bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prolonged Growth of a Clinical Staphylococcus aureus Strain Selects for a Stable Small-Colony-Variant Cell Type
Authors: Bui Long M. G. , Hoffmann Peter , Turnidge John D. , Zilm Peter S. , Kidd Stephen P.
Published: November 2014

An undetermined feature of
Staphylococcus aureus
pathogenesis is its persistence and then relapse of disease. This has been explained by its switch to alternative lifestyles, mainly as biofilm or small-colony variants (SCVs). Studying the native characteristics of SCVs has been problematic due to their reversion to the parental lifestyle. We have observed that for a number of
S. aureus
strains as they switch to an SCV lifestyle, there is the formation of an extracellular matrix. We focused our analysis on one strain, WCH-SK2. For bacterial survival in the host, the combination of low nutrients and the prolonged time frame forms a stress that selects for a specific cell type from the population. In this context, we used steady-state growth conditions with low nutrients and a controlled low growth rate for a prolonged time and with methylglyoxal. These conditions induced
S. aureus
WCH-SK2 into a stable SCV cell type; the cells did not revert after subculturing. Analysis revealed these cells possessed a metabolic and surface profile that was different from those of previously described SCVs or biofilm cells. The extracellular matrix was protein and extracellular DNA but not polysaccharide. The SCV cells induced expression of certain surface proteins (such as Ebh) and synthesis of lantibiotics while downregulating factors that stimulate the immune response (leucocidin, capsule, and carotenoid). Our data reveal cell heterogeneity within an
S. aureus
population and under conditions that resemble long-term survival in the host have identified a previously unnoticed
S. aureus
cell type with a distinctive metabolic and molecular profile.
Proline Metabolism IncreaseskatGExpression and Oxidative Stress Resistance in Escherichia coli
Authors: Zhang Lu , Alfano James R. , Becker Donald F.
Published: November 2014

The oxidation ofl-proline to glutamate in Gram-negative bacteria is catalyzed by the proline utilization A (PutA) flavoenzyme, which contains proline dehydrogenase (PRODH) and Δ1-pyrroline-5-carboxylate (P5C) dehydrogenase domains in a single polypeptide. Previous studies have suggested that aside from providing energy, proline metabolism influences oxidative stress resistance in different organisms. To explore this potential role and the mechanism, we characterized the oxidative stress resistance of wild-type andputAmutant strains ofEscherichia coli. Initial stress assays revealed that theputAmutant strain was significantly more sensitive to oxidative stress than the parental wild-type strain. Expression of PutA in theputAmutant strain restored oxidative stress resistance, confirming that depletion of PutA was responsible for the oxidative stress phenotype. Treatment of wild-type cells with proline significantly increased hydroperoxidase I (encoded bykatG) expression and activity. Furthermore, the ΔkatGstrain failed to respond to proline, indicating a critical role for hydroperoxidase I in the mechanism of proline protection. The global regulator OxyR activates the expression ofkatGalong with several other genes involved in oxidative stress defense. In addition tokatG, proline increased the expression ofgrxA(glutaredoxin 1) andtrxC(thioredoxin 2) of the OxyR regulon, implicating OxyR in proline protection. Proline oxidative metabolism was shown to generate hydrogen peroxide, indicating that proline increases oxidative stress tolerance inE. colivia a preadaptive effect involving endogenous hydrogen peroxide production and enhanced catalase-peroxidase activity.
HtrC Is Involved in Proteolysis of YpeB during Germination of Bacillus anthracis and Bacillus subtilis Spores
Authors: Bernhards Casey B. , Chen Yan , Toutkoushian Hannah , Popham David L.
Published: November 2014

Bacterial endospores can remain dormant for decades yet can respond to nutrients, germinate, and resume growth within minutes. An essential step in the germination process is degradation of the spore cortex peptidoglycan wall, and the SleB protein inBacillusspecies plays a key role in this process. Stable incorporation of SleB into the spore requires the YpeB protein, and some evidence suggests that the two proteins interact within the dormant spore. Early during germination, YpeB is proteolytically processed to a stable fragment. In this work, the primary sites of YpeB cleavage were identified inBacillus anthracis, and it was shown that the stable products are comprised of the C-terminal domain of YpeB. Modification of the predominant YpeB cleavage sites reduced proteolysis, but cleavage at other sites still resulted in loss of full-length YpeB. AB. anthracisstrain lacking the HtrC protease did not generate the same stable YpeB products. InB. anthracisandBacillus subtilishtrCmutants, YpeB was partially stabilized during germination but was still degraded at a reduced rate by other, unidentified proteases. Purified HtrC cleaved YpeB to a fragment similar to that observedin vivo, and this cleavage was stimulated by Mn2+or Ca2+ions. A lack of HtrC did not stabilize YpeB or SleB during spore formation in the absence of the partner protein, indicating other proteases are involved in their degradation during sporulation.
LytR-CpsA-Psr Enzymes as Determinants of Bacillus anthracis Secondary Cell Wall Polysaccharide Assembly
Authors: Liszewski Zilla Megan , Chan Yvonne G. Y. , Lunderberg Justin Mark , Schneewind Olaf , Missiakas Dominique
Published: November 2014

Bacillus anthracis, the causative agent of anthrax, replicates as chains of vegetative cells by regulating the separation of septal peptidoglycan. Surface (S)-layer proteins and associated proteins (BSLs) function as chain length determinants and bind to the secondary cell wall polysaccharide (SCWP). In this study, we identified theB. anthracislcpDmutant, which displays increased chain length and S-layer assembly defects due to diminished SCWP attachment to peptidoglycan. In contrast, theB. anthracislcpB3variant displayed reduced cell size and chain length, which could be attributed to increased deposition of BSLs. In other bacteria, LytR-CpsA-Psr (LCP) proteins attach wall teichoic acid (WTA) and polysaccharide capsule to peptidoglycan.B. anthracisdoes not synthesize these polymers, yet its genome encodes six LCP homologues, which, when expressed inS. aureus, promote WTA attachment. We propose a model wherebyB. anthracisLCPs promote attachment of SCWP precursors to discrete locations in the peptidoglycan, enabling BSL assembly and regulated separation of septal peptidoglycan.
Blue rubber bleb naevus syndrome: a rare cause of iron deficiency anaemia
Authors: Saeed Ismail D , Kheroo Khalid N , Abdullah Thamer Jaber , Salih Khalaf Ali
Published: November 2014

We report a case in an adolescent male patient with a history of chronic fatigue, headache and unexplained iron deficiency anaemia since 2007. Numerous bluish-black lesions were found over his body surface. A surgical scar from a previous lumpectomy with a small lump were noted at the left submandibular region and another smaller lesion on the left lobe of the thyroid was also palpated. His most recent blood indices displayed the presence of moderately severe iron deficiency anaemia. Endoscopic evaluation exhibited multiple vascular lesions throughout the gastrointestinal tract. MRI of the brain revealed an irregular intracranial vascular lesion at the cerebellopontine angle. Further work-up with abdominal CT demonstrated the absence of similar lesions in the extraintestinal abdominal organs. Putting these together with histological findings, the diagnosis of blue rubber bleb naevus syndrome was confirmed. The patient was treated conservatively at this point and future management planning was discussed with him.
An observational, longitudinal study on the home environment of people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: the research protocol of theHome Sweet Homestudy
Authors: Nakken Nienke , Janssen Daisy J A , van den Bogaart Esther H A , Vercoulen Jan H , Wouters Emiel F M , Spruit Martijn A
Published: November 2014

Introduction

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) represents an important public health challenge. Patients are confronted with limitations during activities of daily living (ADLs). Resident loved ones of patients with COPD may be uniquely positioned to witness these limitations. COPD may have an impact on not only the patients’ life, but also on the lives of the resident loved ones. Furthermore, COPD exacerbation-related hospital admissions often occur in patients with COPD. However, whether and to what extent these admissions influence resident loved ones’ burden and health status remains currently unknown. Therefore, the primary objectives of this study are to investigate the differences between patients with COPD and resident loved ones’ perceptions of patients’ health status and problematic ADLs and to study prospectively the effects of a COPD exacerbation on resident loved ones’ perceptions of patients’ health status and problematic ADLs.

Methods and analysis

An observational, longitudinal study will be performed in 192 patients with COPD and their 192 resident loved ones. Primary outcomes are daily functioning, ADL, disease-specific health status, generic health status and dyspnoea. These will be assessed during home visits at baseline and after 12 months. Additional home visits will be performed when a COPD exacerbation-related hospital admission occurs during the 12-month follow-up period.

Ethics and dissemination

This protocol was approved by the Medical Ethics Committee of the Catharina Hospital Eindhoven, the Netherlands (NL42721.060.12/M12-1280) and is registered in the Dutch Trial Register (NTR3941).
Prognosis of patients with bilateral fixed dilated pupils secondary to traumatic extradural or subdural haematoma who undergo surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Scotter John , Hendrickson Susan , Marcus Hani J , Wilson Mark H
Published: November 2014

Primary objective

To review the prognosis of patients with bilateral fixed and dilated pupils secondary to traumatic extradural (epidural) or subdural haematoma who undergo surgery.

Methods

A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed using random effects models. The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and PubMed databases were searched to identify relevant publications. Eligible studies were publications that featured patients with bilateral fixed and dilated pupils who underwent surgical evacuation of traumatic extra-axial haematoma, and reported on the rate of favourable outcome (Glasgow Outcome Score 4 or 5).

Results

Five cohort studies met the inclusion criteria, collectively reporting the outcome of 82 patients. In patients with extradural haematoma, the mortality rate was 29.7% (95% CI 14.7% to 47.2%) with a favourable outcome seen in 54.3% (95% CI 36.3% to 71.8%). In patients with acute subdural haematoma, the mortality rate was 66.4% (95% CI 50.5% to 81.9%) with a favourable outcome seen in 6.6% (95% CI 1.8% to 14.1%).

Conclusions and implications of key findings

Despite the poor overall prognosis of patients with closed head injury and bilateral fixed and dilated pupils, our findings suggest that a good recovery is possible if an aggressive surgical approach is taken in selected cases, particularly those with extradural haematoma.

Trial registration number

CRD42013005198.
Interobserver variability of aneurysm morphology: discrimination of the daughter sac
Authors: Suh Sang Hyun , Cloft Harry J , Huston John , Han Kyung Hwa , Kallmes David F
Published: November 2014

Objective

Several definitions have been proposed to distinguish the daughter sac when treating unruptured intracranial aneurysms. The aim of this study was to evaluate interobserver variability of aneurysm morphology, including the daughter sac, using criteria from the International Study of Unruptured Intracranial Aneurysms (ISUIA) and the Unruptured Cerebral Aneurysm Study of Japan (UCAS).

Materials and methods

After approval by the institutional review board, we analyzed three morphological features (daughter sac, lobulation, and irregular margin) from the ISUIA and UCAS using angiographic images from 102 saccular aneurysms. Four independent readers interpreted each morphological criterion using dichotomized scales (existence or not). The κ statistic was used to measure interobserver agreement, and κ>0.6 was considered substantial agreement.

Results

For discrimination of the daughter sac, interobserver agreement among the four readers was substantial using the UCAS criteria (k=0.626 for two-dimensional (2D) and 0.659 for three-dimensional (3D) images) but not for the ISUIA criteria (k=0.487 for 2D and 0.473 for 3D images; significant difference). Irrespective of the images used, pairwise pooled κ values for the UCAS were >0.6, except for one case (score of 0.54 between readers A and B). Regarding the proportion of positive reads, there was a significant difference between reads for the daughter sac using the UCAS and ISUIA criteria.

Conclusions

For discrimination of the daughter sac, the UCAS definition showed a higher reliability than the ISUIA. However, a further prospective study is necessary to validate this definition as the treatment standard for unruptured intracranial aneurysms.
Influence of clod size and water content on gas permeability of a compacted loess
Authors: Zhan T.L.T. , Yang Y.B. , Chen R. , Ng C.W.W. , Chen Y.M.
Published: November 2014

The northwestern region of China is mainly semi-arid to arid and loess is ubiquitous. This natural resource has considerable potential to be transformed into earthen final covers for local landfills, but first its suitability must be ascertained through extensive tests. In this study, a device was developed to measure the gas permeability of unsaturated compacted loess specimens. Experiments were carried out to investigate the influence of clod size, compaction water content, and post-compaction water content on the gas permeability of the compacted loess. To maintain an identical soil structure, the post-compaction water content was changed using the osmotic technique. It was found that the compaction water content and resultant soil clod size exerted a combined effect on the gas permeability such that, at low water contents, the gas permeability remained fairly constant, but at high water contents the clods became relatively large, and the effect of the clod size dominated the water blockage effect from increasing water content. For specimens with identical soil structure, the gas permeability decreased with the increasing post-compaction degree of saturation at an accelerated rate. A power function is proposed to predict the relationship between the gas permeability normalized by the porosity function of the Kozeny–Carmen model and the post-compaction degree of saturation. Analysis of the experimental data indicates that the parameters for the power function still depend on the porosity of the compacted loess, particularly at high degrees of saturation.
Separating recruitment and mortality time lags for a delay-difference production model
Authors: Aalto Emilius A. , Dick E.J. , MacCall Alec D.
Published: November 2014

Many fishery production models implicitly incorporate a single time lag for both recruitment and mortality despite the fact that in populations of breeding adults, deaths occur yearly while the entry of new adults comes from juveniles born potentially many years prior to adulthood. Models that do not account for this difference in timing will overestimate abundance for a decreasing stock and underestimate increases during a recovery period. We investigated the effect of incorporating unequal recruitment and mortality time lags into depletion-based stock reduction analysis (DB-SRA), a stock assessment method for data-poor species. Using both simulated data and catch series of Pacific rockfish (Sebastes spp.), we found that for declining stocks with no mortality delay and a recruitment time lag equal to age-at-maturity, estimated overfishing limits were up to 40% lower than those from the model with both time lags equal to age-at-maturity. Deviation between the two models’ predictions increases with age-at-maturity and natural mortality rate, suggesting that time lag separation is most important for long-lived species. We propose a correction factor for net production models that eliminates stock overestimation due to implicitly equal time lags.
The relationship among catch, fishing effort, and measures of fish stock abundance: implications in the Adriatic Sea
Authors: Mulazzani Luca , Manrique Rosa , Trevisan Giovanna , Piccinetti Corrado , Malorgio Giulio
Published: November 2014

Relationships among catch, fishing effort, and measures of fish stock abundance have several implications for fisheries research. In this context, spatial and seasonal aspects are of significant importance for management decisions, especially when effort regulation schemes are used. In this paper, the multispecies trawl fishery in the Northern and Central Adriatic Sea was investigated, taking into account the heterogeneous distribution of fish stocks. Two approaches are presented depending on the availability (or not) of fishery-independent indices of stock abundance. The empirical results indicate that (i) aggregation and targeting behaviours affect catches by modifying the relationship between abundance and catch per unit effort and (ii) these relationships are not homogenous across space. Data from the Adriatic Sea is still insufficient to guarantee reliable estimations. However, these preliminary results call into question management decisions being made on the basis of catch per unit effort. Furthermore, the high heterogeneity between the northern and central areas of the sea basin calls for the adoption of spatially explicit management systems.
Hepatoprotective and Anti-oxidant Activities ofGlossogyne tenuifoliaAgainst Acetaminophen-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Mice
Authors: Tien Yu-Hsiu , Chen Bing-Huei , Wang Hsu Guoo-Shyng , Lin Wan-Teng , Huang Jui-Hua , Lu Yi-Fa
Published: November 2014

The present study investigated the anti-oxidative and hepatoprotective effects of Glossogyne tenuifolia (GT) Cassini, against acetaminophen-induced acute liver injury in BALB/c mice. The extracts of GT by various solvents (hot water, 50% ethanol and 95% ethanol) were compared for their 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity, reducing power, total phenolic content, and total anti-oxidant capacity. The results showed that hot water (HW) extracts of GT contained high levels of phenolics and exerted an excellent anti-oxidative capacity; thus, these were used in the animal experiment. The male BALB/c mice were randomly divided into control group, acetaminophen (APAP) group, positive control group and two GT groups at low (GT-L) and high (GT-H) dosages. The results showed that mice treated with GT had significantly decreased serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). GT-H increased glutathione levels and the ratios of reduced glutathione and oxidized glutathione (GSH/GSSG) in the liver, and inhibited serum and lipid peroxidation. This experiment was the first to determine phenolic compounds, chlorogenic acid and luteolin-7-glucoside in HW extract of GT. In conclusion, HW extract of GT may have potential anti-oxidant capacity and show hepatoprotective capacities in APAP-induced liver damaged mice.
Study on the Anti-Gout Activity of Chlorogenic Acid: Improvement on Hyperuricemia and Gouty Inflammation
Authors: Meng Zhao-Qing , Tang Zhao-Hui , Yan Yun-Xia , Guo Chang-Run , Cao Liang , Ding Gang , Huang Wen-Zhe , Wang Zhen-Zhong , Wang Kelvin D.G. , Xiao Wei , Yang Zhong-Lin
Published: November 2014

Gout is a metabolic disorder associated with hyperuricemia resulting in the deposition of monosodium urate (MSU) crystals in joints and tissues. Lowering serum uric acid (Sur) levels and anti-inflammation are highly essential in treating gout. Chlorogenic acid (CA), as one of the most abundant polyphenols in the Chinese medicines, has been rarely reported to have an anti-gout effect. The model of potassium oxonate (PO)-induced hyperuricemia in mice and MSU crystal-induced inflammation in rats has been established in this study. The potential beneficial effects and mechanisms of CA on hyperuricemia and gouty arthritis were elucidated. The results demonstrated that CA significantly decreased the Sur level by inhibiting the xanthine oxidase (XOD) activity but not increasing the urinary uric acid (Uur) level. In addition, CA also exhibited the effect of suppressing paw swelling. Further investigation indicated that CA improved the symptoms of inflammation induced by MSU crystals by inhibiting the production of proinflammatory cytokines including interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). The present study suggests that CA may have a considerable potential for development as an anti-gouty arthritis agent for clinical application.
Central exclusive production issue: Introduction
Authors: Albrow Michael
Published: November 2014

I give a brief introduction to central exclusive production in hadron–hadron collisions, the subject of this special issue of the International Journal of Modern Physics A.
Results and future plans on central exclusive production with the LHCb detector
Authors: McNulty Ronan
Published: November 2014

The LHCb detector and LHC running conditions are ideally suited to measuring central exclusive production. Several recent measurements of exclusive dimuon, single and double charmonia are reviewed. The potential for future measurements across a broad range of physics channels is discussed.
Study of Double Pomeron Exchange with the SFM detector at the CERN ISR
Authors: Fischer H. G. , Geist W. , Makariev M.
Published: November 2014

Selected results from the study of Double Pomeron Exchange with the Split Field Magnet detector at the CERN Intersecting Storage Rings are presented. This concerns various general features of central pionic systems as well as the spectroscopy in the π+π- channel, emphasizing the production properties of the f2(1270) meson. This summary refers to a series of publications over a time span of 17 years based on the work of the CCHK1,2 and ABCDHW3–7 collaborations at the CERN ISR.
Double diffraction at zero impact parameter
Authors: Bjorken J. D.
Published: November 2014

Protons may sometimes have the configuration of a compact diquark, separated transversely from the quark by a string. If both protons in a collision have this form, the strings may be parallel, giving final states with high multiplicity, ellipticity and a ridge structure, or transverse, with leading protons and (sometimes) rapidity gaps. Simple considerations lead one to expect, at [Formula: see text], central masses in the few GeV /c2 range, appropriate for glueball states.
Central exclusive production at the Tevatron
Authors: Albrow Michael ,   (On behalf of the CDF Collaboration)
Published: November 2014

The Collider Detector at Fermilab, CDF, observed for the first time in hadron–hadron collisions photon–photon (γ + γ → e+e-, μ+μ-) and photon–pomeron (γ + ℙ → J/ψ, ψ(2S)) interactions, as well as [Formula: see text] by double pomeron exchange, ℙ + ℙ or DPE. Exclusive π+π- production was also measured at [Formula: see text] and 1960 GeV; resonance structures are discussed.
Central exclusive production in the ALICE experiment at the LHC
Authors: Schicker R.
Published: November 2014

The ALICE experiment at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) at CERN consists of a central barrel, a muon spectrometer and additional detectors for trigger and event classification purposes. The low transverse momentum threshold of the central barrel gives ALICE a unique opportunity to study the low mass sector of central exclusive production at the LHC.
Photon induced processes at the LHC
Authors: Royon C. , Saimpert M.
Published: November 2014

We discuss the photon-induced processes that can be studied at the LHC, leading to intact protons in the final state. We give the SM cross-section for W- and photon-pair production. These processes lead to unprecedented sensitivities on quartic anomalous couplings between photons and W and Z bosons, reaching the values expected for extra dimension models.
Soft Set-Based Switching Faults Decision Making in DTC Induction Motor Drives
Authors: Türkmenoğlu Veli , Aktaş Mustafa , Karataş Serkan , Okumuş Halil İbrahim
Published: November 2014

This paper introduces a method for detection and identification of IGBT-based drive open-circuit fault of DTC induction motor drives. The detection mechanism is based on soft set theory and wavelet decomposition, if it is detailed, ⊼-product decision making method and sym2 wavelet decomposition have been used in the detection mechanism. In this method, the stator currents have been used as an input to the system. The stator current has been used for the detection of the fault. The signal analysis has been performed up to the six level details wavelets decomposition. Faulty switch is detected by applying soft set theory to sixth level wavelets transformation. This is the first time applied to inverter in induction motor drives fault detection. The results demonstrate that the proposed fault detection and diagnosis system has very good capabilities.
Power law corrections to BTZ black hole entropy
Authors: Singh Dharm Veer
Published: November 2014

We study the quantum scalar field in the background of BTZ black hole and evaluate the entanglement entropy of the nonvacuum states. The entropy is proportional to the area of event horizon for the ground state, but the area law is violated in the case of nonvacuum states (first excited state and mixed states) and the corrections scale as power law.
Energy levels and electromagnetic transition of 190–196Pt nuclei
Authors: Kassim Huda H. , Sharrad Fadhil I.
Published: November 2014

A description of the even–even Pt isotopes for A = 190 to 196 in the framework of the Interacting Boson Model (IBM-1) is carried out. Energy levels, B(E2) and B(M1) values, branching ratios, E2/M1 mixing ratios and QJ values of the above nuclei have been calculated. The energy levels, B(E2) values and the electric quadrupole moment QJ results are reasonably consistent with the experimental data. The magnetic dipole is compared with the available experimental data. Furthermore, the calculated results are better than previous studies.
A note on the geometry of electromagnetism
Authors: Sidharth B. G.
Published: November 2014

It is argued that electric and magnetic fields are generated by the noncommutative geometry at high energies rather like the minimum conductivity in graphene. An exact Reynolds number type of correspondence between graphene and high energy phenomena is also established.
Quantum nonlocality enhanced by homogenization
Authors: Chen Xu , Su Hong-Yi , Xu Zhen-Peng , Wu Yu-Chun , Chen Jing-Ling
Published: November 2014

Homogenization proposed in [Y.-C Wu and M. Żukowski, Phys. Rev. A 85 (2012) 022119] is a procedure to transform a tight Bell inequality with partial correlations into a full-correlation form that is also tight. In this paper, we check the homogenizations of two families of n-partite Bell inequalities: the Hardy inequality and the tight Bell inequality without quantum violation. For Hardy's inequalities, their homogenizations bear stronger quantum violation for the maximally entangled state; the tight Bell inequalities without quantum violation give the boundary of quantum and supra-quantum, but their homogenizations do not have the similar properties. We find their homogenization are violated by the maximally entangled state. Numerically computation shows the the domains of quantum violation of homogenized Hardy's inequalities for the generalized GHZ states are smaller than those of Hardy's inequalities.
Implementation of Vector Control of PMSM by Applying Optical-EtherCAT Communication for Robot
Authors: Kim Yong-Jin , Kim Kwang-Heon , Moon Yong-Seon , Hwang Suk-Seung , Bae Young-Chul
Published: November 2014

A key technology of the next generation robots is the ability to move with high speed, high precision and communication network control. We propose a vector control system by applying optical-EtherCAT to PMSM with two-axes. We describe configurations of hardware and software to vector control of PMSM with two-axis using an optical-EtherCAT and explain two phase coordinate transformations of the d-q-axis that is the basis of vector control with an optical EtherCAT. We also report results of vector current control, vector current and speed, and vector current and position control of PMSM with two-axes for proposed optical EtherCAT. We confirm that we achieved satisfactory control results due to vector control implemented with an optical EtherCAT.
SPIN TRANSFER TORQUE SWITCHING AND PERPENDICULAR MAGNETIC ANISOTROPY IN FULL HEUSLER ALLOYCo2FeAl-BASED TUNNEL JUNCTIONS
Authors: SUKEGAWA H. , WEN Z. C. , KASAI S. , INOMATA K. , MITANI S.
Published: November 2014

Some of Co -based full Heusler alloys have remarkable properties in spintronics, that is, high spin polarization of conduction electrons and low magnetic damping. Owing to these properties, magnetic tunnel junctions (MTJs) using Co -based full Heusler alloys are potentially of particular importance for spintronic application such as magnetoresistive random access memories (MRAMs). Recently, we have first demonstrated spin transfer torque (STT) switching and perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (PMA), which are required for developing high-density MRAMs, in full-Heusler Co2FeAl alloy-based MTJs. In this review, the main results of the experimental demonstrations are shown with referring to related issues, and the prospect of MTJs using Heusler alloys is also discussed.
One Hundred Years of Statistical Developments in Animal Breeding
Authors: Gianola Daniel , Rosa Guilherme J.M.
Published: November 2014

Statistical methodology has played a key role in scientific animal breeding. Approximately one hundred years of statistical developments in animal breeding are reviewed. Some of the scientific foundations of the field are discussed, and many milestones are examined from historical and critical perspectives. The review concludes with a discussion of some future challenges and opportunities arising from the massive amount of data generated by livestock, plant, and human genome projects.
Pharmacogenetics of Cancer Drugs
Authors: Hertz Daniel L. , Rae James
Published: November 2014

The variability in treatment outcomes among patients receiving the same therapy for seemingly similar tumors can be attributed in part to genetics. The tumor's (somatic) genome largely dictates the effectiveness of the therapy, and the patient's (germline) genome influences drug exposure and the patient's sensitivity to toxicity. Many potentially clinically useful associations have been discovered between common germline genetic polymorphisms and outcomes of cancer treatment. This review highlights the germline pharmacogenetic associations that are currently being used to guide cancer treatment decisions, those that are most likely to someday be clinically useful, and associations that are well known but their roles in clinical management are not yet certain. In the future, germline genetic information will likely be available from tumor genetic analyses, creating an efficient opportunity to integrate the two genomes to optimize treatment outcomes for each individual cancer patient.
Emerging Concepts in Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Vinters Harry V.
Published: November 2014

Alzheimer's disease/senile dementia of the Alzheimer type (AD/SDAT) is the most common neuropathologic substrate of dementia. It is characterized by synapse loss (predominantly within neocortex) as well as deposition of certain distinctive lesions (the result of protein misfolding) throughout the brain. The latter include senile plaques, composed mainly of an amyloid (Aβ) core and a neuritic component; neurofibrillary tangles, composed predominantly of hyperphosphorylated tau; and cerebral amyloid angiopathy, a microangiopathy affecting both cerebral cortical capillaries and arterioles and resulting from Aβ deposition within their walls or (in the case of capillaries) immediately adjacent brain parenchyma. In this article, I discuss the hypothesized role these lesions play in causing cerebral dysfunction, as well as CSF and neuroimaging biomarkers (for dementia) that are especially relevant as immunotherapeutic approaches are being developed to remove Aβ from the brain parenchyma. In addition, I address the role of neuropathology in characterizing the sequelae of new AD/SDAT therapies and helping to validate CSF and neuroimaging biomarkers of disease. Comorbidity of AD/SDAT and various types of cerebrovascular disease is a major theme in dementia research, especially as cognitive impairment develops in the oldest old, who are especially vulnerable to ischemic and hemorrhagic brain lesions.
Overexpression of Bacterial mtlD Gene in Peanut Improves Drought Tolerance through Accumulation of Mannitol
Authors: Bhauso Tengale Dipak , Radhakrishnan Thankappan , Kumar Abhay , Mishra Gyan Prakash , Dobaria Jentilal Ramjibhai , Patel Kirankumar , Rajam Manchikatla Venkat
Published: November 2014

In the changing global environmental scenarios, water scarcity and recurrent drought impose huge reductions to the peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) crop yield. In plants, osmotic adjustments associated with efficient free radical scavenging ability during abiotic stress are important components of stress tolerance mechanisms. Mannitol, a compatible solute, is known to scavenge hydroxyl radicals generated during various abiotic stresses, thereby conferring tolerance to water-deficit stress in many plant species. However, peanut plant is not known to synthesize mannitol. Therefore, bacterial mtlD gene coding for mannitol 1-phosphate dehydrogenase under the control of constitutive promoter CaMV35S was introduced and overexpressed in the peanut cv. GG 20 using Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated transformation. A total of eight independent transgenic events were confirmed at molecular level by PCR, Southern blotting, and RT-PCR. Transgenic lines had increased amount of mannitol and exhibited enhanced tolerance in response to water-deficit stress. Improved performance of the mtlD transgenics was indicated by excised-leaf water loss assay and relative water content under water-deficit stress. Better performance of transgenics was due to the ability of the plants to synthesize mannitol. However, regulation of mtlD gene expression in transgenic plants remains to be elucidated.
Symbiotic Efficiency of Native Rhizobia Nodulating Common Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) in Soils of Western Kenya
Authors: Kawaka Fanuel , Dida Mathews M. , Opala Peter A. , Ombori Omwoyo , Maingi John , Osoro Newton , Muthini Morris , Amoding Alice , Mukaminega Dative , Muoma John
Published: November 2014

This study was conducted to determine the abundance and symbiotic efficiency of native rhizobia nodulating common bean in Kisumu and Kakamega, Kenya. Soil sampling was carried out in three farms that had been used for growing common bean for at least two seasons and one fallow land with no known history of growing common bean or inoculation. Abundance of soil rhizobia and symbiotic efficiency (SE) were determined in a greenhouse experiment. Native rhizobia populations ranged from 3.2×101 to 3.5×104 cells per gram of soil. Pure bacterial cultures isolated from fresh and healthy root nodules exhibited typical characteristics of Rhizobium sp. on yeast extract mannitol agar media supplemented with Congo red. Bean inoculation with the isolates significantly p<0.05 increased the shoot dry weight and nitrogen (N) concentration and content. The SE of all the native rhizobia were higher when compared to a reference strain, CIAT 899 (67%), and ranged from 74% to 170%. Four isolates had SE above a second reference strain, Strain 446 (110%). Our results demonstrate the presence of native rhizobia that are potentially superior to the commercial inoculants. These can be exploited to enhance bean inoculation programmes in the region.
Ocular Surface Temperature in Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Sodi Andrea , Matteoli Sara , Giacomelli Giovanni , Finocchio Lucia , Corvi Andrea , Menchini Ugo
Published: November 2014

Background. The aim of this study is to investigate the ocular thermographic profiles in age-related macular degeneration (AMD) eyes and age-matched controls to detect possible hemodynamic abnormalities, which could be involved in the pathogenesis of the disease.Methods. 32 eyes with early AMD, 37 eyes with atrophic AMD, 30 eyes affected by untreated neovascular AMD, and 43 eyes with fibrotic AMD were included. The control group consisted of 44 healthy eyes. Exclusion criteria were represented by any other ocular diseases other than AMD, tear film abnormalities, systemic cardiovascular abnormalities, diabetes mellitus, and a body temperature higher than 37.5°C. A total of 186 eyes without pupil dilation were investigated by infrared thermography (FLIR A320). The ocular surface temperature (OST) of three ocular points was calculated by means of an image processing technique from the infrared images. Two-samplet-test and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) test were used for statistical analyses.Results. ANOVA analyses showed no significant differences among AMD groups (Pvalue >0.272). OST in AMD patients was significantly lower than in controls (P>0.05).Conclusions. Considering the possible relationship between ocular blood flow and OST, these findings might support the central role of ischemia in the pathogenesis of AMD.
The Role of University Support Services on Academic Outcomes for Students with Mental Illness
Authors: Simpson Andrea , Ferguson Kerry
Published: November 2014

Mental illness in the university student population has come under increased scrutiny in recent years. Students with mental illness are understandably highly reluctant to disclose their condition to others due to fear of prejudice, “not blending in,” and a strong desire to appear self-reliant. This study considered whether disclosure to university support services, with all its perceived risks, had academic benefits for students with mental illness. Preliminary evidence was found that, for those students with mental illness who registered with the University’s Disability Support Service for assistance, academic achievement was significantly higher on average in the year following their joining the service. Academic retention for these students was comparable to their university peers. A number of recommendations are discussed that could accommodate for students’ learning needs, thereby benefitting those experiencing mental health difficulties.
Extracting the QCD Cutoff Parameter Using the Bernstein Polynomials and the Truncated Moments
Authors: Mirjalili A. , Yazdanpanah M. M. , Moradi Z.
Published: November 2014

Since there are not experimental data over the whole range ofx-Bjorken variable, that is,0<x<1, we are inevitable in practice to do the integration for Mellin moments over the available range of experimental data. Among the methods of analysing DIS data, there are the methods based on application of Mellin moments. We use the truncated Mellin moments rather than the usual moments to analyse the EMC collaboration data for muon-nucleon and WA25 data for neutrino-deuterium DIS scattering. How to connect the truncated Mellin moments to usual ones is discussed. Following that we combine the truncated Mellin moments with the Bernstein polynomials. As a result, Bernstein averages which are related to different orders of the truncated Mellin moment are obtained. These averaged quantities can be considered as the constructed experimental data. By accessing the sufficient experimental data we can do the fitting more precisely. We do the fitting at leading order and next-to-leading order approximations to extract the QCD cutoff parameter. The results are in good agreement with what is being expected.
TNFαPromotes Th17 Cell Differentiation through IL-6 and IL-1βProduced by Monocytes in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Zheng Yingxia , Sun Lei , Jiang Ting , Zhang Dongqing , He Dongyi , Nie Hong
Published: November 2014

TNFαplays an important role in autoimmune pathogenesis and is the main therapeutic target of rheumatoid arthritis. However, its underlying mechanism is not completely understood. In this study, we described that Th17 cells were accumulated in synovial fluid, which was attributable to TNFαaberrantly produced in rheumatoid synovium. Interestingly, TNFαcannot induce IL-17 production of CD4+T cells directly, but through the monocytes high levels of IL-1βand IL-6 in a TNFRI and TNFRII dependent manner from the active RA patients are produced. TNFαwas shown to enhance the phosphorylation level of STAT3 and the expression level of transcription factor RORC of CD4+T cells when cultured with CD14+monocytes. Treatment with an approved TNFαblocking antibody showed marked reduction in the levels of IL-6, IL-1β, and IL-17 and the expression level of STAT3 phosphorylation in relation to Th17 cell differentiation in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The study provides new evidence supporting the critical role of TNFαin the pathogenic Th17 cell differentiation in rheumatoid arthritis.
Coupled Fixed Point Theorems with New Implicit Relations and an Application
Authors: Babu G. V. R. , Sailaja P. D.
Published: November 2014

We introduce two new classes of implicit relations S and S′ where S′ is a proper subset of S, and these classes are more general than the class of implicit relations defined by Altun and Simsek (2010). We prove the existence of coupled fixed points for the maps satisfying an implicit relation in S. These coupled fixed points need not be unique. In order to establish the uniqueness of coupled fixed points we use an implicit relation S′, where S′⊂S. Our results extend the fixed point theorems on ordered metric spaces of Altun and Simsek (2010) to coupled fixed point theorems and generalize the results of Gnana Bhaskar and Lakshimantham (2006). As an application of our results, we discuss the existence and uniqueness of solution of Fredholm integral equation.
Domination Polynomials of k-Tree Related Graphs
Authors: Jahari Somayeh , Alikhani Saeid
Published: November 2014

Let G be a simple graph of order n. The domination polynomial of G is the polynomial DG,x=∑i=γ(G)nd(G,i)xi, where d(G, i) is the number of dominating sets of G of size i and γ(G) is the domination number of G. In this paper, we study the domination polynomials of several classes of k-tree related graphs. Also, we present families of these kinds of graphs, whose domination polynomials have no nonzero real roots.
A Web-Based Survey of Residents’ Views on Advocating with Patients for a Healthy Built Environment in Canada
Authors: Cruickshank Matthew , Law Marcus
Published: November 2014

Purpose. To determine family medicine residents’ perceived knowledge and attitudes towards the built environment and their responsibility for health advocacy and to identify their perceived educational needs and barriers to patient education and advocacy. Methods. A web-based survey was conducted in Canada with University of Toronto family medicine residents. Data were analyzed descriptively. Results. 93% agreed or strongly agreed that built environment significantly impacts health. 64% thought educating patients on built environment is effective disease prevention; 52% considered this a role of family physicians. 78% reported that advocacy for built environment is effective disease prevention; 56% perceived this to be the family physician’s role. 59% reported being knowledgeable to discuss how a patient’s environment may affect his/her health; 35% reported being knowledgeable to participate in community discussions on built environment. 78% thought education would help with integration into practice. Inadequate time (92%), knowledge (73%), and remuneration (54%) were barriers. Conclusions. While residents perceived value in education and advocacy as disease prevention strategies and acknowledged the importance of a healthy built environment, they did not consider advocacy towards this the family physician’s role. Barrier reduction and medical education may contribute to improved advocacy, ultimately improving physical activity levels and patient health outcomes.
Close Margins in Oral Cancers: Implication of Close Margin Status in Recurrence and Survival of pT1N0 and pT2N0 Oral Cancers
Authors: Gokavarapu Sandhya , Chander Ravi , Parvataneni Nagendra , Puthamakula Sreenivasa
Published: November 2014

Introduction.Among all prognostic factors, “margin status” is the only factor under clinician’s control. Current guidelines describe histopathologic margin of >5 mm as “clear margin” and 1–5 mm as “close margin.” Ambiguous description of positive margin in the published data resulted in comparison of microscopically “involved margin” and “close margin” together with “clear margin” in many publications. Authors attempted to compare the outcome of close and clear margins of stage I and stage II squamous cell carcinoma of oral cavity to investigate the efficacy of description of margin status.Patients and Methods.Historical cohorts of patients treated between January 2010 and December 2011 at tertiary cancer hospital were investigated and filtered for stage I and stage II primary squamous cell carcinomas of oral cavity. Patients with margin status of tumor at margin or within 1mm from cut margin were excluded and analyzed in multivariate logistic regression model for locoregional recurrences and Cox regression for overall survival.Results.A total of 104 patients fulfilled the abovementioned criteria, of whom 36 were “clear margin” and 68 were “close margin” with median period of follow-up of 39 months. There was no significant difference in locoregional recurrence (Pvalue: 0.0.810) and survival (Pvalue: 0.0.851) among “close margin” and “clear margin” patients.
Laparoscopic Management of an Abdominal Pregnancy
Authors: Srinivasan Aarthi , Millican Suzanne
Published: November 2014

Background. Ectopic pregnancy is one of the leading causes of significant maternal morbidity and mortality. Abdominal surgeries increase the risk of postoperative adhesions. We here present a case of omental ectopic pregnancy in a patient with a prior history of cesarean section.Case. A 20-year-old female presented with a two-day history of crampy lower abdominal pain. Patient was hemodynamically stable with a beta HCG of 1057 mI/mL. Transvaginal ultrasound did not show an intrauterine pregnancy but revealed an ill-defined mass in the midline pelvis extending to the right of the midline. Diagnostic laparoscopy revealed large clots in the pelvis with normal uterus and adnexa. Intra-abdominal survey revealed an omental adhesion close to the right adnexa with a hematoma. Partial omentectomy was completed and the portion of the omentum with the hematoma was sent to pathology for confirmation. Final pathology confirmed the presence of chorionic villi consistent with products of conception.Conclusion. Omental ectopic pregnancy is a rare diagnosis and often missed. We recommend careful intra-abdominal survey for an ectopic pregnancy in the presence of hemoperitoneum with normal uterus and adnexa. This can be safely achieved using laparoscopy in early gestational ages when the patient is hemodynamically stable.