bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of intrinsic hydrophobicity and surface structuration
Authors: Darmanin Thierry , Guittard Frederic
Published: December 2012

In this study, various alkyl 3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene derivatives (methyl to dodecyl) were used as monomers for the electrodeposition of conducting polymer films from hydrophilic to superhydrophobic. For a deposition charge of 100 mC/cm2, the study of their surface wettability reveals that superhydrophobic properties with relatively low sliding angles and hysteresis are produced from hexyl chains. The influence of the intrinsic hydrophobicity and the surface structuration is determined by producing smooth surfaces for each polymer by reducing the deposition charge to 0·5 mC/cm2. This study reveals that the superhydrophobic films are produced from intrinsically hydrophobic polymers, while it is also possible to produce hydrophobic films from hydrophilic polymers. In this article, the influence of the alkyl chain length on the surface structuration (nanoporosity and microstructures) is also discussed. Furthermore, supplementary information is available at http://www.icevirtuallibrary.com/upload/10.1680si.12.00009_SupplementaryInformation.pdf
Multi-lens pier scour monitoring and scour depth prediction
Authors: Chang Wen-Yi , Lin Franco , Lai Jihn-Sung , Lee Lung-Cheng , Tsai Whey-Fone , Loh Chin-Hsiung
Published: December 2012

Severe pier scour is usually the major cause of bridge failures. It is therefore crucial to develop various scour monitoring techniques and prediction models for real-time warning of bridge safety. In the present study, a multi-lens monitoring system for pier scour under laboratory conditions has been developed. By utilising a plurality of lenses, this system is capable of tracking scour images and obtaining real-time scour-depth variation through a series of image recognition processes. Laboratory experiments under unsteady flow conditions were carried out to validate the proposed monitoring method. Then, three time-dependent scour prediction models were employed for simulation and comparison with the measured data. In order to improve the scour prediction results, with the real-time scour monitoring data, a data assimilation scheme is proposed and applied to the scour model under clear-water scour conditions. The result shows that the accuracy of scour prediction for a lead time of 3 h can be improved significantly.
Prediction of backwater level of bridge constriction using an artificial neural network
Authors: Atabay Serter , Abdalla Jamal A. , Erduran Kutsi S. , Mortula Maruf , Seckin Galip
Published: December 2012

Bridge constriction in channels usually increases the water level well above the normal depth and may result in overflow on the surrounding floodplain. In this paper, the experimental backwater level at which the maximum afflux value was observed due to bridge constriction was investigated. An artificial neural network (ANN) was used to predict the backwater level based on Manning's roughness coefficient of the main channel (nmc) and of the floodplain (nfp), bridge width (b) and flow discharge (Q). A multi-layer perceptron (MLP) ANN was used to predict the backwater level using these parameters. Multiple linear (MLR) regression and multiple non-linear regression (MNLR) were used as benchmarks for comparison of ANN results. It is concluded that an ANN can very accurately predict the backwater level. The developed ANN model was then used to conduct a parametric study to investigate the influence of nmc, nfp, b and Q on the backwater level due to a bridge constriction without piers. It is concluded that nmc and Q have a more profound effect on the backwater level than does nfp, while b has very little effect on the backwater level within this range of parameters. Other observations and conclusions are also drawn.
Men Who Sustain Female-to-Male Partner Violence: Factors Associated With Where They Seek Help and How They Rate Those Resources
Authors: Douglas Emily M. , Hines Denise A. , McCarthy Sean C.
Published: December 2012

Research since the 1970s has documented that men, in addition to women, sustain intimate partner violence (IPV), although much of that research has been overlooked. A growing body of research is examining the experiences of men who sustain female-to-male IPV, but there is still much to be learned. This exploratory study assesses the experiences of 302 men who have sustained IPV from their female partners and sought help from 1 of 6 resources: domestic violence agencies, hotlines, Internet, mental health professionals, medical providers, or the police. We examine what demographic characteristics and life experiences are associated with where men seek help and how they rate those experiences. We make recommendations for agencies, service providers, and first responders about how to tailor services for this specific population and their families.
Effects of The Men’s Program on U.S. Army Soldiers’ Intentions to Commit and Willingness to Intervene to Prevent Rape: A Pretest Posttest Study
Authors: Foubert John D. , Masin Ryan C.
Published: December 2012

Noncommissioned male officers in the U.S. Army stationed in Germany were trained to present a 1-hour rape prevention workshop—The Men’s Program—to 237 enlisted male soldiers. A comparison group of 244 male soldiers received a briefing focused on reducing the individual’s risk for experiencing sexual assault, discussion of myths and facts about sexual assault, and how to avoid being accused of sexual assault. Participants in The Men’s Program experienced significant change in the predicted direction for bystander willingness to help, bystander efficacy, rape myth acceptance, likelihood of raping, and likelihood of committing sexual assault with low to medium effect sizes. Comparison group participants experienced no effect on these variables except for a significant decline in rape myth acceptance with a very low effect size.

Between-group differences pointed to the efficacy of The Men’s Program. Implications of these results for rape prevention programming in the military are discussed.
Gender Differences in Sexual Assault Victimization Among College Students
Authors: Hines Denise A. , Armstrong Jessica L. , Reed Kathleen Palm , Cameron Amy Y.
Published: December 2012

College students are at particular risk for sexual assault victimization, yet research tends to focus on women as victims and men as perpetrators. The purpose of this study was to investigate gender differences in the prevalence, context, and predictors of sexual assault victimization among college students. Results showed that women were significantly more likely to have been sexually assaulted in a 2-month time period, but the context of victimization varied little by gender. Victimization was predicted by sexual orientation, time spent socializing and partying, and severe dating violence victimization for men and by year in school, time spent on the Internet, drinking and using drugs, and being a stalking and dating violence victim for women. Results are discussed in the context of routine activities theory and implications for prevention and future research.
Use of Standardized Multidimensional Evaluation Tools and the Emergence of the Case Manager’s Professional Identity in France
Authors: Nugue Mathilde , De Stampa Matthieu , Couturier Yves , Somme Dominique
Published: December 2012

In France, the national public health plan proposes a group of innovations including the initiation of case management for older adults in complex situations, particularly those with cognitive disorders. In this context, public authorities asked case managers to use a standardized multidimensional evaluation tool. The results of a qualitative study on the pertinence of such a tool relative to the emergence of this new professional field are described. Early use of an evaluation tool seems to be linked to the emergence of a new professional identity for recently recruited case managers. Factors determining the strength of this link are training, tool standardization, computerization, and local structure’s involvement. Our results contribute to identifying one of the ways by which professional identity can be changed to become a case manager.
Using Gold-based Indonesian Crude Price (ICP) in Economical Evaluation of Field Development Plan
Authors: Nurhadi Sudirman Rasmin
Published: December 2012

Both oil and gold are commodities with price in US Dollars, but they choose different path in trend figure. While gold has been showing great stability over the years, oil keeps changing in price level. Oil price movements have distorted measurement of economic variables measured in dollar values. In economical evaluation for oil and gas field development projects longer than one year, oil price is one of the most critical assumptions. This paper is trying to solve whether: gold is more stable than paper currenciesgold equivalency is more reliable way to project future costs/pricethe gold-based oil price can be applied in current economical evaluation template of field development plan

Considering crude oil prices are moving dynamically for last decade, this paper exercise the model to determine realistic oil price assumption by using more stable "currencies", thus it can provide more reliable and accurate economical evaluation. It shows that gold-based crude-oil price is preferable indampening or mitigating: effect of dynamic oil price natureimpact of inflationrisks of paper-based currency fluctuationdiscount rate requirement

Using case study of Indonesian Production Sharing Contract (PSC) fiscal terms, the model provides more simple economical evaluation, resulting real net cashflow of field development plan. Demonstrating using gold equivalency instead of paper-based currencies provides more consistent and reliable nominal revenue in both perspective of PSC Contractor and Government.
A Blended Learning Course Design in Clinical Pharmacology for Post-graduate Dental Students
Authors: Rosenbaum Paul-Erik Lillholm , Mikalsen Øyvind , Lygre Henning , Solheim Einar , Schjøtt Jan
Published: December 2012

Postgraduate courses in clinical pharmacology are important for dentists to be updated on drug therapy and information related to their clinical practice, as well as knowledge of relevant adverse effects and interactions. A traditional approach with classroom delivery as the only method to teaching and learning has shortcomings regarding flexibility, individual learning preferences, and problem based learning (PBL) activities compared to online environments. This study examines a five week postgraduate course in clinical pharmacology with 15 hours of lectures and online learning activities, i.e. blended course design. Six postgraduate dental students participated and at the end of the course they were interviewed. Our findings emphasize that a blended learning course design can be successfully used in postgraduate dental education. Key matters for discussion were time flexibility and location convenience, change in teacher’s role, rein-forced learning strategies towards professional needs, scarcity in online communication, and proposed future utilization of e-learning components.
Association of Nevirapine Levels with Rash or Hepatotoxicity Among HIV-Infected Thai Women
Authors: Ratanasuwan Winai , Jariyasethpong Tavatchai , Anekthananon Thanomsak , Intalapaporn Poj , Kongpatanakul Supornchai , Pongnarin Piyapat , Wasinrapee Punneeporn , Chantharojwong Nartlada , Raengsakulrach Boonyos , Peters Philip J , McNicholl Janet , McConnell Michelle S , Weidle Paul J
Published: December 2012

Background:

We performed a nested case-control study of Thai women prescribed nevirapine-based antiretroviral therapy (ART) to determine if development of rash or hepatotoxicity during the first 24 weeks of treatment is associated with plasma nevirapine concentrations.

Method:

From May 2005-January 2007, we enrolled 217 women initiating nevirapine-based ART in Thailand. Cases (n = 54) were women who during the first 24 weeks of treatment with nevirapine developed rash (any grade, n = 42) or hepatotoxicity (≥grade 2, n = 22, [10 had both]). Controls were the next enrolled woman who was confirmed not to meet the case definition during the first 24 weeks. Nevirapine concentrations after the two week lead-in dose of 200 mg once daily were compared between cases and controls by Wilcoxon rank-sum tests.

Results:

We found no difference in Week 2 pre-dose nevirapine concentrations: cases median = 3,528 ng/mL (n = 24), controls median = 3,150ng/mL (n = 30), p = 0.5. Cases had higher post-dose nevirapine concentrations (median = 6,150 ng/mL, n = 21) than controls (median = 4,746 ng/mL, n = 20, p = 0.02). When limited to cases who developed a rash at Week 2, we found no differences in the pre-dose (median = 3,270 ng/mL, n = 12, p = 0.9) or post-dose nevirapine concentration (median = 5,443 ng/mL, n = 9, p = 0.4) compared with controls.

Conclusions:

We cannot conclude definitively that nevirapine concentrations at two weeks of therapy are associated with rash or hepatotoxicity. It is unlikely that therapeutic drug monitoring at that time will improve identification of patients at risk for rash or hepatotoxicity.
Thermographic properties of Eu3+ and Sm3+ doped Lu2O3 nanophosphor
Authors: Lojpur Vesna , Antic Zeljka , Krsmanovic Radenka , Medic Mina , Nikolic Marko , Dramicanin Miroslav
Published: December 2012

The samples, Lu2O3:Eu3+ (3at.% Eu) and Lu2O3:Sm3+ (1at.% Sm), were prepared
via polymer complex solution method using polyethlylene-glyocol as the fuel
and as nucleation agent for crystallization process. Knowing that lutetium
oxide has high chemical stability and temperature resistance, in this paper
we investigated possibility for its application in high-temperature phosphor
thermometry. It is a non-contact technique that uses the thermal dependence
of phosphor fluorescence to measure temperature remotely. The structural and
morphological properties were performed through X-ray powder diffraction
(XRPD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) investigations. The
obtained results confirmed that this synthesis yields desired crystalline
structure with particle size in the range from 30 to 50 nm. Photoluminescence
emission measurements were recorded in the temperature range from room up to
873 K. The accomplished results demonstrate the performance of Eu3+ and Sm3+
doped Lu2O3 as high temperature thermographic phosphors of very good
sensitivity.
Relevance of GASB No. 34 to Financial Reporting by Municipal Governments
Authors: Pridgen Annette K. , Wilder W. Mark
Published: December 2012

SYNOPSIS

The Governmental Accounting Standards Board issued Statement No. 34, creating a new accrual-based financial reporting model. This study examines whether information from this model is associated with the default risk (a proxy for fiscal distress) of municipal governments and whether this information is incremental to that provided by the fund-based, modified-accrual reporting model. Ordered logistic regressions are used to analyze financial data from 2005 for a sample of 409 municipalities that participated in the Government Finance Officers Association award program. This study extends the work of Plummer et al. (2007) to municipal governments. In addition to the financial position indicator variable (total net assets/total revenues) examined by Plummer et al. (2007), this study provides evidence of the relevance of three other financial indicators (change in net assets/total net assets; total liabilities/total assets; and current assets/current liabilities). We also find that these accrual-based indicators provide information incremental to the fund-based model and that one fund-based measure (total fund balances/total fund revenues) also provides information incremental to the accrual indicator. These results are consistent with perceptions of regulators and others who expect accrual accounting to be a better measure of the economic costs of running a government than the traditional fund-based model.

Data Availability: Contact the authors.
Target Price Accuracy: International Evidence
Authors: Bilinski Pawel , Lyssimachou Danielle , Walker Martin
Published: December 2012

Using an international sample of 16 countries, this paper examines if analyst- and country-specific characteristics explain the variation in target price (TP) accuracy. We find that significant variation in average TP accuracy across countries is due to differences in accounting disclosure quality, the origin of the legal system, cultural traits, and IFRS regulation. We also find that analysts exhibit differential and persistent ability to forecast target prices accurately, which confirms that some analysts have superior TP forecasting ability.

Data Availability: Data are available from public sources indicated in the text.
Primary Prevention of Macroangiopathy in Patients With Short-Duration Type 2 Diabetes by Intensified Multifactorial Intervention
Authors: Yang Yu , Yao Jun-jie , Du Jian-ling , Bai Ran , Sun Li-peng , Sun Guo-hua , Song Gui-rong , Cao Si-ming , Shi Chun-hong , Ba Ying , Xing Qian , Zhang Xue-yang
Published: December 2012

OBJECTIVE

To explore whether intensified, multifactorial intervention could prevent macrovascular disease in patients with recently diagnosed type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A total of 150 type 2 diabetic patients, with disease duration of <1 year and without clinical arteriosclerotic disease or subclinical atherosclerotic signs confirmed by ultrasonographic scanning of three conducting arteries, were randomized into an intensive intervention group and a conventional intervention group. They then received intensive, multifactorial intervention or conventional intervention over 7 years of follow-up. The patients’ common carotid intima-media thicknesses (CC-IMTs) were measured every year. The primary outcome was the time to the first occurrence of CC-IMTs ≥1.0 mm and/or development of atherosclerosis plaques in the carotid artery. The secondary outcome was clinical evidence of cardiovascular disease.

RESULTS

A total of 70 patients in the intensive group and 68 patients in the conventional group completed the 7-year follow-up. Subclinical macrovascular (primary) outcomes occurred in seven cases in the intensive group and 22 cases in the conventional group for a cumulative prevalence of 10.00 and 32.35%, respectively (P < 0.05). No significant differences between the two groups were observed regarding the secondary outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

Primary prevention of macrovascular diseases can be achieved through intensified, multifactorial intervention in patients with short-duration type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetic patients should undergo intensive multifactorial interventions with individual targets for the prevention of macrovascular diseases.
The Midregional Fragment of Pro-A–Type Natriuretic Peptide, Blood Pressure, and Mortality in a Prospective Cohort Study of Patients With Type 2 Diabetes (ZODIAC-25)
Authors: van Hateren Kornelis J.J. , Landman Gijs W.D. , Kleefstra Nanne , Groenier Klaas H. , Struck Joachim , Navis Gerjan J. , Bakker Stephan J.L. , Houweling Sebastiaan T. , van der Meer Klaas , Bilo Henk J.G.
Published: December 2012

OBJECTIVE

Evidence that midregional fragment of pro-A–type natriuretic peptide (MR-proANP) is a marker of mortality in patients with type 2 diabetes is limited. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the capabilities of MR-proANP in predicting mortality. We also investigated whether MR-proANP influences the relationship between blood pressure and mortality in old age.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

In 1998, 1,143 primary care patients with type 2 diabetes participated in the ZODIAC study. Because blood was drawn for 867 patients (76%) and confounders were missing for 19 patients, the final study sample comprised 848 patients. After a follow-up time of 10 years, we used Cox proportional hazard models to evaluate the relationship between MR-proANP and (cardiovascular) mortality. Harrell C statistic was used to compare models with and without MR-proANP. The regression analyses were repeated without MR-proANP for patients aged older than 75 years.

RESULTS

Median MR-proANP in the total study sample was 75 pmol/L (interquartile range, 48–124 pmol/L). During follow-up, 354 (42%) out of 848 patients had died, of whom 152 (43%) deaths were attributable to cardiovascular factors. MR-proANP was independently associated with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality, irrespective of age. During old age, there was a significant inverse relationship between blood pressure and mortality. This relationship did not change after adjustment for MR-proANP.

CONCLUSIONS

MR-proANP is independently associated with mortality in patients with type 2 diabetes. MR-proANP did not influence the inverse relationship between blood pressure and mortality in elderly patients.
Performance of Primary Care Physicians and Other Providers on Key Process Measures in the Treatment of Diabetes
Authors: Morrison Fritha , Shubina Maria , Goldberg Saveli I. , Turchin Alexander
Published: December 2012

OBJECTIVE

Studies have shown that patients without a consistent primary care provider have inferior outcomes. However, little is known about the mechanisms for these effects. This study aims to determine whether primary care physicians (PCPs) provide more frequent medication intensification, lifestyle counseling, and patient encounters than other providers in the primary care setting.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included 584,587 encounters for 27,225 patients with diabetes and elevated A1C, blood pressure, and/or LDL cholesterol monitored for at least 2 years. Encounters occurred at primary care practices affiliated with two teaching hospitals in eastern Massachusetts.

RESULTS

Of the encounters documented, 83% were with PCPs, 13% were with covering physicians, and 5% were with midlevel providers. In multivariable analysis, the odds of medication intensification were 49% (P < 0.0001) and 26% (P < 0.0001) higher for PCPs than for covering physicians and midlevel providers, respectively, whereas the odds of lifestyle counseling were 91% (P < 0.0001) and 21% (P = 0.0015) higher. During visits with acute complaints, covering physicians were even less likely, by a further 52% (P < 0.0001), to intensify medications, and midlevel providers were even less likely, by a further 41% (P < 0.0001), to provide lifestyle counseling. Compared with PCPs, the hazard ratios for time to the next encounter after a visit without acute complaints were 1.11 for covering physicians and 1.19 for midlevel providers (P < 0.0001 for both).

CONCLUSIONS

PCPs provide better care through higher rates of medication intensification and lifestyle counseling. Covering physicians and midlevel providers may enable more frequent encounters when PCP resources are constrained.
Revisiting the construction of gap functions for variational inequalities and equilibrium problems via conjugate duality
Authors: Cioban Liana , Csetnek Ernö
Published: December 2012

Based on conjugate duality we construct several gap functions for general variational inequalities and equilibrium problems, in the formulation of which a so-called perturbation function is used. These functions are written with the help of the Fenchel-Moreau conjugate of the functions involved. In case we are working in the convex setting and a regularity condition is fulfilled, these functions become gap functions. The techniques used are the ones considered in [Altangerel L., Boţ R.I., Wanka G., On gap functions for equilibrium problems via Fenchel duality, Pac. J. Optim., 2006, 2(3), 667–678] and [Altangerel L., Boţ R.I., Wanka G., On the construction of gap functions for variational inequalities via conjugate duality, Asia-Pac. J. Oper. Res., 2007, 24(3), 353–371]. By particularizing the perturbation function we rediscover several gap functions from the literature. We also characterize the solutions of various variational inequalities and equilibrium problems by means of the properties of the convex subdifferential. In case no regularity condition is fulfilled, we deliver also necessary and sufficient sequential characterizations for these solutions. Several examples are illustrating the theoretical aspects.
Educating for Nationhood
Authors: Violi Patrizia
Published: December 2012

This article analyzes the Memorial Hall for Victims of the Nanjing Massacre by Japanese Invaders, opened in its present form in 2007 to commemorate the massacre perpetrated by the Japanese in 1937, when in the course of six weeks a significant number of harmless civilians were brutally slaughtered. The memorial is a highly complex semiotic object: it includes a large museum but is also, and perhaps above all, a huge thematic park that occupies an extremely large surface area of seventy-four thousand square meters. Through a close reading of the site, this article seeks to show how the Nanjing Memorial, more than serving the function of conservation and transmission of a tragic, traumatic memory, is mostly a monument to Chinese nationhood, an important step in the construction of a new national identity.
Urological complications following use of recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein–2 in anterior lumbar interbody fusion
Authors: Lubelski Daniel , Abdullah Kalil G. , Nowacki Amy S. , Alvin Matthew D. , Steinmetz Michael P. , Chakka Srita , Li Yumeng , Gajewski Nicholas , Benzel Edward C. , Mroz Thomas E.
Published: December 2012

Object

The goal of this study was to compare the urological complications in patients after anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) with and without the use of recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein–2 (rhBMP-2).

Methods

The authors retrospectively reviewed the medical records of all patients who underwent ALIF with and without rhBMP-2 between January 2002 and August 2010. Patient demographic, operative, and complication information was analyzed. Male patients who underwent ALIF between L-4 and S-1 were contacted to assess postoperative urological complications.

Results

Of the 110 male patients who underwent ALIF and were included in this study, 59 were treated with rhBMP-2 and 51 did not receive rhBMP-2. The mean follow-up duration was 17.5 months for the rhBMP-2 group and 30.8 months for the control group. No difference was found regarding the total number of urological complications in the rhBMP-2 group versus the control group (22% vs 20%, respectively; p = 1.0) or for retrograde ejaculation specifically (8% vs 8%, respectively; p = 1.0).

Conclusions

In this study, the use of rhBMP-2 with ALIF surgery was not associated with an increased incidence of urological complications and retrograde ejaculation when compared with control ALIF without rhBMP-2. Further prospective analyses that specifically look at these complications are warranted.
Robustness Assessment of Building Structures under Explosion
Authors: Zolghadr Jahromi Hamed , Izzuddin Bassam , Nethercot David , Donahue Sean , Hadjioannou Michalis , Williamson Eric , Engelhardt Michael , Stevens David , Marchand Kirk , Waggoner Mark
Published: December 2012

Over the past decade, much research has focused on the behaviour of structures following the failure of a key structural component. Particular attention has been given to sudden column loss, though questions remain as to whether this event-independent scenario is relevant to actual extreme events such as explosion. Few studies have been conducted to assess the performance of floor slabs above a failed column, and the computational tools used have not been validated against experimental results. The research program presented in this paper investigates the adequacy of sudden column loss as an idealisation of local damage caused by realistic explosion events, and extends prior work by combining the development of accurate computational models with large-scale testing of a typical floor system in a prototypical steel-framed structure. The floor system consists of corrugated decking topped by a lightly reinforced concrete slab that is connected to the floor beams through shear studs. The design is consistent with typical building practices in the US. The first test has been completed, and subsequent tests are currently being planned. This paper addresses the importance of robustness design for localized damage and includes a detailed description regarding how the research program advances the current state of knowledge for assessing robustness of compositely constructed steel-framed buildings.
Neovascularization in Tissue Engineering
Authors: Chung Jennifer , Shum-Tim Dominique
Published: December 2012

A prerequisite for successful tissue engineering is adequate vascularization that would allow tissue engineering constructs to survive and grow. Angiogenic growth factors, alone and in combination, have been used to achieve this, and gene therapy has been used as a tool to enable sustained release of these angiogenic proteins. Cell-based therapy using endothelial cells and their precursors presents an alternative approach to tackling this challenge. These studies have occurred on a background of advancements in scaffold design and assays for assessing neovascularization. Finally, several studies have already attempted to translate research in neovascularization to clinical use in the blossoming field of therapeutic angiogenesis.
Improving Classical Authentication over a Quantum Channel
Authors: Assis Francisco , Stojanovic Aleksandar , Mateus Paulo , Omar Yasser
Published: December 2012

We propose a quantum protocol to authenticate classical messages that can be used to replace Wegman–Carter’s classical authentication scheme in quantum key distribution (QKD) protocols. We show that the proposed scheme achieves greater conditional entropy of the seed for the intruder given her (quantum) observation than the classical case. The proposed scheme is suitable for situations where the shared symmetric key used in authentication becomes dangerously short (due to noise or eavesdropping), and there is a threat that it might be completely consumed without being replaced. Our protocol is an improvement over a classical scheme by Brassard and takes advantage of quantum channel properties. It is motivated by information-theoretical results. We stress that the proposed authentication protocol can also be used as an independent authentication protocol that is not a part of a QKD. However by adopting it, QKD becomes a fully quantum protocol. We prove that quantum resources can improve both the secrecy of the key generated by the PRG and the secrecy of the tag obtained with a hidden hash function. We conclude that the proposed quantum encoding offers more security than the classical scheme and, by applying a classical result, we show that it can be used under noisy quantum channels.
Effects of Sesamin on Streptozotocin (STZ)-Induced NIT-1 Pancreatic β-Cell Damage
Authors: Lei Hong , Han Juncheng , Wang Qin , Guo Shuzhen , Sun Hanju , Zhang Xiaoxiang
Published: December 2012

The protective effect of sesamin (SES) from sesame meal on NIT-1 pancreatic β-cells damaged by streptozotocin (STZ) in vitro was investigated. The cell viability, insulin secretion, the activity of superoxide dismutase(SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSHpx) and the content of reduced glutathione (GSH) increased significantly when incubated with SES (400, 200 µg mL−1). The content of malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO) production, and the activity of NO synthase (NOS), inducible NOS (iNOS), decreased significantly when incubated with SES. The destructive changes of NIT-1 cells were ameliorated when treated with SES under microscopic observation. These data suggested that SES had obvious protective effect on NIT-1 pancreatic β-cells damaged by STZ, which might be related to its effects of decreasing levels of β-cell-destroying factors such as oxidative stress and NO synthesis.
Increased Insulin Sensitivity and Distorted Mitochondrial Adaptations during Muscle Unloading
Authors: Qi Zhengtang , Zhang Yuan , Guo Wei , Ji Liu , Ding Shuzhe
Published: December 2012

We aimed to further investigate mitochondrial adaptations to muscle disuse and the consequent metabolic disorders. Male rats were submitted to hindlimb unloading (HU) for three weeks. Interestingly, HU increased insulin sensitivity index (ISI) and decreased blood level of triglyceride and insulin. In skeletal muscle, HU decreased expression of pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 4 (PDK4) and its protein level in mitochondria. HU decreased mtDNA content and mitochondrial biogenesis biomarkers. Dynamin-related protein (Drp1) in mitochondria and Mfn2 mRNA level were decreased significantly by HU. Our findings provide more extensive insight into mitochondrial adaptations to muscle disuse, involving the shift of fuel utilization towards glucose, the decreased mitochondrial biogenesis and the distorted mitochondrial dynamics.
General Stress Responses in the Honey Bee
Authors: Even Naïla , Devaud Jean-Marc , Barron Andrew
Published: December 2012

The biological concept of stress originated in mammals, where a “General Adaptation Syndrome” describes a set of common integrated physiological responses to diverse noxious agents. Physiological mechanisms of stress in mammals have been extensively investigated through diverse behavioral and physiological studies. One of the main elements of the stress response pathway is the endocrine hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which underlies the “fight-or-flight” response via a hormonal cascade of catecholamines and corticoid hormones. Physiological responses to stress have been studied more recently in insects: they involve biogenic amines (octopamine, dopamine), neuropeptides (allatostatin, corazonin) and metabolic hormones (adipokinetic hormone, diuretic hormone). Here, we review elements of the physiological stress response that are or may be specific to honey bees, given the economical and ecological impact of this species. This review proposes a hypothetical integrated honey bee stress pathway somewhat analogous to the mammalian HPA, involving the brain and, particularly, the neurohemal organ corpora cardiaca and peripheral targets, including energy storage organs (fat body and crop). We discuss how this system can organize rapid coordinated changes in metabolic activity and arousal, in response to adverse environmental stimuli. We highlight physiological elements of the general stress responses that are specific to honey bees, and the areas in which we lack information to stimulate more research into how this fascinating and vital insect responds to stress.
Teenagers as a Moving Target: How Can Teenagers Be Encouraged to Accept Treatment?
Authors: Gauthier Pascale , Cardot Jean-Michel
Published: December 2012

Pediatric patients exhibit their own needs and problems and are now considered as a real patient group in which downsizing the adult formulation is not the best choice and may result in problems. Adolescence (between 12 and 18 years) is a transitional period of life from puberty to adulthood and, in this pediatric subgroup population, complex problems are observed in compliance with chronic treatments. Heterogeneity exists in this group which follows very different and sometimes short trends and tendencies and where illness can be a problem leading to stigmatization. Influence of social environment as well as friends is complex in this period of life. Teenagers have to take care of themselves and be part of the treatment including all the features of the social code of this group. Particular attention has to be paid to formulation and packaging in order to increase compliance and to suit the specific needs of this pediatric subgroup. Some examples are given for different drug forms.
An Ultrasensitive Electrochemical Immunosensor for Alpha-Fetoprotein Using an Envision Complex-Antibody Copolymer as a Sensitive Label
Authors: Xiong Ping , Gan Ning , Cao Yuting , Hu Futao , Li Tianhua , Zheng Lei
Published: December 2012

A novel strategy is presented for sensitive detection of alfa-fetoprotein (AFP), using a horseradish peroxidase (HRP)-functionalized Envision antibody complex (EVC) as the label. The Envision-AFP signal antibody copolymer (EVC-AFP Ab2) was composed of a dextran amine skeleton anchoring more than 100 molecules of HRP and 15 molecules of secondary antibody, and acted as a signal tag in the immunosensor. The sensor was constructed using the following steps: First, gold electrode (GE) was modified with nano-gold (AuNPs) by electro-deposition in HAuCl4 solution. The high affinity of the AuNPs surface facilitates direct formation of a self-assembled thiolated protein G layer. Next, the coated GE was incubated in a solution of AFP capture antibody (AFP Ab1); these antibodies attach to the thiolated protein G layer through their non-antigenic regions, leaving the antigen binding sites for binding of target analyte. Following a sandwich immunoreaction, an EVC-AFP Ab2-AFP-AFP Ab1 immunocomplex was formed on the electrode surface, allowing large amounts of HRP on the complex to produce an amplified electrocatalytic current of hydroquinone (HQ) in the presence of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Highly amplified detection was achieved, with a detection limit of 2 pg/mL and a linear range of 0.005–0.2 ng/mL for AFP in 10 μL undiluted serum; this is near or below the normal levels of most cancer biomarker proteins in human serum. Measurements of AFP in the serum of cancer patients correlated strongly with standard enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. These easily fabricated EVC-modified immunosensors show excellent promise for future fabrication of bioelectronic arrays. By varying the target biomolecules, this technique may be easily extended for use with other immunoassays, and thus represents a versatile design route.
Antitumor Effect of a Polypeptide Fraction from Arca subcrenata in Vitro and in Vivo
Authors: Hu Xianjing , Song Liyan , Huang Lijiao , Zheng Qin , Yu Rongmin
Published: December 2012

Arca subcrenata Lischke is a marine traditional Chinese medicine. The study investigated the antitumor effects of P2, a polypeptide fraction from A. subcrenata, and its toxicity in vitro and in vivo. The results showed that P2 could inhibit the proliferation of seven tumor cell lines, especially in HeLa and HT-29 cell lines. The IC50 values were 11.43 μg/mL for HeLa and 13.00 μg/mL for HT-29 treated by P2 for 48 h. P2 had little cytotoxicity on normal liver cells (L-02). The maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of P2 on KM mice was 1000 mg/kg by i.p. or i.v. The tumor growth inhibitory ratios of P2 were 26.4%, 41.4% and 46.4% for H-22, and 34.0%, 45.8% and 60.1% for S-180 tumor-bearing mice. The results demonstrated that P2 might be a potential antitumor agent with high efficiency in dose-dependent and time-dependent manners and low toxicity.
New Advances in Titanium-Mediated Free Radical Reactions
Authors: Rossi Bianca , Prosperini Simona , Pastori Nadia , Clerici Angelo , Punta Carlo
Published: December 2012

Titanium complexes have been widely used as catalysts for C‑C bond-forming processes via free-radical routes. Herein we provide an overview of some of the most significant contributions in the field, that covers the last decade, emphasizing the key role played by titanium salts in the promotion of selective reactions aimed at the synthesis of multifunctional organic compounds, including nucleophilic radical additions to imines, pinacol and coupling reactions, ring opening of epoxides and living polymerization.
Nitrogen-Containing Apigenin Analogs: Preparation and Biological Activity
Authors: Liu Rui , Zhao Bin , Wang Dong-En , Yao Tianyu , Pang Long , Tu Qin , Ahmed Saeed , Liu Jian-Jun , Wang Jinyi
Published: December 2012

A series of nitrogen-containing apigenin analogs 4a–j was synthesized via Mannich reactions to develop anticancer, antibacterial, and antioxidant agents from plant-derived flavonoids. The chemical structures of these compounds were confirmed using 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, and ESI-MS. The in vitro biological activities of the analogs were evaluated via assays of their antiproliferative, antibacterial, and antioxidant activities. The prepared apigenin analogs exhibited different antiproliferative activities against four human cancer cell lines, namely human cervical (HeLa), human hepatocellular liver (HepG2), human lung (A549), and human breast (MCF-7) cancer cells. Compound 4i showed the most favorable in vitro antiproliferative activity with IC50 values of 40, 40, 223, and 166 μg/mL against HeLa, HepG2, A549, and MCF-7, respectively. The 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging activity assay also showed that 4i had the most potent antioxidant activity, with the smallest IC50 value (334.8 μg/mL). The antibacterial activities of the analogs were determined using a two-fold serial dilution technique against four pathogenic bacteria, namely Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. All the prepared apigenin analogs exhibited more potent activities than the parent apigenin. Compounds 4h and 4j, in particular, exhibited the best inhibitory activities against the Gram-positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis with MIC values of 3.91 and 1.95 μg/mL, respectively.
Anti-obesity Effect of HT048, a Herbal Combination, in High Fat Diet-Induced Obese Rats
Authors: Lim Dong , Song MiKyung , Park Juyeon , Park Sang , Kim Nak , Gaire Bhakta , Choi Ho-Young , Kim Hocheol
Published: December 2012

This study evaluated the anti-obesity effects of HT048, a combination of C. pinnatifida fruit and C. unshiu peel extracts, in high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obese rats. 4-Week-old male Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were divided into normal and high fat diet (HFD) groups. The HFD groups were further divided into five groups treated with distilled water, orlistat (40 mg/kg, twice daily, p.o) and HT048 (30, 100 and 300 mg/kg, twice daily, p.o.) for 12 weeks. Orlistat, an anti-obesity drug, was used as positive control in the HFD-induced obese rats. We measured the food intake, body weight, epididymal adipose tissue and liver weights, and serum total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), alanine transaminase (ALT), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels. The body weight and epididymal adipose tissue and liver weights of the HT048 100 and 300 mg/kg treated groups were significantly lower than that of the HFD control group. Also, serum TC, TG, ALT, and AST levels in the HT048 100 and 300 mg/kg treated groups were significantly decreased. Moreover, the orlistat treated group showed significantly reduced body weight and improved serum lipoprotein, compared with the HFD control group. These results show that HT048 supplements improved obesity-related body weight and serum lipoprotein parameters in a HFD-induced obese rat model.
Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase (TERT) is a Therapeutic Target of Oleanane Triterpenoid CDDO-Me in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Liu Yongbo , Gao Xiaohua , Deeb Dorrah , Arbab Ali , Gautam Subhash
Published: December 2012

Methyl-2-cyano-3,12-dioxooleana-1,9(11)-dien-28-oate (CDDO-Me) is an synthetic oleanane triterpenoid with strong antiprolifertive and proapoptotic activities in cancer cells. However, the effect of CDDO-Me on human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) and its telomerase activity in prostate cancer cells has not been studied. We investigated the role of hTERT in mediating the anticancer activity of CDDO-Me in prostate cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. The inhibition of cell proliferation and induction of apoptosis by CDDO-Me in LNCaP and PC-3 prostate cancer cell lines was associated with the inhibition of hTERT gene expression, hTERT telomerase activity and a number of proteins that regulate hTERT transcriptionally and post-translationally. Furthermore, ablation of hTERT protein increased the sensitivity of cancer cells to CDDO-Me, whereas its overexpression rendered them resistant to CDDO-Me. In addition, inhibition of progression of preneoplastic lesions (i.e., low and high-grade prostate intraepithelial neoplasms, PINs) to adenocarcinoma of the prostate by CDDO-Me in TRAMP mice was associated with significant decrease in TERT and its regulatory proteins in the prostate gland. These data provide evidence that telomerase is a potential target of CDDO-Me for the prevention and treatment of prostate cancer.
Monounsaturated Fatty Acids and Risk of Cardiovascular Disease: Synopsis of the Evidence Available from Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses
Authors: Schwingshackl Lukas , Hoffmann Georg
Published: December 2012

No dietary recommendations for monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) are given by the National Institute of Medicine, the United States Department of Agriculture, European Food and Safety Authority and the American Diabetes Association. In contrast, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, and the Canadian Dietetic Association both promote <25% MUFA of daily total energy consumption, while the American Heart Association sets a limit of 20% MUFA in their respective guidelines. The present review summarizes systematic reviews and meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials and cohort studies investigating the effects of MUFA on cardiovascular and diabetic risk factors, cardiovascular events and cardiovascular death. Electronic database Medline was searched for systematic reviews and meta-analyses using “monounsaturated fatty acids”, “monounsaturated fat”, and “dietary fat” as search terms with no restriction to calendar date or language. Reference lists and clinical guidelines were searched as well. Sixteen relevant papers were identified. Several studies indicated an increase of HDL-cholesterol and a corresponding decrease in triacylglycerols following a MUFA-rich diet. The effects on total and LDL-cholesterol appeared not consistent, but no detrimental effects on blood lipids were observed. Values for systolic and diastolic blood pressure were found to be reduced both during short- and long-term protocols using high amounts of MUFA as compared to low-MUFA diets. In type 2 diabetic subjects, MUFA exerted a hypoglycemic effect and reduced glycosylated hemoglobin in the long term. Data from meta-analyses exploring evidence from long-term prospective cohort studies provide ambiguous results with respect to the effects of MUFA on risk of coronary heart disease (CHD). One meta-analysis reported an increase in CHD events, however, most meta-analyses observed a lesser number of cases in participants subjected to a high-MUFA protocol. Although no detrimental side effects of MUFA-rich diets were reported in the literature, there still is no unanimous rationale for MUFA recommendations in a therapeutic regimen. Additional long-term intervention studies are required to characterized efficacy and effectiveness of recommending MUFA-rich diet among general and clinical populations.