bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
From earth and ocean: investigating the importance of cross‐ecosystem resource linkages to a mobile estuarine consumer
Authors: Harding Joel M. S. , Reynolds John D.
Published: May 2014

Externally derived resources often contribute to the structuring of ecological communities. Estuaries are one of the most productive ecosystems in the world and provide an ideal system to test how communities may be shaped by resource subsidies because they occur at the intersection of marine, freshwater and terrestrial habitats. Here we tested the effects of both terrestrial‐ and salmon‐derived subsidies, in addition to other factors such as habitat area, on the diet (inferred from stable isotopes), abundance and size of a mobile estuarine consumer, the Dungeness crab (Metacarcinus magister). Crab trap surveys encompassed 19 watersheds over two seasons in the central coast of British Columbia, Canada, which spanned natural gradients in estuary size, watershed size, riparian tree composition, and Pacific salmon spawning density. Stable isotope ratios of crab tissue confirmed the predictions that estuarine nutrient regimes can be strongly affected by upstream watershed size, salmon density, and the dominance of nitrogen‐fixing red alder (Alnus rubra). There were more crabs in larger estuaries and the largest crabs were found in estuaries below the largest watersheds. The proportional contributions of terrestrial‐ and salmon‐derived subsidies to the diet of Dungeness crabs increased with watershed size and salmon density, respectively. These results confirmed that resource subsidies can constitute large proportions of the Dungeness crab's diet, that crab abundance is determined by habitat size, but that crab size is affected by the magnitude of terrestrial resource influx.
A simulation study to quantify drift fence configuration and spacing effects when sampling mobile animals
Authors: Ellis Murray V. , Bedward Michael
Published: May 2014

Drift fences with traps are commonly used for ecological research and survey. Field studies have examined the effectiveness of selected fence layouts, but comprehensive field testing is impractical. We applied a simulation approach to investigate how the interaction of fence layout and animal movement type influence fence encounter rates. A range of fence layouts, varying in spacing and configuration, were chosen based on common field practices and recommendations in the literature. Animal movement patterns ranged from meandering (Brownian) to highly directional over distances of 10 to 500 m. We found that fences in short, straight, widely spaced arrangements would be encountered more frequently by highly mobile animals than the same amount of fence in complex or continuous configurations. The dispersed arrangement was encountered just as often by animals with more limited movement patterns as were closer spaced fences. Consequently, for broad‐scale surveys, as opposed to studies on individuals' movements and microhabitat use, we recommend spacing trap/fence units in relation to the movement abilities of the most mobile species being sought. For studies that require intense point sampling, additional fencing should increase the total rate that animals encounter fences at a point but the increase will not be proportional to the additional fencing used. The software is provided to allow for other configurations of fences and movement patterns to be investigated.
Surgical Management of a Recurrent Peripheral Ossifying Fibroma
Authors: Horwitz Jacob , Akrish Sharon Jill , Abu El‐Naaj Imad
Published: May 2014

Introduction: Peripheral ossifying fibromas (POFs) are locally reactive gingival lesions originating from the superficial periodontal ligament that are found most often in the anterior maxilla with a relatively high recurrence rate.

Case Presentation: This case report describes the surgical management of a recurrent POF and the reconstruction modality of the gingival defect by the use of a free gingival graft after excision of the lesion. Excisional biopsy was performed by debriding the underlying bone and tooth and covering the residual defect with a free gingival graft harvested from the hard palate.

Conclusion: A large gingival defect attributable to a reactive lesion pathology such as a POF can be reconstructed successfully with a free gingival graft with predictable results.
Longitudinal Comparison of Cytokines in Peri‐Implant Fluid and Gingival Crevicular Fluid in Healthy Mouths
Authors: Nogueira‐Filho Getulio , Pesun Igor , Isaak‐Ploegman Cindy , Wijegunasinghe Manjula , Wierzbicki Tom , McCulloch Christopher A.
Published: May 2014

Background: Peri‐implant and gingival tissues provide important sealing and protective functions around implants and teeth, but comparisons of the immunologic responses of these tissues after implant placement have not been conducted. Cytokine levels were measured in peri‐implant crevicular fluid (PICF) and gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) as surrogate measures of immune function at subcrestally placed dental implants and healthy periodontal sites during a 1‐year monitoring period.

Methods: A total of 27 dental implants were placed subcrestally in 21 periodontally healthy patients (mean age: 49.0 ± 13.4 years). Repeated clinical and cytokine measurements were obtained over 12 months. GCF and PICF samples were collected and analyzed by cytokine microarray. Data were examined by non‐parametric analysis of variance.

Results: Plaque and bleeding indices were similar among all patients (P >0.05) at baseline. During 1 year of monitoring, the mean volumes of PICF and GCF were similar (P >0.05). The levels of interleukin (IL)‐4, ‐6, ‐10, and ‐12p70, tumor necrosis factor‐α, and interferon‐γ in GCF and PICF were not significantly different and did not vary over time (P >0.05). The levels of IL‐1α were higher in GCF than PICF at 1, 2, 6, and 12 months, as were the levels of IL‐8 at 1, 2, 4, 6, and 12 months (P <0.001). Transforming growth factor‐β1 in PICF and GCF exhibited time‐dependent increases, and vascular endothelial growth factor was reduced at 1 year without differences between PICF and GCF (P >0.05).

Conclusion: Within the limitations of this study design, it can be concluded that after subcrestal implant placement, the immune response of peri‐implant and periodontal tissues, as assessed by cytokine levels in PICF and GCF, is similar.
Stop and Listen to the People: An Enhanced Approach to Cancer Cluster Investigations
Authors: Simpson Brian W. , Truant Patti , Resnick Beth A.
Published: May 2014

Cancer cluster investigations need to address the disconnect between traditional public health approaches and human needs. Cancer cluster investigations often magnify fear and uncertainty because they rarely find a definitive environmental cause. Traditional approaches emphasize population-level data analysis and undervalue active listening. Because few studies have explored active listening in cancer cluster investigations, we conducted a descriptive oral history case study of a Frederick, Maryland, investigation. We interviewed 12 community members and 9 public health professionals about the investigation of a perceived cancer cluster. Many believed it was linked to environmental contamination at Fort Detrick, a local US Army base. We propose enhanced active listening that seeks out peoples’ perspectives, validates their concerns, and engages them in the investigative process.
Epidemiology and Antimicrobial Resistance of International Travel-Associated Campylobacter Infections in the United States, 2005–2011
Authors: Ricotta Emily E. , Palmer Amanda , Wymore Katie , Clogher Paula , Oosmanally Nadine , Robinson Trisha , Lathrop Sarah , Karr Jillian , Hatch Julie , Dunn John , Ryan Patricia , Blythe David
Published: May 2014

Objectives. The objective of this study was to determine the role international travel plays in US Campylobacter epidemiology and antimicrobial resistance.

Methods. In this study, epidemiological and antimicrobial resistance data, encompassing the years 2005 to 2011, from 10 sites participating in the Foodborne Diseases Active Surveillance Network were linked. The 10 sites are represented by 7 states that conducted surveillance on a statewide level, and 3 states which conducted county-level surveillance. Cases of Campylobacter among persons with history of international travel in the week prior to illness were compared with cases among individuals with no international travel.

Results. Approximately 18% of Campylobacter infections were estimated to be associated with international travel, and 60% of international travel-associated infections had a quinolone-resistant Campylobacter isolate.

Conclusions. We confirm that international travel plays a significant role in campylobacteriosis diagnosed in the United States. Recognizing this is important to both medical management decisions and understanding burden and attribution estimates of US campylobacteriosis and antibiotic-resistant campylobacteriosis.
Mainstreaming Modeling and Simulation to Accelerate Public Health Innovation
Authors: Maglio Paul P. , Sepulveda Martin-J. , Mabry Patricia L.
Published: May 2014

Dynamic modeling and simulation are systems science tools that examine behaviors and outcomes resulting from interactions among multiple system components over time. Although there are excellent examples of their application, they have not been adopted as mainstream tools in population health planning and policymaking. Impediments to their use include the legacy and ease of use of statistical approaches that produce estimates with confidence intervals, the difficulty of multidisciplinary collaboration for modeling and simulation, systems scientists’ inability to communicate effectively the added value of the tools, and low funding for population health systems science. Proposed remedies include aggregation of diverse data sets, systems science training for public health and other health professionals, changing research incentives toward collaboration, and increased funding for population health systems science projects.
A Novel System Dynamics Model of Female Obesity and Fertility
Authors: Sabounchi Nasim S. , Hovmand Peter S. , Osgood Nathaniel D. , Dyck Roland F. , Jungheim Emily S.
Published: May 2014

Objectives. Our objective was to create a system dynamics model specific to weight gain and obesity in women of reproductive age that could inform future health policies and have the potential for use in preconception interventions targeting obese women.

Methods. We used our system dynamics model of obesity in women to test various strategies for family building, including ovulation induction versus weight loss to improve ovulation. Outcomes included relative fecundability, postpartum body mass index, and mortality.

Results. Our system dynamics model demonstrated that obese women who become pregnant exhibit increasing obesity levels over time with elevated morbidity and mortality. Alternatively, obese women who lose weight prior to pregnancy have improved reproductive outcomes but may risk an age-related decline in fertility, which can affect overall family size.

Conclusions. Our model highlights important public health issues regarding obesity in women of reproductive age. The model may be useful in preconception counseling of obese women who are attempting to balance the competing risks associated with age-related declines in fertility and clinically meaningful weight loss.
Health Literacy: A Pathway to Better Oral Health
Authors: Guo Yi , Logan Henrietta L. , Dodd Virginia J. , Muller Keith E. , Marks John G. , Riley Joseph L.
Published: May 2014

Objectives. We examined whether health literacy was associated with self-rated oral health status and whether the relationship was mediated by patient–dentist communication and dental care patterns.

Methods. We tested a path model with data collected from 2 waves of telephone surveys (baseline, 2009–2010; follow-up, 2011) of individuals residing in 36 rural census tracts in northern Florida (final sample size n = 1799).

Results. Higher levels of health literacy were associated with better self-rated oral health status (B = 0.091; P < .001). In addition, higher levels of health literacy were associated with better patient–dentist communication, which in turn corresponded with patterns of regular dental care and better self-rated oral health (B = 0.003; P = .01).

Conclusions. Our study showed that, beyond the often-reported effects of gender, race, education, financial status, and access to dental care, it is also important to consider the influence of health literacy and quality of patient–dentist communication on oral health status. Improved patient–dentist communication is needed as an initial step in improving the population’s oral health.
Control Systems Engineering for Optimizing a Prenatal Weight Gain Intervention to Regulate Infant Birth Weight
Authors: Savage Jennifer S. , Downs Danielle Symons , Dong Yuwen , Rivera Daniel E.
Published: May 2014

Objectives. We used dynamical systems modeling to describe how a prenatal behavioral intervention that adapts to the needs of each pregnant woman may help manage gestational weight gain and alter the obesogenic intrauterine environment to regulate infant birth weight.

Methods. This approach relies on integrating mechanistic energy balance, theory of planned behavior, and self-regulation models to describe how internal processes can be impacted by intervention dosages, and reinforce positive outcomes (e.g., healthy eating and physical activity) to moderate gestational weight gain and affect birth weight.

Results. A simulated hypothetical case study from MATLAB with Simulink showed how, in response to our adaptive intervention, self-regulation helps adjust perceived behavioral control. This, in turn, changes the woman’s intention and behavior with respect to healthy eating and physical activity during pregnancy, affecting gestational weight gain and infant birth weight.

Conclusions. This article demonstrates the potential for real-world applications of an adaptive intervention to manage gestational weight gain and moderate infant birth weight. This model could be expanded to examine the long-term sustainable impacts of an intervention that varies according to the participant’s needs on maternal postpartum weight retention and child postnatal eating behavior.
Proposed Actions for the US Food and Drug Administration to Implement to Minimize Adverse Effects Associated With Energy Drink Consumption
Authors: Thorlton Janet , Colby David A. , Devine Paige
Published: May 2014

Energy drink sales are expected to reach $52 billion by 2016. These products, often sold as dietary supplements, typically contain stimulants. The Dietary Supplement Protection Act claims an exemplary public health safety record. However, in 2011 the number of emergency department visits related to consumption of energy drinks exceeded 20 000. Nearly half of these visits involved adverse effects occurring from product misuse.

Political, social, economic, practical, and legal factors shape the landscape surrounding this issue. In this policy analysis, we examine 3 options: capping energy drink caffeine levels, creating a public education campaign, and increasing regulatory scrutiny regarding the manufacture and labeling of energy drinks.

Increased regulatory scrutiny may be in order, especially in light of wrongful death lawsuits related to caffeine toxicity resulting from energy drink consumption.
Comparing Medical and Dental Providers of Oral Health Services on Early Dental Caries Experience
Authors: Kranz Ashley M. , Rozier R. Gary , Preisser John S. , Stearns Sally C. , Weinberger Morris , Lee Jessica Y.
Published: May 2014

Objectives. Most state Medicaid programs reimburse nondental primary care providers (PCPs) for providing preventive oral health services to young children. We examined the association between who (PCP, dentist, or both) provides these services to Medicaid enrollees before age 3 years and oral health at age 5 years.

Methods. We linked North Carolina Medicaid claims (1999–2006) to oral health surveillance data (2005–2006). Regression models estimated oral health status (number of decayed, missing, and filled primary teeth) and untreated disease (proportion of untreated decayed teeth), with adjustment for relevant characteristics and by using inverse-probability-of-treatment weights to address confounding.

Results. We analyzed data for 5235 children with 2 or more oral health visits from a PCP, dentist, or both. Children with multiple PCP or dentist visits had a similar number of overall mean decayed, missing, and filled primary teeth in kindergarten, whereas children with only PCP visits had a higher proportion of untreated decayed teeth.

Conclusions. The setting and provider type did not influence the effectiveness of preventive oral health services on children’s overall oral health. However, children having only PCP visits may encounter barriers to obtaining dental treatment.
Research on the Performance of Cooling Module with Fuel Cell Vehicle
Authors: Chang He , YU Xiumin , Lv Jing Hua
Published: May 2014

Cooling-module simulation for the fuel cell car has been built according with CFD and KULI software. The
simulation results are compared with the test data to verify the authenticity of the module. Based on 3D and 1D
calculation of the module is done to analyze the effect on the performance of the cooling module for fuel cell car.
Dynamic Characteristics of Blade-Disk-Rotor System with Structural Mistuned Features
Authors: Li Chaofeng , Zhou Shihua , Yang Shuhua , Ren Xiang , Wen Bangchun
Published: May 2014

The finite element method is adopted to establish the dynamical models of blade, bladed disk and blades-diskshaft
assemblies. Based on the analysis of mistuned structure and the dynamic characteristics of model in different levels,
it gives the vibration mode distribution of different models. The research shows that the characteristics of the bladed disk
and shaft have a huge difference, where some modes are caused by the strongly split and coupled vibration. The mistuned
effects are likely to cause different coupled vibrations of blades between the blades-disk model and the blades-disk-shaft
model. Meanwhile, it shows the frequency separation and concentration, and misses the system mode and the local
vibration, which bring some difficulties for designing the blade-rotor system. In this paper, the results may provide a
certain reference for blade-rotor system design and diagnosis.
CFD Performance Analysis of a Spark Ignition Engine Fueled by Landfill Gas
Authors: Swain Daniel , Shrestha S.O. Bade
Published: May 2014

Landfill gas (LFG) that is generated in an anaerobic environment in landfills and consists primarily of methane
and carbondioxide with small amount of nitrogen and other non-methane gases, could be collected and used to produce
energy either by extracting methane or using the landfill gas directly in an internal combustion engine or a gas turbine. It
amounts to be a net-negative greenhouse gas emission process. Carbondioxide component of LFG dilutes the fuel and
absorbs some of the heat of combustion, causing reduced flame temperature that decreases NOx emissions and also
suppresses knock.

A model was developed and validated with the experimental data available in literature, using the computation fluid
dynamic (CFD) code, KIVA-4. Various engine performance parameters at various operating conditions were evaluated
and the benefits of methane purification and or direct use of LFG as a fuel in the engine scenarios were compared. It was
found that landfill gas used directly at higher compression ratios can be used for pure methane fuel with higher fuel
efficiency than can be achieved using pure methane fuel only.
Kinematic regulation of time and frequency domain components of accelerations measured at the tibia during heel-toe running
Authors: Sinclair Jonathan , Taylor Paul J. , Hobbs Sarah J.
Published: May 2014

Purpose

The transmission of tibial accelerations through the musculoskeletal system may contribute to the aetiology of injuries. Therefore, determining the mechanisms that regulate impact accelerations may have potential clinical significance. This study aimed to determine the influence of lower extremity kinematics on the regulation of both time and frequency domain characteristics of tibial accelerations during running.

Methods

Forty participants ran at 4.0 m • s–1 ± 5%. Three-dimensional joint kinematics from the hip, knee and ankle were measured using an eight-camera motion analysis system operating at 250 Hz. Regression analyses treating time and frequency domain tibial acceleration parameters as criterion variables were used to identify lower extremity parameters associated with the passive regulation of impact accelerations.

Results

The overall regression model yielded an adj. R2 = 0.13, p ≤ 0.01. Knee flexion velocity at footstrike was identified as a significant regulator of tibial accelerations in the time domain. No kinematic variables were identified as significantly related to the frequency domain properties of the signal.

Conclusions

The findings of the current investigation suggest that sagittal plane knee flexion velocity at footstrike can regulate the magnitude of impact loading linked to the development of chronic injuries.
Styles of coping with stress and locus of control in sporting situations in a group of young female football players
Authors: Rutkowska Katarzyna , Bergier Józef , Witkowski Zbigniew
Published: May 2014

Purpose

The objective of the present study to analyse the styles of coping with stress and the locus of control (LOC) in specific sporting situations of female football players and seeking relationships between the analysed variables.

Methods

The study included 50 female football players aged 16–18 years. Two psychological instruments were administered: the Polish language Questionnaire for Examining Locus of Control in Sports Activity (PKSPwS) and the Polish version of the Coping Inventory for Stressful Situations (CISS).

Results

The mean level of the investigated LOC dimensions as well as the styles of coping with stress showed that behaviour associated with avoidance and emotions predominated over task-oriented style. However, taskoriented style was positively related to the locus of control in specific situations that occur in sport.

Conclusions

The results of the study suggest that social support and educational initiatives adapted to female athletes are required. These include mental training and the psycho-pedagogical intervention of coaches, where emphasis should be placed on enhancing internal locus of control as well as the development and improvement of effective stress-coping styles.
Enhanced epidemic intelligence using a web-based screening system during the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa
Authors: Mantero J , Szegedi E , Payne Hallström L , Lenglet A , Depoortere E , Kaic B , Blumberg L , Linge J P , Coulombier D
Published: May 2014

Binary file ES_Abstracts_Final_ECDC.txt matches
Age related hearing loss and level of education
Authors: Vuckovic Dragana , Biino Ginevra , Panu Francesco , Pirastu Mario , Gasparini Paolo , Girotto Giorgia
Published: May 2014

Objective:

Age related hearing loss (ARHL) or presbyacusis is a complex condition caused by an interaction between environmental and genetic factors and is the most prevalent sensory impairment in the elderly. To date, only few environmental/lifestyle risk factors have been found. Research into risk factors underlying ARHL is increasingly urgent as populations grow older. Here, we investigate the relationship between ARHL and educational/occupational factors in a large cohort of people from isolated villages in Italy, Crimea region, Caucasus and Central Asia.

Methods:

Two thousand and sixty-eight people (aged 40–95 years) were recruited and analysed. Education was classified at five levels: no education, elementary, secondary, high school and university. Cases and controls were defined after a detailed evaluation of the hearing phenotype. Data were analysed using a mixed-effects logistic regression.

Results:

A statistically significant association between ARHL and education was detected. People with no education showed a higher association with the condition than people with a higher education (p < 0.001). Explanations could be many, including individual jobs. A strong correlation (ϕ > 0.45) between occupation and level of education was also found.

Conclusion:

Present findings provide a better knowledge of environment/lifestyle factors related to ARHL and might help in defining new preventive strategies for aging people.
Headache relief after anterior cervical discectomy: post hoc analysis of a randomized investigational device exemption trial
Authors: Schrot Rudolph J. , Mathew Jesna S. , Li Yueju , Beckett Laurel , Bae Hyun W. , Kim Kee D.
Published: May 2014

Object

The authors analyzed headache relief after anterior cervical discectomy. Headache may be relieved after anterior cervical discectomy, but the mechanism is unknown. If headaches were directly referred from upper cervical pathology, more headache relief would be expected from surgery performed at higher cervical levels. If spinal kinesthetics were the mechanism, then headache relief may differ between arthroplasty and fusion. Headache relief after anterior cervical discectomy was quantified by the operated disc level and by the method of operation (arthroplasty vs arthrodesis).

Methods

The authors performed a post hoc analysis of an artificial disc trial. Data on headache pain were extracted from the Neck Disability Index (NDI) questionnaire.

Results

A total of 260 patients underwent single-level arthroplasty or arthodesis. Preoperatively, 52% reported NDI headache scores of 3 or greater, compared with only 13%–17% postoperatively. The model-based mean NDI headache score at baseline was 2.5 (95% CI 2.3–2.7) and was reduced by 1.3 points after surgery (95% CI 1.2–1.4, p < 0.001). Higher cervical levels were associated with a greater degree of preoperative headache, but there was no association with headache relief. There was no significant difference in headache relief between arthroplasty and arthrodesis.

Conclusions

Most patients with symptomatic cervical spondylosis have headache as a preoperative symptom (88%). Anterior cervical discectomy with both arthroplasty and arthrodesis is associated with a durable decrease in headache. Headache relief is not related to the level of operation. The mechanism for headache reduction remains unclear.
One-Pot Synthesis of β-Amino Esters by Recyclable Magnetic Organocatalyst-Catalysed Mannich-Type Reaction
Authors: Huang Yibo , Guan Dan , Wang Liang
Published: May 2014

L-cysteine supported on an iron oxide magnetic nanoparticle was prepared by a facile and simple method. The catalyst was effectively applied to the one-pot synthesis of β-amino esters in moderate to good yield. Moreover, the magnetic organocatalyst could be readily recovered and reused up to five times without significant loss of its catalytic activity.
An Efficient, One-Pot Synthesis of Polyfunctionalised Dihydropyridines Catalysed by AgI Nanoparticles
Authors: Ghasemzadeh Mohammad Ali , Safaei-Ghomi Javad
Published: May 2014

Polyfunctionalised dihydropyridines were synthesised in high yields and in short reaction times by a four-component reaction of araldehydes, dimedone, ethyl acetoacetate and ammonium acetate in the presence of AgI nanoparticles in aqueous ethanol media under reflux conditions. The catalyst was easily prepared and was recyclable.
An Improved and Efficient Process for the Scalable Preparation of Optically Pure Trans-2-Aminocyclohexanols
Authors: Xue Feng , Li Chang-Gong , Zhu Yong , Lou Tian-Jun
Published: May 2014

An improved and efficient process has been developed for a green and scalable preparation of optically pure ( 1R,2R) - and ( 1S,2S) - trans-2-aminocyclohexanols. The process utilised hot water to promote the aminolysis of cyclohexene oxide by benzylamine to afford racemic trans-2-(benzylamino)cyclohexanols, which were resolved by sequential and repeated use of ( R)- and ( S)-mandelic acid. Finally, after treatment of the two salts sequentially with HCl and NaOH and recovery of mandelic acid, liberation was achieved of the optically pure trans-2-benzylaminoaminocyclohexanols which were smoothly debenzylated using a low loading of a Pd/C catalyst to the trans-2-aminocyclohexanols. The synthetic route has been successfully applied to large-scale (1 mol) preparations in good yield.
The trough-system algorithm and its application to spatial modeling of Greenland subglacial topography
Authors: Herzfeld Ute C. , McDonald Brian W. , Wallin Bruce F. , Chen Phillip A. , Mayer Helmut , Paden John , Leuschen Carlton J.
Published: May 2014

Dynamic ice-sheet models are used to assess the contribution of mass loss from the Greenland ice sheet to sea-level rise. Mass transfer from ice sheet to ocean is in a large part through outlet glaciers. Bed topography plays an important role in ice dynamics, since the acceleration from the slow-moving inland ice to an ice stream is in many cases caused by the existence of a subglacial trough or trough system. Problems are that most subglacial troughs are features of a scale not resolved in most ice-sheet models and that radar measurements of subglacial topography do not always reach the bottoms of narrow troughs. The trough-system algorithm introduced here employs mathematical morphology and algebraic topology to correctly represent subscale features in a topographic generalization, so the effects of troughs on ice flow are retained in ice-dynamic models. The algorithm is applied to derive a spatial elevation model of Greenland subglacial topography, integrating recently collected radar measurements (CReSIS data) of the Jakobshavn Isbræ, Helheim, Kangerdlussuaq and Petermann glacier regions. The resultant JakHelKanPet digital elevation model has been applied in dynamic ice-sheet modeling and sea-level-rise assessment.
Non-Extensive Entropy Econometrics: New Statistical Features of Constant Elasticity of Substitution-Related Models
Authors: Bwanakare Second
Published: May 2014

Power-law (PL) formalism is known to provide an appropriate framework for canonical modeling of nonlinear systems. We estimated three stochastically distinct models of constant elasticity of substitution (CES) class functions as non-linear inverse problem and showed that these PL related functions should have a closed form. The first model is related to an aggregator production function, the second to an aggregator utility function (the Armington) and the third to an aggregator technical transformation function. A q-generalization of K-L information divergence criterion function with a priori consistency constraints is proposed. Related inferential statistical indices are computed. The approach leads to robust estimation and to new findings about the true stochastic nature of this class of nonlinear—up until now—analytically intractable functions. Outputs from traditional econometric techniques (Shannon entropy, NLLS, GMM, ML) are also presented.
Colonization and Infection of the Skin by S. aureus: Immune System Evasion and the Response to Cationic Antimicrobial Peptides
Authors: Ryu Sunhyo , Song Peter , Seo Chang , Cheong Hyeonsook , Park Yoonkyung
Published: May 2014

Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) is a widespread cutaneous pathogen responsible for the great majority of bacterial skin infections in humans. The incidence of skin infections by S. aureus reflects in part the competition between host cutaneous immune defenses and S. aureus virulence factors. As part of the innate immune system in the skin, cationic antimicrobial peptides (CAMPs) such as the β-defensins and cathelicidin contribute to host cutaneous defense, which prevents harmful microorganisms, like S. aureus, from crossing epithelial barriers. Conversely, S. aureus utilizes evasive mechanisms against host defenses to promote its colonization and infection of the skin. In this review, we focus on host-pathogen interactions during colonization and infection of the skin by S. aureus and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). We will discuss the peptides (defensins, cathelicidins, RNase7, dermcidin) and other mediators (toll-like receptor, IL-1 and IL-17) that comprise the host defense against S. aureus skin infection, as well as the various mechanisms by which S. aureus evades host defenses. It is anticipated that greater understanding of these mechanisms will enable development of more sustainable antimicrobial compounds and new therapeutic approaches to the treatment of S. aureus skin infection and colonization.
Facial Expression Recognition via Non-Negative Least-Squares Sparse Coding
Authors: Chen Ying , Zhang Shiqing , Zhao Xiaoming
Published: May 2014

Sparse coding is an active research subject in signal processing, computer vision, and pattern recognition. A novel method of facial expression recognition via non-negative least squares (NNLS) sparse coding is presented in this paper. The NNLS sparse coding is used to form a facial expression classifier. To testify the performance of the presented method, local binary patterns (LBP) and the raw pixels are extracted for facial feature representation. Facial expression recognition experiments are conducted on the Japanese Female Facial Expression (JAFFE) database. Compared with other widely used methods such as linear support vector machines (SVM), sparse representation-based classifier (SRC), nearest subspace classifier (NSC), K-nearest neighbor (KNN) and radial basis function neural networks (RBFNN), the experiment results indicate that the presented NNLS method performs better than other used methods on facial expression recognition tasks.
Horizontal Gene Transfer among Bacteria and Its Role in Biological Evolution
Authors: Arber Werner
Published: May 2014

This is a contribution to the history of scientific advance in the past 70 years concerning the identification of genetic information, its molecular structure, the identification of its functions and the molecular mechanisms of its evolution. Particular attention is thereby given to horizontal gene transfer among microorganisms, as well as to biosafety considerations with regard to beneficial applications of acquired scientific knowledge.
Functional Films from Silica/Polymer Nanoparticles
Authors: Ribeiro Tânia , Baleizão Carlos , Farinha José
Published: May 2014

High performance functional coatings, based on hybrid organic/inorganic materials, are being developed to combine the polymer flexibility and ease of processing with the mechanical properties and versatility of inorganic materials. By incorporating silica nanoparticles (SiNPs) in the polymeric matrices, it is possible to obtain hybrid polymer films with increased tensile strength and impact resistance, without decreasing the flexural properties of the polymer matrix. The SiNPs can further be used as carriers to impart other functionalities (optical, etc.) to the hybrid films. By using polymer-coated SiNPs, it is possible to reduce particle aggregation in the films and, thus, achieve more homogeneous distributions of the inorganic components and, therefore, better properties. On the other hand, by coating polymer particles with silica, one can create hierarchically structured materials, for example to obtain superhydrophobic coatings. In this review, we will cover the latest developments in films prepared from hybrid polymer/silica functional systems.
pH and Salt Effects on the Associative Phase Separation of Oppositely Charged Polyelectrolytes
Authors: Jha Prateek , Desai Priyanka , Li Jingyi , Larson Ronald
Published: May 2014

The classical Voorn-Overbeek thermodynamic theory of complexation and phase separation of oppositely charged polyelectrolytes is generalized to account for the charge accessibility and hydrophobicity of polyions, size of salt ions, and pH variations. Theoretical predictions of the effects of pH and salt concentration are compared with published experimental data and experiments we performed, on systems containing poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) as the polyacid and poly(N,N-dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate) (PDMAEMA) or poly(diallyldimethyl ammonium chloride) (PDADMAC) as the polybase. In general, the critical salt concentration below which the mixture phase separates, increases with degree of ionization and with the hydrophobicity of polyelectrolytes. We find experimentally that as the pH is decreased below 7, and PAA monomers are neutralized, the critical salt concentration increases, while the reverse occurs when pH is raised above 7. We predict this asymmetry theoretically by introducing a large positive Flory parameter (= 0.75) for the interaction of neutral PAA monomers with water. This large positive Flory parameter is supported by molecular dynamics simulations, which show much weaker hydrogen bonding between neutral PAA and water than between charged PAA and water, while neutral and charged PDMAEMA show similar numbers of hydrogen bonds. This increased hydrophobicity of neutral PAA at reduced pH increases the tendency towards phase separation despite the reduction in charge interactions between the polyelectrolytes. Water content and volume of coacervate are found to be a strong function of the pH and salt concentration.
Scattering Mechanisms for the “Ear” Feature of Lop Nur Lake Basin
Authors: Gong Huaze , Shao Yun , Zhang Tingting , Liu Long , Gao Zhihong
Published: May 2014

Lop Nur is a famous dry lake in the arid region of China. It was an important section of the ancient “Silk Road”, famous in history as the prosperous communication channel between Eastern and Western cultures. At present, there is no surface water in Lop Nur Lake basin, and on SAR (Synthetic Aperture Radar) images, it looks like an “Ear”. The objective of this paper is to interpret the Lop Nur phenomenon from the perspective of scattering mechanisms. Based on field investigation and analysis of sample properties, a two-layer scattering structure is proposed with detailed explanations of scattering mechanisms. In view of the rough surface, the MIEM (Modified Integral Equation Model) was introduced to represent air-surface scattering in Lop Nur. Then, a two-layer scattering model was developed which can describe surface scattering contribution. Using polarimetric decomposition, validations were carried out, and the RMSE (root mean square error) values for the HH and VV polarizations were found to be 1.67 dB and 1.06 dB, respectively. Furthermore, according to model parametric analysis, surface roughness was identified as an apparent reason for the “Ear” feature. In addition, the polarimetric decomposition result also showed that the volume scattering part had rich texture information and could portray the “Ear” feature exactly compared with the other two parts. It is maintained that subsurface properties, mainly generating volume scattering, can determine the surface roughness under the certain climate conditions, according to geomorphological dynamics, which can help to develop an inversion technology for Lop Nur.
Lack of Resistance to Integrase Inhibitors among Antiretroviral-Naive Subjects with Primary HIV-1 Infection, 2007–2013
Authors: Stekler Joanne D , McKernan Jennifer , Milne Ross , Tapia Kenneth A , Mykhalchenko Kateryna , Holte Sarah , Maenza Janine , Stevens Claire E , Buskin Susan E , Mullins James I , Frenkel Lisa M , Collier Ann C
Published: May 2014

Background

US guidelines recommend genotyping for persons newly diagnosed with HIV infection to identify transmitted drug resistance mutations associated with decreased susceptibility to nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors, non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors and protease inhibitors. To date, testing for integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI) mutations has not been routinely recommended. We aimed to evaluate the prevalence of transmitted INSTI mutations among persons with primary HIV-1 infection in Seattle, WA, USA.

Methods

Persons with primary HIV-1 infection have enrolled in an observational cohort at the University of Washington Primary Infection Clinic since 1992. We performed a retrospective analysis of plasma specimens collected prospectively from the 82 antiretroviral-naive subjects who were enrolled from 2007–2013, after FDA-approval of the first INSTI. Resistance testing was performed by consensus sequencing.

Results

Specimens for analysis had been obtained a median of 24 (IQR 18–41, range 8–108) days after the estimated date of HIV-1 infection. All subjects were infected with HIV-1 subtype B except for one subject infected with subtype C. Consensus sequencing identified no subjects with major INSTI mutations (T66I, E92Q, G140S, Y143C/H/R, S147G, Q148H/K/R, N155H). Using exact binomial CIs, the upper bound of the 95% CI was 4.4%.

Conclusions

Although our sample size was small, this study does not support the need at this time to evaluate integrase mutations as part of routine consensus sequencing among persons newly diagnosed with HIV-1 infection. However, it is likely that the prevalence of transmitted INSTI mutations may increase with the recent commercial introduction of additional INSTIs and presumably greater INSTI use among persons living with HIV-1.
Cytopenias during Treatment of HIV–HCV-Coinfection with Pegylated Interferon and Ribavirin: Safety Analysis of the OPERA Study
Authors: Pontali Emanuele , Angeli Elena , Cattelan Anna M , Maida Ivana , Nasta Paola , Verucchi Gabriella , Caputo Antonietta , Iannacone Claudio , Puoti Massimo
Published: May 2014

Background

Until recently, recommendations for HCV treatment in HIV-coinfected patients have been combination therapy with pegylated interferon (PEG-IFN) and ribavirin (RBV). However, this treatment is often accompanied with cytopenias which lead to drug-dose reduction/discontinuation, therefore influencing sustained virological response (SVR). This study aimed at evaluating incidence and predictors of cytopenias and to define their impact on SVR in Italian HIV–HCV-coinfected patients undergoing PEG-IFN/RBV treatment.

Methods

OPERA was a multicentric, observational study conducted in 98 Italian centres. Patients with HIV–HCV coinfection were administered with PEG-IFN/RBV combination treatment for 48 weeks. Incidence and time of onset of cytopenias and multiple bone marrow toxicity (mBMT) was monitored. Logistic regression analysis assessed factors associated with SVR, anaemia, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia and mBMT.

Results

Between 2005 and 2011, 1,523 patients were enrolled. Anaemia (haemoglobin <10 g/dl) occurred in 197 (12.9%) patients and a haemoglobin drop ≥3 g/dl was recorded in 796 (52.3%). Anaemia did not impact on SVR, its rate being 42.1% and 38.1%, respectively, in patients with and without anaemia ( P=0.31). Therapy discontinuation due to anaemia occurred in 47 patients (3.1%). Neutropenia (<1,000 neutrophils/mm3) occurred in 652 (42.8%) patients, and SVR was higher ( P<0.001) for patients with neutropenia (44.8%) compared to without neutropenia (34%). Patients developing neutropenia did not have an increased risk of developing infections. Thrombocytopenia (<100,000 platelets/mm3) occurred in 595 (39.1%) patients, SVR was not influenced by it (38.2% versus 38.9% in patients with and without thrombocytopenia, respectively; P=0.79), and 16 patients (1.1%) discontinued therapy due to it. Cirrhosis was found in 148/734 evaluated patients (20.2%) and was significantly associated with thrombocytopenia ( P<0.0001). mBMT was found in 417 patients (27.4%).

Conclusions

Cytopenias are frequent side effects of PEG-IFN/RBV combination therapy in HIV–HCV-coinfected patients. However, SVR is not negatively affected by their presence, nor is there an increased risk of infections in patients developing neutropenia. Several predicting factors for the onset of cytopenias have been unravelled, which will help to identify early those patients at high risk of developing cytopenia.
« Le côté noir des affaires » : délinquance financière, mondialisation et football
Authors: Le Blanc Noé
Published: May 2014

Univers de rêves et de paillettes autant que de muscles et de sueur, le football n’existe pourtant pas en dehors, ou au-delà, du monde qui l’entoure. Acteur à part entière du tissu économique et social, il n’échappe pas aux pratiques crapuleuses qui y fleurissent. Noël Pons 1 , ancien inspecteur des Impôts, ancien conseiller au Service central de prévention de la corruption, revient à travers cet entretien sur les manipulations financières existantes dans le football.
La fabrique des footballeurs : la fabrique de « mauvais garçons » ?
Authors: Bertrand Julien
Published: May 2014

Épiés, observés dans leurs faits et gestes, souvent décriés, les footballeurs professionnels laissent rarement insensibles. Ils sont même une cible de choix pour des commentateurs qui n’en finissent pas de brocarder leur « individualisme » et leur absence de « valeurs ». Ces sportifs n’en restent pas moins souvent mal connus et décrits à grand renfort d’amalgames. À partir d’une enquête sociologique menée dans les écoles qui forment en France ces footballeurs de métier (les centres de formation), Julien Bertrand éclaire certains des travers qui leur sont reprochés et invite à interroger les ressorts de ces désapprobations publiques.
Le foot français, les noirs et les arabes
Authors: Simon Patrick
Published: May 2014

Les rapports entre football et immigration sont anciens et structurants. La circulation internationale des joueurs et l’incorporation de jeunes d’origine immigrée dans les équipes locales et nationales font du football une vitrine cosmopolite et mondialisée. Pour autant depuis l’éphémère glorification de l’équipe « Black-Blanc-Beur » en France en 1998, la place des joueurs d’origine immigrée dans les clubs et dans l’équipe nationale, en particulier ceux liés à l’immigration postcoloniale, fait l’objet de nombreux débats. Faisant suite aux attaques contre l’équipe « Black-Black-Black » proférées par Alain Finkelkraut ou Georges Frêche, une réunion du staff de la Direction technique nationale a évoqué en 2011 le projet de limiter la présence de joueurs des minorités ethno-raciales. Révélée par le site Mediapart , « l’affaire des quotas » et les réactions qu’elle a suscitées sont utilisées par Patrick Simon dans cet article pour analyser les relations entre le foot français et les minorités.
Le football féminin face aux institutions : maltraitance et conquêtes sociales
Authors: Fortems Annie
Published: May 2014

Pionnière du football féminin contemporain, cofondatrice du club de Juvisy et capitaine de l’équipe pendant douze années, Annie Fortems nous livre un témoignage instructif sur l’histoire et la place du football féminin au sein de la Fédération française de football. Une histoire « empreinte de maltraitance » qu’il faut connaître pour permettre au football féminin de trouver une place entière dans ce sport national.
Première mi-temps : discriminations
Authors: Achin Catherine , Andro Armelle , Epstein Renaud
Published: May 2014

Il existe encore des espaces dans lesquels le football demeure une pratique festive, un support de liens sociaux et de transformations sociales. Mais les acteurs et actrices de cet « autre football » sont confronté.e.s à des tensions permanentes, qui les interrogent dans leur ambition de faire de la pratique de ce sport un levier d’éducation populaire ou d’action politique. Pour essayer de saisir ce qui se passe dans ces autres lieux du football, Mouvements a réuni autour d’une table ronde Cécile Chartrain et Veronica Noseda, membres fondatrices de l’association « Les Dégommeuses », Marwan Mohammed, fondateur et ancien entraîneur d’un club de futsal et Nicolas Kssis-Markov, journaliste à So Foot et impliqué à la Fédération sportive et gymnique du travail (FSGT). Cette table ronde  1 est organisée, comme il se doit, en deux mi-temps : dans la première, les intervenant.e.s dressent un constat des discriminations rencontrées dans leur trajectoire de footeux.euse ; dans la seconde, ils et elles reviennent sur leur goût pour ce sport, leurs pratiques militantes et leurs dilemmes.