bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Overexpression of the cytosolic cytokinin oxidase/dehydrogenase (CKX7) from Arabidopsis causes specific changes in root growth and xylem differentiation
Authors: Köllmer Ireen , Novák Ondřej , Strnad Miroslav , Schmülling Thomas , Werner Tomáš
Published: February 2014

Degradation of the plant hormone cytokinin is catalyzed by cytokinin oxidase/dehydrogenase (CKX) enzymes. The Arabidopsis thaliana genome encodes seven CKX proteins which differ in subcellular localization and substrate specificity. Here we analyze the CKX7 gene, which to the best of our knowledge has not yet been studied. pCKX7:GUS expression was detected in the vasculature, the transmitting tissue and the mature embryo sac. A CKX7–GFP fusion protein localized to the cytosol, which is unique among all CKX family members. 35S:CKX7‐expressing plants developed short, early terminating primary roots with smaller apical meristems, contrasting with plants overexpressing other CKX genes. The vascular bundles of 35S:CKX7 primary roots contained only protoxylem elements, thus resembling the wol mutant of the CRE1/AHK4 receptor gene. We show that CRE1/AHK4 activity is required to establish the CKX7 overexpression phenotype. Several cytokinin metabolites, in particular cis‐zeatin (cZ) and N‐glucoside cytokinins, were depleted stronger in 35S:CKX7 plants compared with plants overexpressing other CKX genes. Interestingly, enhanced protoxylem formation together with reduced primary root growth was also found in the cZ‐deficient tRNA isopentenyltransferase mutant ipt2,9. However, different cytokinins were similarly efficient in suppressing 35S:CKX7 and ipt2,9 vascular phenotypes. Therefore, we hypothesize that the pool of cytosolic cytokinins is particularly relevant in the root procambium where it mediates the differentiation of vascular tissues through CRE1/AHK4. Taken together, the distinct consequences of CKX7 overexpression indicate that the cellular compartmentalization of cytokinin degradation and substrate preference of CKX isoforms are relevant parameters that define the activities of the hormone.
Infusion technique of hematopoietic progenitor cells and related adverse events (CME)
Authors: Mulay Sudhanshu B. , Greiner Carl W. , Mohr Amy , Bryant Sandra C. , Lingineni Ravi K. , Padley Doug , Hogan William J. , Gastineau Dennis A. , Jacob Eapen K.
Published: February 2014

Background

The use of hematopoietic progenitor cell (HPC) transplant has risen over the past two decades. A variety of adverse events (AEs) of varying severity have been noted during HPC infusions. These AEs have been associated with several factors such as the amount of dimethyl sulfoxide and white blood cells in the HPC product. We performed a single‐institution retrospective analysis to determine the effect of two different HPC infusion techniques, manual push with syringes versus infusion from bags with the aid of gravity, on the occurrence of infusion‐related AEs.

Study Design and Methods

Infusions between December 2008 and November 2010 involving peripheral blood HPCs were reviewed. Pertinent clinical and HPC product–related information was recorded. Data were analyzed to determine the incidence of infusion‐related AEs and its association with patient and product‐related variables.

Results

We found 461 AEs in 645 patients during the study period. A total of 325 (50%) experienced at least one AE. Flushing was the most common type of AE followed by nausea and hypertension. The use of syringe infusion was more commonly associated with AEs (odds ratio, 1.82 [95% confidence interval, 1.32‐2.50]; p = 0.002). Other independent risk factors were cryopreserved products and the amount of polymorphonuclear leukocytes in the product.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this is the first study examining the effect of two different infusion techniques on infusion‐related AEs. Our findings suggest that the use of bags for infusion protected the patients from AEs.
The impact of recent vincristine on human hematopoietic progenitor cell collection in pediatric patients with central nervous system tumors
Authors: Cooling Laura , Bombery Melissa , Hoffmann Sandra , Davenport Robertson , Robertson Patricia , Levine John E.
Published: February 2014

Background

Central nervous system (CNS) malignancies represent 20% of all childhood cancers. To improve outcomes in infants and children with high‐risk disease, treatment can include adjuvant chemotherapy and early autologous peripheral blood human progenitor cell collection (AHPCC), followed by high‐dose chemotherapy and stem cell rescue. In many protocols, postoperative chemotherapy includes the administration of weekly vincristine (VCR) between induction chemotherapy cycles, regardless of scheduled AHPCC. We observed anecdotal AHPCC failures in children receiving midcycle VCR (MC‐VCR).

Study Design and Methods

The study was an 8‐year retrospective chart review of all children with a CNS malignancy and who underwent AHPCC. Information included patient demographic and clinical data, mobilization regimen, VCR administration, product yields, infusion toxicity, and patient charges. Data were analyzed relative to MC‐VCR administration. Graphics and statistical analysis (t‐test, chi‐square, linear regression) were performed with commercial software.

Results

Twenty‐four patients and 47 AHPCCs were available for analysis. Nine patients (37%) received MC‐VCR within 7 days of scheduled AHPCC. MC‐VCR was associated with delayed marrow recovery (17.9 days vs. 14.9 days, p = 0.0012), decreased median peripheral CD34 counts (75 × 106 CD34/L vs. 352 × 106 CD34/L, p = 0.03), decreased median CD34 yields (2.4 × 106 CD34/L vs. 17.8 × 106 CD34/kg, p = 0.08), more AHPCCs per mobilization (2.9 vs. 1.1, p = 0.01), and an increased rate of remobilization (33% vs. 6%). Mean patient charges were 2.5× higher in patients receiving MC‐VCR than controls (p = 0.01).

Conclusion

MC‐VCR should be withheld before scheduled AHPCC to optimize CD34 collection.
Protection and Performance
Authors: Francois Joseph , Manchin Miriam
Published: February 2014

We examine the linkages between import policy and export performance, extending classic macroeconomic trade effects to more recent concepts from the modern literature on gravity models. We also examine these effects empirically with a panel of global and bilateral trade spanning 15 years. Our emphasis on the role of import policy (i.e. tariffs) of exporters as an explanation of trade volumes contrasts with the recent emphasis on importer policy in the gravity literature. It also reinforces the growing body of evidence on the importance of economic environmental (policy and infrastructure) conditions in explaining relative export performance and is in line with the literature on global value chains.
Clinical ophthalmic challenges in the horse: a retrospective view forward
Authors: Matthews Andrew G.
Published: February 2014

The author reviews some aspects of vision and ophthalmic disease in the horse and considers how some recent developments in ocular immunobiology and molecular pathology in other species may give pointers toward an understanding of disease processes in the horse.
Removal of viable bacteria in lake water by denim filtration
Authors: Suzuki Tasuma , Diyana Binti Jamil Noor , Niinae Masakazu
Published: February 2014

A series of experiments were performed to investigate the removal of viable bacteria [Escherichia coli, total coliforms and standard plate count (SPC) bacteria] in lake water by denim filtration. Filtration with indigo reagent‐dyed denim physically removed E. coli (up to 95%) and total coliforms (up to 92%) from lake water. The removal efficiencies of SPC bacteria (up to 85%) were generally lower than those of E. coli and total coliforms. The adsorption of bacteria to particulate matter larger than the effective pore size of the denim (ca. 48 μm) and the subsequent physical sieving of the large particulate matter seemed to be the dominant disinfection mechanism.
Modelling American Trypanosomiasis in an Endemic Zone: Application to the Initial Spread of Household Infection in the Argentine Chaco
Authors: Fabrizio M. C. , Schweigmann N. J. , Bartoloni N. J.
Published: February 2014

The complex dynamics of Trypanosoma cruzi infection (Chagas disease) involves different actors and multiple transmission routes. Based on the information currently available, here, we propose a new and more comprehensive model to better understand the dynamics of the infection. This mathematical deterministic model was formulated considering: (i) the three clinical forms in humans: acute, chronic indeterminate and chronic with determinate pathology, (ii) the three main modes of transmission in the human population: vector‐borne, congenital and transfusional, (iii) populations of triatomines and dogs as the main domestic reservoirs of T. cruzi and (iv) open populations. A numerical simulation was also performed to estimate the initial spread of the infection in a typical rural household in the endemic zone of the Argentine Gran Chaco. We also analysed the incidence of infected individuals corresponding to each of the three species (humans/triatomines/dogs) over times until the appearance of the first case in the other species. The model predicts that, in the absence of control measures, a few infected individuals are sufficient for the establishment and dispersion of the infection in all the inhabitants of the household. The model proposed and the results obtained allow describing the consequences of the presence of infected individuals in any of the three species considered in the dynamics and the output of the infection.
Vortex Ring Model of Tip Vortex Aperiodicity in a Hovering Helicopter Rotor
Authors: Karpatne Anand , Sirohi Jayant , Mula Swathi , Tinney Charles
Published: February 2014

The wandering motion of tip vortices trailed from a hovering helicopter rotor is described. This aperiodicity is known to cause errors in the determination of vortex properties that are crucial inputs for refined aerodynamic analyses of helicopter rotors. Measurements of blade tip vortices up to 260 deg vortex age using stereo particle-image velocimetry (PIV) indicate that this aperiodicity is anisotropic. We describe an analytical model that captures this anisotropic behavior. The analysis approximates the helical wake as a series of vortex rings that are allowed to interact with each other. The vorticity in the rings is a function of the blade loading. Vortex core growth is modeled by accounting for vortex filament strain and by using an empirical model for viscous diffusion. The sensitivity of the analysis to the choice of initial vortex core radius, viscosity parameter, time step, and number of rings shed is explored. Analytical predictions of the orientation of anisotropy correlated with experimental measurements within 10%. The analysis can be used as a computationally inexpensive method to generate probability distribution functions for vortex core positions that can then be used to correct for aperiodicity in measurements.
Experimental and Numerical Investigation Into the Aerodynamics of a Novel Steam Turbine Valve and Its Field Application
Authors: Zanazzi Giorgio , Rice Timothy , Sell Michael , Ridoutt Colin
Published: February 2014

Control valves are one of the key steam turbine components that guarantee operational safety in a power plant. There are two aerodynamic aspects, which are the current focus for the development of Alstom's valves. One is the reduction of the aerodynamic loss to increase the efficiency of the power plant. The other is operational flexibility, which is increasingly required to react faster to load requirements from the electric grid. This is becoming more important as power generation becomes increasingly decentralized, with a growing contribution from renewable energy sources. For this reason, a fast control loop is required for valve operation, which depends on an accurate linearization of the valve characteristic. In this paper the flow fields in an existing steam control valve have been analyzed and subsequently optimized using CFD techniques. The approach specifically designed for drilled strainers is further illustrated. Following the validation of the baseline design with model testing, an improved diffuser has been designed using CFD analysis and the resulting performance benefit has been confirmed with further testing. The grid frequency support requires control valve throttling. For this reason, an accurate prediction of the linearization table is extremely important to support the required response time limits. Further numerical work has been carried out with various opening positions of the valve, leading to an improved valve linearization characteristic. It is demonstrated that the numerical prediction of the linearization curve agrees very well with data obtained from operating power plants.
A Detailed Validation Study of Multi-Environment Eulerian Probability Density Function Transport Method for Modeling Turbulent Nonpremixed Combustion
Authors: Yadav Rakesh , Kushari Abhijit , Eswaran Vinayak , Verma Atul K.
Published: February 2014

The current work involves the validation of presumed shape multi-environment Eulerian probability density function (PDF) transport method (MEPDF) using direct quadrature method of moments (DQMOM)-interaction by exchange with mean (IEM) approach for modeling turbulence chemistry interactions in nonpremixed combustion problems. The joint composition PDF is represented as a collection of finite number of Delta functions. The PDF shape is resolved by solving the governing transport equations for probability of occurrence of each environment and probability-weighted mass fraction of species and enthalpy in Eulerian frame for each environment. A generic implementation of the MEPDF approach is carried out for an arbitrary number of environments. In the current work, the MEPDF approach is used for a series of problems to validate each component of MEPDF approach in an isolated manner as well as their combined effect. First of all, a nonreactive turbulent mixing problem with two different Reynolds numbers (Re = 7000 and 11,900) is used for validation of the mixing and correction terms appear in the MEPDF approach. The second problem studied is a diffusion flame with infinitely fast chemistry having an analytical solution. The reaction component is validated by considering a 1D premixed laminar flame. In order to validate the combined effect of mixing and turbulence chemistry interactions, two different turbulent nonpremixed problems using global one-step chemistry are used. The first reactive problem used is H2 combustion (DLR Flame H3), while the second reactive validation case is a pilot-stabilized CH4 flame. The current predictions for all validation problems are compared with experimental data or published results. The study is further extended by modeling a turbulent nonpremixed H2 combustion using finite-rate chemistry effects and radiative heat transfer. The current model predictions for different flame lengths as well as minor species are compared with experimental data. The current model gave excellent predictions of minor species like OH. The differences in the current predictions with experimental data are discussed.
Optical Investigation of the Effects of Ethanol/Gasoline Blends on Spark-Assisted HCCI
Authors: Fatouraie Mohammad , Wooldridge Margaret
Published: February 2014

Spark assist (SA) has been demonstrated to extend the operating limits of homogeneous charge compression ignition (HCCI) modes of engine operation. This experimental investigation focuses on the effects of 100% indolene and 70% indolene/30% ethanol blends on the ignition and combustion properties during SA HCCI operation. The spark assist effects are compared to baseline HCCI operation for each blend by varying spark timing at different fuel/air equivalence ratios ranging from Φ = 0.4–0.5. High speed imaging is used to understand connections between spark initiated flame propagation and heat release rates. Ethanol generally improves engine performance with higher net indicated mean effective pressure (IMEPn) and higher stability compared to 100% indolene. SA advances phasing within a range of ∼5 crank angle degrees (CAD) at lower engine speeds (700 rpm) and ∼11 CAD at higher engine speeds (1200 rpm). SA does not affect heat release rates until immediately (within ∼5 CAD) prior to auto-ignition. Unlike previous SA HCCI studies of indolene fuel in the same engine, flames were not observed for all SA conditions.
Cyclic Viscoplasticity Testing and Modeling of a Service-Aged P91 Steel
Authors: Hyde C. J. , Sun W. , Hyde T. H. , Rouse J. P. , Farragher T. , O'Dowd Noel P. , Leen S. B.
Published: February 2014

A service-aged P91 steel was used to perform an experimental program of cyclic mechanical testing in the temperature range of 400 °C–600 °C, under isothermal conditions, using both saw-tooth and dwell (inclusion of a constant strain dwell period at the maximum (tensile) strain within the cycle) waveforms. The results of this testing were used to identify the material constants for a modified Chaboche, unified viscoplasticity model, which can deal with rate-dependant cyclic effects, such as combined isotropic and kinematic hardening, and time-dependent effects, such as creep, associated with viscoplasticity. The model has been modified in order that the two-stage (nonlinear primary and linear secondary) softening which occurs within the cyclic response of the service-aged P91 material is accounted for and accurately predicted. The characterization of the cyclic viscoplasticity behavior of the service-aged P91 material at 500 °C is presented and compared to experimental stress–strain loops, cyclic softening and creep relaxation, obtained from the cyclic isothermal tests.
Effects of Product Attributes in Case-Based Reasoning Methods for Cost Estimation and Cost Uncertainty Modeling
Authors: Takai Shun , Banga Karan
Published: February 2014

This paper presents case-based reasoning methods for cost estimation and cost uncertainty modeling that may help designers select a new product concept at the early stage of product development. The case-based reasoning methods without cost adjustment (CBR) and with cost adjustment (CBR-A) are compared with analogy-based cost estimation (ABCE) and multivariate linear regression analysis (RA). Under the conditions studied in the illustrative example of this paper (i.e., a single knowledge base, sport utility vehicle (SUV) concepts, and up to five concept attributes), leave-one-out cross-validation results indicate that both CBR-A and RA accurately estimate cost and reliably model cost uncertainty; and optimum attribute sets for the most accurate cost estimation and the most reliable cost uncertainty modeling are different in all methods. The results of this paper indicate that designers may need to carefully select attribute sets by analyzing trade-offs between the accuracy of cost estimation and the reliability of cost uncertainty modeling when product cost is used as a criterion to select concepts.
An Automated Design Search for Single and Double-Planet Planetary Gear Sets
Authors: Kwon H. S. , Kahraman A. , Lee H. K. , Suh H. S.
Published: February 2014

Design of planetary gear sets is more involved than the design of their counter-shaft counterparts as it involves simultaneous design of a set of internal and external gear meshes while complying with a large number of systems and gear mesh related requirements for assembly, durability, noise, and efficiency. A manual iterative design process often results in suboptimal designs that fail to meet all these requirements simultaneously. In this paper, a methodology for an automated design search of single and double-planet planetary gear sets is proposed. With the input of a number of system-level constraints associated with the spacing and phasing of the planets, and acceptable ranges of basic geometric design parameters, this methodology defines a large design space in that a large number of geometric design concepts are identified and checked for any interferences. The external and internal meshes of these concepts are evaluated by using computationally efficient loaded gear tooth contact analysis model to predict their performance metrics such as transmission error amplitudes and contact and root stresses. They are then rank-ordered based on their performance metrics to identify balanced planetary gear set designs meeting all requirements equally well. At the end, results of an example design search were presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed methodology in defining a balanced solution that is acceptable in terms of all of its requirements.
Kernohan's notch and misdiagnosis of disorders of consciousness
Authors: Simonin Alexandre , Levivier Marc , Nistor Sofia , Diserens Karin
Published: February 2014

A 69-year-old man presented with a sudden headache followed by unconsciousness. There was no head injury. The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score was 3/15 and there was a left mydriasis, unreactive to light. The CT-scan showed a left acute subdural haematoma causing a remarkable mass effect. A supratentorial hemispheric craniotomy was performed. Nevertheless, after several weeks at the intensive care unit (ICU), the patient was still unresponsive to external stimuli and did not show any motor activity. A comfort care attitude was decided on with the family and the patient was extubated. However, a few days later, the patient subsequently showed a surprisingly favourable course, with improved wakefulness. Indeed, the GCS score improved, and the treatment plan was modified so that the patient benefited from rehabilitation. The MRI showed a right cerebral peduncle lesion, consistent with a Kernohan–Woltman notch phenomenon (KWNP). Six months later, the patient was able to walk and live quite normally.
Lateral rectus palsy following coronary angiography and percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Nicholson Luke , Jones Ruth , Hughes David S
Published: February 2014

We present a rare case of unilateral lateral rectus palsy following an elective coronary angiography and percutaneous coronary intervention in a 78-year-oldwoman. Ophthalmoplegia following coronary angiography is extremely rare and this is the first case of a unilateral lateral rectus palsy following the procedure.
Investigation of meta- and in-stability effects in hydrogenated microcrystalline silicon thin films by the steady-state measurement methods
Authors: Günes Mehmet , Cansever Hamza , Yilmaz Gökhan , Sagban Muzaffer H. , Smirnov Vladimir , Finger Friedhelm , Brüggemann Rudolf
Published: February 2014

Metastability effects because of atmospheric exposure, high purity gasses, and deionized water in hydrogenated microcrystalline silicon thin films with different crystalline volume fractions were studied using well accepted steady-state characterization methods of dark conductivity, steady-state photoconductivity, steady-state photocarrier grating (SSPG) and dual beam photoconductivity (DBP) methods. A standard measurement procedure has been established before using the steady state methods, in which a steady state condition of dark conductivity was established by monitoring the time dependence of dark conductivity. Samples deposited on smooth glass and rough glass substrates exhibit similar reversible and irreversible changes in the properties of microcrystalline silicon film. A reliable correlation of reversible and irreversible changes indicate that dark conductivity and photoconductivity values increase, sub-bandgap absorption spectrum obtained from DBP method decrease and correspondingly minority carrier diffusion lengths obtained from the SSPG method increase in the metastable state in various amount for microcrystalline films with crystalline volume fraction, [Formula: see text] > 0.30. Amorphous silicon and microcrystalline silicon films with [Formula: see text] < 0.30 do not show detectable metastable changes as samples exposed to atmospheric condition as well as high purity oxygen gas and deionized water.
Production of Biodiesel fromChlorellasp. Enriched with Oyster Shell Extracts
Authors: Choi Cheol Soon , Choi Woon Yong , Kang Do Hyung , Lee Hyeon Yong
Published: February 2014

This study investigated the cultivation of the marine microalgaChlorellasp. without supplying an inorganic carbon source, but instead with enriching the media with extracts of oyster shells pretreated by a high-pressure homogenization process. The pretreated oyster shells were extracted by a weak acid, acetic acid, that typically has harmful effects on cell growth and also poses environmental issues. The concentration of the residual dissolved carbon dioxide in the medium was sufficient to maintain cell growth at 32 ppm and pH 6.5 by only adding 5% (v/v) of oyster shell extracts. Under this condition, the maximum cell density observed was 2.74 g dry wt./L after 27 days of cultivation. The total lipid content was also measured as 18.1 (%, w/w), and this value was lower than the 23.6 (%, w/w) observed under nitrogen deficient conditions or autotrophic conditions. The fatty acid compositions of the lipids were also measured as 10.9% of C16:1 and 16.4% of C18:1 for the major fatty acids, which indicates that the biodiesel from this culture process should be a suitable biofuel. These results suggest that oyster shells, environmental waste from the food industry, can be used as a nutrient and carbon source with seawater, and this reused material should be important for easily scaling up the process for an outdoor culture system.
Protein-Protein Interaction Detection: Methods and Analysis
Authors: Rao V. Srinivasa , Srinivas K. , Sujini G. N. , Kumar G. N. Sunand
Published: February 2014

Protein-protein interaction plays key role in predicting the protein function of target protein and drug ability of molecules. The majority of genes and proteins realize resulting phenotype functions as a set of interactions. Thein vitroandin vivomethods like affinity purification, Y2H (yeast 2 hybrid), TAP (tandem affinity purification), and so forth have their own limitations like cost, time, and so forth, and the resultant data sets are noisy and have more false positives to annotate the function of drug molecules. Thus,in silicomethods which include sequence-based approaches, structure-based approaches, chromosome proximity, gene fusion,in silico2 hybrid, phylogenetic tree, phylogenetic profile, and gene expression-based approaches were developed. Elucidation of protein interaction networks also contributes greatly to the analysis of signal transduction pathways. Recent developments have also led to the construction of networks having all the protein-protein interactions using computational methods for signaling pathways and protein complex identification in specific diseases.
GCKGene-Body Hypomethylation Is Associated with the Risk of Coronary Heart Disease
Authors: Xu Limin , Zheng Dawei , Wang Lingyan , Jiang Danjie , Liu Haibo , Xu Leiting , Liao Qi , Zhang Lina , Liu Panpan , Shi Xinbao , Wang Zhaoyang , Sun Lebo , Zhou Qingyun , Li Ni , Huang Yi , Le Yanping , Ye Meng , Shao Guofeng , Duan Shiwei
Published: February 2014

Objectives. Glucokinase encoded byGCKis a key enzyme that facilitates phosphorylation of glucose to glucose-6-phosphate. Variants ofGCKgene were shown to be associated with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and coronary heart disease (CHD). The goal of this study was to investigate the contribution ofGCKgene-body methylation to the risk of CHD.Design and Methods. 36 patients (18 males and 18 females) and 36 age- and sex-matched controls were collected for the current methylation research. DNA methylation level of the CpG island (CGI) region on theGCKgene-body was measured through the sodium bisulfite DNA conversion and pyrosequencing technology.Results.Our results indicated that CHD cases have a much lower methylation level (49.77 ± 6.43%) compared with controls (54.47 ± 7.65%,P=0.018). In addition,GCKgene-body methylation was found to be positively associated with aging in controls (r=0.443,P=0.010).Conclusions. Our study indicated that the hypomethylation ofGCKgene-body was significantly associated with the risk of CHD. Aging correlates with an elevation ofGCKmethylation in healthy controls.
Exploring Low-Income Families’ Financial Barriers to Food Allergy Management and Treatment
Authors: Minaker Leia M. , Elliott Susan J. , Clarke Ann
Published: February 2014

Objectives. Low-income families may face financial barriers to management and treatment of chronic illnesses. No studies have explored how low-income individuals and families with anaphylactic food allergies cope with financial barriers to anaphylaxis management and/or treatment. This study explores qualitatively assessed direct, indirect, and intangible costs of anaphylaxis management and treatment faced by low-income families. Methods. In-depth, semistructured interviews with 23 participants were conducted to gain insight into income-related barriers to managing and treating anaphylactic food allergies. Results. Perceived direct costs included the cost of allergen-free foods and allergy medication and costs incurred as a result of misinformation about social support programs. Perceived indirect costs included those associated with lack of continuity of health care. Perceived intangible costs included the stress related to the difficulty of obtaining allergen-free foods at the food bank and feeling unsafe at discount grocery stores. These perceived costs represented barriers that were perceived as especially salient for the working poor, immigrants, youth living in poverty, and food bank users. Discussion. Low-income families report significant financial barriers to food allergy management and anaphylaxis preparedness. Clinicians, advocacy groups, and EAI manufacturers all have a role to play in ensuring equitable access to medication for low-income individuals with allergies.
Expression of EpCAM Increases in the Hepatitis B Related and the Treatment-Resistant Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Kimura Osamu , Kondo Yasuteru , Kogure Takayuki , Kakazu Eiji , Ninomiya Masashi , Iwata Tomoaki , Morosawa Tatsuki , Shimosegawa Tooru
Published: February 2014

Increasing evidence supports the important role of cancer stem cells (CSCs). Many reports suggest that epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) is a useful marker for cancer stem cells in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). To elucidate the mechanisms of cancer stem cells, the development of specific molecular targeted drugs has become very important. In the present study, we examined the EpCAM expression pattern and its characteristic expression in resected HCC. We studied the drug resistance of EpCAM expression cells. EpCAM expression was detected significantly more frequently with hepatitis B virus (HBV) than with other etiologies. In HCC resection patients who had received prior treatment (transcatheter arterial embolization or hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy), EpCAM was strongly expressed. In particular, very strong expression was observed after hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy. The PLC/PRF/5 human HCC cell line expressed bimodal EpCAM, and EpCAM-positive cells had CSC cell potency. The EpCAM expression in EpCAM-positive cells increased significantly by treatment with cisplatin. EpCAM-positive cells showed better viability than EpCAM-negative cells when treated with ciplatin. Collectively, our results suggest that cancer stem cells are highly expressed in hepatitis B and have potential anticancer drug resistance.
Automatic Three-Dimensional Measurement of Large-Scale Structure Based on Vision Metrology
Authors: Zhu Zhaokun , Guan Banglei , Zhang Xiaohu , Li Daokui , Yu Qifeng
Published: February 2014

All relevant key techniques involved in photogrammetric vision metrology for fully automatic 3D measurement of large-scale structure are studied. A new kind of coded target consisting of circular retroreflective discs is designed, and corresponding detection and recognition algorithms based on blob detection and clustering are presented. Then a three-stage strategy starting with view clustering is proposed to achieve automatic network orientation. As for matching of noncoded targets, the concept of matching path is proposed, and matches for each noncoded target are found by determination of the optimal matching path, based on a novel voting strategy, among all possible ones. Experiments on a fixed keel of airship have been conducted to verify the effectiveness and measuring accuracy of the proposed methods.
Antihyperlipidemic Activity ofAloe succotrinain Rats: Possibly Mediated by Inhibition of HMG-CoA Reductase
Authors: Dhingra Dinesh , Lamba Deepak , Kumar Ramesh , Nath Pashupati , Gauttam Satyaprakash
Published: February 2014

The present study was designed to investigate antihyperlipidemic activity of dried pulp ofAloe succotrinaleaves in Wistar albino rats. Hyperlipidemia was induced in rats by feeding them high fat diet (HFD) or D-fructose (25% w/v) for 4 successive weeks. From 15th to 28th day, dried pulp (100 and 200 mg/kg, p.o) and atorvastatin (10 mg/kg, p.o.) per se were administered 2 h prior to feeding rats with HFD or fructose.Aloe succotrinadid not significantly decrease the body weight of rats. The dried pulp and atorvastatin per se significantly decreased relative liver weight but did not significantly affect relative heart weight. HFD or fructose significantly increased serum total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL-c, and VLDL, and decreased HDL-c; significantly increased liver MDA and decreased GSH levels. The dried pulp (200 mg/kg p.o.) significantly reversed high fat diet-induced and fructose-induced hyperlipidemia and atherogenic index.Aloe succotrinasignificantly decreased HMG Co-A reductase activity. Antihyperlipidemic effect of the dried pulp was comparable to atorvastatin. Thus,Aloe succotrinaproduced significant antihyperlipidemic activity in both HFD and fructose-induced hyperlipidemic rats, possibly through normalization of serum lipid profile, HMG-CoA reductase inhibitory activity, and amelioration of oxidative stress in liver.
Palm Vein Verification Using Multiple Features and Locality Preserving Projections
Authors: Al-juboori Ali Mohsin , Bu Wei , Wu Xiangqian , Zhao Qiushi
Published: February 2014

Biometrics is defined as identifying people by their physiological characteristic, such as iris pattern, fingerprint, and face, or by some aspects of their behavior, such as voice, signature, and gesture. Considerable attention has been drawn on these issues during the last several decades. And many biometric systems for commercial applications have been successfully developed. Recently, the vein pattern biometric becomes increasingly attractive for its uniqueness, stability, and noninvasiveness. A vein pattern is the physical distribution structure of the blood vessels underneath a person’s skin. The palm vein pattern is very ganglion and it shows a huge number of vessels. The attitude of the palm vein vessels stays in the same location for the whole life and its pattern is definitely unique. In our work, the matching filter method is proposed for the palm vein image enhancement. New palm vein features extraction methods, global feature extracted based on wavelet coefficients and locality preserving projections (WLPP), and local feature based on local binary pattern variance and locality preserving projections (LBPV_LPP) have been proposed. Finally, the nearest neighbour matching method has been proposed that verified the test palm vein images. The experimental result shows that the EER to the proposed method is 0.1378%.
The Efficacy of Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection of Type I Gastric Carcinoid Tumors Compared with Conventional Endoscopic Mucosal Resection
Authors: Kim Hyung Hun , Kim Gwang Ha , Kim Ji Hyun , Choi Myung-Gyu , Song Geun Am , Kim Sung Eun
Published: February 2014

Background and Aims. Conventional endoscopic submucosal resection (EMR) of carcinoid tumors often involves the resection margin, which necessitates further intervention. Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is widely accepted for removing carcinoid tumors. We aimed to evaluate the clinical usefulness of ESD with that of EMR for resection of type I gastric carcinoid tumors.Patients and Methods. The study enrolled 62 patients (37 males, 25 females; median age, 50 years; range, 40–68 years) who were treated with EMR or ESD at three hospitals; the study group had 87 type I gastric carcinoid tumors with an estimated size of ≤10 mm. The complete resection rate and the complications associated with these two procedures were analyzed.Results. The overall ESD complete resection rate was higher than that of the EMR rate (94.9% versus 83.3%,Pvalue = 0.174). A statistically lower vertical margin involvement rate was achieved when ESD was performed compared to when EMR was performed (2.6% versus 16.7%,Pvalue = 0.038). The complication rate was not significantly different between the two groups.Conclusions. ESD showed a higher complete resection rate, particularly for the vertical margin, with a similar complication rate. We mildly recommend ESD rather than EMR for removing type I gastric carcinoid tumors.
A Method to Determine Energy and Power of a Fracture Process in Polycrystals by Means of HVTEM
Authors: Tamayo-Meza Pedro Alejandro , Yermishkin Viacheslav Alexandrovich , Sandoval-Pineda Juan Manuel , Flores-Herrera Luis Armando , Rodríguez-Cañizo Ricardo Gustavo
Published: February 2014

Main crack propagation process in polycrystalline materials is very complex due to intercrystalline sliding mechanism effects. Multiple factors make it considerably difficult to analyze the state of stresses in the crack tip within the theoretical scope of linear fracture mechanics (LFM). As a basis for the suggested Bilby-Cottrell-Swinden model, we propose a method to determine the state of stresses in the tip of a propagating crack in microspecimens subjected to tension and measured inside a high voltage transmission electron microscope (HVTEM). Based on the electron microscopy observations of a main crack and the formation of microcracks in the plastic zone, theJ-integral was determined.
Fluorescence Spectroscopy Study on the Interaction of Acetal Cleavable Anionic Surfactants and Bovine Serum Albumin
Authors: Zhang Xin , Bian Jianhong , Zhai Wenjie , Dong Jing , Liang Huihui , Zhang Zhao
Published: February 2014

The interactions between bovine serum albumin (BSA) and two cleavable anionic surfactants, sodium 3-[(2-nonyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy]propane-1-sulfonate (SNPS) and sodium 3,3′-(2-nonyl-1,3-dioxane-5,5-diyl)bis(methylene)bis(oxy)dipropane-1-sulfonate (SNDPS), have been studied by means of fluorescence spectroscopy and thermodynamic analysis. The fluorescence of BSA is quenched via a static quenching mechanism with the addition of the surfactants. The binding constants of the surfactants and proteins have been measured, with KA(SNPS) = 8.71×104 M−1 and KA(SNDPS) = 7.08 × 104 M−1, respectively. The interaction between surfactants and BSA is mainly of hydrophobic nature, based on the number of binding sites, n[n(SNPS) = 1.57, n(SNDPS) = 1.47], and the thermodynamic relationship. These results suggest that SNPS and SNDPS could be effective protein denaturants for protein separation and analysis.
An Increased Ratio of Glycated Albumin to HbA1c Is Associated with the Degree of Liver Fibrosis in Hepatitis B Virus-Positive Patients
Authors: Enomoto Hirayuki , Aizawa Nobuhiro , Nakamura Hideji , Sakai Yoshiyuki , Iwata Yoshinori , Tanaka Hironori , Ikeda Naoto , Aoki Tomoko , Yuri Yukihisa , Yoh Kazunori , Hashimoto Kenji , Ishii Akio , Takashima Tomoyuki , Iwata Kazunari , Saito Masaki , Imanishi Hiroyasu , Iijima Hiroko , Nishiguchi Shuhei
Published: February 2014

Background. In hepatitis B virus- (HBV-) positive patients, the relationship between the metabolic variables and histological degree of liver fibrosis has been poorly investigated.Methods. A total of 176 HBV-positive patients were assessed in whom the ratios of glycated albumin-to-glycated hemoglobin (GA/HbA1c) were calculated in order to investigate the relationship with the degree of liver fibrosis.Results. The GA/HbA1c ratio increased in association with the severity of fibrosis (METAVIR scores: F0-1: 2.61 ± 0.24, F2: 2.65 ± 0.24, F3: 2.74 ± 0.38, and F4: 2.91 ± 0.63). The GA/HbA1c ratios were inversely correlated with four variables of liver function: the prothrombin time (PT) percentage (P<0.0001), platelet count (P<0.0001), albumin value (P<0.0001), and cholinesterase value (P<0.0001). The GA/HbA1c ratio was positively correlated with two well-known markers of liver fibrosis, FIB-4 (P<0.0001) and the AST-to-platelet ratio index (APRI) (P<0.0001). Furthermore, the GA/HbA1c showed better correlations with two variables of liver function (PT percentage and cholinesterase value) than did FIB-4 and with all four variables than did the APRI.Conclusion. The GA/HbA1c ratio is associated with the degree of liver fibrosis in HBV-positive patients.

Corrigendum to “An Increased Ratio of Glycated Albumin to HbA1c Is Associated with the Degree of Liver Fibrosis in Hepatitis B Virus-Positive Patients”
Nodal Promotes the Self-Renewal of Human Colon Cancer Stem Cells via an Autocrine Manner through Smad2/3 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Gong Yuehua , Guo Ying , Hai Yanan , Yang Hao , Liu Yang , Yang Shi , Zhang Zhenzhen , Ma Meng , Liu Linhong , Li Zheng , He Zuping
Published: February 2014

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common and fatal tumors. However, molecular mechanisms underlying carcinogenesis of colorectal cancer remain largely undefined. Here, we explored the expression and function of Nodal in colon cancer stem cells (CCSCs). Nodal and its receptors were present in numerous human colorectal cancer cell lines. NODAL and ALK-4 were coexpressed in human colon cancerous tissues, and NODAL, CD24, and CD44, markers for CCSCs, were expressed at higher levels in human colon cancerous tissues than adjacent noncancerous colon tissues. Human CCSCs were isolated by magnetic activated cell sorting using anti-CD24 and anti-CD44. Nodal transcript and protein were hardly detectable in CD44- or CD24-negative human colorectal cancer cell lines, whereas Nodal and its receptors were present in CCSCs. Notably, Nodal facilitated spheroid formation of human CCSCs, and phosphorylation of Smad2 and Smad3 was activated by Nodal in cells of spheres derived from human CCSCs. Collectively, these results suggest that Nodal promotes the self-renewal of human CCSCs and mediate carcinogenesis of human colorectal cancer via an autocrine manner through Smad2/3 pathway. This study provides a novel insight into molecular mechanisms controlling fate of human CCSCs and offers new targets for gene therapy of human colorectal cancer.
Review of Management and Outcomes in Women with Thrombophilia Risk during Pregnancy at a Single Institution
Authors: Khalafallah Alhossain A. , Ibraheem Abdul-Rauf O. , Teo Qiong Yue , AlBarzan Abdul-Majeed , Parameswaran Ramanathan , Hooper Emily , Pavlov Toly , Dennis Amanda E. , Hannan Terry
Published: February 2014

Pregnancy is a hypercoagulable state associated with an increased risk of venous thromboembolic disease (VTE). We retrospectively studied 38 Caucasian pregnant women with thrombophilia risk and compared their obstetric outcomes with a matched cohort without known thrombophilia risk during the period between January 2007 and December 2010. There were (2) cases with factor V Leiden, (6) prothrombin gene mutation, (1) antithrombin III deficiency, (2) protein C deficiency, (3) protein S deficiency, (10) MTHFR mutation, (7) anti-cardiolipin antibodies, and (1) lupus anticoagulant. Patients without thrombophilia who presented with recurrent unprovoked VTE were considered as high risk (6 cases). Most patients received anticoagulation (34/38) with aspirin only (6), enoxaparin (27), and warfarin (1). Twenty-six out of thirty-eight pregnant women (68.4%) with an increased risk of thrombophilia experienced one or more obstetric complications defined as hypertension, preeclampsia, placenta abruptio, VTE, and oligohydramnios, compared with 15 out of 40 (37.5%) pregnant women in the control group (OR 3.6; 95% CI 1.42, 9.21,P<0.001). The incidence of obstetric complications was significantly higher in the thrombophilia group compared to the controls. However, these complications were the lowest among patients who received full-dose anticoagulation. Our study suggests that strict application of anticoagulation therapy for thrombophilia of pregnancy is associated with an improved pregnancy outcome. The study was registered in the Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry underACTRN12612001094864.
Channel-Slot Aggregation Diversity Based Slot Reservation Scheme for Cognitive Radio Ad Hoc Networks
Authors: Kamruzzaman S. M. , Alghamdi Abdullah , Alelaiwi Abdulhameed , Mehedi Hassan Mohammad
Published: February 2014

In cognitive radio (CR) ad hoc networks, spectrum efficiency and energy efficiency are vitally important because spectrum availability is opportunistic in nature and mobile CR nodes usually have limited energy. Aiming to improve network throughput along with improving spectrum and energy efficiencies, this paper proposes a channel-slot aggregation diversity based slot reservation (CADSR) scheme by which each CR node can utilize multiple slots in different channels simultaneously and efficiently utilize the power control mechanism with only a single CR transceiver. The proposed scheme dynamically assigns channel-slots to CR nodes using the diversity technique according to the topology density of the network and the bandwidth requirement, allowing CR nodes to join and leave the network at any time in a distributed way. A dynamic frame length expansion and shrinking scheme has also been introduced that improves the slot utilization. Extensive simulation results show that the proposed mechanism achieves significant performance improvement in network throughput, energy efficiency, and end-to-end delay.
A Nonlinear k‐ε Turbulence Model Applicable to High Pressure Gradient and Large Curvature Flow
Authors: Gu Xiyao , Yin Junlian , Liu Jintao , Wu Yulin
Published: February 2014

Most of the RANS turbulence models solve the Reynolds stress by linear hypothesis with isotropic model. They can not capture all kinds of vortexes in the turbomachineries. In this paper, an improved nonlinear k‐ε turbulence model is proposed, which is modified from the RNG k‐ε turbulence model and Wilcox′s k‐ω turbulence model. The Reynolds stresses are solved by nonlinear methods. The nonlinear k‐ε turbulence model can calculate the near wall region without the use of wall functions. The improved nonlinear k‐ε turbulence model is used to simulate the flow field in a curved rectangular duct. The results based on the improved nonlinear k‐ε turbulence model agree well with the experimental results. The calculation results prove that the nonlinear k‐ε turbulence model is available for high pressure gradient flows and large curvature flows, and it can be used to capture complex vortexes in a turbomachinery.
Error Estimate of Eigenvalues of Perturbed Higher-Order Discrete Vector Boundary Value Problems
Authors: Lv Haiyan , Shi Yuming , Ren Guojing
Published: February 2014

This paper is concerned with the eigenvalues of perturbed higher-order discrete vector boundary value problems. A suitable admissible function space is first introduced, a new variational formula of eigenvalues is then established under certain nonsingularity conditions, and error estimates of eigenvalues of problems with small perturbation are finally given by using the variational formula. As a direct consequence, continuous dependence of eigenvalues on boundary value problems is obtained under the nonsingularity conditions. In addition, two special perturbed cases are discussed.