bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The epidemic cost of interconnected networks
Authors: Ye Bin , Zuo Kang-Wei , Jia Jia-Jia , Ma Xiao-Ping
Published: March 2015

We study the effect of networks interconnection on the epidemic cost of them. When an epidemic will eventually die out, we find that the total cost of the epidemic over the interconnected network is approximate to the sum of the total epidemic cost of the two sub-networks. We also prove that the interconnection behavior can reduce epidemic threshold. Thus network interconnecting makes an epidemic more easily to occur, while keeping the total cost of the epidemic almost unchanged.
What is an electron?
Authors: Perry Malcolm J.
Published: March 2015

Can we try to say what an electron (or a quark, gluon or photon) is, as opposed to just describing its properties. String theory can address that question.
Inverse limit reflection and the structure of L(Vλ+1)
Authors: Cramer Scott S.
Published: March 2015

We extend the results of Laver on using inverse limits to reflect large cardinals of the form, there exists an elementary embedding Lα(Vλ+1) → Lα(Vλ+1). Using these inverse limit reflection embeddings directly and by broadening the collection of U(j)-representable sets, we prove structural results of L(Vλ+1) under the assumption that there exists an elementary embedding j : L(Vλ+1) → L(Vλ+1). As a consequence we show the impossibility of a generalized inverse limit X-reflection result for X ⊆ Vλ+1, thus focusing the study of L(ℝ) generalizations on L(Vλ+1).
Single-File System with Absorbing Boundary: Tracer Dynamics and First-Passage Properties
Authors: Ryabov Artem
Published: March 2015

In this paper, we review the tagged particle dynamics in a semi-infinite system with an absorbing boundary. The emphasis is on an interplay between the hard-core interparticle interaction and the absorption process. The exact probability density function for the position of a tagged particle is derived by means of probabilistic arguments. First, the initially homogeneous system with constant density of particles is studied. In this setting, the dynamics of the tracer conditioned on nonabsorption becomes subdiffusive, the generalized diffusion coefficient being different from that reported for the system without absorbing boundary. Second, the case when the initial number of particles is finite is discussed. In this case, in the long time limit the tracer diffusion is normal and the hard-core interaction manifests itself through the renormalization of the tracer diffusion coefficient. The Gaussian distribution derived for infinite single-file systems is, in the present semi-infinite setting, replaced by the Rayleigh distribution.

[Formula: see text]Special Issue Comments: This article presents results on the dynamics of a tagged particle in open systems, where the number of particles is not conserved in time. This article is related to the Special Issue articles about advanced statistical properties in single file dynamics,1 the calculation of correlations,2 files with force3 and the zig-zag patterns in files.4
Polydopamine used as Hollow Capsule and Core–Shell Structures for Multiple Applications
Authors: Cui Xinyu , Yin Yuanyuan , Ma Zuo , Yin Yongkui , Guan Yue , Rong Shengzhong , Gao Jinxia , Niu Yingying , Li Miaojing
Published: March 2015

Polydopamine (PDA) capsule and core–shell structures with tailored structures and properties are of particular interests due to their multifunctions and potential applications as new colloidal structures in diverse fields. Among the available fabrication methods, PDA film onto colloidal particles followed by selective template removal has attracted extensive attention due to its advantages of precise control over the size, wall thickness and functions of the obtained capsules. The past several years has witnessed a rapid increase of research concerning the new fabrication strategies, functionalization and applications of this kind of capsules and core–shell structures, particularly in many fields such as drug delivery, catalysis, antibacterial, etc. In this review, the very recent progress of the capsule and core–shell structures based on PDA are summarized. There are basically two sections, including the fabrication process of PDA capsules, core–shell structures, and the various applications based on PDA.
Photovoltaic properties of silicon nanocrystals in silicon nitride prepared by ammonia sputtering
Authors: Chen Xiaobo
Published: March 2015

In this work, we present an investigation of the photovoltaic properties of low-temperature (700°C annealing temperature) prepared P -doped Silicon nanocrystals ( Si   NCs ) in silicon nitride by ammonia sputtering followed by rapid thermal annealing (RTA). We examined how the flow rate of NH3influenced the structural properties of the annealed films by using Raman scattering, grazing incidence X-ray diffraction (GI XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), it was found that the appropriate flow rate of NH3is 3 sccm. For the sample deposited at the flow rate of 3 sccm, TEM image showed that Si   NCs were formed with a mean size about 3.7 nm and the density of ~ 2.1 × 1012cm-2; X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) characterization showed the existence of Si – P bonds, indicating effective P doping; the average absorptance of higher than 65% and a significant amount of photocurrent makes it suitable for photoactive. Moreover, the experimental P -doped Si   NCs : Si3N4/ p - Si heterojunction solar cell has been fabricated, and the device performance was studied. The photovoltaic device fabricated exhibits an open-circuit voltage (VOC) and a short-circuit current density (JSC) of 470 mV and 3.25 mA/cm2, respectively.
Detrital zircon geochronology of the Carboniferous Baixo Alentejo Flysch Group (South Portugal); constraints on the provenance and geodynamic evolution of the South Portuguese Zone
Authors: Rodrigues B. , Chew D. M. , Jorge R. C. G. S. , Fernandes P. , Veiga-Pires C. , Oliveira J. T.
Published: March 2015

U–Pb detrital zircon data from the Baixo Alentejo Flysch Group in the South Portuguese Zone show significant age differences between formations. The Visean Mértola Formation and Serpukhovian to early Bashkirian Mira Formation are dominated by zircons in the 316–388 Ma age range, whereas the late Bashkirian to late Moscovian Brejeira Formation is dominated by zircons with an age range of 498–687 Ma. Detrital zircons spanning an age range of 0.9–1.1 Ga are present in the Brejeira Formation but are absent in the Mértola and Mira formations. Detrital zircon ages of the Mértola and Mira formations indicate provenance from an extra-basinal source (Ossa–Morena Zone) with a minor intra-basinal contribution (South Portuguese Zone). The abundant presence of detrital zircon with age ranges of 500–750 and 0.9–1.1 Ga in the Brejeira Formation suggests a sediment source from the Avalon–Meguma terranes with limited recycling from the SW Portugal Domain. The different inferred source areas for the Baixo Alentejo Flysch Group formations are attributed to the presence of a forebulge that was formed in Mid-Visean times during the foreland phase of the South Portuguese Zone. The forebulge acted as a physical barrier separating sub-basins that accumulated the Mértola–Mira and Brejeira sediments respectively.
Depletion of suppressor of cytokine signaling-1a causes hepatic steatosis and insulin resistance in zebrafish
Authors: Dai Ziru , Wang Hualin , Jin Xia , Wang Houpeng , He Jiangyan , Liu Mugen , Yin Zhan , Sun Yonghua , Lou Qiyong
Published: March 2015

Suppressor of cytokine signaling-1a (SOCS1a) is a member of the suppressor of cytokine signaling family, a group of related molecules that mediate the negative regulation of the JAK-STAT pathway. Here, we depleted SOCS1a using the transcription activator-like (TAL) effector nuclease (TALEN) technique to understand its physiological roles in zebrafish. Although elevated levels of JAK-STAT5 activation and erythropoiesis have been observed in socs1a-deficient zebrafish, these animals exhibited normal growth during the early stages. Socs1a-deficient zebrafish began to grow slowly with certain mortalities after 20 days postfertilization (dpf), whereas the heterozygous socs1a-deficient zebrafish exhibited enhanced somatic growth. Decreased adiposity, hepatic steatosis, and insulin resistance were observed in our socs1a-deficient adult zebrafish, which is similar to the lipodystrophy phenotypes observed in mammals. Comparative transcriptomic analyses revealed elevated levels of gluconeogenesis, lipolysis, and hypoxia-inducible response and decreased activities of lipogenesis and glycolysis in the hepatocytes of socs1a-deflicient adult zebrafish. Evident mitochondrial dysfunction has also been observed in hepatocytes from socs1a-deficient zebrafish. Taken together, our results suggest that the negative regulatory roles of SOCS1a on JAK-STAT5 signaling may be involved in the suppression of the erythropoiesis and growth hormone activities, which was also reflected in the enhanced somatic growth performance observed in the heterozygous socs1a-deficient fish. The differences in the effects caused by SOCS1a depletion on insulin sensitivity, lipid metabolism, and inflammatory responses between zebrafish and mammalian models observed here may reflect differences between the functional mechanisms of SOCS members in terrestrial mammals and aquatic teleosts.
Effects of moderate global maternal nutrient reduction on fetal baboon renal mitochondrial gene expression at 0.9 gestation
Authors: Pereira Susana P. , Oliveira Paulo J. , Tavares Ludgero C. , Moreno António J. , Cox Laura A. , Nathanielsz Peter W. , Nijland Mark J.
Published: March 2015

Early life malnutrition results in structural alterations in the kidney, predisposing offspring to later life renal dysfunction. Kidneys of adults who were growth restricted at birth have substantial variations in nephron endowment. Animal models have indicated renal structural and functional consequences in offspring exposed to suboptimal intrauterine nutrition. Mitochondrial bioenergetics play a key role in renal energy metabolism, growth, and function. We hypothesized that moderate maternal nutrient reduction (MNR) would adversely impact fetal renal mitochondrial expression in a well-established nonhuman primate model that produces intrauterine growth reduction at term. Female baboons were fed normal chow diet or 70% of control diet (MNR). Fetal kidneys were harvested at cesarean section at 0.9 gestation (165 days gestation). Human Mitochondrial Energy Metabolism and Human Mitochondria Pathway PCR Arrays were used to analyze mitochondrially relevant mRNA expression. In situ protein content was detected by immunohistochemistry. Despite the smaller overall size, the fetal kidney weight-to-body weight ratio was not affected. We demonstrated fetal sex-specific differential mRNA expression encoding mitochondrial metabolite transport and dynamics proteins. MNR-related differential gene expression was more evident in female fetuses, with 16 transcripts significantly altered, including 14 downregulated and 2 upregulated transcripts. MNR impacted 10 transcripts in male fetuses, with 7 downregulated and 3 upregulated transcripts. The alteration in mRNA levels was accompanied by a decrease in mitochondrial protein cytochrome c oxidase subunit VIc. In conclusion, transcripts encoding fetal renal mitochondrial energy metabolism proteins are nutrition sensitive in a sex-dependent manner. We speculate that these differences lead to decreased mitochondrial fitness that contributes to renal dysfunction in later life.
Aldosterone modulates thiazide-sensitive sodium chloride cotransporter abundance via DUSP6-mediated ERK1/2 signaling pathway
Authors: Feng Xiuyan , Zhang Yiqian , Shao Ningjun , Wang Yanhui , Zhuang Zhizhi , Wu Ping , Lee Matthew J. , Liu Yingli , Wang Xiaonan , Zhuang Jieqiu , Delpire Eric , Gu Dingying , Cai Hui
Published: March 2015

Thiazide-sensitive sodium chloride cotransporter (NCC) plays an important role in maintaining blood pressure. Aldosterone is known to modulate NCC abundance. Previous studies reported that dietary salts modulated NCC abundance through either WNK4 [with no lysine (k) kinase 4]-SPAK (Ste20-related proline alanine-rich kinase) or WNK4-extracellular signal-regulated kinase-1 and -2 (ERK1/2) signaling pathways. To exclude the influence of SPAK signaling pathway on the role of the aldosterone-mediated ERK1/2 pathway in NCC regulation, we investigated the effects of dietary salt changes and aldosterone on NCC abundance in SPAK knockout (KO) mice. We found that in SPAK KO mice low-salt diet significantly increased total NCC abundance while reducing ERK1/2 phosphorylation, whereas high-salt diet decreased total NCC while increasing ERK1/2 phosphorylation. Importantly, exogenous aldosterone administration increased total NCC abundance in SPAK KO mice while increasing DUSP6 expression, an ERK1/2-specific phosphatase, and led to decreasing ERK1/2 phosphorylation without changing the ratio of phospho-T53-NCC/total NCC. In mouse distal convoluted tubule (mDCT) cells, aldosterone increased DUSP6 expression while reducing ERK1/2 phosphorylation. DUSP6 Knockdown increased ERK1/2 phosphorylation while reducing total NCC expression. Inhibition of DUSP6 by (E)-2-benzylidene-3-(cyclohexylamino)-2,3-dihydro-1H-inden-1-one increased ERK1/2 phosphorylation and reversed the aldosterone-mediated increments of NCC partly by increasing NCC ubiquitination. Therefore, these data suggest that aldosterone modulates NCC abundance via altering NCC ubiquitination through a DUSP6-dependent ERK1/2 signal pathway in SPAK KO mice and part of the effects of dietary salt changes may be mediated by aldosterone in the DCTs.
Direction of balance and perception of the upright are perceptually dissociable
Authors: Panic Heather , Panic Alexander Sacha , DiZio Paul , Lackner James R.
Published: March 2015

We examined whether the direction of balance rather than an otolith reference determines the perceived upright. Participants seated in a device that rotated around the roll axis used a joystick to control its motion. The direction of balance of the device, the location where it would not be accelerated to either side, could be offset from the gravitational vertical, a technique introduced by Riccio, Martin, and Stoffregen ( J Exp Psychol Hum Percept Perform 18: 624–644, 1992). Participants used the joystick to align themselves in different trials with the gravitational vertical, the direction of balance, the upright, or the direction that minimized oscillations. They pressed the joystick trigger whenever they thought they were at the instructed orientation. Achieved angles for the “align with gravity” and “align with the upright” conditions were not different from each other and were significantly displaced past the gravitational vertical opposite from the direction of balance. Mean indicated angles for align with gravity and align with the upright coincided with the gravitational vertical. Both mean achieved and indicated angles for the “minimize oscillations” and “align with the direction of balance” conditions were significantly deviated toward the gravitational vertical. Three control experiments requiring self-settings to instructed orientations only, perceptual judgments only, and perceptual judgments during passive exposure to dynamic roll profiles confirmed that perception of the upright is determined by gravity, not by the direction of balance.
The effect of saccade metrics on the corollary discharge contribution to perceived eye location
Authors: Bansal Sonia , Jayet Bray Laurence C. , Peterson Matthew S. , Joiner Wilsaan M.
Published: March 2015

Corollary discharge (CD) is hypothesized to provide the movement information (direction and amplitude) required to compensate for the saccade-induced disruptions to visual input. Here, we investigated to what extent these conveyed metrics influence perceptual stability in human subjects with a target-displacement detection task. Subjects made saccades to targets located at different amplitudes (4°, 6°, or 8°) and directions (horizontal or vertical). During the saccade, the target disappeared and then reappeared at a shifted location either in the same direction or opposite to the movement vector. Subjects reported the target displacement direction, and from these reports we determined the perceptual threshold for shift detection and estimate of target location. Our results indicate that the thresholds for all amplitudes and directions generally scaled with saccade amplitude. Additionally, subjects on average produced hypometric saccades with an estimated CD gain <1. Finally, we examined the contribution of different error signals to perceptual performance, the saccade error (movement-to-movement variability in saccade amplitude) and visual error (distance between the fovea and the shifted target location). Perceptual judgment was not influenced by the fluctuations in movement amplitude, and performance was largely the same across movement directions for different magnitudes of visual error. Importantly, subjects reported the correct direction of target displacement above chance level for very small visual errors (<0.75°), even when these errors were opposite the target-shift direction. Collectively, these results suggest that the CD-based compensatory mechanisms for visual disruptions are highly accurate and comparable for saccades with different metrics.
Expression of three topologically distinct membrane proteins elicits unique stress response pathways in the yeastSaccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Buck Teresa M. , Jordan Rick , Lyons-Weiler James , Adelman Joshua L. , Needham Patrick G. , Kleyman Thomas R. , Brodsky Jeffrey L.
Published: March 2015

Misfolded membrane proteins are retained in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and are subject to ER-associated degradation, which clears the secretory pathway of potentially toxic species. While the transcriptional response to environmental stressors has been extensively studied, limited data exist describing the cellular response to misfolded membrane proteins. To this end, we expressed and then compared the transcriptional profiles elicited by the synthesis of three ER retained, misfolded ion channels: The α-subunit of the epithelial sodium channel, ENaC, the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator, CFTR, and an inwardly rectifying potassium channel, Kir2.1, which vary in their mass, membrane topologies, and quaternary structures. To examine transcriptional profiles in a null background, the proteins were expressed in yeast, which was previously used to examine the degradation requirements for each substrate. Surprisingly, the proteins failed to induce a canonical unfolded protein response or heat shock response, although messages encoding several cytosolic and ER lumenal protein folding factors rose when αENaC or CFTR was expressed. In contrast, the levels of these genes were unaltered by Kir2.1 expression; instead, the yeast iron regulon was activated. Nevertheless, a significant number of genes that respond to various environmental stressors were upregulated by all three substrates, and compared with previous microarray data we deduced the existence of a group of genes that reflect a novel misfolded membrane protein response. These data indicate that aberrant proteins in the ER elicit profound yet unique cellular responses.
A common variant in the CLDN7/ELP5 locus predicts adiponectin change with lifestyle intervention and improved fitness in obese individuals with diabetes
Authors: Belalcazar L. Maria , Papandonatos George D. , McCaffery Jeanne M. , Peter Inga , Pajewski Nicholas M. , Erar Bahar , Allred Nicholette D. , Balasubramanyam Ashok , Bowden Donald W. , Brautbar Ariel , Pi-Sunyer F. Xavier , Ballantyne Christie M. , Huggins Gordon S.
Published: March 2015

Overweight/obese individuals with Type 2 diabetes have low adiponectin levels, which may improve with lifestyle changes. We investigated whether genetic variants associated with adiponectin levels in genome-wide association studies (GWAS) would also be related with adiponectin changes in response to an intensive lifestyle intervention (ILI), potentially through mechanisms altering the adipose microenvironment via weight loss and/or improved cardiorespiratory fitness. Look AHEAD was a randomized trial comparing the cardiovascular benefits of ILI-induced weight loss and physical activity compared with diabetes support and education among overweight/obese individuals with Type 2 diabetes. In a subsample of Look AHEAD with adiponectin data and genetic consent ( n = 1,351), we evaluated the effects of 24 genetic variants, demonstrated by GWAS to be cross-sectionally associated with adiponectin, on adiponectin change 1-yr postintervention. We explored via mediational analyses whether any differential effects by treatment arm were occurring through weight loss and/or improved fitness. A variant, rs222857, in the CLDN7 locus, potentially associated with epithelial barrier integrity and tight junction physiology, and a putative cis expression quantitative trail locus for elongator acetyltransferase complex subunit 5 ( ELP5), predicted adiponectin increases within ILI (log-adiponectin in overall sample per copy: β ± SE = 0.05 ± 0.02, P = 0.008; in non-Hispanic whites: 0.06 ± 0.02, P = 0.009). The favorable effects of rs222857 (minor allele frequency 45.5%) appeared to be mediated by mechanisms associated with improved fitness, and not weight loss. This is the first study to identify a genetic variant that modifies adiponectin response to lifestyle intervention in overweight/obese diabetic individuals.
Similarities and differences of X and Y chromosome homologous genes, SRY and SOX3, in regulating the renin-angiotensin system promoters
Authors: Araujo Fabiano C. , Milsted Amy , Watanabe Ingrid K. M. , Del Puerto Helen L. , Santos Robson A. S. , Lazar Jozef , Reis Fernando M. , Prokop Jeremy W.
Published: March 2015

The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is subject to sex-specific modulation by hormones and gene products. However, sex differences in the balance between the vasoconstrictor/proliferative ACE/ANG II/AT1 axis, and the vasodilator/antiproliferative ACE2/ANG-(1–7)/MAS axis are poorly known. Data in the rat have suggested the male-specific Y-chromosome gene Sry to contribute to balance between these two axes, but why the testis-determining gene has these functions remains unknown. A combination of in silico genetic/protein comparisons, functional luciferase assays for promoters of the human RAS, and RNA-Seq profiling in rat were used to address if regulation of Sry on the RAS is conserved in the homologous X-chromosome gene, Sox3. Both SRY and SOX3 upregulated the promoter of Angiotensinogen ( AGT) and downregulated the promoters of ACE2, AT2, and MAS, likely through overlapping mechanisms. The regulation by both SRY and SOX3 on the MAS promoter indicates a cis regulation through multiple SOX binding sites. The Renin ( REN) promoter is upregulated by SRY and downregulated by SOX3, likely through trans and cis mechanisms, respectively. Sry transcripts are found in all analyzed male rat tissues including the kidney, while Sox3 transcripts are found only in the brain and testis, suggesting that the primary tissue for renin production (kidney) can only be regulated by SRY and not SOX3. These results suggest that SRY regulation of the RAS is partially shared with its X-chromosome homolog SOX3, but SRY gained a sex-specific control in the kidney for the rate-limiting step of the RAS, potentially resulting in male-specific blood pressure regulation.
Medicinal Plants for the Treatment of Hypertrophic Scars
Authors: Ye Qi , Wang Su-Juan , Chen Jian-Yu , Rahman Khalid , Xin Hai-Liang , Zhang Hong
Published: March 2015

Hypertrophic scar is a complication of wound healing and has a high recurrence rate which can lead to significant abnormity in aesthetics and functions. To date, no ideal treatment method has been established. Meanwhile, the underlying mechanism of hypertrophic scarring has not been clearly defined. Although a large amount of scientific research has been reported on the use of medicinal plants as a natural source of treatment for hypertrophic scarring, it is currently scattered across a wide range of publications. Therefore, a systematic summary and knowledge for future prospects are necessary to facilitate further medicinal plant research for their potential use as antihypertrophic scar agents. A bibliographic investigation was accomplished by focusing on medicinal plants which have been scientifically testedin vitroand/orin vivoand proved as potential agents for the treatment of hypertrophic scars. Although the chemical components and mechanisms of action of medicinal plants with antihypertrophic scarring potential have been investigated, many others remain unknown. More investigations and clinical trials are necessary to make use of these medical plants reasonably and phytotherapy is a promising therapeutic approach against hypertrophic scars.
A Fast Clustering Algorithm for Data with a Few Labeled Instances
Authors: Yang Jinfeng , Xiao Yong , Wang Jiabing , Ma Qianli , Shen Yanhua
Published: March 2015

The diameter of a cluster is the maximum intracluster distance between pairs of instances within the same cluster, and the split of a cluster is the minimum distance between instances within the cluster and instances outside the cluster. Given a few labeled instances, this paper includes two aspects. First, we present a simple and fast clustering algorithm with the following property: if the ratio of the minimum split to the maximum diameter (RSD) of the optimal solution is greater than one, the algorithm returns optimal solutions for three clustering criteria. Second, we study the metric learning problem: learn a distance metric to make the RSD as large as possible. Compared with existing metric learning algorithms, one of our metric learning algorithms is computationally efficient: it is a linear programming model rather than a semidefinite programming model used by most of existing algorithms. We demonstrate empirically that the supervision and the learned metric can improve the clustering quality.
Do Herbal Formulas Influence the International Normalized Ratio of Patients Taking Warfarin? A Retrospective Study
Authors: Lu Hsu-Yuan , Cho Seung-Yeon , Park Seong-Uk , Jung Woo-Sang , Moon Sang-Kwan , Park Jung-Mi , Ko Chang-Nam
Published: March 2015

Warfarin is a common anticoagulant agent for cardiovascular diseases, and it is known to interact with several foods and drugs. Several studies report an interaction between warfarin and herbal medicines; however, the influence of herbal medicines on the international normalized ratio (INR) is still controversial. We investigated the influence of herbal formulas on INR of patients taking warfarin. We searched electronic medical records of inpatients for INR results. Then, we compared the changes in INR and any adverse events between the group taking herbal formulas and warfarin (herbal group) and another group taking warfarin only (nonherbal group). Eighty-six patients were included; 45 patients were assigned to the herbal group and 41 patients to the nonherbal group. The herbal group had taken the same dose of warfarin for a longer period. The nonherbal group had a slightly higher mean INR value than the herbal group. The ratio of INR less than 2 and greater than 3, the ratio of INR that increased or decreased by one or more compared to the initial INR, and the ratio of adverse events were not significantly different between the two groups. It is suggested that use of herbal formulas may not influence INR value.
Bee Pollen: Chemical Composition and Therapeutic Application
Authors: Komosinska-Vassev Katarzyna , Olczyk Pawel , Kaźmierczak Justyna , Mencner Lukasz , Olczyk Krystyna
Published: March 2015

Bee pollen is a valuable apitherapeutic product greatly appreciated by the natural medicine because of its potential medical and nutritional applications. It demonstrates a series of actions such as antifungal, antimicrobial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, anticancer immunostimulating, and local analgesic. Its radical scavenging potential has also been reported. Beneficial properties of bee pollen and the validity for their therapeutic use in various pathological condition have been discussed in this study and with the currently known mechanisms, by which bee pollen modulates burn wound healing process.
Nonlinear Flow Characteristics and Horizontal Well Pressure Transient Analysis for Low-Permeability Offshore Reservoirs
Authors: Xu Jianchun , Jiang Ruizhong , Teng Wenchao
Published: March 2015

Threshold pressure gradient (TPG) and stress sensitivity which cause the nonlinear flow in low permeability reservoirs were carried out by experiments. Firstly, the investigation of existing conditions of TPG for oil flow in irreducible water saturation low-permeability reservoirs was conducted and discussed, using the cores from a real offshore oilfield in China. The existence of TPG was proven. The relationship between TPG and absolute permeability was obtained by laboratory tests. TPG increases with decreasing absolute permeability. Then, stress sensitivity experiment was carried out through depressurizing experiment and step-up pressure experiment. Permeability modulus which characterizes stress sensitivity increases with decreasing absolute permeability. Consequently, a horizontal well pressure transient analysis mathematical model considering threshold pressure gradient and stress sensitivity was established on the basis of mass and momentum conservation equations. The finite element method (FEM) was presented to solve the model. Influencing factors, such as TPG, permeability modulus, skin factor, wellbore storage, horizontal length, horizontal position, and boundary effect on pressure and pressure derivative curves, were also discussed. Results analysis demonstrates that the pressure transient curves are different from Darcy’s model when considering the nonlinear flow characteristics. Both TPG and permeability modulus lead to more energy consumption and the reservoir pressure decreases more than Darcy’s model.
Asymmetric Behavior of Thymidylate Synthase Dimer Subunits in Denaturating Solvent Observed with Molecular Dynamics
Authors: Leonarski Filip , Świniarska Monika , Leś Andrzej
Published: March 2015

A molecular dynamics simulations of the thymidylate synthase denaturation in chaotrope solvents (urea, guanidinium hydrochloride) were performed on 600 ns timescale. It appeared that this dimeric enzyme undergoes partial unfolding asymmetrically. It was shown also that urea is a better denaturant in the MD condition, as compared to guanidinium chloride. The unfolding occurs first at the external helices (AA 88-118) and follows by the AA 188-200 region. The present results correspond to the suggested in the literature activity of thymidylate synthase through a half-the-site mechanism.
Sustainability Assessment of Chemical Processes: Evaluation of Three Synthesis Routes of DMC
Authors: Saavalainen Paula , Kabra Satish , Turpeinen Esa , Oravisjärvi Kati , Yadav Ganapati D. , Keiski Riitta L. , Pongrácz Eva
Published: March 2015

This paper suggested multicriteria based evaluation tool to assess the sustainability of three different reaction routes to dimethyl carbonate: direct synthesis from carbon dioxide and methanol, transesterification of methanol and propylene carbonate, and oxidative carbonylation of methanol. The first two routes are CO2-based and in a research and development phase, whereas the last one is a commercial process. The set of environmental, social, and economic indicators selected were renewability of feedstock, energy intensity, waste generation, CO2balance, yield, feedstock price, process costs, health and safety issues of feedstock, process conditions, and innovation potential. The performance in these indicators was evaluated with the normalized scores from 0 to +1; 0 for detrimental and 1 for favorable impacts. The assessment showed that the transesterification route had the best potential toward sustainability, although there is still much development needed to improve yield. Further, the assessment gave clear understanding of the main benefits of each reaction route, as well as the major challenges to sustainability, which can further aid in orienting development efforts to key issues that need improvement. Finally, it was concluded that a multicriteria analysis such as the one presented in this paper was a viable method to be used in the process design stage.
Differences between Male and Female Consumers of Complementary and Alternative Medicine in a National US Population: A Secondary Analysis of 2012 NIHS Data
Authors: Zhang Yan , Leach Matthew J. , Hall Helen , Sundberg Tobias , Ward Lesley , Sibbritt David , Adams Jon
Published: March 2015

We examined the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) 2012 to explore how US adult consumers of CAM differ by gender in terms of their sociodemographic characteristics, current health conditions, and perceived benefits of CAM. All individuals who completed the adults core interviews (N= 34,525) were included. CAM use, major sociodemographic variables, perceived benefits of using CAM, and top ten reported health conditions for which CAM was used were selected and analyzed by Stata. Findings revealed that 29.6% (n= 10,181) reported having used at least one form of CAM in the previous 12 months. Compared to male CAM users, female CAM users were more likely to have a bachelor degree, to be divorced/separated or widowed, and less likely to earn $75,000 or more. Back pain/problem was the most common problem reported by both male and female CAM users (32.2% and 22.6%, resp.). A higher proportion of female CAM users reported using CAM for perceived benefits such as general wellness or general disease prevention. This paper provides foundation information regarding gender differences in CAM use and is a platform for further in-depth examination into how and why males and females differ in their reasons for CAM use.
Quantum Product of Symmetric Functions
Authors: Díaz Rafael , Pariguan Eddy
Published: March 2015

We provide an explicit description of the quantum product of multisymmetric functions using the elementary multisymmetric functions introduced by Vaccarino.
Nitrooleic Acid Attenuates Lipid Metabolic Disorders and Liver Steatosis in DOCA-Salt Hypertensive Mice
Authors: Wang Haiping , Sun Jing , Jia Zhanjun , Yang Tianxin , Xu Liang , Zhao Bing , Yu Kezhou , Wang Rong
Published: March 2015

Nitrooleic acid (OA-NO2) is endogenous ligands for peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors. The present study was aimed at investigating the beneficial effects of OA-NO2on the lipid metabolism and liver steatosis in deoxycorticosterone acetate- (DOCA-) salt induced hypertensive mice model. Male C57BL/6 mice were divided to receive DOCA-salt plus OA-NO2or DOCA-salt plus vehicle and another group received neither DOCA-salt nor OA-NO2(control group). After 3-week treatment with DOCA-salt plus 1% sodium chloride in drinking fluid, the hypertension was noted; however, OA-NO2had no effect on the hypertension. In DOCA-salt treated mice, the plasma triglyceride and total cholesterol levels were significantly increased compared to control mice, and pretreatment with OA-NO2significantly reduced these parameters. Further, the histopathology of liver exhibited more lipid distribution together with more serious micro- and macrovesicular steatosis after DOCA-salt treatment and that was consistent with liver tissue triglyceride and nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA) content. The mice pretreated with OA-NO2showed reduced liver damage accompanied with low liver lipid content. Moreover, the liver TBARS, together with the expressions of gp91phox and p47phox, were parallelly decreased. These findings indicated that OA-NO2had the protective effect on liver injury against DOCA-salt administration and the beneficial effect could be attributed to its antihyperlipidemic activities.
Performance Evaluation of Localization Algorithms for WSNs
Authors: Vargas-Rosales C. , Mass-Sanchez J. , Ruiz-Ibarra E. , Torres-Roman D. , Espinoza-Ruiz A.
Published: March 2015

In recent years, the use of wireless sensor networks has been increasing. Localization is a fundamental problem in wireless sensor networks (WSNs), since location information is essential for diverse applications such as tracking, quality network coverage, health, and energy efficiency. In this paper performance of localization algorithms such as range-free, range-based, and fuzzy-based decision is evaluated. We introduce a modification of an algorithm by providing weights to the correlation matrix to improve correctness. In all the cases the accuracy, precision, and computational complexity are evaluated as performance metrics. Location algorithms are evaluated using two scenarios, a first stage where all nodes are randomly distributed in a given area and a second scenario where four APs (access points) are placed on fixed positions and unknown nodes are randomly distributed within the sensing area. The received signal strength (RSS) is used to estimate the position of a node of interest. In the simulation results we show how our modified algorithm improves localization. On the other hand, we also have acceptable accuracy using distance-based algorithms, but they are more complex computationally.
Server-Aided Verification Signature with Privacy for Mobile Computing
Authors: Xu Lingling , Li Jin , Tang Shaohua , Baek Joonsang
Published: March 2015

With the development of wireless technology, much data communication and processing has been conducted in mobile devices with wireless connection. As we know that the mobile devices will always be resource-poor relative to static ones though they will improve in absolute ability, therefore, they cannot process some expensive computational tasks due to the constrained computational resources. According to this problem, server-aided computing has been studied in which the power-constrained mobile devices can outsource some expensive computation to a server with powerful resources in order to reduce their computational load. However, in existing server-aided verification signature schemes, the server can learn some information about the message-signature pair to be verified, which is undesirable especially when the message includes some secret information. In this paper, we mainly study the server-aided verification signatures with privacy in which the message-signature pair to be verified can be protected from the server. Two definitions of privacy for server-aided verification signatures are presented under collusion attacks between the server and the signer. Then based on existing signatures, two concrete server-aided verification signature schemes with privacy are proposed which are both proved secure.
An Improved Memory State Feedback RMPC for Uncertain Constrained Linear Systems with Multiple Uncertain Delays
Authors: Qin Weiwei , He Bing , Zhao Pengtao , Liu Gang
Published: March 2015

The problem of robust asymptotic stabilization is considered for a class of discrete-time uncertain linear systems with multiple uncertain time-delayed states and input constraints. Compared with other works in the literature, the proposed approach takes the information of the delayed states with the estimated time-delays indices into full consideration. Based on the predictive control principle of receding horizon optimization and Lyapunov stability theory combined with linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) techniques, a time-delayed state dependent quadratic function is considered for incorporating MPC problem formulation. The robust MPC problem is formulated to minimize the upper bound of infinite horizon cost that satisfies the sufficient conditions. The proposed approach allows for the synthesis of robust memory state feedback controllers with respect to uncertainties on the implemented delay. Since developing the improved memory state feedback controller, the novel improved method is much less conservative and more general. Finally, the numerical simulation results prove availability of the proposed method.
A Subspace Identification Method for Detecting Abnormal Behavior in HVAC Systems
Authors: Sklavounos Dimitris , Zervas Evangelos , Tsakiridis Odysseas , Stonham John
Published: March 2015

A method for the detection of abnormal behavior in HVAC systems is presented. The method combines deterministic subspace identification for each zone independently to create a system model that produces the anticipated zone’s temperature and the sequential test CUSUM algorithm to detect drifts of the rate of change of the difference between the real and the anticipated measurements. Simulation results regarding the detection of infiltration heat losses and the detection of exogenous heat gains such as fire demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Dynamic versus Adynamic Graciloplasty in Treatment of End-Stage Fecal Incontinence: Is the Implantation of the Pacemaker Really Necessary? 12-Month Follow-Up in a Clinical, Physiological, and Functional Study
Authors: Walega Piotr , Romaniszyn Michal , Siarkiewicz Benita , Zelazny Dorota
Published: March 2015

Purpose. The aim of the study is to compare functional results of end-stage fecal incontinence treatment with dynamic graciloplasty and adynamic graciloplasty augmented with transanal conditioning of the transposed muscle.Methods. A total of 20 patients were qualified for graciloplasty procedure due to end-stage fecal incontinence. 7 patients underwent dynamic graciloplasty (DGP), whereas 13 patients were treated with adynamic graciloplasty, with transanal stimulation in the postoperative period (AGP). Clinical, functional, and quality of life assessments were performed 3, 6, and 12 months after the procedures.Results. There were no intraoperative or early postoperative complications. The detachment of gracilis muscle tendon was observed in one patient in DGP group and two in AGP group. There was a significant improvement of Fecal Incontinence Quality of Life (FIQL) and Fecal Incontinence Severity Index (FISI) scores in both groups 12 months after procedure. Anorectal manometry showed improvement regarding basal and squeeze pressures in both groups, with significantly better squeeze pressures in AGP group.Conclusions. The functional effects in the DGP and AGP groups were similar. Significantly lower price of the procedure and avoidance of implant-related complication risk suggest the attractiveness of the AGP method augmented by transanal stimulation.
Esculetin Downregulates the Expression of AML1-ETO and C-Kit in Kasumi-1 Cell Line by Decreasing Half-Life of mRNA
Authors: Sawney Sharad , Arora Rashi , Aggarwal Kamal K. , Saluja Daman
Published: March 2015

One of the most frequent genetic aberrations in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is chromosomal translocation betweenAML1/RUNX1on chromosome 21 andETOgene on chromosome 8 resulting in the expression of chimeric oncogeneAML1-ETO. Although patients with t(8;21) translocation have good prognosis, 5-year survival is observed only in 50% of the cases. AML1-ETO translocation is usually accompanied by overexpression of mutantC-Kit, a tyrosine kinase, which contributes to uncontrolled proliferation of premature blood cells leading to relapse and poor prognosis. We illustrate the potential use of esculetin on leukemic cell line, Kasumi-1, bearing t(8;21) translocation and mutatedC-Kitgene. Esculetin decreases the expression of AML1-ETO at both protein and transcript level within 24 hours of treatment. Half-life of AML1-ETO mRNA was reduced from 7 hours to 1.5 hours. Similarly half-life of C-Kit mRNA was reduced to 2 hours from 5 hours in esculetin treated cells. Esculetin also perturbed the expression of ectopically expressed AML1-ETO in U937 cells. The decreased expression ofAML1-ETOchimeric gene was associated with increased expression ofLAT1andRUNX3genes, targets of AML1. We envisage that discovery of a drug candidate which could target both these mutated genes would be a considerable breakthrough for future application.
Effects of Droplet‐Vitrification Cryopreservation Based on Physiological and Antioxidant Enzyme Activities of Brassidium Shooting Star Orchid
Authors: Rahmah Safrina , Ahmad Mubbarakh Safiah , Soo Ping Khor , Subramaniam Sreeramanan
Published: March 2015

Protocorm‐like bodies (PLBs) of Brassidium Shooting Star orchid were successfully cryopreserved using droplet‐vitrification method. Vitrification based cryopreservation protocol is comprised of preculture, osmoprotection, cryoprotection, cooling, rewarming, and growth recovery and each and every step contributes to the achievement of successful cryopreservation. In order to reveal the lethal and nonlethal damage produced by cryopreservation, histological observation, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and biochemical analysis were carried out in both cryopreserved and noncryopreserved PLBs of Brassidium Shooting Star orchid comparing with the control PLBs stock culture. Histological and scanning electron microscopy analyses displayed structural changes in cryopreserved PLBs due to the impact of cryoinjury during exposure to liquid nitrogen. Total soluble protein significantly increased throughout the dehydration process and the highest value was achieved when PLBs were stored in liquid nitrogen. Ascorbate peroxidase (APX) and catalase (CAT) showed the highest enzyme activities in both dehydration and cryostorage treatments indicating that stress level of PLBs was high during these stages.
The Enhancement of Cx45 Expression and Function in Renal Interlobar Artery of Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats at Different Age
Authors: Li Li , Zhang Wen , Shi Wen Yan , Ma Ke-Tao , Zhao Lei , Wang Yang , Zhang Liang , Li Xin-ZHi , Zhu He , Zhang Zhong-Shuang , Liu Wei-Dong , Si Jun-Qiang
Published: March 2015

Background/Aims: This study was designed to investigate the expression and function of gap junction protein connexin 45 (Cx45) in renal interlobar artery (RIA) of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), and the association between hypertension and enhanced vasoconstrictive response in SHR. Methods: Western blot analysis and pressure myography were used to examine the differences in expression and function of Cx45 in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) of RIA between SHR and normotensive Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats. Results: Our results demonstrated that 1) whole-cell patch clamp measurements showed that the membrane capacitance and conductance of in-situ RIA VSMCs of SHR were significantly greater than those of WKY rats (p<0.05, n=6), suggesting that the coupling of gap junction between VSMCs of RIA was enhanced in SHR; 2) the KCl or phenylephrine (PE)-stimulated RIA constriction was more pronounced in SHR than that in WKY rats (p<0.05, n=10). After applying a gap junction inhibitor 18β-glycyrrhetintic acid (18β-GA), the inhibitory effect of 18β-GA on KCl or PE-induced vasoconstriction was greater in SHR (p<0.05, n=10); and 3) the expression of Cx45 in RIA of SHR was greater than that in WKY rats (p<0.05, n=3) at 4, 12 and 48 wks of age. Conclusions: The hypertension-induced elevation of Cx45 may affect communication between VSMCs and coupling between VSMCs and endothelium, which results in an increased vasoconstrictive response in renal artery and might contribute to the development of hypertension.