bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Attenuation of erythrocyte membrane oxidative stress bySesbania grandiflorain streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats
Authors: Sureka Chandrabose , Ramesh Thiyagarajan , Begum Vavamohaideen Hazeena
Published: June 2015

The aim of the present study was to investigate the protective effects of Sesbania grandiflora flower (SGF) extract on erythrocyte membrane in Streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. Adult male albino rats of Wistar strain, weighing 190–220 g, were made diabetic by an intraperitonial administration of STZ (45 mg/kg). Normal and diabetic rats were treated with SGF, and diabetic rats were also treated with glibenclamide as drug control, for 45 days. In this study plasma insulin and haemoglobin levels were decreased and blood glucose, glycosylated haemoglobin, protein oxidation, lipid peroxidation markers, and osmotic fragility levels were increased in diabetic rats. Moreover, erythrocytes antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxide, glutathione reductase, glutathione-S-transferase, and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activities and non-enzymatic antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E, reduced glutathione (GSH), and oxidized glutathione (GSSG) levels were altered. Similarly, the activities of total ATPases, Na+/K+-ATPase, Ca2+-ATPase, and Mg2+-ATPase were also decreased in the erythrocytes of diabetic rats. Administration of SGF to STZ-induced diabetic rats reduced blood glucose and glycosylated haemoglobin levels with increased levels of insulin and haemoglobin. Moreover, SGF reversed the protein and lipid peroxidation markers, osmotic fragility, membrane-bound ATPases activities, and antioxidant status in STZ-induced diabetic rats. These results suggest that SGF could provide a protective effect on diabetes by decreasing oxidative stress-associated diabetic complications.
No-take marine reserves can enhance population persistence and support the fishery of abalone
Authors: Rossetto Marisa , Micheli Fiorenza , Saenz-Arroyo Andrea , Montes Jose Antonio Espinoza , De Leo Giulio Alessandro
Published: June 2015

A critical aspect in the design of a marine reserve (MR) network is its spatial configuration (i.e., the number, size, and spacing of the individual reserves), particularly how these features influence the effect on fisheries. Here, we derived a size-based, spatially explicit, stochastic demographic model to explore how different spatial configurations of MR networks can affect abundance and commercial yield of the green abalone (Haliotis fulgens), taking as a reference case the abalone fishery of Isla Natividad in Baja California Sur (Mexico). Our analysis suggests that a network of MRs can have a positive effect on abalone population abundance and a slightly negative effect on fishery output with respect to traditional maximum sustainable yield (MSY; i.e., with no reserves). Simulations show that maximum catches achievable with MRs are, under the best configuration, ∼2%–14% lower than traditional MSY depending on the total fraction of the fishing grounds protected. In the case of overexploitation, long-term yields can increase following the implementation of MRs. In addition, in the presence of MRs, abundances and yields are much less sensitive to systematic errors in the enforcement of the optimal harvesting rate compared with situations in which MRs are not present. Given the limited dispersal ability of the species, the best outcomes in terms of fishery output would be achieved with very small reserves — around 100 m wide — so to maximize larval export in the fishable areas. Our results indicate appropriately designed MR networks are an effective strategy for meeting both conservation and economic goals under uncertainty. While the size of the existing reserves in Isla Natividad seems adequate to protect the abalone stock, smaller reserves could maximize fishery benefits, although this poses challenges for enforcement.
Characteristics of forest legacies following two mountain pine beetle outbreaks in British Columbia, Canada
Authors: Alfaro René I. , van Akker Lara , Hawkes Brad
Published: June 2015

The mountain pine beetle, Dendroctonus ponderosae Hopkins (Coleoptera, Curculionidae), a native insect of North America, periodically reaches population sizes that cause serious economic impact to the forest industry in western North America. The most recent outbreak in British Columbia (BC), Canada, which began in the late 1990s, is only now (2015) abating, after causing unprecedented tree mortality in lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta Douglas ex. Loudon) forests. In this paper, we make use of permanent research plots to report on the condition of lodgepole pine forests in the Chilcotin Plateau of central BC, which underwent two fully documented mountain pine beetle outbreaks. In this region, the first outbreak started in the late 1970s and lasted until the mid-1980s; the second outbreak began in the early 2000s and ended in 2010. We measured the impacts of these outbreaks in terms of tree mortality and describe the characteristics of the legacies that remain following these outbreaks, including survivors in various canopy layers and levels of existing and new regeneration. We provide evidence in support of the existence of postdisturbance legacies that classify into five distinct stand structure types. Abundant regeneration and surviving intermediate canopy layers in most stands indicate that management actions to restock pine stands in this area will not likely be necessary. The information provided by this study is important for estimating future forest development and timber supply and for forest planning and management.
Effect of tannic and gallic acids alone or in combination with carbenicillin or tetracycline on Chromobacterium violaceum CV026 growth, motility, and biofilm formation
Authors: Dusane Devendra H. , O’May Che , Tufenkji Nathalie
Published: June 2015

Chromobacterium violaceum is an opportunistic pathogen that causes infections that are difficult to treat. The goal of this research was to evaluate the effect of selected tannins (tannic acid (TA) and gallic acid (GA)) on bacterial growth, motility, antibiotic (carbenicillin, tetracycline) susceptibility, and biofilm formation. Both tannins, particularly TA, impaired bacterial growth levels and swimming motilities at sub-minimum inhibitory concentrations (sub-MICs). In combination with tannins, antibiotics showed increased MICs, suggesting that tannins interfered with antibacterial activity. Sub-MICs of tetracycline or TA alone enhanced biofilm formation of C. violaceum; however, in combination, these compounds inhibited biofilm formation. In contrast, carbenicillin at sub-MICs was effective in inhibiting C. violaceum biofilm formation; however, in combination with lower concentrations of TA or GA, biofilms were enhanced. These results provide insights into the effects of tannins on C. violaceum growth and their varying interaction with antibiotics used to target C. violaceum infections.
A quantitative study of the forbidden and intercombination transitions arising from the Li-like Al autoionizing levels
Authors: Iorga C. , Stancalie V.
Published: June 2015

This work presents results from detailed quantitative description of the level population kinetics responsible for the relatively high line-intensity of the forbidden and intercombination transitions arising from autoionization states. The goal is to investigate the influence of different atomic processes on the emission spectrum of the laser-produced aluminum plasma obtained at the nhelix-laser test bed facility at GSI (PRA 63, 032716). In the experiment a Nd-glass YAG laser beam having 50 J pulse energy, 15 ns full width half maximum duration and 1.064 μm wavelength is focused on a massive Al target. To simulate the experimental reported spectrum, the population kinetics is investigated based on a collisional radiative model. The theoretical spectroscopic investigation reported here indicates the existence of anomalous high intensity X-ray intercombination and two-electron transitions arising from autoionizing states in Li-like Al ion. Detailed atomic structure calculation and kinetics modeling is performed to find out the individual states involved, and the population density distribution over them. Presented results are useful for femtosecond-laser produced plasma experiments and diagnostics.
Influences of vehicles’ fuel consumption and exhaust emissions on the trip cost without late arrival under car-following model
Authors: Tang Tie-Qiao , Yu Qiang
Published: June 2015

In this paper, we use car-following model to explore the influences of the vehicle’s fuel consumption and exhaust emissions on each commuter’s trip cost without late arrival on one open road. Our results illustrate that considering the vehicle’s fuel cost and emission cost only enhances each commuter’s trip cost and the system’s total cost, but has no prominent impacts on his optimal time headway at the origin of each open road under the minimum total cost.
Kinetic model for the molecular system of Zinc(II)-2,9,16,23-phthalocyanine tetracarboxylate
Authors: Al-Omari Saleh
Published: June 2015

Using vis absorption, fluorescence spectral experimental data, and time-resolved measurement, we have examined the kinetics of Zinc(II)-2,9,16,23-phthalocyanine tetracarboxylate ( ZnPc ( COONa )4), which is interesting photosensitizer of far red-absorption in water: NaOH solution. The kinetic parameters were measured and/or calculated. The photophysical properties originate principally from the planar macrocycle while the outer substituent and degree of carboxylation seem not to have a considerable influence on the kinetic parameters. The nonradiative rate constants of the first excited state were dominant due to the heavy metal effect. Using the obtained photophysical parameters, the population dynamics were calculated by kinetic model. On nanosecond scale of 15 ns, about 63% population of the first excited-singlet state is retrieved by the ground state. Whereas, the rest of population are deactivated to the first excited-triplet state. Later on, during about 7 μs starting from the initial decay of the first excited singlet state, the first excited singlet state and the first excited triplet state were completely empty, meanwhile the ground state retrieved its initial population. Due to the fact that ZnPc ( COONa )4 has strong absorption, long lifetimes of the first singlet and triplet excited states, and fast intersystem crossing, it may be suitable for nonlinear optical studies.
Shape memory effect of laser welded NiTi plates
Authors: Oliveira J. P. , Fernandes F. M. Braz , Schell N. , Miranda R. M.
Published: June 2015

Laser welding is a suitable joining technique for shape memory alloys (SMAs). This paper reports the existence of shape memory effect (SME) on laser welded NiTi joints, subjected to bending tests, and correlates this effect with the microstructural analysis performed with X-ray diffraction (XRD). All welded samples were able to recover their initial shape after bending to 180°, which is a remarkable result for industrial applications of NiTi involving laser welding.
Effect of crystal size distribution on thermoelectric performance for Lanthanum-doped strontium titanate bulk material
Authors: Zhang Boyu , Wang Jun , Yaer Xinba , Huo Zhenzhen , Wu Yin , Li Yan , Miao Lei , Liu Chengyan , Zou Tao , Ma Wen
Published: June 2015

Effect of crystal size distribution on thermoelectric performance of Lanthanum-doped strontium titanate ( La - SrTiO 3) ceramics are investigated in this study. Thermoelectric performance measurement, coupled with microstructure studies, shows that the electrical conductivity strongly depends on the crystal size, potential barrier on the grain boundary and porosity. Meantime, because the average potential barriers height are increased along with the reduction of crystal size, the Seebeck coefficients are increased by energy filtering effect at the large number of grain boundaries. As a result, by controlling of crystal size distribution, ZT value of La - SrTiO 3 is improved.
THE DISPOSITION EFFECT, ESCALATION OF COMMITMENT AND HERDING BEHAVIOR OF MUTUAL FUND MANAGERS
Authors: LIN YU-EN , CHIH HSIANG-HSUAN , HUANG TAI-HSUN , TANG CHIA-HSIEN
Published: June 2015

This paper investigates the relationship between deposition effect and escalation of commitment and herding behavior. First, this paper ranks the mutual fund into five groups by herding style, and we examine deposition spread (DISP) and escalation of commitment dispread (ESCA) zero investment portfolios in each herding style portfolio. Then, we investigate whether the paper gain ratio or paper loss ratio impacts on herding behavior after controlling other characteristics. Our results can be summarized as follow: First, deposition effect and escalation of commitment has negative impact on mutual fund performance. Second, in buy herding style fund, the deposition effect and escalation of commitment has the most negative impact on performance, however, in sell herding style fund, the negative effect disappears. Finally, we find the deposition effect indeed impacts the herding behavior.
Palaeogene climate evolution in the Paris Basin from oxygen stable isotope (δ
18
O) compositions of marine molluscs
Authors: Huyghe Damien , Lartaud Franck , Emmanuel Laurent , Merle Didier , Renard Maurice
Published: June 2015

The constraint of temperature evolution in coastal environments is an important factor in deciphering the Earth’s global climatic history. In this study, we reconstruct the evolution of sea-surface palaeotemperatures from the oxygen stable isotope compositions in four marine molluscs families in the Paris Basin during the Palaeogene. The combination of several taxa living in different environments is used to limit uncertainties related to the influence of salinity variations on palaeotemperature estimations. One family of bivalves (oysters) and three families of gastropods (Volutidae, Cerithiidae and Turritellidae) were sampled in the French part of the Paris Basin, in Belgium and in the Isle of Wight (southern England). Maximum seawater temperatures were observed during the Early Eocene (
c
. 30°C), which correspond to the Early Eocene Climatic Optimum, and temperatures then decreased until the Lutetian (
c
. 20°C). A transient warming, identified as the Middle Eocene Climatic Optimum, occurred during the Bartonian, when temperatures reached 32°C. Temperatures decreased through the Eocene–Oligocene boundary, the coolest interval of the Palaeogene (
c
. 12°C). A final warming period occurred throughout the Early Oligocene, with temperatures reaching 24°C. The fossils analysed thus record the global climatic intervals of the Palaeogene.

Supplementary materials:

Localities, formations, isotopic data, salinities and temperatures evolutions for all fossils analyzed in this study are available at
http://www.geolsoc.org.uk/SUP18839
.
Ikaite pseudomorphs in Neoproterozoic Dalradian slates record Earth’s coldest metamorphism
Authors: Dempster Tim , Jess Scott A.
Published: June 2015

Calcite pseudomorphs have replaced euhedral ikaite (CaCO
3
.6H
2
O) porphyroblasts in Dalradian calcareous slates and metadolostones of western Scotland, with a volume decrease of at least 47%. Porphyroblast–fabric relationships indicate that the initial growth of ikaite post-dates a penetrative tectonic fabric developed during upright folding. This is the first reported occurrence of metamorphic ikaite porphyroblasts and points towards growth within the slates during an ultra-low-temperature metamorphism with an exceptionally low geothermal gradient. This event is associated with the penetration of long-lived and extreme permafrost deep into subaerially exposed bedrock during Neoproterozoic glaciation. The presence of the well-preserved pseudomorphs within the Easdale slates of the Argyll Group implies that a Neoproterozoic orogenic unconformity exists above the stratigraphic position of these rocks.
A Review of Dr. Robert France's Contributions and Impact on Model-Driven Engineering and Software Engineering
Authors: Cheng Betty H.C.
Published: June 2015

Robert B. France was one of the pioneers in model-driven engineering and instrumental in shaping the field of model-driven engineering from two complementary dimensions: research and building collaborative communities. In both dimensions, an overarching quality is the notion of inclusiveness and bridge building. Dr. France built bridges between research communities, between researchers and practitioners, between individual researchers, and between senior and junior researchers. This article describes a few highlights from both dimensions, focusing on the "bridging" aspects in each
The exocyst gene Sec10 regulates renal epithelial monolayer homeostasis and apoptotic sensitivity
Authors: Polgar Noemi , Lee Amanda J. , Lui Vanessa H. , Napoli Josephine A. , Fogelgren Ben
Published: June 2015

The highly conserved exocyst protein complex regulates polarized exocytosis of subsets of secretory vesicles. A previous study reported that shRNA knockdown of an exocyst central subunit, Sec10 (Sec10-KD) in Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells disrupted primary cilia assembly and 3D cyst formation. We used three-dimensional collagen cultures of MDCK cells to further investigate the mechanisms by which Sec10 and the exocyst regulate epithelial polarity, morphogenesis, and homeostasis. Sec10-KD cysts initially demonstrated undisturbed lumen formation although later displayed significantly fewer and shorter primary cilia than controls. Later in cystogenesis, control cells maintained normal homeostasis, while Sec10-KD cysts displayed numerous apoptotic cells extruded basally into the collagen matrix. Sec10-KD MDCK cells were also more sensitive to apoptotic triggers than controls. These phenotypes were reversed by restoring Sec10 expression with shRNA-resistant human Sec10. Apico-basal polarity appeared normal in Sec10-KD cysts, whereas mitotic spindle angles differed significantly from controls, suggesting a planar cell polarity defect. In addition, analysis of renal tubules in a newly generated kidney-specific Sec10-knockout mouse model revealed significant defects in primary cilia assembly and in the targeted renal tubules; abnormal epithelial cell extrusion was also observed, supporting our in vitro results. We hypothesize that, in Sec10-KD cells, the disrupted exocyst activity results in increased apoptotic sensitivity through defective primary cilia signaling and that, in combination with an increased basal cell extrusion rate, it affects epithelial barrier integrity and homeostasis.
Circular and longitudinal muscles shortening indicates sliding patterns during peristalsis and transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxation
Authors: Patel Nirali , Jiang Yanfen , Mittal Ravinder K. , Kim Tae Ho , Ledgerwood Melissa , Bhargava Valmik
Published: June 2015

Esophageal axial shortening is caused by longitudinal muscle (LM) contraction, but circular muscle (CM) may also contribute to axial shortening because of its spiral morphology. The goal of our study was to show patterns of contraction of CM and LM layers during peristalsis and transient lower esophageal sphincter (LES) relaxation (TLESR). In rats, esophageal and LES morphology was assessed by histology and immunohistochemistry, and function with the use of piezo-electric crystals and manometry. Electrical stimulation of the vagus nerve was used to induce esophageal contractions. In 18 healthy subjects, manometry and high frequency intraluminal ultrasound imaging during swallow-induced esophageal contractions and TLESR were evaluated. CM and LM thicknesses were measured (40 swallows and 30 TLESRs) as markers of axial shortening, before and at peak contraction, as well as during TLESRs. Animal studies revealed muscular connections between the LM and CM layers of the LES but not in the esophagus. During vagal stimulated esophageal contraction there was relative movement between the LM and CM. Human studies show that LM-to-CM (LM/CM) thickness ratio at baseline was 1. At the peak of swallow-induced contraction LM/CM ratio decreased significantly (<1), whereas the reverse was the case during TLESR (>2). The pattern of contraction of CM and LM suggests sliding of the two muscles. Furthermore, the sliding patterns are in the opposite direction during peristalsis and TLESR.
Central mechanisms regulating coordinated cardiovascular and respiratory function during stress and arousal
Authors: Dampney Roger A. L.
Published: June 2015

Actual or potentially threatening stimuli in the external environment (i.e., psychological stressors) trigger highly coordinated defensive behavioral responses that are accompanied by appropriate autonomic and respiratory changes. As discussed in this review, several brain regions and pathways have major roles in subserving the cardiovascular and respiratory responses to threatening stimuli, which may vary from relatively mild acute arousing stimuli to more prolonged life-threatening stimuli. One key region is the dorsomedial hypothalamus, which receives inputs from the cortex, amygdala, and other forebrain regions and which is critical for generating autonomic, respiratory, and neuroendocrine responses to psychological stressors. Recent studies suggest that the dorsomedial hypothalamus also receives an input from the dorsolateral column in the midbrain periaqueductal gray, which is another key region involved in the integration of stress-evoked cardiorespiratory responses. In addition, it has recently been shown that neurons in the midbrain colliculi can generate highly synchronized autonomic, respiratory, and somatomotor responses to visual, auditory, and somatosensory inputs. These collicular neurons may be part of a subcortical defense system that also includes the basal ganglia and which is well adapted to responding to threats that require an immediate stereotyped response that does not involve the cortex. The basal ganglia/colliculi system is phylogenetically ancient. In contrast, the defense system that includes the dorsomedial hypothalamus and cortex evolved at a later time, and appears to be better adapted to generating appropriate responses to more sustained threatening stimuli that involve cognitive appraisal.
Carbonic anhydrase II binds to and increases the activity of the epithelial sodium-proton exchanger, NHE3
Authors: Krishnan Devishree , Liu Lei , Wiebe Shane A. , Casey Joseph R. , Cordat Emmanuelle , Alexander R. Todd
Published: June 2015

Two-thirds of sodium filtered by the renal glomerulus is reabsorbed from the proximal tubule via a sodium/proton exchanger isoform 3 (NHE3)-dependent mechanism. Since sodium and bicarbonate reabsorption are coupled, we postulated that the molecules involved in their reabsorption [NHE3 and carbonic anhydrase II (CAII)] might physically and functionally interact. Consistent with this, CAII and NHE3 were closely associated in a renal proximal tubular cell culture model as revealed by a proximity ligation assay. Direct physical interaction was confirmed in solid-phase binding assays with immobilized CAII and C-terminal NHE3 glutathione- S-transferase fusion constructs. To assess the effect of CAII on NHE3 function, we expressed NHE3 in a proximal tubule cell line and measured NHE3 activity as the rate of intracellular pH recovery, following an acid load. NHE3-expressing cells had a significantly greater rate of intracellular pH recovery than controls. Inhibition of endogenous CAII activity with acetazolamide significantly decreased NHE3 activity, indicating that CAII activates NHE3. To ascertain whether CAII binding per se activates NHE3, we expressed NHE3 with wild-type CAII, a catalytically inactive CAII mutant (CAII-V143Y), or a mutant unable to bind other transporters (CAII-HEX). NHE3 activity increased upon wild-type CAII coexpression, but not in the presence of the CAII V143Y or HEX mutant. Together these studies support an association between CAII and NHE3 that alters the transporter's activity.
Different dynamic resting state fMRI patterns are linked to different frequencies of neural activity
Authors: Thompson Garth John , Pan Wen-Ju , Keilholz Shella Dawn
Published: June 2015

Resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rsfMRI) results have indicated that network mapping can contribute to understanding behavior and disease, but it has been difficult to translate the maps created with rsfMRI to neuroelectrical states in the brain. Recently, dynamic analyses have revealed multiple patterns in the rsfMRI signal that are strongly associated with particular bands of neural activity. To further investigate these findings, simultaneously recorded invasive electrophysiology and rsfMRI from rats were used to examine two types of electrical activity (directly measured low-frequency/infraslow activity and band-limited power of higher frequencies) and two types of dynamic rsfMRI (quasi-periodic patterns or QPP, and sliding window correlation or SWC). The relationship between neural activity and dynamic rsfMRI was tested under three anesthetic states in rats: dexmedetomidine and high and low doses of isoflurane. Under dexmedetomidine, the lightest anesthetic, infraslow electrophysiology correlated with QPP but not SWC, whereas band-limited power in higher frequencies correlated with SWC but not QPP. Results were similar under isoflurane; however, the QPP was also correlated to band-limited power, possibly due to the burst-suppression state induced by the anesthetic agent. The results provide additional support for the hypothesis that the two types of dynamic rsfMRI are linked to different frequencies of neural activity, but isoflurane anesthesia may make this relationship more complicated. Understanding which neural frequency bands appear as particular dynamic patterns in rsfMRI may ultimately help isolate components of the rsfMRI signal that are of interest to disorders such as schizophrenia and attention deficit disorder.
Distinct interneuronal networks influence excitability of the surround during movement initiation
Authors: Thirugnanasambandam Nivethida , Khera Rohan , Wang Han , Kukke Sahana N. , Hallett Mark
Published: June 2015

Surround inhibition (SI) is a feature of motor control in which activation of task-related muscles is associated with inhibition of neighboring, nonprotagonist muscles, allowing selective motor control. The physiological basis for SI still remains unknown. In all previous studies, SI in the motor system was measured during movement initiation by using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to deliver a posteroanterior current at a single suprathreshold intensity. To expand our understanding of SI, we explored this phenomenon at a wide range of intensities and by stimulating motor cortex with currents along anteroposterior and lateromedial directions. Fifteen healthy volunteers performed a brief isometric index finger flexion on hearing a tone. Electromyography was recorded from the synergist and surround finger muscles. Single-pulse TMS was applied to stimulate the surround muscle at different intensities at rest or movement initiation. The motor evoked potential (MEP) amplitudes were then plotted against stimulation intensities to obtain the MEP recruitment curves for the rest and movement initiation conditions and for the three current directions for every subject. From the recruitment curves, we found that surround inhibition could be elicited only by the posteroanterior current. Hence, we postulate that surround inhibition is mediated by intracortical circuits in the motor cortex. Also, for the first time, we observed surround facilitation when the motor cortex was stimulated with anteroposterior current. Further studies are needed to investigate the mechanisms underlying both these phenomena individually in healthy subjects and patients with dystonia and other movement disorders.
Association of FTO Mutations with Risk and Survival of Breast Cancer in a Chinese Population
Authors: Zeng Xianxu , Ban Zhenying , Cao Jing , Zhang Wei , Chu Tianjiao , Lei Dongmei , Du Yanmin
Published: June 2015

Recently, several studies have reported associations between fat mass and obesity-associated (FTO) gene mutations and cancer susceptibility. But little is known about their association with risk and survival of breast cancer in Chinese population. The aim of this study is to examine whether cancer-related FTO polymorphisms are associated with risk and survival of breast cancer and BMI levels in controls in a Chinese population. We genotyped six FTO polymorphisms in a case-control study, including 537 breast cancer cases and 537 controls. FTO rs1477196 AA genotype had significant decreased breast cancer risk [odds ratio (OR) = 0.54, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.34–0.86] compared to GG genotype, and this association was only found in women with BMI < 24 kg/m2(OR = 0.41, 95% CI: 0.22–0.76); and rs16953002 AA genotype conferred significant increased breast cancer risk (OR = 1.80, 95% CI: 1.23–2.63) compared to GG genotype. Haplotype analysis showed that FTO TAC haplotype (rs9939609-rs1477196-rs1121980) had significant reduced breast cancer risk (OR = 0.76, 95% CI: 0.62–0.93) compared with TGC haplotype. But we failed to find any association between FTO polymorphisms and breast cancer survival. These findings suggest that variants in FTO gene may influence breast cancer susceptibility.
Interdental Papilla Length and the Perception of Aesthetics in Asymmetric Situations
Authors: Yu Yung Cheng Paul , Alamri Ahmed , Francisco Helena , Cho Sang-Choon , Hirsch Stuart
Published: June 2015

The purpose of the study was to determine if there was a difference in the perception of aesthetics, by dental specialty, using computer assisted asymmetric alteration of the papilla length in the aesthetic zone with an apical alteration of the contact point of the clinical crowns. Standardized photographs were presented to sixty-five randomly selected dentists from New York University College of Dentistry on a computer screen for evaluation. Then, the dental professionals were asked to rate the smile in each picture. Control and experiment photographs were used. Data was analyzed using the statistical package SPSS version 21 and one-way ANOVA. The perception of esthetics depends on the dental professional specialty; results provide evidence that asymmetric deficiency in papilla length of 2 mm or more is perceived as “unattractive” by the dental specialists.
Feasibility and Initial Performance of Simultaneous SPECT-CT Imaging Using a Commercial Multi-Modality Preclinical Imaging System
Authors: Osborne Dustin R. , Austin Derek W.
Published: June 2015

Multi-modality imaging provides coregistered PET-CT and SPECT-CT images; however such multi-modality workflows usually consist of sequential scans from the individual imaging components for each modality. This typical workflow may result in long scan times limiting throughput of the imaging system. Conversely, acquiring multi-modality data simultaneously may improve correlation and registration of images, improve temporal alignment of the acquired data, increase imaging throughput, and benefit the scanned subject by minimizing time under anesthetic. In this work, we demonstrate the feasibility and procedure for modifying a commercially available preclinical SPECT-CT platform to enable simultaneous SPECT-CT acquisition. We also evaluate the performance of simultaneous SPECT-CT tomographic imaging with this modified system. Performance was accessed using a 57Co source and image quality was evaluated with Tc99m phantoms in a series of simultaneous SPECT-CT scans.
An Event-Driven Object Localization Method Assisted by Beacon Mobility and Directional Antennas
Authors: Hu Qingsong , Wu Lixin , Cao Can , Zhang Shen
Published: June 2015

An event-driven object localization method based on directional antennas is proposed in this paper. First the event occurrence spot is divided into four sections. Then low altitude UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) is employed to deploy DAWSN (Wireless Sensor Networks for Disaster Assistance) for urgent observation and communication. By means of a mobile anchor with four directional antennas and a GPS module, obstacle avoidance traverse in DAWSN is realized and the locations during mobility are broadcast. Unknown nodes take these locations as virtual anchors and project them onto a virtual motion path, and then the coordinates of unknown nodes are solved with extended directional localization method. This range-free method does not require plenty of anchor nodes and complicated computation. With small positioning error and large positionable node ratio (PNR), it allows the virtual anchor to move along any curve path and can be utilized under the event-driven scenario to provide self-localization for DAWSN.
Endovascular Treatment of Venous Sinus Stenosis in Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension: Complications, Neurological Outcomes, and Radiographic Results
Authors: Starke Robert M. , Wang Tony , Ding Dale , Durst Christopher R. , Crowley R. Webster , Chalouhi Nohra , Hasan David M. , Dumont Aaron S. , Jabbour Pascal , Liu Kenneth C.
Published: June 2015

Introduction. Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) may result in a chronic debilitating disease. Dural venous sinus stenosis with a physiologic venous pressure gradient has been identified as a potential etiology in a number of IIH patients. Intracranial venous stenting has emerged as a potential treatment alternative. Methods. A systematic review was carried out to identify studies employing venous stenting for IIH. Results. From 2002 to 2014, 17 studies comprising 185 patients who underwent 221 stenting procedures were reported. Mean prestent pressure gradient was 20.1 mmHg (95% CI 19.4–20.7 mmHg) with a mean poststent gradient of 4.4 mmHg (95% CI 3.5–5.2 mmHg). Complications occurred in 10 patients (5.4%; 95% CI 4.7–5.4%) but were major in only 3 (1.6%). At a mean clinical follow‐up of 22 months, clinical improvement was noted in 130 of 166 patients with headaches (78.3%; 95% CI 75.8–80.8%), 84 of 89 patients with papilledema (94.4%; 95% CI 92.1–96.6%), and 64 of 74 patients with visual symptoms (86.5%; 95% CI 83.0–89.9%). In‐stent stenosis was noted in six patients (3.4%; 95% CI 2.5–4.3%) and stent‐adjacent stenosis occurred in 19 patients (11.4%; 95% CI 10.4–12.4), resulting in restenting in 10 patients. Conclusion. In IIH patients with venous sinus stenosis and a physiologic pressure gradient, venous stenting appears to be a safe and effective therapeutic option. Further studies are necessary to determine the long‐term outcomes and the optimal management of medically refractory IIH.
Stability Analysis of Gravity Currents of a Power-Law Fluid in a Porous Medium
Authors: Longo Sandro , Di Federico Vittorio
Published: June 2015

We analyse the linear stability of self-similar shallow, two-dimensional and axisymmetric gravity currents of a viscous power-law non-Newtonian fluid in a porous medium. The flow domain is initially saturated by a fluid lighter than the intruding fluid, whose volume varies with time astα. The transition between decelerated and accelerated currents occurs atα= 2 for two-dimensional and atα= 3 for axisymmetric geometry. Stability is investigated analytically for special values ofαand numerically in the remaining cases; axisymmetric currents are analysed only for radially varying perturbations. The two-dimensional currents are linearly stable forα< 2 (decelerated currents) with a continuum spectrum of eigenvalues and unstable forα= 2, with a growth rate proportional to the square of the fluid behavior index. The axisymmetric currents are linearly stable for anyα< 3 (decelerated currents) with a continuum spectrum of eigenvalues, while forα= 3 no firm conclusion can be drawn. Forα> 2 (two-dimensional accelerated currents) andα> 3 (axisymmetric accelerated currents) the linear stability analysis is of limited value since the hypotheses of the model will be violated.
A Multiconstrained Grid Scheduling Algorithm with Load Balancing and Fault Tolerance
Authors: Keerthika P. , Suresh P.
Published: June 2015

Grid environment consists of millions of dynamic and heterogeneous resources. A grid environment which deals with computing resources is computational grid and is meant for applications that involve larger computations. A scheduling algorithm is said to be efficient if and only if it performs better resource allocation even in case of resource failure. Allocation of resources is a tedious issue since it has to consider several requirements such as system load, processing cost and time, user’s deadline, and resource failure. This work attempts to design a resource allocation algorithm which is budget constrained and also targets load balancing, fault tolerance, and user satisfaction by considering the above requirements. The proposed Multiconstrained Load Balancing Fault Tolerant algorithm (MLFT) reduces the schedule makespan, schedule cost, and task failure rate and improves resource utilization. The proposed MLFT algorithm is evaluated using Gridsim toolkit and the results are compared with the recent algorithms which separately concentrate on all these factors. The comparison results ensure that the proposed algorithm works better than its counterparts.
Molecular Backgrounds of ERAP1 Downregulation in Cervical Carcinoma
Authors: Mehta Akash M. , Osse Michelle , Kolkman-Uljee Sandra , Fleuren Gert Jan , Jordanova Ekaterina S.
Published: June 2015

The antigen processing machinery (APM) plays an important role in immune recognition of virally infected and transformed cells. Defective expression of the APM component ERAP1 is associated with progression and poor clinical outcome in cervical carcinoma. However, the underlying mechanisms of ERAP1 protein downregulation remain to be established. We investigatedERAP1mRNA expression levels in 14 patients with established ERAP1 protein downregulation. To further examine the possible pretranscriptional mechanisms of ERAP1 downregulation,ERAP1DNA mutation status was analyzed alongside existing data on various single nucleotide polymorphisms. Moreover, loss of heterozygosity at various loci in theERAP1gene was investigated. In cases with ERAP1 protein downregulation, ERAP1 mRNA quantities were found to be significantly lower than in a cohort with normal ERAP1 protein expressionP=0.001. Loss of heterozygosity was demonstrated to occur in up to 50% of tumors with ERAP1 downregulation. Our data indicate that ERAP1 downregulation is associated with loss of heterozygosity. These data provide the first insight into in vivo mechanisms of ERAP1 downregulation in cervical carcinoma.
Optimal Economic Operation of Islanded Microgrid by Using a Modified PSO Algorithm
Authors: Ma Yiwei , Yang Ping , Zhao Zhuoli , Wang Yuewu
Published: June 2015

An optimal economic operation method is presented to attain a joint-optimization of cost reduction and operation strategy for islanded microgrid, which includes renewable energy source, the diesel generator, and battery storage system. The optimization objective is to minimize the overall generating cost involving depreciation cost, operation cost, emission cost, and economic subsidy available for renewable energy source, while satisfying various equality and inequality constraints. A novel dynamic optimization process is proposed based on two different operation control modes where diesel generator or battery storage acts as the master unit to maintain the system frequency and voltage stability, and a modified particle swarm optimization algorithm is applied to get faster solution to the practical economic operation problem of islanded microgrid. With the example system of an actual islanded microgrid in Dongao Island, China, the proposed models, dynamic optimization strategy, and solution algorithm are verified and the influences of different operation strategies and optimization algorithms on the economic operation are discussed. The results achieved demonstrate the effectiveness and feasibility of the proposed method.
Helicopter Vibratory Loads Alleviation through Combined Action of Trailing-Edge Flap and Variable-Stiffness Devices
Authors: Gennaretti Massimo , Bernardini Giovanni , Serafini Jacopo , Molica Colella Marco
Published: June 2015

The aim of this paper is the assessment of the capability of controllers based on the combined actuation of flaps and variable-stiffness devices to alleviate helicopter main rotor vibratory hub loads. Trailing-edge flaps are positioned at the rotor blade tip region, whereas variable-stiffness devices are located at the pitch link and at the blade root. Control laws are derived by an optimal control procedure based on the best trade-off between control effectiveness and control effort, under the constraint of satisfaction of the equations governing rotor blade aeroelastic response. The numerical investigation concerns the analysis of performance and robustness of the control techniques developed, through application to a four-bladed helicopter rotor in level flight. The identification of the most efficient control configuration is also attempted.
Multidisciplinary Management of Complicated Crown-Root Fracture of an Anterior Tooth Undergoing Apexification
Authors: Mese Merve , Akcay Merve , Yasa Bilal , Akcay Huseyin
Published: June 2015

The purpose of this case report was to present the multidisciplinary management of a subgingival crown-root fracture of a patient undergoing apexification treatment. A 12-year-old male patient was referred to the pediatric dentistry clinic with an extensive tooth fracture of the right permanent maxillary lateral incisor. Clinical and radiographic examinations revealed the presence of a complicated crown-root fracture, which had elongated to the buccal subgingival area. The dental history disclosed that the apexification procedure had been started to be performed after his first trauma experience and he had neglected his appointment. The coronal fragment was gently extracted; endodontic treatment was performed; flap surgery was performed to make the fracture line visible. The coronal fragment was reattached to the root fragment with a dual-cure luting composite. A fiber post was stabilized and the access cavity of the tooth was restored with composite resin. At the end of the 24th month, the tooth was asymptomatic, functionally, esthetically acceptable and had no periapical pathology. It is important for the patients undergoing apexification treatment to keep their appointments because of the fracture risk. Restoration of the fractured tooth by preparing retention grooves and a bonding fiber-reinforced post are effective and necessary approaches for successful management.
Heartbeat Biometrics for Remote Authentication Using Sensor Embedded Computing Devices
Authors: Islam Md Saiful
Published: June 2015

Biometric verification has been included in remote user authentication schemes recently. In this paper, we have proposed the use of heartbeat biometrics for its liveness property as a possible defense against spoof attacks in remote authentication. Sensor embedded mobile computing devices such as smart phones could be used to capture biometric signals and to replace the use of traditional smart cards. For the remote authentication, we have adopted the state-of-the-art scheme. We have described the biometric verification method instead of using cryptographic hash function for feature matching. We have used the piecewise aligned morphology (PAM) of heartbeat signal as a biometric feature. The biometric verification method was tested with ECG records of 100 individuals and 1.34% of equal error rate (EER) was obtained. This feature could be computed and transmitted efficiently using mobile computing devices. The proposed scheme offers more security and convenience to users. Additionally, it becomes robust against noisy biometric input. The proposed scheme should be feasible for remote authentication using sensor embedded computing devices in many practical applications such as remote healthcare.
Effects of Milling Atmosphere and Increasing Sintering Temperature on the Magnetic Properties of Nanocrystalline Ni0.36Zn0.64Fe2O4
Authors: Hajalilou Abdollah , Hashim Mansor , Kamari Halimah Mohamed , Masoudi Mohamad Taghi
Published: June 2015

Nanocrystalline Ni0.36Zn0.64Fe2O4 was synthesized by milling a powder mixture of Zn, NiO, and Fe2O3 in a high‐energy ball mill for 30 h under three different atmospheres of air, argon, and oxygen. After sintering the 30 h milled samples at 500°C, the XRD patterns suggested the formation of a single phase of Ni‐Zn ferrite. The XRD results indicated the average crystallite sizes to be 15, 14, and 16 nm, respectively, for the 30 h milled samples in air, argon, and oxygen atmospheres sintered at 500°C. From the FeSEM micrographs, the average grain sizes of the mentioned samples were 83, 75, and 105 nm, respectively, which grew to 284, 243, and 302 nm after sintering to 900°C. A density of all the samples increased while a porosity decreased by elevating sintering temperature. The parallel evolution of changes in magnetic properties, due to microstructural variations with changes in the milling atmosphere and sintering temperature in the rage of 500–900°C with 100°C increments, is also studied in this work.
Tramadol and Tramadol+Caffeine Synergism in the Rat Formalin Test Are Mediated by Central Opioid and Serotonergic Mechanisms
Authors: Carrillo-Munguía Norma , González-Trujano Ma. Eva , Huerta Miguel , Trujillo Xochitl , Díaz-Reval M. Irene
Published: June 2015

Different analgesic combinations with caffeine have shown this drug to be capable of increasing the analgesic effect. Many combinations with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have been carried out, but, in regard to opioids, only combinations with morphine and tramadol have been reported. The antinociceptive synergism mechanism of these combinations is not well understood. The purpose of the present study was to determine the participation of spinal and supraspinal opioidergic and serotonergic systems in the synergic effect of the tramadol+caffeine combination in the rat formalin test. At the supraspinal level, the opioid antagonist, naloxone, completely reversed the effect of the drug combination, whereas ketanserin, a 5-HT2receptor antagonist, inhibited the effect by 60%; however, ondansetron, a 5-HT3receptor antagonist, did not alter the combination effect. When the antagonists were intrathecally administered, there was a significant reduction in all tramadol-caffeine combination effects. With respect to tramadol alone, there was significant participation of the opioid system at the supraspinal level, whereas it was the serotonergic system that participated at the spinal level by means of the two receptors studied. In conclusion, the tramadol+caffeine combination synergically activated the opioid and serotonergic systems at the supraspinal level, as well as at the spinal level, to produce the antinociception.
The Influence of Buddhist Meditation Traditions on the Autonomic System and Attention
Authors: Amihai Ido , Kozhevnikov Maria
Published: June 2015

Cognitive and neuroscience research from the past several years has shed new light on the influences that meditative traditions have on the meditation practice. Here we review new evidence that shows that types of meditation that developed out of certain traditions such as Vajrayana and Hindu Tantric lead to heightened sympathetic activation and phasic alertness, while types of meditation from other traditions such as Theravada and Mahayana elicit heightened parasympathetic activity and tonic alertness. Such findings validate Buddhist scriptural descriptions of heightened arousal during Vajrayana practices and a calm and alert state of mind during Theravada and Mahayana types of meditation and demonstrate the importance of the cultural and philosophical context out of which the meditation practices develop.