bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EFFECT OF OMEGA-3 FATTY ACID IN THE HEALING PROCESS OF COLONIC ANASTOMOSIS IN RATS
Authors: CASTILHO Tiago Jacometo Coelho de , CAMPOS Antônio Carlos Ligocki , MELLO Eneri Vieira de Souza Leite
Published: January 2016

Background: The use of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids has been studied in the context of healing and tissue regeneration mainly due to its anti-inflammatory, immunoregulatory and antioncogenic properties. Previous studies have demonstrated beneficial effects with the use of enteral immunonutrition containing various farmaconutrients such as L-arginine, omega-3, trace elements, but the individual action of each component in the healing of colonic anastomosis remains unclear. Aim: To evaluate the influence of preoperative supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids on the healing of colonic anastomoses of well-nourished rats. Methods: Forty Wistar adult male rats, weighing 234.4±22.3 g were used. The animals were divided into two groups: the control group received for seven days olive oil rich in omega-9 oil through an orogastric tube, while the study group received isocaloric and isovolumetric omega-3 emulsion at a dose of 100 mg/kg/day, also for seven days. Both groups were submitted to two colotomies followed by anastomosis, in the right and left colon, respectively. Parameters evaluated included changes in body weight, anastomotic complications and mortality, as well as maximum tensile strength by using a tensiometer and collagen densitometry at the anastomotic site. Results: There were no differences in body weight or mortality and morbidity between groups. The value of the maximum tensile strength of the control group was 1.9±0.3 N and the study group 1.7±0.2, p=0.357. There was, however, a larger amount of type I collagen deposition in the study group (p=0.0126). The collagen maturation índex was 1.74±0.71 in the control group and 1.67±0.5 in the study group; p=0,719). Conclusions: Preoperative supplementation of omega-3 fatty acid in rats is associated with increased collagen deposition of type I fibers in colonic anastomoses on the 5th postoperative day. No differences were observed in the tensile strength or collagen maturation index.
IMPROVED EXPERIMENTAL MODEL TO EVALUATE SUBMUCOSAL INJECTION SOLUTIONS FOR ENDOSCOPIC SUBMUCOSAL DISSECTION
Authors: YAMAZAKI Kendi , MALUF-FILHO Fauze , COSTA Vitor Alves Pessoa da , PESSORRUSSO Fernanda Cristina Simões , HONDO Fabio Yuji , SAKAI Paulo , FIGUEIREDO Luis Francisco Poli de
Published: January 2016

Background: Endoscopic submucosal dissection carries an increased risk of bleeding and perforation. The creation of a long lasting submucosal cushion is essential for the safe and complete removal of the lesion. There is not a suitable experimental model for evaluation of the durability of the cushioning effect of different solutions. Aim: To describe an improved experimental model to evaluate submucosal injection solutions. Methods: A total of four domestic pigs were employed to evaluate two different submucosal fluid solutions in the gastric submucosa. After midline laparotomy, the anterior gastric wall was incised from the gastric body to the antrum and its mucosal surface was exposed by flipping inside out the incised gastric wall. Two different solutions (10% mannitol and normal saline) were injected in the submucosa of the anterior wall of the distal gastric body. All submucosal cushions were injected until they reach the same size, standardized as 1.0 cm in height and 2.0 cm in diameter. A caliper and a ruler were employed to guarantee accuracy of the measurements. Results: All four animal experiments were completed. All submucosal cushions had the exact same size measured with caliper and a ruler. By using the mannitol solution, the mean duration of the submucosal cushion was longer than the saline solution: 20 and 22 min (mean, 21 min) vs 5 and 6 min (mean, 5.5 min) Conclusions: This experimental model is simple and evaluate the duration, size, and effect of the submucosal cushion, making it more reliable than other models that employ resected porcine stomachs or endoscopic images in live porcine models.
Bayes Shrinkage Estimation of the Parameter of Rayleigh Distribution for Progressive Type-II Censored Data
Authors: Dey Sanku , Dey Tanujit , Maiti Sudhansu S.
Published: January 2016

This paper derives Bayes shrinkage estimator of Rayleigh parameter and its associated risk based on conjugate prior under the assumption of general entropy loss function for progressive type-II censored data. Risk function of maximum likelihood estimate, Bayes estimate and Bayes shrinkage estimate have also been derived and compared. A procedure has been suggested to include a guess value in case of the Bayes shrinkage estimation. Risk function of empirical Bayes estimate and empirical Bayes shrinkage estimate have also been derived and compared. In conclusion, an illustrative example is presented to assess how the Rayleigh distribution fits a real data set.
A sinalização das relações de coerência por conectores torna a identificação das relações mais fácil? Uma investigação do reconhecimento das relações pelos destinatários do discurso
Authors: Antonio Juliano Desiderato
Published: January 2016

Resumo: Este trabalho tem como objetivo investigar se a falta de sinalização das relações de coerência por meio de conectores facilita ou dificulta a identificação dessas relações em aulas de curso superior. A investigação foi realizada com base na apresentação de dez excertos para professores. Inicialmente, os excertos foram apresentados aos informantes sem os conectores que ligam as porções textuais investigadas. Na sequência, os excertos foram apresentados com os conectores. Verificou-se que, na maioria das ocorrências, a identificação das relações pelos informantes foi possível mesmo sem o conector, corroborando o pressuposto da Teoria da Estrutura Retórica de que as relações de coerência podem ser estabelecidas e interpretadas independentemente de serem marcadas explicitamente por conectores. Apesar de conseguirem identificar as relações corretamente, os informantes consideraram que a sinalização das relações por meio de conectores facilita a identificação.Palavras-chave: Funcionalismo; Teoria da Estrutura Retórica; relações de coerência.Abstract: This paper aims to investigate if the lack of discourse markers to signal coherence relations makes the identification of the relations in undergraduate lectures more difficult or even impossible. The research was performed by presenting ten excerpts of undergraduate lectures for professors. Initially, the excerpts were presented to the informants without the connectors that combine the investigated text spans. Further, the excerpts were presented with the connectors. It was found that, in most instances, the identification of the relations by responders was possible even without the connector, supporting RST’s assumption that coherence relations may be held and interpreted even without connectives. Although the informants were able to identify the relations correctly, they considered that signaling the relations by means of connectors facilitates identification.Keywords: Functionalism; Rhetorical Structure Theory; Coherence Relations.
Aetiology, diagnosis and treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis: a study in a teaching hospital in Telangana
Authors: Surapaneni Harika , Sisodia Shalini Singh
Published: January 2016

Background: Chronic rhinosinusitis is one of the common problems in ENT Department which can be caused due to infections or anatomical blockage or allergy. We performed this study to assess the cause, clinical features and the effect of treatment on rhinosinusitis.

Methods: 60 patients of chronic sinusitis with symptoms persisting beyond three months, Nasal Endoscopic findings with Polyps/Discharge/edematous mucosa were included in the study. A detailed clinical history, with complete Ear, Nose, Throat, and Head and Neck examination, blood tests like complete blood picture, Blood sugar levels, ESR and Hepatitis profile. X ray of paranasal sinuses, (water’s view) and lateral view, Chest x-ray –PA View and CT scan of paranasal sinuses (axial and coronal section with 3mm cuts at OMC) was done for all patients. Diagnostic Nasal Endoscopic examination (DNE) for detection of polyps / discharge / edematous mucosa in middle meatus was also done for the patients where it was necessary. The patients were given medical or surgical treatment according to the symptom and followup was done for 3 months for all patients.  

Results: Over 75% of the patients had incidence of sinusitis in the age group of 16 – 45 years. The most common etiology was sinusitis caused by infections (26 – 44%) followed by anatomical obstruction (22 – 36%). Of the 22 anatomical obstruction the most common was Deviated nasal septum in 14 (62%) of the cases followed by 4 (19%) CB, 3 (15%) pradixical MT and 1 (4%) prominent aggernasi. The most common sign and symptom was headache and polypoidal changes observed in 36 patients each (60%), followed by nasal obstruction in 35 patients (50%). 12 (20%) of the patients were treated with polypectomy + FESS while 14 (23%) of them were treated with septoplasty + FESS. 34 (57%) were treated with only FESS.
Conclusions: Chronic sinusitis doesnot affect a particular age or sex and is more common among patietns with an upper respiratory tract infection. CT scan of the paranasal sinuses is the most useful tool in diagnosing the disease and FESS is the treatment of choice.
Diagnosis of chronic rhinosinusitis: can nasal endoscopy be the new gold standard in developing countries?
Authors: Tyagi Sushant , Srivastava Mohit , Singh Vandana
Published: January 2016

Background: Objective of the study was to study the role of diagnostic value of nasal endoscopy in diseases involving nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses particularly chronic rhinosinusitis in developing countries.

Methods: A total of 200 Patients with clinical evidence of sinonasal diseases were evaluated. All patients were subjected to thorough ENT examination with special emphasis on anterior and posterior rhinoscopy. Nasal Endoscopy was done using Hopkins rod endoscopes ( 0º, 30º, 45º, 70º and 90º) - diameter 2.7 mm/ 4 mm, length 18 cm after administering a spray puff of Xylocaine with adrenaline (10 drops of adrenaline to 2 ml of Xylocaine). Computed tomography of paranasal sinuses was done in 100 patients whose symptoms, examination and clinical picture were sufficient to warrant the procedure.  

Results: The most common anatomical variations detected on nasal endoscopy were deviated nasal septum (83.5%) followed by paradoxical middle turbinate (42.5), and concha bullosa (26.5%). Accessory middle turbinate was seen in 7 out of 200 cases (3.5%). The most common pathological abnormality detected on nasal endoscopy was mucopus in middle meatus (69%) and next were hypertrophied (45 and 35% inferior and middle turbinate respectively) and congested turbinates (44.5%), followed by polypoidal changes (28%) and oedematous/congested uncinate process (27.5%).
Conclusion: Diagnostic nasal endoscopy can prove to be a better diagnostic modality compared to CT scan when conditions like middle meatal secretions, condition of mucosa, polyps are looked for. It can detect early polypoidal and other pathological changes missed on CT which can aid in early diagnosis and medical management of sinonasal diseases thereby preventing patient from unnecessary surgical exposure. Also being easily available and cost effective, patients can be spared from unnecessary cost and radiation exposure by performing diagnostic nasal endoscopy prior to CT.
Recurrent glomus jugulotympanicum: a case report
Authors: Galagali J. R. , Singh I. D. , Kumar Satish , Gupta Arvind Kumar
Published: January 2016

Glomus tumors, also known as paragangliomas and chemodectomas, of head and neck are slow growing benign tumors with relatively good prognosis. The term Glomus is misnomer as it arises from paraganglions. Due to their critical location at the skull base, these tumors may have significant morbidity and mortality if not identified and managed in time. The common extra adrenal sites in head and neck are carotid body, jugular foramen, middle ear and the vagus nerve. The term glomus jugulotympanicum is used when the tumor crosses the distinction of being confined either to middle ear or the jugular foramen. Management aims at early detection and complete surgical excision preserving surrounding vital neurovascular structures as far as possible. Larger tumors in advanced stage may not be amenable to complete surgical excision.
GJS Referres
Authors: Referre GJCS
Published: January 2016

The academicians listed below have acted as referees since November 2015 for manuscripts in which the review process of which have been completed, as well as for those paper submissions which have been cancelled by the authors for some reason and for those that have been rejected. The editorial board members are grateful to all referees who have contributed to GJCS.

Fezile Özdamlı

Near East University, Cyprus

Adem Karahoca

Bahcesehir University, Turkey 

Carmen Pérez Sabater

Universitat Politècnica de València, Spain

Seren Başaran

Near East University, Cyprus

Huseyin Uzunboylu

Near East University, Cyprus

Mehmet Erdem

University of Nevada, USA

Tuncay Ergene

Yaşar University, Turkey

Iftikhar Ahmad

King Saud University, Maleysia 

Hafize Keser

Ankara University Turkey

Gabriela Grosseck

University of the West Timisoara, Romania

 
Performance assessment of low-order versus high-order numerical schemes in the numerical simulation of aquifer flow
Authors: Ameli A. A. , Abedini M. J.
Published: January 2016

Numerical methods have been widely used to simulate transient groundwater flow induced by pumping wells in geometrically and mathematically complex systems. However, flow and transport simulation using low-order numerical methods can be computationally expensive with a low rate of convergence in multi-scale problems where fine spatial discretization is required to ensure stability and desirable accuracy (for instance, close to a pumping well). Numerical approaches based on high-order test functions may better emulate the global behavior of parabolic and/or elliptic groundwater governing equations with and without the presence of pumping well(s). Here, we assess the appropriateness of high-order differential quadrature method (DQM) and radial basis function (RBF)-DQM approaches compared to low-order finite difference and finite element methods. This assessment is carried out using the exact analytical solution by Theis and observed head data as benchmarks. Numerical results show that high-order DQM and RBF-DQM are more efficient schemes compared to low-order numerical methods in the simulation of 1-D axisymmetric transient flow induced by a pumping well. Mesh-less RBF-DQM, with the ability to implement arbitrary (e.g., adaptive) node distribution, properly simulates 2-D transient flow induced by pumping wells in confined/unconfined aquifers with regular and irregular geometries, compared to the other high-order and low-order approaches presented in this paper.
Adsorption of azo dyes from aqueous solution by the hybrid MOFs/GO
Authors: Li Ling , Shi Zhennan , Zhu Hongyang , Hong Wei , Xie Fengwei , Sun Keke
Published: January 2016

In this work, a hybrid of chromium(III) terephthalate metal organic framework (MIL-101) and graphene oxide (GO) was synthesized and its performance in the removal of azo dyes (Amaranth, Sunset Yellow, and Carmine) from water was evaluated. The adsorption for azo dyes on MIL-101/GO was compared with that of MIL-101, and it was found that the addition of GO enhanced the stability of MIL-101 in water and increased the adsorption capacity. The maximum adsorption capacities of MIL-101/GO were 111.01 mg g−1 for Amaranth, 81.28 mg g−1 for Sunset Yellow, and 77.61 mg g−1 for Carmine. The adsorption isotherms and kinetics were investigated, showing that the adsorption fits the Freundlich isotherm and the pseudo-second-order kinetic model. The recyclability of MIL-101/GO was shown by the regeneration by acetone. The high adsorption capability and excellent reusability make MIL-101/GO a competent adsorbent for the removal dyes from aqueous solution.
Glucose Induces Mouse β-Cell Proliferation via IRS2, MTOR, and Cyclin D2 but Not the Insulin Receptor
Authors: Stamateris Rachel E. , Sharma Rohit B. , Kong Yahui , Ebrahimpour Pantea , Panday Deepika , Ranganath Pavana , Zou Baobo , Levitt Helena , Parambil Nisha Abraham , O’Donnell Christopher P. , García-Ocaña Adolfo , Alonso Laura C.
Published: January 2016

An important goal in diabetes research is to understand the processes that trigger endogenous β-cell proliferation. Hyperglycemia induces β-cell replication, but the mechanism remains debated. A prime candidate is insulin, which acts locally through the insulin receptor. Having previously developed an in vivo mouse hyperglycemia model, we tested whether glucose induces β-cell proliferation through insulin signaling. By using mice lacking insulin signaling intermediate insulin receptor substrate 2 (IRS2), we confirmed that hyperglycemia-induced β-cell proliferation requires IRS2 both in vivo and ex vivo. Of note, insulin receptor activation was not required for glucose-induced proliferation, and insulin itself was not sufficient to drive replication. Glucose and insulin caused similar acute signaling in mouse islets, but chronic signaling differed markedly, with mammalian target of rapamycin (MTOR) and extracellular signal–related kinase (ERK) activation by glucose and AKT activation by insulin. MTOR but not ERK activation was required for glucose-induced proliferation. Cyclin D2 was necessary for glucose-induced β-cell proliferation. Cyclin D2 expression was reduced when either IRS2 or MTOR signaling was lost, and restoring cyclin D2 expression rescued the proliferation defect. Human islets shared many of these regulatory pathways. Taken together, these results support a model in which IRS2, MTOR, and cyclin D2, but not the insulin receptor, mediate glucose-induced proliferation.
Racial Differences in and Prognostic Value of Biomarkers of Hyperglycemia
Authors: Parrinello Christina M. , Sharrett A. Richey , Maruthur Nisa M. , Bergenstal Richard M. , Grams Morgan E. , Coresh Josef , Selvin Elizabeth
Published: January 2016

OBJECTIVE

We compared levels and associations of traditional (fasting glucose, HbA1c) and nontraditional (fructosamine, glycated albumin, and 1,5-anhydroglucitol [1,5-AG]) biomarkers of hyperglycemia with incident cardiovascular disease (CVD), incident end-stage renal disease (ESRD), and prevalent retinopathy in black and white adults.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We included 10,373 participants without (8,096 white, 2,277 black) and 727 with diagnosed diabetes (425 white, 302 black) from the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study. We used Cox proportional hazards models to compare hazards ratios of CVD and ESRD among blacks and whites from baseline (1990–1992) through 2012. We compared the odds ratios (from logistic regression) of retinopathy among blacks and whites. We tested for the interaction of each biomarker with race.

RESULTS

Median values of biomarkers were higher among blacks versus whites (all P < 0.001). Relative risks for each biomarker with incident CVD and ESRD, and odds ratios for each biomarker with prevalent retinopathy, were similar by race (all P values for interaction by race >0.10).

CONCLUSIONS

The prognostic value of HbA1c, fructosamine, glycated albumin, and 1,5-AG with incident CVD, incident ESRD, and prevalent retinopathy were similar by race. Our results support similar interpretation of HbA1c and nontraditional biomarkers of hyperglycemia among black and whites with respect to long-term complications.
Corrosion resistance and microstructure of alloy 625 weld overlay on ASTM A516 grade 70
Authors: Moradi Mohammad J. , Ketabchi Mostafa
Published: January 2016

Nickel-based alloys are a crucial class of materials because of their excellent corrosion resistance. In the present study, single layer and two layers alloy 625 weld overlays were deposited by GTAW process on A516 grade 70 carbon steel. The dilution in terms of Fe, Ni, Mo and Nb content was calculated in 30 points of weld overlay. Microstructure observations showed that alloy 625 had austenitic structure with two types of Laves and NbC secondary phases. The uniform and pitting corrosion resistance of alloy 625 weld overlay as casted and as forged were evaluated in accordance with ASTM G48-2011 standard at different temperatures to determine the weight loss and critical pitting temperature. For achieving a better comparison, samples from alloy 625 as casted and as forged were tested under the same conditions. The results point out that single layer alloy 625 weld overlay is not suitable for chloride containing environments, two layers alloy 625 weld overlay and alloy 625 as casted have acceptable corrosion resistance and almost the same critical pitting temperature. Alloy 625 as forged has the best corrosion resistance and the highest critical pitting temperature among all test specimens. Also, the corrosion behavior was evaluated in accordance with ASTM G28 standard. The corrosion rate of single layer weld overlay was unacceptable. The average corrosion rate of two layers weld overlay and in casted condition were 35.82 and 33.01 mpy, respectively.
Electrical resistivity and strength properties of sodium hydroxide contaminated soil solidified with cement
Authors: Dong Xiaoqiang , Song Zhiwei , Chen Y. Frank
Published: January 2016

Nine different contents of sodium hydroxide solutions, silt, and ordinary Portland cement were selected as basic materials to make the cemented soil blocks. The electrical resistivity under different current frequencies and unconfined compressive strengths were measured after curing for 3, 7, 14, 28, 60 and 90 days, respectively. The results show that the alternating current electrical resistivity decreases with the increase in current frequency for all content values. The higher the current frequency is, the smoother the electrical resistivity. The current frequency range of 5 × 104 to 106 Hz is recommended to reduce the error resulting from the slight variation of current frequencies. The strength and electrical resistivity increase logarithmically with the increase in curing time. With the increase in content, the strength first increases linearly and then decreases linearly. The strength reaches the peak value at the content of 7.5 g × kg−1. The electrical resistivity decreases exponentially. A useful prediction formula for the strength is proposed, which was established according to the linear relationship between the strength and the electrical resistivity. Based on the influencing degree of sodium hydroxide on the strength of cemented soil, an evaluation standard for the electrical resistivity of cement-solidified sodium hydroxide-contaminated soil is also proposed.
On the role of alloying elements in the formation of serrated grain boundaries in Ni-based alloys
Authors: Terner Mathieu , Hong Hyun-Uk , Lee Je-Hyun , Choi Baig-Gyu
Published: January 2016

Ni-based model alloys were used to study the effect of alloying elements, namely Cr, Mo, C and Zr on the occurrence of grain boundary serration. The model alloys were free of aluminum to exclude precipitation of second-phase γ′. Similarly, the carbon content was very low, when present, to prevent precipitation of carbides. A special heat treatment involving slow cooling was used to promote grain boundary serration. No significant sign of serration was observed for Ni-10Cr-10Mo, Ni-20Cr-10Mo and Ni-10Cr-10Mo-0.05C model alloys. However, substantial serration was observed for Ni-10Cr-10Mo-0.5Zr and Ni-20Cr-0.5Zr model alloys. Serrated grain boundaries were observed in the absence of either γ′ or carbides. Zirconium-rich precipitates were recognized at serrated grain boundaries though their involvement in the occurrence of serration was doubtful. A mechanism of grain boundary serration formation is proposed.
Optimization of the phase composition of high-calcium-content slag for stabilization and the obtaining of hydraulic properties
Authors: Leontiev Leopold , Sheshukov Oleg , Mikheenkov Mikhail , Nekrasov Ilya , Yegiazaryan Denis
Published: January 2016

The technological features of processes for the production of steelmaking slags for use in building materials and products are presented, and improvement in the properties of refining slags and slag stabilization via the introduction of alumina flux are demonstrated. The mechanism of slag stabilization by alumina flux is also discussed. In addition, the preparation of Portland cement clinker with a high content of iron oxides from slag with a controlled phase composition is described.
Visualizing the Knowledge Domain of Nanoparticle Drug Delivery Technologies: A Scientometric Review
Authors: Lee Yen-Chun , Chen Chaomei , Tsai Xing-Tzu
Published: January 2016

The scientific literature of nanoparticle drug delivery technologies (NDDT) between 2005 and 2014 was reviewed. The visualized co-citation network of its knowledge domain was characterized in terms of thematic concentrations of co-cited references and emerging trends of surging keywords and citations to references through a scientometric review. The combined dataset of 25,171 bibliographic records were constructed through topic search and citation expansion to ensure adequate coverage of the field. While research in gold nanoparticle and magnetic nanoparticle remains the two most prominent knowledge domains in the NDDT field, research related to clinical and therapeutic applications has experienced a considerable growth. In particular, clinical and therapeutic developments in NDDT have demonstrated profound connections with the mesoporous silica nanoparticle research and microcrystal research. A rapid adaptation of mesoporous silica-based nanomaterials and rare earth fluoride nano-/microcrystal in NDDT is evident. Innovative strategies have been employed to exploit the multicomponent, chemical synthesis, surface modification, and controlled release imparting functionalized targeting capabilities. This study not only facilitated the connection of authors and research themes in the NDDT community, but also demonstrated how research interests and trends evolve over time, which greatly contributes to our understanding of the NDDT knowledge domains.
Lamb Wave Interaction with Adhesively Bonded Stiffeners and Disbonds Using 3D Vibrometry
Authors: Marks Ryan , Clarke Alastair , Featherston Carol , Paget Christophe , Pullin Rhys
Published: January 2016

There are many advantages to adhesively bonding stiffeners onto aircraft structures rather than using traditional mechanical fastening methods. However there is a lack of confidence of the structural integrity of adhesively bonded joints over time. Acousto-ultrasonic Lamb waves have shown great potential in structural health monitoring applications in both metallic and composite structures. This paper presents an experimental investigation of the use of acousto-ultrasonic Lamb waves for the monitoring of adhesively bonded joints in metallic structures using 3D scanning laser vibrometry. Two stiffened panels were manufactured, one with an intentional disbonded region. Lamb wave interaction with the healthy and disbonded stiffeners was investigated at three excitation frequencies. A windowed root-mean-squared technique was applied to quantify where Lamb wave energy was reflected, attenuated and transmitted across the structure enabling the size and shape of the defect to be visualised which was verified by traditional ultrasonic inspection techniques.
Nuclear Tau and Its Potential Role in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Bukar Maina Mahmoud , Al-Hilaly Youssra , Serpell Louise
Published: January 2016

Tau protein, found in both neuronal and non-neuronal cells, forms aggregates in neurons that constitutes one of the hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). For nearly four decades, research efforts have focused more on tau’s role in physiology and pathology in the context of the microtubules, even though, for over three decades, tau has been localised in the nucleus and the nucleolus. Its nuclear and nucleolar localisation had stimulated many questions regarding its role in these compartments. Data from cell culture, mouse brain, and the human brain suggests that nuclear tau could be essential for genome defense against cellular distress. However, its nature of translocation to the nucleus, its nuclear conformation and interaction with the DNA and other nuclear proteins highly suggest it could play multiple roles in the nucleus. To find efficient tau-based therapies, there is a need to understand more about the functional relevance of the varied cellular distribution of tau, identify whether specific tau transcripts or isoforms could predict tau’s localisation and function and how they are altered in diseases like AD. Here, we explore the cellular distribution of tau, its nuclear localisation and function and its possible involvement in neurodegeneration.
Assessing the Potential of Plug-in Electric Vehicles in Active Distribution Networks
Authors: Ahmadi Kordkheili Reza , Pourmousavi Seyyed , Savaghebi Mehdi , Guerrero Josep , Nehrir Mohammad
Published: January 2016

A multi-objective optimization algorithm is proposed in this paper to increase the penetration level of renewable energy sources (RESs) in distribution networks by intelligent management of plug-in electric vehicle (PEV) storage. The proposed algorithm is defined to manage the reverse power flow (PF) from the distribution network to the upstream electrical system. Furthermore, a charging algorithm is proposed within the proposed optimization in order to assure PEV owner’s quality of service (QoS). The method uses genetic algorithm (GA) to increase photovoltaic (PV) penetration without jeopardizing PEV owners’ (QoS) and grid operating limits, such as voltage level of the grid buses. The method is applied to a part of the Danish low voltage (LV) grid to evaluate its effectiveness and capabilities. Different scenarios have been defined and tested using the proposed method. Simulation results demonstrate the capability of the algorithm in increasing solar power penetration in the grid up to 50%, depending on the PEV penetration level and the freedom of the system operator in managing the available PEV storage.
Visual-LiDAR Odometry Aided by Reduced IMU
Authors: Balazadegan Sarvrood Yashar , Hosseinyalamdary Siavash , Gao Yang
Published: January 2016

This paper proposes a method for combining stereo visual odometry, Light Detection And Ranging (LiDAR) odometry and reduced Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) including two horizontal accelerometers and one vertical gyro. The proposed method starts with stereo visual odometry to estimate six Degree of Freedom (DoF) ego motion to register the point clouds from previous epoch to the current epoch. Then, Generalized Iterative Closest Point (GICP) algorithm refines the motion estimation. Afterwards, forward velocity and Azimuth obtained by visual-LiDAR odometer are integrated with reduced IMU outputs in an Extended Kalman Filter (EKF) to provide final navigation solution. In this paper, datasets from KITTI (Karlsruhe Institute of Technology and Toyota technological Institute) were used to compare stereo visual odometry, integrated stereo visual odometry and reduced IMU, stereo visual-LiDAR odometry and integrated stereo visual-LiDAR odometry and reduced IMU. Integrated stereo visual-LiDAR odometry and reduced IMU outperforms other methods in urban areas with buildings around. Moreover, this method outperforms simulated Reduced Inertial Sensor System (RISS), which uses simulated wheel odometer and reduced IMU. KITTI datasets do not include wheel odometry data. Integrated RTK (Real Time Kinematic) GPS (Global Positioning System) and IMU was replaced by wheel odometer to simulate the response of RISS method. Visual Odometry (VO)-LiDAR is not only more accurate than wheel odometer, but it also provides azimuth aiding to vertical gyro resulting in a more reliable and accurate system. To develop low-cost systems, it would be a good option to use two cameras plus reduced IMU. The cost of such a system will be reduced than using full tactical MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Sensor) based IMUs because two cameras are cheaper than full tactical MEMS based IMUs. The results indicate that integrated stereo visual-LiDAR odometry and reduced IMU can achieve accuracy at the level of state of art.
Enzymatic Kinetic Properties of the Lactate Dehydrogenase Isoenzyme C4 of the Plateau Pika (Ochotona curzoniae)
Authors: Wang Yang , Wei Lian , Wei Dengbang , Li Xiao , Xu Lina , Wei Linna
Published: January 2016

Testis-specific lactate dehydrogenase (LDH-C4) is one of the lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) isozymes that catalyze the terminal reaction of pyruvate to lactate in the glycolytic pathway. LDH-C4 in mammals was previously thought to be expressed only in spermatozoa and testis and not in other tissues. Plateau pika (Ochotona curzoniae) belongs to the genus Ochotona of the Ochotonidea family. It is a hypoxia-tolerant species living in remote mountain areas at altitudes of 3000–5000 m above sea level on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. Surprisingly, Ldh-c is expressed not only in its testis and sperm, but also in somatic tissues of plateau pika. To shed light on the function of LDH-C4 in somatic cells, Ldh-a, Ldh-b, and Ldh-c of plateau pika were subcloned into bacterial expression vectors. The pure enzymes of Lactate Dehydrogenase A4 (LDH-A4), Lactate Dehydrogenase B4 (LDH-B4), and LDH-C4 were prepared by a series of expression and purification processes, and the three enzymes were identified by the method of sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and native polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE). The enzymatic kinetics properties of these enzymes were studied by Lineweaver-Burk double-reciprocal plots. The results showed the Michaelis constant (Km) of LDH-C4 for pyruvate and lactate was 0.052 and 4.934 mmol/L, respectively, with an approximate 90 times higher affinity of LDH-C4 for pyruvate than for lactate. At relatively high concentrations of lactate, the inhibition constant (Ki) of the LDH isoenzymes varied: LDH-A4 (Ki = 26.900 mmol/L), LDH-B4 (Ki = 23.800 mmol/L), and LDH-C4 (Ki = 65.500 mmol/L). These data suggest that inhibition of lactate by LDH-A4 and LDH-B4 were stronger than LDH-C4. In light of the enzymatic kinetics properties, we suggest that the plateau pika can reduce reliance on oxygen supply and enhance its adaptation to the hypoxic environments due to increased anaerobic glycolysis by LDH-C4.
Impact of Multi-Micronutrient Fortified Rice on Hemoglobin, Iron and Vitamin A Status of Cambodian Schoolchildren: a Double-Blind Cluster-Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Perignon Marlène , Fiorentino Marion , Kuong Khov , Dijkhuizen Marjoleine , Burja Kurt , Parker Megan , Chamnan Chhoun , Berger Jacques , Wieringa Frank
Published: January 2016

In Cambodia, micronutrient deficiencies remain a critical public health problem. Our objective was to evaluate the impact of multi-micronutrient fortified rice (MMFR) formulations, distributed through a World Food Program school-meals program (WFP-SMP), on the hemoglobin concentrations and iron and vitamin A (VA) status of Cambodian schoolchildren. The FORISCA-UltraRice+NutriRice study was a double-blind, cluster-randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Sixteen schools participating in WFP-SMP were randomly assigned to receive extrusion-fortified rice (UltraRice Original, UltraRice New (URN), or NutriRice) or unfortified rice (placebo) six days a week for six months. Four additional schools not participating in WFP-SMP were randomly selected as controls. A total of 2440 schoolchildren (6–16 years old) participated in the biochemical study. Hemoglobin, iron status, estimated using inflammation-adjusted ferritin and transferrin receptors concentrations, and VA status, assessed using inflammation-adjusted retinol-binding protein concentration, were measured at the baseline, as well as at three and six months. Baseline prevalence of anemia, depleted iron stores, tissue iron deficiency, marginal VA status and VA deficiency were 15.6%, 1.4%, 51.0%, 7.9%, and 0.7%, respectively. The strongest risk factors for anemia were hemoglobinopathy, VA deficiency, and depleted iron stores (all p < 0.01). After six months, children receiving NutriRice and URN had 4 and 5 times less risk of low VA status, respectively, in comparison to the placebo group. Hemoglobin significantly increased (+0.8 g/L) after three months for the URN group in comparison to the placebo group; however, this difference was no longer significant after six months, except for children without inflammation. MMFR containing VA effectively improved the VA status of schoolchildren. The impact on hemoglobin and iron status was limited, partly by sub-clinical inflammation. MMFR combined with non-nutritional approaches addressing anemia and inflammation should be further investigated.
Dissolution of Intact, Divided and Crushed Circadin Tablets: Prolonged vs. Immediate Release of Melatonin
Authors: Chua Hui , Hauet Richer Nathalie , Swedrowska Magda , Ingham Stephen , Tomlin Stephen , Forbes Ben
Published: January 2016

Circadin 2 mg prolonged-release tablet is the only licensed melatonin product available in the UK. Circadin is indicated for patients with primary insomnia aged 55 and over, but is more widely used “off-label” to treat sleep disorders especially in the paediatric population. Children and older people often have difficulty swallowing tablets and dividing the tablet is sometimes required to ease administration. The aim of this study was to measure the release profile of melatonin from Circadin tablets when divided or crushed, and compare this with release from intact tablets. Dissolution testing was also performed for unlicensed melatonin products for comparison. Dissolution tests were performed using the pharmacopoeial paddle apparatus, with melatonin release analyzed by high performance liquid chromatography. Melatonin content, hardness, friability, and disintegration of the products were also evaluated. The prolonged release of melatonin from Circadin tablets was unlike that of any other product tested. When divided into halves, Circadin preserved most of the prolonged-release characteristic (f2 = 58), whereas quarter-cut and crushed tablet had a more immediate melatonin release profile. Circadin is significantly less expensive and should be preferred to unlicensed medicines which are not pharmaceutically equivalent and offer less quality assurance.
Design and Analysis of a Sensor System for Cutting Force Measurement in Machining Processes
Authors: Liang Qiaokang , Zhang Dan , Coppola Gianmarc , Mao Jianxu , Sun Wei , Wang Yaonan , Ge Yunjian
Published: January 2016

Multi-component force sensors have infiltrated a wide variety of automation products since the 1970s. However, one seldom finds full-component sensor systems available in the market for cutting force measurement in machine processes. In this paper, a new six-component sensor system with a compact monolithic elastic element (EE) is designed and developed to detect the tangential cutting forces Fx, Fy and Fz (i.e., forces along x-, y-, and z-axis) as well as the cutting moments Mx, My and Mz (i.e., moments about x-, y-, and z-axis) simultaneously. Optimal structural parameters of the EE are carefully designed via simulation-driven optimization. Moreover, a prototype sensor system is fabricated, which is applied to a 5-axis parallel kinematic machining center. Calibration experimental results demonstrate that the system is capable of measuring cutting forces and moments with good linearity while minimizing coupling error. Both the Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and calibration experimental studies validate the high performance of the proposed sensor system that is expected to be adopted into machining processes.
Low Dark-Current, High Current-Gain of PVK/ZnO Nanoparticles Composite-Based UV Photodetector by PN-Heterojunction Control
Authors: Lee Sang-Won , Cha Seung-Hwan , Choi Kyung-Jae , Kang Byoung-Ho , Lee Jae-Sung , Kim Sae-Wan , Kim Ju-Seong , Jeong Hyun-Min , Gopalan Sai-Anand , Kwon Dae-Hyuk , Kang Shin-Won
Published: January 2016

We propose a solution-processable ultraviolet (UV) photodetector with a pn-heterojunction hybrid photoactive layer (HPL) that is composed of poly-n-vinylcarbazole (PVK) as a p-type polymer and ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) as an n-type metal oxide. To observe the effective photo-inducing ability of the UV photodetector, we analyzed the optical and electrical properties of HPL which is controlled by the doping concentration of n-type ZnO NPs in PVK matrix. Additionally, we confirmed that the optical properties of HPL dominantly depend on the ZnO NPs from the UV-vis absorption and the photoluminescence (PL) spectral measurements. This HPL can induce efficient charge transfer in the localized narrow pn-heterojunction domain and increases the photocurrent gain. It is essential that proper doping concentration of n-type ZnO NPs in polymer matrix is obtained to improve the performance of the UV photodetector. When the ZnO NPs are doped with the optimized concentration of 3.4 wt.%, the electrical properties of the photocurrent are significantly increased. The ratio of the photocurrent was approximately 103 higher than that of the dark current.
Authentication Based on Non-Interactive Zero-Knowledge Proofs for the Internet of Things
Authors: Martín-Fernández Francisco , Caballero-Gil Pino , Caballero-Gil Cándido
Published: January 2016

This paper describes the design and analysis of a new scheme for the authenticated exchange of confidential information in insecure environments within the Internet of Things, which allows a receiver of a message to authenticate the sender and compute a secret key shared with it. The proposal is based on the concept of a non-interactive zero-knowledge proof, so that in a single communication, relevant data may be inferred to verify the legitimacy of the sender. Besides, the new scheme uses the idea under the Diffie–Hellman protocol for the establishment of a shared secret key. The proposal has been fully developed for platforms built on the Android Open Source Project, so it can be used in any device or sensor with this operating system. This work provides a performance study of the implementation and a comparison between its promising results and others obtained with similar schemes.
Methodological Proposal for Optimal Location of Emergency Operation Centers through Multi-Criteria Approach
Authors: Di Matteo Umberto , Pezzimenti Priscilla , Astiaso Garcia Davide
Published: January 2016

Territorial vulnerability and risk analysis play a fundamental role in urban planning and emergency management. Requirements analysis of such aspects are possible to define more and more effective risk mitigation strategies providing efficient response plans to events. Many mitigation strategies as well as many response plans have in common the purpose of minimizing response time in order to decrease the level of vulnerability of the concerning area. The response time to a perturbing event is in fact an essential parameter to define the hazard of the considered site and literature is unanimous in considering it. In this context, the article proposes a methodology for the optimization of the location on the territory of emergency operation centers (EOCs), reducing response times and mitigating in this way the vulnerability of the area. The proposed methodology is based on a multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) hybrid type AHP (Analytic Hierarchy Process)-Electre. This method has been applied in the territory of Bressanone and Vipiteno (Bolzano-Italy), simulating the need to build a new barrack of Fire Department. A campaign of interviews with operators and industry experts and the collection of spatial data from the portals of the concerned authorities has been carried out in order to get the number of necessary data for the implementation of the proposed methodology.
Describing Long-Term Electricity Demand Scenarios in the Telecommunications Industry: A Case Study of Japan
Authors: Kishita Yusuke , Yamaguchi Yohei , Umeda Yasushi , Shimoda Yoshiyuki , Hara Minako , Sakurai Atsushi , Oka Hiroki , Tanaka Yuriko
Published: January 2016

Due to the rapid expansion of information and communication technology (ICT) usage, the telecommunications industry is faced with a challenge to promote green ICT toward achieving a low-carbon society. One critical obstacle in planning long-term strategies for green ICT is the uncertainty of various external factors, such as consumers’ lifestyle and technological advancement. To tackle this issue, this paper employs a scenario planning method to analyze electricity consumption in the telecommunications industry, where both changes in various external factors and energy-saving measures are assumed. We propose a model to estimate future electricity consumption of the telecommunications industry using a statistical approach. In a case study, we describe four scenarios that differ in the diffusion of ICT and the technological advancement of ICT equipment in order to analyze the electricity consumption in Japan’s telecommunications industry to 2030. The results reveal that the electricity consumption in 2030 becomes 0.7–1.6-times larger than the 2012 level (10.7 TWh/year). It is also shown that the most effective measures to reduce the electricity consumption include improving the energy efficiency of IP (Internet Protocol) communication equipment and mobile communication equipment.
Reliefs murs perchés de la Navarre orientale
Authors: Barrère Pierre
Published: January 2016

En arrière du grand alignement structural du chaînon calcaire anticlinal de Navascués, les interfluves taillés dans le flysch ne sont pas des crêtes de recoupement, mais des plateaux mollement ondulés dont l'altitude avoisine 1 000 m (altitude relative : 400 m). Telles sont les Coronas de las Torres, entre le rio Salazar et le barranco de Biniès, et la Plana de Sasi, entre le rio Escal et le barranco de Gabarri. Le barrage karstique de la Sierra de Navascués les a protégées vers l'aval de l'attaque de l'érosion régressive ; ces « plaines » perchées sont les témoins d'un relief de maturité beaucoup plus étendu dont on retrouve des traces nombreuses dans le bassin supérieur de l'Irati et aussi, vers le Sud, dans les Sierras extérieures. La phase de dénudation active qui est responsable de leur réalisation est antérieure aux plus anciens glacis d'érosion en roche tendre et doit coïncider avec une période de calme orogénique de la fin du Tertiaire.
Le relief calcaire du Plateau de Sault
Authors: Lagasquie Jean-Jacques
Published: January 2016

Etude des formes de surface d'un karst pyrénéen de moyenne montagne, situé entre 900 et 1 900 m d'altitude, dans une zone très plissée et fracturée. Gouffres, dolines et pertes filtrantes alimentent, à la périphérie du karst, des résurgences, dont celle, intermittente, de Fontestorbes. A la fin du Tertiaire ou au Quaternaire ancien, des aplanissements karstiques ont donné des poljés (plaine d'Espezel) et de grandes dépressions fermées, sans doute élaborées à une altitude plus basse qu'aujourd'hui. Puis le soulèvement de la région et le refroidissement du climat ont permis le creusement de canyons et de reculées et l'ennoiement partiel des dépressions du plateau sous des nappes de débris produits par la gélifraction. Depuis la fin de la dernière période glaciaire se développe un karst ponctuel représenté par une multitude de petites dolines et, en altitude, par des puits à neige.
Le type urbain de Toulouse
Authors: Coppolani Jean
Published: January 2016

Comparée aux grandes villes françaises et aux villes européennes ou américaines d'importance comparable, Toulouse apparaît comme une ville « à activités multiples » avec une nette prédominance du secteur tertiaire (57 % des actifs) sur le secteur secondaire (40 %), ce dernier comportant une légère spécialisation dans la chimie, la construction aéronautique et surtout le bâtiment. Sur le plan professionnel, c'est une ville « bourgeoise », caractérisée par un taux élevé de « classes dirigeantes », un taux assez bas de « classe ouvrière » et un des taux d'activité les moins élevés parmi les grandes villes de France. Structures encore archaïques, mais qui portent la marque d'un renouvellement.