bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Análise espacial da endemia hansênica no município de Bayeux (PB) mediante técnicas de SIG
Authors: Silva Richarde Marques da , Pinto Helen Ramalho de Farias , Costa Samir Gonçalves Fernandes , Pinto Karla Ramalho de F.
Published: October 2012

O objetivo deste estudo é analisar a distribuição espacial e os focos de hanseníase no Município de Bayeux, localizado no Estado da Paraíba, no período compreendido entre 2001 e 2011. Os dados de incidência da doença foram analisados estatisticamente e mapeados a partir de técnicas de SIG e visitas de campo utilizando GPS. Os resultados mostraram que os casos acometidos estão distribuídos em todos os bairros do município, tendo sua presença mais marcante nos bairros Rio do Meio (32 casos - 15,2%), Centro (29 casos - 13,7%), Imaculada (28 casos - 13,3%) e Mário Andreazza (28 casos - 13,3%). A distribuição espacial de hanseníase utilizando técnicas de SIG mostrou-se eficaz e de grande valia para o mapeamento dos casos da doença no município e o entendimento epidemiológico e ordenação de ações para diminuir a expansão da hanseníase.
Vitamin D: Implications for Thyroid Surgery
Authors: Sullivan Mary
Published: October 2012

Thyroid and parathyroid surgeries are performed each year on more than 140,000 adults in the United States. Hypocalcemia is one of the most frequent complications of total thyroidectomy—a procedure used for both benign and malignant pathologies of the thyroid gland. In most situations, disruption of calcium homeostasis is felt to be related to disturbance of the parathyroid glands during exploration. Because the parathyroid glands control the amount of calcium in the blood, postoperative supplementation of oral calcium is routine in these cases. When only one side of the neck is explored, the contralateral parathyroid glands are expected to sustain calcium balance; therefore, routine supplementation has not been the standard. The author and colleagues found unexpected symptomatic hypocalcemia in three patients undergoing unilateral neck exploration of the thyroid gland over a 4-month period. This report addresses how the interprofessional team identified the unexpected problem, examined potential causes and contributing factors, and have changed their approach to care for thyroid and parathyroid surgery patients. One of the initial case examples will be described in detail to illustrate the problem.
Analysis of the Role of Tortuosity and Infiltration Constants in the Beerkan Method
Authors: Nasta Paolo , Lassabatere Laurent , Kandelous Maziar M. , Šimůnek Jirka , Angulo-Jaramillo Rafael
Published: October 2012

It has recently been proposed to couple the Beerkan method with the Beerkan Estimation of Soil Transfer parameters (BEST) algorithm to facilitate the estimation of soil hydraulic parameters from an infiltration experiment. Although this simplified field procedure is relatively rapid and inexpensive, it has been doubted if the Beerkan method can represent a valid and reliable alternative to other conventional methods. This study explored the impact of the tortuosity parameter (p) and two infiltration constants (β and γ) included in the BEST algorithm using a sensitivity analysis applied to three experimental soils. The analysis that was validated using the numerical model HYDRUS 2D/3D indicates that the tortuosity is relatively insignificant compared to parameters β and γ that have a large impact on the estimation procedure.
Prediction of the Soil Water Characteristic from Soil Particle Volume Fractions
Authors: Naveed Muhammad , Moldrup Per , Tuller Markus , Ferrè T. P. A. , Kawamoto Ken , Komatsu Toshiko , de Jonge Lis Wollesen
Published: October 2012

Modeling water distribution and flow in partially saturated soils requires knowledge of the soil water characteristic (SWC). However, measurement of the SWC is challenging and time‐consuming and, in some cases, not feasible. This study introduces two predictive models (FW–model and AW–model) for the SWC, derived from readily available soil properties such as texture and bulk density. A total of 46 undisturbed soils from different horizons at 15 locations across Denmark were used for model evaluation. The FW–model predicts the volumetric water content as a function of volumetric fines content (organic matter and clay). It performed reasonably well for the dry‐end of SWC (above a pF value of 2.0; pF = log(|ψ|), where ψ is the matric potential in cm), but did not do as well closer to saturated conditions. The AW–model predicts the volumetric water content as a function of volumetric content of different particle size fractions (organic matter, clay, silt, and fine and coarse sands). The volumetric content of a particular soil particle size fraction was considered if it contributed to the pore size fraction still occupied with water at the given pF value. Hereby, the AW–model implicitly assumes that a given particle size fraction creates an analogue pore size fraction and further this pore size fraction filled with water is corresponding to a certain pF value according to the well‐known capillary rise equation. The AW–model was found to be quite robust, and it performed exceptionally well for pF values ranging from 0.4 to 4.2 for different soil types. For prediction of the continuous SWC, it is recommended to parameterize the van Genuchten model based on the SWC data points predicted by the AW–model.
Estimation of doses received by operators in the 1958 RB reactor accident using the MCNP5 computer code simulation
Authors: Pesic Milan
Published: October 2012

A numerical simulation of the radiological consequences of the RB reactor
reactivity excursion accident, which occurred on October 15, 1958, and an
estimation of the total doses received by the operators were run by the MCNP5
computer code. The simulation was carried out under the same assumptions as
those used in the 1960 IAEA-organized experimental simulation of the
accident: total fission energy of 80 MJ released in the accident and the
frozen positions of the operators. The time interval of exposure to high
doses received by the operators has been estimated. Data on the RB1/1958
reactor core relevant to the accident are given. A short summary of the
accident scenario has been updated. A 3-D model of the reactor room and the
RB reactor tank, with all the details of the core, created. For dose
determination, 3-D simplified, homogenised, sexless and faceless phantoms,
placed inside the reactor room, have been developed. The code was run for a
number of neutron histories which have given a dose rate uncertainty of less
than 2%. For the determination of radiation spectra escaping the reactor core
and radiation interaction in the tissue of the phantoms, the MCNP5 code was
run (in the KCODE option) and ?mode n p e?, with a 55-group neutron spectra,
35-group gamma ray spectra and a 10-group electron spectra. The doses were
determined by using the conversion of flux density (obtained by the F4 tally)
in the phantoms to doses using factors taken from ICRP-74 and from the
deposited energy of neutrons and gamma rays (obtained by the F6 tally) in the
phantoms? tissue. A rough estimation of the time moment when the odour of
ozone was sensed by the operators is estimated for the first time and given
in Appendix A.1. Calculated total absorbed and equivalent doses are compared
to the previously reported ones and an attempt to understand and explain the
reasons for the obtained differences has been made. A Root Cause Analysis of
the accident was done and, for the first time, a Cause and Effect diagram has
been created in Cause Mapping methodology and shown in Appendix A.2.
Thermal-hydraulic behavior of physical quantities at critical velocities in a nuclear research reactor core channel using plate type fuel
Authors: Sidi Ali , Boudali Zaki , Salhi Rachid
Published: October 2012

The thermal-hydraulic study presented here relates to a channel of a nuclear
reactor core. This channel is defined as being the space between two fuel
plates where a coolant fluid flows. The flow velocity of this coolant should
not generate vibrations in fuel plates. The aim of this study is to know the
distribution of the temperature in the fuel plates, in the cladding and in
the coolant fluid at the critical velocities of Miller, of Wambsganss, and
of Cekirge and Ural. The velocity expressions given by these authors are
function of the geometry of the fuel plate, the mechanical characteristics
of the fuel plate?s material and the thermal characteristics of the coolant
fluid. The thermal-hydraulic study is made under steady-state; the equation
set-up of the thermal problem is made according to El Wakil and to Delhaye.
Once the equation set-up is validated, the three critical velocities are
calculated and then used in the calculations of the different temperature
profiles. The average heat flux and the critical heat flux are evaluated for
each critical velocity and their ratio reported. The recommended critical
velocity to be used in nuclear channel calculations is that of Wambsganss.
The mathematical model used is more precise and all the physical quantities,
when using this critical velocity, stay in safe margins.
The measurement of tritium in water samples with electrolytic enrichment using liquid scintillation counter
Authors: Jankovic Marija , Todorovic Dragana , Keleman Zita , Miljevic Nada
Published: October 2012

Tritium (3H) present in the environment decreased in the last decades and
nowadays it has low activity concentrations. Measurement of low-level tritium
activities in natural waters, e. g. in precipitation, groundwater, and river
water requires special techniques for water pretreatment and detection of
low-level radioactivity. In order to increase the tritium concentration to an
easily measurable level, electrolytic enrichment must be applied. This paper
presents the enrichment method performed by electrolysis in a battery of 18
cells, giving an enrichment factor of 5.84 (calculated from 59 electrolyses).
The calculated mean values of the separation factor and enrichment parameter
were 4.10 and 0.84, respectively. Results for tritium activity in
precipitation and surface water collected in Belgrade during 2008 and 2009
are presented. The Radiation and Environmental Protection Department of the
Vinca Institute of Nuclear Sciences, participated in the IAEA TRIC2008
international intercomparison exercise. The participation in the
intercomparisons for any laboratory doing low-level 3H measurements in the
waters is very important and useful. It is considered the best way to check
the entire procedure and methods of the measurements and the reliability of
the standard used. The analysis of the reported 3H activity results showed
that all results for five intercomparison samples, for which electrolytic
enrichment were applied prior to the 3H measurement, are acceptable.
Stabilization of gas-filled surge arrester’s characteristics by use of ionizing radiation
Authors: Brajovic Dragan , Vujisic Milos , Stojkanovic Mirko , Kovacevic Uros , Vasic Aleksandra
Published: October 2012

This paper investigates the stabilization of electrical discharges in gases
by means of external ionizing radiation. Discharges in a gas-filled surge
arrester model were studied in both passive and active regimes of the device.
An originally developed model of the gas-filled surge arrester was used. Gas
pressure and the interelectrode gap were the variable parameters in our
measurements. Applied radiation types included ?-particles, ?-rays, X-rays,
and neutrons. Measurements were performed under highly controlled laboratory
conditions. The combined measurement uncertainty of the applied procedure was
estimated as being under the 5% level. The results obtained are followed by a
theoretical explanation. The crucial result is the conclusion that ionizing
radiation does not necessarily degrade the gas-filled surge arrester?s
functionality but that it, rather, improves it under certain conditions.
Gamma ray effects on flash memory cell arrays
Authors: Dolicanin Edin
Published: October 2012

Information stored in flash memories is physically represented by the absence
or presence of charge on electrically isolated floating gates. Interaction of
gamma rays with the insulators surrounding the floating gate produces effects
that degrade the properties of memory cells, possibly leading to the
corruption of the stored content. The cumulative nature of these effects is
expressed through the total ionizing dose deposited by the gamma rays in the
insulators surrounding the floating gate. Relying on both theory and
experiment, we examine how the properties of cells in commercially available
flash memories affect their sensitivity to gamma rays. Memory samples from
several manufacturers, currently available on the market, can be compared
with respect to data retention under gamma ray exposure.
Remote search for gamma sources at the dry storage unit 3A in Andreeva bay and the determination of their dose rates during activities for improvement to the radiological environment
Authors: Ivanov Kirill , Varnavin Anatoly , Korolev Andrey , Stepennov Boris , Sukhoruchkin Andrey , Teterin Yury , Teterin Anton , Kharitonov Vladimir , Selishev Valery , Fedoseenkov Alexander , Krasnoshekov Alexander , Kosnikov Alexander , Kostikov Dmitry
Published: October 2012

The remotely controlled replacement of the concrete covering of the spent
fuel dry storage unit 3A with a new iron horizontal biological shielding was
carried out during works aimed at the improvement of the radiological
environment at the NWC ?SevRAO? - Branch of FSUE ?RosRAO?, Andreeva Bay,
Murmansk Region. Video control systems, a BROKK robotic manipulator, HIAB
manipulator crane, gamma detectors of the ASCRO radiation monitoring system,
and a CARTOGAM gamma camera were employed. A CARTOGAM gamma camera was used
in all stages of the work involving high radiation levels for the remote
location of the most dangerous gamma radiation sources and the evaluation of
their dose rates. Gamma detectors of the ASCRO radiation monitoring system
were located at several spots of the dry storage unit 3A in order to control
the radiation situation. The use of the ASCRO and CARTOGAM has allowed us to
avoid unauthorized exposure of the staff involved in the operations at the
dry storage unit 3A site.
Human reliability analysis of the Tehran research reactor using the SPAR-H method
Authors: Barati Ramin , Setayeshi Saeed
Published: October 2012

The purpose of this paper is to cover human reliability analysis of the
Tehran research reactor using an appropriate method for the representation
of human failure probabilities. In the present work, the technique for human
error rate prediction and standardized plant analysis risk-human reliability
methods have been utilized to quantify different categories of human errors,
applied extensively to nuclear power plants. Human reliability analysis is,
indeed, an integral and significant part of probabilistic safety analysis
studies, without it probabilistic safety analysis would not be a systematic
and complete representation of actual plant risks. In addition, possible
human errors in research reactors constitute a significant part of the
associated risk of such installations and including them in a
probabilistic safety analysis for such facilities is a complicated issue.
Standardized plant analysis risk-human can be used to address these
concerns; it is a well-documented and systematic human reliability analysis
system with tables for human performance choices prepared in consultation
with experts in the domain. In this method, performance shaping factors are
selected via tables, human action dependencies are accounted for, and the
method is well designed for the intended use. In this study, in
consultations with reactor operators, human errors are identified and
adequate performance shaping factors are assigned to produce proper human
failure probabilities. Our importance analysis has revealed that human
action contained in the possibility of an external object falling on the
reactor core are the most significant human errors concerning the Tehran
research reactor to be considered in reactor emergency operating procedures
and operator training programs aimed at improving reactor safety.
Three-dimensional quantification of pretorqued nickel-titanium wires in edgewise and prescription brackets
Authors: Mittal Nitika , Xia Zeyang , Chen Jie , Stewart Kelton T. , Liu Sean Shih-Yao
Published: October 2012

Objective:

To quantify the three-dimensional moments and forces produced by pretorqued nickel-titanium (NiTi) rectangular archwires fully engaged in 0.018- and 0.022-inch slots of central incisor and molar edgewise and prescription brackets.

Materials and Methods:

Ten identical acrylic dental models with retroclined maxillary incisors were fabricated for bonding with various bracket-wire combinations. Edgewise, Roth, and MBT brackets with 0.018- and 0.022-inch slots were bonded in a simulated 2 × 4 clinical scenario. The left central incisor and molar were sectioned and attached to load cells. Correspondingly sized straight and pretorqued NiTi archwires were ligated to the brackets using 0.010-inch ligatures. Each load cell simultaneously measured three force (Fx, Fy, Fz) and three moment (Mx, My, Mz) components. The faciolingual, mesiodistal, and inciso-occluso/apical axes of the teeth corresponded to the x, y, and z axes of the load cells, respectively. Each wire was removed and retested seven times. Three-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) examined the effects of wire type, wire size, and bracket type on the measured orthodontic load systems. Interactions among the three effects were examined and pair-wise comparisons between significant combinations were performed.

Results:

The force and moment components on each tooth were quantified according to their local coordinate axes. The three-way ANOVA interaction terms were significant for all force and moment measurements (P < .05), except for Fy (P > .05).

Conclusion:

The pretorqued wire generates a significantly larger incisor facial crown torquing moment in the MBT prescription compared to Roth, edgewise, and the straight NiTi wire.
Metabolic Syndrome Risk Profiles Among African American Adolescents
Authors: Fitzpatrick Stephanie L. , Lai Betty S. , Brancati Frederick L. , Golden Sherita H. , Hill-Briggs Felicia
Published: October 2012

OBJECTIVE

Although African American adolescents have the highest prevalence of obesity, they have the lowest prevalence of metabolic syndrome across all definitions used in previous research. To address this paradox, we sought to develop a model of the metabolic syndrome specific to African American adolescents.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2003–2010) of 822 nonpregnant, nondiabetic, African American adolescents (45% girls; aged 12 to 17 years) who underwent physical examinations and fasted at least 8 h were analyzed. We conducted a confirmatory factor analysis to model metabolic syndrome and then used latent profile analysis to identify metabolic syndrome risk groups among African American adolescents. We compared the risk groups on probability of prediabetes.

RESULTS

The best-fitting metabolic syndrome model consisted of waist circumference, fasting insulin, HDL, and systolic blood pressure. We identified three metabolic syndrome risk groups: low, moderate, and high risk (19% boys; 16% girls). Thirty-five percent of both boys and girls in the high-risk groups had prediabetes, a significantly higher prevalence compared with boys and girls in the low-risk groups. Among adolescents with BMI higher than the 85th percentile, 48 and 36% of boys and girls, respectively, were in the high-risk group.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings provide a plausible model of the metabolic syndrome specific to African American adolescents. Based on this model, approximately 19 and 16% of African American boys and girls, respectively, are at high risk for having the metabolic syndrome.
Comparison of BMI and Physical Activity Between Old Order Amish Children and Non-Amish Children
Authors: Hairston Kristen G. , Ducharme Julie L. , Treuth Margarita S. , Hsueh Wen-Chi , Jastreboff Ania M. , Ryan Kathy A. , Shi Xiaolian , Mitchell Braxton D. , Shuldiner Alan R. , Snitker Soren
Published: October 2012

OBJECTIVE

The Old Order Amish (OOA) is a conservative Christian sect of European origin living in Pennsylvania. Diabetes is rare in adult OOA despite a mean BMI rivaling that in the general U.S. non-Hispanic white population. The current study examines childhood factors that may contribute to the low prevalence of diabetes in the OOA by comparing OOA children aged 8–19 years with National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) data and children from Maryland’s Eastern Shore (ES), a nearby, non-Amish, rural community. We hypothesized that pediatric overweight is less common in OOA children, that physical activity (PA) and BMI are inversely correlated, and that OOA children are more physically active than ES children.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We obtained anthropometric data in 270 OOA children and 229 ES children (166 non-Hispanic white, 60 non-Hispanic black, 3 Hispanic). PA was measured by hip-worn accelerometers in all ES children and in 198 OOA children. Instrumentation in 43 OOA children was identical to ES children.

RESULTS

OOA children were approximately 3.3 times less likely than non-Hispanic white ES children and NHANES estimates to be overweight (BMI ≥85th percentile, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). Time spent in moderate/vigorous PA (MVPA) was inversely correlated to BMI z-score (r = −0.24, P = 0.0006). PA levels did not differ by ethnicity within the ES group, but OOA children spent an additional 34 min/day in light activity (442 ± 56 vs. 408 ± 75, P = 0.005) and, impressively, an additional 53 min/day in MVPA (106 ± 54 vs. 53 ± 32, P < 0.0001) compared with ES children. In both groups, boys were more active than girls but OOA girls were easily more active than ES boys.

CONCLUSIONS

We confirmed all three hypotheses. Together with our previous data, the study implies that the OOA tend to gain their excess weight relatively late in life and that OOA children are very physically active, both of which may provide some long-term protection against diabetes.
Registration of the OhVRS‐1 Maize Synthetic Population
Authors: Redinbaugh Margaret G. , Jones Mark W.
Published: October 2012

Virus diseases cause significant losses in maize worldwide. A virus‐resistant synthetic maize (Zea mays L.) population, OhVRS‐1 (Reg. No. GP‐583, PI 665687), was developed by the USDA Corn and Soybean Research Unit and released as a germplasm resource by Ohio State University, the Ohio Agriculture Research and Development Center, and the USDA. OhVRS‐1 is a synthetic population made up of tropical and Corn Belt germplasm selected for high levels of resistance to viral diseases, and B73‐selected for agronomic traits. The population has undergone one complete cycle of S1 recurrent selection for resistance to Maize dwarf mosaic virus, Sugarcane mosaic virus (SCMV), and Maize chlorotic dwarf virus. The OhVRS‐1 cycle‐1 was significantly more resistant to SCMV and had a reduction in days to mid‐silk when compared with cycle‐0.
A Facile Inhibitor Screening of Hepatitis C Virus NS3 Protein Using Nanoparticle-Based RNA
Authors: Roh Changhyun
Published: October 2012

Globally, over hundreds of million people are infected with the hepatitis C virus: the global rate of death as a direct result of the hepatitis C virus has increased remarkably. For this reason, the development of efficient drug treatments for the biological effects of the hepatitis C virus is highly necessary. We have previously shown that quantum dots (QDs)-conjugated RNA oligonucleotide can recognize the hepatitis C virus NS3 protein specifically and sensitively. In this study, we elucidated that this biochip can analyze inhibitors to the hepatitis C virus NS3 protein using a nanoparticle-based RNA oligonucleotide. Among the polyphenolic compounds examined, 7,8,4'-trihydroxyisoflavone and 6,7,4'-trihydroxyisoflavone demonstrated a remarkable inhibition activity on the hepatitis C virus NS3 protein. Both 7,8,4'-trihydroxyisoflavone and 6,7,4'-trihydroxyisoflavone attenuated the binding affinity in a concentrated manner as evidenced by QDs conjugated RNA oligonucleotide. At a concentration of 0.01 μg·mL−1, 7,8,4'-trihydroxyisoflavone and 6,7,4'-trihydroxyisoflavone showed more than a 30% inhibition activity of a nanoparticle-based RNA oligonucleotide biochip system.
A New Approach for Detection Improvement of the Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disorder through a Specific Surface Chemistry Applied onto Titration Well
Authors: Mille Caroline , Debarnot Dominique , Zorzi Willy , Moualij Benaissa , Quadrio Isabelle , Perret-Liaudet Armand , Coudreuse Arnaud , Legeay Gilbert , Poncin-Epaillard Fabienne
Published: October 2012

This work illustrates the enhancement of the sensitivity of the ELISA titration for recombinant human and native prion proteins, while reducing other non-specific adsorptions that could increase the background signal and lead to a low sensitivity and false positives. It is achieved thanks to the association of plasma chemistry and coating with different amphiphilic molecules bearing either ionic charges and/or long hydrocarbon chains. The treated support by 3-butenylamine hydrochloride improves the signal detection of recombinant protein, while surface modification with the 3,7-dimethylocta-2,6-dien-1-diamine (geranylamine) enhances the sensitivity of the native protein. Beside the surface chemistry effect, these different results are associated with protein conformation.
Spatial Diffusion of Influenza Outbreak-Related Climate Factors in Chiang Mai Province, Thailand
Authors: Nakapan Supachai , Tripathi Nitin , Tipdecho Taravudh , Souris Marc
Published: October 2012

Influenza is one of the most important leading causes of respiratory illness in the countries located in the tropical areas of South East Asia and Thailand. In this study the climate factors associated with influenza incidence in Chiang Mai Province, Northern Thailand, were investigated. Identification of factors responsible for influenza outbreaks and the mapping of potential risk areas in Chiang Mai are long overdue. This work examines the association between yearly climate patterns between 2001 and 2008 and influenza outbreaks in the Chiang Mai Province. The climatic factors included the amount of rainfall, percent of rainy days, relative humidity, maximum, minimum temperatures and temperature difference. The study develops a statistical analysis to quantitatively assess the relationship between climate and influenza outbreaks and then evaluate its suitability for predicting influenza outbreaks. A multiple linear regression technique was used to fit the statistical model. The Inverse Distance Weighted (IDW) interpolation and Geographic Information System (GIS) techniques were used in mapping the spatial diffusion of influenza risk zones. The results show that there is a significance correlation between influenza outbreaks and climate factors for the majority of the studied area. A statistical analysis was conducted to assess the validity of the model comparing model outputs and actual outbreaks.
Impairment of Coronary Arteriolar Endothelium-Dependent Dilation after Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotube Inhalation: A Time-Course Study
Authors: Stapleton Phoebe , Minarchick Valerie , Cumpston Amy , McKinney Walter , Chen Bean , Sager Tina , Frazer David , Mercer Robert , Scabilloni James , Andrew Michael , Castranova Vincent , Nurkiewicz Timothy
Published: October 2012

Engineered nanomaterials have been developed for widespread applications due to many highly unique and desirable characteristics. The purpose of this study was to assess pulmonary inflammation and subepicardial arteriolar reactivity in response to multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) inhalation and evaluate the time course of vascular alterations. Rats were exposed to MWCNT aerosols producing pulmonary deposition. Pulmonary inflammation via bronchoalveolar lavage and MWCNT translocation from the lungs to systemic organs was evident 24 h post-inhalation. Coronary arterioles were evaluated 24–168 h post-exposure to determine microvascular response to changes in transmural pressure, endothelium-dependent and -independent reactivity. Myogenic responsiveness, vascular smooth muscle reactivity to nitric oxide, and α-adrenergic responses all remained intact. However, a severe impact on endothelium-dependent dilation was observed within 24 h after MWCNT inhalation, a condition which improved, but did not fully return to control after 168 h. In conclusion, results indicate that MWCNT inhalation not only leads to pulmonary inflammation and cytotoxicity at low lung burdens, but also a low level of particle translocation to systemic organs. MWCNT inhalation also leads to impairments of endothelium-dependent dilation in the coronary microcirculation within 24 h, a condition which does not fully dissipate within 168 h. The innovations within the field of nanotechnology, while exciting and novel, can only reach their full potential if toxicity is first properly assessed.
Phorbol Esters Isolated from Jatropha Meal Induced Apoptosis-Mediated Inhibition in Proliferation of Chang and Vero Cell Lines
Authors: Oskoueian Ehsan , Abdullah Norhani , Ahmad Syahida
Published: October 2012

The direct feeding of Jatropha meal containing phorbol esters (PEs) indicated mild to severe toxicity symptoms in various organs of different animals. However, limited information is available on cellular and molecular mechanism of toxicity caused by PEs present in Jatropha meal. Thus, the present study was conducted to determine the cytotoxic and mode of action of PEs isolated from Jatropha meal using human hepatocyte (Chang) and African green monkey kidney (Vero) cell lines. The results showed that isolated PEs inhibited cell proliferation in a dose-dependent manner in both cell lines with the CC50 of 125.9 and 110.3 μg/mL, respectively. These values were compatible to that of phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) values as positive control i.e., 124.5 and 106.3 μg/mL respectively. Microscopic examination, flow cytometry and DNA fragmentation results confirmed cell death due to apoptosis upon treatment with PEs and PMA at CC50 concentration for 24 h in both cell lines. The Western blot analysis revealed the overexpression of PKC-δ and activation of caspase-3 proteins which could be involved in the mechanism of action of PEs and PMA. Consequently, the PEs isolated form Jatropha meal caused toxicity and induced apoptosis-mediated proliferation inhibition toward Chang and Vero cell lines involving over-expression of PKC-δ and caspase-3 as their mode of actions.
Design Epistemology
Authors: Karabeg Dino
Published: October 2012

The liberation from the view that only one way of making sense of experience is legitimate (the one that “corresponds to reality”), which follows from the results of 20th century science and philosophy, puts us into a position to consciously choose and assign a purpose to the creation of meaning; and based on that choice, to develop completely new modes of information, to suit each chosen purpose. We present an instance of this approach, where information and knowledge work are considered as key societal systemic components, and then designed as it may best suit the various functions that pertain to this role, notably the function of illuminating the way to all other systemic self-organization. Design epistemology provides an academic foundation for this approach; the Knowledge Federation community implements it in practice.
Chemical Synthesis, Backbone Cyclization and Oxidative Folding of Cystine-knot Peptides — Promising Scaffolds for Applications in Drug Design
Authors: Reinwarth Michael , Nasu Daichi , Kolmar Harald , Avrutina Olga
Published: October 2012

Cystine-knot peptides display exceptional structural, thermal, and biological stability. Their eponymous motif consists of six cysteine residues that form three disulfide bonds, resulting in a notably rigid structural core. Since they highly tolerate either rational or combinatorial changes in their primary structure, cystine knots are considered to be promising frameworks for the development of peptide-based pharmaceuticals. Despite their relatively small size (two to three dozens amino acid residues), the chemical synthesis route is challenging since it involves critical steps such as head-to-tail cyclization and oxidative folding towards the respective bioactive isomer. Herein we describe the topology of cystine-knot peptides, their synthetic availability and briefly discuss potential applications of engineered variants in diagnostics and therapy.
Antibacterial and COX-1 Inhibitory Effect of Medicinal Plants from the Pamir Mountains, Afghanistan
Authors: Jeppesen Anne , Soelberg Jens , Jäger Anna
Published: October 2012

Plants used to treat inflammatory ailments, pain, fever and infections in the Pamir Mountains in northeastern Afghanistan, were tested for antibacterial and COX-1 inhibitory activity. Water and ethanol extracts of 20 species were tested for antibacterial activity against two gram positive and two gram negative bacteria. The ethanol extract of Arnebia guttata inhibited Staphylococcus aureus with a MIC of 6 µg/mL. Water and ethanol extracts of Ephedra intermedia and the ethanol extracts of Lagochilus cabulicus and Peganum harmala inhibited Staphylococcus aureus at 0.5 mg/mL, and the P. harmala extract further inhibited the growth of Bacillus subtilis and E. coli, also with MICs of 0.5 mg/mL. Ethanol extracts of Artemisia persica (IC50: 0.5 µg/mL), Dragocephalum paulsenii (IC50: 0.5 µg/mL), Ephedra intermedia (IC50: 3.8 µg/mL), Hyoscyamus pusillus, Nepeta parmiriensis (IC50: 0.7 µg/mL) and Rumex patientia subsp. pamiricus (IC50: 3.5 µg/mL) exhibited COX-1 inhibitory activity. The observed in vitro activities support the use of some of the plant species in the traditional medicine systems of the Pamir Mountains.
Bio-Inspired Polarized Skylight-Based Navigation Sensors: A Review
Authors: Karman Salmah , Diah S. , Gebeshuber Ille
Published: October 2012

Animal senses cover a broad range of signal types and signal bandwidths and have inspired various sensors and bioinstrumentation devices for biological and medical applications. Insects, such as desert ants and honeybees, for example, utilize polarized skylight pattern-based information in their navigation activities. They reliably return to their nests and hives from places many kilometers away. The insect navigation system involves the dorsal rim area in their compound eyes and the corresponding polarization sensitive neurons in the brain. The dorsal rim area is equipped with photoreceptors, which have orthogonally arranged small hair-like structures termed microvilli. These are the specialized sensors for the detection of polarized skylight patterns (e-vector orientation). Various research groups have been working on the development of novel navigation systems inspired by polarized skylight-based navigation in animals. Their major contributions are critically reviewed. One focus of current research activities is on imitating the integration path mechanism in desert ants. The potential for simple, high performance miniaturized bioinstrumentation that can assist people in navigation will be explored.
Reliable Freestanding Position-Based Routing in Highway Scenarios
Authors: Galaviz-Mosqueda Gabriel , Aquino-Santos Raúl , Villarreal-Reyes Salvador , Rivera-Rodríguez Raúl , Villaseñor-González Luis , Edwards Arthur
Published: October 2012

Vehicular Ad Hoc Networks (VANETs) are considered by car manufacturers and the research community as the enabling technology to radically improve the safety, efficiency and comfort of everyday driving. However, before VANET technology can fulfill all its expected potential, several difficulties must be addressed. One key issue arising when working with VANETs is the complexity of the networking protocols compared to those used by traditional infrastructure networks. Therefore, proper design of the routing strategy becomes a main issue for the effective deployment of VANETs. In this paper, a reliable freestanding position-based routing algorithm (FPBR) for highway scenarios is proposed. For this scenario, several important issues such as the high mobility of vehicles and the propagation conditions may affect the performance of the routing strategy. These constraints have only been partially addressed in previous proposals. In contrast, the design approach used for developing FPBR considered the constraints imposed by a highway scenario and implements mechanisms to overcome them. FPBR performance is compared to one of the leading protocols for highway scenarios. Performance metrics show that FPBR yields similar results when considering freespace propagation conditions, and outperforms the leading protocol when considering a realistic highway path loss model.
Long Chain N-acyl Homoserine Lactone Production by Enterobacter sp. Isolated from Human Tongue Surfaces
Authors: Yin Wai-Fong , Purmal Kathiravan , Chin Shenyang , Chan Xin-Yue , Chan Kok-Gan
Published: October 2012

We report the isolation of N-acyl homoserine lactone-producing Enterobacter sp. isolate T1-1 from the posterior dorsal surfaces of the tongue of a healthy individual. Spent supernatants extract from Enterobacter sp. isolate T1-1 activated the biosensor Agrobacterium tumefaciens NTL4(pZLR4), suggesting production of long chain AHLs by these isolates. High resolution mass spectrometry analysis of these extracts confirmed that Enterobacter sp. isolate T1-1 produced a long chain N-acyl homoserine lactone, namely N-dodecanoyl-homoserine lactone (C12-HSL). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first isolation of Enterobacter sp., strain T1-1 from the posterior dorsal surface of the human tongue and N-acyl homoserine lactones production by this bacterium.
Heaven and Earth—Sustaining Elements in Hakka Tulou
Authors: Lowe Keith D.
Published: October 2012

Hakka culture reveals how the ancient Chinese lived. Hakka architecture yields much evidence that modern Hakka culture of the south flows from the ancient stream of the north. The genius of the Hakka is best seen in the unique roundhouses of the mountainous borderland of three provinces—Guangdong, Fujian and Jiangxi. However, in completing the fourth of five migrations, the Hakka returned to the traditional building styles of the northern plains of China and built Wufenglou on the plains of southern Guangdong province. The structures not only facilitate environmental sustainability, but endow the inhabitants with material, social and spiritual sustainability.
A Preliminary Environmental Assessment for the Preservation and Restoration of Fujian Hakka Tulou Complexes
Authors: Ueda Minoru
Published: October 2012

In 2007 and 2009, research trips were taken, mainly in the Fujian province of China, to investigate the construction materials, methods, structures and floor plans of Hakka Tulou. Researchers lived in several Tulou, interviewed residents and experienced traditional Hakka lifestyle. Typically, Tulou are located in remote regions at relatively high elevations in climatic conditions characterized by hot summers, cold winters, and with high incidents of typhoons and earthquakes. The extent of damage and level of preservation were examined with respect to the age of many of these structures, the relatively harsh environment, and changing demographics in the region. The majority of occupants are now elderly. They maintain a traditional and efficient lifestyle utilizing minimum electricity, water, and energy. This study discusses the findings from these two field trips and assesses environmental load and sustainability within the context of current environmental standards using the Japanese Comprehensive Assessment System for Building Environmental Efficiency (CASBEE) from data collected at Cheng Qi Lou. The goal was: firstly to undertake a preliminary environmental assessment to determine sustainable elements of Hakka Tulou construction methods; secondly, to identify potential sustainable solutions to preserve existing structure; and finally, to identify appropriate sustainable solutions to repair and retrofit damaged and underutilized structures to modern living standards, while retaining traditional building techniques and lifestyle.
Economic Growth, Capitalism and Unknown Economic Paradoxes
Authors: Girdzijauskas Stasys , Streimikiene Dalia , Mialik Andzela
Published: October 2012

The paper deals with failures of capitalism or free market and presents the results of economic analysis by applying a logistic capital growth model. The application of a logistic growth model for analysis of economic bubbles reveals the fundamental causes of bubble formation—economic paradoxes related with phenomena of saturated markets: the paradox of growing returnability and the paradoxes of debt and leverage trap. These paradoxes occur exclusively in the saturated markets and cause the majority of economic problems of recent days including overproduction, economic bubbles and cyclic economic development. Unfortunately, these paradoxes have not been taken into account when dealing with the current failures of capitalism. The aim of the paper is to apply logistic capital growth models for the analysis of economic paradoxes having direct impact on the capitalism failures such as economic bubbles, economic crisis and unstable economic growth. The analysis of economic paradoxes and their implication son failures of capitalism provided in the paper presents the new approach in developing policies aimed at increasing economic growth stability and overcoming failures of capitalism.
Botulinum Toxin A for Oral Cavity Cancer Patients: In Microsurgical Patients BTX Injections in Major Salivary Glands Temporarily Reduce Salivary Production and the Risk of Local Complications Related to Saliva Stagnation
Authors: Corradino Bartolo , Di Lorenzo Sara , Moschella Francesco
Published: October 2012

In patients suffering from oral cavity cancer surgical treatment is complex because it is necessary to remove carcinoma and lymph node metastasis (through a radical unilateral or bilateral neck dissection) and to reconstruct the affected area by means of free flaps. The saliva stagnation in the post-operative period is a risk factor with regard to local complications. Minor complications related to saliva stagnation (such as tissue maceration and wound dehiscence) could become major complications compromising the surgery or the reconstructive outcome. In fact the formation of oro-cutaneous fistula may cause infection, failure of the free flap, or the patient’s death with carotid blow-out syndrome. Botulinum injections in the major salivary glands, four days before surgery, temporarily reduces salivation during the healing stage and thus could reduce the incidence of saliva-related complications. Forty three patients with oral cancer were treated with botulinum toxin A. The saliva quantitative measurement and the sialoscintigraphy were performed before and after infiltrations of botulinum toxin in the major salivary glands. In all cases there was a considerable, but temporary, reduction of salivary secretion. A lower rate of local complications was observed in the post-operative period. The salivary production returned to normal within two months, with minimal side effects and discomfort for the patients. The temporary inhibition of salivary secretion in the post-operative period could enable a reduction in saliva-related local complications, in the incidence of oro-cutaneous fistulas, and improve the outcome of the surgery as well as the quality of residual life in these patients.
Immune Dysfunction in Uremia—An Update
Authors: Cohen Gerald , Hörl Walter
Published: October 2012

Kidney dysfunction leads to disturbed renal metabolic activities and to impaired glomerular filtration, resulting in the retention of toxic solutes affecting all organs of the body. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) and infections are the main causes for the increased occurrence of morbidity and mortality among patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Both complications are directly or indirectly linked to a compromised immune defense. The specific coordinated roles of polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNLs), monocytes/macrophages, lymphocytes and antigen-presenting cells (APCs) in maintaining an efficient immune response are affected. Their normal response can be impaired, giving rise to infectious diseases or pre-activated/primed, leading to inflammation and consequently to CVD. Whereas the coordinated removal via apoptosis of activated immune cells is crucial for the resolution of inflammation, inappropriately high apoptotic rates lead to a diminished immune response. In uremia, the balance between pro- and anti-inflammatory and between pro- and anti-apoptotic factors is disturbed. This review summarizes the interrelated parameters interfering with the immune response in uremia, with a special focus on the non-specific immune response and the role of uremic toxins.
Therapeutic Potential of Anterior Cruciate Ligament-Derived Stem Cells for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Mifune Yutaka , Matsumoto Tomoyuki , Ota Shusuke , Nishimori Makoto , Usas Arvydas , Kopf Sebastian , Kuroda Ryosuke , Kurosaka Masahiro , Fu Freddie H. , Huard Johnny
Published: October 2012

We recently reported that the ruptured regions of the human anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) contained vascular-derived stem cells, which showed the potential for high expansion and multilineage differentiation. In this study, we performed experiments to test the hypothesis that ACL-derived CD34+ cells could contribute to tendon–bone healing. ACL-derived cells were isolated from the rupture site of human ACL by fluorescence-activated cell sorting. Following ACL reconstruction, immunodeficient rats received intracapsular administration of either ACL-derived CD34+ cells, nonsorted (NS) cells, CD34- cells, or phosphate-buffered saline (PBS). We also performed in vitro cell proliferation assays and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays for vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) secretion. We confirmed the recruitment of the transplanted cells into the perigraft site after intracapuslar injection by immunohistochemical staining at week 1. Histological evaluation showed a greater area of collagen fiber formation and more collagen type II expression in the CD34+ group than the other groups at the week 2 time point. Immunostaining with isolectin B4 and rat osteocalcin demonstrated enhanced angiogenesis and osteogenesis in the CD34+ group at week 2. Moreover, double immunohistochemical staining for human-specific endothelial cell (EC) and osteoblast (OB) markers at week 2 demonstrated a greater ability of differentiation into ECs and OBs in the CD34+ group. Microcomputerized tomography showed the greatest healing of perigraft bone at week 4 in the CD34+ cell group, and the failure load of tensile test at week 8 demonstrated the greatest biomechanical strength in the CD34+ group. Furthermore, the in vitro studies indicated that the CD34+ group was superior to the other groups in their cell proliferation and VEGF secretion capacities. We demonstrated that ACL-derived CD34+ cells contributed to the tendon–bone healing after ACL reconstruction via the enhancement of angiogenesis and osteogenesis, which also contributed to an increase in biomechanical strength.