bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HrtBA and menaquinones control haem homeostasis in Lactococcus lactis
Authors: Joubert Laetitia , Derré‐Bobillot Aurélie , Gaudu Philippe , Gruss Alexandra , Lechardeur Delphine
Published: July 2014

Lactococcus lactis is a fermenting Gram‐positive bacterium widely used for production of dairy products. Lacking haem biosynthesis genes, L. lactis can still shift to an energetically favourable respiratory metabolism by activating a terminal cytochrome bd oxidase when haem is added to an aerated culture. Haem intracellular homeostasis is mediated by the hrtRBA operon encoding the conserved membrane HrtBA haem efflux permease and the unique intracellular haem sensor and regulator, HrtR. Here we report that membrane‐associated menaquinones (MK) favour the accumulation of reduced haem in membranes. An oxidative environment, provided by oxygen, prevents and reverses haemin reduction by MK and thus limits haem accumulation in membranes. HrtBA counteracts MK‐dependent membrane retention of excess haem in membrane, suggesting direct efflux from this compartment. Moreover, both HrtBA and MK‐mediated reduction have a strong impact on haem intracellular pools, as determined via HrtR haem sensor induction, suggesting that intracellular haem acquisition is controlled at the membrane level without the need for dedicated import systems. Our conclusions lead to a new hypothesis of haem acquisition and regulation in which HrtBA and the bacterial membrane have central roles in L. lactis.
The ins and outs of bacterial iron metabolism
Authors: Frawley Elaine R. , Fang Ferric C.
Published: July 2014

Iron is a critical nutrient for the growth and survival of most bacterial species. Accordingly, much attention has been paid to the mechanisms by which host organisms sequester iron from invading bacteria and how bacteria acquire iron from their environment. However, under oxidative stress conditions such as those encountered within phagocytic cells during the host immune response, iron is released from proteins and can act as a catalyst for Fenton chemistry to produce cytotoxic reactive oxygen species. The transitory efflux of free intracellular iron may be beneficial to bacteria under such conditions. The recent discovery of putative iron efflux transporters in Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium is discussed in the context of cellular iron homeostasis.
Complex interplay of future climate levels of CO2, ozone and temperature on susceptibility to fungal diseases in barley
Authors: Mikkelsen B. L. , Jørgensen R. B. , Lyngkjær M. F.
Published: July 2014

Barley (Hordeum vulgare) was grown in different climatic environments with elevated [CO2] (700 vs 385 ppm), [O3] (60/90 vs 20 ppb) and temperature (24/19 vs 19/12°C day/night) as single factors and in combinations, to evaluate the impact of these climatic factors on photosynthesis and susceptibility to powdery mildew and spot blotch disease. No significant increase in net CO2 assimilation rate was observed in barley grown under elevated [CO2] at ambient temperature. However, this rate was positively stimulated under elevated temperature together with a slightly higher potential quantum efficiency of PSII, both at ambient and elevated [CO2], suggesting that photosynthesis was not limited by [CO2] at ambient temperature. When growing under elevated temperature or [O3], infection by the biotrophic powdery mildew fungus decreased, whereas disease symptoms and growth of the toxin‐secreting hemibiotrophic spot blotch fungus increased compared to ambient conditions, implying that climate‐induced changes in disease severity could be linked to the trophic lifestyle of the pathogens. Elevated [CO2] decreased powdery mildew infection but had no effect on spot blotch disease compared to ambient condition. However, the effect of elevated [CO2], [O3] and temperature did not act in an additive manner when combined. This led to a surprising disease development in the combination treatments, where powdery mildew infection increased despite the individual reducing effect of the climatic factors, and spot blotch disease decreased despite the individual promoting effect of temperature and ozone, emphasizing the importance of conducting multifactorial experiments when evaluating the potential effects of climate change.
Pig to rat cell transplantation: reduced cellular and antibody responses to xenografts overexpressing PD‐L1
Authors: Plege‐Fleck Annegret , Lieke Thorsten , Römermann Dorothee , Düvel Heike , Hundrieser Joachim , Buermann Anna , Kraus Lilli , Klempnauer Jürgen , Schwinzer Reinhard
Published: July 2014

Background

Programmed death‐1 (PD‐1) costimulation acts as a negative regulator of T‐cell responses to allografts. However, the role of the PD‐1 pathway in xenotransplantation is not well defined yet. We have shown previously that human in vitro T‐cell responses to porcine transfectants overexpressing PD‐Ligand1 (L23‐PD‐L1 cells) are remarkably weak. In this report, we asked whether the PD‐1/PD‐L1 pathway has the potential to diminish xenogeneic immune responses also in vivo.

Methods

L23‐PD‐L1 or mock transfected control cells (L23‐GFP) were transplanted under the kidney capsule of rats. The occurrence of kidney‐infiltrating rat leukocytes and the induction of anti‐pig antibodies were monitored in grafted animals.

Results

Assessment of cellular infiltrates revealed similar numbers of macrophages in kidneys grafted with L23‐PD‐L1 or L23‐GFP control cells. However, the level of MHC class‐II molecules was reduced on macrophages responding to L23‐PD‐L1 grafts, suggesting a lower state of activation. Furthermore, less T cells were found in kidneys receiving L23‐PD‐L1 cells. In addition, the titers of induced anti‐pig antibodies were significantly lower in rats grafted with L23‐PD‐L1 cells.

Conclusions

These data suggest that signals triggered by PD‐1–PD‐L1 interaction interfere with activation pathways involved in the induction of cellular and antibody‐mediated immune responses to xenografts in vivo. Targeting of PD‐1 and/or PD‐L1 may be a promising approach for immune modulation after xenotransplantation.
An immunosufficient murine model for the study of human islets
Authors: Zhao Gaoping , Moore Daniel J. , Kim James I. , Lee Kang Mi , O'Connor Matthew , Yang Maozhu , Marshall Andrew F. , Lei Ji , Schuetz Christian , Markmann James F. , Deng Shaoping
Published: July 2014

For the sake of therapy of diabetes, it is critical to understand human beta cell function in detail in health and disease. Current studies of human beta cell physiology in vivo are mostly limited to immunodeficient mouse models, which possess significant technical limitations. This study aimed to create a new model for the study of human islets through induction of transplant tolerance in immunosufficient mice. B6 diabetic mice were transplanted with human islets and treated with anti‐CD45RB. To assess whether anti‐CD45RB‐induced transplant tolerance requires B cells, B6 recipients received additional anti‐CD20 or B6μMT−/− mice were used. For some anti‐CD45RB‐treated B6μMT−/− mice, additional anti‐CD25 mAb was applied at the early or late stage post‐transplant. Immunohistology was performed to show the Foxp3 cells in grafted anti‐CD45RB/anti‐CD20‐treated Foxp3‐GFP B6 mice. The results showed that anti‐CD45RB alone allowed indefinite graft survival in 26.6% of B6 mice, however 100% of xenografts were accepted in mice treated simultaneously with anti‐CD20, and 88.9% of xenografts accepted in anti‐CD45RB‐treated μMT−/− mice. These μMT−/− mice accepted the islets from another human donor but rejected the islets from baboon. Additional administration of anti‐CD25 mAb at the time of transplantation resulted in 100% rejection, whereas 40% of grafts were rejected while the antibody was administrated at days 60 post‐transplant. Immunohistologic examination showed Foxp3+ cells accumulated around grafts. We conclude that induction of tolerance to human islets in an immunosufficient mouse model could be generated by targeting murine CD45RB and CD20. This new system will facilitate study of human islets and accelerate the dissection of the critical mechanisms underlying islet health in human disease.
New Zealand Environmental Campaign Management and News Media Coverage
Authors: Craig Geoffrey
Published: July 2014

New Zealand Environmental Campaign Management and News Media Coverage
100% Pure Imperial Ecology: Marketing the Environment in Antipodean Film and Advertising
Authors: Gurevitch Leon
Published: July 2014

100% Pure Imperial Ecology: Marketing the Environment in Antipodean Film and Advertising
Vincent Ward's Taranaki War: Battle, Captivity and Romance in ​River Queen
Authors: Nicholson Roger
Published: July 2014

Vincent Ward's Taranaki War: Battle, Captivity and Romance in River Queen
The Man Alone, the Black Sheep and the Bad Apple: Squeaky Wheels of New Zealand Cinema
Authors: Allen Brenda
Published: July 2014

The Man Alone, the Black Sheep and the Bad Apple: Squeaky Wheels of New Zealand Cinema
The Road to Toxin-Targeted Therapeutic Antibodies
Authors: Kozel Thomas R.
Published: July 2014

Once an infection by a toxin-producing bacterium is well established, therapies such as antibiotics that target bacterial growth may have little impact on the ultimate patient outcome. In such cases, toxin-neutralizing antibodies offer an opportunity to block key virulence factors. New work by A. K. Varshney, X. Wang, J. L. Aguilar, M. D. Scharff, and B. C. Fries [mBio 5(3):e01007-14, 2014, doi:10.1128/mBio.01007-14] highlights the role of the antibody isotype in determining the efficacy of toxin-neutralizing antibodies
in vivo
. Varshney et al. examined the role of antibody isotype for protection in murine models of staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB)-induced lethal shock and sepsis produced by SEB-producing
Staphylococcus aureus
. Murine antibodies of the IgG2a isotype were more protective than antibodies of the IgG1 and IgG2b isotypes that have identical variable regions and binding activity. These results add to the complexity inherent in the selection and optimization of antibodies for anti-infective passive immunization and emphasize the need to use relevant
in vivo
models to evaluate potential therapeutic monoclonal antibodies.
Hemipelvectomy images of loss caused by war
Authors: Salamon Tal , Kassis Shokrey , Lerner Alexander
Published: July 2014

As we treat our 230th patient from the Syrian conflict, the pathology we see is more debilitating and the humanitarian needs of the wounded have become even more obvious. This case presents some graphic images of the realities of war. Care in the most advanced units cannot restore broken limbs, let alone broken lives. We present a case of a young war-injured man, who suffered severe crush injury to the pelvis and lower limb, arriving at our medical facility after a delay of hours. The lower limb was shattered from the pelvis down (essentially a traumatic hemipelvectomy). His life had been saved in Syria by ligation of the femoral vessels in an unknown facility by an unknown medical team. On arrival in a centre in Israel for definitive care of an unsalvageable leg, formal hemipelvectomy was performed.
Stochastic goal programming in forest planning
Authors: Eyvindson Kyle , Kangas Annika
Published: July 2014

Developing a forest management plan in a multicriteria perspective is traditionally accomplished utilizing simulation and optimization tools as a means to predict and optimize a variety of criteria under consideration. Goal programming is a useful tool to balance conflicting aspects of the competing criteria. When information regarding an aspect of uncertainty is available, stochastic programming should be utilized to efficiently integrate this additional information. Research has been conducted into determining the accuracy of forest inventory methods; however, the measurement error is typically ignored when generating forest management plans. Through integrating the uncertainty in a systematic fashion, the forest management plan can be improved by describing the potential uncertainty in the plan and by managing the influences of this uncertainty. This paper develops three stochastic goal programming formulations and highlights the usefulness of the approach on a small forest holding.
Translation-invariant quasi-free states for fermionic systems and the BCS approximation
Authors: Bräunlich Gerhard , Hainzl Christian , Seiringer Robert
Published: July 2014

We study translation-invariant quasi-free states for a system of fermions with two-particle interactions. The associated energy functional is similar to the BCS functional but also includes direct and exchange energies. We show that for suitable short-range interactions, these latter terms only lead to a renormalization of the chemical potential, with the usual properties of the BCS functional left unchanged. Our analysis thus represents a rigorous justification of part of the BCS approximation. We give bounds on the critical temperature below which the system displays superfluidity.
MALAYSIA'S ECONOMIC GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT: CHALLENGES AND THE WAY FORWARD
Authors: TAN EU CHYE
Published: July 2014

The paper reviews the economic growth and development experience of Malaysia since her early independence years against the major economic policy initiatives that she has undertaken over the years. It then tries to link those policy initiatives to the various economic growth theories. Subsequently, it dwells upon the various challenges faced by Malaysia to join the ranks of high income nations.
EFFECT OF La2O3 ON HIGH-TEMPERATURE OXIDATION RESISTANCE OF ELECTROSPARK DEPOSITED Ni-BASED COATINGS
Authors: GAO YUXIN , YI JIAN , FANG ZHIGANG , CHENG HU
Published: July 2014

The oxidation tests of electrospark deposited Ni -based coatings without and with 2.5 wt.% La 2 O 3 were conducted at 960°C in air for 100 h. The oxidation kinetic of the coatings was studied by testing the weight gain. The phase structures and morphologies of the oxidized coatings were investigated by XRD and SEM. The experimental results show that the coatings with 2.5 wt.% La 2 O 3 exhibits excellent high-temperature oxidation resistance including low oxidation rate and improved spallation resistance, due to the formation of a denser and more adherent oxide scale compared with that without La 2 O 3. The effects of La 2 O 3 on the oxidation resistance include the following two aspects: First, refinement of the coating grains promotes the selective oxidation of Cr , leading to the formation of protective chromia scale in a short time, and second, refinement of the oxide grains enhances the high-temperature creep rate, resulting in decrease of inner stress and improvement of spallation resistance of the oxide layer.
Super resolution direct laser writing in ITX resist inspired by STED microscopy
Authors: Yuan Chenyu , Liu Jukun , Jia Tianqing , Zhou Kan , Zhang Hongxin , Pan Jia , Feng Donghai , Sun Zhenrong
Published: July 2014

Direct laser writing (DLW) has become a routine tool for fabricating microstructures through two photon polymerization. Due to the diffraction limit, the resolution is usually larger than a quarter of a wavelength. In this article, by using stimulated emission depletion (STED) inspired lithography, we fabricate nanodot of 81 nm in diameter and nanoline of 93 nm in width in resist with initiator of isopropyl thioxanthone (ITX). An 800 nm, 75-MHz fs laser works as the polymerization light and a 532 nm donut mode continuous wave (CW) laser as the depletion light. This technology is potentially useful for fabrication of super resolution nanostructures.
Spectral phase measurement of complex pulses using delay controlled fringe free interferometry technique
Authors: Lei Liang , Liu Xin , Wen Jin-Hui , Xing Xiao-Bo , Wang Bo , Zhou Jin-Yun
Published: July 2014

The shortcomings in complex femtosecond pulse measurement of conventional spectral phase interferometry for direct electric-field reconstruction (SPIDER) are commented in this paper. To solve the problem, we propose an improved version of SPIDER, where single replica of the unknown pulse upconverts synchronously with two frequency-shifted narrow-banded long pulses. With the introduction of a suitable small delay between the upconverted pulses, the spectral phase of the unknown pulse can be directly calculated from the fringe-free spectra and Fourier-transform filtering is not required. The results of numerical simulation show that the accuracy of the new method in complex pulse measurement is higher than conventional SPIDER.
Bistable dynamics beyond rotating wave approximation
Authors: Sharaby Y. A. , Lynch S. , Joshi A. , Hassan S. S.
Published: July 2014

In this paper, we investigate the nonlinear dynamical behavior of dispersive optical bistability (OB) for a homogeneously broadened two-level atomic medium interacting with a single mode of the ring cavity without invoking the rotating wave approximation (RWA). The periodic oscillations (self-pulsing) and chaos of the unstable state of the OB curve is affected by the counter rotating terms through the appearance of spikes during its periods. Further, the bifurcation with atomic detuning, within and outside the RWA, shows that the OB system can be converted from a chaotic system to self-pulsing system and vice-versa.
The numerical methods for analyzing the Z-scan data
Authors: Nguyen Lam Thanh , Hong Nghia Tran , Thi Cam Tu Bui , Le Anh Quynh
Published: July 2014

In this paper, we are dedicated to exemplifying a two parameter curve fitting method and developing a Matlab-based simulation program to extract the nonlinear refractive index and nonlinear absorption coefficient from closed-aperture Z-scan or R(z) data without the need for performing open-aperture Z-scan measurement. It should be noted, however, that both approaches can only be applicable to a case for which the on-axis phase shift at the focus is small. In this way, we not only determine the nonlinear parameters quickly with reasonable accuracy, as well as save time, efforts and equipment in the process of Z-scan implementation, but also obtain an initial estimate in order to compare with the results of the open-aperture Z-scan measurement when needed.
Theoretical analysis of collinear spontaneous parametric down conversion properties in BiB3O6
Authors: Zhang Meizhi , Huo Guangwen
Published: July 2014

In this paper, we report on the collinear spontaneous parametric down conversion (SPDC) with quantum theory in angle picture. Based on angle-dependent refractive index of biaxial crystal and the dielectric dispersion, we numerically simulate the effective nonlinear coefficients of BiB 3 O 6 (BIBO) crystal in principle planes. The results indicate that the most effective phase matching scheme is the type I in yz plane, while the secondary options are the type I, type II in xz plane. Considering the derivation of angular phase matching conditions, the calculation is convenient, and it is superior in determination of the spatial distribution of entangled photons.
Designing one-pump fiber optical parametric amplifiers for an insensitive amplification to dispersion fluctuations
Authors: Pakarzadeh H. , Bagheri M. , Keshavarz A.
Published: July 2014

Small-signal gain spectrum of one-pump fiber optical parametric amplifiers (1-P FOPAs) is investigated in the presence of dispersion fluctuations. By assuming the dispersion fluctuations along the fiber as a stochastic process and using the matrix approach, the full gain spectrum of 1-P FOPAs is simulated. We have examined the gain spectrum of 1-P FOPAs for a wide range of fluctuation parameters, and it is shown for the first time that there are two specific wavelengths at which the dispersion fluctuations play no role. Analytical formulas are also presented to design 1-P FOPAs for amplifying signals with a gain insensitive to dispersion fluctuations.
EVALUATION THE PATTERN AND MAGNITUDE OF THE LOADS APPLIED ON MTKRGO ORTHOSIS DURING WALKING OF PARAPLEGIC SUBJECTS
Authors: KARIMI MOHAMMAD TAGHI
Published: July 2014

Various kinds of orthosis have been designed for paraplegic subjects to stand and walk. They have been designed based on this assumption that most of the loads applied on the orthosis (OR) and body complex is transmitted by OR. In this study, it was aimed to determine the role of OR to transmit the loads by use of strain gauge system. Three spinal cord injury subjects, with lesion between T12 and L1, were recruited in this study. A motion analysis system with a Kistler force plate was used to collect the kinetic and kinematic parameters. Moreover, the loads applied on the OR were determined by use of strain gauges attached on the lateral bar of OR. The pattern of the loads applied on the complex, OR and body, differed from that of OR. Nearly 43% of adduction moment was transmitted by OR. In contrast the role of OR to transmit the flexing/extending moments and vertical force is negligible. The results of strain gauge and motion analysis systems differed completely from each other's. As the strain gauge show the absolute values of the loads applied on OR, it is recommended using its result in order to design an OR for paraplegic subjects.
‘Piedra Mar del Plata’: An Argentine orthoquartzite worthy of being considered as a ‘Global Heritage Stone Resource’
Authors: Cravero F. , Ponce M. B. , Gozalvez M. R. , Marfil S. A.
Published: July 2014

Although Argentina is a large country, only a few local stones meet the requirements to be used for construction purposes.
Piedra Mar del Plata
is a quartzite that has been used for more than 50 years, mainly as a building stone. During the 1930s and 1950s, its use in the construction of houses in the city of Mar del Plata (a famous beach resort) created a distinctive architectural style. Because of its durability and availability, the use of this stone rapidly spread to other parts of the country. Sculptures and monuments have also been made out of this stone. Mar del Plata architectural style is now part of the heritage of Argentina and represents the rise of the middle class, when local citizens could afford to build their own houses in a style different from the mansions, which were constructed by rich families with imported stone.
Protecting Location Privacy for Outsourced Spatial Data in Cloud Storage
Authors: Tian Feng , Gui Xiaolin , An Jian , Yang Pan , Zhao Jianqiang , Zhang Xuejun
Published: July 2014

As cloud computing services and location-aware devices are fully developed, a large amount of spatial data needs to be outsourced to the cloud storage provider, so the research on privacy protection for outsourced spatial data gets increasing attention from academia and industry. As a kind of spatial transformation method, Hilbert curve is widely used to protect the location privacy for spatial data. But sufficient security analysis for standard Hilbert curve (SHC) is seldom proceeded. In this paper, we propose an index modification method for SHC (SHC∗) and a density-based space filling curve (DSC) to improve the security of SHC; they can partially violate the distance-preserving property of SHC, so as to achieve better security. We formally define theindistinguishabilityand attack model for measuring the privacy disclosure risk of spatial transformation methods. The evaluation results indicate that SHC∗and DSC are more secure than SHC, and DSC achieves the best index generation performance.
Role ofp73Dinucleotide Polymorphism in Prostate Cancer and p73 Protein Isoform Balance
Authors: Carastro L. Michael , Lin Hui-Yi , Park Hyun Y. , Kim Donghwa , Radlein Selina , Hampton Kaia K. , Hakam Ardeshir , Zachariah Babu , Pow-Sang Julio , Park Jong Y.
Published: July 2014

Background. Molecular markers for prostate cancer (PCa) risks are currently lacking. Here we address the potential association of a dinucleotide polymorphism (DNP) in exon 2 of thep73gene with PCa risk/progression and discern any disruption of p73 protein isoforms levels in cells harboring ap73DNP allele.Methods. We investigated the association betweenp73DNP genotype and PCa risk/aggressiveness and survival by fitting logistic regression models in 1,292 incident cases and 682 controls.Results. Although we detected no association betweenp73DNP and PCa risk, a significant inverse relationship betweenp73DNP and PCa aggressiveness (AT/AT + GC/AT versus GC/GC, OR = 0.55, 95%Cl = 0.31–0.99) was detected. Also,p73DNP is marginally associated with overall death (dominant model, HR = 0.76, 95%Cl = 0.57–1.00,P=0.053) as well as PCa specific death (HR = 0.69, 95%Cl = 0.45–1.06,P=0.09). Western blot analyses for p73 protein isoforms indicate that cells heterozygous for thep73DNP have lower levels of ∆Np73 relative to TAp73 (P<0.001).Conclusions. Our findings are consistent with an association betweenp73DNP and low risk for PCa aggressiveness by increasing the expressed TAp73/∆Np73 protein isoform ratio.
An Innovative SIFT‐Based Method for Rigid Video Object Recognition
Authors: Yu Jie , Zhang Fengli , Xiong Jian
Published: July 2014

This paper presents an innovative SIFT‐based method for rigid video object recognition (hereafter called RVO‐SIFT). Just like what happens in the vision system of human being, this method makes the object recognition and feature updating process organically unify together, using both trajectory and feature matching, and thereby it can learn new features not only in the training stage but also in the recognition stage, which can improve greatly the completeness of the video object’s features automatically and, in turn, increases the ratio of correct recognition drastically. The experimental results on real video sequences demonstrate its surprising robustness and efficiency.
Different Approximations to the Solution of Upper-Convected Maxwell Fluid over a Porous Stretching Plate
Authors: Marinca Vasile , Ene Remus-Daniel , Marinca Bogdan , Negrea Romeo
Published: July 2014

In the present paper, we consider an incompressible magnetohydrodynamic flow of two-dimensional upper-convected Maxwell fluid over a porous stretching plate with suction and injection. The nonlinear partial differential equations are reduced to an ordinary differential equation by the similarity transformations and taking into account the boundary layer approximations. This equation is solved approximately by means of the optimal homotopy asymptotic method (OHAM). This approach is highly efficient and it controls the convergence of the approximate solutions. Different approximations to the solution are given, showing the exceptionally good agreement between the analytical and numerical solutions of the nonlinear problem. OHAM is very efficient in practice, ensuring a very rapid convergence of the solutions after only one iteration even though it does not need small or large parameters in the governing equation.
Synergistic Microbial Consortium for Bioenergy Generation from Complex Natural Energy Sources
Authors: Wang Victor Bochuan , Yam Joey Kuok Hoong , Chua Song-Lin , Zhang Qichun , Cao Bin , Chye Joachim Loo Say , Yang Liang
Published: July 2014

Microbial species have evolved diverse mechanisms for utilization of complex carbon sources. Proper combination of targeted species can affect bioenergy production from natural waste products. Here, we established a stable microbial consortium withEscherichia coliandShewanella oneidensisin microbial fuel cells (MFCs) to produce bioenergy from an abundant natural energy source, in the form of the sarcocarp harvested from coconuts. This component is mostly discarded as waste. However, through its usage as a feedstock for MFCs to produce useful energy in this study, the sarcocarp can be utilized meaningfully. The monospeciesS. oneidensissystem was able to generate bioenergy in a short experimental time frame while the monospeciesE. colisystem generated significantly less bioenergy. A combination ofE. coliandS. oneidensisin the ratio of 1 : 9 (v : v) significantly enhanced the experimental time frame and magnitude of bioenergy generation. The synergistic effect is suggested to arise fromE. coliandS. oneidensisutilizing different nutrients as electron donors and effect of flavins secreted byS. oneidensis. Confocal images confirmed the presence of biofilms and point towards their importance in generating bioenergy in MFCs.
Optimal Path Choice in Railway Passenger Travel Network Based on Residual Train Capacity
Authors: Dou Fei , Yan Kai , Huang Yakun , Wang Li , Jia Limin
Published: July 2014

Passenger’s optimal path choice is one of the prominent research topics in the field of railway passenger transport organization. More and more different train types are available, increasing path choices from departure to destination for travelers are unstoppable. However, travelers cannot avoid being confused when they hope to choose a perfect travel plan based on various travel time and cost constraints before departure. In this study, railway passenger travel network is constructed based on train timetable. Both the generalized cost function we developed and the residual train capacity are considered to be the foundation of path searching procedure. The railway passenger travel network topology is analyzed based on residual train capacity. Considering the total travel time, the total travel cost, and the total number of passengers, we propose an optimal path searching algorithm based on residual train capacity in railway passenger travel network. Finally, the rationale of the railway passenger travel network and the optimal path generation algorithm are verified positively by case study.
The Effects of Apigenin on the Expression of Fas/FasL Apoptotic Pathway in Warm Liver Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury in Rats
Authors: Tsalkidou Evanthia G. , Tsaroucha Alexandra K. , Chatzaki Ekaterini , Lambropoulou Maria , Papachristou Fotini , Trypsianis Gregory , Pitiakoudis Michael , Vaos Georgios , Simopoulos Constantinos
Published: July 2014

Background. The aim of this experimental study was to investigate the role of apigenin in liver apoptosis, in an experimental model of hepatic ischemia-reperfusion in rats.Materials and Methods. Forty-eight Wistar rats (apigenin and control groups), 14 to 16 weeks old and weighing 220 to 350 g, were used. They were all subjected to hepatic ischemia by occlusion of the hepatic artery and portal vein for 45 minutes and reperfusion was followed for 60, 120, and 240 minutes. Apigenin was administrated intraperitoneally. Liver tissues were used for the detection of apoptosis by TUNEL assay and caspase 3 antibodies. Expression analysis ofFas/FasLgenes was evaluated by real time PCR.Results. The expression analysis ofFasandFasLgenes was increasing during reperfusion (significantly in the group of 240 minutes of reperfusion). It was in the same group that apigenin decreased Fas receptor levels and inhibited apoptosis as confirmed by TUNEL assay and caspase 3 antibodies.Conclusions. The effects of apigenin in the Fas/FasL mediated pathway of apoptosis, in the hepatic ischemia-reperfusion, seem to have a protective result on the hepatic cell.
Meteorological Influences on Seasonal Variation of Fine Particulate Matter in Cities over Southern Ontario, Canada
Authors: Liu Jane , Cui Siliang
Published: July 2014

This study examines meteorological impacts on seasonal variation of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in southern Ontario, Canada. After analyzing PM2.5data at 12 cities in the region in 2006, we found that PM2.5concentrations were 30–40% higher in summer (7–15 μg/m3) than in winter (4–11 μg/m3). High PM2.5episodes occurred more frequently in warmer seasons. Analyses of surface meteorology, weather maps, and airflow trajectories suggest that these PM2.5episodes were often related to synoptic transport of pollutants from highly polluted areas in the United States. The southerly or southwesterly winds associated with midlatitude cyclones play an important role in such transport. A typical weather pattern favoring the transport is suggested. When it was hot, humid, and stagnant with southerly or southwesterly winds, the likelihood of high PM2.5occurrences was high. The Greater Golden Horseshoe and Southwestern Ontario regions had higher PM2.5(6–12 μg/m3annually) than the northern region (4–6 μg/m3), reflecting combined effects of meteorology, regional transport, and local emissions. In the future, PM2.5transport from the United States will likely increase in abundance because of possible prolonged accumulation at the pollution sources as the frequency of the midlatitude cyclones may reduce under climate change.
Numerical Simulation of Internal Flow and Performance Prediction of Tubular Pump with Adjustable Guide Vanes
Authors: Zhu Honggeng , Zhang Rentian
Published: July 2014

Aiming at the performance defect of tubular pump with fixed guide vanes, a design scheme of tubular pump with adjustable guide vanes is proposed, so that the inlet setting angle of guide vanes can be flexibly adjusted to coordinate with the operation conditions of pump, to ensure the inlet setting angle of guide vanes changing with the outlet flow angle of the impeller. The three-dimensional time-averaged incompressible Navier-Stokes equations are adopted to numerically simulate the internal flow field of a tubular pump with fixed and adjustable guide vanes, respectively. Computed results indicate that with the design of adjustable guide vanes and at off-design flow rates the flow conditions inside the diffuser of tubular pump can be improved effectively, and its hydraulic losses can be reduced. When the impeller blade angles are fixed the best efficiency points are within 0.51% while adjusting setting angles of guide vanes within a certain range. Under off-design conditions the hydraulic efficiency of tubular pump with adjustable guide vanes can be obviously improved by 1.70% at 0.75 Q0 and 2.19% at 1.20 Q0, when the blade angle is 0 degrees and the angle of guide vanes is adjusted to be 2 degrees smaller and larger, respectively.
A NovelCOL4A5Mutation Identified in a Chinese Han Family Using Exome Sequencing
Authors: Xiu Xiaofei , Yuan Jinzhong , Deng Xiong , Xiao Jingjing , Xu Hongbo , Zeng Zhaoyang , Guan Liping , Xu Fengping , Deng Sheng
Published: July 2014

Alport syndrome (AS) is a monogenic disease of the basement membrane (BM), resulting in progressive renal failure due to glomerulonephropathy, variable sensorineural hearing loss, and ocular anomalies. It is caused by mutations in the collagen type IV alpha-3 gene (COL4A3), the collagen type IV alpha-4 gene (COL4A4), and the collagen type IV alpha-5 gene (COL4A5), which encodes type IV collagenα3,α4, andα5 chains, respectively. To explore the disease-related gene in a four-generation Chinese Han pedigree of AS, exome sequencing was conducted on the proband, and a novel deletion mutation c.499delC (p.Pro167Glnfs*36) in theCOL4A5gene was identified. This mutation, absent in 1,000 genomes project, HapMap, dbSNP132, YH1 databases, and 100 normal controls, cosegregated with patients in the family. Neither sensorineural hearing loss nor typicalCOL4A5-related ocular abnormalities (dot-and-fleck retinopathy, anterior lenticonus, and the rare posterior polymorphous corneal dystrophy) were present in patients of this family. The phenotypes of patients in this AS family were characterized by early onset-age and rapidly developing into end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Our discovery broadens the mutation spectrum in theCOL4A5gene associated with AS, which may also shed new light on genetic counseling for AS.
Discrete (h,k)-Dichotomy and Remarks on the Boundedness of the Projections
Authors: Babuţia Mihai-Gabriel , Kovács Monteola Ilona , Lăpădat Mărioara , Megan Mihail
Published: July 2014

The present paper treats a concept of (h,k)-dichotomy for linear discrete systems. Sufficient conditions for the k-boundedness of the projection sequences that give the dichotomy are presented and an illustrative example shows the connection between the growth of the system and the bound of the sequence of projections. Thus the growth of the system that is assumed in the theorems is essential.
Complete Self-Shrinking Solutions for Lagrangian Mean Curvature Flow in Pseudo-Euclidean Space
Authors: Xu Ruiwei , Cao Linfen
Published: July 2014

Letf(x)be a smooth strictly convex solution ofdet(∂2f/∂xi∂xj)=exp(1/2)∑i=1nxi(∂f/∂xi)-fdefined on a domainΩ⊂Rn; then the graphM∇fof∇fis a space-like self-shrinker of mean curvature flow in Pseudo-Euclidean spaceRn2nwith the indefinite metric∑dxidyi. In this paper, we prove a Bernstein theorem for complete self-shrinkers. As a corollary, we obtain if the Lagrangian graphM∇fis complete inRn2nand passes through the origin then it is flat.
Existence of Solutions ofα∈(2,3]Order Fractional Three-Point Boundary Value Problems with Integral Conditions
Authors: Mahmudov N. I. , Unul S.
Published: July 2014

Existence and uniqueness of solutions forα∈(2,3]order fractional differential equations with three-point fractional boundary and integral conditions involving the nonlinearity depending on the fractional derivatives of the unknown function are discussed. The results are obtained by using fixed point theorems. Two examples are given to illustrate the results.
Paternity Analysis of the Olive Variety “Istrska Belica” and Identification of Pollen Donors by Microsatellite Markers
Authors: Baruca Arbeiter Alenka , Jakše Jernej , Bandelj Dunja
Published: July 2014

The leading olive variety in Slovenia is “Istrska belica” (Olea europaeaL.), which currently represents 70% of all olive trees in productive orchards. Paternity analysis based on microsatellite markers was used for genotyping and identification of the potential pollen donors of “Istrska belica” and for assessing the proportion of self-fertilization in monovarietal olive orchards in the Slovene Istria. Seven microsatellite loci were used for genotyping thirty-one olive embryos from “Istrska belica” trees and for all potential pollen donor varieties, which are grown in the region and could participate as pollinators. Genotyping results and allele identification were performed using the FaMoz software. The most probable pollen donor was assigned to 39% of all analyzed embryos. Among all analyzed embryos no single case of self-fertilization was confirmed. According to the present results, the variety “Istrska belica” was in all cases fertilized by foreign pollen. The results will contribute to defining the new guidelines for farmers regarding the proper management and growing practice in monovarietal olive groves.
Investigations on Temperature Fields during Laser Beam Melting by Means of Process Monitoring and Multiscale Process Modelling
Authors: Schilp J. , Seidel C. , Krauss H. , Weirather J.
Published: July 2014

Process monitoring and modelling can contribute to fostering the industrial relevance of additive manufacturing. Process related temperature gradients and thermal inhomogeneities cause residual stresses, and distortions and influence the microstructure. Variations in wall thickness can cause heat accumulations. These occur predominantly in filigree part areas and can be detected by utilizing off-axis thermographic monitoring during the manufacturing process. In addition, numerical simulation models on the scale of whole parts can enable an analysis of temperature fields upstream to the build process. In a microscale domain, modelling of several exposed single hatches allows temperature investigations at a high spatial and temporal resolution. Within this paper, FEM-based micro- and macroscale modelling approaches as well as an experimental setup for thermographic monitoring are introduced. By discussing and comparing experimental data with simulation results in terms of temperature distributions both the potential of numerical approaches and the complexity of determining suitable computation time efficient process models are demonstrated. This paper contributes to the vision of adjusting the transient temperature field during manufacturing in order to improve the resulting part's quality by simulation based process design upstream to the build process and the inline process monitoring.
Advanced Emergency Braking Controller Design for Pedestrian Protection Oriented Automotive Collision Avoidance System
Authors: Lie Guo , Zejian Ren , Pingshu Ge , Jing Chang
Published: July 2014

Automotive collision avoidance system, which aims to enhance the active safety of the vehicle, has become a hot research topic in recent years. However, most of the current systems ignore the active protection of pedestrian and other vulnerable groups in the transportation system. An advanced emergency braking control system is studied by taking into account the pedestrians and the vehicles. Three typical braking scenarios are defined and the safety situations are assessed by comparing the current distance between the host vehicle and the obstacle with the critical braking distance. To reflect the nonlinear time-varying characteristics and control effect of the longitudinal dynamics, the vehicle longitudinal dynamics model is established in CarSim. Then the braking controller with the structure of upper and lower layers is designed based on sliding mode control and the single neuron PID control when confronting deceleration or emergency braking conditions. Cosimulations utilizing CarSim and Simulink are finally carried out on a CarSim intelligent vehicle model to explore the effectiveness of the proposed controller. Results display that the designed controller has a good response in preventing colliding with the front vehicle or pedestrian.
Sliding and Lower Limb Mechanics during Sit-Stand-Sit Transitions with a Standing Wheelchair
Authors: Yang Yu-Sheng , Chen Ming-De , Fang Wei-Chien , Chang Jyh-Jong , Kuo Chang-Chih
Published: July 2014

Purpose.This study aimed to investigate the shear displacement between the body and backrest/seat, range of motion (ROM), and force acting on the lower limb joints during sit-stand-sit transitions by operating an electric-powered standing wheelchair.Methods and Materials.The amounts of sliding along the backrest and the seat plane, ROM of lower limb joints, and force acting on the knee/foot were measured in twenty-four people with paraplegia.Results.Without an antishear mechanism, the shear displacement was approximately 9 cm between the user’s body and the backrest/seat surfaces. During standing up, the user’s back slid down and the thigh was displaced rearward, but they moved in opposite directions when wheelchair sat back down. A minimum of 60 degrees of ROM at the hip and knee was needed during sit-stand-sit transitions. The maximal resultant forces acting on the knee restraints could reach 23.5% of body weight.Conclusion.Sliding between the body and backrest/seat occurred while transitioning from sitting to standing and vice versa. A certain amount of ROM at lower limb joints and force acting on the knee was necessitated during sit-stand-sit transitions. Careful consideration needs to be given to who the user of the electric powered standing wheelchair is.
Hybrid Implicit Iteration Process for a Finite Family of Non-Self-Nonexpansive Mappings in Uniformly Convex Banach Spaces
Authors: Jiang Qiaohong , Wang Jinghai , Huang Jianhua
Published: July 2014

Weak and strong convergence theorems are established for hybrid implicit iteration for a finite family of non-self-nonexpansive mappings in uniformly convex Banach spaces. The results presented in this paper extend and improve some recent results.
The Impact of Tobacco Smoke Exposure on Wheezing and Overweight in 4–6-Year-Old Children
Authors: Grazuleviciene Regina , Andrusaityte Sandra , Uzdanaviciute Inga , Kudzyte Jolanta , Kevalas Rimantas , Nieuwenhuijsen Mark J.
Published: July 2014

Aim. To investigate the association between maternal smoking during pregnancy, second-hand tobacco smoke (STS) exposure, education level, and preschool children’s wheezing and overweight.Methods. This cohort study used data of the KANC cohort—1,489 4–6-year-old children from Kaunas city, Lithuania. Multivariate logistic regression was employed to study the influence of prenatal and postnatal STS exposure on the prevalence of wheezing and overweight, controlling for potential confounders.Results. Children exposed to maternal smoking during pregnancy had a slightly increased prevalence of wheezing and overweight. Postnatal exposure to STS was associated with a statistically significantly increased risk of wheezing and overweight in children born to mothers with lower education levels (OR 2.12; 95% CI 1.04–4.35 and 3.57; 95% CI 1.76–7.21, accordingly).Conclusions. The present study findings suggest that both maternal smoking during pregnancy and STS increase the risk of childhood wheezing and overweight, whereas lower maternal education might have a synergetic effect. Targeted interventions must to take this into account and address household smoking.
Nanocrystallization of the Pharmaceutically Active Agent Genipin by an Emulsion Solvent Evaporation Method
Authors: Zu Yuangang , Yu Xinyang , Zhao Xiuhua , Wang Weiguo , Wang Kunlun
Published: July 2014

To improve the water solubility and dissolution rate, genipin was nanocrystallized by an emulsion solvent evaporation method, followed by freeze‐drying. The optimization condition of nanocrystallization process was carried out by single‐factor experiment. The effects of five experimental parameters, such as concentration of surfactants the proportion of water to organic phase, homogenate speed and time, homogenization pressure and times, and the proportion of genipin to lyoprotectants on the mean particle size (MPS) of genipin nanoparticles, were investigated. Under the optimum conditions by single‐factor experiments, genipin nanoparticles with an MPS of 59.8 nm were obtained. The genipin nanoparticles were characterized by SEM, FTIR, XRD, DSC, solvent residue, drug purity test, dissolution testing, and bioavailability analysis. The analysis results indicated that the chemical structure of genipin nanoparticles was unchanged, but the crystallinity was reduced. The solubility of genipin nanoparticles was 9.05 times of the raw drug. In addition, the residual amounts of chloroform and ethanol were separately less than the ICH limit for class II, and the oral bioavailability of the genipin nanoparticles powder was 7.99 times of raw genipin. According to the results above, genipin nanoparticles show the potential application value of its oral absorption.
Prediction of Vibrational Behavior of Grid-Stiffened Cylindrical Shells
Authors: Rahimi G. H. , Hemmatnezhad M. , Ansari R.
Published: July 2014

A unified analytical approach is applied to investigate the vibrational behavior of grid-stiffened cylindrical shells with different boundary conditions. A smeared method is employed to superimpose the stiffness contribution of the stiffeners with those of shell in order to obtain the equivalent stiffness parameters of the whole panel. Theoretical formulation is established based on Sanders’ thin shell theory. The modal forms are assumed to have the axial dependency in the form of Fourier series whose derivatives are legitimized using Stoke's transformation. A 3D finite element model is also built using ABAQUS software which takes into consideration the exact geometric configuration of the stiffeners and the shell. The achievements from the two types of analyses are compared with each other and good agreement has been obtained. The Influences of variations in shell geometrical parameters, boundary condition, and changes in the cross stiffeners angle on the natural frequencies are studied. The results obtained are novel and can be used as a benchmark for further studies. The simplicity and the capability of the present method are also discussed.