bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transformations des significations du loisir au Québec1
Authors: Pronovost Gilles
Published: February 2013

À partir d’entrevues réalisées entre 1971 et 2010 ce texte retrace l’évolution du discours populaire sur le loisir en mettant tout particulièrement l’accent sur les transformations du vocabulaire utilisé et sur les changements dans l’univers des activités de référence. Au fil du temps, le vocabulaire s’est diversifié et même spécialisé de même que les activités sont nommées de plus en plus de façon précise. Le discours a évolué pour faire du loisir une norme de vie en société, un « besoin » permettant l’affirmation de valeurs d’individualité, d’épanouissement personnel et de bien-être. L’effet générationnel est notable : discours triomphaliste des années soixante-dix, repli sur l’importance accordée au travail au moment de la crise économique des années quatre-vingt, retrait sur quelques passions adolescentes pour les jeunes parents d’aujourd’hui, présentation de soi comme une génération en pleine gloire chez les babyboomers.
High‐risk human papillomavirus infection in HIV‐positive African women living in Europe
Authors: Konopnicki Deborah , Manigart Yannick , Gilles Christine , Barlow Patricia , de Marchin Jérome , Feoli Francesco , Larsimont Denis , Delforge Marc , De Wit Stéphane , Clumeck Nathan
Published: February 2013

Introduction

Cervical infection with high‐risk human papillomavirus (HRHPV) induces cervical cancer and is present in 14% of women in Europe. We assessed the prevalence and incidence of cervical HRHPV in a cohort of HIV‐positive women living in Belgium.

Methods

Prospective observational program of screening and follow up of HRHPV cervical infection performed by Hybrid Capture in 825 HIV‐positive women between 2002 and 2011. Women without normal cervix at baseline were excluded.

Results

The final analysis included 652 women: median age 38 years, African origin (81%), median HIV follow‐up (66 months), median CD4 count (426 cells/μL) and 79% on antiretroviral therapy (cART). At baseline, HRHPV prevalence was 43% and decreased significantly as both age and CD4 cell count increased: highest prevalence (100%) in women <30 years and <200 CD4/μL and lowest (19%) in women >40 years and >500 CD4/μL (p<0.0001, multivariate analysis). The relative risk (RR) to carry HRHPV at baseline decreases proportionally by 11% for each 5 years‐age increase and by 11% for each 100 CD4 cells/μL rise (RR=0.89, 95% CI: 0.85‐0.93; p<0.0001, Poisson regression for both). During follow‐up, incidence rate of HRHPV was 13.4 per 100 women‐years.

Conclusions

We found a high HRHPV prevalence of 43% and an incidence rate of 13 per 100 women‐years in this cohort of HIV‐positive women living in Europe and on cART. Women under 40 years‐age had the highest prevalence even with CD4 count >350 cells/μL. The magnitude of HRHPV epidemiology should prompt to evaluate the clinical efficacy of vaccines against HPV in HIV‐infected women.
Analyzing Arthropods for the Presence of Bacteria
Authors: Andrews Elizabeth S.
Published: February 2013

Bacteria within arthropods can be identified using culture‐independent methods. This unit describes protocols for surface sterilization of arthropods, DNA extraction of whole bodies and tissues, touchdown PCR amplification using 16S rDNA general bacteria primers, and profiling the bacterial community using denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis. Curr. Protoc. Microbiol. 28:1E.6.1‐1E.6.14. © 2013 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Growth and Laboratory Maintenance of Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Missiakas Dominique M. , Schneewind Olaf
Published: February 2013

Staphylococcus aureus is a facultative anaerobic Gram‐positive coccus and a member of the normal skin flora as well as the nasal passages of humans. S. aureus is also the etiological agent of suppurative abscesses, as first described by Sir Alexander Ogston in 1880. Ever since, studies on S. aureus have focused on the complex battery of virulence factors and regulators that allow for its swift transition between commensalism and pathogenic states and escape from host immune defenses. The success of this pathogen is further evidenced by its ability to acquire antibiotic resistance traits through mechanisms that often remain poorly understood. Curr. Protoc. Microbiol. 28:9C.1.1‐9C.1.9. © 2013 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Retinal Gene Delivery by rAAV and DNA Electroporation
Authors: Venkatesh Aditya , Ma Shan , Langellotto Fernanda , Gao Guangping , Punzo Claudio
Published: February 2013

Ocular gene therapy is a fast‐growing area of research. The eye is an ideal organ for gene therapy since it is immune privileged and easily accessible, and direct viral delivery results primarily in local infection. Because the eye is not a vital organ, mutations in eye‐specific genes tend to be more common. To date, over 40 eye‐specific genes have been identified harboring mutations that lead to blindness. Gene therapy with recombinant adeno‐associated virus (rAAV) holds the promise to treat patients with such mutations. However, proof‐of‐concept and safety evaluation for gene therapy remains to be established for most of these diseases. This unit describes the in vivo delivery of genes to the mouse eye by rAAV‐mediated gene transfer and plasmid DNA electroporation. Advantages and limitations of these methods are discussed, and detailed protocols for gene delivery, required materials, and subsequent tissue processing methods are described. Curr. Protoc. Microbiol. 28:14D.4.1‐14D.4.32. © 2013 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Catalytic Methanation of Carbon Dioxide by Active Oxygen Material CexZr1−xO2 Supported NiCo Bimetallic Nanocatalysts
Authors: Zhu Hongwei , Razzaq Rauf , Li Chunshan , Muhmmad Yaseen , Zhang Suojiang
Published: February 2013

A series of active oxygen material CexZr1−xO2‐supported NiCo bimetallic nanosized catalysts were prepared by coprecipitation method, which is simple and fit for industrial use with lower cost than other methods. The effect of CeO2/ZrO2 mole ratio, Co metal addition, and PEG‐6000 addition were investigated. The catalysts were characterized through X‐ray diffraction, H2 thermal‐programmed reduction, N2 adsorption, Raman spectroscopy, CO pulse chemisorption, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, oxygen storage capacity, and transmission electron microscopy‐energy dispersive X‐ray analysis. Modifications of the structural and redox properties of these materials were evaluated in relation to their catalytic performances. Particularly, the relationship between the active oxygen sites of the catalysts and their catalytic performances was investigated. The interaction between active metals (Ni and Co) and CexZr1−xO2 support was found to be very important for catalytic performance. The active oxygen site of CexZr1−xO2 can considerably improve catalytic performance. Appropriate Co metal addition also remarkably enhanced the catalytic stability and activity. Moreover, PEG‐6000 addition can improve the Brunauer–Emmett–Teller surface area and active metal dispersion of catalysts to improve their performances. The nanosized catalyst 15 wt % Ni‐5 wt % Co/Ce0.25Zr0.75O2 prepared by adding 5 wt % PEG‐6000 achieved almost 85% CO2 conversion and 98% selectivity to methane at 280°C when the gas hourly space velocity was 10,000 h−1. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 59: 2567–2576, 2013
The Eunuch Steward: A Trans‐Asiatic Tale of Seduction and Castration
Authors: Propp William H. C.
Published: February 2013

The Eunuch Steward is a fable attested across the expanse of northeast Africa and Asia, from Late Bronze Age Egypt to China some time after 1424ce. In the story, a subordinate young man, accused of invading his master's sexual prerogative, offers a radical act of submission, namely self‐emasculation. The popularity of the tale across many cultures is best explained by citing its Oedipal themes: intergenerational male rivalry over a maternal figure, and the castration of the younger male. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Current Obstacles in Replicating Risk Assessment Findings: A Systematic Review of Commonly Used Actuarial Instruments
Authors: Rossegger Astrid , Gerth Juliane , Seewald Katharina , Urbaniok Frank , Singh Jay P. , Endrass Jérôme
Published: February 2013

An actuarial risk assessment instrument can be considered valid if independent investigations using novel samples can replicate the findings of the instrument's development study. In order for a study to qualify as a replication, it has to adhere to the methodological protocol of the development study with respect to key design characteristics, as well as ensuring that manual‐recommended guidelines of test administration have been followed.

A systematic search was conducted to identify predictive validity studies (N = 84) on three commonly used actuarial instruments: the Violence Risk Appraisal Guide (VRAG), the Sex Offender Risk Appraisal Guide (SORAG), and the Static‐99. Sample (sex, age, criminal history) and design (follow‐up, attrition, recidivism) characteristics, as well as markers of assessment integrity (scoring reliability, item omissions, prorating procedure), were extracted from 84 studies comprising 108 samples.

None of the replications matched the development study of the instrument they were attempting to cross‐validate with respect to key sample and design characteristics. Furthermore none of the replications strictly followed the manual‐recommended guidelines for the instruments’ administration.

Additional replication studies that follow the methodological protocols outlined in actuarial instruments’ development studies are needed before claims of generalizability can be made. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The value of Tuffier's line for neonatal neuraxial procedures
Authors: van Schoor Albert , Bosman M.C. , Bosenberg A.T.
Published: February 2013

The spine of L4 usually lies on a line drawn between the highest points of the iliac crests (Tuffier's line) in adults. Although its accuracy has been questioned, it is still commonly used to identify the spinous process of the 4th lumbar vertebra before performing lumbar neuraxial procedures. In children, this line is said to cross the midline at the level of L5. A literature search revealed that the description this surface anatomical line is vague in neonates. The aims of this study were to determine the vertebral level of Tuffier's line, as well as its distance from the apex of the sacrococcygeal membrane (ASM), in 39 neonatal cadavers in both a prone and flexed position. It was found that when flexed, Tuffier's line shifted from the level of L4/L5 (prone position) to the upper third of L5. The mean distance from the ASM to Tuffier's line was 23.64mm when prone and 25.47 mm when flexed, constituting a statistically significant increase in the distance (P=0.0061). Therefore, in the absence of advanced imaging modalities, Tuffier's line provides practitioners with a simple method of determining a level caudal to the termination of the spinal cord, at approximately the L4/L5 in a prone neonate and the upper margins of L5 when flexed. Clin. Anat. 27:370–375, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Online learning resources in anatomy: What do students think?
Authors: Johnson I.P. , Palmer E. , Burton J. , Brockhouse M.
Published: February 2013

An interventional cohort comparison study with pretesting and post‐testing in semesters 1 and 2 was undertaken of 159 medical students in year 3 of the MMBS course at the University of Adelaide in 2010. The intervention comprised the provision of a number of additional online resources in semester 2. Students’ views on online anatomy were also sought by a questionnaire delivered at the end of semesters 1 and 2 and via a small focus group at the end of the study. Anatomy assessment results after the introduction of online anatomy were compared with a total of three control semesters in 2009 and 2010. There was >90% broad agreement before the intervention that wet specimens, tutors and discussions with other students helped students learn anatomy. After the intervention, these views remained, but there was additionally >90% broad agreement that text books helped them learn anatomy, that they had good access to anatomical specimens, and there was less agreement that lectures helped. The intervention left students’ views on online anatomy largely unchanged and made no significant difference to summative assessment scores. Focus group discussions revealed that students want anatomy tutors to help direct them to reputable and relevant sites. The provision of more online resources in anatomy did not affect student views or learning outcomes. While students may need help from tutors in selecting appropriate online resources, wet specimens, textbooks, and discussions with tutors and other students remain the preferred means of learning anatomy. Clin. Anat. 26:556–563, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Mitochondria‐mediated mitigatory role of curcumin in cisplatin‐induced nephrotoxicity
Authors: Waseem Mohammad , Kaushik Pooja , Parvez Suhel
Published: February 2013

Cisplatin (CP) is one of the most potent chemotherapeutic anti‐tumour drugs, and it has been implicated in renal toxicity. Oxidative stress has been proven to be involved in CP‐induced toxicity including nephrotoxicity. However, there is paucity of literature involving role of mitochondria in mediating CP‐induced renal toxicity, and its underlying mechanism remains unclear. Therefore, the present study was undertaken to examine the antioxidant potential of curcumin (CMN; a natural polyphenolic compound) against the mitochondrial toxicity of CP in kidneys of male rats. Acute toxicity was induced by a single intra‐peritoneal injection of CP (6 mg kg−1). We studied the ameliorative effect of CMN pre‐treatment (200 mg kg−1) on the toxicity of CP in rat kidney mitochondria. CP caused a significant elevation in the mitochondrial lipid peroxidation (LPO) levels and protein carbonyl (PC) content. Pre‐treatment of rat with CMN significantly replenished the mitochondrial LPO levels and PC content. It also restored the CP‐induced modulatory effects on altered enzymatic and non‐enzymatic antioxidants in kidney mitochondria. We hypothesize that the reno‐protective effects of CMN may be related to its predisposition to scavenge free radicals, and upregulate antioxidant machinery in kidney mitochondria. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of percutaneous revascularization of chronic total occlusions on clinical outcomes: A meta‐analysis comparing successful versus failed percutaneous intervention for chronic total occlusion
Authors: Khan Muhammad F. , Wendel Christopher S. , Thai Hoang M. , Movahed Mohammad R.
Published: February 2013

Background

Chronic total occlusions (CTOs) represent the most complex and challenging coronary lesions for percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). PCI for a CTO is a high‐risk procedure and the long‐term benefits of a successful percutaneous CTO recanalization over the medical management (as a result of failed PCI) are not clear, as the studies have shown conflicting results in the past. The goal of this analysis was to clarify this issue by performing a meta‐analysis of the available literature.

Methods

Using major electronic databases, we searched for studies (randomized or observational) comparing death, major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), myocardial infarction (MI), and target vessel revascularization (TVR) between patients who underwent PCI recanalization of CTOs versus those treated with medical management as a result of failed PCI attempts.

Results

We identified 23 observational studies comparing the desired clinical parameters between patients with successful CTO recanalization and those managed conservatively as a result of attempted but failed PCI. The total number of patients observed in all of the studies was 12,970 and the mean time of follow up was 3.7 ± 2.1 years. Our results indicated that successful recanalization of a CTO results in improved all‐cause mortality (relative risk [RR] of 0.54, 95% confidence interval [CI] (0.45‐0.65), P‐value < 0.001), lower rates of MACE (RR of 0.70, 95% CI 0.60‐0.83, P‐value < 0.001) and reduced needs for subsequent bypass surgery (RR of 0.25, 95% CI (0.21–0.30), P‐value < 0.001). The difference in long‐term mortality remained statistically significant even after the adjustment for procedure related complications and in‐hospital deaths.

Conclusion

As compared to conservative management (as a result of failed intervention), successful PCI recanalization of a CTO appears to be associated with improved long‐term clinical outcomes; however, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are needed to further confirm these results. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Left main coronary artery bidirectional dissection caused by ejection of guideliner catheter from the guiding catheter
Authors: Chang Yi‐Chih , Fang Hsiu‐Yu , Chen Tien‐Hsing , Wu Chiung‐Jen
Published: February 2013

The “Guideliner,” a child catheter, aims to deliver stents in tortuous coronary lesions by deep engagement and providing better support. Coronary artery spiral dissection, which may be caused by deep‐seated coronary catheters or noncoaxial engagement is one of the most seen percutaneous coronary intervention‐related complications. In this case, Guideliner‐related left main dissection occurred after successful revascularization of a chronic total occlusion at the left anterior descending artery and the left circumflex, which has not been previously reported. The Guideliner catheter is efficient in treating complex coronary lesions, but one should be aware of its related complications. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Hybrid perventricular device closure of doubly committed subarterial ventricular septal defects: Mid‐term results
Authors: Lin Ke , Zhu Da , Tao Kaiyu , Gan Changping , Tang Hong , Feng Yuan , An Qi
Published: February 2013

Background

Doubly committed Subarterial ventricular septal defect (VSD) is a specific anatomic type of VSD located just beneath the aortic valve. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety and feasibility of using minimal invasive perventricular device closure in managing this type of VSD.

Methods

During Dec 2008 and Aug 2010, 34 Pediatric patients with doubly committed subarterial VSD who met the inclusion criteria for device closure were enrolled in this study. Perventricular closure was attempted using a unique design eccentric device under the guidance of real‐time transesophageal echocardiography. Complications such as residual shunt, valve regurgitation, arrhythmias were all recorded in postoperative period and during follow‐up.

Result

Perventricular device closure was successfully done in 28 patients (82%). 6 patients converted to open surgical repair due to residual shunt >3mm (1 patient), more than mild degree aortic regurgitation (3 patients) and device mal‐position (2 patients). Complete closure rate was achieved in 93% at discharge and 100% during 20 months follow‐up. No severe complications such as device embolism, significant arrhythmias and noticeable valve regurgitation were noted during follow‐up. Procedure induced trivial grade aortic valve regurgitation was noted in five (18%) patients after procedure while only one (4%) persisted during midterm follow‐up.

Conclusion

Perventricular closure of doubly committed subarterial VSDs appears to be a safe and effective minimally invasive technique with good mid‐term outcomes. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Left ventricular outflow tract obstruction after mitral valve repair treated with alcohol septal ablation
Authors: Honěk Jakub , Zemánek David , Veselka Josef
Published: February 2013

Left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) obstruction due to systolic anterior motion of the mitral valve (SAM) occurs in 4–5% of patients after mitral valve repair. If conservative treatment is unsuccessful, reoperation is indicated. Treatment options include repeated mitral valve repair or valve replacement and septal myectomy if hypertrophy is present. We report a case of a patient with pre‐operatively undiagnosed hypertrophic cardiomyopathy who suffered from progressive dyspnea post‐operation due to severe LVOT obstruction with SAM. This case was successfully treated with catheter‐based alcohol septal ablation. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
EPR assessment of protein sites for incorporation of Gd(III) MRI contrast labels
Authors: Lagerstedt Jens O. , Petrlova Jitka , Hilt Silvia , Marek Antonin , Chung Youngran , Sriram Renuka , Budamagunta Madhu S. , Desreux Jean F. , Thonon David , Jue Thomas , Smirnov Alex I. , Voss John C.
Published: February 2013

We have engineered apolipoprotein A‐I (apoA‐I), a major protein constituent of high‐density lipoprotein (HDL), to contain DOTA‐chelated Gd(III) as an MRI contrast agent for the purpose of imaging reconstituted HDL (rHDL) biodistribution, metabolism and regulation in vivo. This protein contrast agent was obtained by attaching the thiol‐reactive Gd[MTS‐ADO3A] label at Cys residues replaced at four distinct positions (52, 55, 76 and 80) in apoA‐I. MRI of infused mice previously showed that the Gd‐labeled apoA‐I migrates to both the liver and the kidney, the organs responsible for HDL catabolism; however, the contrast properties of apoA‐I are superior when the ADO3A moiety is located at position 55, compared with the protein labeled at positions 52, 76 or 80. It is shown here that continuous wave X‐band (9 GHz) electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy is capable of detecting differences in the Gd(III) signal when comparing the labeled protein in the lipid‐free with the rHDL state. Furthermore, the values of NMR relaxivity obtained for labeled variants in both the lipid‐free and rHDL states correlate to the product of the X‐band Gd(III) spectral width and the collision frequency between a nitroxide spin label and a polar relaxation agent. Consistent with its superior relaxivity measured by NMR, the rHDL‐associated apoA‐I containing the Gd[MTS‐ADO3A] probe attached to position 55 displays favorable dynamic and water accessibility properties as determined by X‐band EPR. While room temperature EPR requires >1 m m Gd(III)‐labeled and only >10 µ m nitroxide‐labeled protein to resolve the spectrum, the volume requirement is exceptionally low (~5 µl). Thus, X‐band EPR provides a practical assessment for the suitability of imaging candidates containing the site‐directed ADO3A contrast probe. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A DOTAM‐based paraCEST agent favoring TSAP geometry for enhanced amide proton chemical shift dispersion and temperature sensitivity
Authors: Stevens Todd K. , Milne Mark , Elmehriki Adam A. H. , Suchý Mojmír , Bartha Robert , Hudson Robert H. E.
Published: February 2013

The Tm3+ chelate of DOTAM [1,4,7,10‐tetrakis(carbamoylmethyl)‐1,4,7,10‐tetraazacyclododecane] possessing sterically demanding t‐butyl amide substitution favors TSAP geometry. This chelate displayed a paraCEST signal associated with the highly shifted amide proton signal at approximately −100 ppm that was beyond the frequency of macromolecule magnetization transfer. This signal also displayed high temperature dependence (0.57 ppm °C−1) in the range of 35–42 °C and at neutral pH. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
RA and DA satellite access schemes: a survey and some research results and challenges
Authors: Celandroni N. , Ferro E. , Gotta A.
Published: February 2013

This paper surveys the most popular random access (RA), demand assignment (DA), and hybrids schemes for satellite broadband access networks. In addition, we present some recent research results that we obtained when a reliable transmission control protocol, that is, TCP, is coupled with the most promising RA methods foreseen in the second generation of Digital Video Broadcasting–Return Channel via Satellite standard. In fact, the necessity to support a wider range of IP‐based traffic, as in the case of either Supervisory Control And Data Acquisition systems or Machine‐to‐Machine communications, fosters the introduction of RA schemes for information transport able to cope with large network sizes and low duty cycle bursty traffic with frequent inactivity periods on the return link. As an indication of future research aspects, we also offer, in the Conclusions section, a list of items to be investigated so that the satellite can become an integral part of the Future Internet. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cryptanalysis of some user identification schemes for distributed computer networks
Authors: Chen Yu‐Chi , Liu Chao‐Liang , Horng Gwoboa
Published: February 2013

User identification plays an important role for access control in networks. Recently, Hsu and Chuang proposed a user identification scheme for distributed computer networks, which can also provide key agreement and user anonymity. However, Tsai pointed out the weakness of Hsu–Chuang's scheme and proposed an improved scheme. In this paper, we present two attacks to examine that some user identification schemes have a serious security loophole. Finally, we propose a new user identification scheme, which is more secure than the existing schemes.Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Congestion control with dynamic threshold adaptation and cross‐layer response for TCP Vegas over IEEE 802.11 wireless networks
Authors: Cheng Rung‐Shiang , Deng Der‐Jiunn
Published: February 2013

Wireless technologies provide mobile access and enable rapid andcost‐effective network deployment. But a wireless link is generally accompanied by high interference, transmission errors and a varying latency. The erratic packet losses usually lead to a curbing of the flow of segments on the TCP connection, and thus limit TCP performance. This paper presents a threshold control mechanism with cross‐layer response approach for improving TCP Vegas performance in IEEE 802.11 wireless networks. By making slight modifications to the legacy IEEE 802.11 MAC and TCP, the numerical results reveal that the proposed scheme provides a significant improvement in TCP performance under IEEE 802.11 wireless environments. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Characterization of nucleobases and nucleosides in the fruit of Alpinia oxyphylla collected from different cultivation regions
Authors: Song Wenjing , Li Yonghui , Wang Jianguo , Li Zeyou , Zhang Junqing
Published: February 2013

The fruit of Alpinia oxyphylla, known as Yizhi, Yakuchi and Ikji in Chinese, Japanese, and Korean, respectively, has been utilized as an important drug for the treatment of diarrhea, dyspepsia, spermatorrhea, kidney asthenia and abdominal pain in East Asian traditional medicine for thousands of years. Since the therapeutic effects of A. oxyphylla are attributed to multiple components and nucleobases and nucleosides exhibit various bioactivities, it is necessary to explore the chemical characterization of nucleobases and nucleosides in this herb. Herein, 10 common nucleobases and nucleosides, including cytidine, adenosine, thymidine, inosine, guanosine, 2’‐deoxyinosine, guanine, adenine, cytosine, and hypoxanthine, were quantified simultaneously in the fruit of A. oxyphylla collected from different geographical regions. Changes in their contents were discussed, and hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) was performed to classify all samples on the basis of the contents of the investigated analytes. The results indicated that there was a large variation in the contents of nucleobases and nucleosides among the herbs from different regions, and the samples collected from the same cultivation region were mostly classified in one cluster. The method can be used for comprehensive quality evaluation of A. oxyphylla. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A proteomic evaluation of the effects of the pharmaceuticals diclofenac and gemfibrozil on marine mussels (Mytilus spp.): evidence for chronic sublethal effects on stress‐response proteins
Authors: Schmidt Wiebke , Rainville Louis‐Charles , McEneff Gillian , Sheehan David , Quinn Brian
Published: February 2013

Human pharmaceuticals (e.g. the lipid regulator gemfibrozil and the non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug diclofenac) are an emerging environmental threat in the aquatic environment. This study aimed to evaluate sublethal effects of these two commonly found pharmaceuticals on the protein profiles of marine mussels (Mytilus spp.). Mytilus spp. was exposed to environmentally relevant and elevated concentrations (1 and 1000 µg/l respectively) of both drugs for 14 days. In addition, mussels were maintained for seven days post treatment to examine the potential of blue mussels to recover from such an exposure. Differential protein expression signatures (PES) in the digestive gland of mussels were obtained using two‐dimensional gel electrophoresis after 7, 14, and 21 days of exposure. Twelve spots were significantly increased or decreased by gemfibrozil and/or diclofenac, seven of which were successfully identified by liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS) analysis. These proteins were involved in energy metabolism, oxidative stress response, protein folding, and immune responses. Changes in the PES over time suggested that mussels were still experiencing oxidative stress for up to seven days post exposure. In addition, a suite of biomarkers comprising glutathione transferase, lipid peroxidation, and DNA damage were studied. An oxidative stress response was confirmed by biomarker responses. To our knowledge, this is the first investigation using proteomics to assess the potential effects of human pharmaceuticals on a non‐target species in an environmentally‐relevant model. The successful application of this proteomic approach supports its potential use in pollution biomonitoring and highlights its ability to aid in the discovery of new biomarkers. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
One‐year experiment on the physiological response of the Mediterranean crustose coralline alga, Lithophyllum cabiochae, to elevated pCO2 and temperature
Authors: Martin Sophie , Cohu Stéphanie , Vignot Céline , Zimmerman Guillaume , Gattuso Jean‐Pierre
Published: February 2013

The response of respiration, photosynthesis, and calcification to elevated pCO2 and temperature was investigated in isolation and in combination in the Mediterranean crustose coralline alga Lithophyllum cabiochae. Algae were maintained in aquaria during 1 year at near‐ambient conditions of irradiance, at ambient or elevated temperature (+3°C), and at ambient (ca. 400 μatm) or elevated pCO2 (ca. 700 μatm). Respiration, photosynthesis, and net calcification showed a strong seasonal pattern following the seasonal variations of temperature and irradiance, with higher rates in summer than in winter. Respiration was unaffected by pCO2 but showed a general trend of increase at elevated temperature at all seasons, except in summer under elevated pCO2. Conversely, photosynthesis was strongly affected by pCO2 with a decline under elevated pCO2 in summer, autumn, and winter. In particular, photosynthetic efficiency was reduced under elevated pCO2. Net calcification showed different responses depending on the season. In summer, net calcification increased with rising temperature under ambient pCO2 but decreased with rising temperature under elevated pCO2. Surprisingly, the highest rates in summer were found under elevated pCO2 and ambient temperature. In autumn, winter, and spring, net calcification exhibited a positive or no response at elevated temperature but was unaffected by pCO2. The rate of calcification of L. cabiochae was thus maintained or even enhanced under increased pCO2. However, there is likely a trade‐off with other physiological processes. For example, photosynthesis declines in response to increased pCO2 under ambient irradiance. The present study reports only on the physiological response of healthy specimens to ocean warming and acidification, however, these environmental changes may affect the vulnerability of coralline algae to other stresses such as pathogens and necroses that can cause major dissolution, which would have critical consequence for the sustainability of coralligenous habitats and the budgets of carbon and calcium carbonate in coastal Mediterranean ecosystems.
New support for an old hypothesis: density affects extra‐pair paternity
Authors: Mayer Christian , Pasinelli Gilberto
Published: February 2013

Density has been suggested to affect variation in extra‐pair paternity (EPP) in avian mating systems, because increasing density promotes encounter rates and thus mating opportunities. However, the significance of density affecting EPP variation in intra‐ and interspecific comparisons has remained controversial, with more support from intraspecific comparisons. Neither experimental nor empirical studies have consistently provided support for the density hypothesis. Testing the density hypothesis is challenging because density measures may not necessarily reflect extra‐pair mating opportunities, mate guarding efforts may covary with density, populations studied may differ in migratory behavior and/or climatic conditions, and variation in density may be insufficient. Accounting for these potentially confounding factors, we tested whether EPP rates within and among subpopulations of the reed bunting (Emberiza schoeniclus) were related to density. Our analyses were based on data from 13 subpopulations studied over 4 years. Overall, 56.4% of totally 181 broods contained at least one extra‐pair young (EPY) and 37.1% of totally 669 young were of extra‐pair origin. Roughly 90% of the extra‐pair fathers were from the adjacent territory or from the territory after the next one. Within subpopulations, the proportion of EPY in broods was positively related to local breeding density. Similarly, among subpopulations, proportion of EPY was positively associated with population density. EPP was absent in subpopulations consisting of single breeding pairs, that is, without extra‐pair mating opportunities. Our study confirms that density is an important biological factor, which significantly influences the amount of EPP within and among subpopulations, but also suggests that other mechanisms influence EPP beyond the variation explained by density.
Hybridization in natural sympatric populations of Dermacentor ticks in northwestern North America
Authors: Araya‐Anchetta A. , Scoles G. A. , Giles J. , Busch J. D. , Wagner D. M.
Published: February 2013

Hybridization in ticks has been described in a handful of species and mostly as a result of laboratory experiments. We used 148 AFLP loci to describe putative hybridization events between D. andersoni and D. variabilis in sympatric populations from northwestern North America. Recently, D. variabilis has expanded its range westward into the natural range of D. andersoni. Using a sample of 235 D. andersoni and 62 D. variabilis, we identified 31 individuals as putative hybrids: four F2 individuals and 27 backcrosses to D. andersoni (as defined by NewHybrids). We found no evidence of hybrids backcrossing into D. variabilis. Furthermore, all hybrids presented 16S mtDNA signatures characteristic of D. andersoni, which indicates the directionality of the hybrid crosses: female D. andersoni × male D. variabilis. We also discovered 13 species‐specific AFLP fragments for D. andersoni. These loci were found to have a decreased occurrence in the putative hybrids and were absent altogether in D. variabilis samples. AFLP profiles were also used to determine the levels of genetic population structure and gene flow among nine populations of D. andersoni and three of D. variabilis. Genetic structure exists in both species (D. andersoni, ΦST = 0.110; D. variabilis, ΦST = 0.304) as well as significant estimates of isolation by distance (D. andersoni, ρ = 0.066, P = 0.001; D. variabilis, ρ = 0.729, P = 0.001).
Control of HIV infection: Escape from the shadow of Blimp‐1
Authors: Thaventhiran James E. , Fearon Douglas T.
Published: February 2013

Prior murine studies have demonstrated the pivotal role that Blimp‐1 has in the exhausted phenotype of T lymphocytes in chronic viral infection. In this issue of the European Journal of Immunology, Seddiki et al. [Eur. J. Immunol. 2013. 43: 510–520] demonstrate the applicability of this research to HIV infection. The authors do so by demonstrating differences in Blimp‐1 expression between T lymphocytes isolated from patients with chronic active HIV versus those from long‐term nonprogressors and showing that this is matched by differences in the cells’ capacity to produce IL‐2 and the level of expression of the inhibitory receptor PD‐1. The data presented here suggest that this may relate to differential regulation of Blimp‐1 by the micro RNA, mIR‐9. These findings complement current murine work and fit squarely within the research priorities, as outlined by the International AIDS Society, for determining a cure for AIDS.
Evaluation of the response modification coefficient and collapse potential of special concentrically braced frames
Authors: Hsiao Po‐Chien , Lehman Dawn E. , Roeder Charles W.
Published: February 2013

Special concentrically braced frames (SCBFs) are commonly used for seismic design of buildings. Their large elastic stiffness and strength efficiently sustains the seismic demands during smaller, more frequent earthquakes. During large, infrequent earthquakes, SCBFs exhibit highly nonlinear behavior due to brace buckling and yielding and the inelastic behavior induced by secondary deformation of the framing system. These response modes reduce the system demands relative to an elastic system without supplemental damping using a response modification coefficient, commonly termed the R factor. More recently, procedures put forth in FEMAP695 have been made to quantify the R factor through a formalized procedure that accounts for collapse potential. The primary objective of the research in this paper was to evaluate the approach for SCBFs. An improved model for SCBFs that permits simulation of brace fracture was used to conduct response history analyses. A series of three‐story, nine‐story and 20‐story SCBFs were designed and evaluated. Initially, the FEMAP695 method was conducted to estimate collapse and the corresponding R factor. An alternate procedure for scaling the multiple acceleration records to the seismic design hazard was also evaluated. The results show significant variation between the two methods. Of the three variations of buildings studied, the largest vulnerability was identified for the three‐story building. To achieve a consistent margin of safety against collapse, a significantly lower R factor is required for the low‐rise SCBFs (three‐story), whereas the mid‐rise and high‐rise SCBFs (nine‐story and 20‐story) may continue to use the current value of 6, as provided in ASCE‐07. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sleep mode management in cellular networks: a traffic based technique enabling energy saving
Authors: Morosi Simone , Piunti Pierpaolo , Re Enrico Del
Published: February 2013

Because of the environmental policies that pursue a significant reduction of global greenhouse gas and to the ambition of the network operators to keep under control operational and maintenance expenditures, energy efficiency has recently become one of the most relevant issues for present and future research activities. This contribution deals with the management of the base station sleep mode in a cellular network. The forecasting based sleep mode algorithm, justified by daily and weekly periodic behaviour of traffic, is presented and evaluated for general deployments of second and third generation cellular networks. The energy consumption of each base station and the area power consumption are the metrics, which are considered for our simulations. The results show a significant increase of the energy efficiency during low traffic periods with respect to the usual scenario, thanks to the adoption of the proposed strategy. The forecasting based sleep mode algorithm has been also compared with a strategy based on real‐time measurements and the results show similar performances while the number of updates of the network configuration and the global complexity are decreased. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Inorganic carbon speciation and fluxes in the Congo River
Authors: Wang Zhaohui Aleck , Bienvenu Dinga Jean , Mann Paul J. , Hoering Katherine A. , Poulsen John R. , Spencer Robert G. M. , Holmes Robert M.
Published: February 2013

Seasonal variations in inorganic carbon chemistry and associated fluxes from the Congo River were investigated at Brazzaville‐Kinshasa. Small seasonal variation in dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) was found in contrast with discharge‐correlated changes in pH, total alkalinity (TA), carbonate species, and dissolved organic carbon (DOC). DIC was almost always greater than TA due to the importance of CO2*, the sum of dissolved CO2 and carbonic acid, as a result of low pH. Organic acids in DOC contributed 11–61% of TA and had a strong titration effect on water pH and carbonate speciation. The CO2* and bicarbonate fluxes accounted for ~57% and 43% of the DIC flux, respectively. Congo River surface water released CO2 at a rate of ~109 mol m−2 yr−1. The basin‐wide DIC yield was ~8.84 × 104 mol km−2 yr−1. The discharge normalized DIC flux to the ocean amounted to 3.11 × 1011 mol yr−1. The DOC titration effect on the inorganic carbon system may also be important on a global scale for regulating carbon fluxes in rivers.
The effect of pre‐existing craters on the initial development of explosive volcanic eruptions: An experimental investigation
Authors: Taddeucci J. , Valentine G. A. , Sonder I. , White J. D. L. , Ross P.‐S. , Scarlato P.
Published: February 2013

Most volcanic eruptions occur in craters formed by previous activity. The presence of a crater implies specific confinement geometries, variably filled by loose fragmental deposits, which are expected to exert a strong, yet poorly studied, control on the violent gas expansion that drives the eruption. Here we analyze patterns of ejection from buried explosions in analog experiments, in order to investigate how the presence of a crater and changes in explosion depth and intensity may affect the formation of eruptive ejecta jets. Results show that scaled depth (charge burial depth divided by the cubic root of charge energy) controls the velocity and, partly, spread angle of eruptive jets independently of the presence of a pre‐existing crater. Conversely, for a fixed scaled depth, the presence of a pre‐existing crater limits the development of a laterally expanding annulus of the jet. These results are directly applicable to interpretation of volcanic explosions.
Surveyed and modelled one‐year morphodynamics in the braided lower Tana River
Authors: Lotsari Eliisa , Wainwright David , Corner Geoffrey D. , Alho Petteri , Käyhkö Jukka
Published: February 2013

Field measurements and morphodynamic simulations were carried out along a 5‐km reach of the sandy, braided, lower Tana River in order to detect temporal and spatial variations in river bed modifications and to determine the relative importance of different magnitude discharges on river bed and braid channel evolution during a time span of one year, i.e. 2008–2009. Fulfilling these aims required testing the morphodynamic model's capability to simulate changes in the braided reach. We performed the simulations using a 2‐D morphodynamic model and different transport equations. The survey showed that more deposition than erosion occurred during 2008–2009. Continuous bed‐load transport and bed elevation changes of ±1 m, and a 70–188‐m downstream migration of the thalweg occurred. Simulation results indicated that, during low water periods, modifications occurred in both the main channel and in other braid channels. Thus, unlike some gravel‐bed rivers, the sandy lower Tana River does not behave like a single‐thread channel at low discharge. However, at higher discharge, i.e. exceeding 497 m3/s, the river channel resembled a single‐thread channel when channel banks confined the flow. Although the spring discharge peaks caused more rapid modifications than slower flows, the cumulative volumetric changes of the low water period were greater. The importance of low water period flows for channel modifications is emphasized. Although the 2‐D model requires further improvements, the results were nevertheless promising for the future use of this approach in braided rivers. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Development of pan coefficients for estimating evapotranspiration from riparian woody vegetation
Authors: Doody Tanya M. , Benyon Richard G. , Theiveyanathan S. , Koul Vijay , Stewart Leroy
Published: February 2013

The long‐term ‘Millennium Drought’ has put significant pressure on water resources across Australia. In southeastern Australia and in particular the Murray‐Darling Basin, removal of exotic, high‐water‐use Salix trees may provide a means to return water to the environment. This paper describes a simple model to estimate evapotranspiration of two introduced Salix species under non‐water‐limited conditions across seven biogeoclimatic zones in Australia. In this study, Salix evapotranspiration was calculated using the Penman–Monteith model. Field measurements of leaf area index and stomatal conductance for Salix babylonica and Salix fragilis were used to parameterize the models. Each model was validated using extensive field estimates of evapotranspiration from a semi‐arid (S. babylonica, r2 = 0.88) and cool temperate (S. fragilis, r2 = 0.99) region. Modelled mean annual evapotranspiration showed strong agreement with field measurements, being within 32 and 2 mm year−1 for S. babylonica and S. fragilis, respectively. Monthly pan coefficients (the ratio of mean evapotranspiration to mean pan evaporation) were developed from 30 years of meteorological data, for 30 key reference sites across Australia for both species using the validated Penman–Monteith models. Open‐water evaporation was estimated from field measurements and was used to develop a simple linear regression model for open‐water evaporation across the 30 reference sites. Differences between modelled evapotranspiration and open‐water evaporation at each site provide an indication of the amount of water that might be returned to the environment from removal of in‐stream Salix species. The monthly pan coefficient method reported has application across riparian environments worldwide where measured evapotranspiration is available for model validation. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.