bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Magnolol, a Natural Polyphenol, Attenuates Dextran Sulfate Sodium-Induced Colitis in Mice
Authors: Zhao Ling , Xiao Hai-tao , Mu Huai-xue , Huang Tao , Lin Ze-si , Zhong Linda , Zeng Guang-zhi , Fan Bao-min , Lin Cheng-yuan , Bian Zhao-xiang
Published: July 2017

Magnolol is a lignan with anti-inflammatory activity identified in Magnolia officinalis. Ulcerative colitis (UC), one of the types of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), is a disease that causes inflammation and ulcers in the colon. To investigate the effect of magnolol in dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced experimental UC model, male C57 mice were treated with 2% DSS drinking water for 5 consecutive days followed by intragastric administration with magnolol (5, 10 and 15 mg/kg) daily for 7 days. The results showed that magnolol significantly attenuated disease activity index, inhibited colonic shortening, reduced colonic lesions and suppressed myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity. Moreover, colonic pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β) induced by colitis were dramatically decreased by magnolol. To further unveil the metabolic signatures upon magnolol treatment, mass spectrometry-based metabolomic analysis of the small molecular metabolites in mice serum were performed. Compared with controls, abnormality of serum metabolic phenotypes in DSS-treated mice were effectively reversed by different doses of magnolol. In particular, magnolol treatment effectively elevated the serum levels of tryptophan metabolites including kynurenic acid (KA), 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid, indoleacetic acid (IAA), indolelactic acid and indoxylsulfuric acid, which are potential aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) ligands to impact colitis. These findings suggest that magnolol exerts anti-inflammatory effect on DSS-induced colitis and its underlying mechanisms are associated with the restoring of tryptophan metabolites that inhibit the colonic inflammation.
Characterization and Purification of Bergamottin from Citrus grandis (L.) Osbeck cv. Yongjiazaoxiangyou and Its Antiproliferative Activity and Effect on Glucose Consumption in HepG2 cells
Authors: Liu Yilong , Ren Chuanhong , Cao Yunlin , Wang Yue , Duan Wenyi , Xie Linfeng , Sun Chongde , Li Xian
Published: July 2017

Bergamottin is a natural furanocoumarin compound with weak polarity. Characterization and quantification of bergamottin were carried out in different fruit tissues of various citrus cultivars. Among the four citrus tissues tested, i.e., flavedo, albedo, segment membrane (SM), and juice sacs (JS) in eight citrus cultivars, the highest bergamottin content was found in the flavedo of Citrus grandis (L.) Osbeck cv. Yongjiazaoxiangyou (YJZXY, 666.54 μg·g−1 DW). A combination of silica gel column chromatography and high-speed counter-current chromatography (HSCCC) was established to efficiently purify bergamottin from the flavedo of YJZXY. Bergamottin showed significant antiproliferative activity on three cancer cell lines, i.e., human liver cancer HepG2, promyelocytic leukemia HL-60, and gastric cancer BGC-823 cells, which showed a marked inhibition effect on these cell lines in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, bergamottin significantly increased glucose consumption in HepG2 cells also in a dose-dependent manner, which is the first report of its potential in anti-diabetes applications.
High-Resolution Inhibition Profiling Combined with HPLC-HRMS-SPE-NMR for Identification of PTP1B Inhibitors from Vietnamese Plants
Authors: Trinh Binh , Jäger Anna , Staerk Dan
Published: July 2017

Protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) plays a key role as a negative regulator in insulin signal transduction by deactivating the insulin receptor. Thus, PTP1B inhibition has emerged as a potential therapeutic strategy for curing insulin resistance. In this study, 40 extracts from 18 different plant species were investigated for PTP1B inhibitory activity in vitro. The most promising one, the EtOAc extract of Ficus racemosa, was investigated by high-resolution PTP1B inhibition profiling combined with HPLC-HRMS-SPE-NMR analysis. This led to the identification of isoderrone (1), derrone (2), alpinumisoflavone (3) and mucusisoflavone B (4) as PTP1B inhibitors. IC50 of these compounds were 22.7 ± 1.7, 12.6 ± 1.6, 21.2 ± 3.8 and 2.5 ± 0.2 µM, respectively. Kinetics analysis revealed that these compounds inhibited PTP1B non-competitively with Ki values of 21.3 ± 2.8, 7.9 ± 1.9, 14.3 ± 2.0, and 3.0 ± 0.5 µM, respectively. These findings support the important role of F. racemosa as a novel source of new drugs and/or as a herbal remedy for treatment of type 2 diabetes.
Pregnancy, Proteinuria, Plant-Based Supplemented Diets and Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis: A Report on Three Cases and Critical Appraisal of the Literature
Authors: Attini Rossella , Leone Filomena , Montersino Benedetta , Fassio Federica , Minelli Fosca , Colla Loredana , Rossetti Maura , Rollino Cristiana , Alemanno Maria , Barreca Antonella , Todros Tullia , Piccoli Giorgina
Published: July 2017

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is increasingly recognized in pregnant patients. Three characteristics are associated with a risk of preterm delivery or small for gestational age babies; kidney function reduction, hypertension, and proteinuria. In pregnancy, the anti-proteinuric agents (ACE–angiotensin converting enzyme-inhibitors or ARBS -angiotensin receptor blockers) have to be discontinued for their potential teratogenicity, and there is no validated approach to control proteinuria. Furthermore, proteinuria usually increases as an effect of therapeutic changes and pregnancy-induced hyperfiltration. Based on a favourable effect of low-protein diets on proteinuria and advanced CKD, our group developed a moderately protein-restricted vegan-vegetarian diet tsupplemented with ketoacids and aminoacids for pregnant patients. This report describes the results obtained in three pregnant patients with normal renal function, nephrotic or sub-nephrotic proteinuria, and biopsy proven diagnosis of focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, a renal lesion in which hyperfiltration is considered of pivotal importance (case 1: GFR (glomerular filtration rate): 103 mL/min; proteinuria 2.1 g/day; albumin 3.2 g/dL; case 2: GFR 86 mL/min, proteinuria 3.03 g/day, albumin 3.4 g/dL; case 3: GFR 142 mL/min, proteinuria 6.3 g/day, albumin 3.23 g/dL). The moderately restricted diet allowed a stabilisation of proteinuria in two cases and a decrease in one. No significant changes in serum creatinine and serum albumin were observed. The three babies were born at term (38 weeks + 3 days, female, weight 3180 g-62th centile; 38 weeks + 2 days, female, weight 3300 g-75th centile; male, 38 weeks + 1 day; 2770 g-8th centile), thus reassuring us of the safety of the diet. In summary, based on these three cases studies and a review of the literature, we suggest that a moderately protein-restricted, supplemented, plant-based diet might contribute to controlling proteinuria in pregnant CKD women with focal segmental glomerulosclerosis. However further studies are warranted to confirm the potential value of such a treatment strategy.
Dependency of Anion and Chain Length of Imidazolium Based Ionic Liquid on Micellization of the Block Copolymer F127 in Aqueous Solution: An Experimental Deep Insight
Authors: Lunagariya Jignesh , Kumar Nadavala , Asif Mohammad , Dhar Abhishek , Vekariya Rohit
Published: July 2017

The non-ionic triblock copolymer, Pluronic® F127, has been selected to observe its interaction with ionic liquids (ILs) in aqueous solutions by using DLS, surface tension, and viscosity measurements. The Critical Micelle Concentration (CMC) of F127 increased with the addition of ILs, which appeared logical since it increases the solubility of PPO (and PEO) moiety, making it behaves more like a hydrophilic block copolymer that is micellized at a higher copolymer concentration. The results from DLS data showed good agreement with those obtained from the surface tension measurements. Upon the addition of ILs, the tendency in micellar size reduction was demonstrated by viscosity results, and therefore, intrinsic viscosity decreased compared to pure F127 in aqueous solution. The results were discussed as a function of alkyl chain length and anions of imidazolium based ILs.
Effect of Drug Loading Method and Drug Physicochemical Properties on the Material and Drug Release Properties of Poly (Ethylene Oxide) Hydrogels for Transdermal Delivery
Authors: Wong Rachel Shet Hui , Dodou Kalliopi
Published: July 2017

Novel poly (ethylene oxide) (PEO) hydrogel films were synthesized via UV cross-linking with pentaerythritol tetra-acrylate (PETRA) as cross-linking agent. The purpose of this work was to develop a novel hydrogel film suitable for passive transdermal drug delivery via skin application. Hydrogels were loaded with model drugs (lidocaine hydrochloride (LID), diclofenac sodium (DIC) and ibuprofen (IBU)) via post-loading and in situ loading methods. The effect of loading method and drug physicochemical properties on the material and drug release properties of medicated film samples were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), swelling studies, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), tensile testing, rheometry, and drug release studies. In situ loaded films showed better drug entrapment within the hydrogel network and also better polymer crystallinity. High drug release was observed from all studied formulations. In situ loaded LID had a plasticizing effect on PEO hydrogel, and films showed excellent mechanical properties and prolonged drug release. The drug release mechanism for the majority of medicated PEO hydrogel formulations was determined as both drug diffusion and polymer chain relaxation, which is highly desirable for controlled release formulations.
Effect of Plasticizer Type on Tensile Property and In Vitro Indomethacin Release of Thin Films Based on Low-Methoxyl Pectin
Authors: Jantrawut Pensak , Chaiwarit Tanpong , Jantanasakulwong Kittisak , Brachais Claire , Chambin Odile
Published: July 2017

This study developed the interests of low-methoxyl pectin (LMP) together with plasticizers for the preparation of elastic thin films. The effect of different plasticizer types (glycerol: Gly; sorbitol: Sor; propylene glycol: PG; and polyethylene glycol 300: PEG 300) and concentrations (20–40% w/w) on mechanical and thermal properties of LMP films as well as on in vitro release of indomethacin were evaluated. Without any plasticizer, a brittle LMP film with low tensile strength and % elongation at break was obtained. Addition of plasticizers from 20% to 40% caused reduction in the tensile strength and Young’s modulus values, whereas percent elongation was increased. Forty percent Gly-plasticized and PG-plasticized films were selected to deliver indomethacin in comparison with non-plasticized film. No significant difference in indomethacin release profiles was displayed between the films. The analysis of indomethacin release model indicated that more than one drug release mechanism from the film formulation was involved and possibly the combination of both diffusion and erosion. Even though indomethacin incorporated in non-plasticized film showed similar release profile, Gly or PG should be added to enhanced film flexibility and decrease film brittleness.
Electronically Stabilized Copoly(Styrene-Acrylic Acid) Submicrocapsules Prepared by Miniemulsion Copolymerization
Authors: Kim Minkwan , Hwang Yura , Ghim Han
Published: July 2017

This work reports the preparation and characterization of poly(styrene-acrylic acid) (St/AA) submicrocapsules by using the miniemulsion copolymerization method. AA was introduced to miniemulsion polymerization of St to increase the zeta potential and the resulting electrostatic stability of St/AA submicrocapsules. Phytoncide oil was adopted as the core model material. Miniemulsion copolymerization of St and AA was conducted at a fixed monomer concentration (0.172 mol) with a varying monomer feed ratio [AA]/[St] (0.2, 0.25, 0.33, 0.5, and 1.0). Concentrations of initiator (azobisisobutyronitrile; 1.0 × 10−3, 2.0 × 10−3, 3.0 × 10−3, and 4.0 × 10−3 mol/mol of monomer) and surfactant (sodium dodecyl sulfate; 0.6 × 10−3, 1.0 × 10−3, and 1.4 × 10−3 mol) were also controlled to optimize the miniemulsion copolymerization of St and AA. Dynamic light scattering and microscopic analyses confirmed the optimum condition of miniemulsion copolymerization of St and AA. Long-term colloidal stability of aqueous St/AA submicrocapsule suspension was evaluated by using TurbiscanTM Lab. In this work, the optimum condition for miniemulsion copolymerization of St and AA was determined ([AA]/[St] = 0.33; [SDS] = 1.0 × 10−3 mol; [AIBN] = 2.0 × 10−3 mol/mol of monomer). St/AA submicrocapsules prepared at the optimum condition (392.6 nm and −55.2 mV of mean particle size and zeta potential, respectively) showed almost no variations in backscattering intensity (stable colloids without aggregation).
Study on Finite Element Model Updating in Highway Bridge Static Loading Test Using Spatially-Distributed Optical Fiber Sensors
Authors: Wu Bitao , Lu Huaxi , Chen Bo , Gao Zhicheng
Published: July 2017

A finite model updating method that combines dynamic-static long-gauge strain responses is proposed for highway bridge static loading tests. For this method, the objective function consisting of static long-gauge stains and the first order modal macro-strain parameter (frequency) is established, wherein the local bending stiffness, density and boundary conditions of the structures are selected as the design variables. The relationship between the macro-strain and local element stiffness was studied first. It is revealed that the macro-strain is inversely proportional to the local stiffness covered by the long-gauge strain sensor. This corresponding relation is important for the modification of the local stiffness based on the macro-strain. The local and global parameters can be simultaneously updated. Then, a series of numerical simulation and experiments were conducted to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method. The results show that the static deformation, macro-strain and macro-strain modal can be predicted well by using the proposed updating model.
Surface Estimation for Microwave Imaging
Authors: Kurrant Douglas , Bourqui Jeremie , Fear Elise
Published: July 2017

Biomedical imaging and sensing applications in many scenarios demand accurate surface estimation from a sparse set of noisy measurements. These measurements may arise from a variety of sensing modalities, including laser or electromagnetic samples of an object’s surface. We describe a state-of-the-art microwave imaging prototype that has sensors to acquire both microwave and laser measurements. The approach developed to translate sparse samples of the breast surface into an accurate estimate of the region of interest is detailed. To evaluate the efficacy of the method, laser and electromagnetic samples are acquired by sensors from three realistic breast models with varying sizes and shapes. A set of metrics is developed to assist with the investigation and demonstrate that the algorithm is able to accurately estimate the shape of a realistic breast phantom when only a sparse set of data are available. Moreover, the algorithm is robust to the presence of measurement noise, and is effective when applied to measurement scans of patients acquired with the prototype.
Investigation into the Effect of Acoustic Radiation Force and Acoustic Streaming on Particle Patterning in Acoustic Standing Wave Fields
Authors: Liu Shilei , Yang Yanye , Ni Zhengyang , Guo Xiasheng , Luo Linjiao , Tu Juan , Zhang Dong , Zhang and Jie
Published: July 2017

Acoustic standing waves have been widely used in trapping, patterning, and manipulating particles, whereas one barrier remains: the lack of understanding of force conditions on particles which mainly include acoustic radiation force (ARF) and acoustic streaming (AS). In this paper, force conditions on micrometer size polystyrene microspheres in acoustic standing wave fields were investigated. The COMSOL® Mutiphysics particle tracing module was used to numerically simulate force conditions on various particles as a function of time. The velocity of particle movement was experimentally measured using particle imaging velocimetry (PIV). Through experimental and numerical simulation, the functions of ARF and AS in trapping and patterning were analyzed. It is shown that ARF is dominant in trapping and patterning large particles while the impact of AS increases rapidly with decreasing particle size. The combination of using both ARF and AS for medium size particles can obtain different patterns with only using ARF. Findings of the present study will aid the design of acoustic-driven microfluidic devices to increase the diversity of particle patterning.
Online Denoising Based on the Second-Order Adaptive Statistics Model
Authors: Yi Sheng-Lun , Jin Xue-Bo , Su Ting-Li , Tang Zhen-Yun , Wang Fa-Fa , Xiang Na , Kong Jian-Lei
Published: July 2017

Online denoising is motivated by real-time applications in the industrial process, where the data must be utilizable soon after it is collected. Since the noise in practical process is usually colored, it is quite a challenge for denoising techniques. In this paper, a novel online denoising method was proposed to achieve the processing of the practical measurement data with colored noise, and the characteristics of the colored noise were considered in the dynamic model via an adaptive parameter. The proposed method consists of two parts within a closed loop: the first one is to estimate the system state based on the second-order adaptive statistics model and the other is to update the adaptive parameter in the model using the Yule–Walker algorithm. Specifically, the state estimation process was implemented via the Kalman filter in a recursive way, and the online purpose was therefore attained. Experimental data in a reinforced concrete structure test was used to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method. Results show the proposed method not only dealt with the signals with colored noise, but also achieved a tradeoff between efficiency and accuracy.
Crack Detection in Concrete Tunnels Using a Gabor Filter Invariant to Rotation
Authors: Medina Roberto , Llamas José , Gómez-García-Bermejo Jaime , Zalama Eduardo , Segarra Miguel
Published: July 2017

In this article, a system for the detection of cracks in concrete tunnel surfaces, based on image sensors, is presented. Both data acquisition and processing are covered. Linear cameras and proper lighting are used for data acquisition. The required resolution of the camera sensors and the number of cameras is discussed in terms of the crack size and the tunnel type. Data processing is done by applying a new method called Gabor filter invariant to rotation, allowing the detection of cracks in any direction. The parameter values of this filter are set by using a modified genetic algorithm based on the Differential Evolution optimization method. The detection of the pixels belonging to cracks is obtained to a balanced accuracy of 95.27%, thus improving the results of previous approaches.
Metrics of Urban Sustainability: A Case Study of Changing Downtowns in Thunder Bay, Canada
Authors: Randall Todd , Kavalchuk Trevor , Nelson Reg
Published: July 2017

Thunder Bay, a medium-sized city in Northern Ontario, has a twin downtown core model, arising from the merging of two former cities in 1970. Its north core, designated as the City’s Entertainment District has received considerable investment, notably a major waterfront renewal project undertaken in 2009 as part of an overall strategy towards downtown revitalization. Greater diversity of commercial functions and increasing residential capacity in downtowns are considered positive steps towards sustainable urban development. It is hoped the leadership taken by the City in its downtown capital investments can stimulate others (corporations and individuals) to re-invest in both living and working in more central locations to the benefit of environmental sustainability indicators like journey-to-work (distance and mode selected) and residential density. This article tracks changes in business composition and residential capacity during a five year period via the development of an intensive database of business and institutional activities. Urban sustainability metrics developed include residential capacity and density, business vacancy rates and business composition and turnover, which complement an existing measure of land-use diversity developed in earlier research. While major capital investments in downtown revitalization (such as the waterfront project) have fairly long-term impact horizons, data suggest some positive trends in the developed metrics in the downtown north core since 2009. In particular, there have been notable investments in waterfront condos and downtown lofts and some diversification in the food retailing and restaurant sectors. However, overall trends in downtown commerce are currently flat, indicative of a struggling local economy and a continued suburbanization of key commercial sectors.
The Uremic Toxin Indoxyl Sulfate Accelerates Thrombotic Response after Vascular Injury in Animal Models
Authors: Karbowska Malgorzata , Kaminski Tomasz , Marcinczyk Natalia , Misztal Tomasz , Rusak Tomasz , Smyk Lukasz , Pawlak Dariusz
Published: July 2017

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients are at high risk for thrombotic events. Indoxyl sulfate (IS) is one of the most potent uremic toxins that accumulates during CKD. Even though IS is associated with an increased risk for cardiovascular disease, its impact on thrombotic events still remains not fully understood. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the direct effect of IS on thrombotic process. We examined the impact of acute exposure to IS on thrombus development induced by electric current in Wistar rats, intravital thrombus formation after laser-induced injury in the mice endothelium, coagulation profile, clot formation dynamics, platelet aggregations, and erythrocyte osmotic resistance. IS doses: 10, 30 and 100 mg/kg body weight (b.w.) increased weight of thrombus induced by electric current in dose-dependent manner (p < 0.001). Furthermore, two highest IS doses increased laser-induced thrombus formation observed via confocal system (increase in fluorescence intensity and total thrombus area (p < 0.01)). Only the highest IS dose decreased clotting time (p < 0.01) and increased maximum clot firmness (p < 0.05). IS did not affect blood morphology parameters and erythrocyte osmotic resistance, but augmented collagen-induced aggregation. Obtained data indicate that IS creates prothrombotic state and contributes to more stable thrombus formation. Thus, we concluded that IS may be one of crucial uremic factors promoting thrombotic events in CKD patients.
Drosophila: Retrotransposons Making up Telomeres
Authors: Casacuberta Elena
Published: July 2017

Drosophila and extant species are the best-studied telomerase exception. In this organism, telomere elongation is coupled with targeted retrotransposition of Healing Transposon (HeT-A) and Telomere Associated Retrotransposon (TART) with sporadic additions of Telomere Associated and HeT-A Related (TAHRE), all three specialized non-Long Terminal Repeat (non-LTR) retrotransposons. These three very special retroelements transpose in head to tail arrays, always in the same orientation at the end of the chromosomes but never in interior locations. Apparently, retrotransposon and telomerase telomeres might seem very different, but a detailed view of their mechanisms reveals similarities explaining how the loss of telomerase in a Drosophila ancestor could successfully have been replaced by the telomere retrotransposons. In this review, we will discover that although HeT-A, TART, and TAHRE are still the only examples to date where their targeted transposition is perfectly tamed into the telomere biology of Drosophila, there are other examples of retrotransposons that manage to successfully integrate inside and at the end of telomeres. Because the aim of this special issue is viral integration at telomeres, understanding the base of the telomerase exceptions will help to obtain clues on similar strategies that mobile elements and viruses could have acquired in order to ensure their survival in the host genome.
New Potentiometric Wireless Chloride Sensors Provide High Resolution Information on Chemical Transport Processes in Streams
Authors: Smettem Keith , Klaus Julian , Harris Nick , Pfister Laurent
Published: July 2017

Quantifying the travel times, pathways, and dispersion of solutes moving through stream environments is critical for understanding the biogeochemical cycling processes that control ecosystem functioning. Validation of stream solute transport and exchange process models requires data obtained from in-stream measurement of chemical concentration changes through time. This can be expensive and time consuming, leading to a need for cheap distributed sensor arrays that respond instantly and record chemical transport at points of interest on timescales of seconds. To meet this need we apply new, low-cost (in the order of a euro per sensor) potentiometric chloride sensors used in a distributed array to obtain data with high spatial and temporal resolution. The application here is to monitoring in-stream hydrodynamic transport and dispersive mixing of an injected chemical, in this case NaCl. We present data obtained from the distributed sensor array under baseflow conditions for stream reaches in Luxembourg and Western Australia. The reaches were selected to provide a range of increasingly complex in-channel flow patterns. Mid-channel sensor results are comparable to data obtained from more expensive electrical conductivity meters, but simultaneous acquisition of tracer data at several positions across the channel allows far greater spatial resolution of hydrodynamic mixing processes and identification of chemical ‘dead zones’ in the study reaches.
Multi-drug resistant Vibrio species isolated from abattoir effluents in Nigeria
Authors: Odjadjare Emmanuel EO , Igbinosa Etinosa O.
Published: July 2017

Introduction: The antibiogram of Vibrio species isolated from abattoir effluents in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria was investigated in lieu of their public health significance.

Methodology: Vibrio species were isolated and identified using standard microbiological and molecular techniques; while antibiogram of isolates was tested and interpreted according to the disc diffusion method described by Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute.

Results: Forty eight (48) out of 150 presumptive isolates (32%) were confirmed to be Vibrio spp. by PCR; of this number (48), 23(47.9%) were V. cholerae, 11(22.9%) V. fluvialis, 8(16.7%) V. vulnificus and 6(12.5%) V. parahaemolyticus.  The antibiogram reveals that Vibrio species were generally resistant to ampicillin (60-67%), trimethoprim (80-100%) and tetracycline (60-83%); whereas they were sensitive to ceftriaxone (86-100%), the aminoglycosides (67-100%), imipenem (86-100%), ofloxacin (83-100%) and chloramphenicol (67-100%). The isolates exhibited multiple antibiotic resistance (MAR) with an average MAR index of 0.23.

Conclusion: The study demonstrated that abattoir effluents are important reservoirs for multidrug resistant Vibrio species that could be considerable contributors to the recurrent episodes of epidemic cholera and non-Vibrio cholerae infections in Nigeria.
A revision of Prespelea Park (Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae)
Authors: Caterino Michael S. , Vásquez-Vélez Laura M.
Published: July 2017

We revise the genus Prespelea Park, redefining and redescribing the two previously known species, P. copelandi Park and P. quirsfeldi Park, and adding ten new species: P. parki Caterino & Vásquez-Vélez, sp. n., P. minima Caterino & Vásquez-Vélez, sp. n., P. morsei Caterino & Vásquez-Vélez, sp. n., P. divergens Caterino & Vásquez-Vélez, sp. n., P. carltoni Caterino & Vásquez-Vélez, sp. n., P. myersae Caterino & Vásquez-Vélez, sp. n., P. georgiensis Caterino & Vásquez-Vélez, sp. n., P. enigma Caterino & Vásquez-Vélez, sp. n., P. wagneri Caterino & Vásquez-Vélez, sp. n., and P. basalis Caterino & Vásquez-Vélez, sp. n.. The genus is still only known from a relatively small area in the southern Appalachian Mountains, but the diversity is much greater than previously suspected. The new species exhibit considerable diversity in male secondary sexual characters. A preliminary phylogenetic analysis cannot conclusively resolve the polarity of eye and wing reduction across Speleobamini, but the monophyly of Park’s subgenus Fusjugama, if expanded to include all species with full-eyed and winged males, is not supported, and we therefore synonymize it with Prespeleas. str.
Soymilk fermentation by Enterococcus faecalis VB43 leads to reduction in the immunoreactivity of allergenic proteins β-conglycinin (7S) and glycinin (11S)
Authors: Biscola V. , de Olmos A. Rodriguez , Choiset Y. , Rabesona H. , Garro M.S. , Mozzi F. , Chobert J.-M. , Drouet M. , Haertlé T. , Franco B.D.G.M.
Published: July 2017

Food allergies represent a serious problem affecting human health and soy proteins rank among the most allergenic proteins from food origin. The proteolytic enzymes produced by lactic acid bacteria (LAB) can hydrolyse the major allergens present in soybean, reducing their immunoreactivity. Many studies have reported the ability of LAB to ferment soy-based products; while the majority of them focus on the improvement of the sensory characteristics and functionality of soy proteins, a lack of information about the role of lactic fermentation in the reduction of immunoreactivity of these proteins exists. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the capability of the proteolytic strain Enterococcus faecalis VB43 to hydrolyse the main allergenic proteins present in soymilk and to determine the immunoreactivity of the obtained hydrolysates. Sodium dodecyl sulphate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) results of fermented soymilk demonstrated complete hydrolysis of the β-subunit from β-conglycinin and the acidic polypeptide from glycinin. Reversed phase high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) analysis of the peptides released after hydrolysis revealed the appearance of new peptides and the disappearance of non-hydrolysed proteins, indicating extensive hydrolysis of the substrate. Results from competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) tests clearly indicated a reduction in the immunoreactivity (more than one logarithmic unit) in the fermented sample as compared to the non-fermented control. Our results suggest that the soymilk fermented by E. faecalis VB43 may induce lower allergic responses in sensitive individuals. The strain E. faecalis VB43 may be considered as an excellent candidate to efficiently reduce the immunoreactivity of soymilk proteins.
How do probiotics and prebiotics function at distant sites?
Authors: Reid G. , Abrahamsson T. , Bailey M. , Bindels L.B. , Bubnov R. , Ganguli K. , Martoni C. , O’Neill C. , Savignac H.M. , Stanton C. , Ship N. , Surette M. , Tuohy K. , van Hemert S.
Published: July 2017

The realisation that microbes regarded as beneficial to the host can impart effects at sites distant from their habitat, has raised many possibilities for treatment of diseases. The objective of a workshop hosted in Turku, Finland, by the International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics, was to assess the evidence for these effects and the extent to which early life microbiome programming influences how the gut microbiota communicates with distant sites. In addition, we examined how probiotics and prebiotics might affect the skin, airways, heart, brain and metabolism. The growing levels of scientific and clinical evidence showing how microbes influence the physiology of many body sites, leads us to call for more funding to advance a potentially exciting avenue for novel therapies for many chronic diseases.
The effects of ankle protectors on lower limb kinematics in male football players: a comparison to braced and unbraced ankles
Authors: Graydon R. , Fewtrell D. , Atkins S. , Sinclair J.
Published: July 2017

Football (soccer) players have a high risk of injuring the lower extremities. To reduce the risk of ankle inversion injuries ankle braces can be worn. To reduce the risk of ankle contusion injuries ankle protectors can be utilised. However, athletes can only wear one of these devices at a time. The effects of ankle braces on stance limb kinematics has been extensively researched, however ankle protectors have had little attention. Therefore, the current study aimed to investigate the effects of ankle protectors on lower extremity kinematics during the stance phase of jogging and compare them with braced and uncovered ankles. Twelve male participants ran at 3.4 m/s in three test conditions; ankle braces (BRACE), ankle protectors (PROTECTOR) and with uncovered ankles (WITHOUT). Stance phase kinematics were collected using an eight-camera motion capture system. Kinematic data between conditions were analysed using one-way repeated measures ANOVA. The results showed that BRACE (absolute range of motion (ROM) = 10.72° and relative ROM = 10.26°) significantly (P<0.05) restricted the ankle in the coronal plane when compared to PROTECTOR (absolute ROM=13.44° and relative ROM =12.82°) and WITHOUT (absolute ROM=13.64° and relative ROM=13.10°). It was also found that both BRACE (peak dorsiflexion=17.02° and absolute ROM=38.34°) and PROTECTOR (peak dorsiflexion =18.46° and absolute ROM =40.15°) significantly (P<0.05) reduced sagittal plane motion when compared to WITHOUT (peak dorsiflexion =19.20° and absolute ROM =42.66°). Ankle protectors’ effects on lower limb kinematics closely resemble that of an unbraced ankle. Therefore, ankle protectors should only be used as a means to reduce risk of ankle contusion injuries and not implemented as a method to reduce the risk of ankle inversion injuries. Furthermore, the reductions found in sagittal plane motion of the ankle could possibly increase the bodies energy demand needed for locomotion when ankle protectors are utilised.
Multi-Spectral Imaging of Circumscribed Choroidal Hemangioma Introduction
Authors: Gan Nicola Y. , Zimmer Cheryl , Lam Wai-Ching
Published: July 2017

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To illustrate the features of a circumscribed choroidal hemangioma (CCH) using Annidis RHA multi-spectral imaging (MSI) technology (Annidis Corporation, Ottawa, Canada). This novel imaging technique uses non-overlapping, narrow-band LED light sources ranging from 520 nm to 940 nm to create a monochromatic series of en face fundus images and oxy/deoxyhemoglobin contrasted maps of the retina and choroid.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Annidis RHA MSI images were taken of a 67-year-old Chinese male with CCH. These en face fundus images are presented alongside the traditional fundus photograph, optical coherence tomography, and fluorescein and indocyanine green angiograms.

RESULTS:

Multi-spectral en face images of the outer retina and choroid demonstrated a clearly delineated lesion with a disorganized choroidal vascular network and increased reflectance/ oxyhemoglobin levels within.

CONCLUSION:

MSI technology is a noninvasive imaging technique that can depict the vascular features and choroidal oxygenation of CCH lesions and has a potential role in monitoring its growth complications.

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Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2017;48:572–575.

]
Application of Data Mining Techniques in Clinical Decision Making
Authors: Ameri Hakimeh , Alizadeh Somayeh , Noughabi Elham Akhond Zadeh
Published: July 2017

Data mining techniques are increasingly used in clinical decision making and help the physicians to make more accurate and effective decisions. In this chapter, a classification of data mining applications in clinical decision making is presented through a systematic review. The applications of data mining techniques in clinical decision making are divided into two main categories: diagnosis and treatment. Early prediction of medical conditions, detecting multi-morbidity and complications of diseases, identifying and predicting the chronic diseases and medical imaging are the subcategories which are defined in the diagnosis part. The Treatment category is composed of treatment effectiveness and predicting the average length of stay in hospital. The majority of the reviewed articles are related to diagnosis and there is only one article which discusses the determination of drug dosage in successful treatment. The classification model is the most commonly practical model in the clinical decision making.
Notifiable Disease Databases for Client Management and Surveillance
Authors: Jolly Ann M. , Logan James J.
Published: July 2017

The spread of certain infectious diseases, many of which are preventable, is widely acknowledged to have a detrimental effect on society. Reporting cases of these infections has been embodied in public health laws since the 1800s. Documenting client management and monitoring numbers of cases are the primary goals in collecting these data. A sample notifiable disease database is presented, including database structure, elements and rationales for collection, sources of data, and tabulated output. This chapter is a comprehensive guide to public health professionals on the content, structure, and processing of notifiable disease data for regional, provincial, and federal use.
A Case-Based-Reasoning System for Feature Selection and Diagnosing Asthma
Authors: Darabi Somayeh Akhavan , Teimourpour Babak
Published: July 2017

Asthma is a chronic disease of the airways in the lungs. The differentiation between asthma, COPD and bronchiectasis in the early stage of disease is very important for the adoption of appropriate therapeutic measures. In this research, a case-based-reasoning (CBR) model is proposed to assist a physician to therapy. First of all, features and symptoms are determined and patients' data is gathered with a questionnaire, then CBR algorithm is run on the data which leads to the asthma diagnosis. The system was tested on 325 asthmatic and non-asthmatic adult cases and the accuracy was eighty percent. The consequences were promising. This study was performed in order to determine risk factors for asthma in a specific society and the results of research showed that the most important variables of asthma disease are symptoms hyper-responsive, frequency of cough and cough.
Localization and Context Determination for Cyber-Physical Systems Based on 3D Imaging
Authors: Plank Hannes , Steinbaeck Josef , Druml Norbert , Steger Christian , Holweg Gerald
Published: July 2017

In recent years, consumer electronics became increasingly location and context-aware. Novel applications, such as augmented and virtual reality have high demands in precision, latency and update rate in their tracking solutions. 3D imaging systems have seen a rapid development in the past years. By enabling a manifold of systems to become location and context-aware, 3D imaging has the potential to become a part of everyone's daily life. In this chapter, we discuss 3D imaging technologies and their applications in localization, tracking and 3D context determination. Current technologies and key concepts are depicted and open issues are investigated. The novel concept of location-aware optical communication based on Time-of-Flight depth sensors is introduced. This communication method might close the gap between high performance tracking and localization. The chapter finally provides an outlook on future concepts and work-in progress technologies, which might introduce a new set of paradigms for location-aware cyber-physical systems in the Internet of Things.
Effective Approaches to Training CPS Knowledge and Skills
Authors: Kreiner Christian , Messnarz Richard
Published: July 2017

Training of skills for engineering CPS systems requires to convey deeper understanding of complex and multidisciplinary processes and products. Companies are facing complex challenges and encounter demands for specialized skills and interdisciplinary collaboration to achieve dependable mass products for end customers. Furthermore, industry demands flexibility, effectiveness, and efficiency in qualifying trainees. Usually they ask for: deliver yesterday, no time committed to training, and perfectly qualified trainees as outcome. The modular matrix course architecture is described for those in need to devise a complex training for industry. It is complemented by best practice recommendations for course development, delivery, and certification. The training and certification toolbox of the AQUA Knowledge Alliance for Automotive has fully implemented the described approach, and serves as a case study.
Where Do All My Keys Come From?
Authors: Sinnhofer Andreas Daniel , Steger Christian , Kreiner Christian , Oppermann Felix Jonathan , Potzmader Klaus , Orthacker Clemens
Published: July 2017

Nowadays, cyber-physical systems are omnipresent in our daily lives and are increasingly used to process confidential data. While the variety of portable devices we use excessively at home and at work is steadily increasing, their security vulnerabilities are often not noticed by the user. Therefore, portable devices such as wearables are becoming more and more interesting for adversaries. Thus, a robust and secure software design is required for the implementation of cryptographic communication protocols and encryption algorithms. While these topics are well discussed and subject to further research activities, the issue of provisioning the initial device setup is widely uncovered. However, the protection of the initial setup is as important as the protection of the confidential data during the time in use. In this work, the authors will present solutions for a secure initialization of security critical integrated circuits (ICs).
FRP-Strengthening of Curved Masonry Structures: Local Bond Behavior and Global Response
Authors: Bertolesi Elisa , Fabbrocino Francesco , Formisano Antonio , Grande Ernesto , Milani Gabriele
Published: July 2017

The aim of the paper is to propose and assess the reliability of a modeling strategy which combines the homogenization of the masonry material and the use of zero-thickness interface elements. This strategy is specifically proposed for numerically investigating the structural response of FRP-reinforced curved masonry structures. Indeed, in order to consider the influence of the geometry curvature of the masonry substrate on the local bond behavior of the FRP-strengthening system, bond-slip laws which specifically account for the geometric curvature of the substrate are introduced at the FRP/substrate interface layer. Numerical analyses concerning masonry arches selected from the current literature are presented in the paper in order to assess the reliability of the proposed modelling approach.
Experimental and Numerical Investigations on the Behaviour of Masonry Walls Reinforced with an Innovative Sisal FRCM System
Authors: de Carvalho Bello Claudia Brito , Cecchi Antonella , Meroi Emilio , Oliveira Daniel V.
Published: July 2017

An experimental and numerical investigation on an innovative composite reinforced with sisal fibers for masonry strengthening is presented in this paper. A FEM numerical approach is also developed, based on diagonal compression test results, to simulate the shear in-plane response of unreinforced masonry panels (URM) and masonry strengthened with a Fibre Reinforced Cementitious Matrix (FRCM) composite system made with sisal fibers (RM-SISAL).
Experimental and Analytical Investigation of Steel Reinforced Grout (SRG) Strengthened Masonry Panels
Authors: Wang Xuan , Lam Chi Chiu , Iu Vai Pan , Kou Kun Pang
Published: July 2017

This paper illustrates the results of experimental and analytical investigation carried out on masonry panels built by grey clay brick (GCB) from the Lingnan Region, China, reinforced with externally bonded Steel Reinforced Grout (SRG) system. The experimental program involves diagonal compression tests on two unreinforced and two double side reinforced panels. The main outcomes of the experimental tests include load-displacement response, stiffness, load capacity and failure mechanism. The results show that the contribution of the strengthening system to the increase of the load carrying capacity and ductility. Finally, analytical model is proposed and compared with experimental results.
Discrete Model for the Collapse Behavior of Unreinforced Random Masonry Walls
Authors: Baraldi Daniele , Cecchi Antonella
Published: July 2017

A discrete model with rigid blocks and elastic-plastic interfaces is adopted for studying the collapse behavior of in-plane loaded masonry panels with random texture. An existing random discrete model, originally developed in the elastic field, is here extended to the field of material nonlinearity by adopting a Mohr-Coulomb yield criterion for restraining actions at joint level. The resulting model turns out to be simple and effective in determining collapse loads and mechanisms of rectangular masonry panels, also accounting for a further perturbation parameter able to vary the height of each course of blocks into the masonry panel. The collapse loads turn out to be slightly smaller than those typical of regular assemblages, whereas mechanisms turn out to be influenced by local arrangement and size of blocks.
A Closed-Form Analytical Solution to the Debonding of SRG on Curved Masonry Substrate
Authors: Malena Marialaura , de Santis Stefano , Pantò Bartolomeo , de Felice Gianmarco
Published: July 2017

Steel Reinforced Grout composites have become a popular technique for strengthening masonry arches and vaults. The SRG composites are Ultra High Tensile Strength Steel unidirectional textiles applied to masonry substrate by mean of inorganic mortar. The weakness of SRG-masonry joints is the debonding at the matrix fibers interface during the stresses transfer process. In the case of arches and vaults the interface bond properties are also affected by the curved geometry of the substrate. In this work, a closed-form analytical solution to the debonding process of a thin plate bonded on a rigid substrate with constant curvature is proposed. The work provides an upgrade of the model previous prosed by the authors (Malena and de Felice 2014). In the present work the substrate curvature is such that the normal stresses arising at the interface are tensile, as in the case of reinforcing systems applied to the intrados of a masonry arch (Malena and de Felice 2014), or compressive as for reinforcing systems applied to the extrados of a masonry arch.
The proposed model describes the interfacial stresses transfer mechanism in the framework of fracture mechanics by two laws describing the behavior in normal (pure opening mode: Mode I) and in tangential (in plane shear mode: Mode II) directions. The coupling deriving from curvature is introduced directly in the cohesive laws describing the bond properties. The outcomes of the proposed predictive model are validated by comparing them with the results derived from an experimental campaign of bond tests on straight and curved substrates made of bricks assembled with mortar and strengthened with SRG.
FRCM Strengthened Masonry Panels: The Role of Mechanical Anchorages and Symmetric Layouts
Authors: Ferretti Francesca , Incerti Andrea , Ferracuti Barbara , Mazzotti Claudio
Published: July 2017

The use of fiber reinforced composite materials for the retrofitting of existing masonry buildings is investigated in this paper. Indeed, they represent a great alternative to traditional strengthening techniques for the improvement of the seismic performance of masonry walls. Focusing on the in-plane behavior of masonry, an experimental campaign is here presented with the objective of studying the efficiency of different strengthening solutions. Diagonal compression tests were conducted on single-leaf masonry panels reinforced with Fiber Reinforced Cementitious Matrix (FRCM) using different fibers typologies and layouts. Glass or carbon fiber grids embedded in a lime-based mortar matrix were applied on one or both sides of masonry panels, with or without mechanical anchorages. The comparison of the different strengthening techniques is analyzed in terms of failure mode, strength and ductility. The results are then discussed considering the provisions and design formula proposed for FRP strengthening by the Italian CNR Guidelines.