bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neuromonitoring changes in pediatric spinal deformity surgery: a single-institution experience
Authors: Ferguson Joseph , Hwang Steven W. , Tataryn Zachary , Samdani Amer F.
Published: January 2014

Object

Intraoperative monitoring of the spinal cord has become the standard of care during surgery for pediatric spinal deformity correction. The use of both somatosensory and motor evoked potentials has dramatically increased the sensitivity and specificity of detecting intraoperative neurophysiological changes to the spinal cord, which assists in the intraoperative decision-making process. The authors report on a large, single-center experience with neuromonitoring changes and outline the surgical management of patients who experience significant neuromonitoring changes during spinal deformity correction surgery.

Methods

The authors conducted a retrospective review of all cases involving pediatric patients who underwent spinal deformity correction surgery at Shriners Hospital for Children, Philadelphia, between January 2007 and March 2010. Five hundred nineteen consecutive cases were reviewed in which neuromonitoring was used, with 47 cases being identified as having significant changes in somatosensory evoked potentials, motor evoked potentials, or both. These cases were reviewed for patient demographic data and surgical characteristics.

Results

The incidence of significant neuromonitoring changes was 9.1% (47 of 519 cases), including 6 cases of abnormal Stagnara wake-up tests, of which 4 had corroborated postoperative neurological deficits (8.5% of 47 cases, 0.8% of 519). In response to neuromonitoring changes, wake-up tests were performed in 37 (79%) of 47 cases, hardware was adjusted in 15 (32%), anesthesiology interventions were reported in 5 (11%), hardware was removed in 5 (11%), the patient was successfully repositioned in 3 (6%), and the procedure was aborted in 13 (28%). In 1 of the 4 patients with new postoperative deficits, the deficit had fully resolved by the last follow-up; the other 3 patients had persistent neurological impairment as of the most recent follow-up examination. The authors observed a sensitivity of 100% for intraoperative neuromonitoring.

Conclusions

Due to the profound risks associated with spinal deformity surgery, intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring is an integral tool to warn of impending spinal cord injury. Intraoperative neuromonitoring appears to provide a safe and useful warning mechanism to minimize spinal cord injury that may arise during scoliosis correction surgery in pediatric patients.
Aerosol Optical Properties and Determination of Aerosol Size Distribution in Wuhan, China
Authors: Gong Wei , Zhang Shanshan , Ma Yingying
Published: January 2014

Columnar aerosol volume size distributions from March 2012 to February 2013 in Wuhan, China, were investigated with a focus on monthly and seasonal variations in the aerosol optical depths (AODs) and Ångström exponents. AOD is wavelength dependent, and for AOD at, for example, 500 nm, the seasonal averaged AOD value decreased in the order of winter (~0.84), spring (~0.83), summer (~0.76) and autumn (~0.55). The Ångström exponent suggested that the aerosol sizes in summer (~1.22), winter (~1.14), autumn (~1.06) and spring (~0.99) varied from fine to coarse particles. The Ångström exponent and AOD could provide a qualitative evaluation of ASD. Moreover, aerosol size distribution (ASD) was larger in winter than the other three seasons, especially from 1.0 µm to 15 µm due to heavy anthropogenic aerosol and damp climate. The ASD spectral shape showed a bimodal distribution in autumn, winter, and spring, with one peak (<0.1) in the fine mode range and the other (>0.14) in the coarse mode range. However, there appeared to be a trimodal distribution during summer, with two peaks in the coarse mode, which might be due to the hygroscopic growth of the local particles and the generation of aerosol precursor resulting from the extreme-high temperature and relative humidity.
Dynamical Stability and Predictability of Football Players: The Study of One Match
Authors: Couceiro Micael , Clemente Filipe , Martins Fernando , Machado José
Published: January 2014

The game of football demands new computational approaches to measure individual and collective performance. Understanding the phenomena involved in the game may foster the identification of strengths and weaknesses, not only of each player, but also of the whole team. The development of assertive quantitative methodologies constitutes a key element in sports training. In football, the predictability and stability inherent in the motion of a given player may be seen as one of the most important concepts to fully characterise the variability of the whole team. This paper characterises the predictability and stability levels of players during an official football match. A Fractional Calculus (FC) approach to define a player’s trajectory. By applying FC, one can benefit from newly considered modeling perspectives, such as the fractional coefficient, to estimate a player’s predictability and stability. This paper also formulates the concept of attraction domain, related to the tactical region of each player, inspired by stability theory principles. To compare the variability inherent in the player’s process variables (e.g., distance covered) and to assess his predictability and stability, entropy measures are considered. Experimental results suggest that the most predictable player is the goalkeeper while, conversely, the most unpredictable players are the midfielders. We also conclude that, despite his predictability, the goalkeeper is the most unstable player, while lateral defenders are the most stable during the match.
Low Voltage Ride-through in DFIG Wind Generators by Controlling the Rotor Current without Crowbars
Authors: Arribas Jaime , Rodríguez Adrián , Muñoz Ángel , Nicolás Carlos
Published: January 2014

Among all the different types of electric wind generators, those that are based on doubly fed induction generators, or DFIG technology, are the most vulnerable to grid faults such as voltage sags. This paper proposes a new control strategy for this type of wind generator, that allows these devices to withstand the effects of a voltage sag while following the new requirements imposed by grid operators. This new control strategy makes the use of complementary devices such as crowbars unnecessary, as it greatly reduces the value of currents originated by the fault. This ensures less costly designs for the rotor systems as well as a more economic sizing of the necessary power electronics. The strategy described here uses an electric generator model based on space-phasor theory that provides a direct control over the position of the rotor magnetic flux. Controlling the rotor magnetic flux has a direct influence on the rest of the electrical variables enabling the machine to evolve to a desired work point during the transient imposed by the grid disturbance. Simulation studies have been carried out, as well as test bench trials, in order to prove the viability and functionality of the proposed control strategy.
Remaining Useful Life Prediction of Lithium-Ion Batteries Based on the Wiener Process with Measurement Error
Authors: Tang Shengjin , Yu Chuanqiang , Wang Xue , Guo Xiaosong , Si Xiaosheng
Published: January 2014

Remaining useful life (RUL) prediction is central to the prognostics and health management (PHM) of lithium-ion batteries. This paper proposes a novel RUL prediction method for lithium-ion batteries based on the Wiener process with measurement error (WPME). First, we use the truncated normal distribution (TND) based modeling approach for the estimated degradation state and obtain an exact and closed-form RUL distribution by simultaneously considering the measurement uncertainty and the distribution of the estimated drift parameter. Then, the traditional maximum likelihood estimation (MLE) method for population based parameters estimation is remedied to improve the estimation efficiency. Additionally, we analyze the relationship between the classic MLE method and the combination of the Bayesian updating algorithm and the expectation maximization algorithm for the real time RUL prediction. Interestingly, it is found that the result of the combination algorithm is equal to the classic MLE method. Inspired by this observation, a heuristic algorithm for the real time parameters updating is presented. Finally, numerical examples and a case study of lithium-ion batteries are provided to substantiate the superiority of the proposed RUL prediction method.
Local Dynamics Driving Forest Transition: Insights from Upland Villages in Southwest China
Authors: He Jun , Lang Rong , Xu Jianchu
Published: January 2014

China has experienced extensive forest transition, from net deforestation to net forestation. Existing theories have highlighted economic growth, the intensification of agriculture and forest scarcity as the pathways of this transition, and studies, in particular from China, have also highlighted the contribution of a huge state afforestation program and the improved implementation and enforcement of forest protection policy and law. However, few studies have paid attention to local dynamics to provide a contextualized understanding of how forest transition has taken place at the local level and the significance of local factors in this change. This paper examines forest transition pathways in two villages in China. We consider the historical perspective and compare their local dynamics and variations to reach an understanding of the process of forest recovery at the local level. The results show that state forestry policies, including afforestation policy and tenure reform, arguably contribute to forest increase, while local processes including livelihood change and institutional factors play a key role in driving and shaping forest transition. We argue that there is a need for local-level studies and recommend including local institutions in forest transition analysis, contextualizing the socio-ecological interactions within the broader concept of political economy.
A Review of Telehealth Service Implementation Frameworks
Authors: Van Dyk Liezl
Published: January 2014

Despite the potential of telehealth services to increase the quality and accessibility of healthcare, the success rate of such services has been disappointing. The purpose of this paper is to find and compare existing frameworks for the implementation of telehealth services that can contribute to the success rate of future endeavors. After a thorough discussion of these frameworks, this paper outlines the development methodologies in terms of theoretical background, methodology and validation. Finally, the common themes and formats are identified for consideration in future implementation. It was confirmed that a holistic implementation approach is needed, which includes technology, organizational structures, change management, economic feasibility, societal impacts, perceptions, user-friendliness, evaluation and evidence, legislation, policy and governance. Furthermore, there is some scope for scientifically rigorous framework development and validation approaches.
Genetic Diversity of Rotavirus Strains Circulating in Environmental Water and Bivalve Shellfish in Thailand
Authors: Kittigul Leera , Panjangampatthana Apinya , Rupprom Kitwadee , Pombubpa Kannika
Published: January 2014

Rotavirus is a common cause of acute diarrhea in young children worldwide. This study investigated the prevalence and molecular characterization of rotavirus in environmental water and oyster samples in Thailand. A total of 114 water samples and 110 oyster samples were collected and tested for group A rotavirus using RT-nested PCR. Rotavirus genotype was identified by phylogenetic analysis of the VP7 genetic sequences. Group A rotavirus was detected in 21 water samples (18.4%) and six oyster samples (5.4%). Twenty five rotavirus strains were successfully sequenced and classified into four genotypes; G1, G2, G3, and G9. Rotavirus G1 (three strains), G2 (three strains), and G9 (two strains) demonstrated the genetic sequences similar to human strains (90%–99% nucleotide identity), whereas G3 (17 strains) was closely related to animal strains (84%–98% nucleotide identity). G1 strains belonged to lineages I (sub-lineage c) and II. G2 strains belonged to lineage II. G9 strains belonged to lineages III (sub-lineage b) and IV. G3 strains belonged to lineages I, III (sub-lineage c), and IV with a predominance of lineage I. The present study provides important information on the rotavirus strains circulating in the environment.
Atomistic Monte Carlo Simulation of Lipid Membranes
Authors: Wüstner Daniel , Sklenar Heinz
Published: January 2014

Biological membranes are complex assemblies of many different molecules of which analysis demands a variety of experimental and computational approaches. In this article, we explain challenges and advantages of atomistic Monte Carlo (MC) simulation of lipid membranes. We provide an introduction into the various move sets that are implemented in current MC methods for efficient conformational sampling of lipids and other molecules. In the second part, we demonstrate for a concrete example, how an atomistic local-move set can be implemented for MC simulations of phospholipid monomers and bilayer patches. We use our recently devised chain breakage/closure (CBC) local move set in the bond-/torsion angle space with the constant-bond-length approximation (CBLA) for the phospholipid dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine (DPPC). We demonstrate rapid conformational equilibration for a single DPPC molecule, as assessed by calculation of molecular energies and entropies. We also show transition from a crystalline-like to a fluid DPPC bilayer by the CBC local-move MC method, as indicated by the electron density profile, head group orientation, area per lipid, and whole-lipid displacements. We discuss the potential of local-move MC methods in combination with molecular dynamics simulations, for example, for studying multi-component lipid membranes containing cholesterol.
In vitro Endothelialization and Platelet Adhesion on Titaniferous Upgraded Polyether and Polycarbonate Polyurethanes
Authors: Lehle Karla , Li Jing , Zimmermann Hanngörg , Hartmann Björn , Wehner Daniel , Schmid Thomas , Schmid Christof
Published: January 2014

Polycarbonateurethanes (PCU) and polyetherurethanes (PEU) are used for medical devices, however their bio- and haemocompatibility is limited. In this study, the effect of titaniferous upgrading of different polyurethanes on the bio- and haemocompatibility was investigated by endothelial cell (EC) adhesion/proliferation and platelet adhesion (scanning electron microscopy), respectively. There was no EC adhesion/proliferation and only minor platelet adhesion on upgraded and pure PCU (Desmopan). PEUs (Texin 985, Tecothane 1085, Elastollan 1180A) differed in their cyto- and haemocompatibility. While EC adhesion depended on the type of PEU, any proliferative activity was inhibited. Additional titaniferous upgrading of PEU induced EC proliferation and increased metabolic activity. However, adherent ECs were significantly activated. While Texin was highly thrombotic, only small amounts of platelets adhered onto Tecothane and Elastollan. Additional titaniferous upgrading reduced thrombogenicity of Texin, preserved haemocompatibility of Elastollan, and increased platelet activation/aggregation on Tecothane. In conclusion, none of the PUs was cytocompatible; only titaniferous upgrading allowed EC proliferation and metabolism on PEUs. Haemocompatibility depended on the type of PU.
Comparative Performance of Three Magnesium Compounds on Thermal Degradation Behavior of Red Gum Wood
Authors: Wu Yiqiang , Yao Chunhua , Hu Yunchu , Zhu Xiaodan , Qing Yan , Wu Qinglin
Published: January 2014

The effect of basic magnesium carbonate (BMC), magnesium hydroxide (MH), and magnesium chloride hydrate (MCH) on thermal degradation of red gum wood was studied using cone calorimetry, Thermogravimetric-differential scanning calorimetry (TG-DSC) analysis, and X-ray diffraction (XRD) characterization. The results showed common fire retardation actions of the three compounds by releasing incombustible gas and/or water vapor to dilute combustible gas in the flaming zone, and by converting to MgO, which had a satisfactory protective wall effect on the wood. Individually, BMC absorbed heat from the wood at the pre-decomposition stage and, thus, slowed down wood pyrolysis process. It slightly increased the char yield by charring in both the charring stage and the char calcination stage. MH lost water at about 270 °C, close to the temperature at which wood thermally degraded. MH rendered wood char quickly, and the compact char layer impeded further carbonization and burning of inner wood. MCH promoted charring with Mg2+ as a Lewis acid, and increased wood char yield. MCH also released Cl· free radical and HCl at 167 °C, which easily coordinated with combustion reaction radical, and slowed down, even inhibited, the combustion chain reaction.
Mercury-Supported Biomimetic Membranes for the Investigation of Antimicrobial Peptides
Authors: Becucci Lucia , Guidelli Rolando
Published: January 2014

Tethered bilayer lipid membranes (tBLMs) consist of a lipid bilayer interposed between an aqueous solution and a hydrophilic “spacer” anchored to a gold or mercury electrode. There is great potential for application of these biomimetic membranes for the elucidation of structure-function relationships of membrane peptides and proteins. A drawback in the use of mercury-supported tBLMs with respect to gold-supported ones is represented by the difficulty in applying surface sensitive, spectroscopic and scanning probe microscopic techniques to gather information on the architecture of these biomimetic membranes. Nonetheless, mercury-supported tBLMs are definitely superior to gold-supported biomimetic membranes for the investigation of the function of membrane peptides and proteins, thanks to a fluidity and lipid lateral mobility comparable with those of bilayer lipid membranes interposed between two aqueous phases (BLMs), but with a much higher robustness and resistance to electric fields. The different features of mercury-supported tBLMs reconstituted with functionally active membrane proteins and peptides of bacteriological or pharmacological interest may be disclosed by a judicious choice of the most appropriate electrochemical techniques. We will describe the way in which electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, potential-step chronocoulometry, cyclic voltammetry and phase-sensitive AC voltammetry are conveniently employed to investigate the structure of mercury-supported tBLMs and the mode of interaction of antimicrobial peptides reconstituted into them.
A Novel Rubric for Rating the Quality of Retraction Notices
Authors: Bilbrey Emma , O'Dell Natalie , Creamer Jonathan
Published: January 2014

When a scientific article is found to be either fraudulent or erroneous, one course of action available to both the authors and the publisher is to retract said article. Unfortunately, not all retraction notices properly inform the reader of the problems with a retracted article. This study developed a novel rubric for rating and standardizing the quality of retraction notices, and used it to assess the retraction notices of 171 retracted articles from 15 journals. Results suggest the rubric to be a robust, if preliminary, tool. Analysis of the retraction notices suggest that their quality has not improved over the last 50 years, that it varies both between and within journals, and that it is dependent on the field of science, the author of the retraction notice, and the reason for retraction. These results indicate a lack of uniformity in the retraction policies of individual journals and throughout the scientific literature. The rubric presented in this study could be adopted by journals to help standardize the writing of retraction notices.
A Novel Integrated Structure with a Radial Displacement Sensor and a Permanent Magnet Biased Radial Magnetic Bearing
Authors: Sun Jinji , Zhang Yin
Published: January 2014

In this paper, a novel integrated structure is proposed in order to reduce the axial length of the high speed of a magnetically suspended motor (HSMSM) to ensure the maximum speed, which combines radial displacement sensor probes and the permanent magnet biased radial magnetic bearing in HSMSM. The sensor probes are integrated in the magnetic bearing, and the sensor preamplifiers are placed in the control system of the HSMSM, separate from the sensor probes. The proposed integrated structure can save space in HSMSMs, improve the working frequency, reduce the influence of temperature on the sensor circuit, and improve the stability of HSMSMs.
Wearable Monitoring Devices for Assistive Technology: Case Studies in Post-Polio Syndrome
Authors: Andreoni Giuseppe , Mazzola Marco , Perego Paolo , Standoli Carlo , Manzoni Simone , Piccini Luca , Molteni Franco
Published: January 2014

The correct choice and customization of an orthosis are crucial to obtain the best comfort and efficiency. This study explored the feasibility of a multivariate quantitative assessment of the functional efficiency of lower limb orthosis through a novel wearable system. Gait basographic parameters and energetic indexes were analysed during a Six-Minute Walking Test (6-MWT) through a cost-effective, non-invasive polygraph device, with a multichannel wireless transmission, that carried out electro-cardiograph (ECG); impedance-cardiograph (ICG); and lower-limb accelerations detection. Four subjects affected by Post-Polio Syndrome (PPS) were recruited. The wearable device and the semi-automatic post-processing software provided a novel set of objective data to assess the overall efficiency of the patient-orthosis system. Despite the small number of examined subjects, the results obtained with this new approach encourage the application of the method thus enlarging the dataset to validate this promising protocol and measuring system in supporting clinical decisions and out of a laboratory environment.
Detection of Virgin Olive Oil Adulteration Using Low Field Unilateral NMR
Authors: Xu Zheng , Morris Robert , Bencsik Martin , Newton Michael
Published: January 2014

The detection of adulteration in edible oils is a concern in the food industry, especially for the higher priced virgin olive oils. This article presents a low field unilateral nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) method for the detection of the adulteration of virgin olive oil that can be performed through sealed bottles providing a non-destructive screening technique. Adulterations of an extra virgin olive oil with different percentages of sunflower oil and red palm oil were measured with a commercial unilateral instrument, the profile NMR-Mouse. The NMR signal was processed using a 2-dimensional Inverse Laplace transformation to analyze the transverse relaxation and self-diffusion behaviors of different oils. The obtained results demonstrated the feasibility of detecting adulterations of olive oil with percentages of at least 10% of sunflower and red palm oils.
Scenarios Analysis of the Energies’ Consumption and Carbon Emissions in China Based on a Dynamic CGE Model
Authors: Chi Yuanying , Guo Zhengquan , Zheng Yuhua , Zhang Xingping
Published: January 2014

This paper investigates the development trends and variation characteristics of China’s economy, energy consumption and carbon emissions from 2007 to 2030, and the impacts on China’s economic growth, energy consumption, and carbon emissions under the carbon tax policy scenarios, based on the dynamic computable general equilibrium (CGE) model. The results show that during the simulation period, China’s economy will keep a relatively high growth rate, but the growth rate will slow down under the benchmark scenario. The energy consumption intensity and the carbon emissions intensity per unit of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) will continually decrease. The energy consumption structure and industrial structure will gradually optimize. With the economic growth, the total energy consumption will constantly increase, and the carbon dioxide emissions are still large, and the situation of energy-saving and emission-reduction is still serious. The carbon tax is very important for energy-saving and emission-reduction and energy consumption structure optimization, and the effect of the carbon tax on GDP is small. If the carbon tax could be levied and the enterprise income tax could be reduced at the same time, the dual goals of reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions and increasing the GDP growth can be achieved. Improving the technical progress level of clean power while implementing a carbon tax policy is very meaningful to optimize energy consumption structure and reduce the carbon emissions, but it has some offsetting effect to reduce energy consumption.
Making Sustainable Consumption and Production the Core of Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Akenji Lewis , Bengtsson Magnus
Published: January 2014

This paper argues that sustainable consumption and production (SCP) should play a prominent role in the formulation and implementation of the sustainable development goals (SDGs) and discusses how this could be practically done. Unsustainable patterns of consumption and production have been declared the primary cause of environmental deterioration. This was clearly recognized already at the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (or the Rio Summit) in 1992; and this recognition has been reconfirmed in all high-level sustainability meetings since then. SCP aims to change these patterns; it is a policy agenda for addressing the root causes of our ecological predicament, while, at the same time, providing for human wellbeing and prosperity. Drawing from international agreements, practical policy experience and research from a range of disciplines, the paper provides a clarifying framework for scientifically robust, policy-relevant and practical goal-setting for SCP within the SDGs. Special attention is given to how SCP in the SDGs can create synergies with other international policy initiatives. The paper explores the advantages and disadvantages of two possible options for reflecting SCP in the SDGs framework: (i) SCP as a stand-alone goal; and (ii) SCP as a cross-cutting objective, embedded within relevant goals. While these two options are not necessarily mutually exclusive, given the competing number of issues for prioritization and the fact that a 10-Year Framework of Programs on SCP has also recently been established, it is hardly foreseeable that both options can be realized. The paper further proposes a set of basic principles for SCP at the global level and makes recommendations towards the formulation of indicators supporting SCP objectives in the SDGs.
Detection of Anatoxin-a and Three Analogs in Anabaena spp. Cultures: New Fluorescence Polarization Assay and Toxin Profile by LC-MS/MS
Authors: Sanchez Jon , Otero Paz , Alfonso Amparo , Ramos Vitor , Vasconcelos Vitor , Aráoz Romulo , Molgó Jordi , Vieytes Mercedes , Botana Luis
Published: January 2014

Anatoxin-a (ATX) is a potent neurotoxin produced by several species of Anabaena spp. Cyanobacteria blooms around the world have been increasing in recent years; therefore, it is urgent to develop sensitive techniques that unequivocally confirm the presence of these toxins in fresh water and cyanobacterial samples. In addition, the identification of different ATX analogues is essential to later determine its toxicity. In this paper we designed a fluorescent polarization (FP) method to detect ATXs in water samples. A nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) labeled with a fluorescein derivative was used to develop this assay. Data showed a direct relationship between the amount of toxin in a sample and the changes in the polarization degree of the emitted light by the labeled nAChR, indicating an interaction between the two molecules. This method was used to measure the amount of ATX in three Anabaena spp. cultures. Results indicate that it is a good method to show ATXs presence in algal samples. In order to check the toxin profile of Anabaena cultures a LC-MS/MS method was also developed. Within this new method, ATX-a, retention time (RT) 5 min, and three other molecules with a mass m/z 180.1 eluting at 4.14 min, 5.90 min and 7.14 min with MS/MS spectra characteristic of ATX toxin group not previously identified were detected in the Anabaena spp. cultures. These ATX analogues may have an important role in the toxicity of the sample.
Binding Affinity and Capacity for the Uremic Toxin Indoxyl Sulfate
Authors: Devine Eric , Krieter Detlef , Rüth Marieke , Jankovski Joachim , Lemke Horst-Dieter
Published: January 2014

Protein binding prevents uremic toxins from removal by conventional extracorporeal therapies leading to accumulation in maintenance dialysis patients. Weakening of the protein binding may enhance the dialytic elimination of these toxins. In ultrafiltration and equilibrium dialysis experiments, different measures to modify the plasma binding affinity and capacity were tested: (i), increasing the sodium chloride (NaCl) concentration to achieve a higher ionic strength; (ii), increasing the temperature; and (iii), dilution. The effects on the dissociation constant KD and the protein bound fraction of the prototypical uremic toxin indoxyl sulfate (IS) in plasma of healthy and uremic individuals were studied. Binding of IS corresponded to one site binding in normal plasma. KD increased linearly with the NaCl concentration between 0.15 (KD = 13.2 ± 3.7 µM) and 0.75 M (KD = 56.2 ± 2.0 µM). Plasma dilution further reduced the protein bound toxin fraction by lowering the protein binding capacity of the plasma. Higher temperatures also decreased the protein bound fraction of IS in human plasma. Increasing the NaCl concentration was effective to weaken the binding of IS also in uremic plasma: the protein bound fraction decreased from 89% ± 3% to 81% ± 3% at 0.15 and 0.75 M NaCl, respectively. Dilution and increasing the ionic strength and temperature enhance the free fraction of IS allowing better removal of the substance during dialysis. Applied during clinical dialysis, this may have beneficial effects on the long-term outcome of maintenance dialysis patients.
HSV-2 Vaccine: Current Status and Insight into Factors for Developing an Efficient Vaccine
Authors: Zhu Xiao-Peng , Muhammad Zaka , Wang Jian-Guang , Lin Wu , Guo Shi-Kun , Zhang Wei
Published: January 2014

Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), a globally sexually transmitted virus, and also one of the main causes of genital ulcer diseases, increases susceptibility to HIV-1. Effective vaccines to prevent HSV-2 infection are not yet available, but are currently being developed. To facilitate this process, the latest progress in development of these vaccines is reviewed in this paper. A summary of the most promising HSV-2 vaccines tested in animals in the last five years is presented, including the main factors, and new ideas for developing an effective vaccine from animal experiments and human clinical trials. Experimental results indicate that future HSV-2 vaccines may depend on a strategy that targets mucosal immunity. Furthermore, estradiol, which increases the effectiveness of vaccines, may be considered as an adjuvant. Therefore, this review is expected to provide possible strategies for development of future HSV-2 vaccines.
Les transformations de l'espace rural. Problèmes de méthode
Authors: Mathieu Nicole , Bontron Jean-Claude
Published: January 2014

Pour comprendre les transformations qui affectent les campagnes, il importe de définir une méthode de description et de classification de l'espace qui permette de déterminer la nature de ces changements et le niveau où ils interviennent. Les auteurs examinent les diverses connotations du terme « urbanisation » et expliquent pourquoi certaines définitions leur paraissent inacceptables ; dans cet article, le terme d' « urbanisation » est utilisé pour désigner un rapport certain entre les nuclei (les villes) à population dense et tous les autres espaces. Les auteurs se fondent sur ce concept d'un « rapport urbain-rural » pour élaborer une méthode de classification spatiale qu'ils appliquent ensuite, sous forme simplifiée, à une analyse des départements français. L'exemple est illustré par un tree-graph et une série de cartes et diagrammes. Bien que cette méthode essentiellement descriptive n'élucide pas la relation entre formes spatiales et processus sociaux, elle est importante pour autant qu'elle révèle l'insuffisance de la démarche classique qui aborde le problème des relations entre la ville et la campagne d'un point de vue dualiste, et attire l'attention sur le rapport entre type de production et utilisation de l'espace, sur les processus sociaux mis en jeu par les transformations spatiales et démographiques et sur la signification d'un espace « non métropolisé ».
Les comptes d'un hôpital portugais, 1379-1383
Authors: Johnson H. B.
Published: January 2014

The Accounts of a Portuguese Hospital 1379-13830.

After examining the accounts kept by the scribe of a small Portuguese hospital from 1379 to 1383, this article explains how these and similar documents can better our understanding of Portugal's late medieval agrarian economy. In addition to revealing the corruptibility of the administrators who generously helped themselves to the institution's resources, and the yields of a small property worked by a single peasant, the accounts indicate that, despite being shortchanged, the hospital inmates received a ration of grain definitely superior to their minimum requirements. Taking into consideration this relative prosperity, the article questions the validity of recent interpretations of 14th century Portuguese living standards.
Contribution à l'étude des sociétés étagées des Andes : la vallée de Yucay (Pérou). Suivi de Quelques commentaires par J. V. Murra
Authors: Fioravanti-Molinié Antoinette
Published: January 2014

Contribution to the Study of Vertical Societies in the Andes: the Yucay Valley (Peru.)

On the basis of a detailed analysis of "verticality" in a well-delimited Peruvian region, the author proves that the "vertical archipelago" model defined by J. Murra using data on pre-conquest Andean societies is still valid, even though the traditional economy has been modified. After describing the principal vertical environments of the Yucay Valley (the deep, narrow river valley with luxuriant vegetation; the high, snow-covered mountains; the arid, eroded plateau; the sub-tropical valleys), she studies the patterns of human settlement and exploitation associated with each ecological level, explaining the different systems of land tenure and the complementarity of economic activities as shown by the vertical exchange of both traditional and commercial products. With the introduction of a market economy, capitalist relations arise parallel to, or replace traditional reciprocal relations, characteristic of the production and distribution circuits that link the inhabitants of different levels. After presenting a table formalizing these various vertical relations, the author gives several examples illustrating how populations living at different levels differ not only economically and socially but also culturally and ideologically.
Adaptabilité d'une agriculture tropicale traditionnelle : le pays Dagari (Haute-Volta)
Authors: Pradeau Christian
Published: January 2014

Adaptability of Traditional Farming Methods in Tropical Africa: The Dagari Territory (Haute-Volta).

In studying the agricultural developments and the farming system of the Haute-Volta Dagari, a paleonegritic population, the author found that through numerous though very limited means, traditional fanning methods are being adapted to new conditions. The Dagari are constantly worrying about problems of water control, soil exhaustion and of agricultural techniques. The carrying capacity of their territory reaches, in this specific Sudan climate, 50 people/km2. To achieve this result, they resort to all the farming methods known to preindustrial and precapitalist people: terraced cultivation, draining and irrigation networks, crop rotation and shifting cultivation.

To help solve remaining problems, new techniques obviously should be introduced. But they should take into account the original capacity for adjustement, as revealed by the study of Dagari agriculture, and that has not been the case so far.
Quatre siècles de systèmes de culture dans le Kent, 1500-1900
Authors: Fussell G. E.
Published: January 2014

Four Centuries of Farming Systems in Kent, 1500-1900.

The story of farming in the county of Kent during the four centuries from 1500 to 1900 is one of change and fluctuating fortunes — as in other places. The great monasteries who were farmers on a large scale in the early sixteenth century were replaced in the seventeenth by progressive landowners. The county was already famous for sheep and grazed some cattle, produced some milk and dairy goods. The introduction of hop culture led to a famous industry. Fruit, both bush and tree varieties, were introduced and became famous as did market garden produce in the North of the county. Romney sheep were bred in the marshes of that name, and other breeds were kept in the Isle of Sheppey and else-where. The Weald, formerly covered with forest, was gradually reclaimed and made into smallish farms, partly because of the heavy soil, mainly arable with rather low yields. The essay attempts to describe the methods of the farmers as they changed and were improved by new inventions, new crops that were introduced, and better ways of breeding, keeping and feeding domestic animals; and the economic and other difficulties that had to be overcome. It would be impossible here to set out all the events that are recorded in the essay. where. The Weald, formerly covered with forest, was gradually reclaimed and made into smallish farms, partly because of the heavy soil, mainly arable with rather low yields. The essay attempts to describe the methods of the farmers as they changed and were improved by new inventions, new crops that were introduced, and better ways of breeding, keeping and feeding domestic animals; and the economic and other difficulties that had to be overcome. It would be impossible here to set out all the events that are recorded in the essay.
Transmission du patrimoine et typologie de l'habitat rural alsacien
Authors: Groshens Marie-Claude
Published: January 2014

On the Transmission of Patrimony: A Tentative Typology of Rural Dwelling in Alsatia.

Morphological and functional criteria do but delineate an East/West scission, but they provide no answer as far as patrimonial transmission is concerned. The topic of the article was first elucidated in Kochersberg where a mode of "integral transmission" could be observed, which meant indeed a key-factor in a social system including close relations between its rural aristocracy and the Strasbourg bourgeoisie, and constant rural migration. Such a phenomenon pertains to medieval customs, the most important of which was the Ferrette County's: it advocated the rights of the youngest, a stand which, despite the laws, is still abided by nowadays in localities where such customs formerly prevailed. Matrimonial and successoral data lead to a typology set on judicial grounds, which sheds light on a North/West scission concerning the validity of the rights of the youngest. The division is all the more obvious in economically viable sub-regions. The problem of patrimonial transmission induced the author to set forth a tentative definition of the Hof (farm).
Évolution de l'exercice du pouvoir dans les villages du secteur frontalier franco-allemand de la Lauter
Authors: Wackermann Gabriel
Published: January 2014

Les villages du secteur franco-allemand de la Lauter, héritiers de vieilles traditions et marqués par un isolement qui s'est trouvé accru durant longtemps du fait d'un tracé frontalier jalousement surveillé, constituent aujourd'hui un champ d'observation des mutations sociales caractéristiques d'un espace dans lequel le pouvoir se transforme sous l'influence d'une armature urbaine multinationale qui se développe à la faveur des tentatives d'intégration économique européenne. Soumis, il y a peu de temps encore, à la tutelle du clergé et des notables agréés par ce dernier, ces villages, affaiblis dans leurs structures, s'insèrent rapidement dans un réseau de décisions liées aux leviers de commande urbains, indépendamment de leur appartenance nationale.
Communautés rurales et seigneurs à la fin du Moyen Age : un exemple berrichon
Authors: Michaud-Fréjaville Françoise
Published: January 2014

Rural Communities and Squires at the End of the Middle Ages : Some Example in the Berry Region.

Action at law was brought between 1492 and 1495 against their squire, a notary of Bourges, by the inhabitants of Saint-Germain-des-Bois in Berry. The dispute bore mainly on a rent, customary since 1202 and rated according to the number of oxen to the team — which levy the squire wanted to extend to horses. This actually meant going back on the parish franchises. The community was partly on rent strike for five years, and study of arrears owed by each member makes it possible to estimate the wealth of the parish regarding draught animals. Only one fourth of tenants seem to have owned these. The dispute also points out the limits of group coherence in the community.
L'orangeraie et les cultures maraîchères d'Ambohijafy. Paysage original dans les Plaines de Tananarive
Authors: Champigny-Giroflier Danielle
Published: January 2014

The Orange-Groves and Market-Gardens at Ambohijafy. An Uncommon Sight in the Plains of Tananarive.

The Plains of Tananarive are composed of two areas: the lowlands (about 4,200 feet above sea-level) which can be flooded and are devoted to rice-growing; and the hills (tanety) overlooking these lowlands by 70-850 feet. Most often, people grow subsistence crops on these hills (such as cassava plants, yams. . .), but for about 50 years and particularly since the end of the last war, part of the tanety cultivated land has been devoted to market-gardening and fruit-growing. Ambohijafy village concentrates on that marketable produce in the small valleys penetrating into the mass of the hill, and on the lower slopes. That cultivation, particularly that of citrus fruit, gives the Ambohijafy area quite a particular look and above all provides the villagers with high income as compared to loca conditions.

Ambohijafy, supplying the market of Tananarive, gives us an uncommon image of the relations between a village and a large city in Madagascar, an image of "active dependence".
Rente foncière et gestion des ressources naturelles. Quelques remarques sur la rente foncière dans une perspective interdisciplinaire
Authors: Jollivet Marcel
Published: January 2014

Le renouveau de l'intérêt porté aux zones agricoles marginalisées se traduit sur le plan scientifique par de nouvelles tentatives de recherches interdisciplinaires associant sciences biologiques ou écologiques et sciences sociales. L'examen de l'évolution des zones concernées met en évidence le rôle primordial de la rente foncière. Ce concept s'avère donc central dans la démarche interdisciplinaire et apparaît comme un outil possible d'une véritable interdisciplinarité. Mais, selon qu'il est pris dans un sens strictement marginaliste ou comme la transcription d'un rapport de classes, l'orientation des recherches interdisciplinaires est non seulement différente, mais opposée. Cet article met en relief cette opposition et s'efforce de démontrer que, pour pouvoir rendre compte de l'évolution de l'utilisation agricole des sols, il est nécessaire de considérer la rente foncière comme l'expression des rapports sociaux fondamentaux sur lesquels est fondé un système économique. C'est à l'examen de cette hypothèse et de ses conséquences écologiques que doivent se consacrer, selon l'auteur, les recherches interdisciplinaires.
Société d'ici, société d'ailleurs. Rapports de force et stratégies dans un espace à économie rétrécie, les Baronnies
Authors: Bonnain Rolande , Sautter Gilles
Published: January 2014

Societies, here and way out.

This paper attempts to show a small rural society of the Pyrénées' piedmont, undergoing demographical and economical crisis, protects itself against the external, urban and national society; what it tries to keep under its control, how and to what extent it succeeds.

The reasons why the two societies (local and external) oppose each other are to be found in the different finalities assigned to space: the peasants use it for production, the townsmen for enjoyment. Until now, a balance has been kept ; but for how long?
L'organisation économique et spatiale d'une communauté paysanne préhistorique : le groupe de Fontbouisse en Bas-Languedoc
Authors: Gasgó Jean
Published: January 2014

Economic and Spatial Organization of a Prehistoric Peasant Community: the Group of Fontbouisse in Bas-Languedoc.

The Chalcolithic is a period in the prehistory of agrarian societies which is caracterized in the Bas-Languedoc by the development of highly organized peasant communities: the group of Fontbouisse which builts villages whose houses have dried-mud stone walls. These concentrated settlements are located according to an elaborated economic system based on grain cultivation and rational management of a mixt stock-breeding. Through the investigation of the sites it becomes possible to understand the economic and thus the spatial logic of this peasant community; the author tries to demonstrate its social cohesion by pointing out the existence of a basic cell, i.e. the village unit. He shows that the origins of ager, saltus and syloa can be found in the ways the exploited areas are distributed. He insulates them in each type of villages, the parameters of which he defines after having studied about 200 of them (20 to 25 units /100 km2). This paper sets the premisses of a broader analysis on spatial organizations of the modes of prehistoric production (village unit, production unit, sedentariness, spatial cell of economic development).
A l'ombre des usines, comme si de rien n'était... Industrialisation et maintien d'une communauté paysanne en Lorraine
Authors: Delbos Geneviève
Published: January 2014

Cet article n'est que la première partie d'une étude plus générale où sera comparé le comportement de ceux qui, dans cinq villages français, quittent l'agriculture.

Grand-Failly présente les caractéristiques d'un exode rural étouffé dans l'œuf par la présence à proximité du village du vaste complexe industriel de Longwy. Alors que dans une autre situation géographique G. F. aurait subi un dépeuplement lié à la modernisation de l'agriculture, après la guerre, on voit rester au village les familles de ceux qui deviennent ouvriers. G. F. offre l'exemple de la continuation d'un mode de vie paysan, et du système de valeurs qui lui est associé, alors que les trois-quarts de ses habitants ont cessé d'exercer une activité agricole.

Au sein du monde rural français, cette commune est un modèle de ce que C. Lévi- Strauss a qualifié, dans un autre contexte, d' « illusion archaïque », illusion à laquelle, semble-t-il, les ethnologues ont succombé.
Les places marchandes agricoles en France
Authors: Wackermann Gabriel
Published: January 2014

The Physical Agricultural Markets in France.

The marketing of the agricultural products on the physical markets is in a state of crisis since the appearence of great food chains and the increasing part taken by the abstract markets in the general economic development. Fairs and physical markets do not however play only an economic part; their social and cultural function remains important. Therefore it would be right to give a more important part to the study of these exchange places which are true observatories of social behaviour.