bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Survey on Cache Management Mechanisms for Real-Time Embedded Systems
Authors: Gracioli Giovani , Alhammad Ahmed , Mancuso Renato , Fröhlich Antônio Augusto , Pellizzoni Rodolfo
Published: November 2015

Multicore processors are being extensively used by real-time systems, mainly because of their demand for increased computing power. However, multicore processors have shared resources that affect the predictability of real-time systems, which is the key to correctly estimate the worst-case execution time of tasks. One of the main factors for unpredictability in a multicore processor is the cache memory hierarchy. Recently, many research works have proposed different techniques to deal with caches in multicore processors in the context of real-time systems. Nevertheless, a review and categorization of these techniques is still an open topic and would be very useful for the real-time community. In this article, we present a survey of cache management techniques for real-time embedded systems, from the first studies of the field in 1990 up to the latest research published in 2014. We categorize the main research works and provide a detailed comparison in terms of similarities and differences. We also identify key challenges and discuss future research directions.
From Waste to Resource: The Trade in Wastes and Global Recycling Economies
Authors: Gregson Nicky , Crang Mike
Published: November 2015

We outline the frameworks that shape and hold apart waste debates in and about the Global North and Global South and that hinder analysis of flows between them. Typically, waste is addressed as municipal waste, resulting in a focus on domestic consumption and urban governance and an emphasis on cities and the national scale. The prevailing ways of addressing the increasingly global flows of wastes between the North and South are those of global environmental justice and are underpinned by the geographical imagination encoded in the Basel Convention. New research on the trades in used goods and recycling in lower income countries challenges these accounts. It shows that arguments about dumping on the South need revision. Wastes are secondary resources for lower income countries, harvesting them is a significant economic activity, and consequent resource recovery is a key part of the global economy. Four areas for future research are identified: (a) changing patterns of global harvesting, (b) attempts to rescale resource recovery and the challenges faced, (c) the geopolitics of resource recovery, and (d) changes in resource recovery in lower income countries.
Opportunities for and Alternatives to Global Climate Regimes Post-Kyoto
Authors: Michaelowa Axel
Published: November 2015

International policies for mitigation of climate change provide a global public good and thus suffer from “free riding,” i.e., inaction of governments. In 25 years of negotiations under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the regime has changed its character from a top-down approach based on mandatory emissions commitments to a bottom-up system of voluntary government pledges. At the same time, various initiatives by governments at all levels and private companies have been established, but most are limited to emissions reporting and exchange of knowledge on mitigation technologies. None of the alternatives has shown a higher mitigation effectiveness than the Kyoto Protocol. Generally, the transition toward a bottom-up regime risks a reduction of transparency and increases in the transaction costs of mitigation. Although it could give rise to a club of countries engaging in strong mitigation that could expand over time, it is unlikely to be ambitious enough to achieve the target of limiting warming to 2°C. On the one hand, carbon prices will be applied in a larger number of jurisdictions, and mitigation technologies diffuse around the world. On the other hand, carbon price levels will remain relatively low, and their mitigation benefits will be more than outweighed by the growth of infrastructure and consumption. Thus, a temperature increase of at least 3°C by 2100 becomes more and more likely.
The multidrug transporter MATE1 sequesters OCs within an intracellular compartment that has no influence on OC secretion in renal proximal tubules
Authors: Martínez-Guerrero L. J. , Evans K. K. , Dantzler W. H. , Wright S. H.
Published: November 2015

Secretion of organic cations (OCs) across renal proximal tubules (RPTs) involves basolateral OC transporter (OCT)2-mediated uptake from the blood followed by apical multidrug and toxin extruder (MATE)1/2-mediated efflux into the tubule filtrate. Whereas OCT2 supports electrogenic OC uniport, MATE is an OC/H+exchanger. As assessed by epifluorescence microscopy, cultured Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells that stably expressed human MATE1 accumulated the fluorescent OC N, N, N-trimethyl-2-[methyl(7-nitrobenzo[c][l,2,5]oxadiazol-4-yl)amino]ethanaminium (NBD-MTMA) in the cytoplasm and in a smaller, punctate compartment; accumulation in human OCT2-expressing cells was largely restricted to the cytoplasm. A second intracellular compartment was also evident in the multicompartmental kinetics of efflux of the prototypic OC [3H]1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP) from MATE1-expressing CHO cells. Punctate accumulation of NBD-MTMA was markedly reduced by coexposure of MATE1-expressing cells with 5 μM bafilomycin (BAF), an inhibitor of V-type H+-ATPase, and accumulation of [3H]MPP and [3H]NBD-MTMA was reduced by >30% by coexposure with 5 μM BAF. BAF had no effect on the initial rate of MATE1-mediated uptake of NBD-MTMA, suggesting that the influence of BAF was a secondary effect involving inhibition of V-type H+-ATPase. The accumulation of [3H]MPP by isolated single nonperfused rabbit RPTs was also reduced >30% by coexposure to 5 μM BAF, suggesting that the native expression in RPTs of MATE protein within endosomes can increase steady-state OC accumulation. However, the rate of [3H]MPP secretion by isolated single perfused rabbit RPTs was not affected by 5 μM BAF, suggesting that vesicles loaded with OCs+are not likely to recycle into the apical plasma membrane at a rate sufficient to provide a parallel pathway for OC secretion.
The role of pendrin in blood pressure regulation
Authors: Wall Susan M.
Published: November 2015

Pendrin is a Na+-independent Cl−/HCO3−exchanger found in the apical regions of type B and non-A, non-B intercalated cells within the aldosterone-sensitive region of the nephron, i.e., the distal convoluted tubule (DCT), the connecting tubule (CNT), and the cortical collecting duct (CCD). Type B intercalated cells mediate Cl−absorption and HCO3−secretion primarily through pendrin-mediated Cl−/HCO3−exchange. This exchanger is upregulated with angiotensin II administration and in models of metabolic alkalosis, such as following administration of aldosterone or NaHCO3. In the absence of pendrin-mediated HCO3−secretion, an enhanced alkalosis is observed following aldosterone or NaHCO3administration. However, probably of more significance is the role of pendrin in the pressor response to aldosterone. Pendrin mediates Cl−absorption and modulates aldosterone-induced Na+absorption mediated by the epithelial Na channel (ENaC). Pendrin changes ENaC activity by changing both channel open probability ( Po) and surface density ( N), at least partly by altering luminal HCO3−and ATP concentration. Thus aldosterone and angiotensin II stimulate pendrin expression and function, which stimulates ENaC activity, thereby contributing to the pressor response of these hormones. However, pendrin may modulate blood pressure partly through its extrarenal effects. For example, pendrin is expressed in the adrenal medulla, where it modulates catecholamine release. The increase in catecholamine release observed with pendrin gene ablation likely contributes to the increment in vascular contractile force observed in the pendrin null mouse. This review summarizes the signaling mechanisms that regulate pendrin abundance and function as well as the contribution of pendrin to distal nephron function.
Multilevel functional genomics data integration as a tool for understanding physiology: a network biology perspective
Authors: Davidsen Peter K. , Turan Nil , Egginton Stuart , Falciani Francesco
Published: November 2015

The overall aim of physiological research is to understand how living systems function in an integrative manner. Consequently, the discipline of physiology has since its infancy attempted to link multiple levels of biological organization. Increasingly this has involved mathematical and computational approaches, typically to model a small number of components spanning several levels of biological organization. With the advent of “omics” technologies, which can characterize the molecular state of a cell or tissue (intended as the level of expression and/or activity of its molecular components), the number of molecular components we can quantify has increased exponentially. Paradoxically, the unprecedented amount of experimental data has made it more difficult to derive conceptual models underlying essential mechanisms regulating mammalian physiology. We present an overview of state-of-the-art methods currently used to identifying biological networks underlying genomewide responses. These are based on a data-driven approach that relies on advanced computational methods designed to “learn” biology from observational data. In this review, we illustrate an application of these computational methodologies using a case study integrating an in vivo model representing the transcriptional state of hypoxic skeletal muscle with a clinical study representing muscle wasting in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients. The broader application of these approaches to modeling multiple levels of biological data in the context of modern physiology is discussed.
Characterizing the physiological and behavioral roles of proctolin inDrosophila melanogaster
Authors: Ormerod Kiel G. , LePine Olivia K. , Bhutta Maimoona Shahid , Jung JaeHwan , Tattersall Glenn J. , Mercier A. Joffre
Published: November 2015

The neuropeptide proctolin (RYLPT) plays important roles as both a neurohormone and a cotransmitter in arthropod neuromuscular systems. We used third-instar Drosophila larvae as a model system to differentiate synaptic effects of this peptide from its direct effects on muscle contractility and to determine whether proctolin can work in a cell-selective manner on muscle fibers. Proctolin did not appear to alter the amplitude of excitatory junctional potentials but did induce sustained muscle contractions in preparations where the CNS had been removed and no stimuli were applied to the remaining nerves. Proctolin-induced contractions were dose-dependent, were reduced by knocking down expression of the Drosophila proctolin receptor in muscle tissue, and were larger in some muscle cells than others (i.e., larger in fibers 4, 12, and 13 than in 6 and 7). Proctolin also increased the amplitude of nerve-evoked contractions in a dose-dependent manner, and the magnitude of this effect was also larger in some muscle cells than others (again, larger in fibers 4, 12, and 13 than in 6 and 7). Increasing the intraburst impulse frequency and number of impulses per burst increased the magnitude of proctolin's enhancement of nerve-evoked contractions and decreased the threshold and EC50concentrations for proctolin to enhance nerve-evoked contractions. Reducing proctolin receptor expression decreased the velocity of larval crawling at higher temperatures, and thermal preference in these larvae. Our results suggest that proctolin acts directly on body-wall muscles to elicit slow, sustained contractions and to enhance nerve-evoked contractions, and that proctolin affects muscle fibers in a cell-selective manner.
Functional morphometry demonstrates extraocular muscle compartmental contraction during vertical gaze changes
Authors: Clark Robert A. , Demer Joseph L.
Published: November 2015

Anatomical studies demonstrate selective compartmental innervation of most human extraocular muscles (EOMs), suggesting the potential for differential compartmental control. This was supported by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrating differential lateral rectus (LR) compartmental contraction during ocular counterrolling, differential medial rectus (MR) compartmental contraction during asymmetric convergence, and differential LR, inferior rectus (IR), and superior oblique (SO) compartmental contraction during vertical vergence. To ascertain possible differential compartmental EOM contraction during vertical ductions, surface coil MRI was performed over a range of target-controlled vertical gaze positions in 25 orbits of 13 normal volunteers. Cross-sectional areas and partial volumes of EOMs were analyzed in contiguous, quasi-coronal 2-mm image planes spanning origins to globe equator to determine morphometric features correlating best with contractility. Confirming and extending prior findings for horizontal EOMs during horizontal ductions, the percent change in posterior partial volume (PPV) of vertical EOMs from 8 to 14 mm posterior to the globe correlated best with vertical duction. EOMs were then divided into equal transverse compartments to evaluate the effect of vertical gaze on changes in PPV. Differential contractile changes were detected in the two compartments of the same EOM during infraduction for the IR medial vs. lateral (+4.4%, P = 0.03), LR inferior vs. superior (+4.0%, P = 0.0002), MR superior vs. inferior (−6.0%, P = 0.001), and SO lateral vs. medial (+9.7%, P = 0.007) compartments, with no differential contractile changes in the superior rectus. These findings suggest that differential compartmental activity occurs during normal vertical ductions. Thus all EOMs may contribute to cyclovertical actions.
Anatomical localization of Cav3.1 calcium channels and electrophysiological effects of T-type calcium channel blockade in the motor thalamus of MPTP-treated monkeys
Authors: Devergnas Annaelle , Chen Erdong , Ma Yuxian , Hamada Ikuma , Pittard Damien , Kammermeier Stefan , Mullin Ariana P. , Faundez Victor , Lindsley Craig W. , Jones Carrie , Smith Yoland , Wichmann Thomas
Published: November 2015

Conventional anti-Parkinsonian dopamine replacement therapy is often complicated by side effects that limit the use of these medications. There is a continuing need to develop nondopaminergic approaches to treat Parkinsonism. One such approach is to use medications that normalize dopamine depletion-related firing abnormalities in the basal ganglia-thalamocortical circuitry. In this study, we assessed the potential of a specific T-type calcium channel blocker (ML218) to eliminate pathologic burst patterns of firing in the basal ganglia-receiving territory of the motor thalamus in Parkinsonian monkeys. We also carried out an anatomical study, demonstrating that the immunoreactivity for T-type calcium channels is strongly expressed in the motor thalamus in normal and 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-treated monkeys. At the electron microscopic level, dendrites accounted for >90% of all tissue elements that were immunoreactive for voltage-gated calcium channel, type 3.2-containing T-type calcium channels in normal and Parkinsonian monkeys. Subsequent in vivo electrophysiologic studies in awake MPTP-treated Parkinsonian monkeys demonstrated that intrathalamic microinjections of ML218 (0.5 μl of a 2.5-mM solution, injected at 0.1–0.2 μl/min) partially normalized the thalamic activity by reducing the proportion of rebound bursts and increasing the proportion of spikes in non-rebound bursts. The drug also attenuated oscillatory activity in the 3–13-Hz frequency range and increased gamma frequency oscillations. However, ML218 did not normalize Parkinsonism-related changes in firing rates and oscillatory activity in the beta frequency range. Whereas the described changes are promising, a more complete assessment of the cellular and behavioral effects of ML218 (or similar drugs) is needed for a full appraisal of their anti-Parkinsonian potential.
Comparative Genome and Network Centrality Analysis to Identify Drug Targets ofMycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv
Authors: Melak Tilahun , Gakkhar Sunita
Published: November 2015

Potential drug targets ofMycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rvwere identified through systematically integrated comparative genome and network centrality analysis. The comparative analysis of the complete genome ofMycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rvagainst Database of Essential Genes (DEG) yields a list of proteins which are essential for the growth and survival of the pathogen. Those proteins which are nonhomologous with human were selected. The resulting proteins were then prioritized by using the four network centrality measures: degree, closeness, betweenness, and eigenvector. Proteins whose centrality value is close to the centre of gravity of the interactome network were proposed as a final list of potential drug targets for the pathogen. The use of an integrated approach is believed to increase the success of the drug target identification process. For the purpose of validation, selective comparisons have been made among the proposed targets and previously identified drug targets by various other methods. About half of these proteins have been already reported as potential drug targets. We believe that the identified proteins will be an important input to experimental study which in the way could save considerable amount of time and cost of drug target discovery.
A Modified Comprehensive Model for Piezoelectric Stack Actuators and Corresponding Parameter Identification Method
Authors: Yang Haigen , Zhu Wei
Published: November 2015

In order to accurately model the hysteresis and dynamic characteristics of piezoelectric stack actuators (PSAs), consider that a linear force and a hysteresis force will be generated by piezoelectric wafers under the voltage applied to a PSA, and the total force suffering from creep will result in the forced vibration of the two-degree-of-freedom mass-spring-damper system composed of the equivalent mass, stiffness, and damping of the piezoelectric wafers and the bonding layers. A modified comprehensive model for PSAs is put forward by using a linear function, an asymmetrical Bouc-Wen hysteresis operator, and a creep function to model the linear force, the hysteresis force, and the creep characteristics, respectively. In this way, the effect of the bonding layers on the hysteresis and dynamic characteristics of PSAs can be analyzed via the modified comprehensive model. The experimental results show that the modified comprehensive model for PSAs with the corresponding parameter identification method can accurately portray the hysteresis and dynamic characteristics of PSAs fabricated by different layering/stacking processes. Finally, the theoretical analyzing on utilizing the modified comprehensive model to linearize the hysteresis characteristics and design the dynamic characteristics of PSAs is given.
An Optimal Fourth Order Iterative Method for Solving Nonlinear Equations and Its Dynamics
Authors: Sharma Rajni , Bahl Ashu
Published: November 2015

We present a new fourth order method for finding simple roots of a nonlinear equation f(x)=0. In terms of computational cost, per iteration the method uses one evaluation of the function and two evaluations of its first derivative. Therefore, the method has optimal order with efficiency index 1.587 which is better than efficiency index 1.414 of Newton method and the same with Jarratt method and King’s family. Numerical examples are given to support that the method thus obtained is competitive with other similar robust methods. The conjugacy maps and extraneous fixed points of the presented method and other existing fourth order methods are discussed, and their basins of attraction are also given to demonstrate their dynamical behavior in the complex plane.
Distributed Detection in Wireless Sensor Networks under Byzantine Attacks
Authors: Luo Junhai , Cao Zan
Published: November 2015

Distributed detection in wireless sensor networks (WSNs) under Byzantine attacks is studied in this paper. A new kind of Byzantine attacks, neighborhood malicious Byzantine attacks (NMBA), is proposed. In this type of Byzantine attacks, part of sensors is conquered and reprogrammed by an intelligent adversary. These sensors then are conducted to send false information to the fusion center (FC) in order to confuse it. We see that the attacking performance of NMBA is very close to that of collaborative malicious Byzantine attacks (CMBA) and outperforms independent malicious Byzantine attacks (IMBA). Decision fusion becomes impossible when attacking power which is the fraction of compromised sensors in WSNs exceeds a specific value. A closed-form expression for the value is derived. For mitigating attacking effect brought by NMBA, a strategy for estimating the attacking power is proposed. Furthermore, a scheme to identify Byzantine attackers is presented. Two kinds of discrepancy distance are constructed in this paper to help in identifying Byzantine attackers. We prove that most of Byzantine attackers are identified and performance of the identifying scheme is proved to be excellent. A data fusion scheme based on both dynamic threshold and the identifying scheme is analyzed in this paper. Numerical results are also provided to support the schemes and approaches.
A Universal Fast Colorimetric Method for DNA Signal Detection with DNA Strand Displacement and Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Li Xin , Song Tao , Chen Zhihua , Shi Xiaolong , Chen Congzhou , Zhang Zheng
Published: November 2015

DNA or gene signal detection is of great significance in many fields including medical examination, intracellular molecular monitoring, and gene disease signal diagnosis, but detection of DNA or gene signals in a low concentration with instant visual results remains a challenge. In this work, a universal fast and visual colorimetric detection method for DNA signals is proposed. Specifically, a DNA signal amplification “circuit” based on DNA strand displacement is firstly designed to amplify the target DNA signals, and then thiol modified hairpin DNA strands and gold nanoparticles are used to make signal detection results visualized in a colorimetric manner. If the target DNA signal exists, the gold nanoparticles aggregate and settle down with color changing from dark red to grey quickly; otherwise, the gold nanoparticles’ colloids remain stable in dark red. The proposed method provides a novel way to detect quickly DNA or gene signals in low concentrations with instant visual results. When applied in real‐life, it may provide a universal colorimetric method for gene disease signal diagnosis.
Biomimetic Coating of Modified Titanium Surfaces with Hydroxyapatite Using Simulated Body Fluid
Authors: Nazir Mohsin , Pei Ting Ong , See Yee Tan , Pushparajan Saravanan , Swaminathan Dasan , Kutty Muralithran G.
Published: November 2015

This study investigated the viability of coating commercially pure titanium (CPTi) surfaces, modified via sandblasting and acid etching, with hydroxyapatite (HA)/tricalcium phosphate coatings using a simulated body fluid (SBF) solution. The samples were immersed in SBF from 3 to 7 days. The morphology and the chemistry of the HA/tricalcium phosphate coating were then analysed. Prior to immersion in SBF, the samples were sandblasted and acid etched to mimic the morphology and roughness of commercially available dental implants. The SBF aided in the formation of crystalline HA/tricalcium phosphate coatings on all the samples. The coatings were uniform and had roughness values higher than the underlying substrate. The highest roughness values for the coatings on the surfaces were obtained at 7 days of immersion in SBF with averageSavalues of 2.9 ± 0.2 µm. The presence of HA/tricalcium phosphate on the surfaces was confirmed by the Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Energy Dispersive Spectrometer (EDS), the X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), and the Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometer (FTIR) analysis. This study shows that it is possible to obtain an adequate and uniform hydroxyapatite coating on pure titanium substrates in a shorter period of time with characteristics that favour the ultimate goal of implants therapy, that is, osseointegration.
The Use of Protease Inhibitors in Pregnancy: Maternal and Fetal Considerations
Authors: Duryea Elaine , Nicholson Fiona , Cooper Sara , Roberts Scott , Rogers Vanessa , McIntire Donald , Sheffield Jeanne , Stewart Robert
Published: November 2015

Background. Previous studies examining protease inhibitor use in pregnancy and the rate of preterm and small-for-gestational-age infants have yielded conflicting results.Methods. This was a retrospective study of HIV-infected women who delivered singleton infants at our institution between 1984 and 2014. Women with protease inhibitor use were compared to women on regimens without a protease inhibitor as well as those who received no antepartum antiretroviral therapy. Infants were considered preterm if less than 37 completed weeks of gestation and small-for-gestational-age if less than 10th percentile.Results. During the study period 1,004 pregnancies met inclusion criteria. Of those, 597 received a protease inhibitor as part of their regimen, 230 ART without a protease inhibitor, and 177 no ART. There was no difference in the rate of preterm birth between groups who received ART with or without a protease inhibitor, 14% versus 13%. There was no difference in the rate of small-for-gestational-age infants between the three groups. Use of a protease inhibitor was associated with a greater fall in viral load during pregnancy,p<0.001.Conclusion. In this population with access to prenatal care and ART, treatment with protease inhibitors was associated with a greater fall in viral load, but not an increase in small or preterm infants.
Nickel Nanoparticles for Enhancing Carbon Capture
Authors: Bhaduri Gaurav Ashok , Alamiry Mohammed A. H. , Šiller Lidija
Published: November 2015

Hydration reaction of CO2 is one of the rate limiting steps for CO2 absorption (in aqueous solutions) and aqueous CO2 mineralization. The catalytic activity of nickel nanoparticles (NiNPs) for CO2 hydration is studied at different temperatures, pH, and low CO2 partial pressures to mimic the true flue gas conditions. Results show that NiNPs can work as active catalyst for hydration of CO2 in applications such as CO2 separation and CO2 mineralization. The NiNPs display optimum activity within 20–30°C and at pH value <8. NiNPs show catalytic activity even at low CO2 partial pressures (12 vol%). In 50 wt% K2CO3 solution, an enhancement of 77% is observed in the rate of CO2 absorption with NiNPs. Commercially, CO2 saturated K2CO3 solutions are usually regenerated at 150°C; at these conditions, NiNPs show no considerable surface oxidation. They still exhibit catalytic activity for hydration reaction of CO2. CO2 absorption and mineralization (as CaCO3) in DI water are three times higher in presence of NiNPs. Calcite (CaCO3) particles precipitated in presence of NiNPs are spherical in morphology.
Entropic Lower Bound for Distinguishability of Quantum States
Authors: Yang Seungho , Lee Jinhyoung , Jeong Hyunseok
Published: November 2015

For a system randomly prepared in a number of quantum states, we present a lower bound for the distinguishability of the quantum states, that is, the success probability of determining the states in the form of entropy. When the states are all pure, acquiring the entropic lower bound requires only the density operator and the number of the possible states. This entropic bound shows a relation between the von Neumann entropy and the distinguishability.
Influenza Induced Cardiomyopathy: An Unusual Cause of Hypoxemia
Authors: Quddus Abdullah , Afari Maxwell Eyram , Minami Taro
Published: November 2015

Influenza has considerable burden on public health funds. The complications of influenza can be devastating. We present a case of a 42-year-old woman with history of asthma who presented to the emergency room in winter with shortness of breath and general malaise and was found to be in hypoxemic respiratory failure. She was diagnosed with influenza and workup revealed severely depressed systolic cardiac function (ejection fraction of 25%). She was treated with oseltamivir and diuresis and regained cardiac function within a week. We review the pathophysiology and management of influenza induced cardiomyopathy.
Acetone Gas Sensing Properties of a Multiple‐Networked Fe2O3‐Functionalized CuO Nanorod Sensor
Authors: Park Sunghoon , Kheel Hyejoon , Sun Gun-Joo , Ko Taegyung , Lee Wan In , Lee Chongmu
Published: November 2015

Fe2O3‐decorated CuO nanorods were prepared by Cu thermal oxidation followed by Fe2O3 decoration via a solvothermal route. The acetone gas sensing properties of multiple‐networked pristine and Fe2O3‐decorated CuO nanorod sensors were examined. The optimal operating temperature of the sensors was found to be 240°C. The pristine and Fe2O3‐decorated CuO nanorod sensors showed responses of 586 and 1,090%, respectively, to 1,000 ppm of acetone at 240°C. The Fe2O3‐decorated CuO nanorod sensor also showed faster response and recovery than the latter sensor. The acetone gas sensing mechanism of the Fe2O3‐decorated CuO nanorod sensor is discussed in detail. The origin of the enhanced sensing performance of the multiple‐networked Fe2O3‐decorated CuO nanorod sensor to acetone gas was explained by modulation of the potential barrier at the Fe2O3‐CuO interface, highly catalytic activity of Fe2O3 for acetone oxidation, and the creation of active adsorption sites by Fe2O3 nanoparticles.
SEM and AES Analysis of Corrosion in Steel Cans of Meat and Poultry Food Industry Influenced by Microorganisms Affecting the Competitiveness in Northwest of Mexico
Authors: Ocampo César Sánchez , López Badilla Gustavo , Romero Samaniego Elizabeth , Toledo Perea Sandra Luz , Campos García Josefina
Published: November 2015

The food industry of meat and poultry food is very important activity in the economy of the northwest of Mexico where the Sonora state (with Hermosillo and Santa Ana cities as arid and semiarid zones and Guaymas as marine regions) and Baja California state (Mexicali as arid zone and Tijuana as marine region) are located. The meat and poultry industries produce meat, milk, and eggs, which are recommended for their nutritive properties. An evaluation of micro- and nanocorrosion was made with an optical sensor used to detect microorganisms (MO) inside of the steel cans. The techniques applied to evaluate the deterioration were the Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and the Auger Electron Spectroscopy (AES), to obtain the morphology of microorganisms formed in the internal area of the metallic containers. Also the chemical composition to identify and determine the conditions for growth of microorganisms was obtained with respect to moisture and temperature in each region analyzed. The sulfur was the principal pollutant agent in arid and semiarid zones and chloride in marine zones that promoted the corrosion process. The presence of corrosion in the food industry decreases their competitiveness.
Rotator Interval Lesion and Damaged Subscapularis Tendon Repair in a High School Baseball Player
Authors: Muto Tomoyuki , Ninomiya Hiroki , Inui Hiroaki , Komai Masahiko , Nobuhara Katsuya
Published: November 2015

In 2013, a 16-year-old baseball pitcher visited Nobuhara Hospital complaining of shoulder pain and limited range of motion in his throwing shoulder. High signal intensity in the rotator interval (RI) area (ball sign), injured subscapularis tendon, and damage to both the superior and middle glenohumeral ligaments were identified using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Repair of the RI lesion and partially damaged subscapularis tendon was performed in this pitcher. During surgery, an opened RI and dropping of the subscapularis tendon were observed. The RI was closed in a 90° externally rotated and abducted position. To reconfirm the exact repaired state of the patient, arthroscopic examination was performed from behind. However, suture points were not visible in the >30° externally rotated position, which indicates that the RI could not be correctly repaired with the arthroscopic procedure. One year after surgery, the patient obtained full function of the shoulder and returned to play at a national convention. Surgical repair of the RI lesion should be performed in exactly the correct position of the upper extremity.
Linking Cancer Metabolism to DNA Repair and Accelerated Senescence
Authors: Efimova Elena V. , Takahashi Satoe , Shamsi Noumaan A. , Wu Ding , Labay Edwardine , Ulanovskaya Olesya A. , Weichselbaum Ralph R. , Kozmin Sergey A. , Kron Stephen J.
Published: November 2015

Conventional wisdom ascribes metabolic reprogramming in cancer to meeting increased demands for intermediates to support rapid proliferation. Prior models have proposed benefits toward cell survival, immortality, and stress resistance, although the recent discovery of oncometabolites has shifted attention to chromatin targets affecting gene expression. To explore further effects of cancer metabolism and epigenetic deregulation, DNA repair kinetics were examined in cells treated with metabolic intermediates, oncometabolites, and/or metabolic inhibitors by tracking resolution of double-strand breaks (DSB) in irradiated MCF7 breast cancer cells. Disrupting cancer metabolism revealed roles for both glycolysis and glutaminolysis in promoting DSB repair and preventing accelerated senescence after irradiation. Targeting pathways common to glycolysis and glutaminolysis uncovered opposing effects of the hexosamine biosynthetic pathway (HBP) and tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle. Treating cells with the HBP metabolite N-acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc) or augmenting protein O-GlcNAcylation with small molecules or RNAi targeting O-GlcNAcase each enhanced DSB repair, while targeting O-GlcNAc transferase reversed GlcNAc's effects. Opposing the HBP, TCA metabolites including α-ketoglutarate blocked DSB resolution. Strikingly, DNA repair could be restored by the oncometabolite 2-hydroxyglutarate (2-HG). Targeting downstream effectors of histone methylation and demethylation implicated the PRC1/2 polycomb complexes as the ultimate targets for metabolic regulation, reflecting known roles for Polycomb group proteins in nonhomologous end-joining DSB repair. Our findings that epigenetic effects of cancer metabolic reprogramming may promote DNA repair provide a molecular mechanism by which deregulation of metabolism may not only support cell growth but also maintain cell immortality, drive therapeutic resistance, and promote genomic instability.

Implications: By defining a pathway from deregulated metabolism to enhanced DNA damage response in cancer, these data provide a rationale for targeting downstream epigenetic effects of metabolic reprogramming to block cancer cell immortality and overcome resistance to genotoxic stress. Mol Cancer Res; 14(2); 173–84. ©2015 AACR.
A Comparison of the Penetration and Permeation of Caffeine into and through Human Epidermis after Application in Various Vesicle Formulations
Authors: Abd Eman , Roberts Michael S. , Grice Jeffrey E.
Published: November 2015

Background/Aims: A range of vesicles is now widely used to carry various solutes into and through the epidermis. These usually have the active solute encapsulated within and may be modified to confer flexibility and skin penetration enhancement. Here, we compared the ability of five different vesicle systems to deliver a model hydrophilic drug, caffeine, into and through excised human skin. Methods: In addition to lipids, the vesicle excipients included eucalyptol or oleic acid as penetration enhancers, and decyl polyglucoside as a non-ionic surfactant. Vesicle particle sizes ranged between 135 and 158 nm, and caffeine encapsulation efficiencies were between 46 and 66%. Caffeine penetration and permeation were measured using high-performance liquid chromatography. Results: We found that niosomes, which are liposomes containing a non-ionic surfactant, and transferosomes (ultraflexible vesicles) showed significantly greater penetration into the skin and permeation across the stratum corneum. Significant enhancement of caffeine penetration into hair follicles was found for transferosomes and those liposomes containing oleic acid. Conclusions: We conclude that targeted delivery of the hydrophilic drug caffeine into the skin compartments can be modified using optimized vesicular formulations.
Addressing the Retrolingual Space in Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Outcomes Stratified by Friedman Stage in Patients Undergoing Transoral Robotic Surgery
Authors: Spector Matthew E. , Glazer Tiffany A. , Hoff Paul T.
Published: November 2015

Background/Aims: To stratify outcomes in patients with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) undergoing transoral robotic surgery (TORS) ± multilevel procedures according to Friedman stage. Methods: A total of 118 patients with moderate to severe OSAHS between 2010 and 2013 were stratified preoperatively by Friedman stage. All patients had TORS-assisted lingual tonsillectomy, either stand-alone or in combination with palatal surgery. Apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) was measured preoperatively and 3 months postoperatively. Success was defined as a decrease in AHI by 50% and AHI <20. Results: The average pre- and postoperative AHI was 43.0 and 22.6, respectively, and the overall success rate was 63%. When stratifying by Friedman stage, success was seen in 75% of stage I, 70% of stage II, 66% of stage III, and 10% of stage IV patients. When stratifying by preoperative BMI, success was seen in 75% of stage II and 72% of stage III patients with BMI <30, compared to 58% of stage II and 56% of stage III patients with BMI >30. Conclusions: TORS-assisted lingual tonsillectomy ± multilevel procedures can be successful in treating patients with moderate to severe OSAHS with Friedman stage I-III anatomy. Success rates are even greater if patients are stratified according to preoperative BMI, as those with BMI <30 are more likely to achieve success even with Friedman stage II-III anatomy.
Loneliness and Health in Older Adults: A Mini-Review and Synthesis
Authors: Ong Anthony D. , Uchino Bert N. , Wethington Elaine
Published: November 2015

Increasing evidence suggests that perceived social isolation or loneliness is a major risk factor for physical and mental illness in later life. This review assesses the status of research on loneliness and health in older adults. Key concepts and definitions of loneliness are identified, and the prevalence, correlates, and health effects of loneliness in older individuals are reviewed. Theoretical mechanisms that underlie the association between loneliness and health are also described, and illustrative studies examining these mechanisms are summarized. Intervention approaches to reduce loneliness in old age are highlighted, and priority recommendations for future research are presented.
In vitro Quality of Platelets with Low Plasma Carryover Treated with Ultraviolet C Light for Pathogen Inactivation
Authors: Johnson Lacey , Hyland Ryan , Tan Shereen , Tolksdorf Frank , Sumian Chryslain , Seltsam Axel , Marks Denese
Published: November 2015

Background: The THERAFLEX UV-Platelets system uses shortwave ultraviolet C light (UVC, 254 nm) to inactivate pathogens in platelet components. Plasma carryover influences pathogen inactivation and platelet quality following treatment. The plasma carryover in the standard platelets produced by our institution are below the intended specification (<30%). Methods: A pool and split study was carried out comparing untreated and UVC-treated platelets with <30% plasma carryover (n = 10 pairs). This data was compared to components that met specifications (>30% plasma). The platelets were tested over storage for in vitro quality. Results: Platelet metabolism was accelerated following UVC treatment, as demonstrated by increased glucose consumption and lactate production. UVC treatment caused increased externalization of phosphatidylserine on platelets and microparticles, activation of the GPIIb/IIIa receptor (PAC-1 binding), and reduced hypotonic shock response. Platelet function, as measured with thrombelastogram, was not affected by UVC treatment. Components with <30% plasma were similar to those meeting specification with the exception of enhanced glycolytic metabolism. Conclusion: This in vitro analysis demonstrates that treatment of platelets with <30% plasma carryover with the THERAFLEX UV-Platelets system affects some aspects of platelet metabolism and activation, although in vitro platelet function was not negatively impacted. This study also provides evidence that the treatment specifications of plasma carryover could be extended to below 30%.
Determining the Volume of Additive Solution and Residual Plasma in Whole Blood Filtered and Buffy Coat Processed Red Cell Concentrates
Authors: Jordan Andrew , Acker Jason P.
Published: November 2015

Background: Residual plasma in transfused red cell concentrates (RCCs) has been associated with adverse transfusion outcomes. Despite this, there is no consensus on the standard procedure for measuring residual plasma volume. Methods: The volumes of residual plasma and additive solution were measured in RCCs processed using two separation methods: whole blood filtration (WBF) and buffy coat (BC)/RCC filtration. The concentration of mannitol and albumin in RCC components was measured using colorimetric assays. Mannitol concentration was used to calculate additive solution volume. Residual plasma volume was calculated using two methods. Results: Calculated RCC supernatant volumes were much lower in BC-processed components compared to WBF-processed components (BC = 97 ± 6 ml, WBF = 109 ± 4 ml; p < 0.05). Calculated additive solution volumes were greater in WBF- than in BC-processed components (BC = 81 ± 4 ml, WBF = 105 ± 2 ml; p < 0.05). Absolute residual plasma volume varied significantly based on the calculation method used. Conclusion: Disparity between plasma volume calculation methods was observed. Efforts should be made to standardize residual plasma volume measurement methods in order to accurately assess the impact of residual plasma on transfusion outcomes.
Extinction risks and conservation status of Corybas (Orchidaceae; Orchidoideae; Diurideae) in Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: GO RUSEA , CHING TAN MUI , NURUDDIN AHMAD AINNUDIN , ABDULLAH JANNA ONG , JIN NG YONG , NORDIN FARAH ALIA , ENG KHOR HONG , NULIT ROSIMAH
Published: November 2015

Corybas is an elusive terrestrial orchid genus mostly inhabiting the high peaks in Peninsular Malaysia, which is the most vulnerable habitat to climate change. Nine species, of which seven are endemic, were studied based on natural populations, whereas information on another two was obtained from herbarium collections. Corybas caudatus was excluded from the study due to insufficient materials, and the type was not located. The species investigated were growing in small populations in the remaining moss-covered forests in the highlands. Human activities and temperature rise are two major threats to the wild populations. Our field observations revealed that Corybas species are good indicators of climate change as they are highly sensitive to temperature rise and drop in relative humidity. Judging from the current small number of specimens recollected, the small population sizes and degraded habitats where they grow, Corybas species in Peninsular Malaysia are all threatened by extinction in the wild.
Missed Opportunities for Transcranial Doppler Screening Among Children With Sickle Cell Disease
Authors: Reeves Sarah L. , Fullerton Heather J. , Cohn Lisa M. , Dombkowski Kevin J. , Boulton Matthew L. , Braun Thomas M. , Lisabeth Lynda D.
Published: November 2015

Transcranial Doppler (TCD) screening rates remain low among children with sickle cell disease (SCD). We assessed TCD screening rates and missed opportunities for TCD screening. Children 2 to 16 years old with SCD enrolled in Michigan Medicaid for ≥1 year (2007-2011) were identified through newborn screening. Receipt of TCD screening and presence of a missed opportunity (≥1 SCD-related outpatient visit, no TCD screening) were identified through administrative claims. Potential correlates of missed opportunities included SCD-related health services, comorbidities, and demographics. Logistic regression with generalized estimating equations modeled associations between a missed opportunity and correlates. Overall, 353 children contributed 1066 person-years. TCD screening was low yearly (10%-32%); missed opportunities occurred in 73% of the person-years. Increasing age (odds ratio [OR] = 1.11; confidence interval CI = 1.07, 1.15), previous TCD screening (OR = 0.26; CI = 0.16, 0.41), and 4 to 5 (OR = 0.48; CI = 0.26, 0.87) or ≥6 outpatient visits (OR = 0.26; CI = 0.14, 0.49) were associated with a missed opportunity. Reduction of missed opportunities is a potential strategy to increase TCD screening rates.
Medical Causes and Consequences of Home Foreclosures
Authors: Cutshaw Christina A. , Woolhandler Steffie , Himmelstein David U. , Robertson Christopher
Published: November 2015

The objective of this study was to elucidate the medical causes and consequences of foreclosure. We surveyed 90 households undergoing foreclosure in 2013–2014 in Maricopa County, Arizona on two occasions approximately five months apart. At baseline, median monthly household income was $3,000, and median mortgage payment $1,350. Only 10% of respondents lacked health insurance when surveyed, although 28% had experienced a gap in coverage within the past two years. Fifty-seven percent identified a medical debt or another medical cause of their foreclosure, and 54% had taken on new debt to pay medical bills; 10% had mortgaged their home for this reason. Although 57% of respondents had a chronic condition requiring ongoing care, more than half reported delaying or skipping a needed medical visit. At follow-up, one-third of respondents had been unable to afford food, and 3 respondents reported becoming homeless; 46% said foreclosure had worsened their health; and 63% had already incurred new medical debts. Medical debt and medical problems frequently contribute to foreclosure, even among insured families. Foreclosure compromises access to care and basic necessities like food and shelter, and worsens self-reported health.
Urban Education and Black Racial Identity in South Africa
Authors: Ndimande Bekisizwe S. , Neville Helen A.
Published: November 2015

Data suggest that having a positive, internalized racial identity is related to healthy outcomes. Although some scholars have highlighted the role of education in providing a context to develop such an identity, there is a dearth of research in this area. This study analyzed racial life narrative interviews with 15 Black South Africans to explore the role of education in shaping individuals’ perceptions of being Black during and after apartheid. We uncovered three interrelated dimensions: Educational System Shapes Opportunities, Educational Context Influences Racial Awareness (through opportunities for student activism, curriculum, and personal experiences with discrimination), and Education as (Racial) Empowerment.