bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preliminary Evidence on the Diagnostic and Molecular Role of Circulating Soluble EGFR in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Lococo Filippo , Paci Massimiliano , Rapicetta Cristian , Rossi Teresa , Sancisi Valentina , Braglia Luca , Cavuto Silvio , Bisagni Alessandra , Bongarzone Italia , Noonan Douglas , Albini Adriana , Maramotti Sally
Published: August 2015

Assessment of biological diagnostic factors providing clinically-relevant information to guide physician decision-making are still needed for diseases with poor outcomes, such as non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is a promising molecule in the clinical management of NSCLC. While the EGFR transmembrane form has been extensively investigated in large clinical trials, the soluble, circulating EGFR isoform (sEGFR), which may have a potential clinical use, has rarely been considered. This study investigates the use of sEGFR as a potential diagnostic biomarker for NSCLC and also characterizes the biological function of sEGFR to clarify the molecular mechanisms involved in the course of action of this protein. Plasma sEGFR levels from a heterogeneous cohort of 37 non-advanced NSCLC patients and 54 healthy subjects were analyzed by using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The biological function of sEGFR was analyzed in vitro using NSCLC cell lines, investigating effects on cell proliferation and migration. We found that plasma sEGFR was significantly decreased in the NSCLC patient group as compared to the control group (median value: 48.6 vs. 55.6 ng/mL respectively; p = 0.0002). Moreover, we demonstrated that sEGFR inhibits growth and migration of NSCLC cells in vitro through molecular mechanisms that included perturbation of EGF/EGFR cell signaling and holoreceptor internalization. These data show that sEGFR is a potential circulating biomarker with a physiological protective role, providing a first approach to the functional role of the soluble isoform of EGFR. However, the impact of these data on daily clinical practice needs to be further investigated in larger prospective studies.
Structural Features of the ATP-Binding Cassette (ABC) Transporter ABCA3
Authors: Paolini Alessandro , Baldassarre Antonella , Del Gaudio Ilaria , Masotti Andrea
Published: August 2015

In this review we reported and discussed the structural features of the ATP-Binding Cassette (ABC) transporter ABCA3 and how the use of bioinformatics tools could help researchers to obtain a reliable structural model of this important transporter. In fact, a model of ABCA3 is still lacking and no crystallographic structures (of the transporter or of its orthologues) are available. With the advent of next generation sequencing, many disease-causing mutations have been discovered and many more will be found in the future. In the last few years, ABCA3 mutations have been reported to have important pediatric implications. Thus, clinicians need a reliable structure to locate relevant mutations of this transporter and make genotype/phenotype correlations of patients affected by ABCA3-related diseases. In conclusion, we strongly believe that the model preliminarily generated by these novel bioinformatics tools could be the starting point to obtain more refined models of the ABCA3 transporter.
Accurate Ab Initio and Template-Based Prediction of Short Intrinsically-Disordered Regions by Bidirectional Recurrent Neural Networks Trained on Large-Scale Datasets
Authors: Volpato Viola , Alshomrani Badr , Pollastri Gianluca
Published: August 2015

Intrinsically-disordered regions lack a well-defined 3D structure, but play key roles in determining the function of many proteins. Although predictors of disorder have been shown to achieve relatively high rates of correct classification of these segments, improvements over the the years have been slow, and accurate methods are needed that are capable of accommodating the ever-increasing amount of structurally-determined protein sequences to try to boost predictive performances. In this paper, we propose a predictor for short disordered regions based on bidirectional recurrent neural networks and tested by rigorous five-fold cross-validation on a large, non-redundant dataset collected from MobiDB, a new comprehensive source of protein disorder annotations. The system exploits sequence and structural information in the forms of frequency profiles, predicted secondary structure and solvent accessibility and direct disorder annotations from homologous protein structures (templates) deposited in the Protein Data Bank. The contributions of sequence, structure and homology information result in large improvements in predictive accuracy. Additionally, the large scale of the training set leads to low false positive rates, making our systems a robust and efficient way to address high-throughput disorder prediction.
Selection and Characterization of Single Chain Antibody Fragments Specific for Hsp90 as a Potential Cancer Targeting Molecule
Authors: Petters Edyta , Sokolowska-Wedzina Aleksandra , Otlewski Jacek
Published: August 2015

Heat shock proteins play an essential role in facilitating malignant transformation and they have been recognized as important factors in human cancers. One of the key elements of the molecular chaperones machinery is Hsp90 and it has recently become a target for anticancer therapeutic approaches. The potential and importance of Hsp90-directed agents becomes apparent when one realizes that disruption of Hsp90 function may influence over 200 oncogenic client proteins. Here, we described the selection and characterization of Hsp90-specific antibody fragments from commercially available Tomlinson I and J phage display libraries. The affinities of Hsp90-binding scFv variants were measured using SPR method. Then, based on the best clone selected, we performed the affinity maturation procedure and obtained valuable Hsp90-specific clones. The selected binders were expressed and applied for immunostaining, ELISA and SPR analysis using model cancer cell lines. All performed experiments confirmed the ability of selected antibodies to interact with the Hsp90. Therefore, the presented Hsp90-specific scFv, might be a starting point for the development of a novel antibody-based strategy targeting cancer.
Formulating Fine to Medium Sand Erosion for Suspended Sediment Transport Models
Authors: Dufois François , Hir Pierre
Published: August 2015

The capacity of an advection/diffusion model to predict sand transport under varying wave and current conditions is evaluated. The horizontal sand transport rate is computed by vertical integration of the suspended sediment flux. A correction procedure for the near-bed concentration is proposed so that model results are independent of the vertical resolution. The method can thus be implemented in regional models with operational applications. Simulating equilibrium sand transport rates, when erosion and deposition are balanced, requires a new empirical erosion law that involves the non-dimensional excess shear stress and a parameter that depends on the size of the sand grain. Comparison with several datasets and sediment transport formulae demonstrated the model’s capacity to simulate sand transport rates for a large range of current and wave conditions and sand diameters in the range 100–500 μm. Measured transport rates were predicted within a factor two in 67% of cases with current only and in 35% of cases with both waves and current. In comparison with the results obtained by Camenen and Larroudé (2003), who provided the same indicators for several practical transport rate formulations (whose means are respectively 72% and 37%), the proposed approach gives reasonable results. Before fitting a new erosion law to our model, classical erosion rate formulations were tested but led to poor comparisons with expected sediment transport rates. We suggest that classical erosion laws should be used with care in advection/diffusion models similar to ours, and that at least a full validation procedure for transport rates involving a range of sand diameters and hydrodynamic conditions should be carried out.
The Dermatologist’s Approach to Onychomycosis
Authors: Queller Jenna , Bhatia Neal
Published: August 2015

Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the toenails or fingernails that can involve any component of the nail unit, including the matrix, bed, and plate. It is a common disorder that may be a reservoir for infection resulting in significant medical problems. Moreover, onychomycosis can have a substantial influence on one’s quality of life. An understanding of the disorder and updated management is important for all health care professionals. Aside from reducing quality of life, sequelae of the disease may include pain and disfigurement, possibly leading to more serious physical and occupational limitations. Dermatologists, Podiatrists, and other clinicians who treat onychomycosis are now entering a new era when considering treatment options—topical modalities are proving more effective than those of the past. The once sought after concept of viable, effective, well-tolerated, and still easy-to-use monotherapy alternatives to oral therapy treatments for onychomycosis is now within reach given recent study data. In addition, these therapies may also find a role in combination and maintenance therapy; in order to treat the entire disease the practitioner needs to optimize these topical agents as sustained therapy after initial clearance to reduce recurrence or re-infection given the nature of the disease.
Fitness Landscapes of Functional RNAs
Authors: Kun Ádám , Szathmáry Eörs
Published: August 2015

The notion of fitness landscapes, a map between genotype and fitness, was proposed more than 80 years ago. For most of this time data was only available for a few alleles, and thus we had only a restricted view of the whole fitness landscape. Recently, advances in genetics and molecular biology allow a more detailed view of them. Here we review experimental and theoretical studies of fitness landscapes of functional RNAs, especially aptamers and ribozymes. We find that RNA structures can be divided into critical structures, connecting structures, neutral structures and forbidden structures. Such characterisation, coupled with theoretical sequence-to-structure predictions, allows us to construct the whole fitness landscape. Fitness landscapes then can be used to study evolution, and in our case the development of the RNA world.
1-(3-Amino-1-phenylpropyl)-3-(2-fluorophenyl)-1,3-dihydro-2H-benzimidazol-2-one
Authors: Neudorfer Catharina , Eberherr Nadine , Shanab Karem , Holzer Wolfgang , Rami-Mark Christina , Mitterhauser Markus , Wadsak Wolfgang , Spreitzer Helmut
Published: August 2015

Starting from 1-(2-fluorophenyl)-1,3-dihydro-2H-benzimidazol-2-one (1) and (1-bromo-3-chloropropyl)benzene (2), the target compound 3, which represents a precursor for future radiolabeling, is prepared in a three-step synthesis.
Microarray Meta-Analysis and Cross-Platform Normalization: Integrative Genomics for Robust Biomarker Discovery
Authors: Walsh Christopher , Hu Pingzhao , Batt Jane , Santos Claudia
Published: August 2015

The diagnostic and prognostic potential of the vast quantity of publicly-available microarray data has driven the development of methods for integrating the data from different microarray platforms. Cross-platform integration, when appropriately implemented, has been shown to improve reproducibility and robustness of gene signature biomarkers. Microarray platform integration can be conceptually divided into approaches that perform early stage integration (cross-platform normalization) versus late stage data integration (meta-analysis). A growing number of statistical methods and associated software for platform integration are available to the user, however an understanding of their comparative performance and potential pitfalls is critical for best implementation. In this review we provide evidence-based, practical guidance to researchers performing cross-platform integration, particularly with an objective to discover biomarkers.
Assessment of the Factors Contributing to the Growth or Spoilage of Meyerozyma guilliermondii in Organic Yogurt: Comparison of Methods for Strain Differentiation
Authors: Wrent Petra , Rivas Eva-María , De Prado Elena , Peinado José , De Silóniz María-Isabel
Published: August 2015

In this work we analyze the spoiling potential of Meyerozyma guilliermondii in yogurt. The analysis was based on contaminated samples sent to us by an industrial laboratory over two years. All the plain and fruit yogurt packages were heavily contaminated by yeasts, but only the last ones, containing fermentable sugars besides lactose, were spoiled by gas swelling. These strains were unable to grow and ferment lactose (as the type strain); they did grow on lactate plus galactose, fermented glucose and sucrose, and galactose (weakly), but did not compete with lactic acid bacteria for lactose. This enables them to grow in any yogurt, although only those with added jam were spoiled due to the fermentation of the fruit sugars. Fermentation, but not growth, was strongly inhibited at 8 °C. In consequence, in plain yogurt as well as in any yogurt maintained at low temperature, yeast contamination would not be detected by the consumer. The risk could be enhanced because the species has been proposed for biological control of fungal infections in organic agriculture. The combination of the IGS PCR-RFLP (amplification of the intergenic spacer region of rDNA followed by restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis) method and mitochondrial DNA-RFLP makes a good tool to trace and control the contamination by M. guilliermondii.
Laccase Gene Expression and Vinasse Biodegradation by Trametes hirsuta Strain Bm-2
Authors: Tapia-Tussell Raúl , Pérez-Brito Daisy , Torres-Calzada Claudia , Cortés-Velázquez Alberto , Alzate-Gaviria Liliana , Chablé-Villacís Rubí , Solís-Pereira Sara
Published: August 2015

Vinasse is the dark-colored wastewater that is generated by bioethanol distilleries from feedstock molasses. The vinasse that is generated from molasses contains high amounts of pollutants, including phenolic compounds and melanoindin. The goal of this work was to study the expression of laccase genes in the Trametes hirsuta strain Bm-2, isolated in Yucatan, Mexico, in the presence of phenolic compounds, as well as its effectiveness in removing colorants from vinasse. In the presence of all phenolic compounds tested (guaiacol, ferulic acid, and vanillic acid), increased levels of laccase-encoding mRNA were observed. Transcript levels in the presence of guaiacol were 40 times higher than those in the control. The lcc1 and lcc2 genes of T. hirsuta were differentially expressed; guaiacol and vanillin induced the expression of both genes, whereas ferulic acid only induced the expression of lcc2. The discoloration of vinasse was concomitant with the increase in laccase activity. The highest value of enzyme activity (2543.7 U/mL) was obtained in 10% (v/v) vinasse, which corresponded to a 69.2% increase in discoloration. This study demonstrates the potential of the Bm-2 strain of T. hirsuta for the biodegradation of vinasse.
Aqueous Extract of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) and Ferulic Acid Reduce the Expression of TNF-α and IL-1β in LPS-Activated Macrophages
Authors: Navarrete Simón , Alarcón Marcelo , Palomo Iván
Published: August 2015

Acute inflammation is essential for defending the body against pathogens; however, when inflammation becomes chronic, it is harmful to the body and is part of the pathophysiology of various diseases such as Diabetes Mellitus type 2 (DM2) and Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) among others. In chronic inflammation macrophages play an important role, mainly through the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines such as Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and Interleukin (IL)-1β, explained in part by activation of the Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), a signaling pathway which culminates in the activation of Nuclear factor (NF)-κB, an important transcription factor in the expression of these proinflammatory genes. On the other hand, the benefits on health of a diet rich in fruit and vegetables are well described. In this work, the effects of aqueous extract of tomato and ferulic acid on the expression of proinflammatory cytokines in LPS activated monocyte-derived THP-1 macrophages were investigated. In addition, using Western blot, we investigated whether the inhibition was due to the interference on activation of NF-κB. We found that both the tomato extract and ferulic acid presented inhibitory activity on the expression of TNF-α and IL-1β cytokine by inhibiting the activation of NF-κB. The current results suggest that tomatoes and ferulic acid may contribute to prevention of chronic inflammatory diseases.
A Comparison of the Sodium Content of Supermarket Private-Label and Branded Foods in Australia
Authors: Trevena Helen , Neal Bruce , Dunford Elizabeth , Haskelberg Hila , Wu Jason
Published: August 2015

Supermarket private-label products are perceived to be lower quality than their branded counterparts. Excess dietary sodium in foods contributes to high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. Sodium concentrations in products are an important indicator of quality. We compared the sodium content of 15,680 supermarket private-label and branded products, available in four Australian supermarkets between 2011–2013, overall and for 15 food categories. Mean sodium values were compared for: (1) all products in 2013; (2) products in both 2011 and 2013; and (3) products only in 2013. Comparisons were made using paired and unpaired t tests. In each year the proportion of supermarket private-label products was 31%–32%, with overall mean sodium content 17% (12%–23%) lower than branded products in 2013 (p ≤ 0.001). For products available in both 2011 and 2013 there was a ≤2% (1%–3%) mean sodium reduction overall with no difference in reformulation between supermarket private-label and branded products (p = 0.73). New supermarket private-label products in 2013 were 11% lower in sodium than their branded counterparts (p = 0.02). Supermarket private-label products performed generally better than branded in terms of their sodium content. Lower sodium intake translates into lower blood pressure; some supermarket private-label products may be a good option for Australians needing to limit their sodium intake.
An Innovative Device to Convert Olive Mill Wastewater into a Suitable Effluent for Feeding Purple Non-Sulfur Photosynthetic Bacteria
Authors: Carlozzi Pietro , Padovani Giulia , Cinelli Patrizia , Lazzeri Andrea
Published: August 2015

A device (prototype) with a working volume of 200 L was used to deplete olive mill wastewater (OMW) of polyphenols. The OMW transformed into feedstock by means of the device was then used for feeding a lab-scale photobioreactor, just for testing the production of bioH2. The main novelty of this prototype consists in the combination of several adsorbent matrices and the exploitation of their synergic action. In this investigation, three matrices have been used: active carbon, Azolla and zeolite. The device was operated at an olive oil company located in the heart of the Chianti zone (Province of Florence, Italy). The efficiency of polyphenol removal obtained using the device was ≥96%. The multi-matrix effluent (MMeff) generated was then used to obtain three different culture broths containing 25%, 50% and 100% of MMeff, respectively. The diluted (with water) culture broths were suitable for hydrogen generation, with the highest hydrogen production rate (12.7 mL H2/Lculture/h) being obtained using 50% MMeff. The hydrogen yields were: 334 mL H2/L of MMeff, when feeding the photofermenter with pure effluent (100%); 1308 mL H2/L of MMeff, with the half-diluted effluent (50%, v/v); and 432 mL H2/L of MMeff, with the highest-diluted effluent (25%, v/v).
Research and Experiments on a Unipolar Capacitive Voltage Sensor
Authors: Zhou Qiang , He Wei , Li Songnong , Hou Xingzhe
Published: August 2015

Voltage sensors are an important part of the electric system. In service, traditional voltage sensors need to directly contact a high-voltage charged body. Sensors involve a large volume, complex insulation structures, and high design costs. Typically an iron core structure is adopted. As a result, ferromagnetic resonance can occur easily during practical application. Moreover, owing to the multilevel capacitor divider, the sensor cannot reflect the changes of measured voltage in time. Based on the electric field coupling principle, this paper designs a new voltage sensor; the unipolar structure design solves many problems of traditional voltage sensors like the great insulation design difficulty and high costs caused by grounding electrodes. A differential signal input structure is adopted for the detection circuit, which effectively restrains the influence of the common-mode interference signal. Through sensor modeling, simulation and calculations, the structural design of the sensor electrode was optimized, miniaturization of the sensor was realized, the voltage division ratio of the sensor was enhanced, and the phase difference of sensor measurement was weakened. The voltage sensor is applied to a single-phase voltage class line of 10 kV for testing. According to the test results, the designed sensor is able to meet the requirements of accurate and real-time measurement for voltage of the charged conductor as well as to provide a new method for electricity larceny prevention and on-line monitoring of the power grid in an electric system. Therefore, it can satisfy the development demands of the smart power grid.
Statistical Model Selection for Better Prediction and Discovering Science Mechanisms That Affect Reliability
Authors: Anderson-Cook Christine , Morzinski Jerome , Blecker Kenneth
Published: August 2015

Understanding the impact of production, environmental exposure and age characteristics on the reliability of a population is frequently based on underlying science and empirical assessment. When there is incomplete science to prescribe which inputs should be included in a model of reliability to predict future trends, statistical model/variable selection techniques can be leveraged on a stockpile or population of units to improve reliability predictions as well as suggest new mechanisms affecting reliability to explore. We describe a five-step process for exploring relationships between available summaries of age, usage and environmental exposure and reliability. The process involves first identifying potential candidate inputs, then second organizing data for the analysis. Third, a variety of models with different combinations of the inputs are estimated, and fourth, flexible metrics are used to compare them. Finally, plots of the predicted relationships are examined to distill leading model contenders into a prioritized list for subject matter experts to understand and compare. The complexity of the model, quality of prediction and cost of future data collection are all factors to be considered by the subject matter experts when selecting a final model.
Structure and in situ development of the microlichen Gyalectidium paolae (Gomphillaceae, Ascomycota), an overlooked colonist on palm leaves in southwest Florida
Authors: Sanders William B. , de los Ríos Asunción
Published: August 2015

PREMISE OF THE STUDY:

Nondeciduous leaves of warm, humid climates can host highly specialized communities of diminutive lichens. The rarely reported Gyalectidium paolae, locally abundant on palm leaves in southwest Florida, may reproduce when as small as 0.15 mm diameter. We examined structural and developmental features to better understand the lifestyle of this extreme ephemeral.

METHODS:

Blocks containing resin‐embedded thalli were sectioned and examined with TEM and SEM‐BSE. Propagule development was studied with light microscopy applied to inoculated and naturally colonized plastic coverslips placed in the field.

KEY RESULTS:

Thallus areolae showed a heterogeneous covering that varied from cellular cortex to a simpler structure derived from fungal wall materials and sparse fungal cells of reduced diameter. Plates of crystalline deposits seemed to interrupt thallus structure, elevating the surface layer. No organized algal layer was present. Symbiont interactions were limited to appositional wall contacts with no haustorial penetration observed. Symbiotic propagules germinated promptly, but relative growth of fungal vs. algal components varied considerably. Smaller photobiont cells released from sporangia were present at the periphery of the thallus, or escaped to some distance. Fully formed hyphophores with abundant propagules appeared within 5 months, although there was evidence that propagule formation in Gyalectidium might occur much sooner.

CONCLUSIONS:

Gyalectidium paolae builds relatively simple thalli with limited fungal structure, prioritizing rapid formation of asexual propagules. Codispersal of algal symbionts permitted propagules to develop directly into thalli, but microenvironmental conditions may strongly influence survival and developmental equilibrium between the two symbionts necessary for success as a lichen.
Evaluating Patients for Impaired Medical Decisional Capacity: An Overview of Ethical and Clinical Issues
Authors: Rovner Maxwell , Jackson Willie Mae , Dinwiddie Stephen H.
Published: August 2015

An impaired ability to make treatment decisions is commonplace but often overlooked among medical and psychiatric patients. Evaluation of a patient’s ability to meaningfully make treatment decisions is a complex exercise in clinical judgment, requiring careful attention to the effect of the patient’s symptoms and the contextual features of the specific decision at hand. This article is a broad overview of the ethical and clinical aspects of decisional capacity that every physician needs to be familiar with to negotiate this challenging aspect of medical practice.[Psychiatr Ann.2015;45(8):417–421.]
The Efficacy of Pharmacotherapy for Borderline Personality Disorder: A Review of the Available Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Francois Dimitry , Roth Steven D. , Klingman Daisy
Published: August 2015

Although there are no medications approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of borderline personality disorder (BPD), polypharmacy is commonly encountered in individuals with BPD. This review summarizes the results of randomized controlled trials on the efficacy of pharmacologic agents in BPD. Pharmacotherapy in BPD is an adjunctive treatment aimed at stabilizing symptoms and behavior in a crisis situation, and it should be avoided whenever possible. Further studies are needed, including large, randomized controlled trials with long-term follow up, to examine the efficacy of psychiatric medications in patients with BPD.

[
Psychiatr Ann
. 2015;45(8):431–437.]
Analysis of Mobile Phone Call Data of Istanbul Residents
Authors: Salman F. Sibel , Sivaslıoğlu Erbil , Memiş Burak
Published: August 2015

In this chapter, we analyze call detail records of subscribers of a major cellular network provider in Turkey with a focus on subscribers that reside in Istanbul. We consider a sample of 10,000 opt-in subscribers, chosen proportionally to the population density of each district of Istanbul. The anonymized cell phone usage data for 6 weeks are combined with demographic and subscription package attributes. Our methodology consists of data retrieval and cleaning, analysis and visualization. The analysis aims to extract information to be used mainly in disaster preparedness, marketing and public service design, and is categorized under: 1) understanding call habits in terms of call duration and call location with respect to gender and age categories, 2) tracking population density changes by time and district, 3) segmentation of people visiting specified locations, 4) information on mobility of disabled subscribers, and 5) international travel patterns by roaming data analysis.
The Role of Geo-Demographic Big Data for Assessing the Effectiveness of Crowd-Funded Software Projects
Authors: Bishop Jonathan
Published: August 2015

The current phenomenon of Big Data – the use of datasets that are too big for traditional business analysis tools used in industry – is driving a shift in how social and economic problems are understood and analysed. This chapter explores the role Big Data can play in analysing the effectiveness of crowd-funding projects, using the data from such a project, which aimed to fund the development of a software plug-in called ‘QPress'. Data analysed included the website metrics of impressions, clicks and average position, which were found to be significantly connected with geographical factors using an ANOVA. These were combined with other country data to perform t-tests in order to form a geo-demographic understanding of those who are displayed advertisements inviting participation in crowd-funding. The chapter concludes that there are a number of interacting variables and that for Big Data studies to be effective, their amalgamation with other data sources, including linked data, is essential to providing an overall picture of the social phenomenon being studied.
Care to Share?
Authors: Santi Paolo , Ratti Carlo
Published: August 2015

GPS technology has been extensively used to optimize operation of taxi systems since the first appearance of commercial GPS devices. Owing to this, data sets generated by taxi fleets are amongst the first and most representative examples of massive GPS data that have been systematically collected. The analysis of these data sets has recently generated a rich literature aimed at, among other things, identifying optimal taxi driver strategies, predicting taxi demand or location of vacant taxis, etc. This chapter focuses on what is a new, exciting field of investigation of GPS taxi data analysis, namely, evaluating the impact of a shared taxi system on the urban environment. After introducing the notion of (taxi) ride sharing, the chapter presents the relevant literature, describing in greater details a methodological approach called “shareability network” that allows formal characterization of taxi sharing opportunities in an urban environment.
A Co-Evolution Analysis for Software Product Lines
Authors: Benlarabi Anissa , Khtira Amal , El Asri Bouchra
Published: August 2015

In this rapidly changing world, business strategies continuously evolve to meet customers' wishes. Hence, the ability to cope with the frequent business changes is becoming important criteria of a leading development paradigm. Software product line engineering is a development paradigm based on reuse that builds a common platform from which a set of applications can be derived. Despite its advantage of enhancing time to market and costs, it is exposed to the risk of falling into the aging phenomenon because of the complexity of its evolution. In this paper the authors present a co-evolution based approach for protecting the software product lines from the aging phenomenon. The approach uses cladistics and trees reconciliation that are mainly used in biology to analyze the co-evolution between organisms. The authors' major goal is to find out changes of products that were not propagated to the common platform at the aim of reconsidering them in the platform and thus protecting it from being obsolete.
Smart Prosthetic Hand with Object Slippage Detection, Measurement, and Control
Authors: Sriram Girish , Jensen Alex , Chiu Steve C.
Published: August 2015

The human hand along with its fingers possess one of the highest numbers of nerve endings in the human body. It thus has the capacity for the richest tactile feedback for positioning capabilities. This article shares a new technique of controlling slippage. The sensing system used for the detection of slippage is a modified force sensing resistor (FSR®). The control system is a fuzzy logic control algorithm with multiple rules that is designed to be processed on a mobile handheld computing platform and integrated/working alongside a traditional Electromyography (EMG) or Electroencephalography (EEG) based control system used for determining position of the fingers. A 5 Degrees of Freedom (DOF) hand, was used to test the slippage control strategy in real time. First a reference EMG signal was used for getting the 5 DOF hand to grasp an object, using position control. Then a slip was introduced to see the slippage control strategy at work. The results based on the plain tactile sensory feedback and the modified sensory feedback are discussed.
Flexural Strength Improvement of Welded Joints Prepared by Vibratory Welding Process
Authors: Rao P. Govinda , Rao P. Srinivasa , Krishna A. Gopala
Published: August 2015

Vibration techniques have been used in welding for improving the mechanical properties of metals in the last few decades. In the present work, vibratory setup has been used for inducing mechanical vibrations into the weld pool during welding. The designed vibratory setup produces the required frequency with the amplitude and acceleration in terms of voltages. An increase in the flexural strength of the weld pieces in to the heat affected zone (HAZ) has been observed. The increase in mechanical properties is attributed to, as the weld pool solidifies, grains are not only limited in size but also dendrites are broken before they grow large in size. Refined microstructure has been observed. The above mechanism is responsible for the improvement in flexural strength of weld pieces welded with vibratory setup compared to without vibration during welding.
Optimization of Drilling Process on Al-SiC Composite using Grey Relation Analysis
Authors: Babu K. Vinoth , Uthayakumar M. , Jappes J. T. Winowlin , Rajan T. P. D.
Published: August 2015

This study reveals the multi objective optimization of machining parameters in drilling of SiC reinforced with aluminium metal matrix composites through grey relational analysis. The composite is prepared with varying volume fraction of the reinforcement by liquid metal stir casting technique. Uniform distribution of SiC particle in the matrix is witnessed through microscopy study and observed that the hardness and strength on different composite. The drilling experiments were performed with coated carbide tool with different point angle such as 90o, 120o and 140o. Cutting speed, feed, point angle and volume fraction are considered as input parameters and the performance characteristics such as surface roughness and thrust force are observed as output response in this study. The significant contributions of these factors are determined using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). The optimized process parameters have been validated by the confirmation test. The experimental result shows that point angle influences more on output performance followed by feed and cutting speed.
Cloud Computing
Authors: Yao Yulin
Published: August 2015

This paper provides an overview of Cloud Computing between Year 2009 and Year 2015. It presents the past and current literature and practices for Cloud Computing. Literatrue review is undertaken to identify key areas relevant to current Cloud Computing development. Review on frameworks for Cloud computing has also been presented to illustrate the good use of structured and valid framework approaches. Topics of discussion demonstrate that Cloud computing can provide added values not only to businesses but also Higher Education. Future directions and conclusion have been presented and acknowledged, including the development of a new framework. Cloud Computing is concluded to provide better services and integrations with other emerging technologies such as Big Data.
The Effect of Social Networks Sites (SNSs) on the Egyptian 25/30 Uprisings
Authors: Mostafa Rasha Hussein Abdel Aziz , Attia Samaa Taher
Published: August 2015

The purpose of this paper is to examine the effect of social networking sites' (SNSs) characteristics on Egyptians' perception and attitude towards the 25/30 uprisings, also known as the “Arab Spring”. Data were obtained from 422 Egyptian university students using SNS by means of questionnaire. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was conducted to test the research hypotheses. The study results indicate that SNSs' characteristics positively influence the Egyptian protesters' perceptions, particularly regarding unity. Such unity affected the protesters' attitudes, which in turn resulted in the uprisings. To further generalize the research model, it is recommended to be examined in other Arab Spring contexts. Nevertheless, this empirical and quantitative testing of the relationships between SNSs characteristics, perception, attitude and uprising is a newly introduced model on which scarce empirical research exists. Therefore, this study diminishes the paucity of information on the role of SNS in shaping the Egyptian protesters perceptions and attitudes during the “Arab Spring”.
Pre-slaughter, slaughter and post-slaughter defects of skins and hides at the Sheba Tannery and Leather Industry, Tigray region, northern Ethiopia
Authors: Kahsay Tesfay , Negash Guesh , Hagos Yohannes , Hadush Birhanu
Published: August 2015

Skins and hides are perishable resources that can be damaged by parasitic diseases and human error, which result in downgrading or rejection. This study was conducted to identify defect types and to determine their prevalence in pickled sheep and wet blue goat skins and wet blue hides. Each selected skin or hide was examined for defects in natural light and the defects were graded according to established quality criteria in Ethiopian standard manuals. Major defects were captured by digital photography. The major pre-slaughter defects included scratches (64.2%), cockle (ekek) (32.8%), wounds or scars (12.6%), lesions from pox or lumpy skin disease (6.1%), poor substance (5%), branding marks (2.3%) and tick bites (1.5%). The presence of grain scratches in wet blue hides (76.3%) was significantly higher than in pickled sheep (67.2%) and wet blue goat (59.1%) skins. The major slaughter defects included flay cuts or scores, holes, poor pattern and vein marks, with a higher occurrence in wet blue goat skins (28.7%; P < 0.001) than in wet blue hides (22.8%) and pickled sheep skins (11.1%). The most prevalent postslaughter defects were grain cracks (14.9%), hide beetle damage (8%), damage caused by heat or putrefaction (3.7%) and machine-induced defects (0.5%). Grain cracks (27.04%) and hide beetle damage (13.9%) in wet blue goat skins were significantly more common than in wet blue hides and pickled sheep skins. These defects cause depreciation in the value of the hides and skins. Statistically significant (P < 0.001) higher rejection rates were recorded for wet blue hides (82.9%) than for pickled sheep skins (18.3%) and wet blue goat skins (8.5%). Improved animal health service delivery, effective disease control strategies and strong collaboration between stakeholders are suggested to enhance the quality of skins and hides.
The leadership challenges of Paul's collection for the saints in Jerusalem: Part I: Overcoming the obstacles on the side of the Gentile Christian donors
Authors: Stenschke Christoph W.
Published: August 2015

In addition to many other activities, the Apostle Paul was involved in a large-scale fund raising project. Following a charge he once had received in Jerusalem to remember the poor (Gl 2:10), Paul tried to convince the predominantly Gentile Christian churches which he had founded to contribute to a collection for the impoverished Jewish Christians of Jerusalem. For the potential donors it was far from obvious that they should be involved in benefaction for people far away and unable to reciprocate to their would-be �patrons�, to name but one obstacle. Whilst Paul is best known as theologian, missionary and pastor, his collection project also indicates his determination and skills as an early Christian leader. In this quest, Paul combined a broad salvation historical perspective, skilful persuasion and rhetoric, the notions of honour and shame, exemplary transparency and other aspects. This article describes what obstacles Paul had to overcome on the side of the Gentile Christian donors, how he did so and how he proceeded in preparing and organising the actual collection, the transport of the funds to Jerusalem and its presentation in Jerusalem. In closing, the article suggests applications for today�s Christian leaders.Intradisciplinary and/or interdisciplinary implications: The article indicates that already in early Christianity Christian leadership involved the use of several skills and was controversial. Far from being able to simply demand a certain course of action, early Christian leaders such as Paul had to convince others to lead by their own example and had to be involved themselves in what they demanded of others. This challenges some contemporary notions of Christian leadership. Following the portrayal of Paul�s leadership as it emerges from his collection project will lead to more effective Christian leadership.
Febrile Neutropenia in Hematological Malignancies: Clinical and Microbiological Profile and Outcome in High Risk Patients
Authors: Lakshmaiah Kuntegowdanahalli C , Malabagi Abhayakumar S , Shetty Rachan , Sinha Mahua , Jayashree Rudrapatna S ,   Govindbabu
Published: August 2015

Background and Objectives: Febrile neutropenia (FN) is considered a medical emergency. Patients with hematological malignancies (HM) commonly experience FN. Broad spectrum antibiotics have to be started empirically to prevent complications. This study depicts the clinical profile, microbiological profile, antibiotic sensitivity pattern, and outcome in high risk HM.

Materials and Methods: In this prospective study, 72 patients with hematologic malignancies, diagnosed and treated for 108 high risk febrile neutropenic episodes from August 2011 to January 2013 at a Regional Cancer Center, in South India were analyzed. Cefoperazone-sulbactum was used as a first-line empiric antibiotic.

Results: Majority of the patients with FN episodes had acute myeloid leukemia. Overall culture positivity was 29.62%. The most common organisms isolated were Gram-negative bacilli (63.64%), with Escherichia coli being the most frequent pathogen. All Gram-negative organisms were sensitive to imipenem, whereas sensitivity pattern to other antibiotics were as follows: 85.71%, 78.26%, 69.52%, 63.64%, 41.66% and 47.05% for pipercillin-tazoactum, meropenem, cefoperazone-sulbactum, amikacin, ceftazidime, ciprofloxacin respectively. Overall mortality was 13.5%. Most of the patients responded to empiric antibiotic cefoperazone-sulbactum.

Conclusions: In the hematologic malignancies particularly in acute leukemia, there is high risk of developing FN. Empiric therapy with cefoperazone-sulbactum as a first line leads to satisfactory outcome in high risk FN and therapy should be tailored to the most appropriate antibiotics according to the bacterial culture results.
Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Expression in Triple Negative and Nontriple Negative Breast Carcinomas
Authors: Changavi Arathi A , Shashikala Arundhathi , Ramji Ashwini S
Published: August 2015

Introduction: The panel of markers used for molecular classification include estrogen receptors (ER), progesterone receptors (PR), human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER)-2/neu, p53, Bcl-2 and basal markers like cytokeratin 5/6 or epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). Among these, EGFR plays an important role and is associated with bad prognosis.

Aims and Objectives: To study EGFR expression in triple negative breast carcinoma (TNBC) and non-TNBCs (NTNBCs).

Materials and Methods: Fifty cases of breast carcinomas were classified and graded according to World Health Organization and Nottingham modification of Scarff-Bloom-Richardson (SBR) system, respectively. The age of the patients ranged from 28 to 69 years. Histological features such as necrosis, pushing borders, lymphocytic infiltrate and periductal elastosis were noted. The panel of markers used in our study included ER, PR, HER-2/neu and EGFR. EGFR expression was assessed based on membrane staining. Chi-square test was applied for statistical analysis to compare EGFR expression with hormonal status and prognostic factors. P < 0.05 was considered significant.

Results: The mean age was 49.8 ± 7.2 years. There were 44 (88%) infiltrating ductal carcinoma, 3 (6%) medullary carcinoma and 3 (6%) mucinous carcinoma. EGFR expression was common in young patients and was predominant in TNBC (89.47%), was also expressed in few cases of NTNBC. There was a positive correlation of EGFR expression (P = 0.03491) with a high grade. Medullary carcinomas were triple negative and strongly expressed EGFR. EGFR expression was inversely associated with ER status and showed strong association with necrosis and lymphocytic infiltrate, but not with pushing border and periductal elastosis.

Conclusion: EGFR is an important marker to stratify patients with breast cancer according to molecular classification. Its expression correlated positively with young age, higher SBR grade, necrosis, lymphocytic infiltrate and inversely with hormonal receptor expression.
Concomitant Infections of Influenza A H1N1 and Disseminated Cryptococcosis in an HIV Seropositive Patient
Authors: Gupta Ankit , Capoor Malini R , Gupta Sonal , Sachdeva Harish Chand
Published: August 2015

Respiratory viral infections, especially influenza have a potential to form a fatal association with cryptococcosis in the setting of compromised immunity. Considering the lethality of these two infections, we report an unusual case of dual infection of pandemic influenza A H1N1 and disseminated cryptococcosis in an HIV seropositive individual.
Periodontal health status in patients treated with the Invisalign® system and fixed orthodontic appliances: A 3 months clinical and microbiological evaluation
Authors: Levrini Luca , Mangano Alessandro , Montanari Paola , Margherini Silvia , Caprioglio Alberto , Abbate Gian Marco
Published: August 2015

Objective: The aim of this prospective study was to compare the periodontal health and the microbiological changes via real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in patients treated with fixed orthodontic appliances and Invisalign® system (Align Technology, Santa Clara, California). Materials and Methods: Seventy-seven patients were enrolled in this study and divided into three groups (Invisalign® group, fixed orthodontic appliances group and control group). Plaque index, probing depth, bleeding on probing were assessed. Total biofilm mass and periodontal pathogens were analyzed and detected via real-time PCR. All these data were analyzed at the T0 (beginning of the treatment) T1 (1-month) and T2 (3 months); and statistically compared using the Mann–Whitney test for independent groups. Results: After 1-month and after 3 months of treatment there was only one sample with periodontopathic anaerobes found in patient treated using fixed orthodontic appliances. The Invisalign® group showed better results in terms of periodontal health and total biofilm mass compared to the fixed orthodontic appliance group. A statistical significant difference (P < 0.05) at the T2 in the total biofilm mass was found between the two groups. Conclusion: Patients undergoing orthodontic treatment with the Invisalign® System show a superior periodontal health in the short-term when compared to patients in treatment with fixed orthodontic appliances. Invisalign® should be considered as a first treatment option in patients with risk of developing periodontal disease.