bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oral Hypoxia–Inducible Factor Prolyl Hydroxylase Inhibitor Roxadustat (FG-4592) for the Treatment of Anemia in Patients with CKD
Authors: Provenzano Robert , Besarab Anatole , Sun Chao H. , Diamond Susan A. , Durham John H. , Cangiano Jose L. , Aiello Joseph R. , Novak James E. , Lee Tyson , Leong Robert , Roberts Brian K. , Saikali Khalil G. , Hemmerich Stefan , Szczech Lynda A. , Yu Kin-Hung Peony , Neff Thomas B.
Published: April 2016

Background and objectives

Roxadustat (FG-4592), an oral hypoxia–inducible factor prolyl hydroxylase inhibitor that stimulates erythropoiesis, regulates iron metabolism, and reduces hepcidin, was evaluated in this phase 2b study for safety, efficacy, optimal dose, and dose frequency in patients with nondialysis CKD.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

The 145 patients with nondialysis CKD and hemoglobin ≤10.5 g/dl were randomized into one of six cohorts of approximately 24 patients each with varying roxadustat starting doses (tiered weight and fixed amounts) and frequencies (two and three times weekly) followed by hemoglobin maintenance with roxadustat one to three times weekly. Treatment duration was 16 or 24 weeks. Intravenous iron was prohibited. The primary end point was the proportion of patients achieving hemoglobin increase of ≥1.0 g/dl from baseline and hemoglobin of ≥11.0 g/dl by week 17 (16 weeks of treatment). Secondary analyses included mean hemoglobin change from baseline, iron utilization, and serum lipids. Safety was evaluated by frequency/severity of adverse events.

Results

Of the 145 patients enrolled, 143 were evaluable for efficacy. Overall, 92% of patients achieved hemoglobin response. Higher compared with lower starting doses led to earlier achievement of hemoglobin response. Roxadustat–induced hemoglobin increases were independent of baseline C–reactive protein levels and iron repletion status. Overall, over the first 16 treatment weeks, hepcidin levels decreased by 16.9% (P=0.004), reticulocyte hemoglobin content was maintained, and hemoglobin increased by a mean (±SD) of 1.83 (±0.09) g/dl (P<0.001). Overall mean total cholesterol level was reduced by a mean (±SD) of 26 (±30) mg/dl (P<0.001) after 8 weeks of therapy, independent of the use of statins or other lipid–lowering agents. No drug–related serious adverse events were reported.

Conclusions

In patients with nondialysis CKD who were anemic, various starting dose regimens of roxadustat were well tolerated and achieved anemia correction with reduced serum hepcidin levels. After anemia correction, hemoglobin was maintained by roxadustat at various dose frequencies without intravenous iron supplementation.
Statin prescribing among hypertensive patients in southwest Nigeria: findings and implications for the future
Authors: Akunne Onyinye Onyeka , Godman Brian , Adedapo Aduragbenro Deborah , Truter Ilse , Fadare Joseph
Published: April 2016

Background:
Statins reduce cardiovascular risk, especially in patients with hypertension due to their concomitant blood pressure reducing effects. Prescribing generic statins minimizes cost and improves access.
Aims:
Ascertain current prescribing of statins in Nigeria and potential savings from the increased use of generic statins.
Methods:
Prospective study involving hypertensive patients attending University College Hospital (Ibadan, Nigeria).
Results:
In total, 228 hypertensive patients received statins. Atorvastatin was the most prescribed statin, followed by simvastatin, rosuvastatin and finally fluvastatin. Prescribed doses were less than one defined daily dose in the majority, with high use of originators. Average monthly potential savings from increased prescribing of generic statins was US$2635 for atorvastatin and US$10,578 for rosuvastatin.
Conclusion:
A shift toward increased prescribing generic statins is recommended to minimize costs.
Exploratory study on internal recycling of crude glycerol for biodiesel production: Catalyst replacement
Authors: Dias Joana , Leite Pedro , Alvim-Ferraz Maria , Almeida Manuel
Published: April 2016

The present study evaluated the recycling of crude glycerol as source of
catalyst for biodiesel production. For that purpose, two sets of experiments
were conducted. In the first set (A), biodiesel was synthesized by
conventional methanolysis of sunflower oil using NaOH as catalyst at 65?C
during 1 h and varying catalyst concentration (0.4 - 1.2 wt.%) or methanol to
oil molar ratio (6:1-12:1). The second set (B) was performed by replicating
the conditions of set A and considering the use of crude glycerol as source
of catalyst. The evaluation of excess methanol and catalyst distribution in
the crude products was performed. For both sets of experiments, product yield
and quality (viscosity and purity) were determined. Methanol was
predominantly in the glycerol phase (54 - 68%), with negligible effect of
variation in catalyst concentration and higher percentages found when higher
methanol to oil molar ratios were used, due to a higher polarity of this
phase. In most cases, catalyst was predominantly in the crude glycerol (53
wt.% in average) and no clear relation was found between catalyst
distribution and the different reaction conditions studied. The results from
set A showed a clear influence of catalyst concentration in biodiesel
conversion and a minor effect of methanol to oil molar ratio. The best
conditions were 6:1 methanol to oil molar ratio and 0.6 wt.% of catalyst
leading to a product yield of 95.1 wt.%, a purity of 99.3% and a viscosity of
4.59 mm2s-1. The second set of experiments showed different trends and
variability compared to the first one and the results indicated that catalyst
might be altered during glycerol storage. It was found an effect of methanol
to oil molar ratio in reaction conversion with the highest purity (96.9 wt.%)
being obtained when the highest molar ratio was used (12:1) possibly due to
the reduced mass transfer limitations. Overall, the results clearly show the
potential of using crude glycerol as source of catalyst, avoiding the use of
new catalyst and allowing a more sustainable biodiesel production.
Prevalence of Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato in Ixodes ricinus ticks and assessment of entomological risk index at localities in Belgrade
Authors: Krstic Milena , Stajkovic Novica , Lazic Srdjan
Published: April 2016

Background/Aim. The first case of human Lyme borreliosis (LB) in Serbia was recorded in 1987. The number of reported LB cases has increased in the past decade. The aim of this study was to estimate the density of Ixodes ricinus (I. ricinus) ticks, the prevalence of Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato (B. burgdorferi) in them, and entomological risk index (ERI) at 19 Belgrade localities which were grouped into three categories (forests, parkforests, parks). The values of ERI were compared with the number of tick bites in humans. Methods. Ticks were collected monthly by using the flag hours method and the infection rate was determined by using dark field microscopy. The ERI value was calculated for each locality where the ticks were collected. The related data about tick bites was obtained from the patient protocol of the Institute of Epidemiology, Military Medical Academy, Belgrade. Results. The total number of collected ticks, the number of nymphs and the infection rates of the nymphs were significantly higher in forests (p < 0.05) than park-forests and parks. Statistically, the ERI value was significantly higher in forests than parks of Belgrade (?2 = 7.78, p < 0.01). In March and July, the ERI value was also significantly higher in forests, than park-forests (p < 0.01) and parks (p < 0.01). May was the month with the highest ERI value in each ecological category (forests p < 0.05; park-forests p < 0.01; parks p < 0.001). However, the number of tick bites in humans did not correlate with ERI values. Conclusion. The obtained results indicate that the risk of tick bite and human exposure to B. burgdorferi sensu lato is present at all selected localities in Belgrade. For a more comprehensive Lyme disease risk assessment the method of entomological risk index assessment should be combined with other methods, taking into consideration all tick stages and the behaviour and habits of people who may get infected B. burgdorferi sensu lato.
The impacts of motivation, personal traits of managers and management education on the performances of public healthcare facilities
Authors: Karanovic Nevena , Stosic Sanja
Published: April 2016

Background/Aim. Exposed to increasing needs of users for better and faster services, more medications and innovative health technologies, managers of healthcare services in the public sector need motivation, permanent updating of information and constant personal development. The aim of this paper was to evaluate, on the basis of experienced healthcare managers, the impact of their motivation, selected character traits, managerial skills and formal education in management on healthcare facilities performances in the public sector. Methods. For the purposes of this study, 97 experienced managers from public hospitals and primary health centers in Serbia answered to 30 questions on the motivation of managers, essential skills for successful management and formal education in management in health facilities. The obtained data about their motivation, governing experience, personal skills and formal education in management were systematized and processed by the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Healthcare facilities performances were expressed by the healthcare facilities ranks in the official annual rankings according to the quality improvement, conducted by the Institute of Public Health of Serbia. Pearson's or Spearman's correlation coefficients were used for proving the potential impact of selected factors on performances of healthcare facilities. Results. This study confirmed the association between the healthcare facilities ranks and managers' abilities to organize the working process (t = -2.453; p = 0.018); expressed high managers? motivation (?S = 0.206; p = 0.048) and the length of governing experience (r = -0.198; p = 0.043). Within a 3-year follow-up, this study also confirmed a positive correlation between annual ranks of healthcare facilities and managers quality management courses (?S = -0.238; p = 0.017) and managers education in human resources management (?S = -0.234; p = 0.027). Conclusion. In addition to management education, permanent personal development and higher motivation of managers have positive influence on healthcare performances.
Stenting versus non-stenting following uncomplicated ureteroscopic lithotripsy: Comparsion and evaluation of symptoms
Authors: Savic Slavisa , Vukotic Vinka , Lazic Miodrag , Savic Natasa
Published: April 2016

Background/Aim. Currently, ureterorenoscopic (URS) stone fragmentation and removal is the treatment of choice for managing ureteral stones, especially mid and distal ones and is advocated as initial management of ureteric stones. The aim of this work was to evaluate the symptoms, necessity, potential benefits and adverse effects of ureteral stent placement after uncomplicated ureteroscopic lithotripsy. Methods. This retrospective-prospective study evaluated a total of 125 patients who had underwent ureteroscopic lithotripsy (URSL). The patients were divided into two groups: stented (59 patients) and unstented (controls, 66 patients). The outcomes measured and compared between the two groups included: stone free rate, postoperative patient pain validated by scale, lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), the need for unplanned hospital care, stent related complications, and functional recovery in the form return to normal physical activities. Results. A successful outcome, defined as being stonefree after 12 weeks, was achieved in all 125 (100%) patients. The stone-free rate showed no significant differences between the two groups. LUTS was frequent complaint in the stented group, with statistically significant difference in the domain of frequency/urgency (p = 0.0314). There was a statistically significant difference between the groups in the mean operative time and mean hospitalization time, mean pain visual analog scale (VAS) score and in the use of nonnarcotic analgesic. On the day of the surgery and until postoperative day 3 (POD 3) and postoperative day 5 (POD 5), the pain score was much higher among stented patients than among the controls (p = 0.0001) and non-narcotic analgesic use (p = 0.001) was frequently required in the stented group. Conclusion. Routine placement of ureteral stent after URSL is not mandatory and may be associated with stent side effects. Uncomplicated URSL is safe without stent placement after the treatment.
Primary hyperfibrinolysis as the presenting sign of prostate cancer: A case report
Authors: Kulic Andrijana , Cvetkovic Zorica , Libek Vesna
Published: April 2016

Introduction. A bleeding syndrome in the setting of primary hyperfibrinolysis in a prostate cancer patient is only 0.40? 1.65% of cases. The laboratory diagnosis of primary hyperfibrinolysis is based on the increase of biomarkers like D-dimer, fibrinogen split products, plasminogen, and euglobulin lysis test. These tests are not specific for primary hyperfibrinolysis. We reported a rare case of hemorrhagic syndrome caused by primary hyperfibrinolysis as the first clinical symptom of metastatic prostate cancer. Case report. A 64-year-old male was admitted to our hospital with large hematomas in the right pectoral and axillary areas (20 x 7 cm), right hemiabdomen (30 x 30 cm) and the left lumbal area, (25 x 5 cm). The patient had no subjective symptoms nor used any medication. Initial coagulation testing, prothrombin time (PT), and activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) were within the normal range, while fibrinogen level was extremely low (1.068 g/L) (normal range 2.0?5.0) and the D-dimer assay result was high 1.122 mg/L (normal range < 0.23). The results obtained by rotation thrombelastometry pointed to primary fibrinolysis. Further clinical and laboratory examination indicated progressive malignant prostate disease. First line treatment for the patient was a combined administration of tranexamic acid (3 x 500 mg iv) and transfusion of ten units of cryoprecipitate (400 mL). Next day, fibrinolytic function measurements by rotation thrombelastometry were within the normal ranges. Fibrinogen level was normalized within two days (2.4 g/L). There were no newly developed hematomas. Conclusion. This case report shows primary hyperfibrinolysis with bleeding symptoms, which is an uncommon paraneoplastic phenomenon within expanded prostate malignancy. Rotation thrombelastometry in this severe complication helped to achieve the prompt and proper diagnosis and treatment.
Risks and Consequences of Oversimplifying Educational Inequities
Authors: Skiba Russell J. , Artiles Alfredo J. , Kozleski Elizabeth B. , Losen Daniel J. , Harry Elizabeth G.
Published: April 2016

In this technical comment, we argue that Morgan et al.’s claim that there is no minority overrepresentation in special education is in error due to (a) sampling considerations, (b) inadequate support from previous and current analyses, and (c) their failure to consider the complexities of special education disproportionality.
Validation of system codes for plant application on selected experiments
Authors: Koch M. K. , Risken T. , Agethen K. , Bratfisch C.
Published: April 2016

For decades, the Reactor Simulation and Safety Group at Ruhr-Universität Bochum (RUB) contributes to nuclear safety by computer code validation and model development for nuclear safety analysis. Severe accident analysis codes are relevant tools for the understanding and the development of accident management measures. The accidents in the plants Three Mile Island (USA) in 1979 and Fukushima Daiichi (Japan) in 2011 influenced these research activities significantly due to the observed phenomena, such as molten core concrete interaction and hydrogen combustion. This paper gives a brief outline of recent research activities at RUB in the named fields, contributing to code preparation for plant applications. Simulations of the molten core concrete interaction tests CCI-2 and CCI-3 with ASTEC and the hydrogen combustion test Ix9 with COCOSYS are presented exemplarily. Additionally, the application on plants is demonstrated on chosen results of preliminary Fukushima calculations.
Validation of the ATHLET-SC code by trans-critical transient data
Authors: Liu X. , Cheng X.
Published: April 2016

For the safety analysis of Supercritical Water-Cooled Reactor (SCWR), one of the challenge tasks is to predict the trans-critical behavior of the reactor system during some accidents. The current safety codes have some shortcomings when the pressure decreases from the supercritical condition to the subcritical state due to the void fraction discontinuity across the critical point. Another challenge is the validation of the system code, which needs the transient experimental data. To overcome the above-mentioned challenges, this paper validates the modified code ATHLET-SC, which is developed based on the pseudo two-phase method. The trans-critical transient data from SWAMUP test facility in Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU) are adopted to compare with the simulation results. The results obtained so far shows that the ATHLET-SC code has good feasibility to the trans-critical simulation of SCWR, and it can be used for transient analysis of SCWR in the future.
Critical flow phenomena and modeling in advanced nuclear safety technology
Authors: Chen Y. Z.
Published: April 2016

The discharge could be non-choking or choking, depending on the break shape, length and conditions. This presents a challenge in the calculation of standard problems. A stable experiment of water was performed to study the break flow rate in nozzles of diameter of 1.41 and 2.0 mm with rounded-edge and sharp-edge. The pressure covered the ranges of 0.5 to 29.5 MPa, inlet quality 0 to 1.0 and subcooling up to 350 °C. The results exhibited a close relation of thermal non-equilibrium with pressure. For supercritical pressure a modified equilibrium model in combination with the Bernoulli equation is presented.
Jonson and Shakespeare: A Spirited Friendship
Authors: Bevington David
Published: April 2016

What sort of friends were Jonson and Shakespeare? Nicolas Rowe's account (1709) that Shakespeare prevailed on his acting company to perform Every Man In His Humor in 1598 when it might otherwise have been rejected leads Rowe to conclude that “After this they were professed friends, though I don't know whether the other [i.e., Jonson] ever made him equal return of gentleness and generosity.” The story is not otherwise substantiated. Many critics have seen the relationship as an uneasy one, pointing to the claim in The Return from Parnassus, Part II, that Jonson was “a pestilent fellow” to whom Shakespeare gave “a purge that made him bewray his credit.” The present essay argues to the contrary that the evidence for any personal or vindictive attacks by Jonson or Shakespeare is hypothetical at best. In their writings they vigorously defend their differing views of theatre but also learn from each other, refusing to capitulate on principles that matter to them but also implicitly acknowledging that honest intentions can be discerned on both sides. The theatre offers them both more than one way to write a successful play.
Jonson vs. Shakespeare: The Roman Plays
Authors: Hunt Maurice
Published: April 2016

Critics rarely bring Ben Jonson's two Roman tragedies – Sejanus and Catiline – into proximity with Shakespeare's four Roman tragedies – Titus Andronicus, Julius Caesar, Antony and Cleopatra, and Coriolanus. Yet doing so in terms of some dramatic features they share illuminates qualities of these plays not easily discernible by other approaches to them. This is especially the case when one adds Shakespeare's tragicomedy Cymbeline to this grouping. Establishing metaphysical perspectives based on ironic Christian allusions in all but one of Shakespeare's Roman plays throws into relief a Catholic dimension of Sejanus and religious dynamics of Catiline more involved in this tragedy than previous critics have realized. Bringing Jonson's and Shakespeare's Roman drama into mutual play also focuses the homeopathic, neo-Aristotelian catharsis of Coriolanus by reference to those in Sejanus and Catiline, as well as the dangerous position of historians and poets in Roman society, as evidenced by the fates of Cordus in Sejanus and Cinna in Julius Caesar. The perceived bad verse of the latter writer clinches judgment against him, even as the vile rhymes of the nameless poet in Julius Caesar disqualifies him from forging amity between Cassius and Brutus. Analysis of the complexity of the most complicated character in Jonson's and Shakespeare's tragedies, respectively Brutus and the Cicero of Catiline, reveals that Jonson's orator combines traits identified with three characters of Julius Caesar: Cassius's capacity for cunning practices, Antony's oratorical eloquence, and Brutus's tragically unrealistic, naïve thinking. This inquiry thus suggests something rarely said of Jonson's tragedies: that he was capable of giving a character in tragedy complexity if not equal to that produced by Shakespeare, yet nevertheless approaching it.
Semantically Controlled Adaptive Equalisation in Reduced Dimensionality Parameter Space
Authors: Stasis Spyridon , Stables Ryan , Hockman Jason
Published: April 2016

Equalisation is one of the most commonly-used tools in sound production, allowing users to control the gains of different frequency components in an audio signal. In this paper we present a model for mapping a set of equalisation parameters to a reduced dimensionality space. The purpose of this approach is to allow a user to interact with the system in an intuitive way through both the reduction of the number of parameters and the elimination of technical knowledge required to creatively equalise the input audio. The proposed model represents 13 equaliser parameters on a two-dimensional plane, which is trained with data extracted from a semantic equalisation plug-in, using the timbral adjectives warm and bright. We also include a parameter weighting stage in order to scale the input parameters to spectral features of the audio signal, making the system adaptive. To maximise the efficacy of the model, we evaluate a variety of dimensionality reduction and regression techniques, assessing the performance of both parameter reconstruction and structural preservation in low-dimensional space. After selecting an appropriate model based on the evaluation criteria, we conclude by subjectively evaluating the system using listening tests.
Water Quality in Selected Small Drinking Water Systems of Missouri Rural Communities
Authors: Hua Bin , Mu Ruipu , Shi Honglan , Inniss Enos , Yang John
Published: April 2016

Small drinking water treatment systems (serving <10,000 population) in rural communities frequently encounter multiple challenges in water quality and federal regulatory compliance, especially the disinfection byproduct (DBP) regulations, due to source water variations, limited resources, and aging infrastructures. Unlike most studies on the DBP control using synthetic water in laboratory settings, this research aimed to identify the major water quality issues confronting small systems in the state of Missouri (MO), the United States of America (USA). Three small systems were selected based on source water and geographic locations. Water samples were collected quarterly from each major treatment process during the period of May 2012 to March 2013 and analyzed to identify the treatment effectiveness and potential water quality issues in each small system. Results of water quality characterization showed that the major water quality issue in the selected small systems was the low efficiency of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) removal, especially the DOC species that are considered as the DBP precursors. Most collected water samples had a higher trihalomethane formation potential (THMFP) than the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) maximum contaminant limit (MCL) (80 μg/L). Based on the analysis of the treatment efficiency in each system, several strategies for water quality improvement were recommended, and a few of which have been implemented in the small systems, leading to improved drinking water quality and compliance with the USEPA DBP regulations. This study would provide a valuable aid to small system operators and local water authority in context of water quality improvement and the regulatory compliance.
Energetic and Exergetic Analysis of a Heat Exchanger Integrated in a Solid Biomass-Fuelled Micro-CHP System with an Ericsson Engine
Authors: Creyx Marie , Delacourt Eric , Morin Céline , Lalot Sylvain , Desmet Bernard
Published: April 2016

A specific heat exchanger has been developed to transfer heat from flue gas to the working fluid (hot air) of the Ericsson engine of a solid biomass-fuelled micro combined heat and power (CHP). In this paper, the theoretical and experimental energetic analyses of this heat exchanger are compared. The experimental performances are described considering energetic and exergetic parameters, in particular the effectiveness on both hot and cold sides. A new exergetic parameter called the exergetic effectiveness is introduced, which allows a comparison between the real and the ideal heat exchanger considering the Second Law of Thermodynamics. A global analysis of exergetic fluxes in the whole micro-CHP system is presented, showing the repartition of the exergy destruction among the components.
Tetrabromidocuprates(II)—Synthesis, Structure and EPR
Authors: Zabel André , Winter Alette , Kelling Alexandra , Schilde Uwe , Strauch Peter
Published: April 2016

Metal-containing ionic liquids (ILs) are of interest for a variety of technical applications, e.g., particle synthesis and materials with magnetic or thermochromic properties. In this paper we report the synthesis of, and two structures for, some new tetrabromidocuprates(II) with several “onium” cations in comparison to the results of electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopic analyses. The sterically demanding cations were used to separate the paramagnetic Cu(II) ions for EPR measurements. The EPR hyperfine structure in the spectra of these new compounds is not resolved, due to the line broadening resulting from magnetic exchange between the still-incomplete separated paramagnetic Cu(II) centres. For the majority of compounds, the principal g values (g‖ and g⊥) of the tensors could be determined and information on the structural changes in the [CuBr4]2− anions can be obtained. The complexes have high potential, e.g., as ionic liquids, as precursors for the synthesis of copper bromide particles, as catalytically active or paramagnetic ionic liquids.
Blood-Vessel Mimicking Structures by Stereolithographic Fabrication of Small Porous Tubes Using Cytocompatible Polyacrylate Elastomers, Biofunctionalization and Endothelialization
Authors: Huber Birgit , Engelhardt Sascha , Meyer Wolfdietrich , Krüger Hartmut , Wenz Annika , Schönhaar Veronika , Tovar Günter , Kluger Petra , Borchers Kirsten
Published: April 2016

Blood vessel reconstruction is still an elusive goal for the development of in vitro models as well as artificial vascular grafts. In this study, we used a novel photo-curable cytocompatible polyacrylate material (PA) for freeform generation of synthetic vessels. We applied stereolithography for the fabrication of arbitrary 3D tubular structures with total dimensions in the centimeter range, 300 µm wall thickness, inner diameters of 1 to 2 mm and defined pores with a constant diameter of approximately 100 µm or 200 µm. We established a rinsing protocol to remove remaining cytotoxic substances from the photo-cured PA and applied thio-modified heparin and RGDC-peptides to functionalize the PA surface for enhanced endothelial cell adhesion. A rotating seeding procedure was introduced to ensure homogenous endothelial monolayer formation at the inner luminal tube wall. We showed that endothelial cells stayed viable and adherent and aligned along the medium flow under fluid-flow conditions comparable to native capillaries. The combined technology approach comprising of freeform additive manufacturing (AM), biomimetic design, cytocompatible materials which are applicable to AM, and biofunctionalization of AM constructs has been introduced as BioRap® technology by the authors.
The Apoptotic Effect of Ursolic Acid on SK-Hep-1 Cells is Regulated by the PI3K/Akt, p38 and JNK MAPK Signaling Pathways
Authors: Chuang Wan-Ling , Lin Ping-Yi , Lin Hui-Chuan , Chen Yao-Li
Published: April 2016

Ursolic acid (UA) is a pentacyclic triterpene acid that is present in a wide variety of medicinal herbs and edible plants. This study investigated the effect of UA on apoptosis and proliferation of hepatocellular carcinoma SK-Hep-1 cells. After treatment of SK-Hep-1 cells with different concentrations of UA, we observed that cell viability was reduced in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Furthermore, there was a dose-dependent increase in the percentage of cells in the sub-G1 and G2/M phases, with cells treated with 60 μM showing the highest percentages of cells in those phases. UA-induced chromatin condensation of nuclei was observed by using DAPI staining. The western blot results revealed that exposure to UA was associated with decreased expression of the anti-apoptotic proteins Mcl-1, Bcl-xL, Bcl-2, and TCTP and increased expression of apoptosis-related proteins TNF-α, Fas, FADD, Bax, cleaved caspase-3, caspase-8, caspase-9, and PARP. Immunocytochemistry staining showed that treatment with UA resulted in increased expression of caspase-3. Moreover, exposure to UA resulted in the inhibition of the PI3K/Akt and p38 MAPK signaling pathways. These findings suggest that UA inhibits the proliferation of SK-Hep-1 cells and induces apoptosis.
Cordycepin Prevents Bone Loss through Inhibiting Osteoclastogenesis by Scavenging ROS Generation
Authors: Dou Ce , Cao Zhen , Ding Ning , Hou Tianyong , Luo Fei , Kang Fei , Yang Xiaochao , Jiang Hong , Xie Zhao , Hu Min , Xu Jianzhong , Dong Shiwu
Published: April 2016

Cordycepin was previously reported to have anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant activity. However, the potential role of cordycepin in bone metabolism and cell biology of osteoclasts remains unclear. In our study, we focused on the in vitro effects of cordycepin on osteoclastogenesis and its in vivo effects in ovariectomized (OVX) mice. Osteoclast differentiation, formation and fusion were evaluated by Tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) stain, focal adhesion stain and fusion assay, respectively. Osteoclastic bone resorption was evaluated by pit formation assay. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and removal were detected by the ROS assay. OVX mice were orally administered with 10 mg/kg of cordycepin daily for four weeks. In vitro results revealed that cordycepin inhibited receptor activator of nuclear factor κB ligand (RANKL)-induced osteoclast differentiation, formation, fusion and bone resorption activity. We further proved that cordycepin treatments scavenged the generation of ROS, upregulated interferon regulatory factor 8 (IRF-8) and suppressed the activity of nuclear factor of activated T cells c1 (NFATc1) during osteoclastogenesis. In vivo results indicated cordycepin prevents bone loss, rescues bone microarchitecture, and restores bone mineralization in OVX mice. Our observations strongly suggested that cordycepin is an efficient osteoclast inhibitor and hold potential therapeutic value in preventing bone loss among postmenopausal osteoporosis patients.
Oral Resveratrol Prevents Osteoarthritis Progression in C57BL/6J Mice Fed a High-Fat Diet
Authors: Gu Hailun , Li Keyu , Li Xingyao , Yu Xiaolu , Wang Wei , Ding Lifeng , Liu Li
Published: April 2016

The effects of resveratrol on osteoarthritis (OA) pathogenesis have been demonstrated in vitro and in animal models employing intra-articular injections. However, the potential for oral resveratrol supplements to mediate protective effects on OA have not been examined. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the potential anti-OA effects of oral resveratrol on mice fed a high-fat diet (HFD). C57BL/6J male mice were fed either a standard diet or a HFD, and a subset of the latter also received varying doses of resveratrol. Twelve weeks later, all of the animals were sacrificed and knee joints were evaluated with histological, immunohistochemical, and TUNEL analyses. Mice that received a HFD had significantly greater body weights than the control mice and also exhibited features consistent with knee OA. The mice that received a HFD in combination with low, intermediate, or high doses of resveratrol were only slightly heavier than the control mice at the end of 12 weeks. Quantitative histological assessments indicated that resveratrol treatment partly recovered joint structure in the mice that received a HFD, while high doses of resveratrol prevented the degradation of type II collagen into C-telopeptide of type II collagen (CTX-II) and retained type II collagen expression in cartilage. Furthermore, TUNEL analyses revealed a reduction in chondrocyte apoptosis in the resveratrol-treated mice compared with the HFD mice. Thus, oral resveratrol appears to exert anti-OA effects in a mouse model of HFD-induced OA, thereby highlighting the potential preventive and therapeutic value of administering resveratrol for obesity-associated OA.
Physical and Mechanical Evaluation of Five Suture Materials on Three Knot Configurations: An in Vitro Study
Authors: Abellán Desire , Nart José , Pascual Andrés , Cohen Robert , Sanz-Moliner Javier
Published: April 2016

The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the mechanical properties of five suture materials on three knot configurations when subjected to different physical conditions. Five 5-0 (silk, polyamide 6/66, polyglycolic acid, glycolide-e-caprolactone copolymer, polytetrafluoroethylene) suture materials were used. Ten samples per group of each material were used. Three knot configurations were compared A.2=1=1 (forward–forward–reverse), B.2=1=1 (forward–reverse–forward), C.1=2=1 (forward–forward–reverse). Mechanical properties (failure load, elongation, knot slippage/breakage) were measured using a universal testing machine. Samples were immersed in three different pH concentrations (4,7,9) at room temperature for 7 and 14 days. For the thermal cycle process, sutures were immersed in two water tanks at different temperatures (5 and 55 °C). Elongation and failure load were directly dependent on the suture material. Polyglycolic acid followed by glycolide-e-caprolactone copolymer showed the most knot failure load, while polytetrafluoroethylene showed the lowest (P < 0.001). Physical conditions had no effect on knot failure load (P = 0.494). Statistically significant differences were observed between knot configurations (P = 0.008). Additionally, individual assessment of suture material showed statistically significant results for combinations of particular knot configurations. Physical conditions, such as pH concentration and thermal cycle process, have no influence on suture mechanical properties. However, knot failure load depends on the suture material and knot configuration used. Consequently, specific suturing protocols might be recommended to obtain higher results of knot security.
Realistic Simulation for Body Area and Body-To-Body Networks
Authors: Alam Muhammad , Ben Hamida Elyes , Ben Arbia Dhafer , Maman Mickael , Mani Francesco , Denis Benoit , D’Errico Raffaele
Published: April 2016

In this paper, we present an accurate and realistic simulation for body area networks (BAN) and body-to-body networks (BBN) using deterministic and semi-deterministic approaches. First, in the semi-deterministic approach, a real-time measurement campaign is performed, which is further characterized through statistical analysis. It is able to generate link-correlated and time-varying realistic traces (i.e., with consistent mobility patterns) for on-body and body-to-body shadowing and fading, including body orientations and rotations, by means of stochastic channel models. The full deterministic approach is particularly targeted to enhance IEEE 802.15.6 proposed channel models by introducing space and time variations (i.e., dynamic distances) through biomechanical modeling. In addition, it helps to accurately model the radio link by identifying the link types and corresponding path loss factors for line of sight (LOS) and non-line of sight (NLOS). This approach is particularly important for links that vary over time due to mobility. It is also important to add that the communication and protocol stack, including the physical (PHY), medium access control (MAC) and networking models, is developed for BAN and BBN, and the IEEE 802.15.6 compliance standard is provided as a benchmark for future research works of the community. Finally, the two approaches are compared in terms of the successful packet delivery ratio, packet delay and energy efficiency. The results show that the semi-deterministic approach is the best option; however, for the diversity of the mobility patterns and scenarios applicable, biomechanical modeling and the deterministic approach are better choices.
Sustainable Renovation Strategy in the Swedish Million Homes Programme: A Case Study
Authors: Lind Hans , Annadotter Kerstin , Björk Folke , Högberg Lovisa , Af Klintberg Tord
Published: April 2016

Sweden has a large multifamily housing stock that was built between 1960 and 1975. An important current issue is how this stock can be renovated in a sustainable way. The article analyses a strategy used by a suburban municipal housing company that had clear social ambitions and offered the tenants three options of renovation: Mini, Midi and Maxi. Most tenants chose the Mini alternative which meant that they could afford to stay and that there was no increase in costs for the social authorities. An investment analysis showed that the Mini alternative had a positive net present value, but that the Midi and Maxi alternatives were more profitable. Even though there was no clear environmental focus in the renovation, energy use was reduced by 8%. As a conclusion, the study shows that a sustainable renovation is possible but that there are a number of conflicts between the different dimensions of sustainability.
Dry Separation of Palm Kernel and Palm Shell Using a Novel Five-Stage Winnowing Column System
Authors: Mohamed Halim Rohaya , Ramli Ridzuan , Che Mat Che , Yuen May Choo , Abu Bakar Nasrin , Abdul Hadi Nu’man
Published: April 2016

The conventional separation system for the recovery of palm kernel from its palm shell–kernel mixture using water as process media generates a considerable amount of waste effluent that harms the environment. The aim of this study is to develop a dry separation process for the recovery of palm kernel by using winnowing columns. A commercial system consisting of a series of five winnowing columns was developed and installed at a local palm oil mill. The system parameters, including column height, blower capacity, airflow rate and mesh screen size for shell removal, were studied and optimized to ensure good separation of kernel and shell in the column to enable collection of different sizes of kernel and shell at each column outlet. The performance of the separation process was evaluated in terms of its kernel losses, dirt content and kernel recovery rate. The average kernel losses based on oil palm fresh fruit bunches processed were found to vary from 0.11 to 0.30 wt %, with most of the values obtained being below the targeted limit of 0.30 wt %. The dirt content was in the range 4.56–6.03 wt %, which was mostly below the targeted limit of 5.5 wt %. The kernel recovery rate was in the range 5.69–6.89 wt %, with most of the values achieving the minimum targeted limit of 6.00 wt %. The system operates under completely dry conditions and, therefore, produces zero waste effluent.
Undermining Demand Management with Supply Management: Moral Hazard in Israeli Water Policies
Authors: Katz David
Published: April 2016

Most water managers use a mixture of both supply-side and demand-side policies, seeking to capitalize on the relative advantages of each. However, supply augmentation undertaken to avoid overdrafts can reduce the effectiveness of demand management policies if the two strategies are not carefully integrated. Such a result can stem from a type of moral hazard phenomenon by which consumers, aware of the increases in potential supply, discount the importance of conservation. This is illustrated by the case of Israel. Initial national-scale water-supply projects were followed by over-extraction, which, in turn, compelled implementation of wide-spread demand management measures to reduce consumption. With the recent advent of large-scale desalination in Israel, public perception regarding the importance of conservation has diminished and consumption has increased—this, despite periodic drought conditions and critically low levels of water reserves.
La loi sur l'eau et les milieux aquatiques : entre atermoiements et renoncements
Authors: Drobenko Bernard
Published: April 2016

Après plusieurs années de discussions et d'atermoiements, la loi sur l'eau et les milieux aquatiques (EMA) a été adoptée le 30 décembre 2006. Texte particulièrement attendu en raison, d'une part, de la nécessité de transposer les textes communautaires, notamment la directive-cadre, et, d'autre part, de répondre aux défis quantitatifs et qualitatifs posés par l'eau et les écosystèmes aquatiques, cette nouvelle loi modifie les divers aspects de ce droit. En effet, qu'il s'agisse du cadre d'intervention, des institutions, de la planification, de mesures préventives, notamment l'entretien, de la gestion des services publics, de la gestion des milieux piscicoles, de la police et des sanctions ou de la fiscalité, de nouvelles dispositions sont instaurées. Répondent-elles pour autant aux enjeux du domaine ? Rien n'est moins sûr. Ainsi, parmi les éléments caractéristiques, l'encadrement plus rigoureux de l'utilisation des fonds publics par les agences de l'eau masque mal les renoncements au regard de la fiscalité et, plus particulièrement, de la mise en œuvre du principe pollueur-payeur. Une analyse des principales évolutions permet de situer la portée de cette loi.
La Commission des forêts d'Afrique centrale
Authors: Emmanuel Delphine-Edith
Published: April 2016

La Commission des forêts d'Afrique Centrale (COMIFAC) est une organisation intergouvernementale instituée par le traité conclu à Brazzaville le 5 février 2005. Cette organisation régionale de conservation, dont le siège se trouve à Yaoundé, est dotée de la personnalité juridique internationale et elle bénéficie de l'appui de la communauté internationale.

Elle assure la mise en œuvre et le suivi des politiques de conservation des écosystèmes forestiers, menées aux niveaux sous-régional et national dans le cadre du Plan de Convergence.
L'outil fiscal dans la loi du 30 décembre 2006 sur l'eau et les milieux aquatiques : des avancées en demi-teinte
Authors: Caudal Sylvie
Published: April 2016

La loi du 30 décembre 2006 sur l'eau et les milieux aquatiques comporte un important volet fiscal. Si de nouveaux dispositifs fiscaux sont institués, notamment afin d'inciter à la récupération des eaux pluviales, ce sont principalement les redevances perçues par les agences de l'eau qui font l'objet de ces réformes. Leur diversification, puisqu'elles sont maintenant au nombre de sept, témoigne déjà du renforcement des agences. Quant à leur contenu, les avancées au premier rang desquelles la mise en conformité, si attendue, avec le principe de légalité fiscale ne sauraient masquer le maintien du statu quo sur un certain nombre de questions, dont celle particulièrement sensible des pollutions agricoles.
La problématique juridique du démantèlement des navires
Authors: Guillard David
Published: April 2016

L'affaire de l'ex-Clemenceau a démontré que les instruments juridiques relatifs à la protection de l'environnement étaient inadaptés à l'activité de démantèlement naval. Afin de remédier à ce vide juridique, des directives non contraignantes ont été adoptées par la Conférence des Etats parties à la Convention de Bâle et par l'Organisation maritime internationale (OMI). Elles ne distinguent pas les navires de guerre des navires civils alors qu'ils devraient faire l'objet de traitements différenciés. D'une part, une plate-forme internationale devrait être créée pour assurer le démantèlement des navires de guerre. D'autre part, une convention internationale devrait encadrer le démantèlement des navires civils. Une telle convention est actuellement en cours d'élaboration. Il est à souhaiter qu'elle crée une structure de contrôle intégrée : l'« Agence internationale du démantèlement naval ».
Commentaire du décret n° 2006-608 du 26 mai 2006 relatif aux concessions de plage
Authors: Lacrouts Jérôme
Published: April 2016

The decree n° 2006 of May 26, 2006 on beach concessions was no sooner published in the Journal officiel (May 28) that it was much criticized by the professional sector. In fact, the permanent research of a balance between coastline protection, free access, and beach operating can hardly be satisfactory. Nevertheless, by fixing strict rules about concessions and under concessions of beaches, the decree has the merit to make clear everyone's rights and duties and to bring beach operators a relative security they were lacking until now. It is one of its main accomplishments.
Le manuel sur les droits de l'homme et l'environnement : ce que les Etats membres du Conseil de l'Europe retiennent de la jurisprudence « environnementaliste » de la Cour européenne des droits de l'homme
Authors: Winisdoerffer Yves , Dunn Gérald
Published: April 2016

This note présents the genesis and content of the « Manual on human rights and the environment : principles drawn from the case law of the European Court of Human Rights ». This légal instrument recalls the principles drawn from the case law of the ECHR in matters of environmental protection.
La charte de l'environnement au secours de la fiscalité écologique ?
Authors: Baudu Aurélien
Published: April 2016

Before The Charter of the Environment became the supreme hierarchical reference of our legal System, the environmental tax System had to face constitutional fiscal principles. In several instances, the Constitutional Council had to invalidate legislation on ecological taxes by referring to the principle of the equality of tax payers. Being integrated in the preamble of the Constitution, the Charter of the Environment was hailed by the Doctrine as allowing considerable reinforcement to the basis of eco-taxation. In fact the Constitutional Council was rather silent : so it may be asked whether the Charter of the Environment was really helpful toward ecological taxation.