bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Serum levels of retinol binding protein 4 in women with different levels of adiposity and glucose tolerance
Authors: Comucci Eleonora Beltrame , Vasques Ana Carolina Junqueira , Geloneze Bruno , Calixto Antonio Ramos , Pareja José Carlos , Tambascia Marcos Antonio
Published: October 2014

Objective Retinol-binding protein 4 (RBP4) is an adipokine responsible for vitamin A (retinol) transportation. Studies associated RBP4 increased levels with severity of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and insulin resistance (IR). The study aimed to quantify RBP4 serum standards in women with a wide range of body mass index (BMI) and glucose tolerance level. Subjects and methods: Cross-sectional study was performed with 139 women divided into three groups: Group 1 (lean-control, n = 45) and Group 2 (obese, n = 53) with normal glucose tolerance and group 3 (obese with T2DM, n = 41), called G1, G2 and G3. Were assessed clinical, biochemical, anthropometric and body composition parameters. Results According to data analysis, we obtained in G1 higher RBP4 levels (104.8 ± 76.8 ng/mL) when compared to G2 (87.9 ± 38 ng/mL) and G3 (72.2 ± 15.6 ng/mL) levels. Also, were found: in G1 positive correlations of RBP4 with BMI (r = 0.253), glycated hemoglobin (r = 0.378) and fasting insulin (r = 0.336); in G2 with glycated hemoglobin (r = 0.489); in G3 with glycated hemoglobin (r = 0.330), fasting glucose (r = 0.463), HOMA-IR (r = 0.481). Conclusions Although RBP4 have shown lower levels in diabetic and obese, a strong correlation with HOMA-IR index highlights that, in our study, there is growing IR when there is an increasing in RBP4 levels.
The prevalence of glucose metabolism disturbances in Chinese Muslims and possible risk factors: a study from northwest China
Authors: Liu Wei , Hua Lin , Liu Wan-Fu , Song Hui-Ling , Dai Xin-Wen , Yang Jin-Kui
Published: October 2014

Objective To survey the prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM) and pre-diabetes mellitus (PDM) in the Muslim population in northwest China, and discuss the risk factor. Materials and methods According to the income and the population, we randomly selected 3 villages with stratified and cluster sampling. The subjects were residents ≥ 20 years of age, and were from families which have been local for > 3 generations. The questionnaire and oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) were completed and analyzed for 660 subjects. Results The prevalence of DM and PDM between the Han and Muslim populations were different (P = 0.041). And the prevalence were also different with respect to age in the Han (P < 0.001) and Muslim population (P < 0.001) respectively. Except for the 20-year-old age group the prevalence of DM and PDM within the Muslim population was higher than the Han (P = 0.013), we did not find any significant difference for other age groups (P > 0.05). The intake of salt (P < 0.001) and edible oil (P < 0.001) in the Muslim population was higher than the Han, while cigarette smoking (P < 0.001) and alcohol consumption (P < 0.001) was lower. BMI (P < 0.001), age (P = 0.025), and smoking cigarettes (P = 0.011) were risk factors for DM and PDM, but alcohol consumption (P < 0.001) was a protective factor. Conclusions In northwest China, the prevalence of DM was higher in the Muslim population, and it was special higher on the 20-year-old age compared to the Han. This might be explained by the potential genetic differences and poor dietary habits.
Zinc transporter 8 autoantibodies in patients with type 1 diabetes from a multiethnic population and their first degree relatives
Authors: Araujo Débora Batista , Skärstrand Hanna , Barone Bianca , Dantas Joana Rodrigues , Kupfer Rosane , Zajdenverg Lenita , Milech Adolpho , Vaziri-Sani Fariba , Oliveira José Egídio Paulo de , Rodacki Melanie
Published: October 2014

Objective Zinc transporter 8 autoantibodies (ZnT8A) have been poorly studied in non-Caucasian individuals. We aimed to investigate the prevalence of ZnT8 autoantibodies in patients with T1D and their first degree relatives (FDR) from a multiethnic population, as well as its relation with the insulin (INS) or the protein tyrosine phosphatase non-receptor 22 (PTPN22) gene polymorphisms. Subjects and methods ZnT8A were analyzed in sera from T1D patients (n = 72, mean age of 30.3 ± 11.4 years) of variable duration (15.7 ± 11.8 years) and their FDR (n = 78, mean age of 18.3 ± 9.1 years) by a triple mix Radioligand Binding Assay (RBA) for the ZnT8 autoantibody (ZnT8-RWQ) variants. SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) for INS and PTPN22 were genotyped. Results The prevalence of ZnT8A was higher in T1D patients than FDR, for ZnT8TripleA (24% vs. 4%,p = 0.001), ZnT8RA (24% vs. 4%, p < 0.001) and ZnT8QA (15% vs. 3%, p = 0.004). All FDR with ZnT8A (n = 3) had at least another positive antibody. Heterozygosis for PTPN22 was associated with a higher frequency of ZnT8TripleA (p = 0.039) and ZnT8RA (p = 0.038). Conclusions ZnT8A is observed in non-Caucasian patients with T1D, even years after the disease onset, as well as in their FDR. In those, there was an overlap between ZnT8A and other T1D antibodies. ZnT8A was associated with PTPN22 polymorphisms. Further longitudinal studies are necessary to elucidate the importance of these findings in the natural history of T1D patients with multiethnic background.
Social capital, social participation and life satisfaction among Chilean older adults
Authors: Ponce María Soledad Herrera , Rosas Raúl Pedro Elgueta , Lorca María Beatriz Fernández
Published: October 2014

OBJECTIVE To examine factors associated with social participation and their relationship with self-perceived well-being in older adults. METHODS This study was based on data obtained from the National Socioeconomic Characterization (CASEN) Survey conducted in Chile, in 2011, on a probability sample of households. We examined information of 31,428 older adults living in these households. Descriptive and explanatory analyses were performed using linear and multivariate logistic regression models. We assessed the respondents’ participation in different types of associations: egotropic, sociotropic, and religious. RESULTS Social participation increased with advancing age and then declined after the age of 80. The main finding of this study was that family social capital is a major determinant of social participation of older adults. Their involvement was associated with high levels of self-perceived subjective well-being. We identified four settings as sources of social participation: home-based; rural community-based; social policy programs; and religious. Older adults were significantly more likely to participate when other members of the household were also involved in social activities evidencing an intergenerational transmission of social participation. Rural communities, especially territorial associations, were the most favorable setting for participation. There has been a steady increase in the rates of involvement of older adults in social groups in Chile, especially after retirement. Religiosity remains a major determinant of associativism. The proportion of participation was higher among older women than men but these proportions equaled after the age of 80. CONCLUSIONS Self-perceived subjective well-being is not only dependent upon objective factors such as health and income, but is also dependent upon active participation in social life, measured as participation in associations, though its effects are moderate.
Spectrographic analysis of the effect of vocal warm-up on the voice of choir girls
Authors: Falcão Lília Maria Gomes , Masson Maria Lúcia Vaz , Oliveira Gisele , Behlau Mara
Published: October 2014

Purpose To analyse the immediate effect of a vocal warm-up program on children that sang in a choir by means of spectrographic analysis. Methods Experimental study consisting of 14 girls from an amateur children’s choir, aged 9 to 12 years. Acoustic spectrographic analyses were performed before and after a specific vocal warm-up program, consisting of a hierarchical sequence of body exercises, respiratory and articulation training, vocal exercises, ascending and descending musical scales and facilitating sounds. The speech material for spectrographic analysis was the sustained /Ɛ:/ vowel, pre and post warm-up program. The selected acoustic parameters were instability of trace, noise at low and high frequencies, frequency bifurcation, harmonics series, presence of a hard vocal attack, pitch and voice breaks, and mean fundamental frequency. Results No significant differences were found regarding the effect of the vocal warm-up when pre and post data were compared. However, there was a negative correlation between the level of harmonics and noise in the high frequencies post warm-up. Conclusion The vocal warm-up program implemented for children that sang in choirs produced a richer acoustic spectrum that may indicate enhanced glottic closure or vocal tract adjustment.
Serviceability limit state design of deep foundations
Authors: NAGHIBI F. , FENTON G.A. , GRIFFITHS D.V.
Published: October 2014

Although the settlement of deep foundations (piles) is not generally a concern if the piles are driven to refusal, settlement can become a design issue if no stiff substratum is encountered. This paper investigates the reliability-based design factors required for the serviceability limit state design of deep foundations. The goals of the paper are first to develop a probabilistic deep foundation model, which includes the effects of spatial variability and which is validated by simulation, and second to recommend the geotechnical resistance factors required to achieve specified target reliability indices against excessive settlement of deep foundations.
Fire evolution in the radioactive forests of Ukraine and Belarus: future risks for the population and the environment
Authors: Evangeliou N. , Balkanski Y. , Cozic A. , Hao W. M. , Mouillot F. , Thonicke K. , Paugam R. , Zibtsev S. , Mousseau T. A. , Wang R. , Poulter B. , Petkov A. , Yue C. , Cadule P. , Koffi B. , Kaiser J. W. , Møller A. P.
Published: October 2014

In this paper, we analyze the current and future status of forests in Ukraine and Belarus that were contaminated after the nuclear disaster in 1986. Using several models, together with remote‐sensing data and observations, we studied how climate change in these forests may affect fire regimes. We investigated the possibility of137Cs displacement over Europe by studying previous fire events, and examined three fire scenarios that depended on different emission altitudes of137Cs, assuming that 10% of the forests were affected by fires. Field measurements and modeling simulations confirmed that numerous radioactive contaminants are still present at these sites in extremely large quantities.

Forests in Eastern Europe are characterized by large, highly fire‐prone patches that are conducive to the development of extreme crown fires. Since 1986, there has been a positive correlation between extreme fire events and drought in the two contaminated regions. Litter carbon storage in the area has doubled since 1986 due to increased tree mortality and decreased decomposition rates; dead trees and accumulating litter in turn can provide fuel for wildfires that pose a high risk of redistributing radioactivity in future years. Intense fires in 2002, 2008, and 2010 resulted in the displacement of137Cs to the south; the cumulative amount of137Cs re‐deposited over Europe was equivalent to 8% of that deposited following the initial Chernobyl disaster. However, a large amount of137Cs still remains in these forests, which could be remobilized along with a large number of other dangerous, long‐lived, refractory radionuclides. We predict that an expanding flammable area associated with climate change will lead to a high risk of radioactive contamination with characteristic fire peaks in the future. Current fire‐fighting infrastructure in the region is inadequate due to understaffing and lack of funding. Our data yield the first cogent predictions for future fire incidents and provide scientific insights that could inform and spur evidence‐based policy decisions concerning highly contaminated regions around the world, such as those of Chernobyl.
A Menu of Solutions
Authors: Hanson Craig
Published: October 2014

This month, ASA, CSSA, and SSSA have teamed up with the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers (ASABE) to produce a joint issue under the theme “Feeding the World in 2050.” More than 20 articles were written on various topics addressing the challenges we face in feeding the world, a handful of which appear in this issue of CSA News magazine (for the full presentation, please see ASABE's Resource magazine here: www.asabe.org/publications/resource‐magazine.aspx). In addition to the joint articles, we also are including a profile this issue of the 2014 World Food Prize winner, Sanjaya Rajaram, a Fellow of ASA and CSSA.
New Roots for Ecological Intensification
Authors: Crews Timothy , Cox Thomas , De Haan Lee , Damaraju Sivaramakrishna , Jackson Wes , Nabukalu Pheonah , Van Tassel David , Wang Shuwen
Published: October 2014

This month, ASA, CSSA, and SSSA have teamed up with the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers (ASABE) to produce a joint issue under the theme “Feeding the World in 2050.” More than 20 articles were written on various topics addressing the challenges we face in feeding the world, a handful of which appear in this issue of CSA News magazine (for the full presentation, please see ASABE's Resource magazine here: www.asabe.org/publications/resource‐magazine.aspx). In addition to the joint articles, we also are including a profile this issue of the 2014 World Food Prize winner, Sanjaya Rajaram, a Fellow of ASA and CSSA.
Preparation of immobilized Cu2O using microwave irradiation and its catalytic activity for bisphenol A: comparisons of Cu2O/H2O2 and visible-light/Cu2O/H2O2 systems
Authors: Kuo C. Y. , Wu C. H. , Wu J. T. , Chen Y. C.
Published: October 2014

This study produced immobilized Cu2O via microwave irradiation. The surface properties of Cu2O were assessed by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and UV–vis spectroscopy. The catalytic activity of the generated Cu2O was examined for bisphenol (BPA) degradation in Cu2O/H2O2 and visible-light/Cu2O/H2O2 systems under various H2O2 concentrations. Cu2O can decompose H2O2 to generate radicals, similar to the Fenton-like process. The BPA degradation rate followed pseudo-first-order kinetics. The optimal H2O2 concentration was 30 mM and the BPA degradation rate under 30 mM H2O2 in the Cu2O/H2O2 and visible-light/Cu2O/H2O2 systems was 1.43 and 2.69 h−1, respectively. The original Cu2O partly oxidized into CuO in the visible-light/Cu2O/H2O2 system and the BPA degradation percentage declined to 51% from 100% after the fifth cycle.
A comprehensive factorial design study of variables affecting CaCO3 scaling under magnetic water treatment
Authors: Alimi Fathi , Boubakri Ali , Tlili Mohamed M. , Ben Amor Mohamed
Published: October 2014

Magnetic water treatment (MWT) could be an interesting alternative to chemical treatment to prevent scaling and has been used as an antiscaling treatment for domestic and industrial equipment. A two level-three factor (23) full factorial design was used to evaluate the effects of pH (6–7.5), flow rate (0.54–0.94) and application of a magnetic field on the induction time (IT), total precipitation (TP) rate and homogeneous precipitation (HP) rate of calcium carbonate (CaCO3) scale from hard water. The experimental results and statistical analysis show that the pH, flow rate and interaction between pH and magnetic field have negative effects on IT response. In the case of TP rate response, the magnitude of the main influence is attributed to the magnetic field, followed by pH value and their interaction. Flow rate and pH value have a negative effect on HP rate response, but their interaction has a positive effect. Within these factor ranges, these studied responses predicted by the models were in good agreement with the experimental values. The coefficient of determination (R2) for reduction time, TP ratio and HP ratio were 97.8%, 99.12% and 99.92%, respectively. These results were analyzed statistically using Minitab 15.
Adsorption of Zn2+ and Ni2+ in a binary aqueous solution by biosorbents derived from sawdust and water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes)
Authors: Gwenzi Willis , Musarurwa Tinashe , Nyamugafata Phillip , Chaukura Nhamo , Chaparadza Allen , Mbera Sharron
Published: October 2014

The Zn2+ and Ni2+ adsorption capacities of six biosorbents derived from water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) (WH) and sawdust (SD) were investigated, with activated carbon as the control. The biosorbents were raw biomass (WH, SD), charred WH (BWH) and SD and sulphonated bio-chars of WH and SD. The effect of the initial solution pH and Zn2+ and Ni2+ concentrations on adsorption capacity was studied, and adsorption isotherms for Zn2+ and Ni2+ evaluated. The initial solution pH significantly influenced adsorption (p < 0.05) but the relationship was generally nonlinear. Zn2+ suppressed Ni2+ adsorption on all biosorbents. The adsorption capacities of the biosorbents were statistically (p ≤ 0.05) similar to or higher than that of activated carbon. The effects of pyrolysis and bio-char sulphonation on adsorption were inconsistent and dependent on biomass type; in most cases bio-char was a better biosorbent than the original biomass, while sulphonation resulted in less or comparable adsorption. Adsorption data obeyed at least one of three isotherms (linear, Langmuir and Freundlich) (r2 = 0.90-0.995, p < 0.05). The study revealed that low-cost biosorbents may be used as alternatives to activated carbon in applications including selective separation of Zn2+ from multi-metal ion solutions containing Ni2+, and water and wastewater treatment.
Lexical Tendencies of High and Low Barrier Personalities in Narratives of Everyday and Dream Memories
Authors: Cariola Laura A.
Published: October 2014

The use of computerized content analysis has encouraged great interest in the assessment of personality. Given the psychological importance of body boundaries in the maintenance and regulation of the self, this study aimed to assess the lexical tendencies of High and Low Barrier personalities (Fisher & Cleveland, 1956, 1958), as measured using the BTD (Wilson, 2006), with regard to lexical frequencies, as classified by the Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count (LIWC) (Pennebaker, Booth, & Francis, 2007). Consistent with previous research that has identified an association between body boundary imagery and regressive cognitive functioning in autobiographical memories, the results of this study showed that High Barrier personalities used higher frequencies of semantic content associated with primordial mental activity, such as group references, somatosensory processes, and spatial references. In contrast, Low Barrier personalities showed increased use of semantic content related to conceptual thought, such as self-reference, as well as affective and cognitive processes. The discussion conceptualizes the identified lexical tendencies in High and Low Barrier personalities by drawing on various cognitive and social psychological theories.
Transitions: Exploring the Frontier
Authors: Corless Inge B.
Published: October 2014

End-of-life experiences go by various terms, including near-death experiences (NDEs), deathbed visions, deathbed phenomena, deathbed coincidences, and nearing death awareness. Deathbed escorts is the term applied to the vision of deceased family members or friends who inform the dying person that they will be accompanied in the transition from life. In this article, I examine the subject of NDEs and deathbed escorts, starting with the rich body of work provided by Robert and Beatrice Kastenbaum. A subject of some interest to Robert Kastenbaum, he explored this frontier in his many writings on dying, death, and bereavement. Ever the pioneer and having made the ultimate transition, he may yet be exploring new frontiers.
Impact of reaction vessel pressure on the synthesis of sliced activated carbon from date palm tree fronds
Authors: Shoaib Muhammad , Al-Swaidan Hassan
Published: October 2014

The effects of the reaction vessel pressure on the BET surface area, pore
volume and pore size of the synthesis of sliced activated carbons (SAC) at
850?C starting from 0.10 to 0.40 bars were investigated. Other synthetic
variables like dwell time, CO2 flow rate and heating ramp rate were kept
constant during the whole study. Methodology involves a single step procedure
using the mixture of gases (N2 and CO2). During activation flow rate of both
gases are kept at 150 and 50ml/min respectively. The BET surface areas of the
SAC prepared at 0.10, 0.15, 0.20, 0.25, 0.30, 0.35 and 0.40 bar after 30
minutes activation time are 666, 745, 895, 1094, 835, 658 and 625 m2/g,
respectively. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) for surface morphology,
Energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM)
for nano particle size were also carried out that also confirms the same
trend.
Bruce's Magnificent Quartet: Inquiry, Community, Technology and Literacy — Implications for Renewing Qualitative Research in the Twenty-First Century
Authors: Davidson Judith
Published: October 2014

Bruce and Bishop's community informatics work brings forward four critical concepts: inquiry, community, technology, and literacy. These four terms serve as the basis for a discussion of qualitative research in the twenty-first century — what is lacking and what is needed. The author suggests that to resolve the tensions or challenges qualitative research currently faces, a fifth term is needed — aesthetics. These five terms are then used to describe a repositioned field of qualitative research.
‘A Little Respect’: An Inquiry-Driven Classroom Honors a Student's Right to Question
Authors: Gretencord Timnah
Published: October 2014

The practice of teaching can be characterized as a calling, a duty, and a gift. It can also be an opportunity for oppression — or for liberation from habits of oppression. In his role as dissertation chair and dissertation committee member, Dr Bruce encourages doctoral candidates to read about, practice, and reflect on new approaches to the relationship between teacher and student. As a teacher, a mentor, and a friend, he embodies the values he invites others to adopt. This article describes how one doctoral student's philosophy and practice of teaching changed because of the gift that Dr Bruce was and is still.
Pieces of Civic Intelligence: Towards a Capacities Framework
Authors: Schuler Douglas
Published: October 2014

Civic intelligence is the capacity of collectivities — from small informal groups to humanity as a whole — to equitably and effectively address important shared problems such as poverty, bioterrorism, and natural disasters. It's an abstract concept that can be expressed in policy, art, demonstrations, or conversation. In this article, civic intelligence has been divided into five main capacities: knowledge, attitude and aspiration, organizational capital, relational and social capital, and financial and material resources. The capacities framework is intended to convey a holistic phenomenon in a relatively simple way. While the framework as it currently exists can be useful in both research and practice, it's undoubtedly not the last word. The capacities framework for civic intelligence is more of a springboard for collaboration and action than a strait jacket that imposes inflexible and unalterable discipline.
Increased Dihydroceramide/Ceramide Ratio Mediated by Defective Expression of degs1 Impairs Adipocyte Differentiation and Function
Authors: Barbarroja Nuria , Rodriguez-Cuenca Sergio , Nygren Heli , Camargo Antonio , Pirraco Ana , Relat Joana , Cuadrado Irene , Pellegrinelli Vanessa , Medina-Gomez Gema , Lopez-Pedrera Chary , Tinahones Francisco J. , Symons J. David , Summers Scott A. , Oresic Matej , Vidal-Puig Antonio
Published: October 2014

Adipose tissue dysfunction is an important determinant of obesity-associated, lipid-induced metabolic complications. Ceramides are well-known mediators of lipid-induced insulin resistance in peripheral organs such as muscle. DEGS1 is the desaturase catalyzing the last step in the main ceramide biosynthetic pathway. Functional suppression of DEGS1 activity results in substantial changes in ceramide species likely to affect fundamental biological functions such as oxidative stress, cell survival, and proliferation. Here, we show that degs1 expression is specifically decreased in the adipose tissue of obese patients and murine models of genetic and nutritional obesity. Moreover, loss-of-function experiments using pharmacological or genetic ablation of DEGS1 in preadipocytes prevented adipogenesis and decreased lipid accumulation. This was associated with elevated oxidative stress, cellular death, and blockage of the cell cycle. These effects were coupled with increased dihydroceramide content. Finally, we validated in vivo that pharmacological inhibition of DEGS1 impairs adipocyte differentiation. These data identify DEGS1 as a new potential target to restore adipose tissue function and prevent obesity-associated metabolic disturbances.
Hyperhomocysteinemia and Hyperglycemia Induce and Potentiate Endothelial Dysfunction via μ-Calpain Activation
Authors: Cheng Zhongjian , Jiang Xiaohua , Pansuria Meghana , Fang Pu , Mai Jietang , Mallilankaraman Karthik , Gandhirajan Rajesh Kumar , Eguchi Satoru , Scalia Rosario , Madesh Muniswamy , Yang Xiaofeng , Wang Hong
Published: October 2014

Plasma homocysteine (Hcy) levels are positively correlated with cardiovascular mortality in diabetes. However, the joint effect of hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) and hyperglycemia (HG) on endothelial dysfunction (ED) and the underlying mechanisms have not been studied. Mild (22 µmol/L) and moderate (88 µmol/L) HHcy were induced in cystathionine β-synthase wild-type (Cbs+/+) and heterozygous-deficient (Cbs−/+) mice by a high-methionine (HM) diet. HG was induced by consecutive injection of streptozotocin. We found that HG worsened HHcy and elevated Hcy levels to 53 and 173 µmol/L in Cbs+/+ and Cbs−/+ mice fed an HM diet, respectively. Both mild and moderate HHcy aggravated HG-impaired endothelium-dependent vascular relaxation to acetylcholine, which was completely abolished by endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) inhibitor NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester. HHcy potentiated HG-induced calpain activation in aortic endothelial cells isolated from Cbs mice. Calpain inhibitors rescued HHcy- and HHcy/HG-induced ED in vivo and ex vivo. Moderate HHcy- and HG-induced μ-calpain activation was potentiated by a combination of HHcy and HG in the mouse aorta. μ-Calpain small interfering RNA (μ-calpsiRNA) prevented HHcy/HG-induced ED in the mouse aorta and calpain activation in human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs) treated with DL-Hcy (500 µmol/L) and d-glucose (25 mmol) for 48 h. In addition, HHcy accelerated HG-induced superoxide production as determined by dihydroethidium and 3-nitrotyrosin staining and urinary 8-isoprostane/creatinine assay. Antioxidants rescued HHcy/HG-induced ED in mouse aortas and calpain activation in cultured HAECs. Finally, HHcy potentiated HG-suppressed nitric oxide production and eNOS activity in HAECs, which were prevented by calpain inhibitors or μ-calpsiRNA. HHcy aggravated HG-increased phosphorylation of eNOS at threonine 497/495 (eNOS-pThr497/495) in the mouse aorta and HAECs. HHcy/HG-induced eNOS-pThr497/495 was reversed by µ-calpsiRNA and adenoviral transduced dominant negative protein kinase C (PKC)β2 in HAECs. HHcy and HG induced ED, which was potentiated by the combination of HHcy and HG via μ-calpain/PKCβ2 activation–induced eNOS-pThr497/495 and eNOS inactivation.
Multiple human-to-human transmission from a severe case of psittacosis, Sweden, January–February 2013
Authors: Wallensten A , Fredlund H , Runehagen A
Published: October 2014

Proven transmission of Chlamydia psittaci between humans has been described on only one occasion previously. We describe an outbreak which occurred in Sweden in early 2013, where the epidemiological and serological investigation suggests that one patient, severely ill with psittacosis after exposure to wild bird droppings, transmitted the disease to ten others: Two family members, one hospital roommate and seven hospital caregivers. Three cases also provided respiratory samples that could be analysed by PCR. All the obtained C. psittaci sequences were indistinguishable and clustered within genotype A. The finding has implications for the management of severely ill patients with atypical pneumonia, because these patients may be more contagious than was previously thought. In order to prevent nosocomial person-to-person transmission of C. psittaci, stricter hygiene measures may need to be applied.
Effects of La–Zn substituent and calcination temperature on the microstructure and magnetic properties of Sr-ferrites
Authors: Li Xiangcheng , Zhao Zhang , Zhu Boquan
Published: October 2014

In this study, La–Zn-substituted SrFe12O19 ferrites were synthesized using the traditional ceramic process. The by-products of iron oxide scales from a steel plant were used as the main raw materials. The influence of the La–Zn substituent and the calcination temperature on the microstructure and magnetic properties of Sr1
−

x
La
x
Fe12
−

x
Zn
x
O19 ferrites was investigated. The results showed that with the increase in the x value, the crystalline lattice constant of the a- and c-axes and the cell volume decreased. There was no α-Fe2O3 phase in the ferrites when the value of x was 0.3. The corresponding saturation magnetization (M
s) and remnant magnetization (M
r) values were, respectively, about 65 emu g−
1 and 39.5 emu g−
1. Both values of M
s and M
r rise to the maximum value. When the calcination temperature was reduced from 1200°C to 1150°C, the average particle size decreased from 0.9 μm to 0.7 μm and M
s remained at 65 emu g−
1. However, the coercivity increased from 2690 Oe to 3100 Oe.
MUTIVARIATE ANALYSIS IN STEM AMARANTH (Amaranthus tricolor)
Authors: Ahammed A. U. , Rahman M. M. , Mian M. A. K.
Published: October 2014

The genetic divergence among 22 genotypes of stem amaranth was estimated using D² and Principal Component Analysis. The genotypes were grouped into four clusters. Cluster I, II, III and IV composed of two, four, seven and nine genotypes in succession. No relationship was found between divergence and geographic distribution of the genotypes. Maximum inter cluster distance (12.326) was observed between cluster I and III and it was minimum (3.526) between cluster I and II. The crosses between the genotypes of cluster I with that of cluster III and cluster II with cluster III would exhibit high heterosis and also likely to produce new recombinants with desired characters in stem amaranth. The yield contributing characters were leaves per plant, petiole length, stem diameter, leaf weight per plant and stem weight per plant. Leaf width, petiole length and 1000 seed weight showed maximum contribution to the total divergence. The results obtained by D² analysis were confirmed by Principal Component Analysis.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjpbg.v26i1.19979
Survival of Salmonella enterica in Aerated and Nonaerated Wastewaters from Dairy Lagoons
Authors: Ravva Subbarao , Sarreal Chester
Published: October 2014

Salmonella is the most commonly identified foodborne pathogen in produce, meat and poultry. Cattle are known reservoirs of Salmonella and the pathogen excreted in feces ends up in manure flush lagoons. Salmonella enterica survival was monitored in wastewater from on-site holding lagoons equipped or not with circulating aerators at two dairies. All strains had poor survival rates and none proliferated in waters from aerated or settling lagoons. Populations of all three Salmonella serovars declined rapidly with decimal reduction times (D) of <2 days in aerated microcosms prepared from lagoon equipped with circulators. Populations of Salmonella decreased significantly in aerated microcosms (D = 4.2 d) compared to nonaerated waters (D = 7.4 d) and in summer (D = 3.4 d) compared to winter (D = 9.0 d). We propose holding the wastewater for sufficient decimal reduction cycles in lagoons to yield pathogen-free nutrient-rich water for crop irrigations and fertilization.
Overexpression of MicroRNA-30b Improves Adenovirus-Mediated p53 Cancer Gene Therapy for Laryngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Li Liang , Wang Binquan
Published: October 2014

MicroRNAs play important roles in laryngeal carcinoma and other cancers. However, the expression of microRNAs in paracancerous tissue has been studied less. Here, using laser capture microdissection (LCM), we detected the expression of microRNAs in paracancerous tissues. Among all down-regulated microRNAs in the center area of tumor tissues, only miR-30b expression was significantly reduced in paracancerous tissues compared to surgical margins. Therefore, to further investigate the effect of miR-30b on laryngeal carcinoma, we stably overexpressed miR-30b in laryngeal carcinoma cell line HEp-2 cells. It was found that although there was no significant difference in cell viability between miR-30b overexpressed cells and control HEp-2 cells, p53 expression was obviously enhanced in miR-30b overexpressed cells. Whether miR-30b could improve the anti-tumor effect of adenovirus-p53 (Ad-p53) in laryngeal carcinoma and other cancer cell lines was also evaluated. It was found that in miR-30b overexpressed HEp-2 cells, p53-mediated tumor cell apoptosis was obviously increased both in vitro and in vivo. MDM2-p53 interaction might be involved in miR-30b-mediated anti-tumor effect. Together, results suggested that miR-30b could modulate p53 pathway and enhance p53 gene therapy-induced apoptosis in laryngeal carcinoma, which could provide a novel microRNA target in tumor therapy.
Hyponatraemia in Emergency Medical Admissions—Outcomes and Costs
Authors: Conway Richard , Byrne Declan , O'Riordan Deirdre , Silke Bernard
Published: October 2014

Healthcare systems in the developed world are struggling with the demand of emergency room presentations; the study of the factors driving such demand is of fundamental importance. From a database of all emergency medical admissions (66,933 episodes in 36,271 patients) to St James’ Hospital, Dublin, Ireland, over 12 years (2002 to 2013) we have explored the impact of hyponatraemia on outcomes (30 days in-hospital mortality, length of stay (LOS) and costs). Identified variables, including Acute Illness Severity, Charlson Co-Morbidity and Chronic Disabling Disease that proved predictive univariately were entered into a multivariable logistic regression model to predict the bivariate of 30 days in-hospital survival. A zero truncated Poisson regression model assessed LOS and episode costs and the incidence rate ratios were calculated. Hyponatraemia was present in 22.7% of episodes and 20.3% of patients. The 30 days in-hospital mortality rate for hyponatraemic patients was higher (15.9% vs. 6.9% p < 0.001) and the LOS longer (6.3 (95% CI 2.9, 12.2) vs. 4.0 (95% CI 1.5, 8.2) p < 0.001). Both parameters worsened with the severity of the initial sodium level. Hospital costs increased non-linearly with the severity of initial hyponatraemia. Hyponatraemia remained an independent predictor of 30 days in-hospital mortality, length of stay and costs in the multi-variable model.
HPLC-UV-MS Profiles of Phenolic Compounds and Antioxidant Activity of Fruits from Three Citrus Species Consumed in Northern Chile
Authors: Brito Anghel , Ramirez Javier , Areche Carlos , Sepúlveda Beatriz , Simirgiotis Mario
Published: October 2014

Peels and edible pulp from three species of citrus including Citrus aurantifolia (varieties pica and sutil) and Citrus x lemon var. Genova widely cultivated and consumed in Northern Chile (I and II region) were analyzed for phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity for the first time. A high performance electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (HPLC-UV-ESI-MS) method was developed for the rapid identification of phenolics in extracts from peels and juices of all species. Several flavonoids including one kaempferol-O-hexoside (peak 16) and one hesperidin derivative (peak 22) three quercetin derivatives (peaks 4, 19 and 36), five isorhamnetin derivatives (peaks 5, 23, 24, 26 and 29) four luteolin derivatives (peaks 14, 25, 27 and 40), seven apigenin derivatives (peaks 2, 3, 12, 20, 34, 35 and 39), seven diosmetin derivatives (peaks 7–9, 17, 21, 31 and 37), three chrysoeriol derivatives (peaks 10, 18 and 30), and four eryodictiol derivatives (peaks 6, 13, 15 and 38) were identified in negative and positive mode using full scan mass measurements and MSn fragmentations. Ascorbic acid content was higher in the pulps of the varieties Genova and Sutil (60.13 ± 1.28 and 56.53 ± 1.06 mg ascorbic acid per g dry weight, respectively) while total phenolic content was higher in Pica peels followed by Sutil peels (34.59 ± 0.81 and 25.58 ± 1.02 mg/g GAE dry weight, respectively). The antioxidant capacity was also higher for Pica peels (10.34 ± 1.23 µg/mL in the DPPH assay and 120.63 ± 2.45 µM trolox equivalents/g dry weight in the FRAP assay). The antioxidant features together with the high polyphenolic contents can support at least in part, the usage of the peel extracts as nutraceutical supplements, especially to be used as anti-ageing products.
Temperature Modulation of a Catalytic Gas Sensor
Authors: Brauns Eike , Morsbach Eva , Kunz Sebastian , Baeumer Marcus , Lang Walter
Published: October 2014

The use of catalytic gas sensors usually offers low selectivity, only based on their different sensitivities for various gases due to their different heats of reaction. Furthermore, the identification of the gas present is not possible, which leads to possible misinterpretation of the sensor signals. The use of micro-machined catalytic gas sensors offers great advantages regarding the response time, which allows advanced analysis of the sensor response. By using temperature modulation, additional information about the gas characteristics can be measured and drift effects caused by material shifting or environmental temperature changes can be avoided. In this work a miniaturized catalytic gas sensor which offers a very short response time (<150 ms) was developed. Operation with modulated temperature allows analysis of the signal spectrum with advanced information content, based on the Arrhenius approach. Therefore, a high-precise electronic device was developed, since theory shows that harmonics induced by the electronics must be avoided to generate a comprehensible signal.
Missing Data Imputation of Solar Radiation Data under Different Atmospheric Conditions
Authors: Turrado Concepción , López María , Lasheras Fernando , Gómez Benigno , Rollé José , Juez Francisco
Published: October 2014

Global solar broadband irradiance on a planar surface is measured at weather stations by pyranometers. In the case of the present research, solar radiation values from nine meteorological stations of the MeteoGalicia real-time observational network, captured and stored every ten minutes, are considered. In this kind of record, the lack of data and/or the presence of wrong values adversely affects any time series study. Consequently, when this occurs, a data imputation process must be performed in order to replace missing data with estimated values. This paper aims to evaluate the multivariate imputation of ten-minute scale data by means of the chained equations method (MICE). This method allows the network itself to impute the missing or wrong data of a solar radiation sensor, by using either all or just a group of the measurements of the remaining sensors. Very good results have been obtained with the MICE method in comparison with other methods employed in this field such as Inverse Distance Weighting (IDW) and Multiple Linear Regression (MLR). The average RMSE value of the predictions for the MICE algorithm was 13.37% while that for the MLR it was 28.19%, and 31.68% for the IDW.
Chemical Compounds Toxic to Invertebrates Isolated from Marine Cyanobacteria of Potential Relevance to the Agricultural Industry
Authors: Essack Magbubah , Alzubaidy Hanin , Bajic Vladimir , Archer John
Published: October 2014

In spite of advances in invertebrate pest management, the agricultural industry is suffering from impeded pest control exacerbated by global climate changes that have altered rain patterns to favour opportunistic breeding. Thus, novel naturally derived chemical compounds toxic to both terrestrial and aquatic invertebrates are of interest, as potential pesticides. In this regard, marine cyanobacterium-derived metabolites that are toxic to both terrestrial and aquatic invertebrates continue to be a promising, but neglected, source of potential pesticides. A PubMed query combined with hand-curation of the information from retrieved articles allowed for the identification of 36 cyanobacteria-derived chemical compounds experimentally confirmed as being toxic to invertebrates. These compounds are discussed in this review.
Imaging the intracellular degradation of biodegradable polymer nanoparticles
Authors: Barthel Anne-Kathrin , Dass Martin , Dröge Melanie , Cramer Jens-Michael , Baumann Daniela , Urban Markus , Landfester Katharina , Mailänder Volker , Lieberwirth Ingo
Published: October 2014

In recent years, the development of smart drug delivery systems based on biodegradable polymeric nanoparticles has become of great interest. Drug-loaded nanoparticles can be introduced into the cell interior via endocytotic processes followed by the slow release of the drug due to degradation of the nanoparticle. In this work, poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA) was chosen as the biodegradable polymer. Although common degradation of PLLA has been studied in various biological environments, intracellular degradation processes have been examined only to a very limited extent. PLLA nanoparticles with an average diameter of approximately 120 nm were decorated with magnetite nanocrystals and introduced into mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). The release of the magnetite particles from the surface of the PLLA nanoparticles during the intracellular residence was monitored by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) over a period of 14 days. It was demonstrated by the release of the magnetite nanocrystals from the PLLA surface that the PLLA nanoparticles do in fact undergo degradation within the cell. Furthermore, even after 14 days of residence, the PLLA nanoparticles were found in the MSCs. Additionally, the ultrastructural TEM examinations yield insight into the long term intercellular fate of these nanoparticles. From the statistical analysis of ultrastructural details (e.g., number of detached magnetite crystals, and the number of nanoparticles in one endosome), we demonstrate the importance of TEM studies for such applications in addition to fluorescence studies (flow cytometry and confocal laser scanning microscopy).
L'impact de la présence d'alcool à l'écran sur le désir de consommer de jeunes Français : effet de la valence et du sexe
Authors: Bréhonnet Rémi , Gallopel-Morvan Karine , Gabriel Patrick
Published: October 2014

Qu’il s’agisse de placement de produit, de marque ou de présence pour un souci de réalisme, l’impact de la consommation d’alcool dans les productions cinématographiques interroge. Afin d’étendre les travaux qui ont étudié l’effet de certaines caractéristiques du placement d’alcool à l’écran, cette recherche examine, chez de jeunes hommes et femmes, l’impact d’un extrait de film comportant une scène de consommation d’alcool à valence positive (consommation dans un contexte convivial, festif, etc.) ou négative (consommation dans un contexte de dépendance, d’alcoolisme, etc.) sur l’attitude et sur le désir de s’alcooliser. Les résultats montrent que la valence a un effet positif ou négatif sur l’attitude, celle-ci impactant à son tour le désir de consommer. L’analyse montre également que le sexe a une influence sur le désir de consommer : les filles semblent plus influencées par la présence de l’alcool dans les films. Les résultats sont en revanche plus mitigés sur l’attitude. Après avoir discuté les résultats et indiqué les limites de la recherche, les implications en termes de santé publique seront présentées.
Vers un marketing hospitalier
Authors: Crié Dominique , Salerno Daphné , Vincent Amandine
Published: October 2014

Depuis plusieurs années, l’opportunité de compléter les outils managériaux de l’hôpital avec le marketing fait débat. Cette recherche exploratoire a pour objectif de mieux comprendre les attitudes, pratiques et représentations des managers français au sujet du marketing à l’hôpital. Dix-huit entretiens semi-directifs ont été réalisés sur cette cible. Différentes méthodes d’analyse textuelle ont été appliquées au corpus des retranscriptions d’interviews. L’analyse sémantique permet de distinguer trois catégories de représentations, d’attitude et de pratiques du marketing. Le même type d’analyse a été appliqué à la communication, qui semble être mieux ancrée dans les pratiques. Une typologie exploratoire selon les méthodes de la statistique textuelle a ensuite été réalisée. Les résultats sont ensuite discutés. Il s’avère que la démarche marketing est méconnue des managers qui utilisent préférentiellement la communication bien souvent hors d’un cadre stratégique. Ils considèrent néanmoins le marketing comme nécessaire afin de s’adapter aux contingences sociétales et financières de la T2A.
MAGDM-Miner
Authors: Robinson John P. , Amirtharaj Henry
Published: October 2014

In this article, the authors propose a new framework called the MAGDM-Miner, for mining correlation rules from trapezoidal intuitionistic fuzzy data efficiently. In the MAGDM-Miner, the raw data from a Multiple Attribute Group Decision Making (MAGDM) problem with trapezoidal intuitionistic fuzzy data are first pre-processed using some arithmetic aggregation operators. The aggregated data in turn are processed for efficient data selection through fuzzy correlation rule mining where the unwanted or less important decision variables are pruned from the decision making system. Using this MAGDM-Miner, a decision-maker can overcome the drawbacks in the conventional methods of Decision Support Systems (DSS) especially when dealing with large data-set. The algorithm is also presented, in which the technique of Fuzzy Correlation Rule Mining (FCRM) is fused into the MAGDM problem, in order to enhance the efficiency and accuracy in decision making environment. A numerical illustration is presented to show the effectiveness and accuracy of the newly developed MAGDM-Miner algorithm.
A Participatory Approach to Designing Decision Support Systems in Emergency Management
Authors: Baroni Pietro , Fogli Daniela , Giacomin Massimiliano , Guida Giovanni , Provenza Loredana Parasiliti , Rossi Michele , Bohanec Marko , Žnidaršič Martin
Published: October 2014

This article presents a participatory design approach to Decision Support Systems, which is specifically built to face the socio-technical gap that often impedes DSS acceptability by end-users in real work environments. The approach has been experimented in two case studies in the field of health-related emergencies, namely earthquake and pandemic flu. The application of the approach and the results obtained are described with specific focus on the phases of requirement analysis and system evaluation.
Emphasizing User Participation in Business Processes
Authors: Bruno Giorgio
Published: October 2014

Modeling business processes is still a challenge as shown by the number of viewpoints proposed in the last years; these viewpoints stress the orchestration of work, the conversations between the participants, the handling of business entities. This paper presents an approach, called PartiM, aimed at emphasizing the participation of users by means of participation models. Users, by looking at their participation models, can clearly understand what their involvement is expected to be, in terms of tasks and decisions. The development of models proceeds in an outside-in manner: first, binary collaboration models are defined, which describe how two parties interact in order to achieve a common goal; then, for each participant, a participation model is produced, which shows how the related collaborations will be handled. Two case studies are presented to exemplify the approach.