bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Breeding Distribution and Nest Site Diversity of Barn Owl (Tyto Alba) in the Context of Restoration of Agricultural Sector in Central South Bulgaria
Authors: Milchev Boyan , Gruychev Gradimir
Published: December 2014

The Barn Owl (Tyto alba) bred in 15 UTM squares (75%, n = 20) of the Kazanlak Valley (central south Bulgaria) at 33 localities (55% confirmed, 12% probable and 33% possible breeding). Its distribution in the Valley was found to be five times larger and its population size ten times greater during our study period than previously thought. Evidence of one to five breeding localities (mean 2.2±1.3) was detected in each occupied UTM square. A breeding density of 4.1 bp/100 km2 was close to the average in Central Europe. Nests inside or on metal frames and ducts were typical in the region and gave possibility for its successful breeding in most of the habitable buildings. The Barn Owls were breeding mainly in poorly maintained and abandoned buildings whose supply has not decreased markedly since the agricultural restoration started in Bulgaria after it joined the European Union and intensive industrial agriculture has resumed with EU support. Currently, it appears that Barn Owl is not threatened by a ‘housing shortageʼ over the next decade.
Development of Aspergillus Protease with Ovalbumin-induced Allergic Chronic Rhinosinusitis Model in the Mouse
Authors: Kim Ji Heui , Yi Jong Sook , Gong Chang-Hoon , Jang Yong Ju
Published: December 2014

Background

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a multifactorial inflammatory disease. Particularly, eosinophilic CRS is often recalcitrant to treatment, so an appropriate animal model is required to evaluate the pathogenesis of, and to develop therapies for, recalcitrant eosinophilic CRS. This study aimed to improve the ovalbumin (OVA)-induced mouse model of eosinophilic/allergic CRS by combining OVA with Aspergillus protease, which is known to trigger allergic reactions in mouse lungs.

Methods

In a model of allergic CRS, mice were challenged intranasally with Aspergillus protease combined with OVA. Local and systemic responses were measured. Protease (0.54 U) from Aspergillus oryzae, prepared with or without OVA (75 micrograms), OVA alone, or saline, was administered intranasally to wild-type mice for 5 weeks. Sinonasal complex samples were evaluated histologically, and interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, IL-6, macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP) 2, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) alpha were measured in nasal lavage fluid. A differential white blood cell count was also performed.

Results

OVA alone induced minimal eosinophilic inflammation in sinonasal mucosa, while protease + OVA and protease alone induced moderate eosinophilic inflammation. Protease + OVA elevated eosinophil counts in blood comparable with controls, but not compared with OVA alone. Although IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, MIP-2, and TNF-alpha were increased in all study mice, the levels of IL-4 and IL-6 were higher in mice treated with protease + OVA than in mice treated with OVA alone. Protease alone excessively elevated the levels of IL-6, MIP-2, and TNF-alpha, not Th2 cytokines, compared with OVA alone and protease + OVA.

Conclusion

Aspergillus protease combined with OVA induced more severe allergic inflammation in sinonasal mucosa compared with OVA alone and similar eosinophilia. This model could be more relevant to recalcitrant eosinophilic CRS in humans than OVA-induced allergic CRS.
Societal and Physician Perspectives on Sinonasal Diagnosis and Treatment
Authors: Mohan Shaulnie , Sisler Katelin , Christopher Kara , Hentzelman Joshua , Antisdel Jastin
Published: December 2014

Background

Sinusitis is diagnosed in 31 million individuals annually and has a significant impact on health care expenditures. Otolaryngologists understand that patient expectations, health knowledge, and the use of therapeutic options by patients and primary care physicians (PCPs) vary greatly. The intent of this study was to elucidate differences in the perspectives of patients, PCPs and otolaryngologists regarding the diagnosis and treatment of sinonasal disease.

Methods

Three surveys were developed with questions targeting sinonasal infections: specifically, prevalence, diagnosis, physician prescribing patterns, treatment alternatives, and referral patterns to tertiary level physicians. Surveys were distributed to adult patients (n = 113) at general health fairs, whereas surveys for PCPs (n = 54) and otolaryngologists (n = 40) were obtained from teaching conferences and professional networking events.

Results

In a description of viral upper respiratory tract infections (URIs), 43% of patients attributed symptoms to allergic rhinitis, 28% to URIs, and 28% to sinus infections. Despite this, 37% of patients still expected anti-bacterial agents. In patients with acute rhinosinusitis (ARS), 44% of patients would wait <1 week to see a physician whereas 82% of otolaryngologists and 57% of PCPs felt waiting 1 week or more was appropriate. In an ambulatory care setting, 45% of PCPs would chose to treat patients with 5 days of ARS symptoms whereas 32% of otolaryngologists would treat patients (p = .22). For ARS, 70% of patients expected antibiotics. Seventy percent of PCPs stated that they would refer a patient to an otolaryngologist after a single episode of sinusitis.

Conclusion

Patients with sinonasal symptoms confuse URIs for sinusitis and expect unnecessary treatment with antibiotics. PCPs and otolaryngologists vary regarding indications for presentation to a physician, approaches to therapy, and indications for referral to a tertiary provider in their respective practices.
State of the Art: A Systematic Review of the Surgical Management of Aspirin Exacerbated Respiratory Disease
Authors: Yip Jonathan , Yao Christopher M. , Lee John M.
Published: December 2014

Background

Endoscopic sinus surgery is an important modality to the armamentarium of the otolaryngologist managing chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). Within the spectrum of CRS, there exists a subset of patients who are recalcitrant to conventional treatment strategies, including those with aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD). Although surgery is frequently undertaken in this group, there has been no general consensus on the efficacy or optimal extent of surgery.

Methods

Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, a systematic review of published studies was conducted. Inclusion criteria included original publications of adult patients with AERD undergoing surgery, cohorts of greater than five subjects, a minimum follow-up of 3 months, and measurable clinical outcomes. An electronic search was performed using OVID MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Web of Science.

Results

Sixteen studies met the criteria for analysis. For our primary objective, sinus surgery appeared to improve patient-reported quality of life (QoL) and symptom profile in AERD. Overall, most studies reported a decrease in radiographic grading, endoscopy scores, and asthma severity. Compared with aspirin-tolerant asthmatic patients, AERD patients may have worse objective measures of disease severity both pre- and postoperatively; however, patient-reported QoL and symptom improvement may be similar after sinus surgery. Finally, this review showed that patients with AERD required revision surgeries sooner and more frequently compared with other subtypes of CRS. We also discussed the role of maximal surgical techniques and additional benefit of postoperative adjunctive therapies in the management of this disease entity.

Conclusion

The state of the art in the management of AERD patients suggests that surgery does play an important role in helping establish symptomatic control. In the future, more rigorous studies evaluating the comprehensiveness of surgery and postoperative adjuncts are required to understand their impact on long-term patient outcomes.
Combined Use of Scoring Incisions and 2-octylcyanoacrylate Adhesive during Endonasal Septoplasty to Correct Cartilaginous Deviations
Authors: Kim Bo-Hyung , Kim Jong-Yeup , Park Jae Sung , Kang Sung-Ho , Lim Dae Jun , Yu Myeong Sang
Published: December 2014

Background

Applying 2-octylcyanoacrylate (2-OCA) tissue adhesive onto scoring incisions may increase efficacy and prevent concavity recurrence after septal deviation treatment. The present study evaluates the utility of 2-OCA adhesive application during endonasal septoplasty.

Methods

The postoperative outcomes were compared between two consecutive periods in a single surgical department. Between March 2011 and March 2012, 23 consecutive patients underwent septoplasty using scoring incisions without 2-OCA application (scoring alone group), and between April 2012 and April 2013, the scoring incision gaps were filled with 2-OCA in 27 patients (scoring + CA group). The patients were followed up for more than six months.

Results

A straight septum was achieved in 37.0% of patients in the scoring alone group versus 58.3% in the scoring + CA group. The postoperative symptom score for nasal obstruction was significantly improved in both groups. Persistent septal swelling developed in three (12.5%) patients in the scoring + CA group. Neither group experienced major complications such as septal hematoma, abscess, or septal perforation.

Conclusions

Application of 2-OCA adhesive onto scoring incisions appears to be a reliable and effective technique to correct deviated cartilage during endonasal septoplasty. However, the volume of 2-OCA applied onto the septum should be minimized to avoid potential foreign body reaction. A long-term follow-up study is warranted.
Outrigger System Optimization under StoryDrift and Vibration PeriodConstraints for SuperTall Buildings
Authors: Zhao Xin , Dong Yaomin , Yu Tianyi
Published: December 2014

Modern tall buildings become taller and slender due to the successive increase of building height. The sizes of the main structural members of the lateralload resisting system are commonlycontrolled by the stiffness design requirements. The designindicesto ensure thestiffness are story drift and natural period in super tall building design practices in China. Outrigger system is an effective measure to increase the overall building stiffness. The outrigger trusses are commonly installed in mechanical floors to minimize the impacts of mega trusses on the building function for super tall buildings.The introduction of outrigger system in super tall buildings will however cause huge steel consumption and high construction difficulty. Effective design optimization method and procedure are necessary to realize optimal outrigger system design under story drift and vibration period constraints.This paper presents a computer-based optimization method which can minimize the material consumption of outriggers subject to story drift and vibration period constraints. The proposed optimization method is based on the virtual work principle, Rayleigh methodand sequential quadratic programming. The effectiveness and applicabilityof theoptimizationalgorithm are illustrated by a 700-meter super-tall building which is a typical mega frame core wall structural system with outriggers. In the process of optimization, the structural members of outriggers areresized in order to utilize the most desirable distributionof structuralmaterial to ist best advantage. Results have shown that the proposed optimization methodis a straightforward but powerful tool for the optimal design of outrigger systems.
Evaluation of a Continuous Rigid Frame Bridge with Early Transverse Cracking
Authors: Shen Yin , Li Guoping
Published: December 2014

Early transverse cracking in the deck segment on interior pier of continuous rigid frame bridge constructed by balanced cantilever method is one of the dominant forms of bridge defects experience. These cracks often initiate soon after the deck segment on interior pier is constructed. Most of the past efforts addressing to transverse cracking have focused on causes and changes over the years in concrete material properties. However, bridge owners are more concerned with the impact of early transverse cracking on the performance and durability of the bridges. Thus bridge owners can make rational decisions vary from doing nothing to total rejection. This paper presents a comprehensive numerical study on a continuous rigid frame bridge with early transverse cracks in the China Western. The crack repair forms, crack numbers as well as crack spatial dimensions are considered as major causes in three 3D solid models with practical data. Analysis results showed that the existence of early transverse cracking in the deck segment on interior pier did not create much weakness in the structural static behavior.
Mutual relationships among body condition score, live weight, and back tissue development in meat sheep
Authors: Ptáček Martin , Ducháček Jaromír , Stádník Luděk , Beran Jan
Published: December 2014

Body tissue development and proportion affect predisposition to optimum functioning of production attributes, health, and fertility of sheep. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine relationships among indicators of mature ewes’ nutritional status documented by the body condition score and live weight using ultrasonic evaluation of backfat thickness and depth of musculus longissimus lumborum et thoracis. The monitoring was carried out in Suffolk sheep (n = 942) for a period of 2 years. A significant increase (P < 0.05 to P < 0.01) of all the evaluated indicators was detected corresponding to an increase of the body condition score from 1 to 5 points. The differences in ewes’ live weights depending on particular condition scores reached up to 31.04 kg with the lowest value (58.71 kg) in 1 point and the highest (89.75 kg) in 5 points. The variability of backfat thickness and muscle depth depending on individual condition scores was up to 352.08% (11.02 mm) in backfat thickness and up to 50.10% (12.83 mm) in muscle depth (P < 0.05 to 0.01) compared to the lowest condition score of 1 point. Strong positive linear relationships were also detected between the live weight and back tissues development in ewes (P < 0.001). This study innovatively determinates mutual relationships among growth indicators and body tissue development performed on intensive meat-purpose sheep in vivo. Results of the present study could serve in flock management as a tool for evaluation of the current nutritional status as well as a basic ground for further research focused on development of sheep fattiness and carcass traits evaluation.
The influence of process parameters on the preparation of CaF2@Al(OH)3 composite powder via heterogeneous nucleation
Authors: Chen Zhaoqiang , Xu Chonghai , Chen Hui , Ma Jun , Li Ming
Published: December 2014

The use of self-lubricating materials not only reduces friction coefficients and alleviates effects of wear and tear, but also helps to maintain the mechanical properties of materials. By using coating technology in the application of self-lubricating materials, it is possible to effectively improve the bonding strength between a solid lubricant and substrate material and additionally to protect the solid lubricant against oxidation and decomposition during the sintering process. This study uses the heterogeneous nucleation method, where aluminum hydroxide (Al(OH)3) is coated on the surface of calcium fluoride (CaF2) to prepare a CaF2@Al(OH)3 composite powder. It was observed, through analysis of the preparation process parameters, that the Al3+ concentration, pH value, and reaction temperature were the factors which most influence coating quality. Optimum process parameters were found to be an Al3+ concentration of 0.15 mol · L–1, pH value of 7.5, and reaction temperature of 75 °C. Comparing and analyzing the micro-morphology of sample composite powders proved the effectiveness and favorable performance of the CaF2@Al(OH)3 composite we produced under optimized process parameters.
Preliminary study on the production of common carp cultured in freshwater river cages
Authors: Kohinoor AHM , Rahman MM
Published: December 2014

A preliminary study was conducted to assess the performance of the common carp, cultured in freshwater river of Brahmaputra cages at different stocking densities during November 2011 to March 2012.The stocking densities tested were 80, 100 and 120 fish/m3. Fish were fed a 28% protein diet at the rate of 15-5% of body weight. The result of the study showed that fish in the T1 stocked at the rate of 80 fish/m3 resulted the best individual weight followed by T2 and T3. The productions of fish in T1, T2 and T3 were 22.33±1.20, 19.00±0.58 and 18.00±1.15 kg/m3, respectively. The results of the present study indicated that the best individual growth and production of common carp was obtained at a density of 80 fish/m3. The results also showed that the individual mean harvesting weights were negatively correlated with stocking density. Therefore, the stocking density of 80 fish/m3 is considered optimum for the rearing phase. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ijarit.v4i1.21086 Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. & Tech. 4 (1): 24-27, June, 2014
Nutrient distribution in flowering stems, nutrient removal and fertilization of three proteaceae cultivars
Authors: Hernández MM , Fernández-Falcón M , Álvarez CE
Published: December 2014

Several parameters of flowering stems of two cultivars of protea Leucospermum cordifolium (Knight) Fourc (Succession II and Tango) and one of protea Protea L. (Protea susannae x magnifica Susara) were studied in different commercial plantations. These included length and weight measures, nutrient concentrations of detached parts (flower heads, leaves and stems), and removal of nutrients of harvested flowers. A base for fertilization was also calculated. Harvested flowers of Susara removed more P, K and Cu than Succession II and Tango, and more Ca and Fe than Tango. Succession II showed the highest Zn removal. The P and Cu removal by the crop of Susara were significantly higher than those of both Leucospermum cultivars, while K, Ca, and Fe outputs of Susara exceeded only those of Tango. The nutrient top removals amounted to 4.55 g m-2 of N, 0.48 g m-2 of P, and 5.26 g m-2 of K. Data as a base to supply fertilizer to each cultivar are given, with N:P:K ratios of 1:0.08:0.87 for Succession II, 1:0.08:0.83 for Tango and 1:0.10:1.27 for Susara. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ijarit.v4i1.21094 Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. & Tech. 4 (1): 64-69, June, 2014
Genetic diversity analysis of rice (Oryza sativa L.) landraces through RAPD markers
Authors: Alam MS , Begum SN , Gupta R , Islam SN
Published: December 2014

The molecular marker is a useful tool for assessing genetic variations and resolving cultivar identities. Information on genetic diversity and relationships among rice landraces from Bangladesh is currently very limited. Thirty-five rice genotypes including 33 landraces and 01 HYV of Bangladesh and 1 Indian landrace of particular interest to breeding programs were evaluated by means of random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) technique. For molecular characterization, RAPD markers viz., OPC 03, OPC 04 and OPA 01 gave reproducible and distinct polymorphic amplified products. A total of 20 RAPD bands were scored of which 15 polymorphic amplification products were obtained by using these arbitrary primers. The size of amplified fragments were ranged from 550 to 1775 bp. Based on analysis performed on a similarity matrix using UPGMA, 35 genotypes were grouped into 2 main clusters. Landrace Sylhet balam and Mota aman was totally different from other genotypes. The information will facilitate selection of genotypes to serve as parents for effective rice breeding programs in Bangladesh. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ijarit.v4i1.21099 Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. & Tech. 4 (1): 77-87, June, 2014
The role of cow dung and kitchen manure composts and their non-aerated compost teas in reducing the incidence of foliar diseases of Lycopersicon esculentum (Mill)
Authors: Ngakou A , Koehler H , Ngueliaha HC
Published: December 2014

Compost teas are fermented watery extracts of composted materials used for their beneficial effect on plants. A study was conducted in the field to compare the efficacy of cow dung and kitchen manure composts and their derived non-aerated compost teas on disease symptoms expression and severity of Lycopersicon esculentum. The experimental layout was a complete randomised block design comprising six treatments, each of which was repeated three times: the negative control plot (Tm-); the positive control or fungicide plot (Tm+); the cow dung compost plot (Cpi); the kitchen manure compost plot (Cpii); the compost tea derived cow dung plot (Tci); and the compost tea derived kitchen manure plot (Tcii). Compost tea derived cow dung was revealed to be richer in elemental nutrients (N, P, K) than compost tea from kitchen manure, and significantly (p < 0.0001) enhanced fruit yield per plant. Similarly, the two composts and their derived compost teas significantly (p < 0.0001) reduced the incidence and severity of disease symptoms compared to the controls, with the highest efficacy accounting for cow dung compost and compost tea. Although the non-aerated compost teas were not amended with micro-organisms, these results suggest that the two compost teas in use were rich enough in microbial pathogen antagonists, and therefore, are perceived as potential alternatives to synthetic chemical fungicides. Future work will attempt to identify these microbial antagonists with highly suppressive activity in the non-aerated compost teas. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ijarit.v4i1.21100 Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. & Tech. 4 (1): 88-97, June, 2014
Alcohol Consumption Patterns among Adolescents are Related to Family Structure and Exposure to Drunkenness within the Family: Results from the SEYLE Project
Authors: Rüütel Erik , Sisask Merike , Värnik Airi , Värnik Peeter , Carli Vladimir , Wasserman Camilla , Hoven Christina , Sarchiapone Marco , Apter Alan , Balazs Judit , Bobes Julio , Brunner Romuald , Corcoran Paul , Cosman Doina , Haring Christian , Iosue Miriam , Kaess Michael , Kahn Jean-Pierre , Poštuvan Vita , Sáiz Pilar , Wasserman Danuta
Published: December 2014

There is expedient evidence showing that differences in adolescent alcohol consumption and other risk-behaviour depend on both family structure and family member drunkenness exposure. Data were obtained among adolescents (N = 12,115, mean age 14.9 ± 0.89) in Austria, Estonia, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Romania, Slovenia and Spain within the European Union’s 7th Framework Programme funded project, ‘Saving and Empowering Young Lives in Europe (SEYLE)’. The current study reveals how adolescents’ alcohol consumption patterns are related to their family structure and having seen their family member drunk. The results revealed statistically significant differences in adolescent alcohol consumption depending on whether the adolescent lives in a family with both birth parents, in a single-parent family or in a family with one birth parent and one step-parent. The study also revealed that the abstaining from alcohol percentage among adolescents was greater in families with both birth parents compared to other family types. The study also showed that the more often adolescents see their family member drunk the more they drink themselves. There is no difference in adolescent drinking patterns whether they see their family member drunk once a month or once a week. This study gives an insight on which subgroups of adolescents are at heightened risk of alcohol abuse and that decrease of family member drunkenness may have positive effects on the drinking habits of their children.
Inducible Expression of Mu-Class Glutathione S-Transferases Is Associated with Fenpropathrin Resistance in Tetranychus cinnabarinus
Authors: Shen Guang-Mao , Shi Li , Xu Zhi-Feng , He Lin
Published: December 2014

The carmine spider mite, Tetranychus cinnabarinus (Boisduval), is a serious pest on a variety of economically important crops widely distributed in China, and its resistance to acaricides has quickly developed. In this study, we fully sequenced 13 GST genes of T. cinnabarinus (TcGSTs). The phylogenetic tree showed that five of them belonged to the delta class and the other eight belonged to the mu class. The alignment of gene sequences and comparison of gene expressions between a fenpropathrin-resistant strain (FR) and a susceptible strain (SS) showed that neither point mutation nor overexpression was detected in TcGSTs. However, when challenged by a sublethal dose of fenpropathrin, the mRNA levels of three GSTs from the mu class (TCGSTM2, TCGSTM3, and TCGSTM8) highly increased in FR, while in SS, the expression of these genes was still at the same level under the treatment. In conclusion, specific TcGSTs were identified that were inducible to stimulation by fenpropathrin, and proved that TcGSTs in FR were not constantly expressed at a high level, but could react much more quickly under the stress of fenpropathrin than SS.
Sll0528, a Site-2-Protease, Is Critically Involved in Cold, Salt and Hyperosmotic Stress Acclimation of Cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803
Authors: Lei Haijin , Chen Gu , Wang Yuling , Ding Qinglong , Wei Dong
Published: December 2014

Site-2-proteases (S2Ps) mediated proteolysis of transmembrane transcriptional regulators is a conserved mechanism to regulate transmembrane signaling. The universal presence of S2P homologs in different cyanobacterial genomes suggest conserved and fundamental functions, though limited data has been available. Here we provide the first evidence that Sll0528, a site-2-protease in Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 is crucial for salt, cold and hyperosmotic stress acclimation. Remarkable induction of sll0528 gene expression was observed under salt, cold and hyperosmotic stress, much higher than induction of the other three S2Ps. Knock-out of sll0528 gene in wild type Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 increased their sensitivity to salt, cold and hyperosmotic stress, as revealed by retarded growth, reduced pigments and disrupted photosystems. The sll0528 gene was induced to a much smaller extent by high light and mixotrophic growth with glucose. Similar growth responses of the sll0528 knockout mutant and wild type under high light and mixotrophic growth indicated that sll0528 was dispensable for these conditions. Recombinant Sll0528 protein could cleave beta-casein into smaller fragments. These results together suggest that the Sll0528 metalloprotease plays a role in the stress response and lays the foundation for further investigation of its mechanism, as well as providing hints for the functional analysis of other S2Ps in cyanobacteria.
The Cyclic Antibacterial Peptide Enterocin AS-48: Isolation, Mode of Action, and Possible Food Applications
Authors: Grande Burgos María , Pulido Rubén , Del Carmen López Aguayo María , Gálvez Antonio , Lucas Rosario
Published: December 2014

Enterocin AS-48 is a circular bacteriocin produced by Enterococcus. It contains a 70 amino acid-residue chain circularized by a head-to-tail peptide bond. The conformation of enterocin AS-48 is arranged into five alpha-helices with a compact globular structure. Enterocin AS-48 has a wide inhibitory spectrum on Gram-positive bacteria. Sensitivity of Gram-negative bacteria increases in combination with outer-membrane permeabilizing treatments. Eukaryotic cells are bacteriocin-resistant. This cationic peptide inserts into bacterial membranes and causes membrane permeabilization, leading ultimately to cell death. Microarray analysis revealed sets of up-regulated and down-regulated genes in Bacillus cereus cells treated with sublethal bacteriocin concentration. Enterocin AS-48 can be purified in two steps or prepared as lyophilized powder from cultures in whey-based substrates. The potential applications of enterocin AS-48 as a food biopreservative have been corroborated against foodborne pathogens and/or toxigenic bacteria (Listeria monocytogenes, Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Salmonella enterica) and spoilage bacteria (Alicyclobacillus acidoterrestris, Bacillus spp., Paenibacillus spp., Geobacillus stearothermophilus, Brochothrix thermosphacta, Staphylococcus carnosus, Lactobacillus sakei and other spoilage lactic acid bacteria). The efficacy of enterocin AS-48 in food systems increases greatly in combination with chemical preservatives, essential oils, phenolic compounds, and physico-chemical treatments such as sublethal heat, high-intensity pulsed-electric fields or high hydrostatic pressure.
The Effect of Specimen Size on the Results of Concrete Adiabatic Temperature Rise Test with Commercially Available Equipment
Authors: Lee Byung , Bang Jin , Shin Kyung , Kim Yun
Published: December 2014

In this study, adiabatic temperature rise tests depending on binder type and adiabatic specimen volume were performed, and the maximum adiabatic temperature rises and the reaction factors for each mix proportion were analyzed and suggested. The results indicated that the early strength low heat blended cement mixture had the lowest maximum adiabatic temperature rise (Q∞) and the ternary blended cement mixture had the lowest reaction factor (r). Also, Q and r varied depending on the adiabatic specimen volume even when the tests were conducted with a calorimeter, which satisfies the recommendations for adiabatic conditions. Test results show a correlation: the measurements from the 50 L specimens were consistently higher than those from the 6 L specimens. However, the Q∞ and r values of the 30 L specimen were similar to those of the 50 L specimen. Based on the above correlation, the adiabatic temperature rise of the 50 L specimen could be predicted using the results of the 6 L and 30 L specimens. Therefore, it is thought that this correlation can be used for on-site concrete quality control and basic research.
Biflavans, Flavonoids, and a Dihydrochalcone from the Stem Wood of Muntingia calabura and Their Inhibitory Activities on Neutrophil Pro-Inflammatory Responses
Authors: Kuo Wen-Lung , Liao Hsiang-Ruei , Chen Jih-Jung
Published: December 2014

Muntingia calabura (Tiliaceae) is commercially used in healthcare for the improvement of hypertension, myocardial infarction, spasm, and inflammatory conditions. Its fruits can be processed into jam and the leaves can be used for making tea. In the work reported herein a new biflavan, (M),(2S),(2''S)-,(P),(2S),(2''S)-7,8,3',4',5',7'',8'',3''',4''',5'''-decamethoxy-5,5'' biflavan (1), a new flavone, 4'-hydroxy-7,8,3',5'-tetramethoxyflavone (2), and a new dihydrochalcone, (R)-2',β-dihydroxy-3',4'-dimethoxydihydrochalcone (3), have been isolated from the stem wood of M. calabura, together with 12 known compounds (4–15). The structures of these new compounds were elucidated by the interpretations of extensive spectroscopic data. Among the isolated compounds, 5-hydroxy-7-methoxyflavone (5), quercetin (6), and (2S)-7-hydroxyflavanone (10) exhibited potent inhibition of fMLP-induced superoxide anion generation by human neutrophils, with IC50 values of 1.77 ± 0.70, 3.82 ± 0.46, and 4.92 ± 1.71 μM, respectively.
Role of Protease-Inhibitors in Ocular Diseases
Authors: Pescosolido Nicola , Barbato Andrea , Pascarella Antonia , Giannotti Rossella , Genzano Martina , Nebbioso Marcella
Published: December 2014

It has been demonstrated that the balance between proteases and protease-inhibitors system plays a key role in maintaining cellular and tissue homeostasis. Indeed, its alteration has been involved in many ocular and systemic diseases. In particular, research has focused on keratoconus, corneal wounds and ulcers, keratitis, endophthalmitis, age-related macular degeneration, Sorsby fundus dystrophy, loss of nerve cells and photoreceptors during optic neuritis both in vivo and in vitro models. Protease-inhibitors have been extensively studied, rather than proteases, because they may represent a therapeutic approach for some ocular diseases. The protease-inhibitors mainly involved in the onset of the above-mentioned ocular pathologies are: α2-macroglobulin, α1-proteinase inhibitor (α1-PI), metalloproteinase inhibitor (TIMP), maspin, SERPINA3K, SERPINB13, secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor (SLPI), and calpeptin. This review is focused on the several characteristics of dysregulation of this system and, particularly, on a possible role of proteases and protease-inhibitors in molecular remodeling that may lead to some ocular diseases. Recently, researchers have even hypothesized a possible therapeutic effect of the protease-inhibitors in the treatment of injured eye in animal models.
Resilience Attributes of Social-Ecological Systems: Framing Metrics for Management
Authors: Kerner David , Thomas J.
Published: December 2014

If resilience theory is to be of practical value for policy makers and resource managers, the theory must be translated into sensible decision-support tools. We present herein a set of resilience attributes, developed to characterize human-managed systems, that helps system stakeholders to make practical use of resilience concepts in tangible applications. In order to build and maintain resilience, these stakeholders must be able to understand what qualities or attributes enhance—or detract from—a system’s resilience. We describe standardized resilience terms that can be incorporated into resource management plans and decision-support tools to derive metrics that help managers assess the current resilience status of their systems, make rational resource allocation decisions, and track progress toward meeting goals. Our intention is to provide an approachable set of terms for both specialists and non-specialists alike to apply to programs that would benefit from a resilience perspective. These resilience terms can facilitate the modeling of resilience behavior within systems, as well as support those lacking access to sophisticated models. Our goal is to enable policy makers and resource managers to put resilience theory to work in the real world.
Mechanomyographic Parameter Extraction Methods: An Appraisal for Clinical Applications
Authors: Ibitoye Morufu , Hamzaid Nur , Zuniga Jorge , Hasnan Nazirah , Wahab Ahmad
Published: December 2014

The research conducted in the last three decades has collectively demonstrated that the skeletal muscle performance can be alternatively assessed by mechanomyographic signal (MMG) parameters. Indices of muscle performance, not limited to force, power, work, endurance and the related physiological processes underlying muscle activities during contraction have been evaluated in the light of the signal features. As a non-stationary signal that reflects several distinctive patterns of muscle actions, the illustrations obtained from the literature support the reliability of MMG in the analysis of muscles under voluntary and stimulus evoked contractions. An appraisal of the standard practice including the measurement theories of the methods used to extract parameters of the signal is vital to the application of the signal during experimental and clinical practices, especially in areas where electromyograms are contraindicated or have limited application. As we highlight the underpinning technical guidelines and domains where each method is well-suited, the limitations of the methods are also presented to position the state of the art in MMG parameters extraction, thus providing the theoretical framework for improvement on the current practices to widen the opportunity for new insights and discoveries. Since the signal modality has not been widely deployed due partly to the limited information extractable from the signals when compared with other classical techniques used to assess muscle performance, this survey is particularly relevant to the projected future of MMG applications in the realm of musculoskeletal assessments and in the real time detection of muscle activity.
Beyond Techno-Utopia: Critical Approaches to Digital Health Technologies
Authors: Lupton Deborah
Published: December 2014

This editorial presents an overview of digital health technologies, discusses previous research and introduces the contributions to the special issue “Beyond Techno-Utopia: Critical Approaches to Digital Health Technologies”. It is argued that thus far, few critical analyses of digital health technologies have been published in the social science literature, particularly in relation to the newest technologies. While the articles collected here in this special issue have gone some way in offering a critical response to digital health technologies, they represent only a beginning. Many more compelling topics remain to be investigated. The editorial ends with outlining directions for future research in this area.
Sacerdoce judaïque et hiérarchie ecclésiale dans les premières communautés palestiniennes
Authors: Schmitt Joseph
Published: December 2014

Le Nouveau Testament contient deux groupes de textes sur le rôle du juif messianiste dans la formation du Christianisme primitif : quelques traditions d'une saveur apparemment piétiste sur la condition sacerdotale et lévitique de certains membres pour le moins influents de la Communauté et, par ailleurs, d'importants fragments au caractère plus ou moins qumrânien sur la vie et l'organisation des premiers milieux judéo-chrétiens. Ces derniers textes en particulier l'hypothèse que les fidèles venus du sacerdoce juif réformiste ont dû parfois tenir une place de premier plan dans la hiérarchie des naissantes églises palestiniennes.
La discipline pénitentielle en Gaule des origines au IXe siècle : le dossier hagiographique (suite et fin)
Authors: Vogel Cyrille
Published: December 2014

Suite et fin du bilan des renseignements fournis par les Vitae sanctorum, classés d'après les différents aspects sous lesquels la pénitence a été envisagée dans les documents (aveu des fautes, public ou privé, suivi d'absolution — la confession faite aux religieuses — relations maladie-péché, guérison, physique — rémission — absolution par l'intercession des saints — la pénitence des clercs — vie monastique et conversio — l'excommunication — la cura animarum). Les sources hagiographiques ne fournissent que peu de renseignements qui ne soient connus, et mieux connus, par ailleurs Nos textes confirment qu'il n'a pas existé une institution unique assurant la rémission des péchés ; multiples étaient les voies garantissant au pécheur le pardon divin.
Chronique de Théologie biblique (Ancien Testament)
Authors: Hauret Charles
Published: December 2014

Analyse de plusieurs études récentes sur l'Ancien Testament : van Imschoot, Bernini, Spadafora, ainsi que des rapports présentés aux journées bibliques de Louvain sur l'Attente du Messie Pour finir, l'auteur présente le livre de Criado sur le nom divin et celui de Gelin sur les anawim.
La ferula, bâton pastoral de l'évêque de Rome
Authors: Salmon P.
Published: December 2014

La crosse fait partie des insignes que portent actuellement les évêques. De signe de juridiction, elle est devenue un ornement liturgique. Le pape ne l'a jamais portée, parce qu'il avait un autre insigne : la férule, qui lui était solennellement remise le jour de son intronisation et de la prise de possession de l'episcopiurn Lateranense. L'usage en a disparu au XVIe siècle.
L'esthétique transcendantale de Kant, mauvais Ersatz de l'intentionnalité des sensations
Authors: Rohmer Jean
Published: December 2014

La théorie des sensations de Kant est l'achèvement logique du subjectivisme cartésien. Les formes pures a priori de l'intuition sensible et la schématisation logique a priori de la perception constituent un mécanisme artificiel qui échoue à reconstituer l'objet physique de nos sensations.
La littérature polémique autour de la Querelle des Investitures. Le plaidoyer en faveur d'Henri IV de Pierre Crassus (à suivre)
Authors: Bonhomme Pierre
Published: December 2014

Le pontificat de Grégoire VIII et le règne d Henri IV, fin du XIe s., avaient été marqués dans les faits par la double déposition du roi par le pape et l'invalidation de celui-ci par le roi. Devant cette contradiction, les impérialistes proclameront l'inaliénabilité de la couronne, tandis que les grégoriens objecteront que l'élection pontificale ne dépend en rien de l'empereur.

Dans ce contexte historique où l'on pressent les débats sur les relations de l'Église et des Etats, le « Plaidoyer en faveur d'Henri IV » 1082- 1084, oppose à la théocratie, la version de l'absolutisme royal fondée sur le droit romain et sur une certaine interprétation des Pères et de l'Écriture avec lesquels le juriste de Ravenne semble familier.

Œuvre de circonstances, le « Plaidoyer ?» pour seconder les ambitions immédiates d'Henri IV, s'efforce d'obtenir la déchéance de Grégoire VIII (1ère et 2ème rédaction) coupable d'avoir détruit l'ordre établi par Dieu en déposant un empereur chrétien institué de droit divin, et de rallier au roi les Saxons rebelles (3ème rédaction).
La cosmologie du P. Teilhard de Chardin devant la biologie expérimentale
Authors: Bounoure Louis
Published: December 2014

Un biologiste exprime les difficultés capitales que les données expérimentales opposent à l'évolutionnisme du P. Teilnard de Chardin.
Un prophète des convergences humaines
Authors: Nédoncelle Maurice
Published: December 2014

Le fait incontestable sur lequel s'appuie le P. Teilhard est l'unification de la planète, depuis le XVIe siècle. Il ne le commente ni en savant ni en philosophe ni en Théologien, mais en « prophète » qui cherche à dégager un sens et à annoncer un but.
Le retour à l'unité de dissidents lyonnais et vendéens en 1893-1896
Authors: de Clercq Charles
Published: December 2014

Le 19 juillet 1893 le pape Léon XIII adressait à Mgr Juteau, évêque de Poitiers, une lettre l'engageant ainsi que Mgr Couillé, le nouvel archevêque de Lyon, à poursuivre leurs efforts pour ramener à l'Unité romaine les membres de la Petite Église, ou anticoncordataires, habitant leur diocèse. Un des principaux dissidents lyonnais, Marius Duc, entama des négociations qui aboutirent à ce que, sans avoir à faire de rétractation, lui-même et quelques coreligionnaires lyonnais et vendéens furent reçus dans l'Église catholique.
Le Liber testimoniorum de Paterius
Authors: Étaix Raymond
Published: December 2014

Etude sur la tradition manuscrite de cet ouvrage et liste des principales corrections qu'il faut apporter à l'édition donnée par les Mauristes. — Ce livre reproduit une trentaine de passages authentiques de saint Grégoire, non connus par ailleurs, et qui proviennent en partie d'une première édition des Homélies sur Ezéchiel.
La possibilité philosophique de la philosophie chrétienne
Authors: Gilson Étienne
Published: December 2014

L'auteur esquisse les raisons qu'il y a de maintenir, au plan spéculatif, la possibilité de la philosophie chrétienne. Si l'on accepte, avec la notion thomiste d'être, la notion de Dieu et la notion de création qui en sont inséparables, celle de philosophie chrétienne devient possible et pratiquement inévitable. Dans un univers créé, tout n'est pas surnaturel mais tout est religieux.
Chronique de théologie fondamentale
Authors: Nédoncelle Maurice
Published: December 2014

Etude critique d'ouvrages récents relatifs au développement des dogmes d'après Newman.
Que signifie l'expression Perfectiora sacramenta chez Saint Ambroise ?
Authors: Lavorel Louis
Published: December 2014

L'auteur attire l'attention sur le sens de l'expression Perfectiora sacramenta dans Exe. Sot., 1, 43. Citant un passage parallèle de la Lettre à Bellidus (Ep., 79, 4), apportant de multiples arguments tirés du contexte lui-même, L. Lavorel montre que l'expression Perfectiora sacramenta dans Exe. Sat., désigne non pas baptêmes les auteurs le disent, mais l'eucharistie.
Psychologie des auteurs spirituels du XIIe siècle (à suivre)
Authors: Javelet Robert
Published: December 2014

Les spirituels préscolastiques accèdent à la notion de personne par celle de liberté — une liberté considérée concrètement et qui n'est autre que le sujet libre dans l'exercice d'une autorité possessive. Richard de Saint-Victor dans le De Trinitate définit la personne par l'existence qu'il caractérise par un nœud triple de « relations » avec Dieu, avec soi-même et avec la création. Le milieu personnel est un milieu d'amour et c'est en même temps la participation à l'Esprit. La notion de ressemblance n'est donc pas purement analogique. Les voiles du péché écartés, la psychologie mystique débouche directement sur une métaphysique de la connaissance et de l'amour.
Sur la récente publication du Sacramentaire ambrosien de l'archevêque Héribert (Milan, Bibl. du Chapitre, cod. II. D. 3. 2.)
Authors: Amiet Robert
Published: December 2014

Les liturgistes seront heureux d'apprendre la toute récente publication, par les soins de M. Angelo Paredi, docteur de l'Ambrosienne de Milan, d'un précieux sacramentaire ambrosien, conservé à la Bibliothèque du Chapitre (cod. II. D. 3. 2), dont la critique interne permet de restituer la transcription au pontificat de l'archevêque Héribert (1018 — 1045). Cette publication, qui comble une lacune trop longtemps ressentie, fait partie intégrante des Miscellanea Adriano Bernareggi, Bergamo 1958, p. 329-488.
L'interprétation des psaumes selon l'école « Myth and Ritual » (suite et fin)
Authors: Hauret Charles
Published: December 2014

L'application au culte d'Israël du ritual pattern ne va pas sans difficultés. Le psautier n'apporte pas d'appui décisif en faveur des cinq phases du drame liturgique. L'Ecole néglige la chronologie des psaumes, exagère la portée de détails formels, ne tient pas compte suffisamment des traits spécifiques du yahvisme (conception de la divinité, prédilection pour l'histoire et manque d'attrait pour les compositions mythologiques, représentation finaliste de l'histoire), regroupe des psaumes d'une façon qui semble artificielle. Par contre, elle accumule des matériaux qui nous renseignent sur l'origine de la phraséologie du psautier et les procédés de composition des psalmistes ; elle attire opportunément notre attention sur l'importance du culte, stimule une recherche qui aboutira, espérons-le, à des solutions plus nuancées et mieux équilibrées.
Eléments de la structure fondamentale de l'eucharistie: I. Bénédiction, anamnèse et action de grâces
Authors: Fraigneau-Julien Bernard
Published: December 2014

La comparaison des anaphores eucharistiques les plus anciennes avec les prières juives des repas et avec celles de l'agape permet d'affirmer que les anaphores eucharistiques sont d'abord des prières de louange, le mémorial étant le motif d'action- de grâces de ces prières.
VI. Schisme et primauté chez J. A. Möhler
Authors: Dupuy B. D.
Published: December 2014

J. A. Möhler a élaboré, entre 1824 et 1832, ses vues sur le schisme entre l'Orient et l'Occident. Il proteste que ce qui sépare l'Église grecque de Rome n'est pas d'abord la question du pape, mais plus profondément une conception différente du magistère de l'Église. Pour lui, la question des pouvoirs juridictionnels doit être rattachée à celle du centre de la communion et à celle du magistère. Les premiers écrits de Möhler montrent en outre qu'il n'a pas nié que la primauté fût essentielle à l'Église, mais sa recherche d'historien de l'Église lui a manifesté que l'idée de la primauté et sa mise en œuvre passent toujours par la conscience que l'Église s'en fait. La réunion, œuvre du S. Esprit, ne peut venir qu'en se fondant de part et d'autre sur une compréhension intérieure et consciente de ce qui fait l'unité de l'Église.
XII. Le rôle et l'apostolat de la hiérarchie et du laïcat dans la théologie de l'Église chez Newman
Authors: Davis H. F.
Published: December 2014

Le principe directeur de la pensée de Newman sur le rôle respectif de la hiérarchie et du laïcat est que l'une et l'autre participent de manière diverse, mais organique, aux trois offices du Christ, Prophète, Prêtre et Roi. Si l'autorité divine des évêques doit s'appliquer à la transmission de la vérité révélée et au gouvernement de l'Église, les fidèles ont pour charge de témoigner de la foi reçue et d'en prendre une conscience toujours plus profonde sous l'action de l'Esprit-Saint. Tout en reconnaissant ainsi au laïcat un rôle certain dans le développement de la doctrine, Newman a ouvert aussi, par ailleurs, des voies nouvelles à son apostolat ; les efforts du Cardinal pour la formation d'une élite chrétienne, ses échecs ou demi-succès, l'ont amené à préciser le rôle des laïcs dans un apostolat doctrinal et les conditions de son efficacité.