bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of donor demographics on the platelet yield during plateletpheresis - experience of 1100 procedures at a tertiary-care hospital
Authors: Mangwana S
Published: April 2014

Background: Transfusion of plateletpheresis is effective for treating patients with platelet relatedinsufficiencies while limiting recipient’sexposure to platelets from multiple donors. A larger yield isobtained when donor has a greater number of initial platelets and separation done in a shorter time. Theaim of the study was to analyze the effect of various donors and procedure related parameters on the yieldof single donor platelet so that blood donors can be screened effectively in less time.Materials and Methods: One thousand and one hundred plateletpheresis procedures were performed ina tertiary-care super-specialty hospital onFenwal AMICUS machine using closed system kits. Statisticalanalysis was done to establish cause and effect relationship and to find the extent of relationship betweendifferent variables.Results: Height, weight,BMI, platelet count and total leucocyte count had significant correlation withplatelet yield, processing time and blood volume processed while haemoglobin especially in femalescorrelated significantlywith processing time(p<0.0001)and blood volume processed. Rh “negative”donors had shorter processing time than Rh “positive” donors while ABO group did not show anycorrelation with machine variables.Conclusion: Platelet yield correlated positively with pre-donation count, height, weight and BMI.Haemoglobin correlated with processing time and blood volume processed. Optimization of platelet yieldis an emerging issue to identify factors which may help in selecting donors to obtain higher platelet yieldsin shorter time and consequently better clinical outcome.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jpn.v4i7.10292 Journal of Pathology of Nepal (2014) Vol. 4, 525-529
Clinicopathological features of pilomatricoma cases: Analysis of 21 cases
Authors: Ghartimagar D , Ghosh A , Gautam K , Thapa S , Shrestha SR , Narasimhan R
Published: April 2014

Background: Pilomatricoma is a slow-growing, asymptomatic tumour originating from outer sheath cells of hair follicle. In this study, we describe the clinical presentation and histopathological features of pilomatricoma. Materials and Methods: This was a hospital based retrospective study carried out in all patients who were diagnosed as pilomatricoma over a period of January 2001 to December 2013. The study was done in department of pathology, Manipal Teaching Hospital, Nepal. Results: A total of 21 cases of pilomatricoma were reported with age range of 9-53 years (mean age 23.7) and male female ratio of 1:1.1. The most common site of occurrence was neck and preauricular region. The size of the tumour ranged from 0.3 to 4.7cm with a mean of 1.2cm. Multiple occurrences were seen in 3 patients and ossifying pilomarticoma was seen in 4 cases. Conclusion: Pilomatricoma is a benign skin neoplasm of hair follicle matrix cells. Calcification is a common finding while dystrophic ossification also can occur in the tumour. Histopathology gives the definite diagnosis as fine needle aspiration cytology and clinical impression may be misleading. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jpn.v4i7.10293 Journal of Pathology of Nepal (2014) Vol. 4, 530-533
Spectrum of ovarian tumors in a referral hospital in Nepal
Authors: Vaidya S , Sharma P , KC S , Vaidya SA
Published: April 2014

Background: Ovarian tumors are common forms of neoplasia in women. Among cancers of the female genital tract, it ranks only below carcinoma of the cervix and the endometrium, but is responsible for approximately 50% of the deaths. They arise from different cell lineages and hence constitute a wide variety of neoplastic entities with diverse morphological and clinical manifestations. Materials and Methods: A descriptive study of 363 cases of ovarian tumors was carried out during a three year period from January 2011 to December 2013. Results: Of the 363 ovarian tumors, 293 (80.72%) cases were benign, 57 (15.70%) were malignant and 13 (3.58%) were borderline. Germ cell tumour was the most common class of tumour and seen in 187 (51.52%) cases, followed by surface epithelial in 158 (43.53%) cases. The age distribution of the patients ranged from 10-82 years with a median age of 33 years. Benign tumors were more common than malignant ones in all age groups. Conclusion: Most of the ovarian tumors in this study were of germ cell origin. The incidence of malignant germ cell tumors was also significantly higher than in other studies. Mature cystic teratoma was the most common benign tumour while serous carcinoma was the most common malignancy. The incidence of malignant germ cell tumors was higher compared to other studies. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jpn.v4i7.10295 Journal of Pathology of Nepal (2014) Vol. 4, 539-543
Automated urinalysis: First experiences and comparison of automated urinalysis system and manual microscopy
Authors: Gautam K , Pyakurel D
Published: April 2014

Background: Urinary tract infection is a common condition which needs laboratory evaluation of urine to substantiate the clinical diagnosis and initiate treatment. The conventional urinalysis consists of using a test strip for chemical examination to identify the various urine sediments after which visual microscopy is done. We evaluate the analytical performance of automated microscopic technique (UF 500i) and compare results with those from manual microscopy. Materials and Methods: A total of 382 urine specimens were collected during a period of one month out of which 128 samples which had abnormal cell counts were analyzed for cells and particles by manual and automated microscopy by UF-500i flow cytometer. Results: The concordance of UF 500i and the manual microscopy which is considered to be the gold standard for urine microscopic examination was 90.6% for white blood cells, red blood cell, epithelial cells, cast and bacterial count. Conclusion: Automated urine sediment analyzer, UF 500i was considered reliable in the measurement of white blood cells, red blood cells, epithelial cells, cast and bacteria. Automation will surely reduce the work load, increase accuracy and reliability, and increase the throughput and turn-around time of the laboratory DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jpn.v4i7.10316 Journal of Pathology of Nepal (2014) Vol. 4, 576-579
The molecular pathology of thyroid neoplasms
Authors: Thapa JB
Published: April 2014

The Bethesda system of reporting thyroid cytology is being currently adopted worldwide. Rapid advances have been made in the understanding of the genetics of thyroid cancers. Common genetic mutations include RAS, BRAF, p53, B Catenin, and PAX8/PPARγ, genes. BRAF mutations tumours are often aggressive. BRAF mutations commonly affect papillary carcinomas in the BRAF MEK ERF intracellular pathway, whereas RAS mutations commonly affect follicular carcinoma in the PL3 kinase pathway. TK inhibitors, RAS, RET, non RET, PL3, HDAC, DNMT etc. inhibitors are also being considered for therapy against these tumours. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jpn.v4i7.10317 Journal of Pathology of Nepal (2014) Vol. 4, 580-583
Invasive lobular carcinoma co-existing with benign phylloides tumor
Authors: Shrestha S , Sigdel B , Pande K , Gurung B
Published: April 2014

Phylloides tumor constitutes less than 1% of all breast tumors and 2 - 3% of fibroepithelial breast tumors. Several histological parameters should be evaluated, including stromal cellularity, atypia, mitoses, stromal overgrowth, infiltrative borders, and presence or absence of necrosis. Here we report a case of a 60 years- old female who presented with left breast lump. Fine needle aspiration cytology was done which suggested epithelial hyperplasia with fibrocystic changes. Biopsy was performed which showed predominance of stromal hypercellularity with proliferation of spindle cells (no atypia, mitosis and stromal overgrowth were noticed). However, a focus showed proliferation of discohesive tumor cells arranged singly and in single file. A diagnosis of benign phylloides tumor with foci of invasive lobular carcinoma was made. The diagnosis was confirmed with IHC which showed intense 80%positivity for estrogen and progesterone receptor and spindle cells showing positivity for bcl-2. In situ lobular carcinoma component was not observed. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jpn.v4i7.10321   Journal of Pathology of Nepal (2014) Vol. 4, 597-599
Primary pure squamous cell carcinoma of breast in a young female - a rare occurrence
Authors: Raje P , Bhandari S , Gujrati R
Published: April 2014

Primary squamous cell carcinoma of breast is a rare disease. Incidence for primary SCC breast is 0.04-0.1 % of all malignancies of breast. A pure form of primary SCC breast is also described and its incidence is still less. Biologically it behaves differently and usually doesn’t metastasize to lymph nodes, though distant metastasis is more common. They occur usually in elderly women. Mean age of presentation is 54 years. We report the youngest patient so far - a 27 years old woman diagnosed initially as having fibrocystic disease and later as primary pure SCC breast. She did not have any other focus of malignancy in the body and is doing well 3-1/2 years post surgery and radiotherapy. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jpn.v4i7.10322 Journal of Pathology of Nepal (2014) Vol. 4, 600-602
Transbronchial needle aspiration cytology of endobronchial abnormalities: does it increase the positivity rates of bronchoscopy
Authors: Thapa B , Sapkota R , Shrestha KR , Sayami P , Sayami G
Published: April 2014

Background: Negative results in bronchoscopic sampling techniques increase costs and delay treatment. We analyzed if addition of transbronchial needle aspiration (TBNA) increases the diagnostic yield of bronchoscopy. Materials and Methods: Patients with endobronchial abnormalities in whom a full set of sampling techniques (lavage, TBNA, biopsy and brushing) were done and had a confirmed diagnosis of lung cancer by one or more methods were included. The positivity rates of each of the sampling techniques and their various combinations were studied. We compared the positivity rates of bronchoscopy with and without TBNA. We also studied if TBNA was more valuable in any specific type, histology or position of endobronchial abnormalities. Results: The overall positivity rate of TBNA was 56%. It was higher than lavage and brushing but lower than biopsy. The addition of TBNA to the routine combination of sampling tachniques (lavage, biopsy and brushing) increased diagnostic yield from 76% to 86.6%. Contrary to previous reports, the increase in diagnostic yields did not differ significantly between types (exophytic vs submucosal), side or location of the endobronchial lesions. TBNA was found to have a significantly better positivity rates in small cell carcinoma than in non-small cell carcinoma cases. Conclusion: TBNA is a safe sampling technique for endobronchial abnormalities during bronchoscopy. It increases the diagnostic yields of bronchoscopy and this increase seems to be uniform amongst different types, histologies and locations of endobronchial abnormalities. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jpn.v4i7.10324 Journal of Pathology of Nepal (2014) Vol. 4, 565-569
Salinity-Induced Changes of Multiparametric Fluorescence Indices of Tomato Leaves
Authors: Kautz Burkard , Hunsche Mauricio , Noga Georg
Published: April 2014

The aim of our study was to identify appropriate multiparametric fluorescence ratios to evaluate the response of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) genotypes to salinity. In this context, we hypothesized that the fluorescence indices BFRR_UV, FLAV, NBI and SFR provided by the multiparametric fluorescence technique reveal the impact of salinity on tomato leaves. For this purpose, the tomato genotypes H-2274, Harzfeuer and Rio Grande were grown in the greenhouse under standard or saline conditions. As reference measurements, we recorded the maximum photochemical efficiency of photosystem II (Fv/Fm) via pulse-amplitude-modulated (PAM) chlorophyll fluorescence (ChlF) and analyzed the concentrations of sodium (Na), potassium (K), magnesium (Mg), proline and chlorophyll (Chl). In general, “Harzfeuer” showed a more pronounced response to salinity, as revealed by the increase in Na and proline as well as the decrease in K concentration. Significant differences between the control and the salt treatment were also assessed with Fv/Fm. The ratios BFRR_UV, FLAV, SFR_G and NBI_G increased significantly in the salinity-exposed plants. These ratios, compared with Fv/Fm, also provide precise but more rapid information about the impact of salinity on tomato leaves. On this basis, we demonstrate that the multiparametric fluorescence indices provide a valuable, rapid and practical tool for the in situ monitoring of the physiological status of plants exposed to salinity.
Chemical Surface, Thermal and Electrical Characterization of Nafion Membranes Doped with IL-Cations
Authors: Del Valle Martínez de Yuso María , Arango-Díaz Ana , Bijani Shanti , Romero Virgina , Benavente Juana , Rodríguez-Castellón Enrique
Published: April 2014

Surface and bulk changes in a Nafion membrane as a result of IL-cation doping (1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate or BMIM+BF4 and phenyltrimethylammonium chloride or TMPA+Cl−) were studied by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), contact angle, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and impedance spectroscopy (IS) measurements performed with dry samples after 24 h in contact with the IL-cations BMIM+ and TMPA+. IL-cations were selected due to their similar molecular weight and molar volume but different shape, which could facilitate/obstruct the cation incorporation in the Nafion membrane structure by proton/cation exchange mechanism. The surface coverage of the Nafion membrane by the IL-cations was confirmed by XPS analysis and contact angle, while the results obtained by the other two techniques (DSC and IS) seem to indicate differences in thermal and electrical behaviour depending on the doping-cation, being less resistive the Nafion/BMIM+ membrane. For that reason, determination of the ion transport number was obtained for this membrane by measuring the membrane or concentration potential with the samples in contact with HCl solutions at different concentrations. The comparison of these results with those obtained for the original Nafion membrane provides information on the effect of IL-cation BMIM+ on the transport of H+ across wet Nafion/BMIM+ doped membranes.
Intra- and Interlayer Electron-Phonon Interactions in 12/12C and 12/13C BiLayer Graphene
Authors: Mafra Daniela , Araujo Paulo
Published: April 2014

This review focuses on intra- and interlayer (IL) electron-phonon interactions and phonon self-energy renormalizations in twisted and AB-stacked bilayer graphene (2LG) composed either only of 12C or a mixing of 12C and 13C isotopes. A simple way to imagine a 2LG is by placing one monolayer graphene (1LG) on top of another 1LG. The orientation of one of the layers with relation to the other may originate a twisted 2LG system (known as turbostratic) as well as a AB-stacked system, also known as Bernal stacking. By rotating the layers of a 2LG one can departure from a fully misoriented system to achieve the AB-stacked configuration and their IL interactions can be dramatically different being close to zero in a fully misoriented system and maximum in an AB-stacked system. Interlayer interactions are expected to slightly perturb the intralayer phonons and they also govern the low-energy electronic and vibrational properties, which are of primary importance to phenomena such as transport, infrared (IR) optics and telecommunication bands in the IR range. Therefore, a comprehensive discussion combining intra- and interlayer phenomena is necessary and addressed throughout the text.
Mercury Speciation at a Coastal Site in the Northern Gulf of Mexico: Results from the Grand Bay Intensive Studies in Summer 2010 and Spring 2011
Authors: Ren Xinrong , Luke Winston , Kelley Paul , Cohen Mark , Ngan Fong , Artz Richard , Walker Jake , Brooks Steve , Moore Christopher , Swartzendruber Phil , Bauer Dieter , Remeika James , Hynes Anthony , Dibb Jack , Rolison John , Krishnamurthy Nishanth , Landing William , Hecobian Arsineh , Shook Jeffery , Huey L.
Published: April 2014

During two intensive studies in summer 2010 and spring 2011, measurements of mercury species including gaseous elemental mercury (GEM), gaseous oxidized mercury (GOM), and particulate-bound mercury (PBM), trace chemical species including O3, SO2, CO, NO, NOY, and black carbon, and meteorological parameters were made at an Atmospheric Mercury Network (AMNet) site at the Grand Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve (NERR) in Moss Point, Mississippi. Surface measurements indicate that the mean mercury concentrations were 1.42 ± 0.12 ng∙m−3 for GEM, 5.4 ± 10.2 pg∙m−3 for GOM, and 3.1 ± 1.9 pg∙m−3 for PBM during the summer 2010 intensive and 1.53 ± 0.11 ng∙m−3 for GEM, 5.3 ± 10.2 pg∙m−3 for GOM, and 5.7 ± 6.2 pg∙m−3 for PBM during the spring 2011 intensive. Elevated daytime GOM levels (>20 pg∙m−3) were observed on a few days in each study and were usually associated with either elevated O3 (>50 ppbv), BrO, and solar radiation or elevated SO2 (>a few ppbv) but lower O3 (~20–40 ppbv). This behavior suggests two potential sources of GOM: photochemical oxidation of GEM and direct emissions of GOM from nearby local sources. Lack of correlation between GOM and Beryllium-7 (7Be) suggests little influence on surface GOM from downward mixing of GOM from the upper troposphere. These data were analyzed using the HYSPLIT back trajectory model and principal component analysis in order to develop source-receptor relationships for mercury species in this coastal environment. Trajectory frequency analysis shows that high GOM events were generally associated with high frequencies of the trajectories passing through the areas with high mercury emissions, while low GOM levels were largely associated the trajectories passing through relatively clean areas. Principal component analysis also reveals two main factors: direct emission and photochemical processes that were clustered with high GOM and PBM. This study indicates that the receptor site, which is located in a coastal environment of the Gulf of Mexico, experienced impacts from mercury sources that are both local and regional in nature.
Molecular Imaging and Therapy of Merkel Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Beylergil Volkan , Carrasquillo Jorge
Published: April 2014

Several molecular imaging modalities have been evaluated in the management of Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), a rare and aggressive tumor with a high tendency to metastasize. Continuous progress in the field of molecular imaging might improve management in these patients. The authors review the current modalities and their impact on MCC in this brief review article.
An Impermeant Ganetespib Analog Inhibits Extracellular Hsp90-Mediated Cancer Cell Migration that Involves Lysyl Oxidase 2-like Protein
Authors: McCready Jessica , Wong Daniel , Burlison Joseph , Ying Weiwen , Jay Daniel
Published: April 2014

Extracellular Hsp90 (eHsp90) activates a number of client proteins outside of cancer cells required for migration and invasion. Therefore, eHsp90 may serve as a novel target for anti-metastatic drugs as its inhibition using impermeant Hsp90 inhibitors would not affect the numerous vital intracellular Hsp90 functions in normal cells. While some eHsp90 clients are known, it is important to establish other proteins that act outside the cell to validate eHsp90 as a drug target to limit cancer spread. Using mass spectrometry we identified two precursor proteins Galectin 3 binding protein (G3BP) and Lysyl oxidase 2-like protein (LOXL2) that associate with eHsp90 in MDA-MB231 breast cancer cell conditioned media and confirmed that LOXL2 binds to eHsp90 in immunoprecipitates. We introduce a novel impermeant Hsp90 inhibitor STA-12-7191 derived from ganetespib and show that it is markedly less toxic to cells and can inhibit cancer cell migration in a dose dependent manner. We used STA-12-7191 to test if LOXL2 and G3BP are potential eHsp90 clients. We showed that while LOXL2 can increase wound healing and compensate for STA-12-7191-mediated inhibition of wound closure, addition of G3BP had no affect on this assay. These findings support of role for LOXL2 in eHsp90 stimulated cancer cell migration and provide preliminary evidence for the use of STA-12-7191 to inhibit eHsp90 to limit cancer invasion.
TRP Channels Involved in Spontaneous L-Glutamate Release Enhancement in the Adult Rat Spinal Substantia Gelatinosa
Authors: Kumamoto Eiichi , Fujita Tsugumi , Jiang Chang-Yu
Published: April 2014

The spinal substantia gelatinosa (SG) plays a pivotal role in modulating nociceptive transmission through dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons from the periphery. TRP channels such as TRPV1 and TRPA1 channels expressed in the SG are involved in the regulation of the nociceptive transmission. On the other hand, the TRP channels located in the peripheral terminals of the DRG neurons are activated by nociceptive stimuli given to the periphery and also by plant-derived chemicals, which generates a membrane depolarization. The chemicals also activate the TRP channels in the SG. In this review, we introduce how synaptic transmissions in the SG neurons are affected by various plant-derived chemicals and suggest that the peripheral and central TRP channels may differ in property from each other.
The Effect of Cr Content on the Oxidation Behavior of Ti-Cr-N Films
Authors: Krzanowski James , Foley Daniel
Published: April 2014

Ti1−xCrxN thin-film samples were sputter-deposited with lateral composition gradients x = 0.1–0.9 across each sample. In order to determine the effect of Cr content on oxidation, samples were air-oxidized at temperatures ranging from 650 to 950 °C. The extent and type of oxide formed was characterized using X-ray diffraction. Only minor oxidation was observed for the 650–750 °C temperature range. At 850 °C, films below x = 0.7 showed poor oxidation resistance, with the formation of TiO2 and Cr2O3 oxides, but little oxidation occurred above x = 0.7. At 950 °C, films above x = 0.7 again exhibited the best oxidation resistance. Chromium nitride films, which deposited as Cr2N, were found to begin oxidizing at 750 °C, indicating that the increased oxidation resistance of the higher-Cr Ti-Cr-N films can be attributed to the Ti-induced stabilization of the B1-structured phase. A compositionally-uniform film (x = 0.79) was also deposited and analyzed by XPS before and after oxidation. Oxidation resulted in primarily Cr2O3 at the surface, with some TiO2 also present, with the oxide richer in Cr than the starting film composition. These results suggested that at higher Cr compositions in the film, the oxidation mechanism was controlled by Cr diffusion to the surface.
Optimization of Biomass-Fuelled Combined Cooling, Heating and Power (CCHP) Systems Integrated with Subcritical or Transcritical Organic Rankine Cycles (ORCs)
Authors: Maraver Daniel , Quoilin Sylvain , Royo Javier
Published: April 2014

This work is focused on the thermodynamic optimization of Organic Rankine Cycles (ORCs), coupled with absorption or adsorption cooling units, for combined cooling heating and power (CCHP) generation from biomass combustion. Results were obtained by modelling with the main aim of providing optimization guidelines for the operating conditions of these types of systems, specifically the subcritical or transcritical ORC, when integrated in a CCHP system to supply typical heating and cooling demands in the tertiary sector. The thermodynamic approach was complemented, to avoid its possible limitations, by the technological constraints of the expander, the heat exchangers and the pump of the ORC. The working fluids considered are: n-pentane, n-heptane, octamethyltrisiloxane, toluene and dodecamethylcyclohexasiloxane. In addition, the energy and environmental performance of the different optimal CCHP plants was investigated. The optimal plant from the energy and environmental point of view is the one integrated by a toluene recuperative ORC, although it is limited to a development with a turbine type expander. Also, the trigeneration plant could be developed in an energy and environmental efficient way with an n-pentane recuperative ORC and a volumetric type expander.
The Optimal Price Ratio of Typical Energy Sources in Beijing Based on the Computable General Equilibrium Model
Authors: He Yongxiu , Liu Yangyang , Xia Tian , Du Min , Guo Hongzhen
Published: April 2014

In Beijing, China, the rational consumption of energy is affected by the insufficient linkage mechanism of the energy pricing system, the unreasonable price ratio and other issues. This paper combines the characteristics of Beijing’s energy market, putting forward the society-economy equilibrium indicator R maximization taking into consideration the mitigation cost to determine a reasonable price ratio range. Based on the computable general equilibrium (CGE) model, and dividing four kinds of energy sources into three groups, the impact of price fluctuations of electricity and natural gas on the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Consumer Price Index (CPI), energy consumption and CO2 and SO2 emissions can be simulated for various scenarios. On this basis, the integrated effects of electricity and natural gas price shocks on the Beijing economy and environment can be calculated. The results show that relative to the coal prices, the electricity and natural gas prices in Beijing are currently below reasonable levels; the solution to these unreasonable energy price ratios should begin by improving the energy pricing mechanism, through means such as the establishment of a sound dynamic adjustment mechanism between regulated prices and market prices. This provides a new idea for exploring the rationality of energy price ratios in imperfect competitive energy markets.
High Strength and High Modulus Electrospun Nanofibers
Authors: Yao Jian , Bastiaansen Cees , Peijs Ton
Published: April 2014

Electrospinning is a rapidly growing polymer processing technology as it provides a viable and simple method to create ultra-fine continuous fibers. This paper presents an in-depth review of the mechanical properties of electrospun fibers and particularly focuses on methodologies to generate high strength and high modulus nanofibers. As such, it aims to provide some guidance to future research activities in the area of high performance electrospun fibers.
Characterizing the Incentive Compatible and Pareto Optimal Efficiency Space for Two Players, k Items, Public Budget and Quasilinear Utilities
Authors: Lerner Anat , Gonen Rica
Published: April 2014

We characterize the efficiency space of deterministic, dominant-strategy incentive compatible, individually rational and Pareto-optimal combinatorial auctions in a model with two players and k nonidentical items. We examine a model with multidimensional types, private values and quasilinear preferences for the players with one relaxation: one of the players is subject to a publicly known budget constraint. We show that if it is publicly known that the valuation for the largest bundle is less than the budget for at least one of the players, then Vickrey-Clarke-Groves (VCG) uniquely fulfills the basic properties of being deterministic, dominant-strategy incentive compatible, individually rational and Pareto optimal. Our characterization of the efficient space for deterministic budget constrained combinatorial auctions is similar in spirit to that of Maskin 2000 for Bayesian single-item constrained efficiency auctions and comparable with Ausubel and Milgrom 2002 for non-constrained combinatorial auctions.
A Lightweight Web of Things Open Platform to Facilitate Context Data Management and Personalized Healthcare Services Creation
Authors: Corredor Iván , Metola Eduardo , Bernardos Ana , Tarrío Paula , Casar José
Published: April 2014

In the last few years, many health monitoring systems have been designed to fullfil the needs of a large range of scenarios. Although many of those systems provide good ad hoc solutions, most of them lack of mechanisms that allow them to be easily reused. This paper is focused on describing an open platform, the micro Web of Things Open Platform (µWoTOP), which has been conceived to improve the connectivity and reusability of context data to deliver different kinds of health, wellness and ambient home care services. µWoTOP is based on a resource-oriented architecture which may be embedded in mobile and resource constrained devices enabling access to biometric, ambient or activity sensors and actuator resources through uniform interfaces defined according to a RESTful fashion. Additionally, µWoTOP manages two communication modes which allow delivering user context information according to different methods, depending on the requirements of the consumer application. It also generates alert messages based on standards related to health care and risk management, such as the Common Alerting Protocol, in order to make its outputs compatible with existing systems.
Geo-Based Statistical Models for Vulnerability Prediction of Highway Network Segments
Authors: Pollak Keren , Peled Ammatzia , Hakkert Shalom
Published: April 2014

This study describes four statistical models—Poisson; Negative Binomial; Zero-Inflated Poisson; and Zero-Inflated Negative Binomial—which were devised in order to examine traffic accidents and estimate the best probability estimating model in terms of future risk assessment at interurban road sections. The study was conducted on four sets of fixed-length sections of the road network: 500, 750, 1000, and 1500 m. The contribution of transportation and spatial parameters as predictors of road accident rates was evaluated for all four data sets separately. In addition, the Empirical Bayes method was applied. This method uses historical accidents information, allowing regression to the mean phenomenon so as to improve model results. The study was performed using Geographic Information System (GIS) software. Other analyses, such as statistical analyses combined with spatial parameters, interactions, and examination of other geographical areas, were also performed. The results showed that the short road sections data sets of 500 and 750 m yielded the most stable models. This allows focused treatment on short sections of the road network as a way to save resources (enforcement; education and information; finance) and potentially gain maximum benefit at minimum investment. It was found that the significant parameters affecting accident rates are: curvature of the road section; the region and traffic volume. An interaction between the region and traffic volume was also found.
Characterisation of Indica Special Protein (ISP), a Marker Protein for the Differentiation of Oryza sativa Subspecies indica and japonica
Authors: Zhu Keming , Min Chao , Xia Hengchuan , Yang Yanhua , Wang Bin , Chen Keping
Published: April 2014

Based on both morphological and physiological traits, Asian cultivated rice (Oryza sativa L.) can be classified into two distinct subspecies, indica and japonica. To better understand the differences between the two subspecies, a proteomic approach was used to profile proteins present in the yellow seedling stage of 10 indica and 10 japonica rice varieties. We report the discovery of a new protein, Indica Special Protein (ISP), which was only detected in yellow seedlings of indica varieties, and was absent from japonica varieties. Hence, ISP may represent a key gene for the differentiation of indica and japonica subspecies.
A Novel Protein Is Lower Expressed in Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Guan Ruili , Xu Yongde , Lei Hongen , Gao Zhezhu , Xin Zhongcheng , Guo Yinglu
Published: April 2014

Engrailed-2 (EN2) has been identified as a candidate oncogene in breast cancer and prostate cancer. It is usually recognized as a mainly nuclear staining in the cells. However, recent studies showed a cytoplasmic staining occurred in prostate cancer, bladder cancer and clear cell renal cell carcinoma. The inconsistency makes us confused. To clarify the localization and expression of EN2 in renal cell carcinoma, anti-EN2 antibody (ab28731) and anti-EN2 antibody (MAB2600) were used for immunohistochemistry (IHC) respectively. Interestingly, we found that EN2 detected by ab28731 was mainly presented in cytoplasm while EN2 detected by MAB2600 was mainly presented in nucleus. To further investigate the different patterns observed above, lysates from full-length EN2 over expression in HEK293T cells were used to identify which antibody the EN2 molecule bound by western blot. Results showed ab28731 did not react with the lysates. For this reason, the novel specific protein detected by ab28731 was not the EN2 molecule and was named nonEN2. Then using the renal carcinoma tissue microarray and renal tissues, we found that the protein expression levels of nonEN2 in kidney tumor tissues was significantly lower than that in kidney normal tissues (p < 0.05), so was in renal cell lines. Taken together, nonEN2 is lower expressed and may play an important role in renal cell carcinoma.
Potential for Layered Double Hydroxides-Based, Innovative Drug Delivery Systems
Authors: Zhang Kai , Xu Zhi , Lu Ji , Tang Zhi , Zhao Hui , Good David , Wei Ming
Published: April 2014

Layered Double Hydroxides (LDHs)-based drug delivery systems have, for many years, shown great promises for the delivery of chemical therapeutics and bioactive molecules to mammalian cells in vitro and in vivo. This system offers high efficiency and drug loading density, as well as excellent protection of loaded molecules from undesired degradation. Toxicological studies have also found LDHs to be biocompatible compared with other widely used nanoparticles, such as iron oxide, silica, and single-walled carbon nanotubes. A plethora of bio-molecules have been reported to either attach to the surface of or intercalate into LDH materials through co-precipitation or anion-exchange reaction, including amino acid and peptides, ATPs, vitamins, and even polysaccharides. Recently, LDHs have been used for gene delivery of small molecular nucleic acids, such as antisense, oligonucleotides, PCR fragments, siRNA molecules or sheared genomic DNA. These nano-medicines have been applied to target cells or organs in gene therapeutic approaches. This review summarizes current progress of the development of LDHs nanoparticle drug carriers for nucleotides, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer drugs and recent LDH application in medical research. Ground breaking studies will be highlighted and an outlook of the possible future progress proposed. It is hoped that the layered inorganic material will open up new frontier of research, leading to new nano-drugs in clinical applications.
Antenna-Specific Glutathione S-Transferase in Male Silkmoth Bombyx mori
Authors: Tan Xiang , Hu Xiao-Ming , Zhong Xiao-Wu , Chen Quan-Mei , Xia Qing-You , Zhao Ping
Published: April 2014

Glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) are multifunctional enzymes that are widely distributed in different species. GSTs detoxify exogenous and endogenous substances by conjugation to reduced glutathione. We characterized BmGSTD4, an antenna-specific GST, in male silkmoths. The full-length mRNA of Bmgstd4 was cloned by RACE-PCR and contained an open reading frame of 738 bp encoding a 245 amino acid protein. The antenna specificity of BmGSTD4 was validated at the mRNA and protein levels and BmGSTD4 was shown to localize in the sensillum of male silkmoth antennae. Homology modeling and multi-sequence alignment suggested that BmGSTD4 was a typical GST belonging to the δ class and had a canonical GST fold with a conserved N-terminus, including a glutathione-binding site and a C-terminal domain harboring a hydrophobic substrate-binding site. Restricted expression of BmGSTD4 in silkmoth antennae combined with GST activity suggested that BmGSTD4 was involved in the detoxification of harmful chemicals.
Effect of Fiber Length on Carbon Nanotube-Induced Fibrogenesis
Authors: Manke Amruta , Luanpitpong Sudjit , Dong Chenbo , Wang Liying , He Xiaoqing , Battelli Lori , Derk Raymond , Stueckle Todd , Porter Dale , Sager Tina , Gou Honglei , Dinu Cerasela , Wu Nianqiang , Mercer Robert , Rojanasakul Yon
Published: April 2014

Given their extremely small size and light weight, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) can be readily inhaled by human lungs resulting in increased rates of pulmonary disorders, particularly fibrosis. Although the fibrogenic potential of CNTs is well established, there is a lack of consensus regarding the contribution of physicochemical attributes of CNTs on the underlying fibrotic outcome. We designed an experimentally validated in vitro fibroblast culture model aimed at investigating the effect of fiber length on single-walled CNT (SWCNT)-induced pulmonary fibrosis. The fibrogenic response to short and long SWCNTs was assessed via oxidative stress generation, collagen expression and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) production as potential fibrosis biomarkers. Long SWCNTs were significantly more potent than short SWCNTs in terms of reactive oxygen species (ROS) response, collagen production and TGF-β release. Furthermore, our finding on the length-dependent in vitro fibrogenic response was validated by the in vivo lung fibrosis outcome, thus supporting the predictive value of the in vitro model. Our results also demonstrated the key role of ROS in SWCNT-induced collagen expression and TGF-β activation, indicating the potential mechanisms of length-dependent SWCNT-induced fibrosis. Together, our study provides new evidence for the role of fiber length in SWCNT-induced lung fibrosis and offers a rapid cell-based assay for fibrogenicity testing of nanomaterials with the ability to predict pulmonary fibrogenic response in vivo.
The Minor Structural Difference between the Antioxidants Quercetin and 4'O-Methylquercetin Has a Major Impact on Their Selective Thiol Toxicity
Authors: Lemmens Kristien , Vrolijk Misha , Bouwman Freek , Van der Vijgh Wim , Bast Aalt , Haenen Guido
Published: April 2014

Antioxidants act as intermediates by picking up the high unselective reactivity of radicals and transferring it to other molecules. In this process the reactivity is reduced and becomes selective. This channeling of the reactivity can cause selective toxicity. The antioxidant quercetin is known to channel the reactivity towards thiol groups. The present study compares the thiol reactivity of quercetin with that of 4'O-methylquercetin (tamarixetin) towards creatine kinase (CK), a vital protein that contains a critical thiol moiety. Our results showed that oxidized quercetin and oxidized tamarixetin both adduct CK, which then loses its enzymatic function. Ascorbate, an important representative of the antioxidant network, is able to prevent adduction to and thus the inhibition of the enzyme by tamarixetin but not by quercetin. Apparently, tamarixetin is less thiol toxic than quercetin, because—rather than adduction to CK—tamarixetin quinone prefers to pass reactivity to the antioxidant network, i.e., to ascorbate. The findings exemplify that radical scavenging flavonoids pick up the reactivity of radicals and act as a pivot in directing the way the reactivity is channeled. A mere minor structural difference of only one methyl moiety between quercetin and tamarixetin appears to have a high impact on the selective, thiol toxicity.
Current Status in the Therapy of Liver Diseases
Authors: Uhl Philipp , Fricker Gert , Haberkorn Uwe , Mier Walter
Published: April 2014

Hepatic diseases, like viral hepatitis, autoimmune hepatitis, hereditary hemochromatosis, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and Wilson’s disease, play an important role in the development of liver cirrhosis and, hence, hepatocellular carcinoma. In this review, the current treatment options and the molecular mechanisms of action of the drugs are summarized. Unfortunately, the treatment options for most of these hepatic diseases are limited. Since hepatitis B (HBV) and C (HCV) infections are the most common causes of liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, they are the focus of the development of new drugs. The current treatment of choice for HBV/HCV infection is an interferon-based combination therapy with oral antiviral drugs, like nucleos(t)ide analogues, which is associated with improving the therapeutic success and also preventing the development of resistances. Currently, two new protease inhibitors for HCV treatment are expected (deleobuvir, faldaprevir) and together with the promising drug, daclatasvir (NS5A-inhibitor, currently in clinical trials), adequate therapy is to be expected in due course (circumventing the requirement of interferon with its side-effects), while in contrast, efficient HBV therapeutics are still lacking. In this respect, entry inhibitors, like Myrcludex B, the lead substance of the first entry inhibitor for HBV/HDV (hepatitis D) infection, provide immense potential. The pharmacokinetics and the mechanism of action of Myrcludex B are described in detail.
Correction: Al-Majid, A.M., et al., Tandem Aldol-Michael Reactions in Aqueous Diethylamine Medium: A Greener and Efficient Approach to Bis-Pyrimidine Derivatives. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2013, 14, 23762–23773.
Authors: Al-Majid Abdullah , Barakat Assem , AL-Najjar Hany , Mabkhot Yahia , Ghabbour Hazem , Fun Hoong-Kun
Published: April 2014

The authors wish to change Figure 2 in Section 2 of their paper published in IJMS [1]. [...]
Single- to Triple-Wall WS2 Nanotubes Obtained by High-Power Plasma Ablation of WS2 Multiwall Nanotubes
Authors: Brüser Volker , Popovitz-Biro Ronit , Albu-Yaron Ana , Lorenz Tommy , Seifert Gotthard , Tenne Reshef , Zak Alla
Published: April 2014

The synthesis of inorganic nanotubes (INT) from layered compounds of a small size (<10 nm in diameter) and number of layers (<4) is not a trivial task. Calculations based on density functional tight-binding theory (DFTB) predict that under highly exergonic conditions, the reaction could be driven into a “window” of (meta-) stability, where 1–3-layer nanotubes will be formed. Indeed, in this study, single- to triple-wall WS2 nanotubes with a diameter of 3–7 nm and a length of 20–100 nm were produced by high-power plasma irradiation of multiwall WS2 nanotubes. As target materials, plane crystals (2H), quasi spherical nanoparticles (IF) and multiwall, 20–30 layers, WS2 nanotubes were assessed. Surprisingly, only INT-WS2 treated by plasma resulted in very small, and of a few layers, “daughter” nanotubules. The daughter nanotubes occur mostly attached to the outer surface of the predecessor, i.e., the multiwall “mother” nanotubes. They appear having either a common growth axis with the multiwall nanotube or tilted by approximately 30° or 60° with respect to its axis. This suggests that the daughter nanotubes are generated by exfoliation along specific crystallographic directions. A growth mechanism for the daughter nanotubes is proposed. High resolution transmission and scanning electron microscopy (HRTEM/HRSEM) analyses revealed the distinctive nanoscale structures and helped elucidating their growth mechanism.
A Universal Parameter to Predict Subaerial Landslide Tsunamis?
Authors: Heller Valentin , Hager Willi
Published: April 2014

The significance of the impulse product parameter P is reviewed, which is believed to be the most universal parameter for subaerial landslide tsunami (impulse wave) prediction. This semi-empirical parameter is based on the streamwise slide momentum flux component and it was refined with a multiple regression laboratory data analysis. Empirical equations based on P allow for a simple prediction of wave features under diverse conditions (landslides and ice masses, granular and block slides, etc.). Analytical evidence reveals that a mass sliding down a hill slope of angle 51.6° results in the highest waves. The wave height “observed” in the 1958 Lituya Bay case was well predicted using P. Other real-world case studies illustrate how efficient empirical equations based on P deliver wave estimates which support hazard assessment. Future applications are hoped to further confirm the applicability of P to cases with more complex water body geometries and bathymetries.
A Critical Analysis of the Conventionally Employed Creep Lifing Methods
Authors: Abdallah Zakaria , Gray Veronica , Whittaker Mark , Perkins Karen
Published: April 2014

The deformation of structural alloys presents problems for power plants and aerospace applications due to the demand for elevated temperatures for higher efficiencies and reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. The materials used in such applications experience harsh environments which may lead to deformation and failure of critical components. To avoid such catastrophic failures and also increase efficiency, future designs must utilise novel/improved alloy systems with enhanced temperature capability. In recognising this issue, a detailed understanding of creep is essential for the success of these designs by ensuring components do not experience excessive deformation which may ultimately lead to failure. To achieve this, a variety of parametric methods have been developed to quantify creep and creep fracture in high temperature applications. This study reviews a number of well-known traditionally employed creep lifing methods with some more recent approaches also included. The first section of this paper focuses on predicting the long-term creep rupture properties which is an area of interest for the power generation sector. The second section looks at pre-defined strains and the re-production of full creep curves based on available data which is pertinent to the aerospace industry where components are replaced before failure.
Smart Polymer/Carbon Nanotube Nanocomposites and Their Electrorheological Response
Authors: Zhang Ke , Choi Hyoung
Published: April 2014

This review article summarizes the preparation of polymer/carbon nanotube (CNT) nanocomposites and their applications as electrorheological (ER) fluids. These ER fluids exhibited a controllable electro-response under an applied electric field due to the presence of well-dispersed CNTs. The background, morphology, preparations, and characteristics of these materials are discussed, specifically focusing on the various approaches in the preparation of polymer/CNT nanocomposites, morphology, and their effects on the ER characteristics.
Modeling the Formation of Transverse Weld during Billet-on-Billet Extrusion
Authors: Mahmoodkhani Yahya , Wells Mary , Parson Nick , Jowett Chris , Poole Warren
Published: April 2014

A comprehensive mathematical model of the hot extrusion process for aluminum alloys has been developed and validated. The plasticity module was developed using a commercial finite element package, DEFORM-2D, a transient Lagrangian model which couples the thermal and deformation phenomena. Validation of the model against industrial data indicated that it gave excellent predictions of the pressure during extrusion. The finite element predictions of the velocity fields were post-processed to calculate the thickness of the surface cladding as one billet is fed in after another through the die (i.e., the transverse weld). The mathematical model was then used to assess the effect a change in feeder dimensions would have on the shape, thickness and extent of the transverse weld during extrusion. Experimental measurements for different combinations of billet materials show that the model is able to accurately predict the transverse weld shape as well as the clad surface layer to thicknesses of 50 µm. The transverse weld is significantly affected by the feeder geometry shape, but the effects of ram speed, billet material and temperature on the transverse weld dimensions are negligible.