bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrating biophysical controls in forest growth and yield predictions with artificial intelligence technology
Authors: Ashraf M. Irfan , Zhao Zhengyong , Bourque Charles P.-A. , MacLean David A. , Meng Fan-Rui
Published: October 2013

Growth and yield models are critically important for forest management planning. Biophysical factors such as light, temperature, soil water, and nutrient conditions are known to have major impacts on tree growth. However, it is difficult to incorporate these biophysical variables into growth and yield models due to large variation and complex nonlinear relationships between variables. In this study, artificial intelligence technology was used to develop individual-tree-based basal area (BA) and volume increment models. The models successfully account for the effects of incident solar radiation, growing degree days, and indices of soil water and nutrient availability on BA and volume increments of over 40 species at 5-year intervals. The models were developed using data from over 3000 permanent sample plots across the province of Nova Scotia, Canada. Model validation with independent field data produced model efficiencies of 0.38 and 0.60 for the predictions of BA and volume increments, respectively. The models are applicable to predict tree growth in mixed species, even- or uneven-aged forests in Nova Scotia but can easily be calibrated for other climatic and geographic regions. Artificial neural network models demonstrated better prediction accuracy than conventional regression-based approaches. Artificial intelligence techniques have considerable potential in forest growth and yield modelling.
Evaluation of changes in the haemoglobin of skin and muscle tissue of the calf, as induced by topical application of a nonivamide/nicoboxil cream
Authors: Warnecke Jan M. , Wendt Thomas , Winkler Stefan , Schak Matthias , Schiffer Thorsten , Kohl-Bareis Matthias
Published: October 2013

Topical agents like nonivamide and nicoboxil induce hyperaemisation and increase cutaneous blood flow and temperature. This study aimed to determine the effects of a nonivamide–nicoboxil cream on haemodynamics in the skin and calf muscle, via optical spectroscopy, discriminating between the changes for skin and muscle. Optical spectroscopy was applied in the visible (VIS) and near-infrared (NIR) wavelength range. The study determined the effect of the cream on changes in oxygenated (ΔoxyHb) and deoxygenated (ΔdeoxyHb) haemoglobin in skin and muscle, as well as on tissue oxygen saturation (SO2) in the skin of 14 healthy subjects. The left and right calves of the subjects were either treated with nonivamide–nicoboxil cream or were sham-administered. NIR spectroscopy allows noninvasive in-vivo examination of the oxygenation of human skeletal muscle. Topical administration of the nonivamide–nicoboxil cream significantly increased the concentration of oxygenated haemoglobin and tissue oxygen saturation in the skin, as well as the concentration of oxygenated haemoglobin in the muscle of the treated legs after 15 min, but with stronger and faster effects in the skin. The topical application of the nonivamide–nicoboxil cream increased blood flow in (smaller vessels of) the skin and muscle tissues.
Carnitine modulates crucial myocardial adenosine triphosphatases and acetylcholinesterase enzyme activities in choline-deprived rats
Authors: Strilakou Athina A. , Tsakiris Stylianos T. , Kalafatakis Konstantinos G. , Stylianaki Aikaterini T. , Karkalousos Petros L. , Koulouris Andreas V. , Mourouzis Iordanis S. , Liapi Charis A.
Published: October 2013

Choline is an essential nutrient, and choline deficiency has been associated with cardiovascular morbidity. Choline is also the precursor of acetylcholine (cholinergic component of the heart’s autonomic nervous system), whose levels are regulated by acetylcholinesterase (AChE). Cardiac contraction–relaxation cycles depend on ion gradients established by pumps like the adenosine triphosphatases (ATPases) Na+/K+-ATPase and Mg2+-ATPase. This study aimed to investigate the impact of dietary choline deprivation on the activity of rat myocardial AChE (cholinergic marker), Na+/K+-ATPase, and Mg2+-ATPase, and the possible effects of carnitine supplementation (carnitine, structurally relevant to choline, is used as an adjunct in treating cardiac diseases). Adult male albino Wistar rats were distributed among 4 groups, and were fed a standard or choline-deficient diet for one month with or without carnitine in their drinking water (0.15% w/v). The enzyme activities were determined spectrophotometrically in the myocardium homogenate. Choline deficiency seems to affect the activity of the aforementioned parameters, but only the combination of choline deprivation and carnitine supplementation increased myocardial Na+/K+-ATPase activity along with a concomitant decrease in the activities of Mg2+-ATPase and AChE. The results suggest that carnitine, in the setting of choline deficiency, modulates cholinergic myocardial neurotransmission and the ATPase activity in favour of cardiac work efficiency.
Cross-Border Bank Mergers and Acquisitions: What Factors Pull and Push Banks Together?
Authors: Lin Dongyun , Barth James , Jahera John , Yost Keven
Published: October 2013

This paper evaluates factors that encourage or impede cross-border mergers and acquisitions in banking. The effects of bank specific features, as well as bank regulatory factors, from both target and acquiring banks' perspectives, are estimated. Three comprehensive databases are combined to provide a unique dataset to study cross-border merger and acquisition activities of banks. Banking sector regulatory variables included make this study among the first to empirically and comprehensively analyze the interrelationship between bank regulation and cross-border bank mergers and acquisitions. The results indicate that both bank characteristics and country specific characteristics are important determinants of banks' cross-border merger and acquisition activities.
FOUNDATIONS FOR MODELING THE DYNAMICS OF GENE REGULATORY NETWORKS: A MULTILEVEL-PERSPECTIVE REVIEW
Authors: SANCHEZ-OSORIO ISMAEL , RAMOS FERNANDO , MAYORGA PEDRO , DANTAN EDGAR
Published: October 2013

A promising alternative for unraveling the principles under which the dynamic interactions among genes lead to cellular phenotypes relies on mathematical and computational models at different levels of abstraction, from the molecular level of protein-DNA interactions to the system level of functional relationships among genes. This review article presents, under a bottom–up perspective, a hierarchy of approaches to modeling gene regulatory network dynamics, from microscopic descriptions at the single-molecule level in the spatial context of an individual cell to macroscopic models providing phenomenological descriptions at the population-average level. The reviewed modeling approaches include Molecular Dynamics, Particle-Based Brownian Dynamics, the Master Equation approach, Ordinary Differential Equations, and the Boolean logic abstraction. Each of these frameworks is motivated by a particular biological context and the nature of the insight being pursued. The setting of gene network dynamic models from such frameworks involves assumptions and mathematical artifacts often ignored by the non-specialist. This article aims at providing an entry point for biologists new to the field and computer scientists not acquainted with some recent biophysically-inspired models of gene regulation. The connections promoting intuition between different abstraction levels and the role that approximations play in the modeling process are highlighted throughout the paper.
BREADTH-FIRST SEARCH APPROACH TO ENUMERATION OF TREE-LIKE CHEMICAL COMPOUNDS
Authors: ZHAO YANG , HAYASHIDA MORIHIRO , JINDALERTUDOMDEE JIRA , NAGAMOCHI HIROSHI , AKUTSU TATSUYA
Published: October 2013

Molecular enumeration plays a basic role in the design of drugs, which has been studied by mathematicians, computer scientists, and chemists for quite a long time. Although many researchers are involved in developing enumeration algorithms specific to drug design systems, molecular enumeration is still a hard problem to date due to its exponentially increasing large search space with larger number of atoms. To alleviate this defect, we propose efficient algorithms, BfsSimEnum and BfsMulEnum to enumerate tree-like molecules without and with multiple bonds, respectively, where chemical compounds are represented as molecular graphs. In order to reduce the large search space, we adjust some important concepts such as left-heavy, center-rooted, and normal form to molecular tree graphs. Different from many existing approaches, BfsSimEnum and BfsMulEnum firstly enumerate tree-like compounds by breadth-first search order. Computational experiments are performed to compare with several existing methods. The results suggest that our proposed methods are exact and more efficient.
EXPERIMENTAL STUDY AND APPLICATION OF METALLIC YIELDING–FRICTION DAMPER
Authors: LI GANG , LI HONG-NAN
Published: October 2013

In this paper, a new idea for designing the metallic yielding–friction damper (MYFD) is presented based on the principle that the metallic plate can be used for yielding and can be the friction component of the passive energy dissipation device (PEDD). This type of damper is so-called the MYFD, because it consists of yielding part and friction part. Phased energy dissipation is realized throughout the metallic yielding plate and friction plate combination where friction behavior is prior to yielding behavior. The quasi-static test with two small-scale MYFDs is carried out. Then, it is applied in an actual reinforced concrete building. The design method and fitting process of the MYFDs are introduced. In order to compare seismic responses of the building with and without the dampers, a dynamic analysis of the building under earthquakes is performed. The results show that the MYFD presented here possess good ability of seismic energy dissipation.
Moisture content in raw rubber sheet analyzed by transflectance near infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Rittiron Ronnarit , Seehalak Worapa
Published: October 2013

Moisture content is an important trait for rubber sheet trading system. Therefore, a calibration equation for predicting moisture content was created by near infrared (NIR) technique in order to develop a more fair trading system in Thailand. Spectra were recorded in two systems. One was measurement on each rubber sheet and the other was on a pile of sheets. Both were measured by a handheld NIR spectrometer in the short wavelength region (700–1100 nm) in the transflectance mode using Teflon as a diffuse reflector. The spectra showed the peak at about 900 nm which belongs to isoprene, the major component of rubber sheet. Pretreatment with second derivative was applied to remove baseline shift effect occurring due to thickness differences on each rubber sheet. From validation results, moisture contents predicted by single sheet system were more accurate than a pile of sheet system with standard error of prediction (SEP) = 0.39% and bias of -0.07%, and they were not significantly different from the actual values at 95% confidence. As a result, determining moisture content in each rubber sheet by a handheld NIR spectrometer provided accurate values, easy and rapid operation.
ELECTRONIC AND MAGNETIC PROPERTIES OF SILICENE AND SILICANE NANORIBBONS
Authors: LI KAI , LEE ANNA SHIN HWA , ZHANG YONG-WEI , PAN HUI
Published: October 2013

In this paper, first-principles calculations are carried out to study the electronic and magnetic properties of silicene and silicane nanoribbons, with and without H -passivation at the edges. We predict that the armchair nanoribbons are nonmagnetic and semiconducting. Interestingly, the band gaps of armchair silicene nanoribbons show oscillating behavior as the ribbon width increases. When their edges are passivated with H atoms, However, the oscillating phase is reversed. The zigzag nanoribbons are anti-ferromagnetic and semiconducting in their ground states, except that the zigzag silicane nanoribbons with edges passivated by H atoms are nonmagnetic. The zigzag silicane nanoribbons with bare edges show the highest magnetic moments in their ground states. The band gaps of zigzag nanoribbons in their ground states decrease with the increment of width. The metastable states of zigzag silicene nanoribbons are ferromagnetic and metallic. The zigzag silicane nanoribbons with bare edges are ferromagnetic and semiconducting in their metastable states. The silicene/silicane nanoribbons with attractive functions, which are achievable by edge engineering or external fields, may be applied to spintronic technologies and nanodevices.
Chapter 13 Eruptive, volcano-tectonic and magmatic history of the Stromboli volcano (north-eastern Aeolian archipelago)
Authors: Francalanci L. , Lucchi F. , Keller J. , De Astis G. , Tranne C. A.
Published: October 2013

Stromboli is famous for its persistent volcanic activity consisting of periodic discrete explosions alternating with lava effusion and more violent explosions. This paper presents a detailed reconstruction of the geological history of Stromboli and description of the characteristics and distribution of the volcanic units and structural features. Six main growth stages (Eruptive Epochs 1–6), in addition to the
c.
200 ka activity of Strombolicchio, are recognized between
c.
85 ka and the present day, displaying a magma composition ranging from calc-alkaline to potassic series which usually varies with changing Eruptive Epochs. The Epochs are subdivided into sequences of eruptions and characterized by dominant central-vent summit activity with episodic phases of flank activity along fissures and eccentric vents. The activity was repeatedly interrupted by erosional and destructive phases driven by recurrent vertical caldera-type (cc1–5) and sector (and flank) collapses (sc1–7) and generally associated with significant quiescences. The different serial character of the Stromboli rocks is associated with largely variable trace element contents and isotope ratios. These petrochemical characteristics together with our new stratigraphy indicate that magmas, generated in a heterogeneous mantle wedge, underwent complex differentiation processes during their ascent. Magmas are characterized by polybaric evolution residing in small magma reservoirs that are alternatively tapped by the different collapses.

DVD:

The 10 000 scale geological map of Stromboli is included on the DVD in the printed book and can also be accessed online at
http://www.geolsoc.org.uk/Memoir37-electronic
. Also included is a full geochemical dataset for Stromboli.
Comparative Reproductive Energetics of Human and Nonhuman Primates
Authors: Emery Thompson Melissa
Published: October 2013

Primates as a group exhibit high reproductive costs, departing in numerous ways from expectations derived from other mammals. Yet, there is also substantial life-history variation within primates that affects the costs of producing offspring and how these costs are distributed over time. Whereas general phylogenetic and allometric trends are well established, issues regarding the mechanisms that regulate energy allocations remain unresolved. This review examines reproductive energetics across primates, placing them in context with other mammals and comparing how reproductive processes change as body and brain size increase. The three major stages of reproduction (conception, pregnancy, and lactation) are examined along with the reproductive adaptations that facilitate them: breeding seasonality, placental formation, breast milk production, body fat, and communal breeding. Throughout, this review examines how comparative primate energetics can help illuminate the unique adaptations that allow humans to produce extraordinarily costly offspring at an unexpectedly high rate.
Ourselves and Others
Authors: Béteille André
Published: October 2013

This is an account of the life and work of a person who was trained as an anthropologist in the University of Calcutta and then made his career in a department of sociology in the University of Delhi, where he is now professor emeritus. The career, in both teaching and research, described here has been built on the presumption of the unity of sociology and social anthropology, whereas in the West, and particularly in the United States, the disciplines are organized on the presumption of their separation. In this article I have discussed my relations with colleagues and students from both India and overseas. The bias in favor of the unity of sociology and social anthropology present throughout my work comes naturally to someone who takes for granted the unity of India, which is a very large country encompassing the most diverse range of social formations.
Search for Superheavy Nuclei
Authors: Hamilton J.H. , Hofmann S. , Oganessian Y.T.
Published: October 2013

We describe the discoveries of new superheavy nuclei (a) with Z=107–112 produced in cold fusion reactions between208Pb and209Bi and beams of A > 50 and (b) with Z=113–118 in hot fusion reactions between actinide nuclei and48Ca. We also discuss the facilities used in these measurements. We compare the behavior of the α-decay energies and half-lives, spontaneous fission half-lives, cross sections, and excitation functions with expectations from theoretical calculations. Finally, we outline future research directions, including studies of the detailed properties of nuclei synthesized at higher yields, searches for new elements with Z=119 and 120, and developments of new facilities.
An Effective In Situ Drifts Analysis of the Solid Electrolyte Interface in Lithium-Ion Battery
Authors: Haregewoin Atetegeb Meazah , Shie Tzung-Da , Lin Shawn D. , Hwang Bing-Joe , Wang Fu-Ming
Published: October 2013

In this work, we report a house-design spectroelectrochemical cell and the procedures for in situ diffusion reflectance Fourier transform spectroscopy (DRIFTS) analysis of the nature and formation process of the solid electrolyte interface (SEI) layer in lithium ion battery. The electrochemical performance of the designed cell is confirmed with both aqueous and non-aqueous systems and the results show its good applicability for the analysis of electrochemical reactions. While performing in situ spectroscopy analysis, a thin electrolyte layer is kept under circulation to minimize electrolyte masking effect and to maintain constant electrolyte composition. The specroelectrochemical performance of the cell was studied using 1 M LiPF6 in EC:DEC (1:1) and the DRIFTS results show the formation of (CH2OCO2Li)2 and Li2CO3 due to EC reduction and CH3CH2OCO2Li and Li2CO3 due to DEC reduction.
Pretreatment of Woven Jute FRP Composite and Its Use in Strengthening of Reinforced Concrete Beams in Flexure
Authors: Sen Tara , Reddy H. N. Jagannatha
Published: October 2013

Environmental awareness motivates researchers worldwide to perform studies of natural fibre reinforced polymer composites, as they come with many advantages and are primarily sustainable. The present study aims at evaluating the mechanical characteristics of natural woven jute fibre reinforced polymer (FRP) composite subjected to three different pretreatments, alkali, benzyl chloride, and lastly heat treatment. It was concluded that heat treatment is one of the most suitable treatment methods for enhancing mechanical properties of jute FRP. Durability studies on Jute FRP pertaining to some common environmental conditions were also carried out such as effect of normal water and thermal aging on the tensile strength of jute FRP followed by fire flow test. The heat treated woven jute FRP composites were subsequently used for flexural strengthening of reinforced concrete beams in full and strip wrapping configurations. The study includes the effect of flexural strengthening provided by woven jute FRP, study of different failure modes, load deflection behavior, effect on the first crack load, and ultimate flexural strength of concrete beams strengthened using woven jute FRP subjected to bending loads. The study concludes that woven jute FRP is a suitable material which can be used for flexural upgradation of reinforced concrete beams.
pH‐Sensing Characteristics of Hydrothermal Al‐Doped ZnO Nanostructures
Authors: Wang Jyh-Liang , Yang Po-Yu , Hsieh Tsang-Yen , Hwang Chuan-Chou , Juang Miin-Horng
Published: October 2013

Highly sensitive and stable pH‐sensing properties of an extended‐gate field‐effect transistor (EGFET) based on the aluminum‐doped ZnO (AZO) nanostructures have been demonstrated. The AZO nanostructures with different Al concentrations were synthesized on AZO/glass substrate via a simple hydrothermal growth method at 85°C. The AZO sensing nanostructures were connected with the metal‐oxide‐semiconductor field‐effect transistor (MOSFET). Afterwards, the current‐voltage (I-V) characteristics and the sensing properties of the pH‐EGFET sensors were obtained in different buffer solutions, respectively. As a result, the pH‐sensing characteristics of AZO nanostructured pH‐EGFET sensors with Al dosage of 3 at.% can exhibit the higher sensitivity of 57.95 mV/pH, the larger linearity of 0.9998, the smaller deviation of 0.023 in linearity, the lower drift rate of 1.27 mV/hour, and the lower threshold voltage of 1.32 V with a wider sensing range (pH 1 ~ pH 13). Hence, the outstanding stability and durability of AZO nanostructured ionic EGFET sensors are attractive for the electrochemical application of flexible and disposable biosensor.
New Traveling Wave Solutions to the Vakhnenko-Parkes Equation
Authors: Liu XiaoHua , He Caixia
Published: October 2013

We apply the improved (G′/G) expansion method to the Vakhnenko-Parkes equation. As a result, many new and more general exact solutions have been obtained for the equation. Comparing our solutions with those gained by other authors indicates that the improved (G′/G) expansion is more effective in solving the general solutions to differential equations.
A Longitudinal Study of Changes in Thyroid Related Hormones among Pregnant Women Residing in an Iodine Deficient Urban Area
Authors: Elahi Shan , Hussain Zaib
Published: October 2013

Problem Statement. Thyroid gland in women undergoes functional changes during pregnancy. A few studies have described such changes in pregnant women residing in iodine deficient areas. Objective. To document these changes in pregnant women residing in Lahore, a low iodine intake urban area of Pakistan. Patients and Methods. In 254 pregnant women, data of FT4, FT3, and TSH during the first and subsequent trimesters were obtained and compared with those of 110 nonpregnant women. These hormones were determined in serum by radioimmunoassay (RIA) techniques using commercial kits. Results. Compared to nonpregnant women mean FT4 level was decreased, and FT3 and TSH increased significantly () in pregnant women. A negative correlation of FT4 with TSH was observed in all three trimesters. Serum FT3 was positively correlated with TSH only during the third trimester. As a function of gestation time, FT4 levels progressively decreased, and FT3 and TSH levels increased significantly (one-way ANOVA = 108.2, 17.3, and 44.8, resp.; all ) exhibiting thyroid gland adaptations. Conclusion. Pregnancy is associated with significant alterations in thyroid function due to low iodine intake in women residing in study area. The compensated thyroid function poses a risk of thyroid failure in a number of pregnant women.
Morphological and Molecular Description of Phytophthora insolita Isolated from Citrus Orchard in India
Authors: Bawage Swapnil , Nerkar Sagar , Kumar Ashok , Das Ashis
Published: October 2013

Citrus, an important cash crop in India, is adversely affected by Phytophthora nicotianae, P. palmivora, and P. citrophthora. Phytophthora insolita is known to be associated with citrus and reported for the first time in India. It is a rare and poorly characterized Phytophthora species, as its natural host and pathogenic impact are unclear. Previously, it was reported only in Taiwan and China; so to confirm our suspected isolate is P. insolita, regions of internal transcribed spacer, elongation factor, beta-tubulin, and cytochrome oxidase genes were sequenced. This study provides description of the lone Indian P. insolita isolate with respect to molecular identity, morphology, mating behaviour, and pathogenicity.
Ag Nanoparticles: Experimental Study of Sign Identification of Nonlinear Refractive Index by Moiré Deflectometry and Z-Scan Methods
Authors: Granmayeh Rad Adeleh , Madanipour Khosro , Koohian Ata
Published: October 2013

Two different methods are presented for the sign identification of nonlinear refractive index () of Ag colloidal nanoparticles which are based on nonscanning Moiré deflectometry and Z-scan. In the Moiré deflectometry setup, two lasers are used, one is used as pump laser which causes thermal nonlinear effects in the sample, and the second one is used as the probe laser for monitoring these effects by Moiré deflectometry system. By observing the deflected Moiré fringes, we can determine the sign of nonlinear refractive index in real time, and there would be no need for calibration or complicated calculations. The second technique for sign identification is Z-scan. In this technique, a CW 532 nm second harmonic Nd:YAG laser with a beam power of 55 mW is used as the excitation source. Results show that the nonlinear refractive index is negative for Ag nanoparticles in pure water by both methods.
The Effect of Electroacupuncture on Osteosarcoma Tumor Growth and Metastasis: Analysis of Different Treatment Regimens
Authors: Smeester Branden A. , Al-Gizawiy Mona , O’Brien Elaine E. , Ericson Marna E. , Triemstra Jennifer L. , Beitz Alvin J.
Published: October 2013

Osteosarcoma is the most common malignant bone tumor found in children and adolescents and is associated with many complications including cancer pain and metastasis. While cancer patients often seek complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) approaches to treat cancer pain and fatigue or the side effects of chemotherapy and treatment, there is little known about the effect of acupuncture treatment on tumor growth and metastasis. Here we evaluate the effects of six different electroacupuncture (EA) regimens on osteosarcoma tumor growth and metastasis in both male and female mice. The most significant positive effects were observed when EA was applied to the ST-36 acupoint twice weekly (EA-2X/3) beginning at postimplantation day 3 (PID 3). Twice weekly treatment produced robust reductions in tumor growth. Conversely, when EA was applied twice weekly (EA-2X/7), starting at PID 7, there was a significant increase in tumor growth. We further demonstrate that EA-2X/3 treatment elicits significant reductions in tumor lymphatics, vasculature, and innervation. Lastly, EA-2X/3 treatment produced a marked reduction in pulmonary metastasis, thus providing evidence for EA’s potential antimetastatic capabilities. Collectively, EA-2X/3 treatment was found to reduce both bone tumor growth and lung metastasis, which may be mediated in part through reductions in tumor-associated vasculature, lymphatics, and innervation.
Optimization and Evaluation of Desloratadine Oral Strip: An Innovation in Paediatric Medication
Authors: Singh Harmanpreet , Kaur Mandeep , Verma Hitesh
Published: October 2013

Patients, especially children, are the most difficult to treat in all groups of population mainly because they can not swallow the solid dosage form. Due to this reason they are often prescribed liquid dosage forms. But these formulations have their own disadvantages (lack of dose accuracy during administration, spitting by children, spillage, lack of stability, difficulty in transportation, etc.). Oral strip technology is one such technology to surpass these disadvantages. Desloratadine, a descarboethoxy derivative of loratadine, is a second generation antihistaminic drug approved for usage in allergic rhinitis among paediatric population and is available in markets as suspension. An attempt has been made to design and optimize the oral strip containing desloratadine as an active ingredient. Oral strip was optimized with the help of optimal experimental design using polymer concentration, plasticizer type, and plasticizer concentration as independent variables. Prepared oral strips were evaluated for physicochemical parameter, mechanical strength parameters, disintegration time, dissolution, surface pH, and moisture sorption tendency. Optimized formulation was further evaluated by scanning electron microscopy, moisture content, and histological alteration in oral mucosa. Accelerated stability studies were also carried out for optimized formulations. Results were analysed with the help of various statistical tools at P < 0.05 and P < 0.01.
Overview of Botanical Status in EU, USA, and Thailand
Authors: Jiratchariyakul Weena , Mahady Gail B.
Published: October 2013

The botanical status in EU, USA, and Thailand is different owing to the regulatory status, the progress of science, and the influence of culture and society. In the EU, botanicals are positioned as herbal medicinal products and food supplements, in the US they are regulated as dietary supplements but often used as traditional medicines, and in Thailand, they are regulated and used as traditional medicines. Information for some of the most popular botanicals from each country is included in this review.
Curcumin Attenuation of Lipopolysaccharide Induced Cardiac Hypertrophy in Rodents
Authors: Chowdhury Rupak , Nimmanapalli Ramadevi , Graham Thomas , Reddy Gopal
Published: October 2013

To study the ameliorating effects of curcumin in lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced cardiac hypertrophy, mice were assigned to 4 groups (3 males and 3 females in each group): (A) control, (B) curcumin: 100 μg/kg of body weight by intraperitoneal route (IP), (C) LPS: 60 mg/kg (IP), and (D) LPS + curcumin: both at previously stated concentrations by IP route. All mice were sacrificed as 12 hr and 24 hrs groups accordingly after LPS injection. The hearts were collected, photographed for cardiomegaly, and weighed to compare heart weight/brain weight (HW/BW) in mg/mg. For immunohistochemistry, the tissue sections were exposed to histone H3, H4 and acetylated histone H3, H4 antibody. LPS induced a significant increase in histone acetylation as shown by intense staining. In curcumin + LPS treated mice nuclear staining was similar to the control group indicating that curcumin traversed the histone acetylation activity of the LPS. To further check the mechanism of action of curcumin, p300 protein acetylation levels were analyzed. This study suggests that the probable mechanism of action of curcumin is via the reduction of p300 HAT activity.
Breast Mass and Lytic Bone Lesions: A Rare Presentation of Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma Arising in the Breast
Authors: Ali Hira , Yeku Oladapo , Giesler Daniel , Campbell-Massa Ryan , Gao Faye , Amjad Ali Imran
Published: October 2013

Background. Primary breast lymphoma is a rare malignancy representing less than 1% of all tumors presenting in the breast.Case Presentation. A 55-year-old woman presented with altered mental status due to severe hypercalcemia and was found to have a large breast mass with lytic bone lesions in the calvarium of the skull. Biopsy of the mass revealed diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. Staging workup did not reveal any visceral organ or distant lymph node involvement. The patient’s bone marrow biopsy was positive for involvement with lymphoma. Interestingly, the patient also had a non quantifiable IgA kappa monoclonal protein in the serum.Conclusion. Here, we describe a common presentation in medical oncology, that is, a patient presenting as a clinically advanced breast tumor with hypercalcemia from lytic bone lesions. However, diagnostic workup led to the diagnosis of another common malignancy in an uncommon location, namely, diffuse large B-cell lymphoma arising in the breast.
Nursery Growing Media: Agronomic and Environmental Quality Assessment of Sewage Sludge-Based Compost
Authors: De Lucia Barbara , Cristiano Giuseppe , Vecchietti Lorenzo , Rea Elvira , Russo Giovanni
Published: October 2013

There is a stringent need to reduce the environmental impact of peat in the plant nursery production chain. In this experiment, the use of different rates of sewage sludge compost in the preparation of growing media for potted Bougainvillea was evaluated to assess its efficiency for the replacement of peat and to quantify the environmental impact of such alternative substrates by the life cycle assessment (LCA) method. Five substrates containing increasing proportion of composted sewage sludge to peat (0%, 25%, 40%, 55%, and 70% v/v) were used, and their physicochemical properties were measured. Bougainvillea plant growth, biomass production, and macro- and micronutrient absorption were also determined. The main results were that compost addition improved the plant nutrient and increased the substrate pH, electrical conductivity (EC), and dry bulk density values. Globally, the results showed that compost could be used at up to 55% by volume with no negative effects on plant growth. The LCA showed that use of compost reduced the environmental loads of the growth media, except the Global Warming Potential value (GWP100). Environmental implications of the use of compost in the plant nursery chain are discussed.
Field Independent Cosmic Evolution
Authors: Sk Nayem , Kumar Sanyal Abhik
Published: October 2013

It has been shown earlier that Noether symmetry does not admit a form of corresponding to an action in which is coupled to scalar-tensor theory of gravity or even for pure theory of gravity taking anisotropic model into account. Here, we prove that theory of gravity does not admit Noether symmetry even if it is coupled to tachyonic field and considering a gauge in addition. To handle such a theory, a general conserved current has been constructed under a condition which decouples higher-order curvature part from the field part. This condition, in principle, solves for the scale-factor independently. Thus, cosmological evolution remains independent of the form of the chosen field, whether it is a scalar or a tachyon.
The Effect of Varicocelectomy on Sperm Parameters in Subfertile Men with Clinical Varicoceles Who Have Asthenozoospermia or Teratozoospermia with Normal Sperm Density
Authors: Cakiroglu Basri , Sinanoglu Orhun , Gozukucuk Ramazan
Published: October 2013

Background. To compare preoperative and postoperative sperm parameters such as sperm count, motility, and morphology in patients with normal sperm concentration with teratozoospermia and asthenozoospermia. Materials and Methods. Hundred and six patients with varicocele associated with male infertility over a 5-year period were included into the study. Pre- and postvaricocelectomy seminal fluid parameters evaluation according to the World Health Organization (WHO) criteria was performed at 4–6-month intervals. Results. One hundred and six patients met the criteria. The mean age of patients was 24.53 ± 8.13. The mean duration of infertility was 3.6 years (range: 1.5–6.3). Only the sperm motility of patients with normospermia showed a significant improvement postoperatively. Conclusions. No significant improvement in sperm morphology may be obtained in patients with clinical varicocele and preoperative normospermia.
Emotional and Cognitive Empathy in First-Year Medical Students
Authors: Dehning Sandra , Gasperi Sarah , Krause Daniela , Meyer Sebastian , Reiß Eva , Burger Max , Jacobs Fabian , Buchheim Anna , Müller Norbert , Siebeck Matthias
Published: October 2013

Objectives. Doctors’ empathy towards their patients is considered important for treatment outcome. However, during medical school there might be a decline in empathy called “hardening of the heart.” This study evaluated the cognitive and emotional empathy in medical students and investigated the influence of a preference for a specialty and students attachment styles. Methods. 126 first-year medical students were included and completed the Reading the Mind in the Eyes Test revised version (RME-R), the Balanced Emotional Empathy Scale (BEES), and the Experiences in Close Relationships-Revised Adult Attachment Questionnaire (ECR-R). Results. Students identified of 36 photographs in the RME-R test correctly (norm: 26). The female students’ mean BEES total score was and the male students’ ; . The female students’ mean BEES score was significantly () below the female norm of 60. Students who preferred a specialty with continuity of patient care scored significantly higher in the BEES (). A more avoidant attachment style was associated with a lower BEES score (). Conclusion. The students showed low emotional and cognitive empathy scores and an avoidant attachment style. This supports the inclusion of specific training in cognitive and emotional empathy in medical education.
The Physical Effects of Aromatherapy in Alleviating Work-Related Stress on Elementary School Teachers in Taiwan
Authors: Liu Shing-Hong , Lin Tzu-Hsin , Chang Kang-Ming
Published: October 2013

People use aromatherapy to relieve the symptoms of physical and psychological stress. However, previous studies have not precisely clarified a scientific basis for the beneficial effects of aromatherapy. Therefore, the overall purpose of this study was to elucidate the beneficial effect of aromatherapy in relieving work-related stress. Twenty-nine elementary school teachers from Taiwan participated in this study. The experimental procedures comprised 2 phases. First, we verified the effect of aromatherapy by conducting 2 blind tests. We used natural bergamot essential oil extracted from plants and synthesized a chemical essential oil as the placebo to do the aromatherapy. Second, we analyzed the performance of the aromatherapy treatment on the teachers who had various workloads. We measured the teachers’ heart rate variability to evaluate their autonomic nervous system activity. The results show that only the natural bergamot essential oil had an effect and that the aromatherapy treatment relieved work-related stress of teachers with various workloads. However, the aromatherapy treatment had a weak effect on young teachers who had a heavy workload. Moreover, the aromatherapy treatment exhibited no effect on teachers who belong to the abnormal body mass index subgroup having a heavy workload.
Network-Based Biomarkers for Cold Coagulation Blood Stasis Syndrome and the Therapeutic Effects of Shaofu Zhuyu Decoction in Rats
Authors: Su Shulan , Duan Jinao , Cui Wenxia , Shang Erxing , Liu Pei , Bai Gang , Guo Sheng , Qian Dawei , Tang Yuping
Published: October 2013

In this study, the reverse docking methodology was applied to predict the action targets and pathways of Shaofu Zhuyu decoction (SFZYD) bioactive ingredients. Furthermore, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) cold coagulation blood stasis (CCBS) syndrome was induced in female Sprague-Dawley rats with an ice-water bath and epinephrine, and SFZYD was used to treat CCBS syndrome. A metabolomic approach was used to evaluate changes in the metabolic profiles and to analyze the pharmacological mechanism of SFZYD actions. Twenty-three potential protein targets and 15 pathways were discovered, respectively; among these, pathways are associated with inflammation and immunological stress, hormone metabolism, coagulation function, and glycometabolism. There were also changes in the levels of endogenous metabolites of LysoPCs and glucuronides. Twenty endogenous metabolites were identified. Furthermore, the relative quantities of 6 endogenous metabolites in the plasma and 5 in the urine were significantly affected by SFZYD (P<0.05). The pharmacological mechanism of SFZYD was partially associated with glycerophospholipid metabolism and pentose and glucuronate interconversions. In conclusion, our findings demonstrated that TCM CCBS pattern induced by ice water and epinephrine was complex and related to multiple metabolic pathways. SFZYD did regulate the TCM CCBS by multitargets, and biomarkers and SFZYD should be used for the clinical treatment of CCBS syndrome.
Hemizona Assay and Sperm Penetration Assay in the Prediction of IVF Outcome: A Systematic Review
Authors: Vogiatzi Paraskevi , Chrelias Charalampos , Cahill David J. , Creatsa Maria , Vrachnis Nikos , Iliodromiti Zoe , Kassanos Demetrios , Siristatidis Charalampos
Published: October 2013

The limited predictive value of semen analysis in achieving natural conception or in IVF outcome confirms the need for sperm function tests to determine optimal management. We reviewed HZA and SPA predictive power in IVF outcome, with statistical significance of diagnostic power of the assays. HZA was readily efficient in predicting IVF outcome, while evident inconsistency among the studies analysed framed the SPA’s role in male fertility evaluation. Considerable variation was noted in the diagnostic accuracy values of SPA with wide sensitivity (52–100%), specificity (0–100%), and PPV (18–100%) and NPV (0–100%) together with fluctuation and notable differentiation in methodology and cutoff values employed by each group. HZA methodology was overall consistent with minor variation in cutoff values and oocyte source, while data analysis reported strong correlation between HZA results with IVF outcome, high sensitivity (75–100%), good specificity (57–100%), and high PPV (79–100%) and NPV (68–100%). HZA correlated well with IVF outcome and demonstrated better sensitivity/specificity and positive/negative predictive power. Males with normal or slightly abnormal semen profiles could benefit by this intervention and could be evaluated prior to referral to assisted reproduction. HZA should be used in a sequential fashion with semen analysis and potentially other bioassays in an IVF setting.
Simulation Modeling of Space Missions Using the High Level Architecture
Authors: Rabelo Luis , Sala-Diakanda Serge , Pastrana John , Marin Mario , Bhide Sayli , Joledo Oloruntomi , Bardina Jorge
Published: October 2013

This paper discusses an environment being developed to model a mission of the Space Launch System (SLS) and the Multipurpose Crew Vehicle (MPCV) being launched from Kennedy Space Center (KSC) to the International Space Station (ISS). Several models representing different phases of the mission such as the ground operations processes, engineered systems, and range components such as failure tree, blast, gas dispersion, and debris modeling are explained. These models are built using different simulation paradigms such as continuous, system dynamics, discrete-event, and agent-based simulation modeling. The High Level Architecture (HLA) is the backbone of this distributed simulation. The different design decisions and the information fusion scheme of this unique environment are explained in detail for decision-making. This can also help in the development of exploration missions beyond the International Space Station.
Molecular Profiling of Tumor Cells in Cerebrospinal Fluid and Matched Primary Tumors from Metastatic Breast Cancer Patients with Leptomeningeal Carcinomatosis
Authors: Magbanua Mark Jesus M. , Melisko Michelle , Roy Ritu , Sosa Eduardo V. , Hauranieh Louai , Kablanian Andrea , Eisenbud Lauren E. , Ryazantsev Artem , Au Alfred , Scott Janet H. , Park John W.
Published: October 2013

Although leptomeningeal carcinomatosis is a well-established clinical syndrome, virtually nothing is known about the tumor cells responsible for this particularly aggressive metastatic process. To isolate cerebrospinal fluid–derived tumor cells (CSFTC) from 15 patients with metastatic breast cancer diagnosed with leptomeningeal carcinomatosis, CSF samples were subjected to a two-step method involving immunomagnetic enrichment and fluorescence-activated cell sorting (IE/FACS), a technique previously used for isolating circulating tumor cells (CTC) from blood. CSFTCs were subjected to genome-wide copy number analysis by array comparative genomic hybridization. Genomic profiling was successfully performed for 13 of 15 patients (87%). Copy number analysis in CSFTCs revealed genomic alterations commonly observed in primary breast cancer and CTCs, indicating their malignant origin. Interestingly, 12 (92%) harbored high-level gains on the 8q24 locus, which includes the MYC oncogene. Comparison of CSFTCs against corresponding archival primary tumors in six patients revealed clonal relationships with some divergence. Good concordance among serial samples attested to the reproducibility of the assay. Our approach for isolation and molecular analysis of CSFTCs yielded new insights into the molecular nature of these cells. Further genomic and functional analyses may help elucidate mechanisms by which tumor cells metastasize to the central nervous system. Cancer Res; 73(23); 7134–43. ©2013 AACR.
Dietary Intake and Ovarian Cancer Risk: A Systematic Review
Authors: Crane Tracy E. , Khulpateea Beman R. , Alberts David S. , Basen-Engquist Karen , Thomson Cynthia A.
Published: October 2013

Ovarian cancer is a leading cause of gynecological cancer death. There is a need to identify modifiable dietary risk factors for this disease. To evaluate the role of diet in ovarian cancer risk, we performed a PRISMA-directed systematic review that included prospective cohort studies with >200 cases (n = 24). Higher risk for ovarian cancer was shown for total, animal, and dairy fat (five of nine studies), as well as total nitrate and possibly total vitamin C. No associations were demonstrated for red meat, fiber, vitamin A, vitamin E, β-carotene, or folate. Vegetables were associated with lower risk in one of three studies; fruit showed no association, although risk estimates were all greater than 1.0. Isoflavones and flavonoids were associated with modestly lower risk in two studies and tea intake was associated with lower risk in one of two studies. This review suggests that no specific dietary factors are consistently associated with ovarian cancer risk. Data by tumor subtypes are limited, but suggest that differential associations by tumor subtype may exist and should be evaluated. Studies of ample sample size, varied exposure, which can better control for dietary measurement error, are needed to fully define dietary recommendations for ovarian cancer prevention. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 23(2); 255–73. ©2013 AACR.
The Histone Deacetylase Inhibitor Abexinostat Induces Cancer Stem Cells Differentiation in Breast Cancer with Low Xist Expression
Authors: Salvador Marion A. , Wicinski Julien , Cabaud Olivier , Toiron Yves , Finetti Pascal , Josselin Emmanuelle , Lelièvre Hélène , Kraus-Berthier Laurence , Depil Stéphane , Bertucci François , Collette Yves , Birnbaum Daniel , Charafe-Jauffret Emmanuelle , Ginestier Christophe
Published: October 2013

Purpose: Cancer stem cells (CSC) are the tumorigenic cell population that has been shown to sustain tumor growth and to resist conventional therapies. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the potential of histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi) as anti-CSC therapies.

Experimental Design: We evaluated the effect of the HDACi compound abexinostat on CSCs from 16 breast cancer cell lines (BCL) using ALDEFLUOR assay and tumorsphere formation. We performed gene expression profiling to identify biomarkers predicting drug response to abexinostat. Then, we used patient-derived xenograft (PDX) to confirm, in vivo, abexinostat treatment effect on breast CSCs according to the identified biomarkers.

Results: We identified two drug-response profiles to abexinostat in BCLs. Abexinostat induced CSC differentiation in low-dose sensitive BCLs, whereas it did not have any effect on the CSC population from high-dose sensitive BCLs. Using gene expression profiling, we identified the long noncoding RNA Xist (X-inactive specific transcript) as a biomarker predicting BCL response to HDACi. We validated that low Xist expression predicts drug response in PDXs associated with a significant reduction of the breast CSC population.

Conclusions: Our study opens promising perspectives for the use of HDACi as a differentiation therapy targeting the breast CSCs and identified a biomarker to select patients with breast cancer susceptible to responding to this treatment. Clin Cancer Res; 19(23); 6520–31. ©2013 AACR.