bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differential Regional Distribution of Juxtacortical White Matter Signal Abnormalities in Aging and Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Lindemer Emily R. , Greve Douglas N. , Fischl Bruce , Augustinack Jean C. , Salat David H. ,   for the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: February 2017

Background: White matter signal abnormalities (WMSA) (also known as ‘hyperintensities’) on MRI are commonly seen in normal aging and increases have been noted in Alzheimer’s disease (AD), but whether there is a spatial specificity to these increases is unknown.

Objective: To discern whether or not there is a spatial pattern of WMSA in the brains of individuals with AD that differs from those who exhibit cognitively healthy aging.

Method: Structural MRI data from the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative public database were used to quantify WMSA in 35 regions of interest (ROIs). Regional measures were compared between cognitively healthy older controls (OC; n = 107) and individuals with a clinical diagnosis of AD ( n = 127). Regional WMSA volume was also assessed in individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI; n = 74) who were 6, 12, and 24 months away from AD conversion.

Results: WMSA volume was significantly greater in AD compared to OC in 24 out of 35 ROIs after controlling for age, and nine were significantly higher after normalizing for total WMSA. Regions with greater WMSA volume in AD included rostral frontal, inferior temporal, and inferior parietal WM. In MCI, frontal and temporal regions demonstrated significantly greater WMSA volume with decreasing time-to-AD-conversion.

Discussion: Individuals with AD have greater regional volume of WMSA compared to OC regardless of age or total WMSA volume. Accumulation of regional WMSA is linked to time to AD conversion in individuals with MCI. These findings indicate WMSA is an important pathological component of AD development.
Gene Expression and Methylation Analysis of ABCA7 in Patients with Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Yamazaki Kiyohiro , Yoshino Yuta , Mori Takaaki , Yoshida Taku , Ozaki Yuki , Sao Tomoko , Mori Yoko , Ochi Shinichiro , Iga Jun-ichi , Ueno Shu-ichi
Published: February 2017

Background/Objective: The aim of this study was to examine the blood gene expression and methylation of ATP-binding cassette sub-family A member 7 gene (ABCA7) as a biological marker of AD.

Methods: AD subjects ( n = 50; 11 males, 77.7±6.05 years old) and age- and sex-matched healthy controls ( n = 50) were recruited. A single nucleotide polymorphism in ABCA7 (rs3764650), methylation rates of CpG sites in the ABCA7 promoter region, and ABCA7 mRNA expression levels in peripheral blood were examined.

Results: The distribution of the rs3764650 polymorphism in AD subjects was not different from that of controls. Although the methylation rates of AD subjects were not significantly different from those of controls, the ABCA7 mRNA expression level in AD subjects was significantly higher than that in controls. Additionally, the ABCA7 mRNA expression level in AD subjects was significantly correlated with Mini-Mental State Examination recall, the Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale total score, and the Clinical Dementia Rating score. We also found a significant correlation between the ABCA7 mRNA expression level and duration of illness.

Conclusion: The ABCA7 mRNA expression level in peripheral blood may be a marker for early stages of AD and disease progression regardless of rs3764650 and the methylation rate of its promoter.
Comparing Approaches to Optimize Cut-off Scores for Short Cognitive Screening Instruments in Mild Cognitive Impairment and Dementia
Authors: O’Caoimh Rónán , Gao Yang , Svendovski Anton , Gallagher Paul , Eustace Joseph , Molloy D. William
Published: February 2017

Background: Although required to improve the usability of cognitive screening instruments (CSIs), the use of cut-off scores is controversial yet poorly researched.

Objective: To explore cut-off scores for two short CSIs: the Standardized Mini-Mental State Examination (SMMSE) and Quick Mild Cognitive Impairment (Q mci) screen, describing adjustments in scores for diagnosis (MCI or dementia), age (≤, >75 years), and education (<, ≥12 years), comparing two methods: the maximal accuracy approach, derived from receiver operating characteristic curves, and Youden’s Index.

Methods: Pooled analysis of assessments from patients attending memory clinics in Canada between 1999–2010 : 766 with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and 1,746 with dementia, and 875 normal controls.

Results: The Q mci was more accurate than the SMMSE in differentiating controls from MCI or cognitive impairment (MCI and dementia). Employing the maximal accuracy approach, the optimal SMMSE cut-off for cognitive impairment was <28/30 (AUC 0.86, sensitivity 74%, specificity 88%) versus <63/100 for the Q mci (AUC 0.93, sensitivity 85%, specificity 85%). Using Youden’s Index, the optimal SMMSE cut-off remained <28/30 but fell slightly to <62/100 for the Q mci (sensitivity 83%, specificity 87%). The optimal cut-off for MCI was <29/30 for the SMMSE and <67/100 for the Q mci, irrespective of technique. The maximal accuracy approach generally produced higher Q mci cut-offs than Youden’s Index, both requiring adjustment for age and education. There were no clinically meaningful differences in SMMSE cut-off scores by age and education or method employed.

Conclusion: Caution should be exercised selecting cut-offs as these differ by age, education, and method of derivation, with the extent of adjustment varying between CSIs.
VPS35, the Retromer Complex and Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Williams Erin T. , Chen Xi , Moore Darren J.
Published: February 2017

Mutations in the vacuolar protein sorting 35 ortholog ( VPS35) gene encoding a core component of the retromer complex, have recently emerged as a new cause of late-onset, autosomal dominant familial Parkinson’s disease (PD). A single missense mutation, AspD620Asn (D620N), has so far been unambiguously identified to cause PD in multiple individuals and families worldwide. The exact molecular mechanism(s) by which VPS35 mutations induce progressive neurodegeneration in PD are not yet known. Understanding these mechanisms, as well as the perturbed cellular pathways downstream of mutant VPS35, is important for the development of appropriate therapeutic strategies. In this review, we focus on the current knowledge surrounding VPS35 and its role in PD. We provide a critical discussion of the emerging data regarding the mechanisms underlying mutant VPS35-mediated neurodegeneration gleaned from genetic cell and animal models and highlight recent advances that may provide insight into the interplay between VPS35 and several other PD-linked gene products (i.e. α-synuclein, LRRK2 and parkin) in PD. Present data support a role for perturbed VPS35 and retromer function in the pathogenesis of PD.
Durum Wheat Cover Analysis in the Scope of Policy and Market Price Changes: A Case Study in Southern Italy
Authors: Siad Si Mokrane , Gioia Andrea , Hoogenboom Gerrit , Iacobellis Vito , Novelli Antonio , Tarantino Eufemia , Zdruli Pandi
Published: February 2017

Agricultural land systems are the result of human interactions with the natural environment, and subjective evidence of socio-economic and environmental interactions has been demonstrated. Nevertheless, it is still difficult to analyze empirically the link between agricultural market and policy, as well as the environmental response due to changes in crop management by local stakeholders. In this study, we propose a cross investigation and analysis to bring the link between vegetation cover, policy, market and farmer’s behavior to light. Our methodology is a combination of a rational positive and analogical approach between the quantifiable and non-quantifiable agents on a temporal basis. The method is applied to a dominant mono-crop agricultural watershed in Southern Italy that has been dedicated to durum wheat cultivation. In this region, we studied the relationship between the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), durum wheat market price, vegetation cover and land allocation. As a first step, we conducted a separate analysis for each factor, exploiting Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) satellite observed Leaf Area Index (LAI) to analyze the land vegetation space–time distribution over the period 2000–2014 and three Land Satellite (Landsat) validated images as check-points for the agricultural pattern and CAP’s reforms. We used the Farm Accountancy Data Network (FADN) and Eurostat data to investigate the on-farm accountancy and the durum wheat market price changes, respectively. Based on the study period, we developed a storyline of the major relevant CAP’s policy changes. In a second step, we conducted a comparative analysis where the CAP’s reforms were used as interpretational support, the land allocation and the on-farm accountability for CAP’s implementation, the price of durum wheat and the LAI for analytical comparison. We found interesting insights regarding the non-agronomic driving forces of LAI dynamics. The behavior of the individual farmers is influenced by the CAP policy that has been implemented by using profitability as the stimulus for the decision making of the farmer. This explains the correlation of the trend between the market price, the LAI of durum wheat and their associated dynamics.
Role of Protein Quality Control Failure in Alcoholic Hepatitis Pathogenesis
Authors: French Samuel , Masouminia Maryam , Samadzadeh Sara , Tillman Brittany , Mendoza Alejandro , French Barbara
Published: February 2017

The mechanisms of protein quality control in hepatocytes in cases of alcoholic hepatitis (AH) including ufmylation, FAT10ylation, metacaspase 1 (Mca1), ERAD (endoplasmic reticulum-associated degradation), JUNQ (juxta nuclear quality control), IPOD (insoluble protein deposit) autophagocytosis, and ER stress are reviewed. The Mallory–Denk body (MDB) formation develops in the hepatocytes in alcoholic hepatitis as a consequence of the failure of these protein quality control mechanisms to remove misfolded and damaged proteins and to prevent MDB aggresome formation within the cytoplasm of hepatocytes. The proteins involved in the quality control pathways are identified, quantitated, and visualized by immunofluorescent antibody staining of liver biopsies from patients with AH. Quantification of the proteins are achieved by measuring the fluorescent intensity using a morphometric system. Ufmylation and FAT10ylation pathways were downregulated, Mca1 pathways were upregulated, autophagocytosis was upregulated, and ER stress PERK (protein kinase RNA-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase) and CHOP (CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein homologous protein) mechanisms were upregulated. In conclusion: Despite the upregulation of several pathways of protein quality control, aggresomes (MDBs) still formed in the hepatocytes in AH. The pathogenesis of AH is due to the failure of protein quality control, which causes balloon-cell change with MDB formation and ER stress.
Ice XVII as a Novel Material for Hydrogen Storage
Authors: Del Rosso Leonardo , Celli Milva , Ulivi Lorenzo
Published: February 2017

Hydrogen storage is one of the most addressed issues in the green-economy field. The latest-discovered form of ice (XVII), obtained by application of an annealing treatment to a H 2 -filled ice sample in the C 0 -phase, could be inserted in the energy-storage context due to its surprising capacity of hydrogen physisorption, when exposed to even modest pressure (few mbars at temperature below 40 K), and desorption, when a thermal treatment is applied. In this work, we investigate quantitatively the adsorption properties of this simple material by means of spectroscopic and volumetric data, deriving its gravimetric and volumetric capacities as a function of the thermodynamic parameters, and calculating the usable capacity in isothermal conditions. The comparison of ice XVII with materials with a similar mechanism of hydrogen adsorption like metal-organic frameworks shows interesting performances of ice XVII in terms of hydrogen content, operating temperature and kinetics of adsorption-desorption. Any application of this material to realistic hydrogen tanks should take into account the thermodynamic limit of metastability of ice XVII, i.e., temperatures below about 130 K.
Assessing Efficiency of Prompts Based on Learner Characteristics
Authors: Backhaus Joy , Jeske Debora , Poinstingl Herbert , Koenig Sarah
Published: February 2017

Personalized prompting research has shown the significant learning benefit of prompting. The current paper outlines and examines a personalized prompting approach aimed at eliminating performance differences on the basis of a number of learner characteristics (capturing learning strategies and traits). The learner characteristics of interest were the need for cognition, work effort, computer self-efficacy, the use of surface learning, and the learner’s confidence in their learning. The approach was tested in two e-modules, using similar assessment forms (experimental n = 413; control group n = 243). Several prompts which corresponded to the learner characteristics were implemented, including an explanation prompt, a motivation prompt, a strategy prompt, and an assessment prompt. All learning characteristics were significant correlates of at least one of the outcome measures (test performance, errors, and omissions). However, only the assessment prompt increased test performance. On this basis, and drawing upon the testing effect, this prompt may be a particularly promising option to increase performance in e-learning and similar personalized systems.
Perceptions of Digital Competency among Student Teachers: Contributing to the Development of Student Teachers’ Instructional Self-Efficacy in Technology-Rich Classrooms
Authors: Elstad Eyvind , Christophersen Knut-Andreas
Published: February 2017

Adequate self-efficacy is useful for motivating individuals to engage in continued improvement. This study explores the potential antecedents of instructional self-efficacy beliefs among Norwegian student teachers attending a programme for secondary school teachers. The most important finding was the strong association between the student teachers’ perceptions of digital competency to resolve challenges relating to information and communication technology (ICT) in schools and their instructional self-efficacy, which was explored via two dimensions: (1) self-efficacy for maintaining discipline and (2) self-efficacy for influencing students’ use of ICT in the service of learning. Implications for practice are discussed. We argue that digital competency among student teachers is important for sustaining instructional self-efficacy in technology-rich classrooms.
Using a Reactive Transport Simulator to Simulate CH4 Production from Bear Island Basin in the Barents Sea Utilizing the Depressurization Method†
Authors: Qorbani Khadijeh , Kvamme Bjørn , Kuznetsova Tatiana
Published: February 2017

The enormous amount of methane stored in natural gas hydrates (NGHs)worldwide offers a signiﬁcant potential source of energy. NGHs will be generally unable to reach thermodynamic equilibrium at their in situ reservoir conditions due to the number of active phases involved. Lack of reliable ﬁeld data makes it difﬁcult to predict the production potential and safety of CH4 production from NGHs. While the computer simulations will never be able to replace ﬁeld data, one can apply state-of-the-artmodellingtechniquestoevaluateseveralpossiblelong-termscenarios. Realistic kinetic models for hydrate dissociation and reformation will be required, as well as analysis of all phase transition routes. This work utilizes our in-house extension of RetrasoCodeBright (RCB), a reactive transport simulator, to perform a gas hydrate production case study of the Bjørnøya (Bear Island) basin, a promising ﬁeld with very limited geological data reported by available ﬁeld studies. The use of a reactive transport simulator allowed us to implement non-equilibrium thermodynamics for analysisofCH4 production from the gas hydrates by treating each phase transition involving hydrates as a pseudo reaction. Our results showed a rapid propagation of the pressure drop through the reservoir following the imposition of pressure drawdown at the well. Consequently, gas hydrate dissociation and CH4 production began in the early stages of the ﬁve-year simulation period.
Meta-Analysis on the Association of ALDH2 Polymorphisms and Type 2 Diabetic Mellitus, Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Li Guang-yi , Li Zi-bo , Li Fang , Dong Li-ping , Tang Liang , Xiang Ju , Li Jian-ming , Bao Mei-hua
Published: February 2017

Type 2 diabetic mellitus (T2DM) is a disease with high prevalence and a major cause for death worldwide. Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is one of the major manifestation of diabetes. Aldehyde dehydrogenease 2 (ALDH2) detoxifies aldehyde produced during ethanol metabolism and oxidative stress. It has been found that the polymorphism in ALDH2 rs671 is probably associated with the risk of T2DM and DR. However, a lot of inconsistency and controversy still exists. In order to get a more precise and comprehensive estimation for the association between ALDH2 polymorphism with the risk of T2DM and DR, we conducted the present meta-analysis. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using databases, such as Pubmed, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure, and Chinese Biomedical Literature Database, for all related studies. The included studies met the inclusion criteria, such as being case-control studies about the association of ALDH2 polymorphism and T2DM or DR susceptibility, with sufficient data for the present analysis. Eight studies with 2374 cases and 6694 controls were involved in the present meta-analysis. The results indicated a significant lower risk of T2DM for *1/*1 genotype in homozygous models (*1/*1 vs. *2/*2, OR = 0.31, 95% CI = 0.11–0.89, p = 0.03) and in the dominant model (*1/*1 vs. *2/*2 + *1/*2, OR = 0.61, 95% CI = 0.37–1.00, p = 0.05). Subgroup analysis by ethnicity found a significant lower risk of T2DM in Chinese in all genotype models. No significant relation was found between ALDH2 rs671 and DR. In conclusion, the current meta-analysis indicated that ALDH2 rs671 was significantly related with T2DM. The ALDH2 rs671 might be able to be used as a predictor for the risk of T2DM. However, due to the existence of heterogeneity and publication bias in the involved studies, our results should be interpreted with caution.
Excitotoxins, Mitochondrial and Redox Disturbances in Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Rajda Cecilia , Pukoli Dániel , Bende Zsuzsanna , Majláth Zsófia , Vécsei László
Published: February 2017

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system (CNS). There is increasing evidence that MS is not only characterized by immune mediated inflammatory reactions, but also by neurodegenerative processes. There is cumulating evidence that neurodegenerative processes, for example mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and glutamate (Glu) excitotoxicity, seem to play an important role in the pathogenesis of MS. The alteration of mitochondrial homeostasis leads to the formation of excitotoxins and redox disturbances. Mitochondrial dysfunction (energy disposal failure, apoptosis, etc.), redox disturbances (oxidative stress and enhanced reactive oxygen and nitrogen species production), and excitotoxicity (Glu mediated toxicity) may play an important role in the progression of the disease, causing axonal and neuronal damage. This review focuses on the mechanisms of mitochondrial dysfunction (including mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) defects and mitochondrial structural/functional changes), oxidative stress (including reactive oxygen and nitric species), and excitotoxicity that are involved in MS and also discusses the potential targets and tools for therapeutic approaches in the future.
Astrocytic Pathological Calcium Homeostasis and Impaired Vesicle Trafficking in Neurodegeneration
Authors: Vardjan Nina , Verkhratsky Alexej , Zorec Robert
Published: February 2017

Although the central nervous system (CNS) consists of highly heterogeneous populations of neurones and glial cells, clustered into diverse anatomical regions with specific functions, there are some conditions, including alertness, awareness and attention that require simultaneous, coordinated and spatially homogeneous activity within a large area of the brain. During such events, the brain, representing only about two percent of body mass, but consuming one fifth of body glucose at rest, needs additional energy to be produced. How simultaneous energy procurement in a relatively extended area of the brain takes place is poorly understood. This mechanism is likely to be impaired in neurodegeneration, for example in Alzheimer’s disease, the hallmark of which is brain hypometabolism. Astrocytes, the main neural cell type producing and storing glycogen, a form of energy in the brain, also hold the key to metabolic and homeostatic support in the central nervous system and are impaired in neurodegeneration, contributing to the slow decline of excitation-energy coupling in the brain. Many mechanisms are affected, including cell-to-cell signalling. An important question is how changes in cellular signalling, a process taking place in a rather short time domain, contribute to the neurodegeneration that develops over decades. In this review we focus initially on the slow dynamics of Alzheimer’s disease, and on the activity of locus coeruleus, a brainstem nucleus involved in arousal. Subsequently, we overview much faster processes of vesicle traffic and cytosolic calcium dynamics, both of which shape the signalling landscape of astrocyte-neurone communication in health and neurodegeneration.
Single-Nucleotide Polymorphism of PPARγ, a Protein at the Crossroads of Physiological and Pathological Processes
Authors: Petrosino Maria , Lori Laura , Pasquo Alessandra , Lori Clorinda , Consalvi Valerio , Minicozzi Velia , Morante Silvia , Laghezza Antonio , Giorgi Alessandra , Capelli Davide , Chiaraluce Roberta
Published: February 2017

Genome polymorphisms are responsible for phenotypic differences between humans and for individual susceptibility to genetic diseases and therapeutic responses. Non-synonymous single-nucleotide polymorphisms (nsSNPs) lead to protein variants with a change in the amino acid sequence that may affect the structure and/or function of the protein and may be utilized as efficient structural and functional markers of association to complex diseases. This study is focused on nsSNP variants of the ligand binding domain of PPARγ a nuclear receptor in the superfamily of ligand inducible transcription factors that play an important role in regulating lipid metabolism and in several processes ranging from cellular differentiation and development to carcinogenesis. Here we selected nine nsSNPs variants of the PPARγ ligand binding domain, V290M, R357A, R397C, F360L, P467L, Q286P, R288H, E324K, and E460K, expressed in cancer tissues and/or associated with partial lipodystrophy and insulin resistance. The effects of a single amino acid change on the thermodynamic stability of PPARγ, its spectral properties, and molecular dynamics have been investigated. The nsSNPs PPARγ variants show alteration of dynamics and tertiary contacts that impair the correct reciprocal positioning of helices 3 and 12, crucially important for PPARγ functioning.
Homocysteine Editing, Thioester Chemistry, Coenzyme A, and the Origin of Coded Peptide Synthesis †
Authors: Jakubowski Hieronim
Published: February 2017

Aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases (AARSs) have evolved “quality control” mechanisms which prevent tRNA aminoacylation with non-protein amino acids, such as homocysteine, homoserine, and ornithine, and thus their access to the Genetic Code. Of the ten AARSs that possess editing function, five edit homocysteine: Class I MetRS, ValRS, IleRS, LeuRS, and Class II LysRS. Studies of their editing function reveal that catalytic modules of these AARSs have a thiol-binding site that confers the ability to catalyze the aminoacylation of coenzyme A, pantetheine, and other thiols. Other AARSs also catalyze aminoacyl-thioester synthesis. Amino acid selectivity of AARSs in the aminoacyl thioesters formation reaction is relaxed, characteristic of primitive amino acid activation systems that may have originated in the Thioester World. With homocysteine and cysteine as thiol substrates, AARSs support peptide bond synthesis. Evolutionary origin of these activities is revealed by genomic comparisons, which show that AARSs are structurally related to proteins involved in coenzyme A/sulfur metabolism and non-coded peptide bond synthesis. These findings suggest that the extant AARSs descended from ancestral forms that were involved in non-coded Thioester-dependent peptide synthesis, functionally similar to the present-day non-ribosomal peptide synthetases.
Influence of Resin Composition on the Defect Formation in Alumina Manufactured by Stereolithography
Authors: Johansson Emil , Lidström Oscar , Johansson Jan , Lyckfeldt Ola , Adolfsson Erik
Published: February 2017

Stereolithography (SL) is a technique allowing additive manufacturing of complex ceramic parts by selective photopolymerization of a photocurable suspension containing photocurable monomer, photoinitiator, and a ceramic powder. The manufactured three-dimensional object is cleaned and converted into a dense ceramic part by thermal debinding of the polymer network and subsequent sintering. The debinding is the most critical and time-consuming step, and often the source of cracks. In this study, photocurable alumina suspensions have been developed, and the influence of resin composition on defect formation has been investigated. The suspensions were characterized in terms of rheology and curing behaviour, and cross-sections of sintered specimens manufactured by SL were evaluated by SEM. It was found that the addition of a non-reactive component to the photocurable resin reduced polymerization shrinkage and altered the thermal decomposition of the polymer matrix, which led to a reduction in both delamination and intra-laminar cracks. Using a non-reactive component that decomposed rather than evaporated led to less residual porosity.
Uncovering Adiponectin Replenishing Property of Sujiaonori Algal Biomaterial in Humans
Authors: Ngatu Nlandu , Ikeda Mitsunori , Watanabe Hiroyuki , Tanaka Mamoru , Inoue Masataka , Kanbara Sakiko , Nojima Sayumi
Published: February 2017

The replenishment of adiponectin—an adipocyte-derived hormone with salutary health effects—has recently been proposed as a new approach to treat hypertension, also ameliorate cardiovascular and metabolic risks. We conducted a prospective placebo-controlled, non-randomized and investigator-blinded dietary intervention study to evaluate the health effects of dietary intake of Sujiaonori (Ulva/Enteromorpha prolifera Müller) algal biomaterial (SBM), especially on adiponectin production, blood pressure (BP), and body mass index (BMI) in human subjects. Participants (N = 32) were divided into two equally sized groups (n = 16 for each group): SBM group (subjects supplemented with 3 g SBM powder twice a day during meal) and the control group (subjects who took 3 g of a supplement made of 70% corn starch powder and 30% spinach twice a day) for four weeks. Two health survey questionnaires (dietary and current health questionnaires) were completed anonymously, saliva sampling was done for adiponectin measurement by ELISA, and blood pressure (BP) and anthropometric parameters were measured at baseline and four weeks later. Student paired t-test was performed to compare baseline and post-intervention data on outcome variables between the two study groups. Results showed a 2.24-fold increase in adiponectin level in SBM group (2.81 and 6.26 ng/mL at baseline and at the end of study, respectively) (p < 0.01); whereas no significant change was observed in controls (3.58 and 3.51 ng/mL, respectively) (p > 0.05). In SBM subjects, an improvement of BP profile was noted with a significant decrease in systolic BP (p < 0.01). A positive correlation was found between SBM supplementation and adiponectin level, whereas an inverse correlation was noted between SBM supplementation and blood pressure, and also BMI. These findings suggest that SBM-increased adiponectin level and improved BP in a sample of Japanese young adults, and has the potential to improve blood pressure in humans.
Impact of Early Nutrition on Body Composition in Children Aged 9.5 Years Born with Extremely Low Birth Weight
Authors: Stutte Sonja , Gohlke Bettina , Peiler Annika , Schreiner Felix , Born Mark , Bartmann Peter , Woelfle Joachim
Published: February 2017

To evaluate body composition, metabolism and growth as well as their interaction with early nutrition in former extremely low birth weight infants (ELBW), we assessed qualitative and quantitative nutritional intake during initial hospitalization and infantile growth parameters in 61 former ELBW infants with a birth weight <1000 g. In two follow-up exams, physical and biochemical development were measured at 5.7 and at 9.5 years. At the second follow-up, in addition to biochemical reassessment, body composition was analyzed by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). Protein intake between birth and discharge was associated with weight gain in the first six months of life (r = 0.51; p < 0.01). Weight catch-up preceded height catch-up. Protein intake in early infancy correlated highly significantly with abdominal fat mass (r = 0.49; p < 0.05), but not with lean body mass at 9.5 years (r = 0.30; not significant (n.s.). In contrast to nutrient intake, birth weight was associated with lean body mass (r = 0.433; p < 0.001). Early protein and carbohydrate intake were associated with high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol, and early catch-up growth correlated with fasting insulin at follow-up. Stepwise linear regression demonstrated that protein intake predicted fat mass (p < 0.05), whereas only gender and birth weight standard deviation score (SDS) contributed significantly to lean body mass variation (p < 0.05). Our results suggest an important impact of early nutrient intake on body composition and metabolism in later childhood in ELBW children.
Proof of Concept of Integrated Load Measurement in 3D Printed Structures
Authors: Hinderdael Michaël , Jardon Zoé , Lison Margot , De Baere Dieter , Devesse Wim , Strantza Maria , Guillaume Patrick
Published: February 2017

Currently, research on structural health monitoring systems is focused on direct integration of the system into a component or structure. The latter results in a so-called smart structure. One example of a smart structure is a component with integrated strain sensing for continuous load monitoring. Additive manufacturing, or 3D printing, now also enables such integration of functions inside components. As a proof-of-concept, the Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) technique was used to integrate a strain sensing element inside polymer (ABS) tensile test samples. The strain sensing element consisted of a closed capillary filled with a fluid and connected to an externally mounted pressure sensor. The volumetric deformation of the integrated capillary resulted in pressure changes in the fluid. The obtained pressure measurements during tensile testing are reported in this paper and compared to state-of-the-art extensometer measurements. The sensitivity of the 3D printed pressure-based strain sensor is primarily a function of the compressibility of the capillary fluid. Air- and watertightness are of critical importance for the proper functioning of the 3D printed pressure-based strain sensor. Therefore, the best after-treatment procedure was selected on basis of a comparative analysis. The obtained pressure measurements are linear with respect to the extensometer readings, and the uncertainty on the strain measurement of a capillary filled with water (incompressible fluid) is ±3.1 µstrain, which is approximately three times less sensitive than conventional strain gauges (±1 µstrain), but 32 times more sensitive than the same sensor based on air (compressible fluid) (±101 µstrain).
Fusion of Inertial/Magnetic Sensor Measurements and Map Information for Pedestrian Tracking
Authors: Bao Shu-Di , Meng Xiao-Li , Xiao Wendong , Zhang Zhi-Qiang
Published: February 2017

The wearable inertial/magnetic sensor based human motion analysis plays an important role in many biomedical applications, such as physical therapy, gait analysis and rehabilitation. One of the main challenges for the lower body bio-motion analysis is how to reliably provide position estimations of human subject during walking. In this paper, we propose a particle filter based human position estimation method using a foot-mounted inertial and magnetic sensor module, which not only uses the traditional zero velocity update (ZUPT), but also applies map information to further correct the acceleration double integration drift and thus improve estimation accuracy. In the proposed method, a simple stance phase detector is designed to identify the stance phase of a gait cycle based on gyroscope measurements. For the non-stance phase during a gait cycle, an acceleration control variable derived from ZUPT information is introduced in the process model, while vector map information is taken as binary pseudo-measurements to further enhance position estimation accuracy and reduce uncertainty of walking trajectories. A particle filter is then designed to fuse ZUPT information and binary pseudo-measurements together. The proposed human position estimation method has been evaluated with closed-loop walking experiments in indoor and outdoor environments. Results of comparison study have illustrated the effectiveness of the proposed method for application scenarios with useful map information.
Malagasy Conservationists and Environmental Educators: Life Paths into Conservation
Authors: Reibelt Lena , Richter Torsten , Rendigs Antje , Mantilla-Contreras Jasmin
Published: February 2017

In a globally fast-changing world, dedicated conservationists play a central role in societies moving towards the achievement of sustainable development. How do people become advocates for nature? Research suggests that childhood experiences in natural places are core determinants for the development of environmental stewardship. In many developing countries, however, access to intact natural environments is limited. This study explores formative influences on individuals who actively contribute to nature conservation and environmental education (EE) in Madagascar. We conducted nine semi-structured interviews with participants in a national EE workshop. Formative experiences were reported mainly from university years, and influential persons were researchers and high school teachers, many from abroad. The media also play a considerable role, while negative experiences, familial influences, or experience of natural areas during childhood were rarely mentioned. In contrast to former studies, the results suggest that direct experiences of nature can still be decisive in determining a young person’s path as a dedicated environmental practitioner during young adulthood. Role models who are active in the conservation and sustainable development fields can compensate for a lack of familial models. These findings might require a rethinking of current educational practices in Madagascar because children might not be the only important group to target with educational interventions.
Impacts of Natural Disasters on Swedish Electric Power Policy: A Case Study
Authors: Gündüz Niyazi , Küfeoğlu Sinan , Lehtonen Matti
Published: February 2017

The future of climate and sustainable energy are interrelated. Speaking of one without mentioning the other is quite difficult. The increasing number of natural disasters pose a great threat to the electric power supply security in any part of the world. Sweden has been one of the countries that have suffered from unacceptably long blackouts. The tremendous outcomes of the power interruptions have made the field of the economic worth of electric power reliability a popular area of interest among researchers. Nature has been the number one enemy against the supply security of the electricity. This paper introduces a recent and thorough electric power reliability analysis of Sweden and focuses on the country’s struggle against climate change-related natural disasters via updating the country’s electric power policy to improve its service quality. The paper highlights the Gudrun storm of 2005 as a case study to demonstrate the severe impacts of extreme weather events on the energy systems. The economic damage of the storm on the electric power service calculated to be around 3 billion euros.
Exploring the Use of Unprocessed Waste Chicken Eggshells for UV-Protective Applications
Authors: Fecheyr-Lippens Daphne , Nallapaneni Asritha , Shawkey Matthew
Published: February 2017

Photodegradation causes a steady loss of the useful physical, mechanical and optical properties of materials, necessitating their replacement over time. Because UV (Ultraviolet) light is most harmful in this regard, many materials now contain UV-protective additives. However, these additives are not always effective and durable, can be expensive, and their natural extraction or synthetic production can be harmful to the environment. Here, we investigated the use of unprocessed chicken eggshells in providing UV protection to two commonly used synthetic polymers: polystyrene and nylon. We show that unprocessed chicken eggshells provide a durable and effective UV protection. Our data sets the stage for future research to find a practical way to use the large amounts of unprocessed chicken eggshell waste as novel, economically appealing and environmentally friendly UV-protective additives.
Multi‐Mycotoxin Analysis in Durum Wheat Pasta by Liquid Chromatography Coupled to Quadrupole Orbitrap Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Tolosa Josefa , Graziani Giulia , Gaspari Anna , Chianese Donato , Ferrer Emilia , Mañes Jordi , Ritieni Alberto
Published: February 2017

A simple and rapid multi‐mycotoxin method for the determination of 17 mycotoxins simultaneously is described in the present survey on durum and soft wheat pasta samples. Mycotoxins included in the study were those mainly reported in cereal samples: ochratoxin‐A (OTA), aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), zearalenone (ZON), deoxynivalenol (DON), 3‐and 15‐acetyl‐deoxynivalenol (3‐AcDON and 15‐AcDON), nivalenol (NIV), neosolaniol (NEO), fusarenon‐X, (FUS‐X), T‐2 toxin (T‐2) and HT‐2 toxin (HT‐2), fumonisin B1 and B2 (FB1 and FB2), and four emerging mycotoxins: three enniatins (ENA, ENA1, and ENB), and beauvericin (BEA). Twenty‐nine samples were analyzed to provide an overview on mycotoxin presence: 27 samples of durum wheat pasta, and two samples of baby food. Analytical results concluded that trichothecenes showed the highest incidence, mainly DON, NIV, and HT‐2 toxin, followed by ZON and ENB, while NEO, FUS‐X, OTA, AFB1, and FUM were not detected in any sample. The highest contents corresponded to ENB and ranged from 91.15μg/kg to 710.90 μg/kg.
A Review of the Strain Diversity and Pathogenesis of Chicken Astrovirus
Authors: Smyth Victoria
Published: February 2017

Although a relatively recently emerged virus, identified only in 2004 as a separate species of avian astrovirus, chicken astrovirus (CAstV) has been associated with poor growth of broiler flocks, enteritis and diarrhea and is a candidate pathogen in cases of runting stunting syndrome. More recently CAstV has been implicated in cases of two other diseases of broilers as the sole etiological agent, namely severe kidney disease of young broilers with visceral gout and the “White Chicks” hatchery disease. Examination of the strains of CAstV associated with the two latter diseases reveals they are closely related genetically. This review will discuss the pathogenesis of CAstV in relation to strain diversity and the effects of vertical versus horizontal transmission, virus load, co-infections and age of bird at infection, all factors that may impact upon disease severity.
Collaborative Modeling to Assess Drought Resiliency of Snow‐Fed River Dependent Communities in the Western United States: A Case Study in the Truckee‐Carson River System
Authors: Singletary Loretta , Sterle Kelley
Published: February 2017

Assessing the drought resilience of snow‐fed river dependent communities in the arid Western United States has taken on critical importance in response to changing climatic conditions. The process of assessing drought resiliency involves understanding the extent to which snow‐fed dependent communities can absorb the effects of uncertain and variable water supplies while acknowledging and encouraging their capacity for adaptation. Participatory research approaches are particularly well suited to assess resiliency in this context because they rely upon local water managers’ knowledge and perspectives. The research presented here provides measured insight into local water managers’ perceptions of drought resiliency in the Truckee‐Carson River System in northwestern Nevada. These findings are reported in the context of the collaborative modeling research design developed for this case study. The objectives of this study are: (1) to define resiliency and present a rationale for a participatory approach to assess drought resiliency in snow‐fed arid river basins in the Western United States; (2) to outline collaborative modeling as a participatory research design developed for the Truckee‐Carson River System case study area; (3) to describe the development and implementation of a resiliency assessment undertaken to implement this research design; (4) to highlight selected results of the assessment, summarizing interviews with 66 water managers in the case study area; (5) to discuss the use of assessment findings to inform collaborative modeling toward adaptation strategies; and (6) to review lessons learned to date from the collaborative modeling case study and note opportunities for further exploration. According to water managers surveyed, climate change is very important and is mobilizing adaptation strategies that include improvements in communication and coordination with other water managers, monitoring and data collection,and planning. The majority of water managers indicate that future adaptation requires modifying institutionalized water management regimes to allow for temporary water leasing programs, water right stacking on the most productive agricultural lands while fallowing marginal lands,incentivizing water conservation, reducing or eliminating residential landscaping, and recruiting less water intensive industry to the region.
Introduction pratique à la systématique des organismes des eaux continentales françaises. 6. Hétéroptères aquatiques et ripicoles. Genres et principales espèces
Authors: Dethier Michel
Published: February 2017

Des clés illustrées permettent la détermination des genres et de certaines espèces d'Hétéroptères aquatiques et ripicoles vivant en France et dans les régions voisines. Les principales caractéristiques morphologiques et biologiques sont fournies pour chaque famille et chaque genre. On trouvera dans la bibliographie les références de nombreuses faunes et articles.
La variation géographique chez Phyllodactylus europaeus Gené (Reptilia, Sauria, Gekkonidae). Etude de la population de l'îlot Sperduto Grande (Sud de la Corse, réserve naturelle des Iles Lavezzi)
Authors: Delaugerre Michel
Published: February 2017

A new occurence of geographic variation in a micro-insular population of Phyllodactylus europaeus confirms the intraspecific variability of this Gekkonid lizard, first demonstrated by Delaugerre & Dubois (1985). The adult European leaf-toed geckos of the Sperduto Grande islet are larger-sized (especially the males) and they display several chromatic and pattern variations. This is the first record of a population where sexual size difference of adults lacks. The structure and density of this population are also discussed in this paper.
Inventaire des Hyménoptères Symphytes du département de l'Isère
Authors: Chevin Henri , Chevin Suzanne , de Flaugergues Frédéric , Moussa André
Published: February 2017

L'inventaire des Hyménoptères Symphytes du département de l'Isère s'élève actuellement à 262 espèces, plus trois autres espèces provenant de la partie drômoise du Vercors. Après une présentation botanique du département vient l'inventaire proprement dit où, pour chaque espèce, est indiquée la ou les plantes-hôtes connues puis, en séparant les données de l'Isère et du nord de la Drôme, le nombre et le sexe des individus examinés, les localités, les dates ou périodes de récolte. Une analyse de cet inventaire met en évidence les espèces rares au niveau national, nouvelles pour la France (Blasticotoma filicetï), méridionales, montagnardes ou encore celles qui, communes sur l'ensemble de notre pays, sont absentes ou très rares dans le département. Enfin, une comparaison est faite entre trois principaux massifs : Chartreuse, massif de Belledonne, Vercors.
Etude comparative du dynamisme de la spermatogenèse chez les Amphibiens par la méthode histoautoradiographique à la thymidine tritiée
Authors: Neyrand de Leffemberg F. , Exbrayat Jean-Marie
Published: February 2017

La cinétique de la spermatogenèse des Amphibiens est liée à la position phylogénique de l'espèce et aux facteurs de l'environnement. L'injection de thymidine tritiée dans les testicules de représentants des trois Ordres d'Amphi-biens (Gymnophiones, Urodèles et Anoures) montre qu'il existe une corrélation étroite entre le type de cycle et le climat d'une part et entre l'âge de la maturité sexuelle et la durée de la vie d'autre part. La durée de la méiose, caractéristique de chaque espèce, est liée à des facteurs génétiques et écologiques.
Etude hydrobiologique du bassin de l'Hermance
Authors: Dumontier Marc , Dethier Michel , Revaclier Roger , Balikungeri Antoine
Published: February 2017

L'Hermance est un petit affluent du lac Léman sur la frontière franco-suisse dont le bassin versant en majorité agricole est plus ou moins fortement urbanisé. La synthèse des résultats des analyses physico-chimiques et biologiques de 1966 à 1993 montre que l'état hydrobiologique de cette rivière et de son bassin est mauvais. Cette situation est due à des apports polluants provenant de stations d'épuration des eaux usées et de l'agriculture. Les débits d'étiage très faibles dûs au drainage et à l'assèchement de certaines zones humides, conjugués à la pollution de l'eau, altèrent l'habitabilité du milieu : le macrobenthos est composé essentiellement de taxons résistants à ces mauvaises conditions abiotiques.