bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Serum Cartilage Biomarkers and Shoulder Instability
Authors: Owens Brett D. , Cameron Kenneth L. , Bokshan Steven L. , Clifton Kari B. , Svoboda Steven J. , Wolf Jennifer Moriatis
Published: September 2016

Differences in cartilage biomarkers have been noted in patients with anterior cruciate ligament tears, but little is known about any similar relationship with shoulder instability. This study evaluated the relationship between serum cartilage biomarkers and shoulder instability. The authors present a prospective cohort study of young athletes followed from 2006 to 2010. A nested case-control analysis was conducted within this cohort to evaluate the association between preinjury collagen type II cleavage (a marker for type II collagen cleavage) and procollagen II carboxy propeptide (a marker of cartilage synthesis) and the subsequent likelihood of shoulder instability during the 4-year follow-up period. Preinjury collagen type II cleavage and procollagen II carboxy propeptide levels in 51 subjects who had shoulder instability were compared with levels in 210 subjects without documented anterior cruciate ligament or shoulder instability (control group) with commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits. Mean preinjury collagen type II cleavage levels in patients who subsequently had shoulder instability were significantly lower than those in the control group (73.91 vs 79.24 pg/mL,
P
=.03). No significant difference was found in preinjury procollagen II carboxy propeptide levels compared with the control group (359.94 vs 396.37,
P
=.24). This study is the first to examine the relationship between baseline collagen biomarkers and subsequent shoulder instability. The finding of lower baseline collagen type II cleavage levels in patients with subsequent shoulder instability may represent a genetic predisposition or a compensatory mechanism by which cartilage degradation is decreased in those who are more likely to have instability. [
Orthopedics.
2017; 40(1):34–36.]
Treatment of Massive Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears: A Cost-effectiveness Analysis
Authors: Kang Jason R. , Sin Aaron T. , Cheung Emilie V.
Published: September 2016

Massive irreparable rotator cuff tears cause significant shoulder pain and dysfunction. Physical therapy (PT), arthroscopic debridement with biceps tenotomy (AD-BT), and hemiarthroplasty (HA) are treatments shown to reduce pain and improve quality of life. Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) is a newer surgical treatment option that may offer improved function. A cost-effectiveness analysis of these interventions has never been performed, and no head-to-head comparative effectiveness trials currently exist. A Markov decision analytic model was used to compare RTSA, HA, AD-BT, and PT as treatments for elderly patients with massive irreparable rotator cuff tears. Probabilities for complications, perioperative death, conversion procedures, and reoperations were derived from the literature, and costs were determined by average Medicare reimbursement rates from 2011. Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty yielded the most quality-adjusted life years (QALY) with 7.69, but greater benefits came at higher costs compared with other treatments. Sensitivity analyses showed that PT was the most cost-effective intervention at a health utility of 0.75 or greater (QALY 7.35). The health utility of RTSA was 0.72 or less (QALY 7.48) or RTSA probability of no complications was 0.83 or less (QALY 7.48 at cost of $23,830). Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty yielded benefits at a cost considered good value for money compared with other treatments. Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty is the preferred and most cost-effective treatment option for elderly patients with massive irreparable rotator cuff tears. For patients seeking pain relief without functional gains, AD-BT can be considered a cost-effective and cheaper alternative. The cost-effectiveness analysis approach can help guide clinical practice as well as the policies of health care systems and insurers. [
Orthopedics.
2017; 40(1):e65–e76.]
Impact of Isometric Contraction of Anterior Cervical Muscles on Cervical Lordosis
Authors: Fedorchuk Curtis , McCoy Matthew , Lightstone Douglas Frank , Bak David Andrew , Moser Jacque , Kubricht Brett , Packer John , Walton Dustin , Binongo Jose
Published: September 2016

Objective: This study investigates the impact of isometric contraction of anterior cervical muscles on cervical lordosis. Methods: 29 volunteers were randomly assigned to an anterior head translation (n=15) or anterior head flexion (n=14) group. Resting neutral lateral cervical x-rays were compared to x-rays of sustained isometric contraction of the anterior cervical muscles producing anterior head translation or anterior head flexion. Results: Paired sample t-tests indicate no significant difference between pre and post anterior head translation or anterior head flexion. Analysis of variance suggests that gender and peak force were not associated with change in cervical lordosis. Chamberlain's to atlas plane line angle difference was significantly associated with cervical lordosis difference during anterior head translation (p=0.01). Conclusion: This study shows no evidence that hypertonicity, as seen in muscle spasms, of the muscles responsible for anterior head translation and anterior head flexion have a significant impact on cervical lordosis.
Analysis of the Learning Mode of the Elaborate Resource Sharing Course
Authors: Cai Ken , Jin Yingying , Yue Hongwei , Huang Haoran
Published: September 2016

Educational informatization and networking have become inevitable because of the major changes in the course content system and teaching modes. Examining the status of elaborate resource sharing course (ERSC) construction and analyzing the sharing and application of educational resources are vital. Through the comparative analysis of foreign open classes and domestic resource sharing courses, this paper puts forward recommendations for the sharing of resources and communication between teachers and students in the construction of an ERSC. Positive interactions between teachers and students can be promoted in network-based teaching using the WeChat public platform to build a virtual learning environment. Then, this paper analyzes the effect of the intellectual property right protection of network teaching on open educational resources and proposes countermeasures. Results show that the WeChat teaching technology and the cited standards for the public educational resources can improve learning efficiency. These conclusions can also serve as reference in promoting the sustainable development of ERSC.
Development of Intelligent Teaching System Based on 3D Technology in the Course of Digital Animation Production
Authors: Ji Yuanyuan , Liu Yajuan
Published: September 2016

In recent years, the 3D digital technology based on computers and the Internet has developed rapidly, and people have realized the visual and 3D observation of the real world. The visual and 3D characteristics of this technology completely conform to the teaching objective of the digital animation course. Thus, developing a 3D intelligent teaching system and applying it in the course of digital animation production have a profound practical significance. This study used digital animation production as the experimental course, comparatively analyzed the difference in teaching effect of using the 3D intelligent teaching system in the course of digital animation production, and provided theoretical and data supports for the application of that system in the course of digital animation production and college education.
Les limites de la liberté religieuse des détenus en Allemagne : Des restrictions apportées à la participation aux cérémonies cultuelles
Authors: Varhol Arsène
Published: September 2016

Une personne condamnée à perpétuité avait menacé un agent de l'administration pénitentiaire. Afin de protéger ce dernier, le détenu avait fait l'objet d'une sanction disciplinaire, qui lui interdisait de sortir de l'aile de l'établissement dans lequel était située sa cellule. Cette interdiction empêchait le détenu de se rendre à la salle de prière. C'est la raison qu'avaient invoqué les juges pour refuser cette sanction. Une telle interdiction est soumise en Allemagne à des conditions très strictes.
Indigenous Knowledge Exclusion in Education Systems of Africans
Authors: Mji Gubela , Kalenga Rosemary , Ned Lieketseng , Alperstein Melanie , Banda Dennis
Published: September 2016

This chapter intends to push the frontiers of knowledge production and raise consciousness of indigenous knowledge systems as an essential strategy that can enable transformation and enhance intergenerational approaches to learning for all Africans. The lack of inclusion of indigenous knowledge that is produced through the daily interaction of African children within the home and their environment in African education systems has had a negative impact and is a threat to the beingness of Africans. This does not only have a negative impact on the beingness of the African child but also on the journey of becoming an African. Becoming an African is an evolving concept that requires consistent self-reflection and adjustment according to the context and ongoing changes that occur in that context. African education systems and research can play a transformative constructive role in the revival of beingness and becoming an African person.
Crucial Role of Indigenous Knowledge in Formal Education Systems
Authors: Koehler Claudia
Published: September 2016

The chapter emphasises the important role of indigenous knowledge (IK) in formal education systems. If formal education does not take appropriate account of IK, learners will not be able to connect their learning experiences with their social and cultural environment. This impacts negatively on their ability to apply education for the construction of their life pathways. The chapter argues that in different countries, formal education has been shaped and dominated either by the majority population or by a ruling group and as a result is based on the respective groups' epistemologies and ontologies as well as their language. This has led to a separation of IK from the type of knowledge mediated through formal education. The consequences of this separation and the resulting argument for the significance of a strong integration of IK into the body of knowledge mediated through formal education as a prerequisite for relevance and usefulness of education is discussed on the level of the student and on the level of development.
Applying Indigenous Knowledge in Agricultural Extension in Zimbabwe
Authors: Mugwisi Tinashe
Published: September 2016

Indigenous knowledge (IK) has been viewed as local knowledge that has been developed and accumulated, over time, by a community and has been passed down over generations. Such knowledge is represented in most spheres of human activity, such as in agriculture, traditional and alternative medicine, human and animal health, forestry and botany, among others. The purpose of this chapter is to discuss how IK is accessed and used by agricultural extension workers in Zimbabwe. The study reviews the relevant literature and focuses largely on Indigenous Agricultural Knowledge (IAK). The study utilises both quantitative and qualitative methods; a questionnaire was distributed and extension workers drawn from eight provinces of Zimbabwe. Mashonaland Central Province produced the highest number of respondents because the population for the province included ward and village extension workers in addition to the district and provincial extension officers and supervisors targeted in each province. From the projected sixty (60), forty four (44) districts participated. The study observed that indigenous knowledge is relevant in modern day agriculture and should be given sufficient attention in extension work. The study recommends that IK be documented and integrated into research, education and training for posterity.
Politics of Belonging
Authors: Dube Thembani
Published: September 2016

The Kalanga occupy the south-western parts of Zimbabwe, their larger concentration is in modern-day Bulilimamangwe district although some clusters of Kalanga people are distributed throughout Kezi, Gwanda and Tsholotsho districts, among other areas, west of Zimbabwe. The chapter acknowledges that Kalanga identities in pre-colonial Zimbabwean society were multiple, however, it mainly focusses on Kalanga religion (the Mwali/Ngwali Cult) and Kalanga language and demonstrates how these pre-colonial Kalanga forms of identities were later politicised and (re) interpreted and manipulated by colonialists, missionaries and Africans in an endeavour to construct Kalanga ethnic identity. The main purpose of the chapter is to present and reflect on selected Kalanga precolonial forms of identities and show how these were used to (re) construct the Kalanga ethnic identity in colonial Zimbabwe. The chapter further argues that identities are not fixed primordial phenomenon but are constructed and reconstructed over the longee durree using precolonial forms of identities such as language and religion.
Eye Tracking and Spoken Language Comprehension
Authors: Kaplan Elizabeth , Levari Tatyana , Snedeker Jesse
Published: September 2016

Constructing a more precise and deeper understanding of how listeners, and particularly young children, comprehend spoken language is a primary focus for both psycholinguists and educators alike. This chapter highlights how, over the course of the past 20 years, eye tracking has become a crucial and widely used methodology to gain insight into online spoken language comprehension. We address how various eye-tracking paradigms have informed current theories of language comprehension across the processing stream, focusing on lexical discrimination, syntactic analysis, and pragmatic inferences. Additionally, this chapter aims to bridge the gap between psycholinguistic research and educational topics, such as how early linguistic experiences influence later educational outcomes and ways in which eye-tracking methods can provide additional insight into the language processing of children with developmental disorders.
Eye-Tracking the Emergence of Attentional Anchors in a Mathematics Learning Tablet Activity
Authors: Shayan Shakila , Abrahamson Dor , Bakker Arthur , Duijzer Carolien A. C. G. , van der Schaaf Marieke
Published: September 2016

Little is known about micro-processes by which sensorimotor interaction gives rise to conceptual development. Per embodiment theory, these micro-processes are mediated by dynamical attentional structures. Accordingly this study investigated eye-gaze behaviors during engagement in solving tablet-based bimanual manipulation tasks designed to foster proportional reasoning. Seventy-six elementary- and vocational-school students (9-15 yo) participated in individual task-based clinical interviews. Data gathered included action-logging, eye-tracking, and videography. Analyses revealed the emergence of stable eye-path gaze patterns contemporaneous with first enactments of effective manipulation and prior to verbal articulations of manipulation strategies. Characteristic gaze patterns included consistent or recurring attention to screen locations that bore non-salient stimuli or no stimuli at all yet bore invariant geometric relations to dynamical salient features. Arguably, this research validates empirically hypothetical constructs from constructivism, particularly reflective abstraction.
IL-10–Modulated Human Dendritic Cells for Clinical Use: Identification of a Stable and Migratory Subset with Improved Tolerogenic Activity
Authors: Kryczanowsky Fanny , Raker Verena , Graulich Edith , Domogalla Matthias P. , Steinbrink Kerstin
Published: September 2016

Dendritic cells (DCs) are key regulators of protective immune responses and tolerance to (self-)Ags. Therefore, the scientific rationale for the use of tolerogenic DC therapy in the fields of allergies, autoimmunity, and transplantation medicine is strong. In this study, we analyzed the tolerogenic capacity of IL-10–modulated DC (IL-10DC) subpopulations to identify a DC subset that combines potent immunosuppressive activities with valuable immune properties for clinical implementation. IL-10DCs consist of two phenotypically distinct subpopulations: CD83highCCR7+ IL-10DCs and CD83lowCCR7− IL-10DCs. Suppressor assays with activated effector T cells revealed that CD4+ regulatory T cells generated by CD83high IL-10DCs (iTreg+) exhibited a significantly higher suppressive capacity compared with CD4+ regulatory T cells generated by CD83low IL-10DCs (iTreg−). In this context, iTreg+ displayed a more activated phenotype (proliferation, cytokine production) compared with iTreg−. In contrast to CD83low IL-10DCs, CD83high IL-10DCs exerted a strong migratory capacity toward the secondary lymphoid organ chemokine CCL21 and retained a functionally stable phenotype under inflammatory conditions. In addition, CD83high IL-10DCs expressed significantly higher levels of surface and soluble CD25. Functional analysis demonstrated that IL-10DC–related soluble CD25 efficiently inhibited the proliferation of activated T cells and that blockade of CD25 function abolished the induction of regulatory T cells by IL-10DCs, indicating a critical role for IL-10DC–related CD25 in shifting the immune response toward an iTreg− controlled tolerance reaction. In conclusion, the selective use of the CD83high IL-10DC subset may result in a higher efficacy of tolerance induction in vivo and may support the development of novel DC vaccination strategies for transplantations, as well as for allergic and autoimmune diseases.
Designing a digital pedagogical pattern for improving foreign language learners’ oral proficiency
Authors: Grobler Carina , Smits Tom F.H.
Published: September 2016

South African undergraduate foreign language students need more opportunity to practise their oral language skills. Not only do appeals to focus more on oral productive skills feature in scholarly literature (Delena-le Roux 2010), it is also one of the main conclusions from a survey among beginner students of French at the Potchefstroom Campus of North-West University (South Africa). It was therefore necessary to design a teaching and learning intervention, specifically aimed at improving beginner students’ oral communication skills in French. Laurillard’s (2012) Conversational Framework inspired the design of a digital pedagogical pattern (DPP), consisting of context and pedagogy descriptors for the development of foreign language learners’ oral communication skills. The Conversational Framework analyses formal learning and challenges the use of new technologies in learning. The implementation process of a DPP for the development of students’ (French) oral skills involved three cycles, each with specific outcomes and three groups of participants: the control group and two experimental groups. Field-testing the proposed DPP provided important insights which should be integrated in the design of subsequent digital pedagogical patterns in the specific context: limiting the participant groups to two; decreasing the number of interventions to be implemented in the limited teaching time of a semester; ensuring that each step adheres to the requirements of the Conversational Framework. Student results from the learning interventions in future studies should reveal which intervention better promotes oral communication skills.
Methamphetamine-induced psychosis: Clinical features, treatment modalities and outcomes
Authors: Thomas Eileen , Lategan Helena , Verster Chris , Kidd Martin , Weich Lize
Published: September 2016

Objective: To investigate the clinical features, prescribing patterns and outcomes of psychiatric inpatients admitted with methamphetamine-induced psychosis.
Method: A cross-sectional, descriptive pilot study was conducted between March 2014 and August 2014 at three South African Mental Health Care Act designated hospitals prior to admission to a psychiatric hospital. Patients with methamphetamine-related psychotic symptoms according to the DSM-5 criteria were eligible. Structured face-to-face interviews were conducted and the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale was employed as a measure of current
psychopathology.
Results: Fifty-six participants were included. Positive psychotic symptoms (e.g. hallucinations) were more prominent than negative symptoms (e.g. affective blunting). Almost half the participants (43%) had previous episodes of methamphetamine-induced psychosis. Within this group, all had defaulted on the prescribed treatment prior to admission. Only 29% of the participants had received prior formal substance-use rehabilitation as treatment for their disorder. High rates of comorbid cannabis and alcohol use (51%) were recorded. Most of the participants required transfer to specialist psychiatric hospitals. The amounts of methamphetamine used were not a predictor of the persistence of psychosis; however, the pattern of use was.
Conclusion: Clinical features correspond with other international findings. The currently employed model of sequential, non-integrated psychiatric and substance use treatment in this setting appears ineffective.
Long-term follow-up and patient satisfaction after reduction mammoplasty: Superomedial versus inferior pedicle
Authors: Makboul Mohamed , Abdelhamid Mahmoud S. , Al-Attar Ghada S.
Published: September 2016

Background: Surgery for hypertrophied breasts represents a challenge for plastic surgeons. The search for a good post-surgical cosmetic breast has led to the development of many techniques. Objectives for reduction mammoplasty are to achieve elevated, symmetrical breasts, a round shape, good projection, small cicatrices that are not very perceptible, and a lasting result. Patients and Methods: This study was carried out on sixty cases who had done reduction mammoplasty from January 2009 to December 2014. All patients were examined and were asked for late post-operative results and overall patients’ satisfaction. Results: Long-term projection and contour of the breast were more satisfactory among patients who had superomedial pedicle with a statistically significant difference. No statistically significant difference was observed between patients underwent either superomedial or inferior pedicle reduction mammoplasty with regard to breast shape symmetry, nipple symmetry and sensation. The mean score for satisfaction was higher among patients who underwent superomedial pedicle rather than the inferior pedicle method. Conclusion: The superomedial pedicle shows better long-term cosmetic results.
Anterior urethral diverticulum: A rare presentation
Authors: Gopalkrishna Annavarupu , Sharma Somendra Mohan , Ananda B.
Published: September 2016

Congenital anomalies of the urogenital tract are the most common anomalies found in the foetus, neonates and infants, but anterior urethral valves and diverticula are rare. Here, we present a case with congenital anterior urethral diverticulum associated with patent ductus arteriosus and polydactyly.
Effect of external volume expansion on the survival of fat grafts
Authors: Reddy Raghuveer , Iyer Subramania , Sharma Mohit , Vijayaraghavan Sundeep , Kishore P. , Mathew Jimmy , Unni A. K. K. , Reshmi P. , Sharma Rakesh , Prasad Chaya
Published: September 2016

Introduction: External volume expansion (EVE) is one method, which has been utilised for increasing the survival of adipose tissue grafts. EVE releases positive pressure from the graft and also induces intense levels of edema that decreases diffusion of metabolites essential for graft survival initially. The ideal timing of external volume expansion in relation to the injection of the fat to facilitate survival is not yet clear. Aims and Objectives: This study was undertaken to evaluate and compare the efficacy of external volume expansion applied at variable time points in relation to the injection of the fat. Materials and Methods: Athymic mouse was the animal model and human lipo-aspirate mixed with PRP was used as graft. An indigenous dome shaped silicone device was fabricated to deliver a negative pressure of -30 mm of Hg. The EVE was applied at variable time intervals. At the end of 4 weeks visual, histological and radiological features of the injected fat were compared. The adipose tissue was stained with human vimentin to ascertain the origin of the retained fat. Results: All the grafts, which had EVE, had significantly better volume retention and vascularity. The groups which underwent a delayed EVE or prior expansion followed by concomitant graft injection and expansion showed the most optimal vascularity and graft retention. Conclusions: A delayed EVE or prior expansion followed by concomitant graft injection and expansion may be the most ideal combinations to optimize graft take. However, on account of the relatively small sample size, there was a limitation in drawing statistically significant conclusions for certain variables.
Premenarchal labia minora hypertrophy
Authors: Agrawal Karoon , Patel Pankaj Kumar , Sahu Shamendra Anand
Published: September 2016

Labia minora hypertrophy is a relatively uncommon surgical entity being popularised in the realm of vulvovaginal plastic surgeries. Apart from the unaesthetic appearance of the hypertrophied minora, these cases are also associated with itching, hygiene problem, pain while sitting down, sports activities, difficulty in wearing tight clothing, bleeding and discomfort while or after sexual intercourse, social embarrassment, insecurity and psychological diminution of confidence and self-esteem. In a country like India, due to sociocultural reasons, patients hesitate to consult a doctor for such deformities. Most of the patients suffer in silence for years. Although common in the west, very few surgeons in the country perform this simple and rewarding surgery. Here, we are presenting a case of premenarchal juvenile labia minora hypertrophy (JLMH) in an 8-year-old child. Labial hypertrophy in this age group is uncommon. We were unable to find hypertrophy of labia minora in the eight-year-old child on English literature search.
Passage through the carotid sheath: An alternative path to the pre-spinal route for direct repair of contralateral C7 to the lower trunk in total brachial plexus root avulsion injury
Authors: Doshi Piyush Bhupendra , Bhatt Yogesh Chimanbhai
Published: September 2016

Context: In surgical management of global brachial plexus injuries, direct repair of contralateral C7 (cC7) to the anterior division of the lower trunk, can produce good extrinsic finger flexion. The pitfalls associated with the pre-spinal passage have, perhaps, proved to be a deterrent for using this technique routinely. Aims: The aim of this study is to demonstrate an alternative to pre-spinal route for cC7 transfer in brachial plexus avulsion injuries. Methods: We noted that the mobilised lower trunk, which reaches the level of the scalenus anterior by passage deep to the clavicle, can be brought to the suprasternal notch when brought out from below the clavicle. This area was dissected in two cadavres, and safe passage was found through the carotid sheath with the common carotid artery medially and the internal jugular vein with the vagus nerve laterally. The cC7 root dissected medial to the scalenus anterior muscle can be directly transferred along this path to the subcutaneous plane at the suprasternal notch. This study allowed us to execute a direct repair in ten clinical cases of global brachial plexus injuries. In each case, the passage was prepared rapidly and uneventfully. The repair was technically simple and could be performed comfortably using suitable fine suture materials. In none of these cases, did we need to shorten the humerus. Results: The clinical outcome of this technique is awaited. Conclusions: We advocate carotid sheath route to approximate the cC7 to the injured lower trunk in global palsies, as the risks associated with the pre-spinal route can be readily avoided.
Primary Metastatic Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Male Urethra Presenting with Scrotal Abscess and Subsequent Development of Fournier's Gangrene
Authors: Moore Sarah J. , Rashidipour Omid , Moore Ronald B.
Published: September 2016

This male patient presented with a scrotal abscess and urinary obstruction. The patient's history included a perineal abscess and the development of urethrocutaneous fistulae (watering-can perineum). He underwent multiple debridement procedures without resolution. During the fifth debridement for Fournier's gangrene, a biopsy revealed invasive squamous cell carcinoma. The patient was bedridden because of the large mass, a wide en bloc resection with lymphadenectomy and reconstruction was performed revealing a large (22 cm) squamous cell carcinoma originating from the urethra. He also received palliative chemoradiotherapy and hip hemiarthroplasty. Unfortunately, he succumbed to the disease. Given the recognized relationship between inflammation and the development of cancer, it is important to entertain a differential diagnosis of cancer, especially with erosive infections. This case report highlights the all too common late presentation of urethral cancer. Interestingly, despite correction of the bedridden state with palliative surgery, the patient did not perceive an improvement in quality of life based on the FACT-G questionnaire.
Place de la colibacillose chez le jeune veau et antibiorésistance dans l’Allier (2011-2013)
Authors: Lacroute Hélène
Published: September 2016

Les gastroentérites néonatales sont une cause majeure de pertes économiques en élevage bovin. Nous avons fait un état des lieux de cette pathologie dans l’Allier entre 2011 et 2013 chez des veaux de moins de huit jours. Escherichia coli, les rotavirus, coronavirus et Cryptosporidium sont recherchés dans les selles. La prévalence des agents pathogènes est supérieure chez les veaux malades, mais d’autres facteurs de risque semblent intervenir. Les niveaux d’antibiorésistance observés sont inquiétants et sont parfois corrélés à l’utilisation des molécules antimicrobiennes. Des mesures préventives sont indispensables pour réduire, face à ces maladies, le recours aux antibiotiques.
Cannibalisme bactérien : le renouveau ?
Authors: Philippon Alain
Published: September 2016

Predatory bacteria : rebirth ?

The discovery of predatory bacteria is recent. These lytic bacteria, mainly incurved rods (d-proteobacteria) prey upon Gram-negative rods and justify some hope as alternative to antibiotics. A lot of publications has given details on the genus Bdellovibrio and the species, Bdellovibrio bacteriovorus,

tiny and incurved Gram-negative rod, motile, aerobic and obligatory predation of a host. Its spectrum of action was directed among various Gram-negative rods pathogens for humans and animals : enterobacteria, various species of Pseudomonas, vibrios... Such bacteria were isolated from several ecosystems : soil, waters from rivers, estuaries and mammal stools. The lytic cycle (3-4 hours) was individualized including steps : attachment, penetration into periplasmic space with a burst size of 3-6 cells, and liberation (lysis). Finally the absence of multiplication on cell cultures combined to low inflammatory in animals conducted to use such bacteria as alternative. Nevertheless the discoveries of broad-spectrum antibiotics limited further research on cannibalism. Fortunately the emergence of multiresistant bacteria to antibiotics highlighted the rebirth of predatory bacteria. Other publications gave details on taxonomy of new genera (Bacteriolyticum, Bacteriovorax, Halobacteriovorax, Peredibacter, Variovorax), on genomes varying from 2.97 to 3.85 Md, equivalent between 3100 and 3800 genes coding for enzymes for anaerobic respiration, partial hydrolysis of peptidoglycan (glycanase, peptidases), and numerous proteases, nucleases, low toxicity of LPS. Such characteristics justified perspectives as agent of biocontrol by accurate individualization of in vitro spectrum in wound, ocular, gingival and broncho-pulmonary infections. The effects of B. bacteriovorus on well-being and Salmonella colonization were detailed in chickens and cattle. Bdellovibrio has various applications in food industry as control in blight for soybean, modulators of vibrios in seawater, oysters and shrimps. Finally Bdellovibrio and like organisms (BALOs) are effective at reducing through predation the population of harmful bacteria, support for its potential use as a probiotic. Nevertheless we need more investigations particularly in medical field.
Questioning the validity, veracity and viability of the case for “Cogno-normative (complementary) epistemology”: A conversation with Chimakonam
Authors: Nweke Victor CA
Published: September 2016

In this short conversation, I will engage Jonathan Chimakonam’s essay entitled “The knowledge Question in African Philosophy: A Case for Cogno-Normative  (Complementary) Epistemology” published as the chapter four of [Atuolu Omalu: Some Unanswered Questions in Contemporary African Philosophy]. I will identify the major submissions of the essay and engage them critically with the aim of opening new vistas of thought. My method will be conversationalim.Keywords: Conversational philosophy, Jonathan Chimakonam, African philosophy, epistemology, cogno-normative
La parametrización, una herramienta informática como ayuda en eL proceso creativo deL arquitecto. La cubierta de un centro budista en tenerife
Authors: Gilabert Sanz Salvador
Published: September 2016

Los procesos creativos de la arquitectura son múltiples y a veces conceptualmente variados; en el proyecto para la cubierta de un centro budista en Tenerife, pretendimos no alejarnos de un proceso creativo de integración entre el lugar, el programa o el presupuesto, pero introduciendo además, conceptos básicos propios, e inspirándonos en otras artes plásticas. Hemos intentado diluir cualquier frontera mental, creado tramas entre toda esta información para intergar estos conceptos diversos en la materialización del proyecto.
The application of supply chain management principles to emergency management logistics: An empirical study
Authors: Peterson, MBA, CSCP, SCOR-P Matthew R. , Young, PhD, FCILT Richard R. , Gordon, MSCE, MBA, PE Gary A.
Published: September 2016

Key elements of supply chain theory remain relevant to emergency management (EM) logistics activities. The Supply Chain Operations Reference model can also serve as a useful template for the planning, organizing, and execution of EM logistics. Through a series of case studies (developed through intensive survey of organizations and individuals responsible for EM), the authors identified the extent supply chain theory is being adopted and whether the theory was useful for emergency logistics managers. The authors found several drivers that influence the likelihood of an organization to implement elements of supply chain management: the frequency of events, organizational resources, population density, range of events, and severity of the disaster or emergency.
Disaster behavioral health capacity: Findings from a multistate preparedness assessment
Authors: Peck, MPH Megan , Mendenhall, PhD Tai , Stenberg, MPH Louise , Carlson, BS Nancy , Olson, DNP Debra K.
Published: September 2016

Purpose: To identify gaps in disaster behavioral health, the Preparedness and Emergency Response Learning Center (PERL) at the University of Minnesota's School of Public Health supported the development and implementation of a multistate disaster behavioral health preparedness assessment. Information was gathered regarding worker knowledge of current disaster behavioral health capacity at the state and local level, and perceived disaster behavioral health training needs and preferences.Methods: Between May and July 2015, 143 participants completed a 31-item uniform questionnaire over the telephone by a trained interviewer. Trained interviewers were given uniform instructions on administering the questionnaire. Participants included county- and city-level public health leaders and directors from Minnesota, Wisconsin, and North Dakota.Findings: Findings demonstrate that across the three states there is a need for improved disaster behavioral health training and response plans for before, during, and after public health emergencies. This study identified perceived gaps in plans and procedures for meeting the disaster behavioral health needs of different at-risk populations, including children, youth, and those with mental illness. There was consistent agreement among participants about the lack of behavioral health coordination between agencies during emergency events.Value: Findings can be used to inform policy and the development of trainings for those involved in disaster behavioral health. Effectively attending to interagency coordination and mutual aid agreements, planning for effective response and care for vulnerable populations, and targeted training will contribute to a more successful public health response to emergency events.
Workload differences across command levels and emergency response organizations during a major joint training exercise
Authors: Prytz, PhD Erik G. , Rybing, MSc Jonas , Jonson, PhD Carl-Oscar
Published: September 2016

Objective: This study reports on an initial test using a validated workload measurement method, the NASA Task Load Index (TLX), as an indicator of joint emergency exercise effectiveness. Prior research on emergency exercises indicates that exercises must be challenging, ie, result in high workload, to be effective. However, this is often problematic with some participants being underloaded and some overloaded. The NASA TLX was used to test for differences in workload between commanders and subordinates and among three different emergency response organizations during a joint emergency exercise.Design: Questionnaire-based evaluation with professional emergency responders.Setting: The study was performed in conjunction with a large-scale interorganizational joint emergency exercise in Sweden.Participants: A total of 20 participants from the rescue services, 12 from the emergency medical services, and 12 from the police participated in the study (N = 44). Ten participants had a command-level role during the exercise and the remaining 34 were subordinates.Main Outcome Measure(s): The main outcome measures were the workload subscales of the NASA TLX: mental demands, physical demands, temporal demands, performance, effort, and frustration. Results: The results showed that the organizations experienced different levels of workload, that the commanders experienced a higher workload than the subordinates, and that two out of three organizations fell below the twenty-fifth percentile of average workload scores compiled from 237 prior studies.Conclusions: The results support the notion that the NASA TLX could be a useful complementary tool to evaluate exercise designs and outcomes. This should be further explored and verified in additional studies.
Modelling spatial and temporal dynamics of GPP in the Sahel from earth observation based photosynthetic capacity and quantum efficiency
Authors: Tagesson Torbern , Ardo Jonas , Cappalaere Bernard , Kergoat Laurent , Abdi Abdulhakim , Horion Stephanie , Fensholt Rasmus
Published: September 2016

Abstract. It has been shown that vegetation growth in semi-arid regions is an important sink for human induced fossil fuel emissions of CO2, which indicates the strong need for improved understanding, and spatially explicit estimates of CO2 uptake (gross primary productivity (GPP)) in semi-arid ecosystems. This study has three aims: 1) to evaluate the MOD17A2H GPP (collection 6) product against eddy covariance (EC) based GPP for six sites across the Sahel. 2) To find evidence on the relationships between spatial and temporal variability in EC based photosynthetic capacity (Fopt) and quantum efficiency (α) and earth observation (EO) based vegetation indices 3) To study the applicability of EO up-scaled Fopt and α for GPP modelling purposes. MOD17A2H GPP (collection 6) underestimated GPP strongly, most likely because the maximum light use efficiency is set too low for semi-arid ecosystems in the MODIS algorithm. The intra-annual dynamics in Fopt was closely related to the shortwave infrared water stress index (SIWSI) closely coupled to equivalent water thickness, whereas α was closely related to the renormalized difference vegetation index (RDVI) affected by chlorophyll abundance. Spatial and inter-annual dynamics in Fopt and α were closely coupled to the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) and RDVI, respectively. Modelled GPP based on Fopt and α up-scaled using EO based indices reproduced in situ GPP well for all but a cropped site. The cropped site was strongly impacted by intensive anthropogenic land use. This study indicates the strong applicability of EO as a tool for parameterising spatially explicit estimates of photosynthetic capacity and efficiency; incorporating this into dynamic global vegetation models could improve global estimations of vegetation productivity, ecosystem processes and biochemical and hydrological cycles.
Impact of meltwater on high-latitude early Last Interglacial climate
Authors: Stone Emma J. , Capron Emilie , Lunt Daniel J. , Payne Antony J. , Singarayer Joy S. , Valdes Paul J. , Wolff Eric W.
Published: September 2016

Abstract. Recent data compilations of the early Last Interglacial period have indicated a bipolar temperature response at 130 ka, with colder-than-present temperatures in the North Atlantic and warmer-than-present temperatures in the Southern Ocean and over Antarctica. However, climate model simulations of this period have been unable to reproduce this response, when only orbital and greenhouse gas forcings are considered in a climate model framework. Using a full-complexity general circulation model we perform climate model simulations representative of 130 ka conditions which include a magnitude of freshwater forcing derived from data at this time. We show that this meltwater from the remnant Northern Hemisphere ice sheets during the glacial–interglacial transition produces a modelled climate response similar to the observed colder-than-present temperatures in the North Atlantic at 130 ka and also results in warmer-than-present temperatures in the Southern Ocean via the bipolar seesaw mechanism. Further simulations in which the West Antarctic Ice Sheet is also removed lead to warming in East Antarctica and the Southern Ocean but do not appreciably improve the model–data comparison. This integrated model–data approach provides evidence that Northern Hemisphere freshwater forcing is an important player in the evolution of early Last Interglacial climate.
How warm was Greenland during the last interglacial period?
Authors: Landais Amaelle , Masson-Delmotte Valérie , Capron Emilie , Langebroek Petra M. , Bakker Pepijn , Stone Emma J. , Merz Niklaus , Raible Christoph C. , Fischer Hubertus , Orsi Anaïs , Prié Frédéric , Vinther Bo , Dahl-Jensen Dorthe
Published: September 2016

Abstract. The last interglacial period (LIG, ∼ 129–116 thousand years ago) provides the most recent case study of multimillennial polar warming above the preindustrial level and a response of the Greenland and Antarctic ice sheets to this warming, as well as a test bed for climate and ice sheet models. Past changes in Greenland ice sheet thickness and surface temperature during this period were recently derived from the North Greenland Eemian Ice Drilling (NEEM) ice core records, northwest Greenland. The NEEM paradox has emerged from an estimated large local warming above the preindustrial level (7.5 ± 1.8 °C at the deposition site 126 kyr ago without correction for any overall ice sheet altitude changes between the LIG and the preindustrial period) based on water isotopes, together with limited local ice thinning, suggesting more resilience of the real Greenland ice sheet than shown in some ice sheet models. Here, we provide an independent assessment of the average LIG Greenland surface warming using ice core air isotopic composition (δ15N) and relationships between accumulation rate and temperature. The LIG surface temperature at the upstream NEEM deposition site without ice sheet altitude correction is estimated to be warmer by +8.5 ± 2.5 °C compared to the preindustrial period. This temperature estimate is consistent with the 7.5 ± 1.8 °C warming initially determined from NEEM water isotopes but at the upper end of the preindustrial period to LIG temperature difference of +5.2 ± 2.3 °C obtained at the NGRIP (North Greenland Ice Core Project) site by the same method. Climate simulations performed with present-day ice sheet topography lead in general to a warming smaller than reconstructed, but sensitivity tests show that larger amplitudes (up to 5 °C) are produced in response to prescribed changes in sea ice extent and ice sheet topography.
The Niwot Ridge Subalpine Forest US-NR1 AmeriFlux site – Part 1: Data acquisition and site record-keeping
Authors: Burns Sean P. , Maclean Gordon D. , Blanken Peter D. , Oncley Steven P. , Semmer Steven R. , Monson Russell K.
Published: September 2016

Abstract. The Niwot Ridge Subalpine Forest AmeriFlux site (US-NR1) has been measuring eddy-covariance ecosystem fluxes of carbon dioxide, heat, and water vapor since 1 November 1998. Throughout this 17-year period there have been changes to the instrumentation and improvements to the data acquisition system. Here, in Part 1 of this three-part series of papers, we describe the hardware and software used for data-collection and metadata documentation. We made changes to the data acquisition system that aimed to reduce the system complexity, increase redundancy, and be as independent as possible from any network outages. Changes to facilitate these improvements were (1) switching to a PC/104-based computer running the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) In-Situ Data Acquisition Software (NIDAS) that saves the high-frequency data locally and over the network, and (2) time-tagging individual 10 Hz serial data samples using network time protocol (NTP) coupled to a GPS-based clock, providing a network-independent, accurate time base. Since making these improvements almost 2 years ago, the successful capture of high-rate data has been better than 99.98 %. We also provide philosophical concepts that shaped our design of the data system and are applicable to many different types of environmental data collection.
Expanding HadISD: quality-controlled, sub-daily station data from 1931
Authors: Dunn Robert J. H. , Willett Kate M. , Parker David E. , Mitchell Lorna
Published: September 2016

Abstract. HadISD is a sub-daily, station-based, quality-controlled dataset designed to study past extremes of temperature, pressure and humidity and allow comparisons to future projections. Herein we describe the first major update to the HadISD dataset. The temporal coverage of the dataset has been extended to 1931 to present, doubling the time range over which data are provided. Improvements made to the station selection and merging procedures result in 7677 stations being provided in version 2.0.0.2015p of this dataset. The selection of stations to merge together making composites has also been improved and made more robust. The underlying structure of the quality control procedure is the same as for HadISD.1.0.x, but a number of improvements have been implemented in individual tests. Also, more detailed quality control tests for wind speed and direction have been added. The data will be made available as NetCDF files at http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/hadobs/hadisd and updated annually.