bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Online Parameter Identification of Ultracapacitor Models Using the Extended Kalman Filter
Authors: Zhang Lei , Wang Zhenpo , Sun Fengchun , Dorrell David
Published: May 2014

Ultracapacitors (UCs) are the focus of increasing attention in electric vehicle and renewable energy system applications due to their excellent performance in terms of power density, efficiency, and lifespan. Modeling and parameterization of UCs play an important role in model-based regulation and management for a reliable and safe operation. In this paper, an equivalent circuit model template composed of a bulk capacitor, a second-order capacitance-resistance network, and a series resistance, is employed to represent the dynamics of UCs. The extended Kalman Filter is then used to recursively estimate the model parameters in the Dynamic Stress Test (DST) on a specially established test rig. The DST loading profile is able to emulate the practical power sinking and sourcing of UCs in electric vehicles. In order to examine the accuracy of the identified model, a Hybrid Pulse Power Characterization test is carried out. The validation result demonstrates that the recursively calibrated model can precisely delineate the dynamic voltage behavior of UCs under the discrepant loading condition, and the online identification approach is thus capable of extracting the model parameters in a credible and robust manner.
Sub-Inhibitory Concentrations of Trans-Cinnamaldehyde Attenuate Virulence in Cronobacter sakazakii in Vitro
Authors: Amalaradjou Mary Anne , Kim Kwang , Venkitanarayanan Kumar
Published: May 2014

Cronobacter sakazakii is a foodborne pathogen, which causes a life-threatening form of meningitis, necrotizing colitis and meningoencephalitis in neonates and children. Epidemiological studies implicate dried infant formula as the principal source of C. sakazakii. In this study, we investigated the efficacy of sub-inhibitory concentrations (SIC) of trans-cinnamaldehyde (TC), an ingredient in cinnamon, for reducing C. sakazakii virulence in vitro using cell culture, microscopy and gene expression assays. TC significantly (p ≤ 0.05) suppressed C. sakazakii adhesion to and invasion of human and rat intestinal epithelial cells, and human brain microvascular endothelial cells. In addition, TC inhibited C. sakazakii survival and replication in human macrophages. We also observed that TC reduced the ability of C. sakazakii to cause cell death in rat intestinal cells, by inhibiting nitric oxide production. Results from gene expression studies revealed that TC significantly downregulated the virulence genes critical for motility, host tissue adhesion and invasion, macrophage survival, and LPS (Lipopolysaccharide) synthesis in C. sakazakii. The efficacy of TC in attenuating these major virulence factors in C. sakazakii underscores its potential use in the prevention and/or control of infection caused by this pathogen.
The Riccati System and a Diffusion-Type Equation
Authors: Suazo Erwin , Suslov Sergei , Vega-Guzmán José
Published: May 2014

We discuss a method of constructing solutions of the initial value problem for diffusion-type equations in terms of solutions of certain Riccati and Ermakov-type systems. A nonautonomous Burgers-type equation is also considered. Examples include, but are not limited to the Fokker-Planck equation in physics, the Black-Scholes equation and the Hull-White model in finance.
Fast “Feast/Famine” Cycles for Studying Microbial Physiology Under Dynamic Conditions: A Case Study with Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Suarez-Mendez Camilo , Sousa Andre , Heijnen Joseph , Wahl Aljoscha
Published: May 2014

Microorganisms are constantly exposed to rapidly changing conditions, under natural as well as industrial production scale environments, especially due to large-scale substrate mixing limitations. In this work, we present an experimental approach based on a dynamic feast/famine regime (400 s) that leads to repetitive cycles with moderate changes in substrate availability in an aerobic glucose cultivation of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. After a few cycles, the feast/famine produced a stable and repetitive pattern with a reproducible metabolic response in time, thus providing a robust platform for studying the microorganism’s physiology under dynamic conditions. We found that the biomass yield was slightly reduced (−5%) under the feast/famine regime, while the averaged substrate and oxygen consumption as well as the carbon dioxide production rates were comparable. The dynamic response of the intracellular metabolites showed specific differences in comparison to other dynamic experiments (especially stimulus-response experiments, SRE). Remarkably, the frequently reported ATP paradox observed in single pulse experiments was not present during the repetitive perturbations applied here. We found that intracellular dynamic accumulations led to an uncoupling of the substrate uptake rate (up to 9-fold change at 20 s.) Moreover, the dynamic profiles of the intracellular metabolites obtained with the feast/famine suggest the presence of regulatory mechanisms that resulted in a delayed response. With the feast famine setup many cellular states can be measured at high frequency given the feature of reproducible cycles. The feast/famine regime is thus a versatile platform for systems biology approaches, which can help us to identify and investigate metabolite regulations under realistic conditions (e.g., large-scale bioreactors or natural environments).
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Novel Urea- and Guanidine-Based Derivatives for the Treatment of Obesity-Related Hepatic Steatosis
Authors: Liang Xiaolin , Pei Heying , Ma Liang , Ran Yan , Chen Jinying , Wang Guangcheng , Chen Lijuan
Published: May 2014

Leptin, the product of the obese gene, is an adipocyte-secreted protein hormone playing a key role in the progression of obesity and hepatic steatosis. In this study, 28 novel (thio)urea and guanidine-based analogues have been synthesized and N-(1-(4-(3-(2-chloroethyl)ureido)benzyl)piperidin-4-yl)-3-(trifluoromethyl) benzamide (7i) was found to be a potent regulator of leptin expression in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Treatment with 7i at a dose of 50 mg/kg/day for 35 days reduced the body weight and liver weight of diet-induced obesity mice by 13.5% and 18.4%, respectively, while also improving the serum levels of triglyceride, total cholesterol, leptin, adiponectin, LDL-c, HDL-c. Hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) and Oil Red O staining also confirmed that 7i ameliorated fat deposition in liver tissue and restricted the size of adipocytes in obesity-related fatty liver disease.
Antiprotozoal Activity of Buxus sempervirens and Activity-Guided Isolation of O-tigloylcyclovirobuxeine-B as the Main Constituent Active against Plasmodium falciparum
Authors: Althaus Julia , Jerz Gerold , Winterhalter Peter , Kaiser Marcel , Brun Reto , Schmidt Thomas
Published: May 2014

Buxus sempervirens L. (European Box, Buxaceae) has been used in ethnomedicine to treat malaria. In the course of our screening of plant extracts for antiprotozoal activity, a CH2Cl2 extract from leaves of B. sempervirens showed selective in vitro activity against Plasmodium falciparum (IC50 = 2.79 vs. 20.2 µg/mL for cytotoxicity against L6 rat cells). Separation of the extract by acid/base extraction into a basic and a neutral non-polar fraction led to a much more active and even more selective fraction with alkaloids while the fraction of non-polar neutral constituents was markedly less active than the crude extract. Thus, the activity of the crude extract could clearly be attributed to alkaloid constituents. Identification of the main triterpene-alkaloids and characterization of the complex pattern of this alkaloid fraction was performed by UHPLC/+ESI-QTOF-MS analyses. ESI-MS/MS target-guided larger scale preparative separation of the alkaloid fraction was performed by ‘spiral coil-countercurrent chromatography’. From the most active subfraction, the cycloartane alkaloid O-tigloylcyclovirobuxeine-B was isolated and evaluated for antiplasmodial activity which yielded an IC50 of 0.455 µg/mL (cytotoxicity against L6 rat cells: IC50 = 9.38 µg/mL). O-tigloylcyclovirobuxeine-B is thus most significantly responsible for the high potency of the crude extract.
Ultraviolet Radiation, Aging and the Skin: Prevention of Damage by Topical cAMP Manipulation
Authors: Amaro-Ortiz Alexandra , Yan Betty , D'Orazio John
Published: May 2014

Being the largest and most visible organ of the body and heavily influenced by environmental factors, skin is ideal to study the long-term effects of aging. Throughout our lifetime, we accumulate damage generated by UV radiation. UV causes inflammation, immune changes, physical changes, impaired wound healing and DNA damage that promotes cellular senescence and carcinogenesis. Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer and among the malignancies of highest increasing incidence over the last several decades. Melanoma incidence is directly related to age, with highest rates in individuals over the age of 55 years, making it a clear age-related disease. In this review, we will focus on UV-induced carcinogenesis and photo aging along with natural protective mechanisms that reduce amount of “realized” solar radiation dose and UV-induced injury. We will focus on the theoretical use of forskolin, a plant-derived pharmacologically active compound to protect the skin against UV injury and prevent aging symptoms by up-regulating melanin production. We will discuss its use as a topically-applied root-derived formulation of the Plectranthus barbatus (Coleus forskolii) plant that grows naturally in Asia and that has long been used in various Aryuvedic teas and therapeutic preparations.
An Integrated Approach To Individualized Optimal Dose Estimation of Medication By Means of Dosing Adjustment Measures And Bi-Digital O-Ring Test
Authors: Lu Dominic P. , Omura Yoshiaki , Lu Winston I.
Published: May 2014

Posology concerns science and system of dosage. Conventionally the dosage systems of measurement are the apothecaries' and metric systems and the dosage calculation for each individual patient has been suggested according to several available methods, namely Clark's Rule, Fried's Rule,
Young's Rule, body surface area, or mg/kg, etc. There are many factors affect the availability of a drug to its site of action in the body, and their relation to the time course of drug action and variation in each drug response with or without the other drugs taken simultaneously. The correct
dosage requires meticulous and accurate calculation. In busy offices, some may feel the dosage calculation is tedious. This article reviews the conventional methods of dosage calculations and the allergy tests, followed by describing a simple way to determine the proper dosage for each patient
by simplifying the Clark's concept based on the body weight and verify the optimum dosage with Bi-Digital O-Ring Test minimize the adverse drug reactions and to increase safety for drug administration.
Unique Aspect of Tibetan Medicine
Authors: Dakpa Tenzing
Published: May 2014

Tibetan medicine is known as the knowledge of healing in the Four Tantras, the main medical text studied by Tibetan doctors. In the 8th century, King Trisong Deutsen (718-785 CE) invited eminent physicians from India, China, Persia, East Turkestan, Mongolia, and Nepal for the
First International Medical Symposium in Samye, Tibet and ordered his personal physician Elder Yuthog Yonten Gonpo (708-833 CE), who lived 125 years, and participated in this conference to summarize. By combining all the information available and presented during this symposium, he compiled
the Four Tantras. He established the Tanadug medical school at Menlung in Kongpo, Southern Tibet in 763 CE, and worked for the propagation of Tibetan medicine. He is considered an emanation of Medicine Buddha, who is a symbol of mental and physical well being. In his left hand, the
Medicine Buddha clasps a begging bowl with long-life nectar, signifying immortality, and in his right, the Chebulic myrobalan (Haritaki), a symbol of good health. Chebulic myrobalan, Belleric myrobalan, and Emblic myrobalan are together called the "3 Fruits" and
are common ingredients in Tibetan medicines. Prof. Omura, Y of NY Medical College evaluated these "3 Fruits" and found that one of them available as a "Haritaki," had the highest normal cell telomere increasing effect by optimal dose, with improvement of circulation all over the body, which
in turn inhibits cancer activity. He considered Tibetan medicine to be the most advanced medicine in the world before the 19th Century with its well-organized systematic method as described by colorful Tibetan medical paintings by Sangye Gyamtso (1653-1705 CE). During a typical diagnosis,
the physician examines the patients' tongue, radial arteries for pulse beats by the index, middle, and ring fingers of both hands and the urine for features like color, vapor, and bubbles, etc.
Enhanced photocatalytic activity of Ag–ZnO hybrid plasmonic nanostructures prepared by a facile wet chemical method
Authors: Kuriakose Sini , Choudhary Vandana , Satpati Biswarup , Mohapatra Satyabrata
Published: May 2014

We report the synthesis of Ag–ZnO hybrid plasmonic nanostructures with enhanced photocatalytic activity by a facile wet-chemical method. The structural, optical, plasmonic and photocatalytic properties of the Ag–ZnO hybrid nanostructures were studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), photoluminescence (PL) and UV–visible absorption spectroscopy. The effects of citrate concentration and Ag nanoparticle loading on the photocatalytic activity of Ag–ZnO hybrid nanostructures towards sun-light driven degradation of methylene blue (MB) have been investigated. Increase in citrate concentration has been found to result in the formation of nanodisk-like structures, due to citrate-assisted oriented attachment of ZnO nanoparticles. The decoration of ZnO nanostructures with Ag nanoparticles resulted in a significant enhancement of the photocatalytic degradation efficiency, which has been found to increase with the extent of Ag nanoparticle loading.
AGROECOSYSTEMS TO DECREASE DIFFUSE NITROGEN POLLUTION IN NORTHERN LITHUANIA
Authors: Masilionytė Laura , Maikštėnienė Stanislava , Velykis Aleksandras , Satkus Antanas
Published: May 2014

The paper presents the research conducted at the Joniškėlis Experimental Station of the Lithuanian Research Centre for Agriculture and Forestry on a clay loam Gleyic Cambisol during the period of 2006–2010. The research investigated the changes of mineral nitrogen in soil growing catch crops during the winter wheat post-harvest period and incorporating their biomass into the soil for green manure. Green manure implications for environmental sustainability were assessed. The studies were carried out in the soil with a low (1.90–2.00%) and moderate (2.10–2.40%) humus content in organic and sustainable cropping systems. The crop rotation, expanded in time and space, consisted of red clover (Trifolium pretense L.) → winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) → field pea (Pisum sativum L.) → spring barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) with undersown red clover. Investigations of mineral nitrogen migration were assessed in the crop rotation sequence: winter wheat + catch crops → field pea. Higher organic matter and nitrogen content in the biomass of catch crops were accumulated when Brassisaceae (white mustard, Sinapis alba L.) was grown in a mixture with buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench.) or as a sole crop, compared with oilseed radish (Raphanus sativus var. Oleiferus Metzg.) grown with the long-day legume plants blue lupine (Lupinus angustifolius L.). Mineral nitrogen concentration in soil depended on soil humus status, cropping system and catch crop characteristics. In late autumn there was significantly higher mineral nitrogen concentration in the soil with moderate humus content, compared with soil with low humus content. The lowest mineral nitrogen concentration in late autumn in the 0–40 cm soil layer and lower risk of leaching into deeper layers was measured using organic cropping systems with catch crops. The highest mineral nitrogen concentration was recorded in the sustainable cropping system when mineral nitrogen fertilizer (N30) was applied for winter wheat straw decomposition. In the organic cropping system, the incorporation of catch crop biomass into soil resulted in higher mineral nitrogen reserves in soil in spring than in the sustainable cropping system, (mineral nitrogen fertilizer (N30) applied for straw decomposition in autumn and no catch crop grown). Applying organic cropping systems with catch crops is an efficient tool to promote environmental sustainability.
Ribavirin and Interferon-α2b as Primary and Preventive Treatment for Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus: A Preliminary Report of Two Cases
Authors: Khalid Mohammed , Rabiah Fahad Al , Khan Basha , Mobeireek Abdullah Al , Butt Taimur S , Mutairy Eid Al
Published: May 2014

Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) is a newly recognized transmissible viral infection with high virulence and case fatality rates for which there is no currently defined primary treatment or prophylaxis. Saudi Arabia has the largest reported number of cases so far. Like severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), MERS is caused by a coronavirus. Combination therapy with interferon-α2b and ribavirin has been used successfully as primary treatment and prophylaxis in SARS. Because of similarities between the two coronaviruses, treatment with ribavarin and interferon-α2b has been suggested as a potential therapy for MERS-CoV. Studies in animal models of MERS-CoV have shown the combination of ribavirin and interferon-α2b to be effective both as primary treatment and prophylaxis. In this report, we describe for the first time use of this combination as a primary treatment for a patient with MERS-CoV infection and as prophylaxis for his spouse and discuss its possible role.
Can Leflunomide Play a Role in Cytomegalovirus Disease Prophylaxis besides its Antirheumatic Effects?
Authors: Lu Cheng-Hsun , Tsai Jia-Huei , Wu Mu-Zon , Yu Chia-Li , Hsieh Song-Chou
Published: May 2014

Leflunomide, a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD), has shown effectiveness in many autoimmune disorders and can suppress cytomegalovirus (CMV) disease in humans. Thus, it is possible for leflunomide to play a role in CMV prophylaxis or preemptive therapy in high-risk patients in addition to its application as a DMARD for autoimmune disorders. We describe two adult patients who developed CMV disease after administration of low-dose leflunomide. One patient was successfully treated with an increasing leflunomide dosage, resulting in a long-term suppression of serum CMV viral load.
Villes marchandes et villes rebelles : préparation aux méga-évènements et reconfiguration des formes d'exercice du pouvoir au Brésil
Authors: Rousseau Juliette
Published: May 2014

Depuis l’annonce de sa sélection en tant que pays hôte de la Coupe du monde de football en 2007, jusqu’au début effectif de celle-ci en juin 2014, le Brésil est passé par un véritable processus de reconfiguration, tant de ses espaces urbains que d’une partie de son cadre législatif et des logiques et formes de pouvoir à l’œuvre. Un processus en forme de rouleau compresseur, dont le passage ne s’est pas fait sans dommages ni résistances, illustrant certaines des nombreuses mutations en cours dans la société brésilienne.
Le progrès dans l'ordre
Authors: Basson Jean-Charles
Published: May 2014

La tenue de la 20 e Coupe du monde de football au Brésil en juin juillet 2014 est présentée comme l’opportunité pour cette nation émergente de renouer avec son ambitieux projet moderniste en affichant la réussite de son programme de rénovation et de construction de grandes enceintes sportives destinées à accueillir les matchs de la compétition internationale. Toutefois, la magnificence architecturale et la vaste entreprise d’intervention urbaine qui l’accompagne ont leur revers : inspirés des principes de la prévention situationnelle, les techniques sollicitées et les dispositifs mis en place sont davantage mobilisés pour garantir des impératifs sécuritaires drastiques que pour célébrer, dans la liesse, la fête «  do futebol  ».
Pas vus, pas pris : la médicalisation de la performance dans le football
Authors: Le Blanc Noé
Published: May 2014

Le dopage généralisé qui touche le foot fait l’objet d’un déni qui l’est tout autant. Reconnaître l’étendue du phénomène serait sans doute admettre trop ouvertement que l’important dans le football n’est pas de participer, mais de gagner. Mouvements a rencontré Jean-Pierre de Mondenard 1 , médecin spécialisé dans le sport, afin d’apporter à ce dossier un point de vue rarement mis en lumière : l’importance du dopage dans le football.
Visibilité et désamorçage des antagonismes sociaux dans des équipes féminines de football
Authors: Martin Camille
Published: May 2014

La pratique du football féminin en France est l’occasion de contacts répétés et formellement égalitaires entre des joueuses d’origines sociales très différentes. Les divergences dans leurs manières d’appréhender l’activité sportive et de se comporter sont telles que leur commune passion pour le ballon rond ne saurait préserver les équipes des rapports conflictuels. Au contraire comme le montre Camille Martin, les rapports entre personnes socialement très distantes multiplient les occasions de développement de tensions, lesquelles reflètent en fait les antagonismes qui traversent la société. Toutefois, des contacts répétés, orientés autour d’objectifs communs mènent à des rapprochements entre joueuses et à une dédramatisation par l’humour des conflits sociaux. Mais ces rapprochements exigent souvent des joueuses les plus dominées qu’elles adaptent leur comportement à la culture plus légitime de leurs partenaires.
IL-2 Phosphorylates STAT5 To Drive IFN-γ Production and Activation of Human Dendritic Cells
Authors: Herr Florence , Lemoine Roxane , Gouilleux Fabrice , Meley Daniel , Kazma Ihab , Heraud Audrey , Velge-Roussel Florence , Baron Christophe , Lebranchu Yvon
Published: May 2014

Human dendritic cells (hDCs) produce IL-2 and express IL-2R α-chain (CD25), but the role of IL-2 in DC functions is not well defined. A recent study suggested that the main function of CD25 on hDCs was to transpresent IL-2 to activate T lymphocytes. Our results demonstrate the expression of the three chains of the IL-2R on hDCs and that IL-2 induces STAT5 phosphorylation. Interestingly, use of inhibitors of p-STAT5 revealed that IL-2 increases LPS-induced IFN-γ through STAT5 phosphorylation. Finally, we report that IL-2 increases the ability of hDCs to activate helpless CD8+ T cells, most likely because of IL-2–triggered IFN-γ synthesis, as we previously described. For the first time, to our knowledge, we disclose that IL-2 induces monocyte-derived hDC's functional maturation and activation through IL-2R binding. Interestingly, our study suggests a direct effect of anti-CD25 mAbs on hDCs that may contribute to their clinical efficacy.
The Longevity of Memory CD8 T Cell Responses after Repetitive Antigen Stimulations
Authors: Rai Deepa , Martin Matthew D. , Badovinac Vladimir P.
Published: May 2014

In experimental models in which the Ag-stimulation history of memory CD8 T cell populations was clearly defined (adoptive transfer of a known number of TCR-transgenic memory CD8 T cells), all facets of the ensuing CD8 T cell responses, including proliferative expansion, duration and extent of contraction, diversification of memory CD8 T cell transcriptomes, and life-long survival, were dependent on the number of prior Ag encounters. However, the extent to which sequential adoptive-transfer models reflect the physiological scenario in which memory CD8 T cells are generated by repetitive Ag challenges of individual hosts (no adoptive transfer involved) is not known. Direct comparison of endogenous memory CD8 T cell responses generated in repetitively infected hosts revealed that recurrent homologous boosting was required to preserve the numbers and increase the phenotypic and functional complexity of the developing memory CD8 T cell pool. Although life-long survival of the memory CD8 T cells was not impacted, phenotype (i.e., upregulation of CD62L) and function (i.e., homeostatic turnover, Ag-stimulated IL-2 production) of repeatedly stimulated memory CD8 T cells were dependent on time after last Ag encounter. Therefore, repetitive Ag challenges of individual hosts can substantially influence the numerical and functional attributes of polyclonal memory CD8 T cells, a notion with important implications for the design of future vaccination strategies aimed at increasing the number of protective memory CD8 T cells.
IFN Priming Is Necessary but Not Sufficient To Turn on a Migratory Dendritic Cell Program in Lupus Monocytes
Authors: Rodriguez-Pla Alicia , Patel Pinakeen , Maecker Holden T. , Rossello-Urgell Jose , Baldwin Nicole , Bennett Lynda , Cantrell Victoria , Baisch Jeanine , Punaro Marilynn , Gotte Alisa , Nassi Lorien , Wright Tracey , Palucka Anna Karolina , Banchereau Jacques , Pascual Virginia
Published: May 2014

Blood monocytes from children with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) behave similar to dendritic cells (DCs), and SLE serum induces healthy monocytes to differentiate into DCs in a type I IFN–dependent manner. In this study, we found that these monocytes display significant transcriptional changes, including a prominent IFN signature, compared with healthy controls. Few of those changes, however, explain DC function. Exposure to allogeneic T cells in vitro reprograms SLE monocytes to acquire DC phenotype and function, and this correlates with both IFN-inducible (IP10) and proinflammatory cytokine (IL-1β and IL6) expression. Furthermore, we found that both IFN and SLE serum induce the upregulation of CCR7 transcription in these cells. CCR7 protein expression, however, requires a second signal provided by TLR agonists such as LPS. Thus, SLE serum “primes” a subset of monocytes to readily (<24 h) respond to TLR agonists and acquire migratory DC properties. Our findings might explain how microbial infections exacerbate lupus.
Spectrum and Mechanisms of Inflammasome Activation by Chitosan
Authors: Bueter Chelsea L. , Lee Chrono K. , Wang Jennifer P. , Ostroff Gary R. , Specht Charles A. , Levitz Stuart M.
Published: May 2014

Chitosan, the deacetylated derivative of chitin, can be found in the cell wall of some fungi and is used in translational applications. We have shown that highly purified preparations of chitosan, but not chitin, activate the NOD-like receptor family, pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome in primed mouse bone marrow–derived macrophages (BMMΦ), inducing a robust IL-1β response. In this article, we further define specific cell types that are activated and delineate mechanisms of activation. BMMΦ differentiated to promote a classically activated (M1) phenotype released more IL-1β in response to chitosan than intermediate or alternatively activated macrophages (M2). Chitosan, but not chitin, induced a robust IL-1β response in mouse dendritic cells, peritoneal macrophages, and human PBMCs. Three mechanisms for NLRP3 inflammasome activation may contribute: K+ efflux, reactive oxygen species, and lysosomal destabilization. The contributions of these mechanisms were tested using a K+ efflux inhibitor, high extracellular potassium, a mitochondrial reactive oxygen species inhibitor, lysosomal acidification inhibitors, and a cathepsin B inhibitor. These studies revealed that each of these pathways participated in optimal NLRP3 inflammasome activation by chitosan. Finally, neither chitosan nor chitin stimulated significant release from unprimed BMMΦ of any of 22 cytokines and chemokines assayed. This study has the following conclusions: 1) chitosan, but not chitin, stimulates IL-1β release from multiple murine and human cell types; 2) multiple nonredundant mechanisms appear to participate in inflammasome activation by chitosan; and 3) chitin and chitosan are relatively weak stimulators of inflammatory mediators from unprimed BMMΦ. These data have implications for understanding the nature of the immune response to microbes and biomaterials that contain chitin and chitosan.
Cutting Edge: MMP-9 Inhibits IL-23p19 Expression in Dendritic Cells by Targeting Membrane Stem Cell Factor Affecting Lung IL-17 Response
Authors: Oriss Timothy B. , Krishnamoorthy Nandini , Raundhal Mahesh , Morse Christina , Chakraborty Krishnendu , Khare Anupriya , Huff Rachael , Ray Prabir , Ray Anuradha
Published: May 2014

We reported previously that c-kit ligation by membrane-bound stem cell factor (mSCF) boosts IL-6 production in dendritic cells (DCs) and a Th17-immune response. However, Th17 establishment also requires heterodimeric IL-23, but the mechanisms that regulate IL-23 gene expression in DCs are not fully understood. We show that IL-23p19 gene expression in lung DCs is dependent on mSCF, which is regulated by the metalloproteinase MMP-9. Th1-inducing conditions enhanced MMP-9 activity, causing cleavage of mSCF, whereas the opposite was true for Th17-promoting conditions. In MMP-9−/− mice, a Th1-inducing condition could maintain mSCF and enhance IL-23p19 in DCs, promoting IL-17–producing CD4+ T cells in the lung. Conversely, mSCF cleavage from bone marrow DCs in vitro by rMMP-9 led to reduced IL-23p19 expression under Th17-inducing conditions, with dampening of intracellular AKT phosphorylation. Collectively, these results show that the c-kit/mSCF/MMP-9 axis regulates IL-23 gene expression in DCs to control IL-17 production in the lung.
Nα-Terminal Acetylation for T Cell Recognition: Molecular Basis of MHC Class I–Restricted Nα-Acetylpeptide Presentation
Authors: Sun Mingwei , Liu Jun , Qi Jianxun , Tefsen Boris , Shi Yi , Yan Jinghua , Gao George F.
Published: May 2014

As one of the most common posttranslational modifications (PTMs) of eukaryotic proteins, Nα-terminal acetylation (Nt-acetylation) generates a class of Nα-acetylpeptides that are known to be presented by MHC class I at the cell surface. Although such PTM plays a pivotal role in adjusting proteolysis, the molecular basis for the presentation and T cell recognition of Nα-acetylpeptides remains largely unknown. In this study, we determined a high-resolution crystallographic structure of HLA (HLA)-B*3901 complexed with an Nα-acetylpeptide derived from natural cellular processing, also in comparison with the unmodified-peptide complex. Unlike the α-amino–free P1 residues of unmodified peptide, of which the α-amino group inserts into pocket A of the Ag-binding groove, the Nα-linked acetyl of the acetylated P1-Ser protrudes out of the groove for T cell recognition. Moreover, the Nt-acetylation not only alters the conformation of the peptide but also switches the residues in the α1-helix of HLA-B*3901, which may impact the T cell engagement. The thermostability measurements of complexes between Nα-acetylpeptides and a series of MHC class I molecules derived from different species reveal reduced stability. Our findings provide the insight into the mode of Nα-acetylpeptide–specific presentation by classical MHC class I molecules and shed light on the potential of acetylepitope-based immune intervene and vaccine development.
Some theoretical perspectives of co-creation and co-production of value by customers
Authors: Terblanche Nic S.
Published: May 2014

Orientation: The initial introduction of co-production and co-creation in the marketing literature in all likelihood was in 1986 when Kotler used the term ‘prosumer’ (initially coined by Toffler in 1980) to refer to customers who produce some of the goods and services they consume. Kotler also noted an increase in people’s propensity to act as a prosumer of some of the goods and services they bought.Motivation for the study: No real attention was paid to the concepts of co-production and co-creation by marketing academics after the initial introduction of the concepts. Only after the year 2000 did co-production and co-creation begin to receive the attention of marketing academics, with a substantial increase in publications over the past few years.Contribution/value-add: The objective of this article was to present an overview of the origin and development of co-creation and co-production in marketing, to draw a distinction between the two concepts and to address the implications of these concepts for various decision areas in marketing.
Naturopathic Practice at North American Academic Institutions: Description of 300,483 Visits and Comparison to Conventional Primary Care
Authors: Chamberlin Steven R. , Oberg Erica , Hanes Douglas A. , Calabrese Carlo
Published: May 2014

This study collected patient visit data to explore similarities and differences between conventional and naturopathic primary care (PC). Administrative data from practice management software systems from the main teaching clinics of four of the eight accredited North American naturopathic academic institutions were abstracted into an integrated database containing five years (2006–2010) of visit, patient, laboratory, and prescribing data. Descriptive analyses of healthcare services were compared to the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey (NAMCS). Over the five-year period, 300,483 patient visits to naturopathic doctors occurred at clinics, excluding visits at clinics operated by the schools in community settings. Patients were 69% female; mean age was 39 (SE 0.09). Older adults (>65) comprised 9% of the population and children (<16) comprised 8%. Comparing academic naturopathic clinics to national conventional PC (NAMCS), we found more patients paid out of pocket at naturopathic clinics (50 vs. 4%) and naturopathic clinics more frequently offered discounted care (26 vs. 0.3%). There was a 44% overlap in the most frequent 25 diagnoses for PC at conventional community clinics. Overall, these data suggest substantial similarities in care offered by academic naturopathic clinics, at which most Naturopathic Doctor (ND) students are trained, and by conventional PC practices.
Model simulations of the modulating effect of the snow cover in a rain on snow event
Authors: Wever N. , Jonas T. , Fierz C. , Lehning M.
Published: May 2014

Abstract. In October 2011, the Swiss Alps encountered a marked rain on snow event when a large snowfall on 8 and 9 October was followed by intense rain on the 10th. This resulted in severe flooding in some parts of Switzerland. Model simulations were carried out for 14 meteorological stations in two regions of the Swiss Alps using the detailed physically-based snowpack model SNOWPACK. The results show that the snow cover has a strong modulating effect on the incoming rainfall signal on the sub-daily time scales. The snowpack runoff dynamics appears to be strongly dependent on the snow depth at the onset of the rain. Deeper snow covers have more storage potential and can absorb all rain and meltwater in the first hours, whereas the snowpack runoff from shallow snow covers reacts much quicker. It has been found that after about 4–6 h, the snowpack produced runoff and after about 11–13 h, total snowpack runoff becomes higher than total rainfall as a result of additional snow melt. These values are strongly dependent on the snow height at the onset of rainfall as well as precipitation and melt rates. An ensemble model study was carried out, in which meteorological forcing and rainfall from other stations were used for repeated simulations at a specific station. Using regression analysis, the individual contributions of rainfall, snow melt and the storage could be quantified. It was found that once the snowpack is producing runoff, deep snow covers produce more runoff than shallow ones. This could be associated with a higher contribution of the storage term. This term represents the recession curve from the liquid water storage and snowpack settling. In the event under study, snow melt in deep snow covers also turned out to be higher than in the shallow ones, although this is rather accidental. Our results show the dual nature of snow covers in rain on snow events. Snow covers initially absorb important amounts of rain water, but once meltwater is released by the snow cover, the snowpack runoff rates strongly exceed precipitation rates due to snow melt and a contribution from the liquid water storage. This effect is stronger in deeper snow covers than in shallow ones and is probably more pronounced in rain on snow events following closely after a snowfall than for rain on snow events on spring snow. These results are specifically valid for the point scale simulations performed in this study even though field experiments are lacking to further support the model simulations. Finally, the response of catchments can be different from the response at the point scale.
Support to Aviation Control Service (SACS): an online service for near-real-time satellite monitoring of volcanic plumes
Authors: Brenot H. , Theys N. , Clarisse L. , van Geffen J. , van Gent J. , Van Roozendael M. , van der A R. , Hurtmans D. , Coheur P.-F. , Clerbaux C. , Valks P. , Hedelt P. , Prata F. , Rasson O. , Sievers K. , Zehner C.
Published: May 2014

Abstract. Volcanic eruptions emit plumes of ash and gases into the atmosphere, potentially at very high altitudes. Ash-rich plumes are hazardous for airplanes as ash is very abrasive and easily melts inside their engines. With more than 50 active volcanoes per year and the ever-increasing number of commercial flights, the safety of airplanes is a real concern. Satellite measurements are ideal for monitoring global volcanic activity and, in combination with atmospheric dispersion models, to track and forecast volcanic plumes. Here we present the Support to Aviation Control Service (SACS, http://sacs.aeronomie.be), which is a free online service initiated by the European Space Agency (ESA) for the near-real-time (NRT) satellite monitoring of volcanic plumes of SO2 and ash. It combines data from three ultraviolet (UV)-visible and three infrared (IR) spectrometers. The UV-vis sensors are the Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI) and the Global Ozone Monitoring Experiment-2 (GOME-2) on-board the two polar orbiting meteorological satellites (MetOp-A & MetOp-B) operated by the European Organisation for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (EUMETSAT). The IR sensors are the Atmospheric InfraRed Sounder (AIRS) and the Infrared Atmospheric Sounding Interferometer (IASI) on-board MetOp-A & MetOp-B. This new multi-sensor warning system of volcanic emissions is based on the selective detection of SO2 and ash. This system is optimised to avoid false alerts while at the same time limiting the number of notifications in case of large plumes. A successful rate with more than 95% of notifications corresponding to true volcanic activity is obtained by the SACS system.
Impact of Interest Rate Changes on the Profitability of four Major Commercial Banks in Pakistan
Authors: Khan Waseem Ahmad , Sattar Abdul
Published: May 2014

The core objective of this project is to analyze the impact of interest rates changes on the profitability of commercial banks being operated in Pakistan by examining the financial statements of four major banks during 2008 to 2012. Like the efficiency of banking sector is considered most important for economic growth, monetary policy implementation and macro-economic stability. From the past few years, interest spread of banking sector of Pakistan is rising. As a result variations in the interest rate depress the savings and investment and on the other hand it increases the efficiency of banks’ lending. In this paper interest rate is an independent variable and bank profitability is a dependent variable. To examine the impact of interest rate changes on the profitability of commercial banks in Pakistan, Pearson correlation method is used in this study. As a result it is found that there is strong and positive correlation between interest rate and commercial banks’ profitability. It means if the value of interest rate is increases/decreases then as result value of banks’ profitability will also increases/decreases.
Beyond the Marginalization Thesis: An Examination of the Motivations of Informal Entrepreneurs in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Adom Kwame
Published: May 2014

For years, informal entrepreneurs were largely classified as ‘marginalized’ and were perceived to be conducting marginalized ventures for survival. However, this perception gradually changed between the middle of the twentieth century and the start of the new millennium. In analysing the motivations of informal entrepreneurs from Ghana, based on face-to-face interviews with 150 respondents, the key findings were that the motivations of the entrepreneurs transcended the marginalization thesis and that informal entrepreneurs were often motivated not by necessity or opportunity, but rather by an amalgamation of the two. Although women constitute the majority of the necessity-driven informal entrepreneurs, in time some of them become opportunity-driven entrepreneurs. The implication is that there is a need for a shift from necessity–opportunity dualism to a unified approach, which depicts the motivations of informal entrepreneurs in more detail, and for broader research in other economic landscapes.
Organizational Renewal in Family Firms
Authors: Dodd Sarah Drakopoulou , Theoharakis Vasilis , Bisignano Angelo
Published: May 2014

The authors investigate whether organizational renewal impacts on the performance of family firms and identify aspects of ‘familiness’ acting as facilitators or inhibitors of organizational renewal. A survey instrument captured data on relevant family-related characteristics, organizational renewal and firm performance from the CEOs of 140 family firms in Greece. Regression analysis was used to test hypotheses. Strong evidence was found that organizational renewal impacts positively on the profit growth of family firms. Where CEOs had a strong growth aspiration for the future and were firm founders, and where succession planning was taking place, renewal was more likely to be enacted. Efforts are focused on creating a business that will thrive in the future, and not on curating an organizational heirloom shaped and constrained by the past. Their strong future focus liberates these family firms from possible cross-generational path dependency, allowing the special resources of their family's business to act instead as a springboard for ongoing organizational renewal. Conversely, those family firms with a high level of family altruism indicated by extensive kin employment seem to be more likely to be destined for stagnation than stewardship, as they promote (past-focused) historical family sentiment and tradition. The dangers of cross-generational path dependency indeed seem pronounced in such past-focused firms.
Fool's Gold? The Value of Business Awards to Small Businesses
Authors: Jones Paul , Scherle Joanne , Pickernell David , Packham Gary , Skinner Heather , Peisl Tom
Published: May 2014

This study explores the value and impact that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) derive from winning business awards. Value and impact are explored in terms of enhanced profitability and performance, network development, enterprise profile and brand identity. This study employs a case study methodology with 10 SMEs drawn from a major business awards competition. Key staff were interviewed in these SMEs to explore the impact of winning the business award on the internal and external business environments. Additional organizational documentation and evidence were also collected from each SME. The results indicate both short-term and long-term impacts. In the short term, enterprises benefited in terms of enhanced brand identity in their business network and community. This resulted in enhanced sales revenue and enterprise profile. Moreover, internally, winning an award acted as a motivator for enterprise employees, enhancing their productivity and attitudes towards the business. In the longer term, these factors became less apparent, but the majority of respondents continued to exploit their business award for ongoing strategic advantage.
What Can We Tell from These Temporal Measures? Temporal Measures as Indices of Oral Proficiency
Authors: Wang Binhong
Published: May 2014

Oral English teaching has long been a weak link in the science universities in China, let alone the research on oral English test by quantitative method. Therefore, OEPT in the U.S. sheds enlightening light on the spoken English teaching and researching in China. OEPT (Oral English Proficiency Test) is a spoken English test aimed to assess the oral English proficiency of prospective international teaching assistants in the U.S. In the past few years, temporal variables as indices of oral English proficiency to analyze examinees’ oral speech were explored and studied at a large Mid-western American university. Based on the descriptive statistics of the selected temporal variables, this paper aims to give an interpretation of the figures obtained by OEPT data in order to get enlightening implications on spoken English teaching in China.
Linking the Big Five personality domains to Organizational citizenship behavior
Authors: Kumar Kuldeep , Bakhshi Arti , Rani Ekta
Published: May 2014

The aim of the present study is to explore the linkages between personality and organization citizenship behavior (OCB) using a field sample. Big-Five personality model was used to explore the relationship between personality and OCB. The participants in the study were 187 doctors working in medical college in north India.  Four of the big five factors except Neuroticism were positively correlated with OCB. Hierarchical regression analysis on data after controlling for demographic variables indicated that, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness and Neuroticism were valid predictors for OCB. However, Openness to experience showed no significant relationship with overall measure of OCB. Theoretical and practical implications of the study are discussed. Keywords: Personality, OCB, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness, Neuroticism, India
What is Cross-cultural Research?
Authors: ILESANMI OLUWATOYIN OLATUNDUN
Published: May 2014

ByILESANMI Oluwatoyin Olatundun[1]Clinical Psychologist, PN & M, Trained Genetic Counsellor AbstractThis paper discusses the major principles and methods of cross-cultural research, particularly how to test hypotheses on worldwide samples of cultures. The major purpose of this presentation is to encourage an increase in cross-cultural research by showing that it is not hard to do.[1] Ph.D; USIP Certificate in Conflict Analysis Behavioural Study Department, College of Management Sciences, Redeemer’s University, Mowe, Ogun State, Nigeria. E-mail: toytundun@yahoo.com
The VISHMOD Methodology with Hydrochemical Modeling in Intermountain (Karstic) Aquifers: Case of the Sierra Madre Oriental, Mexico
Authors: Moran-Ramirez Janete , Ramos-Leal Jose Alfredo
Published: May 2014

Hydrogeochemistry can be studied qualitatively using graphics such as scatter plots and Piper, Durov, and Schoeller diagrams, among others, and quantitatively by applying mass balance mixing models. The VISHMOD methodology (Virtual Samples in Hydrochemical Modeling) combines these two forms of hydrogeochemical characterizations. It is performed by applying hydrogeochemical modeling to virtual samples. This method makes standardization and control possible in order to demonstrate the extent to which a model is able to reproduce field measurements. Therefore, hydrogeochemical models of hydrogeological systems must be calibrated. This methodology was applied to carbonate and homogeneous media in the Sierra Madre Oriental in Mexico. Using the VISHMOD methodology in this region resulted in the classification of the water type as calcium bicarbonate (Ca-HCO3), representing a ternary mixture in which 45.5% was associated with local flow, 38.5% to intermediate flow and 16.5% to water-rock interaction. The main mineral phases were saturated calcite and sub-saturated dolomite, both from limestone contained in the Tamaulipas Formation.