bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Older Driver with Cognitive Impairment: Perceptions of Driving Ability and Results of a Behind the Wheel Test
Authors: Hemmy Laura , Rottunda Susan , Adler Geri
Published: February 2016

Older adult drivers with cognitive impairment pose a potential safety risk to themselves and others. Providers are often uncertain about when to request a formal evaluation of driving ability, leaving subjective reports of concerns by the patient or family as common initiators of objective driving evaluation referral. This observational study evaluated the correspondence of patient and caregiver report of driving concerns relative to objective behind-the-wheel (BTW) testing. Data were analyzed from occupational therapy driving evaluations of older adult U.S. Veterans referred from cognitive disorder specialty clinics between 2005 and 2015 (n = 151). Driving ability was evaluated with a pre-testing interview of the patient and a knowledgeable caregiver, followed by objective BTW testing. Patients referred had a mean age of 77.6 (SD = 8.1) years, were 97% male, and 98% white. Results demonstrated that most patients are evaluated for driving concerns far too late, with only 3% of the sample being evaluated as independent to drive without restrictions, and 38% recommended to retire from driving. Although both patients and caregivers denied specific driving concerns (obey signs and lights) relative to objective testing, caregiver concerns were greater than their respective patient’s concerns (p < 0.001) and were associated with road test outcome (p = 0.001).
Simultaneous Detection of Five Pathogens from Cerebrospinal Fluid Specimens Using Luminex Technology
Authors: Zhou Linfu , Wu Rui , Shi Xiaodan , Feng Dongyun , Feng Guodong , Yang Yining , Dai Wen , Bian Ting , Liu Tingting , He Ying , Shi Ming , Zhao Gang
Published: February 2016

Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for the outcome of central nervous system (CNS) infections. In this study, we developed a multiplex PCR-Luminex assay for the simultaneous detection of five major pathogens, including Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Cryptococcus neoformans, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2, which frequently cause CNS infections. Through the hybridization reaction between multiplex PCR-amplified targets and oligonucleotide “anti-TAG” sequences, we found that the PCR-Luminex assay could detect as low as 101–102 copies of synthetic pathogen DNAs. Furthermore, 163 cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) specimens from patients with suspected CNS infections were used to evaluate the efficiency of this multiplex PCR-Luminex method. Compared with Ziehl-Neelsen stain, this assay showed a high diagnostic accuracy for tuberculosis meningitis (sensitivity, 90.7% and specificity, 99.1%). For cryptococcal meningitis, the sensitivity and specificity were 92% and 97.1%, respectively, compared with the May Grunwald Giemsa (MGG) stain. For herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2 encephalitis, the sensitivities were 80.8% and 100%, and the specificities were 94.2% and 99%, respectively, compared with Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) assays. Taken together, this multiplex PCR-Luminex assay showed potential efficiency for the simultaneous detection of five pathogens and may be a promising supplement to conventional methods for diagnosing CNS infections.
Understanding the Heat Shock Response in the Sea Cucumber Apostichopus japonicus, Using iTRAQ-Based Proteomics
Authors: Xu Dongxue , Sun Lina , Liu Shilin , Zhang Libin , Yang Hongsheng
Published: February 2016

The sea cucumber Apostichopus japonicus is exploited as a commercial species owing to their high nutritive and medicinal value. Recent high summer temperatures have caused high mortality rates in A. japonicus. In this study, we applied the isobaric tag for relative and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ) technique to investigate the global protein expression profile under an acute short-term (48 h) heat stress. In total, 3432 proteins were identified, and 127 proteins showed significant heat stress responses, with 61 upregulated proteins and 66 downregulated proteins. Our results suggest that heat stress influenced the expression of proteins involved in various biological processes, such as tissue protection and detoxification, lipid and amino acid metabolism, energy production and usage, transcription and translation, cell apoptosis, and cell proliferation. These findings provide a better understanding about the response and thermo-tolerance mechanisms of A. japonicus under heat stress.
Canine Models for Copper Homeostasis Disorders
Authors: Wu Xiaoyan , Leegwater Peter , Fieten Hille
Published: February 2016

Copper is an essential trace nutrient metal involved in a multitude of cellular processes. Hereditary defects in copper metabolism result in disorders with a severe clinical course such as Wilson disease and Menkes disease. In Wilson disease, copper accumulation leads to liver cirrhosis and neurological impairments. A lack in genotype-phenotype correlation in Wilson disease points toward the influence of environmental factors or modifying genes. In a number of Non-Wilsonian forms of copper metabolism, the underlying genetic defects remain elusive. Several pure bred dog populations are affected with copper-associated hepatitis showing similarities to human copper metabolism disorders. Gene-mapping studies in these populations offer the opportunity to discover new genes involved in copper metabolism. Furthermore, due to the relatively large body size and long life-span of dogs they are excellent models for development of new treatment strategies. One example is the recent use of canine organoids for disease modeling and gene therapy of copper storage disease. This review addresses the opportunities offered by canine genetics for discovery of genes involved in copper metabolism disorders. Further, possibilities for the use of dogs in development of new treatment modalities for copper storage disorders, including gene repair in patient-derived hepatic organoids, are highlighted.
Drug-Induced Liver Injury Network Causality Assessment: Criteria and Experience in the United States
Authors: Hayashi Paul
Published: February 2016

Hepatotoxicity due to drugs, herbal or dietary supplements remains largely a clinical diagnosis based on meticulous history taking and exclusion of other causes of liver injury. In 2004, the U.S. Drug-Induced Liver Injury Network (DILIN) was created under the auspices of the U.S. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases with the aims of establishing a large registry of cases for clinical, epidemiological and mechanistic study. From inception, the DILIN has used an expert opinion process that incorporates consensus amongst three different DILIN hepatologists assigned to each case. It is the most well-established, well-described and vigorous expert opinion process for DILI to date, and yet it is an imperfect standard. This review will discuss the DILIN expert opinion process, its strengths and weaknesses, psychometric performance and future.
Use of Repetitive Sequences for Molecular and Cytogenetic Characterization of Avena Species from Portugal
Authors: Tomás Diana , Rodrigues Joana , Varela Ana , Veloso Maria , Viegas Wanda , Silva Manuela
Published: February 2016

Genomic diversity of Portuguese accessions of Avena species—diploid A. strigosa and hexaploids A. sativa and A. sterilis—was evaluated through molecular and cytological analysis of 45S rDNA, and other repetitive sequences previously studied in cereal species—rye subtelomeric sequence (pSc200) and cereal centromeric sequence (CCS1). Additionally, retrotransposons and microsatellites targeting methodologies—IRAP (inter-retrotransposon amplified polymorphism) and REMAP (retrotransposon-microsatellite amplified polymorphism)—were performed. A very high homology was detected for ribosomal internal transcribed sequences (ITS1 and ITS2) between the species analyzed, although nucleolar organizing regions (NOR) fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) analysis revealed distinct number of Nor loci between diploid and hexaploid species. Moreover, morphological diversity, evidenced by FISH signals with different sizes, was observed between distinct accessions within each species. pSc200 sequences were for the first time isolated from Avena species but proven to be highly similar in all genotypes analyzed. The use of primers designed for CCS1 unraveled a sequence homologous to the Ty3/gypsy retrotransposon Cereba, that was mapped to centromeric regions of diploid and hexaploid species, being however restricted to the more related A and D haplomes. Retrotransposon-based methodologies disclosed species- and accessions-specific bands essential for the accurate discrimination of all genotypes studied. Centromeric, IRAP and REMAP profiles therefore allowed accurate assessment of inter and intraspecific variability, demonstrating the potential of these molecular markers on future oat breeding programs.
Identification of Predictive Markers for Response to Neoadjuvant Chemoradiation in Rectal Carcinomas by Proteomic Isotope Coded Protein Label (ICPL) Analysis
Authors: Croner Roland , Sevim Müzeyyen , Metodiev Metodi , Jo Peter , Ghadimi Michael , Schellerer Vera , Brunner Maximillian , Geppert Carol , Rau Tilman , Stürzl Michael , Naschberger Elisabeth , Matzel Klaus , Hohenberger Werner , Lottspeich Friedrich , Kellermann Josef
Published: February 2016

Neoadjuvant chemoradiation (nCRT) is an established procedure in stage union internationale contre le cancer (UICC) II/III rectal carcinomas. Around 53% of the tumours present with good tumor regression after nCRT, and 8%–15% are complete responders. Reliable selection markers would allow the identification of poor or non-responders prior to therapy. Tumor biopsies were harvested from 20 patients with rectal carcinomas, and stored in liquid nitrogen prior to therapy after obtaining patients’ informed consent (Erlangen-No.3784). Patients received standardized nCRT with 5-Fluoruracil (nCRT I) or 5-Fluoruracil ± Oxaliplatin (nCRT II) according to the CAO/ARO/AIO-04 protocol. After surgery, regression grading (Dworak) of the tumors was performed during histopathological examination of the specimens. Tumors were classified as poor (Dworak 1 + 2) or good (Dworak 3 + 4) responders. Laser capture microdissection (LCM) for tumor enrichment was performed on preoperative biopsies. Differences in expressed proteins between poor and good responders to nCRT I and II were identified by proteomic analysis (Isotope Coded Protein Label, ICPL™) and selected markers were validated by immunohistochemistry. Tumors of 10 patients were classified as histopathologically poor (Dworak 1 or 2) and the other 10 tumor samples as histopathologically good (Dworak 3 or 4) responders to nCRT after surgery. Sufficient material in good quality was harvested for ICPL analysis by LCM from all biopsies. We identified 140 differentially regulated proteins regarding the selection criteria and the response to nCRT. Fourteen of these proteins were synchronously up-regulated at least 1.5-fold after nCRT I or nCRT II (e.g., FLNB, TKT, PKM2, SERINB1, IGHG2). Thirty-five proteins showed a complete reciprocal regulation (up or down) after nCRT I or nCRT II and the rest was regulated either according to nCRT I or II. The protein expression of regulated proteins such as PLEC1, TKT, HADHA and TAGLN was validated successfully by immunohistochemistry. ICPL is a valid method to identify differentially expressed proteins in rectal carcinoma tissue between poor vs. good responders to nCRT. The identified protein markers may act as selection criteria for nCRT in the future, but our preliminary findings must be reproduced and validated in a prospective cohort.
Microwave-Assisted Synthesis of Glycoconjugates by Transgalactosylation with Recombinant Thermostable β-Glycosidase from Pyrococcus
Authors: Henze Manja , Merker Dorothee , Elling Lothar
Published: February 2016

The potential of the hyperthermophilic β-glycosidase from Pyrococcus woesei (DSM 3773) for the synthesis of glycosides under microwave irradiation (MWI) at low temperatures was investigated. Transgalactosylation reactions with β-N-acetyl-d-glucosamine as acceptor substrate (GlcNAc-linker-tBoc) under thermal heating (TH, 85 °C) and under MWI at 100 and 300 W resulted in the formation of (Galβ(1,4)GlcNAc-linker-tBoc) as the main product in all reactions. Most importantly, MWI at temperatures far below the temperature optimum of the hyperthermophilic glycosidase led to higher product yields with only minor amounts of side products β(1,6-linked disaccharide and trisaccharides). At high acceptor concentrations (50 mM), transgalactosylation reactions under MWI at 300 W gave similar product yields when compared to TH at 85 °C. In summary, we demonstrate that MWI is useful as a novel experimental set-up for the synthesis of defined galacto-oligosaccharides. In conclusion, glycosylation reactions under MWI at low temperatures have the potential as a general strategy for regioselective glycosylation reactions of hyperthermophilic glycosidases using heat-labile acceptor or donor substrates.
Potential Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer
Authors: Black Homer , Rhodes Lesley
Published: February 2016

Considerable circumstantial evidence has accrued from both experimental animal and human clinical studies that support a role for omega-3 fatty acids (FA) in the prevention of non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC). Direct evidence from animal studies has shown that omega-3 FA inhibit ultraviolet radiation (UVR) induced carcinogenic expression. In contrast, increasing levels of dietary omega-6 FA increase UVR carcinogenic expression, with respect to a shorter tumor latent period and increased tumor multiplicity. Both omega-6 and omega-3 FA are essential FA, necessary for normal growth and maintenance of health and although these two classes of FA exhibit only minor structural differences, these differences cause them to act significantly differently in the body. Omega-6 and omega-3 FA, metabolized through the lipoxygenase (LOX) and cyclooxygenase (COX) pathways, lead to differential metabolites that are influential in inflammatory and immune responses involved in carcinogenesis. Clinical studies have shown that omega-3 FA ingestion protects against UVR-induced genotoxicity, raises the UVR-mediated erythema threshold, reduces the level of pro-inflammatory and immunosuppressive prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) in UVR-irradiated human skin, and appears to protect human skin from UVR-induced immune-suppression. Thus, there is considerable evidence that omega-3 FA supplementation might be beneficial in reducing the occurrence of NMSC, especially in those individuals who are at highest risk.
An Open-Source Tool Set Enabling Analog-Digital-Software Co-Design
Authors: Collins Michelle , Hasler Jennifer , George Suma
Published: February 2016

This paper presents an analog-digital hardware-software co-design environment for simulating and programming reconfigurable systems. The tool simulates, designs, as well as enables experimental measurements after compiling to configurable systems in the same integrated design tool framework. High level software in Scilab/Xcos (open-source programs similar to MATLAB/Simulink) that converts the high-level block description by the user to blif format (sci2blif), which acts as an input to the modified VPR tool, including the code v p r 2 s w c s , encoding the specific platform through specific architecture files, resulting in a targetable switch list on the resulting configurable analog–digital system. The resulting tool uses an analog and mixed-signal library of components, enabling users and future researchers access to the basic analog operations/computations that are possible.
Evaluating the Potential of the Original Texas Land Survey for Mapping Historical Land and Vegetation Cover
Authors: Srinath Indumathi , Millington Andrew
Published: February 2016

This paper reports on research to evaluate the potential of Original Texas Land Survey (OTLS) to generate information that can be used to quantitatively map historical vegetation cover and analyse pertinent aspects of vegetation ecology. Research was conducted in Brazos County in east-central Texas. OTLS data are easy to acquire and convert to geo-referenced autecological information. Reconstructing and mapping vegetation and land cover, conducting vegetation- and species-site analyses with to soil-ecological maps, reconstructing vegetation assemblages and forest structure can be easily accomplished. Due to the irregular surveying framework used by OTLS, mapping gradational grassland-savannah ecotone boundaries is impracticable.
Quantitative Analysis of Retrieved Glenoid Liners
Authors: Childs Katelyn , Crosby Lynn , Goswami Tarun
Published: February 2016

Revision of orthopedic surgeries is often expensive and involves higher risk from complications. Since most total joint replacement devices use a polyethylene bearing, which serves as a weak link, the assessment of damage to the liner due to in vivo exposure is very important. The failures often are due to excessive polyethylene wear. The glenoid liners are complex and hemispherical in shape and present challenges while assessing the damage. Therefore, the study on the analysis of glenoid liners retrieved from revision surgery may lend insight into common wear patterns and improve future product designs. The purpose of this pilot study is to further develop the methods of segmenting a liner into four quadrants to quantify the damage in the liner. Different damage modes are identified and statistically analyzed. Multiple analysts were recruited to conduct the damage assessments. In this paper, four analysts evaluated nine glenoid liners, retrieved from revision surgery, two of whom had an engineering background and two of whom had a non-engineering background. Associated human factor mechanisms are reported in this paper. The wear patterns were quantified using the Hood/Gunther, Wasielewski, Brandt, and Lombardi methods. The quantitative assessments made by several observers were analyzed. A new, composite damage parameter was developed and applied to assess damage. Inter-observer reliability was assessed using a paired t-test. Data reported by four analysts showed a high standard deviation; however, only two analysts performed the tests in a significantly similar way and they had engineering backgrounds.
Microtubules Nonlinear Models Dynamics Investigations through the exp(−Φ(ξ))-Expansion Method Implementation
Authors: Alam Nur , Belgacem Fethi
Published: February 2016

In this research article, we present exact solutions with parameters for two nonlinear model partial differential equations(PDEs) describing microtubules, by implementing the exp(−Φ(ξ))-Expansion Method. The considered models, describing highly nonlinear dynamics of microtubules, can be reduced to nonlinear ordinary differential equations. While the first PDE describes the longitudinal model of nonlinear dynamics of microtubules, the second one describes the nonlinear model of dynamics of radial dislocations in microtubules. The acquired solutions are then graphically presented, and their distinct properties are enumerated in respect to the corresponding dynamic behavior of the microtubules they model. Various patterns, including but not limited to regular, singular kink-like, as well as periodicity exhibiting ones, are detected. Being the method of choice herein, the exp(−Φ(ξ))-Expansion Method not disappointing in the least, is found and declared highly efficient.
Alkaloids from the Sponge Stylissa carteri Present Prospective Scaffolds for the Inhibition of Human Immunodeficiency Virus 1 (HIV-1)
Authors: O’Rourke Aubrie , Kremb Stephan , Bader Theresa , Helfer Markus , Schmitt-Kopplin Philippe , Gerwick William , Brack-Werner Ruth , Voolstra Christian
Published: February 2016

The sponge Stylissa carteri is known to produce a number of secondary metabolites displaying anti-fouling, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer activity. However, the anti-viral potential of metabolites produced by S. carteri has not been extensively explored. In this study, an S. carteri extract was HPLC fractionated and a cell based assay was used to evaluate the effects of HPLC fractions on parameters of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV-1) infection and cell viability. Candidate HIV-1 inhibitory fractions were then analyzed for the presence of potential HIV-1 inhibitory compounds by mass spectrometry, leading to the identification of three previously characterized compounds, i.e., debromohymenialdisine (DBH), hymenialdisine (HD), and oroidin. Commercially available purified versions of these molecules were re-tested to assess their antiviral potential in greater detail. Specifically, DBH and HD exhibit a 30%–40% inhibition of HIV-1 at 3.1 μM and 13 μM, respectively; however, both exhibited cytotoxicity. Conversely, oroidin displayed a 50% inhibition of viral replication at 50 μM with no associated toxicity. Additional experimentation using a biochemical assay revealed that oroidin inhibited the activity of the HIV-1 Reverse Transcriptase up to 90% at 25 μM. Taken together, the chemical search space was narrowed and previously isolated compounds with an unexplored anti-viral potential were found. Our results support exploration of marine natural products for anti-viral drug discovery.
Palytoxin-Containing Aquarium Soft Corals as an Emerging Sanitary Problem
Authors: Pelin Marco , Brovedani Valentina , Sosa Silvio , Tubaro Aurelia
Published: February 2016

Palytoxin (PLTX), one the most potent marine toxins, and/or its analogs, have been identified in different marine organisms, such as Palythoa soft corals, Ostreopsis dinoflagellates, and Trichodesmium cyanobacteria. Although the main concern for human health is PLTXs entrance in the human food chain, there is growing evidence of adverse effects associated with inhalational, cutaneous, and/or ocular exposure to aquarium soft corals contaminated by PLTXs or aquaria waters. Indeed, the number of case reports describing human poisonings after handling these cnidarians is continuously increasing. In general, the signs and symptoms involve mainly the respiratory (rhinorrhea and coughing), skeletomuscular (myalgia, weakness, spasms), cardiovascular (electrocardiogram alterations), gastrointestinal (nausea), and nervous (paresthesia, ataxia, tremors) systems or apparates. The widespread phenomenon, the entity of the signs and symptoms of poisoning and the lack of control in the trade of corals as aquaria decorative elements led to consider these poisonings an emerging sanitary problem. This review summarizes literature data on human poisonings due to, or ascribed to, PLTX-containing soft corals, focusing on the different PLTX congeners identified in these organisms and their toxic potential.
Monte Carlo Modelling of Single-Crystal Diffuse Scattering from Intermetallics
Authors: Goossens Darren
Published: February 2016

Single-crystal diffuse scattering (SCDS) reveals detailed structural insights into materials. In particular, it is sensitive to two-body correlations, whereas traditional Bragg peak-based methods are sensitive to single-body correlations. This means that diffuse scattering is sensitive to ordering that persists for just a few unit cells: nanoscale order, sometimes referred to as “local structure”, which is often crucial for understanding a material and its function. Metals and alloys were early candidates for SCDS studies because of the availability of large single crystals. While great progress has been made in areas like ab initio modelling and molecular dynamics, a place remains for Monte Carlo modelling of model crystals because of its ability to model very large systems; important when correlations are relatively long (though still finite) in range. This paper briefly outlines, and gives examples of, some Monte Carlo methods appropriate for the modelling of SCDS from metallic compounds, and considers data collection as well as analysis. Even if the interest in the material is driven primarily by magnetism or transport behaviour, an understanding of the local structure can underpin such studies and give an indication of nanoscale inhomogeneity.
The Opportunity for High-Performance Biomaterials from Methane
Authors: Strong Peter , Laycock Bronwyn , Mahamud Syarifah , Jensen Paul , Lant Paul , Tyson Gene , Pratt Steven
Published: February 2016

Polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) biopolymers are widely recognised as outstanding candidates to replace conventional petroleum-derived polymers. Their mechanical properties are good and can be tailored through copolymer composition, they are biodegradable, and unlike many alternatives, they do not rely on oil-based feedstocks. Further, they are the only commodity polymer that can be synthesised intracellularly, ensuring stereoregularity and high molecular weight. However, despite offering enormous potential for many years, they are still not making a significant impact. This is broadly because commercial uptake has been limited by variable performance (inconsistent polymer properties) and high production costs of the raw polymer. Additionally, the main type of PHA produced naturally is poly-3-hydroxybutyrate (PHB), which has limited scope due to its brittle nature and low thermal stability, as well as its tendency to embrittle over time. Production cost is strongly impacted by the type of the feedstock used. In this article we consider: the production of PHAs from methanotrophs using methane as a cost-effective substrate; the use of mixed cultures, as opposed to pure strains; and strategies to generate a poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) copolymer (PHBV), which has more desirable qualities such as toughness and elasticity.
Design, Synthesis and Anticancer Evaluation of Novel Quinazoline-Sulfonamide Hybrids
Authors: Ghorab Mostafa , Alsaid Mansour , Al-Dosari Mohammed , El-Gazzar Marwa , Parvez Mohammad
Published: February 2016

By combining the structural features of quinazoline and sulfonamides, novel hybrid compounds 2–21 were synthesized using a simple and convenient method. Evaluation of these compounds against different cell lines identified compounds 7 and 17 as most active anticancer agents as they showed effectiveness on the four tested cell lines. The anticancer screening results of the tested compounds provides an encouraging framework that could lead to the development of potent new anticancer agents.
Neutrophil Migration into the Infected Uroepithelium Is Regulated by the Crosstalk between Resident and Helper Macrophages
Authors: Zec Kristina , Volke Julia , Vijitha Nirojah , Thiebes Stephanie , Gunzer Matthias , Kurts Christian , Engel Daniel
Published: February 2016

The antibacterial defense against infections depends on the cooperation between distinct phagocytes of the innate immune system, namely macrophages and neutrophils. However, the mechanisms driving this cooperation are incompletely understood. In this study we describe the crosstalk between Ly6C+ and Ly6C− macrophage-subtypes and neutrophils in the context of urinary tract infection (UTI) with uropathogenic E. coli (UPEC). Ly6C− macrophages acted as tissue resident sentinels and attracted circulating phagocytes by chemokines. Ly6C+ macrophages produced tumor necrosis factor (TNF) that licensed Ly6C− macrophages to release preformed CXCL2, which in turn caused matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-9) secretion by neutrophils to enable transepithelial migration.
Proteomics of Skeletal Muscle: Focus on Insulin Resistance and Exercise Biology
Authors: Deshmukh Atul
Published: February 2016

Skeletal muscle is the largest tissue in the human body and plays an important role in locomotion and whole body metabolism. It accounts for ~80% of insulin stimulated glucose disposal. Skeletal muscle insulin resistance, a primary feature of Type 2 diabetes, is caused by a decreased ability of muscle to respond to circulating insulin. Physical exercise improves insulin sensitivity and whole body metabolism and remains one of the most promising interventions for the prevention of Type 2 diabetes. Insulin resistance and exercise adaptations in skeletal muscle might be a cause, or consequence, of altered protein expressions profiles and/or their posttranslational modifications (PTMs). Mass spectrometry (MS)-based proteomics offer enormous promise for investigating the molecular mechanisms underlying skeletal muscle insulin resistance and exercise-induced adaptation; however, skeletal muscle proteomics are challenging. This review describes the technical limitations of skeletal muscle proteomics as well as emerging developments in proteomics workflow with respect to samples preparation, liquid chromatography (LC), MS and computational analysis. These technologies have not yet been fully exploited in the field of skeletal muscle proteomics. Future studies that involve state-of-the-art proteomics technology will broaden our understanding of exercise-induced adaptations as well as molecular pathogenesis of insulin resistance. This could lead to the identification of new therapeutic targets.
Evaluating Multi-Sensor Nighttime Earth Observation Data for Identification of Mixed vs. Residential Use in Urban Areas
Authors: Aubrecht Christoph , León Torres José
Published: February 2016

This paper introduces a novel top-down approach to geospatially identify and distinguish areas of mixed use from predominantly residential areas within urban agglomerations. Under the framework of the World Bank’s Central American Country Disaster Risk Profiles (CDRP) initiative, a disaggregated property stock exposure model has been developed as one of the key elements for disaster risk and loss estimation. Global spatial datasets are therefore used consistently to ensure wide-scale applicability and transferability. Residential and mixed use areas need to be identified in order to spatially link accordingly compiled property stock information. In the presented study, multi-sensor nighttime Earth Observation data and derivative products are evaluated as proxies to identify areas of peak human activity. Intense artificial night lighting in that context is associated with a high likelihood of commercial and/or industrial presence. Areas of low light intensity, in turn, can be considered more likely residential. Iterative intensity thresholding is tested for Cuenca City, Ecuador, in order to best match a given reference situation based on cadastral land use data. The results and findings are considered highly relevant for the CDRP initiative, but more generally underline the relevance of remote sensing data for top-down modeling approaches at a wide spatial scale.
Preface: Remote Sensing of Water Resources
Authors: Mishra Deepak , D’Sa Eurico , Mishra Sachidananda
Published: February 2016

The Special Issue (SI) on “Remote Sensing of Water Resources” presents a diverse range of papers studying remote sensing tools, methods, and models to better monitor water resources which include inland, coastal, and open ocean waters. The SI is comprised of fifteen articles on widely ranging research topics related to water bodies. This preface summarizes each article published in the SI.
A Mobile Robot Localization via Indoor Fixed Remote Surveillance Cameras
Authors: Shim Jae , Cho Young
Published: February 2016

Localization, which is a technique required by service robots to operate indoors, has been studied in various ways. Most localization techniques have the robot measure environmental information to obtain location information; however, this is a high-cost option because it uses extensive equipment and complicates robot development. If an external device is used to determine a robot’s location and transmit this information to the robot, the cost of internal equipment required for location recognition can be reduced. This will simplify robot development. Thus, this study presents an effective method to control robots by obtaining their location information using a map constructed by visual information from surveillance cameras installed indoors. With only a single image of an object, it is difficult to gauge its size due to occlusion. Therefore, we propose a localization method using several neighboring surveillance cameras. A two-dimensional map containing robot and object position information is constructed using images of the cameras. The concept of this technique is based on modeling the four edges of the projected image of the field of coverage of the camera and an image processing algorithm of the finding object’s center for enhancing the location estimation of objects of interest. We experimentally demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method by analyzing the resulting movement of a robot in response to the location information obtained from the two-dimensional map. The accuracy of the multi-camera setup was measured in advance.
Cancer Therapy by Catechins Involves Redox Cycling of Copper Ions and Generation of Reactive Oxygen Species
Authors: Farhan Mohd , Khan Husain , Oves Mohammad , Al-Harrasi Ahmed , Rehmani Nida , Arif Hussain , Hadi Sheikh , Ahmad Aamir
Published: February 2016

Catechins, the dietary phytochemicals present in green tea and other beverages, are considered to be potent inducers of apoptosis and cytotoxicity to cancer cells. While it is believed that the antioxidant properties of catechins and related dietary agents may contribute to lowering the risk of cancer induction by impeding oxidative injury to DNA, these properties cannot account for apoptosis induction and chemotherapeutic observations. Catechin (C), epicatechin (EC), epigallocatechin (EGC) and epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) are the four major constituents of green tea. In this article, using human peripheral lymphocytes and comet assay, we show that C, EC, EGC and EGCG cause cellular DNA breakage and can alternatively switch to a prooxidant action in the presence of transition metals such as copper. The cellular DNA breakage was found to be significantly enhanced in the presence of copper ions. Catechins were found to be effective in providing protection against oxidative stress induced by tertbutylhydroperoxide, as measured by oxidative DNA breakage in lymphocytes. The prooxidant action of catechins involved production of hydroxyl radicals through redox recycling of copper ions. We also determined that catechins, particularly EGCG, inhibit proliferation of breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-231 leading to a prooxidant cell death. Since it is well established that tissue, cellular and serum copper levels are considerably elevated in various malignancies, cancer cells would be more subject to redox cycling between copper ions and catechins to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) responsible for DNA breakage. Such a copper dependent prooxidant cytotoxic mechanism better explains the anticancer activity and preferential cytotoxicity of dietary phytochemicals against cancer cells.
To Infection and Beyond: The Multi-Pronged Anti-Cancer Mechanisms of Oncolytic Viruses
Authors: Cassady Kevin , Haworth Kellie , Jackson Josh , Markert James , Cripe Timothy
Published: February 2016

Over the past 1–2 decades we have witnessed a resurgence of efforts to therapeutically exploit the attributes of lytic viruses to infect and kill tumor cells while sparing normal cells. We now appreciate that the utility of viruses for treating cancer extends far beyond lytic cell death. Viruses are also capable of eliciting humoral and cellular innate and adaptive immune responses that may be directed not only at virus-infected cells but also at uninfected cancer cells. Here we review our current understanding of this bystander effect, and divide the mechanisms into lytic, cytokine, innate cellular, and adaptive phases. Knowing the key pathways and molecular players during virus infection in the context of the cancer microenvironment will be critical to devise strategies to maximize the therapeutic effects of oncolytic viroimmunotherapy.
La documentation métroaque en Gaule romaine
Authors: Turcan Robert
Published: February 2016

Elle est relativement abondante, mais disparate. L'inventaire de M.J. Vermaseren est incomplet, et certaines données restent sujettes à caution. Aucun site de sanctuaire n'est sûrement identifié. Mais on connaît à Glanum un local d'association qui offre autant d'intérêt qu'un temple à proprement parler. C'est la Gaule qui a livré le plus grand nombre d'autels tauroboliques, témoins d'un rituel lié souvent au culte impérial, mais où les femmes ont joué un rôle tout à fait notable. Ce sacrifice de substitution est solidaire du mythe d'Attis, comme le décor de plusieurs autels invite à le penser. Epigraphiquement, Attis ne compte guère, mais son iconographie est multiple et beaucoup plus fréquente que celle de Cybèle, en particulier dans les contextes et sur les monuments funéraires. A Arras, le site de la rue Baudimont peut avoir été celui d'un club d'adorateurs des dieux étrangers, mais les fosses qu'on y a relevées n'ont rien à voir avec des tauro- boles.
Le complexe métroaque d'Arras-Baudimont
Authors: Jacques Alain , Belot Eric
Published: February 2016

Les recherches archéologiques menées depuis 1984 sur le site de Baudimont I à Arras ont amené la mise en évidence d'un complexe cultuel consacré aux divinités orientales ; l'étude du matériel et des structures permet en l'état actuel des recherches de conclure à une prédominance des dévotions rendues à Cybèle et plus particulièrement à son parèdre Attis, dont a été découverte une figuration sculptée en porphyre rouge. Cet ensemble présente un caractère inédit : nous y trouvons des aménagements rituellement «fonctionnels», dans un cadre architectural de prime abord non-classique, où abondent notamment les structures en bois ; la mise en évidence de fosses en pleine terre sous plancher conformes à la description donnée par Prudence des installations où se déroule le taurobole métroaque constitue en particulier une découverte des plus exceptionnelles. Le matériel mis au jour montre que le développement des cultes orientaux s'est effectué, à Arras comme sur d'autres sites sanctuariaux, en «symbiose» avec la vieille religiosité de type gallo- romain.
Le mithriacisme romain en Gaule septentrionale : état des questions fin 1990
Authors: Deman Albert
Published: February 2016

The article includes :

1. a brief bibliography of Roman Mithriacism in the Empire at large and in northern Gaul in particular ;

2. an attempt at a brief synthesis of the major interpretations of Roman Mithriacism, as a basis of reflection to whoever intends to situate within the appropriate context the archaeological and epigraphical findigs connected to Mithra collected in northern Gaul ;

3. an archaeological catalogue and an epigraphical one of Mithra in the north of Gaul designed as complements to M.J. Vermaseren's collection (2 volumes, The Hague, 1956-1960).

«Northern Gaul» is meant as outside the French territory (However, an original interpretation is proposed for a monument of the mithraeum at Septeuil (Yvelines department).
Les mithraea de Septeuil et de Bordeaux
Authors: Gaidon-Bunuel Marie-Agnès
Published: February 2016

De mithraea te Septeuil (Yvelines 1985) en te Bordeaux (Gironde, 1987) zijn de nieuwste ontdekkingen op dit gebied in transalpijns Gallië. Zij liggen allé twee buiten een economisch centrum : waarschijnlijk in een vicus te Septeuil en aan de rand van de stad te Burdigala. Zij vertonen aile kenmerken van dit soort heiligdom : drieledige struktuur van de ruimte en ligging onder de grond, geheel in Bordeaux, half vitgegra- ven in Septeuil. Ze zijn niet even groot : in Septeuil is het spalaeum klein in vergelijking met Bordeaux. Het bouwmateriaal is verschillend : in Septeuil gebruikte men recuperatiemateriaal voor een eenvoudige inrichting terwijl het methraeum te Bordeaux met zorg afgewerkt is. In Septeuil gaat het om een laat heiligdom uit de tweede helft van de IVe eeuw dat niet lang gebruikt werd, terwijl dat van Bordeaux gebouwd werd in het begin van de IIIe eeuw en blijft bestaan tot in de tweede helft van de IVe eeuw.
La fiscalité d'Etat dans l'Artois et la Flandre Wallonne avant 1569
Authors: Derville Alain
Published: February 2016

La fiscalité urbaine, directe (taille), puis indirecte (assises), a précédé celle des princes. Les villes ont fourni à leurs seigneurs des prêts, puis des redevances pour l'octroi de leurs assises, puis une garantie pour l'émission des rentes à vie. La fiscalité directe royale, inaugurée par Philippe IV en 1295-1297, ne s'est imposée définitivement qu'en 1360, à l'occasion de la rançon du roi. Celle des princes, longtemps barrée par l'opposition du roi, n'a pu s'installer qu'avec les ducs Valois. L'impôt direct (aide) devint peu à peu annuel et, surtout à partir de Charles le Téméraire, plus lourd. Il atteignit sa perfection avec les vingtièmes flamands et les centièmes artésiens du duc d'Albe (1569)-
Victoire de Barfleur ou défaite de La Hougue : 29 mai-2 juin 1692
Authors: Villiers Patrick
Published: February 2016

Le renouveau de l'histoire maritime amène à relire l'histoire bataille. On confond trop souvent Barfleur et La Hougue. La première est une victoire spectaculaire de la marine de Louis XIV. Le 29 mai 1692, 44 vaisseaux français tinrent en échec plus de cent vaisseaux anglo-hollandais. Les jours suivants virent les Anglo-Hollandais poursuivre et détruire quatorze de ces vaisseaux qui, leur mâture trop endommagée, avaient été contraints de s'échouer sur les plages du Cotentin plutôt que de se rendre. Comment expliquer la victoire de la jeune marine française ? Cette marine est-elle l'œuvre de Colbert ou de son fils Seignelay ? N'a-t-on pas exagéré les conséquences de la destruction des vaisseaux à La Hougue ?
Le Nord et le Pas-de-Calais face à la création de l'armée nationale (1791 - an II)
Authors: Crépin Annie
Published: February 2016

In 1791 stonden het Noorden en de Pas-de-Calais gunstig tegen de lichtin- gen, ook nog maar minder in 1792, zij werden weigerachtig toen het opeisin- gen betrof zoals vanaf 1793.

De bevolking is dan wel in staat soms om zelf in opstand te komen tegen de overweldiger of te reageren op een oproep die van korte duur is, de gedachte dat zo elke soldaat een burger blijft, elke burger ook soldaat moet worden, de grondslag van het nationale léger en van een verplichte legerdienst, stoot op een groeiende vijandschap om vêle redenen die zowel met het korte — als lange termijn denken te maken hebben en daarbij komt het wantrouwen van de centraliserende staat, naast de belang van de ekonomische en sociale struc- tuur die meer meespeelt dan de politieke houding in verband met de Revolutie.
Les problèmes des évacuations sanitaires dans l'Armée du Nord de 1792 à 1794
Authors: Gérard Alain
Published: February 2016

Al is er niet veel archiefmateriaal over, dan kan men toch een vrij precies heeld ophangen van de werking van de gezondheidsdienst van het léger van het Noorden in het begin van de revolutionaire période.

Het ophalen en evacueren van gewonden, wat niet eens voorzien was in het règlement, gebeurt in beklagenswaardige omstandigheden. Men komt er maar niet toe ambulances in te zetten. De hospitalen die door de hervorming van Colombier in 1788 gedesorganiseerd waren, worden opnieuw opgericht, als sédentaire instellingen en als veldhospitalen bij de légers. Er zijn grote lacunes in het functioneren.

De algemene indruk is er een van grote onzekerheid die de moeilijkheden tijdens het keizerrijk aankondigt.
Use of Amniotic Microparticles Coated with Fibroblasts Overexpressing SDF-1a to Create an Environment Conducive to Neovascularization for Repair of Full-Thickness Skin Defects
Authors: Zhang Yun-Qing , Ji Shi-Zhao , Fang He , Zheng Yong-Jun , Luo Peng-Fei , Wu Hai-Bin , Wu Min-Juan , Wang Zhi-Hong , Xiao Shi-Chu , Xia Zhao-Fan
Published: February 2016

As angiogenesis and vasculogenesis involve the complex network structures of various types of cells, extracellular matrix components, and cytokines, it is still difficult to exactly mimic the microenvironment of vascularization in vivo. In our study, we constructed a complex containing highly proliferative fibroblasts that can secrete extracellular matrix components and growth factors to chemotaxize endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) in an attempt to create an ideal microenvironment for quick vascularization. Amniotic membrane microparticles (mAM) rich in type IV collagen (COL IV) and laminin (LN) were prepared, and human dermal fibroblasts (HDF) were infected with lentivirus (LV) of overexpression of SDF-1α to construct SDF-1αovHDF. Using the rotary cell culture system (RCCS), mAM was loaded with HDF or SDF-1αovHDF to construct HDF-mAM and SDF-1αovHDF-mAM complexes. The complexes were able to secrete various types of active peptides (IL-6, IL-8, TGF-β, and bFGF) during in vitro culture. In addition, SDF-1αovHDF-mAM complex highly expressed SDF-1α. Transwell assay showed SDF-1αovHDF-mAM complex had an apparent chemotactic effect on EPCs. Transplantation of complexes onto full-thickness skin defects of C57BL mice further demonstrated that SDF-1α expression and the number of peripheral EPCs at days 3, 5, and 7 in the SDF-1αovHDF-mAM group were significantly higher than that in other groups ( p < 0.01). The local microvascular density at day 10 of transplantation showed that the microvascular density in the SDF-1αovHDF-mAM group was significantly higher than that in HDF-mAM group ( p < 0.01). In conclusion, HDF-mAM had a strong proliferative activity and could be used to create a sound microenvironment for quick vascularization by secreting multiple cytokines and extracellular matrix components. Overexpression of SDF-1α could chemotaxize EPCs to reach local wounds, thus further accelerating angiogenesis in the transplant site. The technique described may prove to be a new model for accelerating vascularization of tissue and organ transplants and chronic ischemic wounds.
Xenogeneic Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Improve Wound Healing and Modulate the Immune Response in an Extensive Burn Model
Authors: Caliari-Oliveira Carolina , Yaochite Juliana Navarro Ueda , Ramalho Leandra Náira Zambelli , Palma Patrícia Vianna Bonini , Carlos Daniela , De Queiróz Cunha Fernando , De Souza Daurea Abadia , Frade Marco Andrey Cipriani , Covas Dimas Tadeu , Malmegrim Kelen Cristina Ribeiro , Oliveira Maria Carolina , César Voltarelli Julio
Published: February 2016

Major skin burns are difficult to treat. Patients often require special care and long-term hospitalization. Besides specific complications associated with the wounds themselves, there may be impairment of the immune system and of other organs. Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are a recent therapeutic alternative to treat burns, mainly aiming to accelerate the healing process. Several MSC properties favor their use as therapeutic approach, as they promote angiogenesis, stimulate regeneration, and enhance the immunoregulatory function. Moreover, since patients with extensive burns require urgent treatment and because the expansion of autologous MSCs is a time-consuming process, in this present study we chose to evaluate the therapeutic potential of xenogeneic MSCs in the treatment of severe burns in rats. MSCs were isolated from mouse bone marrow, expanded in vitro, and intradermally injected in the periphery of burn wounds. MSC-treated rats presented higher survival rates (76.19%) than control animals treated with PBS (60.86%, p < 0.05). In addition, 60 days after the thermal injury, the MSC-treated group showed larger proportion of healed areas within the burn wounds (90.81 ± 5.05%) than the PBS-treated group (76.11 ± 3.46%, p = 0.03). We also observed that CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in spleens and in damaged skin, as well as the percentage of neutrophils in the burned area, were modulated by MSC treatment. Plasma cytokine (TGF-β, IL-10, IL-6, and CINC-1) levels were also altered in the MSC-treated rats, when compared to controls. Number of injected GFP+ MSCs progressively decreased over time, and 60 days after injection, few MSCs were still detected in the skin of treated animals. This study demonstrates the therapeutic effectiveness of intradermal application of MSCs in a rat model of deep burns, providing basis for future regenerative therapies in patients suffering from deep burn injuries.