bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functional Integration of mRNA Translational Control Programs
Authors: MacNicol Melanie , Cragle Chad , Arumugam Karthik , Fosso Bruno , Pesole Graziano , MacNicol Angus
Published: July 2015

Regulated mRNA translation plays a key role in control of cell cycle progression in a variety of physiological and pathological processes, including in the self-renewal and survival of stem cells and cancer stem cells. While targeting mRNA translation presents an attractive strategy for control of aberrant cell cycle progression, mRNA translation is an underdeveloped therapeutic target. Regulated mRNAs are typically controlled through interaction with multiple RNA binding proteins (RBPs) but the mechanisms by which the functions of distinct RBPs bound to a common target mRNA are coordinated are poorly understood. The challenge now is to gain insight into these mechanisms of coordination and to identify the molecular mediators that integrate multiple, often conflicting, inputs. A first step includes the identification of altered mRNA ribonucleoprotein complex components that assemble on mRNAs bound by multiple, distinct RBPs compared to those recruited by individual RBPs. This review builds upon our knowledge of combinatorial control of mRNA translation during the maturation of oocytes from Xenopus laevis, to address molecular strategies that may mediate RBP diplomacy and conflict resolution for coordinated control of mRNA translational output. Continued study of regulated ribonucleoprotein complex dynamics promises valuable new insights into mRNA translational control and may suggest novel therapeutic strategies for the treatment of disease.
Transcription Blockage Leads to New Beginnings
Authors: Andrade-Lima Leonardo , Veloso Artur , Ljungman Mats
Published: July 2015

Environmental agents are constantly challenging cells by damaging DNA, leading to the blockage of transcription elongation. How do cells deal with transcription-blockage and how is transcription restarted after the blocking lesions are removed? Here we review the processes responsible for the removal of transcription-blocking lesions, as well as mechanisms of transcription restart. We also discuss recent data suggesting that blocked RNA polymerases may not resume transcription from the site of the lesion following its removal but, rather, are forced to start over from the beginning of genes.
T-Cadherin Expression in Melanoma Cells Stimulates Stromal Cell Recruitment and Invasion by Regulating the Expression of Chemokines, Integrins and Adhesion Molecules
Authors: Rubina Kseniya , Surkova Ekaterina , Semina Ekaterina , Sysoeva Veronika , Kalinina Natalia , Poliakov Alexei , Treshalina Helena , Tkachuk Vsevolod
Published: July 2015

T-cadherin is a glycosyl-phosphatidylinositol (GPI) anchored member of the cadherin superfamily involved in the guidance of migrating cells. We have previously shown that in vivo T-cadherin overexpression leads to increased melanoma primary tumor growth due to the recruitment of mesenchymal stromal cells as well as the enhanced metastasis. Since tumor progression is highly dependent upon cell migration and invasion, the aim of the present study was to elucidate the mechanisms of T-cadherin participation in these processes. Herein we show that T-cadherin expression results in the increased invasive potential due to the upregulated expression of pro-oncogenic integrins, chemokines, adhesion molecules and extracellular matrix components. The detected increase in chemokine expression could be responsible for the stromal cell recruitment. At the same time our previous data demonstrated that T-cadherin expression inhibited neoangiogenesis in the primary tumors. We demonstrate molecules and reduction in pro-angiogenic factors. Thus, T-cadherin plays a dual role in melanoma growth and progression: T-cadherin expression results in anti-angiogenic effects in melanoma, however, this also stimulates transcription of genes responsible for migration and invasion of melanoma cells.
Enhancing Wave Energy Competitiveness through Co-Located Wind and Wave Energy Farms. A Review on the Shadow Effect
Authors: Astariz Sharay , Iglesias Gregorio
Published: July 2015

Wave energy is one of the most promising alternatives to fossil fuels due to the enormous available resource; however, its development may be slowed as it is often regarded as uneconomical. The largest cost reductions are expected to be obtained through economies of scale and technological progress. In this sense, the incorporation of wave energy systems into offshore wind energy farms is an opportunity to foster the development of wave energy. The synergies between both renewables can be realised through these co-located energy farms and, thus, some challenges of offshore wind energy can be met. Among them, this paper focuses on the longer non-operational periods of offshore wind turbines—relative to their onshore counterparts—typically caused by delays in maintenance due to the harsh marine conditions. Co-located wave energy converters would act as a barrier extracting energy from the waves and resulting in a shielding effect over the wind farm. On this basis, the aim of this paper is to analyse wave energy economics in a holistic way, as well as the synergies between wave and offshore wind energy, focusing on the shadow effect and the associated increase in the accessibility to the wind turbines.
Prevalence of Iron Deficiency and Anemia among Young Children with Acute Diarrhea in Bhaktapur, Nepal
Authors: Chandyo Ram , Ulak Manjeswori , Adhikari Ramesh , Sommerfelt Halvor , Strand Tor
Published: July 2015

Iron deficiency anemia is still common in children under five years of age and may impair their growth and cognitive development. Diarrhea is the second most common reason for seeking medical care for young children in Nepal. However, neither screening programs nor effective preventive measures for anemia and iron deficiencies are in place among children with diarrhea in many developing countries. The aims of this study were to determine the prevalence of anemia and iron deficiency and explore their associations with clinical, socioeconomic, and anthropometric parameters in Nepalese children. This was a cross-sectional study based on 1232 children, six to 35 months old, with acute diarrhea participating in a zinc supplementation trial. The mean (SD) hemoglobin was 11.2 g/dL (1.2). Anemia was found in 493 children (40%); this estimate increased to 641 (52%) when we adjusted for the altitude of the study area (hemoglobin <11.3 g/dL). One in every three children had depleted iron stores and 198 (16%) of the children had both depleted iron stores and anemia, indicating iron deficiency anemia. The prevalence of anemia among children presenting with acute diarrhea was high but the degree of severity was mainly mild or moderate. Iron deficiency explained less than half of the total anemia, indicating other nutritional deficiencies inducing anemia might be common in this population.
Evaluating the Long-Term Health and Economic Impacts of Central Residential Air Filtration for Reducing Premature Mortality Associated with Indoor Fine Particulate Matter (PM2.5) of Outdoor Origin
Authors: Zhao Dan , Azimi Parham , Stephens Brent
Published: July 2015

Much of human exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) of outdoor origin occurs in residences. High-efficiency particle air filtration in central heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems is increasingly being used to reduce concentrations of particulate matter inside homes. However, questions remain about the effectiveness of filtration for reducing exposures to PM2.5 of outdoor origin and adverse health outcomes. Here we integrate epidemiology functions and mass balance modeling to estimate the long-term health and economic impacts of HVAC filtration for reducing premature mortality associated with indoor PM2.5 of outdoor origin in residences. We evaluate 11 classifications of filters (MERV 5 through HEPA) using six case studies of single-family home vintages and ventilation system combinations located in 22 U.S. cities. We estimate that widespread use of higher efficiency filters would reduce premature mortality by 0.002–2.5% and increase life expectancy by 0.02–1.6 months, yielding annual monetary benefits ranging from $1 to $1348 per person in the homes and locations modeled herein. Large differences in the magnitude of health and economic impacts are driven largely by differences in rated filter efficiency and building and ventilation system characteristics that govern particle infiltration and persistence, with smaller influences attributable to geographic location.
Occupant Interactions and Effectiveness of Natural Ventilation Strategies in Contemporary New Housing in Scotland, UK
Authors: Sharpe Tim , Farren Paul , Howieson Stirling , Tuohy Paul , McQuillan Jonathan
Published: July 2015

The need to reduce carbon emissions and fuel poverty has led to increased building envelope air tightness, intended to reduce uncontrolled ventilation heat losses. Ventilation strategies in dwellings still allow the use of trickle ventilators in window frames for background ventilation. The extent to which this results in “healthy” Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) in recently constructed dwellings was a concern of regulators in Scotland. This paper describes research to explore this. First a review of literature was conducted, then data on occupant interactions with ventilation provisions (windows, doors, trickle vents) gathered through an interview-based survey of 200 recently constructed dwellings, and measurements made on a sample of 40 of these. The main measured parameter discussed here is CO2 concentration. It was concluded after the literature review that 1000 ppm absolute was a reasonable threshold to use for “adequate” ventilation. The occupant survey found that there was very little occupant interaction with the trickle ventilators e.g., in bedrooms 63% were always closed, 28% always open, and in only 9% of cases occupants intervened to make occasional adjustments. In the measured dwellings average bedroom CO2 levels of 1520 ppm during occupied (night time) hours were observed. Where windows were open the average bedroom CO2 levels were 972 ppm. With windows closed, the combination of “trickle ventilators open plus doors open” gave an average of 1021 ppm. “Trickle ventilators open” gave an average of 1571 ppm. All other combinations gave averages of 1550 to 2000 ppm. Ventilation rates and air change rates were estimated from measured CO2 levels, for all dwellings calculated ventilation rate was less than 8 L/s/p, in 42% of cases calculated air change rate was less than 0.5 ach. It was concluded that trickle ventilation as installed and used is ineffective in meeting desired ventilation rates, evidenced by high CO2 levels reported across the sampled dwellings. Potential implications of the results are discussed.
Sleep Disorders Reduce Health-Related Quality of Life in Multiple Sclerosis (Nottingham Health Profile Data in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis)
Authors: Veauthier Christian , Gaede Gunnar , Radbruch Helena , Wernecke Klaus-Dieter , Paul Friedemann
Published: July 2015

Quality of Life (QoL) is decreased in multiple sclerosis (MS), but studies about the impact of sleep disorders (SD) on health-related quality of Life (HRQoL) are lacking. From our original cohort, a cross-sectional polysomnographic (PSG) study in consecutive MS patients, we retrospectively analysed the previously unpublished data of the Nottingham Health Profile (NHP). Those MS patients suffering from sleep disorders (n = 49) showed significantly lower HRQoL compared to MS patients without sleep disorders (n = 17). Subsequently, we classified the patients into four subgroups: insomnia (n = 17), restless-legs syndrome, periodic limb movement disorder and SD due to leg pain (n = 24), obstructive sleep apnea (n = 8) and patients without sleep disorder (n = 17). OSA and insomnia patients showed significantly higher NHP values and decreased HRQoL not only for the sleep subscale but also for the “energy” and “emotional” area of the NHP. In addition, OSA patients also showed increased NHP values in the “physical abilities” area. Interestingly, we did not find a correlation between the objective PSG parameters and the subjective sleep items of the NHP. However, this study demonstrates that sleep disorders can reduce HRQoL in MS patients and should be considered as an important confounder in all studies investigating HRQoL in MS.
Differential Antioxidant Responses and Perturbed Porphyrin Biosynthesis after Exposure to Oxyfluorfen and Methyl Viologen in Oryza sativa
Authors: Pham Nhi-Thi , Kim Jin-Gil , Jung Sunyo
Published: July 2015

We compared antioxidant responses and regulation of porphyrin metabolism in rice plants treated with oxyfluorfen (OF) or methyl viologen (MV). Plants treated with MV exhibited not only greater increases in conductivity and malondialdehyde but also a greater decline in Fv/Fm, compared to plants treated with OF. MV-treated plants had greater increases in activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) as well as transcript levels of SODA and CATA than OF-treated plants after 28 h of the treatments, whereas increases in ascorbate peroxidase (APX) activity and transcript levels of APXA and APXB were greater in OF-treated plants. Both OF- and MV-treated plants resulted in not only down-regulation of most genes involved in porphyrin biosynthesis but also disappearance of Mg-porphyrins during the late stage of photooxidative stress. By contrast, up-regulation of heme oxygenase 2 (HO2) is possibly part of an efficient antioxidant response to compensate photooxidative damage in both treatments. Our data show that down-regulated biosynthesis and degradation dynamics of porphyrin intermediates have important roles in photoprotection of plants from perturbed porphyrin biosynthesis and photosynthetic electron transport. This study suggests that porphyrin scavenging as well as strong antioxidative activities are required for mitigating reactive oxygen species (ROS) production under photooxidative stress caused by OF and MV.
High Genetic Diversity of Microbial Cellulase and Hemicellulase Genes in the Hindgut of Holotrichia parallela Larvae
Authors: Sheng Ping , Li Yushan , Marshall Sean , Zhang Hongyu
Published: July 2015

In this study, we used a culture-independent method based on library construction and sequencing to analyze the genetic diversity of the cellulase and hemicellulase genes of the bacterial community resident in the hindgut of Holotrichia parallela larvae. The results indicate that there is a large, diverse set of bacterial genes encoding lignocellulose hydrolysis enzymes in the hindgut of H. parallela. The total of 101 distinct gene fragments (similarity <95%) of glycosyl hydrolase families including GH2 (24 genes), GH8 (27 genes), GH10 (19 genes), GH11 (14 genes) and GH36 (17 genes) families was retrieved, and certain sequences of GH2 (10.61%), GH8 (3.33%), and GH11 (18.42%) families had <60% identities with known sequences in GenBank, indicating their novelty. Based on phylogenetic analysis, sequences from hemicellulase families were related to enzymes from Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes. Fragments from cellulase family were most associated with the phylum of Proteobacteria. Furthermore, a full-length endo-xylanase gene was obtained, and the enzyme exhibited activity over a broad range of pH levels. Our results indicate that there are large number of cellulolytic and xylanolytic bacteria in the hindgut of H. parallela larvae, and these symbiotic bacteria play an important role in the degradation of roots and other organic matter for the host insect.
Multi-Criteria Vertical Handover Comparison between Wimax and Wifi
Authors: Drissi Maroua , Oumsis Mohammed
Published: July 2015

In next generation wireless networks, the most tempting feature is the ability of the user to move smoothly over different access networks regardless of the network access technology. In this paper we study the benefit of Multiple Attribute Decision Making (MADM) strategies for network selection. We compare three of these methods naming Simple Additive Weighting (SAW), Multiplicative Exponential Weighting (MEW) and Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to an Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) in a realtime ns-3 simulation. Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) provides the weights of attributes which allow the comparison in different types of applications. Therefore, we propose a performance evaluation model with a reconfiguration of AHP parameters used in the literature. Simulation results show that the proposed parameters provide an improvement of Delay and offer allowable Packet loss in different types of applications.
Modeling Storm Surge and Inundation in Washington, DC, during Hurricane Isabel and the 1936 Potomac River Great Flood
Authors: Wang Harry , Loftis Jon , Forrest David , Smith Wade , Stamey Barry
Published: July 2015

Washington, DC, the capital of the U.S., is located along the Upper Tidal Potomac River, where a reliable operational model is needed for making predictions of storm surge and river-induced flooding. We set up a finite volume model using a semi-implicit, Eulerian-Lagrangian scheme on a base grid (200 m) and a special feature of sub-grids (10 m), sourced with high-resolution LiDAR data and bathymetry surveys. The model domain starts at the fall line and extends 120 km downstream to Colonial Beach, VA. The model was used to simulate storm tides during the 2003 Hurricane Isabel. The water level measuring 3.1 m reached the upper tidal river in the vicinity of Washington during the peak of the storm, followed by second and third flood peaks two and four days later, resulting from river flooding coming downstream after heavy precipitation in the watershed. The modeled water level and timing were accurate in matching with the verified peak observations within 9 cm and 3 cm, and with R2 equal to 0.93 and 0.98 at the Wisconsin Avenue and Washington gauges, respectively. A simulation was also conducted for reconstructing the historical 1936 Potomac River Great Flood that inundated downtown. It was identified that the flood water, with a velocity exceeding 2.7 m/s in the downstream of Roosevelt Island, pinched through the bank northwest of East Potomac Park near DC. The modeled maximum inundation extents revealed a crescent-shaped flooding area, which was consistent with the historical surveyed flood map of the event.
Channel Shallowing as Mitigation of Coastal Flooding
Authors: Orton Philip , Talke Stefan , Jay David , Yin Larry , Blumberg Alan , Georgas Nickitas , Zhao Haihong , Roberts Hugh , MacManus Kytt
Published: July 2015

Here, we demonstrate that reductions in the depth of inlets or estuary channels can be used to reduce or prevent coastal flooding. A validated hydrodynamic model of Jamaica Bay, New York City (NYC), is used to test nature-based adaptation measures in ameliorating flooding for NYC's two largest historical coastal flood events. In addition to control runs with modern bathymetry, three altered landscape scenarios are tested: (1) increasing the area of wetlands to their 1879 footprint and bathymetry, but leaving deep shipping channels unaltered; (2) shallowing all areas deeper than 2 m in the bay to be 2 m below Mean Low Water; (3) shallowing only the narrowest part of the inlet to the bay. These three scenarios are deliberately extreme and designed to evaluate the leverage each approach exerts on water levels. They result in peak water level reductions of 0.3%, 15%, and 6.8% for Hurricane Sandy, and 2.4%, 46% and 30% for the Category-3 hurricane of 1821, respectively (bay-wide averages). These results suggest that shallowing can provide greater flood protection than wetland restoration, and it is particularly effective at reducing "fast-pulse" storm surges that rise and fall quickly over several hours, like that of the 1821 storm. Nonetheless, the goal of flood mitigation must be weighed against economic, navigation, and ecological needs, and practical concerns such as the availability of sediment.
Evaluation of Potential Thrombin Inhibitors from the White Mangrove (Laguncularia racemosa (L.) C.F. Gaertn.)
Authors: Rodrigues Caroline , Gaeta Henrique , Belchor Mariana , Ferreira Marcelo , Pinho Marcus , Toyama Daniela , Toyama Marcos
Published: July 2015

The aim of this work was to verify the effects of methanol (MeOH) and hydroalcoholic (HA) extracts and their respective partition phases obtained from white mangrove (Laguncularia racemosa (L.) C.F. Gaertn.) leaves on human thrombin activity. Among the extracts and phases tested, only the ethyl acetate and butanolic partitions significantly inhibited human thrombin activity and the coagulation of plasma in the presence of this enzyme. Chromatographic analyses of the thrombin samples incubated with these phases revealed that different compounds were able to interact with thrombin. The butanolic phase of the MeOH extract had the most potent inhibitory effects, reducing enzymatic activity and thrombin-induced plasma coagulation. Two glycosylated flavonoids in this partition were identified as the most potent inhibitors of human thrombin activity, namely quercetin-3-O-arabinoside (QAra) and quercetin-3-O-rhamnoside (Qn). Chromatographic analyses of thrombin samples incubated with these flavonoids demonstrated the chemical modification of this enzyme, suggesting that the MeOH extract contained other compounds that both induced structural changes in thrombin and diminished its activity. In this article, we show that despite the near absence of the medical use of mangrove compounds, this plant contains natural compounds with potential therapeutic applications.
A New Furofuran Lignan Diglycoside and Other Secondary Metabolites from the Antidepressant Extract of Castilleja tenuiflora Benth
Authors: Herrera-Ruiz Maribel , López-Rodríguez Ricardo , Trejo-Tapia Gabriela , Domínguez-Mendoza Blanca , González-Cortazar Manases , Tortoriello Jaime , Zamilpa Alejandro
Published: July 2015

Castilleja tenuiflora has been used for the treatment of several Central Nervous System (CNS) diseases. Herein we report the antidepressant activity of the methanol extract from the leaves of this medicinal plant. The oral administration of MeOH extract (500 mg/kg) induced a significant (p < 0.05) decrement of the immobility parameter on Forced Swimming Test (FST) and an increment in the latency and duration of the hypnosis, induced by administration of sodium pentobarbital (Pbi, 40 mg/kg, i.p.). Chemical analysis of this antidepressant extract allowed the isolation of (+)-piperitol-4-O-xylopyranosyl-(1→6)-O-glucopyranoside. This new furofuran lignan diglycoside was named tenuifloroside (1) and its complete chemical structure elucidation on the basis of 1D and 2D NMR spectra analysis of the natural compound 1 and its peracetylated derivative 1a is described. This compound was found together with two flavones—apigenin and luteolin 5-methyl ether—a phenylethanoid—verbascoside—and three iridoids—geniposide, caryoptoside and aucubin. All these compounds were purified by successive normal and reverse phase column chromatography. Tenuifloroside, caryoptoside and luteolin 5-methyl ether were isolated from Castilleja genus for the first time. These findings demonstrate that C. tenuiflora methanol extract has beneficial effect on depressive behaviors, and the knowledge of its chemical constitution allows us to propose a new standardized treatment for future investigations of this species in depressive illness.
Allergenic Proteins in Enology: A Review on Technological Applications and Safety Aspects
Authors: Peñas Elena , Di Lorenzo Chiara , Uberti Francesca , Restani Patrizia
Published: July 2015

Proteinaceous products are widely used as fining agents during winemaking to remove unwanted insoluble particles and undissolved microscopic particles (colloidal material) from the must or wine to improve stability. Some of them (egg white, caseinates, and fish gelatine) have allergenic potential and the presence of their residues in the final product could represent a risk for allergic individuals. Moreover, lysozyme (an egg allergen) is included among wine additives to control the fermentation processes and avoid spoiling during winemaking. The aim of this paper is to review the experimental/clinical data on the use of allergenic products in enology and the measurement of relative risk for sensitized subjects. In addition, methods developed specifically for the quantification of allergenic residues in must and wine are described.
Separation of Polyphenols and Caffeine from the Acetone Extract of Fermented Tea Leaves (Camellia sinensis) Using High-Performance Countercurrent Chromatography
Authors: Choi Soo , Hong Yong , Lee Bumjin , Park Jun , Jeong Hyun , Kim Wan , Shin Song , Yoon Kee
Published: July 2015

Leaves from Camellia sienensis are a popular natural source of various beverage worldwide, and contain caffeine and polyphenols derived from catechin analogues. In the current study, caffeine (CAF, 1) and three tea polyphenols including (−)-epigallocatechin 3-O-gallate (EGCg, 2), (−)-gallocatechin 3-O-gallate (GCg, 3), and (−)-epicatechin 3-O-gallate (ECg, 4) were isolated and purified by flow-rate gradient high-performance countercurrent chromatography (HPCCC) using a two-phase solvent system composed of n-hexane–ethyl acetate–methanol–water (1:9:1:9, v/v). Two hundred milligrams of acetone-soluble extract from fermented C. sinensis leaves was separated by HPCCC to give 1 (25.4 mg), 2 (16.3 mg), 3 (11.1 mg) and 4 (4.4 mg) with purities over 98%. The structures of 1–4 were elucidated by QTOF-MS, as well as 1H- and 13C-NMR, and the obtained data were compared to the previously reported values.
Facile Attachment of TAT Peptide on Gold Monolayer Protected Clusters: Synthesis and Characterization
Authors: Sosibo Ndabenhle , Keter Frankline , Skepu Amanda , Tshikhudo Robert , Revaprasadu Neerish
Published: July 2015

High affinity thiolate-based polymeric capping ligands are known to impart stability onto nanosized gold nanoparticles. Due to the stable gold-sulfur bond, the ligand forms a protective layer around the gold core and subsequently controls the physicochemical properties of the resultant nanogold mononuclear protected clusters (AuMPCs). The choice of ligands to use as surfactants for AuMPCs largely depends on the desired degree of hydrophilicity and biocompatibility of the MPCs, normally dictated by the intended application. Subsequent surface modification of AuMPCs allows further conjugation of additional biomolecules yielding bilayer or multilayered clusters suitable for bioanalytical applications ranging from targeted drug delivery to diagnostics. In this study, we discuss our recent laboratory findings on a simple route for the introduction of Trans-Activator of Transcription (TAT) peptide onto the surface of biotin-derivatised gold MPCs via the biotin-strepavidin interaction. By changing the surface loading of biotin, controlled amounts of TAT could be attached. This bioconjugate system is very attractive as a carrier in intercellular delivery of various delivery cargoes such as antibodies, proteins and oligonucleotides.
Reasons Low-Income Parents Offer Snacks to Children: How Feeding Rationale Influences Snack Frequency and Adherence to Dietary Recommendations
Authors: Blaine Rachel , Fisher Jennifer , Taveras Elsie , Geller Alan , Rimm Eric , Land Thomas , Perkins Meghan , Davison Kirsten
Published: July 2015

Although American children snack more than ever before, the parental role in promoting snacking is not well understood. In 2012–2013 at baseline in an intervention study to prevent childhood obesity in low-income Massachusetts communities, n = 271 parents of children aged 2–12 years completed surveys regarding nutritive and non-nutritive reasons they offered children snacks, demographics, and dietary factors. An analysis of variance demonstrated that parents reported offering snacks (mean/week; standard deviation (SD)) for nutritive reasons like promoting growth (x̄ = 2.5; SD 2.2) or satisfying hunger (x̄ = 2.4; SD 2.1) almost twice as often as non-nutritive reasons like keeping a child quiet (x̄ = 0.7; SD 1.5) or celebrating events/holidays (x̄ = 0.8; SD 1.1). Parents reported giving young children (2–5 years) more snacks to reward behavior (1.9 vs. 1.1, p < 0.001), keep quiet (1.0 vs. 0.5, p < 0.001), and celebrate achievements (1.7 vs. 1.0, p < 0.001) than parents of older children (6–12 years). Multivariable logistic regression models were used to obtain adjusted odds ratios, which indicated reduced child adherence to dietary recommendations when parents offered snacks to reward behavior (Odds Ratio (OR) = 0.83; 95% Confidence Interval (CI) 0.70–0.99), celebrate events/holidays (OR = 0.72; 95% CI 0.52–0.99), or achievements (OR = 0.82; 95% CI 0.68–0.98). Parental intentions around child snacking are likely important targets for obesity prevention efforts.
Self-Reported Prevalence of Symptomatic Adverse Reactions to Gluten and Adherence to Gluten-Free Diet in an Adult Mexican Population
Authors: Ontiveros Noe , López-Gallardo Jesús , Vergara-Jiménez Marcela , Cabrera-Chávez Francisco
Published: July 2015

The prevalence of symptomatic adverse reactions to gluten and adherence to gluten-free diet in Latin American countries is unknown. These measurements are strongly linked to gluten-related disorders. This work aimed to estimate the prevalence of adverse reactions to oral gluten and the adherence to gluten-free diet in the adult Mexican population. To reach this aim, a self-administered questionnaire was designed and tested for clarity/comprehension and reproducibility. Then, a self-administered questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was conducted in the Mexican population. The estimated prevalence rates were (95% CI): 11.9% (9.9–13.5) and 7.8 (6.4–9.4) for adverse and recurrent adverse reactions to gluten respectively; adherence to gluten-free diet 3.7% (2.7–4.8), wheat allergy 0.72% (0.38–1.37); celiac disease 0.08% (0.01–0.45), and NCGS 0.97% (0.55–1.68). Estimated pooled prevalence of self-reported physician-diagnosis of gluten-related disorders was 0.88% (0.49–1.5), and 93.3% respondents reported adherence to gluten-free diet without a physician-diagnosis of gluten-related disorders. Symptom comparisons between those who reported recurrent adverse reactions to gluten and other foods showed statistically significant differences for bloating, constipation, and tiredness (p < 0.05). Gluten-related disorders may be underdiagnosed in the Mexican population and most people adhering to a gluten-free diet are doing it without proper diagnostic work-up of these disorders, and probably without medical/dietician advice.
Retrieval of Aerosol Properties for Fine/Coarse Mode Aerosol Mixtures over Beijing from PARASOL Measurements
Authors: Wang Shupeng , Fang Li , Zhang Xingying , Wang Weihe
Published: July 2015

Beijing is one of the largest metropolitan areas in the world with relatively high aerosol loading. The population of Beijing is approximately 21.5 million based on statistics from 2014. In order to improve the air quality of Beijing by monitoring and better understanding of high aerosol loading at fine spatial resolution, an extended version of the Look Up Table (LUT) aerosol retrieval algorithm from PARASOL (Polarization and Anisotropy of Reﬂectances for Atmospheric Science coupled with Observations from a Lidar) measurements of total intensity and polarization was tested over this region. Instead of using the surface reflectance model introduced in the GRASP (Generalized Retrieval of Aerosol and Surface Properties) algorithm, the assumption of spectral reflectance shape invariance principle is used to separate the total radiance contribution of surface and aerosols. Case studies were conducted in Beijing and evaluated preliminarily using the coincident AERONET measurements. The results indicate a significant agreement with a slope of 1.083 and a correlation coefficient of 0.913. A high Gfrac (fraction of accurate retrievals) of 78% is also observed. Analysis on the retrieval accuracy illustrates that the algorithm capability depends significantly on the data quality index, as the AOD (Aerosol Optical Depth) retrieval accuracy is relatively lower for the data with quality index less than 0.75.
Fast T Wave Detection Calibrated by Clinical Knowledge with Annotation of P and T Waves
Authors: Elgendi Mohamed , Eskofier Bjoern , Abbott Derek
Published: July 2015

Background: There are limited studies on the automatic detection of T waves in arrhythmic electrocardiogram (ECG) signals. This is perhaps because there is no available arrhythmia dataset with annotated T waves. There is a growing need to develop numerically-efficient algorithms that can accommodate the new trend of battery-driven ECG devices. Moreover, there is also a need to analyze long-term recorded signals in a reliable and time-efficient manner, therefore improving the diagnostic ability of mobile devices and point-of-care technologies. Methods: Here, the T wave annotation of the well-known MIT-BIH arrhythmia database is discussed and provided. Moreover, a simple fast method for detecting T waves is introduced. A typical T wave detection method has been reduced to a basic approach consisting of two moving averages and dynamic thresholds. The dynamic thresholds were calibrated using four clinically known types of sinus node response to atrial premature depolarization (compensation, reset, interpolation, and reentry). Results: The determination of T wave peaks is performed and the proposed algorithm is evaluated on two well-known databases, the QT and MIT-BIH Arrhythmia databases. The detector obtained a sensitivity of 97.14% and a positive predictivity of 99.29% over the first lead of the validation databases (total of 221,186 beats). Conclusions: We present a simple yet very reliable T wave detection algorithm that can be potentially implemented on mobile battery-driven devices. In contrast to complex methods, it can be easily implemented in a digital filter design.
Processing and Characterization of a Novel Distributed Strain Sensor Using Carbon Nanotube-Based Nonwoven Composites
Authors: Dai Hongbo , Thostenson Erik , Schumacher Thomas
Published: July 2015

This paper describes the development of an innovative carbon nanotube-based non-woven composite sensor that can be tailored for strain sensing properties and potentially offers a reliable and cost-effective sensing option for structural health monitoring (SHM). This novel strain sensor is fabricated using a readily scalable process of coating Carbon nanotubes (CNT) onto a nonwoven carrier fabric to form an electrically-isotropic conductive network. Epoxy is then infused into the CNT-modified fabric to form a free-standing nanocomposite strain sensor. By measuring the changes in the electrical properties of the sensing composite the deformation can be measured in real-time. The sensors are repeatable and linear up to 0.4% strain. Highest elastic strain gage factors of 1.9 and 4.0 have been achieved in the longitudinal and transverse direction, respectively. Although the longitudinal gage factor of the newly formed nanocomposite sensor is close to some metallic foil strain gages, the proposed sensing methodology offers spatial coverage, manufacturing customizability, distributed sensing capability as well as transverse sensitivity.
Novel Method for Processing the Dynamic Calibration Signal of Pressure Sensor
Authors: Wang Zhongyu , Li Qiang , Wang Zhuoran , Yan Hu
Published: July 2015

Dynamic calibration is one of the important ways to acquire the dynamic performance parameters of a pressure sensor. This research focuses on the processing method for the output of calibrated pressure sensor, and mainly attempts to solve the problem of extracting the true information of step response under strong interference noise. A dynamic calibration system based on a shock tube is established to excite the time-domain response signal of a calibrated pressure sensor. A key processing on difference modeling is applied for the obtained signal, and several generating sequences are established. A fusion process for the generating sequences is then undertaken, and the true information of the step response of the calibrated pressure sensor can be obtained. Finally, by implementing the common QR decomposition method to deal with the true information, a dynamic model characterizing the dynamic performance of the calibrated pressure sensor is established. A typical pressure sensor was used to perform calibration tests and a frequency-domain experiment for the sensor was also conducted. Results show that the proposed method could effectively filter strong interference noise in the output of the sensor and the corresponding dynamic model could effectively characterize the dynamic performance of the pressure sensor.
Le calendrier de Thysdrus
Authors: Foucher Louis
Published: July 2015

L'auteur, et fouilleur, présente une analyse détaillée et minutieuse du calendrier de Thysdrus dont l'iconographie lui semble homogène, toutes les images pouvant se référera des fêtes religieuses. Il reprend la chronologie de la mosaïque en la plaçant un peu plus tôt qu'il n'est admis traditionnellement (début du IIIe s. au lieu des alentours de 235).
Two annex buildings to the Basilica Damous-el-Karita in Carthage. A summary of the excavations in 1996 and 1997
Authors: Dolenz Heimo
Published: July 2015

The new excavations of the Basilica Damous-el-Karita of Carthage, conducted by the author, are aimed at a reevaluation of the structures, chronology, function, and significance of such an important pilgrimage complex, based on the study of two annex buildings discovered in 1912 by R.P. Delattre, and firstly identified as a monastery, then a porticus-framed court. This study confirmes the identification of the basilica as Basilica Fausti, of the subterranean rotunda as a martyrium, of the three-aisles assembly hall as a secretarium where concils of the first third of 5th c. were held.
Les tribus en Maurétanie Tingitane
Authors: Rebuffat René
Published: July 2015

The documentation presented here concernes, after a semantic chapter, the Mauretanian period, then the first Roman provincial period (409-285) about which different questions could be examined, while the second Roman provincial period (285- 429) is less known. A transition period (429-788) might be outlined before islamic times.
La tribu et le monarque
Authors: Lassère Jean-Marie
Published: July 2015

About the case of Moorish and Numids states in antiquity is analysed the kind of relationship between African monarchy and the world of tribes. Over all, it is a dynastic construction where power is based upon agnatic foundation inside the dominating tribe and on loyalty of clients tribes over a fluctuating space.
Un aspect particulier des relations entre les Romains et les tribus : le patronat
Authors: Hamdoune Christine
Published: July 2015

La dédicace au procurateur T. Caesernius Macedo (AE 1904, 150) qui date du règne de Trajan constitue la seule attestation épigraphique en Afrique de relations de patronat existant entre une gens et un gouverneur de province. Ce document montre que la tribu des Maccues, intégrée dans la province de Césarienne, a adopté l'un des fondements des rapports sociaux, caractéristique des cités, le patronat du représentant local de l'autorité romaine et qu'elle est donc engagée dans la voie de la romanisation.
Sculptures antiques de Hajeb el-Aioun : de la tradition numide à la romanisation
Authors: M'charek Ahmed
Published: July 2015

Une série de petites stèles figurées et une statue fragmentaire ont été trouvées à Hajeb el-Aioun. Les stèles présentent les défunts, seuls ou en couple, de face. Ces reliefs sont modestes mais peuvent être classés en deux groupes .· l'un de tradition numide, l'autre plus romanisé. Le fragment de statue, signé, représente Dionysos et sa panthère. En s'appuyant à la fois sur une étude onomastique et sur l'analyse stylistique des reliefs, l'auteur éclaire ainsi l'histoire culturelle du site.
Henchir Bez, l'antique Vazi Sarara
Authors: Ferchiou Naidé
Published: July 2015

A Roman inscription newly discovered gives us a variant reading of the name of a Roman city in Tunisia, Vazi Sarra or Sarara. The outstanding charasteristic of this old indigenous town is his dualism, topographic and cultural.
Das Amt des praefectus gentis in den kaiserzeitlichen nordafrikanischen Provinzen
Authors: Weiß Alexander
Published: July 2015

Das Amt des praefectus gentis wurde in der Kaiserzeit zur Verwaltung nomadischer Stämme in Nordafrika eingerichtet. Die praefecti gentis waren allesamt Angehörige des Ritterstandes. Sie stammten zunächst aus Italien. Seit dem frühen 2. Jb. n. Chr. wurden sie zunehmend aus der Oberschicht der afrikanischen Städte rekrutiert. Es wird gezeigt, dass die praefecti gentis nicht Angehörige der nomadischen Stämme waren, sondern der romanisierten, sesshaften, städtischen Oberschicht entsprangen. Sie sind nicht als den Stämmen oktroyiertes Oberhaupt zu verstehen, sondern als Beamte der römischen Administration.
Hadrian's Lancers
Authors: Speidel Michael P.
Published: July 2015

During the Middle Ages, knights with their lances ruled the battlefields. Though the lancer fighting style hails from the pre-Roman Iron Age, it took centuries to come to the fore in the Roman army. The following looks at the presence of lancers and their tactics in Hadrian's time, at about the mid-point of their rise to prominence. A good deal of the evidence comes from Hadrian 's speeches to the troops in North Africa.
Iconologie générale et iconographie carthaginoise
Authors: Benichou-Safar Hélène
Published: July 2015

Due to bious foreign testimonies and because those concerned left but very few explicit records, wide gaps remain in our knowledge of Punic religion. Trying to better it, this study purposes to take advantage of Carthage's tophet and thus use all the resources of iconology relying on the theoriticians of this science. It endeavours to define all the processes used in the decoration of stelae, find out automatisms and draw from this analysis reading codes to be applied to some kinds of pictures. Which infine allows some conclusions: the assertion, for instance, that the temple is in the center in the cult of the god or the presumption there must be a rite of introduction as it is shown on the (so-called) stelae depicting the "priest with child".
Mopti municipium : le municipe de Mopt(h)i, entre Sétif et Cuicul
Authors: Christol Michel , Aibèche Youcef
Published: July 2015

A new analysis of epigraphic fragments discovered in Mons (near SitifisJ allows to establish the existence of a Latin municipium, up to the period of organization of the eastern part of the Mauretania Caesariana under Nerva. So, we can better locate the Mopti municipium mentioned by texts from Late Antiquity, and resolve one difficulty of administrative geography.
Amphitheatralia africana
Authors: Vismara Cinzia
Published: July 2015

The aim of this paper is to point to the problems concerning the images of amphitheatre "uenatores " sodalities in Roman Africa, especially those represented on some mosaic pavements : the ones of "banquet costumé" and "de la chouette" at Thysdrus/El Djem, the Magerius mosaic from Smirat and the gladiatorian mosaic from Dar Bue Ammera - Zliten villa. Considerations about their names, characterizing symbols, competences, geographical spread, economic activities (connected or not to amphitheatre spectacles), funeraticia function, mutual - and with circus spectacles- relationship, tutelar gods, links with some buildings. Finally, some suggestions concerning possible new investigations.
Note préliminaire sur une inscription libyque découverte près de ‘Aïn ‘Onsar (environs de Tanger)
Authors: Jaouhari Mustapha , El Khayari Abdelaziz
Published: July 2015

Cet article vise à présenter une inscription libyque gravée sur une stèle funéraire, découverte à ‘ Aïn ‘ Onsar près de Tanger. C’est la première stèle libyque du Maroc dont le lieu de découverte est aussi précis. Elle comporte dix-huit caractères où figure l’énigmatique formule (V כ +). Ses caractéristiques paléographiques permettent de la classer parmi les stèles déjà trouvées dans la région d’Anjra, zone située entre Tanger, Tétouan et Ceuta. Sur ces stèles, les inscriptions utilisent un même alphabet libyque, en vogue dans cette région à l’époque romaine.
Les circoncellions. Un mouvement ascétique itinérant dans l’Afrique du Nord des IVe et Ve siècles
Authors: Pottier Bruno
Published: July 2015

Cet article reprend certains aspects de la question des circoncellions, notamment à propos de leurs origines, de leur nature et de l’interprétation de leurs actions en Numidie dans les années 340. Les agonistici, comme ils se définissaient, semblent être issus de groupes de martyrs volontaires donatistes luttant contre les cultes païens qui ont été dénoncés par Constantin dès 315. Plusieurs indices montrent que les circoncellions étaient des ascètes itinérants dès la première moitié du IV e siècle, comme on le voit dans un ouvrage de Macrobius, évêque donatiste de Rome, consacré à la pratique de la continence par les confesseurs et les vierges, et ce jusqu’au début du v e siècle, comme l’indiquent Possidius de Calama et Augustin dans le Contra Gaudentium. Les circoncellions, de par leur qualité d’ascètes et de martyrs, posaient un problème d’autorité aux évêques donatistes. Loin de fomenter de véritables révoltes rurales, ils se sont limités à exercer une justice de nature religieuse contre des personnes supposées être des pessimi homines, qu’ils frappaient de leur bâton nommé Israël. Ils ont constitué une nouvelle élite rurale chrétienne en Numidie, région structurée par de grands domaines privés et impériaux qui ont rarement été promus au rang de cité.
Les macella dans les cités de l’Afrique romaine
Authors: Hamdoune Christine
Published: July 2015

Le rassemblement des sources archéologiques et épigraphiques relatives aux macella permet d’étudier la répartition géographique de ces édifices publics, très peu attestés dans les Maurétanies, leur rôle administratif sous le contrôle des édiles responsables des ponderaria et leur rôle commercial qui apparaît secondaire avec la concurrence des boutiques et des foires, les nundinae. Dans les cités africaines où il est attesté, le macellum témoigne surtout de la volonté d’imiter le modèle de l’Vrbs.
Quelques remarques sur les listes de troupes auxiliaires de Maurétanie tingitane mentionnées dans les diplômes après 122
Authors: Labory Nadine
Published: July 2015

Les unités auxiliaires mentionnées dans les diplômes sont traditionnellement classées dans l’ordre croissant des numéros qui font partie de leur dénomination. L’ordre géographique, fondé sur le lieu de cantonnement du corps, apparu en 122, a été adopté dans un ensemble de 14 diplômes à partir de 153. La comparaison de ces listes entre elles et l’analyse de la situation de la province au II e siècle permettent d’interpréter ce changement de présentation des listes comme une manifestation de l’autorité administrative mettant en évidence l’organisation de la défense militaire dans la province de Tingitane.
Discussion of “Evidence-based Health Informatics: How Do We Know What We Know?”
Authors: Al-Shorbaji N. , Hanmer L. , Hussein R. , Magrabi F. , Moen A. , Moura L. A. , Park H. -A. , Scott P.
Published: July 2015

This article is part of a For-Discussion-Section of Methods of Information in Medicine about the paper “Evidence-based Health Informatics: How Do We Know What We Know?” written by Elske Ammenwerth [1]. It is introduced by an editorial. This article contains the combined commentaries invited to independently comment on the Ammenwerth paper. In subsequent issues the discussion can continue through letters to the editor.

With these comments on the paper “Evidence-based Health Informatics: How do we know what we know?”, written by Elske Ammenwerth [1], the journal seeks to stimulate a broad discussion on the challenges of evaluating information processing and information technology in health care. An international group of experts has been invited by the editor of Methods to comment on this paper. Each of the invited commentaries forms one section of this paper.