bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Failure Prediction in Bulk Metal Forming Process
Authors: Topa Ameen , Shah Qasim H.
Published: November 2014

An important concern in metal forming is whether the desired deformation can be accomplished without defects in the final product. Various ductile fracture criteria have been developed and experimentally verified for a limited number of cases of metal forming processes. These criteria are highly dependent on the geometry of the workpiece and cannot be utilized for complicated shapes without experimental verification. However, experimental work is a resource hungry process. This paper proposes the ability of finite element analysis (FEA) software such as LS-DYNA to pinpoint the crack-like flaws in bulk metal forming products. Two different approaches named as arbitrary Lagrangian-Eulerian (ALE) and smooth particle hydrodynamics (SPH) formulations were adopted. The results of the simulations agree well with the experimental work and a comparison between the two formulations has been carried out. Both approximation methods successfully predicted the flow of workpiece material (plastic deformation). However ALE method was able to pinpoint the location of the flaws.
Primary Squamous Cell Carcinoma of Lung Leading to Metastatic Jaw Tumor
Authors: Raja Lakshmi Chintamaneni , Sudhakara Rao M. , Bhavana Sujana Mulk , Sathish Sivan
Published: November 2014

Metastatic tumors to the orofacial region are unusual and they may occur in the oral soft tissues or jaw bones. Owing to their clinical variability the diagnosis of such tumors is often a dilemma. We report a unique case of mandibular metastasis which became the first evidence of an occult primary in the lung.
Pin-Align: A New Dynamic Programming Approach to Align Protein-Protein Interaction Networks
Authors: Amir-Ghiasvand Farid , Nowzari-Dalini Abbas , Momenzadeh Vida
Published: November 2014

To date, few tools for aligning protein-protein interaction networks have been suggested. These tools typically find conserved interaction patterns using various local or global alignment algorithms. However, the improvement of the speed, scalability, simplification, and accuracy of network alignment tools is still the target of new researches. In this paper, we introducePin-Align, a new tool for local alignment of protein-protein interaction networks.Pin-Alignaccuracy is tested on protein interaction networks from IntAct, DIP, and the Stanford Network Database and the results are compared with other well-known algorithms. It is shown thatPin-Alignhas higher sensitivity and specificity in terms of KEGG Ortholog groups.
Periodontal Ligament Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Increase Proliferation and Glycosaminoglycans Formation of Temporomandibular Joint Derived Fibrochondrocytes
Authors: Zhang Jianli , Guo Fujun , Mi Jianqiang , Zhang Zhiye
Published: November 2014

Objectives. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders are common disease in maxillofacial surgery. The aim of this study is to regenerate fibrocartilage with a mixture of TMJ fibrochondrocytes and periodontal ligament derived mesenchymal stem cells (PD-MSCs).Materials and Methods. Fibrochondrocytes and PD-MSC were cocultured (ratio 1 : 1) for 3 weeks. Histology and glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) assay were performed to examine the deposition of GAG. Green florescent protein (GFP) was used to track PD-MSC. Conditioned medium of PD-MSCs was collected to study the soluble factors. Gene expression of fibrochondrocytes cultured in conditioned medium was tested by quantitative PCR (qPCR).Results. Increased proliferation of TMJ-CH was observed in coculture pellets when compared to monoculture. Enhanced GAG production in cocultures was shown by histology and GAG quantification. Tracing of GFP revealed the fact that PD-MSC disappears after coculture with TMJ-CH for 3 weeks. In addition, conditioned medium of PD-MSC was also shown to increase the proliferation and GAG deposition of TMJ-CH. Meanwhile, results of qPCR demonstrated that conditioned medium enhanced the expression levels of matrix-related genes in TMJ-CH.Conclusions. Results from this study support the mechanism of MSC-chondrocyte interaction, in which MSCs act as secretor of soluble factors that stimulate proliferation and extracellular matrix deposition of chondrocytes.
Comparison of 99mTc-Tetrofosmin and 99mTc-Sestamibi Uptake in Glioma Cell Lines: The Role of P-Glycoprotein Expression
Authors: Alexiou George A. , Xourgia Xanthi , Vartholomatos Evrysthenis , Tsiouris Spyridon , Kalef-Ezra John A. , Fotopoulos Andreas D. , Kyritsis Athanasios P.
Published: November 2014

Tc-Tetrofosmin (Tc-TF) and Tc-Sestamibi (Tc-MIBI) are SPECT tracers that have been used for brain tumor imaging. Tumor’s multidrug resistance phenotype, namely, P-glycoprotein (p-gp), and the multidrug resistance related proteins (MRPs) expression have been suggested to influence both tracers’ uptake. In the present study we set out to compare Tc-MIBI uptake in high-grade glioma cell lines and to investigate the influence of gliomas p-gp expression on both tracers’ uptake. We used four glioma cell lines (U251MG, A172, U87MG, and T98G). The expression of p-gp protein was evaluated by flow cytometry. Twenty μCi (7.4·105 Bq) of Tc-TF and Tc-MIBI were used. The radioactivity in the cellular lysate was measured with a dose calibrator. P-gp was significantly expressed only in the U251MG cell line (). In all gliomas cell lines (U251MG, U87MG, A172, and T98G) the Tc-TF uptake was significantly higher than Tc-sestamibi. The U251MG cell line, in which significant p-gp expression was documented, exhibited the strongest uptake difference. Tc-TF uptake was higher than Tc-MIBI in all studied high-grade glioma cell lines. Thus, Tc-TF may be superior to Tc-MIBI for glioma imaging in vivo.
Adverse Events of Auricular Therapy: A Systematic Review
Authors: Tan Jing-Yu , Molassiotis Alexander , Wang Tao , Suen Lorna K. P.
Published: November 2014

The aim of this study was to systematically evaluate the literature on adverse events associated with auricular therapy (AT). Case reports, case series, surveys, and all types of clinical trials reporting adverse events of AT were included. Relevant articles were mainly retrieved from 13 electronic databases and seven Chinese journals on complementary medicine. AT‐related adverse events were reported in 32 randomized controlled trials, five uncontrolled clinical trials, four case reports, and two controlled clinical trials. For auricular acupuncture, the most frequently reported adverse events were tenderness or pain at insertion, dizziness, local discomfort, minor bleeding and nausea, and so forth. For auricular acupressure, local skin irritation and discomfort, mild tenderness or pain, and dizziness were commonly reported. Skin irritation, local discomfort, and pain were detected in auricular electroacupuncture, and minor infection was identified in auricular bloodletting therapy. Most of these events were transient, mild, and tolerable, and no serious adverse events were identified. Our findings provide preliminary evidence that AT is a relatively safe approach. Considering the patient’s safety, prospective or retrospective surveys are needed in future research to gather practitioner‐reported and patient‐reported adverse events on AT, and the quality of adverse events reporting in future AT trials should be improved.
Composite Operator Method Analysis of the Underdoped Cuprates Puzzle
Authors: Avella Adolfo
Published: November 2014

The microscopical analysis of the unconventional and puzzling physics of the underdoped cuprates, as carried out lately by means of the composite operator method (COM) applied to the 2D Hubbard model, is reviewed and systematized. The 2D Hubbard model has been adopted as it has been considered the minimal model capable of describing the most peculiar features of cuprates held responsible for their anomalous behavior. COM is designed to endorse, since its foundation, the systematic emergence in any SCS of new elementary excitations described by composite operators obeying noncanonical algebras. In this case (underdoped cuprates—2D Hubbard model), the residual interactions—beyond a 2-pole approximation—between the new elementary electronic excitations, dictated by the strong local Coulomb repulsion and well described by the two Hubbard composite operators, have been treated within the noncrossing approximation. Given this recipe and exploiting the few unknowns to enforce the Pauli principle content in the solution, it is possible to qualitatively describe some of the anomalous features of high-Tc cuprate superconductors such as large versus small Fermi surface dichotomy, Fermi surface deconstruction (appearance of Fermi arcs), nodal versus antinodal physics, pseudogap(s), and kinks in the electronic dispersion. The resulting scenario envisages a smooth crossover between an ordinary weakly interacting metal sustaining weak, short-range antiferromagnetic correlations in the overdoped regime to an unconventional poor metal characterized by very strong, long-but-finite-range antiferromagnetic correlations leading to momentum-selective non-Fermi liquid features as well as to the opening of a pseudogap and to the striking differences between the nodal and the antinodal dynamics in the underdoped regime.
Highly Sensitive Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy from Ag Nanoparticles Decorated Graphene Sheet
Authors: Song Hui , Li Xin , Yoo Sweejiang , Wu Yuan , Liu Weihua , Wang Xiaoli , Liu Hongzhong
Published: November 2014

Surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is a powerful analytical technique and has been most intensively studied. In this work, electroless deposition is proposed for Ag nanoparticles (NPs) decorated on chemical vapor deposition (CVD) growth graphene sheets (GS) to create hybrid SERS substrate. From three aspects of size distribution, morphology, and coverage, Ag NPs controllable decoration on GS and SERS enhancement factors of the hybrid SERS substrate is investigated. 200–300 times enhanced SERS intensities are detected from the Ag NPs on GS hybrid as compared to pure GS. Controllable decoration is crucial for improving SERS enhancement factors βEF, because βEF from quasi cubic Ag NPs on GS is 6.53 times stronger than that from spheric one; 1.6 times βEF is detected while the Ag NPs size distribution is reduced to half, and when the coverage is doubled, βEF is nearly doubled. This controllable Ag NPs/GS hybrid is capable of serving as a high performance SERS substrate for efficient chemical and biological sensing applications.
Does Scoliosis-Specific Exercise Treatment in Adolescence Alter Adult Quality of Life?
Authors: Płaszewski Maciej , Cieśliński Igor , Kowalski Paweł , Truszczyńska Aleksandra , Nowobilski Roman
Published: November 2014

Objective. Health-related quality of life in adults, who in adolescence participated in a scoliosis-specific exercise program, was not previously studied.Design. Cross-sectional study, with retrospective data collection.Material and Methods. Homogenous groups of 68 persons (43 women) aged 30.10 (25–39) years, with mild or moderate scoliosis, and 76 (38 women) able-bodied persons, aged 30.11 (24–38) years, who 16.5 (12–26) years earlier had completed scoliosis-specific exercise or observation regimes, participated. Their respiratory characteristics did not differ from predicted values. The WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire, Oswestry Disability Questionnaire, and pain scale (VAS) were applied.Results. The transformed WHOQOL-BREF scores ranged from 54.6 ± 11.19 in the physical domain in the mild scoliotic subgroup to 77.1 ± 16.05 in the social domain in the able-bodied subgroup. The ODQ values did not generally exceed 5.3 ± 7.53. Inter- and intragroup differences were nonsignificant. Age, marital status, education, and gender were significantly associated with the ODQ scores. Significant association between the ODQ and WHOQOL-BREF social relationships domain scores with the participation in exercise treatment was found.Conclusions. Participants with the history of exercise treatment generally did not differ significantly from their peers who were only under observation. This study cannot conclude that scoliosis-specific exercise treatment in adolescence alters quality of life in adulthood.
Body Composition and Basal Metabolic Rate in Women with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: de Figueiredo Ferreira Marina , Detrano Filipe , Coelho Gabriela Morgado de Oliveira , Barros Maria Elisa , Serrão Lanzillotti Regina , Firmino Nogueira Neto José , Portella Emilson Souza , Serrão Lanzillotti Haydée , Soares Eliane de Abreu
Published: November 2014

Objective.The aim of this study was to determine which of the seven selected equations used to predict basal metabolic rate most accurately estimated the measured basal metabolic rate.Methods.Twenty-eight adult women with type 2 diabetes mellitus participated in this cross-sectional study. Anthropometric and biochemical variables were measured as well as body composition (by absorptiometry dual X-ray emission) and basal metabolic rate (by indirect calorimetry); basal metabolic rate was also estimated by prediction equations.Results.There was a significant difference between the measured and the estimated basal metabolic rate determined by the FAO/WHO/UNU(Pvalue<0.021)and Huang et al.(Pvalue≤0.005)equations.Conclusion.The calculations using Owen et al’s. equation were the closest to the measured basal metabolic rate.
Sacred Groves: The Consequence of Traditional Management
Authors: Vipat Arpita , Bharucha Erach
Published: November 2014

The Western Ghats are one of the globally recognized “hot spots” of biodiversity in India. In Maharashtra small patches of forest in the Ghats are protected by local people as “sacred groves.” They are called “Devrai” which have been managed by local people and are dedicated to the deity in the grove. These groves act as benchmarks of less disturbed vegetation. The study has been conducted on fifteen groves through detailed expert and semistructured interviews of their priests and locals have been conducted to appreciate their traditional management systems. There is no evidence to show that the groves were intended primarily for biodiversity conservation or as a science based natural resource management strategy. Biodiversity conservation of groves is thus a by-product of a traditional belief of locals in the supernatural power of the forest deity. The concept of ICCAs (Indigenous Community Conserved Areas) and making registries of local knowledge of biodiversity as a tool for developing future conservation initiatives can act as a useful strategy to preserve the groves in the face of regional development pressures and gain government recognition for protecting the groves in the long term.
TreeBASIS Feature Descriptor and Its Hardware Implementation
Authors: Fowers Spencer , Desai Alok , Lee Dah-Jye , Ventura Dan , Archibald James
Published: November 2014

This paper presents a novel feature descriptor called TreeBASIS that provides improvements in descriptor size, computation time, matching speed, and accuracy. This new descriptor uses a binary vocabulary tree that is computed using basis dictionary images and a test set of feature region images. To facilitate real-time implementation, a feature region image is binary quantized and the resulting quantized vector is passed into the BASIS vocabulary tree. A Hamming distance is then computed between the feature region image and theeffectively descriptive basis dictionary imageat a node to determine the branch taken and the path the feature region image takes is saved as a descriptor. The TreeBASIS feature descriptor is an excellent candidate for hardware implementation because of its reduced descriptor size and the fact that descriptors can be created and features matched without the use of floating point operations. The TreeBASIS descriptor is more computationally and space efficient than other descriptors such as BASIS, SIFT, and SURF. Moreover, it can be computed entirely in hardware without the support of a CPU for additional software-based computations. Experimental results and a hardware implementation show that the TreeBASIS descriptor compares well with other descriptors for frame-to-frame homography computation while requiring fewer hardware resources.
IgG4 Related Sclerosing Cholangitis
Authors: Joshi D. , Webster G. J. M.
Published: November 2014

IgG4 related disease (IgG4-RD) is a multisystemic disorder which has only recently been recognized. IgG4 related sclerosing cholangitis (IgG4-SC) is the biliary manifestation of the disease, often in association with autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP). In this review, we provide an overview of IgG4-RD, with a focus on the biliary manifestations. In particular, we describe the important differential diagnoses of IgG4-SC that need to be considered, namely, primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) and cholangiocarcinoma, and provide a management algorithm. Finally, we highlight future directions and unanswered questions which will provide new insights into this exciting and evolving disease entity.
Distortional Buckling Analysis of Steel‐Concrete Composite Girders in Negative Moment Area
Authors: Wangbao Zhou , Lizhong Jiang , Juntao Kang , Minxi Bao
Published: November 2014

Distortional buckling is one of the most important buckling modes of the steel‐concrete composite girder under negative moment. In this study, the equivalent lateral and torsional restraints of the bottom flange of a steel‐concrete composite girder under negative moments due to variable axial forces are thoroughly investigated. The results show that there is a coupling effect between the applied forces and the lateral and torsional restraint of the bottom flange. Based on the calculation formula of lateral and torsional restraints, the critical buckling stress of I‐steel‐concrete composite girders and steel‐concrete composite box girders under variable axial force is obtained. The critical bending moment of the steel‐concrete composite girders can be further calculated. Compared to the traditional calculation methods of elastic foundation beam, the paper introduces an improved method, which considers coupling effect of the external loads and the foundation spring constraints of the bottom flange. Fifteen examples of the steel‐concrete composite girders in different conditions are calculated. The calculation results show a good match between the hand calculation and the ANSYS finite element method, which validated that the analytic calculation method proposed in this paper is practical.
Effect of Nanosheet Surface Structure of Titanium Alloys on Cell Differentiation
Authors: Komasa Satoshi , Kusumoto Tetsuji , Taguchi Yoichiro , Nishizaki Hiroshi , Sekino Tohru , Umeda Makoto , Okazaki Joji , Kawazoe Takayoshi
Published: November 2014

Titanium alloys are the most frequently used dental implants partly because of the protective oxide coating that spontaneously forms on their surface. We fabricated titania nanosheet (TNS) structures on titanium surfaces by NaOH treatment to improve bone differentiation on titanium alloy implants. The cellular response to TNSs on Ti6Al4V alloy was investigated, and the ability of the modified surfaces to affect osteogenic differentiation of rat bone marrow cells and increase the success rate of titanium implants was evaluated. The nanoscale network structures formed by alkali etching markedly enhanced the functions of cell adhesion and osteogenesis‐related gene expression of rat bone marrow cells. Other cell behaviors, such as proliferation, alkaline phosphatase activity, osteocalcin deposition, and mineralization, were also markedly increased in TNS‐modified Ti6Al4V. Our results suggest that titanium implants modified with nanostructures promote osteogenic differentiation, which may improve the biointegration of these implants into the alveolar bone.
21-O-Angeloyltheasapogenol E3, a Novel Triterpenoid Saponin from the Seeds of Tea Plants, Inhibits Macrophage-Mediated Inflammatory Responses in a NF-κB-Dependent Manner
Authors: Yang Woo Seok , Ko Jaeyoung , Kim Eunji , Kim Ji Hye , Park Jae Gwang , Sung Nak Yoon , Kim Han Gyung , Yang Sungjae , Rho Ho Sik , Hong Yong Deog , Shin Song Seok , Cho Jae Youl
Published: November 2014

21-O-Angeloyltheasapogenol E3 (ATS-E3) is a triterpenoid saponin recently isolated from the seeds of the tea treeCamellia sinensis(L.) O. Kuntze. ATS-E3 has several beneficial properties including anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, antiatherosclerotic, and anticancer effects. Unlike other phenolic compounds isolated from tea plants, there are no studies reporting the pharmacological action of ATS-E3. In this study, we therefore aimed to explore the cellular and molecular inhibitory activities of ATS-E3 in macrophage-mediated inflammatory responses. ATS-E3 remarkably diminished cellular responses of macrophages such as FITC-dextran-induced phagocytic uptake, sodium nitroprusside- (SNP-) induced radical generation, and LPS-induced nitric oxide (NO) production. Analysis of its molecular activity showed that this compound significantly suppressed the expression of inducible NO synthase (iNOS), nuclear translocation of nuclear factor- (NF-)κB subunits (p50 and p65), phosphorylation of inhibitor ofκB kinase (IKK), and the enzyme activity of AKT1. Taken together, the novel triterpenoid saponin compound ATS-E3 contributes to the beneficial effects of tea plants by exerting anti-inflammatory and antioxidative activities in an AKT/IKK/NF-κB-dependent manner.
The Immunology of Mammary Gland of Dairy Ruminants between Healthy and Inflammatory Conditions
Authors: Ezzat Alnakip Mohamed , Quintela-Baluja Marcos , Böhme Karola , Fernández-No Inmaculada , Caamaño-Antelo Sonia , Calo-Mata Pillar , Barros-Velázquez Jorge
Published: November 2014

The health of dairy animals, particularly the milk-producing mammary glands, is essential to the dairy industry because of the crucial hygienic and economic aspects of ensuring production of high quality milk. Due to its high prevalence, mastitis is considered the most important threat to dairy industry, due to its impacts on animal health and milk production and thus on economic benefits. The MG is protected by several defence mechanisms that prevent microbial penetration and surveillance. However, several factors can attenuate the host immune response (IR), and the possession of various virulence and resistance factors by different mastitis-causing microorganisms greatly limits immune defences and promotes establishment of intramammary infections (IMIs). A comprehensive understanding of MG immunity in both healthy and inflammatory conditions will be an important key to understand the nature of IMIs caused by specific pathogens and greatly contributes to the development of effective control methods and appropriate detection techniques. Consequently, this review aims to provide a detailed overview of antimicrobial defences in the MG under healthy and inflammatory conditions. In this sense, we will focus on pathogen-dependent variations in IRs mounted by the host during IMI and discuss the potential ramifications of these variations.
Evaluating Stability of Aqueous Multiwalled Carbon Nanotube Nanofluids by Using Different Stabilizers
Authors: Teng Tun-Ping , Fang Yan-Bo , Hsu Yu-Chun , Lin Li
Published: November 2014

The 0.5 wt.% multiwalled carbon nanotubes/water nanofluids (MWNFs) were produced by using a two‐step synthetic method with different types and concentrations of stabilizers. The static position method, centrifugal sedimentation method, zeta potential measurements, and rheological experiments were used to assess the stability of the MWNFs and to determine the optimal type and fixed MWCNTs‐stabilizer concentration of stabilizer. Finally, MWNFs with different concentrations of MWCNTs were produced using the optimal type and fixed concentration ratio of stabilizer, and their stability, thermal conductivity, and pH were measured to assess the feasibility of using them in heat transfer applications. MWNFs containing SDS and SDBS with MWCNTs‐stabilizer concentration ratio were 5 : 2 and 5 : 4, respectively, showed excellent stability when they were evaluated by static position, centrifugal sedimentation, zeta potential, and rheological experiments at the same time. The thermal conductivity of the MWNFs indicated that the most suitable dispersing MWNF contained SDBS. MWNFs with MWCNTs concentrations of 0.25, 0.5, and 1.0 wt.% were fabricated using an aqueous SDBS solution. In addition, the thermal conductivity of the MWNFs was found to have increased, and the thermal conductivity values were greater than that of water at 25°C by 3.20%, 8.46%, and 12.49%.
Heat Transfer of Nanofluid in a Double Pipe Heat Exchanger
Authors: Aghayari Reza , Maddah Heydar , Zarei Malihe , Dehghani Mehdi , Kaskari Mahalle Sahar Ghanbari
Published: November 2014

This paper investigates the enhancement of heat transfer coefficient and Nusselt number of a nanofluid containing nanoparticles (γ-AL2O3) with a particle size of 20 nm and volume fraction of 0.1%–0.3% (V/V). Effects of temperature and concentration of nanoparticles on Nusselt number changes and heat transfer coefficient in a double pipe heat exchanger with counter turbulent flow are investigated. Comparison of experimental results with valid theoretical data based on semiempirical equations shows an acceptable agreement. Experimental results show a considerable increase in heat transfer coefficient and Nusselt number up to 19%–24%, respectively. Also, it has been observed that the heat transfer coefficient increases with the operating temperature and concentration of nanoparticles.
An Effective Recognition Method for Road Information Based on Mobile Terminal
Authors: Kun Zheng , Wenpeng Wang , Guangmin Sun
Published: November 2014

This paper describes a design of fast recognition of road information based on mobile terminal. Firstly, based on the HOG algorithm, we study and verify the effects of different parameters on the performance of the algorithm. Secondly, we test 800 images randomly selected from the INRIA pedestrian dataset to obtain the optimal parameters for the mobile terminal and the proportion of video resolution and detection window. Then, under the same test conditions, the time overheads of the SVMLight and the LibSVM are recorded and SVMLight training time is significantly less than LibSVM. Thirdly, we design and implement a real‐time road information recognition and warning system on the Windows platform and Android platform. Features include real‐time pedestrians detection, voice warning, and road signs recognition. When the vehicle speed is less than 30 km/h, the video resolution is less than 720 × 576 and the detection window/image ratio is less than 1 : 50; the system can guarantee low delay and high recognition rate (97.2%).
Utility of AD8 for Cognitive Impairment in a Chinese Physical Examination Population: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Xie Yue , Gao Ya , Jia Jianjun , Wang Xiaohong , Wang Zhenfu , Xie Hengge
Published: November 2014

Objective. To investigate the utility of AD8 for cognitive impairment in a Chinese physical examination population.Methods. Military cadres who took routine physical examination in Chinese PLA General Hospital from Jan 1, 2013, to Dec 31, 2013, were subjected to AD8 scale. Individual information such as age, gender, and education was also collected. All data were analyzed by SPSS 19.0.Results. 1544 subjects were enrolled in this study with mean age 75.4 ± 10.6 years. The subjects who scored 0 to 8 of AD8 scale were 1015, 269, 120, 60, 30, 14, 19, 8, and 9, respectively. Corresponding proportions were 65.7%, 17.4%, 7.8%, 3.9%, 2.0%, 0.9%, 1.2%, 0.5%, and 0.6%, respectively. The endorsement prevalence of 8 questions was 5.6%, 9.2%, 6.6%, 9.2%, 4.8%, 4.5%, 8.9%, and 24.1%, respectively. The endorsement prevalence of question 8 was significantly higher than others (P<0.05). 260 subjects were scored equal to or greater than 2. The abnormal rate was 16.9%. All the participants were stratified into 9 groups by age; the prevalence of dementia was highly correlated with age (P<0.01).Conclusion. AD8 scale is a convenient and effective tool for cognitive screening in routine physical examination population.
Anti‐Inflammatory and Antihyperalgesic Activities of Ethanolic Extract and Fruticulin A from Salvia lachnostachys Leaves in Mice
Authors: Piccinelli Ana Claudia , Figueiredo de Santana Aquino Diana , Morato Priscila Neder , Kuraoka-Oliveira Ângela Midori , Strapasson Regiane Lauriano Batista , dos Santos Élide Pereira , Stefanello Maria Élida Alves , Oliveira Rodrigo Juliano , Kassuya Cândida Aparecida Leite
Published: November 2014

The anti‐inflammatory and analgesic effects of the ethanolic extract (SLEE) and fruticulin A from the leaves of Salvia lachnostachys were evaluated in mice, using experimental models of inflammation (paw oedema and pleurisy induced by carrageenan injection) and hyperalgesia (electronic Von Frey). Oral administration of SLEE (30, 100, and 300 mg/kg) and fruticulin A (0.3 and 3.0 mg/kg) decreased the total leucocytes number in pleural lavage, protein extravasation, and paw oedema. SLEE (100 mg/kg) and fruticulin A (3 mg/kg) also exhibited antihyperalgesic activity in carrageenan induced mechanical hyperalgesia. In addition, fruticulin A (3 mg/kg) prevented mechanical hyperalgesia, inhibiting TNF but not L‐DOPA‐induced mechanical hyperalgesia. In conclusion, SLEE and fruticulin A display anti‐inflammatory and analgesic properties. Therefore, fruticulin A is at least partially responsible for the activity observed in the ethanolic extract of Salvia lachnostachys.
Parameter Estimation of Population Pharmacokinetic Models with Stochastic Differential Equations: Implementation of an Estimation Algorithm
Authors: Yan Fang-Rong , Zhang Ping , Liu Jun-Lin , Tao Yu-Xi , Lin Xiao , Lu Tao , Lin Jin-Guan
Published: November 2014

Population pharmacokinetic (PPK) models play a pivotal role in quantitative pharmacology study, which are classically analyzed by nonlinear mixed-effects models based on ordinary differential equations. This paper describes the implementation of SDEs in population pharmacokinetic models, where parameters are estimated by a novel approximation of likelihood function. This approximation is constructed by combining the MCMC method used in nonlinear mixed-effects modeling with the extended Kalman filter used in SDE models. The analysis and simulation results show that the performance of the approximation of likelihood function for mixed-effects SDEs model and analysis of population pharmacokinetic data is reliable. The results suggest that the proposed method is feasible for the analysis of population pharmacokinetic data.
Phytochemical Constituents and Toxicity of Duguetia furfuracea Hydroalcoholic Extract in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Valéria Soares de Araújo Pinho Francisca , Felipe da Silva Gustavo , Echeverria Macedo Giulianna , Raquel Muller Katiane , Kemmerich Martins Illana , Lausmann Ternes Ana Paula , Martins da Costa José Galberto , Athayde Margareth Linde , Boligon Aline Augusti , Kamdem Jean Paul , Franco Jeferson Luis , Rose Alencar de Menezes Irwin , Posser Thaís
Published: November 2014

Duguetia furfuracea is frequently used as a medicinal plant in Brazil. However, studies have evidenced its cytotoxic, bactericide, and antitumor activities. In the present study we aimed to evaluate the potential toxicity of hydroalcoholic leaves extracts of D. furfuracea (HEDF) in a Drosophila melanogaster model. Toxicity was assessed as changes in locomotor performance, mitochondrial activity, oxidative stress, MAPKs phosphorylation, and apoptosis induction after exposure to HEDF concentrations (1–50 mg/mL) for 7 days. The phytoconstituents of the plant were screened for the presence of alkaloids, tannins, xanthones, chalcones, flavonoids, aurones, and phenolic acids. Exposure of adult flies to HEDF caused mitochondrial dysfunction, overproduction of ROS, and alterations in the activity of detoxifying enzymes GST, SOD and CAT. Induction of ERK phosphorylation and PARP cleavage was also observed, indicating occurrence of HEDF‐induced cell stress and apoptotic cell death. In parallel, alterations in cholinesterase activity and impairments in negative geotaxis behavior were observed. Our study draws attention to the indiscriminate use of this plant by population and suggests oxidative stress as a major mechanism underlying its toxicity.
Improving Households Knowledge and Attitude on Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene Practices through School Health Programme in Nyakach, Kisumu County in Western Kenya
Authors: Wasonga Job , Olang’o Charles Omondi , Kioli Felix
Published: November 2014

The global problem of access to improved sanitation and water management practices has been compounded by the gap existing between knowledge and practice as well as attitude. The aim of this study was to assess households' knowledge and attitude on water, sanitation, and hygiene practices through a school health programme. Semistructured questionnaires, focus group discussions, key informant interviews, and observation checklist were used to obtain information from 95 households which were systematically sampled. It was found that a school programme may not improve the gap between knowledge, attitude, and practice but may be good for future generations. This was found to be due to sociocultural issues which impede hygiene transformation. The implication is that health programmes must find innovative ways of bridging this gap in order to bring change in households through culture sensitive interventions.
Potential Mechanisms of an Antiadenomyosis Chinese Herbal Formula Shaoyao‐Gancao Decoction in Primary Cell Culture Model
Authors: Guan Yong-Ge , Liao Jin-Bin , Li Kun-Yin , Li Yu-Cui , Song Yang , Ling Jing , Su Zi-Ren
Published: November 2014

Background. Shaoyao‐Gancao Decoction (SGD), a well‐known traditional Chinese medicine prescription, has been widely used to treat adenomyosis, dysmenorrhea, abdominal pain, and inflammation in Asia. However, the mechanism underlying the effectiveness of SGD in the treatment of adenomyosis still remains elusive. The present study aimed to investigate the bioactivity of SGD and its underlying molecular mechanisms using cultured human adenomyosis‐derived cells. Methods. Human adenomyosis‐derived cells were treated with SGD and its major constituents (paeoniflorin and liquiritin) in vitro. Effects of SGD, paeoniflorin, and liquiritin on cell proliferation and apoptosis were examined by MTT assay and flow cytometry analyses. The effects of SGD, paeoniflorin, and liquiritin on the production of PGE2 and PGF2α were assayed using ELISA. ER‐α and OTR mRNA expression levels were also evaluated by real‐time qRT‐PCR. Results. SGD, paeoniflorin, and liquiritin inhibited proliferation and induced apoptosis of human adenomyosis‐derived cells in a dose‐dependent manner. SGD and paeoniflorin significantly reduced the PGE2 and PGF2α production. Furthermore, they remarkably decreased the mRNA levels of ER‐α and OTR. Conclusions. The results of this study provide possible mechanisms for the bioactivity of SGD for treating adenomyosis and contribute to the ethnopharmacological knowledge about this prescription.
The phylogenetic position and taxonomic status of the Rainbow Tree Snake Gonyophis margaritatus (Peters, 1871) (Squamata: Colubridae)
Authors: Chen Xin , Mckelvy Alexander d. , Grismer L. Lee , Matsui Masafumi , Nishikawa Kanto , Burbrink Frank T.
Published: November 2014

Molecular phylogenies have provided strong evidence for clarifying the taxonomy of groups with ambiguous morphological traits, thus avoiding potentially misleading conclusions based on evolutionary convergence of these traits. For snakes, established molecular databases along with new sequences from rare species allows us to estimate phylogenies, to clarify the phylogenetic relationships and test the monophyly of most taxonomic groups. Using one mitochondrial gene and five nuclear loci, we evaluate the taxonomic status of a rare Southeast Asian serpent, the Rainbow Tree Snake Gonyophis margaritatus (Squamata: Colubridae) by inferring a molecular phylogeny of 101 snake species. Both maximum likelihood and time- calibrated Bayesian inference phylogenies demonstrate that G. margaritatus is sister to Rhadinophis prasinus, previously considered to be part of a radiation of Old World ratsnakes. This group is in turn sister to a group containing Rhadinophis frenatus and Rhynchophis boulengeri with the entire clade originating in the mid-Miocene (~16 Ma) in Southeast Asia. This group is sister to the genus Gonyosoma and together originated in the early Miocene (~20 Ma). We discuss three potential solutions towards eliminating polyphyly of the genus Rhadinophis, but recommend using the genus name Gonyosoma for all species within this clade, which currently contains all of the species within the genera Gonyosoma, Gonyophis, Rhadinophis, and Rhynchophis.
A new species of Chironius Fitzinger, 1826 from the state of Bahia, Northeastern Brazil (Serpentes: Colubridae)
Authors: FERNANDES DANIEL SILVA , HAMDAN BRENO
Published: November 2014

We describe a new species of Chironius Fitzinger, 1826 from the highlands of Chapada Diamantina, state of Bahia, Brazil. The new species is distinguished from all currently recognized congeners by a unique combination of states of characters on coloration, scale counts, scale ornamentation, and hemipenis. The new species closely resembles Chironius flavolineatus (Jan, 1863) in color pattern, but differs from the later taxon by the presence of two to four posterior temporal scales; cloacal shield entire; six to ten rows of keeled dorsal scales at midbody; ventral scales with posterior dark edges forming conspicuous transverse bars along almost the entire venter; conspicuous dark longitudinal stripes (in “zigzag”) in the midventral portion of subcaudals; region of medial constriction of hemipenis slightly covered with spinules separating calyces of apex from spines below region of constriction; and sulcus spermaticus situated on convex face of hemipenis in lateral view. The new species is apparently restricted to Chapada Diamantina, corroborating the biological importance of this region from a conservational perspective.
Make It a Double? Sobering Results from Simulations Using Single-Moment Microphysics Schemes
Authors: Igel Adele L. , Igel Matthew R. , van den Heever Susan C.
Published: November 2014

Single-moment microphysics schemes have long enjoyed popularity for their simplicity and efficiency. However, in this article it is argued through theoretical considerations, idealized thunderstorm simulations, and radiative–convective equilibrium (RCE) simulations that the assumptions inherent in these parameterizations can induce large errors in the proper representation of clouds and their feedbacks to the atmosphere. For example, precipitation is shown to increase by 200% through changes to fixed parameters in a single-moment scheme and low-cloud fraction in the RCE simulations drops from about 15% in double-moment simulations to about 2% in single-moment simulations. This study adds to the large body of work that has shown that double-moment schemes generally outperform single-moment schemes. Therefore, it is recommended that future studies, regardless of their focus and especially those employing cloud-resolving models to simulate a realistic atmosphere, strongly consider moving to the exclusive use of multimoment microphysics schemes.
Transforming Out-of-School Challenges Into Opportunities
Authors: Green Terrance L. , Gooden Mark A.
Published: November 2014

For more than three decades, community schools have aimed to improve education and neighborhood outcomes in low-income, urban communities of color. In this article, we position community schools as a place-based reform strategy that pushes back on top-down accountability systems. While most research on urban school reform focuses on improving in-school factors, this study shifts the research lens to out-of-school factors that shape low-income, urban school-community contexts. The purpose of this study is to examine the out-of-school challenges that instigated a neighborhood-driven community school implementation in a racially diverse and low- to working-class community in the urban Midwest. Drawing on interviews and archival data, critical urban theory is used to guide our analysis. This case study details the political and socioeconomic out-of-school forces that preceded a community schools implementation. In doing so, we consider how school leaders can confront out-of-school challenges across similar urban contexts, and conclude with implications for future research.
Community Schools as Urban District Reform
Authors: Trujillo Tina M. , Hernández Laura E. , Jarrell Tonja , Kissell René
Published: November 2014

The purpose of this article is to investigate the multiple political histories that have coalesced to produce support for or resistance to the Oakland Unified School District’s full-service community schools policy. It analyzes oral history interview data from eight stakeholders who represent the district’s major constituencies to explore the reasons why each individual, positioned differently within the larger district system, may or may not support a seemingly democratic, community-based reform. Through their voices, the article explains how different constituencies can interpret an urban district’s policies and form community-based coalitions that either further or obstruct a democratic, equity-minded reform.
Promise Neighborhoods
Authors: Horsford Sonya Douglass , Sampson Carrie
Published: November 2014

The purpose of this inquiry is to consider how the U.S. Department of Education’s Promise Neighborhoods (PNs) program can improve persistently low-achieving urban schools by making their “neighborhoods whole again” through community capacity building for education reform. As the “first federal initiative to put education at the center of comprehensive efforts to fight poverty in urban and rural areas,” we frame our inquiry according to PNs’ intent to build capacity in high-needs communities in ways that provide high-quality educational and systematic support for children and families. We begin with an overview of PN, followed by a discussion of community capacity for urban school reform. Next, using descriptive case study methods, we present the case of the Las Vegas Promise Neighborhood Initiative to illustrate the ways in which a low-capacity community in the American West engaged in community capacity building activities to improve selected urban schools, albeit unsuccessful in its ability to secure federal grant funds. We then deliver our analysis of this local initiative according to Chaskin’s framework for building community capacity and consider lessons learned and implications for similarly positioned low-capacity communities interested in community-based school reform.
Why Are Studies of Neighborhoods and Communities Central to Education Policy and Reform?
Authors: Hopson Rodney
Published: November 2014

To understand the long shadow of education policy and reform in the United States, especially in the urban core, requires a full and elaborate understanding of the neighborhoods and communities that have transformed in the last 20 or 30 years. Studying classrooms and educational spaces without concomitant understanding of the dynamics and facets of neighborhood life render educational, political, and policy analyses potentially incomplete. This afterword serves to remind the reader of the key issues in each article and identify the key issues raised from the authors for implications for more robust study of neighborhoods, communities, and education policy.
The Climate Finance and Energy Investment Dilemma in Africa
Authors: Chirambo Dumisani
Published: November 2014

Africa is a continent that has abundant renewable and non-renewable energy resources. Regardless of the presence of these resources, it is noted that the continent has significant challenges in providing reliable and modern energy services to most of its population, thereby increasing people’s dependence on biomass, and consequently hindering their potential to overcome poverty and attain the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). Through a review of energy policies, energy sector studies, and socioeconomic development reports, this article provides some insights into how the renewable energy and non-renewable energy sectors can be enhanced in the context of current opportunities and challenges in Africa. Since the current state of technology is deemed sufficient to provide adequate energy for Africa, there should be an emphasis on developing the right institutions to make do with local energy resources and capital. Special attention is given to climate financing instruments (such as the Clean Development Mechanism [CDM]) and their potential contribution to African societies and energy sectors. With persistent interest by international donors to encourage CDM projects in least developed countries and growing foreign direct investment in Africa by Chinese firms, there are strong possibilities that Africa’s energy sectors, other infrastructure, and human and institutional capacity building can grow and develop more rapidly than historical trends. Enhanced private sector participation and energy sub-sector policies and strategies might hold the key to achieving this.
Popular Fiction and Development Studies
Authors: Lempert David
Published: November 2014

The essay uses two recent works of fiction as a takeoff for a critique of Development Studies, suggesting that what is presented in the form of fiction is often closer to reality than what the discipline offers as fact. The review of two novels by former US Peace Corps volunteers offers clear examples of how fiction in the field of “development” can offer truths that are not presented in academic work. This essay suggests how fiction can help invigorate the discipline of Development Studies, offers a list of examples, and also suggests how fiction should not be used. This essay challenges scholars in the field to draw upon insights from fiction and to review fiction works while encouraging publishers to widen their perspectives and present works in new genres in the field of “development.” The essay also notes how related genres like development “diaries” can also be used as a reality check on the discipline and as a way to infuse new ideas into this field.
Difficult Situations Managing Diabetic Foot. Evidences and Personal Views
Authors: Senneville Eric , Nguyen Sophie
Published: November 2014

Both medical and surgical approaches have been shown to be effective in the treatment of patients with diabetic foot osteomyelitis (DFO). In patients with risk factors of bad outcome such as major bone destruction, concomitant acute infections requiring drainage, problems in limb perfusion, highly resistant bacteria, and contraindication for or patient refusal of prolonged antibiotic therapy, the choice of surgery does not require further discussion. On the contrary, modest changes of bone on imaging assessment and no limiting factors as described above make medical treatment an attractive option for patients with DFO provided the rules of antibiotic treatment of chronic osteomyelitis are respected. The key question may not be to oppose surgery and medical treatment but to identify patients who need surgery and those who do not. There is currently no classification or score system that may allow physician to decide whether medical or surgical approach is best adapted to a given patient, and so both experience and skill of the multidisciplinary team appear paramount for guiding the choice of the best adapted (“tailored”) strategy in a given patient. In this regard, it would be interesting to compare surgical and medical approaches for DFO that apparently may benefit from one or another (ie, bone lesions seen on plain radiographs of the foot but without bone fragmentation or multiple sites of osteomyelitis, no contraindication to prolonged antibiotic therapy, and location of bone involvement that may allow conservative surgery). Given the current available data on the therapeutic options of DFO, it appears that surgery for those patients is obviously not an old-fashioned option.