bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in water biostability levels in water treatment trials
Authors: Wolska Małgorzata
Published: March 2015

This article presents the results of studies of changes in water biostability levels in water treatment systems. In order to evaluate the potential of microorganism regrowth, both the organic and non-organic nutrient substrate content was taken into account. Pre-treatment in the analyzed water treatment plants ensured high phosphate ion removal effectiveness but a significantly worse effectiveness in removing biodegradable dissolved organic carbon (BDOC). Lowering nutrient substrate content during the main treatment stage was only possible in water treatment systems that incorporated biological processes. Conversely, final water treatment processes only influenced BDOC content in the treated water. Irrespective of the water type and unit treatment process, the limiting factors for microorganism regrowth in the distribution system were the phosphate ion content and BDOC content. However, none of the analyzed treatment systems ensured a reduction in non-organic nitrogen content that would ensure biological stability of the water.
Practical experience with full-scale structured sheet media (SSM) integrated fixed-film activated sludge (IFAS) systems for nitrification
Authors: Li Hua , Zhu Jia , Flamming James J , O'Connell Jack , Shrader Michael
Published: March 2015

Many wastewater treatment plants in the USA, which were originally designed as secondary treatment systems with no or partial nitrification requirements, are facing increased flows, loads, and more stringent ammonia discharge limits. Plant expansion is often not cost-effective due to either high construction costs or lack of land. Under these circumstances, integrated fixed-film activated sludge (IFAS) systems using both suspended growth and biofilms that grow attached to a fixed plastic structured sheet media are found to be a viable solution for solving the challenges. Multiple plants have been retrofitted with such IFAS systems in the past few years. The system has proven to be efficient and reliable in achieving not only consistent nitrification, but also enhanced bio-chemical oxygen demand removal and sludge settling characteristics. This paper presents long-term practical experiences with the IFAS system design, operation and maintenance, and performance for three full-scale plants with distinct processes; that is, a trickling filter/solids contact process, a conventional plug flow activated sludge process and an extended aeration process.
A comparative study of clonal selection algorithm for effluent removal forecasting in septic sludge treatment plant
Authors: Chun Ting Sie , Malek M. A. , Ismail Amelia Ritahani
Published: March 2015

The development of effluent removal prediction is crucial in providing a planning tool necessary for the future development and the construction of a septic sludge treatment plant (SSTP), especially in the developing countries. In order to investigate the expected functionality of the required standard, the prediction of the effluent quality, namely biological oxygen demand, chemical oxygen demand and total suspended solid of an SSTP was modelled using an artificial intelligence approach. In this paper, we adopt the clonal selection algorithm (CSA) to set up a prediction model, with a well-established method – namely the least-square support vector machine (LS-SVM) as a baseline model. The test results of the case study showed that the prediction of the CSA-based SSTP model worked well and provided model performance as satisfactory as the LS-SVM model. The CSA approach shows that fewer control and training parameters are required for model simulation as compared with the LS-SVM approach. The ability of a CSA approach in resolving limited data samples, non-linear sample function and multidimensional pattern recognition makes it a powerful tool in modelling the prediction of effluent removals in an SSTP.
Circular economy in drinking water treatment: reuse of ground pellets as seeding material in the pellet softening process
Authors: Schetters M. J. A. , van der Hoek J. P. , Kramer O. J. I. , Kors L. J. , Palmen L. J. , Hofs B. , Koppers H.
Published: March 2015

Calcium carbonate pellets are produced as a by-product in the pellet softening process. In the Netherlands, these pellets are applied as a raw material in several industrial and agricultural processes. The sand grain inside the pellet hinders the application in some high-potential market segments such as paper and glass. Substitution of the sand grain with a calcite grain (100% calcium carbonate) is in principle possible, and could significantly improve the pellet quality. In this study, the grinding and sieving of pellets, and the subsequent reuse as seeding material in pellet softening were tested with two pilot reactors in parallel. In one reactor, garnet sand was used as seeding material, in the other ground calcite. Garnet sand and ground calcite performed equally well. An economic comparison and a life-cycle assessment were made as well. The results show that the reuse of ground calcite as seeding material in pellet softening is technologically possible, reduces the operational costs by €38,000 (1%) and reduces the environmental impact by 5%. Therefore, at the drinking water facility, Weesperkarspel of Waternet, the transition from garnet sand to ground calcite will be made at full scale, based on this pilot plant research.
Selection of the surface water treatment technology – a full-scale technological investigation
Authors: Pruss Alina
Published: March 2015

A technological investigation was carried out over a period of 2 years to evaluate surface water treatment technology. The study was performed in Poland, in three stages. From November 2011 to July 2012, for the first stage, flow tests with a capacity of 0.1–1.5 m3/h were performed simultaneously in three types of technical installations differing by coagulation modules. The outcome of the first stage was the choice of the technology for further investigation. The second stage was performed between September 2012 and March 2013 on a full-scale water treatment plant. Three large technical installations, operated in parallel, were analysed: coagulation with sludge flotation, micro-sand ballasted coagulation with sedimentation, coagulation with sedimentation and sludge recirculation. The capacity of the installations ranged from 10 to 40 m3/h. The third stage was also performed in a full-scale water treatment plant and was aimed at optimising the selected technology. This article presents the results of the second stage of the full-scale investigation. The critical treatment process, for the analysed water, was the coagulation in an acidic environment (6.5 < pH < 7.0) carried out in a system with rapid mixing, a flocculation chamber, preliminary separation of coagulation products, and removal of residual suspended solids through filtration.
Removal of organic matter from surface water during coagulation with sludge flotation and rapid filtration – a full-scale technological investigation
Authors: Pruss Alina
Published: March 2015

Coagulation with sludge flotation and rapid filtration was selected as a surface water treatment technology to be optimised with a full-scale investigation, which was carried out in Poland between August and October 2013. The river water treated was characterized by low alkalinity, high-temperature variability and a high organic matter content. In the course of technological studies, the processes of coagulation with sludge flotation and rapid filtration were analysed. The studies were performed in the most adverse conditions for the applied technology i.e. during the period of algal bloom and subsequent decomposition of dead plankton. Throughout the study, the river water contained mainly dissolved organic matter, with occasional increases in the concentration of the undissolved fraction during algal bloom. The undissolved total organic carbon (TOC) fraction was effectively removed through coagulation while small doses of ClO2 added prior to coagulation enhanced the process. The process of coagulation using high-coagulant doses at pH = 6.5 did not provide a reduction in the TOC value below the level of 4 mg C/L required for treated water. The effect was achieved by adding powdered activated carbon (PAC) before the filters. The coagulation products were characterised by low-hydraulic resistance which should be taken into account at the stage of water delivery to the filters, after flotation.
Diagnosis of the anaerobic reject water effects on WWTP operational characteristics as a precursor of bulking and foaming
Authors: Erdirençelebi Dilek , Küçükhemek Murat
Published: March 2015

This study investigates the effects observed on operational parameters in a large and full-scale wastewater treatment plant subjected to anaerobic reject water (ARW) diversion off the main line for a 3-month period and further monitoring for a 2-year period. The plant's secondary unit consists of a two-stage plug-flow-modified Bardenpho process receiving wastewater from both municipal and industrial origins. As a result, ARW was found to have a direct effect on bulking in secondary clarifiers and foaming in anaerobic digesters (AD) despite its relatively small flow rate. During the cut-off period a highly stable sludge volume index at 80 mL g−1 level was obtained in the secondary clarifiers, effluent suspended solids concentration was reduced and continuous feeding to AD was recovered. Sludge density increased in the thickeners during hot season. Secondary clarifiers showed good and stable settleability despite low dissolved oxygen, food/microorganism ratio and high sludge retention time and ammonium levels in the biological unit. The bulking and foaming effect was presented on the plant's internal flow balance. ARW needs serious consideration for elimination by appropriate technologies because of its high potential as a multi-dimensional pollutant source, not only as a carrier of nutrients but also as a possible carrier of filamentous bacteria, which might promote chronic seeding and retention in the system.
High-strength wastewater treatment in a pure oxygen thermophilic process: 11-year operation and monitoring of different plant configurations
Authors: Collivignarelli M. C. , Bertanza G. , Sordi M. , Pedrazzani R.
Published: March 2015

This research was carried out on a full-scale pure oxygen thermophilic plant, operated and monitored throughout a period of 11 years. The plant treats 60,000 t y−1 (year 2013) of high-strength industrial wastewaters deriving mainly from pharmaceuticals and detergents production and landfill leachate. Three different plant configurations were consecutively adopted: (1) biological reactor + final clarifier and sludge recirculation (2002–2005); (2) biological reactor + ultrafiltration: membrane biological reactor (MBR) (2006); and (3) MBR + nanofiltration (since 2007). Progressive plant upgrading yielded a performance improvement chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal efficiency was enhanced by 17% and 12% after the first and second plant modification, respectively. Moreover, COD abatement efficiency exhibited a greater stability, notwithstanding high variability of the influent load. In addition, the following relevant outcomes appeared from the plant monitoring (present configuration): up to 96% removal of nitrate and nitrite, due to denitrification; low-specific biomass production (0.092 kgVSS kgCODremoved−1), and biological treatability of residual COD under mesophilic conditions (BOD5/COD ratio = 0.25–0.50), thus showing the complementarity of the two biological processes.
Start-up and maturation phases of a full-scale, high-rate anaerobic pond bioreactor® plus improved facultative ponds to treat municipal wastewater
Authors: Peña M. R. , Aponte A. , Toro A. F.
Published: March 2015

Results of the start-up and maturation phases of a full-scale, high-rate anaerobic pond bioreactor (HRAPB)® plus improved facultative ponds (IFPs) to treat municipal wastewater are presented (CODt: 759 mg L−1, CODf: 219 mg L−1, S-SO42–: 102 mg L−1, and Cr+: 1,500 μgL−1). The start-up of the HRAPB® comprised, first, the application of a selective pressure increasing up-flow velocity rates. Second, batch stages between successive rates were allowed until 70% of the initial CODf was removed. The IFPs were left in batch and ended when in-pond Chlorophyll-a concentration reached 800 μgL−1. Subsequently, the system underwent gradual maturation and reached effluent concentrations of CODt: 223 mg L−1, CODf: 50 mg L−1, and Cr+: 60 μgL−1. The actual efficiency of the system compared with the expected design efficiency was lower given the characteristics of the influent wastewater biochemical oxygen demand/chemical oxygen demand ratios < 0.4, presence of Cr+ >1,000 μgL−1, and variations in both conductivity (500–4,500 μScm−1) and pH (6.5–10.5 units). Nonetheless, the system exhibited an adaptation state in less than 1.5 months and yielded an ST/SV ratio of 0.46, and specific methanogenic activity of 0.43 g-CH4-CODg−1SV−1d−1 for HRAPB®; the in-pond Chlorophyll-a was on average 1,200 μgL−1 in the IFPs, which demonstrated the robustness of these eco-technologies in tropical conditions.
Congenital Disseminated Extrarenal Malignant Rhabdoid Tumor
Authors: Boudjemaa Sabah , Petit Arnaud , Dainese Linda , Bourdeaut Franck , Lipsett Jill , Coulomb Aurore
Published: March 2015

Soft tissue tumors arising in association with genetic or malformation syndromes have been increasingly reported. Malignant rhabdoid tumor (MRT) is a highly aggressive neoplasm of infancy and young childhood, characterized by typical morphology and biallelic inactivation of the SMARCB1 ( INI1/hSNF5/BAF47) gene on chromosome 22q.2 which encodes a subunit of the SWI/SNF ATP-dependent chromatin remodeling complex. Congenital infantile disseminated MRT represents a unique clinicopathologic presentation of this tumor. We report a case occurring in a female neonate who presented at birth a voluminous left thigh mass. Surgical biopsy performed at day 9 showed morphology and immunoprofile of MRT. Staging evaluation identified hypercalcemia and distant nodules. The mass showed rapid growth. Despite chemotherapy, the tumor progressed with exteriorization through the biopsy scar. Chemotherapy was discontinued and treatment limited to palliative care and the child died on day 51. The tumor was homozygous for the SMARCB1 deletion with apparent de novo heterozygous germ line deletion in the infant, not identified in the parents.
Novel Karyotypes and Cyclin D1 Immunoreactivity in Clear Cell Sarcoma of the Kidney
Authors: Aw Sze Jet , Kuick Chik Hong , Yong Min Hwee , Lian Derrick Wen Quan , Wang Shi , Loh Alwin Hwai Liang , Ling Sharon , Peh Guat Lian , Soh Shui Yen , Loh Amos Hong Pheng , Tan Puay Hoon , En Chang Kenneth Tou
Published: March 2015

Pathological diagnosis of clear cell sarcoma of the kidney (CCSK) is challenging as it resembles blastemal Wilms tumor (WT) and other pediatric sarcomas, and does not have any distinctive immunophenotype. The YWHAE-FAM22 translocation t(10;17)(q22;p13) has been reported in a subset of CCSK. This translocation also occurs in high-grade endometrial sarcoma, in which it is associated with cyclin D1 overexpression. Hence we seek to determine YWHAE-FAM22 translocation status and cyclin D1 immunoreactivity in a series of local CCSK cases. Of 8 CCSK cases from 7 patients identified, no CCSK had the YWHAE-FAM22 fusion transcript by reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction. Novel karyotypes were identified for 2 cases: 1 had t(2;13)(q13; q22) and the other t(3:17)(q29;p11.2). Excluding a case with poor tissue section antigenicity, 7 of 7 CCSKs (100%) showed diffuse and strong nuclear cyclin D1 staining. Cyclin D1 immunohistochemistry was also performed on tissue microarrays of other pediatric renal tumors: blastemal areas of 18 WT cases were negative; 6 rhabdoid tumors and 1 metanephric adenoma showed patchy and weak staining; 3 mesoblastic nephromas and 18 of 29 neuroblastomas had positive staining. Cyclin D1 immunohistochemistry helps distinguish CCSK from blastemal WT and metanephric adenoma and rhabdoid tumors, but not from neuroblastomas and mesoblastic nephromas. Cyclin D1 overexpression in CCSK is not contingent on YWHAE-FAM22 translocation, and cyclin D1 inhibition may potentially be explored as a targeted therapeutic strategy in CCSK.
Identification of Unique, Heterozygous Germline Mutation, STK11 (p.F354L), in a Child with an Encapsulated Follicular Variant of Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma within Six Months of Completing Treatment for Neuroblastoma
Authors: Buryk Melissa A. , Picarsic Jennifer L. , Creary Susan E. , Shaw Peter H. , Simons Jeffrey P. , Deutsch Melvin , Monaco Sara E. , Nikiforov Yuri E. , Witchel Selma Feldman
Published: March 2015

Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is rare in children, although it is a known secondary malignancy after treatment for neuroblastoma (NB). The interval between NB treatment completion and PTC is usually more than 5 years. A 4-year-old, female patient with a high risk adrenal NB was found to have a 2.9-cm, right thyroid nodule on surveillance chest computed tomography (CT) 6 months after completion of her NB treatment (induction chemotherapy, tumor resection, autologous stem cell transplantation, external beam radiation to the abdominal tumor site, immunotherapy, and retinoic acid). Posttreatment surveillance included iodine-123-metaiodobenzylguanidine scans and CT scans. Fine-needle aspiration of the thyroid nodule diagnosed a follicular neoplasm, which was negative for BRAF, NRAS, KRAS, HRAS, PAX8/PPARg, and RET/PTC mutations, without evidence of metastatic NB. Nodule histology demonstrated an encapsulated follicular variant of PTC (FVPTC). Next-generation sequence analysis for a 46 cancer-gene profile was performed on both tumors with subsequent peripheral blood DNA testing. A heterozygous missense mutation in STK11 (F354L) was identified in both the NB and FVPTC. This mutation was also detected in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Two additional heterozygous somatic missense mutations of uncertain significance were identified: KDR/VEGF receptor 2 (Q472H) on chromosome 4 and MET (N375S) on chromosome 7. To our knowledge, this is the shortest reported duration from completion of NB treatment to detection of thyroid cancer. The association of the STK11 gene with Peutz-Jeghers syndrome, lung adenocarcinomas, and medullary thyroid cancer leads to a possible association between this genetic variant and our patient's tumors.
α-Synuclein-Induced Synapse Damage in Cultured Neurons Is Mediated by Cholesterol-Sensitive Activation of Cytoplasmic Phospholipase A2
Authors: Bate Clive , Williams Alun
Published: March 2015

The accumulation of aggregated forms of the α-synuclein (αSN) is associated with the pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease (PD) and Dementia with Lewy Bodies. The loss of synapses is an important event in the pathogenesis of these diseases. Here we show that aggregated recombinant human αSN, but not βSN, triggered synapse damage in cultured neurons as measured by the loss of synaptic proteins. Pre-treatment with the selective cytoplasmic phospholipase A2 (cPLA2) inhibitors AACOCF3 and MAFP protected neurons against αSN-induced synapse damage. Synapse damage was associated with the αSN-induced activation of synaptic cPLA2 and the production of prostaglandin E2. The activation of cPLA2 is the first step in the generation of platelet-activating factor (PAF) and PAF receptor antagonists (ginkgolide B or Hexa-PAF) also protect neurons against αSN-induced synapse damage. αSN-induced synapse damage was also reduced in neurons pre-treated with the cholesterol synthesis inhibitor (squalestatin). These results are consistent with the hypothesis that αSN triggered synapse damage via hyperactivation of cPLA2. They also indicate that αSN-induced activation of cPLA2 is influenced by the cholesterol content of membranes. Inhibitors of this pathway that can cross the blood brain barrier may protect against the synapse damage seen during PD.
Use of CMEIAS Image Analysis Software to Accurately Compute Attributes of Cell Size, Morphology, Spatial Aggregation and Color Segmentation that Signify in Situ Ecophysiological Adaptations in Microbial Biofilm Communities
Authors: Dazzo Frank , Niccum Brighid
Published: March 2015

In this review, we describe computational features of computer-assisted microscopy that are unique to the Center for Microbial Ecology Image Analysis System (CMEIAS) software, and examples illustrating how they can be used to gain ecophysiological insights into microbial adaptations occurring at micrometer spatial scales directly relevant to individual cells occupying their ecological niches in situ. These features include algorithms that accurately measure (1) microbial cell length relevant to avoidance of protozoan bacteriovory; (2) microbial biovolume body mass relevant to allometric scaling and local apportionment of growth-supporting nutrient resources; (3) pattern recognition rules for morphotype classification of diverse microbial communities relevant to their enhanced fitness for success in the particular habitat; (4) spatial patterns of coaggregation that reveal the local intensity of cooperative vs. competitive adaptations in colonization behavior relevant to microbial biofilm ecology; and (5) object segmentation of complex color images to differentiate target microbes reporting successful cell-cell communication. These unique computational features contribute to the CMEIAS mission of developing accurate and freely accessible tools of image bioinformatics that strengthen microscopy-based approaches for understanding microbial ecology at single-cell resolution.
Open Peer Review: A New Challenge for Cosmetics
Authors: Berardesca Enzo
Published: March 2015

Dear Readers, As part of a continued effort to improve the quality of our papers and the transparency of the publication process, Cosmetics will introduce in the near future the possibility for the Authors to choose an Open Peer Review process (OPR). OPR is as a process in which the names of the authors and reviewers may be known to each other, and where review reports are published alongside the final manuscript, with the aim to facilitate discussion and clarity between the authors and the reviewer(s).
Experimental and Numerical Investigation of Termination Impedance Effects in Wireless Power Transfer via Metamaterial
Authors: Puccetti Giovanni , Stevens Christopher , Reggiani Ugo , Sandrolini Leonardo
Published: March 2015

This paper presents an investigation of the transmitted power in a wireless power transfer system that employs a metamaterial. Metamaterials are a good means to transfer power wirelessly, as they are composed of multiple inductively-coupled resonators. The system can be designed and matched simply through magneto-inductive wave theory, particularly when the receiver inductor is located at the end of the metamaterial line. However, the power distribution changes significantly in terms of transmitted power, efficiency and frequency if the receiver inductor slides along the line. In this paper, the power distribution and transfer efficiency are analysed, studying the effects of a termination impedance in the last cell of the metamaterial and improving the system performance for the resonant frequency and for any position of the receiver inductor. Furthermore, a numerical characterisation is presented in order to support experimental tests and to predict the performance of a metamaterial composed of spiral inductor cells with very good accuracy.
Harvest Regulation for Multi-Resource Management, Old and New Approaches (Old and New)
Authors: Mendoza Martin , Fajardo Juan , Curiel Gonzalo , Domínguez Francisco , Apodaca Maribel , Rodríguez-Camarillo María , Zepeta Jesús
Published: March 2015

Current Mexican forest management is the product of a history that dates back to 1926. Earlier approaches were directly or indirectly aimed at attaining the normal forest model. Around 1980, multi-resource and environmental impact considerations were mandated for all private timber operations. Timber-oriented silviculture was deemed insufficient to take proper care of non-timber values in the forest. Concerns about water quality, biodiversity, and natural conservation were the motives for promoting voluntary best management practices, in 2012 and afterwards. In this research, two traditional Mexican forest management schemes, Sicodesi and Plan Costa, enhanced with best management practices, are compared to Mapa, a management method specifically designed to manage landscape attributes. Results from two successive forest inventories 10 and 13 years apart show that Sicodesi and Plan Costa, even when modified to comply with best management practices, failed to maintain proper stewardship of non-timber values. Mapa, however, employed multiple means to drive forest dynamics to fulfill multi-resource objectives, constrained by self-financing and competitive profitability. These capabilities in Mapa enabled some degree of control over non-timber values, but many more important processes occur beyond the property boundary, and beyond the planning scope considered in Mapa and all other forest planning methods.
School Bonds and the Onset of Substance Use among Korean Youth: An Examination of Social Control Theory
Authors: Han Yoonsun , Kim Heejoo , Ma Julie
Published: March 2015

This study examined the association between school bonds and the onset of substance use among adolescents in South Korea. Based on Hirschi’s social control theory, this study tested the roles of teacher attachment, educational aspiration, extracurricular activities, and rule internalization—four elements of social bonds within the school setting—in delayed initiation of alcohol drinking and cigarette smoking. Discrete-time logistic regression was used to analyze five waves of the Korea Youth Panel Survey (N = 3449 at baseline), a nationally representative sample of Korean youth. Stronger teacher attachment, higher educational aspiration, and higher rule internalization were correlated with delayed onset of alcohol drinking and cigarette smoking. On the other hand, participation in school extracurricular activities was positively associated with the onset of alcohol drinking, but not statistically significantly linked with the onset of cigarette smoking. These findings suggest that early prevention strategies for youth substance use should specifically target school-related factors that represent social bonds developed among youth.
Sexual Behavior of Drosophila suzukii
Authors: Revadi Santosh , Lebreton Sébastien , Witzgall Peter , Anfora Gianfranco , Dekker Teun , Becher Paul
Published: March 2015

A high reproductive potential is one reason for the rapid spread of Drosophila suzukii in Europe and in the United States. In order to identify mechanisms that mediate mating and reproduction in D. suzukii we studied the fly’s reproductive behavior, diurnal mating activity and sexual maturation. Furthermore, we studied the change of female cuticular hydrocarbons (CHCs) with age and conducted a preliminary investigation on the role of female-derived chemical signals in male mating behavior. Sexual behavior in D. suzukii is characterized by distinct elements of male courtship leading to female acceptance for mating. Time of day and age modulate D. suzukii mating activity. As with other drosophilids, female sexual maturity is paralleled by a quantitative increase in CHCs. Neither female CHCs nor other olfactory signals were required to induce male courtship, however, presence of those signals significantly increased male sexual behavior. With this pilot study we hope to stimulate research on the reproductive biology of D. suzukii, which is relevant for the development of pest management tools.
Neuroendocrine Disorders in Pediatric Craniopharyngioma Patients
Authors: Daubenbüchel Anna , Müller Hermann
Published: March 2015

Childhood-onset craniopharyngiomas are partly cystic embryonic malformations of the sellar/parasellar region. The therapy of choice in patients with favorable tumor localization is complete resection with a specific focus on maintaining optical and hypothalamic neuroendocrine functions. In patients with unfavorable tumor localization (i.e., hypothalamic involvement), a limited hypothalamus-sparing surgical strategy followed by local irradiation is recommended. Involvement and/or surgical lesions of posterior hypothalamic areas cause major neuroendocrine sequelae. The overall survival rates are high (92%) but neuroendocrine disorders such as obesity and metabolic syndrome due to involvement and/or treatment-related hypothalamic lesions have major negative impact on survival and quality of life. Recurrences and progressions are frequent post-surgical events. Because irradiation is efficient in preventing tumor progression, appropriate timing of post-surgical irradiation is currently under investigation in a randomized multinational trial (KRANIOPHARYNGEOM 2007). Childhood-onset craniopharyngioma should be recognized as a chronic disease requiring treatment and constant monitoring of the clinical and quality of life consequences, frequently impaired due to neuroendocrine disorders, by experienced multidisciplinary teams in order to provide optimal care of surviving patients.
Self-Assembled Polyelectrolyte Nanoparticles as Fluorophore-Free Contrast Agents for Multicolor Optical Imaging
Authors: Shin Da , Heo Min , Lim Yong
Published: March 2015

In this work, we describe the fabrication of self-assembled polyelectrolyte nanoparticles that provide a multicolor optical imaging modality. Poly(γ-glutamic acid)(γ-PGA) formed self-assembled nanoparticles through electrostatic interactions with two different cationic polymers: poly(L-lysine)(PLL) and chitosan. The self-assembled γ-PGA/PLL and γ-PGA/chitosan nanoparticles were crosslinked by glutaraldehyde. Crosslinking of the ionic self-assembled nanoparticles with glutaraldehyde not only stabilized the nanoparticles but also generated a strong autofluorescence signal. Fluorescent Schiff base bonds (C=N) and double bonds (C=C) were generated simultaneously by crosslinking of the amine moiety of the cationic polyelectrolytes with monomeric glutaraldehyde or with polymeric glutaraldehyde. The unique optical properties of the nanoparticles that resulted from the crosslinking by glutaraldehyde were analyzed using UV/Vis and fluorescence spectroscopy. We observed that the fluorescence intensity of the nanoparticles could be regulated by adjusting the crosslinker concentration and the reaction time. The nanoparticles also exhibited high performance in the labeling and monitoring of therapeutic immune cells (macrophages and dendritic cells). These self-assembled nanoparticles are expected to be a promising multicolor optical imaging contrast agent for the labeling, detection, and monitoring of cells.
Synthesis and Antifungal Activity of the Derivatives of Novel Pyrazole Carboxamide and Isoxazolol Pyrazole Carboxylate
Authors: Sun Jialong , Zhou Yuanming
Published: March 2015

A series of pyrazole carboxamide and isoxazolol pyrazole carboxylate derivatives were designed and synthesized in this study. The structures of the compounds were elucidated based on spectral data (infrared, proton nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectroscopy). Then, all of the compounds were bioassayed in vitro against four types of phytopathogenic fungi (Alternaria porri, Marssonina coronaria, Cercospora petroselini and Rhizoctonia solani) using the mycelium growth inhibition method. The results showed that some of the synthesized pyrazole carboxamides displayed notable antifungal activity. The isoxazole pyrazole carboxylate 7ai exhibited significant antifungal activity against R. solani, with an EC50 value of 0.37 μg/mL. Nonetheless, this value was lower than that of the commercial fungicide, carbendazol.
Periodic Arrays of Film-Coupled Cubic Nanoantennas as Tunable Plasmonic Metasurfaces
Authors: Yannopapas Vassilios
Published: March 2015

We show theoretically that a two-dimensional periodic array of metallic nanocubes in close proximity to a metallic film acts as a metasurface with tunable absorbance. The presence of a metallic film underneath the array of plasmonic nanocubes leads to an impedance matched plasmonic metasurface enhancing up to 4 times the absorbance of incident radiation, in the spectral region below 500 nm. The absorbance spectrum is weakly dependent on the angle of incidence and state of polarization of incident light a functionality which can find application in thermo-photovoltaics. Our calculations are based on a hybrid layer-multiple-scattering (hLMS) method based on a discrete-dipole approximation (DDA)/T-matrix point matching method.
Elvis’ Gospel Music: Between the Secular and the Spiritual?
Authors: Duffett Mark
Published: March 2015

Do fans sanctify their heroes? In the past, I have argued that Elvis fandom is not a neo-religious practice but that attention to a modified version of Durkheim’s theory of religion can, nevertheless, help to explain it as a form of social interaction. I take that argument further here, first by revealing the ethical and analytical advantages of neo-Durkheimian theory, then by pitting this theory against three aspects of Elvis’ sincere engagement with gospel music. Elvis Presley won three Grammy awards for his gospel albums and was the musician who did most to bring the gospel quartet tradition to the mainstream. His eclectic personal ties to spirituality and religion have become a focus of debate within his fan culture. They offer a set of discursive resources through which to explain the emotional impact and social influence of his music. If star musicians are positioned as centres of attention, what happens when they use their privileged position in the spotlight to offer a “spiritual” message?
Normalization of Echo Features Derived from Full-Waveform Airborne Laser Scanning Data
Authors: Lin Yu-Ching
Published: March 2015

Full-waveform airborne laser scanning systems provide fundamental observations for each echo, such as the echo width and amplitude. Geometric and physical information about illuminated surfaces are simultaneously provided by a single scanner. However, there are concerns about whether the physical meaning of observations is consistent among different scanning missions. Prior to the application of waveform features for multi-temporal data classification, such features must be normalized. This study investigates the transferability of normalized waveform features to different surveys. The backscatter coefficient is considered to be a normalized physical feature. A normalization process for the echo width, which is a geometric feature, is proposed. The process is based on the coefficient of variation of the echo widths in a defined neighborhood, for which the Fuzzy Small membership function is applied. The normalized features over various land cover types and flight missions are investigated. The effects of different feature combinations on the classification accuracy are analyzed. The overall accuracy of the combination of normalized features and height-based attributes achieves promising results (>93% overall accuracy for ground, roof, low vegetation, and tree canopy) when different flight missions and classifiers are used. Nevertheless, the combination of all possible features, including raw features, normalized features, and height-based features, performs less well and yields inconsistent results.
Use of a Modified Vector Model for Odor Intensity Prediction of Odorant Mixtures
Authors: Yan Luchun , Liu Jiemin , Fang Di
Published: March 2015

Odor intensity (OI) indicates the perceived intensity of an odor by the human nose, and it is usually rated by specialized assessors. In order to avoid restrictions on assessor participation in OI evaluations, the Vector Model which calculates the OI of a mixture as the vector sum of its unmixed components’ odor intensities was modified. Based on a detected linear relation between the OI and the logarithm of odor activity value (OAV—a ratio between chemical concentration and odor threshold) of individual odorants, OI of the unmixed component was replaced with its corresponding logarithm of OAV. The interaction coefficient (cosα) which represented the degree of interaction between two constituents was also measured in a simplified way. Through a series of odor intensity matching tests for binary, ternary and quaternary odor mixtures, the modified Vector Model provided an effective way of relating the OI of an odor mixture with the lnOAV values of its constituents. Thus, OI of an odor mixture could be directly predicted by employing the modified Vector Model after usual quantitative analysis. Besides, it was considered that the modified Vector Model was applicable for odor mixtures which consisted of odorants with the same chemical functional groups and similar molecular structures.
Detection and Modeling of Vegetation Phenology Spatiotemporal Characteristics in the Middle Part of the Huai River Region in China
Authors: Xu Di , Fu Meichen
Published: March 2015

Vegetation plays an important role in atmospheric, hydrologic and biochemical cycles and is an important indicator of the impact of climate and human factors on the environment. In this paper, a method, which combines the empirical orthogonal function (EOF) and temporal unmixing analysis (TUA) methods, is applied to monitor the phenological characteristcs and spatial distribution of vegetation phenology in the middle part of the Huai River region. Based on the variance and EOF curves, the EOF provides the number of phenology modes, information which is the basis for an accurate temporal unmixing model. The TUA describes the temporal vegetation phenological details and spatial distribution. Importantly, this approach does not require assumptions, prior information or pre-defined thresholds. The vegetation phenology curves derived from the MODIS EVI data using the combined EOF and TUA methods display much more detail than the curves from Landsat TM using spectral mixture analysis (SMA). Additionally, the vegetation phenology spatial distribution from MODIS EVI is consistent with the field survey data. The combination method of EOF and TUA can be used to monitor vegetation phenology spatiotemporal change in a large area from time series of MODIS EVI data.
Present State and Trends of the Geoinformation Industry in China
Authors: Zhang Hui-Feng , Du Qing-Yun , Qiao Chao-Fei
Published: March 2015

The geoinformation industry is a high-tech service industry based on modern surveying and mapping technologies, remote sensing technologies and satellite navigation and positioning technologies. In China, the geoinformation industry is an emerging strategic industry that has rapidly developed; it has played an increasingly important role in the economy and society. This essay briefly introduces the present state of the international geoinformation industry. The state of the geoinformation industry enterprises in China from 2011 to 2013 is introduced. Although this industry has greatly progressed in China, problems and limitations still exist. The structure of the industry is not sustainable. The innovation capacity of Chinese enterprises is weak. Various market demands, increasing social investments, rapid progress in surveying, mapping and geoinformation technology and attention from the government are the main driving factors in this industry. Developing trends in the industry are proposed. Overall, the government will remain the main user of geoinformation applications, and enterprises will continue to merge and reorganize. Mobile geoinformation applications have broad prospects, and new business models will continue to emerge.
Evidence for Obliqueness of Angles as a Cue to Planar Surface Slant Found in Extremely Simple Symmetrical Shapes
Authors: Erkelens Casper
Published: March 2015

The Necker cube is a striking example for perceptual dominance of 3D over 2D. Object symmetry and obliqueness of angles are co-varying cues that may underlie the perceived slant of Necker cubes. To investigate the power of the oblique-angle cue, slants were judged of extremely simple symmetrical shapes. Slant computations based on an assumption of orthogonality were made for two abutting lines as a function of vertex angle and the slant of the screen. Computed slants were compared with slants judged by six subjects under binocular viewing conditions. Judged slant was highly correlated with slant specified by the oblique angles under an assumption of orthogonality. The contributions of screen cues, including binocular disparity, were negligible. The consistency of the judgments across subjects indicates the assumption of orthogonality as one of the principles underlying slant perception. Necker cubes illustrate that the visual system can disengage unambiguous cues in favor of ambiguous object-symmetry and oblique-angle cues, if the latter indicate very different slants. Selective disengagement of cues may be the mechanism that underlies the success of 2D images in ancient, as well as modern civilizations.
Detection of Ochratoxin a Using Molecular Beacons and Real-Time PCR Thermal Cycler
Authors: Sanzani Simona , Reverberi Massimo , Fanelli Corrado , Ippolito Antonio
Published: March 2015

We developed a simple and cheap assay for quantitatively detecting ochratoxin A (OTA) in wine. A DNA aptamer available in literature was used as recognition probe in its molecular beacon form, i.e., with a fluorescence-quenching pair at the stem ends. Our aptabeacon could adopt a conformation allowing OTA binding, causing a fluorescence rise due to the increased distance between fluorophore and quencher. We used real-time PCR equipment for capturing the signal. With this assay, under optimized conditions, the entire process can be completed within 1 h. In addition, the proposed system exhibited a good selectivity for OTA against other mycotoxins (ochratoxin B and aflatoxin M1) and limited interference from aflatoxin B1 and patulin. A wide linear detection range (0.2–2000 µM) was achieved, with LOD = 13 nM, r = 0.9952, and R2 = 0.9904. The aptabeacon was also applied to detect OTA in red wine spiked with the same dilution series. A linear correlation with a LOD = 19 nM, r = 0.9843, and R2 = 0.9708 was observed, with recoveries in the range 63%–105%. Intra- and inter-day assays confirmed its reproducibility. The proposed biosensor, although still being finalized, might significantly facilitate the quantitative detection of OTA in wine samples, thus improving their quality control from a food safety perspective.
Les conséquences des aménagements des XVIIe et XVIIIe siècles sur l'aspect actuel de la forêt pyrénéenne
Authors: Fruhauf Christian
Published: March 2015

« Milieu naturel », l'espace forestier est, en fait, le produit d'une activité sociale. Une abondante documentation en donne un exemple à travers l'évolution de la forêt pyrénéenne pendant les trois derniers siècles. La diversité actuelle des paysages forestiers pyrénéens s'oppose à l'uniformité de ce même paysage au XVIIIe siècle. C'est qu'à une utilisation uniforme de l'espace montagnard dans les sociétés agro-pastorales a succédé la spécialisation régionale de l'exploitation du bois dans une économie de marché.
Notes d'architecture sportive : Le socialisme municipal des années Trente à Bègles
Authors: Callède Jean-Paul
Published: March 2015

In den 30er Jahren bildet die Entwicklung der Sportarchitektur eine wichtige Etappe der modernen Kultur und des Wandels der Sitten und Gebräuche. Gleichzeitig wird hier eine Entwicklung der Gemeindeprogramme - besonders in sozialistischen Gemeinden - deutlich spürbar. Das Schwimmbad mit Bädern und Duschen von Bègles, einer Gemeinde von Gross - Bordeaux, zeugt eindeutig von diesem gesellschaftspolitischen Kontext. Diese Art von Bauten, die von der lokalen Rechten scharf kritisiert wurden, sowie die allgemeine Förderung des Sports, die sie ankündigt, müssen mit der veränderten sozialen Zusammensetzung der amtierenden Gemeindeverwaltung in Verbindung gesehen werden, die sich insgesamt darum bemüht, dem städtischen Raum symbolisch und repräsentativ das Gepräge der sozialistischen Aktion zu verleihen.
Une vicaria languedocienne du Xe siècle : Popian en Biterrois
Authors: Schneider Laurent
Published: March 2015

La vicaria de Popian apparaît dans les textes autour des années 960, dans un secteur du pagus de Béziers jusque-là dépourvu de toute forteresse publique. Dans le dernier tiers du Xe siècle, les moines de Saint-Sauveur d'Aniane obtiennent de riches aumônes dans ce nouveau ressort. Ces dons témoignent des recompositions domaniales qui précèdent d'une à deux générations la crise châtelaine du premier XIe siècle. Ils mettent en scène des personnages de l'entourage des vicomtes de Lodève. La lignée vicomtale biterroise ne conserve, pour sa part, de contrôle sur cette partie du comitatus qu'à travers la pratique des abbatiats sous influence.
Châteaux et peuplement dans le massif des Albères et ses marges du IXe siècle au début du XIe siècle
Authors: Constant André
Published: March 2015

Dans le cadre de la conquête carolingienne, de vastes portions de l'ancien domaine public ont été concédées par les autorités pour repeupler des territoires décrits comme « déserts ». Des « châteaux » (castella) y apparaissent, érigés en centres géopolitiques (castra). Quelques indices dans les chartes du Xe siècle, ainsi que des recherches d'archéologie extensive, permettent de déceler l'essor précoce d'habitats sur ces terres castrales, non loin du site fortifié. Cependant les rythmes de progression du peuplement sont inégaux selon qu'on considère la frange côtière ou son arrière-pays.
Nîmes et son histoire à l'époque moderne
Authors: Michel Henri
Published: March 2015

Les six histoires de Nîmes publiées entre le début du XVIe et la fin du XVIIIe siècle expriment, comme ailleurs, un véritable sentiment patriotique local, mais elles accordent une place exceptionnellement importante aux vestiges archéologiques dont l'étude fut encouragée, à partir de la deuxième moitié du XVIIe siècle, par l'Académie de Nîmes. Elles suivent l'évolution de l'historiographie urbaine de l'époque moderne et reflètent le renouvellement des références culturelles des élites nîmoises : leurs auteurs rejettent les fables de leurs prédécesseurs et portent une attention croissante aux changements dont ils sont les témoins.
La forêt méditerranéenne au XIXe siècle : un espace naturel ou construit ?
Authors: Chalvet Martine
Published: March 2015

Avant le XIXe siècle, la forêt méditerranéenne n'existe pas, ni comme notion scientifique, ni comme évidence naturelle. Cet article se propose d'étudier, à partir de l'exemple de la forêt provençale, pourquoi et comment le concept de forêt méditerranéenne, qui nous semble aujourd'hui immuable, s'est forgé au cours du XIXe siècle, et d'expliquer le succès de la définition naturelle d'un objet qui, bien que lié à la nature, apparaît comme une construction économique, sociale, politique et culturelle.
Les mouvements populaires dans les diocèses civils de Nîmes, Uzès et Alès de 1740 à 1789
Authors: Duport Anne-Marie
Published: March 2015

Popular Movements in the Civil Dioceses of Nîmes, Uzès and Alès from 1740 to 1789.

In the framework of the inquiry on "popular movements in France during Second Absolutism" directed by professor Jean Nicolas, this study has retained among the multitude of complaints coming from the civil dioceses of Nîmes, Uzès and Alès addressed to the general governor of the Languedoc province from 1740 to 1789, those which evoked violent actions. They reflected effervescence and insubordination that challenged authority and worried elites more and more while letting one perceive the uneasy state that reigned at that time in eastern Languedoc.