bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence and determinants of overweight and obesity in the workers of Shiraz hospitals
Authors: Sahebi Roya , Sahebi Leila
Published: June 2014

Background: Obesity is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality that detection of its risk factors will lead to a reduction in its burden. Aim and objectives: The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of overweight and obesity and its determinants among Shiraz hospitals staff. A random sample of 1023 hospitals staff was selected with categorical random sampling method. Data were collected by questions of demographic/occupational/ GHQ28/ IHS (International Headache Society) and general physical examinations. Result: The overall prevalence of overweight and obesity were estimated 27.8 % and 7.0% respectively. Prevalence of overweight and obesity were 28.5 and 6.7% in men and 27.5 and 7.1% in women respectively. Univariate and multiple linear regressions in SPSS v19 were used for analysis. In multiple linear regressions, BMI had direct relationship with age, having tension headache and systolic and diastolic blood pressure and indirect relationship with irregular sleeping and widow (er) status. Smoking, shift work and exercise were among the variables that showed no association with BMI. Conclusion: BMI status deserves more attention, especially concerning strategies leading to primary prevention and control. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjms.v13i3.10897 Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.13(3) 2014 p.260-267
Genital myiasis of a sheep by Wohlfahrtia magnifica, in Ghamsar, Kashan, Iran
Authors: Dehghani Rouhullah , Zarghi Iran , Sayyedi HR
Published: June 2014

Obligatory myiasis is invasion of vertebrate live tissue by fly larvae. This is a case report of genital myiasis caused by Wohlfahrtia magnifica in a sheep from Ghazaan village, near Ghamsar, in south of Kashan town, Iran. A sheep separated from its flock during grazing because of anorexia. Physical exam revealed genital myiasis in animal. Larvaes of fly had caused a deep wound in genital organ of this sheep. All the larvaes were removed from wound and transported to Entomology laboratory of Environmental Health Group, Kashan Medical Sciences University. Laboratory tests determined that larvaes belongs to Wohlfahrtia magnifica species. This is the first report of genital myiasis of sheep in Iran. After removing larvaes, the wound was washed with Betadine a few times, and topical antibiotics were administrated. The wound improved after a few days. The collected larvaes were cultivated in a culture medi-um with fresh meat, reached their maturity, and transformed to pupa. Pupa amounted in laboratory temperature after 5 days. Adult fly was mounted on a stereomicroscope and diagnosed as Wohlfahrtia magnifica. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjms.v13i3.15451 Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.13(3) 2014 p.332-335
Characterizing PML/RAR? Isoforms of Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia (APL) in Malay Patients
Authors: Hassan Rosline , Abdullah Abu Dzarr , Husin Azlan , Abdullah Wan Zaidah , Mustaffa Rapiaah , Ghazali Selamah , ANG Cheng Yong , Baba Abdul Aziz
Published: June 2014

Aim: Reciprocal translocation between retinoic acid receptor alpha (RAR?) gene on chromo- some 17 and promyelocytic leukemia (PML) gene on chromosome 15 is the hallmark for acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL). Three different PML/RAR? isoforms have been described; S-form, L-form and V-form. Our aims were to characterize the different types of PML/RAR? iso- forms in Malay patients with APL and to determine the outcome of these different types of iso-forms. Materials and methods: RT-PCR analysis was performed on 20 patients recruited from hematology-oncology ward. RT-PCR detected fusion transcript of PML/RAR? in all patients. Results and Discussion: Of these patients, 65% (13 patients) exhibited L/V-form, and 35% (7 patients) S-form. Total white blood cell count (TWBC) was higher in L/V-form (25 x 109/l) compared to S-form (2.1 x 109/l) (p < 0.05). Five years survival rate was 100% and 33.3% for L/V-forms and S-forms respectively (p<0.005). Conclusion: We conclude that L/V- forms is the commonest isoform among Malays. They presented at younger age with higher TWBC counts. Although the sample size is small, our preliminary data showed an interestingly longer survival outcome among L/V-forms compared to S-form. PML/RAR? isoforms could be used in future as risk stratification feature in patients diagnosed as APL. Further study with more number of patients is required. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjms.v13i3.15553 Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.13(3) 2014 p.311-315
Safety of 0.1% topical tacrolimus in the treatment of vitiligo
Authors: Hazra Samaresh Chandra , Ahmed Nafiza , Ghosh Jagodish Chandra
Published: June 2014

Cure rates for vitiligo are significantly lower because of problems to different studies have reported different response rate and different adverse effect for the treatment of vitiligo. This study was conducted to evaluate the response rate and adverse effect of topical tacrolimus 0.1% ointment in the treatment of vitiligo patients in the department of Dermatology and venereology, Bangladesh Medical college (BMC), Dhaka from January 2010 to July 2010. In this clinical trial, 30 newly diagnosed vitiligo (focal and segmental) patients, aged between 10 to 50 years were assigned for therapy and to observe the response and adverse effect. Each individual lesion was treated with topical tacrolimus 0.1% ointment twice daily for three months. All the patients completed three months treatment and available for statistical analysis. The highest percentage 13(43.3%) was in the age of 11-20 years. Sex ratio revealed higher in case of female 18(60%), with a male-female ratio 1:1.5 and 5(16.67%) patients had vitiligo among their families. Repigmentation was observed in 8 (26.7%) subjects at the end of 4th week, 15 (50.1%) subjects at 8th week and 25 (83.3%) subjects after 12 weeks of therapy. 25 (83.33%) subjects did not complain any adverse effect (like pruritus, burning etc.) and 5 (16.67%) subjects were suffered from different adverse effect of drug, like pruritus observed in 2 (6.7%) subjects and burning in 6 (20%) subjects. This study found that tacrolimus 0.1% ointment to be safe in the treatment of vitiligo, with reduction in the number of vitiliginous spots by increased repigmentation significantly. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjms.v13i3.19147 Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.13(3) 2014 p.255-259
Refining Housing, Husbandry and Care for Animals Used in Studies Involving Biotelemetry
Authors: Hawkins Penny
Published: June 2014

Biotelemetry can contribute towards reducing animal numbers and suffering in disciplines including physiology, pharmacology and behavioural research. However, the technique can also cause harm to animals, making biotelemetry a ‘refinement that needs refining’. Current welfare issues relating to the housing and husbandry of animals used in biotelemetry studies are single vs. group housing, provision of environmental enrichment, long term laboratory housing and use of telemetered data to help assess welfare. Animals may be singly housed because more than one device transmits on the same wavelength; due to concerns regarding damage to surgical sites; because they are wearing exteriorised jackets; or if monitoring systems can only record from individually housed animals. Much of this can be overcome by thoughtful experimental design and surgery refinements. Similarly, if biotelemetry studies preclude certain enrichment items, husbandry refinement protocols can be adapted to permit some environmental stimulation. Nevertheless, long-term laboratory housing raises welfare concerns and maximum durations should be defined. Telemetered data can be used to help assess welfare, helping to determine endpoints and refine future studies. The above measures will help to improve data quality as well as welfare, because experimental confounds due to physiological and psychological stress will be minimised.
Screening of Antioxidant Activity of Gentian Lutea Root and Its Application in Oil-in-Water Emulsions
Authors: Azman Nurul , Segovia Francisco , Martínez-Farré Xavier , Gil Emilio , Almajano María
Published: June 2014

Gentiana Lutea root (G. Lutea) is a medicinal herb, traditionally used as a bitter tonic in gastrointestinal ailments for improving the digestive system. The active principles of G. Lutea were found to be secoiridoid bitter compounds as well as many other active compounds causing the pharmacological effects. No study to date has yet determined the potential of G. Lutea antioxidant activity on lipid oxidation. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of an extract of G. Lutea on lipid oxidation during storage of an emulsion. G. Lutea extracts showed excellent antioxidant activity measured by DPPH scavenging assay and Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC) assays. An amount of 0.5% w/w G. Lutea lyophilise was able to inhibit lipid oxidation throughout storage (p < 0.05). A mixture of G. Lutea with 0.1% (w/w) BSA showed a good synergic effect and better antioxidant activity in the emulsion. Quantitative results of HPLC showed that G. Lutea contained secoiridoid-glycosides (gentiopiocroside and sweroside) and post column analysis displayed radical scavenging activity of G. Lutea extract towards the ABTS radical. The results from this study highlight the potential of G. Lutea as a food ingredient in the design of healthier food commodities.
Aqueous Hybrids of Silica Nanoparticles and Hydrophobically Associating Hydrolyzed Polyacrylamide Used for EOR in High-Temperature and High-Salinity Reservoirs
Authors: Zhu Dingwei , Wei Limin , Wang Biqing , Feng Yujun
Published: June 2014

Water-soluble polymers are known to be used in chemically enhanced oil recovery (EOR) processes, but their applications are limited in high-temperature and high-salinity oil reservoirs because of their inherent poor salt tolerance and weak thermal stability. Hydrophobic association of partially hydrolyzed polyacryamide (HAHPAM) complexed with silica nanoparticles to prepare nano-hybrids is reported in this work. The rheological and enhanced oil recovery (EOR) properties of such hybrids were studied in comparison with HAHPAM under simulated high-temperature and high-salinity oil reservoir conditions (T: 85 °C; total dissolved solids: 32,868 mg∙L−1; [Ca2+] + [Mg2+]: 873 mg∙L−1). It was found that the apparent viscosity and elastic modulus of HAHPAM solutions increased with addition of silica nanoparticles, and HAHPAM/silica hybrids exhibit better shear resistance and long-term thermal stability than HAHPAM in synthetic brine. Moreover, core flooding tests show that HAHPAM/silica hybrid has a higher oil recovery factor than HAHPAM solution.
The Sequential Generation of Gaussian Random Fields for Applications in the Geospatial Sciences
Authors: Dolloff John , Doucette Peter
Published: June 2014

This paper presents practical methods for the sequential generation or simulation of a Gaussian two-dimensional random field. The specific realizations typically correspond to geospatial errors or perturbations over a horizontal plane or grid. The errors are either scalar, such as vertical errors, or multivariate, such as , , and errors. These realizations enable simulation-based performance assessment and tuning of various geospatial applications. Both homogeneous and non-homogeneous random fields are addressed. The sequential generation is very fast and compared to methods based on Cholesky decomposition of an a priori covariance matrix and Sequential Gaussian Simulation. The multi-grid point covariance matrix is also developed for all the above random fields, essential for the optimal performance of many geospatial applications ingesting data with these types of errors.
SIT-REM: An Interoperable and Interactive Web Geographic Information System for Fauna, Flora and Plant Landscape Data Management
Authors: Frontoni Emanuele , Mancini Adriano , Zingaretti Primo , Malinverni Eva , Pesaresi Simone , Biondi Edoardo , Pandolfi Massimo , Marseglia Maria , Sturari Mirco , Zabaglia Claudio
Published: June 2014

The main goal of the SIT-REM project is the design and the development of an interoperable web-GIS environment for the information retrieval and data editing/updating of the geobotanical and wildlife map of Marche Region. The vegetation, plant landscape and faunistic analysis allow the realization of a regional information system for wildlife-geobotanical data. A main characteristic of the SIT-REM is its flexibility and interoperability, in particular, its ability to be easily updated with the insertion of new types of environmental, faunal or socio-economic data and to generate analyses at any geographical (from regional to local) or quantitative level of detail. Different query levels obtain the latter: spatial queries, hybrid query builder and WMSs usable by means of a GIS. SIT-REM has been available online for more than a year and its use over this period has produced extensive data about users’ experiences.
A Single Nucleotide Polymorphism in the Stromal Cell-Derived Factor 1 Gene Is Associated with Coronary Heart Disease in Chinese Patients
Authors: Feng Lei , Nian Shi-Yan , Hao Ying-Lu , Xu Wen-Bo , Ye Dan , Zhang Xing-Feng , Li Dan , Zheng Lei
Published: June 2014

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is highly prevalent globally and a major cause of mortality. Genetic predisposition is a non-modifiable risk factor associated with CHD. Eighty-four Chinese patients with CHD and 253 healthy Chinese controls without CHD were recruited. Major clinical data were collected, and a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the stromal cell-derived factor 1 (SDF-1) gene at position 801 (G to A, rs1801157) in the 3'-untranslated region was identified. The correlation between rs1801157 genotypes and CHD was evaluated by a multivariate logistic regression analysis. The allele frequency in the CHD and control groups was in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (HWE) (p > 0.05). The frequency of the GG genotype in the CHD group (59.5%) was significantly higher than that in the control group (49.8%) (p = 0.036). A number of variables, including male sex, age, presence of hypertension, and the levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), triglycerides (TG), uric acid, and total bilirubin, were associated with CHD in a primary univariate analysis. In a multivariable logistic regression analysis, the GG genotype (GG:AA, odds ratio (OR) = 2.31, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.21–5.23), male sex, advanced age (≥60 years), presence of hypertension, LDL-C level ≥ 3.33 mg/dL, HDL-C level < 1.03 mg/dL, and TG level ≥ 1.7 mg/dL were independent risk factors for CHD.
Coactivator Recruitment of AhR/ARNT1
Authors: Endler Alexander , Chen Li , Shibasaki Futoshi
Published: June 2014

A common feature of nuclear receptors (NRs) is the transformation of external cell signals into specific transcriptions of the signal molecule. Signal molecules function as ligands for NRs and, after their uptake, activated NRs form homo- or heterodimers at promoter recognition sequences of the specific genes in the nucleus. Another common feature of NRs is their dependence on coactivators, which bridge the basic transcriptional machinery and other cofactors to the target genes, in order to initiate transcription and to unwind histone-bound DNA for exposing additional promoter recognition sites via their histone acetyltransferase (HAT) function. In this review, we focus on our recent findings related to the recruitment of steroid receptor coactivator 1 (SRC1/NCoA1) by the estrogen receptor-α (ERα) and by the arylhydrocarbon receptor/arylhydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator 1 (AhR/ARNT1) complex. We also describe the extension of our previously published findings regarding the binding between ARNT1.1 exon16 and SRC1e exon 21, via in silico analyses of androgen receptor (AR) NH2-carboxyl-terminal interactions, the results of which were verified by in vitro experiments. Based on these data, we suggest a newly derived tentative binding site of nuclear coactivator 2/glucocorticoid receptor interacting protein-1/transcriptional intermediary factor 2 (NCOA-2/ GRIP-1/TIF-2) for ARNT1.1 exon 16. Furthermore, results obtained by immunoprecipitation have revealed a second leucine-rich binding site for hARNT1.1 exon 16 in SRC1e exon 21 (LSSTDLL). Finally, we discuss the role of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) as an endocrine disruptor for estrogen related transcription.
Reduction of the Nitro Group to Amine by Hydroiodic Acid to Synthesize o-Aminophenol Derivatives as Putative Degradative Markers of Neuromelanin
Authors: Wakamatsu Kazumasa , Tanaka Hitomi , Tabuchi Keisuke , Ojika Makoto , Zucca Fabio , Zecca Luigi , Ito Shosuke
Published: June 2014

Neuromelanin (NM) is produced in dopaminergic neurons of the substantia nigra (SN) and in noradrenergic neurons of the locus coeruleus (LC). The synthesis of NM in those neurons is a component of brain aging and there is the evidence that this pigment can be involved in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s disease. NM is believed to derive from the oxidative polymerization of dopamine (DA) or norepinephrine (NE) with the participation of cysteine, dolichols and proteins. However, there are still unknown aspects in the chemical structure of NM from SN (SN-NM) and LC (LC-NM). In this study, we designed a new method to synthesize o-aminophenol compounds as putative degradation products of catecholamines and their metabolites which may be incorporated into NM. Those compounds are aminohydroxyphenylethylamine (AHPEA) isomers, aminohydroxyphenylacetic acid (AHPAA) isomers and aminohydroxyethylbenzene (AHEB) isomers, which are expected to arise from DA or NE, 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) or 3,4-dihydroxyphenylmandelic acid (DOMA) and 3,4-dihydroxyphenylethanol (DOPE) or 3,4-dihydroxyphenylethyleneglycol (DOPEG), respectively. These o-aminophenol compounds were synthesized by the nitration of phenol derivatives followed by reduction with hydroiodic acid (HI), and they could be identified by HPLC in HI hydrolysates of SN-NM and LC-NM. This degradative approach by HI hydrolysis allows the identification of catecholic precursors unique to SN-NM and LC-NM, which are present in catecholaminergic neurons.
Xanthenedione Derivatives, New Promising Antioxidant and Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitor Agents
Authors: Seca Ana , Leal Stephanie , Pinto Diana , Barreto Maria , Silva Artur
Published: June 2014

Natural and synthetic xanthone derivatives are well-known for their ability to act as antioxidants and/or enzyme inhibitors. This paper aims to present a successful synthetic methodology towards xanthenedione derivatives and the study of their aromatization to xanthones. Additionally their ability to reduce Fe(III), to scavenge DPPH radicals and to inhibit AChE was evaluated. The results demonstrated that xanthenedione derivative 5e, bearing a catechol unit, showed higher reduction capacity than BHT and similar to quercetin, strong DPPH scavenging activity (EC50 = 3.79 ± 0.06 µM) and it was also showed to be a potent AChEI (IC50 = 31.0 ± 0.09 µM) when compared to galantamine (IC50 = 211.8 ± 9.5 µM).
Properties for Sourcing Nigerian Larvicidal Plants
Authors: Adebajo Adeleke , Famuyiwa Funmilayo , Aliyu Fatima
Published: June 2014

Aedes aegypti is the primary vector of chikungunya, yellow and dengue fevers. Dengue fever is the major cause of child morbidity and hospitalisation in some Asian and African countries, while yellow fever is prevalent in Nigeria. The development of resistance to the available insecticides has necessitated the continued search for safer ones from plants. Eighteen plant extracts with ethnomedical claims of or demonstrated febrifuge, antimalarial, insecticidal and insect repellent biological activities were tested for activity against the fourth instar larvae of Aedes aegypti. About 61% of the eighteen extracts demonstrated high to moderate larvicidal activity. Extracts of Piper nigrum and Abrus precatorius seeds were the most active and the larvicidal constituent(s) of the latter should be determined.
α-Glucosidase Inhibitory Activity of Polyphenols from the Burs of Castanea mollissima Blume
Authors: Zhang Jianwei , Zhao Shan , Yin Peipei , Yan Linlin , Han Jin , Shi Lingling , Zhou Xiaojing , Liu Yujun , Ma Chao
Published: June 2014

Polyphenol extracts from the burs of Castanea mollissima Blume (CMPE) exhibited potential antioxidant and hypoglycemic activities. The α-glucosidase inhibitory activities of CMPE were assessed as a means of elucidating the mechanism behind its hypoglycemic activities. In vitro studies showed that CMPE significantly inhibited both yeast α-glucosidase, through a noncompetitive mode with an IC50 of 0.33 μg/mL, and rat intestinal α-glucosidase. In vivo studies revealed that oral administration of CMPE at doses of 600 mg/kg significantly reduced postprandial blood glucose levels by 27.2% in normal rats following sucrose challenges. Gel permeation chromatography revealed that CMPE exhibited typical characteristics of high-molecular-mass polymers with mean (Mn) and weight (Mw) average molecular weights of 35.4 and 50.7 kDa, respectively, and a polydispersity (Mw/Mn) of 1.432. Acid hydrolysis analysis indicated the presence of ellagitannins. These data suggest that CMPE, enriched with ellagitannins, would be an efficacious dietary supplement for diabetes management through the inhibition of alpha-glucosidase.
Synthetic Aperture Radar Image Clustering with Curvelet Subband Gauss Distribution Parameters
Authors: Uslu Erkan , Albayrak Songul
Published: June 2014

Curvelet transform is a multidirectional multiscale transform that enables sparse representations for signals. Curvelet-based feature extraction for Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) naturally enables utilizing spatial locality; the use of curvelet-based feature extraction is a novel method for SAR clustering. The implemented method is based on curvelet subband Gaussian distribution parameter estimation and cascading these estimated values. The implemented method is compared against original data, polarimetric decomposition features and speckle noise reduced data with use of k-means, fuzzy c-means, spatial fuzzy c-means and self-organizing maps clustering methods. Experimental results show that the curvelet subband Gaussian distribution parameter estimation method with use of self-organizing maps has the best results among other feature extraction-clustering performances, with up to 94.94% overall clustering accuracies. The results also suggest that the implemented method is robust against speckle noise.
Statistical Modeling of Sea Ice Concentration Using Satellite Imagery and Climate Reanalysis Data in the Barents and Kara Seas, 1979–2012
Authors: Ahn Jihye , Hong Sungwook , Cho Jaeil , Lee Yang-Won , Lee Hosang
Published: June 2014

Extensive sea ice over Arctic regions is largely involved in heat, moisture, and momentum exchanges between the atmosphere and ocean. Some previous studies have been conducted to develop statistical models for the status of Arctic sea ice and showed considerable possibilities to explain the impacts of climate changes on the sea ice extent. However, the statistical models require improvements to achieve better predictions by incorporating techniques that can deal with temporal variation of the relationships between sea ice concentration and climate factors. In this paper, we describe the statistical approaches by ordinary least squares (OLS) regression and a time-series method for modeling sea ice concentration using satellite imagery and climate reanalysis data for the Barents and Kara Seas during 1979–2012. The OLS regression model could summarize the overall climatological characteristics in the relationships between sea ice concentration and climate variables. We also introduced autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) models because the sea ice concentration is such a long-range dataset that the relationships may not be explained by a single equation of the OLS regression. Temporally varying relationships between sea ice concentration and the climate factors such as skin temperature, sea surface temperature, total column liquid water, total column water vapor, instantaneous moisture flux, and low cloud cover were modeled by the ARIMA method, which considerably improved the prediction accuracies. Our method may also be worth consideration when forecasting future sea ice concentration by using the climate data provided by general circulation models (GCM).
Active Optical Sensors for Tree Stem Detection and Classification in Nurseries
Authors: Garrido Miguel , Perez-Ruiz Manuel , Valero Constantino , Gliever Chris , Hanson Bradley , Slaughter David
Published: June 2014

Active optical sensing (LIDAR and light curtain transmission) devices mounted on a mobile platform can correctly detect, localize, and classify trees. To conduct an evaluation and comparison of the different sensors, an optical encoder wheel was used for vehicle odometry and provided a measurement of the linear displacement of the prototype vehicle along a row of tree seedlings as a reference for each recorded sensor measurement. The field trials were conducted in a juvenile tree nursery with one-year-old grafted almond trees at Sierra Gold Nurseries, Yuba City, CA, United States. Through these tests and subsequent data processing, each sensor was individually evaluated to characterize their reliability, as well as their advantages and disadvantages for the proposed task. Test results indicated that 95.7% and 99.48% of the trees were successfully detected with the LIDAR and light curtain sensors, respectively. LIDAR correctly classified, between alive or dead tree states at a 93.75% success rate compared to 94.16% for the light curtain sensor. These results can help system designers select the most reliable sensor for the accurate detection and localization of each tree in a nursery, which might allow labor-intensive tasks, such as weeding, to be automated without damaging crops.
A New Surface Plasmon Resonance-Based Immunoassay for Rapid, Reproducible and Sensitive Quantification of Pentraxin-3 in Human Plasma
Authors: Canovi Mara , Lucchetti Jacopo , Stravalaci Matteo , Valentino Sonia , Bottazzi Barbara , Salmona Mario , Bastone Antonio , Gobbi Marco
Published: June 2014

A new immunoassay based on surface plasmon resonance (SPR) for the rapid, reproducible and sensitive determination of pentraxin-3 (PTX3) levels in human plasma has been developed and characterized. The method involves a 3-min flow of plasma over a sensor chip pre-coated with a monoclonal anti-PTX3 antibody (MNB4), followed by a 3-min flow of a polyclonal anti-PTX3 antibody (pAb), required for specific recognition of captured PTX3. The SPR signal generated with this secondary antibody linearly correlates with the plasma PTX3 concentration, in the range of 5–1500 ng/mL, with a lowest limit of detection of 5 ng/mL. The PTX3 concentrations determined with the SPR-based immunoassay in the plasma of 21 patients with sepsis, ranging 15–1600 ng/mL, were superimposable to those found in a classic ELISA immunoassay. Since the PTX3 concentration in the plasma of healthy subjects is <2 ng/mL, but markedly rises in certain medical conditions, the method is useful to quantify pathological levels of this important biomarker, with important diagnostic applications. In comparison with the classic ELISA, the SPR-based approach is much faster (30 min versus 4–5 h) and could be exploited for the development of new cost-effective SPR devices for point-of-care diagnosis.
The Theory and Fundamentals of Bioimpedance Analysis in Clinical Status Monitoring and Diagnosis of Diseases
Authors: Khalil Sami , Mohktar Mas , Ibrahim Fatimah
Published: June 2014

Bioimpedance analysis is a noninvasive, low cost and a commonly used approach for body composition measurements and assessment of clinical condition. There are a variety of methods applied for interpretation of measured bioimpedance data and a wide range of utilizations of bioimpedance in body composition estimation and evaluation of clinical status. This paper reviews the main concepts of bioimpedance measurement techniques including the frequency based, the allocation based, bioimpedance vector analysis and the real time bioimpedance analysis systems. Commonly used prediction equations for body composition assessment and influence of anthropometric measurements, gender, ethnic groups, postures, measurements protocols and electrode artifacts in estimated values are also discussed. In addition, this paper also contributes to the deliberations of bioimpedance analysis assessment of abnormal loss in lean body mass and unbalanced shift in body fluids and to the summary of diagnostic usage in different kinds of conditions such as cardiac, pulmonary, renal, and neural and infection diseases.
Novel GMO-Based Vaccines against Tuberculosis: State of the Art and Biosafety Considerations
Authors: Leunda Amaya , Baldo Aline , Goossens Martine , Huygen Kris , Herman Philippe , Romano Marta
Published: June 2014

Novel efficient vaccines are needed to control tuberculosis (TB), a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Several TB vaccine candidates are currently in clinical and preclinical development. They fall into two categories, the one of candidates designed as a replacement of the Bacille Calmette Guérin (BCG) to be administered to infants and the one of sub-unit vaccines designed as booster vaccines. The latter are designed as vaccines that will be administered to individuals already vaccinated with BCG (or in the future with a BCG replacement vaccine). In this review we provide up to date information on novel tuberculosis (TB) vaccines in development focusing on the risk assessment of candidates composed of genetically modified organisms (GMO) which are currently evaluated in clinical trials. Indeed, these vaccines administered to volunteers raise biosafety concerns with respect to human health and the environment that need to be assessed and managed.
Le Mexique entre Nord et Sud : vers une Mésomexamérique ? (Mexico between North and South : toward a Mesomexamerica ?)
Authors: Musset Alain
Published: June 2014

Mexico can be considered as a real laboratory of the processes of integration which, in various scales, affect the whole continent in the prospect of the creation of a vast free trade area of Americas. However, the implementation of the North American Free Trade Agreement (1994) and the Plan Puebla-Panama (2001), put in evidence the socioeconomic fracture which sets the North of the country (Mexamerica) and marginalized States of the South (Mesoamerica) . While Mexico is more and more integrated into a global economy, the regional disparities seem more and more deep.
Disparités régionales et intégration nationale au Brésil (Regional disparities and national integration in Brazil)
Authors: Théry Hervé , Aparecida De Mello Neli
Published: June 2014

Le Brésil connaît de très fortes inégalités régionales, qui peuvent être appréhendées par le biais de l'Indice de Développement Humain (IDH) ou celui du «capital scolaire». Les réseaux de transport, notamment d'énergie et d'information, permettent l'intégration nationale, au profit du centre.
Les territoires usurpés des ex-réfugiés érythréens dans le nord-est soudanais (The territories of exile usurped by the ex-eritreans refugees in the northeast of Sudan)
Authors: Le Houérou Fabienne
Published: June 2014

Cet article tente d'explorer les limites des concepts juridiques liés au monde des réfugiés en passant d'un camp à l'autre dans le nord-est soudanais. Cette approche spatiale, sous forme de « travelling » descriptif, s 'appuie sur une comparaison mettant dos-à-dos deux territoires d'exil. L 'un est encore reconnu par la communauté internationale alors que l'autre est renié comme entité existante. Ces deux espaces contradictoires font émerger les paradoxes de l 'aide humanitaire.
Biomarkers of Bone Metabolism in Ankylosing Spondylitis in Relation to Osteoproliferation and Osteoporosis
Authors: Klingberg Eva , Nurkkala Merja , Carlsten Hans , Forsblad-d’Elia Helena
Published: June 2014

Objective.

To identify biomarkers for bone metabolism in patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and to determine the relationship between these biomarkers and disease activity, back mobility, osteoproliferation, and bone mineral density (BMD).

Methods.

Serum levels of Wingless protein (Wnt-3a), Dickkopf-1 (DKK-1), sclerostin, soluble receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (sRANKL), and osteoprotegerin were assessed using ELISA. Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score-C reactive protein, Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index, Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis patient global score, and C-reactive protein (CRP) were used as disease activity measures, and Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Metrology Index (BASMI) as a measure of spinal mobility. Lateral spine radiographs were scored for chronic AS-related changes (mSASSS). BMD was measured with dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry.

Results.

Two hundred four patients with AS (NY criteria; 57% men), with a mean age of 50 ± 13 years and disease duration 15 ± 11 years, and 80 age and sex-matched controls were included. The patients with AS had significantly higher serum levels of Wnt-3a (p < 0.001) and lower levels of sclerostin (p = 0.014) and sRANKL (p = 0.047) compared with the controls. High CRP was associated with low sclerostin (rS= −0.21, p = 0.003) and DKK-1 (rS= −0.14, p = 0.045). In multiple linear regression analyses, increasing BASMI and mSASSS were independently associated with older age, male sex, high CRP, and elevated serum levels of Wnt-3a. In addition, mSASSS remained associated with a high number of smoking pack-years after adjusting for age. Low BMD of femoral neck was associated with high mSASSS after adjusting for age.

Conclusion.

Serum levels of Wnt-3a are elevated in AS and associated with increased BASMI and mSASSS, independent of age, indicating that Wnt-3a could be a biomarker for the osteoproliferative process.
Behçet Syndrome Manifestations and Activity in the United States versus Turkey — A Cross-sectional Cohort Comparison
Authors: Sibley Cailin , Yazici Yusuf , Tascilar Koray , Khan Nafiz , Bata Yasmin , Yazici Hasan , Goldbach-Mansky Raphaela , Hatemi Gulen
Published: June 2014

Objective.

To compare clinical manifestations and activity of Behçet syndrome (BS) in the United States versus Turkey using validated outcome measures.

Methods.

Consecutive patients with BS from the US National Institutes of Health (NIH), New York University, and the University of Istanbul were evaluated. Disease activity was measured using the Behçet’s Syndrome Activity Scale (BSAS) and the Behçet’s Disease Current Activity Form (BDCAF) with quality of life measured by the Behçet Disease Quality of Life (BDQOL) form. One-way ANOVA, t-tests, and multivariate regression analyses were performed.

Results.

Mean age did not differ between sites; however, more women were seen in the United States versus in Turkey (p < 0.001), and disease duration was longer in the United States (p = 0.02). Organ manifestations were similar for oral and genital ulcers, skin disease, arthralgia, eye disease, and thrombosis. However, more gastrointestinal (p < 0.001) and neurologic disease (p = 0.003) was seen in the United States. BSAS and BDCAF scores were worse in the United States compared to Turkey (p = 0.013 and < 0.001, respectively). Worse mean BDQOL scores were observed at the NIH compared to Istanbul (not significant). Multivariable regression models showed worse scores in ethnically atypical patients for BSAS and BDCAF (p = 0.04 and p = 0.001), American patients for BDCAF (p = 0.01), older age for BDCAF (p = 0.005), and women for BDQOL (p = 0.01).

Conclusion.

Demographic and clinical manifestations of BS differ between sites with higher disease activity in the United States compared to Turkey. Referral patterns, age, sex, ethnicity, and country of origin may be important in these differences. These observations raise the question of whether pathogenic mechanisms differ in Turkish and American patients.
E-Learning Recommender System for Teaching Staff of Engineering Disciplines
Authors: Soldatova Elena , Bach Ursula , Vossen Rene , Jeschke Sabina
Published: June 2014

Studies show that Learning Management Systems at university level often are lacking necessary for teaching staff member features such as support of various didactical approaches, consideraion of different specifics of engineering disciplines, user-friendly interface. In this paper, a new recommender system aimed at teaching staff of engineering disciplines who wish to use E-Learning tools in their courses is proposed. The system will take into consideration the level of user experience, assess the elements of a teaching scenario and provide guidlines on the contents of the particular element with regards of the engineering specifics. As a result a lecturer should be able to create his E-Learning course that then will be running as a course within the university LMS. The novelty of the recommender system is that criteria used by the system are based on standards for engineering education in conjunction with the framework for pedagogical evaluation of Virtual Learning Environments.
Microcontroller-based Feedback Control Laboratory Experiments
Authors: Choi Chiu
Published: June 2014

this paper is a result of the implementation of the recommendations on enhancing hands-on experience of control engineering education using single chip, small scale computers such as microcontrollers. A set of microcontroller-based feedback control experiments was developed for the Electrical Engineering curriculum at the University of North Florida. These experiments provided hands-on techniques that students can utilize in the development of complete solutions for a number of servo control problems. Significant effort was devoted to software development of feedback controllers and the associated signal conditioning circuits interfacing between the microcontroller and the physical plant. These experiments have stimulated the interest of our students in control engineering.
A Weight-based DV-HOP Improved Localization Algorithm for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Liu Dandan , Peng S. , Lin K. C. , Zhang J.
Published: June 2014

DV-Hop is one of the range-free localization algorithmsusing hop-distance estimation. However, it suffersfrom a large localization deviation and low localization accuracy.This paper proposed a weight-based DV-HOP improvedalgorithm. It improves the traditional DV-HOP algorithmmainly in the following aspects. First, it increasesthe calculation accuracy of hop counts. Second, it correctsthe average hop distance calculated by the anchor node byusing least square method. Third, the un-located nodes calculatethe distance to other anchor nodes based on the linkstate with weights. The simulation results showed that theproposed algorithm significantly reduces the localizationdeviation, with a small increase in the node’s computationand communication cost. It is superior to the existing DVHOPalgorithm.
Modeling C2 Networks as Dependencies
Authors: Drabble B.
Published: June 2014

This chapter describes an approach to modeling C2 and other types of networks as a series of nodes (people, groups, resources, locations, concepts, etc.). The nodes are linked by one or more weighted arcs describing the type and the strength of the dependency that one node has on another node. This model allows analysts to identify the most important nodes in a network in terms of their direct and indirect dependencies and to rank them accordingly. The same model also supports consequence analysis in which the direct, indirect, cascading, and cumulative effects of changes to node capabilities can be propagated across the networks. The chapter describes the basic modeling technique and two types of dependency propagation that it supports. These are illustrated with two examples involving the modeling and reasoning across insurgent networks and an Integrated Air Defense System. These show how aspects of the networks can be analyzed and targeted. Details are also provided on the mechanisms to link the analysis to a planning system through which plans can be developed to bring about desired effect(s) in the networks.
Cyber Security in Tactical Network Infrastructure for Command and Control
Authors: Sigholm J.
Published: June 2014

Emerging information and communications technology has had significant importance for military operations during the last decades. Development within such technology areas as sensors, computers, and wireless communications has allowed for faster and more efficient collection, transmission, storage, processing, analysis, and distribution of data. This has led to new and improved military capabilities within command and control, intelligence, targeting, and logistics. However, the increased complexity and interdependencies of networked systems, the continuously growing amounts of data, changing non-technical requirements, and evolving adversary threats makes upholding cyber security in command and control systems a challenging task. Although some best-practice approaches have been developed, finding good solutions for protecting critical infrastructure and important information assets is still an open research question requiring an interdisciplinary approach. This chapter describes recent developments within emerging network technology for command and control, and suggests focus areas where further research is needed in order to attain sufficient operational effect from the employed systems. While a gradual and evolutionary progress of military cyber security has been seen, a long-term commitment is required within such areas as procurement, standardization, training, doctrinal, and legal development, in order to achieve military utility of command and control systems.
Analysis on Crystallization Kinetics of Gypsum Prepared by Bittern under 40°C
Authors: Luo Bi Jun , Wu Hai Hong , Lu Shao Yan , Zhang Yan An , Zhang Qi
Published: June 2014

Crystallization kinetics experiment of calcium sulfate dehydrates, which is prepared by bittern under 40oC and 200r/min conditions, is carried out. According to the results of the experimental data, the relationship of nucleus particle-number density n0 and crystal growth rate G with the residence time is summarized. Also, the average diameter of gypsum crystal is decreasing with the residence time increase. Meanwhile, the crystallization kinetics formula is derived to be: B0=3.20×105G0.47.
Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Sn-Zn Alloys by Gas Induce Semi-Solid Casting Process (GISS)
Authors: Phanwichatkul Thanyaporn , Wannasin Jessada
Published: June 2014

The study aimed at development of mechanical properties to make a comparison between Sn-50wt%Zn and Sn-50wt%Bi were investigated by properly design experiments, respectively, different mold temperature affecting the particle size of Sn-50wt%Zn, mechanical properties and microstructure were developed by GISS process, hardness test were used to compare both alloys. The results show that mold temperature has an effect on the grain sizes and grain characteristics. Gas Induce Semi-Solid (GISS) caused granular grains to affect the good mechanical properties.
Industrial Experiment for Smelting H13 Die Steel by Direct Alloying with Molybdenum Oxides in EAF
Authors: Zhu Hang Yu , Li Jian Li , Wang Wei , Xue Zheng Liang
Published: June 2014

A new process of making steel by direct alloying with molybdenum oxides has been regarded in years. The characteristic of the new process is by using of the cheaper molybdenum oxides powder as alloy agent which can improve the flexibility of choosing main raw materials. The implementation of the process can reduce the production cost, protect environment and improve the economic profits and social benefits. In this study, an industrial experiment for direct alloying by using of molybdenum oxides was carried out, and the technological process appeared as follows: EAF (30t) → LF (30t) → VD → ESR →Rolling. Results show that throug the new smelting process quality of ingots meets the requirements of H13 die steel, meanwhile, [O], [H] and [N] contents in molten steel reach a low level compared to traditional smelting process. Therefore, it is feasible to smelt H13 die steel by using of molybdenum oxides instead of ferromolybdenum.
The Bending Forming Mechanism of Copper Alloy by Different Lasers
Authors: Jiang Su Qin , Liu Ai Hui , Wang Xiao Xue , Chen Zhong
Published: June 2014

By FEA method, the bending of the copper alloy thin-plates by continuous laser forming (CLF) and pulse laser forming (PLF) was studied. Based on the analysis of dynamic change and steady distribution for the fields of temperature, stress/strain and displacement, the forming mechanism and rule of copper alloy by different laser modes were revealed. The whole deformation of PLF was the additive effect of all impulse action, while CLF mainly was the result of thermal stress. To get the same deformation, laser pulse energy is about 6 times of the continuous laser，CLF is suitable for larger deformation demands, and PLF is more seemly for micro-forming.
Experimental Investigation on Influence of Important Parameters in Centrifugal Granulation for MBFS
Authors: Li Shun , Zhang Gong Duo , Bi Shi Hui , Li Xiao Tang , Xie Guo Wei
Published: June 2014

The difficulties of molten metallurgical slag heat recovery caused by low thermal conductivity and high enthalpy are analyzed.Centrifugal granulation is an environment-friendly process in treating the slag. The existing researches on centrifugal granulation are concentrated in the shape, size and mass distribution of slag particles. The relations between flight distance of slag, divorced speed of slag and outside speed of cup and rotary speed and rotary cup diameter were studied. The experimental results indicate that flight distance is farther from the cup and the speeds increase with increasing rotary speed. While rotary speed reaches 1000 rpm, divorced speed and flight distance of slag are almost invariant. When rotary cup diameter increases, the flight distance and the speeds increase simultaneously. Flight is reasonably simplified as:uniform motion in horizontal direction and motion of free falling body in the vertical direction,The experimental results have certain guiding significance to design of heat recovery equipment.
The Research of Coated Product Quality Control System Based on PAT
Authors: Xu Xiao Qing , Hao Xiao Dong , Zhou Shi Guang , Zhang Qi Fu
Published: June 2014

This article describes the current quality control method during hot coating process. To improve the current quality control method during hot coating process, this article also elaborates the advanced coated product quality control system based on process analytical technology (PAT), the concept of which is “Quality by Design”, the targets of which are to enhance process stability and to improve the technological and economic index.
The Design of Structural Engineering Drawing for the Hydraulic Conversion Mechanism of Outer Planets Cycloid Hydraulic Motor
Authors: Li Lin , Shan Chang Ji , Bian Yi Duo
Published: June 2014

At present, epicycloid planetary hydraulic motor is widely used in the research field, for it can improve the working performance and efficiency of hydraulic motor. This paper intends to design and calculate the hydraulic conversion structure of outer planets cycloid hydraulic motor, and makes its structural drawings, and lays a theoretical foundation for further studies.
Hydraulic Parts Designed for Bulky Goods Hydraulic Jacking Subsystem
Authors: Li Lin , Shan Chang Ji , Bian Yi Duo
Published: June 2014

In this paper, the major design is the jacking of bulky goods, jacking subsystem of translation system and traction cylinder in translation subsystem. The control of hydraulic system makes bulky goods reach a height, which are drawn by the traction hydraulic cylinder on anchor or sliding load car to load or unload the ship. This equipment can effectively reduce the transportation cost and it can be used to unload a variety of bulky goods.