bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Current Management of Endometriosis An Update
Authors: Ganguly Shikha , Begum Nazneen , Afroj Sultana , Akhter Nasrin
Published: October 2015

Endometriosis, defined as the presence of endometrial tissue outside the uterus, is a challenging condition associated with substantial morbidity. Theories on the cause of the disease include retrograde menstruation, coelomic metaplasia, altered immunity, stem cells, and genetics. Management of endometriosis must be individualized according to the desired treatment outcome, whether it is relief of pain, improvement of fertility, or the prevention of recurrence. For alleviation of endometriosis-associated pain, medical treatment is generally successful, with no medical agent being more efficacious than another in spite of significantly differing side-effect profiles. Surgical therapy has also been demonstrated to reduce pain scores in comparison with expectant management, although conservative surgery has been frequently associated with recurrence. Endometriois has been associated with infertility; however, the mechanisms by which it affects fertility are still not fully understood. For treatment of endometriosis-associated infertility, suppressive medical treatment has been proven to be detrimental to fertility and should be discouraged, while surgery is probably efficacious for all stages. Controlled ovarian hyperstimulation with intrauterine insemination is recommended in early-stage and surgically corrected endometriosis. Combined surgery with Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analog treatment has been proposed to be first-line therapy, followed by in vitro fertilization (IVF) as second-line therapy in advanced cases. This article reviews the proposed mechanisms of endometriosis pathogenesis, its current management strategies and its effects on fertility, and treatments of endometriosis-associated infertility.J Dhaka Medical College, Vol. 23, No.2, October, 2014, Page 245-255
Retrocaval Ureter  A Case Report
Authors: Chowdhury Md Shafiqul Alam , Rahman Md Mostafizur , Karmaker Uttam , Belal Md Towhid , Bhuiyun Md Humayun Kabir
Published: October 2015

Retrocaval ureter is a rare congenital urologic anomaly. It occurs due to the persistence of the right subcardinal veins during embryologic development. Its presence should be suspected with the finding of a characteristic S-shaped deformity on intravenous or retrograde pyelography. Today, a definitive diagnosis can be made noninvasively using multi-slice CT imaging or MRI. Intervention is indicated in the presence of functionally significant obstruction leading to pain or renal function deterioration.J Dhaka Medical College, Vol. 23, No.2, October, 2014, Page 259-261
Outbreak of Paracoccus marginatus in Bangladesh and its control strategies in the fields
Authors: Khan MAM , Biswas MJH , Ahmed KS , Sheheli S
Published: October 2015

A field survey as well as market survey on Papaya mealybug, Paracoccus marginatus (Williams and Granara de Willink) was conducted in different regions of Bangladesh to know the infestation level, economic loss, and common management practices used by farmers to control this insect. Field survey revealed that more than one third of the papaya plants were affected by papaya mealybug and papaya growers faced a great economic loss. Severe infestation of papaya mealybug was also found in the nurseries of the survey areas. Market survey indicated that the retailers faced difficulties to sell infested papaya fruit. Seven plants other than papaya were recorded to which papaya mealybug also attacked. The plants were Hog plum (Sponolia spinnata), Chili (Capsicum frutescence), Okra (Abelmoscus esculentus), Brinjal (Solanum melongena), Guava (Psidium melongena), Velvet-apple (Diospyros blancoi) and Hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-scinensis). The farmers of the survey area used several chemical insecticides indiscriminately against the papaya mealybug and did not get satisfactory control. Some indigenous pest management tactics were also used against papaya mealybug including the use of wood ash and bark extract of mahogany tree.Progress. Agric. 2014. 25: 17-22
Morphological and molecular characterization of some NERICA mutant lines under drought condition
Authors: Hasan MN , Bhuiyan MJH , Begum SN , Raffi SA , Razia S
Published: October 2015

To ensure the productivity of rice in drought condition, NERICA varieties of African origin has been introduced in Bangladesh and subsequently mutant lines are also developed for improving the performance further. The present study was undertaken to screen out better drought tolerant mutant lines of NERICA having other desirable traits. Thirteen NARICA mutant lines, four susceptible (BINA dhan8, BINA dhan10, BINA dhan11 and BINA dhan12) and one tolerant (BRRI dhan56) varieties were included in the experiment and selection was based on morphological and molecular characteristics. The plants were grown in pot containing 9 kg of soil and when they were 60 days old, drought was imposed by adding 1L of distilled water at every four days interval till harvesting. The quantity of water applied to control pots was double. The results showed that important yield contributing morphological attributes like days of 50% flowering, plant height, total number of tiller hill-1, panicle length, 100 seed weight, fresh weight of plant and dry weight of plant were significantly positively regulated due to drought in N10/300/P-2(1)-3-5, N1/250/P-6-2-7 and N10/300/P-2(1)-6-13 mutant lines. The findings of genetic diversity analysis through SSR markers RM32, RM202, RM351 and RM510 for N10/300/P-2(1)-3-5, N1/350/P-2-2-6 and N1/250/P-6-2-7 lines appeared to resemble to that of control (BRRI dhan56) from the UPGMA dendrogram. Based on morphological, molecular characteristics and UPGMA dendrogram study, mutant lines N10/300/P-2(1)-3-5 and N1/250/P-6-2-7 lines appeared superior as genetic material for developing better drought tolerant rice varieties.Progressive Agriculture 26:15-21, 2015
Genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance of yield and yield contributing characters of lablab bean (Lablab purpureus L.)
Authors: Asaduzzaman M , Bhuiyan MJH , Hossain MA , Raffi SA
Published: October 2015

Studies on genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance were carried out with 14 genotypes of Lablab bean (Lablab purpureus L.) cultivated at the Agro-ecological zone9 (AEZ-9) comprising the Old Brahmaputra Floodplain Soil. Considerable amount of genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variation was observed for all characters studied. Phenotypic variation was greater than that of the genotypic variations for all the characters. The greater portion of total phenotypic variation was due to the genotypic variation. Highest genetic and phenotypic variation were observed for green pod yield per plant (1882.68 and 2108.43, respectively) and 100-green seed weight (1380.91 and 1452.07, respectively) Heritability values were higher for days to maturity (81.37) , number of raceme per plant (80.62), pod length (99.43), pod width (99.27), green pod yield per plant (89.29), dry shelling percentage (91.58), seed yield per plant (84.93) and protein content (98.11) indicating the better potentials of improving these characters for improvement of yield. Maximum genetic advance expressed as percentage of mean was recorded for green pod yield per plant (95.22).Progressive Agriculture 26:22-25, 2015
Functional Analysis of Cotton Leaf Curl Kokhran Virus/Cotton Leaf Curl Multan Betasatellite RNA Silencing Suppressors
Authors: Saeed Muhammad , Briddon Rob , Dalakouras Athanasios , Krczal Gabi , Wassenegger Michael
Published: October 2015

In South Asia, Cotton leaf curl disease (CLCuD) is caused by a complex of phylogenetically-related begomovirus species and a specific betasatellite, Cotton leaf curl Multan betasatellite (CLCuMuB). The post-transcriptional gene silencing (PTGS) suppression activities of the transcriptional activator protein (TrAP), C4, V2 and βC1 proteins encoded by Cotton leaf curl Kokhran virus (CLCuKoV)/CLCuMuB were assessed in Nicotiana benthamiana. A variable degree of local silencing suppression was observed for each viral protein tested, with V2 protein exhibiting the strongest suppression activity and only the C4 protein preventing the spread of systemic silencing. The CLCuKoV-encoded TrAP, C4, V2 and CLCuMuB-encoded βC1 proteins were expressed in Escherichia coli and purified. TrAP was shown to bind various small and long nucleic acids including single-stranded (ss) and double-stranded (ds) RNA and DNA molecules. C4, V2, and βC1 bound ssDNA and dsDNA with varying affinities. Transgenic expression of C4 under the constitutive 35S Cauliflower mosaic virus promoter and βC1 under a dexamethasone inducible promoter induced severe developmental abnormalities in N. benthamiana. The results indicate that homologous proteins from even quite closely related begomoviruses may differ in their suppressor activity and mechanism of action. The significance of these findings is discussed.
Competing Interactions of RNA-Binding Proteins, MicroRNAs, and Their Targets Control Neuronal Development and Function
Authors: Gardiner Amy , Twiss Jeffery , Perrone-Bizzozero Nora
Published: October 2015

Post-transcriptional mechanisms play critical roles in the control of gene expression during neuronal development and maturation as they allow for faster responses to environmental cues and provide spatially-restricted compartments for local control of protein expression. These mechanisms depend on the interaction of cis-acting elements present in the mRNA sequence and trans-acting factors, such as RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) and microRNAs (miRNAs) that bind to those cis-elements and regulate mRNA stability, subcellular localization, and translation. Recent studies have uncovered an unexpected complexity in these interactions, where coding and non-coding RNAs, termed competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs), compete for binding to miRNAs. This competition can, thereby, control a larger number of miRNA target transcripts. However, competing RNA networks also extend to competition between target mRNAs for binding to limited amounts of RBPs. In this review, we present evidence that competitions between target mRNAs for binding to RBPs also occur in neurons, where they affect transcript stability and transport into axons and dendrites as well as translation. In addition, we illustrate the complexity of these mechanisms by demonstrating that RBPs and miRNAs also compete for target binding and regulation.
Engineering and Characterization of a Fluorescent Native-Like HIV-1 Envelope Glycoprotein Trimer
Authors: Sliepen Kwinten , Van Montfort Thijs , Ozorowski Gabriel , Pritchard Laura , Crispin Max , Ward Andrew , Sanders Rogier
Published: October 2015

Generation of a stable, soluble mimic of the HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein (Env) trimer on the virion surface has been considered an important first step for developing a successful HIV-1 vaccine. Recently, a soluble native-like Env trimer (BG505 SOSIP.664) has been described. This protein has facilitated major advances in the HIV-1 vaccine field, since it was the first Env immunogen that induced consistent neutralizing antibodies against a neutralization-resistant (tier 2) virus. Moreover, BG505 SOSIP.664 enabled elucidation of the atomic resolution structure of the Env trimer and facilitated the isolation and characterization of new broadly neutralizing antibodies against HIV-1. Here, we designed and characterized the BG505 SOSIP.664 trimer fused to fluorescent superfolder GFP (sfGFP), a GFP variant that allows efficient folding (BG505 SOSIP.664-sfGFP). Despite the presence of the sfGFP, the Env protein largely retained its morphology, antigenicity, glycan composition, and thermostability. In addition, we show that BG505 SOSIP.664-sfGFP can be used for fluorescence-based assays, such as flow cytometry.
Roles of TRPM8 Ion Channels in Cancer: Proliferation, Survival, and Invasion
Authors: Yee Nelson
Published: October 2015

The goal of this article is to provide a critical review of the transient receptor potential melastatin-subfamily member 8 (TRPM8) in cancers, with an emphasis on its roles in cellular proliferation, survival, and invasion. The TRPM8 ion channels regulate Ca²⁺ homeostasis and function as a cellular sensor and transducer of cold temperature. Accumulating evidence has demonstrated that TRPM8 is aberrantly expressed in a variety of malignant solid tumors. Clinicopathological analysis has shown that over-expression of TRPM8 correlates with tumor progression. Experimental data have revealed important roles of TRPM8 channels in cancer cells proliferation, survival, and invasion, which appear to be dependent on the cancer type. Recent reports have begun to reveal the signaling mechanisms that mediate the biological roles of TRPM8 in tumor growth and metastasis. Determining the mechanistic roles of TRPM8 in cancer is expected to elucidate the impact of thermal and chemical stimuli on the formation and progression of neoplasms. Translational research and clinical investigation of TRPM8 in malignant diseases will help exploit these ion channels as molecular biomarkers and therapeutic targets for developing precision cancer medicine.
Part I: A Comparative Thermal Aging Study on the Regenerability of Rh/Al2O3 and Rh/CexOy-ZrO2 as Model Catalysts for Automotive Three Way Catalysts
Authors: Zheng Qinghe , Farrauto Robert , Deeba Michel , Valsamakis Ioannis
Published: October 2015

The rhodium (Rh) component in automotive three way catalysts (TWC) experiences severe thermal deactivation during fuel shutoff, an engine mode (e.g., at downhill coasting) used for enhancing fuel economy. In a subsequent switch to a slightly fuel rich condition, in situ catalyst regeneration is accomplished by reduction with H2 generated through steam reforming catalyzed by Rh0 sites. The present work reports the effects of the two processes on the activity and properties of 0.5% Rh/Al2O3 and 0.5% Rh/CexOy-ZrO2 (CZO) as model catalysts for Rh-TWC. A very brief introduction of three way catalysts and system considerations is also given. During simulated fuel shutoff, catalyst deactivation is accelerated with increasing aging temperature from 800 °C to 1050 °C. Rh on a CZO support experiences less deactivation and faster regeneration than Rh on Al2O3. Catalyst characterization techniques including BET surface area, CO chemisorption, TPR, and XPS measurements were applied to examine the roles of metal-support interactions in each catalyst system. For Rh/Al2O3, strong metal-support interactions with the formation of stable rhodium aluminate (Rh(AlO2)y) complex dominates in fuel shutoff, leading to more difficult catalyst regeneration. For Rh/CZO, Rh sites were partially oxidized to Rh2O3 and were relatively easy to be reduced to active Rh0 during regeneration.
Part II: Oxidative Thermal Aging of Pd/Al2O3 and Pd/CexOy-ZrO2 in Automotive Three Way Catalysts: The Effects of Fuel Shutoff and Attempted Fuel Rich Regeneration
Authors: Zheng Qinghe , Farrauto Robert , Deeba Michel
Published: October 2015

The Pd component in the automotive three way catalyst (TWC) experiences deactivation during fuel shutoff, a process employed by automobile companies for enhancing fuel economy when the vehicle is coasting downhill. The process exposes the TWC to a severe oxidative aging environment with the flow of hot (800 °C–1050 °C) air. Simulated fuel shutoff aging at 1050 °C leads to Pd metal sintering, the main cause of irreversible deactivation of 3% Pd/Al2O3 and 3% Pd/CexOy-ZrO2 (CZO) as model catalysts. The effect on the Rh component was presented in our companion paper Part I. Moderate support sintering and Pd-CexOy interactions were also experienced upon aging, but had a minimal effect on the catalyst activity losses. Cooling in air, following aging, was not able to reverse the metallic Pd sintering by re-dispersing to PdO. Unlike the aged Rh-TWCs (Part I), reduction via in situ steam reforming (SR) of exhaust HCs was not effective in reversing the deactivation of aged Pd/Al2O3, but did show a slight recovery of the Pd activity when CZO was the carrier. The Pd+/Pd0 and Ce3+/Ce4+ couples in Pd/CZO are reported to promote the catalytic SR by improving the redox efficiency during the regeneration, while no such promoting effect was observed for Pd/Al2O3. A suggestion is made for improving the catalyst performance.
Exergy Losses in the Szewalski Binary Vapor Cycle
Authors: Kowalczyk Tomasz , Ziółkowski Paweł , Badur Janusz
Published: October 2015

In this publication, we present an energy and exergy analysis of the Szewalski binary vapor cycle based on a model of a supercritical steam power plant. We used energy analysis to conduct a preliminary optimization of the cycle. Exergy loss analysis was employed to perform a comparison of heat-transfer processes, which are essential for hierarchical cycles. The Szewalski binary vapor cycle consists of a steam cycle bottomed with an organic Rankine cycle installation. This coupling has a negative influence on the thermal efficiency of the cycle. However, the primary aim of this modification is to reduce the size of the power unit by decreasing the low-pressure steam turbine cylinder and the steam condenser. The reduction of the “cold end” of the turbine is desirable from economic and technical standpoints. We present the Szewalski binary vapor cycle in addition to a mathematical model of the chosen power plant’s thermodynamic cycle. We elaborate on the procedure of the Szewalski cycle design and its optimization in order to attain an optimal size reduction of the power unit and limit exergy loss.
Forecasting China’s Annual Biofuel Production Using an Improved Grey Model
Authors: Geng Nana , Zhang Yong , Sun Yixiang , Jiang Yunjian , Chen Dandan
Published: October 2015

Biofuel production in China suffers from many uncertainties due to concerns about the government’s support policy and supply of biofuel raw material. Predicting biofuel production is critical to the development of this energy industry. Depending on the biofuel’s characteristics, we improve the prediction precision of the conventional prediction method by creating a dynamic fuzzy grey–Markov prediction model. Our model divides random time series decomposition into a change trend sequence and a fluctuation sequence. It comprises two improvements. We overcome the problem of considering the status of future time from a static angle in the traditional grey model by using the grey equal dimension new information and equal dimension increasing models to create a dynamic grey prediction model. To resolve the influence of random fluctuation data and weak anti-interference ability in the Markov chain model, we improve the traditional grey–Markov model with classification of states using the fuzzy set theory. Finally, we use real data to test the dynamic fuzzy prediction model. The results prove that the model can effectively improve the accuracy of forecast data and can be applied to predict biofuel production. However, there are still some defects in our model. The modeling approach used here predicts biofuel production levels based upon past production levels dictated by economics, governmental policies, and technological developments but none of which can be forecast accurately based upon past events.
Assessment of the Physicochemical Qualities and Prevalence of Escherichia coli and Vibrios in the Final Effluents of Two Wastewater Treatment Plants in South Africa: Ecological and Public Health Implications
Authors: Osuolale Olayinka , Okoh Anthony
Published: October 2015

The final effluents of two wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa were evaluated for their physicochemical and microbiological qualities over a period of 12 months. The physicochemical parameters assessed ranged as follows both plants. The ranges of values for the physicochemical are: pH (3.9–8.6), total dissolved solids (86.50–336.3 mg/L), electrical conductivity (13.57–52.50 mS/m), temperature (13–28 °C), nitrate (0–21.73 mg/L), nitrite (0.01–0.60 mg/L), orthophosphate (1.29–20.57 mg/L), turbidity (4.02–43.20 NTU), free chlorine (0.05–7.18 mg/L), dissolve oxygen (3.91–9.60 mg/L), biochemical oxygen demand (0.1–9.0 mg/L) and chemical oxygen demand (4.67–211 mg/L). The microbiological assessment for both WWTPs revealed the presence of E. coli in counts ranging between 0 and 1.86 × 104 CFU/100 mL and Vibrio counts ranging between 0 and 9.93 × 103 CFU/100 mL. We conclude that these WWTPs are important point sources of pollution in surface water with potential public health and ecological risks.
A Parallel Biological Optimization Algorithm to Solve the Unbalanced Assignment Problem Based on DNA Molecular Computing
Authors: Wang Zhaocai , Pu Jun , Cao Liling , Tan Jian
Published: October 2015

The unbalanced assignment problem (UAP) is to optimally resolve the problem of assigning n jobs to m individuals (m < n), such that minimum cost or maximum profit obtained. It is a vitally important Non-deterministic Polynomial (NP) complete problem in operation management and applied mathematics, having numerous real life applications. In this paper, we present a new parallel DNA algorithm for solving the unbalanced assignment problem using DNA molecular operations. We reasonably design flexible-length DNA strands representing different jobs and individuals, take appropriate steps, and get the solutions of the UAP in the proper length range and O(mn) time. We extend the application of DNA molecular operations and simultaneity to simplify the complexity of the computation.
Changes in Regenerative Capacity through Lifespan
Authors: Yun Maximina
Published: October 2015

Most organisms experience changes in regenerative abilities through their lifespan. During aging, numerous tissues exhibit a progressive decline in homeostasis and regeneration that results in tissue degeneration, malfunction and pathology. The mechanisms responsible for this decay are both cell intrinsic, such as cellular senescence, as well as cell-extrinsic, such as changes in the regenerative environment. Understanding how these mechanisms impact on regenerative processes is essential to devise therapeutic approaches to improve tissue regeneration and extend healthspan. This review offers an overview of how regenerative abilities change through lifespan in various organisms, the factors that underlie such changes and the avenues for therapeutic intervention. It focuses on established models of mammalian regeneration as well as on models in which regenerative abilities do not decline with age, as these can deliver valuable insights for our understanding of the interplay between regeneration and aging.
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) with Chemotherapy for Advanced Lung Cancer with Airway Stenosis
Authors: Kimura Masakazu , Miyajima Kuniharu , Kojika Masakazu , Kono Takafumi , Kato Harubumi
Published: October 2015

Intractable advanced lung cancer can be treated palliatively with photodynamic therapy (PDT) combined with chemotherapy to remove central and peripheral (lobar or segmental bronchi) bronchial stenosis and obstruction. We present data for 12 (eight men, four women) consecutive patients with 13 advanced non-small cell lung carcinomas in whom curative operations were contraindicated, who underwent PDT combined with chemotherapy for local control of the intraluminal lesions. The mean age was 73.3 years (range, 58–80 years), and the stages of cancer were IIA–IV. The median stenosis rates before treatment, one week post-treatment, and one month post-treatment were 60% (range, 30%–100%), 15% (range, 15%–99%), and 15% (range 15%–60%), respectively. The mean and median survival times were 9.3 and 5.9 months, respectively. The overall 1-year survival rate was 30.0%. No PDT-related morbidity or mortality occurred. In this single-institution study, all patients experienced improved symptoms and quality of life at one week after treatment; furthermore, an objective response was evidenced by the substantial increase in the openings of the bronchial lumen and prevention of obstructive pneumonia. Therefore, PDT with chemotherapy was useful and safe for the treatment of bronchial obstruction.
Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH): Risk Factors in Morbidly Obese Patients
Authors: Losekann Alexandre , Weston Antonio , De Mattos Angelo , Tovo Cristiane , De Carli Luis , Espindola Marilia , Pioner Sergio , Coral Gabriela
Published: October 2015

The aim was to investigate the prevalence of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and risk factors for hepatic fibrosis in morbidly obese patients submitted to bariatric surgery. This retrospective study recruited all patients submitted to bariatric surgery from January 2007 to December 2012 at a reference attendance center of Southern Brazil. Clinical and biochemical data were studied as a function of the histological findings of liver biopsies done during the surgery. Steatosis was present in 226 (90.4%) and NASH in 176 (70.4%) cases. The diagnosis of cirrhosis was established in four cases (1.6%) and fibrosis in 108 (43.2%). Risk factors associated with NASH at multivariate analysis were alanine aminotransferase (ALT) >1.5 times the upper limit of normal (ULN); glucose ≥ 126 mg/dL and triglycerides ≥ 150 mg/dL. All patients with ALT ≥1.5 times the ULN had NASH. When the presence of fibrosis was analyzed, ALT > 1.5 times the ULN and triglycerides ≥ 150 mg/dL were risk factors, furthermore, there was an increase of 1% in the prevalence of fibrosis for each year of age increase. Not only steatosis, but NASH is a frequent finding in MO patients. In the present study, ALT ≥ 1.5 times the ULN identifies all patients with NASH, this finding needs to be further validated in other studies. Moreover, the presence of fibrosis was associated with ALT, triglycerides and age, identifying a subset of patients with more severe disease.
Reproductive Behavior and Basic Biology of the Oriental Bamboo-Inhabiting Anoplomus rufipes and a Comparison with Frugivorous Dacinae Fruit Flies
Authors: Kovac Damir
Published: October 2015

The reproductive behaviors and mating systems of the fruit-infesting species of the Dacinae tribes Ceratitidini and Dacini are increasingly well understood, while in the non-frugivorous tribe Gastrozonini, data are lacking. In the present study, the reproductive behavior of Anoplomus rufipes from North Thailand was studied in the field, other behaviors also in the laboratory. A. rufipes mated on young bamboo plants growing in areas destroyed by fire. Exudates of extrafloral nectaries produced by the young bamboo plants provided food for the females. Factors affecting the choice of the mating site were favorable microclimatic conditions and food. Courtship behavior was performed on the upper sides of bamboo leaves and included pheromone calling (abdominal elevation, anal pouch eversion, abdominal pleural distention), anal dabbing, looping flights and a specific lofting/body swaying behavior. The males searched individually for females or formed leks containing up to four males. The reproductive behaviors and lek formation of A. rufipes are compared to other Dacinae (Ceratitis, Bactrocera), and their functions are discussed. Hitherto unknown data on the general biology of A. rufipes are also included. A. rufipes larvae infested living bamboo shoots of Cephalostachyum pergracile, and the observed behaviors of the adults included locomotion, grooming, feeding, oral droplet deposition, bubbling and agonistic behavior.
7-Iodo-1H-indole-3-carbonitrile
Authors: Meine Rosanna , Falke Hannes , Kötz Jana , Schweda Sandra , Kunick Conrad
Published: October 2015

The title compound was prepared by a Friedel–Crafts acylation-oxime synthesis-decarboxylation/dehydration sequence starting from commercially available 7-iodoindole with 2-(7-iodo-1H-indol-3-yl)-2-oxoacetic acid as isolated intermediate. The structural identity of the title compound was proven by elemental analysis and spectroscopic methods (IR, NMR, EI-MS), and purity was assessed by two independent HPLC methods.
Simultaneous Determination of Fucoxanthin and Its Deacetylated Metabolite Fucoxanthinol in Rat Plasma by Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Zhang Yiping , Wu Hao , Wen Hongmei , Fang Hua , Hong Zhuan , Yi Ruizao , Liu Rui
Published: October 2015

Fucoxanthin and its deacetylated metabolite fucoxanthinol are two major carotenoids that have been confirmed to possess various pharmacological properties. In the present study, fucoxanthinol was identified as the deacetylated metabolite of fucoxanthin, after intravenous (i.v.) and intragastric gavage (i.g.) administration to rats at doses of 2 and 65 mg/kg, respectively, by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometric (LC-MS/MS) analysis. Next, an accurate and precise LC-MS/MS method was developed to quantitatively determine fucoxanthin and fucoxanthinol in rat plasma. Plasma samples were resolved by LC-MS/MS on a reverse-phase SB-C18 column that was equilibrated and eluted with acetonitrile (A)/aqueous 0.1% formic acid (B; 92/8, v/v) at a flow rate of 0.5 mL/min. Analytes were monitored by multiple-reaction monitoring (MRM) under positive electrospray ionization mode. The precursor/product transitions (m/z) were 659.3→109.0 for fucoxanthin, 617.2→109.0 for fucoxanthinol, and 429.4→313.2 for the internal standard (IS). Calibration curves for fucoxanthin and fucoxanthinol were linear over concentrations ranging from 1.53 to 720 and 1.17 to 600 ng/mL, respectively. The inter- and intraday accuracy and precision were within ±15%. The method was applied successfully in a pharmacokinetic study and the resulting oral fucoxanthin bioavailability calculated.
High Temperature Stable Separator for Lithium Batteries Based on SiO2 and Hydroxypropyl Guar Gum
Authors: Carvalho Diogo , Loeffler Nicholas , Kim Guk-Tae , Passerini Stefano
Published: October 2015

A novel membrane based on silicon dioxide (SiO2) and hydroxypropyl guar gum (HPG) as binder is presented and tested as a separator for lithium-ion batteries. The separator is made with renewable and low cost materials and an environmentally friendly manufacturing processing using only water as solvent. The separator offers superior wettability and high electrolyte uptake due to the optimized porosity and the good affinity of SiO2 and guar gum microstructure towards organic liquid electrolytes. Additionally, the separator shows high thermal stability and no dimensional-shrinkage at high temperatures due to the use of the ceramic filler and the thermally stable natural polymer. The electrochemical tests show the good electrochemical stability of the separator in a wide range of potential, as well as its outstanding cycle performance.
Resistance of Hydrogenated Titanium-Doped Diamond-Like Carbon Film to Hyperthermal Atomic Oxygen
Authors: Kidena Kengo , Endo Minami , Takamatsu Hiroki , Niibe Masahito , Tagawa Masahito , Yokota Kumiko , Furuyama Yuichi , Komatsu Keiji , Saitoh Hidetoshi , Kanda Kazuhiro
Published: October 2015

The effect of irradiation by a hyperthermal-atomic-oxygen beam on hydrogenated titanium-doped diamond-like carbon (hydrogenated Ti-DLC) films, applied as a solid lubricant for equipment used in low-earth orbit was investigated. Unlike the film thickness of hydrogenated non-doped DLC films, that of hydrogenated Ti-DLC films was found to be constant after the films were exposed to atomic oxygen. In addition, bulk composition of the hydrogenated Ti-DLC film stayed constant, and in particular, hydrogen content in the film did not decrease. These results indicate that a hydrogenated Ti-DLC film can keep its low friction properties under vacuum. Surface chemical analysis showed that a titanium-oxide layer is form on the film by exposure to atomic oxygen. The thickness of the titanium oxide layer was estimated to be about 5 nm from the element distribution in the depth direction of the hydrogenated Ti-DLC films. The titanium-oxide layer was interpreted to protect the bulk film from erosion by hyperthermal atomic oxygen.
SNP Analysis and Whole Exome Sequencing: Their Application in the Analysis of a Consanguineous Pedigree Segregating Ataxia
Authors: Nickerson Sarah , Marquis-Nicholson Renate , Claxton Karen , Ashton Fern , Leong Ivone , Prosser Debra , Love Jennifer , George Alice , Taylor Graham , Wilson Callum , Gardner R. , Love Donald
Published: October 2015

Autosomal recessive cerebellar ataxia encompasses a large and heterogeneous group of neurodegenerative disorders. We employed single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) analysis and whole exome sequencing to investigate a consanguineous Maori pedigree segregating ataxia. We identified a novel mutation in exon 10 of the SACS gene: c.7962T>G p.(Tyr2654*), establishing the diagnosis of autosomal recessive spastic ataxia of Charlevoix-Saguenay (ARSACS). Our findings expand both the genetic and phenotypic spectrum of this rare disorder, and highlight the value of high-density SNP analysis and whole exome sequencing as powerful and cost-effective tools in the diagnosis of genetically heterogeneous disorders such as the hereditary ataxias.
No Effect of Added Sugar Consumed at Median American Intake Level on Glucose Tolerance or Insulin Resistance
Authors: Lowndes Joshua , Sinnett Stephanie , Rippe James
Published: October 2015

Excess sugar consumption may promote adverse changes in hepatic and total body insulin resistance. Debate continues over the effects of sugars at more typically consumed levels and whether the identity of the sugar consumed is important. In the present study participants (20–60 years old) were randomly assigned to one of five groups, three that consumed low fat milk with added fructose containing sugars in amounts equivalent to the 50th percentile of fructose consumption (US), one which consumed low-fat milk sweetened with glucose, and one unsweetened low-fat milk control group. The intervention lasted ten weeks. In the entire study population there was less than 1 kg increase in weight (73.6 ±13.0 vs. 74.5 ± 13.3 kg, p < 0.001), but the change in weight was comparable among groups (p > 0.05). There were no changes in fasting glucose (49 ± 0.4 vs. 5.0 ± 0.5 mmol/L), insulin (56.9 ± 38.9 vs. 61.8 ± 50.0 pmol/L), or insulin resistance, as measured by the Homeostasis Model Assessment method (1.8 ± 1.3 vs. 2.0 ± 1.5, all p > 0.05). These data suggest that added sugar consumed at the median American intake level does not produce changes in measures of insulin sensitivity or glucose tolerance and that no sugar has more deleterious effects than others.
PEGylated Fluorescent Nanoparticles from One-Pot Atom Transfer Radical Polymerization and “Click Chemistry”
Authors: Xu Li , Li Ning , Zhang Bin , Chen Jiu , Kang En-Tang
Published: October 2015

The preparation of PEGylated fluorescent nanoparticles (NPs) based on atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) and “click chemistry” in one-pot synthesis is presented. First, poly(p-chloromethyl styrene-alt-N-propargylmaleimide) (P(CMS-alt-NPM)) copolymer was prepared via reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization. Subsequently, the azido-containing fluorene-based polymer, poly[(9,9-dihexylfluorene)-alt-(9,9-bis-(6-azidohexyl)fluorene)] (PFC6N3), was synthesized via Suzuki coupling polymerization, followed by azidation. Finally, the PEGylated fluorescent NPs were prepared via simultaneous intermolecular “click” cross-linking between P(CMS-alt-NPM) and PFC6N3 and the ATRP of poly(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate (PEGMMA) using P(CMS-alt-NPM) as the macroinitiator. The low cytotoxicity of the PEGylated fluorescent NPs was revealed by incubation with KB cells, a cell line derived from carcinoma of the nasopharynx, in an in vitro experiment. The biocompatible PEGylated fluorescent NPs were further used as a labeling agent for KB cells.
Highly Sensitive Liquid Core Temperature Sensor Based on Multimode Interference Effects
Authors: Fuentes-Fuentes Miguel , May-Arrioja Daniel , Guzman-Sepulveda José , Torres-Cisneros Miguel , Sánchez-Mondragón José
Published: October 2015

A novel fiber optic temperature sensor based on a liquid-core multimode interference device is demonstrated. The advantage of such structure is that the thermo-optic coefficient (TOC) of the liquid is at least one order of magnitude larger than that of silica and this, combined with the fact that the TOC of silica and the liquid have opposite signs, provides a liquid-core multimode fiber (MMF) highly sensitive to temperature. Since the refractive index of the liquid can be easily modified, this allows us to control the modal properties of the liquid-core MMF at will and the sensor sensitivity can be easily tuned by selecting the refractive index of the liquid in the core of the device. The maximum sensitivity measured in our experiments is 20 nm/°C in the low-temperature regime up to 60 °C. To the best of our knowledge, to date, this is the largest sensitivity reported for fiber-based MMI temperature sensors.
Nanostructured Tungsten Oxide Composite for High-Performance Gas Sensors
Authors: Chen Siyuan , Aldalbahi Ali , Feng Peter
Published: October 2015

We report the results of composite tungsten oxide nanowires-based gas sensors. The morphologic surface, crystallographic structures, and chemical compositions of the obtained nanowires have been investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Raman scattering, respectively. The experimental measurements reveal that each wire consists of crystalline nanoparticles with an average diameter of less than 250 nm. By using the synthesized nanowires, highly sensitive prototypic gas sensors have been designed and fabricated. The dependence of the sensitivity of tungsten oxide nanowires to the methane and hydrogen gases as a function of time has been obtained. Various sensing parameters such as sensitivity, response time, stability, and repeatability were investigated in order to reveal the sensing ability.
An Accurate and Fault-Tolerant Target Positioning System for Buildings Using Laser Rangefinders and Low-Cost MEMS-Based MARG Sensors
Authors: Zhao Lin , Guan Dongxue , Jr. Landry René , Cheng Jianhua , Sydorenko Kostyantyn
Published: October 2015

Target positioning systems based on MEMS gyros and laser rangefinders (LRs) have extensive prospects due to their advantages of low cost, small size and easy realization. The target positioning accuracy is mainly determined by the LR’s attitude derived by the gyros. However, the attitude error is large due to the inherent noises from isolated MEMS gyros. In this paper, both accelerometer/magnetometer and LR attitude aiding systems are introduced to aid MEMS gyros. A no-reset Federated Kalman Filter (FKF) is employed, which consists of two local Kalman Filters (KF) and a Master Filter (MF). The local KFs are designed by using the Direction Cosine Matrix (DCM)-based dynamic equations and the measurements from the two aiding systems. The KFs can estimate the attitude simultaneously to limit the attitude errors resulting from the gyros. Then, the MF fuses the redundant attitude estimates to yield globally optimal estimates. Simulation and experimental results demonstrate that the FKF-based system can improve the target positioning accuracy effectively and allow for good fault-tolerant capability.
An LPV Adaptive Observer for Updating a Map Applied to an MAF Sensor in a Diesel Engine
Authors: Liu Zhiyuan , Wang Changhui
Published: October 2015

In this paper, a new method for mass air flow (MAF) sensor error compensation and an online updating error map (or lookup table) due to installation and aging in a diesel engine is developed. Since the MAF sensor error is dependent on the engine operating point, the error model is represented as a two-dimensional (2D) map with two inputs, fuel mass injection quantity and engine speed. Meanwhile, the 2D map representing the MAF sensor error is described as a piecewise bilinear interpolation model, which can be written as a dot product between the regression vector and parameter vector using a membership function. With the combination of the 2D map regression model and the diesel engine air path system, an LPV adaptive observer with low computational load is designed to estimate states and parameters jointly. The convergence of the proposed algorithm is proven under the conditions of persistent excitation and given inequalities. The observer is validated against the simulation data from engine software enDYNA provided by Tesis. The results demonstrate that the operating point-dependent error of the MAF sensor can be approximated acceptably by the 2D map from the proposed method.
Interferon (IFN) and Cellular Immune Response Evoked in RNA-Pattern Sensing During Infection with Hepatitis C Virus (HCV)
Authors: Nakai Masato , Oshiumi Hiroyuki , Funami Kenji , Okamoto Masaaki , Matsumoto Misako , Seya Tsukasa , Sakamoto Naoya
Published: October 2015

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infects hepatocytes but not dendritic cells (DCs), but DCs effectively mature in response to HCV-infected hepatocytes. Using gene-disrupted mice and hydrodynamic injection strategy, we found the MAVS pathway to be crucial for induction of type III interferons (IFNs) in response to HCV in mouse. Human hepatocytes barely express TLR3 under non-infectious states, but frequently express it in HCV infection. Type I and III IFNs are induced upon stimulation with polyI:C, an analog of double-stranded (ds)RNA. Activation of TLR3 and the TICAM-1 pathway, followed by DC-mediated activation of cellular immunity, is augmented during exposure to viral RNA. Although type III IFNs are released from replication-competent human hepatocytes, DC-mediated CTL proliferation and NK cell activation hardly occur in response to the released type III IFNs. Yet, type I IFNs and HCV-infected hepatocytes can induce maturation of DCs in either human or mouse origin. In addition, mouse CD8+ DCs mature in response to HCV-infected hepatocytes unless the TLR3/TICAM-1 pathway is blocked. We found the exosomes containing HCV RNA in the supernatant of the HCV-infected hepatocytes act as a source of TLR3-mediated DC maturation. Here we summarize our view on the mechanism by which DCs mature to induce NK and CTL in a status of HCV infection.
Outcomes following Hip and Quadriceps Strengthening Exercises for Patellofemoral Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Bisi-Balogun Adebisi , Torlak Firdevs
Published: October 2015

There is growing evidence to support change in the rehabilitation strategy of patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) from traditional quadriceps strengthening exercises to inclusion of hip musculature strengthening in individuals with PFPS. Several studies have evaluated effects of quadriceps and hip musculature strengthening on PFPS with varying outcomes on pain and function. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to synthesize outcomes of pain and function post-intervention and at follow-up to determine whether outcomes vary depending on the exercise strategy in both the short and long term. Electronic databases including MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Web of Science, PubMed, Pedro database, Proquest, Science direct, and EBscoHost databases were searched for randomized control trials published between 1st of January 2005 and 31st of June 2015, comparing the outcomes of pain and function following quadriceps strengthening and hip musculature strengthening exercises in patients with PFPS. Two independent reviewers assessed each paper for inclusion and quality. Means and SDs were extracted from each included study to allow effect size calculations and comparison of results. Six randomized control trials met the inclusion criteria. Limited to moderate evidence indicates that hip abductor strengthening was associated with significantly lower pain post-intervention (SMD −0.88, −1.28 to −0.47 95% CI), and at 12 months (SMD −3.10, −3.71 to −2.50 95% CI) with large effect sizes (greater than 0.80) compared to quadriceps strengthening. Our findings suggest that incorporating hip musculature strengthening in management of PFPS tailored to individual ability will improve short-term and long-term outcomes of rehabilitation. Further research evaluating the effects of quadriceps and hip abductors strengthening focusing on reduction in anterior knee pain and improvement in function in management of PFPS is needed.
An Application of Equivalence Transformations to Reaction Diffusion Equations
Authors: Torrisi Mariano , Tracinà Rita
Published: October 2015

In this paper, we consider a quite general class of advection reaction diffusion systems. By using an equivalence generator, derived in a previous paper, the authors apply a projection theorem to determine some special forms of the constitutive functions that allow the extension by one of the two-dimensional principal Lie algebra. As an example, a special case is discussed at the end of the paper.
New Security Development and Trends to Secure the SCADA Sensors Automated Transmission during Critical Sessions
Authors: Shahzad Aamir , Lee Malrey , Kim Hyung , Woo Seon-mi , Xiong Naixue
Published: October 2015

Modern technology enhancements have been used worldwide to fulfill the requirements of the industrial sector, especially in supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems as a part of industrial control systems (ICS). SCADA systems have gained popularity in industrial automations due to technology enhancements and connectivity with modern computer networks and/or protocols. The procurement of new technologies has made SCADA systems important and helpful to processing in oil lines, water treatment plants, and electricity generation and control stations. On the other hand, these systems have vulnerabilities like other traditional computer networks (or systems), especially when interconnected with open platforms. Many international organizations and researchers have proposed and deployed solutions for SCADA security enhancement, but most of these have been based on node-to-node security, without emphasizing critical sessions that are linked directly with industrial processing and automation. This study concerns SCADA security measures related to critical processing with specified sessions of automated polling, analyzing cryptography mechanisms and deploying the appropriate explicit inclusive security solution in a distributed network protocol version 3 (DNP3) stack, as part of a SCADA system. The bytes flow through the DNP3 stack with security computational bytes within specified critical intervals defined for polling. We took critical processing knowledge into account when designing a SCADA/DNP3 testbed and deploying a cryptography solution that did not affect communications.
Menadione-Induced Oxidative Stress Re-Shapes the Oxylipin Profile of Aspergillus flavus and Its Lifestyle
Authors: Zaccaria Marco , Ludovici Matteo , Sanzani Simona , Ippolito Antonio , Cigliano Riccardo , Sanseverino Walter , Scarpari Marzia , Scala Valeria , Fanelli Corrado , Reverberi Massimo
Published: October 2015

Aspergillus flavus is an efficient producer of mycotoxins, particularly aflatoxin B1, probably the most hepatocarcinogenic naturally-occurring compound. Although the inducing agents of toxin synthesis are not unanimously identified, there is evidence that oxidative stress is one of the main actors in play. In our study, we use menadione, a quinone extensively implemented in studies on ROS response in animal cells, for causing stress to A. flavus. For uncovering the molecular determinants that drive A. flavus in challenging oxidative stress conditions, we have evaluated a wide spectrum of several different parameters, ranging from metabolic (ROS and oxylipin profile) to transcriptional analysis (RNA-seq). There emerges a scenario in which A. flavus activates several metabolic processes under oxidative stress conditions for limiting the ROS-associated detrimental effects, as well as for triggering adaptive and escape strategies.