseases
Authors: Yu Yue , Wang Xuehao , Nyberg Scott L.
Published: April 2014

Tens of millions of patients are affected by liver disease worldwide. Many of these patients can benefit from therapy involving hepatocyte transplantation. Liver transplantation is presently the only proven treatment for many medically refractory liver diseases including end-stage liver failure and inherited metabolic liver disease. However, the shortage in transplantable livers prevents over 40% of listed patients per year from receiving a liver transplant; many of these patients die before receiving an organ offer or become too sick to transplant. Therefore, new therapies are needed to supplement whole-organ liver transplantation and reduce mortality on waiting lists worldwide. Furthermore, the remarkable regenerative capacity of hepatocytes in vivo is exemplified by the increasing number of innovative cell-based therapies and animal models of human liver disorders. Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) have similar properties to those of embryonic stem cells (ESCs) but bypass the ethical concerns of embryo destruction. Therefore, generation of hepatocyte-like cells (HLCs) using iPSC technology may be beneficial for the treatment of severe liver diseases, screening of drug toxicities, basic research of several hepatocytic disorders, and liver transplantation. Here we briefly summarize the growing number of potential applications of iPSCs for treatment of liver disease.
Nonanebis(peroxoic acid): a stable peracid for oxidative bromination of aminoanthracene-9,10-dione
Authors: Patil Vilas Venunath , Shankarling Ganapati Subray
Published: April 2014

A new protocol for the oxidative bromination of aminoanthracene-9,10-dione, which is highly deactivated towards the electrophilic substitution is investigated. The peracid, nonanebis(peroxoic acid), possesses advantages such as better stability at room temperature, it is easy to prepare and non-shock sensitiv as compared to the conventional peracids. The present protocol has a broad scope for the bromination of various substituted and unsubstituted aminoanthracene-9,10-diones.