bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Publication productivity of neurosurgeons in Great Britain and Ireland
Authors: Wilkes Fiona A. , Akram Harith , Hyam Jonathan A. , Kitchen Neil D. , Hariz Marwan I. , Zrinzo Ludvic
Published: January 2015

OBJECT

Bibliometrics are the methods used to quantitatively analyze scientific literature. In this study, bibliometrics were used to quantify the scientific output of neurosurgical departments throughout Great Britain and Ireland.

METHODS

A list of neurosurgical departments was obtained from the Society of British Neurological Surgeons website. Individual departments were contacted for an up-to-date list of consultant (attending) neurosurgeons practicing in these departments. Scopus was used to determine the h-index and m-quotient for each neurosurgeon. Indices were measured by surgeon and by departmental mean and total. Additional information was collected about the surgeon's sex, title, listed superspecialties, higher research degrees, and year of medical qualification.

RESULTS

Data were analyzed for 315 neurosurgeons (25 female). The median h-index and m-quotient were 6.00 and 0.41, respectively. These were significantly higher for professors (h-index 21.50; m-quotient 0.71) and for those with an additional MD or PhD (11.0; 0.57). There was no significant difference in h-index, m-quotient, or higher research degrees between the sexes. However, none of the 16 British neurosurgery professors were female. Neurosurgeons who specialized in functional/epilepsy surgery ranked highest in terms of publication productivity. The 5 top-scoring departments were those in Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge; St. George's Hospital, London; Great Ormond Street Hospital, London; National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Queen Square, London; and John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford.

CONCLUSIONS

The h-index is a useful bibliometric marker, particularly when comparing between studies and individuals. The m-quotient reduces bias toward established researchers. British academic neurosurgeons face considerable challenges, and women remain underrepresented in both clinical and academic neurosurgery in Britain and Ireland.
Perineural spread of malignant melanoma from the mandible to the brachial plexus: case report
Authors: Restrepo Carlos E. , Spinner Robert J. , Howe B. Matthew , Jentoft Mark E. , Markovic Svetomir N. , Lachance Daniel H.
Published: January 2015

Perineural spread is a well-known mechanism of dissemination of head and neck malignancies. There are few reports of melanoma involving the brachial plexus in the literature. To their knowledge, the authors report the first known case of perineural spread of malignant melanoma to the brachial plexus. Clinicoradiological and anatomopathological correlation is presented, highlighting the importance of peripheral nerve communications in perineural spread.
Targeting Cyclin-Dependent Kinases in Human Cancers: From Small Molecules to Peptide Inhibitors
Authors: Peyressatre Marion , Prével Camille , Pellerano Morgan , Morris May
Published: January 2015

Cyclin-dependent kinases (CDK/Cyclins) form a family of heterodimeric kinases that play central roles in regulation of cell cycle progression, transcription and other major biological processes including neuronal differentiation and metabolism. Constitutive or deregulated hyperactivity of these kinases due to amplification, overexpression or mutation of cyclins or CDK, contributes to proliferation of cancer cells, and aberrant activity of these kinases has been reported in a wide variety of human cancers. These kinases therefore constitute biomarkers of proliferation and attractive pharmacological targets for development of anticancer therapeutics. The structural features of several of these kinases have been elucidated and their molecular mechanisms of regulation characterized in depth, providing clues for development of drugs and inhibitors to disrupt their function. However, like most other kinases, they constitute a challenging class of therapeutic targets due to their highly conserved structural features and ATP-binding pocket. Notwithstanding, several classes of inhibitors have been discovered from natural sources, and small molecule derivatives have been synthesized through rational, structure-guided approaches or identified in high throughput screens. The larger part of these inhibitors target ATP pockets, but a growing number of peptides targeting protein/protein interfaces are being proposed, and a small number of compounds targeting allosteric sites have been reported.
Performance Evaluation of Air-Based Heat Rejection Systems
Authors: Fugmann Hannes , Nienborg Björn , Trommler Gregor , Dalibard Antoine , Schnabel Lena
Published: January 2015

On the basis of the Number of Transfer Units (NTU) method a functional relation between electric power for fans/pumps and effectiveness in dry coolers and wet cooling towers is developed. Based on this relation, a graphical presentation method of monitoring and simulation data of heat rejection units is introduced. The functional relation allows evaluating the thermodynamic performance of differently sized heat rejection units and comparing performance among them. The method is used to evaluate monitoring data of dry coolers of different solar cooling field projects. The novelty of this approach is that performance rating is not limited by a design point or standardized operating conditions of the heat exchanger, but is realizable under flexible conditions.
Stable Operation and Electricity Generating Characteristics of a Single-Cylinder Free Piston Engine Linear Generator: Simulation and Experiments
Authors: Feng Huihua , Song Yu , Zuo Zhengxing , Shang Jiao , Wang Yaodong , Roskilly Anthony
Published: January 2015

We present a novel design of a single-cylinder free piston engine linear generator (FPELG) incorporating a linear motor as a rebound device. A systematic simulation model of this FPELG system was built containing a kinematic and dynamic model of the piston and mover, a magneto-electric model of the linear generator, a thermodynamic model of the single-cylinder engine, and a friction model between the piston ring and cylinder liner. Simulations were performed to understand the relationships between pre-set motor parameters and the running performance of the FPELG. From the simulation results, it was found that a motor rebound force with a parabolic profile had clear advantages over a force with a triangular profile, such as a higher running frequency and peak cylinder pressure, faster piston motion, etc. The rebound position and the amplitude of rebound force were also determined by simulations. The energy conversion characteristics of the generator were obtained from our FPELG test rig. The parameters of intake pressure, motor frequency, and load resistance were varied over certain ranges, and relationships among these three parameters were obtained. The electricity-generating characteristic parameters include output power and system efficiency, which can measure the quality of matching the controllable parameters. The output power can reach 25.9 W and the system efficiency can reach 13.7%. The results in terms of matching parameters and electricity-generating characteristics should be useful to future research in adapting these engines to various operating modes.
EROI Analysis for Direct Coal Liquefaction without and with CCS: The Case of the Shenhua DCL Project in China
Authors: Kong Zhaoyang , Dong Xiucheng , Xu Bo , Li Rui , Yin Qiang , Song Cuifang
Published: January 2015

Currently, there are considerable discrepancies between China’s central government and some local governments in attitudes towards coal to liquids (CTL) technology. Energy return on investment (EROI) analysis of CTL could provide new insights that may help solve this dilemma. Unfortunately, there has been little research on this topic; this paper therefore analyses the EROI of China’s Shenhua Group Direct Coal Liquefaction (DCL) project, currently the only DCL commercial project in the world. The inclusion or omission of internal energy and by-products is controversial. The results show that the EROIstnd without by-product and with internal energy is 0.68–0.81; the EROIstnd (the standard EROI) without by-product and without internal energy is 3.70–5.53; the EROIstnd with by-product and with internal energy is 0.76–0.90; the EROIstnd with by-product and without internal energy is 4.13–6.14. Furthermore, it is necessary to consider carbon capture and storage (CCS) as a means to control the CO2 emissions. Considering the added energy inputs of CCS at the plant level, the EROIs decrease to 0.65–0.77, 2.87–3.97, 0.72–0.85, and 3.20–4.40, respectively. The extremely low, even negative, net energy, which may be due to high investments in infrastructure and low conversion efficiency, suggests CTL is not a good choice to replace conventional energy sources, and thus, Chinese government should be prudent when developing it.
Environmental Geochemistry of Cerium: Applications and Toxicology of Cerium Oxide Nanoparticles
Authors: Dahle Jessica , Arai Yuji
Published: January 2015

Cerium is the most abundant of rare-earth metals found in the Earth’s crust. Several Ce-carbonate, -phosphate, -silicate, and -(hydr)oxide minerals have been historically mined and processed for pharmaceutical uses and industrial applications. Of all Ce minerals, cerium dioxide has received much attention in the global nanotechnology market due to their useful applications for catalysts, fuel cells, and fuel additives. A recent mass flow modeling study predicted that a major source of CeO2 nanoparticles from industrial processing plants (e.g., electronics and optics manufactures) is likely to reach the terrestrial environment such as landfills and soils. The environmental fate of CeO2 nanoparticles is highly dependent on its physcochemical properties in low temperature geochemical environment. Though there are needs in improving the analytical method in detecting/quantifying CeO2 nanoparticles in different environmental media, it is clear that aquatic and terrestrial organisms have been exposed to CeO2 NPs, potentially yielding in negative impact on human and ecosystem health. Interestingly, there has been contradicting reports about the toxicological effects of CeO2 nanoparticles, acting as either an antioxidant or reactive oxygen species production-inducing agent). This poses a challenge in future regulations for the CeO2 nanoparticle application and the risk assessment in the environment.
EGCG Inhibits Proliferation, Invasiveness and Tumor Growth by Up-Regulation of Adhesion Molecules, Suppression of Gelatinases Activity, and Induction of Apoptosis in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Fang Chih-Yeu , Wu Chung-Chun , Hsu Hui-Yu , Chuang Hsin-Ying , Huang Sheng-Yen , Tsai Ching-Hwa , Chang Yao , Tsao George , Chen Chi-Long , Chen Jen-Yang
Published: January 2015

(−)-Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a major green tea polyphenol, has been shown to inhibit the proliferation of a variety of tumor cells. Epidemiological studies have shown that drinking green tea can reduce the incidence of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), yet the underlying mechanism is not well understood. In this study, the inhibitory effect of EGCG was tested on a set of Epstein Barr virus-negative and -positive NPC cell lines. Treatment with EGCG inhibited the proliferation of NPC cells but did not affect the growth of a non-malignant nasopharyngeal cell line, NP460hTert. Moreover, EGCG treated cells had reduced migration and invasive properties. The expression of the cell adhesion molecules E-cadherin and β-catenin was found to be up-regulated by EGCG treatment, while the down-regulation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP)-2 and MMP-9 were found to be mediated by suppression of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) phosphorylation and AP-1 and Sp1 transactivation. Spheroid formation by NPC cells in suspension was significantly inhibited by EGCG. Oral administration of EGCG was capable of suppressing tumor growth in xenografted mice bearing NPC tumors. Treatment with EGCG was found to elevate the expression of p53 and p21, and eventually led to apoptosis of NPC cells via caspase 3 activation. The nuclear translocation of NF-κB and β-catenin was also suppressed by EGCG treatment. These results indicate that EGCG can inhibit the proliferation and invasiveness, and induce apoptosis, of NPC cells, making it a promising agent for chemoprevention or adjuvant therapy of NPC.
Bone-Remodeling Transcript Levels Are Independent of Perching in End-of-Lay White Leghorn Chickens
Authors: Dale Maurice , Mortimer Erin , Kolli Santharam , Achramowicz Erik , Borchert Glenn , Juliano Steven , Halkyard Scott , Sietz Nick , Gatto Craig , Hester Patricia , Rubin David
Published: January 2015

Osteoporosis is a bone disease that commonly results in a 30% incidence of fracture in hens used to produce eggs for human consumption. One of the causes of osteoporosis is the lack of mechanical strain placed on weight-bearing bones. In conventionally-caged hens, there is inadequate space for chickens to exercise and induce mechanical strain on their bones. One approach is to encourage mechanical stress on bones by the addition of perches to conventional cages. Our study focuses on the molecular mechanism of bone remodeling in end-of-lay hens (71 weeks) with access to perches. We examined bone-specific transcripts that are actively involved during development and remodeling. Using real-time quantitative PCR, we examined seven transcripts (COL2A1 (collagen, type II, alpha 1), RANKL (receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand), OPG (osteoprotegerin), PTHLH (PTH-like hormone), PTH1R (PTH/PTHLH type-1 receptor), PTH3R (PTH/PTHLH type-3 receptor), and SOX9 (Sry-related high mobility group box)) in phalange, tibia and femur. Our results indicate that the only significant effect was a difference among bones for COL2A1 (femur > phalange). Therefore, we conclude that access to a perch did not alter transcript expression. Furthermore, because hens have been used as a model for human bone metabolism and osteoporosis, the results indicate that bone remodeling due to mechanical loading in chickens may be a product of different pathways than those involved in the mammalian model.
What RNA World? Why a Peptide/RNA Partnership Merits Renewed Experimental Attention
Authors: Carter Charles
Published: January 2015

We review arguments that biology emerged from a reciprocal partnership in which small ancestral oligopeptides and oligonucleotides initially both contributed rudimentary information coding and catalytic rate accelerations, and that the superior information-bearing qualities of RNA and the superior catalytic potential of proteins emerged from such complexes only with the gradual invention of the genetic code. A coherent structural basis for that scenario was articulated nearly a decade before the demonstration of catalytic RNA. Parallel hierarchical catalytic repertoires for increasingly highly conserved sequences from the two synthetase classes now increase the likelihood that they arose as translation products from opposite strands of a single gene. Sense/antisense coding affords a new bioinformatic metric for phylogenetic relationships much more distant than can be reconstructed from multiple sequence alignments of a single superfamily. Evidence for distinct coding properties in tRNA acceptor stems and anticodons, and experimental demonstration that the two synthetase family ATP binding sites can indeed be coded by opposite strands of the same gene supplement these biochemical and bioinformatic data, establishing a solid basis for key intermediates on a path from simple, stereochemically coded, reciprocally catalytic peptide/RNA complexes through the earliest peptide catalysts to contemporary aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases. That scenario documents a path to increasing complexity that obviates the need for a single polymer to act both catalytically and as an informational molecule.
Preparation of pH Sensitive Pluronic-Docetaxel Conjugate Micelles to Balance the Stability and Controlled Release Issues
Authors: Liang Yanchao , Su Zhihui , Yao Yao , Zhang Na
Published: January 2015

A novel polymer-drug conjugate was prepared by the chemical reaction between the copolymer Pluronic P123 and the docetaxel via a pH sensitive hydrazone bond. These pluronic P123-docetaxel (DTX) conjugates (P123-DTX) could form the stable drug-loaded materials that can self-assemble into the defined nano-micelles in aqueous solution because of their obvious amphiphilic property and low critical micelle concentration. The spherical morphology and particle size of the prepared nano-micelles were characterized by transmission electron microscopy and dynamic light scattering, respectively. Moreover, after the introduction of pH sensitive hydrazone bond, P123-DTX micelle showed a pH dependent drug release behavior. At pH 5.0 (in 48 h), the cumulative release amount of DTX were ~84.9%, which is about six times higher than that at pH 7.4. The prepared novel p123-DTX conjugates may offer a great benefit for drug delivery and controlling the drug release.
A Miniaturized Antenna with Negative Index Metamaterial Based on Modified SRR and CLS Unit Cell for UWB Microwave Imaging Applications
Authors: Islam Md. , Islam Mohammad , Samsuzzaman Md. , Faruque Mohammad , Misran Norbahiah , Mansor Mohd
Published: January 2015

A miniaturized antenna employing a negative index metamaterial with modified split-ring resonator (SRR) and capacitance-loaded strip (CLS) unit cells is presented for Ultra wideband (UWB) microwave imaging applications. Four left-handed (LH) metamaterial (MTM) unit cells are located along one axis of the antenna as the radiating element. Each left-handed metamaterial unit cell combines a modified split-ring resonator (SRR) with a capacitance-loaded strip (CLS) to obtain a design architecture that simultaneously exhibits both negative permittivity and negative permeability, which ensures a stable negative refractive index to improve the antenna performance for microwave imaging. The antenna structure, with dimension of 16 × 21 × 1.6 mm3, is printed on a low dielectric FR4 material with a slotted ground plane and a microstrip feed. The measured reflection coefficient demonstrates that this antenna attains 114.5% bandwidth covering the frequency band of 3.4–12.5 GHz for a voltage standing wave ratio of less than 2 with a maximum gain of 5.16 dBi at 10.15 GHz. There is a stable harmony between the simulated and measured results that indicate improved nearly omni-directional radiation characteristics within the operational frequency band. The stable surface current distribution, negative refractive index characteristic, considerable gain and radiation properties make this proposed negative index metamaterial antenna optimal for UWB microwave imaging applications.
Synthesis, Bioactivity, Molecular Docking and POM Analyses of Novel Substituted Thieno[2,3-b]thiophenes and Related Congeners
Authors: Mabkhot Yahia , Aldawsari Fahad , Al-Showiman Salim , Barakat Assem , Hadda Taibi , Mubarak Mohammad , Naz Sehrish , Ul-Haq Zaheer , Rauf Abdur
Published: January 2015

Several series of novel substituted thienothiophene derivatives were synthesized by reacting the synthone 1 with different reagents. The newly synthesized compounds were characterized by means of different spectroscopic methods such as IR, NMR, mass spectrometry and by elemental analyses. The new compounds displayed significant activity against both Gram-positive and Gram negative bacteria, in addition to fungi. Molecular docking and POM analyses show the crucial role and impact of substituents on bioactivity and indicate the unfavorable structural parameters in actual drug design: more substitution doesn’t guaranty more efficiency in bioactivity.
Antimicrobial and Seasonal Evaluation of the Carvacrol-Chemotype Oil from Lippia origanoides Kunth.
Authors: Sarrazin Sandra , Da Silva Leomara , De Assunção Ana , Oliveira Ricardo , Calao Victor , Da Silva Rodrigo , Stashenko Elena , Maia José , Mourão Rosa
Published: January 2015

This study evaluated the influence of seasonal variation on the yield and composition of essential oil of Lippia origanoides occurring in the Middle Rio Amazonas, Brazil, and the impact on its antimicrobial potential. The average oil yield was 1.7% ± 0.2% in the rainy season and 1.6% ± 0.3% in the dry season. Some correlations with climatic parameters were observed. The major components were carvacrol (rainy, 43.5% ± 1.9%; dry, 41.4% ± 2.04%), thymol (rainy, 10.7% ± 1.1%; dry, 10.6% ± 0.9%), p-cymene (rainy, 9.8% ± 0.7%; dry, 10.0% ± 1.4%) and p-methoxythymol (rainy, 9.6% ± 0.8%; dry, 10.4% ± 1.4%). It was found that the antibacterial activity of L. origanoides against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli was little influenced by the changes in oil composition due to seasonal variation. Against S. aureus, the oil Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) value was 1.25 μL/mL over ten months. Against E. coli, the oil MIC values ranged from 0.15 μL/mL to 0.31 μL/mL in different months of the year. The Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) value was 2.5 μL/mL against S. aureus and 1.25 μL/mL against E. coli. The results suggest that the antimicrobial activity identified in the oil remain unchanged for the full year, allowing its medicinal use without any risk of loss or absence of the active principles of the plant.
Ameliorating the Effect of Astragaloside IV on Learning and Memory Deficit after Chronic Cerebral Hypoperfusion in Rats
Authors: Kim Sooyong , Kang Il-Hwan , Nam Jung-Bum , Cho Yoonchul , Chung Doo-Young , Kim Seung-Hwan , Kim Jeong-Soo , Cho Yong-Deok , Hong Eun-Ki , Sohn Nak-Won , Shin Jung-Won
Published: January 2015

Astragaloside IV (AS-IV) has been reported to have a prominent antioxidant effect and was proposed as a promising agent for the prevention of neurodegenerative disorders accompanied by cognitive impairment. The present study investigated the ameliorating effect of AS-IV on learning and memory deficits induced by chronic cerebral hypoperfusion in rats. Rats were treated with two doses of AS-IV (10 and 20 mg/kg, i.p.) daily for 28 days starting from the 5th week after permanent bilateral common carotid artery occlusion. AS-IV treatment (at dose of 20 mg/kg) significantly improved the spatial learning and memory deficits assessed using the Morris water maze test in rats with chronic cerebral hypoperfusion. AS-IV significantly attenuated neuronal apoptosis as well as the levels of superoxide dismutase and lipid peroxidation markers, including malondialdehyde and 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal, in the hippocampus. AS-IV also significantly reduced 8-hydroxy-2’-deoxyguanosine expression, a maker of oxidative DNA damage, while significantly inhibited the astrocyte and microglia activation in the hippocampus. The results indicate that AS-IV has therapeutic potential for the prevention of dementia caused by cerebral hypoperfusion and suggest that the ameliorating effect of AS-IV on learning and memory deficits might be the result of suppressing neuronal apoptosis and oxidative damage in the hippocampus.
Protopanaxadiol, an Active Ginseng Metabolite, Significantly Enhances the Effects of Fluorouracil on Colon Cancer
Authors: Wang Chong-Zhi , Zhang Zhiyu , Wan Jin-Yi , Zhang Chun-Feng , Anderson Samantha , He Xin , Yu Chunhao , He Tong-Chuan , Qi Lian-Wen , Yuan Chun-Su
Published: January 2015

In this study, we evaluated the effects of protopanaxadiol (PPD), a gut microbiome induced ginseng metabolite, in increasing the anticancer effects of a chemotherapeutic agent fluorouracil (5-FU) on colorectal cancer. An in vitro HCT-116 colorectal cancer cell proliferation test was conducted to observe the effects of PPD, 5-FU and their co-administration and the related mechanisms of action. Then, an in vivo xenografted athymic mouse model was used to confirm the in vitro data. Our results showed that the human gut microbiome converted ginsenoside compound K to PPD as a metabolite. PPD and 5-FU significantly inhibited HCT-116 cell proliferation in a concentration-dependent manner (both p < 0.01), and the effects of 5-FU were very significantly enhanced by combined treatment with PPD (p < 0.01). Cell cycle evaluation demonstrated that 5-FU markedly induced the cancer cell S phase arrest, while PPD increased arrest in G1 phase. Compared to the control, 5-FU and PPD increased apoptosis, and their co-administration significantly increased the number of apoptotic cells (p < 0.01). Using bioluminescence imaging, in vivo data revealed that 5-FU significantly reduced the tumor growth up to Day 20 (p < 0.05). PPD and 5-FU co-administration very significantly reduced the tumor size in a dose-related manner (p < 0.01 compared to the 5-FU alone). The quantification of the tumor size and weight changes for 43 days supported the in vivo imaging data. Our results demonstrated that the co-administration of PPD and 5-FU significantly inhibited the tumor growth, indicating that PPD significantly enhanced the anticancer action of 5-FU, a commonly used chemotherapeutic agent. PPD may have a clinical value in 5-FU’s cancer therapeutics.
Field Spectroscopy in the VNIR-SWIR Region to Discriminate between Mediterranean Native Plants and Exotic-Invasive Shrubs Based on Leaf Tannin Content
Authors: Lehmann Jan , Große-Stoltenberg André , Römer Meike , Oldeland Jens
Published: January 2015

The invasive shrub, Acacia longifolia, native to southeastern Australia, has a negative impact on vegetation and ecosystem functioning in Portuguese dune ecosystems. In order to spectrally discriminate A. longifolia from other non-native and native species, we developed a classification model based on leaf reflectance spectra (350–2500 nm) and condensed leaf tannin content. High variation of leaf tannin content is common for Mediterranean shrub and tree species, in particular between N-fixing and non-N-fixing species, as well as within the genus, Acacia. However, variation in leaf tannin content has not been studied in coastal dune ecosystems in southwest Portugal. We hypothesized that condensed tannin concentration varies significantly across species, further allowing for distinguishing invasive, nitrogen-fixing A. longifolia from other vegetation based on leaf spectral reflectance data. Spectral field measurements were carried out using an ASD FieldSpec FR spectroradiometer attached to an ASD leaf clip in order to collect 750 in situ leaf reflectance spectra of seven frequent plant species at three study sites in southwest Portugal. We applied partial least squares (PLS) regression to predict the obtained leaf reflectance spectra of A. longifolia individuals to their corresponding tannin concentration. A. longifolia had the lowest tannin concentration of all investigated species. Four wavelength regions (675–710 nm, 1060–1170 nm, 1360–1450 nm and 1630–1740 nm) were identified as being highly correlated with tannin concentration. A spectra-based classification model of the different plant species was calculated using a principal component analysis-linear discriminant analysis (PCA-LDA). The best prediction of A. longifolia was achieved by using wavelength regions between 1360–1450 nm and 1630–1740 nm, resulting in a user’s accuracy of 98.9%. In comparison, selecting the entire wavelength range, the best user accuracy only reached 86.5% for A. longifolia individuals.
Online Estimation of Allan Variance Coefficients Based on a Neural-Extended Kalman Filter
Authors: Miao Zhiyong , Shen Feng , Xu Dingjie , He Kunpeng , Tian Chunmiao
Published: January 2015

As a noise analysis method for inertial sensors, the traditional Allan variance method requires the storage of a large amount of data and manual analysis for an Allan variance graph. Although the existing online estimation methods avoid the storage of data and the painful procedure of drawing slope lines for estimation, they require complex transformations and even cause errors during the modeling of dynamic Allan variance. To solve these problems, first, a new state-space model that directly models the stochastic errors to obtain a nonlinear state-space model was established for inertial sensors. Then, a neural-extended Kalman filter algorithm was used to estimate the Allan variance coefficients. The real noises of an ADIS16405 IMU and fiber optic gyro-sensors were analyzed by the proposed method and traditional methods. The experimental results show that the proposed method is more suitable to estimate the Allan variance coefficients than the traditional methods. Moreover, the proposed method effectively avoids the storage of data and can be easily implemented using an online processor.
Regeneration of Recombinant Antigen Microarrays for the Automated Monitoring of Antibodies against Zoonotic Pathogens in Swine Sera
Authors: Meyer Verena , Kober Catharina , Niessner Reinhard , Seidel Michael
Published: January 2015

The ability to regenerate immobilized proteins like recombinant antigens (rAgs) on surfaces is an unsolved problem for flow-based immunoassays on microarray analysis systems. The regeneration on microarray chip surfaces is achieved by changing the protein structures and desorption of antibodies. Afterwards, reactivation of immobilized protein antigens is necessary for reconstitution processes. Any backfolding should be managed in a way that antibodies are able to detect the protein antigens in the next measurement cycle. The regeneration of rAg microarrays was examined for the first time on the MCR3 flow-based chemiluminescence (CL) microarray analysis platform. The aim was to reuse rAg microarray chips in order to reduce the screening effort and costs. An antibody capturing format was used to detect antibodies against zoonotic pathogens in sera of slaughtered pigs. Different denaturation and reactivation buffers were tested. Acidic glycine-SDS buffer (pH 2.5) and 8 M guanidinium hydrochloride showed the best results in respect of denaturation efficiencies. The highest CL signals after regeneration were achieved with a carbonate buffer containing 10 mM DTT and 0.1% BSA for reactivation. Antibodies against Yersinia spp. and hepatitis E virus (HEV) were detected in swine sera on one immunochip over 4 days and 25 measurement cycles. Each cycle took 10 min for detection and regeneration. By using the rAg microarray chip, a fast and automated screening of antibodies against pathogens in sera of slaughtered pigs would be possible for zoonosis monitoring.
Effect of Level and Downhill Running on Breathing Efficiency
Authors: Cook Matthew , Myers Stephen , Kelly John , Willems Mark
Published: January 2015

Ventilatory equivalents for oxygen and carbon dioxide are physiological measures of breathing efficiency, and are known to be affected by the intensity and mode of exercise. We examined the effect of level running (gradient 0%) and muscle-damaging downhill running (−12%), matched for oxygen uptake, on the ventilatory equivalents for oxygen () and carbon dioxide (). Nine men (27 ± 9 years, 179 ± 7 cm, 75 ± 12 kg, : 52.0 ± 7.7 mL·kg−1·min−1) completed two 40-min running bouts (5 × 8-min with 2-min inter-bout rest), one level and one downhill. Running intensity was matched at 60% of maximal metabolic equivalent. Maximal isometric force of m.quadriceps femoris was measured before and after the running bouts. Data was analyzed with 2-way ANOVA or paired samples t-tests. Running speed (downhill: 13.5 ± 3.2, level: 9.6 ± 2.2 km·h−1) and isometric force deficits (downhill: 17.2 ± 7.6%, level: 2.0 ± 6.9%) were higher for downhill running. Running bouts for level and downhill gradients had , heart rates and respiratory exchange ratio values that were not different indicating matched intensity and metabolic demands. During downhill running, the , (downhill: 29.7 ± 3.3, level: 27.2 ± 1.6) and (downhill: 33.3 ± 2.7, level: 30.4 ± 1.9) were 7.1% and 8.3% higher (p < 0.05) than level running. In conclusion, breathing efficiency appears lower during downhill running (i.e., muscle-damaging exercise) compared to level running at a similar moderate intensity.
Epidemiological Review of Injuries in Rugby Union
Authors: Kaux Jean-François , Julia Marc , Delvaux François , Croisier Jean-Louis , Forthomme Bénédicte , Monnot Damien , Chupin Marie , Crielaard Jean-Michel , Goff Caroline , Durez Patrick , Ernst Philippe , Guns Sébastien , Laly Arnaud
Published: January 2015

Rugby is a sport that is growing in popularity. A contact sport par excellence, it causes a significant number of injuries. In Rugby Union, there are 30 to 91 injuries per 1000 match hours. This epidemiological review of injuries incurred by rugby players mentions the position and type of injuries, the causes, time during the match and season in which they occur and the players’ positions as well as the length of players’ absences following the injury.
In Search of Pathogens: Transcriptome-Based Identification of Viral Sequences from the Pine Processionary Moth (Thaumetopoea pityocampa)
Authors: Jakubowska Agata , Nalcacioglu Remziye , Millán-Leiva Anabel , Sanz-Carbonell Alejandro , Muratoglu Hacer , Herrero Salvador , Demirbag Zihni
Published: January 2015

Thaumetopoea pityocampa (pine processionary moth) is one of the most important pine pests in the forests of Mediterranean countries, Central Europe, the Middle East and North Africa. Apart from causing significant damage to pinewoods, T. pityocampa occurrence is also an issue for public and animal health, as it is responsible for dermatological reactions in humans and animals by contact with its irritating hairs. High throughput sequencing technologies have allowed the fast and cost-effective generation of genetic information of interest to understand different biological aspects of non-model organisms as well as the identification of potential pathogens. Using these technologies, we have obtained and characterized the transcriptome of T. pityocampa larvae collected in 12 different geographical locations in Turkey. cDNA libraries for Illumina sequencing were prepared from four larval tissues, head, gut, fat body and integument. By pooling the sequences from Illumina platform with those previously published using the Roche 454-FLX and Sanger methods we generated the largest reference transcriptome of T. pityocampa. In addition, this study has also allowed identification of possible viral pathogens with potential application in future biocontrol strategies.
Benthic Uptake Rate due to Hyporheic Exchange: The Effects of Streambed Morphology for Constant and Sinusoidally Varying Nutrient Loads
Authors: Tonina Daniele , Marzadri Alessandra , Bellin Alberto
Published: January 2015

Hyporheic exchange carries reactive solutes, which may include biological oxygen demand (BOD), dissolved oxygen (DO) and reactive dissolved inorganic nitrogen (Nr), into the sediment, where biochemical reactions consume DO. Here, we study the impact of streambed morphology, stream-reactive solute loads and their diel oscillations on the DO benthic uptake rate (BUR) due to hyporheic processes. Our model solves the hyporheic flow field and the solute transport equations analytically, within a Lagrangian framework, considering advection, longitudinal diffusion and reactions modeled as first order kinetics. The application of the model to DO field measurements over a gravel bar-pool sequence shows a good match with measured DO concentrations with an overall agreement of 58% and a kappa index of 0.46. We apply the model to investigate the effects of daily constant and sinusoidally time varying stream BOD, DO and Nr loads and of the morphodynamic parameters on BUR. Our modeling results show that BUR varies as a function of bedform size and of nutrient loads and that the hyporheic zone may consume up to 0.06% of the stream DO at the pool-riffle bedform scale. Daily oscillations of stream BOD and DO loads have small effects on BUR, but may have an important influence on local hyporheic processes and organisms’ distribution.
Proenvironmental Behavior: The Link Between Place Attachment and Place Satisfaction
Authors: Ramkissoon Haywantee , Mavondo Felix
Published: January 2015

The study tested whether proenvironmental behavioral intention mediates the relationship between place attachment and place satisfaction among visitors of the Dandenong Ranges National Park in Australia. Structural equation modeling was employed on a sample of 452 visitors. Regression
models were estimated to test the mediating effect of proenvironmental behavioral intentions on the relationships between place dependence, place identity, place affect, place social bonding, and place satisfaction. Results show that as hypothesized, these effects were mediated by proenvironmental
behavioral intentions, except for the relationship between place social bonding and place satisfaction. An important theoretical contribution is the mediating role of proenvironmental behavioral intentions in nature-based settings. Practical applications of the study include marketing aimed
at encouraging repeat visitation by increasing levels of place attachment and place satisfaction in national parks through proenvironmental message development and delivery.
the spillover effects of wine and harvest festival on other festivals
Authors: Chang Seohee
Published: January 2015

Few studies have investigated spillover effects for alliances among a series of seasonal festivals in a local community. To understand the spillover effects of Wine and Harvest Festival as the core festival on other festivals, this study examined the likelihood of intending to attend Winter Festival, Strawberry Festival, and Oktoberfest Festival by using preferences, loyalty, and past attendance associated with Wine and Harvest Festival. The Wine and Harvest Festival attendees were surveyed online. The final sample size was 370 attendees at the Wine and Harvest Festival. The data were analyzed using descriptive analysis, exploratory factor analysis, and a binary logistic regression. The results demonstrated that past visits to the Wine and Harvest Festival as the core festival was the significant predictor of individuals' intention to attend the Winter Festival and the Strawberry Festival in the future. Further discussions are presented in this article.
Genetic basis for a rare floral mutant in an Andean species of Solanaceae
Authors: Coburn Rachel A. , Griffin Randi H. , Smith Stacey D.
Published: January 2015

• Premise of the study: White forms of typically pigmented flowers are one of the most common polymorphisms in flowering plants. Although the range of genetic changes that give rise to white phenotypes is well known from model systems, few studies have identified causative mutations in natural populations.

• Methods: Here we combine genetic studies, in vitro enzyme assays, and biochemical analyses to identify the mechanism underlying the loss of anthocyanin pigment production in the naturally occurring white‐flowered morph of Iochroma calycinum (Solanaceae).

• Key results: Comparison of anthocyanin gene sequences revealed a putative loss‐of‐function mutation, an 11 amino‐acid deletion in dihydroflavonol 4‐reductase (DFR), in the white morph. Functional assays of Dfr alleles from blue and white morphs demonstrated that this deletion results in a loss of enzymatic activity, indicating that the deletion could be solely responsible for the lack of pigment production. Consistent with this hypothesis, quantitative PCR showed no significant differences in expression of anthocyanin genes between the morphs. Also, thin layer chromatography confirmed that the white morph continues to accumulate compounds upstream of the DFR enzyme.

• Conclusions: Collectively, these experiments indicate that the structural mutation at Dfr underlies the rare white flower morph of I. calycinum. This study is one of only a few examples where a flower color polymorphism is due to a loss‐of‐function mutation in the coding region of an anthocyanin enzyme. The rarity of such mutations in nature suggests that negative consequences prevent fixation across populations.
Overview about the localization of nanoparticles in tissue and cellular context by different imaging techniques
Authors: Ostrowski Anja , Nordmeyer Daniel , Boreham Alexander , Holzhausen Cornelia , Mundhenk Lars , Graf Christina , Meinke Martina C , Vogt Annika , Hadam Sabrina , Lademann Jürgen , Rühl Eckart , Alexiev Ulrike , Gruber Achim D
Published: January 2015

The increasing interest and recent developments in nanotechnology pose previously unparalleled challenges in understanding the effects of nanoparticles on living tissues. Despite significant progress in in vitro cell and tissue culture technologies, observations on particle distribution and tissue responses in whole organisms are still indispensable. In addition to a thorough understanding of complex tissue responses which is the domain of expert pathologists, the localization of particles at their sites of interaction with living structures is essential to complete the picture. In this review we will describe and compare different imaging techniques for localizing inorganic as well as organic nanoparticles in tissues, cells and subcellular compartments. The visualization techniques include well-established methods, such as standard light, fluorescence, transmission electron and scanning electron microscopy as well as more recent developments, such as light and electron microscopic autoradiography, fluorescence lifetime imaging, spectral imaging and linear unmixing, superresolution structured illumination, Raman microspectroscopy and X-ray microscopy. Importantly, all methodologies described allow for the simultaneous visualization of nanoparticles and evaluation of cell and tissue changes that are of prime interest for toxicopathologic studies. However, the different approaches vary in terms of applicability for specific particles, sensitivity, optical resolution, technical requirements and thus availability, and effects of labeling on particle properties. Specific bottle necks of each technology are discussed in detail. Interpretation of particle localization data from any of these techniques should therefore respect their specific merits and limitations as no single approach combines all desired properties.
Les fantasmes géopolitiques du pétrole dans les pays en guerre... ou pas
Authors: Pérouse de Montclos Marc-Antoine
Published: January 2015

Ressource hautement symbolique, le pétrole suscite bien des fantasmes lorsqu’il s’agit d’expliquer les motifs de conflits armés. L’or noir est bien évidemment un objet de convoitise et un atout stratégique essentiel pour conduire des guerres. Mais son rôle est clairement surestimé lorsqu’il occulte les autres facteurs de déclenchement d’un conflit armé. À partir de plusieurs exemples puisés en Afrique, en Asie et en Amérique latine, cet article montre ainsi comment l’obsession du pétrole peut confiner au fantasme et troubler l’analyse géopolitique de la guerre... en particulier dans les pays sans pétrole.
De la Caspienne à la Turquie : les enjeux du corridor gazier sud-européen
Authors: Rebière Noémie
Published: January 2015

Avec l’augmentation de la demande énergétique globale et la multiplication des conflits pour le contrôle des ressources et des routes d’approvisionnement, la sécurité énergétique devient un enjeu majeur pour l’Union européenne, mais aussi pour les pays producteurs et de transit. La récente crise en Ukraine met en lumière le rôle du gaz comme arme stratégique dans la politique extérieure de la Russie et confirme la nécessité pour les pays européens de diversifier leurs sources et routes d’approvisionnement en énergie. Le corridor gazier sud-européen, qui achemine les hydrocarbures de la région Caspienne vers l’Europe via la Turquie, constitue un projet clef de la stratégie de l’Union européenne et des États-Unis pour assurer la sécurité énergétique de l’Europe. Cependant, avec l’actuelle instabilité au Moyen-Orient et la difficulté d’aboutir à un accord concernant les négociations sur le nucléaire iranien, la question de la capacité du corridor sud-européen d’être alimenté par des ressources suffisantes dans les années à venir reste hypothétique. Dans ce contexte, cette approche analyse les interactions profondes entre enjeux énergétiques, sécurité des territoires, visées politiques et intérêts économiques.
Les Balkans en quête d'un nouveau souffle : le Sud-Est européen au révélateur des enjeux énergétiques
Authors: Dorlhiac Renaud
Published: January 2015

La nécessité pour l’Europe occidentale de se doter de nouvelles voies d’approvisionnement énergétique conférera dans les prochaines années une place stratégique aux Balkans. Les pays concernés par les projets promus dans le cadre du « corridor sud » entendent profiter de ce rôle en matière de transit pour relancer des économies durement touchées par la crise financière et alléger leur dépendance énergétique, en attendant de développer leur potentiel propre encore sous-exploité, notamment dans le domaine des énergies renouvelables. Mais les États balkaniques entendent également saisir cette opportunité pour revaloriser leur poids sur la scène internationale et affirmer leur suprématie régionale. Ces enjeux politiques poussent la plupart d’entre eux à régler (ou minimiser) certains différends bilatéraux avec leurs voisins. Ils les amènent aussi à élargir leurs partenariats au-delà du continent européen afin de s’affranchir d’une relation de plus en plus conflictuelle entre l’Union européenne et la Russie.
La géopolitique indienne de l'énergie
Authors: Racine Jean-Luc
Published: January 2015

Dans sa course à la puissance, l’Inde doit résoudre le défi de sa sécurité énergétique. Dépendant de plus en plus des importations de pétrole, de gaz, de charbon et d’uranium, elle doit résoudre des problèmes de coût, mais aussi d’approvisionnement dans un contexte difficile, aussi bien dans son voisinage proche que dans son voisinage étendu. La géopolitique indienne de l’énergie est ainsi partie prenante aussi bien de la diplomatie économique que de la « grande stratégie » d’un pays émergent devant consolider les bases de sa puissance. À cet égard, la quête de la sécurité énergétique illustre de façon significative les nouvelles géométries de l’ordre mondial, où compétition et coopération sont de règle entre acteurs inégaux, mais incontournables.
Développement d'une plateforme Internet pour faciliter l'intervention précoce auprès des familles
Authors: Gascon Hubert , Beaudoin Isabelle , Voyer Dominic , Beaupré Pauline
Published: January 2015

La nécessité et la pertinence d’entreprendre une démarche d’intervention précoce auprès de parents d’enfants chez qui est soupçonné un retard ou une anomalie dans son développement sont largement reconnues. Cet article présente le développement et le cadre d’évaluation du Programme interdisciplinaire d’accompagnement en ligne et d’entraide famille (PIALEF), un outil accessible en ligne (Internet) et élaboré en vue d’accompagner et de soutenir les parents en attente d’un diagnostic dûment établi ou de services du réseau de santé et de services sociaux. Élaboré en collaboration avec une équipe de chercheurs et de cliniciens, PIALEF s’inscrit dans une perspective de recherche développement et constitue un exemple de programme d’intervention préventif axé sur la résilience assistée. Cet article présente les assises qui ont guidé l’élaboration de cette plateforme interactive, les différentes phases de sa conception, son contenu et son fonctionnement. La procédure d’évaluation du programme qui est en cours est également présentée.
Les TNIC dans les écoles en Espagne Analyse des expériences de participation des familles
Authors: Catasús Guitert Montse , Gutierrez Vázquez Azucena
Published: January 2015

Cet article porte sur le rôle de la famille et de l’éducation dans le domaine des Technologies Numériques de l’Information et de la Communication (TNIC) en Espagne, sachant que la participation des parents est un facteur clé pour la mise en œuvre du binôme éducation/technologies. La première partie identifie les spécificités du contexte espagnol et les questions posées par la recherche. La seconde partie de l’article expose différentes initiatives qui impliquent la participation des familles dans l’acquisition ou le maintien de l’infrastructure technologique. Il présente les formes des usages et contributions aux espaces virtuels (au travers de l’utilisation de blogs, microblogging et autres réseaux sociaux, etc.) créées pour encourager la participation et l’apprentissage des parents dans le domaine des TNIC.