bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Implication of Fructans in Health: Immunomodulatory and Antioxidant Mechanisms
Authors: Franco-Robles Elena , López Mercedes G.
Published: April 2015

Previous studies have shown that fructans, a soluble dietary fiber, are beneficial to human health and offer a promising approach for the treatment of some diseases. Fructans are nonreducing carbohydrates composed of fructosyl units and terminated by a single glucose molecule. These carbohydrates may be straight or branched with varying degrees of polymerization. Additionally, fructans are resistant to hydrolysis by human digestive enzymes but can be fermented by the colonic microbiota to produce short chain fatty acids (SCFAs), metabolic by‐products that possess immunomodulatory activity. The indirect role of fructans in stimulating probiotic growth is one of the mechanisms through which fructans exert their prebiotic activity and improve health or ameliorate disease. However, a more direct mechanism for fructan activity has recently been suggested; fructans may interact with immune cells in the intestinal lumen to modulate immune responses in the body. Fructans are currently being studied for their potential as “ROS scavengers” that benefit intestinal epithelial cells by improving their redox environment. In this review, we discuss recent advances in our understanding of fructans interaction with the intestinal immune system, the gut microbiota, and other components of the intestinal lumen to provide an overview of the mechanisms underlying the effects of fructans on health and disease.
Spatial Patterns and Temporal Variability of Drought in Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei Metropolitan Areas in China
Authors: Cai Wanyuan , Zhang Yuhu , Chen Qiuhua , Yao Yunjun
Published: April 2015

Drought identification and assessment are essential for regional water resources management. In this paper, the spatiotemporal characteristics of drought were evaluated based on monthly precipitation data from 33 synoptic stations during the period of 1960–2010. The percent of normal precipitation was applied to illustrate the driest years in Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei metropolitan areas (BTHMA) (1965, 1997, and 2002). The modified Reconnaissance Drought Index (RDI) was applied to capture the drought patterns and to estimate the drought severity at 33 meteorological stations. Agglomerative hierarchical cluster analysis (AHCA) and principal component analysis (PCA) were used to identify three different drought subregions R1, R2, and R3 based on the monthly precipitation values in BTHMA, which is located in southeast, north, and south of BTHMA, respectively. The year 1965 was the driest and 1964 was the wettest during the observed period. The characteristics of drought were analyzed in terms of the temporal evolution of the RDI-12 values and the frequency of drought for the three identified regions. The percentage of years characterized by drought was 13.73% for R1, 16.50% for R2, and 15.53% for R3. 66.91% of drought belongs to the near normal drought category. The obtained results can aid to improve water resources management in the area.
A Line-Based Adaptive-Weight Matching Algorithm Using Loopy Belief Propagation
Authors: Li Hui , Zhang Xiao-Guang , Sun Zheng
Published: April 2015

In traditional adaptive-weight stereo matching, the rectangular shaped support region requires excess memory consumption and time. We propose a novel line-based stereo matching algorithm for obtaining a more accurate disparity map with low computation complexity. This algorithm can be divided into two steps: disparity map initialization and disparity map refinement. In the initialization step, a new adaptive-weight model based on the linear support region is put forward for cost aggregation. In this model, the neural network is used to evaluate the spatial proximity, and the mean-shift segmentation method is used to improve the accuracy of color similarity; the Birchfield pixel dissimilarity function and the census transform are adopted to establish the dissimilarity measurement function. Then the initial disparity map is obtained by loopy belief propagation. In the refinement step, the disparity map is optimized by iterative left-right consistency checking method and segmentation voting method. The parameter values involved in this algorithm are determined with many simulation experiments to further improve the matching effect. Simulation results indicate that this new matching method performs well on standard stereo benchmarks and running time of our algorithm is remarkably lower than that of algorithm with rectangle-shaped support region.
Sampled-Data Control of Nonlinear Systems with Quantization
Authors: Cui Liu , Duan Dengping
Published: April 2015

This paper is concerned with sampled-data control problem for a class of nonlinear systems with input quantization. The nonlinear system is converted into a linear-like system with modeling error by using partition of unity method. A time-dependent Lyapunov functional is introduced to capture the characteristic of nonlinear sampled-data systems and the exponential stability conditions are derived by the use of inequality techniques. The desired sampled-data controller is then synthesized. An example is provided to illustrate the effectiveness and benefits of the proposed scheme.
Boundedness of Marcinkiewicz Integrals on RBMO Spaces over Nonhomogeneous Metric Measure Spaces
Authors: Cheng Ji , Lu Guanghui
Published: April 2015

LetX,d,μbe a metric measures space satisfying the upper doubling conditions and the geometrically doubling conditions in the sense of Hytönen. Under the assumption that the dominating function satisfies the weak reverse doubling condition, the authors prove that Marcinkiewicz integral with kernel satisfying certain stronger Hörmander-type condition is bounded on RBMOμspace.
DNA Methylation and Histone Modifications Are the Molecular Lock in Lentivirally Transduced Hematopoietic Progenitor Cells
Authors: Ngai Siew Ching , Rosli Rozita , Al Abbar Akram , Abdullah Syahril
Published: April 2015

Stable introduction of a functional gene in hematopoietic progenitor cells (HPCs) has appeared to be an alternative approach to correct genetically linked blood diseases. However, it is still unclear whether lentiviral vector (LV) is subjected to gene silencing in HPCs. Here, we show that LV carrying green fluorescent protein (GFP) reporter gene driven by cytomegalovirus (CMV) promoter was subjected to transgene silencing after transduction into HPCs. This phenomenon was not due to the deletion of proviral copy number. Study using DNA demethylating agent and histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor showed that the drugs could either prevent or reverse the silencing effect. Using sodium bisulfite sequencing and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assay, we demonstrated that DNA methylation occurred soon after LV transduction. At the highest level of gene expression, CMV promoter was acetylated and was in a euchromatin state, while GFP reporter gene was acetylated but was strangely in a heterochromatin state. When the expression declined, CMV promoter underwent transition from acetylated and euchromatic state to a heterochromatic state, while the GFP reporter gene was in deacetylated and heterochromatic state. With these, we verify that DNA methylation and dynamic histone modifications lead to transgene silencing in HPCs transduced with LV.
The Differential Proteome of the ProbioticLactobacillus acidophilusNCFM Grown on the Potential Prebiotic Cellobiose Shows Upregulation of Twoβ-Glycoside Hydrolases
Authors: van Zanten Gabriella C. , Sparding Nadja , Majumder Avishek , Lahtinen Sampo J. , Svensson Birte , Jacobsen Susanne
Published: April 2015

Probiotics, prebiotics, and combinations thereof, that is, synbiotics, are known to exert beneficial health effects in humans; however interactions between pro- and prebiotics remain poorly understood at the molecular level. The present study describes changes in abundance of different proteins of the probiotic bacteriumLactobacillus acidophilusNCFM (NCFM) when grown on the potential prebiotic cellobiose as compared to glucose. Cytosolic cell extract proteomes after harvest at late exponential phase of NCFM grown on cellobiose or glucose were analyzed by two dimensional difference gel electrophoresis (2D-DIGE) in the acidic (pH 4–7) and the alkaline (pH 6–11) regions showing a total of 136 spots to change in abundance. Proteins were identified by MS or MS/MS from 81 of these spots representing 49 unique proteins and either increasing 1.5–13.9-fold or decreasing 1.5–7.8-fold in relative abundance. Many of these proteins were associated with energy metabolism, including the cellobiose related glycoside hydrolases phospho-β-glucosidase (LBA0881) and phospho-β-galactosidase II (LBA0726). The data provide insight into the utilization of the candidate prebiotic cellobiose by the probiotic bacterium NCFM. Several of the upregulated or downregulated identified proteins associated with utilization of cellobiose indicate the presence of carbon catabolite repression and regulation of enzymes involved in carbohydrate metabolism.
Immunomodulatory Effects Mediated by Serotonin
Authors: Arreola Rodrigo , Becerril-Villanueva Enrique , Cruz-Fuentes Carlos , Velasco-Velázquez Marco Antonio , Garcés-Alvarez María Eugenia , Hurtado-Alvarado Gabriela , Quintero-Fabian Saray , Pavón Lenin
Published: April 2015

Serotonin (5-HT) induces concentration-dependent metabolic effects in diverse cell types, including neurons, entherochromaffin cells, adipocytes, pancreatic beta-cells, fibroblasts, smooth muscle cells, epithelial cells, and leukocytes. Three classes of genes regulating 5-HT function are constitutively expressed or induced in these cells: (a) membrane proteins that regulate the response to 5-HT, such as SERT, 5HTR-GPCR, and the 5HT3-ion channels; (b) downstream signaling transduction proteins; and (c) enzymes controlling 5-HT metabolism, such as IDO and MAO, which can generate biologically active catabolites, including melatonin, kynurenines, and kynurenamines. This review covers the clinical and experimental mechanisms involved in 5-HT-induced immunomodulation. These mechanisms are cell-specific and depend on the expression of serotonergic components in immune cells. Consequently, 5-HT can modulate several immunological events, such as chemotaxis, leukocyte activation, proliferation, cytokine secretion, anergy, and apoptosis. The effects of 5-HT on immune cells may be relevant in the clinical outcome of pathologies with an inflammatory component. Major depression, fibromyalgia, Alzheimer disease, psoriasis, arthritis, allergies, and asthma are all associated with changes in the serotonergic system associated with leukocytes. Thus, pharmacological regulation of the serotonergic system may modulate immune function and provide therapeutic alternatives for these diseases.
Probability Modeling of Precipitation Extremes over Two River Basins in Northwest of China
Authors: Li Zhanling , Li Zhanjie , Zhao Wei , Wang Yuehua
Published: April 2015

This paper is focused on the probability modeling with a range of distribution models over two inland river basins in China, together with the estimations of return levels on various return periods. Both annual and seasonal maximum precipitations (MP) are investigated based on daily precipitation data at 13 stations from 1960 to 2010 in Heihe River and Shiyang River basins. Results show that GEV, Burr, and Weibull distributions provide the best fit to both annual and seasonal MP. Exponential and Pareto 2 distributions show the worst fit. The estimated return levels for spring MP show decreasing trends from the upper to the middle and then to the lower reaches totally speaking. Summer MP approximates to annual MP both in the quantity and in the spatial distributions. Autumn MP shows a little higher value in the estimated return levels than Spring MP, while keeping consistent with spring MP in the spatial distribution. It is also found that the estimated return levels for annual MP derived from various distributions differ by 22%, 36%, and 53% on average at 20-year, 50-year, and 100-year return periods, respectively.
Punicalagin Induces Nrf2/HO‐1 Expression via Upregulation of PI3K/AKT Pathway and Inhibits LPS‐Induced Oxidative Stress in RAW264.7 Macrophages
Authors: Xu Xiaolong , Li Hongquan , Hou Xiaolin , Li Deyin , He Shasha , Wan Changrong , Yin Peng , Liu Mingjiang , Liu Fenghua , Xu Jianqin
Published: April 2015

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and oxidative stress are thought to play a central role in potentiating macrophage activation, causing excessive inflammation, tissue damage, and sepsis. Recently, we have shown that punicalagin (PUN) exhibits anti‐inflammatory activity in LPS‐stimulated macrophages. However, the potential antioxidant effects of PUN in macrophages remain unclear. Revealing these effects will help understand the mechanism underlying its ability to inhibit excessive macrophage activation. Hemeoxygenase‐1 (HO‐1) exhibits antioxidant activity in macrophages. Therefore, we hypothesized that HO‐1 is a potential target of PUN and tried to reveal its antioxidant mechanism. Here, PUN treatment increased HO‐1 expression together with its upstream mediator nuclear factor‐erythroid 2 p45‐related factor 2 (Nrf2). However, specific inhibition of Nrf2 by brusatol (a specific Nrf2 inhibitor) dramatically blocked PUN‐induced HO‐1 expression. Previous research has demonstrated that the PI3K/Akt pathway plays a critical role in modulating Nrf2/HO‐1 protein expression as an upstream signaling molecule. Here, LY294002, a specific PI3K/Akt inhibitor, suppressed PUN‐induced HO‐1 expression and led to ROS accumulation in macrophages. Furthermore, PUN inhibited LPS‐induced oxidative stress in macrophages by reducing ROS and NO generation and increasing superoxide dismutase (SOD) 1 mRNA expression. These findings provide new perspectives for novel therapeutic approaches using antioxidant medicines and compounds against oxidative stress and excessive inflammatory diseases including tissue damage, sepsis, and endotoxemic shock.
Farnesol, a Sesquiterpene Alcohol in Herbal Plants, Exerts Anti-Inflammatory and Antiallergic Effects on Ovalbumin-Sensitized and -Challenged Asthmatic Mice
Authors: Ku Chi-Mei , Lin Jin-Yuarn
Published: April 2015

To investigate the effect of farnesol on allergic asthma, three farnesol doses were extra-added into AIN-76 feed consumed by ovalbumin- (OVA-) sensitized and -challenged mice continuously for 5 weeks, at approximately 5, 25, and 100 mg farnesol/kg, BW/day. The results showed that there were no significant differences in body weight, feed intake, and visceral organ weights between the farnesol supplementation and dietary control groups. Farnesol supplementation decreased interleukin (IL)-6/IL-10 level ratios in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF). Farnesol supplementation significantly (P<0.05) restored the cytokine secretion ability of peritoneal macrophages that was suppressed as a result of OVA sensitization and challenge and slightly decreased tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α)/IL-10 cytokine secretion ratios. Farnesol supplementation slightly (P>0.05) decreased IL-4 but significantly (P<0.05) increased IL-2 levels secreted by the splenocytes in the presence of OVA, implying that farnesol might have a systemic antiallergic effect on allergic asthmatic mice. Farnesol supplementation significantly (P<0.05) increased IL-10 levels secreted by the splenocytes in the presence of OVA, suggesting that farnesol might have an anti-inflammatory potential to allergic asthmatic mice. Overall, our results suggest that farnesol supplementation may be beneficial to improve the Th2-skewed allergic asthmatic inflammation.
Immunoregulation by Mesenchymal Stem Cells: Biological Aspects and Clinical Applications
Authors: Castro-Manrreza Marta E. , Montesinos Juan J.
Published: April 2015

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are multipotent cells capable of differentiation into mesenchymal lineages and that can be isolated from various tissues and easily cultivatedin vitro. Currently, MSCs are of considerable interest because of the biological characteristics that confer high potential applicability in the clinical treatment of many diseases. Specifically, because of their high immunoregulatory capacity, MSCs are used as tools in cellular therapies for clinical protocols involving immune system alterations. In this review, we discuss the current knowledge about the capacity of MSCs for the immunoregulation of immunocompetent cells and emphasize the effects of MSCs on T cells, principal effectors of the immune response, and the immunosuppressive effects mediated by the secretion of soluble factors and membrane molecules. We also describe the mechanisms of MSC immunoregulatory modulation and the participation of MSCs as immune response regulators in several autoimmune diseases, and we emphasize the clinical application in graft versus host disease (GVHD).
The Effect of LAB as Probiotic Starter Culture and Green Tea Extract Addition on Dry Fermented Pork Loins Quality
Authors: Neffe-Skocińska Katarzyna , Jaworska Danuta , Kołożyn-Krajewska Danuta , Dolatowski Zbigniew , Jachacz-Jówko Luiza
Published: April 2015

The objective of this study was to evaluate the microbiological, physicochemical, and sensory quality of dry fermented pork loin produced with the addition ofLb. rhamnosusLOCK900 probiotic strain, 0.2% glucose, and 1.5% green tea extract. Three loins were prepared: control sample (P0: no additives), sample supplemented with glucose and probiotic strain (P1), and sample with glucose, green tea extract, and probiotic (P2). The samples were analyzed after 21 days of ripening and 180 days of storage. The results indicated that the highest count of LAB was observed both in the samples: with probiotic and with probiotic and green tea extract (7.00 log cfu/g after ripening; 6.00 log cfu/g after storage). The oxidation-reduction potential values were lower in the probiotic loin samples. Probiotic and green tea extract have not caused color changes of study loins during storage. The study demonstrated that an addition of probiotic and green tea extract to dry fermented loins is possible and had no impact on sensory quality after product storage.
High Order Gene-Gene Interactions in Eight Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms of Renin-Angiotensin System Genes for Hypertension Association Study
Authors: Yang Cheng-Hong , Lin Yu-Da , Wu Shyh-Jong , Chuang Li-Yeh , Chang Hsueh-Wei
Published: April 2015

Several single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of renin-angiotensin system (RAS) genes are associated with hypertension (HT) but most of them are focusing on single locus effects. Here, we introduce an unbalanced function based on multifactor dimensionality reduction (MDR) for multiloci genotypes to detect high order gene-gene (SNP-SNP) interaction in unbalanced cases and controls of HT data. Eight SNPs of three RAS genes (angiotensinogen,AGT; angiotensin-converting enzyme,ACE; angiotensin II type 1 receptor,AT1R) in HT and non-HT subjects were included that showed no significant genotype differences. In 2- to 6-locus models of the SNP-SNP interaction, the SNPs ofAGTandACEgenes were associated with hypertension (bootstrapping odds ratio [Boot-OR] = 1.972~3.785; 95%, confidence interval (CI) 1.26~6.21;P<0.005). In 7- and 8-locus model, SNP A1166C ofAT1Rgene is joined to improve the maximum Boot-OR values of 4.050 to 4.483; CI = 2.49 to 7.29;P<1.63E−08. In conclusion, the epistasis networks are identified by eight SNP-SNP interaction models.AGT,ACE, andAT1Rgenes have overall effects with susceptibility to hypertension, where the SNPs ofACEhave a mainly hypertension-associated effect and show an interacting effect to SNPs ofAGTandAT1Rgenes.
Evaluation of the Contribution of Deposited Precipitation
Authors: Fišák Jaroslav , Tesař Miroslav
Published: April 2015

Main topic of this study is evaluation of the contribution of deposited precipitation (DP) to the falling precipitation (FP) amount. An automatic device for DP weight measurement developed and produced at the Institute of Atmospheric Physics was used. The tipping bucket rain gauges were used for the FP measurement. Present paper summarizes the results of measurements of deposited and falling precipitation in three localities: Suchdol, Prague (capital of the Czech Republic), Poledník (Bohemian Forest), and Smĕdava (the Jizerské hory Mts.). Two later introduced stations are situated in the mountainous part of the Czech Republic. For each of mentioned stations the daily averages of the DP totals were determined by the values 0.074 mm for Suchdol, 0.112 mm for Poledník, and 0.103 mm for Smĕdava. Further the mean daily DP sums were evaluated for the days with the occurrence of this precipitation only by the values 0.136 mm, 0.276 mm, and 0.289 mm for the stations Suchdol, Poledník, and Smĕdava, respectively. Obtained results were compared with the findings published in the literature. In each of the stations the ratio between the deposited and falling precipitation was determined as well. For the Suchdol this ratio reached 95.2% in December 2013.
Robust Adaptive PID Controller for a Class of Uncertain Nonlinear Systems: An Application for Speed Tracking Control of an SI Engine
Authors: Chamsai Tossaporn , Jirawattana Piyoros , Radpukdee Thana
Published: April 2015

The sliding mode control (SMC) technique with a first-order low-pass filter (LPF) is incorporated with a new adaptive PID controller. It is proposed for tracking control of an uncertain nonlinear system. In the proposed control scheme, the adaptation law is able to update the PID controller online during the control process within a short period. The chattering phenomenon of the SMC can be alleviated by incorporation of a first-order LPF, while the robustness of the control system is similar to that of the sliding mode. In the closed-loop control analysis, the convergence condition in the reaching phase and the existence condition of the sliding mode were analyzed. The stability of the closed-loop control is guaranteed in the sense of Lyapunov’s direct method. The simulations and experimental applications of a speed tracking control of a spark ignition (SI) engine via electronic throttle valve control architecture are provided to verify the effectiveness and the feasibility of the proposed control scheme.
An Improved Shuffled Frog Leaping Algorithm for Assembly Sequence Planning of Remote Handling Maintenance in Radioactive Environment
Authors: Guo Jianwen , Tang Hong , Sun Zhenzhong , Wang Song , Jia Xuejun , Chen Haibin , Zhang Zhicong
Published: April 2015

Assembly sequence planning (ASP) of remote handling maintenance in radioactive environment is a combinatorial optimization problem. This study proposes an improved shuffled frog leaping algorithm (SFLA) for the combinatorial optimization problem of ASP. An ASP experiment is conducted to verify the feasibility and stability of the improved SFLA. Simultaneously, the improved SFLA is compared with SFLA, genetic algorithm, particle swarm optimization, and adaptive mutation particle swarm optimization in terms of efficiency and capability of locating the best global assembly sequence. Experiment results show that the proposed algorithm exhibits outstanding performance in solving the ASP problem. The application of the proposed algorithm should increase the level of ASP in a radioactive environment.
Influence of Ionospheric Irregularities on GNSS Remote Sensing
Authors: Tinin M. V.
Published: April 2015

We have used numerical simulation to study the effects of ionospheric irregularities on accuracy of global navigation satellite system (GNSS) measurements, using ionosphere-free (in atmospheric research) and geometry-free (in ionospheric research) dual-frequency phase combinations. It is known that elimination of these effects from multifrequency GNSS measurements is handi-capped by diffraction effects during signal propagation through turbulent ionospheric plasma with the inner scale being smaller than the Fresnel radius. We demonstrated the possibility of reducing the residual ionospheric error in dual-frequency GNSS remote sensing in ionosphere-free combination by Fresnel inversion. The inversion parameter, the distance to the virtual screen, may be selected from the minimum of amplitude fluctuations. This suggests the possibility of improving the accuracy of GNSS remote sensing in meteorology. In the study of ionospheric disturbances with the aid of geometry-free combination, the Fresnel inversion eliminates only the third-order error. To eliminate the random TEC component which, like the measured average TEC, is the first-order correction, we should use temporal filtering (averaging).
Water Vapor Sensors Based on the Swelling of Relief Gelatin Gratings
Authors: Calixto Sergio , Andres Miguel V.
Published: April 2015

We report on a novel device to measure relative humidity. The sensor is based on surface diffraction gratings made of gelatin. This material swells and shrinks according to the content of water vapor in air. By sending a light beam to the grating, diffracted orders appear. Due to the gelatin swelling or shrinking, first order intensity changes according to the relative humidity. Calibration curves relating intensity versus relative humidity have been found. The fabrication process of diffraction gratings and the testing of the prototype sensing devices are described.
Building a Framework for a Dual Task Taxonomy
Authors: McIsaac Tara L. , Lamberg Eric M. , Muratori Lisa M.
Published: April 2015

The study of dual task interference has gained increasing attention in the literature for the past 35 years, with six MEDLINE citations in 1979 growing to 351 citations indexed in 2014 and a peak of 454 cited papers in 2013. Increasingly, researchers are examining dual task cost in individuals with pathology, including those with neurodegenerative diseases. While the influence of these papers has extended from the laboratory to the clinic, the field has evolved without clear definitions of commonly used terms and with extreme variations in experimental procedures. As a result, it is difficult to examine the interference literature as a single body of work. In this paper we present a new taxonomy for classifying cognitive-motor and motor-motor interference within the study of dual task behaviors that connects traditional concepts of learning and principles of motor control with current issues of multitasking analysis. As a first step in the process we provide an operational definition of dual task, distinguishing it from a complex single task. We present this new taxonomy, inclusive of both cognitive and motor modalities, as a working model; one that we hope will generate discussion and create a framework from which one can view previous studies and develop questions of interest.
A Well-Balanced and Fully Coupled Noncapacity Model for Dam-Break Flooding
Authors: Yue Zhiyuan , Liu Huaihan , Li Youwei , Hu Peng , Zhang Yanyan
Published: April 2015

The last two decades have seen great progress in mathematical modeling of fluvial processes and flooding in terms of either approximation of the physical processes or dealing with the numerical difficulties. Yet attention to simultaneously taking advancements of both aspects is rarely paid. Here a well-balanced and fully coupled noncapacity model is presented of dam-break flooding over erodible beds. The governing equations are based on the complete mass and momentum conservation laws, implying fully coupled interactions between the dam-break flow and sediment transport. A well-balanced Godunov-type finite volume method is used to solve the governing equations, facilitating satisfactory representation of the complex flow phenomena. The well-balanced property is attained by using the divergence form of matrix related to the static force for the bottom slope source term. Existing classical tests, including idealized dam-break flooding over irregular topography and experimental dam-break flooding with/without sediment transport, are numerically simulated, showing a satisfactory quantitative performance of this model.
Impact of a Complex Food Microbiota on Energy Metabolism in the Model OrganismCaenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Zanni Elena , Laudenzi Chiara , Schifano Emily , Palleschi Claudio , Perozzi Giuditta , Uccelletti Daniela , Devirgiliis Chiara
Published: April 2015

The nematodeCaenorhabditis elegansis widely used as a model system for research on aging, development, and host-pathogen interactions. Little is currently known about the mechanisms underlying the effects exerted by foodborne microbes. We took advantage ofC. elegansto evaluate the impact of foodborne microbiota on well characterized physiological features of the worms. Foodborne lactic acid bacteria (LAB) consortium was used to feed nematodes and its composition was evaluated by 16S rDNA analysis and strain typing before and after colonization of the nematode gut.Lactobacillus delbrueckii, L. fermentum, andLeuconostoc lactiswere identified as the main species and shown to display different worm gut colonization capacities. LAB supplementation appeared to decrease nematode lifespan compared to the animals fed with the conventionalEscherichia colinutrient source or a probiotic bacterial strain. Reduced brood size was also observed in microbiota-fed nematodes. Moreover, massive accumulation of lipid droplets was revealed by BODIPY staining. Altered expression ofnhr-49, pept-1, and tub-1genes, associated with obesity phenotypes, was demonstrated by RT-qPCR. Since several pathways are evolutionarily conserved inC. elegans, our results highlight the nematode as a valuable model system to investigate the effects of a complex microbial consortium on host energy metabolism.
Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis Development Is Aggravated byCandida albicansInfection
Authors: Fraga-Silva Thais F. C. , Mimura Luiza A. N. , Marchetti Camila M. , Chiuso-Minicucci Fernanda , França Thais G. D. , Zorzella-Pezavento Sofia F. G. , Venturini James , Arruda Maria S. P. , Sartori Alexandrina
Published: April 2015

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory/autoimmune disease of the central nervous system (CNS) mainly mediated by myelin specific T cells. It is widely believed that environmental factors, including fungal infections, contribute to disease induction or evolution. Even thoughCandidainfection among MS patients has been described, the participation of this fungus in this pathology is not clear. The purpose of this work was to evaluate the effect of aCandida albicansinfection on experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) that is a widely accepted model to study MS. Female C57BL/6 mice were infected withC. albicansand 3 days later, animals were submitted to EAE induction by immunization with myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein. Previous infection increased the clinical score and also the body weight loss. EAE aggravation was associated with expansion of peripheral CD4+T cells and production of high levels of TNF-α, IFN-γIL-6, and IL-17 by spleen and CNS cells. In addition to yeast and hyphae, fungus specific T cells were found in the CNS. These findings suggest thatC. albicansinfection before EAE induction aggravates EAE, and possibly MS, mainly by CNS dissemination and local induction of encephalitogenic cytokines. Peripheral production of encephalitogenic cytokines could also contribute to disease aggravation.
Role of the Lipoperoxidation Product 4-Hydroxynonenal in the Pathogenesis of Severe Malaria Anemia and Malaria Immunodepression
Authors: Schwarzer Evelin , Arese Paolo , Skorokhod Oleksii A.
Published: April 2015

Oxidative stress plays an important role in the pathogenesis offalciparummalaria, a disease still claiming close to 1 million deaths and 200 million new cases per year. Most frequent complications are severe anemia, cerebral malaria, and immunodepression, the latter being constantly present in all forms of malaria. Complications are associated with oxidative stress and lipoperoxidation. Its final product 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE), a stable yet very reactive and diffusible molecule, forms covalent conjugates with proteins, DNA, and phospholipids and modulates important cell functions at very low concentrations. Since oxidative stress plays important roles in the pathogenesis of severe malaria, it appears important to explore the role of 4-HNE in two important malaria complications such as malaria anemia and malaria immunodepression where oxidative stress is considered to be involved. In this review we will summarize data about 4-HNE chemistry, its biologically relevant chemical properties, and its role as regulator of physiologic processes and as pathogenic factor. We will review studies documenting the role of 4-HNE in severe malaria with emphasis on malaria anemia and immunodepression. Data from other diseases qualify 4-HNE both as oxidative stress marker and as pathomechanistically important molecule. Further studies are needed to establish 4-HNE as accepted pathogenic factor in severe malaria.
Effect of the Electrolyte Temperature and the Current Density on a Layer Microhardness Generated by the Anodic Aluminium Oxidation
Authors: Spišák Emil , Gombár Miroslav , Kmec Ján , Vagaská Alena , Fechová Erika , Michal Peter , Piteľ Ján , Kučerka Daniel
Published: April 2015

The paper investigates the influence of the chemical composition and temperature of electrolyte, the oxidation time, voltage, and the current density on Vickers microhardness of aluminium oxide layers, at the same time. The layers were generated in the electrolytes with different concentrations of sulphuric and oxalic acids and surface current densities 1 A·dm−2, 3 A·dm−2, and 5 A·dm−2. The electrolyte temperature varied from −1.78°C to 45.78°C. The results have showed that while increasing the electrolyte temperature at the current density of 1 A·dm−2, the increase in the layer microhardness values is approximately by 66%. While simultaneously increasing the molar concentration of H2SO4in the electrolyte, the growth rate of the microhardness value decreases. At the current density of 3 A·dm−2, by increasing the electrolyte temperature, a reduction in the microhardness of the generated layer occurs with the anodic oxidation time less than 25 min. The electrolyte temperature is not significant with the changing values of the layer microhardness at voltages less than 10.5 V.
Effect of Fluid Friction on Interstitial Fluid Flow Coupled with Blood Flow through Solid Tumor Microvascular Network
Authors: Sefidgar Mostafa , Soltani M. , Raahemifar Kaamran , Bazmara Hossein
Published: April 2015

A solid tumor is investigated as porous media for fluid flow simulation. Most of the studies use Darcy model for porous media. In Darcy model, the fluid friction is neglected and a few simplified assumptions are implemented. In this study, the effect of these assumptions is studied by considering Brinkman model. A multiscale mathematical method which calculates fluid flow to a solid tumor is used in this study to investigate how neglecting fluid friction affects the solid tumor simulation. The mathematical method involves processes such as blood flow through vessels and solute and fluid diffusion, convective transport in extracellular matrix, and extravasation from blood vessels. The sprouting angiogenesis model is used for generating capillary network and then fluid flow governing equations are implemented to calculate blood flow through the tumor-induced capillary network. Finally, the two models of porous media are used for modeling fluid flow in normal and tumor tissues in three different shapes of tumors. Simulations of interstitial fluid transport in a solid tumor demonstrate that the simplifications used in Darcy model affect the interstitial velocity and Brinkman model predicts a lower value for interstitial velocity than the values that Darcy model predicts.
Quantum Probes of Timelike Naked Singularities in2+1-Dimensional Power-Law Spacetimes
Authors: Gurtug O. , Halilsoy M. , Mazharimousavi S. Habib
Published: April 2015

The formation of naked singularities in2+1-dimensional power-law spacetimes in linear Einstein-Maxwell and Einstein-scalar theories sourced by azimuthally symmetric electric field and a self-interacting real scalar field, respectively, are considered in view of quantum mechanics. Quantum test fields obeying the Klein-Gordon and Dirac equations are used to probe the classical timelike naked singularities developed atr=0. We show that when the classically singular spacetimes probed with scalar waves, the considered spacetimes remain singular. However, the spinorial wave probe of the singularity in the metric of a self-interacting real scalar field remains quantum regular. The notable outcome in this study is that the quantum regularity/singularity cannot be associated with the energy conditions.
Effect of DC Link Control Strategies on Multiterminal AC-DC Power Flow
Authors: Khan Shagufta , Bhowmick Suman
Published: April 2015

For power-flow solution of power systems incorporating multiterminal DC (MTDC) network(s), five quantities are required to be solved per converter. On the other hand, only three independent equations comprising two basic converter equations and one DC network equation exist per converter. Thus, for solution, two additional equations are required. These two equations are derived from the control specifications adopted for the DC links. Depending on the application, several combinations of valid control specifications are possible. Each combination of a set of valid control specifications is known as a control strategy. The number of control strategies increases with an increase in the number of the DC terminals or converters. It is observed that the power-flow convergence of integrated AC-MTDC power systems is strongly affected by the control strategy adopted for the DC links. This work investigates the mechanism by which different control strategies affect the power-flow convergence pattern of AC-MTDC power systems. To solve the DC variables in the Newton-Raphson (NR) power-flow model, sequential method is considered in this paper. Numerous case studies carried out on a three-terminal DC network incorporated in the IEEE-300 bus test system validate this.
Electronically Tunable Differential Integrator: Linear Voltage Controlled Quadrature Oscillator
Authors: Nandi Rabindranath , Pattanayak Sandhya , Venkateswaran Palaniandavar , Das Sagarika
Published: April 2015

A new electronically tunable differential integrator (ETDI) and its extension to voltage controlled quadrature oscillator (VCQO) design with linear tuning law are proposed; the active building block is a composite current feedback amplifier with recent multiplication mode current conveyor (MMCC) element. Recently utilization of two different kinds of active devices to form a composite building block is being considered since it yields a superior functional element suitable for improved quality circuit design. The integrator time constant(τ)and the oscillation frequency(ωo)are tunable by the control voltage(V)of the MMCC block. Analysis indicates negligible phase error(θe)for the integrator and low activeωo-sensitivity relative to the device parasitic capacitances. Satisfactory experimental verifications on electronic tunability of some wave shaping applications by the integrator and a double-integrator feedback loop (DIFL) based sinusoid oscillator with linearfovariation range of 60 KHz~1.8 MHz at low THD of 2.1% are verified by both simulation and hardware tests.
Successful Aortic Aneurysm Repair in a Woman with Severe von Willebrand (Type 3) Disease
Authors: Campbell Victoria , Marriott Kevin , Stanbridge Rex , Shlebak Abdul
Published: April 2015

von Willebrand disease type 3 (VWD3) is a rare but the most severe form of von Willebrand disease; it is due to almost complete lack of von Willebrand factor activity (VWF:RCo). It is inherited as autosomal recessive trait; whilst heterozygote carriers have mild, or no symptoms, patients with VWD3 show severe bleeding symptoms. In the laboratory, this is characterised by undetectable VWF:Ag, VWF:RCo, and reduced levels of factor VIII < 0.02 IU/dL. The bleeding is managed with von Willebrand/FVIII factor concentrate replacement therapy. In this rare but challenging case we report on the successful excision and repair of an ascending aortic aneurysm following adequate VWF/FVIII factor concentrate replacement using Haemate-P.
Fuzzy Controller Design Using Evolutionary Techniques for Twin Rotor MIMO System: A Comparative Study
Authors: Hashim H. A. , Abido M. A.
Published: April 2015

This paper presents a comparative study of fuzzy controller design for the twin rotor multi-input multioutput (MIMO) system (TRMS) considering most promising evolutionary techniques. These are gravitational search algorithm (GSA), particle swarm optimization (PSO), artificial bee colony (ABC), and differential evolution (DE). In this study, the gains of four fuzzy proportional derivative (PD) controllers for TRMS have been optimized using the considered techniques. The optimization techniques are developed to identify the optimal control parameters for system stability enhancement, to cancel high nonlinearities in the model, to reduce the coupling effect, and to drive TRMS pitch and yaw angles into the desired tracking trajectory efficiently and accurately. The most effective technique in terms of system response due to different disturbances has been investigated. In this work, it is observed that GSA is the most effective technique in terms of solution quality and convergence speed.
Accumulated Mixed Precipitation Estimation Using Measurements from Multiple Microwave Links
Authors: Ostrometzky Jonatan , Cherkassky Dani , Messer Hagit
Published: April 2015

Recently, microwave communication networks have been shown to be valuable tools for rainfall monitoring, based on the well-known Power-Law which relates rain-rate to attenuation in microwave frequencies. However, once precipitation other than pure rain exists (e.g., snow), the Power-Law relation is no longer accurate. In this paper we propose a model which relates the induced attenuation to rain, snow, and sleet. Based on this model we propose estimating the total accumulated precipitation, regardless of the precipitation type, using measurements from multiple microwave links. Our technique takes advantage of the commercial communication networks, need for redundancy, which dictates the use of multiple microwave links at the same area. We show that by using measurements from at least three microwave links better estimation of the total accumulated precipitation fall can be provided, when rain, snow, sleet, or a mixture of them coexists. To demonstrate the proposed approach, it has been applied on actual microwave links attenuation measurements, which were provided by a cellular carrier. The estimation results were compared with Rain-Gauges and disdrometer measurements and show very good agreement and improved accuracy.
A Review of On-Site Wastewater Treatment Systems in Western Australia from 1997 to 2011
Authors: Gunady Maria , Shishkina Natalia , Tan Henry , Rodriguez Clemencia
Published: April 2015

On-site wastewater treatment systems (OWTS) are widely used in Western Australia (WA) to treat and dispose of household wastewater in areas where centralized sewerage systems are unavailable. Septic tanks, aerobic treatment units (ATUs), and composting toilets with greywater systems are among the most well established and commonly used OWTS. However, there are concerns that some OWTS installed in WA are either performing below expected standards or failing. Poorly performing OWTS are often attributed to inadequate installation, inadequate maintenance, poor public awareness, insufficient local authority resources, ongoing wastewater management issues, or inadequate adoption of standards, procedures, and guidelines. This paper is to review the installations and failures of OWTS in WA. Recommendations to the Department of Health Western Australia (DOHWA) and Local Government (LG) in regard to management strategies and institutional arrangements of OWTS are also highlighted.
IL-10 and ARG-1 Concentrations in Bone Marrow and Peripheral Blood of Metastatic Neuroblastoma Patients Do Not Associate with Clinical Outcome
Authors: Morandi Fabio , Croce Michela , Cangemi Giuliana , Barco Sebastiano , Rigo Valentina , Carlini Barbara , Amoroso Loredana , Pistoia Vito , Ferrini Silvano , Corrias Maria Valeria
Published: April 2015

The expression of the immunosuppressive moleculesIL-10and arginase 1 (ARG-1), and ofFOXP3andCD163, as markers of regulatory T cells (Treg) and macrophages, respectively, was evaluated in bone marrow (BM) and peripheral blood (PB) samples collected at diagnosis from patients with metastatic neuroblastoma (NB). IL-10 and ARG-1 plasma concentrations were measured and the association of each parameter with patients’ outcome was tested. The percentages of immunosuppressive Treg and type-1 regulatory (Tr1) cells were also determined. In both BM and PB samples,IL-10mRNA expression was higher in metastatic NB patients than in controls. IL-10 plasma concentration was higher in patients with NB regardless of stage. NeitherIL-10expression nor IL-10 plasma concentration significantly associated with patient survival. In PB samples from metastatic NB patients,ARG-1andCD163expression was higher than in controls but their expression did not associate with survival. Moreover, ARG-1 plasma concentration was lower than in controls, and no association with patient outcome was found. Finally, in metastatic NB patients, the percentage of circulating Treg was higher than in controls, whereas that of Tr1 cells was lower. In conclusion, although IL-10 concentration and Treg percentage were increased, their contribution to the natural history of metastatic NB appears uncertain.
Seismic Performance of Midstory Isolated Structures under Near-Field Pulse-Like Ground Motion and Limiting Deformation of Isolation Layers
Authors: Yan Guiyun , Chen Fuquan
Published: April 2015

Excessive deformation of the isolation layer in midstory isolated structures may occur under strong near-field pulse-like ground motion, which would result in the overturning collapse of the superstructure. The objective of the present research is to limit excessive deformation of the isolation layer and to reduce nonlinear response of midstory isolated structures. To this end, a protective system is presented to limit deformation of the isolation layer by soft pounding. Based on the Kelvin pounding model, a mechanical model is put forward for this protective system. In addition, a new method has been proposed that synthesizes artificial near-field pulse-like ground motion by combining the real near-field nonpulse ground motion with simple equivalent pulses. Also, the impact of artificial near-field pulse-like ground motion on the nonlinear response of midstory isolated structures and the deformation of the isolation layer has been investigated. The effectiveness of the midstory isolation with the protective system has been validated. The results show that the maximum deformation of the isolation layer significantly exceeds the allowable deformation of lead-rubber bearings when subjected to near-field pulse-like ground motion, and it causes the lead-rubber bearings destruction. The proposed protective system is effective in restricting the excessive deformation of the isolation layer and reducing nonlinear responses of the isolated structure, preventing collapse of the superstructure.