bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seasonal Solar Thermal Absorption Energy Storage Development
Authors: Daguenet-Frick Xavier , Gantenbein Paul , Rommel Mathias , Fumey Benjamin , Weber Robert , Goonesekera Kanishka , Williamson Tommy
Published: December 2015

This article describes a thermochemical seasonal storage with emphasis on the development of a reaction zone for an absorption/desorption unit. The heat and mass exchanges are modelled and the design of a suitable reaction zone is explained. A tube bundle concept is retained for the
heat and mass exchangers and the units are manufactured and commissioned. Furthermore, experimental results of both absorption and desorption processes are presented and the exchanged power is compared to the results of the simulations.
What About Certificates? Evidence on the Labor Market Returns to Nondegree Community College Awards in Two States
Authors: Xu Di , Trimble Madeline
Published: December 2015

The annual number of certificates awarded by community colleges has increased dramatically, but relatively little research has been conducted on the economic benefits of certificates in the labor market. Based on detailed student-level information from matched college transcript and employment data in two states, this article estimates the relationship between earning a certificate and student earnings and employment status after exiting college. Our results indicate that certificates have positive impacts on earnings in both states overall, and in cases where there is no impact on earnings, certificates may nonetheless lead to increased probability of employment. In addition, we find substantial variation in the returns across fields of study and, more importantly, across specific programs within a particular field. Finally, in-depth analysis of the industry of employment before and after college enrollment indicates that many adult learners use certificate programs to switch to a new industry, which may not necessarily boost their earnings, at least in the short run. Our results therefore point to the importance of including multiple measures to evaluate the benefits of a certificate program, rather than merely evaluating its impact on overall earnings.
Immunology: A Short Text Book
Authors: Saleh Ahmed Abu
Published: December 2015

Fourth Edition, September-2008 ISBN 984-31-0195-7 Authors: Professor Dr. Md. Akram Hossain Dr. Md. Abul Hossain Khan Published by: Aanisha Publication, 62, Bagmara, Mymensingh 220 Pages: 488 Price: $350/-
Trifluoromethyl-phenyl-triazolyl derivative of beta-bisabolol induces cell death in ME-180 cervical cancer cells through induction of apoptosis and ROS generation
Authors: Hu Shu-Hong , Yu Hui , Gong Xue-Qin , Zhang Ying-Hong
Published: December 2015

The aim of the current investigation was to design, synthesize and demonstrate the anticancer and apoptotic activity of trifluoromethyl-phenyl-triazolyl derivative of beta-bisabolol (TTB) in ME-180 human cervical cancer cells.  MTT and clonogenic assays were used to evaluate the cell viability and colony formation tendencies of the cells respectively. Phase contrast and fluorescence microscopic investigations were used to evaluate the effect of TTB on cellular morphology and apoptosis. Flow cytometric analysis using fluorescent CM-DCFH2-DA were used to study the effect of TTB on reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation. The results revealed that TTB significantly inhibited the proliferation of ME-180 human cervical cancer cells in a time-dependent as well as dose-dependent manner. TTB has the capacity to inhibit both anchorage dependent as well as anchorage independent growth of ME-180 cervical cancer cells. TTB-treated cells revealed chromatin condensation, fragmented nuclei and nuclear shrinkage. A 3-fold increase of ROS production was seen after 72 μM TTB treatment.

VIDEO CLIPS

Phase contrast microscopic study:  2 min

 
Topical Corticosteroid Abuse on the Face: A Prospective Study of Garments Workers Appearing at Dermatology Outpatients in a Private Medical College Hospital
Authors: Sultana Gazi Asma , Bhuiyan Md Ziaur Rahaman
Published: December 2015

Abuse of topical corticosteroids (TC), especially over the face, is common not only in Bangladesh but also prevalent worldwide. Data about the magnitude of this problem in our country is lacking. The aims of this study were to find out the demographics, magnitude and clinical features of TC misuse on the face in the dermatology outpatient department (OPD) as well as to raise awareness about this problem and to analyze its causes. This was a prospective questionnaire-based clinical study conducted among the garments workers who visited the out patient department of a non government medical college hospital. Garments workers with relevant facial dermatoses reporting to the investigator were asked about their current use of over-the-counter topical formulations and a structured questionnaire applied in case the same was confirmed to be TC. A total of 895 garments workers with facial dermatoses were screened, of which 129 (14.41%) were using TC. TCs were used for treating acne in 53 (41.0%), as a lightening agent in melasma in 34 (26.4%), general face cream/fairness cream/after shave cream in 21 (16.3%). Steroid combinations were used by 84 (65.12%). Most of the patients (n =90; 70%) belonged to rural areas, followed by those hailing from suburban areas (n = 31; 24%).15 out of 22 (68%) prescriptions by doctors were for products in the milder steroid group, whereas 98 of 107 (91.6%) recommendations by non-physicians were for potent steroids (P< 0.001). 118 of the 129 patients (91.5%) have shown adverse effects. Acne/exacerbation of acne was the most common adverse effect. TC misuse in garments workers with facial dermatoses is quite common, and most of this use is unwarranted. Use as a treatment for acne is the most common indication in this cohort.Medicine Today 2015 Vol.27(1): 23-26
Management of Maxillary Mucormycosis - A Case Report in Bangladesh
Authors: Rahman Quazi Billur , Rahaman Muhammad Mizanur , Imon Ashik Abdullah , Rabby Md Atiqul Islam , Chowdhury MA Jalil
Published: December 2015

Mucormycosis refers to several different disease caused by infection in the order of mucorales. Rhizopus species are the most common causative organism. Most mucormycosis infections are life-threatening and risk factor such as diabetic ketoacidosis and neutropenia, are present in most cases. Severe infection of the facial sinuses, which may extend into the brain, is the most common presentation. We describe our clinical experience with a case of mucormycosis of the maxilla. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment can significantly reduce the mortality and morbidity of this lethal fungal infection. MedicineToday 2015 Vol.27(1): 38-40
Thermal Lattice Boltzmann Simulation of Entropy Generation within a Square Enclosure for Sensible and Latent Heat Transfers
Authors: Yehya Alissar , Naji Hassane
Published: December 2015

This paper deals with the numerical simulation of heat transfer and entropy generation in a 2D square enclosure for convective melting. A thermal lattice Boltzmann method (TLBM) is used to handle the study, which has been conducted for Prandtl numbers from 0.02 to 70 at Rayleigh numbers of 104 and 105. The results are presented in terms of the total entropy generation, average Bejan number and average Nusselt number. Within the range considered for the key parameters, the entropy generation is found to be controlled by the heat transfer loss for low Prandtl numbers. However, for the large Prandtl numbers, its variation is dominated by shearing losses. Moreover, the presence of the latent heat state decreases the overall thermodynamic losses while increasing the quantity of heat transferred.
A Novel Piezoelectric Energy Harvester Using the Macro Fiber Composite Cantilever with a Bicylinder in Water
Authors: Song Rujun , Shan Xiaobiao , Lv Fengchi , Li Jinzhe , Xie Tao
Published: December 2015

A novel piezoelectric energy harvester equipped with two piezoelectric beams and two cylinders was proposed in this work. The energy harvester can convert the kinetic energy of water into electrical energy by means of vortex-induced vibration (VIV) and wake-induced vibration (WIV). The effects of load resistance, water velocity and cylinder diameter on the performance of the harvester were investigated. It was found that the vibration of the upstream cylinder was VIV which enhanced the energy harvesting capacity of the upstream piezoelectric beam. As for the downstream cylinder, both VIV and the WIV could be obtained. The VIV was found with small L/D, e.g., 2.125, 2.28, 2.5, and 2.8. Additionally, the WIV was stimulated with the increase of L/D (such as 3.25, 4, and 5.5). Due to the WIV, the downstream beam presented better performance in energy harvesting with the increase of water velocity. Furthermore, it revealed that more electrical energy could be obtained by appropriately matching the resistance and the diameter of the cylinder. With optimal resistance (170 kΩ) and diameter of the cylinder (30 mm), the maximum output power of 21.86 μW (sum of both piezoelectric beams) was obtained at a water velocity of 0.31 m/s.
SE Asian Palms for Agroforestry and Home Gardens
Authors: Barfod Anders , Balhara Manju , Dransfield John , Balslev Henrik
Published: December 2015

Throughout SE Asia, palms are important in agroforestry systems and homegardens. Most species are used for multiple purposes based on both physical and nutritional properties of the palms. Except for a few commodities of worldwide importance such as palm oil and coconut, many palm products either do not figure in trade statistics, or they are merged with other products in a way, which makes it difficult to assess their importance. Here we focus on these products that are not prominent in national trade statistics and we review their sustainability and economic importance in SE Asia. We rank the most important palms according to their versatility, which is an extremely important property, especially for smallholders who practice subsistence agriculture. We conclude by listing a number of recommendations for future research directions based on experiences from the recently completed EU 7th Framework project (EU-PALMS 2009-2013).
Date (Phoenix dactylifera) Polyphenolics and Other Bioactive Compounds: A Traditional Islamic Remedy’s Potential in Prevention of Cell Damage, Cancer Therapeutics and Beyond
Authors: Yasin Bibi , El-Fawal Hassan , Mousa Shaker
Published: December 2015

This review analyzes current studies of the therapeutic effects of Phoenix dactylifera, or date palm fruit, on the physiologic system. Specifically, we sought to summarize the effects of its application in preventing cell damage, improving cancer therapeutics and reducing damage caused by conventional chemotherapy. Phoenix dactylifera exhibits potent anti-oxidative properties both in vitro and in vivo. This allows the fruit to prevent depletion of intrinsic protection from oxidative cell damage and assist these defense systems in reducing cell damage. Macroscopically, this mechanism may be relevant to the prevention of various adverse drug events common to chemotherapy including hepatotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, gastrotoxicity, and peripheral neuropathy. While such effects have only been studied in small animal systems, research suggests a potential application to more complex mammalian systems and perhaps a solution to some problems of chemotherapy in hepato-compromised and nephro-compromised patients.
The Complete Mitochondrial Genome of Mindarus keteleerifoliae (Insecta: Hemiptera: Aphididae) and Comparison with Other Aphididae Insects
Authors: Wang Yuan , Chen Jing , Jiang Li-Yun , Qiao Ge-Xia
Published: December 2015

The mitogenome of Mindarus keteleerifoliae Zhang (Hemiptera: Aphididae) is a 15,199 bp circular molecule. The gene order and orientation of M. keteleerifoliae is similarly arranged to that of the ancestral insect of other aphid mitogenomes, and, a tRNA isomerism event maybe identified in the mitogenome of M. keteleerifoliae. The tRNA-Trp gene is coded in the J-strand and the same sequence in the N-strand codes for the tRNA-Ser gene. A similar phenomenon was also found in the mitogenome of Eriosoma lanigerum. However, whether tRNA isomers in aphids exist requires further study. Phylogenetic analyses, using all available protein-coding genes, support Mindarinae as the basal position of Aphididae. Two tribes of Aphidinae were recovered with high statistical significance. Characteristics of the M. keteleerifoliae mitogenome revealed distinct mitogenome structures and provided abundant phylogenetic signals, thus advancing our understanding of insect mitogenomic architecture and evolution. But, because only eight complete aphid mitogenomes, including M. keteleerifoliae, were published, future studies with larger taxon sampling sizes are necessary.
Alterations of Dopamine D2 Receptors and Related Receptor-Interacting Proteins in Schizophrenia: The Pivotal Position of Dopamine Supersensitivity Psychosis in Treatment-Resistant Schizophrenia
Authors: Oda Yasunori , Kanahara Nobuhisa , Iyo Masaomi
Published: December 2015

Although the dopamine D2 receptor (DRD2) has been a main target of antipsychotic pharmacotherapy for the treatment of schizophrenia, the standard treatment does not offer sufficient relief of symptoms to 20%–30% of patients suffering from this disorder. Moreover, over 80% of patients experience relapsed psychotic episodes within five years following treatment initiation. These data strongly suggest that the continuous blockade of DRD2 by antipsychotic(s) could eventually fail to control the psychosis in some point during long-term treatment, even if such treatment has successfully provided symptomatic improvement for the first-episode psychosis, or stability for the subsequent chronic stage. Dopamine supersensitivity psychosis (DSP) is historically known as a by-product of antipsychotic treatment in the manner of tardive dyskinesia or transient rebound psychosis. Numerous data in psychopharmacological studies suggest that the up-regulation of DRD2, caused by antipsychotic(s), is likely the mechanism underlying the development of the dopamine supersensitivity state. However, regardless of evolving notions of dopamine signaling, particularly dopamine release, signal transduction, and receptor recycling, most of this research has been conducted and discussed from the standpoint of disease etiology or action mechanism of the antipsychotic, not of DSP. Hence, the mechanism of the DRD2 up-regulation or mechanism evoking clinical DSP, both of which are caused by pharmacotherapy, remains unknown. Once patients experience a DSP episode, they become increasingly difficult to treat. Light was recently shed on a new aspect of DSP as a treatment-resistant factor. Clarification of the detailed mechanism of DSP is therefore crucial, and a preventive treatment strategy for DSP or treatment-resistant schizophrenia is urgently needed.
Built-up Area Change Analysis in Hanoi Using Support Vector Machine Classification of Landsat Multi-Temporal Image Stacks and Population Data
Authors: Nong Duong , Fox Jefferson , Miura Tomoaki , Saksena Sumeet
Published: December 2015

In 1986, the Government of Vietnam implemented free market reforms known as Doi Moi (renovation) that provided private ownership of farms and companies, and encouraged deregulation and foreign investment. Since then, the economy of Vietnam has achieved rapid growth in agricultural and industrial production, construction and housing, and exports and foreign investments, each of which have resulted in momentous landscape transformations. One of the most evident changes is urbanization and an accompanying loss of agricultural lands and open spaces. These rapid changes pose enormous challenges for local populations as well as planning authorities. Accurate and timely data on changes in built-up urban environments are essential for supporting sound urban development. In this study, we applied the Support Vector Machine classification (SVM) to multi-temporal stacks of Landsat Thematic Mapper (TM) and Enhanced Thematic Mapper Plus (ETM+) images from 1993 to 2010 to quantify changes in built-up areas. The SVM classification algorithm produced a highly accurate map of land cover change with an overall accuracy of 95%. The study showed that most urban expansion occurred in the periods 2001–2006 and 2006–2010. The analysis was strengthened by the incorporation of population and other socio-economic data. This study provides state authorities a means to examine correlations between urban growth, spatial expansion, and other socio-economic factors in order to not only assess patterns of urban growth but also become aware of potential environmental, social, and economic problems.
A Novel Approach of Using Ground CNTs as the Carbon Source to Fabricate Uniformly Distributed Nano-Sized TiCx/2009Al Composites
Authors: Wang Lei , Qiu Feng , Ouyang Licheng , Wang Huiyuan , Zha Min , Shu Shili , Zhao Qinglong , Jiang Qichuan
Published: December 2015

Nano-sized TiCx/2009Al composites (with 5, 7, and 9 vol% TiCx) were fabricated via the combustion synthesis of the 2009Al-Ti-CNTs system combined with vacuum hot pressing followed by hot extrusion. In the present study, CNTs were used as the carbon source to synthesize nano-sized TiCx particles. An attempt was made to correlate the effect of ground CNTs by milling and the distribution of synthesized nano-sized TiCx particles in 2009Al as well as the tensile properties of nano-sized TiCx/2009Al composites. Microstructure analysis showed that when ground CNTs were used, the synthesized nano-sized TiCx particles dispersed more uniformly in the 2009Al matrix. Moreover, when 2 h-milled CNTs were used, the 5, 7, and 9 vol% nano-sized TiCx/2009Al composites had the highest tensile properties, especially, the 9 vol% nano-sized TiCx/2009Al composites. The results offered a new approach to improve the distribution of in situ nano-sized TiCx particles and tensile properties of composites.
Quality Assessment of Roof Planes Extracted from Height Data for Solar Energy Systems by the EAGLE Platform
Authors: Schuffert Simon , Voegtle Thomas , Tate Nicholas , Ramirez Alberto
Published: December 2015

Due to the increasing scarcity of fossil fuels and the upwards trend in energy costs over time, many countries—especially in Europe—have begun to modify their energy policies aiming to increase that percentage obtained from renewable energies. The EAGLE (FP7 program, European Commission) has developed a web-based platform to promote renewable energy systems (RES) in the public and private sectors, and to deliver a comprehensive information source for all interested users. In this paper, a comprehensive quality assessment of extracted roof planes suitable for solar energy installations (photovoltaic, solar thermal) from height data derived automatically from both LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) and aerial images will be presented. A shadow analysis is performed regarding the daily path of the sun including the shading effects of nearby objects (chimneys, dormers, vegetation, buildings, topography, etc.). A quality assessment was carried out for both LiDAR and aerial images of the same test sites in UK and Germany concerning building outline accuracy, extraction rate of roof planes and the accuracy of their geometric parameters (inclination and aspect angle, size). The benefit is an optimized system to extract roof planes for RES with a high level of detail, accuracy and flexibility (concerning different commonly available data sources) including an estimation of quality of the results which is important for individual house owners as well as for regional applications by governments or solar energy companies to judge their usefulness.
A Dual Sensor for pH and Hydrogen Peroxide Using Polymer-Coated Optical Fibre Tips
Authors: Purdey Malcolm , Thompson Jeremy , Monro Tanya , Abell Andrew , Schartner Erik
Published: December 2015

This paper demonstrates the first single optical fibre tip probe for concurrent detection of both hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) concentration and pH of a solution. The sensor is constructed by embedding two fluorophores: carboxyperoxyfluor-1 (CPF1) and seminaphtharhodafluor-2 (SNARF2) within a polymer matrix located on the tip of the optical fibre. The functionalised fibre probe reproducibly measures pH, and is able to accurately detect H2O2 over a biologically relevant concentration range. This sensor offers potential for non-invasive detection of pH and H2O2 in biological environments using a single optical fibre.
Flexibility Support for Homecare Applications Based on Models and Multi-Agent Technology
Authors: Armentia Aintzane , Gangoiti Unai , Priego Rafael , Estévez Elisabet , Marcos Marga
Published: December 2015

In developed countries, public health systems are under pressure due to the increasing percentage of population over 65. In this context, homecare based on ambient intelligence technology seems to be a suitable solution to allow elderly people to continue to enjoy the comforts of home and help optimize medical resources. Thus, current technological developments make it possible to build complex homecare applications that demand, among others, flexibility mechanisms for being able to evolve as context does (adaptability), as well as avoiding service disruptions in the case of node failure (availability). The solution proposed in this paper copes with these flexibility requirements through the whole life-cycle of the target applications: from design phase to runtime. The proposed domain modeling approach allows medical staff to design customized applications, taking into account the adaptability needs. It also guides software developers during system implementation. The application execution is managed by a multi-agent based middleware, making it possible to meet adaptation requirements, assuring at the same time the availability of the system even for stateful applications.
Does Reduction of Number of Intradetrusor Injection Sites of aboBoNTA (Dysport®) Impact Efficacy and Safety in a Rat Model of Neurogenic Detrusor Overactivity?
Authors: Huynh Le Maux Amélie , Pignol Bernadette , Behr-Roussel Delphine , Blachon Jean-Luc , Chabrier Pierre-Etienne , Compagnie Sandrine , Picaut Philippe , Bernabé Jacques , Giuliano François , Denys Pierre
Published: December 2015

Intradetrusor injections of Botulinum toxin A—currently onabotulinumtoxinA—is registered as a second-line treatment to treat neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO). The common clinical practice is 30 × 1 mL injections in the detrusor; however, protocols remain variable and standardization is warranted. The effect of reducing the number of injection sites of Dysport® abobotulinumtoxinA (aboBoNTA) was assessed in the spinal cord-injured rat (SCI). Nineteen days post-spinalization, female rats received intradetrusor injections of saline or aboBoNTA 22.5 U distributed among four or eight sites. Two days after injection, continuous cystometry was performed in conscious rats. Efficacy of aboBoNTA 22.5 U was assessed versus aggregated saline groups on clinically-relevant parameters: maximal pressure, bladder capacity, compliance, voiding efficiency, as well as amplitude, frequency, and volume threshold for nonvoiding contractions (NVC). AboBoNTA 22.5 U significantly decreased maximal pressure, without affecting voiding efficiency. Injected in four sites, aboBoNTA significantly increased bladder capacity and compliance while only the latter when in eight sites. AboBoNTA significantly reduced NVC frequency and amplitude. This preclinical investigation showed similar inhibiting effects of aboBoNTA despite the number of sites reduction. Further studies are warranted to optimize dosing schemes to improve the risk-benefit ratio of BoNTA-based treatment modalities for NDO and further idiopathic overactive bladder.
Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase Enhances Antiviral Response through Downregulation of NADPH Sensor HSCARG and Upregulation of NF-κB Signaling
Authors: Wu Yi-Hsuan , Chiu Daniel , Lin Hsin-Ru , Tang Hsiang-Yu , Cheng Mei-Ling , Ho Hung-Yao
Published: December 2015

Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD)-deficient cells are highly susceptible to viral infection. This study examined the mechanism underlying this phenomenon by measuring the expression of antiviral genes—tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and GTPase myxovirus resistance 1 (MX1)—in G6PD-knockdown cells upon human coronavirus 229E (HCoV-229E) and enterovirus 71 (EV71) infection. Molecular analysis revealed that the promoter activities of TNF-α and MX1 were downregulated in G6PD-knockdown cells, and that the IκB degradation and DNA binding activity of NF-κB were decreased. The HSCARG protein, a nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) sensor and negative regulator of NF-κB, was upregulated in G6PD-knockdown cells with decreased NADPH/NADP+ ratio. Treatment of G6PD-knockdown cells with siRNA against HSCARG enhanced the DNA binding activity of NF-κB and the expression of TNF-α and MX1, but suppressed the expression of viral genes; however, the overexpression of HSCARG inhibited the antiviral response. Exogenous G6PD or IDH1 expression inhibited the expression of HSCARG, resulting in increased expression of TNF-α and MX1 and reduced viral gene expression upon virus infection. Our findings suggest that the increased susceptibility of the G6PD-knockdown cells to viral infection was due to impaired NF-κB signaling and antiviral response mediated by HSCARG.
Linear Trend Detection in Serially Dependent Hydrometeorological Data Based on a Variance Correction Spearman Rho Method
Authors: Wang Wenpeng , Chen Yuanfang , Becker Stefan , Liu Bo
Published: December 2015

Hydrometeorological data are commonly serially dependent and thereby deviate from the assumption of independence that underlies the Spearman rho trend test. The presence of autocorrelation will influence the significance of observed trends. Specifically, the positive autocorrelation inflates Type І errors, while it deflates the power of trend detection in some cases. To address this issue, we derive a theoretical formula and recommend an appropriate empirical formula to calculate the rho variance of dependent series. The proposed procedure of the variance correction for the Spearman rho method is capable of mitigating the effect of autocorrelation on both, Type І error and power of the test. Similar to the Block Bootstrap method, it has the advantage that it does not require an initial knowledge of the autocorrelation structure or modification of the series. In comparison, the capability of the Pre-Whitening method is sensitive to model misspecification if the series are whitened by a parametric autocorrelation model. The Trend-Free Pre-Whitening method tends to lead to an overestimation of the statistical significance of trends, similar to the original Spearman rho test. The results of the study emphasize the importance of selecting a reliable method for trend detection in serially dependent data.
Le rayonnement des journaux toulousains
Authors: Gauchy Marcel
Published: December 2015

Toulouse possède seulement deux quotidiens régionaux, d'importance inégale, la Dépêche du Midi et le Patriote du Sud-Ouest. Ils sont vendus de façon quasi exclusive dans une zone allongée du Nord au Sud, comprenant, outre la Haute-Garonne, l'Ariège, le Tarn, le Tarn-et-Garonne, le Lot, une partie de l'Aveyron et la moitié Est du Gers. Ils l'emportent encore sur leurs concurrents dans l'Ouest du Gers, l'Est du Lot-et-Garonne, l'Ouest de l'Aveyron et le Nord-Ouest de l'Aude. Cette aire de diffusion s'explique par les facilités de communication et la concurrence des journaux publiés dans les autres villes du Sud-Ouest. Les journaux, toulousains sont pratiquement exclus de la région bordelaise, mais pénètrent dans toutes les Pyrénées et le Midi méditerranéen jusqu'à Montpellier, à côté des journaux locaux.
Les forêts d'Aspe et d'Ossau
Authors: Guitard Monique
Published: December 2015

(Rev. géogr. Pyrénées, XXVI, 1955, pp. 113-127, 1 fig., 4 pi. phot.). — La forêt, favorisée par une humidité surabondante, couvre 1/4 de la superficie de la vallée d'Ossau, 1/5 de celle de la vallée d'Aspe. Le hêtre forme les 2/3 des peuplements et le sapin 1/4. Les sapinières furent exploitées aux XVIIe et XVIIIe siècles pour la mâture, tandis que, un peu plus tard, les forges s'attaquaient aux hêtraies. L'exploitation actuelle se caractérise par l'apparition, à côté de petites entreprises d'abatage et de sciage, d'une industrie relativement concentrée à Arudy (charpente) et à Oloron. Les capitaux sont extérieurs à la région et la main-d'œuvre surtout italienne ou espagnole. Le problème des débouchés commence à se poser.
Le dépeuplement des vallées d'Argelès, d'Azun et de Cauterets. Ses causes et ses conséquences
Authors: Lesenne Gisèle
Published: December 2015

Le dépeuplement de ces vallées a commencé par les localités les plus élevées, dès le milieu du XIXe siècle. Il résulte essentiellement de l'émigration. L'Amérique a attiré les émigrants, jusqu'en 1890. Les départs ont lieu aujourd'hui vers des villes proches, vers Toulouse, Bordeaux et vers Paris ; quelques-uns des émigrants gagnent d'autres grandes villes. La raison principale de cette émigration réside dans la médiocrité de l'économie, à moins sur l'industrie, spécialement celle de Pierrefitte, n'apporte aux familles un surcroît de revenus. Le tourisme et le thermalisme n'y pourvoient que pour une, assez faible part. Les conséquences de la dépopulation sont graves, surtout en ce qui concerne l'exploitation rurale, frappée par le départ des éléments jeunes.
Les quartiers de l'agglomération bordelaise (à suivre)
Authors: Barrère Pierre
Published: December 2015

Croupes de grave et marais ont guidé différemment l'extension de Bordeaux au XVIIIe et au XIXe siècle et ont contribué à opposer secteurs aisés et secteurs pauvres. Dans une première auréole (maisons à un étage), le secteur nord-ouest groupe à l'emplacement de l'ancien faubourg Saint-Seurin des quartiers de cadres et des quart'ers aristocratiques. C'est le prolongement naturel des quartiers aisés du Centre. Ce caractère se renforce sur le Boulevard Nord-Ouest et dans les quartiers récents qui l'accompagnent. Dans le secteur sud, seuls les environs de la rue Saint-Genès peuvent soutenir la comparaison avec le secteur nord-ouest. Les vieux immeubles de : la ceinture des Cours abritent des populations dont la composition professionnelle est comparable à celle de la ville entière. Accidentellement, la dégradation de l'habitat peut y être poussée très loin, accompagnant des conditions sociales précaires ou misérables (Mériadeck, Saint-Nicolas). L'échoppe bordelaise, répandue durant la deuxième moitié du XIXe siècle, occupe une large bande axée sur le Boulevard. On y retrouve la même opposition entre un secteur sud franchement prolétarien et un secteur nord plus bourgeois. Les barrières, nœuds de communications et centres commerciaux, donnent une unité à des groupes de quartiers aux caractères parfois très nuancés.
Une grande usine toulousaine. L'Office National Industriel de l'Azote
Authors: Taillefer François
Published: December 2015

L'usine de l'O. N. I. A., créée au lendemain de la première guerre mondiale pour exploiter les brevets allemands de fabrication de l'azote synthétique, est en France le plus gros producteur d'engrais azotés (398 000 tonnes en 1955). Elle fabrique, en outre, une grande variété de produits chimiques à usage industriel : urée (15 000 t), nitrite de soude, bicarbonate d'ammoniaque, acide carbonique» oxygène, argon, soufre, poudres de fer, eau lourde. L'usine consomme 930 000 kWh par jour et de grandes quantités de vapeur d'eau. Elle utilise le gaz naturel de Saint-Marcet et, depuis peu, celui de Lacq. L'effectif du personnel est de 3 295 personnes. Le mouvement des marchandises par voie ferrée s'élève à 800 00 tonnes par an. Le chiffre d'affaires atteint 11 211 millions de francs. Depuis la création de l'O. N. I. A., la consommation d'engrais chimique a quintuplé dans le Sud-Ouest de la France.
Fossil nutlets of Boraginaceae from the continental Eocene of Hamada of Méridja (southwestern Algeria): The first fossil of the Borage family in Africa
Authors: Hammouda Sid Ahmed , Weigend Maximilian , Mebrouk Fateh , Chacón Juliana , Bensalah Mustapha , Ensikat Hans‐Jürgen , Adaci Mohammed
Published: December 2015

PREMISE OF THE STUDY:

The Paleogene deposits of the Hamada of Méridja, southwestern Algeria, are currently dated as lower‐to‐middle Eocene in age based on fossil gastropods and charophytes. Here we report the presence of fruits that can be assigned to the Boraginaceae s.str., apparently representing the first fossil record for this family in Africa, shedding new light on the historical biogeography of this group.

METHODS:

Microscopic studies of the fossil nutlets were carried out and compared to extant Boraginaceae nutlets, and to types reported in the literature for this family.

KEY RESULTS:

The fossils are strikingly similar in general size and morphology, particularly in the finer details of the attachment scar and ornamentation, to nutlets of extant representatives of the Boraginaceae tribe Echiochileae, and especially the genus Ogastemma. We believe that these nutlets represent an extinct member of this lineage.

CONCLUSIONS:

The Ogastemma‐like fossils indicate that the Echiochileae, which are most diverse in northern Africa and southwestern Asia, have a long history in this region, dating back to the Eocene. This tribe corresponds to the basal‐most clade in Boraginaceae s.str., and the fossils described here agree well with an assumed African origin of the family and the Boraginales I, providing an important additional calibration point for dating the phylogenies of this clade.
Impact of ultrasonic dispersion on the photocatalytic activity of titania aggregates
Authors: Le Hoai Nga , Babick Frank , Kühn Klaus , Nguyen Minh Tan , Stintz Michael , Cuniberti Gianaurelio
Published: December 2015

The effectiveness of photocatalytic materials increases with the specific surface area, thus nanoscale photocatalyst particles are preferred. However, such nanomaterials are frequently found in an aggregated state, which may reduce the photocatalytic activity due to internal obscuration and the extended diffusion path of the molecules to be treated. This paper investigates the effect of aggregate size on the photocatalytic activity of pyrogenic titania (Aeroxide® P25, Evonik), which is widely used in fundamental photocatalysis research. Well-defined and reproducible aggregate sizes were achieved by ultrasonic dispersion. The photocatalytic activity was examined by the color removal of methylene blue (MB) with a laboratory-scale setup based on a plug flow reactor (PFR) and planar UV illumination. The process parameters such as flow regime, optical path length and UV intensity are well-defined and can be varied. Our results firstly show that a complete dispersion of the P25 aggregates is not practical. Secondly, the photocatalytic activity is not further increased beyond a certain degree of dispersion, which probably corresponds to a critical size for which UV irradiation can penetrate the aggregate without significant obscuration.
Assembly of synthetic Aβ miniamyloids on polyol templates
Authors: Fischer Sebastian Nils , Geyer Armin
Published: December 2015

Covalent dynamic chemistry is used to mimic the first steps of the highly cooperative fibril formation of Aβ peptides. For that purpose, Aβ peptide pentapeptide boronic acids 1 and 2 were synthesized by solid-phase peptide synthesis and studied in esterification experiments with polyhydroxylated templates. The bis-hydroxylated dipeptide Hot=Tap serves as a template of adjustable degree of oligomerization which spontaneously forms boronic esters with peptides of type 1 and 2. Nuclear magnetic resonance can differentiate between regioisomeric boronic esters and identifies preferred sites of esterification on the dimeric template 9. 2-Formylphenylboronic acid (14) is used to link the parent pentapeptide Leu-Val-Phe-Phe-Ala to the template 16 to obtain threefold boronic ester 17. The miniamyloid 17 assembles from seven components by imine and boronic ester bonds between the peptides and the template. The relative orientation and spacing of the peptides mimic the assembly of peptides in Alzheimer β-amyloids.
ESTIMATING EULER POLE PARAMETERS FOR EASTERN CANADA USING GPS VELOCITIES
Authors: Goudarzi Mohammad Ali , Cocard Marc , Santerre Rock
Published: December 2015

Eastern Canada is characterized by many intraplate earthquakes mostly concentrated along the Saint Lawrence River and Ottawa River valleys. After the rigid plate rotation of North America, the glacial isostatic adjustment (GIA) is by far the largest source of geophysical signal in eastern Canada. We estimate a set of Euler pole parameters for this area using a velocity field of 19 continuously operating GPS stations out of 112, and show that they are different from the overall rotation of the North American plate. This difference potentially reflects local stresses in this seismic region, and the difference in intraplate velocities between the two flanks of the Saint Lawrence River valley accumulate stress along the river.
EVALUATION OF EXTREMELY ASYMMETRIC TYPES OF DISTRIBUTIONS OF GEOFEATURES VALUES
Authors: Kurmankozhayev Azimkhan , Syzdykov Guldana
Published: December 2015

"Corrigendum." Geodesy and Cartography, 41(4), p 185
Palpitations and Arrhythmias and Sudden Cardiac Arrest/Sudden Cardiac Death in Children and Adolescents
Authors: Park Jeanny K.
Published: December 2015

Palpitations are a common complaint, particularly in teenagers, with etiologies ranging from no detectable cardiac dysrhythmia to life-threatening dysrhythmias. Despite the fact that as many as 50% of children and adolescents may be asymptomatic prior to experiencing sudden cardiac arrest, the occurrence of palpitations may afford the opportunity to detect a potentially lethal arrhythmia condition. This article discusses the evaluation of palpitations in the pediatric population by focusing on the two most common life-threatening arrhythmia diagnoses that may initially manifest itself in the pediatric population with the chief complaint of palpitations—Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome and the long QT syndrome.

[
Pediatr Ann
. 2015;44(12):e279–e286.]
Syncope in Children and Adolescents
Authors: Yeh Jay
Published: December 2015

Syncope is an abrupt loss of consciousness and postural tone frequently due to disturbance of the normal autonomic nervous system reflexive mechanisms in regulating peripheral vascular resistance, blood pressure, and heart rate. This leads to a transient decrease in cerebral blood flow. It is a common presenting complaint in children and adolescents. In many cases, there is a characteristic preceding prodrome of dizziness, nausea, diaphoresis, and pallor. Although most cases of syncope are benign in etiology, it frequently causes stress and anxiety in regard to potential cardiovascular disease and possible sudden cardiac death. With careful screening by detailed patient history, comprehensive physical examination, and electrocardiogram (ECG), a significant majority of patients with serious underlying cardiac conditions will be identified. The routine use of echocardiography, ambulatory ECG, tilt-table tests, and exercise stress tests is expensive and frequently of low diagnostic yield. With benign forms of syncope, patient reassurance and education should be the first-line treatment.

[
Pediatr Ann.
2015;44(12):e287–e291.]
Turbulent Peace, Power, and Ethics
Authors: Cante Fredy
Published: December 2015

A situation of turbulent peace is defined as an ambiguous transition from direct violence (which ends by means a fragile and incomplete peace agreement among enemies) to an indirect and subtle violence euphemistically denominated as progress. Indeed, a big rate of economic growth implies growing prosperity, incremented consumption, and increasing investment in the present but, sadly, the consequence of this material progress will be the suffering of future generations because the exhaustion and deterioration of nature in a world where the entropy is worsened by the rapacity of actual generations. The depletion and contamination of natural resources is the inherent cost of material progress and development of “productive” forces. The ideological, coercive and economic power of some organized minorities, and the acquiescence of a big majority of human beings constitutes the root of this problem. The antidote against this power is the critical examination of values by active citizens and the guide of ethics. In the long run this problem can be solved promoting a nonviolent economy.
The Complexity of Non-Violence Action
Authors: Maldonado Carlos Eduardo
Published: December 2015

This chapter claims that non-violent action corresponds to a political dimension in which society has become a magnificent complex organism. Moreover, non-violent action corresponds to the phase of highest complexity in a social organization. Examples are provided ranging from ecology to population biology, from ethology to swarm intelligence. At the end, several conclusions are drawn that shed new lights on the social, cultural, and political understanding of our world and to the foreseeable future. The study of non-violent action provides sufficient arguments that allow the distinction between “politics” and “policy”, i.e. “policies”, so much so that politics is highlighted as a highest and most significant dimension of the human experience, and policies are then considered as secondary or lower. The human rights provide the ground for the understanding and comprehension of non-violent actions. In the core of the text a topology of non-violent actions is provided along with its explanation.
Negotiation for Sustainable Peace
Authors: Wolfstein Mirjam
Published: December 2015

This analysis is a review of different negotiation theories by looking through the key documents of the United Nations on peace keeping and provides a review how negotiation theories could make an influence on them. Conflicts are an aspect of our daily life. They influence us not only in arguments with friends and family, but also in other dimensions of our discourse contributions. Therefore, it is significant to find practicable and conflict avoiding solutions for the parties involved. Negotiation is a form of discussion that helps find solutions for contradicting interests without using force. This violent free decision-making process is the most adequate form in a democratic culture. The growing denotation of political negotiations derives from an increasing interdependence, propagation of democracy, and a trend towards more peaceful dealings between governments. The main organization for peacekeeping and thus also peace negotiation documentation is the United Nations.
Retaliation in Transitional Justice Scenarios
Authors: Paez Gustavo Rojas
Published: December 2015

This chapter discusses the role of retaliation in the Transitional Justice Scenarios of Argentina and Colombia, drawing attention to the continuation of state violence and human rights violations in these two South American countries following the implementation of legal and non- legal mechanisms of TJ. Subsequently, it attempts to demonstrate how the implementation of TJ mechanisms may fall short in preventing cycles of violence that allow powerful actors, linked to the interests of the state, to continue performing the retaliatory practices that historically caused major ‘social harm' in the transitional societies . The rationale of this article consists of two central questions: How can transitional societies deal with both the legacy and reconfiguration of state violence? Moreover, to what extent do orthodox understandings of law and TJ serve as a means for the recreation of the retaliatory practices that shaped the conflicts that TJ measures are supposed to address?
Transitional Justice and Indigenous Jurisdictions Processes in Colombia
Authors: Santamaria Angela , Acosta Monica , Fernandez Mauricio Alejandro
Published: December 2015

Transitional justice and its range of mechanisms and goals appear to be an important debate about how to deal with past human rights abuses in transition societies or post conflicts. Because of the Peace and Justice Law 975 of 2005 and the actual Colombian scenario of a peace process between the Colombian state and FARC, the analysis of this kind of “justice” and the indigenous jurisdiction appear to be a complex subject in Colombia. The authors would like to discuss, the different uses of international and national laws concerning Indigenous peoples in Colombia, as a social process of complex interactions involving different types of agents (State actors, NGOs, international organizations, indigenous organizations, lawyers, etc.). In addition, it will be important to discuss how the transitional justice framework in Colombia brings up some incongruence to coordinate and apply concepts accordingly to the indigenous jurisdiction, drawing on four case studies and ethnographical work dealing with the international production of customary law.
Properties of Silver and Copper Nanoparticle Containing Aqueous Suspensions and Evaluation of their In Vitro Activity against Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus Biofilms
Authors: Montes Melissa , Pierce Christopher G. , Lopez-Ribot Jose L. , Bhalla Amar S. , Guo Ru Yan
Published: December 2015

Most microorganisms grow on surfaces as biofilms rather than as individual planktonic cells, and cells within biofilms show high levels of resistance against antimicrobial drugs. Thereby biofilm formation complicates treatment and contributes to high morbidity and mortality rates associated with infections. This study explores the physical, optical, and nano-structural properties of silver and copper nanoparticles dispersed in aqueous suspensions (nanoparticulate colloidal water) and examines their in vitro activity against microbial biofilms. Silver and copper nanoparticulate colloidal water of various concentrations were prepared and studied. Their surface energies, surface charge and surface plasmonic resonance properties were determined using contact angle measurement, zeta potential measurement and optical spectrometry, respectively. A model of biofilm formation on the wells of microtiter plates was used to determine the activity of the nanoparticulate suspensions against fungal and bacterial biofilms. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to observe the nanoparticle interactions with microbial cells within the biofilms. Results show that silver nanoparticle-containing liquids have higher surface energy than their copper counterparts; and that the surface energy increases as the concentration of silver nanoparticles increases. Altogether, the effectiveness of silver nanoparticle colloidal suspensions in controlling biofilm formation is observed and reported. For a given size of silver nanoparticles studied, it is found that the effective concentrations against microbial biofilms are far lower than their cytotoxic concentrations, indicating an overall safety and a good therapeutic index thus substantial application potential.
Photocatalytic Activity of One-Pot Synthesized Reduced Graphene Oxide – Zinc Oxide Nanocomposites
Authors: Mohammadi Kh. , Safa S. , Safalou Moghaddam S. , Rabbani M. , Azimirad Rouhollah
Published: December 2015

In this research, reduced graphene oxide/zinc oxide nanocomposites (rGO/ZnO) were synthesized at different pHs (9, 10, 11 and 12) by using one-pot hydrothermal bath method., The obtained nanocomposites characterized by using X-ray diffractometer, Fourier transform infrared, Raman, scanning electronic microscope and diffuse reflection spectroscopy techniques. Photocatalytic activity of nanocomposites were evaluated by monitoring the photodegradation of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) in water exposed to ultraviolet and visible light irradiation. The morphological and structural results have been shown that at pHs of 9 and 10, the ZnO nearly aggregated nanoparticle are crystalized, while at higher pHs (11 and 12), the preferential growth of ZnO in the form of nanorods is seen. Comparative studies on photocatalytic performance of the nanocomposites shows that ZnO nanorods have better photocatalytic activities than the others.