bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fractional Flow Reserve for Intermediate Coronary Artery Stenosis in Nepal
Authors: Bhattarai Mahesh , Maskey Arun , Sah Ram Kishore , Nepal Himamshu , Pandey Rabindra , Tamrakar Rikesh , Agrawal Amit , Malla Rabi , Rajbhandari Rajib , Adhikari Chandra Mani , Bhatta Yadav Kumar Dev
Published: September 2015

Background and Aims: : Coronary angiogram detects anatomical lesion, however, has limited ability to assess physiological significance. Fractional flow reserve is used to determine functional significance of stenosis and is measured by the ratio of mean distal coronary pressure to mean aortic pressure during maximum hyperemia. Recently, fractional flow reserve was started in Nepal. This study intends to explore the extent of determination of hemodynamic significance of intermediate coronary stenosis by fractional flow reserve, thereby guiding revascularization.Methods: Consecutive patients with intermediate lesion undergoing fractional flow reserve from July 2014 to March 2015 were included, if fractional flow reserve ?0.80 then considered to be significant and need for revascularization determined. The study subjects were divided into two groups, one having physiologically significant stenosis and another with physiologically non significant lesion and followed up to three months.Results: Total forty four patients had fractional flow reserve done in fifty eight intermediate coronary artery lesions. The age ranged from 33 to 78 with the mean age of 58.25}10.08 years. Majority of them (75%) were male. Left anterior descending artery was commonest in 37(63.8%), followed by left circumflex 13(22.4%), then right coronary artery in 8(13.8%) target lesions. None of the patient had death, myocardial infarction or repeat revascularization during follow up. Out of 58 intermediate lesions assessed, 17(29.31%) had significant fractional flow reserve value, whereas 41(70.69%) had physiologically non significant lesion.Conclusion: Around one third (29.31%) of intermediate coronary artery stenosis are functionally significant by fractional flow reserve in the context of Nepal, thus it could be useful guide for optimal revascularization.Nepalese Heart Journal 2015;12(2):69-72
Tales of IT Consultants: Understanding Psychological Contract Maintenance and Employment Termination
Authors: Kautz Karlheinz , Bjerknes Gro
Published: September 2015

This research investigates the question why dedicated Information Technology (IT) consultants quit their jobs and voluntarily terminate their employment contracts. A research approach inspired by grounded theory is used and as a theoretical contribution a novel, cyclic process model for the maintenance or neglect of the psychological contract between employees and employers is derived from the empirical data. The model is subsequently substantiated through the integration of various concepts and theories identified in the literature, combining the concept of psychological contract with social influence theory and a theory of the relation between intrinsic motivation and management practices. The research is based on a revelatory case study which provides tales from four IT consultants in an IT consulting firm. The model helps to explain IT consultants’ behaviour of voluntarily terminating their employment contracts. Additionally, it should assist managers in IT consulting firms to avoid practices which might lead to their employees’ loss of intrinsic motivation and result in the loss of valuable employees for the organization.
Illustrated Media, the Built Environment and Identity Politics in Fin-de-siècle Catalonia: Printing Images, Making the Nation
Authors: Mallart Lucila
Published: September 2015

This article explores the role of visuality in the identity politics of fin-de-siècle Catalonia. It engages with the recent reevaluation of the visual, both as a source for the history of modern nation-building, and as a constitutive element in the emergence of civic identities in the liberal urban environment. In doing so, it offers a reading of the mutually constitutive relationship of the built environment and the print media in late-nineteenth century Catalonia, and explores the role of this relation as the mechanism by which the so-called ‘imagined communities’ come to exist. Engaging with debates on urban planning and educational policies, it challenges established views on the interplay between tradition and modernity in modern nation-building, and reveals long-term connections between late-nineteenth-century imaginaries and early-twentieth-century beliefs and practices.
Intensity Correlation Analysis on Blue-Violet FemtosecondPulses from a Dispersion-Compensated GaInN Mode-LockedSemiconductor Laser Diode
Authors: Kono Shunsuke , Koda Rintaro , Watanabe Hideki , Fuutagawa Noriyuki , Narui Hironobu
Published: September 2015

We investigated the spectral and temporal characteristics of blue-violetfemtosecond optical pulses generated by a passively mode-locked GaInN laser diode ina dispersion-compensated external cavity. The output optical pulses at 400 nm wereanalyzed in detail by intensity auto- and cross-correlation measurements using secondharmonic generation on the surface of a β-BaB2O4 crystal. The obtained results clarifiedwavelength-dependent chirp characteristics of the optical pulses. The analysis suggestedthat a large frequency shift due to saturation in the saturable absorber and gain sectionsplayed an important role in the generation of femtosecond optical pulses.
Design of a Stability Augmentation System for an Unmanned Helicopter Based on Adaptive Control Techniques
Authors: Sheng Shouzhao , Sun Chenwu
Published: September 2015

The task of control of unmanned helicopters is rather complicated in the presence of parametric uncertainties and measurement noises. This paper presents an adaptive model feedback control algorithm for an unmanned helicopter stability augmentation system. The proposed algorithm can achieve a guaranteed model reference tracking performance and speed up the convergence rates of adjustable parameters, even when the plant parameters vary rapidly. Moreover, the model feedback strategy in the algorithm further contributes to the improvement in the control quality of the stability augmentation system in the case of low signal to noise ratios, mainly because the model feedback path is noise free. The effectiveness and superiority of the proposed algorithm are demonstrated through a series of tests.
The Impact of Photobleaching on Microarray Analysis
Authors: Von der Haar Marcel , Preuß John-Alexander , Von der Haar Kathrin , Lindner Patrick , Scheper Thomas , Stahl Frank
Published: September 2015

DNA-Microarrays have become a potent technology for high-throughput analysis of genetic regulation. However, the wide dynamic range of signal intensities of fluorophore-based microarrays exceeds the dynamic range of a single array scan by far, thus limiting the key benefit of microarray technology: parallelization. The implementation of multi-scan techniques represents a promising approach to overcome these limitations. These techniques are, in turn, limited by the fluorophores’ susceptibility to photobleaching when exposed to the scanner’s laser light. In this paper the photobleaching characteristics of cyanine-3 and cyanine-5 as part of solid state DNA microarrays are studied. The effects of initial fluorophore intensity as well as laser scanner dependent variables such as the photomultiplier tube’s voltage on bleaching and imaging are investigated. The resulting data is used to develop a model capable of simulating the expected degree of signal intensity reduction caused by photobleaching for each fluorophore individually, allowing for the removal of photobleaching-induced, systematic bias in multi-scan procedures. Single-scan applications also benefit as they rely on pre-scans to determine the optimal scanner settings. These findings constitute a step towards standardization of microarray experiments and analysis and may help to increase the lab-to-lab comparability of microarray experiment results.
Smart Textile Based on Fiber Bragg Grating Sensors for Respiratory Monitoring: Design and Preliminary Trials
Authors: Ciocchetti Marco , Massaroni Carlo , Saccomandi Paola , Caponero Michele , Polimadei Andrea , Formica Domenico , Schena Emiliano
Published: September 2015

Continuous respiratory monitoring is important to assess adequate ventilation. We present a fiber optic-based smart textile for respiratory monitoring able to work during Magnetic Resonance (MR) examinations. The system is based on the conversion of chest wall movements into strain of two fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensors, placed on the upper thorax (UT). FBGs are glued on the textile by an adhesive silicon rubber. To increase the system sensitivity, the FBGs positioning was led by preliminary experiments performed using an optoelectronic system: FBGs placed on the chest surface experienced the largest strain during breathing. System performances, in terms of respiratory period (TR), duration of inspiratory (TI) and expiratory (TE) phases, as well as left and right UT volumes, were assessed on four healthy volunteers. The comparison of results obtained by the proposed system and an optoelectronic plethysmography highlights the high accuracy in the estimation of TR, TI, and TE: Bland-Altman analysis shows mean of difference values lower than 0.045 s, 0.33 s, and 0.35 s for TR, TI, and TE, respectively. The mean difference of UT volumes between the two systems is about 8.3%. The promising results foster further development of the system to allow routine use during MR examinations.Continuous respiratory monitoring is important to assess adequate ventilation. We present a fiber optic-based smart textile for respiratory monitoring able to work during Magnetic Resonance (MR) examinations. The system is based on the conversion of chest wall movements into strain of two fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensors, placed on the upper thorax (UT). FBGs are glued on the textile by an adhesive silicon rubber. To increase the system sensitivity, the FBGs positioning was led by preliminary experiments performed using an optoelectronic system: FBGs placed on the chest surface experienced the largest strain during breathing. System performances, in terms of respiratory period (TR), duration of inspiratory (TI) and expiratory (TE) phases, as well as left and right UT volumes, were assessed on four healthy volunteers. The comparison of results obtained by the proposed system and an optoelectronic plethysmography highlights the high accuracy in the estimation of TR, TI, and TE: Bland-Altman analysis shows mean of difference values lower than 0.045 s, 0.33 s, and 0.35 s for TR, TI, and TE, respectively. The mean difference of UT volumes between the two systems is about 8.3%. The promising results foster further development of the system to allow routine use during MR examinations.
Human Body Exergy Balance: Numerical Analysis of an Indoor Thermal Environment of a Passive Wooden Room in Summer
Authors: Isawa Koichi
Published: September 2015

To obtain a basic understanding of the resultant changes in the human body exergy balance (input, consumption, storage, and output) accompanying outdoor air temperature fluctuations, a “human body system and a built environmental system” coupled with numerical analysis was conducted. The built environmental system assumed a wooden room equipped with passive cooling strategies, such as thermal insulation and solar shading devices. It was found that in the daytime, the cool radiation exergy emitted by surrounding surfaces, such as walls increased the rate of human body exergy consumption, whereas the warm radiant exergy emitted by the surrounding surfaces at night decreased the rate of human body exergy consumption. The results suggested that the rates and proportions of the different components in the exergy balance equation (exergy input, consumption, storage, and output) vary according to the outdoor temperature and humidity conditions.
Bismuth Molybdate Catalysts Prepared by Mild Hydrothermal Synthesis: Influence of pH on the Selective Oxidation of Propylene
Authors: Schuh Kirsten , Kleist Wolfgang , Høj Martin , Trouillet Vanessa , Beato Pablo , Jensen Anker , Grunwaldt Jan-Dierk
Published: September 2015

A series of bismuth molybdate catalysts with relatively high surface area was prepared via mild hydrothermal synthesis. Variation of the pH value and Bi/Mo ratio during the synthesis allowed tuning of the crystalline Bi-Mo oxide phases, as determined by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman spectroscopy. The pH value during synthesis had a strong influence on the catalytic performance. Synthesis using a Bi/Mo ratio of 1/1 at pH ≥ 6 resulted in γ-Bi2MoO6, which exhibited a better catalytic performance than phase mixtures obtained at lower pH values. However, a significantly lower catalytic activity was observed at pH = 9 due to the low specific surface area. γ-Bi2MoO6 synthesized with Bi/Mo = 1/1 at pH = 6 and 7 exhibited relatively high surface areas and the best catalytic performance. All samples prepared with Bi/Mo = 1/1, except samples synthesized at pH = 1 and 9, showed better catalytic performance than samples synthesized with Bi/Mo = 2/3 at pH = 4 and 9 and γ-Bi2MoO6 synthesized by co-precipitation at pH = 7. At temperatures above 440 °C, the catalytic activity of the hydrothermally synthesized bismuth molybdates started to decrease due to sintering and loss of surface area. These results support that a combination of the required bismuth molybdate phase and a high specific surface area is crucial for a good performance in the selective oxidation of propylene.
Optimal Elbow Angle for Extracting sEMG Signals During Fatiguing Dynamic Contraction
Authors: Al-Mulla Mohamed , Sepulveda Francisco , Al-Bader Bader
Published: September 2015

Surface electromyographic (sEMG) activity of the biceps muscle was recorded from 13 subjects. Data was recorded while subjects performed dynamic contraction until fatigue and the signals were segmented into two parts (Non-Fatigue and Fatigue). An evolutionary algorithm was used to determine the elbow angles that best separate (using Davies-Bouldin Index, DBI) both Non-Fatigue and Fatigue segments of the sEMG signal. Establishing the optimal elbow angle for feature extraction used in the evolutionary process was based on 70% of the conducted sEMG trials. After completing 26 independent evolution runs, the best run containing the optimal elbow angles for separation (Non-Fatigue and Fatigue) was selected and then tested on the remaining 30% of the data to measure the classification performance. Testing the performance of the optimal angle was undertaken on nine features extracted from each of the two classes (Non-Fatigue and Fatigue) to quantify the performance. Results showed that the optimal elbow angles can be used for fatigue classification, showing 87.90% highest correct classification for one of the features and on average of all eight features (including worst performing features) giving 78.45%.
A Traction Three-Phase to Single-Phase Cascade Converter Substation in an Advanced Traction Power Supply System
Authors: He Xiaoqiong , Guo Aiping , Peng Xu , Zhou Yingying , Shi Zhanghai , Shu Zeliang
Published: September 2015

The advanced traction power supply system (ATPSS) is a new directional development for traction power supply systems, which can totally remove the neutral sections and effectively promote power quality. However, the existing converters suffer from small substation capacity. In this paper, a new configuration based on a three-level neutral point clamped (3L-NPC) three-phase to single-phase cascade converter in a substation is proposed for ATPSS, which can be used to match the capacity of the converter for high voltage and large power applications. The control strategy of the proposed converter is analyzed in depth, and the phase disposition sinusoidal pulse width modulation (PD-SPWM) with phase shift carrier SPWM (PSC-SPWM) is employed in the inverters. Then, the inductance equalizing circuit is applied for the voltage balance on the DC-link. Besides, a LC filter circuit is designed to eliminate the double line-frequency ripple of DC voltage. Afterwards, a simulation model and an experimental prototype are developed, respectively. The simulation results show that the proposed converter in this paper can not only meet the requirements of voltage and capacity for the traction network, but also improve power quality. Finally, the experimental results verify the correctness and feasibility of the proposed control strategy.
Map-Based Power-Split Strategy Design with Predictive Performance Optimization for Parallel Hybrid Electric Vehicles
Authors: Fan Jixiang , Zhang Jiangyan , Shen Tielong
Published: September 2015

In this paper, a map-based optimal energy management strategy is proposed to improve the consumption economy of a plug-in parallel hybrid electric vehicle. In the design of the maps, which provide both the torque split between engine and motor and the gear shift, not only the current vehicle speed and power demand, but also the optimality based on the predicted trajectory of vehicle dynamics are considered. To seek the optimality, the equivalent consumption, which trades off the fuel and electricity usages, is chosen as the cost function. Moreover, in order to decrease the model errors in the process of optimization conducted in the discrete time domain, the variational integrator is employed to calculate the evolution of the vehicle dynamics. To evaluate the proposed energy management strategy, the simulation results performed on a professional GT-Suit simulator are demonstrated and the comparison to a real-time optimization method is also given to show the advantage of the proposed off-line optimization approach.
Archaeological Excavation and Deep Mapping in Historic Rural Communities
Authors: Lewis Carenza
Published: September 2015

This paper reviews the results of more than a hundred small archaeological “test pit” excavations carried out in 2013 within four rural communities in eastern England. Each excavation used standardized protocols in a different location within the host village, with the finds dated and mapped to create a series of maps spanning more than 3500 years, in order to advance understanding of the spatial development of settlements and landscapes over time. The excavations were all carried out by local volunteers working physically within their own communities, supported and advised by professional archaeologists, with most test pits sited in volunteers’ own gardens or those of their friends, family or neighbors. Site-by-site, the results provided glimpses of the use made by humans of each of the excavated sites spanning prehistory to the present day; while in aggregate the mapped data show how settlement and land-use developed and changed over time. Feedback from participants also demonstrates the diverse positive impacts the project had on individuals and communities. The results are presented and reviewed here in order to highlight the contribution archaeological test pit excavation can make to deep mapping, and the contribution that deep mapping can make to rural communities.
Identification of Response Options to Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Mining (ASGM) in Ghana via the Delphi Process
Authors: Basu Avik , Phipps Sean , Long Rachel , Essegbey George , Basu Niladri
Published: September 2015

The Delphi technique is a means of facilitating discussion among experts in order to develop consensus, and can be used for policy formulation. This article describes a modified Delphi approach in which 27 multi-disciplinary academics and 22 stakeholders from Ghana and North America were polled about ways to address negative effects of small-scale gold mining (ASGM) in Ghana. In early 2014, the academics, working in disciplinary groups, synthesized 17 response options based on data aggregated during an Integrated Assessment of ASGM in Ghana. The researchers participated in two rounds of Delphi polling in March and April 2014, during which 17 options were condensed into 12. Response options were rated via a 4-point Likert scale in terms of benefit (economic, environmental, and benefit to people) and feasibility (economic, social/cultural, political, and implementation). The six highest-scoring options populated a third Delphi poll, which 22 stakeholders from diverse sectors completed in April 2015. The academics and stakeholders also prioritized the response options using ranking exercises. The technique successfully gauged expert opinion on ASGM, and helped identify potential responses, policies and solutions for the sector. This is timely given that improvement to the ASGM sector is an important component within the UN Minamata Convention.
Factors Associated with Community Participation among Individuals Who Have Experienced Homelessness
Authors: Chang Feng-Hang , Helfrich Christine , Coster Wendy , Rogers E.
Published: September 2015

Community participation is an important goal for people who have experienced homelessness. The aim of this study was to use the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) as a framework to examine factors associated with community participation among people who are homeless or recently housed through housing programs. Participants (n = 120) recruited from six housing placement and search programs completed measures of community participation (including productivity, social and leisure, and community-services-use domains), psychiatric and physical symptoms, functional limitations, and a demographic form. Multiple regression analyses were used to identify predictors of overall community participation and subdomain scores. Results suggested that cognitive and mobility limitations, relationship status, and housing status significantly predicted both overall participation and participation in productivity and social and leisure subdomains. Participants who were housed through housing programs, who had cognitive and mobility limitations, and who were single showed less community participation. The findings suggest that activity limitations and environmental and personal factors may need to be addressed in efforts to enhance community participation in this population.
Improving Personal Characterization of Meaningful Activity in Adults with Chronic Conditions Living in a Low-Income Housing Community
Authors: Ciro Carrie , Smith Patsy
Published: September 2015

Purpose: To understand how adults living in a low-income, public housing community characterize meaningful activity (activity that gives life purpose) and if through short-term intervention, could overcome identified individual and environmental barriers to activity engagement. Methods: We used a mixed methods design where Phase 1 (qualitative) informed the development of Phase 2 (quantitative). Focus groups were conducted with residents of two low-income, public housing communities to understand their characterization of meaningful activity and health. From these results, we developed a theory-based group intervention for overcoming barriers to engagement in meaningful activity. Finally, we examined change in self-report scores from the Meaningful Activity Participation Assessment (MAPA) and the Engagement in Meaningful Activity Survey (EMAS). Results: Health literacy appeared to impact understanding of the questions in Phase 1. Activity availability, transportation, income and functional limitations were reported as barriers to meaningful activity. Phase 2 within group analysis revealed a significant difference in MAPA pre-post scores (p =0.007), but not EMAS (p =0.33). Discussion: Health literacy should be assessed and addressed in this population prior to intervention. After a group intervention, participants had a change in characterization of what is considered healthy, meaningful activity but reported fewer changes to how their activities aligned with their values.
Impact of Cadmium Exposure on the Association between Lipopolysaccharide and Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Han Seung , Ha Kyoung , Jeon Ja , Kim Hae , Lee Kwan , Kim Dae
Published: September 2015

Cadmium (Cd) is an environmental contaminant that has a direct impact on the gut microbiome. Perturbations in the gut microbiome have been linked to metabolic disorders associated with inflammation generated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). We investigated the impact of Cd on the association between LPS and metabolic syndrome. The study population consisted of 200 apparently healthy subjects (30–64 years of age; 96 men, 104 women). Serum LPS and blood Cd concentrations were measured by ELISA and graphite furnace-atomic absorption spectrophotometry (GF-AAS), respectively. The highest LPS quartile was associated with a greater prevalence of metabolic syndrome in men. There was a significant association between LPS activity and metabolic syndrome in men with blood Cd concentrations higher than the 50th percentile (OR = 3.05, 95% CI = 1.39–6.70); however, this relationship was not significant in men with blood Cd concentrations lower than the 50th percentile. The results of this study provide evidence for a strong association between high LPS activity and the prevalence of metabolic syndrome in men with relatively high blood Cd concentrations. Therefore, exposure to Cd may potentiate the association between LPS and metabolic syndrome in men.
An Evaluation on the Effect of Health Education and of Low-Dose Statin in Dyslipidemia among Low-Income Rural Uyghur Adults in Far Western China: A Comprehensive Intervention Study
Authors: Ma Jiaolong , Guo Shuxia , Ma Rulin , Zhang Jingyu , Liu Jiaming , Ding Yusong , Zhang Mei , Guo Heng , He Jia , Yan Yizhong , Mu Lati , Li Shugang , Niu Qiang
Published: September 2015

Objective: To evaluate the effect of comprehensive intervention by health education and medical intervention to dyslipidemia Uyghur patients in low-income rural areas in Xinjiang, China. Method: A multistaged (prefecture-county-township-village) stratified cluster random sampling method was used to select participants in southern Xinjiang. Twelve villages in Jiangbazi Township in Jiashi County were chosen. These villages were randomly divided into six intervention groups and six control groups, and local Uyghur aged 18 years or older residing in the village for at least 6 months were interviewed for a baseline prevalence study and to select participants for two years of comprehensive intervention including low dose simvastatin and the effects of the interventions were observed. Results: A total of 655 participants (347 participants in the intervention groups, 308 participants in the control groups) were randomly selected from 12 villages in Jiangbazi Township, follow-up rate is 87.0%. Compared to baseline mean levels of TG and LDL-C were reduced by 1.39 mmol/L (p < 0.01) and 2.12 mmol/L (p < 0.01) respectively and levels of HDL-C increased by1.22 mmol/L (p < 0.01) in the intervention group. Lipids were controlled in 38.61% of the intervention groups vs. 3.57% of the control groups (p < 0.01). Compared with baseline lipid levels, TG, TC, LDL-C and HDL-C was significantly improved, compared with it was in control groups. Conclusions: Blood lipid levels of Uygur patients with dyslipidemia can be effectively improved through health education combined with low-dose statin administration. This suggests that national strategies in public health be developed to improve the treatments to low-income rural minorities with dyslipidemia.
Serum Adiponectin and Leptin Concentrations in Relation to Body Fat Distribution, Hematological Indices and Lipid Profile in Humans
Authors: Lubkowska Anna , Radecka Aleksandra , Bryczkowska Iwona , Rotter Iwona , Laszczyńska Maria , Dudzińska Wioleta
Published: September 2015

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the relationship between serum adiponectin and leptin concentrations and body composition, hematological indices and lipid profile parameters in adults. The study involved 95 volunteers (BMI from 23.3 to 53 kg/m2). Anthropometric parameters were measured: body weight and height, waist and hip circumference, waist-to-hip ratio, body fat mass (BMF), subcutaneous and visceral fat mass (SFM, VFM), lean body mass (LBM), skeletal muscle mass (SMM). In serum we determined adiponectin and leptin concentrations, extracellular hemoglobin, total bilirubin, as well as lipid metabolism (TCh, HDL-Ch, LDL-Ch, TG). Mean adipokine levels were significantly higher in women (p ≤ 0.01), adiponectin significantly negatively correlated with body height and weight, systolic blood pressure and absolute LBM and SMM values. The same relation was observed for erythroid system indicators and lipid indicators. A positive correlation was exceptionally found between adiponectin and HDL-Ch. LEP negatively correlated with some percentage rates (%LBM, %SMM). Only in women, we observed a positive correlation between LEP and body weight, BMI and WHR. Studies on ADPN and the ADPN/LEP ratio as a valuable complementary diagnostic element in the prediction and prevention of cardiovascular diseases need to be continued.
Evaluating of Physiological Chemical Levels in Blood to Assess the Risk of Morbidity and Mortality of Ischemic Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Teng Junyan , Wei Yanping , Su Fengming , Guo Zhiping , Zhong Jing-Quan
Published: September 2015

In this study, a multiple linear regression model to evaluate the risk of morbidity and mortality of ischemic cardiovascular disease is demonstrated. In this model, predictor variables are selected from physiological chemicals in a blood test of the subjects. Meanwhile, the calculated risk score is selected as a response variable. Four major latent variables including hepatic, nephric, metabolic, and BMI (Body Mass Index) are revealed by performing statistical and principal component analysis for the collected survey data. The analyzed result also shows that the cardiac disorder is correlated with symptoms of abnormal BMI, hepatic disorder, nephric disorder, and metabolic disorder. Thus, the risk of morbidity and mortality of ischemic cardiovascular disease can be assessed from the proposed multiple regression model.
Effects of Oral Administration of Chitin Nanofiber on Plasma Metabolites and Gut Microorganisms
Authors: Azuma Kazuo , Izumi Ryotaro , Kawata Mari , Nagae Tomone , Osaki Tomohiro , Murahata Yusuke , Tsuka Takeshi , Imagawa Tomohiro , Ito Norihiko , Okamoto Yoshiharu , Morimoto Minoru , Izawa Hironori , Saimoto Hiroyuki , Ifuku Shinsuke
Published: September 2015

The aim of this study was to examine the effects of oral administration of chitin nanofibers (CNFs) and surface-deacetylated (SDA) CNFs on plasma metabolites using metabolome analysis. Furthermore, we determined the changes in gut microbiota and fecal organic acid concentrations following oral administrations of CNFs and SDACNFs. Healthy female mice (six-week-old) were fed a normal diet and administered tap water with 0.1% (v/v) CNFs or SDACNFs for 28 days. Oral administration of CNFs increased plasma levels of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), adenosine diphosphate (ADP), and serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT). Oral administration of SDACNFs affected the metabolisms of acyl-carnitines and fatty acids. The fecal organic level analysis indicated that oral administration of CNFs stimulated and activated the functions of microbiota. These results indicate that oral administration of CNFs increases plasma levels of ATP and 5-HT via activation of gut microbiota.
New Cytotoxic 24-Homoscalarane Sesterterpenoids from the Sponge Ircinia felix
Authors: Lai Ya-Yuan , Chen Li-Chai , Wu Chug-Fung , Lu Mei-Chin , Wen Zhi-Hong , Wu Tung-Ying , Fang Lee-Shing , Wang Li-Hsueh , Wu Yang-Chang , Sung Ping-Jyun
Published: September 2015

Two new 24-homoscalarane sesterterpenoids, felixins F (1) and G (2), were isolated from the sponge Ircinia felix. The structures of new homoscalaranes 1 and 2 were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic methods, particularly with one-dimensional (1D) and two-dimensional (2D) NMR, and, by comparison, the spectral data with those of known analogues. The cytotoxicity of 1 and 2 against the proliferation of a limited panel of tumor cell lines was evaluated and 1 was found to show cytotoxicity toward the leukemia K562, MOLT-4, and SUP-T1 cells (IC50 ≤ 5.0 μM).
Size Does Matter: Staging of Silene latifolia Floral Buds for Transcriptome Studies
Authors: Toh Su , Perlin Michael
Published: September 2015

Dioecious plants in the Caryophyllaceae family are susceptible to infection by members of the anthericolous smut fungi. In our studies of the Silene latifolia/Microbotryum lychnidis-dioicae pathosystem, we were interested in characterizing the plant-pathogen interaction at the molecular level before and during teliosporogenesis. This takes place during floral bud development, and we hoped to capture the interaction by Illumina Next-Gen RNA-Sequencing. Using previous literature that documented the stages of the floral buds for S. latifolia, we examined the floral buds from plants grown and infected under growth chamber conditions, using the disserting microscope to determine the stage of floral buds based on the morphology. We compiled the information and determined the size of floral buds that correspond to the desired stages of development for tissue collection, for the purpose of RNA-sequencing. This offers a practical approach for researchers who require a large number of floral buds/tissue categorized by stages of development, ascertaining whether infected/uninfected buds are at comparable stages of development and whether this also holds true for male vs. female buds. We also document our experience in infecting the plants and some of the unusual morphologies we observed after infection.
Identification of Conserved and Novel MicroRNAs during Tail Regeneration in the Mexican Axolotl
Authors: Gearhart Micah , Erickson Jami , Walsh Andrew , Echeverri Karen
Published: September 2015

The Mexican axolotl salamander (Ambystoma mexicanum) is one member of a select group of vertebrate animals that have retained the amazing ability to regenerate multiple body parts. In addition to being an important model system for regeneration, the axolotl has also contributed extensively to studies of basic development. While many genes known to play key roles during development have now been implicated in various forms of regeneration, much of the regulatory apparatus controlling the underlying molecular circuitry remains unknown. In recent years, microRNAs have been identified as key regulators of gene expression during development, in many diseases and also, increasingly, in regeneration. Here, we have used deep sequencing combined with qRT-PCR to undertake a comprehensive identification of microRNAs involved in regulating regeneration in the axolotl. Specifically, among the microRNAs that we have found to be expressed in axolotl tissues, we have identified 4564 microRNA families known to be widely conserved among vertebrates, as well as 59,811 reads of putative novel microRNAs. These findings support the hypothesis that microRNAs play key roles in managing the precise spatial and temporal patterns of gene expression that ensures the correct regeneration of missing tissues.
Maternal PUFA ω-3 Supplementation Prevents Neonatal Lung Injuries Induced by Hyperoxia in Newborn Rats
Authors: Sharma Dyuti , Nkembi Armande , Aubry Estelle , Houeijeh Ali , Butruille Laura , Houfflin-Debarge Véronique , Besson Rémi , Deruelle Philippe , Storme Laurent
Published: September 2015

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is one of the most common complications of prematurity, occurring in 30% of very low birth weight infants. The benefits of dietary intake of polyunsaturated fatty acids ω-3 (PUFA ω-3) during pregnancy or the perinatal period have been reported. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of maternal PUFA ω-3 supplementation on lung injuries in newborn rats exposed to prolonged hyperoxia. Pregnant female Wistar rats (n = 14) were fed a control diet (n = 2), a PUFA ω-6 diet (n = 6), or a PUFA ω-3 diet (n = 6), starting with the 14th gestation day. At Day 1, female and newborn rats (10 per female) were exposed to hyperoxia (O2, n = 70) or to the ambient air (Air, n = 70). Six groups of newborns rats were obtained: PUFA ω-6/O2 (n = 30), PUFA ω-6/air (n = 30), PUFA ω-3/O2 (n = 30), PUFA ω-3/air (n = 30), control/O2 (n = 10), and control/air (n = 10). After 10 days, lungs were removed for analysis of alveolarization and pulmonary vascular development. Survival rate was 100%. Hyperoxia reduced alveolarization and increased pulmonary vascular wall thickness in both control (n = 20) and PUFA ω-6 groups (n = 60). Maternal PUFA ω-3 supplementation prevented the decrease in alveolarization caused by hyperoxia (n = 30) compared to PUFA ω-6/O2 (n = 30) or to the control/O2 (n = 10), but did not significantly increase the thickness of the lung vascular wall. Therefore, maternal PUFA ω-3 supplementation may protect newborn rats from lung injuries induced by hyperoxia. In clinical settings, maternal PUFA ω-3 supplementation during pregnancy and during lactation may prevent BPD development after premature birth.
RETRACTED: MiR-122 Induces Radiosensitization in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Cell Line
Authors: Ma Debin , Jia Hui , Qin Mengmeng , Dai Wenjie , Wang Tao , Liang Erguang , Dong Guofu , Wang Zuojun , Zhang Zhiyuan , Feng Fan
Published: September 2015

MiR-122 is a novel tumor suppresser and its expression induces cell cycle arrest, or apoptosis, and inhibits cell proliferation in multiple cancer cells, including non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells. Radioresistance of cancer cell leads to the major drawback of radiotherapy for NSCLC and the induction of radiosensitization could be a useful strategy to fix this problem. The present work investigates the function of miR-122 in inducing radiosensitization in A549 cell, a type of NSCLC cells. MiR-122 induces the radiosensitization of A549 cells. MiR-122 also boosts the inhibitory activity of ionizing radiation (IR) on cancer cell anchor-independent growth and invasion. Moreover, miR-122 reduced the expression of its targeted genes related to tumor-survival or cellular stress response. These results indicate that miR-122 would be a novel strategy for NSCLC radiation-therapy.
In Silico Analysis and Experimental Validation of Active Compounds from Cichorium intybus L. Ameliorating Liver Injury
Authors: Li Guo-Yu , Zheng Ya-Xin , Sun Fu-Zhou , Huang Jian , Lou Meng-Meng , Gu Jing-Kai , Wang Jin-Hui
Published: September 2015

This study aimed at investigating the possible mechanisms of hepatic protective activity of Cichorium intybus L. (chicory) in acute liver injury. Pathological observation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) detection and measurements of biochemical indexes on mouse models proved hepatic protective effect of Cichorium intybus L. Identification of active compounds in Cichorium intybus L. was executed through several methods including ultra performance liquid chromatography/time of flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-TOF-MS). Similarity ensemble approach (SEA) docking, molecular modeling, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics (MD) simulation were applied in this study to explore possible mechanisms of the hepato-protective potential of Cichorium intybus L. We then analyzed the chemical composition of Cichorium intybus L., and found their key targets. Furthermore, in vitro cytological examination and western blot were used for validating the efficacy of the selected compounds. In silico analysis and western blot together demonstrated that selected compound 10 in Cichorium intybus L. targeted Akt-1 in hepatocytes. Besides, compound 13 targeted both caspase-1 and Akt-1. These small compounds may ameliorate liver injury by acting on their targets, which are related to apoptosis or autophagy. The conclusions above may shed light on the complex molecular mechanisms of Cichorium intybus L. acting on hepatocytes and ameliorating liver injury.
Selenium-Substituted Hydroxyapatite/Biodegradable Polymer/Pamidronate Combined Scaffold for the Therapy of Bone Tumour
Authors: Oledzka Ewa , Sobczak Marcin , Kolmas Joanna , Nalecz-Jawecki Grzegorz
Published: September 2015

The present study evaluated a new concept of combined scaffolds as a promising bone replacement material for patients with a bone tumour or bone metastasis. The scaffolds were composed of hydroxyapatite doped with selenium ions and a biodegradable polymer (linear or branched), and contained an active substance—bisphosphonate. For this purpose, a series of biodegradable polyesters were synthesized through a ring-opening polymerization of ε-caprolactone or d,l-lactide in the presence of 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) or hyperbranched 2,2-bis(hydroxymethyl)propionic acid polyester-16-hydroxyl (bis-MPA) initiators, substances often used in the synthesis of medical materials. The polymers were obtained with a high yield and a number-average molecular weight up to 45,300 (g/mol). The combined scaffolds were then manufactured by a direct compression of pre-synthesized hydroxyapatite doped with selenite or selenate ions, obtained polymer and pamidronate as a model drug. It was found that the kinetic release of the drug from the scaffolds tested in vitro under physiological conditions is strongly dependent on the physicochemical properties and average molecular weight of the polymers. Furthermore, there was good correlation with the hydrolytic biodegradation results of the scaffolds fabricated without drug. The preliminary findings suggest that the fabricated combined scaffolds could be effectively used for the sustained delivery of bioactive molecules at bone defect sites.
Duplex High-Resolution Melting Assay for the Simultaneous Genotyping of IL28B rs12979860 and PNPLA3 rs738409 Polymorphisms in Chronic Hepatitis C Patients
Authors: Enache Elena , Sin Anca , Bancu Ligia , Ramière Christophe , Diaz Olivier , André Patrice , Enache Liviu
Published: September 2015

Chronic hepatitis C (CHC) is a major burden for public health worldwide. Although newer direct-acting antivirals show good efficacy, their cost precludes their wide adoption in resource-limited regions. Thus, strategies are being developed to help identify patients with high susceptibility to response to classic PEG-interferon + ribavirin therapy. IL28B polymorphism rs12979860 C/T is an important predictor for an efficient response to interferon-based therapy. A genetic variant in adiponutrin (PNPLA3) gene, rs738409 C/G, is associated with steatosis, severity, and progression of liver fibrosis in CHC patients, and predicts treatment outcome in difficult-to-cure HCV-infected patients with advanced fibrosis. We developed a rapid and inexpensive assay based on duplex high-resolution melting (HRM) for the simultaneous genotyping of these two polymorphisms. The assay validation was performed on synthetic DNA templates and 132 clinical samples from CHC patients. When compared with allele-specific PCR and sequencing, our assay showed 100% (95% CI: 0.9724–1) accuracy, with 100% sensitivity and specificity. Our assay was robust against concentration and quality of DNA samples, melting curve normalization intervals, HRM analysis algorithm, and sequence variations near the targeted SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphism). This duplex assay should provide useful information for patient-oriented management and clinical decision-making in CHC.
Delay Insensitive Ternary CMOS Logic for Secure Hardware
Authors: Nair Ravi , Smith Scott , Di Jia
Published: September 2015

As digital circuit design continues to evolve due to progress of semiconductor processes well into the sub 100 nm range, clocked architectures face limitations in a number of cases where clockless asynchronous architectures generate less noise and produce less electro-magnetic interference (EMI). This paper develops the Delay-Insensitive Ternary Logic (DITL) asynchronous design paradigm that combines design aspects of similar dual-rail asynchronous paradigms and Boolean logic to create a single wire per bit, three voltage signaling and logic scheme. DITL is compared with other delay insensitive paradigms, such as Pre-Charge Half-Buffers (PCHB) and NULL Convention Logic (NCL) on which it is based. An application of DITL is discussed in designing secure digital circuits resistant to side channel attacks based on measurement of timing, power, and EMI signatures. A Secure DITL Adder circuit is designed at the transistor level, and several variance parameters are measured to validate the efficiency of DITL in resisting side channel attacks. The DITL design methodology is then applied to design a secure 8051 ALU.
Stakeholder Strategies for Sustainability Impact Assessment of Land Use Scenarios: Analytical Framework and Identifying Land Use Claims
Authors: Hermanns Till , Helming Katharina , Schmidt Katharina , König Hannes , Faust Heiko
Published: September 2015

Despite scientific progress in operationalizing sustainable development (SD), it is still hampered by methodological challenges at the regional level. We developed a framework to analyse stakeholder based, SD targets for future land use, which are characterized by different impact levels and spatial references. The framework allows for the analysis of land use demands in the context of SD. We identified societal use targets in north-eastern Germany, particularly for the area type’s lowland fens and irrigation fields, represented through strategy documents. We used frame analysis to aggregate and condense the targets into land use claims. Results present a framework for the ex-ante Sustainability Impact Assessment of land use changes at the regional level and the determination and regionalization of the future societal demand for land use functions. For future land use at the regional level, manifold land use claims exist, but on smaller scales, area-specific targets are less apparent. Six key main-use claims and 44 side-use claims were identified at the regional level and for area types. Possible trade-offs among land use claims for land use functions can be identified at each governance level. Implications of the methodological approach are discussed according to moving development targets and SD as multi-sector and multi-level governance issues.
Synthesis and Quasi-Static Compressive Properties of Mg-AZ91D-Al2O3 Syntactic Foams
Authors: Newsome David , Schultz Benjamin , Ferguson J. , Rohatgi Pradeep
Published: September 2015

Magnesium alloys have considerably lower density than the aluminum alloy matrices that are typically used in syntactic foams, allowing for greater specific energy absorption. Despite the potential advantages, few studies have reported the properties of magnesium alloy matrix syntactic foams. In this work, Al2O3 hollow particles of three different size ranges, 0.106–0.212 mm, 0.212–0.425 mm, and 0.425–0.500 mm were encapsulated in Mg-AZ91D by a sub-atmospheric pressure infiltration technique. It is shown that the peak strength, plateau strength and toughness of the foam increases with increasing hollow sphere wall thickness to diameter (t/D) ratio. Since t/D was found to increase with decreasing hollow sphere diameter, the foams produced with smaller spheres showed improved performance—specifically, higher energy absorption per unit weight. These foams show better performance than other metallic foams on a specific property basis.
Optothermal Switching of Cholesteric Liquid Crystals: A Study of Azobenzene Derivatives and Laser Wavelengths
Authors: Huang Tai-Chieh , Chen Yen-Yu , Chu Chih-Chien , Hsiao Vincent
Published: September 2015

The laser-initiated thermal (optothermal) switching of cholesteric liquid crystals (CLCs) is characterized by using different azobenzene (Azo) derivatives and laser wavelengths. Under 405-nm laser irradiation, Azo-doped CLCs undergo phase transition from cholesteric to isotropic. No cis-to-trans photoisomerization occurs when the 405-nm laser irradiation is blocked because only a single laser is used. The fast response of Azo-doped CLCs under the on–off switching of the 405-nm laser occurs because of the optothermal effect of the system. The 660-nm laser, which cannot be used as irradiation to generate the trans–cis photoisomerization of Azo, is used in Anthraquinone (AQ)-Azo-doped CLCs to examine the optothermal effect of doped Azo. The results show that the LC-like Azo derivative bearing two methyl groups ortho to the Azo moiety (A4) can greatly lower the clearing temperature and generate large amount of heat in AQ-A4-doped CLCs.