bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improving Sepsis Management in the Acute Admissions Unit
Authors: Adcroft Laura
Published: August 2014

Sepsis is a common condition with a major impact on healthcare resources and expenditure. We therefore wanted to investigate and improve how the acute admission unit (AAU) at the Great Western Hospital (GWH) is managing patients who present directly to the unit with sepsis. In order to obtain this information, an audit was undertaken against the College of Emergency Medicine standards used by the emergency department within GWH and across the UK. Data was retrospectively collected for 30 patients with a diagnosis of severe sepsis or septic shock. The notes were scrutinized with regard to the implementation of College of Emergency Medicine standards for the management of sepsis. This meant that performance in the AAU was compared against the emergency department at GWH and national figures.

The data collected shows performance is below national standards with regard to documentation of high flow oxygen use (AAU: 24%, ED 100%; national median: 50%; CEM standard 95%), crystalloid fluid boluses (AAU: 52%; ED: 90%; national median: 83%; CEM standard 100%), lactate measurements (AAU: 66%, ED: 93%; national median: 80%; CEM standard 95%), and obtainment of blood cultures (AAU: 52%; ED 73%; national median: 77%; CEM standard: 95%). Only 3% of patients received all six parts of the sepsis bundle.

Since auditing in 2012/2013 we have introduced a sepsis proforma based on a current proforma being used within Severn Deanery. This proforma uses the ‘Sepsis Six’ bundle appropriate to ward based care. We have raised awareness of sepsis implications and management through the creation of a ‘sepsis working group’ to educate both junior doctors and nurses. In turn, this has led to education through the use of posters, pocket reference cards, and teaching sessions. Re-audit shows significant improvement in administering all parts of the Sepsis Six bundle and an 8% improvement in patients receiving all six of the bundle.
Compliant neurovascular balloon catheters may not be compatible with liquid embolic materials: intraprocedural rupture of the protecting balloon during tumor embolization using n-butyl cyanoacrylate and lipiodol mixture
Authors: Park Soonchan , Hwang Seon Moon , Lim Ok Kyun , Hwang Changmo , Lee Deok Hee
Published: August 2014

Background

Simultaneous use of balloon catheters with embolic materials can cause unwanted rupture of the balloon occlusion catheters, which might cause a serious problem. Therefore, knowledge of the compatibility of occlusion balloon catheters with liquid embolic materials is important in various interventional procedures.

Objective

To determine the compatibility of occlusion balloon catheters with commonly used embolic materials in vitro.

Methods

We used three types of occlusion balloon catheters (Scepter C, Microvention, Tustin, California, USA; Hyperform, Covidien, Irvine, California, USA; and Ascent, Codman Neurovascular, Raynham, Massachusetts, USA) to test their tolerances to Lipiodol, n-butyl cyanoacrylate (NBCA; Histoacryl; B Braun, Melsungen, Germany), and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) with Onyx. The balloon was inflated just as it is in an endovascular procedure, then put on a Petri dish to observe its morphological change after one drop of liquid embolic material was added using a 1 mL syringe. The presence of rupture and the time to rupture were evaluated by constant video monitoring. Additionally, we observed morphological changes of the balloon catheter surface after contact with embolic materials with a scanning electron microscope.

Results

Lipiodol or a 33% NBCA–Lipiodol mixture dropping onto the three types of balloon catheter resulted in ruptures of all three. All three types of balloon catheter were tolerant to NBCA and to DMSO followed by Onyx.

Conclusions

Glue embolization should not be performed with all three kinds of balloon catheter on the market, but DMSO and Onyx are compatible with those balloon catheters.
Effect of variation of the loading direction on the displacement accumulation of large-diameter piles under cyclic lateral loading in sand
Authors: Rudolph Christina , Bienen Britta , Grabe Jürgen
Published: August 2014

Foundation piles supporting offshore structures experience cyclic lateral loading arising from waves and wind, which are not typically uni-directional over the lifetime of the structure. This paper presents results from centrifuge experiments in sand, representing a large diameter prototype tested at stress levels similar to the field subjected to cyclic lateral loading from varying directions. The results demonstrate increased deformation accumulation due to the changing loading direction, compared to the uni-directional case. Displacement accumulation is not limited to the main loading direction but includes transverse movement as well. Similar trends were observed in small-scale 1g modelling that allowed a larger number of load cycles to be applied. The centrifuge test results provide confidence of the applicability of the findings to the prototype. Current methods that neglect the effect of variation of the loading direction will provide predictions of displacement accumulation of piles that are un-conservative. Therefore, a simple approach is proposed here to estimate the augmentation of displacement accumulation due to variation in loading direction compared to the uni-directional case.
Quantification of landslide velocity from active waveguide–generated acoustic emission
Authors: Smith Alister , Dixon Neil
Published: August 2014

Acoustic emission (AE) has become an established approach to monitor stability of soil slopes. However, the challenge has been to develop strategies to interpret and quantify deformation behaviour from the measured AE. AE monitoring of soil slopes commonly utilizes an active waveguide that is installed in a borehole through the slope and comprises a metal waveguide rod or tube with a granular backfill surround. When the host slope deforms, the column of granular backfill also deforms and this generates AE that can propagate along the waveguide. Results from the commissioning of dynamic shear apparatus used to subject full-scale active waveguide models to simulated slope movements are presented. The results confirm that AE rates generated are proportional to the rate of deformation, and the coefficient of proportionality that defines the relationship has been quantified (e.g., 4.4 × 105 for the angular gravel examined). It is demonstrated that slope velocities can be quantified continuously in real time through monitoring active waveguide–generated AE during a slope failure simulation. The results show that the technique can quantify landslide velocity to better than an order of magnitude (i.e., consistent with standard landslide movement classification) and can therefore be used to provide an early warning of slope instability through detecting and quantifying accelerations of slope movement.
Inversion analysis to determine design parameters for reliability assessment in pavement structures
Authors: Mun Sungho
Published: August 2014

Reliability assessment has been used to evaluate the performance of pavement structures. However, probabilistic inversion analysis of pavement structure design has not yet been tested to determine the design parameters of the pavement performance function, given a specified reliability index. In this study, a limit state function numerical calculation and the inversion technique of the Nelder–Mead simplex algorithm were used to determine the design parameters for the pavement performance function. The method of moments was used to develop the forward limit state function, which was then compared to Monte Carlo simulations; the comparison indicated good agreement between the two methods. Additionally, several cases were studied to determine the design parameters of the pavement performance function for the reliability index specified in this study. The case studies indicated that the structure number significantly affected the pavement performance function.
Wood-based bioenergy products — land or energy efficient?
Authors: Dwivedi Puneet , Khanna Madhu
Published: August 2014

Woody feedstocks will play an important role in meeting the total demand for biomass to generate electricity and produce ethanol in the United States. We analyzed 186 different scenarios (31 rotation ages (10 to 40 years in annual time steps); two types of forest management (intensive and nonintensive); and three feedstocks (logging residues only, pulpwood only, logging residues and pulpwood combined)) for ascertaining relative savings in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of two wood-based energy products (electricity and ethanol) on per unit land and per unit energy bases with respect to equivalent fossil fuel based energy products. Relative savings in GHG emissions were higher under intensive forest management compared with nonintensive forest management on a per unit land basis, whereas this situation reverses on a per unit energy basis. Combined use of pulpwood and logging residues saved the highest amount of GHG emissions on a per unit land basis, but on a per unit energy basis, relative GHG savings were similar to when only logging residues were used as a feedstock. Existing policies promoting bioenergy development in the United States only consider GHG savings on a per unit energy basis. A need exists to consider GHG savings on a per unit land basis as well to ensure efficient utilization of existing land resources to mitigate GHG emissions.
Evaluation of water use of Caragana korshinskii and Hippophae rhamnoides in the Chinese Loess Plateau
Authors: Jian Shengqi , Zhao Chuanyan , Fang Shumin , Yu Kai
Published: August 2014

Understanding the water-use strategy of trees and shrubs is crucial for developing effective vegetation restoration in regions that are subjected to water scarcity. We studied the water-use strategy of Caragana korshinskii Kom. and Hippophae rhamnoides L. in the Chinese Loess Plateau to evaluate the adaption strategies of these two shrubs, which are both commonly used in the restoration programs in this region. We extrapolated the measurements of water use by individual plants to determine the area-averaged transpiration of the shrublands. There was a good agreement between transpiration estimated by the Penman–Monteith method and by the sap-flow method, which suggests that that the sap-flow method can provide reliable estimates of shrub transpiration at the stand level. Stand transpiration was mainly influenced by environmental factors such as photosynthetically active radiation, vapor pressure deficit, and soil water content. When the soil water content was sufficient, photosynthetically active radiation and vapor pressure deficit were the dominant factors; however, soil water content was the primary factor under low soil moisture levels. Stand transpiration ranged from 0.52 to 4.21 mm·day−1 with a mean of 1.42 mm·day−1 for C. korshinskii and ranged from 0.57 to 3.99 mm·day−1 with a mean of 1.94 mm·day−1 for H. rhamnoides. During the experimental period (from June to September 2013), cumulative transpirations were 173.4 and 236.6 mm for C. korshinskii and H. rhamnoides, respectively, which accounted for up to 88.2% of the rainfall registered during this period. We calculated the soil water balance and measured the water potential of stems and leaves for C. korshinskii and H. rhamnoides. Hippophae rhamnoides had a lower net soil water storage, indicating that it consumed more soil water than C. korshinskii. There were some negative water potential drops between stems and leaves for H. rhamnoides, suggesting the lack of a safety margin for H. rhamnoides. Our results indicated that C. korshinskii is more suitable for afforestation than H. rhamnoides in the Loess Plateau.
Superposed coherent states improve fidelity of NOON states generated in post-selection
Authors: Sivakumar S.
Published: August 2014

Mixing the squeezed vacuum and coherent state in a beam splitter generates NOON states of the electromagnetic field, but with fidelity less than unity. In this article it is shown that the output of the beam splitter generates the NOON states with unit fidelity if superposed coherent states are used instead of the squeezed vacuum. Also, the post-selection probability of NOON states is shown to be higher.
Density functional theory study on silver clusters using dimers, trimers, and tetramers as building units
Authors: Rekha T.N. , Rajkumar Beulah J.M.
Published: August 2014

We systematically investigate growth patterns of small silver clusters, Agn (n ≤ 10), using density functional theory (DFT) and time-dependent density functional theory (TDDFT), considering Ag2, Ag3, and Ag4 as basic building units. Nearest-neighbor distances increase gradually with increasing n. Compared with an earlier study, where the clusters were developed by adding one atom at a time, the clusters derived in this investigation had considerably higher computed binding energies, confirming increased stability and suggesting possible growth patterns using these basic units. We used TDDFT methods to simulate the ultraviolet–visible spectra of the silver clusters, which are in good agreement with the reported experimental absorption spectrum of Ag nanoparticles. Our study indicates that the clusters formed with units of Ag3 tend to form more reactive clusters, particularly if an odd number of atoms is involved. Further, the higher level of computations employed gives better insight into the process of particle growth. The disproportionation energies of clusters built using this scheme are compared with those built one atom at a time. Mulliken population analysis of the distributions indicates the presence of polarities among the atoms in some of the cluster isomers, suggesting sites of increased activity. In addition, patterns established for the highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO), lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO), and HOMO–LUMO energy gaps may be used to model stable clusters with modified optoelectrical properties.
The “accidental” degeneracy of the hydrogen atom is no accident
Authors: Deshmukh P.C. , Ganesan Aarthi , Shanthi N. , Jones Blake , Nicholson James , Soddu Andrea
Published: August 2014

The Schrödinger equation does not account for the 2n2 degeneracy of the hydrogen atom, which it dismisses as an “accidental” degeneracy. The factor of “2” in the 2n2 degeneracy is well-accounted-for in the relativistic formulation by the two spin states of the electron. The n2 degeneracy is nevertheless not quite an “accident”; it is due to the SO(4), rather than SO(3), symmetry of the hydrogen atom. This result is well known, but is inadequately commented upon in most courses in quantum mechanics and atomic physics, leaving the student wondering about the origins of the n2 degeneracy of the hydrogen atom. A pedagogical analysis of this interesting aspect, which highlights the fundamental principles of quantum mechanics, is presented in this article. While doing so, not only is the n2 degeneracy of the hydrogen atom explained, but its energy spectrum and eigenfunctions are obtained without even using the Schrödinger equation, employing only the fundamental principles of quantum mechanics rather than the Schrödinger equation.
On some classes of nonoscillatory solutions of third-order nonlinear differential equations
Authors: Mojsej Ivan , Tartal'ová Alena
Published: August 2014

In this paper, we are concerned with the asymptotic behavior of certain solutions of third-order nonlinear differential equations with quasiderivatives. More precisely, the necessary and sufficient conditions for the existence of some types of nonoscillatory solutions with a specified asymptotic property as t → ∞ are given. In order to prove some of our results, we use a topological approach based on the Banach fixed point theorem.
Complete almost distributive lattices
Authors: Rao G. C. , Undurthi Venugopalam
Published: August 2014

In this paper, we introduce the concept of a complete almost distributive lattice (ADL), a zone and a dual zone in a complete ADL and derive their important properties.
The economic default time and the arcsine law
Authors: Guo Xin , Jarrow Robert A. , de Larrard Adrien
Published: August 2014

This paper proposes a new mathematical notion of "economic default" and develops a structural credit risk model to characterize the difference between the economic and recorded default times for a firm. Recorded default occurs when default is recorded in the legal system. The economic default time is the last time when the firm is able to pay off its debt prior to the recorded default time. This work is motivated by the empirical study of Guo et al. (2008) which supports the distinction between the two default times. The probability distribution for the time span between economic and recorded defaults is analyzed, and is shown to follow a mixture of arcsine laws when the firm's asset value process is modeled by a geometric Brownian motion.
Reflex control of inflammation by the splanchnic anti-inflammatory pathway is sustained and independent of anesthesia
Authors: Martelli Davide , Yao Song T. , Mancera Julian , McKinley Michael J. , McAllen Robin M.
Published: August 2014

Following an immune challenge, there is two-way communication between the nervous and immune systems. It is proposed that a neural reflex—the inflammatory reflex—regulates the plasma levels of the key proinflammatory cytokine TNF-α, and that its efferent pathway is in the splanchnic sympathetic nerves. The evidence for this reflex is based on experiments on anesthetized animals, but anesthesia itself suppresses inflammation, confounding interpretation. Here, we show that previous section of the splanchnic nerves strongly enhances the levels of plasma TNF-α in conscious rats 90 min after they received intravenous LPS (60 μg/kg). The same reflex mechanism, therefore, applies in conscious as in anesthetized animals. In anesthetized rats, we then determined the longer-term effects of splanchnic nerve section on responses to LPS (60 μg/kg iv). We confirmed that prior splanchnic nerve section enhanced the early (90 min) peak in plasma TNF-α and found that it reduced the 90-min peak of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10; both subsequently fell to low levels in all animals. Splanchnic nerve section also enhanced the delayed rise in two key proinflammatory cytokines IL-6 and interferon γ. That enhancement was undiminished after 6 h, when other measured cytokines had subsided. Finally, LPS treatment caused hypotensive shock in rats with cut splanchnic nerves but not in sham-operated animals. These findings demonstrate that reflex activation of the splanchnic anti-inflammatory pathway has a powerful and sustained restraining influence on inflammatory processes.
Selective regulation of hepatic lipid metabolism by the AMP-activated protein kinase pathway in late-pregnant rats
Authors: Rodrigues Sandra C. , Pantaleão Lucas C. , Nogueira Tatiane C. , Gomes Patrícia R. , Albuquerque Gabriela G. , Nachbar Renato T. , Torres-Leal Francisco L. , Caperuto Luciana C. , Lellis-Santos Camilo , Anhê Gabriel F. , Bordin Silvana
Published: August 2014

The liver plays an essential role in maternal metabolic adaptation during late pregnancy. With regard to lipid metabolism, increased secretion of very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) is characteristic of late pregnancy. Despite this well-described metabolic plasticity, the molecular changes underlying the hepatic adaptation to pregnancy remain unclear. As AMPK is a key intracellular energy sensor, we investigated whether this protein assumes a causal role in the hepatic adaptation to pregnancy. Pregnant Wistar rats were treated with vehicle or AICAR (5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide) for 5 days starting at gestational day 14. At the end of treatment, the rats were subjected to an intraperitoneal pyruvate tolerance test and in situ liver perfusion with pyruvate. The livers were processed for Western blot analysis, quantitative PCR, thin-layer chromatography, enzymatic activity, and glycogen content measurements. Blood biochemical profiles were also assessed. We found that AMPK and ACC phosphorylation were reduced in the livers of pregnant rats in parallel with a reduced level of hepatic gluconeogenesis of pyruvate. This effect was accompanied by both a reduction in the levels of hepatic triglycerides (TG) and an increase in circulating levels of TG. Treatment with AICAR restored hepatic levels of TG to those observed in nonpregnant rats. Additionally, AMPK activation reduced the upregulation of genes related to VLDL synthesis and secretion observed in the livers of pregnant rats. We conclude that the increased secretion of hepatic TG in late pregnancy is concurrent with a transcriptional profile that favors VLDL production. This transcriptional profile results from the reduction in hepatic AMPK activity.
Peptidyl arginine deiminase-4 activation exacerbates kidney ischemia-reperfusion injury
Authors: Ham Ahrom , Rabadi May , Kim Mihwa , Brown Kevin M. , Ma Zhe , D'Agati Vivette , Lee H. Thomas
Published: August 2014

Peptidyl arginine deiminase (PAD)4 is a nuclear enzyme that catalyzes the posttranslational conversion of arginine residues to citrulline. Posttranslational protein citrullination has been implicated in several inflammatory autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, colitis, and multiple sclerosis. Here, we tested the hypothesis that PAD4 contributes to ischemic acute kidney injury (AKI) by exacerbating the inflammatory response after renal ischemia-reperfusion (I/R). Renal I/R injury in mice increased PAD4 activity as well as PAD4 expression in the mouse kidney. After 30 min of renal I/R, vehicle-treated mice developed severe AKI with large increases in plasma creatinine. In contrast, mice pretreated with PAD4 inhibitors (2-chloroamidine or streptonigrin) had significantly reduced renal I/R injury. Further supporting a critical role for PAD4 in generating ischemic AKI, mice pretreated with recombinant human PAD4 (rPAD4) protein and subjected to mild (20 min) renal I/R developed exacerbated ischemic AKI. Consistent with the hypothesis that PAD4 regulates renal tubular inflammation after I/R, mice treated with a PAD4 inhibitor had significantly reduced renal neutrophil chemotactic cytokine (macrophage inflammatory protein-2 and keratinocyte-derived cytokine) expression and had decreased neutrophil infiltration. Furthermore, mice treated with rPAD4 had significantly increased renal tubular macrophage inflammatory protein-2 and keratinocyte-derived cytokine expression as well as increased neutrophil infiltration and necrosis. Finally, cultured mouse kidney proximal tubules treated with rPAD4 had significantly increased proinflammatory chemokine expression compared with vehicle-treated cells. Taken together, our results suggest that PAD4 plays a critical role in renal I/R injury by increasing renal tubular inflammatory responses and neutrophil infiltration after renal I/R.
Relationship between CCR and NT-proBNP in Chinese HF Patients, and Their Correlations with Severity of HF
Authors: Lu Zhigang , Wang Bo , Wang Yunliang , Qian Xueqing , Zheng Wei , Wei Meng
Published: August 2014

Aim. To evaluate the relationship between creatinine clearance rate (CCR) and the level of N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) in heart failure (HF) patients and their correlations with HF severity.Methods and Results. Two hundred and one Chinese patients were grouped according to the New York Heart Association (NYHA) classification as NYHA 1-2 and 3-4 groups and 135 cases out of heart failure patients as control group. The following variables were compared among these three groups: age, sex, body mass index (BMI), smoking status, hypertension, diabetes, NT-proBNP, creatinine (Cr), uric acid (UA), left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (LVEDD), and CCR. The biomarkers of NT-proBNP, Cr, UA, LVEDD, and CCR varied significantly in the three groups, and these variables were positively correlated with the NHYA classification. The levels of NT-proBNP and CCR were closely related to the occurrence of HF and were independent risk factors for HF. At the same time, there was a significant negative correlation between the levels of NT-proBNP and CCR. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve suggested that the NT-proBNP and CCR have high accuracy for diagnosis of HF and have clinical diagnostic value.Conclusion. NT-proBNP and CCR may be important biomarkers in evaluating the severity of HF.
Dynamic of the Cellular Immune Response at the Dermal Site ofLeishmania (L.) amazonensisandLeishmania (V.) braziliensisInfection inSapajus apellaPrimate
Authors: Laurenti Márcia Dalastra , Passero Luiz Felipe Domingues , Tomokane Thaise Yumie , Francesquini Fernanda de Camargo , Rocha Mussya Cisotto , Gomes Claudia Maria de Castro , Corbett Carlos Eduardo Pereira , Silveira Fernando Tobias
Published: August 2014

The purpose of this study was to characterize the immunopathological response in the skin ofS. apellainfected withLeishmania (L.) amazonensisandL. (V.) braziliensisparasites, the main causative agents of localized cutaneous leishmaniasis in South America. In infected animals, amastigote forms ofL. (L.) amazonensiscould be detected till 120 days postinfection (PI), while, inL. (V.) braziliensisinfection, parasites could be detected until 180 days PI in the skin sections. CD20+cells were detected throughout the experimental time in both groups as well as in CD3+cells, which appeared to be activated because high densities of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS+) cells were detected at 60 and 90 days PI in both studied groups. After 60 and 120 days PI, decrease in iNOS+cells was observed inL. (L.) amazonensisandL. (V.) braziliensis, respectively, which was associated with parasite clearance. Increase in lysozyme+cells was observed during the experimental infections, which also can be associated with parasite killing.
Screening for Bioactive Metabolites in Plant Extracts Modulating Glucose Uptake and Fat Accumulation
Authors: El-Houri Rime B. , Kotowska Dorota , Olsen Louise C. B. , Bhattacharya Sumangala , Christensen Lars P. , Grevsen Kai , Oksbjerg Niels , Færgeman Nils , Kristiansen Karsten , Christensen Kathrine B.
Published: August 2014

Dichloromethane and methanol extracts of seven different food and medicinal plants were tested in a screening platform for identification of extracts with potential bioactivity related to insulin‐dependent glucose uptake and fat accumulation. The screening platform included a series of in vitro bioassays, peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor (PPAR) γ‐mediated transactivation, adipocyte differentiation of 3T3‐L1 cell cultures, and glucose uptake in both 3T3‐L1 adipocytes and primary porcine myotubes, as well as one in vivo bioassay, fat accumulation in the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. We found that dichloromethane extracts of aerial parts of golden root (Rhodiola rosea) and common elder (Sambucus nigra) as well as the dichloromethane extracts of thyme (Thymus vulgaris) and carrot (Daucus carota) were able to stimulate insulin‐dependent glucose uptake in both adipocytes and myotubes while weekly activating PPARγ without promoting adipocyte differentiation. In addition, these extracts were able to decrease fat accumulation in C. elegans. Methanol extracts of summer savory (Satureja hortensis), common elder, and broccoli (Brassica oleracea) enhanced glucose uptake in myotubes but were not able to activate PPARγ, indicating a PPARγ‐independent effect on glucose uptake.
Crystal Structure of a Conserved Hypothetical Protein MJ0927 fromMethanocaldococcus jannaschiiReveals a Novel Quaternary Assembly in the Nif3 Family
Authors: Chen Sheng-Chia , Huang Chi-Hung , Yang Chia Shin , Kuan Shu-Min , Lin Ching-Ting , Chou Shan-Ho , Chen Yeh
Published: August 2014

A Nif3 family protein ofMethanocaldococcus jannaschii, MJ0927, is highly conserved from bacteria to humans. Although several structures of bacterial Nif3 proteins are known, no structure representing archaeal Nif3 has yet been reported. The crystal structure ofMethanocaldococcus jannaschiiMJ0927 was determined at 2.47 Å resolution to understand the structural differences between the bacterial and archaeal Nif3 proteins. Intriguingly, MJ0927 is found to adopt an unusual assembly comprising a trimer of dimers that forms a cage-like architecture. Electrophoretic mobility-shift assays indicate that MJ0927 binds to both single-stranded and double-stranded DNA. Structural analysis of MJ0927 reveals a positively charged region that can potentially explain its DNA-binding capability. Taken together, these data suggest that MJ0927 adopts a novel quartenary architecture that could play various DNA-binding roles inMethanocaldococcus jannaschii.
Formalization of Matrix Theory in HOL4
Authors: Shi Zhiping , Zhang Yan , Liu Zhenke , Kang Xinan , Guan Yong , Zhang Jie , Song Xiaoyu
Published: August 2014

Matrix theory plays an important role in modeling linear systems in engineering and science. To model and analyze the intricate behavior of complex systems, it is imperative to formalize matrix theory in a metalogic setting. This paper presents the higher-order logic (HOL) formalization of the vector space and matrix theory in the HOL4 theorem proving system. Formalized theories include formal definitions of real vectors and matrices, algebraic properties, and determinants, which are verified in HOL4. Two case studies, modeling and verifying composite two-port networks and state transfer equations, are presented to demonstrate the applicability and effectiveness of our work.
Global Existence of Solution to Initial Boundary Value Problem for Bipolar Navier-Stokes-Poisson System
Authors: Liu Jian , Liu Haidong
Published: August 2014

This paper concerns initial boundary value problem for 3-dimensional compressible bipolar Navier-Stokes-Poisson equations with density-dependent viscosities. When the initial data is large, discontinuous, and spherically symmetric, we prove the global existence of the weak solution.
Protective Effect of Huoxiang Zhengqi Oral Liquid on Intestinal Mucosal Mechanical Barrier of Rats with Postinfectious Irritable Bowel Syndrome Induced by Acetic Acid
Authors: Liu Yao , Liu Wei , Peng Qiu-Xian , Peng Jiang-Li , Yu Lin-Zhong , Hu Jian-Lan
Published: August 2014

In this study, a rat model with acetic acid‐induced PI‐IBS was used to study the role of HXZQ oral liquid in repairing the colonic epithelial barrier and reducing intestinal permeability. Pathomorphism of colonic tissue, epithelial ultrastructure, DAO activity in serum, and the protein expression of ZO‐1 and occludin were examined to investigate protective effect mechanisms of HXZQ on intestinal mucosa barrier and then present experimental support for its use for prevention and cure of PI‐IBS.
MicroRNA Dysregulation in Liver and Pancreas of CMP-Neu5Ac Hydroxylase Null Mice Disrupts Insulin/PI3K-AKT Signaling
Authors: Kwon Deug-Nam , Chang Byung-Soo , Kim Jin-Hoi
Published: August 2014

CMP-Neu5Ac hydroxylase (Cmah)-null mice fed with a high-fat diet develop fasting hyperglycemia, glucose intolerance, and pancreaticβ-cell dysfunction and ultimately develop characteristics of type 2 diabetes. The precise metabolic role of theCmahgene remains poorly understood. This study was designed to investigate the molecular mechanisms through which microRNAs (miRNAs) regulate type 2 diabetes. Expression profiles of miRNAs inCmah-null mouse livers were compared to those of control mouse livers. Liver miFinder miRNA PCR arrays (n=6) showed that eight miRNA genes were differentially expressed between the two groups. Compared with controls, seven miRNAs were upregulated and one miRNA was downregulated inCmah-null mice. Specifically, miR-155-5p, miR-425-5p, miR-15a-5p, miR-503-5p, miR-16-5p, miR-29a-3p, and miR-29b-3p were significantly upregulated in the liver and pancreas ofCmah-null mice. These target miRNAs are closely associated with dysregulation of insulin/PI3K-AKT signaling, suggesting that theCmah-null mice could be a useful model for studying diabetes.
Numerical Study of Natural Supercavitation Influenced by Rheological Properties of Turbulent Drag-Reducing Additives
Authors: Jiang Chen-Xing , Li Feng-Chen
Published: August 2014

Natural supercavitations in water and turbulent drag-reducing solution were numerically simulated using unsteady Reynolds averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) scheme with mixture-multiphase model. The Cross viscosity equation was adopted to represent the fluid property of aqueous solution of drag-reducing additives. The characteristics of natural supercavity configuration and overall resistance of the navigating body were presented, respectively. The numerical simulation results indicated that, at the same cavitation number, the length and diameter of supercavity in drag-reducing solution are larger than those in water, and the drag coefficient of navigating body in solution is smaller than that in water; the surface tension plays an important role in incepting and maintaining the cavity. Turbulent drag-reducing additives have the potential in enhancement of supercavitation, drag reduction, and decrease of turbulent vortex structures. Numerical simulation results are consistent with the available experimental data.
The ProbioticBifidobacterium breveB632 Inhibited the Growth ofEnterobacteriaceaewithin Colicky Infant Microbiota Cultures
Authors: Simone Marta , Gozzoli Caterina , Quartieri Andrea , Mazzola Giuseppe , Di Gioia Diana , Amaretti Alberto , Raimondi Stefano , Rossi Maddalena
Published: August 2014

Infant colic is a common gastrointestinal disorder of newborns, mostly related to imbalances in the composition of gut microbiota and particularly to the presence of gas-producing coliforms and to lower levels of Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli. Probiotics could help to contain this disturbance, with formulations consisting ofLactobacillusstrains being the most utilized. In this work, the probiotic strainBifidobacterium breveB632 that was specifically selected for its ability to inhibit gas-producing coliforms, was challenged against theEnterobacteriaceaewithin continuous cultures of microbiota from a 2-month-old colicky infant. As confirmed by RAPD-PCR fingerprinting,B. breveB632 persisted in probiotic-supplemented microbiota cultures, accounting for the 64% of Bifidobacteria at the steady state. The probiotic succeeded in inhibiting coliforms, since FISH and qPCR revealed that the amount ofEnterobacteriaceaeafter 18 h of cultivation was 0.42 and 0.44 magnitude orders lower(P<0.05)in probiotic-supplemented microbiota cultures than in the control ones. These results support the possibility to move to another level of study, that is, the administration ofB. breveB632 to a cohort of colicky newborns, in order to observe the behavior of this strainin vivoand to validate its effect in colic treatment.
Nucleophilic Addition of Reactive Dyes on Amidoximated Acrylic Fabrics
Authors: El-Shishtawy Reda M. , El-Zawahry Manal M. , Abdelghaffar Fatma , Ahmed Nahed S. E.
Published: August 2014

Seven reactive dyes judiciously selected based on chemical structures and fixation mechanisms were applied at 2% owf of shade on amidoximated acrylic fabrics. Amidoximated acrylic fabric has been obtained by a viable amidoximation process. The dyeability of these fabrics was evaluated with respect to the dye exhaustion, fixation, and colour strength under different conditions of temperature and dyeing time. Nucleophilic addition type reactive dyes show higher colour data compared to nucleophilic substitution ones. FTIR studies further implicate the binding of reactive dyes on these fabrics. A tentative mechanism is proposed to rationalize the high fixation yield obtained using nucleophilic addition type reactive dyes. Also, the levelling and fastness properties were evaluated for all dyes used. Excellent to good fastness and levelling properties were obtained for all samples irrespective of the dye used. The result of investigation offers a new method for a viable reactive dyeing of amidoximated acrylic fabrics.
From Caristi’s Theorem to Ekeland’s Variational Principle in0σ-Complete Metric-Like Spaces
Authors: Jleli Mohamed , Samet Bessem , Vetro Calogero , Vetro Francesca
Published: August 2014

We discuss the extension of some fundamental results in nonlinear analysis to the setting of0σ-complete metric-like spaces. Then, we show that these extensions can be obtained via the corresponding results in standard metric spaces.
Responses of a Highly Accelerated Life Test System to Impacts from Different Designs of Hammers
Authors: Chen Yeong-Shu , Chuong Le Hong
Published: August 2014

The response of a table to the impact of its driving hammer in the highly accelerated life test (HALT) system depends on, among other things, the location of the hammer, the presence of multiple hammers, and the angle at which the hammer is mounted to the table. The present study investigated the response of a table to a variety of impacts from different combinations of hammers. It began with a theoretical analysis of the forces of impact exerted by hammers which led to the calculation of the corresponding displacement. These theoretical calculations revealed the mechanics of the HALT system to help explain the working principles behind this complex system. Then a simulation model was built to check the accuracy of the theoretical results. Finally, the accelerations of a table in a real HALT system were measured. These data showed good agreement with the experimental results and computer simulation. The responses of HALT systems have not been investigated thoroughly to date. The current study can help equipment designers and end users better understand the working principles of this kind of systems. It can be considered a breakthrough in terms of improving the performance of reliability testing with this kind of system.
A Novel Laccase with Potent Antiproliferative and HIV-1 Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitory Activities from Mycelia of MushroomCoprinus comatus
Authors: Zhao Shuang , Rong Cheng-Bo , Kong Chang , Liu Yu , Xu Feng , Miao Qian-Jiang , Wang Shou-Xian , Wang He-Xiang , Zhang Guo-Qing
Published: August 2014

A novel laccase was isolated and purified from fermentation mycelia of mushroomCoprinus comatuswith an isolation procedure including three ion-exchange chromatography steps on DEAE-cellulose, CM-cellulose, and Q-Sepharose and one gel-filtration step by fast protein liquid chromatography on Superdex 75. The purified enzyme was a monomeric protein with a molecular weight of 64 kDa. It possessed a unique N-terminal amino acid sequence of AIGPVADLKV, which has considerably high sequence similarity with that of other fungal laccases, but is different from that ofC. comatuslaccases reported. The enzyme manifested an optimal pH value of 2.0 and an optimal temperature of 60°C using 2,2′-azinobis(3-ethylbenzothiazolone-6-sulfonic acid) diammonium salt (ABTS) as the substrate. The laccase displayed, at pH 2.0 and 37°C,Kmvalues of 1.59 mM towards ABTS. It potently suppressed proliferation of tumor cell lines HepG2 and MCF7, and inhibited human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) reverse transcriptase (RT) with an IC50value of 3.46 μM, 4.95 μM, and 5.85 μM, respectively, signifying that it is an antipathogenic protein.
Angiotensin I Converting Enzyme Inhibitory Peptides Obtained afterIn VitroHydrolysis of Pea (Pisum sativumvar. Bajka) Globulins
Authors: Jakubczyk Anna , Baraniak Barbara
Published: August 2014

Pea seeds represent a valuable source of active compounds that may positively influence health. In this study, the pea globulins were digestedin vitrounder gastrointestinal condition and potentially bioaccessible angiotensin I converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory peptides were identified. The degree of hydrolysis after pepsin, 14.42%, and pancreatin, 30.65%, were noted. The peptides with the highest ACE inhibitory properties were separated using ion exchange chromatography on DEAE-cellulose. Thirteen peptides fractions were obtained but only four showed potential antihypertensive properties. The highest inhibitory activity was determined for the fraction F8 (IC50 = 0.0014 mg/mL). This fraction was separated on Sephadex G10 and two peptide fractions were obtained. The peptides fraction (B) with the highest ACE inhibitory activity (IC50 = 0.073 mg/mL) was identified by ESI-MS/MS. The sequences of ACE inhibitory peptides were GGSGNY, DLKLP, GSSDNR, MRDLK, and HNTPSR. Based on Lineweaver-Burk plots for the fraction B, the kinetic parameters asKm,Vmax, andKiand mode of inhibition were determined. This fraction belongs to uncompetitive inhibitor of ACE activity. The seeds of pea are the source of precursor protein, which releases the ACE inhibitory peptides as a result of enzymatic hydrolysis.
Anticancer Activities of Citrus Peel Polymethoxyflavones Related to Angiogenesis and Others
Authors: Wang Liwen , Wang Jinhan , Fang Lianying , Zheng Zuliang , Zhi Dexian , Wang Suying , Li Shiming , Ho Chi-Tang , Zhao Hui
Published: August 2014

Citrus is a kind of common fruit and contains multiple beneficial nutrients for human beings. Flavonoids, as a class of plant secondary metabolites, exist in citrus fruits abundantly. Due to their broad range of pharmacological properties, citrus flavonoids have gained increased attention. Accumulative in vitro and in vivo studies indicate protective effects of polymethoxyflavones (PMFs) against the occurrence of cancer. PMFs inhibit carcinogenesis by mechanisms like blocking the metastasis cascade, inhibition of cancer cell mobility in circulatory systems, proapoptosis, and antiangiogenesis. This review systematically summarized anticarcinogenic effect of citrus flavonoids in cancer therapy, together with the underlying important molecular mechanisms, in purpose of further exploring more effective use of citrus peel flavonoids.
An Environmentally Friendly Process for the Preparation of UHMWPE As-Spun Fibres
Authors: Rajput Abdul Waqar , Aleem Anwar ul , Arain Farooq Ahmed
Published: August 2014

The extrusion of ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fibres cannot be achieved by conventional extrusion processes due to its very high melt viscosity. To overcome this limitation, UHMWPE is first dissolved in a petrochemical to form a gel before extrusion. The petrochemicals used to dissolve the polymer then need to be removed using other chemicals making the process unfriendly to the environment. This article is focused on finding an environmentally friendly, natural solution to replace these chemicals and altering the process to potentially reduce the process cost.
Diethylstilbestrol Exposure in Neonatal Mice Induces Changes in the Adulthood in the Immune Response toTaenia crassicepswithout Modifications of Parasite Loads
Authors: Nava-Castro Karen E. , Morales-Montor Jorge , Ortega-Hernando Alejandra , Camacho-Arroyo Ignacio
Published: August 2014

Industrial growth has increased the exposition to endocrine disruptor compounds (EDC’s), which are exogenous agents with agonist or antagonist action of endogenous steroid hormones that may affect the course of parasite infections. We wanted to determine if the exposure to diethylstilbestrol (DES), an estrogen agonist, to both male and female mice affected the immune response and their susceptibility toT. crassicepscysticercosis. In all infected groups, females showed higher parasite loads than males, and neonatal DES administration did not modify this pattern. In the spleen, noninfected mice showed sex-related differences in the percentage of the CD8+ subpopulation, but DES decreased the percentage of CD3+, CD19+, and CD8+ subpopulations in infected mice. In the mesenteric lymphatic node (MNL), DES showed a dimorphic effect in the percentage of CD19+ cells. Regarding estrogen receptor alpha (ER-α) expression, DES treatment induced a reduction in the expression of this receptor in both noninfected female and male mice in the spleen, which was decreased only in males in CD3+ and CD8+ lymphocytes in MNL cell subpopulations. Our study is the first one to demonstrate that DES neonatal treatment in male and female mice affects the immune cell percentage, without effect on the susceptibility toT. crassicepscysticercosis.
A Hybrid Digital-Signature and Zero-Watermarking Approach for Authentication and Protection of Sensitive Electronic Documents
Authors: Tayan Omar , Kabir Muhammad N. , Alginahi Yasser M.
Published: August 2014

This paper addresses the problems and threats associated with verification of integrity, proof of authenticity, tamper detection, and copyright protection for digital-text content. Such issues were largely addressed in the literature for images, audio, and video, with only a few papers addressing the challenge of sensitive plain-text media under known constraints. Specifically, with text as the predominant online communication medium, it becomes crucial that techniques are deployed to protect such information. A number of digital-signature, hashing, and watermarking schemes have been proposed that essentially bind source data or embed invisible data in a cover media to achieve its goal. While many such complex schemes with resource redundancies are sufficient in offline and less-sensitive texts, this paper proposes a hybrid approach based on zero-watermarking and digital-signature-like manipulations for sensitive text documents in order to achieve content originality and integrity verification without physically modifying the cover text in anyway. The proposed algorithm was implemented and shown to be robust against undetected content modifications and is capable of confirming proof of originality whilst detecting and locating deliberate/nondeliberate tampering. Additionally, enhancements in resource utilisation and reduced redundancies were achieved in comparison to traditional encryption-based approaches. Finally, analysis and remarks are made about the current state of the art, and future research issues are discussed under the given constraints.
Development and Application of a ZigBee-Based Building Energy Monitoring and Control System
Authors: Peng Changhai , Qian Kun
Published: August 2014

Increasing in energy consumption, particularly with the ever-increasing growth and development of urban systems, has become a major concern in most countries. In this paper, the authors propose a cost-effective ZigBee-based building energy monitoring and control system (ZBEMCS), which is composed of a gateway, a base station, and sensors. Specifically, a new hardware platform for power sensor nodes is developed to perform both local/remote power parameter measurement and power on/off switching for electric appliances. The experimental results show that the ZBEMCS can easily monitor energy usage with a high level of accuracy. Two typical applications of ZBEMCS such as subentry metering and household metering of building energy are presented. The former includes lighting socket electricity, HVAC electricity, power electricity and special electricity. The latter includes household metering according to the campus’s main function zone and each college or department. Therefore, this system can be used for energy consumption monitoring, long-term energy conservation planning, and the development of automated energy conservation for building applications.