bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Covered microstrip line with ground planes of finite width
Authors: Peric Mirjana , Ilic Sasa , Aleksic Slavoljub , Raicevic Nebojsa , Bichurin Mirza , Tatarenko Alexander , Petrov Roman
Published: November 2014

Characteristic parameters of a covered microstrip line with ground planes of
finite width are determined using hybrid boundary element method (HBEM). This
method, developed at the Faculty of Electronic Engineering of Nis is based on
the combination of equivalent electrodes method (EEM) and boundary element
method (BEM). Results for the characteristic impedance of the observed
microstrip line are compared with the corresponding ones obtained by the
finite element method.
Resolving the bias point for wide range of temperature applications in High-k/Metal Gate nanoscale DG-MOSFET
Authors: Mohapatra Sushanta , Pradhan Kumar , Sahu Prasanna
Published: November 2014

This article investigates the Zero-Temperature-Coefficient (ZTC) bias point
and its associated performance metrics of a High-k Metal Gate (HKMG)
DG-MOSFET in nanoscale. The ZTC bias point is defined as the point at which
the device parameters are independent of temperature. The discussion includes
sub threshold slope (SS), drain induced barrier lowering (DIBL), on-off
current ratio (Ion/Ioff), transconductance (gm), output conductance (gd) and
intrinsic gain (AV). From the results, it is confirmed that there are two
different ZTC bias points, one for IDS (ZTCIDS) and the other for gm (ZTCgm).
The points are obtained as: ZTCIDS=0.552 V and ZTCgm =0.410 V, which will
open important opportunities in analog circuit design for wide range of
temperature applications.
The influence of technology and switching parameters on resistive switching behavior of Pt/HfO2/TiN MIM structures
Authors: Paskaleva Albena , Hudec Boris , Jancovic Peter , Fröhlich Karol , Spassov Dencho
Published: November 2014

Resistive switching (RS) effects in Pt/HfO2/TiN metal-insulator-metal (MIM)
capacitors have been investigated in dependence on the TiN bottom electrode
engineering, deposition process, switching conditions and dielectric
thickness. It is found that RS ratio depends strongly on the amount of oxygen
introduced on TiN surface during interface engineering. In some structures a
full recovery of conductive filament is observed within more than 100
switching cycles. RS effects are discussed in terms of different energy
needed to dissociate O ions in structures with different TiN electrode
treatment.
The photovoltaic behavior of vacuum deposited diphenyl-diketo-pyrrolopyrrole polymer
Authors: Georgiev Yavor , Angelov George , Takov Tihomir , Zhivkov Ivaylo , Hristov Marin
Published: November 2014

Diphenyl-diketo-pyrrolopyrroles (DPP) are low molecular weight materials with
promising luminescence and photovoltaic properties which are suitable for
thin layer fabrication by a variety of methods like solution processed spin
coating and physical vapour deposition (PVD). In this paper we investigate
two types of Indium tin oxide (ITO)|Active material|Al structures: one with
DPP derivative as active polymer layer with thicknesses of about 150nm and a
second type of heterojunction solar cell based on DPP-C60 composite films
(ratio 60:40 mass %) with thicknesses of about 100nm. The samples in this
study have been prepared by the means of PVD which has the capability to
produce the whole multilayered structure in one vacuum cycle after which the
samples were processed and encapsulated within inert atmosphere in a glove
box. The surface morphology of the films was studied by Scanning Electron
Microscope (SEM) imaging which revealed formations of grains with size of
about 200-500nm in the DPP layers and spheres with size of about 100-200nm in
the composite layer. The photovoltaic behavior was evaluated through the
results of spectral sweep of the generated photocurrent and I-V
characteristics in dark and under illumination with specific wavelength. The
photovoltaic behavior was successfully demonstrated and directions toward
performance improvements have been given.
Pivoting rules for the revised simplex algorithm
Authors: Ploskas Nikolaos , Samaras Nikolaos
Published: November 2014

Pricing is a significant step in the simplex algorithm where an improving
nonbasic variable is selected in order to enter the basis. This step is
crucial and can dictate the total execution time. In this paper, we perform a
computational study in which the pricing operation is computed with eight
different pivoting rules: (i) Bland?s Rule, (ii) Dantzig?s Rule, (iii)
Greatest Increment Method, (iv) Least Recently Considered Method, (v) Partial
Pricing Rule, (vi) Queue Rule, (vii) Stack Rule, and (viii) Steepest Edge
Rule; and incorporate them with the revised simplex algorithm. All pivoting
rules have been implemented in MATLAB. The test sets used in the
computational study are a set of randomly generated optimal sparse and dense
LPs and a set of benchmark LPs (Netliboptimal, Kennington,
Netlib-infeasible).
Single-port laparoscopic cryptorchidectomy in dogs and cats: 25 cases (2009–2014)
Authors: Runge Jeffrey J. , Mayhew Philipp D. , Case J. Brad , Singh Ameet , Mayhew Kelli N. , Culp William T. N.
Published: November 2014

Objective—To describe the operative technique for single-port laparoscopic cryptorchidectomy (SPLC) in dogs and cats and evaluate clinical outcome for patients that underwent the procedure.

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—25 client-owned dogs (n = 22) and cats (3).

Procedures—Dogs and cats that underwent SPLC with 3 commercially available single-port devices between 2009 and 2014 were retrospectively identified through a multi-institutional medical records review. Surgery was performed via a single-port device placed through a 1.5- to 3.0-cm abdominal incision either at the region of the umbilicus or caudal to the right 13th rib. The cryptorchidectomy was performed with graspers, a bipolar vessel sealing device, and a 30° telescope.

Results—SPLC was performed with a single-incision laparoscopic surgery port (n = 15), a multitrocar wound-retractor access system (8), or a metal resterilizable single-port access device (2). Median age was 365 days (range, 166 to 3,285 days). Median body weight was 18.9 kg (41.6 lb; range, 1.3 to 70 kg [2.9 to 154 lb]). Median surgical time was 38 minutes (range, 15 to 70 minutes). Thirty-two testes were removed (12 left, 6 right, and 7 bilateral). Four patients had 1 additional abdominal surgical procedure performed concurrently during SPLC. No intraoperative or postoperative complications were encountered.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that SPLC can be performed in a wide range of dogs and cats with cryptorchidism and can be combined with other elective laparoscopic surgical procedures. The SPLC technique was associated with a low morbidity rate and provided a potentially less invasive alternative to traditional open and multiport laparoscopic techniques.
Outcome following curative-intent surgery for oral melanoma in dogs: 70 cases (1998–2011)
Authors: Tuohy Joanne L. , Selmic Laura E. , Worley Deanna R. , Ehrhart Nicole P. , Withrow Stephen J.
Published: November 2014

Objective—To evaluate the outcome in terms of progression-free interval (PFI) and overall survival time (ST) after curative-intent resection of oral melanoma in dogs.

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—70 client-owned dogs.

Procedures—An electronic medical record search and review was performed for dogs that underwent curative-intent resection of oral melanoma (May 1, 1998, to December 31, 2011). Information gathered included signalment, oral location of tumor, staging results, type of surgery, type of adjuvant therapy, findings on histologic evaluation, and outcome.

Results—36 (51.4%), 16 (22.9%), 13 (18.6%), and 1 (1.4%) of 70 dogs had tumors classified as stage I, II, III, and IV, respectively; tumor stage could not be determined for 4 (5.7%) dogs because of the lack of tumor size information. Fifty-one (72.9%) dogs had tumors completely excised. Twenty-nine (41.4%) dogs received adjuvant therapy. Median PFI and ST were 508 and 723 days, respectively. Thirty-two (45.7%) dogs had disease progression. Significant associations with PFI or ST were found for administration of adjuvant therapy, presence of metastatic disease at the time of diagnosis, higher tumor stage (III or IV), increased tumor size (> 3 cm), and sexually intact female dogs. Administration of adjuvant treatment was associated with a 130% increased hazard (hazard ratio, 2.3; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.0 to 5.0) of disease progression; the presence of metastases at the time of diagnosis was associated with a 281% increased hazard (hazard ratio, 3.8; 95% CI, 1.5 to 9.6) of death.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results indicated that dogs with oral melanoma can have a long PFI and ST after resection with wide margins.
Relationship between rectal temperature at first treatment for bovine respiratory disease complex in feedlot calves and the probability of not finishing the production cycle
Authors: Theurer Miles E. , White Brad J. , Larson Robert L. , Holstein Krista K. , Amrine David E.
Published: November 2014

Objective—To determine the relationship between rectal temperature at first treatment for bovine respiratory disease complex (BRDC) in feedlot calves and the probability of not finishing the production cycle.

Design—Retrospective data analysis.

Animals—344,982 calves identified as having BRDC from 19 US feedlots from 2000 to 2009.

Procedures—For each calf, data for rectal temperature at initial treatment for BRDC and various performance and outcome variables were analyzed. A binary variable was created to identify calves that did not finish (DNF) the production cycle (died or culled prior to cohort slaughter). A mixed general linear model and receiver operating characteristic curve were created to evaluate associations of rectal temperature, number of days in the feedlot at time of BRDC diagnosis, body weight, quarter of year at feedlot arrival, sex, and all 2-way interactions with rectal temperature with the probability that calves DNF.

Results—27,495 of 344,982 (7.97%) calves DNF. Mean rectal temperature at first treatment for BRDC was 40.0°C (104°F). As rectal temperature increased, the probability that a calf DNF increased; however, that relationship was not linear and was influenced by quarter of year at feedlot arrival, sex, and number of days in the feedlot at time of BRDC diagnosis. Area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for correct identification of a calf that DNF was 0.646.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Rectal temperature of feedlot calves at first treatment for BRDC had limited value as a prognostic indicator of whether those calves would finish the production cycle.
Physiologic and biochemical assessments of koi (Cyprinus carpio) following immersion in propofol
Authors: Oda Ayako , Bailey Kate M. , Lewbart Gregory A. , Griffith Emily H. , Posner Lysa P.
Published: November 2014

Objective—To determine efficacy of propofol as an immersion agent to induce general anesthesia in koi (Cyprinus carpio).

Design—Prospective, crossover study.

Animals—10 adult koi (mean ± SD weight, 325 ± 81 g).

Procedures—Koi were exposed to each of 4 concentrations of propofol (1, 2.5, 5, and 10 mg/L) with a 1-week washout period between trials. In a subsequent trial, koi were anesthetized with propofol (5 mg/L) and anesthesia was maintained with propofol (3 mg/L) for 20 minutes. Response to a noxious stimulus was assessed by means of needle insertion into an epaxial muscle.

Results—At a propofol concentration of 1 mg/L, koi were sedated but never anesthetized. At propofol concentrations of 2.5, 5, and 10 mg/L, mean ± SD anesthetic induction times were 13.4 ± 3.3, 3.8 ± 1.1, and 2.3 ± 0.9 minutes, respectively; mean recovery times were 12.9 ± 8.3, 11.0 ± 6.3, and 18.1 ± 13.0 minutes; mean heart rates were 57 ± 25, 30 ± 14, and 22 ± 14 beats/min; mean opercular rates were 58 ± 18, 68 ± 15, and 48 ± 22 beats/min; and 1 of 10, 2 of 10, and 0 of 10 fish responded to needle insertion. All fish recovered satisfactorily. Following 20 minutes of anesthesia, 2 fish had recovery times > 4 hours and 1 fish died.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Immersion in propofol at concentrations ≥ 2.5 mg/L induced general anesthesia in koi. Maintenance of anesthesia with propofol for 20 minutes was associated with prolonged recovery times in 2 of 9 and death in 1 of 9 koi.
Editorial Vol.4(1)
Authors: Rauniyar RK
Published: November 2014

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njr.v4i1.11363
Skeletal Dysplasia (Non - Sclerosing dysplasias – Part II)
Authors: Subbarao K
Published: November 2014

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njr.v4i1.11364 Nepalese Journal of Radiology, Vol.4(1) 2014: 1-11
Role of Ultrasound in Determining the Nature of Pleural Effusion
Authors: Agarwal N , Kansal HM , Bhargava SK
Published: November 2014

Purpose of the study: The differentiation of pleural effusion into transudate and exudate may affect the diagnostic approach and patients’ management. The conventional Light criteria require both pleural fluid and blood samples along with three biochemical tests. This study was undertaken to assess the usefulness of ultrasound as an alternative in differentiating the type of pleural effusion. Method: A prospective cross sectional study was conducted over a period of one year. Eighty patients clinically diagnosed to have pleural effusion underwent high frequency ultrasound and also lab tests for Light criteria. The efficacy of ultrasound was then assessed in differentiating transudate from exudate. Results: It was concluded in our study that all pleural effusions which were echogenic on ultrasound, with or without septations or with pleural thickening more than 3 mm (n=46) were exudates (p< 0.01). The anechoic effusions on ultrasound could be transudates or exudates. Conclusion: Ultrasound acts as a useful non invasive alternative for determining the type of pleural effusion. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njr.v4i1.11367 Nepalese Journal of Radiology, Vol.4(1) 2014: 34-37
Radiological Diagnosis and Approach: Glomus Tumour at Finger Tip
Authors: Taori A , Sakhi P , Malukani K , Patel K
Published: November 2014

A Glomus tumor is a rare benign neoplasm arising from the glomus body which is a neuroarterial structure and mainly found under the nail, on the fingertip or in the foot. We present here a case of a 60 Year old female with a long history of pain in her left Index finger. She underwent radiological investigations of Skiagram Hand, High resolution ultrasonography with color Doppler of Local Region (Finger), and MRI Finger; thereby diagnosis of glomus tumor was made. Subsequently it was surgically removed; Histopathological result was consistent with glomus tumour.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njr.v4i1.11370 Nepalese Journal of Radiology, Vol.4(1) 2014: 52-55
A Rare Case Depicting MR Interpretation of Persistent Urachal Remnants in Adults
Authors: Ahluwalia VV , Rawat A , Narayan S , Gupta AK
Published: November 2014

Embryonic remnant of the cloaca and the allantois present after birth as a midline fibrous cord is usually detected in infancy and childhood. Failure to obliterate results in urachal disease is rare in adults. Varied remnants of the urachus have been reported. In this case report the usefulness of basic high resolution sonography for initial screening & usefulness of MRI in delineating the length of tract in an adult has been highlighted.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njr.v4i1.11371 Nepalese Journal of Radiology, Vol.4(1) 2014: 56-58
Gastro-Intestinal Stromal Tumour presenting as Gastroduodenal Intussusception
Authors: Taori K , Rathod J , Disawal A , Parate R , Hatgaonkar A , Mane S
Published: November 2014

Gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GISTs), are relatively common tumours of the gastrointestinal tract, most commonly found in the stomach. Previously they were termed as leiomyomas and leiomyosarcomas. Clinically, they are asymptomatic but may cause abdominal pain or bleeding from ulceration of the overlying mucosa. We present a case of gastroduodenal intussusception secondary to large gastric stromal tumour in a 50 year old male, which presented with intermittent abdominal pain and gastric outlet obstruction. Pre-operative diagnosis was made on abdominal CT and confirmed at laparotomy. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njr.v4i1.11573 Nepalese Journal of Radiology, Vol.4(1) 2014: 71-75
The Higher the Better? A Comparative Analysis of Sociodemographic Characteristics and Human Capital of German Federal Government Members
Authors: Scharfenkamp Katrin , Dilger Alexander
Published: November 2014

Are the highest politicians better qualified than their peers? In this article, we analyze differences between chancellors, vice chancellors, and ministers of the inner or residual cabinets of the German federal governments between 1949 and 2009 with respect to their social backgrounds and educational, economic, as well as political human capital. Different statistical methods reveal no clear primacy of chancellors or vice chancellors over other members of government. Interestingly, inner cabinets have higher qualifications than residual cabinets, as well as partly chancellors and vice chancellors.
Quantifying the basal conditions of a mountain glacier using a targeted full-waveform inversion: Bench Glacier, Alaska, USA
Authors: Babcock E. , Bradford J.
Published: November 2014

Glacier dynamics are inextricably linked to the basal conditions of glaciers. Seismic reflection methods can image the glacier bed under certain conditions. However, where a seismically thin layer of material is present at the bed, traditional analyses may fail to fully characterize bed properties. We use a targeted full-waveform inversion algorithm to quantify the basal-layer parameters of a mountain glacier: thickness (d), P-wave velocity (α) and density (ρ). We simultaneously invert for the seismic quality factor (Q) of the bulk glacier ice. The inversion seeks to minimize the difference between the data and a one-dimensional reflectivity algorithm using a gradient-based search with starting values initialized from a Monte Carlo scheme. We test the inversion algorithm on four basal layer synthetic data traces with 5% added Gaussian noise. The inversion retrieved thin-layer parameters within 10% of synthetic test parameters with the exception of seismic Q. For the seismic dataset from Bench Glacier, Alaska, USA, inversion results indicate a thin basal layer of debris-rich ice within the study area having mean velocity 4000 ± 700 m s–1, density 1900 ± 200 kg m–3 and thickness 6 ± 1.5 m.
Measuring daily surface elevation and velocity variations across a polythermal arctic glacier using ground-based photogrammetry
Authors: Whitehead Ken , Moorman Brian , Wainstein Pablo
Published: November 2014

Twin time-lapse cameras were set up to provide a convergent view of ten targets located on the surface of an Arctic glacier, near its terminus. Using photogrammetric analysis, daily target elevations were calculated over three winters and two ablation seasons. Results show that the glacier surface level dropped by approximately 2.9 and 2.5 m respectively over the 2009 and 2010 ablation seasons. GPS measurements suggest the associated average vertical errors were 0.105 m and 0.04 m respectively. Photogrammetric measurements indicated that thinning from melting exceeded surface gains due to ice inflow by a factor of ~ 5: 1 during 2009 and 2010. Horizontal flow rates of 6–12 mm d–1 were measured photogrammetrically during autumn 2008 and compared to interpolated winter rates established from GPS measurements, with differences ranging between 7.4% and 17.2%. The availability of a continuous series of data for the duration of the study allowed the start and end dates of each ablation season to be identified, making it possible to determine the length of each balance year. The results show the utility of time-series photogrammetry for observing surface elevation changes and dynamic processes in remote glacial environments.
Physical properties of the WAIS Divide ice core
Authors: Fitzpatrick Joan J. , Voigt Donald E. , Fegyveresi John M. , Stevens Nathan T. , Spencer Matthew K. , Cole-Dai Jihong , Alley Richard B. , Jardine Gabriella E. , Cravens Eric D. , Wilen Lawrence A. , Fudge T.J. , Mcconnell Joseph R.
Published: November 2014

The WAIS (West Antarctic Ice Sheet) Divide deep ice core was recently completed to a total depth of 3405 m, ending 50 m above the bed. Investigation of the visual stratigraphy and grain characteristics indicates that the ice column at the drilling location is undisturbed by any large-scale overturning or discontinuity. The climate record developed from this core is therefore likely to be continuous and robust. Measured grain-growth rates, recrystallization characteristics, and grain-size response at climate transitions fit within current understanding. Significant impurity control on grain size is indicated from correlation analysis between impurity loading and grain size. Bubble-number densities and bubble sizes and shapes are presented through the full extent of the bubbly ice. Where bubble elongation is observed, the direction of elongation is preferentially parallel to the trace of the basal (0001) plane. Preferred crystallographic orientation of grains is present in the shallowest samples measured, and increases with depth, progressing to a vertical-girdle pattern that tightens to a vertical single-maximum fabric. This single-maximum fabric switches into multiple maxima as the grain size increases rapidly in the deepest, warmest ice. A strong dependence of the fabric on the impurity-mediated grain size is apparent in the deepest samples.
Trimetallic (Aurod-Pdshell-Ptcluster) Catalyst Used as Amperometric Hydrogen Peroxide Sensor
Authors: Cheng Shou-I , Rick John , Pan Chun-Jern , Chou Hung-Lung , Su Wei-Nien , Chen Kuan-Jung , Liu Chung-Chiun , Yang Yaw-Wen , Wang Chia-Hsin , Hwang Bing-Joe
Published: November 2014

Bimetallic nanostructured core-shell structures are commonly used as catalysts in a wide variety of reactions. We surmised that the addition of an additional metal would potentially allow catalytic tailoring with the possibility of an increase in activity. Here a tri-metallic catalytic structure, consisting of clustered catalytic Pt on the surface of a Pd shell supported on a rod shaped Au core was fabricated. The significance of the additional metallic component is shown by comparative electrochemically active surface area (ECSA) analysis results for the trimetallic Aurod-Pdshell-Ptcluster, bimetallic Aurod-Ptcluster and monometallic JM-Pt (used as a reference), which have respective ECSA values (cm2/mgPt) of 1883.0, 1371.7 and 879. The potential utility of the trimetallic catalysts was shown in a hydrogen peroxide sensing protocol, which showed the catalyst to have a sensitivity of 604 ìA/mMcm2 within a linear range of 0.0013–6.191 mM.
Crystal Structures of New Ammonium 5-Aminotetrazolates
Authors: Lampl Martin , Salchner Robert , Laus Gerhard , Braun Doris , Kahlenberg Volker , Wurst Klaus , Fuhrmann Gerda , Schottenberger Herwig , Huppertz Hubert
Published: November 2014

The crystal structures of three salts of anionic 5-aminotetrazole are described. The tetramethylammonium salt (P ) forms hydrogen-bonded ribbons of anions which accept weak C–H···N contacts from the cations. The cystamine salt (C2/c) shows wave-shaped ribbons of anions linked by hydrogen bonds to screw-shaped dications. The tetramethylguanidine salt (P21/c) exhibits layers of anions hydrogen-bonded to the cations.
The Effects of Silvicultural Treatment on Sirex noctilio Attacks and Tree Health in Northeastern United States
Authors: Dodds Kevin , Cooke Robert , Hanavan Ryan
Published: November 2014

The invasive woodwasp Sirex noctilio (Hymenoptera: Siricidae) is established in east-central North America. A replicated case study testing the effectiveness of silvicultural treatments for reducing the number of S. noctilio attacked trees in a stand was conducted in New York, USA. Silvicultural treatments reduced S. noctilio attacked trees by approximately 75% over the course of the study. There was no tree growth response to silvicultural treatments in the four years after thinning, but targeted removal of weakened trees removed potential S. noctilio habitat from treated stands. Two spectral vegetation indices were used to determine tree health in each treatment and potentially provide guidance for detection efforts. Silvicultural treatment significantly influenced the Red Edge Inflection Point, a strong indicator of chlorophyll content, and the Moisture Stress Index, a reflectance measurement sensitive to changes in foliar leaf water content, with the greatest differences occurring between control and treated blocks. Vegetation indices showed promise as a tool for aiding in stand prioritization for S. noctilio surveys or management activities.
The Daidzein Metabolite, 6,7,4'-Trihydroxyisoflavone, Is a Novel Inhibitor of PKCα in Suppressing Solar UV-Induced Matrix Metalloproteinase 1
Authors: Lim Tae-Gyu , Kim Jong-Eun , Lee Sung-Young , Park Jun , Yeom Myung , Chen Hanyong , Bode Ann , Dong Zigang , Lee Ki
Published: November 2014

Soy isoflavone is an attractive source of functional cosmetic materials with anti-wrinkle, whitening and skin hydration effects. After consumption, the majority of soy isoflavones are converted to their metabolites in the human gastrointestinal tract. To understand the physiological impact of soy isoflavone on the human body, it is necessary to evaluate and address the biological function of its metabolites. In this study, we investigated the effect of 6,7,4'-trihydroxyisoflavone (6,7,4'-THIF), a major metabolite of daidzein, against solar UV (sUV)-induced matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in normal human dermal fibroblasts. MMPs play a critical role in the degradation of collagen in skin, thereby accelerating the aging process of skin. The mitogen-activated protein/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (MEK)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MKK)3/6/p38 and MKK4/c-Jun N-terminal kinases (JNK) signaling pathways are known to modulate MMP-1 function, and their activation by sUV was significantly reduced by 6,7,4'-THIF pretreatment. Our results also indicated that the enzyme activity of protein kinase C (PKC)α, an upstream regulator of MKKs signaling, is suppressed by 6,7,4'-THIF using the in vitro kinase assay. Furthermore, the direct interaction between 6,7,4'-THIF and endogenous PKCα was confirmed using the pull-down assay. Not only sUV-induced MMP-1 expression, but also sUV-induced signaling pathway activation were decreased in PKCα knockdown cells. Overall, we elucidated the inhibitory effect of 6,7,4'-THIF on sUV-induced MMPs and suggest PKCα as its direct molecular target.
Inhibition of Bacterial Quorum Sensing by Extracts from Aquatic Fungi: First Report from Marine Endophytes
Authors: Martín-Rodríguez Alberto , Reyes Fernando , Martín Jesús , Pérez-Yépez Juan , León-Barrios Milagros , Couttolenc Alan , Espinoza César , Trigos Ángel , Martín Víctor , Norte Manuel , Fernández José
Published: November 2014

In our search for quorum-sensing (QS) disrupting molecules, 75 fungal isolates were recovered from reef organisms (endophytes), saline lakes and mangrove rhizosphere. Their QS inhibitory activity was evaluated in Chromobacterium violaceum CVO26. Four strains of endophytic fungi stood out for their potent activity at concentrations from 500 to 50 μg mL−1. The molecular characterization, based on the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region sequences (ITS1, 5.8S and ITS2) between the rRNA of 18S and 28S, identified these strains as belonging to four genera: Sarocladium (LAEE06), Fusarium (LAEE13), Epicoccum (LAEE14), and Khuskia (LAEE21). Interestingly, three came from coral species and two of them came from the same organism, the coral Diploria strigosa. Metabolic profiles obtained by Liquid Chromatography-High Resolution Mass Spectrometry (LC-HRMS) suggest that a combination of fungal secondary metabolites and fatty acids could be the responsible for the observed activities. The LC-HRMS analysis also revealed the presence of potentially new secondary metabolites. This is, to the best of our knowledge, the first report of QS inhibition by marine endophytic fungi.
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of New Pleuromutilin Derivatives as Antibacterial Agents
Authors: Shang Ruo-Feng , Wang Guan-Hua , Xu Xi-Ming , Liu Si-Jie , Zhang Chao , Yi Yun-Peng , Liang Jian-Ping , Liu Yu
Published: November 2014

Several pleuromutilin derivatives possessing thiadiazole moieties were synthesized via acylation reactions under mild conditions. The in vitro antibacterial activities of the derivatives against methicillin-resistant S. aureus, methicillin-resistant S. epidermidis, S. aureus, S. epidermidis, E. coli, and B. cereus were tested by the agar dilution method and Oxford cup assay. All the screened compounds displayed potent activity. Compound 6d was the most active antibacterial agent because of its lowest MIC value and largest inhibition zone. Docking experiments were performed to understand the possible mode of the interactions between the derivatives and 50S ribosomal subunit. Moreover, the absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion and toxicity properties of the synthesized compounds were analyzed after prediction using the Advanced Chemistry Development/Percepta Platform available online.
Spectral and Kinetic Properties of Radicals Derived from Oxidation of Quinoxalin-2-One and Its Methyl Derivative
Authors: Skotnicki Konrad , De la Fuente Julio , Cañete Alvaro , Bobrowski Krzysztof
Published: November 2014

The kinetics and spectral characteristics of the transients formed in the reactions of •OH and •N3 with quinoxalin-2(1H)-one (Q), its methyl derivative, 3-methylquinoxalin-2(1H)-one (3-MeQ) and pyrazin-2-one (Pyr) were studied by pulse radiolysis in aqueous solutions at pH 7. The transient absorption spectra recorded in the reactions of •OH with Q and 3-MeQ consisted of an absorption band with λmax = 470 nm assigned to the OH-adducts on the benzene ring, and a second band with λmax = 390 nm (for Q) and 370 nm (for 3-MeQ) assigned, inter alia, to the N-centered radicals on a pyrazin-2-one ring. The rate constants of the reactions of •OH with Q and 3-MeQ were found to be in the interval (5.9–9.7) × 109 M–1·s–1 and were assigned to their addition to benzene and pyrazin-2-one rings and H-abstraction from the pyrazin-2-one nitrogen. In turn, the transient absorption spectrum observed in the reaction of •N3 exhibits an absorption band with λmax = 350 nm. This absorption was assigned to the N-centered radical on the Pyr ring formed after deprotonation of the respective radical cation resulting from one-electron oxidation of 3-MeQ. The rate constant of the reaction of •N3 with 3 MeQ was found to be (6.0 ± 0.5) × 109 M–1·s–1. Oxidation of 3-MeQ by •N3 and Pyr by •OH and •N3 confirms earlier spectral assignments. With the rate constant of the •OH radical with Pyr (k = 9.2 ± 0.2) × 109 M–1·s‒1, a primary distribution of the •OH attack was estimated nearly equal between benzene and pyrazin-2-one rings.
Antioxidant Property of Coffee Components: Assessment of Methods that Define Mechanisms of Action
Authors: Liang Ningjian , Kitts David
Published: November 2014

Coffee is a rich source of dietary antioxidants, and this property, coupled with the fact that coffee is one of the world’s most popular beverages, has led to the understanding that coffee is a major contributor to dietary antioxidant intake. Brewed coffee is a complex food matrix with numerous phytochemical components that have antioxidant activity capable of scavenging free radicals, donating hydrogen and electrons, providing reducing activity and also acting as metal ion pro-oxidant chelators. More recent studies have shown that coffee components can trigger tissue antioxidant gene expression and protect against gastrointestinal oxidative stress. This paper will describe different in vitro, cell-free and cell-based assays that both characterize and compare the antioxidant capacity and mechanism of action of coffee and its bioactive constituents. Moreover, evidence of cellular antioxidant activity and correlated specific genomic events induced by coffee components, which are relevant to antioxidant function in both animal and human studies, will be discussed.
Land Cover Classification of Landsat Data with Phenological Features Extracted from Time Series MODIS NDVI Data
Authors: Jia Kun , Liang Shunlin , Wei Xiangqin , Yao Yunjun , Su Yingru , Jiang Bo , Wang Xiaoxia
Published: November 2014

Temporal-related features are important for improving land cover classification accuracy using remote sensing data. This study investigated the efficacy of phenological features extracted from time series MODIS Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) data in improving the land cover classification accuracy of Landsat data. The MODIS NDVI data were first fused with Landsat data via the Spatial and Temporal Adaptive Reflectance Fusion Model (STARFM) algorithm to obtain NDVI data at the Landsat spatial resolution. Next, phenological features, including the beginning and ending dates of the growing season, the length of the growing season, seasonal amplitude, and the maximum fitted NDVI value, were extracted from the fused time series NDVI data using the TIMESAT tool. The extracted data were integrated with the spectral data of the Landsat data to improve classification accuracy using a maximum likelihood classifier (MLC) and support vector machine (SVM) classifier. The results indicated that phenological features had a statistically significant effect on improving the land cover classification accuracy of single Landsat data (an approximately 3% increase in overall classification accuracy), especially for vegetation type discrimination. However, the phenological features did not improve on statistical measures including the maximum, the minimum, the mean, and the standard deviation values of the time series NDVI dataset, especially for human-managed vegetation types. Regarding different classifiers, SVM could achieve better classification accuracy than the traditional MLC classifier, but the improvement in accuracy obtained using advanced classifiers was inferior to that achieved by involving the temporally derived features for land cover classification.
Dual Resonant Frequencies Effects on an Induction-Based Oil Palm Fruit Sensor
Authors: Harun Noor , Misron Norhisam , Sidek Roslina , Aris Ishak , Wakiwaka Hiroyuki , Tashiro Kunihisa
Published: November 2014

As the main exporter in the oil palm industry, the need to improve the quality of palm oil has become the main interest among all the palm oil millers in Malaysia. To produce good quality palm oil, it is important for the miller to harvest a good oil palm Fresh Fruit Bunch (FFB). Conventionally, the main reference used by Malaysian harvesters is the manual grading standard published by the Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB). A good oil palm FFB consists of all matured fruitlets, aged between 18 to 21 weeks of antheses (WAA). To expedite the harvesting process, it is crucial to implement an automated detection system for determining the maturity of the oil palm FFB. Various automated detection methods have been proposed by researchers in the field to replace the conventional method. In our preliminary study, a novel oil palm fruit sensor to detect the maturity of oil palm fruit bunch was proposed. The design of the proposed air coil sensor based on the inductive sensor was further investigated mainly in the context of the effect of coil diameter to improve its sensitivity. In this paper, the sensitivity of the inductive sensor was further examined with a dual flat-type shape of air coil. The dual air coils were tested on fifteen samples of fruitlet from two categories, namely ripe and unripe. Samples were tested within 20 Hz to 10 MHz while evaluations on both peaks were done separately before the gap between peaks was analyzed. A comparative analysis was conducted to investigate the improvement in sensitivity of the induction-based oil palm fruit sensor as compared to previous works. Results from the comparative study proved that the inductive sensor using a dual flat-type shape air coil has improved by up to 167%. This provides an indication in the improvement in the coil sensitivity of the palm oil fruit sensor based on the induction concept.
Mosquito Immunity against Arboviruses
Authors: Sim Shuzhen , Jupatanakul Natapong , Dimopoulos George
Published: November 2014

Arthropod-borne viruses (arboviruses) pose a significant threat to global health, causing human disease with increasing geographic range and severity. The recent availability of the genome sequences of medically important mosquito species has kick-started investigations into the molecular basis of how mosquito vectors control arbovirus infection. Here, we discuss recent findings concerning the role of the mosquito immune system in antiviral defense, interactions between arboviruses and fundamental cellular processes such as apoptosis and autophagy, and arboviral suppression of mosquito defense mechanisms. This knowledge provides insights into co-evolutionary processes between vector and virus and also lays the groundwork for the development of novel arbovirus control strategies that target the mosquito vector.
1984 : une réforme improbable
Authors: Lochak Danièle
Published: November 2014

La loi du 17 juillet 1984, créant un titre unique de séjour et de travail pour les étrangers, opère une rupture capitale dans le droit de l’immigration. Elle a pourtant été adoptée dans un contexte défavorable marqué par des élections municipales où la question de l’immigration avait largement été instrumentalisée, notamment par le Front national. Peut-on pour autant uniquement l’attribuer à une conjonction exceptionnelle d’événements ?
La valse des « plein droit »
Authors: Ferré Nathalie
Published: November 2014

En 1984, les catégories de « plein droit » désignaient les étrangers et étrangères qui accédaient automatiquement à une carte de résident de dix ans. Si la notion n’a pas disparu, elle a pour le moins été vidée de sa substance au fil des réformes du droit des étrangers. Les catégories ont d’abord été réduites à peau de chagrin, avant que le législateur ne s’attaque aux conditions d’accès elles-mêmes et n’inverse la logique et la norme.
Étrangers malades : la fin d'un consensus
Authors: Izambert Caroline
Published: November 2014

Au terme d’une bataille militante des associations de malades et de défense des droits des étrangers, l’accès au séjour pour raison médicale est accordé de plein droit, protégeant de l’expulsion les étrangers gravement malades, privés de traitement dans leur pays. Une mesure qui, à première vue, relève de la simple humanité... mais qui a pourtant été ultérieurement remise en question.
Avec l'Europe, que reste-t-il du plein droit ?
Authors: Jault-Seseke Fabienne
Published: November 2014

L’octroi des titres de séjour est de plus en plus souvent subordonné à une condition d’intégration et de ressources. Cette condition, « marque de fabrique » des politiques migratoires européennes, fait nécessairement l’objet d’une appréciation qui n’a rien de mathématique. Elle s’avère dès lors peu compatible avec l’existence d’un véritable droit au séjour.
Mayotte, une zone de non-droit
Authors: Duflo Marie , Ghaem Marjane
Published: November 2014

Dans l’archipel des Comores, pour empêcher les supposés étrangers de se rendre et de séjourner sur l’île de Mayotte, département français d’outre-mer, le droit qui s’applique en métropole est estimé inadapté par les gouvernements successifs et un régime dérogatoire a été mis en place dans l’île, cautionnant de nombreuses violations des droits fondamentaux. Avec pour toile de fond la contestation permanente des actes d’état civil, aucun recours n’est possible en cas d’expulsion et les procédures expéditives sont de règle, notamment à l’égard des enfants, principale cible du pouvoir.
La dette publique est-elle privée ?
Authors: Vallée Olivier
Published: November 2014

La communauté internationale encourage depuis plusieurs années un processus de traitement de la dette publique par le marché. L’Angola, qui n’a pas encore engagé d’ajustement structurel – passage obligé du traitement de la dette –, représente un cas limite de privatisation de la dette publique, qui met en évidence des distorsions historiques de l’État africain, perceptibles dans d’autres régions et à d’autres époques.
Kivu : l'enlisement dans la violence
Authors: Barnes William
Published: November 2014

Épicentre des recompositions de puissance en Afrique centrale, le Kivu suscite les convoitises du Rwanda et de l’Ouganda qui profitent de la guerre pour mettre en place une économie de pillage et de réexportation. Les mouvements de rébellion congolais étant incapables de contrôler les territoires conquis, la zone s’enlise ainsi dans une violence de longue durée qui se nourrit de l’enchevêtrement des conflits locaux.
La popularisation de la violence politique au Congo
Authors: Bazenguissa-Ganga Rémy , Yengo Patrice
Published: November 2014

En décembre 1998, la guerre civile a repris au Congo, débordant Brazzaville pour affecter la province. Une nouvelle stratégie de guerre totale semble se mettre en place, avec la généralisation des ratissages et l’élimination systématique des jeunes en âge de porter les armes. R. Bazenguissa-Ganga et P. Yengo tentent de déceler la logique de ce regain de violence en avançant l’hypothèse d’une popularisation de la violence politique.
Port Harcourt
Authors: Pérouse de Montclos Marc-Antoine
Published: November 2014

Au cœur du Delta et des luttes engagées pour le contrôle de la manne pétrolière, Port Harcourt a beaucoup de mal à affirmer son autonomie envers le gouvernement central. Le développement déséquilibré de la ville, mais aussi et essentiellement les rivalités historiques entre autochtones et allochtones ont en effet obéré la constitution d’un véritable pouvoir municipal. Comment parvenir à concilier citoyenneté et autochtonie dans l’espace public urbain du Nigeria contemporain ? Tel est en filigrane l’enjeu soulevé par cette étude de cas.
Enjeux et imaginaires de l'espace public à Abidjan
Authors: Leimdorfer François
Published: November 2014

L’occupation de l’espace public physique à Abidjan pose le problème de son occupation par le commerce informel et des procédures d’attribution afférentes. Les discours d’acteurs concernés par les conflits d’espace montrent que les pratiques se partagent entre des procédures légales et des occupations anarchiques qui se légitiment d’un pouvoir social sur l’espace. En même temps émergent des associations qui promeuvent la prise en charge collective et individuelle des problèmes de la vie urbaine et participent à l’affirmation de représentations nouvelles du « bien commun ».
Démocratie de « mouvement », légitimité et pouvoir en Ouganda
Authors: Kasfir Nelson , Kraft Anne
Published: November 2014

La démocratie de « mouvement » théorisée et mise en place par Y. Museveni est parfois considérée comme une authentique démocratie à l’africaine et comme une alternative viable au multipartisme. Mais ce système politique innovant a surtout permis au NRM de légitimer son pouvoir et de le conserver, même si son introduction a contribué à l’émergence d’une « culture démocratique ».
L'Ouganda et les guerres congolaises
Authors: Prunier Gérard
Published: November 2014

D’aucuns interprètent l’interventionnisme militaire de l’Ouganda dans les conflits congolais comme une volonté d’hégémonie régionale, voire l’expression d’un impérialisme tutsi-hima, hérité de l’ancien empire du Kitara. D’autres voient dans cette politique de puissance un vecteur des intérêts anglo-saxons dans la région. Cet article montre que la réalité est plus complexe, les motivations de Kampala mêlant inextricablement la poursuite d’un projet nationaliste, la défense d’intérêts sécuritaires et l’affairisme commercial.
L'Ouganda et les bailleurs de fonds
Authors: de Torrenté Nicolas
Published: November 2014

Depuis 1987, l’Ouganda s’est engagé dans un important processus d’ajustement structurel appuyé par un considérable soutien financier extérieur. Ce binôme « aide-réformes » occupe une place centrale dans la stratégie de consolidation du pouvoir NRM. Mais, pour les pays donateurs, la réussite du modèle ougandais est aussi nécessaire. Liés par cette convergence d’intérêts, les donateurs et le NRM ont développé une dépendance mutuelle qui vaut au régime ougandais un traitement de faveur concernant son déficit démocratique et ses agissements militaires.
Aide à l'Afrique : la démission des politiques
Authors: Nguyen François Dao
Published: November 2014

Dans le domaine de l’aide, quatre facteurs vont susciter des décisions importantes pour l’Afrique. L’aide européenne a augmenté au détriment des bilatéraux. Avec quel avantage? Le G7 a renforcé les mesures pour les pays pauvres. Comment vont-elles s’appliquer ? Ces pays ne vont-ils pas être Exclus du financement par prêt ? Le déliement rallie tous les suffrages. Ne compromettrait-il pas certaines qualités spécifiques des aides bilatérales ? L’heure est à la reconstruction dans les Balkans. Qui paiera ?
« La guerre de la banane »
Authors: Rioual Sandrine
Published: November 2014

La « guerre de la banane » illustre bien les enjeux de la reconfiguration actuelle de la politique européenne de coopération. Cette dernière est de plus en plus sensible aux intérêts des firmes multinationales, à la politique commerciale de l’Europe et à l’affrontement entre celle-ci et les États-Unis. La gestion de ce conflit traduit de facto un recul de la politique de coopération.
Camarades, parias et hommes d'affaires
Authors: Alden Chris , Shelton Garth
Published: November 2014

Cet article analyse le changement de nature des relations entre l’Afrique du Sud et la Chine pendant la période de la guerre froide, la crise créée par la question des relations diplomatiques après l’apartheid et le développement de liens économiques et politiques dans la période actuelle. Il montre en quoi le boom actuel des échanges s’inscrit dans la continuité des relations informelles établies pendant la période de l’apartheid.
Idéologies, diplomaties et intérêts dans les relations économiques afro-asiatiques
Authors: Coussy Jean
Published: November 2014

La relations économiques afro-asiatiques ont, depuis 1960, connu quatre phases très différentes qui reflètent autant de périodes de la croissance asiatique. La volonté politique de créer des relations préférentielles d’un genre nouveau entre l’Afrique et l’Asie n’en a pas moins facilité et infléchi cette croissance.
Quand la Malaysia Inc. joue la carte Sud-Sud en Afrique subsaharienne
Authors: Lauseig Jérôme
Published: November 2014

Champion de « l’Asie qui sait dire non » aux effets néfastes de la globalisation et au modèle de développement occidental, le Dr Mahathir a su conquérir en Afrique subsaharienne un auditoire attentif et des partenaires économiques complaisants. Entre coopération Sud-Sud et prédation Sud-Sud, la présence malaysienne s’est imposée sur le continent en quelques années seulement comme un fait politico-économique aussi incontournable qu’ambiguë.
Le retour des Indiens en Ouganda
Authors: Forrest Tom
Published: November 2014

Expulsés par Idi Amin en 1972 alors qu’ils contrôlaient l’essentiel des activités économiques du pays, les Indiens reviennent depuis le début des années 90 en Ouganda. Encouragés par l’attitude nouvelle du régime Museveni, nombre d’entre eux sont rentrés avec l’intention de récupérer leurs biens et de s’impliquer à nouveau dans les affaires. Cet article souligne les enjeux économiques et politiques ainsi que les tensions sociales que soulève ce retour.
Tunisie : des élections en trompe-l'œil
Authors: Khiari Sadri , Lamloum Olfa
Published: November 2014

Douze ans après l’avènement de l’« ère nouvelle » en Tunisie, le pays offre une image paradoxale : un discours officiel qui se veut rénovateur et moderniste, auquel s’oppose une pratique politique de l’immobilisme et de la répression. Les dernières élections ont illustré de manière saisissante les difficultés de maintenir durablement un tel équilibre dans un contexte en mutation.