bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MicroRNA-146a Decreases High Glucose/Thrombin-Induced Endothelial Inflammation by Inhibiting NAPDH Oxidase 4 Expression
Authors: Wang Huang-Joe , Huang Yuan-Li , Shih Ya-Yun , Wu Hsing-Yu , Peng Ching-Tien , Lo Wan-Yu
Published: September 2014

Diabetes is associated with hyperglycemia and increased thrombin production. However, it is unknown whether a combination of high glucose and thrombin can modulate the expression of NAPDH oxidase (Nox) subtypes in human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs). Moreover, we investigated the role of a diabetes-associated microRNA (miR-146a) in a diabetic atherothrombosis model. We showed that high glucose (HG) exerted a synergistic effect with thrombin to induce a 10.69-fold increase in Nox4 mRNA level in HAECs. Increased Nox4 mRNA expression was associated with increased Nox4 protein expression and ROS production. Inflammatory cytokine kit identified that the treatment increased IL-8 and IL-6 levels. Moreover, HG/thrombin treatment caused an 11.43-fold increase of THP-1 adhesion to HAECs.In silicoanalysis identified the homology between miR-146a and the 3′-untranslated region of the Nox4 mRNA, and a luciferase reporter assay confirmed that the miR-146a mimic bound to this Nox4 regulatory region. Additionally, miR-146a expression was decreased to 58% of that in the control, indicating impaired feedback restraint of HG/thrombin-induced endothelial inflammation. In contrast, miR-146a mimic transfection attenuated HG/thrombin-induced upregulation of Nox4 expression, ROS generation, and inflammatory phenotypes. In conclusion, miR-146a is involved in the regulation of endothelial inflammation via modulation of Nox4 expression in a diabetic atherothrombosis model.
Aortoenteric Fistula as a Complication of Open Reconstruction and Endovascular Repair of Abdominal Aorta
Authors: Tagowski Marek , Vieweg Hendryk , Wissgott Christian , Andresen Reimer
Published: September 2014

The paper intends to present a review of imaging characteristics of secondary aortoenteric fistula (AEF). Mechanical injury, infection, and adherence of a bowel segment to the aorta or aortic graft are major etiologic factors of AEF after open aortic repair. The pathogenesis of AEF formation after endovascular abdominal aortic repair is related to mechanical failure of the stent-graft, to stent graft infection, and to persistent pressurization of the aneurysmal sac. The major clinical manifestations of AEF comprise haematemesis, melaena, abdominal pain, sepsis, and fever. CT is the initial diagnostic modality of choice in a stable patient. However, the majority of reported CT appearances are not specific. In case of equivocal CT scans and clinical suspicion of AEF, scintigraphy,67Ga citrate scans or18F-FDG PET/CT is useful. Diagnostic accuracy of endoscopy in evaluation of AEF is low; nevertheless it allows to evaluate other than AEF etiologies of gastrointestinal bleeding. Without adequate therapy, AEF is lethal. Conventional surgical treatment is associated with high morbidity and mortality. The endovascular repair may be an option in hemodynamically unstable and high-risk surgical patients. We also illustrate an example of a secondary AEF with highly specific albeit rare radiologic picture from our institution.
High Power Combline Filter for Deep Space Applications
Authors: Subramanyam A. V. G. , Siva Reddy D. , Hariharan V. K. , Srinivasan V. V. , Chakrabarty Ajay
Published: September 2014

An S-band, compact, high power filter, for use in the Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM) of Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), has been designed and tested for multipaction. The telemetry, tracking, and commanding (TT&C) transponder of MOM is required to handle continuous RF power of 200 W in the telemetry path besides simultaneously maintaining an isolation of greater than 145 dBc to its sensitive telecommand path. This is accomplished with the help of a complex diplexer, requiring high power, high rejection transmit path filter, and a low power receive path filter. To reduce the complexity in the multipaction-free design and testing, the transmit path filter of the diplexer is split into a low rejection filter integral to the diplexer and an external high rejection filter. This paper highlights the design and space qualification phases of this high rejection filter. Multipaction test results with 6 dB margin are also presented. Major concerns of this filter design are isolation, insertion loss, and multipaction. Mission performance of the on-board filter is normal.
A Variance Shift Model for Detection of Outliers in the Linear Measurement Error Model
Authors: Babadi Babak , Rasekh Abdolrahman , Rasekhi Ali Akbar , Zare Karim , Zadkarami Mohammad Reza
Published: September 2014

We present a variance shift model for a linear measurement error model using the corrected likelihood of Nakamura (1990). This model assumes that a single outlier arises from an observation with inflated variance. The corrected likelihood ratio and the score test statistics are proposed to determine whether theith observation has an inflated variance. A parametric bootstrap procedure is used to obtain empirical distributions of the test statistics and a simulation study has been used to show the performance of proposed tests. Finally, a real data example is given for illustration.
Malignant and Noninvasive Skin Tumours in Renal Transplant Recipients
Authors: Roche Christopher D. , Dobson Joelle S. , Williams Sion K. , Quante Mara , Popoola Joyce , Chow Jade W. M.
Published: September 2014

Background.Transplant recipients require immunosuppression to prevent graft rejection. This conveys an increased risk of malignancy, particularly skin tumours. There is a need for up-to-date data for the South of England.Method.Pathology records were reviewed for 709 kidney transplant recipients on immunosuppression at our hospital from 1995 to 2008. Skin tumours were recorded/analysed.Results.Mean age at transplant was 46 years. Mean length of follow-up was 7.2 years and total follow-up was 4926 person-years. 53 (7.5%) patients (39/458 (8.5%) males and 14/251 (5.6%) females) developed ≥1 skin malignancy. Cumulative incidences of 4.0%, 7.5%, and 12.2% were observed for those with <5, <10, and ≥10 years follow-up, respectively. The rate was 45 tumours per 1000 person-years at risk. Additionally, 21 patients (3.0%) only had noninvasive tumours. 221 malignant skin tumours were found: 50.2% were SCCs, 47.1% BCCs, and 2.7% malignant melanomas. Mean years to first tumour were 5.8. Mean number of tumours per patient was 4, with mean interval of 12 months.Conclusions.Despite changes in transplantation practice during the time since the last data were published in this region, these findings are similar to previous studies. This adds to the evidence allowing clinicians to inform patients in this region of their risk.
Comparison of Cantharidin Toxicity in Breast Cancer Cells to Two Common Chemotherapeutics
Authors: Kern Katie M. , Schroeder Jennifer R.
Published: September 2014

As part of a larger study synthesizing a more directed form of chemotherapy, we have begun to assess the efficacy of different potential toxins that could be delivered locally rather than systemically. In doing so, we hope to reduce the systemic side effects commonly observed, while maintaining a high level of toxicity and eliminating the need for metabolic alterations. In a search for this more efficient method for killing cancerous cells, we have begun studying cantharidin, a toxin used in traditional Chinese medicine, as a potential chemotherapeutic. Using an MTT cell viability assay, the toxicity of cantharidin was compared to both cyclophosphamide and paclitaxel in three different breast cancer cell lines: MCF-7, MDA-MB-231, and SK-BR-3. Increasing the concentration of chemotherapy drugs did decrease cell viability in all cell lines when cantharidin and cyclophosphamide were applied; however differences for paclitaxel were cell-specific. Additionally, cantharidin exhibited the highest decrease in cell viability regardless of cell type, indicating it may be a much more potent and less specific chemotherapeutic. These results will help us move forward in developing a potentially more potent treatment for breast cancer that might eliminate the need for subtype-specific treatments.
Exact Inference for the Dispersion Matrix
Authors: Hutson Alan D. , Wilding Gregory E. , Yu Jihnhee , Vexler Albert
Published: September 2014

We develop a new and novel exact permutation test for prespecified correlation structures such as compound symmetry or spherical structures under standard assumptions. The key feature of the work contained in this note is the distribution free aspect of our procedures that frees us from the standard and sometimes unrealistic multivariate normality constraint commonly needed for other methods.
On the Stream Function-Vorticity Finite Element Formulation for Incompressible Flow in Porous Media
Authors: Agouzal Abdellatif , Allali Karam , Binna Siham
Published: September 2014

Stream function-vorticity finite element formulation for incompressible flow in porous media is presented. The model consists of the heat equation, the equation for the concentration, and the equations of motion under the Darcy law. The existence of solution for the discrete problem is established. Optimal a priori error estimates are given.
Phase Portraits of the Autonomous Duffing Single-Degree-of-Freedom Oscillator with Coulomb Dry Friction
Authors: Jakšić Nikola
Published: September 2014

The paper presents phase portraits of the autonomous Duffing single-degree-of-freedom system with Coulomb dry friction in its δ-γ-ε parameter space. The considered nonlinearities of the cubic stiffness (ε) and Coulomb dry friction (γ) are widely used throughout the literature. It has been shown that there can be more than one sticking region in the phase plane. It has also been shown that an equilibrium point occurs at the critical combinations of values of the parameters γ and ε which gives rise to zero eigenvalue of the linearised system. The unstable limit cycle may appear in the case of negative viscous damping (δ); δ<0.
Effect of Hydrocolloids and Emulsifiers on Baking Quality of Composite Cassava-Maize-Wheat Breads
Authors: Eduardo Maria , Svanberg Ulf , Ahrné Lilia
Published: September 2014

Cassava is widely available worldwide but bread quality is impaired when cassava is used in the bread formulation. To overcome this problem, different improvers were tested in the preparation of composite cassava-maize-wheat (CMW) breads. Emulsifiers, diacetyl tartic acid ester of monoglycerides (DATEM), sodium stearoyl-2-lactylate (SSL), and lecithin (LC); and hydrocolloids, carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) and high-methylated pectin (HM pectin) were added during dough preparation of the composite flours (cassava-maize-wheat, 40 : 10 : 50). Each emulsifier was tested in combination with the hydrocolloids at levels of 0.1, 0.3, and 0.5% while hydrocolloids were used at a level of 3%. Bread quality attributes such as specific loaf volume, crust colour, crumb moisture, and firmness were measured. The specific volume of the fresh breads significantly improved with the addition of hydrocolloids (7.5 and 13%) and in combination with emulsifiers (from 7.9 to 27%) compared with bread produced without improvers. A significant improvement of brownness index and firmness of the composite flours breads was achieved with the addition of hydrocolloids and emulsifiers. The results show that emulsifiers and hydrocolloids can significantly improve the baking quality of CMW breads and thereby enhance the potential for using locally produced flours in bread baking.
Function, Structure, and Evolution of the Major Facilitator Superfamily: The LacY Manifesto
Authors: Madej M. Gregor
Published: September 2014

The major facilitator superfamily (MFS) is a diverse group of secondary transporters with members found in all kingdoms of life. A paradigm for MFS is the lactose permease (LacY) ofEscherichia coli, which couples the stoichiometric translocation of a galactopyranoside and anH+across the cytoplasmic membrane. LacY has been the test bed for the development of many methods applied for the analysis of transport proteins. X-ray structures of an inward-facing conformation and the most recent structure of an almost occluded conformation confirm many conclusions from previous studies. Although structure models are critical, they are insufficient to explain the catalysis of transport. The clues to understanding transport are based on the principles of enzyme kinetics. Secondary transport is a dynamic process—static snapshots of X-ray crystallography describe it only partially. However, without structural information, the underlying chemistry is virtually impossible to conclude. A large body of biochemical/biophysical data derived from systematic studies of site-directed mutants in LacY suggests residues critically involved in the catalysis, and a working model for the symport mechanism that involves alternating access of the binding site is presented. The general concepts derived from the bacterial LacY are examined for their relevance to other MFS transporters.
Pathological Complete Response and Long-Term Survival in a Very Elderly Patient after Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy for Locally Advanced, Unresectable Gastric Cancer
Authors: Izuishi Kunihiko , Kobayashi Mitsuyoshi , Sano Takanori , Mori Hirohito , Ebara Kazuo
Published: September 2014

We address the pathological complete response and long-term survival of elderly patients after neoadjuvant chemotherapy in locally advanced, unresectable gastric cancer. An 83-year-old man was hospitalized for upper abdominal pain. Gastrointestinal endoscopy showed a large tumor spanning from the gastric angle to the antrum, and extending to the duodenum. Histological analysis of the biopsy specimen revealed a poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma. Computed tomography images showed thickening of the gastric wall and invasion of the body and head of the pancreas, but did not show distant metastases. The patient was diagnosed with unresectable gastric cancer, and was treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy using S-1 (80 mg/m2) and paclitaxel (60 mg/m2). After the third course of chemotherapy, gastrointestinal endoscopy and abdominal computed tomography revealed a remarkable reduction in tumor size. This reduction allowed distal gastrectomy to be conducted. Histological examination of the specimen revealed no cancer cells in the primary lesion or lymph nodes. The patient was treated with adjuvant chemotherapy of oral tegafur-uracil (300 mg/day) for one year after surgery. He lived for five years after surgery without recurrence. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy using S-1 and paclitaxel is a potent strategy for improving survival in very elderly patients with unresectable gastric cancer.
Dynamics of a Predator-Prey System with Mixed Functional Responses
Authors: Baek Hunki , Kim Dongseok
Published: September 2014

A predator-prey system with two preys and one predator is considered. Especially, two different types of functional responses, Holling type and Beddington-DeAngelis type, are adopted. First, the boundedness of system is showed. Stabilities analysis of system is investigated via some properties about equilibrium points and stabilities of two subsystems without one of the preys of system. Also, persistence conditions of system are found out and some numerical examples are illustrated to substantiate our theoretical results.
Soft Translations and Soft Extensions of BCI/BCK-Algebras
Authors: Sultana Nazra , Rani Nazia , Ali Muhammad Irfan , Hussain Azhar
Published: September 2014

The concept of soft translations of soft subalgebras and soft ideals over BCI/BCK-algebras is introduced and some related properties are studied. Notions of Soft extensions of soft subalgebras and soft ideals over BCI/BCK-algebras are also initiated. Relationships between soft translations and soft extensions are explored.
Garage Location Selection for Public Transportation System in Istanbul: An Integrated Fuzzy AHP and Fuzzy Axiomatic Design Based Approach
Authors: Bilişik Özge Nalan , Demirtaş Nurgül , Tuzkaya Umut Rıfat , Baraçlı Hayri
Published: September 2014

We try to determine the best location for a bus garage, in which maintenance and repair activities are operated, for public transportation system in Istanbul. An integrated multicriteria decision making technique (MCDM) is used to obtain reliable results. Firstly, various criteria related to garage location selection are specified and weighted by fuzzy AHP (analytical hierarchy process). Then, these weights are used in fuzzy axiomatic design (AD) technique to determine the precedencies of the alternative garage locations.
Existence of Tripled Fixed Points for a Class of Condensing Operators in Banach Spaces
Authors: Karakaya Vatan , Bouzara Nour El Houda , Doğan Kadri , Atalan Yunus
Published: September 2014

We give some results concerning the existence of tripled fixed points for a class of condensing operators in Banach spaces. Further, as an application, we study the existence of solutions for a general system of nonlinear integral equations.
A New Iterative Method for Finding Approximate Inverses of Complex Matrices
Authors: Razavi M. Kafaei , Kerayechian A. , Gachpazan M. , Shateyi S.
Published: September 2014

This paper presents a new iterative method for computing the approximate inverse of nonsingular matrices. The analytical discussion of the method is included to demonstrate its convergence behavior. As a matter of fact, it is proven that the suggested scheme possesses tenth order of convergence. Finally, its performance is illustrated by numerical examples on different matrices.
Correlation of Anxiety Levels between Temporomandibular Disorder Patients and Normal Subjects
Authors: Vasudeva Subhash , Iyengar Asha , Seetaramaiah Nagesh
Published: September 2014

Background. Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) are among the common musculoskeletal conditions affecting the individual. Anxiety plays an important role in the pathogenesis of TMD. Modern lifestyle and work environment bring to focus the role of anxiety in everyday life which is changing the demographics of diseases like TMD. This study compared the anxiety scores between TMD patients and normal subjects. Material and Methods. 505 individuals were included in the study who were divided into group 1 with 255 individuals presenting with signs and symptoms of TMD and group 2 with 250 normal individuals as controls. Hospital anxiety depression scale was used to calculate the anxiety scores. Fischer’s t test was used to compare the anxiety scores between the two groups. Results. 80% of individuals in group 2 and 44% in group 1 individuals had normal anxiety scores. 45% of the individuals in group 1 and 19% in group 2 had borderline anxiety scores. 11% of group 1 individuals and <1% of group 2 individuals demonstrated high anxiety scores. These results were statistically significant. Conclusion. Individuals with TMD exhibited higher levels of anxiety scores whereas significant number of control subjects exhibited normal anxiety scores.
Improving RLRN Image Splicing Detection with the Use of PCA and Kernel PCA
Authors: Moghaddasi Zahra , Jalab Hamid A. , Md Noor Rafidah , Aghabozorgi Saeed
Published: September 2014

Digital image forgery is becoming easier to perform because of the rapid development of various manipulation tools. Image splicing is one of the most prevalent techniques. Digital images had lost their trustability, and researches have exerted considerable effort to regain such trustability by focusing mostly on algorithms. However, most of the proposed algorithms are incapable of handling high dimensionality and redundancy in the extracted features. Moreover, existing algorithms are limited by high computational time. This study focuses on improving one of the image splicing detection algorithms, that is, the run length run number algorithm (RLRN), by applying two dimension reduction methods, namely, principal component analysis (PCA) and kernel PCA. Support vector machine is used to distinguish between authentic and spliced images. Results show that kernel PCA is a nonlinear dimension reduction method that has the best effect on R, G, B, and Y channels and gray-scale images.
No Signs of Inflammation during Knee Surgery with Ischemia: A Study Involving Inhaled Nitric Oxide
Authors: Hållström Lars , Frostell Claes , Herrlin Anders , Lindroos Eva , Lundberg Ingrid , Soop Anne
Published: September 2014

Nitric oxide donors and inhaled nitric oxide (iNO) may decrease ischemia/reperfusion injury as reported in animal and human models. We investigated whether the attenuation of reperfusion injury, seen by others, in patients undergoing knee arthroplasty could be reproduced when patients had spinal anesthesia. 45 consecutive patients were randomized into three groups (n=15). Groups 1 and 3 were receiving iNO 80 ppm or placebo (nitrogen, N2) throughout the entire operation, and group 2 only received iNO in the beginning and at the end of the operation. Blood samples were collected before surgery, at the end of the surgery, and 2 hours postoperatively. Muscle biopsies were taken from quadriceps femoris muscle before and after ischemia. There were no increases in plasma levels of soluble adhesion molecules: ICAM, VCAM, P-selectin, E-selectin, or of HMGB1, in any of the groups. There were low numbers of CD68+ macrophages and of endothelial cells expression of ICAM, VCAM, and P-selectin in the muscle analyzed by immunohistochemistry, prior to and after ischemia. No signs of endothelial cell activation or inflammatory response neither systemically nor locally could be detected. The absence of inflammatory response questions this model of ischemia/reperfusion, but may also be related to the choice of anesthetic method EudraCTnr.
Discrete Globalised Dual Heuristic Dynamic Programming in Control of the Two‐Wheeled Mobile Robot
Authors: Szuster Marcin , Hendzel Zenon
Published: September 2014

Network‐based control systems have been emerging technologies in the control of nonlinear systems over the past few years. This paper focuses on the implementation of the approximate dynamic programming algorithm in the network‐based tracking control system of the two‐wheeled mobile robot, Pioneer 2‐DX. The proposed discrete tracking control system consists of the globalised dual heuristic dynamic programming algorithm, the PD controller, the supervisory term, and an additional control signal. The structure of the supervisory term derives from the stability analysis realised using the Lyapunov stability theorem. The globalised dual heuristic dynamic programming algorithm consists of two structures: the actor and the critic, realised in a form of neural networks. The actor generates the suboptimal control law, while the critic evaluates the realised control strategy by approximation of value function from the Bellman’s equation. The presented discrete tracking control system works online, the neural networks’ weights adaptation process is realised in every iteration step, and the neural networks preliminary learning procedure is not required. The performance of the proposed control system was verified by a series of computer simulations and experiments realised using the wheeled mobile robot Pioneer 2‐DX.
Ocular Inflammation in Uveal Tract in Aged Obese Type 2 Diabetic Rats (Spontaneously Diabetic Torii Fatty Rats)
Authors: Kemmochi Yusuke , Miyajima Katsuhiro , Ohta Takeshi , Sasase Tomohiko , Yasui Yuzo , Toyoda Kaoru , Kakimoto Kochi , Shoda Toshiyuki , Kakehashi Akihiro
Published: September 2014

We report uveitis observed in an obese type 2 diabetes rat model, Spontaneously Diabetic Torii Leprfa(SDT fatty) rats aged over 50 weeks. The eyes of SDT fatty rats (16 animals: 7 males and 9 females with 50 or 60 weeks of age) were examined histopathologically. Infiltration of inflammatory cells in the uveal tract was observed in 13 of 16 animals. One female showed severe inflammation affecting the entire uveal tract including the iris, ciliary body, and choroid with a variety of inflammatory cells (neutrophils, lymphocytes, and macrophages). Those changes clinically mimic the findings of diabetic iridocyclitis in diabetic patients. Uveitis associated with diabetes can occur in diabetic patients but the pathogenesis still remains unknown. Since increased extramedullary hematopoiesis in the spleen and abscess in the genital and lower urinary tracts were observed in some SDT fatty rats, increased susceptibility to infection, prolongation of inflammatory states, and disorders of the immune system were considered to be possible factors of the uveitis in aged SDT fatty rats. There have been few reports on how diabetes has influence on the development of uveitis associated with bacterial infection. The SDT fatty rat can be an animal model to investigate diabetes-associated uveitis.
Characterization of Carbon Nanofibers Treated with Thermal Nitrogen as a Catalyst Support Using Point‐of‐Zero Charge Analysis
Authors: Nguyen Van Thien Duc , Sufian Suriati , Mansor Nurlidia , Yahya Noorhana
Published: September 2014

The chemical and physical purification of carbon nanofiber exposes more anchoring sites between meal precursors and carbon surface but thermal N2 gas flow maintains the crystal’s structure as well as its defect and edge sites, referred to as active sites or anchoring sites. After calcination in nitrogen at 450°C, samples were characterized by Raman spectra X‐ray diffraction, as well as thermogravimetric and nitrogen physisorption analyses. Results showed a relatively lower fraction of amorphous carbon to graphite, indicating a greater removal of amorphous carbon. Moreover, the disorder intensity of carbon nanofibers that were treated in N2 flow rate of 1 L/min and 3 hours, called 1Gcom‐3h sample, achieved far more defect sites compared with unmodified carbon nanofiber. In addition, the surface areas of mesoporous carbon nanofibers decreased over prolonged residence time. The carbon nanofiber support‐metal cation interaction therefore improved the deposition of iron when the point‐of‐zero charge reading was greater than four.
Investigation of the Protective Effects of Taurine against Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Retinal Changes via Electroretinogram and Retinal Histology with New Zealand White Rabbits
Authors: Chiang Samuel Tung-Hsing , Yeh Shang-Min , Chen Yi-Chen , Lin Shiun-Long , Tseng Jung-Kai
Published: September 2014

The purpose of this study was to investigate the protective role of orally administered taurine against diabetic retinal changes via electroretinogram (ERG) and retinal histology on rabbits. Rabbits were randomly assigned into groups: Group I (vehicle administration only); Group II (diabetes: induced by 100 mg/kg alloxan injection); Group III (diabetes and fed with 200 mg/kg taurine); and Group IV (diabetes and fed with 400 mg/kg taurine). The body weight and blood glucose levels of the rabbits were monitored weekly. The ERG was measured on weeks 5 and 15. Retinal histology was analyzed in the end of the experiment. Results revealed that a taurine supplement significantly ameliorates the alloxan-induced hyperglycemia and protects the retina from electrophysiological changes. Group II showed a significant(P<0.05)change in the mean scotopic b-wave amplitude when compared to that of Group I, whereas the diabetic rabbits treated with taurine (Group III and IV) were analogous to Group I. Histologically, the amount of Bipolar and Müller cells showed no difference(P>0.05)between all groups and when compared with those of Group I. Our study provides solid evidences that taurine possesses an antidiabetic activity, reduced loss of body weight, and less electrophysiological changes of the diabetic retina.
Synthesis of Fe Nanoparticles Functionalized with Oleic Acid Synthesized by Inert Gas Condensation
Authors: Silva L. G. , Solis-Pomar F. , Gutiérrez-Lazos C. D. , Meléndrez Manuel F. , Martinez E. , Fundora A. , Pérez-Tijerina E.
Published: September 2014

In this work, we study the synthesis of monodispersed Fe nanoparticles (Fe‐NPs) in situ functionalized with oleic acid. The nanoparticles were self‐assembled by inert gas condensation (IGC) technique by using magnetron‐sputtering process. Structural characterization of Fe‐NPs was performed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Particle size control was carried out through the following parameters: (i) condensation zone length, (ii) magnetron power, and (iii) gas flow (Ar and He). Typically the nanoparticles generated by IGC showed diameters which ranged from ~0.7 to 20 nm. Mass spectroscopy of Fe‐NPs in the deposition system allowed the study of in situ nanoparticle formation, through a quadrupole mass filter (QMF) that one can use together with a mass filter. When the deposition system works without quadrupole mass filter, the particle diameter distribution is around +/−20%. When the quadrupole is in line, then the distribution can be reduced to around +/−2%.
Novel Modulation Method for Multidirectional Matrix Converter
Authors: Toosi Saman , Misron Norhisam , Hanamoto Tsuyoshi , Aris Ishak Bin , Mohd Radzi Mohd Amran , Yamada Hiroaki
Published: September 2014

This study presents a new modulation method for multidirectional matrix converter (MDMC), based on the direct duty ratio pulse width modulation (DDPWM). In this study, a new structure of MDMC has been proposed to control the power flow direction through the stand-alone battery based system and hybrid vehicle. The modulation method acts based on the average voltage over one switching period concept. Therefore, in order to determine the duty ratio for each switch, the instantaneous input voltages are captured and compared with triangular waveform continuously. By selecting the proper switching pattern and changing the slope of the carriers, the sinusoidal input current can be synthesized with high power factor and desired output voltage. The proposed system increases the discharging time of the battery by injecting the power to the system from the generator and battery at the same time. Thus, it makes the battery life longer and saves more energy. This paper also derived necessary equation for proposed modulation method as well as detail of analysis and modulation algorithm. The theoretical and modulation concepts presented have been verified in MATLAB simulation.
The Great Recession and Drinking Outcomes: Protective Effects of Politically Oriented Coping
Authors: Richman Judith A. , Brown Robyn Lewis , Rospenda Kathleen M.
Published: September 2014

Research derived from the stress paradigm suggests that certain types of coping (e.g., problem-focused coping instead of behavioral disengagement) are protective against problem-related drinking to deal with social stressors. Going beyond the typical focus in the coping literature, we hypothesize that stressors engendered by macrolevel social forces may require coping actions within the political realm in contrast to modes of coping focused outside of the political realm. A United States sample of 663 respondents completed a mail survey in 2010, including measures of stressful consequences of the Great Recession, drinking patterns and problems, modes of coping encompassed in the Brief COPE instrument, and politically oriented coping. Structural equation modeling examined whether modes of coping mediated the links between stressors and drinking outcomes. A substantial portion of the associations between stressors and drinking was explained by modes of coping. Politically oriented coping was protective against problem drinking for both genders. Future studies should further explore politically oriented coping in addition to modes of coping outside of the political realm when studying the relationships between macrolevel social stressors and deleterious drinking outcomes.
Population Projections for Sparsely Populated Areas: Reconciling “Error” and Context
Authors: Taylor Andrew
Published: September 2014

Population projections are increasingly utilised as tools for understanding and modelling the economic, social, and environmental futures of sparsely populated areas. This study examines issues around “fit for purpose” for the application of projections to remote contexts. We focus on projections made for the Northern Territory of Australia, a jurisdiction in the north of the country, to assess the relative accuracy of projections over time. The results conclusively demonstrate the reduced accuracy of remote population projections. Nevertheless, the exercise of comparing and contrasting the accuracy of projections provides a useful lens for understanding demographic and other issues which necessitate that approaches for developing and utilising projections can and should be different in sparsely populated areas. We provide examples of alternative approaches to projections and the analysis of errors which researchers and analysts in sparsely populated areas might apply to other jurisdictions.
A Field Theory with Curvature and Anticurvature
Authors: Wanas M. I. , Kamal Mona M.
Published: September 2014

The present work is an attempt to construct a unified field theory in a space with curvature and anticurvature, the PAP-space. The theory is derived from an action principle and a Lagrangian density using a symmetric linear parameterized connection. Three different methods are used to explore physical contents of the theory obtained. Poisson’s equations for both material and charge distributions are obtained, as special cases, from the field equations of the theory. The theory is a pure geometric one in the sense that material distribution, charge distribution, gravitational and electromagnetic potentials, and other physical quantities are defined in terms of pure geometric objects of the structure used. In the case of pure gravity in free space, the spherical symmetric solution of the field equations gives the Schwarzschild exterior field. The weak equivalence principle is respected only in the case of pure gravity in free space; otherwise it is violated.
Biogenic Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Using Scenedesmus abundans and Evaluation of Their Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Aziz Nafe , Fatma Tasneem , Varma Ajit , Prasad Ram
Published: September 2014

Silver nanoparticle (AgNP) was synthesized using the cell free extract of Scenedesmus abundans with AgNO3. The synthesized silver nanoparticles were characterized by UV-visible spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering (DLS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Photoluminescence. Bioreduction of Ag+ ions showed a gradual change in the colour of the extract and nanoparticles were synthesized having the range of 420–440 nm under UV-visible spectrum. The antibacterial efficacy was assessed against pathogenic bacteria E. coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Aeromonas hydrophila. The present study revealed that the AgNPs prepared from Scenedesmus abundans show antibacterial efficacy against the test pathogens. The bioaccumulation of silver particles makes the organism potential candidate for ecofriendly silver biorecovery system and S. abundans can be used as a source of silver nanoparticles.
The Possible Role of Extravillous Trophoblast-Derived Exosomes on the Uterine Spiral Arterial Remodeling under Both Normal and Pathological Conditions
Authors: Salomon Carlos , Yee Sarah W. , Mitchell Murray D. , Rice Gregory E.
Published: September 2014

A tenet of contemporary obstetrics is that events that compromise placentation increase the risk of complications of pregnancy and contribute to poor pregnancy outcome. In particular, conditions that affect the invasion of placental cells and remodeling of uterine spiral arteries compromise placental function and the subsequent development of the fetus. Extravillous trophoblast cells (EVTs) proliferate and migrate from the cytotrophoblast in the anchoring villi of the placenta and invade the maternal decidua and myometrium. These cells are localised with uterine uterine spiral arteries and are thought to induce vascular remodeling. A newly identified pathway by which EVTs may regulate vascular remodeling within the uterus is via the release of exosomes. Trophoblast cells release exosomes that mediate aspects of cell-to-cell communication. The aim of this brief commentary is to review the putative role of exosomes released from extravillous trophoblast cells in uterine spiral artery remodeling and, in particular, their role in the aetiology of preeclampsia. Placental exosomes may engage in local cell-to-cell communication between the cell constituents of the placenta and contiguous maternal tissues and/or distal interactions, involving the release of placental exosomes into biological fluids and their transport to a remote site of action.
An Investigation on Shape Morphing by Modulus Variation: Forward Approach
Authors: Mohaghegh Motlagh Amin , Clark William W.
Published: September 2014

Structural shape deformation, in its conventional way, includes applying forces to a fixed-compliance structure to deform it to certain shapes. Rather than addressing shape control in the established way (applying forces to elastically or plastically deform a structure), this work studies the use ofshape morphing, which involves combining applied forces andlocalmodulus changes. Specifically in this paper, a simply supported elastic beam that can exhibit variable compliance behavior is selected as the model. This study focuses on the forward approach of morphing, that is, determining possible beam shapes due to the applied force and modulus variability. The goal is to incorporate variable-modulus materials into a structure model and utilize the controllable modulus change to quantify the morphing of the structure with limited actuator numbers, locations, and force levels. The resulting morphed shapes are quantified in terms of various characteristic parameters. The study demonstrates that a larger, and in some cases nonintuitive, space of shapes becomes possible when modulus change is utilized, for the same set of applied forces.
Understanding the Burden on Caregivers of People with Parkinson’s: A Scoping Review of the Literature
Authors: Bhimani Rozina
Published: September 2014

Caregivers are healthcare assets because they care for patients at home; however, when clinicians focus solely on patients, caregivers’ needs may not be recognized. The purpose of this scoping literature review is to identify the burdens on caregivers of people with Parkinson’s disease. CINAHL and PubMed databases were searched to locate thirteen original articles, one systematic review, and one meta-analysis within the last five years that highlighted caregivers’ burdens. Results indicate the need to identify practical interventions that decrease caregivers’ physical, psychological, and socioeconomic burdens. Correlates of Parkinson’s caregiver burdens are not clearly available. Caregivers’ contextual demographic information is missing, as is an understanding of how caregivers negotiate day-to-day caregiving activities. Gaps exist about how caregivers reconcile multiple medications and manage rehabilitation needs of the patient at home. A recommendation for practice is a systematic evaluation of the caregivers’ capacity at the time of clinic visit.
A New Biparametric Family of Two-Point Optimal Fourth-Order Multiple-Root Finders
Authors: Kim Young Ik , Geum Young Hee
Published: September 2014

We construct a biparametric family of fourth-order iterative methods to compute multiple roots of nonlinear equations. This method is verified to be optimally convergent. Various nonlinear equations confirm our proposed method with order of convergence of four and show that the computed asymptotic error constant agrees with the theoretical one.
On the Importance of Water Molecules in the Theoretical Study of Polyphenols Reactivity toward Superoxide Anion
Authors: Lespade Laure
Published: September 2014

Numerous studies have shown the benefits of a diet rich in fruits and vegetables. These benefits are partly due to the radical scavenging properties of polyphenols contained in fruits and vegetables since polyphenols can fight against an excess of radicals which goes along inflammation in a certain number of diseases. This pathological state, called oxidative stress, results from the aerobic condition of human organism when OH radical, hydrogen peroxide, superoxide anion, or peroxynitrite is produced in excess. If hydrogen peroxide is easily handled by human defense against radicals, the other radicals can cause damage to biological constituents like lipids, cell membranes, and other biomolecules. This paper is devoted to the theoretical study of the interaction of superoxide anion (O2•-) with a very potent radical scavenger, 1,2,4,6,8-pentahydroxynaphthalene. The importance of hydration of superoxide radical for the reactivity is analyzed. Potential energy surfaces (PES) are calculated for different number of water molecules around the radical and it is shown that the transition barrier vanishes when complete hydration with six water molecules is explicitly handled. The nature of the reactivity is determined by using the natural bond orbital (NBO) analysis.
Surface Modifications of Dental Ceramic Implants with Different Glass Solder Matrices:In VitroAnalyses with Human Primary Osteoblasts and Epithelial Cells
Authors: Markhoff Jana , Mick Enrico , Mitrovic Aurica , Pasold Juliane , Wegner Katharina , Bader Rainer
Published: September 2014

Ceramic materials show excellent esthetic behavior, along with an absence of hypersensitivity, making them a possible alternative implant material in dental surgery. However, their surface properties enable only limited osseointegration compared to titanium implants. Within this study, a novel surface coating technique for enhanced osseointegration was investigated biologically and mechanically. Specimens of tetragonal zirconia polycrystal (TZP) and aluminum toughened zirconia (ATZ) were modified with glass solder matrices in two configurations which mainly consisted of SiO2, Al2O3, K2O, and Na2O. The influence on human osteoblastic and epithelial cell viability was examined by means of a WST-1 assay as well as live/dead staining. A C1CP-ELISA was carried out to verify procollagen type I production. Uncoated/sandblasted ceramic specimens and sandblasted titanium surfaces were investigated as a reference. Furthermore, mechanical investigations of bilaterally coated pellets were conducted with respect to surface roughness and adhesive strength of the different coatings. These tests could demonstrate a mechanically stable implant coating with glass solder matrices. The coated ceramic specimens show enhanced osteoblastic and partly epithelial viability and matrix production compared to the titanium control. Hence, the new glass solder matrix coating could improve bone cell growth as a prerequisite for enhanced osseointegration of ceramic implants.
Construction and Evaluation of Rainwater Harvesting System for Domestic Use in a Remote and Rural Area of Khulna, Bangladesh
Authors: Biswas Biplob Kumar , Mandal Bablu Hira
Published: September 2014

Scarcity of pure drinking water during the dry season (November–March) is a major problem in Bangladesh, which needs to be addressed. This crisis has been further aggravated due to surging populations. Rainwater can provide some of the cleanest naturally occurring water and can hold a great potential in dealing with the current challenge of acute arsenic poisoning as well as physical water scarcity in many parts of Bangladesh. In this connection, rainwater harvesting (RWH) system has been constructed in a very remote and rural village in Khulna, Bangladesh, for a 4-membered household. It consists of a concrete catchment of 40 m2 area, a supporting and collection system made of PVC pipes, and two locally available plastic storage tanks having capacity of 2000 L each. The study also investigates the quality aspects of the stored rainwater, which include measurement of pH, alkalinity, hardness, total dissolved solids (TDS), iron, chloride, nitrate, and turbidity, using standard methods. The results showed that not only the quality of harvested rainwater is good but also the amount of water is enough for a 4-membered household to meet its domestic use throughout the year.
Biochemical Effects of Xylazine, Propofol, and Ketamine in West African Dwarf Goats
Authors: Celestine Okwudili Ukwueze , Athanasius Chinedu Eze , Jonas Anayo Ona
Published: September 2014

Anaesthesia was induced in West African Dwarf (WAD) goats using different combinations of propofol (P), xylazine (X), and ketamine (K), and the biochemical effect of the drugs determined. Twenty male (WAD) goats were randomly assigned to five treatment groups viz. Control (C) (2.5 mL IV normal saline); group K + X (5 mg/kg IV ketamine + 0.05 mg/kg IV xylazine), group P + X (5 mg/kg IV propofol + 0.05 mg/kg IV xylazine), group P + K (propofol 5 mg/kg IV + ketamine 5 mg/kg IV), and group P + K + X (propofol 2.5 mg/kg IV + ketamine 2.5 mg/kg IV + xylazine 0.05 mg/kg IV), respectively. There was increase (P<0.05) in blood glucose in K + X, P + X and P + K + X. The serum cortisol level increased (P<0.05) in all groups except in P + X. ALT value increased (P<0.05) in K + X, P + K, and P + K + X. BUN increased (P<0.05) in K + X but decreased (P<0.05) in P + K + X. There was no significant variation (P>0.05) in serum creatinine. These biochemical changes were transient. P + K + X would be the best drug combinations considering the biochemical parameter measured. However, data on blood glucose, ALT, BUN, and cortisol levels in an anaesthsized goat should be interpreted with caution in order to avoid erroneous interpretation in these animals.
Combating Pathogenic Microorganisms Using Plant-Derived Antimicrobials: A Minireview of the Mechanistic Basis
Authors: Upadhyay Abhinav , Upadhyaya Indu , Kollanoor-Johny Anup , Venkitanarayanan Kumar
Published: September 2014

The emergence of antibiotic resistance in pathogenic bacteria has led to renewed interest in exploring the potential of plant-derived antimicrobials (PDAs) as an alternative therapeutic strategy to combat microbial infections. Historically, plant extracts have been used as a safe, effective, and natural remedy for ailments and diseases in traditional medicine. Extensive research in the last two decades has identified a plethora of PDAs with a wide spectrum of activity against a variety of fungal and bacterial pathogens causing infections in humans and animals. Active components of many plant extracts have been characterized and are commercially available; however, research delineating the mechanistic basis of their antimicrobial action is scanty. This review highlights the potential of various plant-derived compounds to control pathogenic bacteria, especially the diverse effects exerted by plant compounds on various virulence factors that are critical for pathogenicity inside the host. In addition, the potential effect of PDAs on gut microbiota is discussed.
Association ofHelicobacter pyloriand iNOS Production by Macrophages and Lymphocytes in the Gastric Mucosa in Chronic Gastritis
Authors: Cherdantseva Lilia A. , Potapova Oksana V. , Sharkova Tatyana V. , Belyaeva Yana Yu. , Shkurupiy Vyacheslav A.
Published: September 2014

Helicobacter pyloriis one of the most common causes of chronic gastritis. With the development of the disease cellular inflammatory infiltrates composed of lymphocytes, plasma cells, and macrophages are formed in epithelium and lamina propria of the stomach. These cells are capable of secreting a number of active substances, including inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). We examined the relationship betweenH. pyloriand secretion of iNOS by cells of inflammatory infiltrates in chronic gastritis by light microscopy and immunohistochemistry. The data obtained indicate that stimulation ofH. pyloriimmune system cells of the host organism during development of chronic gastritis causes increase in number of macrophages and lymphocytes in the inflammatory infiltrate of the gastric mucosa. This is accompanied with increased expression of inducible NO-synthase with excess free radicals in the tissues, which leads to secondary alterations and exacerbates the inflammation with impaired regeneration processes.