bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kelp forest habitat restoration has the potential to increase sea urchin gonad biomass
Authors: Claisse Jeremy T. , Williams Jonathan P. , Ford Tom , Pondella Daniel J. , Meux Brian , Protopapadakis Lia
Published: March 2013

When taking an ecosystem‐based approach to marine resource management, managers may be able to implement a combination of management tools in order to mitigate the socioeconomic impacts of implementing any one in isolation, while providing greater overall ecological benefits. The harvest of Strongylocentrotus franciscanus (red sea urchin) for their gonads is one of the most important commercial fisheries in California. However, in some locations, high densities of the unfished Strongylocentrotus purpuratus (purple sea urchin) can clear expanses of kelp forest resulting in “urchin barrens.” The lack of macroalgal food resources can result in reduced gonad production, making S. franciscanus within barrens less valuable to a fishery. We investigated the potential of kelp forest habitat restoration, which may be achievable primarily by removing S. purpuratus from barrens, to positively impact the local S. franciscanus fishery and offset the losses in fishing grounds within recently established MPAs in our study area. Generalized linear modeling of the relationship between gonad weight and length (test diameter) demonstrated clear size‐specific differences in gonad production between urchins collected in barrens and kelp forests. These relationships varied over time, with the maximum observed mean gonad biomass at length being 484% greater in kelp forest than barren habitat for S. franciscanus just above the legal size limit. The variability in S. franciscanus density (5.2 times greater in urchin barrens), size structure (mean test diameters were approximately 50% greater in kelp forest) and gonad production were then incorporated using Monte Carlo simulations. Results indicated that restoration could potentially result in an 864% increase in S. franciscanus gonad biomass available to the fishery, and a 132% increase in reproductive potential per unit area of urchin barren restored to kelp forest. If all 36 ha of urchin barren habitat mapped outside of the new MPAs in the study area were restored, the increase in gonad biomass available to the fishery could potentially offset 52% of which is now protected within the 109 ha of rocky reef in the new MPAs. Kelp restoration has the potential to play a valuable role as one of many integrated tools in an ecosystem‐based management approach.
Advanced criticality assessment method for sewer pipeline assets
Authors: Syachrani S. , Jeong H. D. , Chung C. S.
Published: March 2013

For effective management of water and wastewater infrastructure, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (US-EPA) has long emphasized the significant role of risk in prioritizing and optimizing asset management decisions. High risk assets are defined as assets with a high probability of failure (e.g. soon to fail, old, poor condition) and high consequences of failure (e.g. environmental impact, high expense, safety concerns, social disruption). In practice, the consequences of failure are often estimated by experts through a Delphi method. However, the estimation of the probability of failure has been challenging as it requires the thorough analysis of the historical condition assessment data, repair and replacement records, and other factors influencing the deterioration of the asset. The most common predictor in estimating the probability of failure is calendar age. However, a simple reliance on calendar age as a basis for estimating the asset's deterioration pattern completely ignores the different aging characteristics influenced by various operational and environmental conditions. This paper introduces a new approach of using ‘real age’ in estimating the probability of failure. Unlike the traditional calendar age method, the real age represents the adjusted age based on the unique operational and environmental conditions of the asset. Depending on the individual deterioration pattern, the real age could be higher or lower than its calendar age. Using the concept of real age, the probability of failure of an asset can be more accurately estimated.
Analysis of greenhouse gas emissions from 10 biogas plants within the agricultural sector
Authors: Liebetrau J. , Reinelt T. , Clemens J. , Hafermann C. , Friehe J. , Weiland P.
Published: March 2013

With the increasing number of biogas plants in Germany the necessity for an exact determination of the actual effect on the greenhouse gas emissions related to the energy production gains importance. Hitherto the life cycle assessments have been based on estimations of emissions of biogas plants. The lack of actual emission evaluations has been addressed within a project from which the selected results are presented here. The data presented here have been obtained during a survey in which 10 biogas plants were analysed within two measurement periods each. As the major methane emission sources the open storage of digestates ranging from 0.22 to 11.2% of the methane utilized and the exhaust of the co-generation units ranging from 0.40 to 3.28% have been identified. Relevant ammonia emissions have been detected from the open digestate storage. The main source of nitrous oxide emissions was the co-generation unit. Regarding the potential of measures to reduce emissions it is highly recommended to focus on the digestate storage and the exhaust of the co-generation.
Evaluation of clogging in planted and unplanted horizontal subsurface flow constructed wetlands: solids accumulation and hydraulic conductivity reduction
Authors: De Paoli André Cordeiro , von Sperling Marcos
Published: March 2013

This study aimed to evaluate the behaviour of two horizontal subsurface flow constructed wetland units regarding solids build up and clogging of the filter medium. In order to analyse the causes of this process, which is considered the major operational problem of constructed wetlands, studies were carried out to characterize accumulated solids and hydraulic conductivity at specific points of the beds of two wetlands (planted with Typha latifolia and unplanted units) receiving effluent from an upflow anaerobic sludge blanket reactor treating sanitary sewage (population equivalent of 50 inhabitants each unit). The experiments were performed after the units were operating for 2 years and 4 months. This study presents comparative results related to the quantification and characterization of accumulated solids and hydraulic conductivity along the length and width of the filter beds. Approximately 80% of the solids found were inorganic (fixed). Near the inlet end, the rate interstitial solids/attached solids was 5.0, while in the outlet end it was reduced to 1.5. Hydraulic conductivity was lower near the inlet of the units (as expected) and, by comparing the planted wetland with the unplanted, the hydraulic conductivity was lower in the former, resulting in larger undesired surface flow.
Detection of trace cobalt ions in in vivo plant cells using a voltammetric interlocking system
Authors: Ly Suw Young , Shin Myoung Ho , Lee Chang Hyun , Lee Jin Hui , Sook Kim Mi , Ji Sang Woo , Park Dong won
Published: March 2013

This experiment was conducted to establish a system for detecting trace cobalt ions in water and plant tissues using a voltammetric in vivo sensor. Cyclic and stripping voltammetry was devised from hand-made, macro-type implantable three-electrode systems. The results reached micro and nano working ranges at 100 sec accumulation time. The statistical detection limit (S/N) was attained at 6.0 ng L–1. For the in vivo application, direct assay of cobalt ions was carried out in Eichhornia crassipes (EC) deep tissue in real time with a preconcentration time of 100 s. Interfaced techniques can be interlocked with other control systems.
Spatial distribution characteristics of polycyclic musks as a chemical marker in river water and sediment compared with other typical pollutants
Authors: Mu Li , Wen Jianping
Published: March 2013

Polycyclic musks (PMs), widely used in the cosmetic and perfume industries, are gaining attention as a new type of persistent organic pollutant (POP). The related contamination in developing countries, such as China, where the use of these compounds is increasing, needs to be closely monitored. This work systematically studied the distribution profile (water-suspended particulate-sediment-porewater) of PMs in Haihe River, China. The average concentrations of PMs were comparable to those of the traditional POPs. The typical PMs (galaxolide and tonalide) exhibited different environmental behaviors in various media. Water played a more significant role than suspended particulates in the transport of pollutants. Importantly, this work explored the relationships among PMs, surfactant, phosphorus, carbon, salinity, heavy metals and pesticides. Unlike previous reports focusing on the relationships among PMs, wastewater discharge and population distribution, this work innovatively studied the distribution characteristics of pollutants by principal components analysis. The results suggest that PMs can be used as a chemical marker indicating domestic contamination.
Comparative study on electro-microfiltration (EMF) of water containing different carbon nanotubes (CNTs)
Authors: Weng Yu-Hsiang , Wu Hsin-Chieh , Li Kung-Cheh
Published: March 2013

Disposal and penetration of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) into the environment have raised increasing concerns over the years. In this study, a laboratory scale electro-microfiltration (EMF) was used to treat water containing single wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) and multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). The goal was to examine and compare the performance during EMF of SWCNT and MWCNT. The results showed that the initial flux was increased as the applied electrical voltage increased. At an applied pressure of 49 kPa, the final flux was comparable to pure water flux when the applied electrical field strength was greater than the critical electrical field strength (Ecritical). In addition, dissolved organic carbon (DOC) removal efficiency increased as the electrical voltage increased. Due to high convective transport of organic matter toward the membrane at 98 kPa, a decrease in DOC removal efficiency with increasing electrical field strength was observed. Overall, the fluxes and DOC removal efficiencies for EMF of SWCNT and MWCNT were not significantly different with a 95% confidence.
Removal of trace organic contaminants by nitrifying activated sludge and whole-cell and crude enzyme extract of Trametes versicolor
Authors: Yang Shufan , Hai Faisal I. , Nghiem Long D. , Roddick Felicity , Price William E.
Published: March 2013

The resistance of certain anthropogenic trace organic contaminants (TrOCs) to conventional wastewater treatment and their potential adverse effects on human and ecological health raise significant concerns and have prompted research on their bioremediation by white-rot fungi. This study compared the removal efficiencies of four widespread TrOCs: carbamazepine (CBZ), sulfamethoxazole (SMX), bisphenol A (BPA) and diclofenac (DCF), by nitrifying activated sludge as well as whole-cell and extracellular enzyme (laccase) extract of the white-rot fungus Trametes versicolor. Fungal whole-cell culture removed only BPA and DCF but with high efficiencies (>90%) while the mixed nitrifying culture removed all compounds, although by levels of only 5–40%. Rapid initial sorption on fungal mycelium (44 ± 13% for DCF) was observed; however, biodegradation governed the overall removal. Performance comparison between fungal whole-cell and extracellular extract revealed that, unlike BPA, a catalytic pathway independent of extracellular laccase was responsible for DCF removal. Addition of mediator (1-hydroxybenzotriazole) to extracellular extract improved the removal of SMX which bears an electron donor group, but not that of the resistant compound CBZ.
Simultaneous immobilization of ammonium and phosphate from aqueous solution using zeolites synthesized from fly ashes
Authors: Ji X. D. , Zhang M. L. , Ke Y. Y. , Song Y. C.
Published: March 2013

Zeolites were synthesized from silica-rich (SF-Z) and calcium-rich (CF-Z) fly ashes, respectively, and their performance in immobilizing ammonium and phosphate was investigated through batch experiments. The cation exchange capacity and phosphate immobilization capacity of SF-Z were identified as 2.79 meq/g and 12.97 mg/g while those of CF-Z were 0.69 meq/g and 87.41 mg/g, respectively. The mixture of SF-Z and CF-Z (MSC-Z) immobilized simultaneously ammonium and phosphate, and the ratio of SF-Z to CF-Z depended on the ammonium and phosphate concentrations in wastewater and the discharge standard. The adsorption processes of ammonium and phosphate on MSC-Z followed Ho's pseudo-second-order model and the intra-particle diffusion was a rate-controlling step. The Langmuir model produced better suitability to the equilibrium data. The thermodynamic study revealed that the adsorption of both ammonium and phosphate on MSC-Z was an endothermic reaction. After treatment by MSC-Z, the ammonium and phosphate concentrations in wastewater from a sewage treatment plant decreased from 7.45 and 1.42 mg/L to 2.06 and 0.51 mg/L, respectively, and met Surface Water Environment Quality Standard in China δ. These results show that the immobilization of ammonium and phosphate in wastewater can be achieved by the combination of zeolites synthesized from silica-rich and calcium-rich ﬂy ashes.
Treatment of waste thermal waters by ozonation and nanofiltraton
Authors: Kiss Z. L. , Szép A. , Kertész S. , Hodúr C. , László Z.
Published: March 2013

After their use for heating, e.g. in greenhouses, waste thermal waters may cause environmental problems due to their high contents of ions, and in some cases organic matter (associated with an oxygen demand) or toxic compounds. The aims of this work were to decrease the high organic content of waste thermal water by a combination of ozone treatment and membrane separation, and to investigate the accompanying membrane fouling. The results demonstrated that the chemical oxygen demand and the total organic content can be effectively decreased by a combination of ozone pretreatment and membrane filtration. Ozone treatment is more effective for phenol elimination than nanofiltration alone: with a combination of the two processes, 100% elimination efficiency can be achieved. The fouling index b proved to correlate well with the fouling and polarization layer resistances.
On the edge monophonic number of a graph
Authors: John J. , Sudhahar Arul
Published: March 2013

For a connected graph G = (V, E), an edge monophonic set of G is a set M?
V(G) such that every edge of G is contained in a monophonic path joining some
pair of vertices in M. The edge monophonic number m1 (G) of G is the minimum
order of its edge monophonic sets and any edge monophonic set of order m1 (G)
is a minimum edge monophonic set of G. Connected graphs of order p with edge
monophonic number p are characterized. Necessary condition for edge
monophonic number to be p ? 1 is given. It is shown that for every two
integers a and b such that 2 ? a ? b, there exists a connected graph G with
m(G) = a and m1 (G) = b, where m(G) is the monophonic number of G.
Generalized weighted composition operators from Bloch spaces into Bers-type spaces
Authors: Zhu Xiangling
Published: March 2013

New criteria for the boundedness and the compactness of the generalized
weighted composition operators from Bloch spaces into Bers-type spaces are
given in this paper.
Sharp bounds on Zagreb indices of cacti with k pendant vertices
Authors: Li Shuchao , Yang Huangxu , Zhao Qin
Published: March 2013

For a (molecular) graph, the first Zagreb index M1 is equal to the sum of
squares of its vertex degrees, and the second Zagreb index M2 is equal to the
sum of products of degrees of pairs of adjacent vertices. A connected graph G
is a cactus if any two of its cycles have at most one common vertex. In this
paper, we investigate the first and the second Zagreb indices of cacti with k
pendant vertices. We determine sharp bounds for M1 -, M2 -values of n-vertex
cacti with k pendant vertices. As a consequence, we determine the n-vertex
cacti with maximal Zagreb indices and we also determine the cactus with a
perfect matching having maximal Zagreb indices.
More on Zagreb coindices of graphs
Authors: Hua Hongbo , Ashrafi Ali , Zhang Libing
Published: March 2013

For a nontrivial graph G, its first and second Zagreb coindices are defined,
respectively, as M1(G)= ?uv?E(G)(dG (u)+ dG (v)) and M2(G) = ?uv?E dG (u)dG(v),
where dG (x) is the degree of vertex x in G. In this paper,
we explore further properties of Zagreb coindices. First, we investigate
Zagreb coindices of two classes of composite graphs, namely, Mycielski graph
and edge corona, and we present explicit formulas for Zagreb coindices of
these two composite graphs. Then we we give two estimations on Zagreb
coindices of graphs in terms of the number of pendent vertices and
Merrifield-Simmons index, respectively. Finally, we give several
Nordhaus-Gaddum type bounds for the first Zagreb coindex.
Some generalized equalities for the q-gamma function
Authors: Ege İnci , Yýldýrým Emrah
Published: March 2013

The q-analogue of the gamma function is defined by ?q (x) for x > 0, 0 < q <
1. In this work the neutrix and neutrix limit are used to obtain some
equalities of the q-gamma function for all real values of x.
Vertex-removal in α-domination
Authors: Rad Nader , Volkmann Lutz
Published: March 2013

Let G = (V, E) be any graph without isolated vertices. For some ?
with 0 < ? ? 1 and a dominating set S of G, we say that S is an ?-dominating
set if for any v ? V ? S, |N(v) ? S| ? ?|N(v)|. The cardinality of a smallest
?-dominating set of G is called the ?-domination number of G and is denoted
by ?? (G). In this paper, we study the effect of vertex removal on
?-domination.
On generalized difference ideal convergence in random 2-normed spaces
Authors: Hazarika Bipan
Published: March 2013

An ideal I is a family of subsets of positive integers N which is closed
under taking finite unions and subsets of its elements. In [17], Kostyrko et.
al introduced the concept of ideal convergence as a sequence (xk ) of real
numbers is said to be I-convergent to a real number ?, if for each ? > 0 the
set {k ? N : |xk ? ?| ? ?} belongs to I. In [28], Mursaleen and Alotaibi
introduced the concept of I-convergence of sequences in random 2-normed
spaces. In this paper, we define and study the notion of ?n -ideal
convergence and ?n -ideal Cauchy sequences in random 2-normed spaces, and
prove some interesting theorems.
Land use planning for sustainable development of peri-urban zones
Authors: Zivanovic-Miljkovic Jelena , Crncevic Tijana , Maric Igor
Published: March 2013

Taking into consideration that growth of urban population has impacts on land
use and that managing urban population change is one of the most important
contemporary challenges, this paper deals with the sustainable development of
peri-urban zones which represent important an environment where employment
opportunities are developed and resources exploited (particularly
agricultural resources) and environment where important recreational and
leisure activities could be pursued. Within the review of current concepts
and planning practices, the concepts of multifunctional agriculture and
multifunctional landscapes in peri-urban zones are pointed out, as well as EU
Developing Periurban Projects. The paper particularly focuses on the current
situation in Serbia, where there is no specific legal basis for the planning
of peri-urban areas, although there are positive examples of strategies,
regulations and planning documents which treat agriculture and greenery in
peri-urban zones in a sustainable manner.
Architects’ perspective on sustainability in Serbia: Establishing key topics
Authors: Brkovic Marta , Milosevic Predrag
Published: March 2013

This article deals with the problem of sustainable architecture and planning
in Serbia. It starts by describing how environmental, social and economic
global problems are multilayered, complex and interrelated. It continues by
tackling the issues of sustainable development on a local level, highlighting
architects? role in building a more resilient future. It proposes a set of
key social, environmental and economic sustainability topics and indicators
arising from the contemporary international research. The research results
are expected to act as an invitation and stimuli for architects and planners,
especially in Serbia, to reconsider their practice and start to observe their
work through a prism of sustainable development.
Resistance-Nodulation-Division Multidrug Efflux Pumps in Gram-Negative Bacteria: Role in Virulence
Authors: Fernando Dinesh , Kumar Ayush
Published: March 2013

Resistance-Nodulation-Division (RND) efflux pumps are one of the most important determinants of multidrug resistance (MDR) in Gram-negative bacteria. With an ever increasing number of Gram-negative clinical isolates exhibiting MDR phenotypes as a result of the activity of RND pumps, it is clear that the design of novel effective clinical strategies against such pathogens must be grounded in a better understanding of these pumps, including their physiological roles. To this end, recent evidence suggests that RND pumps play an important role in the virulence of Gram-negative pathogens. In this review, we discuss the important role RND efflux pumps play in different facets of virulence including colonization, evasion of host defense mechanisms, and biofilm formation. These studies provide key insights that may ultimately be applied towards strategies used in the design of effective therapeutics against MDR Gram negative bacterial pathogens.
Front-End Light Source for aWaveform-Controlled High-Contrast Few-Cycle Laser System for High-Repetition Rate Relativistic Optics
Authors: Ricci Aurélien , Jullien Aurélie , Rousseau Jean-Philippe , Lopez-Martens Rodrigo
Published: March 2013

We present the current development of an injector for a high-contrast, ultrashort laser system devoted to relativistic laser-plasma interaction in the few-cycle regime. The front-end is based on CEP-stabilized Ti:Sa CPA followed by XPW filter designed at the mJ level for temporal cleaning and shortening. Accurate characterization highlights the fidelity of the proposed injector. Measured CEP drift is 170 mrad rms.
A Study on Graphene—Metal Contact
Authors: Liu Wenjun , Wei Jun , Sun Xiaowei , Yu Hongyu
Published: March 2013

The contact resistance between graphene and metal electrodes is crucial for the achievement of high-performance graphene devices. In this study, we review our recent study on the graphene–metal contact characteristics from the following viewpoints: (1) metal preparation method; (2) asymmetric conductance; (3) annealing effect; (4) interfaces impact.
Substrate Effect on Catalytic Loop and Global Dynamics of Triosephosphate Isomerase
Authors: Kurkcuoglu Zeynep , Doruker Pemra
Published: March 2013

The opening/closure of the catalytic loop 6 over the active site in apo triosephosphate isomerase (TIM) has been previously shown to be driven by the global motions of the enzyme, specifically the counter-clockwise rotation of the subunits. In this work, the effect of the substrate dihydroxyacetone phosphate (DHAP) on TIM dynamics is assessed using two apo and two DHAP-bound molecular dynamics (MD) trajectories (each 60 ns long). Multiple events of catalytic loop opening/closure take place during 60 ns runs for both apo TIM and its DHAP-complex. However, counter-clockwise rotation observed in apo TIM is suppressed and bending-type motions are linked to loop dynamics in the presence of DHAP. Bound DHAP molecules also reduce the overall mobility of the enzyme and change the pattern of orientational cross-correlations, mostly those within each subunit. The fluctuations of pseudodihedral angles of the loop 6 residues are enhanced towards the C-terminus, when DHAP is bound at the active site.
CentroidAlign-Web: A Fast and Accurate Multiple Aligner for Long Non-Coding RNAs
Authors: Yonemoto Haruka , Asai Kiyoshi , Hamada Michiaki
Published: March 2013

Due to the recent discovery of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), multiple sequence alignment (MSA) of those long RNA sequences is becoming increasingly important for classifying and determining the functional motifs in RNAs. However, not only primary (nucleotide) sequences, but also secondary structures of ncRNAs are closely related to their function and are conserved evolutionarily. Hence, information about secondary structures should be considered in the sequence alignment of ncRNAs. Yet, in general, a huge computational time is required in order to compute MSAs, taking secondary structure information into account. In this paper, we describe a fast and accurate web server, called CentroidAlign-Web, which can handle long RNA sequences. The web server also appropriately incorporates information about known secondary structures into MSAs. Computational experiments indicate that our web server is fast and accurate enough to handle long RNA sequences. CentroidAlign-Web is freely available from http://centroidalign.ncrna.org/.
Combinatorial Analysis of Secretory Immunoglobulin A (sIgA) Expression in Plants
Authors: Juarez Paloma , Huet-Trujillo Estefania , Sarrion-Perdigones Alejandro , Falconi Erica , Granell Antonio , Orzaez Diego
Published: March 2013

Delivery of secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA) to mucosal surfaces as a passive immunotherapy agent is a promising strategy to prevent infectious diseases. Recombinant sIgA production in plants requires the co-expression of four transcriptional units encoding the light chain (LC), heavy chain (HC), joining chain (JC) and secretory component (SC). As a way to optimize sIgA production in plants, we tested the combinatorial expression of 16 versions of a human sIgA against the VP8* rotavirus antigen in Nicotiana benthamiana, using the recently developed GoldenBraid multigene assembly system. Each sIgA version was obtained by combining one of the two types of HC (α1 and α2) with one of the two LC types (k and λ) and linking or not a KDEL peptide to the HC and/or SC. From the analysis of the anti-VP8* activity, it was concluded that those sIgA versions carrying HCα1 and LCλ provided the highest yields. Moreover, ER retention significantly increased antibody production, particularly when the KDEL signal was linked to the SC. Maximum expression levels of 32.5 μg IgA/g fresh weight (FW) were obtained in the best performing combination, with an estimated 33% of it in the form of a secretory complex.
Lipoprotein Subfractions in Metabolic Syndrome and Obesity: Clinical Significance and Therapeutic Approaches
Authors: Nikolic Dragana , Katsiki Niki , Montalto Giuseppe , Isenovic Esma , Mikhailidis Dimitri , Rizzo Manfredi
Published: March 2013

Small, dense low density lipoprotein (sdLDL) represents an emerging cardiovascular risk factor, since these particles can be associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD) independently of established risk factors, including plasma lipids. Obese subjects frequently have atherogenic dyslipidaemia, including elevated sdLDL levels, in addition to elevated triglycerides (TG), very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) and apolipoprotein-B, as well as decreased high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels. Obesity-related co-morbidities, such as metabolic syndrome (MetS) are also characterized by dyslipidaemia. Therefore, agents that favourably modulate LDL subclasses may be of clinical value in these subjects. Statins are the lipid-lowering drug of choice. Also, anti-obesity and lipid lowering drugs other than statins could be useful in these patients. However, the effects of anti-obesity drugs on CVD risk factors remain unclear. We review the clinical significance of sdLDL in being overweight and obesity, as well as the efficacy of anti-obesity drugs on LDL subfractions in these individuals; a short comment on HDL subclasses is also included. Our literature search was based on PubMed and Scopus listings. Further research is required to fully explore both the significance of sdLDL and the efficacy of anti-obesity drugs on LDL subfractions in being overweight, obesity and MetS. Improving the lipoprotein profile in these patients may represent an efficient approach for reducing cardiovascular risk.
Cell Penetration Properties of a Highly Efficient Mini Maurocalcine Peptide
Authors: Tisseyre Céline , Bahembera Eloi , Dardevet Lucie , Sabatier Jean-Marc , Ronjat Michel , De Waard Michel
Published: March 2013

Maurocalcine is a highly potent cell-penetrating peptide isolated from the Tunisian scorpion Maurus palmatus. Many cell-penetrating peptide analogues have been derived from the full-length maurocalcine by internal cysteine substitutions and sequence truncation. Herein we have further characterized the cell-penetrating properties of one such peptide, MCaUF1-9, whose sequence matches that of the hydrophobic face of maurocalcine. This peptide shows very favorable cell-penetration efficacy compared to Tat, penetratin or polyarginine. The peptide appears so specialized in cell penetration that it seems hard to improve by site directed mutagenesis. A comparative analysis of the efficacies of similar peptides isolated from other toxin members of the same family leads to the identification of hadrucalcin’s hydrophobic face as an even better CPP. Protonation of the histidine residue at position 6 renders the cell penetration of MCaUF1-9 pH-sensitive. Greater cell penetration at acidic pH suggests that MCaUF1-9 can be used to specifically target cancer cells in vivo where tumor masses grow in more acidic environments.
Polar Expansion Dynamics in the Plant Kingdom: A Diverse and Multifunctional Journey on the Path to Pollen Tubes
Authors: Domozych David , Fujimoto Chelsea , LaRue Therese
Published: March 2013

Polar expansion is a widespread phenomenon in plants spanning all taxonomic groups from the Charophycean Green Algae to pollen tubes in Angiosperms and Gymnosperms. Current data strongly suggests that many common features are shared amongst cells displaying polar growth mechanics including changes to the structural features of localized regions of the cell wall, mobilization of targeted secretion mechanisms, employment of the actin cytoskeleton for directing secretion and in many cases, endocytosis and coordinated interaction of multiple signal transduction mechanisms prompted by external biotic and abiotic cues. The products of polar expansion perform diverse functions including delivery of male gametes to the egg, absorption, anchorage, adhesion and photo-absorption efficacy. A comparative analysis of polar expansion dynamics is provided with special emphasis on those found in early divergent plants.
Design and Application of a Field Sensing System for Ground Anchors in Slopes
Authors: Choi Se , Lee Jihoon , Kim Jong , Park Hyo
Published: March 2013

In a ground anchor system, cables or tendons connected to a bearing plate are used for stabilization of slopes. Then, the stability of a slope is dependent on maintaining the tension levels in the cables. So far, no research on a strain-based field sensing system for ground anchors has been reported. Therefore, in this study, a practical monitoring system for long-term sensing of tension levels in tendons for anchor-reinforced slopes is proposed. The system for anchor-reinforced slopes is composed of: (1) load cells based on vibrating wire strain gauges (VWSGs), (2) wireless sensor nodes which receive and process the signals from load cells and then transmit the result to a master node through local area communication, (3) master nodes which transmit the data sent from sensor nodes to the server through mobile communication, and (4) a server located at the base station. The system was applied to field sensing of ground anchors in the 62 m-long and 26 m-high slope at the side of the highway. Based on the long-term monitoring, the safety of the anchor-reinforced slope can be secured by the timely applications of re-tensioning processes in tendons.
Eye-Tracker-Guided Non-Mechanical Excimer Laser Assisted Penetrating Keratoplasty
Authors: Janunts Edgar , Schirra Frank , Szentmáry Nora , Seitz Berthold , Langenbucher Achim
Published: March 2013

Purpose: The purpose of the study was to implement a new eye tracking mask which could be used to guide the laser beam in automated non-mechanical excimer laser assisted penetrating keratoplasty. Materials and methods: A new trephination mask design with an elevated surface geometry has been proposed with a step formation between conical and flat interfaces. Two recipient masks of 7.5/8.0 mm have been manufactured and tested. The masks have outer diameter of 12.5 mm, step formation at 10.5 mm, and slope of conical surfaces 15°. Its functionality has been tested in different lateral positions and tilts on a planar surface, and pig eye experiments. After successful validation on porcine eyes, new masks have been produced and tested on two patients. Results: The build-in eye tracking software of the MEL 70 was always able to capture the masks. It has been shown that the unwanted pigmentation/pattern induced by the laser pulses on the mask surface does not influence the eye-tracking efficiency. The masks could be tracked within the 18 × 14 mm lateral displacement and up to 12° tilt. Two patient cases are demonstrated. No complications were observed during the surgery, although it needs some attention for aligning the mask horizontally before trephination. Stability of eye tracking masks is emphasized by inducing on purpose movements of the patient head. Conclusion: Eye-tracking-guided penetrating keratoplasty was successfully applied in clinical practice, which enables robust tracking criteria within an extended range. It facilitates the automated trephination procedure of excimer laser-assisted penetrating keratoplasty.
A Dibutyl Phthalate Sensor Based on a Nanofiber Polyaniline Coated Quartz Crystal Monitor
Authors: Wang You , Ding Pengfei , Hu Ruifen , Zhang Jianming , Ma Xingfa , Luo Zhiyuan , Li Guang
Published: March 2013

Dibutyl phthalate (DBP) is a commonly used plasticizer and additive to adhesives, printing inks and nail polishes. Because it has been found to be a powerful reproductive and developmental toxicant, a sensor to monitor DBP in some working spaces and the environment is required. In this work polyaniline nanofibers were deposited on the electrode of a quartz crystal oscillator to form a Quartz Crystal Microbalance gas sensor. The coated quartz crystal and a non-coated quartz crystal were mounted in a sealed chamber, and their frequency difference was monitored. When DBP vapor was injected into the chamber, gas adsorption decreased the frequency of the coated quartz crystal oscillator and thereby caused an increase in the frequency difference between the two crystals. The change of the frequency difference was recorded as the sensor response. The sensor was extremely sensitive to DBP and could be easily recovered by N2 purging. A low measurement limit of 20 ppb was achieved. The morphologies of the polyaniline films prepared by different approaches have been studied by SEM and BET. How the nanofiber-structure can improve the sensitivity and stability is discussed, while its selectivity and long-term stability were investigated.
A New Methodology for Evaluating Potential for Potable Water Savings (PPWS) by Using Rainwater Harvesting at the Urban Level: The Case of the Municipality of Colombes (Paris Region)
Authors: Belmeziti Ali , Coutard Olivier , De Gouvello Bernard
Published: March 2013

The practice of rainwater harvesting (RWH) is spreading rapidly in urban areas. This article studies the impact of a possible generalization of this practice for municipalities by proposing a new method to quantify the potential for potable water savings (PPWS) by using rainwater harvesting at the urban level. The proposed method is based on the adaptation of an already validated model assessing the PPWS for single buildings and the use of urban databases. Two concepts are introduced: (1) the “building type” that allows gathering all the buildings sharing common features; and (2) the “equivalent building,” which is used to assess the PPWS of a set of buildings (of a same building type) as if it were a single building. In the case of the municipality of Colombes (located in the suburbs of Paris), the method shows that the PPWS by using rainwater harvesting represents about 10% of the total potable water consumption: the residential buildings account for 64% of this potential. This method can be applied to other municipalities with a level of acceptable reliability with regard to the means to be implemented in terms of collecting information.
Thrombin generation assay and transmission electron microscopy: a useful combination to study tissue factor‐bearing microvesicles
Authors: Gheldof Damien , Hardij Julie , Cecchet Francesca , Chatelain Bernard , Dogné Jean‐Michel , Mullier François
Published: March 2013

Introduction

Patients with cancer have a 7‐ to 10‐fold increased risk of developing venous thromboembolism. Circulating microvesicles could be a useful predictive biomarker for venous thromboembolism in cancer. Validated and standardised techniques that could be used to determine the complete microvesicle phenotype are required.

Objectives

These were two‐fold: a) to characterise tissue factor (TF)‐bearing microvesicles released by cultured breast cancer cells MDA‐MB‐231 by flow cytometry (FCM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and thrombin generation assay (TGA); and b) to validate the sensitivity and variability intra/inter‐assay of TGA as a useful method to study the procoagulant activity (PCA) of microvesicles.

Methods

Cultured breast cancer cells MDA‐MB‐231 were incubated for 45 minutes at 37°C. Samples were then centrifuged or not at 4,500 g for 15 minutes, and cells and MVs or MV‐containing supernatants were used for TEM, FCM and TGA. In activity assays, microvesicles (i.e. cell‐depleted supernatants) were incubated with anti‐TF antibodies or with annexin V to assess the contribution of TF and phospholipids to the PCA. Alternatively, supernatants were filtered through 0.1, 0.22, 0.45 or 0.65 µm membranes and subjected to TGA.

Results

The majority of the PCA was associated with microvesicles smaller than 0.1 µm, and the mean microvesicle size estimated by TEM after 10,000 g centrifugation was 121±54 nm with a majority of vesicles between 100 and 200 nm. Microvesicles derived from 5,000 MDA‐MB‐231cells/ml were sufficient to significantly increase the thrombin generation of normal pooled plasma.

Conclusions

TEM, FCM and filtration coupled to TGA represent a useful combination to study the PCA of TF‐bearing microvesicles, whatever their size. And it will be interesting to implement these techniques in patients.
Radioaktivität mit dem Smartphone messen
Authors: Freudenberg R. , Andreeff M. , Kotzerke J. , Hartmann H.
Published: March 2013

The interest in the detection of radioactive materials has strongly increased after the accident in the nuclear power plant Fukushima and has led to a bottleneck of suitable measuring instruments. Smartphones equipped with a commercially available software tool could be used for dose rate measurements following a calibration according to the specific camera module. Aim: We examined whether such measurements provide reliable data for typical activities and radionuclides in nuclear medicine. Methods: For the nuclides 99mTc (10 – 1000 MBq), 131I (3.7 – 1800 MBq, therapy capsule) and 68Ga (50 – 600 MBq) radioactivity with defined geo metry in different distances was measured. The smartphones Milestone Droid 1 (Motorola) and HTC Desire (HTC Corporation) were compared with the standard instruments AD6 (automess) and DoseGUARD (AEA Technology). Results: Measurements with the smartphones and the other devices show a good agreement: linear signal increase with rising activity and dose rate. The long time measurement (131I, 729 MBq, 0.5 m, 60 min) demonstrates a considerably higher variation (by 20%) of the measured smartphone data values compared with the AD6. For low dose rates (< 1 μGy/h), the sensitivity decreases so that measurements of e. g. the natural radiation exposure do not lead to valid results. The calibration of the camera responsivity for the smartphone has a big influence on the results caused by the small detector surface of the camera semiconductor. Conclusions: With commercial software the camera module of a smartphone can be used for the measurement of radioactivity. Dose rates resulting from typical nuclear medicine procedures can be measured reliably (e. g., dismissal dose after radioiodine therapy). The signal shows a high correlation to measured values of conventional dose measurement devices.
Strahlenschutz-Gremien in Deutschland, Europa und weltweit
Authors: Müller W.-U.
Published: March 2013

The complex radiation protection system is affected by various organisations. The most important bodies worldwide, in Europe and in Germany will be introduced including a description of their relationships. Three levels of responsibility have to be discriminated: the scientific, the philosophical/methodical, and the level of jurisdiction and regulations.
Périphéries exploitées ou relais indispensables ? Les petites villes du département d'Izmir (Turquie) dans le projet métropolitain
Authors: Montabone Benoît
Published: March 2013

La croissance urbaine récente et rapide de la Turquie a entraîné un bouleversement des formes et des fonctions des petites villes. Le département d’Izmir connaît un processus de métropolisation qui laisse a priori peu de place aux niveaux intermédiaires de la hiérarchie urbaine, difficiles à identifier. Pourtant, des pôles autonomes existent du fait de dynamiques locales endogènes ou de décisions étatiques qui passent par-delà le niveau métropolitain. Quatre catégories de petites villes sont identifiées, à savoir les relais résidentiels sous influence immédiate de la métropole (Menemen, Urla), les bases productives exploitées au bénéfice de la ville-centre (Aliaga, Torbali), les porteurs d’image indispensables mais indépendants (Çesme, Selçuk) et les centres ruraux servant de relais dans la polarisation de l’arrière-pays égéen (Tire, Ödemis). En parallèle, le processus de régionalisation entraîne une redéfinition du rôle des villes périphériques par rapport aux centres métropolitains, dans la mesure où les plans de développement régionaux ne laissent que peu de place aux villes relais. Interroger la place des petites villes dans le projet régional permet ainsi de remettre en question la délimitation régionale nouvellement mise en place qui partitionne la région métropolitaine d’Izmir.
La Bolivie, sa mer perdue et la construction nationale
Authors: Perrier Bruslé Laetitia
Published: March 2013

L’année 2011 a été marquée en Bolivie par le retour d’une revendication maritime plus combative. Le pays a perdu, lors de la guerre du Pacifique (1878-1879) qui l’opposa au Chili, sa façade Pacifique au bénéfice de ce pays voisin. En 1904, le traité de Paix et d’Amitié entérinait juridiquement cette perte territoriale. La Bolivie devenait le seul pays andin sans façade pacifique : un pays littéralement méditerranéen, au milieu des terres, pour reprendre l’adjectif le plus souvent employé pour caractériser l’enclavement bolivien. Cette perte du littoral devait marquer jusqu’à aujourd’hui la société bolivienne. La revendication maritime, c’est-à-dire la demande de récupération d’une façade maritime, structure l’imaginaire bolivien et sert de support à la construction nationale. Cet article propose une analyse du retour de la revendication maritime, dans un contexte institutionnel et idéologique nouveau. Depuis 2009, la Bolivie se définit comme un État plurinational et semble avoir abandonné l’équation qui lie la possibilité d’un État bolivien à l’existence d’une nation unique. Dans un deuxième temps, la réflexion se concentre sur la fonction de la mer perdue dans la constitution de la mémoire territoriale bolivienne et sur les moyens mis en place pour construire le dispositif mémoriel commun à tous les Boliviens.
L'entrepreneur et le territoire : une lecture culturelle et multiscalaire de l'ingénierie informatique en Inde
Authors: Leducq Divya
Published: March 2013

Cet article propose de raisonner sur la réciprocité des rapports économie-territoire à partir de la figure de l’entrepreneur dans une puissance émergente, l’Inde. Le but est d’offrir une réflexion sur la capacité de produire, d’attirer ou de retenir des créateurs d’entreprises pour des métropoles régionales situées en Inde du sud, la partie économiquement la plus dynamique du pays. Ainsi, la problématique socio-économique de la création de Sociétés de Services en Ingénierie Informatique interroge la localisation, l’évolution spatiale et l’ancrage des activités de hautes technologies extrêmement labiles. L’article se structure en trois parties. La première dresse à la fois le contexte méthodologique de l’enquête sur l’entrepreneur socialisé et le contexte empirique et culturel du corpus de l’étude. La seconde partie permet de répondre aux questions pourquoi, comment et avec qui entreprend-t-on dans une activité mondialisée – les TIC – en Inde. Enfin, la dernière partie s’attache à décrypter les processus de localisation, d’ancrage et de déploiement régional et urbain, aux prises entre des territoires et des réseaux, à partir d’un regard porté sur trois métropoles régionales de l’informatique.
La France périphérique et marginalisée : les raisons du ressentiment
Authors: Davezies Laurent , Guilluy Christophe , Donzelot Jacques , Béja Alice
Published: March 2013

Les dernières élections présidentielles ont fait émerger l’importance du vote FN dans les espaces « périurbains ». L’angle territorial permet-il à lui seul de comprendre ce vote, et ne faut-il pas l’associer aux questions économiques et sociales, voire sortir du « périurbain » pour parler, plus globalement, d’« espaces périphériques » (non métropolitains), dont les habitants ont de plus en plus l’impression de ne pas être « là où il faut » ?
Sous les cartes, les habitants
Authors: Rivière Jean
Published: March 2013

La lecture « spatiale » du vote en faveur du Front national a eu tendance à assimiler périurbain et populisme, et a fait le bonheur des médias. Or, une telle approche tend à stigmatiser des populations en raison de leur mode de vie, au risque de faire équivaloir choix résidentiels et choix électoraux, en disqualifiant ainsi un outil – la carte – qui peut pourtant apporter beaucoup – mais pas tout – à l’analyse politique.
Pour en finir avec le périurbain
Authors: Roux Jean-Michel
Published: March 2013

La ville est sortie de ses murs, et, plutôt que de stigmatiser tel ou tel comportement ou d’essayer de définir un espace « périurbain » toujours débordant, il vaudrait bien mieux comprendre comment l’urbain réinvente les campagnes elles-mêmes, reconnaître qu’il n’y aura pas de retour à la ville, et qu’il faut donc réapprendre l’aménagement du territoire.
De la ville industrielle à la ville des flux
Authors: Donzelot Jacques
Published: March 2013

La construction des grands ensembles, les « cités » de banlieue, est liée à une certaine conception, fonctionnelle, de l’urbanisme. Mais, à l’heure où les flux prennent le pas sur les lieux, ces grands ensembles apparaissent totalement caducs. La rénovation urbaine peut-elle suffire à reconnecter les populations aux villes centres, et à leurs opportunités ?
Se porter à la périphérie, là où la ville rejoint la campagne
Authors: Corajoud Michel , Charbonneau Jean-Pierre , Mongin Olivier
Published: March 2013

La reconnaissance de la profession de paysagiste va de pair avec une nouvelle approche du paysage ; on ne cherche plus à le transformer, mais à l’intensifier. Le paysagiste, alors, doit se garder du formalisme, pour penser la relation au milieu vivant, ce qui n’empêche pas de faire bouger les lignes, de sortir des délimitations pour avoir toujours l’œil sur l’horizon.