Condensed Research Articles

Shell Correction (- C/Z2 ) of DNA and Liquid Water

The energy loss by a swift proton beam in condensed materials is very important for hadron therapy. Shell corrections are accounted for in a self-consistent manner through analytic dispersion relations for the momentum dependence of the dielectric function. It is shown that widely used dispersion schemes based on the Plasmon phase approximation (PPA) can result in sizeable errors due to the neglect of damping and local field effects that lead to a momentum broadening and shifting of the energy-loss function. The shell correction prevents the stopping number L from being negative at low velocity and corrects the assumption that the ion velocity is much larger than the target electron velocity. This emplies that for high-z 2 materials,shell corrections may be non-negligble even at rather high projectile speed. In the present work the shell correction of swift proton by using PPA of the dielectric formalism of DNA and Liquid water targets has been calculated. Good agreement achieved with previous work.

Methyl-metabolism contributes to the LuxS regulation of Streptococcus mutans

To investigate the predominant contribution of methyl-metabolism pathway to the regulation of LuxS of Strecptococcus mutans. The differences in biofilm formation and aciduricity of Strecptococcus mutans among the methyl-metabolism-complementation strain (KO-S), the parental wide-type strain (WT) and the luxS null strain (KO) were observed by real-time PCR for monitoring the transcriptional level of genes related to biofilm formation (smu.238, gtfD) and aciduricity (smu.44, smu.46) of the studied strains, methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) for quantifying the biofilm of the exhibited strains and confocal laser scanning microscopy for estimating the structure of the biofilm. The transcriptional level of smu.44, smu.46, smu.238, gtfD in WT were 1.289 ± 0.051, 1.694 ± 0.140, 1.565 ± 0.107, 1.667 ± 0.196 respectively; in KO were 1.001 ± 0.045, 1.007 ± 0.151, 1.000 ± 0.021, 1.012 ± 0.196 respectively, downregulated compared with WT (P < 0.05); in KO-S were 4.662 ± 0.091, 5.019 ± 0.258, 3.462±0.029, 3.071 ± 0.136 respectively, upregulated compared both with KO and with WT (P < 0.05). The quantity of biofilms formed by the studied strains were WT (1.592 ± 0.213), KO (0.939 ± 0.029), KO- S (2.177 ± 0.226), KO- P (1.020 ± 0.093), respectively, representing a less quantity by KO and KO-P than WT (P < 0.05) and a more quantity by KO-S than other three stains (P < 0.05). According to the observation of biofilms texture by confocal laser scanning microscopy, the WT biofilm was condensed and even. In contrast, fissures and gaps were found scattered in biofilms of KO, KO-P while lessened in that of KO-S, in which high-density bacterial aggregates were observed. The acid assay indicated a smaller biofilm decrease by WT and KO-S than that by KO and KO- P(P < 0.05). The methyl- metabolism pathway contributes to LuxS regulation on biofilm formation and auiduricity of Strecptococcus mutans.

Disturbing or facilitating?--on the Usability of Swedish eHealth Systems 2013.

As many evaluations show, healthcare organizations do not accomplish the intended effects of their eHealth systems due to inadequate usability. On behalf of the Swedish Ministry of Health and Social Affairs, the usability of current eHealth systems in Swedish healthcare have been analysed from the perspective of healthcare and social service professionals. The objective of the study was to report on current problems, potential solutions as well as to relate these to research in relevant areas. Using a participatory approach, seven workshops were held where researchers within health informatics collaborated with staff from different care providers, representatives of the national associations of health and social care professionals and the national eHealth system vendor organization. This paper presents a foundation for further development of eHealth systems, condensed into 10 issues that the Swedish health and social care professionals find imperative to improve. The study emphasizes that the development of eHealth systems is always a matter of organizational and process development and must be integrated into the care practice improvement process. Further, based on the findings, some identified challenges are discussed.

The therapeutic effects of isokinetic strength training combined with intra-articular injection of hyaluronate and joint mobilization for patients with knee osteoarthritis

Objective To observe any effects of using isokinetic strengthening exercises combined with intra-articular injection of sodium hyaluronate and joint mobilization in treating patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA).Methods Eighty-one KOA patients were divided into a combined treatment group,a conventional treatment group and a control group.The combined treatment group received isokinetic strengthening training,intra-articular injections of sodium hyaluronate and joint mobilization therapy; the conventional treatment group received the injections and mobilization only; the control group was instructed to do ankle pumps at home on their own.Before the start of treatment and after 4 weeks,knee pain was self-assessed [using a visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain] along with knee range of motion (ROM),quality of life (using the WOMAC condensed health survey rating scale) and indexes of isokinetic strength [including the knee flexors,extensor peak torque (PT),and the flexion and extension angles corresponding peak torque (AOPT)] in both groups.Results After 4 weeks of treatment,statistically significant improvements compared to the baseline values were observed in both groups.The combined treatment group,however,improved to a significantly greater extent than the conventional treatment group in terms of all of the measures.Conclusion Isokinetic strength training combined with intra-articular injections of sodium hyaluronate and joint mobilization has a synergistic effect in enhancing knee stability and improving the performance in activities of daily life of KOA patients. Key words: Knee osteoarthritis; Isokinetic strength training; WOMAC index

Multifunctional nano-vector for gene delivery into human adipose derived mesenchymal stem cells and in vitro cellular magnetic resonance imaging

To examine the feasibility and efficacy of using superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles coated with polyethylene glycol-grafted polyethylenimine (PEG-g-PEI-SPION) as a carrier for gene delivery into human adipose derived mesenchymal stem cells (hADMSCs) and in vitro cellular magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). PEG-g-PEI-SPION was synthesized as previously reported. Gel electrophoresis was performed to assess the pDNA condensation capacity of PEG-g-PEI-SPION. The particle size and zeta potential of PEG-g-PEI-SPION/pDNA complexes were determined by dynamic light scattering. Cytotoxicity of PEG-g-PEI-SPION was evaluated by CCK-8 assay with hADMSCs. Gene transfection efficiency of PEG-g-PEI-SPION in hADMSCs was quantified by flow cytometry. The cellular internalization of PEG-g-PEI-SPION/pDNA nanocomplexes was studied by confocal laser scanning microscopy and Prussian blue staining. MRI function of PEG-g-PEI-SPION was studied by in vitro cellular MRI scanning. PEG-g-PEI-SPION condensed pDNA to form stable complexes of 80-100 nm in diameter and showed low cytotoxicity in hADMSCs. At the optimal N/P ratio of 20, PEG-g-PEI-SPION/pDNA obtained the highest transfection efficiency of 22.8% ± 3.6% in hADMSCs. And it was higher than that obtained with lipofectamine 11.2% ± 2.6% (P < 0.05). Furthermore, hADMSCs labeled with PEG-g-PEI-SPION showed sensitive low signal intensity on MRI T2-weighted images in vitro. PEG-g-PEI-SPION is an efficient and MRI-visible nano-vector for gene delivery into hADMSCs.

Adhesion of Condensed Bodies at Microscale

Adhesion of Condensed Bodies at Microscale

Comparative pharmacognostical variations in stem, true root and aerial root of Tinospora cordifolia willd

Context: Amrita (Tinospora cordifolia Willd.) an often used perennial climber used in different clinical conditions and various researches are useful in understanding its potential, but comparative pharmacognostical study of stem, true root and aerial root is not available till date. Root of Amrita is often used in folklore medicine. As true root is not abundantly available, aerial roots may be considered in the place of true root. Objective: The present study was designed to evaluate the similarities between stem, true root, aerial root and to substantiate the use of aerial root in place of true root. Materials and Methods: Macroscopic, microscopic and histochemical study of fresh samples of stem, aerial root and true root of Amrita was carried out. Results: The distinctive character of stem shows dominant pericyclic fibre and pith. True root is devoid of pith where as aerial root has condensed pith consisting of lignified parenchyma. Conclusion: Specific individual characters of stem and true root and similar characters of aerial root were evident. Key words: Aerial root, Amrita, microscopy, pharmacognosy, true root

Quantification of phytochemicals and in vitro antioxidant potential of various solvent extracts of certain species of Acanthaceae

Background: Scientific evaluation of traditional knowledge is essential to obtain effective drugs for commercial purposes. The present study is guide to the invention of new antioxidant sources from the Acanthaceae members. Aim: Quantification of certain secondary metabolites and in vitro antioxidant activities of alcoholic and aqueous leaf extracts of Nilgirianthus heyneanus and Peristrophe bicalyculata. Materials and Methods: Both the leaf extracts were tested for various phytochemical constituents such as phenols, tannins, condensed tannins, flavonoids, vitamin C and saponin contents. The extracts were further screened for different antioxidant assays such as reducing power, DPPH▪, nitric oxide, metal chelating, ABTS▪+ scavenging activity, lipid peroxidation preventive property and anti‑haemolytic activities. Results: Acetone fractions of Nilgirianthus heyneanus leaf registered significantly high amount of secondary metabolites and also it effectively scavenged the free radicals in a concentration dependent manner than Peristrophe bicalyculata leaf extracts. Results were compared with standard antioxidants such as rutin, quercetin, BHA and BHT. Conclusions: This study further confirmed the traditional use of N. heyneanus and P. bicalyculata as a natural source of antioxidants and prevents free radical‑induced life‑threatening diseases. Key words: In vitro antioxidant activity, Nilgirianthus heyneanus, Peristrophe bicalyculata, quantitative estimations

СONVERSION OF THE SUBSTANCES BY THE APPLICATION OF LASER RADIATION

Theoretical model of laser destruction process of chemical compounds by laser radiation is proposed in the work. Models for calculation of vibration spectrum of molecule in nonregular condensed medium and for kinetic parameters of electron transfer and photo-transfer process between the particles are presented within the framework of quantum-mechanical approach. In terms of obtained analytic results it is proposed to calculate frequency spectrum for valence vibrations of atoms in molecule and to split corresponding chemical bonds by the help of laser emission. Obtained radicals may be used for formation of other chemical compounds, particularly, with application of laser emission also.

羰基-氰-对-三氟甲氧基本腙对成熟脂肪细胞胰岛素敏感性和线粒体功能的影响

Objective To observe the effect of uncoupler of mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation——Cyanide p-trifluoromethoxyphenyl-hydrazone(FCCP) on mitochondrial function and insulin sensitivity in mature adipocytes. Me-thods 3T3-L1 pre-adipocytes were differentiated into mature adipocytes and then induced and maintained in medium that contained the chemical uncoupler 7.5 μmol/L FCCP.Glucose uptake was determined in the adipocytes by measu-ring 2-deoxy-D-[3H] glucose uptake.Western blot was used to detect the translocation of insulin-sensitive glucose transporter 4(GLUT4) and measure the phosphorylation and total protein contents of insulin signaling proteins such as insulin receptor substrate(IRS)-1, Akt.The mitochondrial morphology was performed by transmission electron microscope.The mitochondrial DNA(mtDNA) copy number was evaluated by real time PCR.Luciferase-based luminescence assay was used to determine cellular ATP production.The mitochondrial membrane potential(ΔΨm) and reactive oxygen species(ROS) were detected by flow cytometry. Results (1) Exposure of mature adipocytes to FCCP basal glucose uptake was similar to mature adipocytes without FCCP(t=-0.07, P>0.05); however, the insulin-stimulated glucose uptake was significantly decreased in FCCP group(t=5.87, P<0.01). (2)FCCP decreased insulin-stimulated GLUT4 translocation to the plasmalemma and inhibition of insulin-induced phosphorylation of IRS-1 and Akt in 3T3-L1 adipocytes.(3)The size of mitochondria in FCCP-treated adipocytes was smaller than that in 3T3-L1 adipocytes without FCCP, and the morphology was condensed and abnormal.(4) mtDNA copy number in FCCP-treated adipocytes was significantly lower than that in adipocytes without FCCP(t=-1.73, P<0.001). (5) Exposure of 3T3-L1 adipocytes to FCCP significantly decreased ΔΨm(t=4.83, P<0.01) and total cellular ATP production compared with cells without FCCP(t=6.08, P<0.0001), as well as the increased intracellular ROS levels(t=-6.82, P<0.01). Conclusions FCCP may impair mitochondrial morphology and mitochondrion dysfunction, and inhibited the activation of insulin-induced phosphorylation of IRS-1 and Akt in 3T3-L1 adipocytes, which suggests that FCCP-induced insulin resistance may be correlated with the FCCP induced generation of ROS in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Key words: Obesity; Cyanide p-trifluoromethoxyphenyl-hydrazone; Adipocytes; Mitochondria function; Insulin sensitivity

CFD and Experimental Analysis of a Condenser for Domestic Desalination System

In domestic desalination system, salt water is heated and converted to steam by using conventional system like LPG or using induction cooker. The steam is then condensed by the condenser without using electricity which is designed on the basis of the thermal analysis. Condenser consists of a water tank with copper tubes immersed in it.CFD analysis is done for the different diameter and length of pipes and the more effective pipe is found out. Similarly, different shapes of the selected pipes in the tank are decided using CFD analysis. Finally the system is validated using experimental analysis.

含1,2,4-三唑环的亚胺及酰亚胺类化合物的合成及生物活性

以取代苯甲酸为原料，经酯化、 肼解、 成盐和环化反应得到关键中间体4-氨基-3-芳基-1，2，4-三唑-5-硫酮，再分别与芳醛和邻苯二甲酸酐缩合得到亚胺及酰亚胺，最后经硫醚化反应合成了24个新型的含有1，2，4-三唑结构单元的亚胺及酰亚胺类化合物，其结构经质谱、 红外光谱、 核磁共振及元素分析确认. 初步生物活性测试结果表明，在实验浓度下大部分化合物表现出一定的杀菌活性，尤其是化合物 9 a， 9 d和 9 e对水稻纹枯病菌的抑制活性与对照杀菌剂氟硅唑相当. 初步的细胞毒性实验结果表明，化合物 7 c， 7 f和 9 k对人肺癌细胞（A549）的抑制活性与对照药品5-氟尿嘧啶基本处于同一水平.

Application of constant temperature and humidity system in airway humidification for patients with mechanical ventilation after tracheotomy

Objective To investigate the effect of constant temperature and humidity system (MR850humidification system) in airway humidification for patients with mechanical ventilation after tracheotomy.Methods 60 patients with mechanical ventilation after tracheotomy were randomly divided into two groups,each with 30 cases.The experimental group used MR850 humidification system,while the control group used the normal breathing circuit system.Sputum viscosity,sputum scab,bronchial spasm,irritating cough,ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) and nursing workload including the dumping of condensed water,sputum suction time and pipeline nursing were compared between two groups.Results The incidence rate of VAP was 46.67％ in the control group and 16.67％ in the experimental group,with statistically significant difference (x2 =6.24,P ＜ 0.05).The sputum suction time was (7 ± 3) s per time in the control group and (5 ±2)s per time in the experimental group,with statistically significant difference (t =3.04,P＜0.01).The incidence rate of sputum viscosity,sputum scab,bronchial spasm and irritating cough,as well as nursing workload including dumping ondensed water,adding humidification water and pipeline nursing were all lower in the experimental group than in the control group,and the differences were statisticallysignificant (P ＜ 0.05).Conclusions The constant temperature and humidity system is effective in airway humidification for patients with mechanical ventilation after tracheotomy,which can reduce the incidence of VAP and nursing workload,thus is worthy of popularization and application. Key words: Mechanical ventilation; Constant temperature and humidity system; Airway humidification; Tracheotomy

Preparation of feeder-free porcine induced pluripotent stem cells

Objective To establish a stable culture system for porcine induced pluripotent stem cells (piPSCs).Methods Pig fibroblasts were seeded on Matrigel-coated plate,and then infected with lentivirus expressing human Oct4 (hOct4),human kruppel-like factor 4 (hKlf4),human sex determining region Y-box 2 (hSox2) and hc-Myc.Seven to ten days later,piPSCs clones were picked up under invert microscc ope and cultured in KnockoutTM DMEM medium supplemented with 20％ KnockoutTM serum replacement.piPSCs clones were detached and dissociated by Accutase digestion.Total mRNA was extracted and pluripotent-associated genes expression of hOct4,hKlf4,hSox2 and hc-Myc and pig Sox2 (pSox2),pNanog and pLin28 was detected by using reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).Quantification was performed using the comparative Ct method normalized with the β-actin.The expression of each target gene at each stage was normalized to its level in PF two days after transduction.The immunoflurescence analysis of pluripotency marker (hOct4) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity was also conducted.Results piPSCs were maintained on Matrigel and formed condensed clones with clear borders.Cells in clones had high nucleus/cytoplasm ratio and predominant nuclei.All piPSCs strongly expressed endogenous pOct4,pNanog and pSox2,and the relative expression level was 29.62,2.81 and 7.46,respectively.piPSCs also expressed exogenous hOct4,hc-Myc,hSox2,hKlf4,and the relative expression level was 1.14,0.89,0.74 and 0.86,respectively.piPSCs also expressed ALP activity.All these data suggest the pluripotent state of piPSCs.piPSCs formed embryoid bodies in vitro and teratoma in vivo,indicating the piPSCs proliferated stably and kept high self-renewal and differentiation potency.Conclusion The culture system is suitable for making long-term subculture of piPSCs. Key words: Porcine; Pluripotent stem cells; Culture

It will never happen to us: the likelihood and impact of privacy breaches on health data in Australia.

With the recent introduction of the Australian e-health system, health reforms and legislation were passed. Whilst the aim of these health reforms was reasonable and sensible, the implementation was rushed and less than perfect. The Deloitte e-health Strategy [1] which was endorsed by the National Health and Hospital Reform Commission (NHHRC) recommended that based on international experience implementation of shared electronic health records nationally was a ten year journey. In Australia this was condensed into two years. The resultant effect has been that privacy, which is essential for the uptake of technologies to share data in a compliant manner, may be compromised. People trust transparent systems. Where there is a breach in privacy people deserve the respect and right to know about it so that they can mitigate damages and with full disclosure, retain their trust in the system. If this is not evident, the public will refuse to share their information. Hence, whilst the technologies may work, their use may be limited. The consequence of this in Australia would be the continuance of dangerous and inefficient silos of health data.

Effects of condensed distillers solubles and drying temperature on the physico-chemical characteristics of laboratory-prepared wheat distillers grain with solubles

Samples of wheat distillers grain with solubles were prepared at 15%, 30%, and 45% condensed distillers solubles (CDS) and dried under 40C, 80C, and 120C to examine the effects of CDS level and drying temperature on their chemical, physical, flow, compression, thermal, and frictional properties. As CDS level increased, protein and ash contents increased while fat and fiber contents decreased. Fat and acid detergent fiber contents were also markedly affected by drying temperature. While CDS level, drying temperature, and their interaction significantly affected a number of the physical properties, results suggest that CDS level had a stronger influence. Samples with high CDS level, for example, were significantly finer, denser, less flowable, and less dispersible than those with lower CDS. These samples also had significantly higher thermal diffusivity and coefficient of internal friction and produced pellets with higher failure stresses than those with lower CDS. Their pellet density increased with CDS level and was also significantly affected by drying temperature. Further, the samples were classified as fairly flowable and floodable and their compression characteristics were adequately described by the Kawakita-Ludde model.

The Forest on the Hill

The following is a slightly condensed chapter from an unpublished novel by one of the leading contemporary Czech novelists. Arnost Lustig, 41 years old, was born in Prague and as a young boy was deported to the Terezin Ghetto, from where he escaped when he was put on one of the transports to Auschwitz. He is the author of Night and Hope, Diamonds in the Night, Dita Saxova, and A Prayer of Catherine Horowitz. He also wrote the scripts of several films based on his novels, which gained international Festival Prizes. Before the Russian invasion of Czechoslovakia he was a member of the Executive of the Union of Czechoslovak Writers, and a highly popular figure among Czech writers and intellectuals. The setting of ‘Darling,’ his latest novel, is Jerusalem at the time of the War of Independence, in 1948, and is based on his experience as war correspondent for the Czechoslovak Radio. Translated by George Theiner

A study on the rapid eradication of tumor cells on the surgical tools used in hepatocellular carcinoma resection

Objective This study investigated a method to rapidly inactivate tumor cells on surgical instruments intraoperatively.Methods Tumor cells were collected by immersing and washing the surgical instruments in 37 ℃ saline.The precipitation was collected by low speed centrifugation and then was cultured to harvest the tumor cells.The tumor cells were immersed in saline and distilled water of different temperatures for different duration of time.Inverted microscopy was used to investigate the changes in morphology.Results After immersion in 55 ℃ distilled water for 60 seconds,the tumor cells were swollen,the cell membranes disappeared,the sizes of the nuclei were reduced,the chromatin was condensed,and some cells lysed and separated from each other.Additionally,these tumor cells floated in the culture medium and lacked any living cells adhering to the walls of the bottle.In the group of tumor cells treated with 55 ℃ saline for 60 seconds,there were no obvious morphological changes of the tumor cell or nucleus.Conclusion The intraoperative immersion of surgical instruments in 55 ℃ distilled water for 60 seconds could completely inactivate tumor cells. Key words: Hepatocellular carcinoma; Tumor-free technique; Operation instrument; Saline; Distilled water

Explosion in an Exhaust Line of a Chemical Reactor

An explosion occurred in the exhaust line to the scrubber during a cleaning procedure with concentrated nitric acid in a chemical reactor. Previously the reactor was treated with methanol under reflux and afterwards rinsed with drinking water. The detonation destroyed completely a section of a PN 16 condensate pipe after a flame arrestor. Glass piping, several fittings and the flame arrestor were also severely damaged. Also windows were damaged in the production room. The aim of this paper is to outline the incident investigation involving: the determination of potential explosive substances or explosive atmosphere in the pipe; a systematic analysis of ignition sources; a definition of possible scenarios of the explosion causes and sequence; a plausibility assessment of the scenarios regarding the observed damage; an evaluation of the probability of the scenarios; and a proposal of safety concepts to avoid future incidents. The investigation involved the use of Differential Scanning Calorimetric measurements (DSC) and analytical procedures from different samples remaining in different parts of the equipment after the explosion. The most probable cause of the incident was the formation of methyl nitrate in the condensing line of the flame arrestor. The detonation was initiated by the heat produced by the reaction between condensed nitric acid and methanol. Lessons learnt were used to modify the process to improve its safety.

Parameters for Attenuation and Suppression of Detonation Wave with Inert Particles

The method of gas detonation wave attenuation and suppression by chemically inert particles injection before the leading shock front is considered. Parameters and cell size of a steady detonation wave are calculated. The minimum mass fraction and total mass of particles and the characteristic size of the cloud, which are necessary for detonation wave suppression, are calculated. Methane-, Cyclohexane-, Hydrogen- and Silane-air mixtures with particles of W, WC, Al2O3, SiO2 and KCl are considered. Results of calculations quite good correspond to available experimental data. The process of suppression is more effective, if particles have high heat capacity and heat of melting. Among the particles under consideration Al2O3 and SiO2 particles are better for detonation suppression.Detonation limits for different chemical compositions of methane-air mixtures and mass fractions of SiO2 particles are calculated. An increase of particles concentration leads to increase of the lower and decrease of the upper detonation limit. If a mass fraction of condensed phase is high enough, detonation wave propagation is impossible.A steady detonation wave reflection from a rigid wall (D ? D reflection) in cyclohexane- and silane-air mixtures with SiO2 particles is considered. It is shown, that particles can drastically reduce pressure and temperature behind the reflected wave and therefore prevent crucial destruction of equipment.The efficiency of detonation wave suppression at different relations between fuel and oxidizer is calculated. Methane- and cyclohexane-air mixtures with Al2O3 particles are considered. It is shown, that for every particles concentration the value of cell size has a minimum, which corresponds to a fuel-rich chemical composition. It means that for this relation between fuel and oxidizer the efficiency of detonation wave suppression by particles injection has a maximum.