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Continuous-time time series are widely used for modeling the realizations of those phenomena where it is theoretically possible to have observation at any point of the sampling domain. However, technical restrictions cause to see the realizations of such processes as discrete-time sample paths. We project time-domain observations into frequency-domain periodograms and employ the Whittle's likelihood approximation to make the inference about the parameters of CARMA processes. The inference is given under the Bayesian paradigm and some scenarios about the prior distributions are discussed. We show that our proposed estimator is robust for a large family of Lévy-driven distributed noises under some mild conditions. The Bayes estimates of parameters are obtained using a fast MCMC algorithm and they are examined numerically for the non-informative priors. The mean squared errors of the presented estimates are also compared to two other likelihood-based estimators, numerically. We also examine the performance of this Bayes estimate in prediction procedure of exchange rate data as a real dataset. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gait mechanics alternation is one of side effects after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). Foot roll-off characteristics shows whole gait mechanics and is not well known in ACLR patients. The purpose of present study was to investigate the roll-off process characteristics while walking and running in patients with ACLR history. Is there any difference in walking and running roll-off characteristics between patients with ACLR history and healthy individuals? 48 physically active males (24 healthy and 24 with ACLR history) participated in this study. Participants walked and ran on a footscan (Rsscan International) which was mounted in the midway of a 18 m runway at the speeds of 2 m·s−1 and 3.3 m·s−1. Center of pressure (COP) trajectory, timing of stance subphases, foot progression angle and contact time were calculated bilaterally in walking and running. Mixed-design MANOVA was used to examine effect of ACLR on the outcomes. The results showed that ACLR participants had greater foot progression angle (p =.001) and more medially oriented COP trajectory in forefoot push-off phase (FFPOP) of waking (p =.001) and running (p =.001), but showed shorter contact time in running compared to healthy group (p =.02). Involved leg in ACLR group showed greater foot progression angle (p =.001) and more medially directed COP trajectory in FFPOP of walking (p =.001) and running (p =.01) compared to uninvolved side. Also, involved leg had shorter contact time (p =.04) and shorter relative time in the forefoot contact phase (p =.001), and longer relative time in forefoot flat phase (p =.001) during running. Based on the results, it can be concluded that ACLR affects running and walking roll-off characteristics which can show altered mechanics. Running shows remarkable differences in roll-off process than walking. So, it is recommended to use running in post-ACLR assessments rather than walking. • ACLR patients show altered roll-off patterns in walking and running. • ACLR patients show medially directed COP in FFPOP subphase in running and walking. • ACLR patients exhibit greater foot progression angle in walking and running. • Injured leg showed shorter contact time while running. • Running is more sensitive in showing roll-off characteristics in ACLR patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents a hybrid solar–geothermal power plant to produce power, heating and cooling. The proposed integrated power plant is composed of a flash–binary geothermal cycle, parabolic trough solar collectors, auxiliary heater, single effect LiBr–water absorption chiller and heat exchangers. The plant produces constant electrical power as well as heating and cooling required for a yeast production factory. The energetic and exergetic efficiencies of the solar–geothermal power plant for the proposed system under the steady-state condition with constant irradiance are evaluated at 10.78% and 23.1%, respectively. It also found that most of the exergy destruction in the power plant occurs inside solar collectors and auxiliary heaters. It was calculated that heat exchanger three and an absorption chiller would produce 1.97 MW of power, 4.03 MW of heat and 563.2 kW of cooling. Moreover, the variation of evaluation parameters based on the changes in solar beam irradiance is investigated. It found that increasing beam irradiance will result in increasing total exergy efficiency and reducing C ˙ tot , in constant heat input to the cycle. The share of the auxiliary heater in the plant's energy-providing and the fuel's mass flow rate would be decreased by increasing the solar beam irradiance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) are a threat to patients. Accurate surveillance is required to identify and prevent HAIs. To estimate the incidence rate, report the accuracy and identify the barriers of reporting HAIs using a mixed-method study. Methods: In this quantitative study, we externally evaluated the incidence rate and accuracy of the routine surveillance system in one of the main hospitals by an active follow-up of patients from September to December 2021. We used in-depth interviews with 18 experts to identify the barriers of the routine surveillance system. Results: Among 404 hospitalized patients, 88 HAIs were detected. The estimated rate of HAIs was 17.1 (95% Confidence Intervals 95: 14.1, 21.1) per 1000 patient-days follow-up. However, in the same period, 116 HAIs were reported by the routine surveillance system, but the agreement between the two approaches was low (sensitivity = 61.4%, specificity = 82.6%, negative predictive value = 89.7%, and positive predictive validity = 46.5%). The minimum and maximum positive predictive values were observed in urinary tract infection (32.3%) and surgical site infection (60.9%). The main barrier of reporting HAIs was lack of cooperation in reporting HAIs by infection control link nurses and laboratory supervisors. Conclusions: The discrepancy between the longitudinal study findings and the routine surveillance might be related to the inaccessibility of the surveillance system to clinical information of patients. In this regard, decreasing the barriers, increasing the knowledge of infection control nurses and other nurses, as well as the development of hospital information systems are necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cataract is the most prevalent cause of reversible blindness worldwide. Although studies have identified risk factors for cataract, its association with opium use has not been studied. This study aimed to evaluate the association between opium use and cataract in Iran in 2020. In a hospital-based, group-matched case–control study in Kerman, a city in southeast Iran, 160 new cases of cataract and 320 controls without cataract underwent ophthalmological examination and were interviewed. Logistic regression models tested the association between cataract and history of opium use, adjusting for demographic characteristics and history of hypertension, coronary heart disease, renal disease, smoking, alcohol use, and unprotected sun exposure. After controlling for potential confounders, opium use increased the odds of cataract, exhibiting a dose–response relationship. The adjusted odds ratio (aOR) for mild use was 1.44 (95% confidence intervals [CI] 0.80–2.58), and 2.10 (95% CI 1.04–4.25) for heavy use. Exposure to opium juice use further increased the odds of cataract (aOR 2.24, 95% CI 1.00–5.10). Other significant associations with cataract were lower education level (aOR 5.46, 95% CI 2.45–11.29), being unmarried (aOR 2.88, 95% CI 1.65–5.00), both underweight (BMI <18.5, aOR 5.27, 95% CI 2.02–13.70) and overweight (BMI >25, aOR 1.82, 95% CI 1.15–2.87), and family history of cataract (aOR 2.07, 95% CI 1.32–3.23). Our study provides evidence that opium use could increase the odds of cataract. Results also support the association of cataract with other modifiable risk factors, such as very low and high BMI and unprotected sun exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The solid-state additive manufacturing (AM) approach based on a strategy of sheet lamination (SL) using friction stir deposition/friction surfacing, and was investigated for multi-layer metal deposition in the present study. This resulted in synthesis of fully dense parts with a homogeneous and thermally stable fine-grain microstructure with isotropic properties by avoiding solidification-related defects and exploiting dynamic recrystallized shear crystallographic texture component. A non-heat-treatable AA5083 aluminum-magnesium alloy exhibiting serration yielding behavior was used for friction stir additive manufacturing (FSAM) solid-state deposition using a rotational speed of 1000 rpm with two working windows for the consumable rod feed rate in the range of 35–45 mm/min and a traverse speed in the field of 300–400 mm/min. The microstructural features and mechanical properties were assessed across different sections of the solid-state deposited AA5083 alloy structure to verify a pore-free structure with homogeneous and isotropic behavior. Metallography revealed the formation of uniform and refined equiaxed grains derived from continuous dynamic recrystallization (CDRX) with an average size of ∼4 μm over the entire region of the deposited wall through outstanding layers diffused adhesion. Mechanical testing of the multi-layer structure indicates isotropic tensile properties along the building direction (BD) and transverse direction, due to the shear crystallographic texture formed by thermo-mechanical processing during additive deposition process. An excellent combination of ultimate tensile strength (of 370 MPa) and elongation to fracture at ∼33 % was achieved enhanced by serration yielding tensile flow behavior due to solute element/dislocation interactions during plastic straining. [Display omitted] •Solid-state additive manufacturing of AA5083 alloy by friction surfacing successfully assessed. • Variations of FSAM processing parameters on the layers' deposition and wall construction evaluated. • Shear-based textural developments during deposition revealed as the crucial aspect in controlling the isotropic properties. • The resulting fine and homogenous structure of grains and precipitates after DRX can exhibit sustainable thermal stability. • Accordingly, the superior trade-off between strength and ductility was achieved by the refined microstructure of FSAM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study presented a new model for optimal assignment of human resources to 3-level defined clinics to improve the management of diabetes. Methods: First, the data of population and prevalence of diabetes and data about complications were gathered. Then, the number of needed visits was calculated for different classes of diabetic people using guidelines. On the supply side, the maximum number of available visits for a given year by a given specialty was calculated. Two scenarios were considered. The first scenario calculated the number of needed specialties to cover the guideline needs, while the second real-world scenario used human resource data to optimize the assignment of human resources to different levels of clinics. Results: The highest and lowest required specialties per year are 2780 General practitioners (GPs) and 492 gastroenterologists. Seven hundred forty-one endocrinologists or internists are required each year to cover all the needs. The highest and lowest number of the available specialties were 4967 GPs and 35 nutritionists. 81% of cities can cover basic services, while even the lowest level of coverage is not possible in 19% of districts. Conclusions: The present study's findings advise the policymakers to train human resources based on available evidence and distribute the human resources based on an evidence-based model. This could be achieved using the private section resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Half of this sample of older adults had at least one type of frailty. • Some type of frailty had been experienced by 62.27% of these older adults. • Cognitive frailty was the dominant type of frailty (55.69%). • Multivariate regression analysis showed that age, sex, education, and marital status were factors influencing all types of frailty. • Network analysis revealed that physical, cognitive, psychological, and social frailty had synergistic effects on each other. Complex interrelationships may exist among different types of frailty. This study aimed to evaluate the demographic and biological factors that influence the different types of frailty in community-dwelling older adults in Iran through a cross-sectional analysis of data obtained from the Birjand Longitudinal Aging Study. This study is an ongoing cohort study of people aged 60 years and over and employed a multistage stratified cluster random sampling. Anthropometric measures were obtained by nurses. The "Fried frailty phenotype" was defined as physical frailty. Cognitive frailty was assessed using the Mini-Mental State Examination. Social frailty was evaluated by some questions, and psychological frailty was assessed using a patient health questionnaire. Blood samples were taken after overnight fasting. All statistical analyses were performed using Stata12 (Texas, USA) and Python. Some type of frailty had been experienced by 62.27 % of the older adults. Cognitive frailty was the dominant type of frailty (55.69 %). Based on multivariate regression analysis, age, sex, education, and marital status were the influencing factors in all types of frailty. Network analysis revealed that physical, cognitive, psychological, and social frailty had synergistic effects on each other, and age and sex had dominant interactions with frailty types. Cognitive frailty was dominant compared with other types of frailty, indicating the need to detect cognitive frailty at the earliest stage and to implement an appropriate program to manage cognitive frailty in older adults. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conventional fossil fuel sources are being reduced and simultaneously became more and more sources of considerable undesirable influences on the environment. In an attempt to expand renewable energy sources, wind energy is playing a significant role. A doubly fed induction generator as an alternative concept of different prevalent generators in wind power industry has a conspicuous efficiency improvement impact. There are nonlinear dynamics and many uncertainties in wind power plants, such as matched and mismatched disturbances and uncertainties of parameters. Designing a convenient controller to address these nonlinearities and uncertainties is a problematic task and has been the topic of much great research. Sliding mode control is a powerful nonlinear high-frequency switching controller, which has been widely applied. In a more specialized scope, combining fractional order calculus with controllers provides more degrees of freedom for responding to the demands of existing fractional dynamics of systems. To this regard, this paper presents an adaptive fractional-order terminal sliding mode controller to extract maximum energy from a wind turbine based doubly fed induction generator, which as the name of the controller implies is adaptive and robust against uncertainties, improves control accuracy, reduces chattering and mechanical stresses, and speeds up response time. A novel and unique sliding surface has been selected for this controller. Lumped uncertainties and switching control signal parameters have been estimated by adaptation laws. Maximized aerodynamic wind energy has been harvested by utilizing the proposed controller for the rotor side converter. The Lyapunov theorem is applied to guarantee the closed-loop system stability. Under normal conditions and in the presence of uncertainty and disturbance, the proposed method has been compared with SMC and a feedback linearization proportional integral controller. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leuco dyes are important commercial and useful compounds capable of switching between two different chemical structures, one of which is commonly a pale color or colorless substance. Fluoran compounds are a category of leuco dyes that can switch between colorless spirolactone (closed-ring) and zwitterionic open-ring forms, and depending on their substituents, would provide a wide variety of colors from black and dark violet to orange and red. This property of fluoran molecules to often alternate reversibly between two colors, distinguishable by naked eyes, has encouraged organic chemists to synthetically manipulate fluoran structures to tailor them for desired applications in various fields of science and technology. In this review, after presenting a short literature survey on fluoran compounds, recent advancements in the synthesis, encapsulation, and characterization of fluoran dyes are summarized. In the following, various applications of fluorans as thermo-, hydro-, and electrochromic compounds or as chemosensors and fluorescent probes is discussed. Other uses of these compounds such as in radiation detection and radiotherapy are also pointed out. • Fluorans are a group of dyes that switch between colorless and colored structures. • Fluorans provide a variety of colors from black and dark violet to orange and red. • Fluorans are designed for desired applications in science and technology. • Recent advancements of fluoran chemistry are summarized. • Various applications of fluorans as sensors and fluorescent probes are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel C(sp3)–C(sp2) cross-dehydrogenative-coupling procedure was developed for the reaction of benzoxazin-2-ones with indole derivatives. Thus, ionic liquid-mediated coupling of 1,4-benzoxazinone derivatives with indoles were observed in which [Omim]Cl/FeCl3 acted as both the solvent and the catalyst. Under [Omim]Cl/FeCl3-TBHP conditions, derivatives of 1 coupled at room temperature with indoles bearing various substituents to give the target products in good yields and within 0.5–2 h time period. The procedure is relatively environmentally friendly and is applicable to several derivatives of both reactants to access the desired products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adaptive channel coding and power control for practical free-space optical communication systems are proposed in this paper. Particularly, we first assume that the channel state information (CSI) is perfectly known at the transmitter, and propose adaptive transmission schemes in which coding rate is adjusted either independently or jointly with transmit power according to the channel conditions. Moreover, an optimization problem is developed to attain power consumption minimization under free space optical (FSO) practical constraints, i.e., target bit-error rate, target outage probability, and maximum transmit power. We then solve the optimization problem and derive closed-form expressions for throughput and average transmit power for both adaptive schemes over the Gamma–Gamma atmospheric turbulence channels. Our results demonstrate the superiority of the proposed adaptive schemes over non-adaptive schemes, especially under strong turbulence conditions. In the second part of this paper, we move toward a more realistic scenario where the channel is not perfectly known to Tx/Rx and is estimated by the sequence of received signals. Therefore, we investigate the effect of channel estimation inaccuracies on the performance of the proposed schemes and show that the accuracy of the channel estimator depends on the length of the sequence and, for a sufficiently large length of the observation window, it achieves performance close to the receiver with known CSI. Extensive analytical derivations are provided to investigate the performance of the proposed adaptive schemes under channel estimation error. Our analytical results can be used for calculating and tuning of the optimum length of the observation window without resorting to Monte Carlo simulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and purpose: The insulin-like growth factor binding protein 3 (IGFBP-3) and its novel death receptor (IGFBP-3R) have been exhibited to have tumor suppressor effects. Despite their prognostic value in some cancers, they have not been elucidated in gastric cancer. Experimental approach: We collected 68 samples from patients with gastric cancer. IGFBP-3 and IGFBP- 3R expression levels were evaluated with quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and western blotting in patients. The relationship between prognostic factors and IGFBP-3/IGFBP-3R expression was also evaluated. Findings/Results: Our results showed that IGFBP-3 and IGFBP-3R expression was reduced significantly in tumor tissues. We found that there was an association between the reduction of IGFBP-3 with lymph node metastasis and tumor-node-metastasis (TNM) staging. Besides, IGFBP-3R expression was associated with tumor size, lymph node metastasis, differentiation, and TNM classification. Interestingly, we presented that the downregulation of IGFBP-3R was stage-dependent. In survival analysis, our findings showed that low levels of IGFBP-3R mRNA expression exhibited a close correlation with survival rate. Conclusion and implications: The findings of this study showed that the expression levels of IGFBP-3 and IGFBP-3R are valuable prognostic factors. Despite the potential of IGFBP-3, IGFBP-3R plays a significant role as a prognostic factor in gastric cancer. However, these findings need to be developed and confirmed by further studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This present study uses a novel solid-state additive manufacturing method based on friction surfacing as a mechanism for layer-upon-layer deposition. This utilizes severe plastic deformation to create a homogeneous fine-grain microstructure without melting to avoid solidification-related defects. The deposition of AA6061-T6 aluminum alloy was achieved by rotating a 20 mm diameter rod on top of a substrate at 1000 RPM and applying a 300 mm/min transverse speed with an axial feed rate of 50 mm/min. Advanced macro/microstructural techniques characterized the grain and precipitate structures in the deposited material, i.e. , electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analyses, along with micro-hardness and tensile testing of the mechanical properties. The multi-layer deposition contains a refined grain size in the range of 5–10 μm and sub-grains less than micron size, while a reasonable reduction in mechanical properties compared to the as-received rod was observed; in which hardness was reduced from 114 HV to 49 HV, and the tensile strength was reduced from 333 MPa to 161 MPa. These reductions are largely attributed to the dissolution of precipitates in the original rod due to the high temperatures imposed by friction and deformation. Achieving metallurgical bonding between the layers while suppressing porosity is critical to additive manufacturing, and this feasibility study of friction surfacing demonstrates this can be achieved along with superior isotropic mechanical properties. Based on the results, it was observed that additive manufacturing by friction surfacing is particularly suitable for metals that are sensitive to heat during deposition, though parameter optimization and secondary treatment may be required to enhance properties further. • Friction surfacing process was assessed for additive manufacturing. • Crystallographic preference and texture were investigated during multi-layers' deposition. • A fine distribution of different precipitates and dispersoids attend in the microstructure. • Mechanical and metallurgical properties of the last layer have significant differences from the rest of the layers. • Complete metallurgical bonding created between the layers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] A new method is developed for efficient and chemoselective synthesis of benzo[1,4]oxazineone derivatives. By the choice of an appropriate ionic liquid, the process is directed towards selective O - or N -alkylation to give the desired isomeric structures, as the major product of the reaction. In the presence of choline hydroxide, benzo[1,4]oxazine-3-one derivatives are formed, while by using choline fluoride, the corresponding benzo[1,4]oxazine-2-ones are obtained. The latter pathway would be facilitated for sluggish reactants by in situ use of an alkyl halide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents an innovative control technique for doubly fed induction generator (DFIG) based wind turbine. A DFIG equation is initially presented using fractional order Takagi and Sugeno interval type II fuzzy modeling. Moreover, fault and disturbance are considered in the DFIG model. Then, to design an observer that estimates both fault and disturbance, the fuzzy model of DFIG is decoupled into three subsystems using a different linear coordinate transformation: the state subsystem without disturbance and fault, the subsystem of fault without disturbance, and the subsystem of disturbance without fault. In the following, using the state subsystem, an adaptive reinforcement learning TS interval type II fuzzy fractional sliding mode observer is introduced. The observer gains are adjusted by applying proximal policy optimization, which is a new application of reinforcement learning. Robustness against uncertainties, fast convergence speed of estimation, high degree of freedom and precise estimation are among features of the suggested observer. In addition, only by utilizing the estimated state subsystem and obtained mathematical relationships, the actuator faults and disturbance are estimated. A fractional order sliding mode controller is proposed for the DFIG speed controller. Low chattering characteristics and accurate response are achieved owing to the fractional speed controller. Also, to compensate the influence of disturbances and faults, an adaptive interval type II fuzzy fractional sliding mode controller is used for rotor current regulations, which employs the estimated fault and disturbance. High robustness, fast response time, low tracking error and chattering are some of the advantages of the proposed fault tolerant controller (FTC). The closed-loop stability of controllers is proved by using the Lyapunov theorem. Simulations is accomplished to evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed method. The proposed controller is compared with other controllers. Robustness against parameter uncertainty is also investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The solubility of two single gases, CO 2 and CH 4 , was measured in the ionic liquid 1-benzyl-3-methylimidazolium nitrate ([Bzmim][NO 3 ]), at temperatures ranging from 298.15 to 343.15 K and pressures up to 4.52 MPa for CO 2 and 4.22 MPa for CH 4 , where the CO 2 and CH 4 mole fractions reached to 0.29 and 0.09, respectively. The solubility measurements were performed in a stainless steel equilibrium cell. Under the experimental conditions, CO 2 showed a significantly higher solubility than CH 4. The CO 2 solubility decreased in [Bzmim][NO 3 ], when temperature was raised, while in the case of CH 4 , the solubility increased slightly with the increase of temperature. In addition, the CO 2 solubility was compared to that of CH 4 using the ratio of the Henry's constants of CH 4 over that of CO 2. The changes in ideal selectivity vs temperature showed that by the increase in temperature the ideal selectivity decreases. [Display omitted] • The solubility of CO 2 and CH 4 in 1-benzyl-3-methylimidazolium nitrate is studied. • The solubility data calculated with the Span−Wagner Equation of State. • The ideal selectivity was measured using the ratio of the Henry's constants. • Nitrate is more inexpensive and interesting in comparison with fluorinated anions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxidative dimerization of S‐alkyl dithiocarbamates with molecular iodine and oxone were applied as efficient protocols for the synthesis of 3,5‐bis(alkylthio)‐1,2,4‐thiadiazoles. Performing the reactions in green solvents, obtaining excellent yield of products under mild reaction conditions, avoiding the use of transition metals and hypervalent iodines, and using inexpensive, readily available, safe and environmentally benign oxidants are the main advantages of these protocols. In addition, the reported methods in this paper allow chemists to synthesize the title compounds both in organic and aqueous media. Oxidative dimerization of S‐alkyl dithiocarbamates with molecular iodine and oxone were applied as efficient protocols for the synthesis of 3,5‐bis(alkylthio)‐1,2,4‐thiadiazoles. Performing the reactions in green solvents, obtaining excellent yield of products under mild reaction conditions, avoiding the use of transition metals and hypervalent iodines, and using inexpensive, readily available, safe and environmentally benign oxidants are the main advantages of these protocols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present research, mechanical properties of a conventional carbon/epoxy composite were improved via incorporating reinforced polyacrylonitrile (PAN) nanofibers between the carbon fabric layers. Alumina (Al 2 O 3 ) nanoparticles were employed to improve mechanical properties of the PAN nanofibers. Morphological studies of the nanofibers by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed increasing the alumina nanoparticles (more than 1 wt%) leading to nanoparticle agglomeration. However, the transmission electron microscopy (TEM) confirmed no alumina agglomeration occurred at 1 wt%, which the highest mechanical properties of the nanofibers was achieved for this nanoparticle content. Statistical analysis of the obtained both in-plane and out-of-plane mechanical properties on hybrid composites (carbon/epoxy composite containing nanofibers) showed that the composite reinforced with Al 2 O 3 -PAN nanofibers had greater mechanical properties rather than that of control composite (without the nanofibers) even the hybrid composite containing the same amount of neat PAN nanofibers. Al 2 O 3 -PAN nanofiber reinforced composite improved their neat PAN counterparts in tensile strength and flexural strength by 8 and 7%, respectively. Furthermore, Compared to the control composite the enhancements resulting from the Al 2 O 3 -PAN nanofibers incorporation were obtained at 23 and 20%, for tensile and flexural strength, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a lignocellulosic filler, rice straw (RS), was thermoplasticized by acetylation modification process and compounded with plasticized poly(lactic acid) (PLA) through twin-screw extrusion process. The biocomposite films were prepared continuously by using a slit die for PLA/RS and PLA/acetylated RS (ARS) compounds. By the chemical reaction, thermoset microstructure of RS was changed to a more flexible one. Additionally, by the reaction, the interfacial adhesion of lignocellulosic filler/PLA matrix, filler hydrophobicity and PLA wettability was enhanced considerably. The miscibility of partially phase-separated PLA/poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) mixtures was improved by adding RS-based microfillers, particularly by the acetylated RS. Compared with PLA/unmodified RS films, PLA/ARS biocomposites show better thermal stability, toughness, Young modulus and softening point, especially at certain filler loadings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osteoporotic fractures are a worldwide problem that increase mortality of elderly patients leaving a high cost to the world economy. In addition to exercise and supplementary regimens, medications and pharmaceutical agents are used for osteoporosis management. Anti-resorptive drugs particularly bisphosphonates are the classic option. However, anti-resorptive therapy alone may not be a suitable option for all the patients. Osteoporosis may occur as a result of increase in bone resorption, decrease in new bone formation or combination of both. Depending on which mechanism (anabolic vs. catabolic vs. both) is involved, various anti-resorptive and bone-forming drugs or a combination of them may be used for the management of osteoporosis patients. This review focuses on drug-based therapeutic options for the management of osteoporosis patients to find out which of the many available protocols may be the correct solution according to the patient's condition. In this review, we introduce the most recent and important anti-resorptive, bone-forming and dual-mode action drugs, discuss about their accurate mechanism of action, side effects and limitations and review the most recent clinical studies used them for managing osteoporosis. We also compare the available treatment options with each other and discuss about the role of combination therapy for the management of osteoporosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A solvent-free procedure is developed for the reaction of benzothiazinones with benzaldehyde derivatives, where the solid KF–Al2O3support and ball milling synergistically leads to a green and efficient synthesis of several 2-arylidene-benzothiazinones. Therefore, a cooperative effect of the solid support and ball milling leads to excellent yields of the target dienes, while the catalyst can be recycled for subsequent reactions without significant loss of its activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simvastatin is a lipid lowering drug whose beneficial role on bone metabolism was discovered in 1999. Several in vivo studies evaluated its role on osteoporosis and fracture healing, however, controversial results are seen in the literature. For this reason, Simvastatin has not been the focus of any clinical trials as yet. This systematic review clears the mechanisms of action of Simvastatin on bone metabolism and focuses on in vivo investigations that have evaluated its role on osteoporosis and fracture repair to find out (i) whether Simvastatin is effective on treatment of osteoporosis and fracture repair, and (ii) which of the many available protocols may have the ability to be translated in the clinical setting. Simvastatin induces osteoinduction by increasing osteoblast activity and differentiation and inhibiting their apoptosis. It also reduces osteoclastogenesis by decreasing both the number and activity of osteoclasts and their differentiation. Controversial results between the in vivo studies are mostly due to the differences in the route of administration, dose, dosage and carrier type. Local delivery of Simvastatin through controlled drug delivery systems with much lower doses and dosages than the systemic route seems to be the most valuable option in fracture healing. However, systemic delivery of Simvastatin with much higher doses and dosages than the clinical ones seems to be effective in managing osteoporosis. Simvastatin, in a particular range of doses and dosages, may be beneficial in managing osteoporosis and fracture injuries. This review showed that Simvastatin is effective in the treatment of osteoporosis and fracture healing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A solvent-free procedure was developed for the reaction of 2-aminothiophenols with 2-bromoalkanoates, where KF–Al 2 O 3 support and ball milling cooperatively lead to a green and efficient synthesis of several benzothiazinone derivatives in good to excellent yields. The catalyst could be recycled in further reactions while maintaining its activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ethylene glycol was used as an efficient and recoverable medium for the reaction of diazoles with aryl iodides and aryl bromides in the presence of CuCl2as the catalyst and K2CO3as the base. Consequently, imidazole, benzimidazole, and pyrazole reacted readily under microwave irradiation to give good to excellent yields of their correspondingN-arylated products in relatively short time periods. Apparently, ethylene glycol plays a dual role by activating the catalyst and also providing a homogenous medium for the processes. The reaction medium consisting of the solvent, the base, and the copper salt was recovered and reused successfully in the next several reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the role of Urinary N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase (NAG) in the detection of the diabetic nephropathy. It states that nephropathy is one of the serious consequence of diabetes mellitus patients. Where the clinical checkup of microalbuminuria measurement is required for detecting the disease and the kidneys are found still infected even without its presence. The results ends with the association of glucosaminidase and angiotensin urinary enzymes activities.

Aims: This review will focus on the rates, clinical characteristics, risk factors and methods of self-harm and suicide in different ethnic groups in the United Kingdom, providing an update synthesis of recent literature. Methods: Studies that met the inclusion criteria between 2003 and 2013 were reviewed using the following databases: MEDLINE, PsycINFO, EMBASE and CINAHL. The methodological quality of each study was then assessed using a structured scoring system. Results: A total of 2,362 articles were retrieved, 10 of which matched the inclusion criteria were reviewed. Significant differences were found in the rates of self-harm between ethnic groups with Asian males being least likely to self-harm and Black females being most likely to self-harm. Also, Black and South Asian people were less likely to repeat self-harm. Factors that may help protect or predispose individuals to self-harm or attempt suicide (such as religion, mental health and coping styles) also differ between ethnic groups. Conclusions: There are clear ethnic differences in self-harm and suicide, which may be affected by factors such as cultural pressures and prevalence of mental illness. An awareness of these differences is vital to help prevent further attempts of self-harm and suicide. Further research into differences between ethnic and cultural groups and self-harm continues to be important. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hyperglycemia plays an important role in the development of diabetic neuropathy. In this study, we investigated the protective effects of alpha lipoic acid (ALA) against high glucose-induced neurotoxicity in PC12 cells as a suitable in vitro model for studying neuronal functions. PC12 cells were treated with high glucose (25 mg/ml for 24 h) in the absence and presence of ALA (100 μM for 24 h). The viability of PC12 cells was estimated by using MTT assay. The expression of pro- apoptotic Bax, anti- apoptotic Bcl-2 and caspase 3 protein were evaluated by western blotting. The reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were determined with 2,7-dichlorodihydro- fluorescein diacetate (HDCFDA). Biochemical markers of oxidative stress were assessed by using the total antioxidant power (TAP), lipid peroxidation (LPO), ADP/ATP ratio, activity of antioxidant enzymes catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Pretreatment of PC12 cells with ALA, significantly improved high glucose-induced toxicity by increasing activity of antioxidant enzymes CAT and SOD in the PC12 cell. It also increased the concentrations of TAP. An elevated level of cell death and ROS in high glucose conditions, diminished with ALA treatment. Over expression of Bax and caspase 3 protein, elevation of ADP/ATP ratio and LPO level in high glucose- treated PC12 cells, were significantly reduced by ALA. It was concluded that ALA attenuates neurotoxicity induced by high glucose in PC12 cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of 2,4-disubstituted derivatives of 1,5-benzothiazepines were prepared via a one-pot thia-Michael-cyclization sequence by the reaction of various 2-aminothiophenols with chalcones in ionic liquid media. The choice of the ionic liquid had a significant impact on the process. In the case of 1-octyl-3-methyl imidazolium thiocyanate ([omim]SCN), both steps took place in one pot to give substituted 1,5-benzothiazepines. However, only a simple thia-Michael addition could occur in 1-octyl-3-methyl imidazolium chloride ([omim]Cl) medium. Reactions were catalyst free and could tolerate the presence of different functional groups. The workup procedure was facile and the ionic liquid could be recycled at least seven times in a row. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The objective was to obtain new scaffold of compounds possessing anti-urease activity. For this new and simple method for the synthesis of β-aryl-β-mercapto ketone derivatives based on Michael addition of thiophenol to chalcones in an ionic liquid as a solvent was improved. The products were obtained in good to moderate yields with high purity and characterized by spectral and elemental analyses. The activities of synthesized compounds were investigated as new inhibitors of jack bean urease. Among 22 synthesized compounds, all of them have shown inhibitory effect in micromolar range, and the most potent one has IC = 6 μM compared to hydroxyurea IC = 100 μM as a reference inhibitor. A docking study was performed using Autodock 4.2 in parallel to in vitro experiments to illustrate the corresponded binding affinities as well as binding site, and involved residues in interaction. These computational results complimented the experimental inhibition activity and enabled us to report a potent urease inhibitors based on β-aryl-β-mercapto ketone scaffold. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Disorders of the long head of the biceps (LHB) tendon have many pathological conditions, from inflammatory tendinitis to degenerative tendinosis (1, 2). The LHB tendon lesions are frequently associated with partial or complete rotator cuff tears, particularly in older adults (3-10). LHB tendon lesions such as biceps tear of more than 30%, subluxation, dislocation or a degenerative SLAP type II lesion can lead SUMMARY Objective. This study evaluated the midterm clinical results of doing the arthroscopic proximal long head of the biceps tenodesis with an anchor suture of subscapularis or supraspinatus repair in patients with arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. Methods. We evaluated the clinical results of long head of biceps tendon tenodesis in patients with single-row rotator cuff repair. They were all treated with our technique in which we did the tenodesis with anchor suture of rotator cuff repair in a manner that provides both bony and soft tissue attachment for the tendon. We evaluated the results of the long head of the biceps (LHB) tenodesis in all patients by looking for Popeye deformity, anterior shoulder tenderness, asking for anterior shoulder pain, and measuring elbow flexion and forearm supination force compared to the normal side as a primary goal, and compared results of LHB tenodesis with subscapularis or supraspinatus tendon suture as a secondary goal too. Results. A number of 131 patients participated in the final follow-up: 34 patients had LHB tenodesis with subscapularis tendon suture and 95 patients with supraspinatus tendon suture. Mean of follow-up time was four years (24 to 71 months). Two patients had the Popeye deformity (1.5%), five patients had the anterior shoulder tenderness (3.8%), and seven patients suffered from anterior shoulder pain (5.3%). Elbow flexion and forearm supination forces were measured in the affected and non-affected limbs. There was no significant difference between the two limbs. Those who had LHB tenodesis with supraspinatus anchor suture had better results and less complications. Conclusions. Arthroscopic tenodesis of the LHB tendon incorporated into single-row rotator cuff repair is a cost-efficient method, leading to better results for implant or soft tissue tenodesis too. Fixing to supraspinatus tendon seems to have better results and fewer complications compared to subscapularis tendon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

2 H-1,4-Benzoxazines are major heterocyclic compounds with interesting biological and synthetic applications. Therefore, it would be very interesting to develop new efficient methods for their synthesis. Here, we synthesized 2 H-1,4-benzoxazines in one pot using KCO/HO in the ionic liquid of choice, [omim][BF]. After reactions, products are extracted from [omim][BF] by EtO and the ionic liquid is recovered and successfully reused over several recycles. Results show that high yields of 3-aryl-2 H-1,4-benzoxazine derivatives are obtained chemoselectively at room temperature from their corresponding o-aminophenols and phenacyl bromides. To our knowledge, our method represents the most efficient and straightforward route for the synthesis of 3-aryl-2 H-1,4-benzoxazine derivatives in short times and under environmentally benign conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] We investigated the effects of telmisartan on high glucose induced oxidative damage in PC12 cells. [•] Telmisartan counteracts high glucose-triggered oxidative damage and cell death in neuronal PC12 cells. [•] The antioxidant action of telmisartan and its inhibitory effect on NADPH oxidase may, at least in part, have mediated the inhibition of cell death. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to estimate the prevalence of topical ocular anesthetic abuse among welders in Iran and suggest public health solutions for this issue. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 390 welders were randomly recruited and queried on the use of anesthetic drops. A questionnaire was administered through structured one-on-one interviews conducted by the first author. Results: A total of 314 welders (80.5%) declared that they had used topical anesthetics at least once during their working lives. Almost 90% of them stated a preference for self-treatment over seeking help from a physician due to cultural and financial reasons. The most commonly used topical anesthetic was tetracaine. Most of the subjects (97.4%) had obtained the drugs from pharmacies without a prescription. Conclusions: The prevalence of topical ocular anesthetic abuse among welders in Iran is alarmingly high and may partially be due to cultural issues. Although most physicians are aware that topical anesthetics should only be used as a diagnostic tool, there is a crucial need to re-emphasize the ocular risks associated with chronic use of these medications. Educational programs for both physicians and the public are necessary to address the problem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A general and efficient room-temperature procedure is developed for high-yield synthesis of 2H-benzo[b][1,4]thiazin-3(4H)-one derivatives in one pot from the reaction of 2-aminothiophenols with 2-bromoalkanoates in ionic liquid [bmim]NO3without the use of any catalyst, base, or additive. Products were obtained in good yields by simple extraction with Et2O followed by evaporation of the volatile contents and recrystallization from Et2O. The ionic liquid was recycled and reused in the next reaction without the loss of its activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although visual impairment of drivers is a very important risk factor for car accident, a few published papers have explored this issue in Iran. This study aims to evaluate the visual fitness of public vehicle drivers in Kerman province, southeast of Iran. Methods: A total of 4,003 public vehicle drivers were examined by one ophthalmologist for visual fitness in Kerman province between January 2009 and June 2010. Data are presented as Mean±SD or percentage, and with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Pearson Chi-square and McNemmar tests along with crude odds ratio (OR) were used to compare vision deficit between groups. Results: Almost 361 drivers (9.0%; 95% CI: 8.1-9.9) had insufficient vision to drive public vehicles before the refractive errors (RE) correction and this number, was reduced to 68 drivers (1.7%; 95% CI: 1.3-2.1) after the correction. A number of them including 200 drivers (5.0%; 95% CI: 4.3-5.7) had insufficient vision to drive personal vehicles before the correction and this was reduced to 30 thereafter (0.8%; 95% CI: 0.5-1.0). We also found out that the vision status got worse with aging, and RE was the most prevalent cause of sight defects. Conclusion: It seems that visual fitness of public vehicle drivers is a point of real concerns which might somewhat explain the high rate of car accidents in Iran. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hyperglycemia is the principal factor responsible for microvascular complications of diabetes. Diabetic nephropathy is a serious and common complication leading to end stage renal disease. The exact molecular mechanisms of high glucose-induced toxicity on renal cells are still incompletely understood. Therefore in the present study, glucose-induced toxicity was studied in HEK (human embryonic kidney) cells as an in vitro model for diabetic nephropathy. Materials and Methods: First, the viability of HEK 293 cells exposed to glucose was measured by MTT (Methyl Thiazolyl Tetra-zolium) assay. Caspase-3 activity was determined spectrophotometrically using enzyme specific substrate. Moreover, the alteration in expression of Bax, BclR2R and caspase-3 were measured by Western blotting. Results: The results showed that high glucose significantly reduced cell viability after 48 h (p<0.05). In Western blot analysis, the ratio of Bax/Bcl-2 protein expression in cells treated with high glucose was significantly increased compared to controls (p<0.001). The activity of caspase-3 was significantly increased in treated cells compared to control (p<0.01). Moreover, high glucose exposure induced a significant decrease in protein level of procaspase-3 (p<0.01), indicating conversion of pro-form into the mature caspase. Conclusion: On the current data, it could be concluded that high glucose can cause HEK cell death, in which apoptosis plays an important role possibly by the mitochondrial pathway through higher expression of Bax pro-apoptotic protein and also by activation of caspase-3 related pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An efficient one-pot procedure is developed at room temperature for the reaction of 2-aminothiophenols with 2-bromoalkanoates in ionic liquid (IL) [omim][NO3], providing the corresponding benzothiazin-3-one derivatives in high yields without using any other base or additive. Products are easily obtained by simple extraction of the reaction mixtures with Et2O. In most cases, evaporation of the volatile contents leads to precipitation of the products and therefore the use of chromatographic separations is avoided. The IL is then recovered and reused in next reactions without loosing its activity. The procedure is successfully extended to the synthesis of the respective 2-carboxylate derivatives via the reaction of 2-aminothiophenols with 2-bromomalonates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A medium consisting of K2CO3 and H2O in [omim][BF4] ionic liquid (IL) was used to synthesize N-substituted 2 H-benzo[ b][1,4]oxazin-3(4 H)-one derivatives from their corresponding o-aminophenols and 2-bromoalkanoates. As a result, chemoselective formation of benzoxazinones in high yields has been observed at room temperature. After the reactions and separation of the products, the IL was recovered and successfully reused in subsequent reactions without significant loss of activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Stromal cells having preadipocyte characteristics can be isolated from adipose tissue, propagated in vitro and induced to differentiate in vitro toward the osteogenic, adipogenic, myogenic and chondrogenic lineages when treated with established lineage-specific factors. In this research we isolated stromal cells from human adipose tissue and cultured and expanded and examined their sternness by determining their surface CD markers and their ability to differentiate into adipocyte lineage. Material and methods: For isolating ASCs, raw lipoaspirates were washed with sterile phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) containing 5% penicillin/streptomycin. To digest the adipose tissue, aspirates were treated with 0.0750/0 collagenase for 1 h. To differentiate the cell to adipocyte, confluent cells were exposed to adipogenic medium containing a-MEM, FBS, dexamethasone, indomethacin, fflMX, L-glutamin, and penicillin/streptomycin. Results: Adhered cells were cultured for 2-3 weeks with replacing the media every 3-4 days and the ADSC were isolated, cultured and expanded. To examine the differentiation potential of the isolated cell, they were differentiated in specific medium and lipid droplets were appeared within the cells within 2-3 weeks. To confirm the lipid droplet, Oil red O lipid staining was used. Conclusion: In conclusion, it could be taken to serious consideration that, besides, other sourses of mesenchymal stem cell, adipose derived are one the best and promising source being easily accessible and available by noninvasive method, as well as potential of being used in autologous cell transplantation in wide variety of disorders from nerve to cardiac injury from one side and musculoskeletal problem from other side. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The brown adipose tissue (BAT) is an organ with the specialised function of intracellular fat oxidation; in other words, brown fat points to a potential natural tool by which energy expenditure is being stimulated. Obesity is a serious illness which can lead to many medical complications such as cardiovascular disorders. The BAT production, therefore, could be a promising therapeutic strategy for managing obesity. While different approaches have been examined to generate brown adipocytes from various precursor cells, no study has proposed an efficient procedure for direct trans-differentiation of white to brown adipocytes. Bone morphogenic protein (BMP)-7 is a possible potential agent by which most of the main factors involved in induction of brown adipocytogenesis such as early regulators of brown fat fate, positive regulatory domain containing 16 (PRDM16) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) coactivator-1 alpha (PGC-1α) are stimulated, but the rate of success was not so promising. It has been documented that mature white adipocytes exert endoplasmic reticulum stress response (ESR) and consequently unfolded protein response (UPR) becomes activated for the purpose of ESR recovery since the ESR exceeds the capacity of UPR to overcome the imposed stress, and in turn disables the cell to manage the protein synthesis cascade including those required for BMP-7 induction of brown adipogenesis. This was performed using three main ESR sensors: PKR-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK), inositol requiring enzyme-1 (IRE-1) and activating transcription factor 6 alpha (ATF-6α) resulting in attenuation of protein translation by blocking the activation of transcriptional machinery of UPR genes and the cell behaviour would also be changed towards apoptosis. It may suggest and propose the hypothesis that pretreatment of the white adipocyte with an ESR inhibitor such as salubrinal by reducing ESR and turning on the protein synthesis machinery required for BMP-7 induction of brown adipogenesis cascade could provide a more efficient and successful method of transdifferentiation procedure of white to brown adipocytes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A general analysis and design procedure is developed for the asymmetrical multisection power divider with arbitrary power division ratio and arbitrary specifications of input and output impedance matching over any desired frequency bandwidth. The even- and odd-mode analysis, which was previously applied to the design of multisection Gysel power dividers, required that the unequal power division ratios be accompanied with appropriately proportional output impedances. This requirement is relaxed here. The equivalent circuits are first obtained for the divider and then their scattering parameters are determined. Some error functions are then constructed by the method of least squares. Their minimization determines the geometrical dimensions of the optimum divider. An approximate method based on the even and odd modes is developed for its initial design of the divider. Two examples of single- and double-section dividers are designed. Their frequency responses of isolation and transmission coefficients are obtained by the proposed method, HFSS software, fabrication, and measurement. They agree within the approximate assumptions. A two-section and two-way power divider is designed and fabricated by the proposed method for the case of unequal port impedances in the L-band. The measured isolation between the outputs is better than -\ 22 dB in 44% of the band. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lead exposure continues to be a significant public health problem. Osteoporosis, inhibition of fracture healing, and cartilage functional impairment have been reported from lead exposure. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are a bone marrow population of cells with the ability to differentiate into various cell types, particularly osteocytes and chondrocytes. Despite intensive investigation on the effect of lead poisoning on various cell types, there is very little if any report on the effect of lead on MSCs. The aim of this study, therefore, was to investigate the effect of lead acetate on rat bone marrow derived MSCs toxicity and its mechanism by examining the role of pro- and anti-apoptotic proteins in this process. It was revealed that lead acetate could induce cell death in a dose-dependent manner using 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium (MTT) assay. Compared to controls, the significant over-expression of pro-apoptotic proteins, including Bax, caspases-9, -3, and p53, with no significant change in anti-apoptotic Bcl2 protein were obtained in lead-treated cells using western blotting analysis. There was a significant increase in DNA fragmentation in treated MSCs compared to controls using flow-cytometry. Finally, it might be concluded that lead acetate could induce cell toxicity and apoptosis in MSCs, causing instability in mitochondria and in turn activation of the intrinsic pathway including over-expression of Bax, caspase 9 and caspase 3, leading to DNA damage and activation of P53. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gram-negative bacteria and their endotoxins may be a causal or complicating factor in many serious diseases. Bacterial lipopolysaccharides (LPS) could potentially be human pathogens. Among the many disorders induced by LPS, neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s are reported and are of great interest. Despite the evidence on LPS-induced neurodegeneration, the exact mechanism is unknown. The purpose of this study was to investigate the cytotoxic effect of LPS and also to examine the involvement of Bax, pro-apoptotic, Bcl-2, anti-apoptotic, and caspase-3, the executioner of apoptosis, protein expression, during LPS-induced apoptosis in neuronal PC12 cells. The cell viability was evaluated by MTT assy. The expression of pro-apoptotic Bax and anti-apoptotic Bcl2 and caspase -3 protein expressions were measured by immunoblotting. The results showed that LPS could reduce cell viability after 72 h in a dose-dependent manner which was statistically significant in concentration of 200 µg/ml. In western blotting analysis, LPS (200 µg/ml) also enhanced expression of pro-apoptotic Bax and pro-caspase-3 proteins compared to controls, while the expression of Bcl-2 protein was not changed significantly. The Bax/Bcl-2 ratio was significantly increased in LPS-treated cells compared to controls. From the present results, it might be concluded that LPS can cause PC12 cell death, in which apoptosis plays an important role, possibly by the mitochondrial pathway through higher expression of the Bax as well as caspase 3 protein. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite reduction in environmental lead, chronic lead exposure still possess a public health hazard, particularly in children, with devastating effects on developing CNS. To investigate the mechanism of this neurotoxicity, young and adult rats were used to study whether exposure to 500 ppm concentrations of lead could induce apoptosis in hippocampus. 2–4 and 12–14-week-old rats received lead acetate in concentration of 500 ppm for 40 days. Control animals received deionized distilled water. In lead-treated groups, the blood lead levels were increased by 3–4 folds. Light and electron microscopical study of hippocampus revealed increased apoptotic cells. Western blot analysis of Bax and Bcl-2 (pro- and anti-apoptotic gene products, respectively) indicated higher expression of Bax protein and no significant change in bcl-2 expression and accordingly increased the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio compared to control group, confirming the histological study. In conclusion, these data suggest that neurotoxicity of chronic lead exposure in hippocampus in vivo may partly be due to facilitation of apoptosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: An efficient procedure for the one-pot chemoselective synthesis of 2H-benzo[b][1,4]oxazin-3(4H)-one derivatives from their corresponding o-aminophenols is developed using DBU in the ionic liquid [omim][BF4]. Upon completion of the reaction and separation of the product, the ionic liquid is recovered and successfully reused over nine recycles without any noticeable loss of performance. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Densities and viscosities of 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium nitrate [Bmim][NO3], and its binaries with alcohol (ethanol, 1-propanol, or 1-butanol) were measured at different temperatures. The densities and viscosities of pure ionic liquid were correlated successfully by empirical equations. The Vogel–Fulcher–Tammann equations can fit the experimental data of viscosities for pure IL. Excess molar volume and viscosity deviations were calculated for the binaries. The excess molar volumes have negative deviations from the ideal solution. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A two-way Gysel power divider is proposed as a modification of the common five-port Gysel divider, which has several advantages such as high power-handling capability and suitability for multistaging to increase the frequency bandwidth. The even- and odd-mode technique is used to analyze its performance and the method of least squares is used to devise a procedure for its design and optimization. The source to load impedance matching is also incorporated into the design procedure and the input power is divided equally between the two outputs to provide an equal-split power divider. A method is proposed for the initial values of the widths and lengths of strips as an initial design of the two-way Gysel divider. The performance of the method of least squares design and optimization procedure is verified by the available simulation software packages and fabrication and measurements of two prototypes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Hyperglycemia, which occurs under the diabetic condition, is widely recognized as the causal link between diabetes and its serious complications. Diabetic neuropathies, which are among the most frequent complications of diabetes, affect sensory, motor, and autonomic nerves. The exact molecular mechanisms of high glucose-induced toxicity on neuronal cells, is still unclear. We previously reported that high glucose can induce apoptosis in PC12 cells, as evidenced by DNA fragmentation and high Bax/Bcl-2 ratio. The present study examined the involvement of caspase-3, the executioner, and two initiators of apoptosis, caspase-8 and caspase-9, during high glucose-induced apoptosis in PC12 cells, a neuronal cell line. Cells were exposed to high glucose with or without z-VAD-fmk, a pan-caspase inhibitor. Cell viability was measured by MTT assay. Caspase activity was determined spectrophotometrically using enzyme specific substrates. To correlate and confirm the caspase activity with changes in protein expression, procaspase-8, -9, and -3 were evaluated by Western blot analysis. The DNA-fragmentation was determined by DNA ladder using gel electrophoresis. The PC12 cell viability on high glucose exposure was decreased compared to controls, which was reversed by z-VAD-fmk. The activities of caspase-8, -9, and -3 were significantly increased in treated cells compared to controls. Moreover, high glucose exposure induced a significant decrease in protein levels of procaspases, indicating conversion of pro-form into the mature caspases. Finally, DNA fragmentation (Ladder) was shown in treated cells by high glucose. Based on the current data, it could be concluded that high glucose-induced apoptosis in PC12 cells is mediated, in part, by activation of caspase-8, -9, and -3 dependent pathways. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]