bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Daclatasvir + sofosbuvir versus standard of care for hepatitis C genotype 3: a matching-adjusted indirect comparison
Authors: Swallow Elyse , Song Jinlin , Yuan Yong , Kalsekar Anupama , Kelley Caroline , Mu Fan , Kim Soomi , Noviello Stephanie , Signorovitch James
Published: September 2015

Aims:
To compare the efficacy and tolerability of daclatasvir and sofosbuvir (DCV + SOF) versus SOF and ribavirin (SOF + R) and versus peginterferon-alfa plus ribavirin (A/R) in patients infected with hepatitis C genotype 3.
Patients & methods:
Clinical trials of SOF + R or A/R were identified in systematic literature reviews. The DCV+SOF population was adjusted via propensity score weighting to match average baseline characteristics to those reported for the comparator regimens.
Results:
The SVR12 rate was similar between DCV + SOF and SOF + R, and significantly higher with DCV + SOF than A/R. Rates of discontinuation due to AEs were similar or significantly lower in patients treated with DCV + SOF than SOF + R or A/R.
Conclusion:
With its high efficacy and improved tolerability, DCV + SOF is an important treatment for hepatitis C genotype 3.
First Year Participation in the Affordable Care Act: Costs and Accessibility to Gynecologic Oncology
Authors: Pavlik Edward J , Ore Robert , Toyama Aimi , Woolum Dylan , Pavlik Thomas E , Baldwin Lauren
Published: September 2015

With the ending of the operational first year of the American Affordable Care Act, health insurance premiums were accessed online. For a US$50,000 income, the lowest premiums ranged from US$805 annually (age 20 years) to US$3802 (age 64 years), while the highest ranged from US$2186 (age 20 years) to US$10,326 (age 64 years). The lowest premiums at age 50 years were higher in rural areas in contrast to the highest premiums that were less expensive rurally. At age 64 years, the lowest premiums were 9–12.6% of a US$50,000 income, while the most expensive varied between 16.5 and 39%. Access to gynecologic oncologists was variable in different networks. Medicaid enrollment nationally was ∼6x higher than paid enrollment. Eligible participation in Affordable Care Act coverage exceeded expectations by >190%. Performance of four healthcare exchange traded funds indicated that investor confidence is high in the American healthcare sector.
Determination of critical micelle concentration of cetyltrimethylammonium bromide: Different procedures for analysis of experimental data
Authors: Goronja Jelena , Janosevic-Lezaic Aleksandra , Dimitrijevic Biljana , Malenovic Andjelija , Stanisavljev Dragomir , Pejic Natasa
Published: September 2015

Conductivity of two micellar systems was measured in order to determine
critical micelle concentration (CMC) of cetyltrimethylammonium bromide
(CTAB). Those systems were: CTin water and CTin binary mixture
acetonitrile (ACN)-water. Conductivity (?)-concentration (c) data were
treated by four different methods: conventional method, differential methods
(first and second derivative) and method of integration (methods A-D,
respectively). As CTin water micellar system shows a sharp transition
between premicellar and postmicellar part of the ?/c curve, any of the
applied methods gives reliable CMC values and there is no statistically
significant difference between them. However, for CTin ACN-water mixture
micellar system the integration method for CMC determination is recommended
due to a weak curvature of ?/c plot.
Response to Bonsall et al. “Food for Thought: Re-Assessing Mesolithic Diets in the Iron Gates”
Authors: Nehlich Olaf , Borić Dušan
Published: September 2015

Here, we reply to the attempt by Bonsall et al. (2015) to re-assess our results from the sulfur isotopic study of bone collagen from Mesolithic and Neolithic sites along the Danube in the Iron Gates Gorges area (Nehlich et al. 2010). Although we are highly interested to see our data re-assessed, we found certain misinterpretations, mistaken assumptions, and factual errors regarding our results. Therefore, we want to respond and re-assess our previous data, too. We establish for a few individuals a quantitative dietary reconstruction to demonstrate the reliability of our earlier interpretations.
Fuzzy Backstepping Torque Control Of Passive Torque Simulator With Algebraic Parameters Adaptation
Authors: Ullah Nasim , Wang Shaoping , Wang Xingjian
Published: September 2015

This work presents fuzzy backstepping control techniques applied to the load simulator for good tracking performance in presence of extra torque, and nonlinear friction effects. Assuming that the parameters of the system are uncertain and bounded, Algebraic parameters adaptation algorithm is used to adopt the unknown parameters. The effect of transient fuzzy estimation error on parameters adaptation algorithm is analyzed and the fuzzy estimation error is further compensated using saturation function based adaptive control law working in parallel with the actual system to improve the transient performance of closed loop system. The saturation function based adaptive control term is large in the transient time and settles to an optimal lower value in the steady state for which the closed loop system remains stable. The simulation results verify the validity of the proposed control method applied to the complex aerodynamics passive load simulator.
Use Of REX Control System For The Ball On Spool Model
Authors: Ožana Štěpán , Pieš Martin , Hájovský Radovan , Dočekal Tomáš
Published: September 2015

This paper deals with the design and implementation of linear quadratic controller (LQR) for modeling of Ball on Spool. The paper presents the entire process, starting from mathematical model through control design towards application of controller with the use of given hardware platform. Proposed solution by means of REX Control System provides a high level of user comfort regarding implementation of control loop, diagnostics and automatically generated visualization based on HTML5. It represents an ideal example of a complex nonlinear mechatronic system with a lot of possibilities to apply other types of controllers.
Effect of Nano Silica on Mechanical Properties and Durability of Normal Strength Concrete
Authors: Gopinath S. , Mouli P.Ch. , Murthy A.R. , Iyer N.R. , Maheswaran S.
Published: September 2015

Nano technology is an emerging field of interest for civil engineering application. Among the nano materials presently used in concrete, nano-silica possess more pozzolanic nature. It has the capability to react with the free lime during the cement hydration and forms additional C-S-H gel giving strength, impermeability and durability to concrete. Present paper investigates the effects of addition of nano silica in normal strength concrete. Three types of nano-silica in the form of nano suspension having different amount of silica content have been investigated. Mix design has been carried out by using particle packing method. X-Ray diffraction (XRD) analysis has been carried out to find the chemical composition of control concrete and nano modified concrete. Further, experimental investigations have been carried out to characterize the mechanical behaviour in compression, tension and flexure. It has been observed that the addition of nano-silica in normal strength concrete increased the compressive strength and decreased the spilt tensile strength and flexural strength. Also, Rapid chloride permeability test (RCPT) has been conducted to know the chloride permeability of control concrete, nano modified concrete, and nano coated concrete. It has been observed that the chloride permeability is less for nano coated concrete.
On a Certain Method of Selection of Domain for Finite Element Modelling of the Layered Elastic Half-Space in the Static Analysis of Flexible Pavement
Authors: Nagórska M.
Published: September 2015

In the flexible road pavement design a mechanistic model of a multilayered half-space with linear elastic or viscoelastic layers is usually used for the pavement analysis.

This paper describes a domain selection for the purpose of a FE model creating of the linear elastic layered half-space and boundary conditions on borders of that domain. This FE model should guarantee that the key components of displacements, stresses and strains obtained using ABAQUS program would be in particular identical with those ones obtained by analytical method using VEROAD program.

It to achieve matching results with both methods is relatively easy for stresses and strains. However, for displacements, using FEM to obtain correct results is (understandably) highly problematic due to infinity of half-space. This paper proposes an original method of overcoming these difficulties.
Rehabilitation of Patellar Tendinopathy Using Hip Extensor Strengthening and Landing-Strategy Modification: Case Report With 6-Month Follow-up
Authors: Silva Rodrigo Scattone , Ferreira Ana Luisa G. , Nakagawa Theresa H. , Santos José E. M. , Serrão Fábio V.
Published: September 2015

Study Design

Case report.

Background

Although eccentric exercises have been a cornerstone of the rehabilitation of athletes with patellar tendinopathy, the effectiveness of this intervention is sometimes less than ideal. Athletes with patellar tendinopathy have been shown to have different jump-landing patterns and lower hip extensor strength compared to asymptomatic athletes. To our knowledge, the effectiveness of an intervention addressing these impairments has not yet been investigated.

Case Description

The patient was a 21-year-old male volleyball athlete with a 9-month history of patellar tendon pain. Pain was measured with a visual analog scale. Disability was measured with the Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment-patella questionnaire. These assessments were conducted before and after an 8-week intervention, as well as at 6 months after the intervention. Hip and knee kinematics and kinetics during drop vertical jump and isometric strength were also measured before and after the 8-week intervention. The intervention consisted of hip extensor muscle strengthening and jump landing strategy modification training. The patient did not interrupt volleyball practice/competition during rehabilitation.

Outcomes

After the 8-week intervention and at 6 months postintervention, the athlete was completely asymptomatic during sports participation. This favorable clinical outcome was accompanied by a 50% increase in hip extensor moment, a 21% decrease in knee extensor moment, and a 26% decrease in patellar tendon force during jump landing measured at 8 weeks.

Discussion

This case report provides an example of how an 8-week intervention of hip muscle strengthening and jump-landing modification decreased pain and disability and improved jump-landing biomechanics in an athlete with patellar tendinopathy.

Level of Evidence

Therapy, level 4. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2015;45(11):899–909. Epub 21 Sep 2015. doi:10.2519/jospt.2015.6242
Pattern of Primary Glomerulonephritis in Dhaka Medical College Hospital, Bangladesh
Authors: Ahmed Parvez Iftekhar , Zaman Shakib Uz , Jahan Ferdous , Gupto Raton Das , Chowdhury Md Nizamuddin , Khan Md Firoz
Published: September 2015

Glomerulonephritis are categorised into several different pathological patterns, which are broadly grouped into non-proliferative or proliferative types.4 Glomerulonephritis comprises 25-45% cases of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in developing nations, like Bangladesh.5 This study has been done in Dhaka Medical College Hospital from January 2011 to December 2011 to find out the type of glomerulonephritis among presented glomerulonephritis patients to Inpatient and Outpatient Department of Nephrology aiming to reflect the pattern of glomerulonephritis in Bangladeshi population. The current study duration was 12 months, 128 patients having glomerulonephritis were included in this study. Statistical analysis has been done using the stastical package for social science. In this current study it was observed that most (31.3%) of the patients were in the age group of 31 to 40 years and the mean±SD of age was 32.94±12.66 years ranging from 18 to 70 years. In this current study it was observed that 64.8% was male and 35.2% was female. Male female ratio was 1.8:1. According to type of glomerulonephtis evaluated by histopathology, it was observed that in Non Proliferative Glomerulonephtis: 12(10.61%) is Minimal Change Disease (MCD), 9(7.96%) is Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), 25(22.12%) is Membranous Glomerulonephritis (MGN). In Proliferative Glomerulonephtis: Membranoproliferative Glomerulonephtis- 13(11.5%), IgA Nephropathy -13(11.5%), Mesengial Proliferative Glomerulonephtis -14(12.39%), Focal Segmental Proliferative Glomerulonephtis-14(14.2%), Rapidly Progressive Glomerulonephtis (RPGN) - 2 (1.8%). and Chronic Sclerosing Glomerulonephritis is -11(9.7%). In our study to find out the pattern of Primary Glomerulonephritis in Dhaka Medical College Hospital there is almost similar findings in Bangladeshi and South Asian population which is shown in different studies in this region. We have some variation with Western, European, American, Middle East studies which is may be due to the difference in environmental, genetic, racial, social and economic variation.Bangladesh J Medicine Jul 2014; 25 (2) : 42-46
Frequency of Transfusion Transmitted Diseases among Tribal Population of Rangamati in Bangladesh
Authors: Dewan Gourab , Biswas Sarmista , Rahman Md Ridwanur
Published: September 2015

Background: Frequency of transfusion transmitted diseases is unknown among tribal population of Rangamati. This study was undertaken to obtain data about burden of transfusion related diseases among tribal voluntary blood donors in Rangamati and to observe if there was any significant risk associated with ethnicity. The result expected to help identify health problems requiring urgent attention among tribal ethnic groups of Rangamati.Methods: A retrospective study was done in Rangamati General Hospital, Bangladesh where screening records of tribal voluntary blood donors from year 2005 to 2012 were scrutinized for seropositivity for hepatitis B & C, HIV, Syphilis and malaria infection. Frequency of these five diseases recorded .Results: Ninety six (3.81%) samples were positive for transfusion transmitted disease out of 2517 samples screened. Hepatitis B with 87 positive samples ranks highest. Frequency of seropositivity for HBsAg was 3.46%. Seropositivity of other diseases was Hepatitis C (0.28%), syphilis (0.04%) and malaria (0.04%). No samples were positive for HIV infection.Conclusion: Hepatitis B infection is the commonest transfusion transmitted disease among tribal population of Rangamati.Bangladesh J Medicine Jul 2014; 25 (2) : 52-54
Adult Type Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia in An 11 Year Old Girl- A Very Unusual Case Report
Authors: Hossain Homayra Tahseen , Islam Quazi Tarikul , Adnan Munshi MB Md Shoaib , Khandaker Md Abul Kashem
Published: September 2015

Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia is very uncommon in children. It accounts for 2 to 5% of all the childhood leukaemias. The incidence is < 1 case per 1,00,000 population in younger than 20 years of age per year. Two distinct forms have been described- namely the Juvenile and Adult type. Absence of Philadelphia chromosome is the hallmark of Juvenile type CML ( JCML). Adult type CML is extremely rare in childhood. Here, we report one such a case of adult type of CML in an 11 year old girl who presented to us with pallor, fever and hepato-splenomegaly. At presentation, it seems to be a case of Visceral Leishmaniasis. But, peripheral blood film and bone marrow features were consistent with CML. Philadelphia chromosome was positive. Though biological behavior and prognosis are identical to that of adult CML, we are reporting this case because of its extremely uncommon incidence.Bangladesh J Medicine Jul 2014; 25 (2) : 72-75
Design of a Solenoid Actuator with a Magnetic Plunger for Miniaturized Segment Robots
Authors: Song Chang-Woo , Lee Seung-Yop
Published: September 2015

We develop a solenoid actuator with a ferromagnetic plunger to generate both rectilinear and turning motions of a multi-segmented robot. Each segment of the miniaturized robot is actuated by a pair of solenoids, and in-phase and out-of-phase actuations of the solenoid pair cause the linear and turning motions. The theoretical analysis on the actuation force by the solenoid with the magnetic plunger is implemented based on the Biot-Savart law. The optimal design parameters of the solenoid are determined to actuate a segmented body. We manufacture the miniaturized robot consisting of two segments and a pair of solenoids. Experiments are performed to measure the linear and angular displacements of the two-segmented robot for various frictional conditions.
Managing Single-Stranded DNA during Replication Stress in Fission Yeast
Authors: Sabatinos Sarah , Forsburg Susan
Published: September 2015

Replication fork stalling generates a variety of responses, most of which cause an increase in single-stranded DNA. ssDNA is a primary signal of replication distress that activates cellular checkpoints. It is also a potential source of genome instability and a substrate for mutation and recombination. Therefore, managing ssDNA levels is crucial to chromosome integrity. Limited ssDNA accumulation occurs in wild-type cells under stress. In contrast, cells lacking the replication checkpoint cannot arrest forks properly and accumulate large amounts of ssDNA. This likely occurs when the replication fork polymerase and helicase units are uncoupled. Some cells with mutations in the replication helicase (mcm-ts) mimic checkpoint-deficient cells, and accumulate extensive areas of ssDNA to trigger the G2-checkpoint. Another category of helicase mutant (mcm4-degron) causes fork stalling in early S-phase due to immediate loss of helicase function. Intriguingly, cells realize that ssDNA is present, but fail to detect that they accumulate ssDNA, and continue to divide. Thus, the cellular response to replication stalling depends on checkpoint activity and the time that replication stress occurs in S-phase. In this review we describe the signs, signals, and symptoms of replication arrest from an ssDNA perspective. We explore the possible mechanisms for these effects. We also advise the need for caution when detecting and interpreting data related to the accumulation of ssDNA.
Structural Basis of Targeting the Exportin CRM1 in Cancer
Authors: Dickmanns Achim , Monecke Thomas , Ficner Ralf
Published: September 2015

Recent studies have demonstrated the interference of nucleocytoplasmic trafficking with the establishment and maintenance of various cancers. Nucleocytoplasmic transport is highly regulated and coordinated, involving different nuclear transport factors or receptors, importins and exportins, that mediate cargo transport from the cytoplasm into the nucleus or the other way round, respectively. The exportin CRM1 (Chromosome region maintenance 1) exports a plethora of different protein cargoes and ribonucleoprotein complexes. Structural and biochemical analyses have enabled the deduction of individual steps of the CRM1 transport cycle. In addition, CRM1 turned out to be a valid target for anticancer drugs as it exports numerous proto-oncoproteins and tumor suppressors. Clearly, detailed understanding of the flexibility, regulatory features and cooperative binding properties of CRM1 for Ran and cargo is a prerequisite for the design of highly effective drugs. The first compound found to inhibit CRM1-dependent nuclear export was the natural drug Leptomycin B (LMB), which blocks export by competitively interacting with a highly conserved cleft on CRM1 required for nuclear export signal recognition. Clinical studies revealed serious side effects of LMB, leading to a search for alternative natural and synthetic drugs and hence a multitude of novel therapeutics. The present review examines recent progress in understanding the binding mode of natural and synthetic compounds and their inhibitory effects.
Subspace Coding for Networks with Different Level Messages
Authors: Cai Feng , Cai Ning , Guo Wangmei
Published: September 2015

We study the asymptotically-achievable rate region of subspace codes for wireless network coding, where receivers have different link capacities due to the access ways or the faults of the intermediate links in the network. Firstly, an outer bound of the achievable rate region in a two-receiver network is derived from a combinatorial method. Subsequently, the achievability of the outer bound is proven by code construction, which is based on superposition coding. We show that the outer bound can be achieved asymptotically by using the code presented by Koetter and Kschischang, and the outer bound can be exactly attained in some points by using a q-analog Steiner structure. Finally, the asymptotically-achievable rate region is extended to the general case when the network has m receivers with different levels.
Determination of Priority Study Areas for Coupling CO2 Storage and CH4 Gas Hydrates Recovery in the Portuguese Offshore Area
Authors: Bernardes Luís , Carneiro Júlio , Madureira Pedro , Brandão Filipe , Roque Cristina
Published: September 2015

Gas hydrates in sub-seabed sediments is an unexploited source of energy with estimated reserves larger than those of conventional oil. One of the methods for recovering methane from gas hydrates involves injection of Carbon Dioxide (CO2), causing the dissociation of methane and storing CO2. The occurrence of gas hydrates offshore Portugal is well known associated to mud volcanoes in the Gulf of Cadiz. This article presents a determination of the areas with conditions for the formation of biogenic gas hydrates in Portugal’s mainland geological continental margin and assesses their overlap with CO2 hydrates stability zones defined in previous studies. The gas hydrates stability areas are defined using a transfer function recently published by other authors and takes into account the sedimentation rate, the particulate organic carbon content and the thickness of the gas hydrate stability zone. An equilibrium equation for gas hydrates, function of temperature and pressure, was adjusted using non-linear regression and the maximum stability zone thickness was found to be 798 m. The gas hydrates inventory was conducted in a Geographic Information System (GIS) environment and a full compaction scenario was adopted, with localized vertical flow assumed in the accrecionary wedge where mud volcanoes occur. Four areas where temperature and pressure conditions may exist for formation of gas hydrates were defined at an average of 60 km from Portugal’s mainland coastline. Two of those areas coincide with CO2 hydrates stability areas previously defined and should be the subject of further research to evaluate the occurrence of gas hydrate and the possibility of its recovery coupled with CO2 storage in sub-seabed sediments.
Control and Performance Evaluation of Multiphase FSPM Motor in Low-Speed Region for Hybrid Electric Vehicles
Authors: Yu Feng , Cheng Ming , Chau Kwok , Li Feng
Published: September 2015

The flux-switching permanent-magnet (FSPM) motor has been viewed as a highly reliable machine with both armature windings and magnets on the stator. Owing to the high torque-production capability with low torque ripple, FSPM motors with a higher number of phases are potential candidates for traction applications in hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs). However, existing research has mostly focused on the principles and static performance of multiphase FSPM motors, and little attention has been paid to advanced control strategies. In this paper, the fully decoupled current control of a 36/34-pole nine-phase FSPM (NP-FSPM) motor is developed and the performance under different operating conditions is investigated. The aim of the design is to alleviate cross coupling effects and unwanted low-order stator harmonic currents, to guarantee fast transient response and small steady-state error. In addition, its fault-tolerance is further elaborated. These features are very important in automotive applications where low torque pulsation, high fault-tolerant capability and high dynamic performance are of major importance. Firstly, the research status of multiphase FSPM motors is briefly reviewed. Secondly, the mathematical model in the dq reference frames and control strategies are presented. Then, the control and performance of the NP-FSPM motor are evaluated by using MATLAB/Simulink. Finally, experiments on an NP-FSPM motor prototype are carried out to validate the study.
α-Carotene and β-Carotene Content in Raw and Cooked Pulp of Three Mature Stage Winter Squash “Type Butternut”
Authors: Zaccari Fernanda , Galietta Giovanni
Published: September 2015

Winter squash “type butternut” is harvested in physiological ripening for better commercial distribution, when sensory and/or nutritional quality is not optimum for consumption. The objective of this study was to quantify the content of α-carotene, β-carotene, color and dry matter in the pulp of raw and microwave-cooked winter squash “type butternut” (variety CosmoF1) in three states of commercial maturity. Immature, mature, and very mature fruit, defined at the time of the harvest by the percentage of orange peel and green stalk, were evaluated. The highest concentration of carotenes (α-carotene + β-carotene) in mg.100 g−1 pulp wet basis was found in very mature fruits (31.96 mg), followed by mature fruits (24.65 mg), and immature fruits (18.82 mg). Microwave cooking caused the loss of β-carotene (28.6% wet basis) and α-carotene (34.1%). Cooking promote a greater reduction of α-carotene in immature (40.3%) and mature (34.5%) fruits. The ratio of β-carotene and α-carotene content increased with commercial maturity from 0.93 for immature fruits to 1.0 for very mature fruit, with higher ratio in cooked pulp (1.04) vs. raw pulp (0.96).
Alleviation and Sanctions in Social Dilemma Games
Authors: Drouvelis Michalis
Published: September 2015

This paper reports an experiment which compares behaviour in two punishment regimes: (i) a standard public goods game with punishment in which subjects are given the opportunity to punish other group members (democratic punishment regime) and (ii) a public goods game environment where all group members exogenously experience an automatic reduction of their income (irrespective of their behaviour) and are given the opportunity to alleviate the automatic penalty (undemocratic punishment regime). We employ a within-subjects design where subjects experience both environments and control for order effects by alternating their sequence. Our findings indicate that average contributions and earnings in the undemocratic punishment environment are significantly lower relative to the standard public goods game with punishment. We also observe that in the undemocratic environment average contributions decay over time only when subjects have experienced the standard public goods game with punishment. As a result, alleviation is significantly less when subjects have experienced the standard public goods game with punishment compared to when they do not have such experience. However, the assignment of punishment is robust irrespective of the order in which the games are played.
Identification of miRNAs Responsive to Botrytis cinerea in Herbaceous Peony (Paeonia lactiflora Pall.) by High-Throughput Sequencing
Authors: Zhao Daqiu , Gong Saijie , Hao Zhaojun , Tao Jun
Published: September 2015

Herbaceous peony (Paeonia lactiflora Pall.), one of the world’s most important ornamental plants, is highly susceptible to Botrytis cinerea, and improving resistance to this pathogenic fungus is a problem yet to be solved. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play an essential role in resistance to B. cinerea, but until now, no studies have been reported concerning miRNAs induction in P. lactiflora. Here, we constructed and sequenced two small RNA (sRNA) libraries from two B. cinerea-infected P. lactiflora cultivars (“Zifengyu” and “Dafugui”) with significantly different levels of resistance to B. cinerea, using the Illumina HiSeq 2000 platform. From the raw reads generated, 4,592,881 and 5,809,796 sRNAs were obtained, and 280 and 306 miRNAs were identified from “Zifengyu” and “Dafugui”, respectively. A total of 237 conserved and 7 novel sequences of miRNAs were differentially expressed between the two cultivars, and we predicted and annotated their potential target genes. Subsequently, 7 differentially expressed candidate miRNAs were screened according to their target genes annotated in KEGG pathways, and the expression patterns of miRNAs and corresponding target genes were elucidated. We found that miR5254, miR165a-3p, miR3897-3p and miR6450a might be involved in the P. lactiflora response to B. cinerea infection. These results provide insight into the molecular mechanisms responsible for resistance to B. cinerea in P. lactiflora.
Identifying Spatial Clusters of Schistosomiasis in Anhui Province of China: A Study from the Perspective of Application
Authors: Sun Liqian , Chen Yue , Lynn Henry , Wang Qizhi , Zhang Shiqing , Li Rui , Xia Congcong , Jiang Qingwu , Hu Yi , Gao Fenghua , Zhang Zhijie
Published: September 2015

With the strategy shifting from morbidity control to transmission interruption, the burden of schistosomiasis in China has been declining over the past decade. However, further controls of the epidemic in the lake and marshland regions remain a challenge. Prevalence data at county level were obtained from the provincial surveillance system in Anhui during 1997–2010. Spatial autocorrelation analysis and spatial scan statistics were combined to assess the spatial pattern of schistosomiasis. The spatial-temporal cluster analysis based on retrospective space-time scan statistics was further used to detect risk clusters. The Global Moran’s I coefficients were mostly statistically significant during 1997–2004 but not significant during 2005–2010. The clusters detected by two spatial cluster methods occurred in Nanling, Tongling, Qingyang and Wuhu during 1997–2004, and Guichi and Wuhu from 2005 to 2010, respectively. Spatial-temporal cluster analysis revealed 2 main clusters, namely Nanling (1999–2002) and Guichi (2005–2008). The clustering regions were significantly narrowed while the spatial extent became scattered during the study period. The high-risk areas shifted from the low reaches of the Yangtze River to the upper stream, suggesting the focus of schistosomiasis control should be shifted accordingly and priority should be given to the snail habitats within the high-risk areas of schistosomiasis.
Editorial of Special Issue Ruthenium Complex: The Expanding Chemistry of the Ruthenium Complexes
Authors: Dragutan Ileana , Dragutan Valerian , Demonceau Albert
Published: September 2015

Recent trends in Ru complex chemistry are surveyed with emphasis on the development of anticancer drugs and applications in catalysis, polymers, materials science and nanotechnology.
Effect of Amaranthus on Advanced Glycation End-Products Induced Cytotoxicity and Proinflammatory Cytokine Gene Expression in SH-SY5Y Cells
Authors: Amornrit Warisa , Santiyanont Rachana
Published: September 2015

Amaranthus plants, or spinach, are used extensively as a vegetable and are known to possess medicinal properties. Neuroinflammation and oxidative stress play a major role in the pathogenesis of many neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. Advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) cause cell toxicity in the human neuronal cell line, SH-SY5Y, through an increase in oxidative stress, as shown by reducing cell viability and increasing cell toxicity in a dose-dependent manner. We found that preincubation of SH-SY5Y cells with either petroleum ether, dichloromethane or methanol extracts of A. lividus and A. tricolor dose-dependently attenuated the neuron toxicity caused by AGEs treatment. Moreover, the results showed that A. lividus and A. tricolor extracts significantly downregulated the gene expression of the pro-inflammatory cytokines, TNF-α, IL-1 and IL-6 genes in AGEs-induced cells. We concluded that A. lividus and A. tricolor extracts not only have a neuroprotective effect against AGEs toxicity, but also have anti-inflammatory activity by reducing pro-inflammatory cytokine gene expression. This suggests that Amaranthus may be useful for treating chronic inflammation associated with neurodegenerative disorders.
New Hydrazones Bearing Thiazole Scaffold: Synthesis, Characterization, Antimicrobial, and Antioxidant Investigation
Authors: Nastasă Cristina , Tiperciuc Brîndușa , Duma Mihaela , Benedec Daniela , Oniga Ovidiu
Published: September 2015

New series of hydrazones 5–18 were synthesized, in good yields, by reacting 4-methyl-2-(4-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)thiazole-5-carbohydrazide with differently substituted benzaldehyde. The resulting compounds were characterized via elemental analysis, physico-chemical and spectral data. An antimicrobial screening was done, using Gram (+), Gram (−) bacteria and one fungal strain. Tested molecules displayed moderate-to-good growth inhibition activity. 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazide assay was used to test the antioxidant properties of the compounds. Monohydroxy (14–16), para-fluorine (13) and 2,4-dichlorine (17) derivatives exhibited better free-radical scavenging ability than the other investigated molecules.
Biological and Nutritional Properties of Palm Oil and Palmitic Acid: Effects on Health
Authors: Mancini Annamaria , Imperlini Esther , Nigro Ersilia , Montagnese Concetta , Daniele Aurora , Orrù Stefania , Buono Pasqualina
Published: September 2015

A growing body of evidence highlights the close association between nutrition and human health. Fat is an essential macronutrient, and vegetable oils, such as palm oil, are widely used in the food industry and highly represented in the human diet. Palmitic acid, a saturated fatty acid, is the principal constituent of refined palm oil. In the last few decades, controversial studies have reported potential unhealthy effects of palm oil due to the high palmitic acid content. In this review we provide a concise and comprehensive update on the functional role of palm oil and palmitic acid in the development of obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular diseases and cancer. The atherogenic potential of palmitic acid and its stereospecific position in triacylglycerols are also discussed.
Insecticidal Constituents and Activity of Alkaloids from Cynanchum mongolicum
Authors: Ge Yang , Liu Pingping , Yang Rui , Zhang Liu , Chen Hongxing , Camara Ibrahima , Liu Yiqing , Shi Wangpeng
Published: September 2015

Based on MS and NMR data and bioassay-guided tracing, three insecticidal alkaloids I, II and III from Cynanchum mongolicum were identified to be antofine N-oxide, antofine and tylophorine. Alkaloid I was more toxic than alkaloids II and III, but they were less active against Spodoptera litura than total alkaloids. The contact toxicity from these alkaloids against the aphid Lipaphis erysimi was significant, as the 24 h-LC50 values of alkaloids I, II, III and total alkaloids were 292.48, 367.21, 487.791 and 163.52 mg/L, respectively. The development disruption of S. litura larvae was tested, the pupation and emergence rates of S. litura decreased and the acute mortality of S. litura increased significantly by day 3 after being injected in their body cavity with 10–40 mg/L of total alkaloid. The ecdysone titer of treated S. litura larvae and prepupae declined with increasing alkaloid concentration. The alkaloids of Cynanchum mongolicum are potential insect growth inhibitors.
Enhancement of Blood–Brain Barrier Permeability and Delivery of Antisense Oligonucleotides or Plasmid DNA to the Brain by the Combination of Bubble Liposomes and High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound
Authors: Negishi Yoichi , Yamane Masaya , Kurihara Naho , Endo-Takahashi Yoko , Sashida Sanae , Takagi Norio , Suzuki Ryo , Maruyama Kazuo
Published: September 2015

The blood–brain barrier (BBB) is a major obstacle that prevents therapeutic drugs or genes from being delivered to the central nervous system. Therefore, it is important to develop methods to enhance the permeability of the BBB. We have developed echo-contrast gas (C3F8) entrapping liposomes (Bubble liposomes, BLs) that can work as a gene delivery tool in combination with ultrasound (US) exposure. Here, we studied whether the permeability of the BBB can be enhanced by the combination of BLs and high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU). Mice were intravenously injected with Evans blue (EB). BLs were subsequently injected, and the right hemispheres were exposed to HIFU. As a result, the accumulation of EB in the HIFU-exposed brain hemispheres was increased over that observed in the non-HIFU-exposed hemispheres, depending on the intensity and the duration of the HIFU. Similarly, the combination of BLs and HIFU allowed fluorescent-labeled antisense oligonucleotides to be delivered into the HIFU-exposed left hemispheres of the treated mice. Furthermore, a firefly luciferase-expressing plasmid DNA was delivered to the brain by the combination method of BLs and HIFU, which resulted in the increased gene expression in the brain at the focused-US exposure site. These results suggest that the method of combining BLs and HIFU together serves as a useful means for accelerating the permeability of BBB and thereby enabling antisense oligonucleotides or genes to be delivered to the focused brain site.
Hybrid Photonic Integration on a Polymer Platform
Authors: Zhang Ziyang , Felipe David , Katopodis Vasilis , Groumas Panos , Kouloumentas Christos , Avramopoulos Hercules , Dupuy Jean-Yves , Konczykowska Agnieszka , Dede Alberto , Beretta Antonio , Vannucci Antonello , Cangini Giulio , Dinu Raluca , Schmidt Detlef , Moehrle Martin , Runge Patrick , Choi Jung-Han , Bach Heinz-Gunter , Grote Norbert , Keil Norbert , Schell Martin
Published: September 2015

To fulfill the functionality demands from the fast developing optical networks, a hybrid integration approach allows for combining the advantages of various material platforms. We have established a polymer-based hybrid integration platform (polyboard), which provides flexible optical input/ouptut interfaces (I/Os) that allow robust coupling of indium phosphide (InP)-based active components, passive insertion of thin-film-based optical elements, and on-chip attachment of optical fibers. This work reviews the recent progress of our polyboard platform. On the fundamental level, multi-core waveguides and polymer/silicon nitride heterogeneous waveguides have been fabricated, broadening device design possibilities and enabling 3D photonic integration. Furthermore, 40-channel optical line terminals and compact, bi-directional optical network units have been developed as highly functional, low-cost devices for the wavelength division multiplexed passive optical network. On a larger scale, thermo-optic elements, thin-film elements and an InP gain chip have been integrated on the polyboard to realize a colorless, dual-polarization optical 90° hybrid as the frontend of a coherent receiver. For high-end applications, a wavelength tunable 100Gbaud transmitter module has been demonstrated, manifesting the joint contribution from the polyboard technology, high speed polymer electro-optic modulator, InP driver electronics and ceramic electronic interconnects.
Mineral Classification of Makhtesh Ramon in Israel Using Hyperspectral Longwave Infrared (LWIR) Remote-Sensing Data
Authors: Notesco Gila , Ogen Yaron , Ben-Dor Eyal
Published: September 2015

Hyperspectral remote-sensing techniques offer an efficient procedure for mineral mapping, with a unique hyperspectral remote-sensing fingerprint in the longwave infrared spectral region enabling identification of the most abundant minerals in the continental crust—quartz and feldspars. This ability was examined by acquiring airborne data with the AisaOWL sensor over the Makhtesh Ramon area in Israel. The at-sensor radiance measured from each pixel in a longwave infrared image represents the emissivity, expressing chemical and physical properties such as surface mineralogy, and the atmospheric contribution which is expressed differently during the day and at night. Therefore, identifying similar features in day and night radiance enabled identifying the major minerals in the surface—quartz, silicates (feldspars and clay minerals), gypsum and carbonates—and mapping their spatial distribution. Mineral identification was improved by applying the radiance of an in situ surface that is featureless for minerals but distinctive for the atmospheric contribution as a gain spectrum to each pixel in the image, reducing the atmospheric contribution and emphasizing the mineralogical features. The results were in agreement with the mineralogy of selected rock samples collected from the study area as derived from laboratory X-ray diffraction analysis. The resulting mineral map of the major minerals in the surface was in agreement with the geological map of the area.
LGBT in Turkey: Policies and Experiences
Authors: Engin Ceylan
Published: September 2015

While LGBT studies have been problematizing normative categories of sexuality primarily in Western cultures, the status of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) individuals in non-Western societies remains understudied. This study examines the political attitudes toward LGBT individuals in Turkish society and explores the experiences of transgender individuals. While Turkey holds a strong economic position among Western countries, the situation of sexual minorities lags behind international standards. This study explores two research questions. First, what is the Turkish government’s outlook for the LGBT community? Secondly, what kind of problems and challenges do trans-individuals experience in Turkey? This study first introduces a macro-level analysis of the politics of gender identity in Turkey by analyzing the debates of four deputies in the Turkish Parliament, each representing their parties’ disparate viewpoints. Secondly, a micro-level analysis of previously collected interviews with twenty-five trans-individuals are also examined that shed light on the difficulties of being a trans-individual in Turkey. The content analysis shows that trans-individuals experience physical, sexual, and emotional violence, in addition to experiencing discrimination in employment, housing, and healthcare. The findings of this micro-level analysis elucidate the continuous discrimination, inequality, and violence that these individuals experience, while the macro-level analysis portrays the state’s discriminatory policies toward LGBT individuals in Turkey.
What is the Text Encoding Initiative?
Authors: Burnard Lou
Published: September 2015

The Text Encoding Initiative (TEI) Guidelines have long been regarded as the de facto standard for the preparation of digital textual resources in the scholarly research community. For the beginner, they offer a daunting range of possibilities, reflecting the huge range of potential applications for text encoding, from traditional scholarly editions, to language corpora, historical lexicons, digital archives and beyond.

Drawing on many examples of TEI-encoded text from a variety of research domains, this simple and straightforward book is intended to help the beginner make their own choices from the full range of TEI options.

It explains the XML technology used by the TEI in language accessible to the non-technical reader and provides a guided tour of the many parts of the TEI universe, and how it may be customized to suit an individual project’s needs.

This work has been produced with the support of Labex Hastec.
Patrimoine en réseau : les cendres, la braise et les droits des Amérindiens au Brésil
Authors: Freire José Ribamar Bessa , Leite Renata Daflon
Published: September 2015

Ce chapitre traite de l’utilisation des technologies numériques par les populations amérindiennes de différentes ethnies au Brésil. Il tentera de mettre en lumière l’impact des technologies de l’information et de la communication numérique sur la consolidation du patrimoine et sur l’identité amérindienne. Il s’agira de se pencher particulièrement sur le travail d’une mémoire créative construite de façon procédurale et collaborative, en contraste avec l’idée communément admise selon laquelle la mémoire serait constituée uniquement du passé. En effet, pour les Guarani, le passé ne se trouve pas avant, mais dans le présent. L’utilisation des technologies numériques par les Amérindiens provenant de différentes ethnies au Brésil s’inscrit dans un contexte de tension entre la tradition et l’innovation, ce qui engendre des conséquences sociopolitiques et culturelles, en particulier dans le domaine de l’identité et de la mémoire. Le patrimoine en réseau, préservé à l’aide des technologies de l’information et de la communication numérique, implique des sujets actifs et engagés à leur propre préservation et à leurs propres processus. En effet, lorsqu’ils reconstruisent leur patrimoine, ils reconstruisent aussi leurs modes de subjectivité. Ils établissent ainsi une écriture d’eux-mêmes inséparable de l’écriture du monde.L’émergence de « microlibertés » amérindiennes, à travers leur entrée dans le territoire numérique, exerce une pression sur la culture de masse qui se veut universelle et qui perçoit l’« Indien » à partir d’une notion romantique, généralisatrice et associée à l’idée de retard intellectuel, économique et culturel. Ces pressions sont capables de provoquer une « déterritorialisation de la majorité », selon le concept de Deleuze. En effet, au même moment où l’expérience technosociale favorise la construction identitaire des Amérindiens, elle entraîne également une déterritorialisation de la notion générique d’« Indien ».Nous présenterons ici une étude de cas sur le blog Índios online (Indiens en ligne), qui illustre l’utilisation des technologies numériques par les Amérindiens. Selon l’hypothèse présentée ici, ce blog favoriserait une reconnaissance des récits amérindiens, bien qu’ils ne composent pas l’histoire officielle de la nation. Il la fait toutefois émerger et quitter son état d’« effacement » de la mémoire collective. Chaque post présente la subjectivité de son auteur et son identité amérindienne. En effet, il s’agit d’un média où la figure de l’auteur est indispensable à sa construction. Ainsi, Internet se présente comme un instrument puissant en faveur des droits amérindiens. Le blog interethnique Índios online montre que le patrimoine en réseau est davantage une pratique sociale vivante qui doit être préservée qu’un héritage intouchable qui doit être transmis.
Arranjo produtivo local: a indústria metalmecânica do Sul do Brasil
Authors: Neumann Gonçalves Marguit
Published: September 2015

Considerando-se a recente implementação da política de APLs (Arranjos Produtivos Locais) no Brasil, este capítulo tem por objetivo responder às seguintes perguntas: como o território pode responder às suas necessidades dentro de um país emergente como o Brasil? Os atores locais têm a capacidade de controlar e internalizar o conhecimento e as informações vindas de fora? As reflexões aqui trazidas foram desenvolvidas a partir de um caso concreto. Trata-se de um estudo do APL metalmecânico localizado na região do planalto do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil, especializado na produção de máquinas e equipamentos agrícolas. Este trabalho inscreve-se nesta perspectiva, e leva em conta as especificidades brasileiras com relação à Europa, especialmente no que concerne à França e à Itália: a dimensão geográfica, os desequilíbrios econômicos, políticos e sociais entre as regiões, as relações estreitas entre a agricultura e a indústria (relação direta em que a agricultura constitui o mercado para a indústria).