bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gas sensing with gold-decorated vertically aligned carbon nanotubes
Authors: Mudimela Prasantha R , Scardamaglia Mattia , González-León Oriol , Reckinger Nicolas , Snyders Rony , Llobet Eduard , Bittencourt Carla , Colomer Jean-François
Published: June 2014

Vertically aligned carbon nanotubes of different lengths (150, 300, 500 µm) synthesized by thermal chemical vapor deposition and decorated with gold nanoparticles were investigated as gas sensitive materials for detecting nitrogen dioxide (NO2) at room temperature. Gold nanoparticles of about 6 nm in diameter were sputtered on the top surface of the carbon nanotube forests to enhance the sensitivity to the pollutant gas. We showed that the sensing response to nitrogen dioxide depends on the nanotube length. The optimum was found to be 300 µm for getting the higher response. When the background humidity level was changed from dry to 50% relative humidity, an increase in the response to NO2 was observed for all the sensors, regardless of the nanotube length.
Design, automated synthesis and immunological evaluation of NOD2-ligand–antigen conjugates
Authors: Willems Marian M J H P , Zom Gijs G , Meeuwenoord Nico , Ossendorp Ferry A , Overkleeft Herman S , van der Marel Gijsbert A , Codée Jeroen D C , Filippov Dmitri V
Published: June 2014

The covalent attachment of an innate immune system stimulating agent to an antigen can provide active vaccine modalities capable of eliciting a potent immune response against the incorporated antigen. Here we describe the design, automated synthesis and immunological evaluation of a set of four muramyl dipeptide–peptide antigen conjugates. Muramyl dipeptide (MDP) represents a well-known ligand for the intracellular NOD2 receptor and our study shows that covalently linking an MDP-moiety to an antigenic peptide can lead to a construct that is capable of stimulating the NOD2 receptor if the ligand is attached at the anomeric center of the muramic acid. The constructs can be processed by dendritic cells (DCs) and the conjugation does not adversely affect the presentation of the incorporated SIINFEKL epitope on MHC-I molecules. However, stimulation of the NOD2 receptor in DCs was not sufficient to provide a strong immunostimulatory signal.
La politique extérieure Sud-Sud du Brésil de l'après-Lula
Authors: Milhorance de Castro Carolina
Published: June 2014

L’auteure analyse la politique extérieure du Brésil, et en particulier la politique africaine, du début des années 2000, avec l’arrivée au pouvoir de Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva en 2003, jusqu’à nos jours avec Dilma Rousseff. Le contexte difficile de la prise de pouvoir de cette dernière l’a contraint à décider les réductions budgétaires de la politique extérieure au profit de la politique intérieure et à orienter de manière plus marquée la politique extérieure vers un appui aux exportations. Dans une concurrence vive entre le Brésil et la Chine sur le plan du commerce et des investissements notamment, l’Afrique subsaharienne représente un marché important pour le Brésil et un allié potentiel sur la scène internationale.
Le retour de Moscou en Afrique subsaharienne ?
Authors: Arkhangelskaya Alexandra
Published: June 2014

L’Afrique subsaharienne et la Russie entretiennent des relations de longue date. Elles ont récemment pris un tour nouveau, avec plusieurs initiatives bilatérales et la montée en puissance du forum multilatéral des BRICS où la Russie est très active. L’héritage de la période soviétique dans la politique étrangère du pays en général et vis-à-vis de l’Afrique en particulier est un aspect majeur à considérer pour comprendre ces relations. Si les intérêts commerciaux et les échanges se sont renforcés, l’Afrique subsaharienne ne figure cependant pas en tête des priorités de la politique étrangère russe.
Relations Inde-Sénégal : « émergence » d'une diplomatie de la coopération
Authors: Jain Pooja
Published: June 2014

Depuis son indépendance en 1947, l’Inde s’est affirmée comme un acteur clé de la coopération Sud-Sud – une position enracinée dans la solidarité et l’anticolonialisme du Mouvement des non-alignés. L’auteure revient sur un cas particulier de cette coopération : les relations indo-sénégalaises. Un couple improbable à première vue, étant donné l’absence de liens coloniaux directs ou d’une diaspora indienne au Sénégal, mais qui illustre bien les évolutions politiques de ces deux pays et la montée en puissance des partenariats entre les pays émergents et ceux qui aspirent à ce statut. L’auteure analyse la place qu’ont prise ces deux pays dans les enceintes internationales depuis leur indépendance, étudie les changements diplomatiques et idéologiques survenus alors et s’attarde sur les conditions particulières qui les incitent, depuis quelque temps, à resserrer leur coopération.
Chine-Afrique : enjeux de l'ajustement chinois pour les pays miniers
Authors: Chaponnière Jean-Raphaël
Published: June 2014

La Chine est le premier importateur des minerais d’Afrique subsaharienne et la demande chinoise a contribué a dynamisé les économies africaines. Commencé en 2011, le tassement de la croissance chinoise s’est déjà répercuté sur les cours des matières premières et sur les explorations en chute. Au-delà de la conjoncture, quel pourrait être l’impact du rééquilibrage du régime de croissance de l’économie chinoise sur les économies des pays d’Afrique subsaharienne exportateurs de minerais ? En diminuant le taux d’investissement en Chine, le rééquilibrage pèsera sur les cours, en particulier le cuivre et le fer, et il pourrait être amplifié par une meilleure efficacité de l’utilisation des métaux en Chine.
L'expérience subjective du schizophrène. Examen critique de la notion de qualité de vie
Authors: Jardon Fabrice , Glineur Cécile , Heenen-Wolff Susann , Vercruysse Nathalie , Fouchet Philippe
Published: June 2014

Dans la recherche quantitative, la notion de qualité de vie incarne l’intérêt porté à la perception subjective du patient schizophrène sur ses difficultés, ses propres ressources et son bien-être. Au travers d’une revue de la littérature et de l’analyse d’un cas, l’article examine la pertinence de cette notion pour l’établissement d’un diagnostic et l’orientation d’un accompagnement. Il en ressort que, contrairement aux objectifs annoncés, le cadre théorique et méthodologique, qui soutient cette notion, engendre une minimisation de l’expression subjective. Dans le cas de M. V., des éléments essentiels pour l’accompagnement restent ignorés par cette anayse standardisée, qui n’articule pas symptomatologie et logique singulière d’un parcours de vie. Les auteurs concluent que la notion de qualité de vie se situe moins comme une alternative satisfaisante, que comme un complément aux conceptions déficitaires de la schizophrénie.
Risque accidentel de mort chez l'adulte et résilience psychologique : étude comparative exploratoire clinique et projective
Authors: Laurent Mélanie , Morosini Laura , Bustany Pierre , Paysant Jean , Krier Marianne , Lighezzolo-Alnot Joëlle , de Tychey Claude
Published: June 2014

Cette recherche explore, de manière qualitative et comparative, après l’avoir définie, la résilience psychologique de deux adultes exposés accidentellement à un risque de mort et présentant des adaptations comportementales contrastées en suite de ce traumatisme. Les hypothèses émises, relatives à l’importance de deux variables centrales dans l’élaboration du traumatisme : la qualité de l’étayage externe et du fonctionnement mental intrapsychique, reçoivent une confirmation au vu de la méthodologie clinique et projective utilisée. Des pistes de recherche futures et des indications pour la prise en charge psychothérapique sont suggérées.
The Comparative Cardiac Effects of Haloperidol and Quetiapine: Parsing a Review
Authors: Howland Robert H.
Published: June 2014

A potential adverse effect of many non-cardiac drugs, including certain psychotropic medications, is an abnormally prolonged corrected QT (QTc) interval and an increased risk of developing torsade de pointes, a type of tachyarrhythmia associated with sudden death. A relatively recent literature review suggested that haloperidol (Haldol
®
) is more likely to cause QTc prolongation than quetiapine (Seroquel
®
). The current article critically evaluates this literature review by examining the original source studies cited by the authors to support their conclusion. The authors’ interpretation and presentation of the findings from the studies they review results in a misleading characterization of the relative risks of haloperidol and quetiapine. Looking at individual study methodologies closely and critically evaluating the findings from each study should be done before drawing generalized conclusions about the actual and comparative risks of various drugs. [
Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 52
(6), 23–26.]
De la construcción entramada a la introducción de estructuras metálicas en Madrid
Authors: González-Redondo E.
Published: June 2014

El análisis de edificios construidos con entramado de madera que se han conservado y el estudio de los contratos de obra originales, ha permitido comparar estas construcciones. Se fundamenta en tres pilares básicos: la investigación y el análisis de contratos de obra originales desde 1669 hasta 1900; el análisis gráfico de este tipo de edificaciones, algunas desaparecidas y otras que han conservado; y la experiencia constructiva que ofrece la inspección de numerosos edificios con daños observables. Esta investigación se apoya en el recorrido detallado de una esquina singular con más de tres siglos de historia. Se puede considerar como edificio representativo de la transición de la construcción entramada y la introducción de los nuevos materiales: las columnas de fundición y las vigas metálicas. Su estudio permite recrear el proceso constructivo original y situar los daños más frecuentes en la mayor parte de los edificios anteriores a 1900.
Requerimientos de usuarios de la edificación traducidos en una metodología de apoyo a la decisión
Authors: Valderrama-Ulloa C. , Puiggali J. R.
Published: June 2014

Diferentes actores del sector de la edificación han desarrollado diversos métodos que evalúan la calidad de sus edificios en respuesta a problemáticas medioambientales. Métodos desarrollados en un contexto específico, en este último tiempo han alcanzado una gran popularidad, pero al mismo tiempo ambigüedad en su medición, confusión en el objetivo que persiguen, olvidando el contexto en los que han sido concebidos. En este trabajo se desarrolla una metodología de apoyo a la decisión que evalúa el comportamiento de edificios terciarios en fase de explotación desde el punto de vista energético-medioambiental y satisfacción de sus usuarios, con el fin de decidir entre una rehabilitación o la demolición. El caso de estudio es un campus universitario en Francia, el cual reúne distintos usos y usuarios, y por lo tanto distintos requerimientos de calidad y de confort. Los indicadores que conforman la metodología consideran esta complejidad entregando sus resultados en un único perfil de evaluación, permitiendo ser aplicados en distintos contextos.
Procesado de disoluciones de indio(III) mediante cambio iónico con la resina Lewatit K-2621
Authors: López Díaz-Pavón Adrián , Cerpa Arisbel , Alguacila Francisco J.
Published: June 2014

Se ha investigado el tratamiento de disoluciones de ácido clorhídrico conteniendo indio(III) mediante la resina de cambio catiónico Lewatit K-2621. Las variables ensayadas han sido las concentraciones de ácido y de metal en la disolución acuosa y la cantidad de resina empleada en el tratamiento de dichas disoluciones. Asimismo, se ha llevado a cabo un estudio cinético del proceso de intercambio catiónico entre el indio(III) y la resina Lewatit K-2621. Este estudio muestra que el proceso de intercambio responde a un mecanismo de difusión en la disolución o en la partícula de resina dependiendo de la concentración inicial del metal en el medio acuoso. El metal cargado en la resina puede ser eluido con disoluciones de ácido clorhídrico a 20 °C.
¿Compromete el magnesio la procesabilidad a elevada temperatura de nuevos materiales compuestos biodegradables y biorreabsorbibles de PLLA/Mg?
Authors: Cifuentes Sandra C. , Benavente Rosario , González-Carrasco José Luis
Published: June 2014

Este trabajo aborda la influencia de magnesio en el comportamiento a fusión y en la estabilidad térmica de nuevos compuestos de PLLA / Mg biorreabsorbibles como una forma de investigar su procesabilidad mediante técnicas convencionales, lo que probablemente requerirá una etapa en estado fundido a alta temperatura para moldear el material mediante el uso de una etapa de compresión, extrusión o inyección. Para este fin, los materiales de PLLA cargados con partículas de magnesio, de diferentes tamaños y fracción de volumen, se prepararon por la técnica de disolución y colada, evitando así el procesado a alta temperatura antes del análisis. El análisis mediante DSC, DSC modulada y termogravimetría demuestra que, aunque la estabilidad térmica de PLLA se reduce, el intervalo de temperatura para su procesado por rutas convencionales es suficientemente amplio. Además, las partículas de magnesio no alteran la cristalización del polímero a partir del fundido, lo que permitirá optimizar el grado de cristalinidad mediante tratamientos posteriores de recocido y conseguir así una adecuada combinación de propiedades mecánicas y velocidad de degradación.
Caracterización y comportamiento frente a la corrosión de recubrimientos de ácido fítico, obtenidos por conversión química, sobre substratos de magnesio en solución fisiológica
Authors: Hernández-Alvarado Laura A. , Lomelí Martha A. , Hernández Luis S. , Miranda Juana M. , Narváez Lilia , Díaz Iván , García-Alonso María Cristina , Lorenza Escudero María
Published: June 2014

Con objeto de mejorar la resistencia a la corrosión de implantes biodegradables de magnesio y de la aleación AZ31, se ha depositado un recubrimiento de ácido fítico sobre ambos sustratos y se ha evaluado su efecto protector frente a la corrosión. El recubrimiento fue obtenido mediante un tratamiento de conversión química, por inmersión en una solución de ácido fítico al 0,5% a 60 °C. Distintas técnicas (MEB/EDX, XRD y FTIR) fueron utilizadas para analizar la morfología del recubrimiento y su naturaleza química. Dichas técnicas mostraron que el recubrimiento de conversión era amorfo, con una composición química sobre la superficie de magnesio de Mg, O y P y, además, Al, Zn y C sobre la superficie de la aleación AZ31. Los componentes principales del recubrimiento fueron quelatos formados por ácido fítico e iones metálicos. La resistencia a la corrosión de muestras sin recubrir y recubiertas, se evaluó mediante polarización potenciodinámica en solución de Hank a 37 °C. Los resultados indican que los recubrimientos de conversión de ácido fítico proporcionan una protección muy efectiva a los substratos de magnesio estudiados.
Hacia las altas prestaciones en Pulvimetalurgia
Authors: Torralba José M. , Campos Mónica
Published: June 2014

La Pulvimetalurgia es una tecnología bien conocida por su faceta de producir piezas de forma masiva a bajo coste, pero habitualmente con una pérdida de propiedades mecánicas si se la compara con tecnologías alternativas para obtener las mismas piezas. Sin embargo, mediante esta tecnología, también se pueden obtener piezas de altas prestaciones, dependiendo de la ruta de procesado y del nivel de porosidad. En este trabajo, se realiza una sucinta revisión de las posibilidades de la tecnología de polvos que permitirían obtener los mayores niveles de prestaciones en cuanto a propiedades mecánicas y físicas. Se pueden elegir distintas estrategias en el procesado: actuar sobre el nivel de densidad/porosidad y las propiedades de los poros, actuar sobre mecanismos de endurecimiento distintos a la densidad (el sistema de aleación, la microestructura, el tamaño de grano,…), mejorar la activación durante la sinterización y utilizar técnicas que inhiban el tamaño de grano durante la sinterización.
Forecasting the Trends in Cloud Computing and its Impact on Future IT Business
Authors: Raj Ebin Deni , Babu L. D. Dhinesh , EzenduAriwa  , Nirmala M. , Krishna P. Venkata
Published: June 2014

Cloud computing has become the cutting-edge technology for information technology processing and high-end computational tasks. Cloud has started playing its part in almost all business processes. Big data in cloud has become the buzzword. The business impact of cloud has deepened with the growth of big data analytics. Current trends such as green cloud computing, mobile cloud computing, and big data have created social as well as business impact. In this chapter, the authors analyze the field of cloud computing and perform an intense literature survey augmented with mathematical analysis. The forecast on the future of cloud and analysis of the current trends shows that cloud computing is a promising technology that will evolve further in years to come.
The Role of Multinational Corporations in Community Development Initiatives in Cameroon
Authors: Ollong Kingsly Awang
Published: June 2014

Inadequate provision of infrastructural and social facilities by governments for citizens' use calls for intervention of corporate organizations and individuals to contribute/provide for other people via social obligation. By virtue of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), many communities and individuals have been developed to dependable levels. Through it, the general wellbeing of individuals, groups and communities, growth and development are encouraged and promoted while stimulating innovative business. Government multiple taxes, business unfriendly policies, unions' agitations, and scamming by some ill-intentioned citizens are impediments to efficient CSR by multinational companies in Cameroon. Though the rate of participation by business entities in being socially responsible is not encouraging, this chapter singles out a few MNCs that have distinguished themselves by sharing their enormous profits with the communities in which they operate. This chapter uses case studies of three Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCGs), that is, MTN, Guinness Cameroun SA, and British American Tobacco to ascertain that corporate social responsibility by MNCs has helped to ameliorate living conditions of local communities.
Engendering Sustainable Development through the Adoption of Digital Publishing Innovations
Authors: Christopher Nkechi M. , Ifeduba Emmanuel C.
Published: June 2014

Access to information may have contributed to the yawning gap between Nigeria's wealth in human and material resources and the level of development recorded. Sustainable development can be engendered through the adoption of digital publishing innovations by publishers in the dispensation of their corporate social responsibility often geared towards developing the total person in society. In Nigeria, available gadgets for accessing publications and processing information can be adopted to solve fundamental problems that hitherto plagued production and distribution of information resources. Since ICTs facilitate content development and dissemination, they can be employed for adequate supply of educational books, agricultural extension information in any language, access to and participation in political dialogues, materials for language learning, etc. Therefore, the publishing industry in Nigeria has at its disposal all that it needs to join the world of e-publishing and e-solutions. The central objective of this chapter, therefore, is to argue that Nigerian publishers are in the position to ensure sustainable development through digital publication and dissemination of information resources, even beyond their present educational books niche, to meet other unmet book and information needs. This is because e-books are easier to market and distribute, and e-payment eliminates transaction bottlenecks. Publishers, however, need the support of government through a viable book policy, stable curriculums, and provision of digital tools to schools; cooperation of and collaboration with the academia (or established material developers); and collaboration with mobile network owners (for effective dissemination).
Sustainable Energy and the Growth of Small and Medium Enterprises in Ghana
Authors: Agbola Ruby Melody , Sokro Evans
Published: June 2014

The chronic shortage of petroleum fuels, especially gasoline and LPG, and the prolonged and indiscriminate power outages coupled with the recent increment in fuel prices appear to be taking their toll on Ghanaian businesses; hence, some have questioned the degree of security, reliability, and long-term sustainability of the country's energy need. The chapter assesses the impact of the recent power outages on the growth and profitability of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). The study employed a survey design consisting of structured questionnaires involving a total of 190 SMEs across the country. An eight item Likert scale used to assess the impact of the energy crisis on three key measures of business growth revealed a strong positive correlation between the power outages and reduced profitability but a weak correlation with business expansion by way of market development and a statistically insignificant relationship between the power outages and growth in number of employees.
Vertical Landscape Desıgn
Authors: Yücel Gökçen Firdevs
Published: June 2014

Vertical landscapes are areas of vegetation growing directly on the facade of a building or on separate structural systems; they are usually made up of modular units, vegetated mats, or trellises attached to structural walls or frames. In general, they are vertical planting systems used on the inside walls or on the exteriors of buildings. They are irrigated by either closed or open drainage systems to minimize water consumption. In their construction, the integrity of the structural support elements must be protected by durable and long-lasting waterproofing to preclude damage and the need for later reconstruction, which may be costly. Vertical landscapes are aesthetically pleasing and sustainable, and they contribute to the greening of urban settings by utilizing vertical surfaces: they enliven built-up commercial and office areas, parks and public facilities, educational and health-care buildings, and retail shopping areas; and they also bring additional color to eco-friendly buildings and their surroundings. At present, vertical landscapes are generally thought of as aesthetic additions, but as the technology used in them develops, they may play a significant role in the future of sustainable urban environments. Vertical landscapes are explored in this chapter.
Chances for and Limitations of Brain-Computer Interface use in Elderly People
Authors: Mikołajewska Emilia , Mikołajewski Dariusz , Komendziński Tomasz , Dreszer-Drogorób Joanna , Lewandowska Monika , Wolak Tomasz
Published: June 2014

Recent demographic prognoses show tendencies toward a significant increase in the number of elderly people, especially in developed countries. This makes geriatric therapy, rehabilitation, and care difficult, especially with maintaining as long as possible the highest quality of life and independence in activities of daily living. Lack of specialized personnel and financial shortages may cause increased application of Assistive Technology (AT) and associated control devices. The most advanced current devices for diagnosis, communication, and control purposes are perceived Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs). BCIs use brain-derived bioelectrical signals as an input to enable diagnosis, communication, and/or control (e.g. neuroprostheses, medical robots, wheelchairs, whole integrated environments) without any movement. BCIs are regarded as novel solutions offering another breakthrough in everyday life, care, therapy, and rehabilitation in patients with severe sensory and neuropsychological deficits. However, particular issues in the area of BCIs use in elderly people should be emphasized, including influence of neurodegenerative disorders accompanied with secondary changes resulting from other medical problems (e.g. heart diseases, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and osteoporosis), co-occurence of various drug therapies, etc. This chapter investigates the extent to which the available opportunities are being exploited, including both chances and limitations, medical, technical, psychological, societal, ethical, and legal issues.
Practical Artifact Removal Brain-Computer Interface System
Authors: Hsu Wei-Yen
Published: June 2014

In this chapter, a practical artifact removal Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) system for single-trial Electroencephalogram (EEG) data is proposed for applications in neuroprosthetics. Independent Component Analysis (ICA) combined with the use of a correlation coefficient is proposed to remove the EOG artifacts automatically, which can further improve classification accuracy. The features are then extracted from wavelet transform data by means of the proposed modified fractal dimension. Finally, Support Vector Machine (SVM) is used for the classification. When compared with the results obtained without using the EOG signal elimination, the proposed BCI system achieves promising results that will be effectively applied in neuroprosthetics.
Habitat and estimated density of Magicicada septendecula (Hemiptera: Cicadidae), a 17-year periodical cicada newly discovered in Connecticut, United States of America
Authors: Maier Chris T.
Published: June 2014

Periodical cicadas in the genus Magicicada Davis (Hemiptera: Cicadidae) of brood II emerged in the eastern United States of America in 2013. In Connecticut, only Magicicada septendecim (Linnaeus) had been recorded until this emergence when Magicicada septendecula Alexander and Moore was found on Totoket Mountain in North Branford, Connecticut, United States of America. This discovery represented the northeastern-most record of this species. In two 0.25-ha plots where M. septendecula and M. septendecim emerged and chorused, species of Carya Nuttall (Juglandaceae) comprised 59.9–63.7% of the total basal area, with Carya glabra (Miller) Sweet, accounting for 43.9–60.0%. In one plot, 31.6% of the total basal area was Fraxinus americana Linnaeus (Oleaceae). By using the proportion of exuviae of M. septendecula (hind tibial length<6.3 mm) and M. septendecim (length ⩾ 6.3 mm) near trees and the mean number of emergence holes per 0.25-m2 quadrat (1.88), it was estimated that 1487 M. septendecula and 17 313 M. septendecim emerged in one 0.25-ha plot. Mean tibial length of M. septendecula was significantly smaller in males (5.53 mm) than females (5.99 mm), and the sex ratio did not depart significantly from 1:1. Magicicada septendecula may be threatened by the decline of F. americana and Juglans cinerea Linnaeus (Juglandaceae), the first a known host and the second a suspected host.
The Eμ Enhancer Region Influences H Chain Expression and B Cell Fate without Impacting IgVH Repertoire and Immune Response In Vivo
Authors: Marquet Marie , Garot Armand , Bender Sébastien , Carrion Claire , Rouaud Pauline , Lecardeur Sandrine , Denizot Yves , Cogné Michel , Pinaud Eric
Published: June 2014

The IgH intronic enhancer region Eμ is a combination of both a 220-bp core enhancer element and two 310–350-bp flanking scaffold/matrix attachment regions named MARsEμ. In the mouse, deletion of the core-enhancer Eμ element mainly affects VDJ recombination with minor effects on class switch recombination. We carried out endogenous deletion of the full-length Eμ region (core plus MARsEμ) in the mouse genome to study VH gene repertoire and IgH expression in developing B-lineage cells. Despite a severe defect in VDJ recombination with partial blockade at the pro–B cell stage, Eμ deletion (core or full length) did not affect VH gene usage. Deletion of this regulatory region induced both a decrease of pre–B cell and newly formed B cell compartments and a strong orientation toward the marginal zone B cell subset. Because Igμ H chain expression was decreased in Eμ-deficient pre–B cells, we propose that modification of B cell homeostasis in deficient animals was caused by “weak” pre–B cell and BCR expression. Besides imbalances in B cell compartments, Ag-specific Ab responses were not impaired in animals carrying the Eμ deletion. In addition to its role in VDJ recombination, our study points out that the full-length Eμ region does not influence VH segment usage but ensures efficient Igμ-chain expression required for strong signaling through pre–B cells and newly formed BCRs and thus participates in B cell inflow and fate.
Ammonia Drives Dendritic Cells into Dysfunction
Authors: Luo Can , Shen Guobo , Liu Ning , Gong Fengming , Wei Xiawei , Yao Shaohua , Liu Dan , Teng Xiu , Ye Ning , Zhang Nan , Zhou Xikun , Li Jiong , Yang Li , Zhao Xia , Yang Li , Xiang Rong , Wei Yu-quan
Published: June 2014

Ammonia levels are often elevated in patients with cirrhosis or tumors. Patients with these diseases are immunocompromised. In this study, we investigated the effects of ammonia on a member of the immune cell family, the dendritic cells (DCs). Our results demonstrated that ammonia diminished cell count, phagocytosis, and lymphocyte stimulation of DCs. Ammonia also induced DC swelling, excessive reactive oxygen species production, and mitochondrial damage, which may constitute the underlying mechanism of ammonia-induced DC dysfunction. In ammonium chloride (NH4Cl)–loaded mice, DCs exhibited lowered phagocytosis and a weakened immune response to the chicken OVA vaccine. DCs from patients with cirrhosis or ammonia-treated healthy human blood both exhibited diminished phagocytosis. Moreover, tumor cell conditioned medium drove DCs into dysfunction, which could be reversed by ammonia elimination. In a murine colon carcinoma model, we found that ammonia could regulate tumor growth involving DCs and their related immune response. These findings reveal that ammonia could drive DCs into dysfunction, which contributes to the immunocompromised state of patients with cirrhosis or tumors.
Bronchial Epithelial Cells Induce Alternatively Activated Dendritic Cells Dependent on Glucocorticoid Receptor Signaling
Authors: Weitnauer Michael , Schmidt Lotte , Ng Kuet Leong Nathalie , Muenchau Stephanie , Lasitschka Felix , Eckstein Volker , Hübner Sabine , Tuckermann Jan , Dalpke Alexander H.
Published: June 2014

Airway epithelial cells mount a tolerogenic microenvironment that reduces the proinflammatory potential of respiratory dendritic cells (DCs). We recently demonstrated that tracheal epithelial cells continuously secrete soluble mediators that affect the reactivity of local innate immune cells. Using transcriptional profiling, we now observed that conditioning of DCs by tracheal epithelial cells regulated 98 genes under homeostatic conditions. Among the most upregulated genes were Ms4a8a and Ym1, marker genes of alternatively activated myeloid cells. Ex vivo analysis of respiratory DCs from nonchallenged mice confirmed a phenotype of alternative activation. Bioinformatic analysis showed an overrepresentation of hormone-nuclear receptors within the regulated genes, among which was the glucocorticoid receptor. In line with a role for glucocorticoids, pharmacological blockade as well as genetic manipulation of the glucocorticoid receptor within DCs inhibited Ms4a8a and Ym1 expression as well as MHC class II and CD86 regulation upon epithelial cell conditioning. Within epithelial cell–conditioned medium, low amounts of glucocorticoids were present. Further analysis showed that airway epithelial cells did not produce glucocorticoids de novo, yet were able to reactivate inactive dehydrocorticosterone enzymatically. The results show that airway epithelial cells regulate local immune responses, and this modulation involves local production of glucocorticoids and induction of an alternative activation phenotype in DCs.
The kingdom of God: Utopian or existential?
Authors: Malan Gert J.
Published: June 2014

The kingdom of God was a central theme in Jesus’ vision. Was it meant to be understood as utopian as Mary Ann Beavis views it, or existential? In 1st century CE Palestine, kingdom of God was a political term meaning theocracy suggesting God’s patronage. Jesus used the term metaphorically to construct a new symbolic universe to legitimate a radical new way of living with God in opposition to the temple ideology of exclusivist covenantal nomism. The analogies of father and king served as the root metaphors for this symbolic universe. They are existential root metaphors underpinning the contextual symbolic universe of God’s patronage in reaction to the collapse of the patronage system which left peasants destitute. Jesus’ paradoxical use of the metaphor kingdom of God had a therapeutic value and gave the concept new meaning. The initial motivation for proclaiming God’s patronage originated in Jesus’ primary identity formation by Mary as single parent and was reinforced in his secondary identity formation by John the Baptist. From these results can be concluded that kingdom of God was not meant to be understood as utopian, but existential. In order to clarify the meaning of kingdom of God and God’s patronage for the 21st century, emythologisation and deconstruction can be helpful especially by highlighting the existential meaning of the kingdom of God.
Retroperitoneal Extragastrointestinal Stromal Tumor: Radiologic Pathologic Correlation
Authors: Watal Pankaj , Brahmbhatt Swetang G. , Thoriya Prashant J. , Bahri Nandini U.
Published: June 2014

Neoplasms with histology and immunohistochemistry similar to gastrointestinal stromal tumors may occur primarily outside the gastrointestinal tract, usually in the omentum and mesentery. These are referred to as extragastrointestinal stromal tumors (EGISTs). Retroperitoneum is a very rare site for such neoplasms. We report a patient with EGIST in the retroperitoneum, elaborating the cross-sectional imaging and histopathologic findings.
Application of Machine Learning to Development of Copy Number Variation-based Prediction of Cancer Risk
Authors: Ding Xiaofan , Tsang Shui-Ying , Ng Siu-Kin , Xue Hong
Published: June 2014

In the present study, recurrent copy number variations (CNVs) from non-tumor blood cell DNAs of Caucasian non-cancer subjects and glioma, myeloma, and colorectal cancer-patients, and Korean non-cancer subjects and hepatocellular carcinoma, gastric cancer, and colorectal cancer patients, were found to reveal for each of the two ethnic cohorts highly significant differences between cancer patients and controls with respect to the number of CN-losses and size-distribution of CN-gains, suggesting the existence of recurrent constitutional CNV-features useful for prediction of predisposition to cancer. Upon identification by machine learning, such CNV-features could extensively discriminate between cancer-patient and control DNAs. When the CNV-features selected from a learning-group of Caucasian or Korean mixed DNAs consisting of both cancer-patient and control DNAs were employed to make predictions on the cancer predisposition of an unseen test group of mixed DNAs, the average prediction accuracy was 93.6% for the Caucasian cohort and 86.5% for the Korean cohort.
Effects of production system and growth promotants on the physiological maturity scores in steers
Authors: López-Campos Ó. , Aalhus J. L. , Prieto N. , Larsen I. L. , Juárez M. , Basarab J. A.
Published: June 2014

López-Campos, Ó., Aalhus, J. L., Larsen, I. L., Juárez, M. and Basarab, J. A. 2014. Effects of production system and growth promotants on the physiological maturity scores in steers. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 94: 607–617. Over a 2-yr period, 224 crossbred steers were allotted to a 2×2×2 factorial arrangement of treatments to determine the effect of the production system (calf-fed vs. yearling-fed), growth implant strategy (non-implanted vs. implanted) and β-agonist supplementation (no ractopamine vs. ractopamine) on physiological indicators of maturity. Dentition and ossification scores along the vertebral column were collected post-mortem during head inspection and grading. Dentition score was significantly affected (P<0.001) by production system, but not by implant (P=0.68) or β-agonist (P=0.31). There were significant interactions (P<0.001) between production system and implant strategy on the frequencies of carcasses showing ossification in the thoracic, lumbar and sacral vertebral processes. There was a significant interaction (P<0.0001) between the production system and implant strategy on the frequencies of the carcasses considered as <21 or >21 mo of age based on a segregation model using only physiological maturity assessments. These data emphasize the inability of physiological scores to accurately reflect chronological age, with overall classification accuracies of 0.68 and 0.53 for dentition and ossification scores. The highest overall classification accuracies were obtained using the thoracic (0.74) or lumbar (0.69) ossification scores. Implants accelerate the ossification process, particularly in younger animals, thus having a dramatic effect on numbers of animals eligible to be categorized as <21 mo of age based on physiological maturity evaluation.
An economic model evaluating the supplementation of folic acid and vitamin B12 given around parturition and in early lactation on dairy farms in Québec, Canada
Authors: Duplessis M. , Girard C. L. , Santschi D. E. , Pellerin D.
Published: June 2014

Duplessis, M., Girard, C. L., Santschi, D. E. and Pellerin, D. 2014. An economic model evaluating the supplementation of folic acid and vitamin B12 given around parturition and in early lactation on dairy farms in Québec, Canada. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 94: 737–747. The aim of this study was to estimate the potential profitability of a combined supplement of folic acid and vitamin B12 given around parturition and in early lactation in commercial dairy herds in Québec. A total of 791 dairy cows from 14 herds were enrolled. Cows were assigned to weekly intramuscular injections of saline or 320 mg of folic acid and 10 mg of vitamin B12. Treatments began 3 wk before the expected calving date and lasted until 8 wk of lactation. Within each herd, data on production, reproduction, and incidence of metabolic disorders and other diseases were recorded. With regard to the Canadian dairy industry, which operates under a supply management system, two scenarios were studied: (1) quota kept constant and (2) number of cows kept constant. For scenarios 1 and 2, eight and seven herds out of 14, respectively, obtained a positive annual net margin per cow following the vitamin supplement. The average net margins were Can$31.18 and Can$–4.86 N cow−1 yr−1 for scenarios 1 and 2, respectively. The variability of the response highlights that supplies of these vitamins by ruminal synthesis were probably different among herds and actual knowledge does not allow predicting supplies according to the diet.
Review: Canadian beef grading – Opportunities to identify carcass and meat quality traits valued by consumers
Authors: Aalhus Jennifer L. , López-Campos Óscar , Prieto Nuria , Rodas-González Argenis , Dugan Michael E. R. , Uttaro Bethany , Juárez Manuel
Published: June 2014

Aalhus, J. L., López-Campos, Ó., Prieto, N., Rodas-González, A., Dugan, M. E. R., Uttaro, B. and Juárez, M. 2014. Review: Canadian beef grading – Opportunities to identify carcass and meat quality traits valued by consumers. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 94: 545–556. Beef value is in the eye, mouth or mind of the consumer; however, currently, producers are paid on the basis of carcass grade. In general, affluent consumers are becoming more discerning and are willing to pay for both credence and measureable quality differences. The Canadian grading system for youthful carcasses identifies both lean yield and quality attributes, whereas mature carcasses are broadly categorized. Opportunities exist to improve the prediction of lean meat yield and better identify meat quality characteristics in youthful beef, and to obtain additional value from mature carcasses through muscle profiling. Individual carcass identification along with development of database systems like the Beef InfoXchange System (BIXS) will allow a paradigm shift for the industry as traits of economic value can be easily identified to improve marketing value chains. In the near future, developing technologies (e.g., grade cameras, dual energy X-ray absorptiometry, and spectroscopic methods such as near infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy and hyperspectral imaging) will be successfully implemented on-line to identify a multitude of carcass and quality traits of growing importance to segments of the consuming population.
CDC Amarillo yellow field pea
Authors: Warkentin T. D. , Vandenberg A. , Tar'an B. , Banniza S. , Arganosa G. , Barlow B. , Ife S. , Horner J. , de Silva D. , Thompson M. , Parada M. , Wagenhoffer S. , Prado T.
Published: June 2014

Warkentin, T. D., Vandenberg, A., Tar'an, B., Banniza, S., Arganosa, G., Barlow, B., Ife, S., Horner, J., de Silva, D., Thompson, M., Parada, M., Wagenhoffer, S. and Prado, T. 2014. CDC Amarillo yellow field pea. Can. J. Plant Sci. 94: 1539–1541. CDC Amarillo, a yellow cotyledon field pea (Pisum sativum L.) cultivar, was released in 2012 by the Crop Development Centre, University of Saskatchewan for distribution to Select seed growers in Saskatchewan and Alberta through the Variety Release Committee of the Saskatchewan Pulse Growers. CDC Amarillo has good lodging resistance, medium-sized, round seeds, and good yielding ability. CDC Amarillo is adapted to the field-pea-growing regions of western Canada.
CDC Saffron yellow field pea
Authors: Warkentin T. D. , Vandenberg A. , Tar'an B. , Banniza S. , Barlow B. , Ife S. , Horner J. , de Silva D. , Thompson M. , Parada M. , Wagenhoffer S. , Prado T.
Published: June 2014

Warkentin, T. D., Vandenberg, A., Tar'an, B., Banniza, S., Barlow, B., Ife, S., Horner, J., de Silva, D., Thompson, M., Parada, M., Wagenhoffer, S. and Prado, T. 2014. CDC Saffron yellow field pea. Can. J. Plant Sci. 94: 1543–1545. CDC Saffron, a yellow cotyledon field pea (Pisum sativum L.) cultivar, was released in 2011 by the Crop Development Centre, University of Saskatchewan for distribution to Select seed growers in Saskatchewan and Alberta through the Variety Release Committee of the Saskatchewan Pulse Growers. CDC Saffron has good lodging resistance, medium-sized, round seeds, and good yielding ability. CDC Saffron is adapted to the field-pea-growing regions of western Canada.
Logistic model analysis of winter wheat growth on China's Loess Plateau
Authors: Xiangxiang Wang , Quanjiu Wang , Jun Fan , Lijun Su , Xinlei Shen
Published: June 2014

Xiangxiang, W., Quanjiu, W., Jun, F., Lijun, S. and Xinlei, S. 2014. Logistic model analysis of winter wheat growth on China's Loess Plateau. Can. J. Plant Sci. 94: 1471–1479. The leaf area index (LAI) and above-ground biomass are closely related to crop growth status and yields. Therefore, analysis of their variation and development of a mathematical model for their prediction can provide a theoretical basis for further research. This paper presents a new equation for logistic pattern that calculates above-ground biomass and LAI for different irrigation treatments independent of growing degree days (GDD) and plant height. The model root mean square of error (RMSE) for the LAI was from 0.25 to 1.36, and for above-ground biomass it was from 0.49 to 1.34. The r2 values for the model's output under the single irrigation, double irrigation, triple irrigation, and quadruple irrigation treatments were 0.98, 0.87, 0.96, 0.98 and 0.99, respectively. For above-ground biomass they were 0.96, 0.97, 0.99, 0.97, and 0.97, respectively. The relative error for LAI ranged from 0.026 to 15.2%. For above-ground biomass, the Re ranged from 5.78 to 8.79%. The results gave good agreement between the estimated values and the measured values. The Logistic model was good at estimating the LAI and the above-ground biomass from the plant height.
A Mixed-Methods Evaluation of the Choose Less, Weigh Less Portion Size Health Marketing Campaign in Los Angeles County
Authors: Gase Lauren N. , Barragan Noel C. , Robles Brenda , Leighs Michael , Kuo Tony
Published: June 2014

Purpose.

To assess the impact of the Choose Less, Weigh Less portion size health marketing campaign.

Design.

A mixed-methods, cross-sectional evaluation.

Setting.

A quantitative Internet panel survey was administered through an online sampling vendor and qualitative interviews were conducted by street intercept.

Subjects.

The panel survey included 796 participants, weighted to represent Los Angeles County. Street intercept interviews were conducted with 50 other participants.

Intervention.

The Choose Less, Weigh Less campaign included print media on transit shelters, bus and rail cars, and billboards; radio and online advertising; and Web site content and social media outreach.

Measures.

The panel survey measured self-reported campaign exposure and outcomes, including knowledge of recommended daily calorie limits, attitudes toward portion sizes, and intent to reduce calories and portion size. Intercept interviews assessed campaign appeal, clarity, and utility.

Analysis.

Weighted survey data were analyzed using logistic regression to assess the association between campaign exposure and outcomes. Interview data were analyzed for themes.

Results.

The campaign reached 19.7% of the Los Angeles County population. Significant differences were seen for 2 of the 10 outcomes assessed. Participants who saw the campaign were more likely than those who did not to report fast-food portion sizes as being too large (adjusted odds ratio [Adj. OR]: 1.89; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.16, 3.07) and intention to choose a smaller portion (Adj. OR: 1.99; 95% CI: 1.20, 3.31). Qualitative data revealed three themes about appeal, clarity, and utility.

Conclusion.

Health marketing efforts targeting portion size can have relatively broad reach and limited but positive impacts on consumer attitudes and intent to select smaller portions.
Winter thermal structure of Lake Superior
Authors: Titze Daniel J. , Austin Jay A.
Published: June 2014

Moorings equipped with thermistors that span the water column were deployed at up to seven locations throughout Lake Superior from October 2005 through May 2013. This year‐round, multi‐year, multi‐location, full water‐column record of the thermal structure reveals significant inter‐annual and spatial variability in Lake Superior's winter heat content, thermocline depth, and phenology. There is a stark contrast in thermal structure between the cold, icy winter of 2009, during which strong negative stratification formed, and the much warmer winter of 2012, during which the stratification was much weaker. Significant inter‐annual and spatial variability was also observed in ice cover, which influenced heat content. Ice cover significantly inhibits heat flux between the lake and the atmosphere, and spatial variability in ice cover translates into spatial variability in end‐of‐winter heat content. This is found to be preserved through the spring warming season, and is strongly correlated with variability in the timing of the onset of summer stratification, with regions that have warmer end‐of‐winter water columns stratifying earlier than regions with colder end‐of‐winter water‐columns. Observed spring warming rates appear to depend not on mooring depth, but on regionally averaged depth; this suggests the existence of a lateral mixing mechanism.