bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Medium-Term Probabilistic Forecasting of Extremely Low Prices in Electricity Markets: Application to the Spanish Case
Authors: Bello Antonio , Reneses Javier , Muñoz Antonio
Published: March 2016

One of the most relevant challenges that have arisen in electricity markets during the last few years is the emergence of extremely low prices. Trying to predict these events is crucial for market agents in a competitive environment. This paper proposes a novel methodology to simultaneously accomplish punctual and probabilistic hourly predictions about the appearance of extremely low electricity prices in a medium-term scope. The proposed approach for making real ex ante forecasts consists of a nested compounding of different forecasting techniques, which incorporate Monte Carlo simulation, combined with spatial interpolation techniques. The procedure is based on the statistical identification of the process key drivers. Logistic regression for rare events, decision trees, multilayer perceptrons and a hybrid approach, which combines a market equilibrium model with logistic regression, are used. Moreover, this paper assesses whether periodic models in which parameters switch according to the day of the week can be even more accurate. The proposed techniques are compared to a Markov regime switching model and several naive methods. The proposed methodology empirically demonstrates its effectiveness by achieving promising results on a real case study based on the Spanish electricity market. This approach can provide valuable information for market agents when they face decision making and risk-management processes. Our findings support the additional benefit of using a hybrid approach for deriving more accurate predictions.
Comparing the Bio-Hydrogen Production Potential of Pretreated Rice Straw Co-Digested with Seeded Sludge Using an Anaerobic Bioreactor under Mesophilic Thermophilic Conditions
Authors: Sattar Asma , Arslan Chaudhry , Ji Changying , Sattar Sumiyya , Ali Mari Irshad , Rashid Haroon , Ilyas Fariha
Published: March 2016

Three common pretreatments (mechanical, steam explosion and chemical) used to enhance the biodegradability of rice straw were compared on the basis of bio-hydrogen production potential while co-digesting rice straw with sludge under mesophilic (37 °C) and thermophilic (55 °C) temperatures. The results showed that the solid state NaOH pretreatment returned the highest experimental reduction of LCH (lignin, cellulose and hemi-cellulose) content and bio-hydrogen production from rice straw. The increase in incubation temperature from 37 °C to 55 °C increased the bio-hydrogen yield, and the highest experimental yield of 60.6 mL/g VSremoved was obtained under chemical pretreatment at 55 °C. The time required for maximum bio-hydrogen production was found on the basis of kinetic parameters as 36 h–47 h of incubation, which can be used as a hydraulic retention time for continuous bio-hydrogen production from rice straw. The optimum pH range of bio-hydrogen production was observed to be 6.7 ± 0.1–5.8 ± 0.1 and 7.1 ± 0.1–5.8 ± 0.1 under mesophilic and thermophilic conditions, respectively. The increase in temperature was found useful for controlling the volatile fatty acids (VFA) under mechanical and steam explosion pretreatments. The comparison of pretreatment methods under the same set of experimental conditions in the present study provided a baseline for future research in order to select an appropriate pretreatment method.
Measuring the Dynamic Characteristics of a Low Specific Speed Pump—Turbine Model
Authors: Walseth Eve , Nielsen Torbjørn , Svingen Bjørnar
Published: March 2016

This paper presents results from an experiment performed to obtain the dynamic characteristics of a reversible pump-turbine model. The characteristics were measured in an open loop system where the turbine initially was run on low rotational speed before the generator was disconnected allowing the turbine to go towards runaway. The measurements show that the turbine experience damped oscillations in pressure, speed and flow rate around runaway corresponding with presented stability criterion in published literature. Results from the experiment is reproduced by means of transient simulations. A one dimensional analytical turbine model for representation of the pump-turbine is used in the calculations. The simulations show that it is possible to reproduce the physics in the measurement by using a simple analytical model for the pump-turbine as long as the inertia of the water masses in the turbine are modeled correctly.
Solar Radiation Forecasting, Accounting for Daily Variability
Authors: Langella Roberto , Proto Daniela , Testa Alfredo
Published: March 2016

Radiation forecast accounting for daily and instantaneous variability was pursued by means of a new bi-parametric statistical model that builds on a model previously proposed by the same authors. The statistical model is developed with direct reference to the Liu-Jordan clear sky theoretical expression but is not bound by a specific clear sky model; it accounts separately for the mean daily variability and for the variation of solar irradiance during the day by means of two corrective parameters. This new proposal allows for a better understanding of the physical phenomena and improves the effectiveness of statistical characterization and subsequent simulation of the introduced parameters to generate a synthetic solar irradiance time series. Furthermore, the analysis of the experimental distributions of the two parameters’ data was developed, obtaining opportune fittings by means of parametric analytical distributions or mixtures of more than one distribution. Finally, the model was further improved toward the inclusion of weather prediction information in the solar irradiance forecasting stage, from the perspective of overcoming the limitations of purely statistical approaches and implementing a new tool in the frame of solar irradiance prediction accounting for weather predictions over different time horizons.
Realistic Scheduling Mechanism for Smart Homes
Authors: Mahmood Danish , Javaid Nadeem , Alrajeh Nabil , Khan Zahoor , Qasim Umar , Ahmed Imran , Ilahi Manzoor
Published: March 2016

In this work, we propose a Realistic Scheduling Mechanism (RSM) to reduce user frustration and enhance appliance utility by classifying appliances with respective constraints and their time of use effectively. Algorithms are proposed regarding functioning of home appliances. A 24 hour time slot is divided into four logical sub-time slots, each composed of 360 min or 6 h. In these sub-time slots, only desired appliances (with respect to appliance classification) are scheduled to raise appliance utility, restricting power consumption by a dynamically modelled power usage limiter that does not only take the electricity consumer into account but also the electricity supplier. Once appliance, time and power usage limiter modelling is done, we use a nature-inspired heuristic algorithm, Binary Particle Swarm Optimization (BPSO), optimally to form schedules with given constraints representing each sub-time slot. These schedules tend to achieve an equilibrium amongst appliance utility and cost effectiveness. For validation of the proposed RSM, we provide a comparative analysis amongst unscheduled electrical load usage, scheduled directly by BPSO and RSM, reflecting user comfort, which is based upon cost effectiveness and appliance utility.
Effect of Organic Layer Thickness on Black Spruce Aging Mistakes in Canadian Boreal Forests
Authors: Laamrani Ahmed , DesRochers Annie , Blackburn Line
Published: March 2016

Boreal black spruce (Picea mariana) forests are prone to developing thick organic layers (paludification). Black spruce is adapted to this environment by the continuous development of adventitious roots, masking the root collar and making it difficult to age trees. Ring counts above the root collar underestimate age of trees, but the magnitude of age underestimation of trees in relation to organic layer thickness (OLT) is unknown. This age underestimation is required to produce appropriate age-correction tools to be used in land resource management. The goal of this study was to assess aging errors that are done with standard ring counts of trees growing in sites with different degrees of paludification (OLT; 0–25 cm, 26–65 cm, >65 cm). Age of 81 trees sampled at three geographical locations was determined by ring counts at ground level and at 1 m height, and real age of trees was determined by cross-dating growth rings down to the root collar (root/shoot interface). Ring counts at 1 m height underestimated age of trees by a mean of 22 years (range 13–49) and 52 years (range 14–112) in null to low vs. moderately to highly paludified stands, respectively. The percentage of aging-error explained by our linear model was relatively high (R2adj = 0.71) and showed that OLT class and age at 0-m could be used to predict total aging-error while neither DBH nor geographic location could. The resulting model has important implications for forest management to accurately estimate productivity of these forests.
Geospatial Estimation of above Ground Forest Biomass in the Sierra Madre Occidental in the State of Durango, Mexico
Authors: López-Serrano Pablito , López Sánchez Carlos , Solís-Moreno Raúl , Corral-Rivas José
Published: March 2016

Combined use of new geospatial techniques and non-parametric multivariate statistical methods enables monitoring and quantification of the biomass of large areas of forest ecosystems with acceptable reliability. The main objective of the present study was to estimate the aboveground forest biomass (AGB) in the Sierra Madre Occidental (SMO) in the state of Durango, Mexico, using the M5 model tree (M5P) technique and the analysis of medium-resolution satellite-based multi-spectral data, and field data collected from a network of 201 permanent forest growth and soil research sites (SPIFyS). Research plots were installed by systematic sampling throughout the study area in 2011. The digital levels of the images were converted to apparent reflectance (ToA) and surface reflectance (SR). The M5P technique that constructs tree-based piecewise linear models was used. The fitted model with SR and tree abundance by species group as predictive variables (ASG) explained 73% of the observed AGB variance (the root mean squared error (RMSE) = 39.40 Mg·ha−1). The variables that best discriminated the AGB, in order of decreasing importance, were the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), tree abundance of other broadleaves species (OB), Band 4 of Landsat 5 TM (Thematic Mapper) satellite and tree abundance of pines (Pinus). The results demonstrate the potential usefulness of the M5P method for estimating AGB based in the surface reflectance values (SR).
Unmatched Case-Control Study on Late Presentation of HIV Infection in Santiago, Cape Verde (2004–2011)
Authors: Moreira António , Fronteira Inês , Augusto Gonçalo , Martins Maria
Published: March 2016

Access to free antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Sub-Saharan Africa has been steadily increasing over the past decade. However, the success of large-scale ART programmes depends on timely diagnosis and early initiation of HIV care. This study characterizes late presenters to HIV care in Santiago (Cape Verde) between 2004 and 2011, and identifies factors associated with late presentation for care. We defined late presentation as persons presenting to HIV care with a CD4 count below 350 cells/mm3. An unmatched case-control study was conducted using socio-demographic and behavioural data of 368 individuals (191 cases and 177 controls) collected through an interviewer-administered questionnaire, comparing HIV patients late and early presented to care. Logistic regression was performed to estimate odds ratio and 95% confidence intervals. Results show that 51.9% were late presenters for HIV. No differences were found in gender distribution, marital status, or access to health services between cases and controls. Participants who undertook an HIV test by doctor indication were more likely to present late compared with those who tested for HIV by their own initiative. Also, individuals taking less time to initiate ART are more likely to present late. This study highlights the need to better understand reasons for late presentation to HIV care in Cape Verde. People in older age groups should be targeted in future approaches focused on late presenters to HIV care.
A Review on the Respiratory System Toxicity of Carbon Nanoparticles
Authors: Pacurari Maricica , Lowe Kristine , Tchounwou Paul , Kafoury Ramzi
Published: March 2016

The respiratory system represents the main gateway for nanoparticles’ entry into the human body. Although there is a myriad of engineered nanoparticles, carbon nanoparticles/nanotubes (CNPs/CNTs) have received much attention mainly due to their light weight, very high surface area, durability, and their diverse applications. Since their discovery and manufacture over two decades ago, much has been learned about nanoparticles’ interactions with diverse biological system models. In particular, the respiratory system has been of great interest because various natural and man-made fibrous particles are known to be responsible for chronic and debilitating lung diseases. In this review, we present up-to-date the literature regarding the effects of CNTs or carbon nanofibers (CNFs) on the human respiratory system with respect to respiratory toxicity pathways and associated pathologies. This article is intended to emphasize the potentially dangerous effects to the human respiratory system if inadequate measures are used in the manufacture, handling, and preparation and applications of CNP or CNP-based products.
Mitochondrial Molecular Pathophysiology of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Proteomics Approach
Authors: Nuño-Lámbarri Natalia , Barbero-Becerra Varenka , Uribe Misael , Chávez-Tapia Norberto
Published: March 2016

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a chronic liver condition that can progress to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, cirrhosis and cancer. It is considered an emerging health problem due to malnourishment or a high-fat diet (HFD) intake, which is observed worldwide. It is well known that the hepatocytes’ apoptosis phenomenon is one of the most important features of NAFLD. Thus, this review focuses on revealing, through a proteomics approach, the complex network of protein interactions that promote fibrosis, liver cell stress, and apoptosis. According to different types of in vitro and murine models, it has been found that oxidative/nitrative protein stress leads to mitochondrial dysfunction, which plays a major role in stimulating NAFLD damage. Human studies have revealed the importance of novel biomarkers, such as retinol-binding protein 4, lumican, transgelin 2 and hemoglobin, which have a significant role in the disease. The post-genome era has brought proteomics technology, which allows the determination of molecular pathogenesis in NAFLD. This has led to the search for biomarkers which improve early diagnosis and optimal treatment and which may effectively prevent fatal consequences such as cirrhosis or cancer.
Development and Characterization of Novel Microsatellite Markers for the Peach Fruit Moth Carposina sasakii (Lepidoptera: Carposinidae) Using Next-Generation Sequencing
Authors: Wang You-Zhu , Cao Li-Jun , Zhu Jia-Ying , Wei Shu-Jun
Published: March 2016

The peach fruit moth Carposina sasakii is an economically important pest on dozens of fruits from Rosaceae and Rhamnaceae in Northeast Asia. We developed novel microsatellite markers for C. sasakii from randomly sequenced regions of the genome using next-generation sequencing. In total, 95,153 microsatellite markers were isolated from 4.70 GB genomic sequences. Thirty-five polymorphic markers were developed by assessing in 63 individuals from two geographical populations. The allele numbers ranged from 2 to 9 with an average value of 4.60 per locus, while the polymorphism information content ranged from 0.075 to 0.696 with an average value of 0.407. Furthermore, the observed and expected heterozygosity varied from 0.000 to 0.677 and 0.062 to 0.771, respectively. The microsatellites developed provide abundant molecular markers for investigating genetic structure, genetic diversity, and existence of host-plant associated biotypes of C. sasakii.
De novo Transcriptome Generation and Annotation for Two Korean Endemic Land Snails, Aegista chejuensis and Aegista quelpartensis, Using Illumina Paired-End Sequencing Technology
Authors: Kang Se , Patnaik Bharat , Hwang Hee-Ju , Park So , Wang Tae , Park Eun , Chung Jong , Song Dae , Patnaik Hongray , Lee Jae , Kim Changmu , Kim Soonok , Park Hong , Lee Jun , Han Yeon , Lee Yong
Published: March 2016

Aegista chejuensis and Aegista quelpartensis (Family-Bradybaenidae) are endemic to Korea, and are considered vulnerable due to declines in their population. The limited genetic resources for these species restricts the ability to prioritize conservation efforts. We sequenced the transcriptomes of these species using Illumina paired-end technology. Approximately 257 and 240 million reads were obtained and assembled into 198,531 and 230,497 unigenes for A. chejuensis and A. quelpartensis, respectively. The average and N50 unigene lengths were 735.4 and 1073 bp, respectively, for A. chejuensis, and 705.6 and 1001 bp, respectively, for A. quelpartensis. In total, 68,484 (34.5%) and 77,745 (33.73%) unigenes for A. chejuensis and A. quelpartensis, respectively, were annotated to databases. Gene Ontology terms were assigned to 23,778 (11.98%) and 26,396 (11.45) unigenes, for A. chejuensis and A. quelpartensis, respectively, while 5050 and 5838 unigenes were mapped to 117 and 124 pathways in the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes database. In addition, we identified and annotated 9542 and 10,395 putative simple sequence repeats (SSRs) in unigenes from A. chejuensis and A. quelpartensis, respectively. We designed a list of PCR primers flanking the putative SSR regions. These microsatellites may be utilized for future phylogenetics and conservation initiatives.
Molecular Neurobiology and Promising New Treatment in Depression
Authors: Jeon Sang , Kim Yong-Ku
Published: March 2016

The limited effects of currently available antidepressants are becoming an urgent issue in depression research. It takes a long time to determine treatment effects, and the overall remission rate is low. Although we expect the development of non-monoamine antidepressants in the near future, efforts in this regard over the past several decades have not yet been compensated. Thus, researchers and clinicians should clarify the neurobiological mechanisms of integrated modulators that regulate changes in genes, cells, the brain, and behaviors associated with depression. In this study, we review molecular neurobiological theories and new treatments for depression. Beyond neuroanatomy and monoamine theory, we discuss cells and molecules, neural plasticity, neurotrophisms, endocrine mechanisms, immunological mechanisms, genetics, circadian rhythms, and metabolic regulation in depression. In addition, we introduce the possibility of new antidepressant drug development using protein translation signaling (mTOR) pathways.
Telomeres, NAFLD and Chronic Liver Disease
Authors: Donati Benedetta , Valenti Luca
Published: March 2016

Telomeres consist of repeat DNA sequences located at the terminal portion of chromosomes that shorten during mitosis, protecting the tips of chromosomes. During chronic degenerative conditions associated with high cell replication rate, progressive telomere attrition is accentuated, favoring senescence and genomic instability. Several lines of evidence suggest that this process is involved in liver disease progression: (a) telomere shortening and alterations in the expression of proteins protecting the telomere are associated with cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma; (b) advanced liver damage is a feature of a spectrum of genetic diseases impairing telomere function, and inactivating germline mutations in the telomerase complex (including human Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase (hTERT) and human Telomerase RNA Component (hTERC)) are enriched in cirrhotic patients independently of the etiology; and (c) experimental models suggest that telomerase protects from liver fibrosis progression. Conversely, reactivation of telomerase occurs during hepatocarcinogenesis, allowing the immortalization of the neoplastic clone. The role of telomere attrition may be particularly relevant in the progression of nonalcoholic fatty liver, an emerging cause of advanced liver disease. Modulation of telomerase or shelterins may be exploited to prevent liver disease progression, and to define specific treatments for different stages of liver disease.
Overexpression of G0/G1 Switch Gene 2 in Adipose Tissue of Transgenic Quail Inhibits Lipolysis Associated with Egg Laying
Authors: Chen Paula , Shin Sangsu , Choi Young , Kim Elizabeth , Han Jae , Lee Kichoon
Published: March 2016

In avians, yolk synthesis is regulated by incorporation of portomicrons from the diet, transport of lipoproteins from the liver, and release of lipids from adipose tissue; however, the extent to which lipolysis in adipose tissue contributes to yolk synthesis and egg production has yet to be elucidated. G0/G1 switch gene 2 (G0S2) is known to bind and inhibit adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL), the rate-limiting enzyme in lipolysis. The objective of this study was to determine whether overexpression of the G0S2 gene in adipose tissue could successfully inhibit endogenous ATGL activity associated with egg laying. Two independent lines of transgenic quail overexpressing G0S2 had delayed onset of egg production and reduced number of eggs over a six-week period compared to non-transgenic quail. Although no differences in measured parameters were observed at the pre-laying stage (5 weeks of age), G0S2 transgenic quail had significantly larger interclavicular fat pad weights and adipocyte sizes and lower NEFA concentrations in the serum at early (1 week after laying first egg) and active laying (5 weeks after laying first egg) stages. Overexpression of G0S2 inhibited lipolysis during early and active laying, which drastically shifted the balance towards a net accumulation of triacylglycerols and increased adipose tissue mass. Thereby, egg production was negatively affected as less triacylglycerols were catabolized to produce lipids for the yolk.
Mineralization at Titanium Surfaces is a Two-Step Process
Authors: Nygren Håkan , Ilver Lars , Malmberg Per
Published: March 2016

Mapping the initial reaction of implants with blood or cell culture medium is important for the understanding of the healing process in bone. In the present study, the formation of low crystalline carbonated hydroxyapatite (CHA) onto commercially pure titanium (Ti) implants from cell culture medium and blood, is described as an early event in bone healing at implants. The Ti-implants were incubated with cell culture medium (DMEM) or whole blood and the surface concentration of Ca, P and HA was analyzed by XPS, EDX and Tof-SIMS. After incubation with DMEM for 16 h and 72 h, EDX and XPS analysis showed stable levels of Ca and P on the Ti-surface. ESEM images showed an even distribution of Ca and P. Further analysis of the XPS results indicated that CHA was formed at the implants. Analysis with ToF-SIMS yielded high m.w. fragments of HA, such as Ca2PO4 at m/z 174.9 and Ca3PO5 at m/z 230.8, as secondary ions at the Ti-surfaces. Analysis of implants incubated in blood for 16 h, with ToF-SIMS, showed initial formation of CHA yielding CaOH as secondary ion. The results indicate that early mineralization at Ti-surfaces is an important step in the healing of implants into bone.
Preparation and Characterization of All-Biomass Soy Protein Isolate-Based Films Enhanced by Epoxy Castor Oil Acid Sodium and Hydroxypropyl Cellulose
Authors: Wang La , Li Jianzhang , Zhang Shifeng , Shi Junyou
Published: March 2016

All-biomass soy protein-based films were prepared using soy protein isolate (SPI), glycerol, hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC) and epoxy castor oil acid sodium (ECOS). The effect of the incorporated HPC and ECOS on the properties of the SPI film was investigated. The experimental results showed that the tensile strength of the resultant films increased from 2.84 MPa (control) to 4.04 MPa and the elongation at break increased by 22.7% when the SPI was modified with 2% HPC and 10% ECOS. The increased tensile strength resulted from the reaction between the ECOS and SPI, which was confirmed by attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD). It was found that ECOS and HPC effectively improved the performance of SPI-based films, which can provide a new method for preparing environmentally-friendly polymer films for a number of commercial applications.
Comprehensive Assessments of RNA-seq by the SEQC Consortium: FDA-Led Efforts Advance Precision Medicine
Authors: Xu Joshua , Gong Binsheng , Wu Leihong , Thakkar Shraddha , Hong Huixiao , Tong Weida
Published: March 2016

Studies on gene expression in response to therapy have led to the discovery of pharmacogenomics biomarkers and advances in precision medicine. Whole transcriptome sequencing (RNA-seq) is an emerging tool for profiling gene expression and has received wide adoption in the biomedical research community. However, its value in regulatory decision making requires rigorous assessment and consensus between various stakeholders, including the research community, regulatory agencies, and industry. The FDA-led SEquencing Quality Control (SEQC) consortium has made considerable progress in this direction, and is the subject of this review. Specifically, three RNA-seq platforms (Illumina HiSeq, Life Technologies SOLiD, and Roche 454) were extensively evaluated at multiple sites to assess cross-site and cross-platform reproducibility. The results demonstrated that relative gene expression measurements were consistently comparable across labs and platforms, but not so for the measurement of absolute expression levels. As part of the quality evaluation several studies were included to evaluate the utility of RNA-seq in clinical settings and safety assessment. The neuroblastoma study profiled tumor samples from 498 pediatric neuroblastoma patients by both microarray and RNA-seq. RNA-seq offers more utilities than microarray in determining the transcriptomic characteristics of cancer. However, RNA-seq and microarray-based models were comparable in clinical endpoint prediction, even when including additional features unique to RNA-seq beyond gene expression. The toxicogenomics study compared microarray and RNA-seq profiles of the liver samples from rats exposed to 27 different chemicals representing multiple toxicity modes of action. Cross-platform concordance was dependent on chemical treatment and transcript abundance. Though both RNA-seq and microarray are suitable for developing gene expression based predictive models with comparable prediction performance, RNA-seq offers advantages over microarray in profiling genes with low expression. The rat BodyMap study provided a comprehensive rat transcriptomic body map by performing RNA-Seq on 320 samples from 11 organs in either sex of juvenile, adolescent, adult and aged Fischer 344 rats. Lastly, the transferability study demonstrated that signature genes of predictive models are reciprocally transferable between microarray and RNA-seq data for model development using a comprehensive approach with two large clinical data sets. This result suggests continued usefulness of legacy microarray data in the coming RNA-seq era. In conclusion, the SEQC project enhances our understanding of RNA-seq and provides valuable guidelines for RNA-seq based clinical application and safety evaluation to advance precision medicine.
Polymer Inclusion Membranes (PIM) for the Recovery of Potassium in the Presence of Competitive Cations
Authors: Casadellà Anna , Schaetzle Olivier , Nijmeijer Kitty , Loos Katja
Published: March 2016

Potassium is an important nutrient used in fertilizers but is not always naturally available We investigated the properties of polymer inclusion membranes (PIM) regarding their selective recovery of K+ over competitive ions typically present in urine (Na+ and NH4+). The greatest flux was observed when the ratio of mass 2-nitrophenyl octyl ether (2-NPOE) used as plasticizer to cellulose triacetate (CTA) used as polymer was 0.25. The highest flux was achieved with a content of 24.8 wt % of dicyclohexan-18-crown-6 (DCH18C6) used as carrier, although the highest selectivity was observed with a content of 14.0 wt % of DCH18C6. We also studied whether the transport mechanism occurring in our system was based on co-transport of a counter-ion or ion exchange. Two different receiving phases (ultrapure water and 100 mM HCl) were tested. Results on transport mechanisms suggest that co-transport of cations and anions is taking place across our PIMs. The membrane deteriorated and lost its properties when the receiving phase was acidic; we suggested that this was due to hydrolysis of CTA. The greatest flux and selectivity were observed in ultrapure water as receiving phase.
Hybrid Polymer-Network Hydrogels with Tunable Mechanical Response
Authors: Czarnecki Sebastian , Rossow Torsten , Seiffert Sebastian
Published: March 2016

Hybrid polymer-network gels built by both physical and covalent polymer crosslinking combine the advantages of both these crosslinking types: they exhibit high mechanical strength along with excellent fracture toughness and extensibility. If these materials are extensively deformed, their physical crosslinks can break such that strain energy is dissipated and irreversible fracturing is restricted to high strain only. This mechanism of energy dissipation is determined by the kinetics and thermodynamics of the physical crosslinking contribution. In this paper, we present a poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) based material toolkit to control these contributions in a rational and custom fashion. We form well-defined covalent polymer-network gels with regularly distributed additional supramolecular mechanical fuse links, whose strength of connectivity can be tuned without affecting the primary polymer-network composition. This is possible because the supramolecular fuse links are based on terpyridine–metal complexation, such that the mere choice of the fuse-linking metal ion adjusts their kinetics and thermodynamics of complexation–decomplexation, which directly affects the mechanical properties of the hybrid gels. We use oscillatory shear rheology to demonstrate this rational control and enhancement of the mechanical properties of the hybrid gels. In addition, static light scattering reveals their highly regular and well-defined polymer-network structures. As a result of both, the present approach provides an easy and reliable concept for preparing hybrid polymer-network gels with rationally designed properties.
Developing Agreed and Accepted Understandings of Spirituality and Spiritual Care Concepts among Members of an Innovative Spirituality Interest Group in the Republic of Ireland
Authors: Timmins Fiona , Murphy Maryanne , Caldeira Sílvia , Ging Eimear , King Carole , Brady Vivienne , Whelan Jacqueline , O’Boyle Colm , Kelly John , Neill Freda , Hynes Geralyn , Neenan Kathleen , Pujol Nicolas , Fitzgerald Lisa , Hayden Deborah , Sweeney Barbara , Threadgold Mary , O’Sullivan Michael , Flanagan Bernadette , Weathers Elizabeth , Larkin Philip , Meehan Therese , Ward Karen , Chew Hannah , Minford Eunice , Lee Mandy , Mulchaire Margaret , Mc Auliffe Anne , Boyle P. , Keating Noel , Nolan Brian
Published: March 2016

A Spirituality Interest Group (SIG) was set up in in the School of Nursing and Midwifery, Trinity College Dublin, Republic of Ireland (ROI), in March 2013. This paper reports on some of the journey and requirements involved in developing the group. It highlights the essential work of establishing agreed understandings in an objective way in order for the group to move forward with action. These agreed understandings have contributed to the group’s success. Outlining the group’s journey in arriving at agreements may be of use to others considering creating similar groups. One key action taken to determine the suitability of the group’s aims and terms of reference was the distribution of a Survey Monkey to group members (n = 28) in 2014. One early meeting of the group discussed future goals and direction using the responses of this anonymous survey. This paper reports on the results of the survey regarding the establishment of the SIG and the development of a shared understanding of spiritual care among the members. There is consensus in the group that the spiritual care required by clients receiving healthcare ought to be an integrated effort across the healthcare team. However, there is an acceptance that spirituality and spiritual care are not always clearly understood concepts in practice. By developing shared or at least accepted understandings of spirituality and spiritual care, SIG hopes to be able to underpin both research and practice with solid foundational conceptual understanding, and in the process also to meet essential prerequisites for achieving the group’s aims.
Estimating the Underwater Diffuse Attenuation Coefficient with a Low-Cost Instrument: The KdUINO DIY Buoy
Authors: Bardaji Raul , Sánchez Albert-Miquel , Simon Carine , Wernand Marcel , Piera Jaume
Published: March 2016

A critical parameter to assess the environmental status of water bodies is the transparency of the water, as it is strongly affected by different water quality related components (such as the presence of phytoplankton, organic matter and sediment concentrations). One parameter to assess the water transparency is the diffuse attenuation coefficient. However, the number of subsurface irradiance measurements obtained with conventional instrumentation is relatively low, due to instrument costs and the logistic requirements to provide regular and autonomous observations. In recent years, the citizen science concept has increased the number of environmental observations, both in time and space. The recent technological advances in embedded systems and sensors also enable volunteers (citizens) to create their own devices (known as Do-It-Yourself or DIY technologies). In this paper, a DIY instrument to measure irradiance at different depths and automatically calculate the diffuse attenuation Kd coefficient is presented. The instrument, named KdUINO, is based on an encapsulated low-cost photonic sensor and Arduino (an open-hardware platform for the data acquisition). The whole instrument has been successfully operated and the data validated comparing the KdUINO measurements with the commercial instruments. Workshops have been organized with high school students to validate its feasibility.
Accurate Detection of Rifampicin-Resistant Mycobacterium Tuberculosis Strains
Authors: Song Keum-Soo , Nimse Satish , Kim Hee , Yang Jeongseong , Kim Taisun
Published: March 2016

In 2013 alone, the death rate among the 9.0 million people infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis (TB) worldwide was around 14%, which is unacceptably high. An empiric treatment of patients infected with TB or drug-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MDR-TB) strain can also result in the spread of MDR-TB. The diagnostic tools which are rapid, reliable, and have simple experimental protocols can significantly help in decreasing the prevalence rate of MDR-TB strain. We report the evaluation of the 9G technology based 9G DNAChips that allow accurate detection and discrimination of TB and MDR-TB-RIF. One hundred and thirteen known cultured samples were used to evaluate the ability of 9G DNAChip in the detection and discrimination of TB and MDR-TB-RIF strains. Hybridization of immobilized probes with the PCR products of TB and MDR-TB-RIF strains allow their detection and discrimination. The accuracy of 9G DNAChip was determined by comparing its results with sequencing analysis and drug susceptibility testing. Sequencing analysis showed 100% agreement with the results of 9G DNAChip. The 9G DNAChip showed very high sensitivity (95.4%) and specificity (100%).
Bézier Triangles with G2 Continuity across Boundaries
Authors: Lee Chang-Ki , Hwang Hae-Do , Yoon Seung-Hyun
Published: March 2016

PN (point-normal) triangles are cubic Bézier triangles which meet at their edges to surface a triangular mesh, but this only achieves G0 continuity. We define blending regions that span the edges shared by adjacent pairs of triangular domains and blend the corresponding Bézier triangles using a univariate blending function formulated in terms of barycentric coordinates. This produces G2 continuity across boundaries while preserving G1 continuity at vertices. The sharpness of the blends can be controlled locally by varying the extent of these blending regions. We demonstrate the effectiveness of our technique by showing several modeling examples.
Alphaherpesvirus Subversion of Stress-Induced Translational Arrest
Authors: Finnen Renée , Banfield Bruce
Published: March 2016

In this article, we provide an overview of translational arrest in eukaryotic cells in response to stress and the tactics used specifically by alphaherpesviruses to overcome translational arrest. One consequence of translational arrest is the formation of cytoplasmic compartments called stress granules (SGs). Many viruses target SGs for disruption and/or modification, including the alphaherpesvirus herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). Recently, it was discovered that HSV-2 disrupts SG formation early after infection via virion host shutoff protein (vhs), an endoribonuclease that is packaged within the HSV-2 virion. We review this discovery and discuss the insights it has provided into SG biology as well as its potential significance in HSV-2 infection. A model for vhs-mediated disruption of SG formation is presented.
A selective and mild glycosylation method of natural phenolic alcohols
Authors: Mastihubová Mária , Poláková Monika
Published: March 2016

Several bioactive natural p-hydroxyphenylalkyl β-D-glucopyranosides, such as vanillyl β-D-glucopyranoside, salidroside and isoconiferin, and their glycosyl analogues were prepared by a simple reaction sequence. The highly efficient synthetic approach was achieved by utilizing acetylated glycosyl bromides as well as aromatic moieties and mild glycosylation promoters. The aglycones, p-O-acetylated arylalkyl alcohols, were prepared by the reduction of the corresponding acetylated aldehydes or acids. Various stereoselective 1,2-trans-O-glycosylation methods were studied, including the DDQ–iodine or ZnO–ZnCl2 catalyst combination. Among them, ZnO–iodine has been identified as a new glycosylation promoter and successfully applied to the stereoselective glycoside synthesis. The final products were obtained by conventional Zemplén deacetylation.
HIDING IN THE SHADOWS. II. COLLISIONAL DUST AS EXOPLANET MARKERS
Authors: Dobinson Jack , Leinhardt Zoë M. , Lines Stefan , Carter Philip J. , Dodson-Robinson Sarah E. , Teanby Nick A.
Published: March 2016

Observations of the youngest planets (∼1–10 Myr for a transitional disk) will increase the accuracy of our planet formation models. Unfortunately, observations of such planets are challenging and time-consuming to undertake, even in ideal circumstances. Therefore, we propose the determination of a set of markers that can preselect promising exoplanet-hosting candidate disks. To this end, N-body simulations were conducted to investigate the effect of an embedded Jupiter-mass planet on the dynamics of the surrounding planetesimal disk and the resulting creation of second-generation collisional dust. We use a new collision model that allows fragmentation and erosion of planetesimals, and dust-sized fragments are simulated in a post-process step including non-gravitational forces due to stellar radiation and a gaseous protoplanetary disk. Synthetic images from our numerical simulations show a bright double ring at 850 μm for a low-eccentricity planet, whereas a high-eccentricity planet would produce a characteristic inner ring with asymmetries in the disk. In the presence of first-generation primordial dust these markers would be difficult to detect far from the orbit of the embedded planet, but would be detectable inside a gap of planetary origin in a transitional disk.
THE FIRST BROWN DWARF/PLANETARY-MASS OBJECT IN THE 32 ORIONIS GROUP*
Authors: Burgasser Adam J. , Lopez Mike A. , Mamajek Eric E. , Gagné Jonathan , Faherty Jacqueline K. , Tallis Melisa , Choban Caleb , Tamiya Tomoki , Escala Ivanna , Aganze Christian
Published: March 2016

The 32 Orionis group is a co-moving group of roughly 20 young (24 Myr) M3-B5 stars 100 pc from the Sun. Here we report the discovery of its first substellar member, WISE J052857.69+090104.2. This source was previously reported to be an M giant star based on its unusual near-infrared spectrum and lack of measureable proper motion. We re-analyze previous data and new moderate-resolution spectroscopy from Magellan/Folded-port InfraRed Echellette to demonstrate that this source is a young near-infrared L1 brown dwarf with very low surface gravity features. Spectral model fits indicate T
eff = 1880

 K and

= 3.8

, consistent with a 15–22 Myr object with a mass near the deuterium-burning limit. Its sky position, estimated distance, kinematics (both proper motion and radial velocity), and spectral characteristics are all consistent with membership in 32 Orionis, and its temperature and age imply a mass (M =

M

J
) that straddles the brown dwarf/planetary-mass object boundary. The source has a somewhat red

color compared to other L1 dwarfs, but this is likely a low-gravity-related temperature offset; we find no evidence of significant excess reddening from a disk or cool companion in the 3–5 μm waveband.
Leflunomide Use and Risk of Lung Disease in Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Systematic Literature Review and Metaanalysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Conway Richard , Low Candice , Coughlan Robert J. , O’Donnell Martin J. , Carey John J.
Published: March 2016

Objective.

To evaluate the relative risk (RR) of pulmonary disease among patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) treated with leflunomide (LEF).

Methods.

We searched PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials to April 15, 2014. We included double-blind randomized controlled trials (RCT) of LEF versus placebo or active comparator agents in adults with RA. Studies with fewer than 50 subjects or shorter than 12 weeks were excluded. Two investigators independently searched both databases. All authors reviewed selected studies. We compared RR differences using the Mantel-Haenszel random-effects method to assess total respiratory adverse events, infectious respiratory adverse events, noninfectious respiratory adverse events, interstitial lung disease, and death.

Results.

Our literature search returned 5673 results. A total of 8 studies, 4 with placebo comparators, met our inclusion criteria. There were 708 respiratory adverse events documented in 4579 participants. Six cases of pneumonitis occurred, all in the comparator group. Four pulmonary deaths were reported, none in the LEF group. LEF was not associated with an increased risk of total adverse respiratory events (RR 0.99, 95% CI 0.56–1.78) or infectious respiratory adverse events (RR 1.02, 95% CI 0.58–1.82). LEF was associated with a decreased risk of noninfectious respiratory adverse events (RR 0.64, 95% CI 0.41–0.97).

Conclusion.

Our study found no evidence of increased respiratory adverse events in RCT of LEF treatment.
L’activisme politique des descendants d’esclaves à Antananarivo : les héritages de Zoam
Authors: Gardini Marco
Published: March 2016

Cet article analyse les héritages laissés par un mouvement malgache d’inspiration marxiste, né en 1972 et composé de jeunes d’origine servile, dans les trajectoires politiques et les discours des ex-militants et des habitants des « bas quartiers » d’Antananarivo. Il considère le rôle que ce mouvement a eu dans la renégociation de la position sociale des descendants d’esclaves au cours des dernières décennies, les parcours de vie des militants après la disparition du mouvement et la manière dont le stigmate de l’origine servile a été reproduit, contesté et teinté de nouvelles valeurs politiques.
L’esclavage en héritage et l’émergence d’une mobilisation sociopolitique au Kenya
Authors: Ballarin Marie-Pierre
Published: March 2016

En Afrique de l’Est, les formes de mobilisation politique relatives aux luttes de dénonciation des séquelles de l’esclavage sont de moindre ampleur qu’en Afrique de l’Ouest. Toutefois, au Kenya, certains groupes de descendants d’esclaves sont aujourd’hui en mesure d’exposer leurs propres expériences en tant que citoyen souffrant d’un double stigmate de descendant d’esclave et d’extranéité. Cet article présente le cas d’un groupe de descendants d’esclaves affranchis dans le quartier de Frere-Town, issu de l’ancienne mission de la Chuch Missionary Society à Mombasa qui, d’une part, dénonce les formes de discrimination qu’il estime subir et, d’autre part, revendique une citoyenneté pleine et entière au sein de la nation kenyane.
Postface. Une perspective comparative sur les « sociétés post-esclavagistes »
Authors: Cunin Elisabeth
Published: March 2016

Ce texte propose d’interroger la notion de « société post-esclavagiste » et la catégorie de « descendant d’esclaves » en ouvrant des pistes de comparaison entre l’Afrique et l’Amérique latine. En s’appuyant sur les articles de ce numéro de Politique africaine et sur quelques travaux récents, il met en lumière des convergences et des différences dans les processus de sortie de l’esclavage, mais aussi les échanges contemporains, d’un côté à l’autre de l’Atlantique, autour de l’héritage de l’esclavage. En Amérique latine, la question du post-esclavagisme se pose au moment des abolitions ( xix e siècle), tout au long de la construction d’États-nations indépendants, avec le « tournant multiculturel » des années 1980-1990 et l’introduction de politiques de la différence. En se situant ainsi dans des chronologies et des contextes extrêmement différents, il s’agit de faire apparaître des décalages et des rapprochements potentiellement heuristiques entre Afrique et Amérique latine.