bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimizing channel cross-section based on cat swarm optimization
Authors: Liu Dong , Hu Yuxiang , Fu Qiang , Imran Khan M.
Published: February 2016

Optimal design of channel cross-section is an important task in the hydraulic design of open channels. The traditional methods and models which neglect the frost heave are trial procedures and may result in failure of channels in design of irrigation channels. To improve the total cost, reliability and effectiveness, the model which is used in this study, is not only minimizing the cost of land acquisition but also the cost of concrete lining considering cost as the objective function. The constrained optimization model which considers values of thickness of channel concrete slab constraint simultaneously along with the objective of minimization of cost is propounded and solved using a recent global optimization technique, namely cat swarm optimization (CSO). The optimized channel section not only satisfies the optimal hydraulic cross-section but guarantees the safety and stability of the side walls so that both the amount of the concrete lining and the land acquisition are optimized. Finally, we take a main channel of Qinghe Irrigated Area of Farm 853 in Heilongjiang Province as a study area. The results obtained using the CSO approach are satisfaction and the method can be used for reliable design of artificial open channels. Furthermore, we compare the CSO algorithm with a genetic algorithm (GA) and the particle swarm optimization (PSO) to verify the effectiveness of the cat swarm algorithm in the channel section optimization.
Removal of phthalates and pharmaceuticals from municipal wastewater by graphene adsorption process
Authors: Yang Gordon C. C. , Tang Pei-Ling
Published: February 2016

In this work graphene was used for evaluation of its adsorption behavior and performance in removing phthalate esters and pharmaceuticals in municipal wastewater. Di-n-butyl phthalate (DnBP), di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), acetaminophen (ACE), caffeine (CAF), cephalexin (CLX), and sulfamethoxazole (SMX) were emerging contaminants (ECs) with detection frequencies over 92% in a one-year monitoring of the occurrence of ECs in influent samples of a sewage treatment plant in Taiwan. Thus, these ECs were selected as the target contaminants for removal by graphene adsorption process. Experimental results showed that the adsorption isotherm data were fitted well to Langmuir model equation. It was also found that the adsorption process obeyed the pseudo-second-order kinetics. A graphene dosage of 0.1 g/L and adsorption time of 12 h were found to be the optimal operating conditions for the ECs of concern in model solutions in a preliminary study. By using the determined optimal operating conditions for removal of such ECs in actual municipal wastewater, removal efficiencies for various ECs were obtained and given as follows: (1) DnBP, 89%, (2) DEHP, 86%, (3) ACE, 43%, (4) CAF, 84%, (5) CLX, 81%, and (6) SMX, 34%.
MBBR system performance improvement for petroleum hydrocarbon removal using modified media with activated carbon
Authors: Sayyahzadeh Amir Hossein , Ganjidoust Hossein , Ayati Bita
Published: February 2016

Moving bed biofilm reactor (MBBR) system has a successful operation in the treatment of different types of wastewater. Since the media, i.e. the place of growth and formation of biofilm, play the main role in the treatment in this system, MBBR systems were operated in the present research with modified Bee-cell media. Activated carbon granules of almond or walnut shells were placed in media pores to improve the treatment of refinery oil wastewater and their operation with MBBR system was compared with the conventional Bee-cell media. In these experiments, the effects of organic loading rate, hydraulic retention time (HRT), media filling ratio (MFR), and activated carbon concentration (ACC) used in the media were investigated on the operation of MBBR systems. The analysis of results estimated the optimal values of HRT, MFR, and ACC used in the media between the studied levels, being equal to 22 h, 50%, and 7.5 g/L, respectively. Under these conditions, total petroleum hydrocarbons removal efficiencies for MBBR systems using Bee-cell media with carbon of almond, carbon of walnut shells, and a carbon-free system were 95 ± 1.17%, 91 ± 1.11%, and 57 ± 1.7%, respectively, which confirms the adsorption ability of systems with the media containing activated carbon in the removal of petroleum compounds from wastewater.
Relationships among Allergic Rhinitis, Asthma, and Chronic Rhinosinusitis
Authors: Rosati Mariel G. , Peters Anju T.
Published: February 2016

Background

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a common disease in the United States. There are a significant number of patients with CRS who are refractory to standard medical and surgical therapy. Many of these patients also have comorbid allergic rhinitis (AR) and asthma, although the underlying pathophysiology that connects these three conditions remains unclear.

Objective

The goal of this article is to review the relationships among CRS, AR and asthma.

Methods

Scientific literature that addresses the prevalence of AR and asthma in CRS populations, the effect of AR and asthma on CRS disease severity, and whether treatment of AR and asthma can affect CRS outcomes was reviewed.

Results

The literature supports the relationship between AR and CRS, but there is no direct evidence of causality the between the two conditions. There is a high prevalence of CRS in patients with asthma and the presence of CRS is associated with worse asthma outcomes. There is weak evidence that treatment of CRS may improve asthma outcomes. Targeting type 2 inflammation via biologics is being investigated in the treatment of asthma and CRS.

Conclusion

AR, asthma, and CRS are closed related and understanding the associations among these comorbid diseases will have significant clinical implication.
Neuron-Specific Enolase in Nasal Secretions as a Novel Biomarker of Olfactory Dysfunction in Chronic Rhinosinusitis
Authors: Tsybikov Namjil N. , Egorova Elena V. , Kuznik Boris I. , Fefelova Elena V. , Magen Eli
Published: February 2016

Background

Olfactory dysfunction is a diagnostic criterion for chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). During chronic inflammation and olfactory neuronal damage in CRS, it is likely that neuron-specific enolase (NSE) can leak into nasal secretions (NS) and serum. Therefore, we postulated that NSE levels in NS andin circulation may be indicative of olfactory dysfunction in CRS.

Objective

To evaluate the relationship between the NS and serum concentrations of NSE with olfactory dysfunction in subjects with CRS.

Methods

The patients with CRS were classified into two groups, depending on the presence of polyps: CRS without nasal polyps (CRSsNP) and CRS with nasal polyps (CRSwNP). A group of age- and sex-matched healthy volunteers served as controls. Olfactory function assessment was performed by using Sniffin’ Sticks. NSE concentrations in serum and NS were analyzed by using the enzyme immunometric assay kit specific for the γ subunit.

Results

The study included 46 patients with CRSsNP, 25 women (54.3%) and 21 men (45.7%), mean (standard deviation [SD]) age, 34.1 ± 12.3 years; and 54 patients with CRSwNP, 24 women (44.4%) and 30 men (55.6%), mean (SD) age, 37.9 ± 17.5 years. A group of 40 healthy volunteers who were matched for age and sex served as controls. Significantly higher serum and NS levels of NSE were measured in patients with CRS compared with healthy controls (p < 0.001). In the CRSwNP group, both mean (SD) serum (83.5 ± 37.6 ng/mL) and mean (SD) NS (6.1 ± 2.3 ng/mL) levels of NSE were significantly higher than in the CRSsNP group (46.4 ± 7.3 ng/mL [p < 0.001] and 1.7 ± 0.5 ng/mL [p < 0.001], respectively). In both the CRSsNP and CRSwNP groups (but not in the healthy controls), significant negative correlations between NS NSE levels and TDI scores (r = -00.63, p < 0.001 for the CRSwNP group, and r = -0.51, p < 0.001 for CRSsNP group) were observed, which meant that higher NSE was associated with worse olfactory function.

Conclusions

The study demonstrated a contribution of CRS to NSE and olfactory dysfunction.
The Relationship between Serum Vitamin D and Chronic Rhinosinusitis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Stokes Patrick J. , Rimmer Joanne
Published: February 2016

Background

An exciting development in upper respiratory tract disease is the pathophysiology of vitamin D (VD3). There now is substantial literature to indicate that VD3 acts as an immunomodulator of adaptive and innate immunity locally within the respiratory epithelium. Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) places a relatively large socioeconomic burden on developed nations, yet remains a difficult disease to treat. VD3, therefore, has become an area of clinical interest because it may provide an adjunctive drug therapy option in CRS, thereby potentially improving the quality of life of these patients.

Objective

A systematic review of the relationship among serum VD3 levels, CRS phenotype, and disease severity by using outcome assessments.

Methods

A systematic search was performed by using the PubMed, MEDLINE, and EMBASE databases. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines were followed. Studies that measured serum VD3 levels and correlated the measurements to any subtype of CRS (with or without nasal polyps) were included for qualitative analysis.

Results

Seven articles were included (four prospective and three retrospective studies), with a total of 539 patients. There were significantly lower VD3 levels in the polypoid phenotypes of CRS compared with controls. Low VD3 levels were often associated with an increased degree of inflammation.

Conclusion

The available evidence indicated that there is a significant relationship between low VD3 levels and polypoid CRS phenotypes. The association between VD3 levels and disease severity and VD3 potential for drug therapy remains unclear, which warrants further research in the area.
Involvement of Staphylococcus aureus and Moraxella catarrhalis in Japanese Cedar Pollinosis
Authors: Otsuka Hirokuni , Takanashi Ikuo , Tokunou Shunsuke , Endo Sadao , Okubo Kimihiro
Published: February 2016

Background and Objective

From mid February to the end of March, each year ∼30% of Japanese have Japanese cedar pollinosis. Moreover, 10–50% of patients with this pollinosis exhibit nasal manifestations in the preseason. These patients have a predominance of neutrophils but not eosinophils in nasal swabs and high carriage of Staphylococcus aureus. We hypothesized that S. aureus or other bacteria and associated neutrophilia were involved in preseasonal symptoms.

Methods

Cytology and bacterial colony growth were assessed in nasal swabs in the groups of asymptomatic patients in the preseason (PreAsP) (n = 53) and symptomatic patients in the preseason (PreSyP) (n = 60), and in group of symptomatic patients in season (InSyP) (n = 72).

Results

In the preseason, high neutrophilia was present in only 20% of the PreAsP group but in 47% of the PreSyP group (p < 0.01). Nasal carriage of S. aureus in the PreAsP and PreSyP groups were 79%, 75%, respectively, whereas, for Moraxella catarrhalis, these were 9% versus 25% (PreAsP versus PreSyP group; p < 0.05). In patients with positive results for S. aureus and M. catarrhalis, the degrees of neutrophilia (-, ∓, +, 2+, 3+) in the PreSyP group were larger than in the PreAsP groups (p < 0.01). In the PreSyP group, the magnitude of neutrophilia was greater (p < 0.05) in subgroups with more colonies of S. aureus than in subgroups with fewer colonies.

Conclusion

Nasal symptoms in the preseason are associated with neutrophilia and nasal colonization with S. aureus and M. catarrhalis. Patients with symptoms in the preseason had improved symptom scores when given prophylactic treatment early in season but had more-severe symptom scores late in season than asymptomatic patients in the preseason. Neutrophil-associated tissue damage related to bacterial colonization may underlie these associations.
Electrocauterization and No Packing may be Comparable with Nasal Packing for Postoperative Hemorrhage after Endoscopic Sinus Surgery
Authors: Kim Dong-Kyu , Rhee Chae Seo , Kim Jeong-Whun
Published: February 2016

Background

Nasal packing is commonly performed after functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS). However, nasal packing is associated with higher cost (owing to the cost of packing materials), patient discomfort, delayed wound healing, and concern about toxic shock syndrome. Some surgeons have been performing FESS without packing, but there are few studies that show its safety.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety of electrocauterization and no packing.

Methods

A total of 490 patients who underwent bilateral FESS for chronic rhinosinusitis were included in this retrospective study, 242 in the nasal packing group and 248 in the electrocauterization and no-packing group. Electrocauterization was performed by using a suction coagulator. Rates of immediate (first 24 hours after surgery) and delayed postoperative bleeding were compared. Patient characteristics, including concomitant disease and medication history, and Lund-Mackay computed tomography score were also assessed

Results

There were no significant differences in age; sex; Lund-Mackay score; use of anticoagulant drugs; or prevalence of hypertension, diabetes, or asthma between the two groups. In the electrocauterization and no-packing group, there were fewer patients with allergic rhinitis and more smokers. Primary bleeding did not occur in the nasal packing group, but 11 patients (4.4%) had delayed bleeding. Primary bleeding occurred in four patients (1.7%) in the electrocauterization and no-packing group, and five patients (2.1%) had delayed bleeding. There were no significant differences in primary (p = 0.058) and secondary bleeding (p = 0.142) between the two groups. All bleeding was minor and easily controlled. Multivariate logistic regression analysis ruled out significant correlation between no packing and postoperative bleeding.

Conclusion

This study provided evidence that, in terms of postoperative hemorrhage, the safety of the electrocauterization and no-packing technique after FESS was comparable with that of nasal packing.
Effect of Drought Stress and its Mechanism in Plants
Authors: Fathi Amin , Tari Davood Barari
Published: February 2016

Drought is the most important abiotic factor limiting growth, adversely affect growth and crop production. Stresses, resulting in the non-normal physiological processes that influence one or a combination of biological and environmental factors. Stress can damage which has occurred as a result of an abnormal metabolism and may reduce growth, plant death or the death of the plant develops. Production is limited by environmental stresses, according to different scholars estimates, only 10 percent of the world's arable land is free from Stress, in general, a major factor in the difference between yield and potential performance, environmental stresses. Drought and stress is the most common environmental stresses that almost 25 percent of agricultural lands for agricultural farm products in the world is limited. Drought risk to successful production of crops worldwide and occurs when a combination of physical and environmental factors causing stress in plants and thus reduce production.International Journal of Life Sciences 10 (1) : 2016; 1-6
Assessment of Some Physiological Traits in Spring Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) Cultivars under Water Stress
Authors: Mohammadi Morad , Ghassemi-Golezani Kazem , Zehtab-Salmasi Saeid , Nasrollahzade Safar
Published: February 2016

This research was conducted in 2013 to investigate changes in some physiological traits of spring safflower cultivars (C1; Faraman, C2; Goldasht; C3; Sina and C4; Soffeh) under different irrigation treatments (I1, I2, I3, I4 for irrigation after 70, 100, 130 and 160 mm evaporation from class A pan, respectively). The experiment was arranged as split plot based on randomized complete block design in three replicates. Relative water content (RWC), membrane stability index (MSI) and total chlorophyll decreased, but leaf temperature, proline content and soluble carbohydrate content of all safflower cultivars increased with decreasing water availability. The highest increment in proline content and a sharp decline in total chlorophyll due to water deficit was recorded for Goldasht, indicating that this cultivar is less tolerant to drought stress. In contrast, Sina had the lowest proline content and the highest soluble carbohydrate content under all irrigation treatments.International Journal of Life Sciences 10 (1) : 2016; 58-64
Effects of Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles Toxicity on the Kidney of Male Rats
Authors: Fartkhooni Fatemeh Mohammadi , Noori Ali , Mohammadi Abdolrasool
Published: February 2016

Nanoparticles have many characteristics that make them suitable for biological and medical applications. These special features cause some adverse effects. Despite the widespread use of titanium dioxide nanoparticles, few studies were conducted on the toxicity of these nanoparticles in biological systems. In this study, the effects of intraperitoneal injections of TiO2 nanoparticles (30,50,70 mg/kg ) were investigated on kidney function and histology. The creatinine levels did not change but the amount of urea and uric acid showed the significant changes in comparison with control group. But, by passing the time, the uric acid changes back to normal. In kidney tissue, the changes such as deposition of hyaline-like materials, the swelling, dilatation of Bowman's capsule and degenerations were seen. It seems by passing time, The temporary disorders have been removed and the renal function has returned toward normal. However, further investigations are needed to measure the oxidative stress.International Journal of Life Sciences 10 (1) : 2016; 65-69
Expressed Emotion and Hallucination Proneness: The Mediating Role of Metacognitive Beliefs
Authors: Barahmand Usha , Sheikhahmad Ruhollah Heydari
Published: February 2016

This study was designed to examine the mediating role of meta-cognitions in the relationship between perceived expressed emotions and hallucination proneness in a non-clinical sample. The study sample (n = 432 university students) was selected through a stratified cluster sampling procedure and measures of perceived expressed emotions, metacognitive beliefs and hallucination proneness were administered. Two dimensions of expressed emotion, perceived irritability and perceived intrusion, and two metacognitive beliefs, beliefs about uncontrollability and danger and beliefs about cognitive confidence were found to be associated with hallucination proneness. However, only negative beliefs about uncontrollability of thoughts mediated the relationship between perceived intrusiveness and hallucination proneness. Findings imply the experience of real or perceived parental intrusiveness may activate negative beliefs about thoughts concerning uncontrollability and danger, which in turn, leads to hallucinatory experiences as a coping strategy and contributes to the persistence of real or perceived career intrusiveness.International Journal of Life Sciences 10 (1) : 2016; 17-24
Editorial
Authors: Lamp John W
Published: February 2016

Editorial for Volume 20
Adaptive Control of Active Magnetic Bearing against Milling Dynamics
Authors: Lee Rong-Mao , Chen Tsung-Chia
Published: February 2016

For improving the defects in milling processes caused by traditional spindle bearings, e.g., the dimensional discrepancy of a finished workpiece due to bearing wear or oil pollution by lubricant, a novel embedded cylindrical-array magnetic actuator (ECAMA) is designed for milling applications. Since ECAMA is a non-contact type actuator, a control strategy named fuzzy model-reference adaptive control (FMRAC) is synthesized to account for the nonlinearities of milling dynamics and magnetic force. In order to ensure the superior performance of spindle position regulation, the employed models in FMRAC are all constructed by experiments. Based on the experimental results, the magnetic force by ECAMA is much stronger than that by the traditional active magnetic bearing (AMB) design under the same test conditions and identical overall size. The efficacy of ECAMA to suppress the spindle position deviation with the aid of FMRAC has been verified as well via numerical simulations and practical metal cutting.
Scaling up the Fabrication of Mechanically-Robust Carbon Nanofiber Foams
Authors: Curtin William , Arias-Monje Pedro , Dominguez Charliean , Phillips Jonathan , Luhrs Claudia
Published: February 2016

This work aimed to identify and address the main challenges associated with fabricating large samples of carbon foams composed of interwoven networks of carbon nanofibers. Solutions to two difficulties related with the process of fabricating carbon foams, maximum foam size and catalyst cost, were developed. First, a simple physical method was invented to scale-up the constrained formation of fibrous nanostructures process (CoFFiN) to fabricate relatively large foams. Specifically, a gas deflector system capable of maintaining conditions supportive of carbon nanofiber foam growth throughout a relatively large mold was developed. ANSYS CFX models were used to simulate the gas flow paths with and without deflectors; the data generated proved to be a very useful tool for the deflector design. Second, a simple method for selectively leaching the Pd catalyst material trapped in the foam during growth was successfully tested. Multiple techniques, including scanning electron microscopy, surface area measurements, and mechanical testing, were employed to characterize the foams generated in this study. All results confirmed that the larger foam samples preserve the basic characteristics: their interwoven nanofiber microstructure forms a low-density tridimensional solid with viscoelastic behavior. Fiber growth mechanisms are also discussed. Larger samples of mechanically-robust carbon nanofiber foams will enable the use of these materials as strain sensors, shock absorbers, selective absorbents for environmental remediation and electrodes for energy storage devices, among other applications.
Association between Polymorphisms and Haplotype in the ABCA1 Gene and Overweight/Obesity Patients in the Uyghur Population of China
Authors: Yao Ming-Hong , He Jia , Ma Ru-Lin , Ding Yu-Song , Guo Heng , Yan Yi-Zhong , Zhang Jing-Yu , Liu Jia-Ming , Zhang Mei , Rui Dong-Shen , Niu Qiang , Guo Shu-Xia
Published: February 2016

Objective: This study aimed to detect the association between polymorphisms and haplotype in the ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1) gene and overweight/obese Uyghur patients in China. Methods: A total of 259 overweight/obese patients and 276 normal weight subjects, which were randomly selected from among 3049 adult Uyghurs, were matched for age. We genotyped ABCA1 single nucleotide polymorphisms of rs2515602, rs3890182, rs2275542, rs2230806, rs1800976, and rs4149313. Results: (1) The genotypic and allelic frequencies of rs2515602 and rs4149313 differed between the control group and case group. The genotypic frequency of rs2275542 also differed between the control group and case group (p < 0.05); (2) rs2515602, rs2230806, and rs4149313 polymorphisms were significantly related to risk of overweight/obese; (3) a significant linkage disequilibrium (LD) was observed between the ABCA1 gene rs2275542 with rs3890182 and rs2515602 with rs4149313. (4) the C-C-C-A-G-G, T-C-G-A-G-G, and T-T-G-G-G-A haplotypes were significant in normal weight and overweight/obese subjects (p < 0.05); (5) the levels of HDL-C (rs2515602, rs2275542, rs4149313) in normal weight subjects were different among the genotypes (p < 0.05); the levels of TC, LDL-C and TG (rs1800976) in overweight/obese subjects were different among the genotypes (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The rs2515602, rs4149313, and rs2275542 polymorphisms were associated with overweight/obese conditions among Uyghurs. Strong LD was noted between rs2275542 with rs3890182 and rs2515602 with rs4149313. The C-C-C-A-G-G and T-C-G-A-G-G haplotypes may serve as risk factors of overweight/obesity among Uyghurs. The T-T-G-G-G-A haplotype may serve as a protective factor of overweight/obesity among Uyghurs. Rs2515602, rs2275542, rs4149313, and rs1800976 polymorphisms in the ABCA1 gene may influence lipid profiles.
Hyaluronidase Inhibitory Activity of Pentacylic Triterpenoids from Prismatomeris tetrandra (Roxb.) K. Schum: Isolation, Synthesis and QSAR Study
Authors: Abdullah Nor , Thomas Noel , Sivasothy Yasodha , Lee Vannajan , Liew Sook , Noorbatcha Ibrahim , Awang Khalijah
Published: February 2016

The mammalian hyaluronidase degrades hyaluronic acid by the cleavage of the β-1,4-glycosidic bond furnishing a tetrasaccharide molecule as the main product which is a highly angiogenic and potent inducer of inflammatory cytokines. Ursolic acid 1, isolated from Prismatomeris tetrandra, was identified as having the potential to develop inhibitors of hyaluronidase. A series of ursolic acid analogues were either synthesized via structure modification of ursolic acid 1 or commercially obtained. The evaluation of the inhibitory activity of these compounds on the hyaluronidase enzyme was conducted. Several structural, topological and quantum chemical descriptors for these compounds were calculated using semi empirical quantum chemical methods. A quantitative structure activity relationship study (QSAR) was performed to correlate these descriptors with the hyaluronidase inhibitory activity. The statistical characteristics provided by the best multi linear model (BML) (R2 = 0.9717, R2cv = 0.9506) indicated satisfactory stability and predictive ability of the developed model. The in silico molecular docking study which was used to determine the binding interactions revealed that the ursolic acid analog 22 had a strong affinity towards human hyaluronidase.
Cancer Risk and Eicosanoid Production: Interaction between the Protective Effect of Long Chain Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Intake and Genotype
Authors: Lenihan-Geels Georgia , Bishop Karen , Ferguson Lynnette
Published: February 2016

Dietary inclusion of fish and fish supplements as a means to improve cancer prognosis and prevent tumour growth is largely controversial. Long chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCn-3 PUFA), eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid, may modulate the production of inflammatory eicosanoids, thereby influencing local inflammatory status, which is important in cancer development. Although in vitro studies have demonstrated inhibition of tumour cell growth and proliferation by LCn-3 PUFA, results from human studies have been mainly inconsistent. Genes involved in the desaturation of fatty acids, as well as the genes encoding enzymes responsible for eicosanoid production, are known to be implicated in tumour development. This review discusses the current evidence for an interaction between genetic polymorphisms and dietary LCn-3 PUFA in the risk for breast, prostate and colorectal cancers, in regards to inflammation and eicosanoid synthesis.
CMOS-NEMS Copper Switches Monolithically Integrated Using a 65 nm CMOS Technology
Authors: Muñoz-Gamarra Jose , Uranga Arantxa , Barniol Nuria
Published: February 2016

This work demonstrates the feasibility to obtain copper nanoelectromechanical (NEMS) relays using a commercial complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) technology (ST 65 nm) following an intra CMOS-MEMS approach. We report experimental demonstration of contact-mode nano-electromechanical switches obtaining low operating voltage (5.5 V), good ION/IOFF (103) ratio, abrupt subthreshold swing (4.3 mV/decade) and minimum dimensions (3.50 μm × 100 nm × 180 nm, and gap of 100 nm). With these dimensions, the operable Cell area of the switch will be 3.5 μm (length) × 0.2 μm (100 nm width + 100 nm gap) = 0.7 μm2 which is the smallest reported one using a top-down fabrication approach.
Profile of Free Fatty Acids and Fractions of Phospholipids, Cholesterol Esters and Triglycerides in Serum of Obese Youth with and without Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Bermúdez-Cardona Juliana , Velásquez-Rodríguez Claudia
Published: February 2016

The study evaluated the profile of circulating fatty acids (FA) in obese youth with and without metabolic syndrome (MetS) to determine its association with nutritional status, lifestyle and metabolic variables. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 96 young people, divided into three groups: obese with MetS (OBMS), obese (OB) and appropriate weight (AW). FA profiles were quantified by gas chromatography; waist circumference (WC), fat folds, lipid profile, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, glucose, insulin, the homeostasis model assessment (HOMA index), food intake and physical activity (PA) were assessed. The OBMS group had significantly greater total free fatty acids (FFAs), palmitic-16:0 in triglyceride (TG), palmitoleic-16:1n-7 in TG and phospholipid (PL); in the OB group, these FAs were higher than in the AW group. Dihomo-gamma-linolenic (DHGL-20:3n-6) was higher in the OBMS than the AW in PL and FFAs. Linoleic-18:2n-6 in TG and PL had the lowest proportion in the OBMS group. WC, PA, total FFA, linoleic-18:2n-6 in TG and DHGL-20:3n-6 in FFAs explained 62% of the HOMA value. The OB group presented some higher proportions of FA and biochemical values than the AW group. The OBMS had proportions of some FA in the TG, PL and FFA fractions that correlated with disturbances of MetS.
Why Serological Responses during Cystitis are Limited
Authors: Choi Hae , Abraham Soman
Published: February 2016

The high frequency of urinary tract infections (UTIs), some of which appear to be endogenous relapses rather than reinfections by new isolates, point to defects in the host’s memory immune response. It has been known for many decades that, whereas kidney infections evoked an antibody response to the infecting bacteria, infections limited to the bladder failed to do so. We have identified the existence of a broadly immunosuppressive transcriptional program associated with the bladder, but not the kidneys, during infection of the urinary tract that is dependent on bladder mast cells. This involves the localized secretion of IL-10 and results in the suppression of humoral immune responses in the bladder. Mast cell-mediated immune suppression could suggest a role for these cells in critically balancing the needs to clear infections with the imperative to prevent harmful immune reactions in the host.
Sub-Pixel Classification of MODIS EVI for Annual Mappings of Impervious Surface Areas
Authors: Tsutsumida Narumasa , Comber Alexis , Barrett Kirsten , Saizen Izuru , Rustiadi Ernan
Published: February 2016

Regular monitoring of expanding impervious surfaces areas (ISAs) in urban areas is highly desirable. MODIS data can meet this demand in terms of frequent observations but are lacking in spatial detail, leading to the mixed land cover problem when per-pixel classifications are applied. To overcome this issue, this research develops and applies a spatio-temporal sub-pixel model to estimate ISAs on an annual basis during 2001–2013 in the Jakarta Metropolitan Area, Indonesia. A Random Forest (RF) regression inferred the ISA proportion from annual 23 values of MODIS MOD13Q1 EVI and reference data in which such proportion was visually allocated from very high-resolution images in Google Earth over time at randomly selected locations. Annual maps of ISA proportion were generated and showed an average increase of 30.65 km2/year over 13 years. For comparison, a series of RF per-pixel classifications were also developed from the same reference data using a Boolean class constructed from different thresholds of ISA proportion. Results from per-pixel models varied when such thresholds change, suggesting difficulty of estimation of actual ISAs. This research demonstrated the advantages of spatio-temporal sub-pixel analysis for annual ISAs mapping and addresses the problem associated with definitions of thresholds in per-pixel approaches.
L'immigration bretonne en Aquitaine
Authors: Pinède Christiane
Published: February 2016

Au lendemain de la première guerre mondiale, les organisations syndicales agricoles du Finistère prirent l'initiative de diriger, vers le Sud-Ouest dépeuplé, les cultivateurs en surnombre dans les départements bretons. Le mouvement, jamais interrompu, connaît actuellement un renouveau sous l'impulsion de' l'Association Nationale des Migrations rurales. L'émigration bretonne a porté sur 2 500 familles, venant autrefois surtout du Finistère et aujourd'hui de l'Ille-et-Vilaine. De 1949 à 1958, les émigrants se sont dirigés vers l'aire d'ancienne colonisation (Dordogne et Lot-et-Garonne) et sa périphérie (Gironde, Gers, Tarn-et-Garonne) ; ils ont élargi la zone d'immigration au bassin de l'Adour et à l'Aquitaine orientale. Dans l'ensemble, les Bretons se sont adoptés sans de trop grandes difficultés, améliorant presque toujours leur situation sociale.
Root development and structure in seedlings of Ginkgo biloba
Authors: Bonacorsi Nikole K. , Seago James L.
Published: February 2016

PREMISE OF THE STUDY:

The popular, highly recognizable, well‐known gymnosperm, Ginkgo biloba, was studied to document selected developmental features, which are little known in its primary root system from root tips to cotyledonary node following seed germination.

METHODS:

Using seedlings grown in soil, vermiculite, or a mixture, we examined sections at various distances from the root cap to capture a developmental sequence of anatomical structures by using standard brightfield, epifluorescence, and confocal microscopic techniques.

KEY RESULTS:

The vascular cylinder is usually a diarch stele, although modified diarchy and triarchy are found. Between exarch protoxylem poles, metaxylem usually develops into a complete disc, except near the transition region, which has irregularly arranged tracheary cells. The disc of primary xylem undergoes secondary growth on its metaxylem flanks with many tracheids added radially within a few weeks. Production of fibers in secondary phloem also accompanies secondary growth. In the cortex, endodermis produces Casparian bands early in development and continues into the upper transition region. Phi cells with phi‐thickenings (bands of lignified walls) of a layer of inner cortex are often evident before endodermis, and then adjoining, additional layers of cortex develop phi cells; phi cells do not occur in the upper transition region or stem. An exodermis is produced early in root development and is continuous into the transition region and cotyledonary node.

CONCLUSIONS:

Seedling root axes of Ginkgo biloba are more complex than the literature suggests, and our findings contribute to our knowledge of root structure of this ancient gymnosperm.
Exploring fungal mega-diversity: Pseudocercospora from Brazil
Authors: Silva M. , Barreto R.W. , Pereira O.L. , Freitas N.M. , Groenewald J.Z. , Crous P.W.
Published: February 2016

Although the genus Pseudocercospora has a worldwide distribution, it is especially diverse in tropical and subtropical countries. Species of this genus are associated with a wide range of plant species, including several economically relevant hosts. Preliminary studies of cercosporoid
fungi from Brazil allocated most taxa to Cercospora, but with the progressive refinement of the taxonomy of cercosporoid fungi, many species were relocated to or described in Pseudocercospora. Initially, species identification relied mostly on morphological features, and thus
no cultures were preserved for later phylogenetic comparisons. In this study, a total of 27 Pseudocercospora spp. were collected, cultured, and subjected to a multigene analysis. Four genomic regions (LSU, ITS, tef1 and actA) were amplified and sequenced. A multigene Bayesian
analysis was performed on the combined ITS, actA and tef1 sequence alignment. Our results based on DNA phylogeny, integrated with ecology, morphology and cultural characteristics revealed a rich diversity of Pseudocercospora species in Brazil. Twelve taxa were newly described,
namely P. aeschynomenicola, P. diplusodonii, P. emmotunicola, P. manihotii, P. perae, P. planaltinensis, P. pothomorphes, P. sennae-multijugae, P. solani-pseudocapsicicola, P. vassobiae, P. wulffiae and P.
xylopiae. Additionally, eight epitype specimens were designated, three species newly reported, and several new host records linked to known Pseudocercospora spp.
DISCOVERY OF AN INNER DISK COMPONENT AROUND HD 141569 A*
Authors: Konishi Mihoko , Grady Carol A. , Schneider Glenn , Shibai Hiroshi , McElwain Michael W. , Nesvold Erika R. , Kuchner Marc J. , Carson Joseph , Debes John. H. , Gaspar Andras , Henning Thomas K. , Hines Dean C. , Hinz Philip M. , Jang-Condell Hannah , Moro-Martín Amaya , Perrin Marshall , Rodigas Timothy J. , Serabyn Eugene , Silverstone Murray D. , Stark Christopher C. , Tamura Motohide , Weinberger Alycia J. , Wisniewski John. P.
Published: February 2016

We report the discovery of a scattering component around the HD 141569 A circumstellar debris system, interior to the previously known inner ring. The discovered inner disk component, obtained in broadband optical light with Hubble Space Telescope/Space Telescope Imaging Spectrograph coronagraphy, was imaged with an inner working angle of 0.″25, and can be traced from 0.″4 (∼46 AU) to 1.″0 (∼116 AU) after deprojection using i = 55°. The inner disk component is seen to forward scatter in a manner similar to the previously known rings, has a pericenter offset of ∼6 AU, and break points where the slope of the surface brightness changes. It also has a spiral arm trailing in the same sense as other spiral arms and arcs seen at larger stellocentric distances. The inner disk spatially overlaps with the previously reported warm gas disk seen in thermal emission. We detect no point sources within 2″ (∼232 AU), in particular in the gap between the inner disk component and the inner ring. Our upper limit of 9 ± 3 M

J
is augmented by a new dynamical limit on single planetary mass bodies in the gap between the inner disk component and the inner ring of 1 M

J
, which is broadly consistent with previous estimates.
An Inception Cohort Study Assessing the Role of Pneumococcal and other Bacterial Pathogens in Children with Influenza and ILI and a Clinical Decision Model for Stringent Antibiotic Use
Authors: Tief Franziska , Hoppe Christian , Seeber Lea , Obermeier Patrick , Chen Xi , Karsch Katharina , Mühlhans Susann , Adamou Eleni , Conrad Tim , Beresniak Ariel , Schweiger Brunhilde , Adam Thomas , Rath Barbara
Published: February 2016

Background

Influenza-like illness (ILI) is a common reason for paediatric consultations. Viral causes predominate, but antibiotics are used frequently. With regard to influenza, pneumococcal coinfections are considered major contributors to morbidity/mortality.

Methods

In the context of a perennial quality management (QM) programme at the Charité Departments of Paediatrics and Microbiology in collaboration with the Robert Koch Institute, children aged 0–18 years presenting with signs and symptoms of ILI were followed from the time of initial presentation until hospital discharge (Charité Influenza-Like Disease = ChILD Cohort). An independent QM team performed highly standardized clinical assessments using a disease severity score based on World Health Organization criteria for uncomplicated and complicated/progressive disease. Nasopharyngeal and pharyngeal samples were collected for viral reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and bacterial culture/sensitivity and MaldiTOF analyses. The term ‘detection’ was used to denote any evidence of viral or bacterial pathogens in the (naso)pharyngeal cavity. With the ChILD Cohort data collected, a standard operating procedure (SOP) was created as a model system to reduce the inappropriate use of antibiotics in children with ILI. Monte Carlo simulations were performed to assess cost-effectiveness.

Results

Among 2,569 ChILD Cohort patients enrolled from 12/2010 to 04/2013 (55% male, mean age 3.2 years, range 0–18, 19% >5 years), 411 patients showed laboratory-confirmed influenza, with bacterial co-detection in 35%. Influenza and pneumococcus were detected simultaneously in 12/2,569 patients, with disease severity clearly below average. Pneumococcal vaccination rates were close to 90%. Nonetheless, every fifth patient was already on antibiotics upon presentation; new antibiotic prescriptions were issued in an additional 20%. Simulation of the model SOP in the same dataset revealed that the proposed decision model could have reduced the inappropriate use of antibiotics significantly ( P≤0.01) with an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of -99.55€.

Conclusions

Physicians should be made aware that in times of pneumococcal vaccination the prevalence and severity of influenza infections complicated by pneumococci may decline. Microbiological testing in combination with standardized disease severity assessments and review of vaccination records could be cost-effective, as well as promoting stringent use of antibiotics and a personalized approach to managing children with ILI.
Clinical Review of Failure to Thrive in Pediatric Patients
Authors: Larson-Nath Catherine , Biank Vincent F.
Published: February 2016

Failure to thrive (FTT) is a common problem that occurs when caloric intake is insufficient to maintain growth. For the majority of children it can be reversed with behavioral modifications and increased caloric provisions. In a minority of cases, FTT is the symptom of underlying organic disease. Routine evaluation with laboratory tests, imagining studies, and endoscopy results in an etiology of FTT in <1.4% of cases, and when investigations are positive the organic etiology is most often suspected based on history and/or physical examination. Therefore, these evaluations should be limited to those children with clear symptoms of organic disease and those who fail to grow with behavioral and nutritional interventions.

[
Pediatr Ann
. 2016;45(2):e46–e49.]
Distinguishing Diabetic Macular Edema From Capillary Nonperfusion Using Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography
Authors: de Carlo Talisa E. , Chin Adam T. , Joseph Tony , Baumal Caroline R. , Witkin Andre J. , Duker Jay S. , Waheed Nadia K.
Published: February 2016

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To describe the appearance of diabetic macular edema (DME) using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) and distinguish it from capillary nonperfusion.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Patients with DME were recruited for OCTA imaging. Eyes with confounding retinal diseases were excluded. Using 3 mm × 3 mm OCT angiograms segmented into the superficial and deep inner retinal vascular plexuses, two graders described the appearance of DME and confirmed the diagnosis with structural OCT and fluorescein angiography.

RESULTS:

DME was evaluated in 17 eyes of 12 patients. The cystoid spaces in DME appeared completely devoid of flow on the OCT angiograms and were oblong in shape with smooth borders that did not follow the distribution of surrounding capillaries, whereas areas of capillary nonperfusion were a greyer hue and had irregular borders.

CONCLUSIONS:

The cystoid spaces in DME can be differentiated from capillary nonperfusion using OCTA. OCTA may help to guide treatment decisions in the future.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Imaging Lasers Retina
. 2016;47:108–114.]
Traumatic Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion With Retinal Neovascularization Following Inadvertent Retrobulbar Needle Perforation
Authors: Simmons Nathaniel L. , Joseph Anthony , Baumal Caroline R.
Published: February 2016

Retrobulbar injection of anesthesia is one of the most common procedures performed for ophthalmic surgery. Complications are rare but can be potentially serious, including retrobulbar hemorrhage, brainstem anesthesia, and inadvertent globe perforation. This is the preliminary report describing branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) secondary to accidental retrobulbar needle laceration with subsequent preretinal neovascularization.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Imaging Lasers Retina
. 2016;47:191–193.]
La constitutionnalité enfin confirmée de la loi Gayssot
Authors: Tissier-Raffin Marion
Published: February 2016

Dans une décision 2015-512 QPC (M. Vincent R.) , le Conseil constitutionnel a mis fin à près de quinze ans de polémiques portant sur la constitutionnalité du délit de contestation des crimes contre l’humanité commis pendant la Seconde Guerre mondiale, aussi connu sous l’expression « Loi Gayssot ». Il a ainsi non seulement reconnu, de manière prévisible, que le négationnisme contestant les crimes contre l’humanité nazis est un abus de droit qui porte une atteinte nécessaire à la liberté d’expression mais il a aussi considéré, sur un sujet plus controversé, que la seule répression des propos contestant l’Holocauste est conforme au principe d’égalité. Bien que l’examen des deux griefs habilement soulevés par le négationniste connu Vincent Reynouard s’appuie sur une argumentation juridique motivée, dont la méthode développée est à rapprocher de celle de la Cour européenne, on peut cependant regretter que le Conseil constitutionnel ait repris les arguments tant critiqués dégagés dans sa décision n° 2012-647 DC relative à la Loi visant à réprimer la contestation de l’existence des génocides reconnus par la loi.
Effects of B2O3 Contents on Crystallization Behaviors and Dielectric Properties of CaO-B2O3-SiO2 Glass Ceramics
Authors: Jia Ai Qing , Zhang Wei Jun , Cheng Xing Yu , Liu Zhuo Feng
Published: February 2016

The CaO-B2O3-SiO2 glass ceramics system with four different boron contents (14 wt. %, 16.4 wt. %, 18.6 wt. %, 21 wt. %) were prepared under 900oC. The properties and microstructures are characterized by Differential Scanning Calorimeter (DSC), X-ray Diffraction (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The effects of boron contents on the composition of crystalline phases and the properties of CaO-B2O3-SiO2 glass ceramics system were studied. The results show that when the molar ratio of CaO/SiO2 is 1.06, as the content of B2O3 increases, the major crystalline phases experiences the transformation from CaSiO3 to CaB2O4 and the content of α-SiO2 crystalline phase decreases, and the dielectric constant increases firstly but it decreases after the content of B2O3 reaches to 18.6 wt. %, while the dielectric loss tgδ of decreases gradually with the addition of boron content. When the content of B2O3 is 16.4 wt. %, the CaO-B2O3-SiO2 glass ceramics with a bulk density of 2.47 g/cm3 exhibits good dielectric properties (1 MHz): εr=6.03, tgδ=3.49×10-3.
Preparation and Performance of Inorganic Thermal Insulation Glazed Hollow Bead Material
Authors: Yu Lei , Zhang Cheng , Wu Zhen Gan
Published: February 2016

Glazed hollow bead, a kind of inorganic lightweight aggregate that has been recently developed, has raised high concern in the field of thermal insulation of building wall due to its low thermal conductivity, low water absorption, good fireproof performance and relatively high compression strength. In this paper, the preparation of this thermal insulation glazed hollow bead material was introduced in detail, the influence of the amount of gel material on bulk density, porosity, thermal conductivity, compression strength of the thermal insulation glazed hollow bead material was investigated, the surface morphology and surface components were characterized by means of SEM and EDS. Results showed that the density, thermal conductivity and compression strength increased while the porosity decreased with the amount of gel material increasing. Appropriate temperature enables gel material to work at optimal level under which the compression strength increases, on the other hand, the porosity also increases, therefore, the thermal conductivity decreases.