bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biomass Smoke Exposure Enhances Rhinovirus-Induced Inflammation in Primary Lung Fibroblasts
Authors: Capistrano Sarah , Zakarya Razia , Chen Hui , Oliver Brian
Published: August 2016

Biomass smoke is one of the major air pollutants and contributors of household air pollution worldwide. More than 3 billion people use biomass fuels for cooking and heating, while other sources of exposure are from the occurrence of bushfires and occupational conditions. Persistent biomass smoke exposure has been associated with acute lower respiratory infection (ALRI) as a major environmental risk factor. Children under the age of five years are the most susceptible in developing severe ALRI, which accounts for 940,000 deaths globally. Around 90% of cases are attributed to viral infections, such as influenza, adenovirus, and rhinovirus. Although several epidemiological studies have generated substantial evidence of the association of biomass smoke and respiratory infections, the underlying mechanism is still unknown. Using an in vitro model, primary human lung fibroblasts were stimulated with biomass smoke extract (BME), specifically investigating hardwood and softwood types, and human rhinovirus-16 for 24 h. Production of pro-inflammatory mediators, such as IL-6 and IL-8, were measured via ELISA. Firstly, we found that hardwood and softwood smoke extract (1%) up-regulate IL-6 and IL-8 release (p ≤ 0.05). In addition, human rhinovirus-16 further increased biomass smoke-induced IL-8 in fibroblasts, in comparison to the two stimulatory agents alone. We also investigated the effect of biomass smoke on viral susceptibility by measuring viral load, and found no significant changes between BME exposed and non-exposed infected fibroblasts. Activated signaling pathways for IL-6 and IL-8 production by BME stimulation were examined using signaling pathway inhibitors. p38 MAPK inhibitor SB239063 significantly attenuated IL-6 and IL-8 release the most (p ≤ 0.05). This study demonstrated that biomass smoke can modulate rhinovirus-induced inflammation during infection, which can alter the severity of the disease. The mechanism by which biomass smoke exposure increases inflammation in the lungs can be targeted and inhibited via p38 MAP kinase pathway.
Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Mediated-UCH-L1 Expression in Podocytes of Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: Zhang Hongxia , Luo Weili , Sun Yonghong , Qiao Yanchun , Zhang Liying , Zhao Zhilian , Lv Shijun
Published: August 2016

Increasing studies identified podocyte injury as a key early risk factor resulting in diabetic nephropathy (DN). The ubiquitin carboxy-terminal hydrolase 1 (UCH-L1) participates in podocyte differentiation and injury, which is elevated in the podocytes of a variety of nephritis. Whether UCH-L1 expression is positively related to podocyte injury of DN remains unclear. In this study, elevated expression of UCH-L1 and its intrinsic mechanism in high glucose (HG)-stimulated murine podocytes were investigated using western blot and real-time quantitative PCR. Kidney biopsies of DN patients and health individuals were stained by immunofluorescence (IF) method. The morphological and functional changes of podocytes were tested by F-actin staining and cell migration assay. Results demonstrated that HG induced upregulation of UCH-L1 and activation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in podocytes. However, blocking of the Wnt pathway by dickkopf related protein 1 (DKK1) eliminated the above changes. Furthermore, IF staining confirmed that, compared with healthy individuals, the expression of UCH-L1 and β-catenin were obviously increased in kidney biopsy of DN patients. Overexpression of UCH-L1 remodeled its actin cytoskeleton, increased its cell migration and impacted its important proteins. All the findings manifested that Wnt/β-catenin/UCH-L1 may be a new potential therapy method in the treatment of DN in future.
Disability in a Human Rights Context
Authors: Degener Theresia
Published: August 2016

The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) is a modern human rights treaty with innovative components. It impacts on disability studies as well as human rights law. Two innovations are scrutinized in this article: the model of disability and the equality and discrimination concepts of the CRPD. It is argued that the CRPD manifests a shift from the medical model to the human rights model of disability. Six propositions are offered why and how the human rights model differs from the social model of disability. It is further maintained that the CRPD introduces a new definition of discrimination into international public law. The underlying equality concept can be categorized as transformative equality with both individual and group oriented components. The applied methodology of this research is legal doctrinal analysis and disability studies model analysis. The main finding is that the human rights model of disability improves the social model of disability. Three different models of disability can be attributed to different concepts of equality. The medical model corresponds with formal equality, while the social model with substantive equality and the human rights model can be linked with transformative equality.
The Genetic Code: Francis Crick’s Legacy and Beyond
Authors: Tamura Koji
Published: August 2016

Francis Crick (Figure 1) was born on 8 June 1916, in Northampton, England, and passed away on 28 July 2004, in La Jolla, California, USA.[...]
Mechanical and Electronic Properties of XC6 and XC12
Authors: Wei Qun , Zhang Quan , Zhang Meiguang
Published: August 2016

A series of carbon-based superconductors XC6 with high Tc were reported recently. In this paper, based on the first-principles calculations, we studied the mechanical properties of these structures, and further explored the XC12 phases, where the X atoms are from elemental hydrogen to calcium, except noble gas atoms. The mechanically- and dynamically-stable structures include HC6, NC6, and SC6 in XC6 phases, and BC12, CC12, PC12, SC12, ClC12, and KC12 in XC12 phases. The doping leads to a weakening in mechanical properties and an increase in the elastic anisotropy. C6 has the lowest elastic anisotropy, and the anisotropy increases with the atomic number of doping atoms for both XC6 and XC12. Furthermore, the acoustic velocities, Debye temperatures, and the electronic properties are also studied.
Plasma and Urinary Phenolic Profiles after Acute and Repetitive Intake of Wild Blueberry
Authors: Feliciano Rodrigo , Istas Geoffrey , Heiss Christian , Rodriguez-Mateos Ana
Published: August 2016

Recent studies have shown that blueberries may have cardiovascular and cognitive health benefits. In this work, we investigated the profile of plasma and urine (poly)phenol metabolites after acute and daily consumption of wild blueberries for 30 days in 18 healthy men. The inter-individual variability in plasma and urinary polyphenol levels was also investigated. Blood samples were collected at baseline and 2 h post-consumption on day 1 and day 30. Twenty-four-hour urine was also collected on both days. A total of 61 phenolic metabolites were quantified in plasma at baseline, of which 43 increased after acute or chronic consumption of blueberries over one month. Benzoic and catechol derivatives represented more than 80% of the changes in phenolic profile after 2 h consumption on day 1, whereas hippuric and benzoic derivatives were the major compounds that increased at 0 and 2 h on day 30, respectively. The total (poly)phenol urinary excretion remained unchanged after 30 days of wild blueberry intake. The inter-individual variability ranged between 40%–48% in plasma and 47%–54% in urine. Taken together, our results illustrate that blueberry (poly)phenols are absorbed and extensively metabolized by phase II enzymes and by the gut microbiota, leading to a whole array of metabolites that may be responsible for the beneficial effects observed after blueberry consumption.
Graphene and Carbon Quantum Dot-Based Materials in Photovoltaic Devices: From Synthesis to Applications
Authors: Paulo Sofia , Palomares Emilio , Martinez-Ferrero Eugenia
Published: August 2016

Graphene and carbon quantum dots have extraordinary optical and electrical features because of their quantum confinement properties. This makes them attractive materials for applications in photovoltaic devices (PV). Their versatility has led to their being used as light harvesting materials or selective contacts, either for holes or electrons, in silicon quantum dot, polymer or dye-sensitized solar cells. In this review, we summarize the most common uses of both types of semiconducting materials and highlight the significant advances made in recent years due to the influence that synthetic materials have on final performance.
Development and Validation of a Mediterranean Oriented Culture-Specific Semi-Quantitative Food Frequency Questionnaire
Authors: Athanasiadou Elpiniki , Kyrkou Charikleia , Fotiou Maria , Tsakoumaki Foteini , Dimitropoulou Aristea , Polychroniadou Eleni , Menexes Georgios , Athanasiadis Apostolos , Biliaderis Costas , Michaelidou Alexandra-Maria
Published: August 2016

The objectives were to develop a Mediterranean oriented semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) and evaluate its validity in measuring energy and nutrient intakes. For FFQ development, the main challenge was to merge food items and practices reflecting cultural Mediterranean preferences with other food choices ensuing from diet transition to more westernized dietary patterns. FFQ validity was evaluated by comparing nutrient intakes against the average of two 24-h dietary recalls for 179 pregnant women. Although the mean intake values for most nutrients and energy tended to be higher when determined by the FFQ, the Cohen’s d was below 0.3. Bland-Altman plots confirmed the agreement between the two methods. Positive significant correlations ranged from 0.35 to 0.77. The proportion of women classified correctly was between 73.2% and 92.2%, whereas gross misclassification was low. Weighted kappa values were between 0.31 and 0.78, while intraclass correlation coefficients were between 0.49 and 0.89. Our methodological approach for the development and validation of this FFQ provides reliable measurements of energy, macro- and micronutrient intakes. Overall, our culture-specific FFQ could serve as a useful assessment tool in studies aiming at monitoring dietary intakes, especially in the Mediterranean region, where countries share common cultural dietary habits.
Tuning the Mechanical Properties of Polymer Nanocomposites Filled with Grafted Nanoparticles by Varying the Grafted Chain Length and Flexibility
Authors: Wang Zixuan , Zheng Zijian , Liu Jun , Wu Youping , Zhang Liqun
Published: August 2016

By employing coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulation, we simulate the spatial organization of the polymer-grafted nanoparticles (NPs) in homopolymer matrix and the resulting mechanical performance, by particularly regulating the grafted chain length and flexibility. The morphologies ranging from the agglomerate, cylinder, sheet, and string to full dispersion are observed, by gradually increasing the grafted chain length. The radial distribution function and the total interaction energy between NPs are calculated. Meanwhile, the stress–strain behavior of each morphology and the morphological evolution during the uniaxial tension are simulated. In particular, the sheet structure exhibits the best mechanical reinforcement compared to other morphologies. In addition, the change of the grafted chain flexibility to semi-flexibility leads to the variation of the morphology. We also find that at long grafted chain length, the stress–strain behavior of the system with the semi-flexible grafted chain begins to exceed that of the system with the flexible grafted chain, attributed to the physical inter-locking interaction between the matrix and grafted polymer chains. A similar transition trend is as well found in the presence of the interfacial chemical couplings between grafted and matrix polymer chains. In general, this work is expected to help to design and fabricate high performance polymer nanocomposites filled with grafted NPs with excellent and controllable mechanical properties.
Recent Advances for Flame Retardancy of Textiles Based on Phosphorus Chemistry
Authors: Salmeia Khalifah , Gaan Sabyasachi , Malucelli Giulio
Published: August 2016

This paper aims at updating the progress on the phosphorus-based flame retardants specifically designed and developed for fibers and fabrics (particularly referring to cotton, polyester and their blends) over the last five years. Indeed, as clearly depicted by Horrocks in a recent review, the world of flame retardants for textiles is still experiencing some changes that are focused on topics like the improvement of its effectiveness and the replacement of toxic chemical products with counterparts that have low environmental impact and, hence, are more sustainable. In this context, phosphorus-based compounds play a key role and may lead, possibly in combination with silicon- or nitrogen-containing structures, to the design of new, efficient flame retardants for fibers and fabrics. Therefore, this review thoroughly describes the advances and the potentialities offered by the phosphorus-based products recently developed at a lab-scale, highlighting the current limitations, open challenges and some perspectives toward their possible exploitation at a larger scale.
Bioethanol in Biofuels Checked by an Amperometric Organic Phase Enzyme Electrode (OPEE) Working in “Substrate Antagonism” Format
Authors: Tomassetti Mauro , Spuri Capesciotti Gabriele , Angeloni Riccardo , Martini Elisabetta , Campanella Luigi
Published: August 2016

The bioethanol content of two samples of biofuels was determined directly, after simple dilution in decane, by means of an amperometric catalase enzyme biosensor working in the organic phase, based on substrate antagonisms format. The results were good from the point of view of accuracy, and satisfactory for what concerns the recovery test by the standard addition method. Limit of detection (LOD) was on the order of 2.5 × 10−5 M.
Proof-of-Concept of a Millimeter-Wave Integrated Heterogeneous Network for 5G Cellular
Authors: Okasaka Shozo , Weiler Richard , Keusgen Wilhelm , Pudeyev Andrey , Maltsev Alexander , Karls Ingolf , Sakaguchi Kei
Published: August 2016

The fifth-generation mobile networks (5G) will not only enhance mobile broadband services, but also enable connectivity for a massive number of Internet-of-Things devices, such as wireless sensors, meters or actuators. Thus, 5G is expected to achieve a 1000-fold or more increase in capacity over 4G. The use of the millimeter-wave (mmWave) spectrum is a key enabler to allowing 5G to achieve such enhancement in capacity. To fully utilize the mmWave spectrum, 5G is expected to adopt a heterogeneous network (HetNet) architecture, wherein mmWave small cells are overlaid onto a conventional macro-cellular network. In the mmWave-integrated HetNet, splitting of the control plane (CP) and user plane (UP) will allow continuous connectivity and increase the capacity of the mmWave small cells. mmWave communication can be used not only for access linking, but also for wireless backhaul linking, which will facilitate the installation of mmWave small cells. In this study, a proof-of-concept (PoC) was conducted to demonstrate the practicality of a prototype mmWave-integrated HetNet, using mmWave technologies for both backhaul and access.
Tracking Control of a Magnetic Shape Memory Actuator Using an Inverse Preisach Model with Modified Fuzzy Sliding Mode Control
Authors: Lin Jhih-Hong , Chiang Mao-Hsiung
Published: August 2016

Magnetic shape memory (MSM) alloys are a new class of smart materials with extraordinary strains up to 12% and frequencies in the range of 1 to 2 kHz. The MSM actuator is a potential device which can achieve high performance electromagnetic actuation by using the properties of MSM alloys. However, significant non-linear hysteresis behavior is a significant barrier to control the MSM actuator. In this paper, the Preisach model was used, by capturing experiments from different input signals and output responses, to model the hysteresis of MSM actuator, and the inverse Preisach model, as a feedforward control, provided compensational signals to the MSM actuator to linearize the hysteresis non-linearity. The control strategy for path tracking combined the hysteresis compensator and the modified fuzzy sliding mode control (MFSMC) which served as a path controller. Based on the experimental results, it was verified that a tracking error in the order of micrometers was achieved.
Underground Potential for Urban Sustainability: Mapping Resources and Their Interactions with the Deep City Method
Authors: Doyle Michael , Thalmann Philippe , Parriaux Aurèle
Published: August 2016

In the process of urban growth, the underground is often only addressed once all surface alternatives have been exhausted. Experience shows that this can lead to unforeseen conflicts (e.g., subsidence, groundwater pollution) and to lost opportunities (e.g., combined geothermal systems and building foundations or recycling of excavation materials). One challenge is how the underground potentials are assessed by urban actors; data collection, analysis and visualization for the different resources are often conducted in separate disciplinary corners and administrative divisions. This paper presents a mapping method developed within the Deep City project at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL) and its application to San Antonio, Texas. San Antonio is interesting in its lack of major underground infrastructure and its few means and political support for short-term underground development. We will specifically look at the production of a series of interaction maps, an original mapping strategy that is complementary to the resource potential maps we have produced in prior work. After situating this research within larger theoretical and philosophical questions, we will show how mapping the combined potentiality of underground resources can serve as a compass for future interdisciplinary discussions that address the urban underground as a source of opportunity, rather than as an afterthought.
Urban Heat Stress Vulnerability in the U.S. Southwest: The Role of Sociotechnical Systems
Authors: Pincetl Stephanie , Chester Mikhail , Eisenman David
Published: August 2016

Heat vulnerability of urban populations is becoming a major issue of concern with climate change, particularly in the cities of the Southwest United States. In this article we discuss the importance of understanding coupled social and technical systems, how they constitute one another, and how they form the conditions and circumstances in which people experience heat. We discuss the particular situation of Los Angeles and Maricopa Counties, their urban form and the electric grid. We show how vulnerable populations are created by virtue of the age and construction of buildings, the morphology of roads and distribution of buildings on the landscape. Further, the regulatory infrastructure of electricity generation and distribution also contributes to creating differential vulnerability. We contribute to a better understanding of the importance of sociotechnical systems. Social infrastructure includes codes, conventions, rules and regulations; technical systems are the hard systems of pipes, wires, buildings, roads, and power plants. These interact to create lock-in that is an obstacle to addressing issues such as urban heat stress in a novel and equitable manner.
SPECTROSCOPIC AND INTERFEROMETRIC MEASUREMENTS OF NINE K GIANT STARS
Authors: Baines Ellyn K. , Döllinger Michaela P. , Guenther Eike W. , Hatzes Artie P. , Hrudkovu Marie , Belle Gerard T. van
Published: August 2016

We present spectroscopic and interferometric measurements for a sample of nine K giant stars. These targets are of particular interest because they are slated for stellar oscillation observations. Our improved parameters will directly translate into reduced errors in the final masses for these stars when interferometric radii and asteroseismic densities are combined. Here, we determine each star’s limb-darkened angular diameter, physical radius, luminosity, bolometric flux, effective temperature, surface gravity, metallicity, and mass. When we compare our interferometric and spectroscopic results, we find no systematic offsets in the diameters and the values generally agree within the errors. Our interferometric temperatures for seven of the nine stars are hotter than those determined from spectroscopy with an average difference of about 380 K.
DEBRIS DISKS IN THE SCORPIUS–CENTAURUS OB ASSOCIATION RESOLVED BY ALMA
Authors: Lieman-Sifry Jesse , Hughes A. Meredith , Carpenter John M. , Gorti Uma , Hales Antonio , Flaherty Kevin M.
Published: August 2016

We present a CO(2-1) and 1240 μm continuum survey of 23 debris disks with spectral types B9-G1, observed at an angular resolution of 0.″5–1″ with the Atacama Large Millimeter/Submillimeter Array (ALMA). The sample was selected for large infrared excess and age ∼10 Myr, to characterize the prevalence of molecular gas emission in young debris disks. We identify three CO-rich debris disks, plus two additional tentative (3σ) CO detections. Twenty disks were detected in the continuum at the >3σ level. For the 12 disks in the sample that are spatially resolved by our observations, we perform an independent analysis of the interferometric continuum visibilities to constrain the basic dust disk geometry, as well as a simultaneous analysis of the visibilities and broadband spectral energy distribution to constrain the characteristic grain size and disk mass. The gas-rich debris disks exhibit preferentially larger outer radii in their dust disks, and a higher prevalence of characteristic grain sizes smaller than the blowout size. The gas-rich disks do not exhibit preferentially larger dust masses, contrary to expectations for a scenario in which a higher cometary destruction rate would be expected to result in a larger mass of both CO and dust. The three debris disks in our sample with strong CO detections are all around A stars: the conditions in disks around intermediate-mass stars appear to be the most conducive to the survival or formation of CO.
SOFT X-RAY IRRADIATION OF SILICATES: IMPLICATIONS FOR DUST EVOLUTION IN PROTOPLANETARY DISKS
Authors: Ciaravella A. , Cecchi-Pestellini C. , Chen Y.-J. , Muñoz Caro G. M. , Huang C.-H. , Jiménez-Escobar A. , Venezia A. M.
Published: August 2016

The processing of energetic photons on bare silicate grains was simulated experimentally on silicate films submitted to soft X-rays of energies up to 1.25 keV. The silicate material was prepared by means of a microwave assisted sol–gel technique. Its chemical composition reflects the Mg2SiO4 stoichiometry with residual impurities due to the synthesis method. The experiments were performed using the spherical grating monochromator beamline at the National Synchrotron Radiation Research Center in Taiwan. We found that soft X-ray irradiation induces structural changes that can be interpreted as an amorphization of the processed silicate material. The present results may have relevant implications in the evolution of silicate materials in X-ray-irradiated protoplanetary disks.
NEUTRINO SIGNAL OF COLLAPSE-INDUCED THERMONUCLEAR SUPERNOVAE: THE CASE FOR PROMPT BLACK HOLE FORMATION IN SN 1987A
Authors: Blum Kfir , Kushnir Doron
Published: August 2016

Collapse-induced thermonuclear explosion (CITE) may explain core-collapse supernovae (CCSNe). We analyze the neutrino signal in CITE and compare it to the neutrino burst of SN 1987A. For strong (

erg) CCSNe, such as SN 1987A, CITE predicts a proto-neutron star (PNS) accretion phase lasting up to a few seconds that is cut off by black hole (BH) formation. The neutrino luminosity can later be revived by accretion disk emission after a dead time of a few to a few tens of seconds. In contrast, the neutrino mechanism for CCSNe predicts a short (≲s) PNS accretion phase, followed by slowly declining PNS cooling luminosity. We repeat statistical analyses used in the literature to interpret the neutrino mechanism, and apply them to CITE. The first 1–2 s of the neutrino burst are equally compatible with CITE and with the neutrino mechanism. However, the data points toward a luminosity drop at t = 2–3 s, which is in some tension with the neutrino mechanism but can be naturally attributed to BH formation in CITE. The occurrence of neutrino signal events at 5 s suggests that, within CITE, the accretion disk formed by that time. We perform two-dimensional numerical simulations showing that CITE may be able to accommodate this disk formation time while reproducing the ejected 56Ni mass and ejecta kinetic energy within factors of 2–3 of observations. We estimate the accretion disk neutrino luminosity, finding it to be on the low side but compatible with the data to a factor of 10. Given comparable uncertainties in the disk luminosity simulation, we conclude that direct BH formation may have occurred in SN 1987A.
CLOUD STRUCTURE OF GALACTIC OB CLUSTER-FORMING REGIONS FROM COMBINING GROUND- AND SPACE-BASED BOLOMETRIC OBSERVATIONS
Authors: Lin Yuxin , Liu Hauyu Baobab , Li Di , Zhi-Yu Zhang  , Ginsburg Adam , Pineda Jaime E. , Qian Lei , Galván-Madrid Roberto , McLeod Anna Faye , Rosolowsky Erik , Dale James E. , Immer Katharina , Koch Eric , Longmore Steve , Walker Daniel , Testi Leonardo
Published: August 2016

We have developed an iterative procedure to systematically combine the millimeter and submillimeter images of OB cluster-forming molecular clouds, which were taken by ground-based (CSO, JCMT, APEX, and IRAM-30 m) and space telescopes (Herschel and Planck). For the seven luminous (

L
⊙) Galactic OB cluster-forming molecular clouds selected for our analyses, namely W49A, W43-Main, W43-South, W33, G10.6-0.4, G10.2-0.3, and G10.3-0.1, we have performed single-component, modified blackbody fits to each pixel of the combined (sub)millimeter images, and the Herschel PACS and SPIRE images at shorter wavelengths. The ∼10″ resolution dust column density and temperature maps of these sources revealed dramatically different morphologies, indicating very different modes of OB cluster-formation, or parent molecular cloud structures in different evolutionary stages. The molecular clouds W49A, W33, and G10.6-0.4 show centrally concentrated massive molecular clumps that are connected with approximately radially orientated molecular gas filaments. The W43-Main and W43-South molecular cloud complexes, which are located at the intersection of the Galactic near 3 kpc (or Scutum) arm and the Galactic bar, show a widely scattered distribution of dense molecular clumps/cores over the observed ∼10 pc spatial scale. The relatively evolved sources G10.2-0.3 and G10.3-0.1 appear to be affected by stellar feedback, and show a complicated cloud morphology embedded with abundant dense molecular clumps/cores. We find that with the high angular resolution we achieved, our visual classification of cloud morphology can be linked to the systematically derived statistical quantities (i.e., the enclosed mass profile, the column density probability distribution function (N-PDF), the two-point correlation function of column density, and the probability distribution function of clump/core separations). In particular, the massive molecular gas clumps located at the center of G10.6-0.4 and W49A, which contribute to a considerable fraction of their overall cloud masses, may be special OB cluster-forming environments as a direct consequence of global cloud collapse. These centralized massive molecular gas clumps also uniquely occupy much higher column densities than what is determined by the overall fit of power-law N-PDF. We have made efforts to archive the derived statistical quantities of individual target sources, to permit comparisons with theoretical frameworks, numerical simulations, and other observations in the future.
SPECTRO-TIMING STUDY OF GX 339-4 IN A HARD INTERMEDIATE STATE
Authors: Fürst F. , Grinberg V. , Tomsick J. A. , Bachetti M. , Boggs S. E. , Brightman M. , Christensen F. E. , Craig W. W. , Gandhi P. , Grefenstette B. , Hailey C. J. , Harrison F. A. , Madsen K. K. , Parker M. L. , Pottschmidt K. , Stern D. , Walton D. J. , Wilms J. , Zhang W. W.
Published: August 2016

We present an analysis of Nuclear Spectroscopic Telescope Array observations of a hard intermediate state of the transient  black hole GX 339−4 taken in 2015 January. With  the source softening significantly over the course of the 1.3 day long observation we split the data into 21 sub-sets and find that the spectrum of all of them can be well described by a power-law continuum with an additional relativistically blurred reflection component. The photon index increases from ∼1.69 to ∼1.77 over the course of the observation. The accretion disk is truncated at around nine gravitational radii in all spectra. We also perform timing analysis on the same 21 individual data sets, and find a strong type-C quasi-periodic oscillation (QPO), which increases  in frequency from ∼0.68 to ∼1.05 Hz with time. The frequency change is well correlated with the softening of the spectrum. We discuss possible scenarios for the production of the QPO and calculate predicted inner radii in the relativistic precession model as well as the global disk mode oscillations model. We find discrepancies with respect to the observed values in both models unless we allow for a black hole mass of ∼100

, which is highly unlikely. We discuss possible systematic uncertainties, in particular with the measurement of the inner accretion disk radius in the relativistic reflection model. We conclude that the combination of observed QPO frequencies and inner accretion disk radii, as obtained from spectral fitting,  is difficult to reconcile with current models.
THE DIMENSIONLESS AGE OF THE UNIVERSE: A RIDDLE FOR OUR TIME
Authors: Avelino Arturo , Kirshner Robert P.
Published: August 2016

We present the interesting coincidence of cosmology and astrophysics that points toward a dimensionless age of the Universe H
0
t
0 that is close to one. Despite cosmic deceleration for 9 Gyr and acceleration since then, we find H
0
t
0 = 0.96 ± 0.01 for the ΛCDM model that fits SN Ia data from Pan-STARRS, CMB power spectra, and baryon acoustic oscillations. Similarly, astrophysical measures of stellar ages and the Hubble constant derived from redshifts and distances point to H
0
t ∼ 1.0 ± 0.1. The wide range of possible values for H
0
t
0 realized during cosmic evolution means that we live at what appears to be a special time. This “synchronicity problem” is not precisely the same as the usual coincidence problem, because there are combinations of ΩM and ΩΛ for which the usual coincidence problem holds but for which H
0
t
0 is not close to 1.
UNDERSTANDING SOLAR TORSIONAL OSCILLATIONS FROM GLOBAL DYNAMO MODELS
Authors: Guerrero G. , Smolarkiewicz P. K. , Pino E. M. de Gouveia Dal , Kosovichev A. G. , Mansour N. N.
Published: August 2016

The phenomenon of solar “torsional oscillations” (TO) represents migratory zonal flows associated with the solar cycle. These flows are observed on the solar surface and, according to helioseismology, extend through the convection zone. We study the origin of the TO using results from a global MHD simulation of the solar interior that reproduces several of the observed characteristics of the mean-flows and magnetic fields. Our results indicate that the magnetic tension (MT) in the tachocline region is a key factor for the periodic changes in the angular momentum transport that causes the TO. The torque induced by the MT at the base of the convection zone is positive at the poles and negative at the equator. A rising MT torque at higher latitudes causes the poles to speed up, whereas a declining negative MT torque at the lower latitudes causes the equator to slow-down. These changes in the zonal flows propagate through the convection zone up to the surface. Additionally, our results suggest that it is the magnetic field at the tachocline that modulates the amplitude of the surface meridional flow rather than the opposite as assumed by flux-transport dynamo models of the solar cycle.
CHAOS: Prenatal imaging findings with post mortem contrast radiographic correlation
Authors: Gupta Kanika , Venkatesan Bhuvaneswari , Manoharan Kiruba Shankar , Rajalakshmi Vaithianathan , Menon Maya
Published: August 2016

Congenital high airway obstruction syndrome is a rare fetal anomaly with characteristic constellation of prenatal findings on ultrasound and MRI. The typical triad of imaging features are enlarged and echogenic lungs, flattening or inversion of diaphragm and fetal hydrops. Early prenatal recognition of congenital high airway obstruction syndrome by ultrasound and/or MRI is mandatory for the appropriate perinatal management. We report a case of a male fetus with typical imaging findings of congenital high airway obstruction syndrome on ultrasound and MRI at 19 weeks of gestation. The role of contrast radiographs of fetal airways, including retrograde laryngogram, in confirming the postnatal diagnosis of this fetal condition is demonstrated. The prenatal imaging findings were correlated with contrast radiographs of upper airways, sonography of aborted fetus and fetal autopsy findings.
Design and Analysis of an UWB Printed Monopole Antenna with Hilbert Curve Fractal Shaped Slots for Multiple Band Rejection Functionality
Authors: Karmakar Anirban
Published: August 2016

In this chapter, a compact dual band notched Ultrawideband (UWB) antenna with fractal shaped Hilbert curve slots (HCS) is presented. The antenna covers the frequency band from 2.5 GHz to 12 GHz for VSWR=2 and also shows stable radiation patterns throughout the operating frequency band. By introducing Hilbert Curve fractal Slots (HCS) in the antenna, band notch characteristics have been achieved. The HCS renders the capability to reject 5.15-5.825 GHz band assigned for IEEE 802.11a and HYPERLAN/2 and also 7.9-8.4 GHz band assigned for X-Band uplink satellite communication systems where the gain is suppressed very well in the desired WLAN and X-Band. The antenna gain varies from 3dBi to 5dBi over the operating band. Novelty of this design lies in achieving miniature notch structure which has higher degree of freedom for adjusting notch parameters and unsusceptible to coupling with other notches. The antenna can be used for various mobile communication services such as DCS, IMT-2000, UMTS, DMB and UWB.
EM-Source Localization in Indoor Environments by Using an Artificial Neural Network Performance Assessment and Optimization
Authors: Caorsi Salvatore , Lenzi Claudio
Published: August 2016

The localization of EM sources has become an interesting object of study in the past several decades. An important aspect is to reduce the search time and the maintenance of acceptable receiving levels between transmitters and receivers. The strong signal attenuation introduced by the transmission through walls plays a determinant role, as well as a suitable probing technique able to furnish good resolution. This chapter introduces a new probing technique based on artificial neural networks (ANNs) to detect and localize an ultra-wide band (UWB) pulsed EM source placed behind a wall. The main purpose is to study the performance of this technique in order to obtain a good compromise between two principal goals: accuracy on the reconstruction of the source position as high as possible and a probe dimension as small as possible. The use of ANNs for the resolution of the inverse scattering problem provides several advantages, such as short computation times, low computational burden, and the opportunity to reformulate the problem by considering only a few unknowns of interest.
Review on 60GHz Low Noise Amplifier for Low Power and Linearity
Authors: Yellampalli Siva Sankar , S. B. Rashmi
Published: August 2016

In the extremely high frequency radio spectrum of 30-300 GHz, the band from 57-64 GHz has been de-regulated. The biggest challenge in designing products at this frequency is the design of CMOS based transceiver circuit components. This chapter deals with the review of 60 GHz LNA design. LNA was chosen as this is the first component of the receiver circuit and its performance affects the transceiver efficiency. In this chapter the review is done on 60GHz LNA's design addressing the linearization, and low power challenges. To address these challenges, in literature there are many LNA architectures such as simple cascode topology, Current reuse topology etc. The major advantage of current reuse topology is its load transistor shares the same bias current of driver which results in reduced power dissipation by maintaining the maximum gain. The main objective of this chapter is to address gain, power dissipation and linearization challenges by reviewing the different current reuse architectures and linearization techniques used to implement 60GHz LNA.
Advance and Innovation in Wireless Power Transmission Technology for Autonomous Systems
Authors: Sennouni Mohamed Adel , Abboud Benaissa , Tribak Abdelwahed , Bennis Hamid , Latrach Mohamed
Published: August 2016

This chapter focuses on the concept of transmitting power without using wires that is also known as Wireless Power Transmission (WPT). This chapter attempts to present the most important and relevant works in this field of research in order to develop a topical ‘overview', present the current results, and also share some contributions and ‘vision' for the future. The technological developments in Wireless Power Transmission is also presented and discussed. The advantages, disadvantages, biological impacts and the most potential applications of WPT are also presented. This chapter presents also new and efficient designs of a rectifying antenna (rectenna) involved to be used at low and high input power levels constraints at microwave frequencies of ISM band in particular at 2.45 GHz and 5.8 GHz. The rectennas have been developed were based on microstrip technology incorporating a new class of phased antenna arrays with circular polarization associated with a new RF-to-DC rectifiers.
Selective Memory to Apoptotic Cell–Derived Self-Antigens with Implications for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Development
Authors: Duhlin Amanda , Chen Yunying , Wermeling Fredrik , Sedimbi Saikiran K. , Lindh Emma , Shinde Rahul , Halaby Marie Jo , Kaiser Ylva , Winqvist Ola , McGaha Tracy L. , Karlsson Mikael C. I.
Published: August 2016

Autoimmune diseases are characterized by pathogenic immune responses to self-antigens. In systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), many self-antigens are found in apoptotic cells (ACs), and defects in removal of ACs from the body are linked to a risk for developing SLE. This includes pathological memory that gives rise to disease flares. In this study, we investigated how memory to AC-derived self-antigens develops and the contribution of self-memory to the development of lupus-related pathology. Multiple injections of ACs without adjuvant into wild-type mice induce a transient primary autoimmune response without apparent anti-nuclear Ab reactivity or kidney pathology. Interestingly, as the transient Ab response reached baseline, a single boost injection fully recalled the immune response to ACs, and this memory response was furthermore transferable into naive mice. Additionally, the memory response contains elements of pathogenicity, accompanied by selective memory to selective Ags. Thus, we provide evidence for a selective self-memory that underlies progression of the response to self-antigens with implications for SLE development therapy.
A Critical Role for P2X7 Receptor–Induced VCAM-1 Shedding and Neutrophil Infiltration during Acute Lung Injury
Authors: Mishra Amarjit , Guo Yujie , Zhang Li , More Sunil , Weng Tingting , Chintagari Narendranath Reddy , Huang Chaoqun , Liang Yurong , Pushparaj Samuel , Gou Deming , Breshears Melanie , Liu Lin
Published: August 2016

Pulmonary neutrophils are the initial inflammatory cells that are recruited during lung injury and are crucial for innate immunity. However, pathological recruitment of neutrophils results in lung injury. The objective of this study is to determine whether the novel neutrophil chemoattractant, soluble VCAM-1 (sVCAM-1), recruits pathological levels of neutrophils to injury sites and amplifies lung inflammation during acute lung injury. The mice with P2X7 receptor deficiency, or treated with a P2X7 receptor inhibitor or anti–VCAM-1 Abs, were subjected to a clinically relevant two-hit LPS and mechanical ventilation–induced acute lung injury. Neutrophil infiltration and lung inflammation were measured. Neutrophil chemotactic activities were determined by a chemotaxis assay. VCAM-1 shedding and signaling pathways were assessed in isolated lung epithelial cells. Ab neutralization of sVCAM-1 or deficiency or antagonism of P2X7R reduced neutrophil infiltration and proinflammatory cytokine levels. The ligands for sVCAM-1 were increased during acute lung injury. sVCAM-1 had neutrophil chemotactic activities and activated alveolar macrophages. VCAM-1 is released into the alveolar airspace from alveolar epithelial type I cells through P2X7 receptor–mediated activation of the metalloproteinase ADAM-17. In conclusion, sVCAM-1 is a novel chemoattractant for neutrophils and an activator for alveolar macrophages. Targeting sVCAM-1 provides a therapeutic intervention that could block pathological neutrophil recruitment, without interfering with the physiological recruitment of neutrophils, thus avoiding the impairment of host defenses.
Antifungal therapy in hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients
Authors: Busca Alessandro , Pagano Livio
Published: August 2016

Invasive fungal infections (IFI) represent a major hindrance to the success of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), contributing substantially to morbidity and infection-related  mortality.During the most recent years several reports indicate an overall increase of IFI among hematologic patients, in particular invasive aspergillosis, that may be explained, at least partially, by the fact that diagnoses only suspected in the past, are now more easily established due to the application of serum biomarkers and  early use of  CT scan. Along with new diagnostic options, comes the recent development of novel antifungal agents that expanded the spectrum of activity over traditional treatments contributing to the successful management of fungal diseases.When introduced in 1959, Amphotericin B deoxycholate (d-AmB) was a life-saving drug, and the clinical experience over 50 years has proven that this compound is effective although toxic. Given the superior safety profile, lipid formulations of AmB have now replaced d-AmB in many circumstances. Similarly, echinocandins have  been investigated as initial therapy for IA in several clinical trials including  HSCT recipients, although the results were moderately disappointing leading to a lower grade of recommendation in the majority of published guidelines. Azoles represent the backbone of therapy for treating immunocompromised patients with IFI, including voriconazole and the new comer isavuconazole; in addition, large studies support the use of mold-active azoles, namely voriconazole and posaconazole,  as antifungal prophylaxis in HSCT recipients.Aim of present review is to summarize the clinical application of antifungal agents most commonly employed in the treatment of IFI.
ANTIFUNGAL PROPHYLAXIS IN IMMUNOCOMPROMISED PATIENTS
Authors: Vazquez Lourdes
Published: August 2016

Invasive fungal infections (IFIs) represent significant complications in patients with hematological malignancies. Chemoprevention of IFIs may be important in this setting, but most antifungal drugs have demonstrated poor efﬁcacy, particularly in the prevention of invasive aspergillosis. Antifungal prophylaxis in hematological patients is currently regarded as the gold standard in situations with a high risk of infection, such as acute leukemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, and autologous or allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Over the years, various scientific societies have established a series of recommendations for antifungal prophylaxis based on prospective studies performed with different drugs. However, the prescription of each agent must be personalized, adapting its administration to the characteristics of individual patients and taking into account possible interactions with concomitant medication.
Protective Role of Sylimarin on Methotrexate induced Hepato-nephrotoxicity in Children with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Hagag Adel Abd Elhaleim
Published: August 2016

AbstractBackground:ALL is the most common childhood malignancy. ALL are treated with methotrexate (MTX) based chemotherapy protocols. MTX can cause unpredictable serious hepato-renal side effects. Sylimarin has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, membrane stabilizing effect,stimulate tissue regeneration and inhibit deposition of collagen fibers.This study aims to evaluate the protective effects of Sylimarin on MTX induced hepato-nephrotoxicity in children with ALL. Patients and Methods: 80 children with newly diagnosed ALL were included in the study. They were divided randomly into: Group I that included 40 children with ALL with their ages ranging from 4-13 years and mean age of 6.85± 2.89 years who received Sylimarin 420 mg/day in 3 divided doses for one week after each MTX dose and Group II that included 40 children with ALL with their ages ranging from 4-12 years and mean age value of 7.30±2.6 years who received placebo for one week after MTX therapy.For all patients liver functions including serum bilirubin, serum protein and its fractions albumin, globulin and albumin globulin ratio, alkaline phosphatase, ALT and AST, prothrombin time and activityand renal functions including blood urea and serum creatinine, serum cystatin C and urinary N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase were doneto assess hepatic and renal toxicity before and after chemotherapy. Results: There were significant differences in ALT, AST and alkaline phosphatase levels and Prothrombin time and activity between group I and II after chemotherapy, with higher level of ALT and AST (P value = 0.000), alkaline phosphatase (P value= 0.017), and lower Prothrombin activity (P value= 0.020) and prolonged prothrombin time (P value= 0.001) in group II compared with group I. There were no significant differences as regard total bilirubin (P. value=0.563), serum protein and albumin levels between group I and II. There were no significant differences between studied groups as regard kidney functions before chemotherapy while after chemotherapy, there was significant reduction in blood urea and serum creatinine, and cystatin C and urinary N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase in group I compared with group II.Conclusion: Sylimarin improved some hepatic and renal functions in children with ALL who received MTX therapy. Recommendations: Sylimarin could be recommended adjuvant hepatic and renal protective agent in patients with ALL who received MTX therapy.