bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-term Listeria monocytogenes proliferation control in milk by intermittently delivered pulsed electric fields, implications for food security in the low-income countries
Authors: Golberg Alexander
Published: March 2015

Microbial density control is a major challenge for food preservation especially in the low-income countries, where 850 million undernourished people live. In this work, we report on non-thermal, chemical-free microbial cell density control by intermittently delivered pulsed electric fields (IDPEF). We show that IDPEF allows for precise control of L. monocytogenes density in contaminated milk, an essential product for small farmers in low-income countries. Using L. monocytogenes growth kinetics, we designed an IDPEF protocol that consists of 2 sequences of 10 square wave pulses, 50 μ s duration, 12.5 kV cm-1 electric field strength, delivered at 0.5 Hz and 1 min pause between the sequences applied every 1.5 hours. In a 12 hours experiment at 32 °C, L. monocytogenes density of untreated samples reached (9.1 ± 0.6) ⋅ 107 CFU ml-1 and (7.1 ± 0.3) ⋅ 108 CFU ml-1 for initial load of (1.4 ± 0.2) ⋅ 103 CFU ml-1 and (3.1 ± 0.3) ⋅ 106 CFU ml-1 respectively; the final density in the IDPEF treated samples, however, was 120 ± 44 CFU ml-1 and (1.1 ± 0.3) ⋅ 105 CFU ml-1. The energy required for IDPEF storage of milk in the low-income countries could be generated by a small-scale 2kW solar energy system operating 5.5 hours per day in combination with small-scale energy storage system. We believe that IDPEF storage technology can empower millions of small farmers in the low-income countries by providing them a simple and energy efficient technology for milk preservation.
Human Nav1.8: enhanced persistent and ramp currents contribute to distinct firing properties of human DRG neurons
Authors: Han Chongyang , Estacion Mark , Huang Jianying , Vasylyev Dymtro , Zhao Peng , Dib-Hajj Sulayman D. , Waxman Stephen G.
Published: March 2015

Although species-specific differences in ion channel properties are well-documented, little has been known about the properties of the human Nav1.8 channel, an important contributor to pain signaling. Here we show, using techniques that include voltage clamp, current clamp, and dynamic clamp in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons, that human Nav1.8 channels display slower inactivation kinetics and produce larger persistent current and ramp current than previously reported in other species. DRG neurons expressing human Nav1.8 channels unexpectedly produce significantly longer-lasting action potentials, including action potentials with half-widths in some cells >10 ms, and increased firing frequency compared with the narrower and usually single action potentials generated by DRG neurons expressing rat Nav1.8 channels. We also show that native human DRG neurons recapitulate these properties of Nav1.8 current and the long-lasting action potentials. Together, our results demonstrate strikingly distinct properties of human Nav1.8, which contribute to the firing properties of human DRG neurons.
TRPV1 expression level in isolectin B4-positive neurons contributes to mouse strain difference in cutaneous thermal nociceptive sensitivity
Authors: Ono Kentaro , Ye Yi , Viet Chi T. , Dang Dongmin , Schmidt Brian L.
Published: March 2015

Differential thermal nociception across inbred mouse strains has genetic determinants. Thermal nociception is largely attributed to the heat/capsaicin receptor transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1); however, the contribution of this channel to the genetics of thermal nociception has not been revealed. In this study we compared TRPV1 expression levels and electrophysiological properties in primary sensory neurons and thermal nociceptive behaviors between two (C57BL/6 and BALB/c) inbred mouse strains. Using immunofluorescence and patch-clamp physiology methods, we demonstrated that TRPV1 expression was significantly higher in isolectin B4 (IB4)-positive trigeminal sensory neurons of C57BL/6 relative to BALB/c; the expression in IB4-negative neurons was similar between the strains. Furthermore, using electrophysiological cell classification (current signature method), we showed differences between the two strains in capsaicin sensitivity in IB4-positive neuronal cell types 2 and 13, which were previously reported as skin nociceptors. Otherwise electrophysiological membrane properties of the classified cell types were similar in the two mouse strains. In publicly available nocifensive behavior data and our own behavior data from the using the two mouse strains, C57BL/6 exhibited higher sensitivity to heat stimulation than BALB/c, independent of sex and anatomical location of thermal testing (the tail, hind paw, and whisker pad). The TRPV1-selective antagonist JNJ-17203212 inhibited thermal nociception in both strains; however, removing IB4-positive trigeminal sensory neurons with IB4-conjugated saporin inhibited thermal nociception on the whisker pad in C57BL/6 but not in BALB/c. These results suggest that TRPV1 expression levels in IB4-positive type 2 and 13 neurons contributed to differential thermal nociception in skin of C57BL/6 compared with BALB/c.
Recent Development of Rehabilitation Robots
Authors: Qian Zhiqin , Bi Zhuming
Published: March 2015

We have conducted a critical review on the development of rehabilitation robots to identify the limitations of existing studies and clarify some promising research directions in this field. This paper is presented to summarize our findings and understanding. The demands for assistive technologies for elderly and disabled population have been discussed, the advantages and disadvantages of rehabilitation robots as assistive technologies have been explored, the issues involved in the development of rehabilitation robots are investigated, some representative robots in this field by leading research institutes have been introduced, and a few of critical challenges in developing advanced rehabilitation robots have been identified. Finally to meet the challenges of developing practical rehabilitation robots, reconfigurable and modular systems have been proposed to meet the identified challenges, and a few of critical areas leading to the potential success of rehabilitation robots have been discussed.
Artificial Neural Network Model for Monitoring Oil Film Regime in Spur Gear Based on Acoustic Emission Data
Authors: Ali Yasir Hassan , Abd Rahman Roslan , Hamzah Raja Ishak Raja
Published: March 2015

The thickness of an oil film lubricant can contribute to less gear tooth wear and surface failure. The purpose of this research is to use artificial neural network (ANN) computational modelling to correlate spur gear data from acoustic emissions, lubricant temperature, and specific film thickness (λ). The approach is using an algorithm to monitor the oil film thickness and to detect which lubrication regime the gearbox is running either hydrodynamic, elastohydrodynamic, or boundary. This monitoring can aid identification of fault development. Feed-forward and recurrent Elman neural network algorithms were used to develop ANN models, which are subjected to training, testing, and validation process. The Levenberg-Marquardt back-propagation algorithm was applied to reduce errors. Log-sigmoid and Purelin were identified as suitable transfer functions for hidden and output nodes. The methods used in this paper shows accurate predictions from ANN and the feed-forward network performance is superior to the Elman neural network.
Parkinsonism in Spinocerebellar Ataxia
Authors: Park Hyeyoung , Kim Han-Joon , Jeon Beom S.
Published: March 2015

Spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA) presents heterogeneous clinical phenotypes, and parkinsonism is reported in diverse SCA subtypes. Both levodopa responsive Parkinson disease (PD) like phenotype and atypical parkinsonism have been described especially in SCA2, SCA3, and SCA17 with geographic differences in prevalence. SCA2 is the most frequently reported subtype of SCA related to parkinsonism worldwide. Parkinsonism in SCA2 has unique genetic characteristics, such as low number of expansions and interrupted structures, which may explain the sporadic cases with low penetrance. Parkinsonism in SCA17 is more remarkable in Asian populations especially in Korea. In addition, an unclear cutoff of the pathologic range is the key issue in SCA17 related parkinsonism. SCA3 is more common in western cohorts. SCA6 and SCA8 have also been reported with a PD-like phenotype. Herein, we reviewed the epidemiologic, clinical, genetic, and pathologic features of parkinsonism in SCAs.
Couldα-Synuclein Amyloid-Like Aggregates Trigger a Prionic Neuronal Invasion?
Authors: Busquets Maria Antònia , Espargaró Alba , Estelrich Joan , Sabate Raimon
Published: March 2015

Parkinson’s disease (PD), a progressive neurodegenerative disease primarily affecting voluntary and controlled movement, is characterized by abnormal accumulations ofα-synuclein (α-syn) in intraneuronal Lewy bodies. In the last years, the increased number of evidences from both thein vitroandin vivostudies has shown the ability ofα-syn to misfold in amyloid conformations and to spread via neuron-to-neuron transmission, suggesting a prion-like behaviour. However, in contrast to prion protein (PrP),α-syn transmission is far from neuronal invasion. The high neuronal toxicity of both mature fibres and oligomeric species, as well as the intracellular localization of the protein and the difficulty to be secreted, could be key factors impeding the prion ability ofα-syn aggregates.
Zinc Acetate Immobilized on Mesoporous Materials by Acetate Ionic Liquids as Catalysts for Vinyl Acetate Synthesis
Authors: Xu Hang , Yu Tianlong , Li Mei
Published: March 2015

Ionic liquid containing active ingredient Zn(CH3COO)2was loaded in mesoporous silica gel to form supported ionic liquids catalyst (SILC) which was used to synthesize vinyl acetate monomer (VAM). SILC was characterized by1HNMR, FT-IR, TGA, BET, and N2adsorption/desorption and the acetylene method was used to evaluate SILC catalytic activity and stability in fixed reactor. The result shows that 1-allyl-3-acetic ether imidazole acetate ionic liquid is successfully fixed within mesoporous channel of silica gel. The average thickness of ionic liquid catalyst layer is about 1.05 nm. When the catalytic temperature is 195°C, the acetic acid (HAc) conversion is 10.9% with 1.1 g vinyl acetate yield and 98% vinyl acetate (VAc) selectivity. The HAc conversion is increased by rise of catalytic temperature and molar ratio of C2H2 : HAc and decreased by mass space velocity (WHSV). The catalyst activity is not significantly reduced within 7 days and VAc selectivity has a slight decrease.
Core Microstructure and Strain State Analysis in MgB2Wires with Different Metal Sheaths
Authors: Sobrero C. E. , Malachevsky M. T. , Serquis A.
Published: March 2015

We present a detailed analysis of the effect of the sheath materials on the microstructure and superconducting properties of MgB2wires produced by the powder-in-tube method (PIT). We reduced commercial MgB2powder by attrition milling in nitrogen atmosphere using tungsten carbide balls and obtained powders with grain sizes lower than 150 nm and different strain states through this process. Several Ti, stainless steel, and copper monofilamentary wires were prepared using these powders by the PIT method. We investigated different thermal treatments and mechanical paths during the processing of the wires for the enhancement of the critical currents. The superconducting properties were determined by magnetization measurements in a SQUID magnetometer. The correlation between the thermal treatments, structure, and superconducting properties is discussed.
Effect of Celastrol on Growth Inhibition of Prostate Cancer Cells through the Regulation of hERG ChannelIn Vitro
Authors: Ji Nan , Li Jinjun , Wei Zexiong , Kong Fanhu , Jin Hongyan , Chen Xiaoya , Li Yan , Deng Youping
Published: March 2015

Objective.To explore the antiprostate cancer effects of Celastrol on prostate cancer cells’ proliferation, apoptosis, and cell cycle distribution, as well as the correlation to the regulation of hERG.Methods.DU145 cells were treated with various concentrations of Celastrol (0.25–16.0 μmol/L) for 0–72 hours. MTT assay was used to evaluate the inhibition effect of Celastrol on the growth of DU145 cells. Cell apoptosis was detected through both Annexin-V FITC/PI double-labeled cytometry and Hoechst 33258. Cell cycle regulation was examined by a propidium iodide method. Western blot and RT-PCR technologies were applied to assess the expression level of hERG in DU145 cells.Results.Celastrol presented striking growth inhibition and apoptosis induction potency on DU145 cellsin vitroin a time- and dose-dependent manner. The IC50value of Celastrol for 24 hours was 2.349 ± 0.213 μmol/L. Moreover, Celastrol induced DU145 cell apoptosis in a cell cycle-dependent manner, which means Celastrol could arrest DU145 cells in G0/G1phase; accordingly, cells in S phase decreased gradually and no obvious changes were found in G2/M phase cells. Through transmission electron microscope, apoptotic bodies containing nuclear fragments were found in Celastrol-treated DU145 cells. Overexpression of hERG channel was found in DU145 cells, while Celastrol could downregulate it at both protein and mRNA level in a dose-dependent manner (P<0.01).Conclusions.Celastrol exhibits its antiprostate cancer effects partially through the downregulation of the expression level of hERG channel in DU145 cells, suggesting that Celastrol may be a potential agent against prostate cancer with a mechanism of blocking the hERG channel.
Rainfall Variability, Drought Characterization, and Efficacy of Rainfall Data Reconstruction: Case of Eastern Kenya
Authors: Kisaka M. Oscar , Mucheru-Muna M. , Ngetich F. K. , Mugwe J. N. , Mugendi D. , Mairura F.
Published: March 2015

This study examined the extent of seasonal rainfall variability, drought occurrence, and the efficacy of interpolation techniques in eastern Kenya. Analyses of rainfall variability utilized rainfall anomaly index, coefficients of variance, and probability analyses. Spline, Kriging, and inverse distance weighting interpolation techniques were assessed using daily rainfall data and digital elevation model using ArcGIS. Validation of these interpolation methods was evaluated by comparing the modelled/generated rainfall values and the observed daily rainfall data using root mean square errors and mean absolute errors statistics. Results showed 90% chance of below cropping threshold rainfall (500 mm) exceeding 258.1 mm during short rains in Embu for one year return period. Rainfall variability was found to be high in seasonal amounts (CV = 0.56, 0.47, and 0.59) and in number of rainy days (CV = 0.88, 0.49, and 0.53) in Machang’a, Kiritiri, and Kindaruma, respectively. Monthly rainfall variability was found to be equally high during April and November (CV = 0.48, 0.49, and 0.76) with high probabilities (0.67) of droughts exceeding 15 days in Machang’a and Kindaruma. Dry-spell probabilities within growing months were high, (91%, 93%, 81%, and 60%) in Kiambere, Kindaruma, Machang’a, and Embu, respectively. Kriging interpolation method emerged as the most appropriate geostatistical interpolation technique suitable for spatial rainfall maps generation for the study region.
The Construction of Common and Specific Significance Subnetworks of Alzheimer’s Disease from Multiple Brain Regions
Authors: Kong Wei , Mou Xiaoyang , Zhang Na , Zeng Weiming , Li Shasha , Yang Yang
Published: March 2015

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressively and fatally neurodegenerative disorder and leads to irreversibly cognitive and memorial damage in different brain regions. The identification and analysis of the dysregulated pathways and subnetworks among affected brain regions will provide deep insights for the pathogenetic mechanism of AD. In this paper, commonly and specifically significant subnetworks were identified from six AD brain regions. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) data were integrated to add molecular biological information to construct the functional modules of six AD brain regions by Heinz algorithm. Then, the simulated annealing algorithm based on edge weight is applied to predicting and optimizing the maximal scoring networks for common and specific genes, respectively, which can remove the weak interactions and add the prediction of strong interactions to increase the accuracy of the networks. The identified common subnetworks showed that inflammation of the brain nerves is one of the critical factors of AD and calcium imbalance may be a link among several causative factors in AD pathogenesis. In addition, the extracted specific subnetworks for each brain region revealed many biologically functional mechanisms to understand AD pathogenesis.
Biodiversity and Indigenous Uses of Medicinal Plant in the Chandra Prabha Wildlife Sanctuary, Chandauli District, Uttar Pradesh
Authors: Santosh Kumar Maurya , Ankit Seth , Gautam Dev Nath Singh , Anil Kumar Singh
Published: March 2015

Conventional medicines are very important part of Indian culture. In this study the outcome of two-year study of ethnomedicinal uses of plants in Chandra Prabha Wildlife Sanctuary (CPWLS) and nearby area is reported. Information related to different plants which are used by local community in the treatment of many common diseases and well-being in the area was collected. Data on the use of medicinal plants were collected using structured interview of about 122 participants and thorough observations and conversations with local communities. Approximately 100 plants belonging to 43 families used by the local healers were reported in this study. The plant species with the highest fidelity level (Fl) were Holarrhena antidysenterica, Lawsonia inermis, Gymnema sylvestre, Dalbergia sissoo, Cassia fistula Linn., Butea monosperma (Lam.) Kuntze., Boerhaavia diffusa Linn., Albizia lebbeck Benth., Aegle marmelos Correa., Sphaeranthus indicus Linn., and Solanum surattense Burm. f. The most frequent ailments reported were hepatitis, jaundice, constipation, and skin and urinary problems. The parts of the plants most frequently used were fruit, roots, and whole plants (17%) followed by leaves (16%) and bark (15%). This study presents new research efforts and perspectives on the search for new drugs based on local uses of medicinal plants.
Biomarkers of Lung Injury in Cardiothoracic Surgery
Authors: Engels Gerwin Erik , van Oeveren Willem
Published: March 2015

Diagnosis of pulmonary dysfunction is currently almost entirely based on a vast series of physiological changes, but comprehensive research is focused on determining biomarkers for early diagnosis of pulmonary dysfunction. Here we discuss the use of biomarkers of lung injury in cardiothoracic surgery and their ability to detect subtle pulmonary dysfunction in the perioperative period. Degranulation products of neutrophils are often used as biomarker since they have detrimental effects on the pulmonary tissue by themselves. However, these substances are not lung specific. Lung epithelium specific proteins offer more specificity and slowly find their way into clinical studies.
Morphological Effect of CNT/TiO2Nanocomposite Photoelectrodes Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell on Photovoltaic Performance with Various Annealing Temperatures
Authors: Razali Mohd Zikri , Abdullah Huda , Asaahari Izamarlina
Published: March 2015

This research focused on the fabrication of dye-sensitized solar cell based on a photoanode of carbon nanotube/titanium dioxide (CNT/TiO2) nanocomposite photoanode synthesized through acid-catalyzed sol-gel method. The results show the improvement of the chemical and electrical properties of the solar cells annealed at different temperatures. The CNT/TiO2colloidal solution was synthesized using titanium tetraisopropoxide and CNT/2-propanol solution. The thin films were doctor-bladed on a fluorine tin oxide glass before being annealed at 550, 650, and 750°C. The field emission scanning electron microscopy morphological images show that the thin films were homogenously distributed and maintained their spherical structures. The X-ray diffraction patterns show that the films consisted of anatase and rutile phases with large crystallite sizes due to temperature increment. The atomic force microscopy analysis presents the thin film roughness in terms of root mean square roughness. The photovoltaic performance was analyzed usingIVcurve and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The thin films annealed at 750°C had the highest energy conversion efficiency at 5.23%. The EIS analysis estimated the values of the effective electron lifetime (τeff), effective electron diffusion coefficient, effective electron diffusion (Ln), and effective recombination rate constant (keff). A largeτeff, smallkeff, and longerLncan improve photovoltaic performance efficiency.
Numerical Study on 4‐1 Coal Seam of Xiaoming Mine in Ascending Mining
Authors: Tianwei Lan , Hongwei Zhang , Sheng Li , Jun Han , Weihua Song , Batugin A. C. , Guoshui Tang
Published: March 2015

Coal seams ascending mining technology is very significant, since it influences the safety production and the liberation of dull coal, speeds up the construction of energy, improves the stability of stope, and reduces or avoids deep hard rock mining induced mine disaster. Combined with the Xiaoming ascending mining mine 4‐1, by numerical calculation, the paper analyses ascending mining 4‐1 factors, determines the feasibility of ascending mining 4‐1 coalbed, and proposes roadway layout program about working face, which has broad economic and social benefits.
Modelling the Longevity of Dental Restorations by means of a CBR System
Authors: Aliaga Ignacio J. , Vera Vicente , De Paz Juan F. , García Alvaro E. , Mohamad Mohd Saberi
Published: March 2015

The lifespan of dental restorations is limited. Longevity depends on the material used and the different characteristics of the dental piece. However, it is not always the case that the best and longest lasting material is used since patients may prefer different treatments according to how noticeable the material is. Over the last 100 years, the most commonly used material has been silver amalgam, which, while very durable, is somewhat aesthetically displeasing. Our study is based on the collection of data from the charts, notes, and radiographic information of restorative treatments performed by Dr. Vera in 1993, the analysis of the information by computer artificial intelligence to determine the most appropriate restoration, and the monitoring of the evolution of the dental restoration. The data will be treated confidentially according to the Organic Law 15/1999 on 13 December on the Protection of Personal Data. This paper also presents a clustering technique capable of identifying the most significant cases with which to instantiate the case-base. In order to classify the cases, a mixture of experts is used which incorporates a Bayesian network and a multilayer perceptron; the combination of both classifiers is performed with a neural network.
Kaposi’s Sarcoma Presenting as Acute Small Bowel Obstruction Diagnosed on Multidetector Computed Tomography with Histopathological Correlation
Authors: Halankar Jaydeep , Martinovic Elaine , Hamilton Paul
Published: March 2015

Kaposi’s sarcoma was originally described by Moritz Kaposi in 1872 as a rare form of multiple hemorrhagic skin lesions. Today it is well documented as a systemic, multifocal, steadily progressive reticuloendothelial system tumor with a predilection for skin and visceral involvement. It occasionally presents as a visceral disease without skin manifestations. We report a case of Kaposi’s sarcoma of the small bowel in a seropositive patient who presented with acute right lower quadrant pain and was diagnosed with intestinal obstruction with perforation on contrast-enhanced multidetector computed tomography (MDCT). The diagnosis was confirmed as Kaposi’s sarcoma on postoperative histopathological analysis.
Benign Multicystic Peritoneal Mesothelioma: A Rare Tumour of the Abdomen
Authors: Somasundaram Soundappan , Khajanchi Monty , Vaja Tejas , Jajoo Bhushan , Dey Amit Kumar
Published: March 2015

Benign multicystic peritoneal mesothelioma: a rare tumor of the abdomen, is a diagnostic dilemma. This report emphasizes the importance of diagnostic laparoscopy in the diagnosis of the tumour.
Lipoid Proteinosis: A Rare Encounter in Dental Office
Authors: Deshpande Prasannasrinivas , Guledgud Mahima Veeranna , Patil Karthikeya , Hegde Usha , Sahni Ankita , Huchanahalli Sheshanna Sreeshlya
Published: March 2015

Lipoid proteinosis is a sporadic congenital metabolic disorder which is characterized by deposition of hyaline material in dermis, submucosal connective tissue, and various internal organs. It has an extremely low prevalence rate with less than 300 cases reported so far. This progressive disease has a vast spectrum of manifestations ranging from asymptomatic lesions to fatal seizures and respiratory obstruction making timely diagnosis of this rare disorder an imperative task for oral health care practitioners. We report a case of characteristic oral manifestations of lipoid proteinosis in a 28-year-old male patient along with a review of relevant prevailing literature.
Fibrin Gel as an Injectable Biodegradable Scaffold and Cell Carrier for Tissue Engineering
Authors: Li Yuting , Meng Hao , Liu Yuan , Lee Bruce P.
Published: March 2015

Due to the increasing needs for organ transplantation and a universal shortage of donated tissues, tissue engineering emerges as a useful approach to engineer functional tissues. Although different synthetic materials have been used to fabricate tissue engineering scaffolds, they have many limitations such as the biocompatibility concerns, the inability to support cell attachment, and undesirable degradation rate. Fibrin gel, a biopolymeric material, provides numerous advantages over synthetic materials in functioning as a tissue engineering scaffold and a cell carrier. Fibrin gel exhibits excellent biocompatibility, promotes cell attachment, and can degrade in a controllable manner. Additionally, fibrin gel mimics the natural blood‐clotting process and self‐assembles into a polymer network. The ability for fibrin to cure in situ has been exploited to develop injectable scaffolds for the repair of damaged cardiac and cartilage tissues. Additionally, fibrin gel has been utilized as a cell carrier to protect cells from the forces during the application and cell delivery processes while enhancing the cell viability and tissue regeneration. Here, we review the recent advancement in developing fibrin‐based biomaterials for the development of injectable tissue engineering scaffold and cell carriers.
Shaped Singular Spectrum Analysis for Quantifying Gene Expression, with Application to the EarlyDrosophilaEmbryo
Authors: Shlemov Alex , Golyandina Nina , Holloway David , Spirov Alexander
Published: March 2015

In recent years, with the development of automated microscopy technologies, the volume and complexity of image data on gene expression have increased tremendously. The only way to analyze quantitatively and comprehensively such biological data is by developing and applying new sophisticated mathematical approaches. Here, we present extensions of 2D singular spectrum analysis (2D-SSA) for application to 2D and 3D datasets of embryo images. These extensions, circular and shaped 2D-SSA, are applied to gene expression in the nuclear layer just under the surface of theDrosophila(fruit fly) embryo. We consider the commonly used cylindrical projection of the ellipsoidalDrosophilaembryo. We demonstrate how circular and shaped versions of 2D-SSA help to decompose expression data into identifiable components (such as trend and noise), as well as separating signals from different genes. Detection and improvement of under- and overcorrection in multichannel imaging is addressed, as well as the extraction and analysis of 3D features in 3D gene expression patterns.
Gingival Bleeding of a High-Flow Mandibular Arteriovenous Malformation in a Child with 8-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Ferrés-Amat Elvira , Prats-Armengol Jordi , Maura-Solivellas Isabel , Ferrés-Amat Eduard , Mareque-Bueno Javier , Ferrés-Padró Eduard
Published: March 2015

Intraosseous arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) in the head and neck region are uncommon. There are several types and they can have a wide range of clinical presentations. Depending on the blood flow through the AVM, the treatment may be challenging for the attending team and may lead to life-threatening hemorrhages. A clinical case report is presented. A 9-year-old girl, seen for gingival bleeding during oral hygiene, was found to have a high-flow AVM located within and around the mandible. Two-stage treatment consisted of intra-arterial embolization followed by intraoral injection of a sclerosing agent 8 weeks later. At the 8-year follow-up, imaging study showed no evidence of recurrent lesion inside or outside the bone. The final outcome is a correct occlusion with a symmetric facial result. This case shows that conservative treatment may be the first treatment option mostly in children. Arteriography and transcortical injection were enough to control the AVM.
Exact Inverse Matrices of Fermat and Mersenne Circulant Matrix
Authors: Zheng Yanpeng , Shon Sugoog
Published: March 2015

The well known circulant matrices are applied to solve networked systems. In this paper, circulant and left circulant matrices with the Fermat and Mersenne numbers are considered. The nonsingularity of these special matrices is discussed. Meanwhile, the exact determinants and inverse matrices of these special matrices are presented.
TheI-VCharacteristic Prediction of BCD LV pMOSFET Devices Based on an ANFIS-Based Methodology
Authors: Chen Shen-Li
Published: March 2015

Comprehensive and predictive modeling of submicron devices using the traditional TCAD EDA tools of device simulation has become increasingly perplexing due to a lack of reliable models and difficulties in calibrating available device models. This paper proposes a new technique to model BCD submicron pMOSFET devices and to predict device behaviors under different bias conditions and different geometry dimensions by using the adaptive neurofuzzy inference system (ANFIS), which combines fuzzy theory and adaptive neuronetworking. Here, the power of using ANFIS to realize theI-Vbehaviors is demonstrated in these p-channel MOS transistors. After a systematic evaluation, it can be found that the predicting results ofI-Vbehaviors of complicated submicron pMOSFETs by ANFIS are compared with the actual diagnostic experiment data, and a good agreement has been obtained. Furthermore, the error percentage was no greater than 2.5%. As such, the demonstrated benefits of this new proposed technique include precise prediction and easier implementation.
A Comparison of Two Invagination Techniques for Pancreatojejunostomy after Pancreatoduodenectomy
Authors: Kusnierz Katarzyna , Mrowiec Slawomir , Lampe Pawel
Published: March 2015

Background.The aim of the study was to compare two invagination techniques for pancreatojejunostomy after pancreatoduodenectomy.Methods.For effective prevention of the development of pancreatic leakage, we modified invagination technique that we term the “serous touch.” We analysed the diameter of the main pancreatic duct, the texture of the remnant pancreas, the method of the reconstruction, pancreatic external drainage, anastomotic procedure time, histopathological examination, and postoperative complications.Results.Fifty-two patients underwent pancreatoduodenectomy with pancreatojejunostomy using “serous touch” technique (ST group) and 52 classic pancreatojejunostomy (C group). In the ST group one patient (1.9%) was diagnosed as grade B pancreatic fistula, and no patient experienced fistula grade A or C. In the C group 6 patients (11.5%) were diagnosed as fistula grade A, 1 (1.9%) patient as fistula grade B, and 1 (1.9%) patient as fistula grade C. There was a significant statistical difference in incidents of pancreatic fistula (P<0.05) and no statistical difference in other postoperative complications or mortality in comparison group. Anastomosis time was statistically shorter in the ST group.Conclusions.“Serous touch” technique appeared to be easy, safe, associated with fewer incidences of pancreatic fistulas, and less time consuming in comparison with classical pancreatojejunostomy.
The Contribution of Mammography Screening to Breast Cancer Incidence Trends in the United States: An Updated Age–Period–Cohort Model
Authors: Gangnon Ronald E. , Sprague Brian L. , Stout Natasha K. , Alagoz Oguz , Weedon-Fekjær Harald , Holford Theodore R. , Trentham-Dietz Amy
Published: March 2015

Background: The impact of screening mammography on breast cancer incidence is difficult to disentangle from cohort- and age-related effects on incidence.

Methods: We developed an age–period–cohort model of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) and invasive breast cancer incidence in U.S. females using cancer registry data. Five functions were included in the model to estimate stage-specific effects for age, premenopausal birth cohorts, postmenopausal birth cohorts, period (for all years of diagnosis), and a mammography period effect limited to women ages ≥40 years after 1982. Incidence with and without the mammography period effect was calculated.

Results: More recent birth cohorts have elevated underlying risk compared with earlier cohorts for both pre- and postmenopausal women. Comparing models with and without the mammography period effect showed that overall breast cancer incidence would have been 23.1% lower in the absence of mammography in 2010 (95% confidence intervals, 18.8–27.4), including 14.7% (9.5–19.3) lower for invasive breast cancer and 54.5% (47.4–59.6) lower for DCIS. Incidence of distant-staged breast cancer in 2010 would have been 29.0% (13.1–48.1) greater in the absence of mammography screening.

Conclusions: Mammography contributes to markedly elevated rates of DCIS and early-stage invasive cancers, but also contributes to substantial reductions in the incidence of metastatic breast cancer.

Impact: Mammography is an important tool for reducing the burden of breast cancer, but future work is needed to identify risk factors accounting for increasing underlying incidence and to distinguish between indolent and potentially lethal early-stage breast cancers that are detected via mammography. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 24(6); 905–12. ©2015 AACR.
SIRT1/PGC1α-Dependent Increase in Oxidative Phosphorylation Supports Chemotherapy Resistance of Colon Cancer
Authors: Vellinga Thomas T. , Borovski Tijana , de Boer Vincent C.J. , Fatrai Szabolcs , van Schelven Susanne , Trumpi Kari , Verheem Andre , Snoeren Nikol , Emmink Benjamin L. , Koster Jan , Rinkes Inne H.M. Borel , Kranenburg Onno
Published: March 2015

Purpose: Chemotherapy treatment of metastatic colon cancer ultimately fails due to development of drug resistance. Identification of chemotherapy-induced changes in tumor biology may provide insight into drug resistance mechanisms.

Experimental Design: We studied gene expression differences between groups of liver metastases that were exposed to preoperative chemotherapy or not. Multiple patient-derived colonosphere cultures were used to assess how chemotherapy alters energy metabolism by measuring mitochondrial biomass, oxygen consumption, and lactate production. Genetically manipulated colonosphere-initiated tumors were used to assess how altered energy metabolism affects chemotherapy efficacy.

Results: Gene ontology and pathway enrichment analysis revealed significant upregulation of genes involved in oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) and mitochondrial biogenesis in metastases that were exposed to chemotherapy. This suggested chemotherapy induces a shift in tumor metabolism from glycolysis towards OXPHOS. Indeed, chemotreatment of patient-derived colonosphere cultures resulted in an increase of mitochondrial biomass, increased expression of respiratory chain enzymes, and higher rates of oxygen consumption. This was mediated by the histone deacetylase sirtuin-1 (SIRT1) and its substrate, the transcriptional coactivator PGC1α. Knockdown of SIRT1 or PGC1α prevented chemotherapy-induced OXPHOS and significantly sensitized patient-derived colonospheres as well as tumor xenografts to chemotherapy.

Conclusions: Chemotherapy of colorectal tumors induces a SIRT1/PGC1α-dependent increase in OXPHOS that promotes tumor survival during treatment. This phenomenon is also observed in chemotherapy-exposed resected liver metastases, strongly suggesting that chemotherapy induces long-lasting changes in tumor metabolism that potentially interfere with drug efficacy. In conclusion, we propose a novel mechanism of chemotherapy resistance that may be clinically relevant and therapeutically exploitable. Clin Cancer Res; 21(12); 2870–9. ©2015 AACR.
Competence-Based Curricula for the Education of Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists in Brazil
Authors: Fernandes Fernanda Dreux M. , Wertzner Haydée F.
Published: March 2015

Objective: The aim of this paper is to present the academic requirements for the education of speech-language pathologists (SLPs) and to discuss some of the challenges in providing quality supervised practice and the solutions proposed by some programs in Brazil. Methods: Brazilian proposals regarding the training of SLPs are reviewed, with guidelines provided by the International Association of Logopedics and Phoniatrics (IALP) and the Comité Permanent de Liaison des Orthophonistes-Logopèdes de l'UE (CPLOL), and descriptions of the specific experience of the oldest Brazilian program are provided. Results: The bachelor's degree is the minimum level required for the independent practice of speech-language pathology and audiology in Brazil, where there are 75 undergraduate programs. In several programs, students are encouraged to enjoy the diversity at their university, enrolling in courses of different areas to broaden their experience. The basic areas of the undergraduate program are mandatory as per recommendation of the Ministry of Education and include competences related to the health system, decision making, communication, leadership and continued education. Since practice training is part of the undergraduate programs, it is incorporated into the pedagogical concept and has a major role in it. Conclusion: The structure of the programs allows the dissociation of theory from practice to be attenuated; both educational strategies are used together as part of the pedagogical concept.
Struggling to Be Seen and Heard: The Underserved and Unserved Populations
Authors: Cheng Li-Rong Lilly
Published: March 2015

Objective: The purpose of this paper is to provide some current information on the topic of the underserved and unserved populations including modern-day slaves, stateless/displaced persons, refugees/migrants and indigenous populations. Method: Speech-language pathology education and services for the underserved as well as unserved populations are discussed. Three case studies which demonstrate knowledge transfer and exchange as potential models for future development are presented. Conclusion: These case studies lead to more inquiries, studies, innovations and involvement from individuals and groups who are concerned about the underserved and unserved populations.
A Multifactorial Analysis of the Pregnancy Outcomes in Cytomegalovirus-Infected Women
Authors: Ding Zhong-Yang , Xu Fei , Chen Dao-Zhen , Meng Xi-Na , Xu Ting-Shu , Lu Mu-Dan , Zhuge Hong-Xiang
Published: March 2015

Aims: To investigate the impacts of cytomegalovirus (CMV) viral load, TORCH (toxoplasmosis, others, rubella, CMV and herpes) coinfections, CMV glycoprotein B (gB) genotypes and maternal genetic polymorphisms on pregnancy outcomes among CMV-infected women. Methods: A total of 731 CMV-infected pregnant women (634 and 97 with normal and adverse pregnancy outcomes, respectively) were recruited. CMV load quantification and screening of TORCH coinfections were performed by using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and immunodetection techniques, respectively. Genotyping of CMV gB and maternal NFKB1 -94 ins/del, NFKBIA -826C/T and -881A/G polymorphisms was performed by using PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism. Results: We found that the mean CMV viral load in women with adverse pregnancy outcomes was significantly higher than that in women with normal outcomes at all pregnancy stages (p < 0.01). We also found that TORCH coinfections resulted in a 1.65-fold (95% CI = 1.00-2.73) increase in the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes (p = 0.05). Additionally, we noticed no significant difference in the distribution of CMV gB genotypes between women with normal and adverse pregnancy outcomes (p = 0.42). We also observed that the ins/ins variant genotype of the NFKB1 polymorphism could reduce the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes (OR = 0.38, 95% CI = 0.15-0.98; p = 0.04). Conclusion: CMV viral load, TORCH coinfections and maternal NFKB1 polymorphism could influence pregnancy outcomes among CMV-infected women.
Prevention of dipyrone (metamizole) induced inhibition of aspirin antiplatelet effects
Authors: Richter Stefan , Schrör Karsten , Rassaf Tienush , Merx Marc W. , Kelm Malte , Hohlfeld Thomas , Zeus Tobias , Polzin Amin
Published: March 2015

We have recently shown that dipyrone (metamizole), a non-opioid analgesic, can nullify aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid; ASA) antiplatelet effects in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). In this study, we analysed the aspirin and dipyrone drug-drug interaction in order to identify strategies to prevent the dipyrone induced inhibition of asprin antiplatelet effects. Platelet function was measured by arachidonic acid-induced light-transmission aggregometry, thromboxane (TX) B2–formation by immunoassay. Dipyrone metabolite plasma levels were determined by high-performance-liquid-chromatography (HPLC). In seven healthy individuals, in vitro ASA (30 μM/ 100 μM/ 300 μM/ 1,000 μM) and dipyrone (10 μM) coincubation revealed, that the aspirin and dipyrone interaction can be overcome by increasing doses of aspirin. In 36 aspirin and dipyrone comedicated CAD patients, addition of ASA (30 μM/ 100 μM) in vitro inhibited, but did not completely overcome the dipyrone induced reduction of aspirin antiplatelet effects. Notably, the inhibition of thromboxane formation in aspirin and dipyrone comedicated CAD patients coincided with dipyrone plasma levels. In a cross-over designed study in four healthy individuals, we were able to prove that inhibition of aspirin (100 mg/ day) effects by dipyrone (750 mg/ day) was reversible. Furthermore, aspirin (100 mg/ day) medication prior to dipyrone (750 mg/ day) intake prevented the inhibition of antiplatelet effects by dipyrone in 12 healthy individuals. In conclusion, aspirin medication prior to dipyrone intake preserves antiplatelet effects, circumventing the pharmacodynamic drug-drug interaction at the level of cyclooxygenase-1.

Clinical Trial Registration: NCT01402804; http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01402804.
Religious Violence and Hagiography in Late Antiquity
Authors: Marcos Mar
Published: March 2015

Sanctity is in many ways a social construct, and hence the profile of saints and the practices that qualify them as such change with the passing of time. The destruction of temples and idols as a way to signal sanctity is a good example of this. The subject came to form part of hagiography in the late fourth century, reached its peak in the Theodosian period, and fell off in the sixth century when Christianization was believed to be complete. Hagiography made iconoclasm one of the most extraordinary expressions of divine power, adding it to the saint’s repertoire of miracles and ascetic virtues. The aim of this article is to study the origins and early development of this motif, which legitimated — and subtly encouraged — the use of violence in the conversion process. It is within apologetic and polemical contexts that the episodes of the violent destruction of late antique paganism have to be assessed.
Asymmetrical Religious Commitments? Religious Practice, Identity, and Self-Presentation among Western Scholars of Hinduism and Buddhism
Authors: Aktor Mikael
Published: March 2015

The starting point of this article is the observation that more scholars of Buddhism seem to be engaged in Buddhist practices than their colleagues in the study of Hinduism are engaged in Hindu practices. It aims to examine this observation more closely and discuss the involved problematics in a more general perspective of the scholar’s responsibilities in relation to the public. The evidence examined consists partly of different types of public material including scholarly works, institutional and personal webpages, and the results from two anonymous questionnaire surveys set up on Hindu and Buddhist scholarly e-lists. Whereas the former type of evidence seems to confirm the original observation, the latter shows that the difference in the amounts of practicing scholars is more a matter of openness than of identity. The last part of the article, therefore, looks at the stereotypes that are inherited from the modernization of both religions in their transition to the Western world. How far a religiously engaged scholarship is acceptable or not is finally discussed at the institutional level.
The Many Faces of Justice in International Negotiations
Authors: Albin Cecilia
Published: March 2015

There are a wide range of roles and effects that justice can have in negotiations at the international level. It can be a source of conflict and trigger for negotiation, a referent guiding negotiations, a subject of negotiation, a tool to reach effective agreements, and a tactical tool. Justice can assume any or several of these roles in any one negotiation. This article looks at justice as a lens through which to understand what drives negotiation processes and explains different results in the international arena.
Migration and Asylum Cases before the Court of Justice of the European Union: Putting the Eu Charter of Fundamental Rights to Test?
Authors: Ippolito Francesca
Published: March 2015

This article explores the various guarantees embedded in the eu Charter of Fundamental Rights for eu citizens and third country nationals, following the extension of the Court’s jurisdiction by the Lisbon Treaty in the area of freedom, security and justice. In particular, it highlights the potential and limits to the impact of the Charter in immigration or asylum cases before the cjeu.
Involuntary Evil and the Socratic Problem of Double Ignorance in Proclus
Authors: Layne Danielle A.
Published: March 2015

In hisCommentary on the AlcibiadesiProclus often discusses and links the peculiar epistemological category of “double ignorance” (ignorance of ignorance combined with the conceit to knowledge) with evil and grievous error. To understand this more fully, the following analyzes Proclus’ concept of double ignorance, its characteristics and its causes. Markedly, due to his understanding of double ignorance, Proclus offers a response to the “Socratic” idea that no one willingly errs as this particular category of not-knowing enables him to explain how individuals, despite desiring and in some sense knowing the good, fail or ‘miss the mark’ in articulating and doing the good.