bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Calpain 3 Expression Pattern during Gastrocnemius Muscle Atrophy and Regeneration Following Sciatic Nerve Injury in Rats
Authors: Wu Ronghua , Yan Yingying , Yao Jian , Liu Yan , Zhao Jianmei , Liu Mei
Published: November 2015

Calpain 3 (CAPN3), also known as p94, is a skeletal muscle-specific member of the calpain family that is involved in muscular dystrophy; however, the roles of CAPN3 in muscular atrophy and regeneration are yet to be understood. In the present study, we attempted to explain the effect of CAPN3 in muscle atrophy by evaluating CAPN3 expression in rat gastrocnemius muscle following reversible sciatic nerve injury. After nerve injury, the wet weight ratio and cross sectional area (CSA) of gastrocnemius muscle were decreased gradually from 1–14 days and then recovery from 14–28 days. The active form of CAPN3 (~62 kDa) protein decreased slightly on day 3 and then increased from day 7 to 14 before a decrease from day 14 to 28. The result of linear correlation analysis showed that expression of the active CAPN3 protein level was negatively correlated with muscle wet weight ratio. CAPN3 knockdown by short interfering RNA (siRNA) injection improved muscle recovery on days 7 and 14 after injury as compared to that observed with control siRNA treatment. Depletion of CAPN3 gene expression could promote myoblast differentiation in L6 cells. Based on these findings, we conclude that the expression pattern of the active CAPN3 protein is linked to muscle atrophy and regeneration following denervation: its upregulation during early stages may promote satellite cell renewal by inhibiting differentiation, whereas in later stages, CAPN3 expression may be downregulated to stimulate myogenic differentiation and enhance recovery. These results provide a novel mechanistic insight into the role of CAPN3 protein in muscle regeneration after peripheral nerve injury.
Assessing Covalency in Cerium and Uranium Hexachlorides: A Correlated Wavefunction and Density Functional Theory Study
Authors: Beekmeyer Reece , Kerridge Andrew
Published: November 2015

The electronic structure of a series of uranium and cerium hexachlorides in a variety of oxidation states was evaluated at both the correlated wavefunction and density functional (DFT) levels of theory. Following recent experimental observations of covalency in tetravalent cerium hexachlorides, bonding character was studied using topological and integrated analysis based on the quantum theory of atoms in molecules (QTAIM). This analysis revealed that M–Cl covalency was strongly dependent on oxidation state, with greater covalency found in higher oxidation state complexes. Comparison of M–Cl delocalisation indices revealed a discrepancy between correlated wavefunction and DFT-derived values. Decomposition of these delocalisation indices demonstrated that the origin of this discrepancy lay in ungerade contributions associated with the f-manifold which we suggest is due to self-interaction error inherent to DFT-based methods. By all measures used in this study, extremely similar levels of covalency between complexes of U and Ce in the same oxidation state was found.
Mating Success, Longevity, and Fertility of Diabrotica virgifera virgifera LeConte (Chrysomelidae: Coleoptera) in Relation to Body Size and Cry3Bb1-Resistant and Cry3Bb1-Susceptible Genotypes
Authors: French Bryan , Hammack Leslie , Tallamy Douglas
Published: November 2015

Insect resistance to population control methodologies is a widespread problem. The development of effective resistance management programs is often dependent on detailed knowledge regarding the biology of individual species and changes in that biology associated with resistance evolution. This study examined the reproductive behavior and biology of western corn rootworm beetles of known body size from lines resistant and susceptible to the Cry3Bb1 protein toxin expressed in transgenic Bacillus thuringiensis maize. In crosses between, and within, the resistant and susceptible genotypes, no differences occurred in mating frequency, copulation duration, courtship duration, or fertility; however, females mated with resistant males showed reduced longevity. Body size did not vary with genotype. Larger males and females were not more likely to mate than smaller males and females, but larger females laid more eggs. Moderately strong, positive correlation occurred between the body sizes of successfully mated males and females; however, weak correlation also existed for pairs that did not mate. Our study provided only limited evidence for fitness costs associated with the Cry3Bb1-resistant genotype that might reduce the persistence in populations of the resistant genotype but provided additional evidence for size-based, assortative mating, which could favor the persistence of resistant genotypes affecting body size.
Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System Blockade in Diabetic Nephropathy. Present Evidences
Authors: Lozano-Maneiro Luz , Puente-García Adriana
Published: November 2015

Diabetic Kidney Disease (DKD) is the leading cause of chronic kidney disease in developed countries and its prevalence has increased dramatically in the past few decades. These patients are at an increased risk for premature death, cardiovascular disease, and other severe illnesses that result in frequent hospitalizations and increased health-care utilization. Although much progress has been made in slowing the progression of diabetic nephropathy, renal dysfunction and the development of end-stage renal disease remain major concerns in diabetes. Dysregulation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) results in progressive renal damage. RAAS blockade is the cornerstone of treatment of DKD, with proven efficacy in many arenas. The theoretically-attractive option of combining these medications that target different points in the pathway, potentially offering a more complete RAAS blockade, has also been tested in clinical trials, but long-term outcomes were disappointing. This review examines the “state of play” for RAAS blockade in DKD, dual blockade of various combinations, and a perspective on its benefits and potential risks.
Sound Absorption Characteristics of Aluminum Foams Treated by Plasma Electrolytic Oxidation
Authors: Jin Wei , Liu Jiaan , Wang Zhili , Wang Yonghua , Cao Zheng , Liu Yaohui , Zhu Xianyong
Published: November 2015

Open-celled aluminum foams with different pore sizes were fabricated. A plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) treatment was applied on the aluminum foams to create a layer of ceramic coating. The sound absorption coefficients of the foams were measured by an impedance tube and they were calculated by a transfer function method. The experimental results show that the sound absorption coefficient of the foam increases gradually with the decrease of pore size. Additionally, when the porosity of the foam increases, the sound absorption coefficient also increases. The PEO coating surface is rough and porous, which is beneficial for improvement in sound absorption. After PEO treatment, the maximum sound absorption of the foam is improved to some extent.
The Marine-Derived Kinase Inhibitor Fascaplysin Exerts Anti-Thrombotic Activity
Authors: Ampofo Emmanuel , Später Thomas , Müller Isabelle , Eichler Hermann , Menger Michael , Laschke Matthias
Published: November 2015

Background: The marine-derived kinase inhibitor fascaplysin down-regulates the PI3K pathway in cancer cells. Since this pathway also plays an essential role in platelet signaling, we herein investigated the effect of fascaplysin on thrombosis. Methods: Fascaplysin effects on platelet activation, platelet aggregation and platelet-leukocyte aggregates (PLA) formation were analyzed by flow cytometry. Mouse dorsal skinfold chambers were used to determine in vivo the effect of fascaplysin on photochemically induced thrombus formation and tail-vein bleeding time. Results: Pre-treatment of platelets with fascaplysin reduced the activation of glycoprotein (GP)IIb/IIIa after protease-activated receptor-1-activating peptide (PAR-1-AP), adenosine diphosphate (ADP) and phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA) stimulation, but did not markedly affect the expression of P-selectin. This was associated with a decreased platelet aggregation. Fascaplysin also decreased PLA formation after PMA but not PAR-1-AP and ADP stimulation. This may be explained by an increased expression of CD11b on leukocytes in PAR-1-AP- and ADP-treated whole blood. In the dorsal skinfold chamber model of photochemically induced thrombus formation, fascaplysin-treated mice revealed a significantly extended complete vessel occlusion time when compared to controls. Furthermore, fascaplysin increased the tail-vein bleeding time. Conclusion: Fascaplysin exerts anti-thrombotic activity, which represents a novel mode of action in the pleiotropic activity spectrum of this compound.
Membrane Disintegration Caused by the Steroid Saponin Digitonin Is Related to the Presence of Cholesterol
Authors: Sudji Ikhwan , Subburaj Yamunadevi , Frenkel Nataliya , García-Sáez Ana , Wink Michael
Published: November 2015

In the present investigation we studied the molecular mechanisms of the monodesmosidic saponin digitonin on natural and artificial membranes. We measured the hemolytic activity of digitonin on red blood cells (RBCs). Also different lipid membrane models (large unilamellar vesicles, LUVs, and giant unilamellar vesicles, GUVs) in the presence and absence of cholesterol were employed. The stability and permeability of the different vesicle systems were studied by using calcein release assay, GUVs membrane permeability assay using confocal microscopy (CM) and fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS) and vesicle size measurement by dynamic light scattering (DLS). The results support the essential role of cholesterol in explaining how digitonin can disintegrate biological and artificial membranes. Digitonin induces membrane permeability or causes membrane rupturing only in the presence of cholesterol in an all-or-none mechanism. This effect depends on the concentrations of both digitonin and cholesterol. At low concentrations, digitonin induces membrane permeability while keeping the membrane intact. When digitonin is combined with other drugs, a synergistic potentiation can be observed because it facilitates their uptake.
Glycosylated Metal Phthalocyanines
Authors: Hanack  Michael
Published: November 2015

In the first part; the syntheses of mono-; di-; and tetra-glycosylated phthalonitriles is described; which are the most used starting materials for the preparation of the corresponding glycosylated metal (mostly zinc) phthalocyanines. In the second section; the preparation of symmetric and unsymmetric mono-; tetra-; and octa- glycosylated zinc phthalocyanines are reviewed; in which the sugar is attached to the phthalocyanine macrocycle; either anomerically or via another one of its OH-groups.
Synthesis of Novel β-Keto-Enol Derivatives Tethered Pyrazole, Pyridine and Furan as New Potential Antifungal and Anti-Breast Cancer Agents
Authors: Radi Smaail , Tighadouini Said , Feron Olivier , Riant Olivier , Bouakka Mohammed , Benabbes Redouane , Mabkhot Yahia
Published: November 2015

Recently, a new generation of highly promising inhibitors bearing β-keto-enol functionality has emerged. Reported herein is the ﬁrst synthesis and use of novel designed drugs based on the β-keto-enol group embedded with heterocyclic moieties such as pyrazole, pyridine, and furan, prepared in a one-step procedure by mixed Claisen condensation. All the newly synthesized compounds were characterized by FT-IR, 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, ESI/LC-MS, elemental analysis, and evaluated for their in vitro antiproliferative activity against breast cancer (MDA-MB241) human cell lines and fungal strains (Fusarium oxysporum f.sp albedinis FAO). Three of the synthesized compounds showed potent activity against fungal strains with IC50 values in the range of 0.055–0.092 µM. The results revealed that these compounds showed better IC50 values while compared with positive controls.
New Sulphated Flavonoids from Wissadula periplocifolia (L.) C. Presl (Malvaceae)
Authors: Teles Yanna , Horta Carolina , Agra Maria , Siheri Weam , Boyd Marie , Igoli John , Gray Alexander , De Souza Maria
Published: November 2015

Wissadula periplocifolia (L.) C. Presl (Malvaceae) is commonly used in Brazil to treat bee stings and as an antiseptic. The antioxidant properties of its extracts have been previously demonstrated, thus justifying a phytochemical investigation for its bioactive phenolic constituents. This has yielded five new sulphated flavonoids: 8-O-sulphate isoscutellarein (yannin) (1a); 4′-O-methyl-7-O-sulphate isoscutellarein (beltraonin) (1b); 7-O-sulphate acacetin (wissadulin) (2a); 4′-O-methyl-8-O-sulphate isoscutellarein (caicoine) (2b) and 3′-O-methyl-8-O-sulphate hypolaetin (pedroin) (3b) along with the known flavonoids 7,4′-di-O-methyl-8-O-sulphate isoscutellarein (4), acacetin, apigenin, isoscutellarein, 4´-O-methyl isoscutellarein, 7,4′-di-O-methylisoscutellarein, astragalin and tiliroside. The compounds were isolated by column chromatography and identified by NMR (1H, 13C, HMQC, HMBC and COSY) and LC-HRMS. A cell based assay was carried out to evaluate the preliminary cytotoxic properties of the flavonoids against UVW glioma and PC-3M prostate cancer cells as well as non-tumour cell lines. The obtained results showed that acacetin, tiliroside, a mixture of acacetin + apigenin and the sulphated flavonoids 2a + 2b exhibited inhibitory activity against at least one of the cell lines tested. Among the tested flavonoids acacetin and tiliroside showed lower IC50 values, presenting promising antitumor effects.
Isomerization of Internal Alkynes to Iridium(III) Allene Complexes via C–H Bond Activation: Expanded Substrate Scope, and Progress towards a Catalytic Methodology
Authors: Phadke Neha , Findlater Michael
Published: November 2015

The synthesis of a series of allene complexes (POCOP)Ir(η2-RC=.=CR’) 1b–4b (POCOP = 2,6-bis(di-tert-butylphosphonito)benzene) via isomerization of internal alkynes is reported. We have demonstrated that the application of this methodology is viable for the isomerization of a wide variety of alkyne substrates. Deuterium labeling experiments support our proposed mechanism. The structures of the allene complexes 1b–4b were determined using spectroscopic data analysis. Additionally, the solid-state molecular structure of complex 2b was determined using single crystal X-ray diffraction studies and it confirmed the assignment of an iridium-bound allene isomerization product. The rates of isomerization were measured using NMR techniques over a range of temperatures to allow determination of thermodynamic parameters. Finally, we report a preliminary step towards developing a catalytic methodology; the allene may be liberated from the metal center by exposure of the complex to an atmosphere of carbon monoxide.
Functional Analysis of the Isopentenyl Diphosphate Isomerase of Salvia miltiorrhiza via Color Complementation and RNA Interference
Authors: Zhang Xianan , Guan Hongyu , Dai Zhubo , Guo Juan , Shen Ye , Cui Guanghong , Gao Wei , Huang Luqi
Published: November 2015

Isopentenyl diphosphate isomerase (IPI) catalyzes the isomerization between the common terpene precursor substances isopentenyl diphosphate (IPP) and dimethylallyl diphosphate (DMAPP) during the terpenoid biosynthesis process. In this study, tissue expression analysis revealed that the expression level of the Salvia miltiorrhiza IPI1 gene (SmIPI1) was higher in the leaves than in the roots and stems. Furthermore, color complementation and RNA interference methods were used to verify the function of the SmIPI1 gene from two aspects. A recombinant SmIPI1 plasmid was successfully constructed and transferred into engineered E. coli for validating the function of SmIPI1 through the color difference in comparison to the control group; the observed color difference indicated that SmIPI1 served in promoting the accumulation of lycopene. Transformant hairy root lines with RNA interference of SmIPI1 were successfully constructed mediated by Agrobacterium rhizogenes ACCC 10060. RNA interference hairy roots had a severe phenotype characterized by withering, deformity or even death. The mRNA expression level of SmIPI1 in the RSi3 root line was only 8.4% of that of the wild type. Furthermore the tanshinone content was too low to be detected in the RNA interference lines. These results suggest that SmIPI1 plays a critical role in terpenoid metabolic pathways. Addition of an exogenous SmIPI1 gene promoted metabolic flow toward the biosynthesis of carotenoids in E. coli, and SmIPI1 interference in S. miltiorrhiza hairy roots may cause interruption of the 2-C-methyl-D-erythritol-4-phosphate metabolic pathway.
Auraptene Acts as an Anti-Inflammatory Agent in the Mouse Brain
Authors: Okuyama Satoshi , Morita Mayu , Kaji Miki , Amakura Yoshiaki , Yoshimura Morio , Shimamoto Koji , Ookido Yu , Nakajima Mitsunari , Furukawa Yoshiko
Published: November 2015

The anti-inflammatory activity of auraptene (AUR), a citrus coumarin, in peripheral tissues is well-known, and we previously demonstrated that AUR exerts anti-inflammatory effects in the ischemic brain; the treatment of mice with AUR for eight days immediately after ischemic surgery suppressed demise and neuronal cell death in the hippocampus, possibly through its anti-inflammatory effects in the brain. We suggested that these effects were at least partly mediated by the suppression of inflammatory mediators derived from astrocytes. The present study showed that (1) AUR, as a pretreatment for five days before and another three days after ischemic surgery, suppressed microglial activation, cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 expression in astrocytes, and COX-2 mRNA expression in the hippocampus; (2) AUR suppressed the lipopolysaccharide-induced expression of COX-2 mRNA and the mRNA of pro-inflammatory cytokines in cultured astrocytes; (3) AUR was still detectable in the brain 60 min after its intraperitoneal administration. These results support our previous suggestion that AUR directly exerts anti-inflammatory effects on the brain.
Cytotoxicity, Uptake Behaviors, and Oral Absorption of Food Grade Calcium Carbonate Nanomaterials
Authors: Kim Mi-Kyung , Lee Jeong-A. , Jo Mi-Rae , Kim Min-Kyu , Kim Hyoung-Mi , Oh Jae-Min , Song Nam , Choi Soo-Jin
Published: November 2015

Calcium is the most abundant mineral in human body and essential for the formation and maintenance of bones and teeth as well as diverse cellular functions. Calcium carbonate (CaCO3) is widely used as a dietary supplement; however, oral absorption efficiency of CaCO3 is extremely low, which may be overcome by applying nano-sized materials. In this study, we evaluated the efficacy of food grade nano CaCO3 in comparison with that of bulk- or reagent grade nano CaCO3 in terms of cytotoxicity, cellular uptake, intestinal transport, and oral absorption. Cytotoxicity results demonstrated that nano-sized CaCO3 particles were slightly more toxic than bulk materials in terms of oxidative stress and membrane damage. Cellular uptake behaviors of CaCO3 nanoparticles were different from bulk CaCO3 or Ca2+ ions in human intestinal epithelial cells, showing efficient cellular internalization and elevated intracellular Ca2+ levels. Meanwhile, CaCO3 nanoparticles were efficiently transported by microfold (M) cells in vitro model of human intestinal follicle-associated epithelium, in a similar manner as Ca2+ ions did. Biokinetic study revealed that the biological fate of CaCO3 particles was different from Ca2+ ions; however, in vivo, its oral absorption was not significantly affected by particle size. These findings provide crucial information to understand and predict potential toxicity and oral absorption efficiency of food grade nanoparticles.
Disruptions of Host Immunity and Inflammation by Giardia Duodenalis: Potential Consequences for Co-Infections in the Gastro-Intestinal Tract
Authors: Cotton James , Amat Christina , Buret Andre
Published: November 2015

Giardia duodenalis (syn. G. intestinalis, or G. lamblia) is a leading cause of waterborne diarrheal disease that infects hundreds of millions of people annually. Research on Giardia has greatly expanded within the last few years, and our understanding of the pathophysiology and immunology on this parasite is ever increasing. At peak infection, Giardia trophozoites induce pathophysiological responses that culminate in the development of diarrheal disease. However, human data has suggested that the intestinal mucosa of Giardia-infected individuals is devoid of signs of overt intestinal inflammation, an observation that is reproduced in animal models. Thus, our understanding of host inflammatory responses to the parasite remain incompletely understood and human studies and experimental data have produced conflicting results. It is now also apparent that certain Giardia infections contain mechanisms capable of modulating their host’s immune responses. As the oral route of Giardia infection is shared with many other gastrointestinal (GI) pathogens, co-infections may often occur, especially in places with poor sanitation and/or improper treatment of drinking water. Moreover, Giardia infections may modulate host immune responses and have been found to protect against the development of diarrheal disease in developing countries. The following review summarizes our current understanding of the immunomodulatory mechanisms of Giardia infections and their consequences for the host, and highlights areas for future research. Potential implications of these immunomodulatory effects during GI co-infection are also discussed.
Machine Code and Metaphysics: A Perspective on Software Engineering
Authors: Smith Lindsay , Veneziano Vito , Wernick Paul
Published: November 2015

A major, but too-little-considered problem for Software Engineering (SE) is a lack of consensus concerning Computer Science (CS) and how this relates to developing unpredictable computing technology. We consider some implications for SE of computer systems differing scientific basis, exemplified with the International Standard Organisations Open Systems Interconnection (ISO-OSI) layered architectural model. An architectural view allows comparison of computing technology components facilitating a view of computing as a continuum. For example, at one layer of computer architecture, components written in Turing-complete machine language can be seen as deterministic and consistent with a theoretical paradigm of CS. At another layer, components (applications) closer to the human sphere have been seen as non-deterministic and inconsistent with theoretical CS. We compare unpredictable development of computing technology against the cyclic legacy of technological advance and scientific discovery, and suggest that SE indicates an enabling cycle, discernible in previous scientific revolution(s), is stalled or possibly hidden. The CS consequence of divorcing technological advance from scientific consensus is particularly concerning. For example human/computing events could be seen as unpredictable virtual phenomena that somehow extend the ontology of CS. Our approach challenges practical and philosophical boundaries by investigating if applying scientific method (SM) resolves any SE/Science dichotomy.
Intraoral Temperature Triggered Shape-Memory Effect and Sealing Capability of A Transpolyisoprene-Based Polymer
Authors: Tsukada Gakuji , Kato Ryuzo , Tokuda Masayuki , Nishitani Yoshihiro
Published: November 2015

In dentistry, pure gutta-percha (trans-1,4-polyisoprene (TPI)) is widely used as a main component of root canal filling materials. TPI has an interesting shape memory formed through cross-linking, and this characteristic is expected to be very effective for development of novel dental treatments; in particular, modification of the shape recovery temperature to the intraoral temperature (37 °C) will enhance the applicability of the shape-memory effect of TPI in root canal filling. In this study, trial test specimens consisting of varying proportions of TPI, cis-polyisoprene, zinc oxide, stearic acid, sulfur and dicumyl peroxide were prepared and the temperature dependence of their shape recovery, recovery stress and relaxation modulus were measured. Additionally, their sealing abilities were tested using glass tubing and a bovine incisor. As the ratio of cross-linking agent in the specimens increased, a decrease in recovery temperature and an increase in recovery stress and recovery speed were observed. In addition, the test specimen containing the highest concentration of cross-linking agent showed superior sealing ability under a thermal stimulus of 37 °C in both sealing ability tests.
SEBAL-A: A Remote Sensing ET Algorithm that Accounts for Advection with Limited Data. Part I: Development and Validation
Authors: Mkhwanazi Mcebisi , Chávez José , Andales Allan
Published: November 2015

The Surface Energy Balance Algorithm for Land (SEBAL) is one of the remote sensing (RS) models that are increasingly being used to determine evapotranspiration (ET). SEBAL is a widely used model, mainly due to the fact that it requires minimum weather data, and also no prior knowledge of surface characteristics is needed. However, it has been observed that it underestimates ET under advective conditions due to its disregard of advection as another source of energy available for evaporation. A modified SEBAL model was therefore developed in this study. An advection component, which is absent in the original SEBAL, was introduced such that the energy available for evapotranspiration was a sum of net radiation and advected heat energy. The improved SEBAL model was termed SEBAL-Advection or SEBAL-A. An important aspect of the improved model is the estimation of advected energy using minimal weather data. While other RS models would require hourly weather data to be able to account for advection (e.g., METRIC), SEBAL-A only requires daily averages of limited weather data, making it appropriate even in areas where weather data at short time steps may not be available. In this study, firstly, the original SEBAL model was evaluated under advective and non-advective conditions near Rocky Ford in southeastern Colorado, a semi-arid area where afternoon advection is common occurrence. The SEBAL model was found to incur large errors when there was advection (which was indicated by higher wind speed and warm and dry air). SEBAL-A was then developed and validated in the same area under standard surface conditions, which were described as healthy alfalfa with height of 40–60 cm, without water-stress. ET values estimated using the original and modified SEBAL were compared to large weighing lysimeter-measured ET values. When the SEBAL ET was compared to SEBAL-A ET values, the latter showed improved performance, with the ET Mean Bias Error (MBE) reduced from −17.1% for original SEBAL to 2.2% for SEBAL-A and the Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) reduced from 25.1% to 10.9%, respectively. It was therefore concluded that the developed SEBAL-A model was capable of accounting for advection and therefore suitable for arid and semi-arid regions where advection is common.
The Mine Locomotive Wireless Network Strategy Based on Successive Interference Cancellation
Authors: Wu Liaoyuan , Han Jianghong , Wei Xing , Shi Lei , Ding Xu
Published: November 2015

We consider a wireless network strategy based on successive interference cancellation (SIC) for mine locomotives. We firstly build the original mathematical model for the strategy which is a non-convex model. Then, we examine this model intensively, and figure out that there are certain regulations embedded in it. Based on these findings, we are able to reformulate the model into a new form and design a simple algorithm which can assign each locomotive with a proper transmitting scheme during the whole schedule procedure. Simulation results show that the outcomes obtained through this algorithm are improved by around 50% compared with those that do not apply the SIC technique.
Prototyping a GNSS-Based Passive Radar for UAVs: An Instrument to Classify the Water Content Feature of Lands
Authors: Troglia Gamba Micaela , Marucco Gianluca , Pini Marco , Ugazio Sabrina , Falletti Emanuela , Lo Presti Letizia
Published: November 2015

Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) broadcast signals for positioning and navigation, which can be also employed for remote sensing applications. Indeed, the satellites of any GNSS can be seen as synchronized sources of electromagnetic radiation, and specific processing of the signals reflected back from the ground can be used to estimate the geophysical properties of the Earth’s surface. Several experiments have successfully demonstrated GNSS-reflectometry (GNSS-R), whereas new applications are continuously emerging and are presently under development, either from static or dynamic platforms. GNSS-R can be implemented at a low cost, primarily if small devices are mounted on-board unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), which today can be equipped with several types of sensors for environmental monitoring. So far, many instruments for GNSS-R have followed the GNSS bistatic radar architecture and consisted of custom GNSS receivers, often requiring a personal computer and bulky systems to store large amounts of data. This paper presents the development of a GNSS-based sensor for UAVs and small manned aircraft, used to classify lands according to their soil water content. The paper provides details on the design of the major hardware and software components, as well as the description of the results obtained through field tests.
Maximizing Information Diffusion in the Cyber-physical Integrated Network
Authors: Lu Hongliang , Lv Shaohe , Jiao Xianlong , Wang Xiaodong , Liu Juan
Published: November 2015

Nowadays, our living environment has been embedded with smart objects, such as smart sensors, smart watches and smart phones. They make cyberspace and physical space integrated by their abundant abilities of sensing, communication and computation, forming a cyber-physical integrated network. In order to maximize information diffusion in such a network, a group of objects are selected as the forwarding points. To optimize the selection, a minimum connected dominating set (CDS) strategy is adopted. However, existing approaches focus on minimizing the size of the CDS, neglecting an important factor: the weight of links. In this paper, we propose a distributed maximizing the probability of information diffusion (DMPID) algorithm in the cyber-physical integrated network. Unlike previous approaches that only consider the size of CDS selection, DMPID also considers the information spread probability that depends on the weight of links. To weaken the effects of excessively-weighted links, we also present an optimization strategy that can properly balance the two factors. The results of extensive simulation show that DMPID can nearly double the information diffusion probability, while keeping a reasonable size of selection with low overhead in different distributed networks.
A Computational Method based on Radio Frequency Technologies for the Analysis of Accessibility of Disabled People in Sustainable Cities
Authors: Gilart-Iglesias Virgilio , Mora Higinio , Pérez-delHoyo Raquel , García-Mayor Clara
Published: November 2015

The sustainability strategy in urban spaces arises from reflecting on how to achieve a more habitable city and is materialized in a series of sustainable transformations aimed at humanizing different environments so that they can be used and enjoyed by everyone without exception and regardless of their ability. Modern communication technologies allow new opportunities to analyze efficiency in the use of urban spaces from several points of view: adequacy of facilities, usability, and social integration capabilities. The research presented in this paper proposes a method to perform an analysis of movement accessibility in sustainable cities based on radio frequency technologies and the ubiquitous computing possibilities of the new Internet of Things paradigm. The proposal can be deployed in both indoor and outdoor environments to check specific locations of a city. Finally, a case study in a controlled context has been simulated to validate the proposal as a pre-deployment step in urban environments.
The Mutation Glu151Asp in the B-Component of the Bacillus cereus Non-Hemolytic Enterotoxin (Nhe) Leads to a Diverging Reactivity in Antibody-Based Detection Systems
Authors: Didier Andrea , Jeßberger Nadja , Krey Victoria , Dietrich Richard , Scherer Siegfried , Märtlbauer Erwin
Published: November 2015

The ability of Bacillus cereus to cause foodborne toxicoinfections leads to increasing concerns regarding consumer protection. For the diarrhea-associated enterotoxins, the assessment of the non-hemolytic enterotoxin B (NheB) titer determined by a sandwich enzyme immunoassay (EIA) correlates best with in vitro cytotoxicity. In general, the regulation of enterotoxin expression of B. cereus is a coordinately-regulated process influenced by environmental, and probably also by host factors. As long as these factors are not completely understood, the currently-applied diagnostic procedures are based on indirect approaches to assess the potential virulence of an isolate. To date, sandwich EIA results serve as a surrogate marker to categorize isolates as either potentially low or highly toxic. Here, we report on a single amino acid exchange in the NheB sequence leading to an underestimation of the cytotoxic potential in a limited number of strains. During the screening of a large panel of B. cereus isolates, six showed uncommon features with low sandwich EIA titers despite high cytotoxicity. Sequence analysis revealed the point-mutation Glu151Asp in the potential binding region of the capture antibody. Application of this antibody also results in low titers in an indirect EIA format and shows variable detection intensities in Western-immunoblots. A commercially-available assay based on a lateral flow device detects all strains correctly as NheB producers in a qualitative manner. In conclusion, isolates showing low NheB titers should additionally be assayed in an indirect EIA or for their in vitro cytotoxicity to ensure a correct classification as either low or highly toxic.
Live-Attenuated Bacterial Vectors: Tools for Vaccine and Therapeutic Agent Delivery
Authors: Lin Ivan , Van Thi , Smooker Peter
Published: November 2015

Genetically attenuated microorganisms, including pathogenic and commensal bacteria, can be engineered to carry and deliver heterologous antigens to elicit host immunity against both the vector as well as the pathogen from which the donor gene is derived. These live attenuated bacterial vectors have been given much attention due to their capacity to induce a broad range of immune responses including localized mucosal, as well as systemic humoral and/or cell-mediated immunity. In addition, the unique tumor-homing characteristics of these bacterial vectors has also been exploited for alternative anti-tumor vaccines and therapies. In such approach, tumor-associated antigen, immunostimulatory molecules, anti-tumor drugs, or nucleotides (DNA or RNA) are delivered. Different potential vectors are appropriate for specific applications, depending on their pathogenic routes. In this review, we survey and summarize the main features of the different types of live bacterial vectors and discussed the clinical applications in the field of vaccinology. In addition, different approaches for using live attenuated bacterial vectors for anti-cancer therapy is discussed, and some promising pre-clinical and clinical studies in this field are outlined.
Handling and storage of human body fluids for analysis of extracellular vesicles
Authors: Yuana Yuana , Böing Anita N. , Grootemaat Anita E. , van der Pol Edwin , Hau Chi M. , Cizmar Petr , Buhr Egbert , Sturk Auguste , Nieuwland Rienk
Published: November 2015

Because procedures of handling and storage of body fluids affect numbers and composition of extracellular vesicles (EVs), standardization is important to ensure reliable and comparable measurements of EVs in a clinical environment. We aimed to develop standard protocols for handling and storage of human body fluids for EV analysis. Conditions such as centrifugation, single freeze–thaw cycle, effect of time delay between blood collection and plasma preparation and storage were investigated. Plasma is the most commonly studied body fluid in EV research. We mainly focused on EVs originating from platelets and erythrocytes and investigated the behaviour of these 2 types of EVs independently as well as in plasma samples of healthy subjects. EVs in urine and saliva were also studied for comparison. All samples were analysed simultaneously before and after freeze–thawing by resistive pulse sensing, nanoparticle tracking analysis, conventional flow cytometry (FCM) and transmission (scanning) electron microscopy. Our main finding is that the effect of centrifugation markedly depends on the cellular origin of EVs. Whereas erythrocyte EVs remain present as single EVs after centrifugation, platelet EVs form aggregates, which affect their measured concentration in plasma. Single erythrocyte and platelet EVs are present mainly in the range of 100–200 nm, far below the lower limit of what can be measured by conventional FCM. Furthermore, the effects of single freeze–thaw cycle, time delay between blood collection and plasma preparation up to 1 hour and storage up to 1 year are insignificant (p>0.05) on the measured concentration and diameter of EVs from erythrocyte and platelet concentrates and EVs in plasma, urine and saliva. In conclusion, in standard protocols for EV studies, centrifugation to isolate EVs from collected body fluids should be avoided. Freezing and storage of collected body fluids, albeit their insignificant effects, should be performed identically for comparative EV studies and to create reliable biorepositories.
Thermoelectricity in molecular junctions with harmonic and anharmonic modes
Authors: Agarwalla Bijay Kumar , Jiang Jian-Hua , Segal Dvira
Published: November 2015

We study charge and energy transfer in two-site molecular electronic junctions in which electron transport is assisted by a vibrational mode. To understand the role of mode harmonicity/anharmonicity in transport behavior, we consider two limiting situations: (i) the mode is assumed harmonic, (ii) we truncate the mode spectrum to include only two levels, to represent an anharmonic mode. Based on the cumulant generating functions of the models, we analyze the linear-response and nonlinear performance of these junctions and demonstrate that while the electrical and thermal conductances are sensitive to whether the mode is harmonic/anharmonic, the Seebeck coefficient, the thermoelectric figure-of-merit, and the thermoelectric efficiency beyond linear response, conceal this information.
Space in the 20th Century Theatre: 1. Theatre and Architecture
Authors: Dinulović Radivoje
Published: November 2015

AIM: The aim of this study is to present the state of the theatre and architecture as a part of Space in the 20th Century Theatre.MATERIAL AND METHODS: Three aspects of the architecture were described: theatre in the typology of architectural objects, theatre as a programme in architecture, and theatre as an art form.RESULTS: Theatre has never been, nor could it ever become a subject independent of architecture. Correspondingly, the stage space is not, and should not be a separate issue, the subject of "consultants", but a crucial and equally worthy part of the complex, rich and consistent structure of the theatre house - as a whole. The theatre house in its entirety becomes a public facility and begins to develop its central function in the city. From this point of view, it is not only that the theatre has not lost its traditionally dominant urban position, on the contrary, that position is constantly evolving.CONCLUSIONS: Theatre, based on interpersonal communications in real space and real time, provoking our experiences on the borderline between reality and illusion, and constantly questioning those boundaries, can possibly discover the "otherness of the real world", that is to "change the nature of the individual, in order to change the essence of the world".
Le moment ou jamais : le sujet de l’humour
Authors: Assoun Paul-Laurent
Published: November 2015

L’humour, la plus sociale des formations inconscientes, est d’abord événement. Il se met en acte quand, exposé au pire à l’occasion, le sujet rétorque, du tac au tac, avec les seules ressources de son « parlêtre », à l’imminence de sa disparition. L’exemple allégué par Freud au début de son traité inconscient de l’humour, celui du condamné en route vers la potence, un lundi, s’exclamant « eh bien, voilà une semaine qui commence bien ! » s’avère paradigmatique de cet humour noir… « de situation ». Il pourrait figurer le pied de nez adressé au « Maître absolu » qu’est la Mort, et, au-delà, posture envers la castration, par la magie verbale. Le masochiste, « maître humoriste », viendrait en miroir organiser sa comédie sur les tréteaux de la castration, « la plaisanterie pas drôle du tout ».
Polyphonies pour le travail du rire
Authors: Baudin Marianne
Published: November 2015

L’article tente une approche métapsychologique et musicale à la fois de l’humour et du rire. Une série d’œuvres et de situations musicales – allant de l’opéra à la variété, en passant par le jazz – illustre l’analyse de ce que l’auteure désigne comme « le travail du rire » : une part essentielle de la vie psychique qui, grâce au jeu ouvert entre les instances du Moi, du Surmoi et les idéaux, soutient et régénère les forces créatrices du sujet. La musique serait une alliée précieuse de l’accomplissement de ce « travail ».
Humour et Sublimation
Authors: de Mijolla-Mellor Sophie
Published: November 2015

La possibilité, grâce à un remaniement topique, de faire d’un traumatisme qui aurait pu être passivement subi l’occasion de gagner du plaisir est ce qui définit, l’essence même du travail sublimatoire. Le travail sublimatoire, en empruntant les mêmes mécanismes que l’humour, parvient non seulement à s’inscrire dans une durée mais à produire un objet que le sujet peut offrir comme le représentant de lui-même et vis à vis duquel il entretient une relation privilégiée, toutes ses autres relations étant le cas échéant tenues de passer par la médiation d’un partage avec cet objet.
Entre Witz et humour…
Authors: Wiener Simone
Published: November 2015

Qu’en est-il de l’humour, du trait d’esprit, de la bévue dans une psychanalyse ? Le sérieux de la démarche analytique autorise t-il le rire ? Freud avec son ouvrage sur le Witz ouvre la voie à entendre une anecdote, un trait d’esprit ainsi qu’à raconter des histoires drôles, d’une manière nouvelle. Le champ de la polysémie et de la pluralité poétique du langage est ouvert à qui sait l’entendre. Les blagues ou traits d’humour ont souvent pour fonction de diminuer l’angoisse et de mettre à jour une problématique inconsciente. J’essayerai de montrer que l’humour relève du style de l’analyste alors que le trait d’esprit est plus directement lié à une formation de l’inconscient.
Le sérieux de l’humour
Authors: Ferry Olivier
Published: November 2015

Cet article vise à penser l’humour comme ouverture sur une dimension inaperçue d’une réalité et invite à définir le type de fonctionnement mental qu’il met en jeu. Il s’agit d’un fonctionnement marginalisé dans une éducation qui privilégie une rationalité limitée aux opérations logiques. Cette marginalisation permet cependant la surprise et la décharge…
La médiation parentale, élément clé de la construction par l’enfant du sens de la pratique de l’argent de poche
Authors: Dias Marcio , de La Ville Valérie-Inès
Published: November 2015

De nos jours, les enfants disposent de sommes relativement importantes d’argent de poche, argument souvent utilisé par les marques pour justifier le fait qu’elles s’adressent directement à eux. Afin de comprendre comment la pratique de l’argent de poche contribue à rendre les enfants autonomes dans leurs activités de consommation, nous avons mené une étude ethnographique pendant six mois au sein de 12 familles poitevines (France) d’élèves de classes de CM2 et de 6 ème , en observant leurs interactions auprès de plus de 50 personnes. Cet article rend compte des dynamiques relationnelles sur lesquelles se construisent à la fois la signification de l’argent de poche au sein de la famille et ses implications normatives qui cadrent le niveau de participation de l’enfant à certaines activités de consommation.
Manger à la maison sous le poids des normes. Les négociations familiales autour de l’alimentation
Authors: Maurice Aurélie
Published: November 2015

Cet article se propose d’explorer la configuration des logiques familiales autour des enjeux alimentaires. Les repas quotidiens sont le théâtre de négociations, d’un contrôle par les parents variable, plus ou moins intériorisé par les enfants, ou de stratégies et de tactiques utilisées par chacun en réponse aux normes nutritionnelles en vigueur et aux normes familiales. La méthodologie utilisée est ethnographique : 70 entretiens ont été menés dans les familles des élèves enquêtés après avoir passé un an à les observer au collège. Les enfants agissent différemment en fonction de leur milieu social d’origine, de leur rapport au corps mais aussi de leur groupe de pairs. Concernant le rapport aux normes nutritionnelles, nous repérons des pratiques davantage curatives en milieu populaire et davantage préventives chez les familles de milieux plus favorisés.
Les représentations de l’adoption dans les livres pour enfants
Authors: Sellenet Catherine
Published: November 2015

Chaque année de nombreux enfants venus de pays étrangers sont adoptés en France (1343 enfants en 2013), alors que d’autres sont nés sur le territoire (697 enfants) selon le bilan annuel du Ministère des Affaires étrangères. On peut concevoir que ces enfants aient besoin de livres qui leur racontent une histoire similaire, d’où leur prolifération sur cette thématique. Pour autant, rares sont les études scientifiques consacrées aux représentations de l’adoption véhiculées dans ces livres. Dans un paysage de mondialisation de l’adoption, l’objectif de cet article est de décoder les messages explicites et implicites tenus sur l’adoption et proposés par les adultes aux enfants. L’étude analyse 17 albums et livres extraits d’un corpus de 75 ouvrages proposés le plus souvent par les cellules d’adoption des départements ou les associations d’adoption, pour aider les adoptants et leurs enfants.
Osteosarcoma of the Foot
Authors: Sanchez Edward , Martin-Carreras Teresa , Bornstein Gerald , Wasyliw Christopher W. , Scherer Kurt F. , Bancroft Laura W.
Published: November 2015

A 40-year-old man presented with a large and painful right foot mass. The patient reported a history of a recurrent right foot mass treated elsewhere with 3 prior surgical excisions.
Three-Dimensional Printing in Orthopedic Surgery
Authors: Eltorai Adam E. M. , Nguyen Eric , Daniels Alan H.
Published: November 2015

Three-dimensional (3D) printing is emerging as a clinically promising technology for rapid prototyping of surgically implantable products. With this commercially available technology, computed tomography or magnetic resonance images can be used to create graspable objects from 3D reconstructed images. Models can enhance patients' understanding of their pathology and surgeon preoperative planning. Customized implants and casts can be made to match an individual's anatomy. This review outlines 3D printing, its current applications in orthopedics, and promising future directions. [
Orthopedics.
2015; 38(11):684–687.]