bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ALS and TLS data fusion in cultural heritage documentation and modeling
Authors: Fryskowska A. , Walczykowski P. , Delis P. , Wojtkowska M.
Published: August 2015

Abstract. One of the most important aspects of documenting cultural heritage sites is acquiring detailed and accurate data. A popular method of storing 3D information about historical structures is using 3D models. These models are built based on terrestrial or aerial laser scanning data. These methods are seldom used together. Historical buildings usually have a very complex design, therefore the input data, on the basis of which their 3D models are being built, must provide a high enough accuracy to model these complexities. The data processing methods used, as well as the modeling algorithms implemented, should be highly automated and universal. The main of the presented research was to analyze and compare various methods for extracting matching points. The article presents the results of combining data from ALS and TLS using reference points extracted both manually and automatically. Finally, the publication also includes an analysis of the accuracy of the data merging process.
3D Recording methodology applied to the Grotta Scritta Prehistoric Rock-Shelter in Olmeta-Di-Capocorso (Corsica, France)
Authors: Grussenmeyer P. , Burens A. , Guillemin S. , Alby E. , Allegrini Simonetti F. , Marchetti M.-L.
Published: August 2015

Abstract. The Grotta Scritta I prehistoric site is located on the west side of Cap Corse, in the territory of the municipality of Olmeta-di- Capocorso (Haute-Corse, France). This rock shelter is located on a western spur of the mountains La Serra, at 412 m height above sea level. In the regional context of a broad set of megalithic burial sites (regions Nebbiu and Agriates) and a rich insular prehistoric rock art with several engraved patterns (mainly geometric), the Grotta Scritta is the only site with painted depictions of Corsica. Around twenty parietal depictions are arranged in the upper part of the rock-shelter and takes advantage of the microtopography of the wall. Today, the Grotta Scritta is a vulnerable site, made fragile by the action of time and man. The 3D scanning of the rockshelter and paintings of the Grotta Scritta was carried out by surveyors and archaeologists from INSA Strasbourg and from UMR 5602 GEODE (Toulouse), by combining accurate terrestrial laser scanning and photogrammetry techniques. These techniques are based on a full 3D documentation without contact of the rock-shelter paintings. The paper presents the data acquisition methodology followed by an overview of data processing solutions based on both imaging and laser scanning. Several deliverables as point clouds, meshed models, textured models and orthoimages are proposed for the documentation. Beyond their usefulness in terms of valorization, communication and virtual restitution, the proposed models also provide support tools for the analysis and perception of the complexity of the volumes of the shelter (namely for the folded forms of the dome housing the paintings) as well as for the accuracy of the painted depictions recorded on the orthophotos processed from the 3D model.
Integrated Conservation of the Cantonese Opera Art Museum and Intangible Cultural Heritage
Authors: Guo Q. , Li X.
Published: August 2015

Abstract. Cantonese Opera, as the sole cultural heritage of Guangdong Province of China so far, which was included in the World Intangible Cultural Heritage List by the UNESCO, bears the cultural memory of the Lingnan region and as well as the overseas Chinese worldwide. Located in the core historic urban area – Enning Road of Guangzhou, the Cantonese Opera Art Museum is designed in Lingnan traditional garden manner, through going deep into the Cantonese opera culture, Lingnan traditional garden culture and Lingnan cultural spirit. The design highlights the integrated conservation of tangible and intangible cultural heritage, to protect living history and build the historical environment and place spirit for the intangible cultural heritage. The Cantonese Opera Art Museum is not only a tangible space for exhibition, study, education and display of the Cantonese Opera art, but also a cultural space with the Lingnan cultural memory, gathering the Lingnan intangible heritage and closely linked with current life of successors and ordinary people.
When the virtual influences reality. The conservation project of the Toledo Gate in Ciudad Real (Spain)
Authors: Almagro Vidal A. , Ramírez González I. , Clemente San Román C.
Published: August 2015

Abstract. The Toledo Gate of Ciudad Real, Spain, constructed between the late 13th and early 14th centuries, is the last remaining portion of a once complete medieval city wall. It represents the long history of the city and constitutes its main heritage symbol, dividing the historic city centre from the later 19th and 20th century expansions. In October 2012, the Town Hall and the Montemadrid Foundation started the conservation works to preserve this important monument. The preliminary phase of this project included an in-depth series of scientific studies which were carried out by a multidisciplinary team focusing on archival research, historic investigations, archaeological excavations as well as material composition analysis and main treatment application tests. As a result of these studies a series of virtual 3D models were created to inform, discuss and study the monument. A first digital model permitted visualization of the gate in the 19th century and how the main entrance to the city was integrated as a fundamental part of the city walls. This virtual reconstruction also became an important part of the campaign to raise awareness among the citizens towards a monument that had remained in the shadows for the last century, isolated in a roundabout after the systematic demolition of the city walls in the late 19th century. Over the last three years and as a result of these archaeological and historic investigations and subsequent virtual models, surprisingly new and interesting data were brought to light thus permitting the establishment and corroboration of a new and updated hypothesis of the Toledo Gate that goes beyond the previous ideas. As a result of these studies a new architectural typology with construction techniques of has been suggested. This paper describes how the results of this continuous and interdisciplinary documentation process have benefitted from a computer graphic reconstruction of the gate. It highlights how virtual reconstruction can be a powerful tool for conservation decision making and awareness raising. Furthermore, the interesting results of the final reconstruction hypothesis convinced the technical team responsible for the conservation to alter some aspects of the final project physical interventions in order to focus on some of the features and conclusions discovered through the virtual model study.
A GIS-Based Cultural Heritage Study Framework on Continuous Scales: A Case Study on 19th Century Military Industrial Heritage
Authors: He J. , Liu J. , Xu S. , Wu C. , Zhang J.
Published: August 2015

Abstract. This paper presents a framework of introducing GIS technology to record and analyse cultural heritages in continuous spatial scales. The research team is developing a systematic approach to support heritage conservation research and practice on historical buildings, courtyards, historical towns, and archaeological sites ad landscapes. These studies are conducted not only from the property or site scales, but also investigated from their contexts in setting as well as regional scales. From these continues scales, authenticity and integrity of a heritage can be interpreted from a broader spatial and temporal context, in which GIS would contribute through database, spatial analysis, and visualization. The case study is the construction of a information indexing framework of Dagu Dock industrial heritage to integrate physical buildings, courtyards, natural settings as well as their intangible characteristics which are affiliated to the physical heritage properties and presented through historical, social and culture semantics. The paper illustrates methodology and content of recording physical and social/cultural semantics of culture heritages on different scales as well as connection between different levels of database.
3D modeling of the Strasbourg’s Cathedral basements for interdisciplinary research and virtual visits
Authors: Landes T. , Kuhnle G. , Bruna R.
Published: August 2015

Abstract. On the occasion of the millennium celebration of Strasbourg Cathedral, a transdisciplinary research group composed of archaeologists, surveyors, architects, art historians and a stonemason revised the 1966-1972 excavations under the St. Lawrence’s Chapel of the Cathedral having remains of Roman and medieval masonry. The 3D modeling of the Chapel has been realized based on the combination of conventional surveying techniques for the network creation, laser scanning for the model creation and photogrammetric techniques for the texturing of a few parts. According to the requirements and the end-user of the model, the level of detail and level of accuracy have been adapted and assessed for every floor. The basement has been acquired and modeled with more details and a higher accuracy than the other parts. Thanks to this modeling work, archaeologists can confront their assumptions to those of other disciplines by simulating constructions of other worship edifices on the massive stones composing the basement. The virtual reconstructions provided evidence in support of these assumptions and served for communication via virtual visits.
Research on the localization method of protecting traditional village landscape: a case study on Tangyin
Authors: Li W.
Published: August 2015

Abstract. China has over 271 million villages and less than the number in ten years ago in which there are 363 million villages. New rural construction indeed do some good for common villages but still destroy hundreds and thousands traditional village which contain great cultural, science, artistic values. In addition, traditional villages can't meet the increasing needs in more convenient and comfortable living conditions. Increasing population also makes traditional villages out of control in construction. With the background of this, we have to set up in traditional village protection. This article put forward an idea in protection which make use of landscape localization to pursue the sustainable development and vernacular landscape protection. Tangyin Town is a famous trade center in history and left many cultural heritage, especially historical buildings. Take Tangyin as a case study to apply the localization method which could guide other similar villages to achieve same goals.
Develop Direct Geo-referencing System Based on Open Source Software and Hardware Platform
Authors: Liu H. S. , Liao H. M.
Published: August 2015

Abstract. Direct geo-referencing system uses the technology of remote sensing to quickly grasp images, GPS tracks, and camera position. These data allows the construction of large volumes of images with geographic coordinates. So that users can be measured directly on the images. In order to properly calculate positioning, all the sensor signals must be synchronized. Traditional aerial photography use Position and Orientation System (POS) to integrate image, coordinates and camera position. However, it is very expensive. And users could not use the result immediately because the position information does not embed into image. To considerations of economy and efficiency, this study aims to develop a direct geo-referencing system based on open source software and hardware platform. After using Arduino microcontroller board to integrate the signals, we then can calculate positioning with open source software OpenCV. In the end, we use open source panorama browser, panini, and integrate all these to open source GIS software, Quantum GIS. A wholesome collection of data – a data processing system could be constructed.
Using SAHRIS a web-based application for creating heritage cases and permit applications
Authors: Mlungwana N.
Published: August 2015

Abstract. Since the inception of the South African Heritage Resources Information System (SAHRIS) in 2012, creating heritage cases and permit applications has been streamlined, and interaction with South African Heritage Authorities has been simplified. SAHRIS facilitates applications for development cases and mining applications that trigger the South African National Heritage Resources Act (Act 25 of 1999) and is able to differentiate between cases that require comment only, where the heritage process is subsidiary to environmental or mining law (Section 38(8)), and those where the heritage authority is the deciding authority (Section 38(1)). The system further facilitates cases related to site and object management, as well as permit applications for excavation, invasive research techniques and export of materials for research abroad in the case of archaeological or palaeontological specimens, or for sale or exhibition in the case of heritage objects. The integrated, easy to use, online system has removed the need for applicants to print out forms, take documents from one government department to the next for approval and other time-consuming processes that accompany paper-based systems. SAHRIS is a user friendly application that makes it easy for applicants to make their submissions, but also allows applicants to track the progress of their cases with the relevant heritage authority, which allows for better response rates and turnaround times from the authorities, while also ensuring transparency and good governance practice.
Data fusion in Cultural Heritage – A Review
Authors: Ramos M. M. , Remondino F.
Published: August 2015

Abstract. Geometric documentation is one of the most important task of the Cultural Heritage (CH) conservation and management policies. 3D documentation, prior to any conservation and restoration works, is considered a basic pre-requisite for preserving, understanding, communicating and valorizing CH sites and objects (London Charter, 2009; Sevilla Principles, 2011). 3D models have become the usual way of digitally preserving, communicating, explaining and disseminat ing cultural knowledge, as they have the capability of reproducing ancient states and behaviors. Using photo-realistic and accurate 3D models, the current conservation state can be shown and preserve for future generations. But despite the large request of 3D models in the CH field, there is no 3D documentation method which can properly satisfy all the areas with their requirements, therefore a fusion methodology (of data and sensors) is normally required and performed. The paper analyzes the fusion concept and levels as well as some merging approaches so far presented in the research community. While the paper will be necessarily incomplete due to space limitations, it will hopefully give an understanding on the actual methods of data fusion and clarify some open research issues.
Combining Digital Archives Content with Serious Game Approach to Create a Gamified Learning Experience
Authors: Shih D.-T. , Lin C. L. , Tseng C.-Y.
Published: August 2015

Abstract. This paper presents an interdisciplinary to develop content-aware application that combines game with learning on specific categories of digital archives. The employment of content-oriented game enhances the gamification and efficacy of learning in culture education on architectures and history of Hsinchu County, Taiwan. The gamified form of the application is used as a backbone to support and provide a strong stimulation to engage users in learning art and culture, therefore this research is implementing under the goal of “The Digital ARt/ARchitecture Project”. The purpose of the abovementioned project is to develop interactive serious game approaches and applications for Hsinchu County historical archives and architectures. Therefore, we present two applications, “3D AR for Hukou Old ” and “Hsinchu County History Museum AR Tour” which are in form of augmented reality (AR). By using AR imaging techniques to blend real object and virtual content, the users can immerse in virtual exhibitions of Hukou Old Street and Hsinchu County History Museum, and to learn in ubiquitous computing environment. This paper proposes a content system that includes tools and materials used to create representations of digitized cultural archives including historical artifacts, documents, customs, religion, and architectures. The Digital ARt / ARchitecture Project is based on the concept of serious game and consists of three aspects: content creation, target management, and AR presentation. The project focuses on developing a proper approach to serve as an interactive game, and to offer a learning opportunity for appreciating historic architectures by playing AR cards. Furthermore, the card game aims to provide multi-faceted understanding and learning experience to help user learning through 3D objects, hyperlinked web data, and the manipulation of learning mode, and then effectively developing their learning levels on cultural and historical archives in Hsinchu County.
SAHRIS: using the South African Heritage Register to report, track and monitor heritage crime
Authors: Smuts K.
Published: August 2015

Abstract. South Africa has experienced a recent increase in thefts of heritage objects from museums and galleries around the country. While the exact number of incidences is not known, the increase in thefts is nonetheless apparent, and has revealed the weaknesses of the systems currently in place to respond to these crimes. The South African Heritage Resources Information System (SAHRIS) is an integrated, online heritage resources management tool developed by the South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA) in 2011 in terms of Section 39 of the National Heritage Resources Act (NHRA), No. 25 of 1999. The system’s combined heritage resources and site and object management functionality has been expanded to provide an integrated, responsive tool for reporting heritage crimes and tracking the progress of the resultant cases. This paper reviews existing legislative frameworks and crime reporting and monitoring systems relevant to fighting heritage crime, and identifies current gaps in those responses. SAHRIS is presented as an innovative tool to combat heritage crime effectively in the South African context by offering a centralised, consolidated platform that provides the various stakeholders involved in reporting heritage crimes and locating and retrieving stolen objects with a means to coordinate their responses to such instances.
Using Remote Sensing Technology on the Delimitation of the Conservation Area for the Jianan Irrigation System Cultural Landsccape
Authors: Wang C. H.
Published: August 2015

Abstract. In recent years the cultural landscape has become an important issue for cultural heritages throughout the world. It represents the "combined works of nature and of man" designated in Article 1 of the World Heritage Convention. When a landscape has a cultural heritage value, important features should be marked and mapped through the delimitation of a conservation area, which may be essential for further conservation work. However, a cultural landscape’s spatial area is usually wider than the ordinary architectural type of cultural heritage, since various elements and impact factors, forming the cultural landscape’s character, lie within a wide geographic area. It is argued that the conservation of a cultural landscape may be influenced by the delimitation of the conservation area, the corresponding land management measures, the limits and encouragements. The Jianan Irrigation System, an historical cultural landscape in southern Taiwan, was registered as a living cultural heritage site in 2009. However, the system’s conservation should not be limited to just only the reservoir or canals, but expanded to irrigated areas where farmland may be the most relevant. Through the analysis process, only approximately 42,000 hectares was defined as a conservation area, but closely related to agricultural plantations and irrigated by the system. This is only half of the 1977 irrigated area due to urban sprawl and continuous industrial expansion.
Research on the protection of haiyan hall earthen stereobate relic site at yuanmingyuan park
Authors: Yanqiu L. , Jinliang X. , Hai Q.
Published: August 2015

Abstract. The Haiyan Hall Earthen Relic Site at Yuanmingyuan Park is an earthen relic with significant historical value and special structure stress. Starting with the historical research of Haiyan Hall Earthen Relic Site at Yuanmingyuan Ruins, this paper offers an in-depth knowledge of the original site construction craft and proposes a protection scheme aiming at addressing the current problems at the relic site and achieving its continuity and readability by combining modern technology and abiding by the principles of relics protection.
Globalization and Localization of Heritage Preservation in Taiwan – an Analysis Perspective under the Cultural Heritage Preservation Act
Authors: Chen C.-C. , Fu C.-C.
Published: August 2015

Abstract. The key contribution to the legislation of heritage preservation in Taiwan primarily derived from the historical monument movements in the 1970s. Specific legislation results include the establishment of Council for Cultural Affairs and the implementation of the Cultural Heritage Preservation Act in 1982. Although the Cultural Heritage Preservation Act is the first subjective cultural act, its lack of structure during the initial commencement stages made it un-conducive to heritage preservation and thus unable to meet the people’s expectations. Therefore, throughout the 33 years after the implementation of the Cultural Heritage Preservation Act, the Act has been amended 6 times. These amendments reflect the degree of importance that the society has attached to heritage preservation, and the innovative system also showcases the progress in preservation concepts and methods. These innovative orientations, such as emphasizing on the authenticity and integrity of heritage preservation, intangible cultural heritage, and cultural diversity, conform to the international preservation trends. They are also local trends such as encouraging community participation, adaptive-reuse, or enhancing the local governments’ powers to implement local cultural governance. This is particularly true for the fifth comprehensive revision in 2005, which has symbolic significance because its contents epitomized the heritage preservation work while moving Taiwan’s heritage preservation system towards globalization and localization. Therefore, we analyzed the Cultural Heritage Preservation Act amendment and revision processes over the past 33 years to highlight the innovations in Taiwan’s cultural heritage work and illustrate their globalization and localization features. Finally, we proposed recommendations for Taiwan’s preservation work in the future as the Cultural Heritage Preservation Act is about to undergo its seventh amendment in 2015.
"Conical Hut": A Basic Form of House Types in Timor Island
Authors: Chen Y.R. , Lim Y.L. , Wang M.H. , Chen C.Y.
Published: August 2015

Abstract. Timor Island situates in the southeast end of Southeast Asia. The island accommodates many ethnic groups, which produce many diverse house types. As visiting East Timor in 2012 and Timor Island in 2014, we found the “Pair- House Type” widely spread over Timor Island. Uma Lulik (holy house), accommodating the ancestry soul, fireplace and elder’s bed, and Uma Tidor (house for sleep), containing living, sleeping and working space, compose the pair-house. The research team visited 14 ethnic groups and their houses, some of which were measured and drawn into 3D models as back to Taiwan. Uma Tidors of each ethnic group are quite similar with rectangular volume and hip roof, however, one of the fourteen ethnic groups can build cylinder houses for Uma Tidor. Uma Luliks of different ethnic groups are diversified and special. One group of the Uma Luliks shows a rectangular or square volume sheltered by a hip roof. The other group of Uma Luliks presents a non-specific volume under a conical roof, that we called the “conical hut”. Seven ethnic groups, Atoni, Weimua, Makassae, Mambai, Bunaq, Kemak and Bekais, have built “conical huts” for the use of Uma Lulik. People of the seven ethnic groups can construct a reasonable structural system to support the conical roof, and take good advantage of the space under the conical roof to meet their sacred needs and everyday life. “Conical Hut” may be regarded as the basic form of the house types adopted by the seven ethnic groups. It contains the basic spatial limits and the formal properties that the construction systems have to follow. Based on the concise rules of the basic form, people of each ethnic group use their talents, skills and building materials to generate variations of “conical hut”, which are different in house scale, spatial layout, construction system and form. The “conical huts” contain the consistency that all the huts come from the basic form, meanwhile, they also present the diversification that each conical hut has differed. “Consistent but diversified”, is one of the most interesting issues in typological study that we can observe in Timorese houses.
BIM applied in historical building documentation and refurbishing
Authors: Cheng H.-M. , Yang W.-B. , Yen Y.-N.
Published: August 2015

Abstract. Historical building conservation raises two important issues which are documentation and refurbishing. For the recording and documentation, we already have developed 3d laser scanner and such photogrammetry technology those represent a freeze object of virtual reality by digital documentation. On the other hand, the refurbished engineering of historic building is a challenge for conservation heritage which are not only reconstructing the damage part but also restoring tangible cultural heritage. 3D digital cultural heritage models has become a topic of great interest in recent years. One reason for this is the more widespread use of laser scanning and photogrammetry for recording cultural heritage sites. These technologies have made it possible to efficiently and accurately record complex structures remotely that would not have been possible with previous survey methods. In addition to these developments, digital information systems are evolving for the presentation, analysis and archival of heritage documentation.
SfM for Orthophoto to Generation: A Winning Approach for Cultural Heritage Knowledge
Authors: Chiabrando F. , Donadio E. , Rinaudo F.
Published: August 2015

Abstract. 3D detailed models derived from digital survey techniques have increasingly developed and focused in many field of application. The high detailed content and accuracy of such models make them so attractive and usable for large sets of purposes in Cultural Heritage. The present paper focuses on one of the main techniques used nowadays for Cultural Heritage survey and documentation: the image matching approach or Structure from Motion (SfM) technique. According to the low cost nature and the rich content of derivable information, these techniques are extremely strategic in poor available resources sectors such as Cultural Heritage documentation. After an overview of the employed algorithms and used approaches of SfM computer vision based techniques, the paper is focused in a critical analysis of the strategy used by two common employed software: the commercial suite Agisoft Photoscan and the open source tool MicMac realized by IGN France. The experimental section is focused on the description of applied tests (from RPAS data to terrestrial acquisitions), purposed to compare different solutions in various featured study cases. Finally, the accuracy assessment of the achieved products is compared and analyzed according to the strategy employed by the studied software.
Mediterranean cyclone characteristics related to precipitation occurrence in Crete, Greece
Authors: Iordanidou V. , Koutroulis A. G. , Tsanis I. K.
Published: August 2015

Abstract. The characteristics of the cyclone tracks that caused precipitation events of variable intensity for the period 1979–2011 over the island of Crete are presented. The data set used for cyclone identification is the 0.5° × 0.5°, 30 years European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) ERA-Interim mean sea-level pressure. Cyclone characteristics are calculated with the aid of the Melbourne University algorithm (MS scheme). Daily precipitation data from a dense gauging network over the island of Crete are also used for the classification of the precipitation events in terms of rain accumulation (intensity). Daily precipitation is classified in three categories and the associated cyclones are chosen according to their distance from Crete island. The seasonal and annual cycle of the physical characteristics of the cyclone tracks are investigated with respect to the cyclones' relative position to the island of Crete. It was found that cyclones affecting Crete most frequently approach from the western side of the island and the actual cyclone centers associated with precipitation events are usually located northwest and southeast of the Crete domain. Cyclone-induced rainfall increases in function to cyclones' depth, radius and propagation velocity increase as well as cyclones' pressure decrease. Spring cyclones that affect Crete with rainfall present lower pressures and higher cyclone propagation velocity in contrast to the ones associated with winter and autumn precipitation events. The examination of the relation between cyclone characteristics and precipitation occurrence provides valuable information related to forecasting potential and management of the water resources and the rainfall extremes.
In Vitro Evaluation of the Antiinflammatory and Anticancer Activities of Compounds from the Plants Casearia sylvestris and Zanthoxylum monophyllum
Authors: Omar A. Dupuy L.  , José A. Bonilla V.  , Renato Murillo M.  , Peter Taylor  , María J. Abad  , Lorena I. González P.  , Olmedo Otero  , Johanna Juliao A.
Published: August 2015

The anthocyanins, coumarins, and casearins are interesting compounds due to their chemical and biological properties. In the present study, the in vitro effect of 4 ́-O-methyl-gallocatechin (an anthocyanin), columbianatin (a coumarin), and casearin G on the mitogenic response and phagocytic activity from whole blood cells, was evaluated. In addition, the cytotoxic effect of these compounds on the cell lines B16/BL6 (murine melanoma) and COS-7 (kidney fibroblasts transfected with SV40 virus) was measured by a colorimetric assay (MTS/PMS, IC50: inhibitory concentration) and the sulphorhodamine B assay (GI50: growth inhibition, TGI: total growth inhibition, LC50: lethal concentration). The results show that 4 ́-O-methyl-gallocatechin and columbianatin reduced lymphoproliferation. Columbianatin reduced both the phagocytic index and the percentage of phagocytic monocytes/macrophages. Casearin G showed both cytotoxic (IC50, LC50) and cytostatic (GI50) effects against the tumor cells, B16/BL6 (IC50 = 30.8 μM; GI50 = 12.4 μM; LC50 = 34.7 μM) and COS-7 (IC50 = 137.3 μM; GI50 = 3.8 μM; LC50 = 29.9 μM). In conclusion, 4 ́-O-methyl-gallocatechin and columbianatin showed immunosuppressive properties in vitro while casearin G was the most cytotoxic.
Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) Testing in Specimens of Tumor and Myometrial Tissues During Surgical Treatment of Gestational Trophoblastic Tumors
Authors: Reda Hemida  , Mohammad Arafa  , Hosam AbdElfattah  , Doaa Sharaf-Eldin
Published: August 2015

Background: Gestational trophoblastic tumors originate from trophoblastic tissues and secrete human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG). Surgical treatment may be a line of treatment of chemoresistant cases. Objective: To evaluate the accuracy of hCG dipsticks in detection of hCG in tissues of trophoblastic tumors and healthy myometrium during surgery of trophoblastic tumors. Methods: We included 19 samples of tumor and apparently healthy myometrial tissues during surgical treatment of 5 cases of gestational trophoblastic tumors. The hCG dipstick was immersed in a solution containing 1x1 cm of tumor or myometrial tissues. The results of the tests were compared to the histopathological results. Results: The mean age of patients were 38.8 years, the mean parity was 3.4. The mean serum B-hCG level was 101,745.6 mu/ml. Except for one specimen in case 5, all results of the hCG dipsticks were concordant with final histopathologic analysis of the specimens. Sensitivity of hCG test was 100% and specificity was 90%. Conclusion: Intraoperative detection of hCG in different tissues and suspicious masses can be considered as simple, rapid, inexpensive, and reliable test. It can be used to detect the trophoblastic nature of tissues if frozen section is not available as some low resource setting countries. We recommend further larger prospective studies to compare the accuracy and reliability of this novel technique and frozen section analysis.
The Soviet Secularization Project in Central Asia: Accommodation and Institutional Legacies
Authors: Thibault Hélène
Published: August 2015

This article investigates the effects of the Soviet social engineering project and forced secularization in Central Asia. Emphasis is placed on the ideological foundations of Marxism-Leninism, its stance on atheism, its holistic character, and its ideological exclusivity. The article details the measures taken by authorities to eradicate religious beliefs during the seventy years of Soviet rule. Taking the case of Tajikistan, it highlights the remaining influence of Soviet policies on state-religion relations by reviewing the functions and responsibilities of current regulatory institutions as well as laws and official discourses framing religious practices.
BAG2 promotes tumorigenesis through enhancing mutant p53 protein levels and function
Authors: Yue Xuetian , Zhao Yuhan , Liu Juan , Zhang Cen , Yu Haiyang , Wang Jiabei , Zheng Tongsen , Liu Lianxin , Li Jun , Feng Zhaohui , Hu Wenwei
Published: August 2015

Tumor suppressor p53 is the most frequently mutated gene in tumors. Many mutant p53 (mutp53) proteins promote tumorigenesis through the gain-of-function (GOF) mechanism. Mutp53 proteins often accumulate to high levels in tumors, which is critical for mutp53 GOF. Its underlying mechanism is poorly understood. Here, we found that BAG2, a protein of Bcl-2 associated athanogene (BAG) family, promotes mutp53 accumulation and GOF in tumors. Mechanistically, BAG2 binds to mutp53 and translocates to the nucleus to inhibit the MDM2-mutp53 interaction, and MDM2-mediated ubiquitination and degradation of mutp53. Thus, BAG2 promotes mutp53 accumulation and GOF in tumor growth, metastasis and chemoresistance. BAG2 is frequently overexpressed in tumors. BAG2 overexpression is associated with poor prognosis in patients and mutp53 accumulation in tumors. These findings revealed a novel and important mechanism for mutp53 accumulation and GOF in tumors, and also uncovered an important role of BAG2 in tumorigenesis through promoting mutp53 accumulation and GOF.
Intense magmatic degassing through the lake of Copahue volcano, 2013–2014
Authors: Tamburello G. , Caselli A. , Tassi F. , Vaselli O. , Calabrese S. , Rouwet D. , Capaccioni B. , Di Napoli R. , Cardellini C. , Chiodini G. , Bitetto M. , Brusca L. , Bellomo S. , Aiuppa A.
Published: August 2015

Here we report on the first assessment of volatile fluxes from the hyperacid crater lake hosted within the summit crater of Copahue, a very active volcano on the Argentina‐Chile border. Our observations were performed using a variety of in situ and remote sensing techniques during field campaigns in March 2013, when the crater hosted an active fumarole field, and in March 2014, when an acidic volcanic lake covered the fumarole field. In the latter campaign, we found that 566 to 1373 t d−1of SO2were being emitted from the lake in a plume that appeared largely invisible. This, combined with our derived bulk plume composition, was converted into flux of other volcanic species (H2O ~ 10989 t d−1, CO2 ~ 638 t d−1, HCl ~ 66 t d−1, H2 ~ 3.3 t d−1, and HBr ~ 0.05 t d−1). These levels of degassing, comparable to those seen at many open‐vent degassing arc volcanoes, were surprisingly high for a volcano hosting a crater lake. Copahue's unusual degassing regime was also confirmed by the chemical composition of the plume that, although issuing from a hot (65°C) lake, preserves a close‐to‐magmatic signature. EQ3/6 models of gas‐water‐rock interaction in the lake were able to match observed compositions and demonstrated that magmatic gases emitted to the atmosphere were virtually unaffected by scrubbing of soluble (S and Cl) species. Finally, the derived large H2O flux (10,988 t d−1) suggested a mechanism in which magmatic gas stripping drove enhanced lake water evaporation, a process likely common to many degassing volcanic lakes worldwide.
Pressurization and depressurization phases inside the plumbing system of Mount Etna volcano: Evidence from a multiparametric approach
Authors: Cannata Andrea , Spedalieri Giancarlo , Behncke Boris , Cannavò Flavio , Di Grazia Giuseppe , Gambino Salvatore , Gresta Stefano , Gurrieri Sergio , Liuzzo Marco , Palano Mimmo
Published: August 2015

During 2013 Mount Etna volcano experienced intense eruptive activity at the summit craters, foremost at the New Southeast Crater and to a minor degree at the Voragine and Bocca Nuova (BN), which took place in two cycles, February–April and September–December. In this work, we mainly focus on the period between these cycles, applying a multiparametric approach. The period from the end of April to 5 September showed a gradual increase in the amplitude of long‐period (LP) events and volcanic tremor, a slight inflation testified by both tilt and GPS data, and a CO2 flux increase. Such variations were interpreted as due to a gradual pressurization of the plumbing system, from the shallowest part, where LP and volcanic tremor are located, down to about 3–9 km below sea level, pressure source depths obtained by both geodetic and CO2 data. On 5 September, at the same time as a large explosion at BN, we observed an instantaneous variation of the aforementioned signals (decrease in amplitude of LP events and volcanic tremor, slight deflation, and CO2 flux decrease) and the activation of a new infrasonic source located at BN. In the light of it, the BN explosion probably caused the instantaneous end of the pressurization, and the opening of a new vent at BN, that has become a new steady source of infrasonic events. This apparently slight change in the plumbing system also led to the gradual resumption of activity at the New Southeast Crater, culminating with the second lava fountain cycle of 2013.
Multidecadal variability of potential temperature, salinity, and transport in the eastern subpolar North Atlantic
Authors: Holliday N. P. , Cunningham S. A. , Johnson C. , Gary S. F. , Griffiths C. , Read J. F. , Sherwin T.
Published: August 2015

The Extended Ellett Line (EEL) hydrographic section extends from Scotland to Iceland crossing the Rockall Trough, Hatton‐Rockall Basin, and Iceland Basin. With 61 full‐depth stations at a horizontal resolution of 10–50 km, the EEL samples the upper limb of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation flowing across the Iceland‐Scotland Ridge into the Nordic Seas. The Rockall Trough has been sampled nearly four times per year from 1975 to 1996, and the full section annually since 1996. The EEL is an exceptionally long‐time series of deep ocean temperatures and salinities. This study extends prior work in the Rockall Trough, and examines for the first time 18 year records in the Iceland and Hatton‐Rockall Basins. We quantify errors in the time series from two sources: observational errors and aliasing. The data quality and annual sampling are suitable for observing interannual to decadal variability because the variability exceeds our error estimates. The upper waters of all three basins are cooler/fresher from 1997 to 2001, warmer/more saline 2001–2006, and cooler/fresher from 2006 to 2014. A reference level for geostrophic shear is developed heuristically and by comparison with sea‐surface altimetry. The mean northward transport in the upper waters is 6.7 ± 3.7 Sv and there is a 6.1 ± 2.5 Sv southward flow below the thermocline. Although the magnitude of the Iceland Basin overturning circulation (4.3 ± 1.9 Sv) is greater than in the Rockall Trough (3.0 ± 3.7 Sv), the variability is greater in the Rockall Trough. We discuss the results in the context of our understanding of drivers of variability.
A Multiple‐Functional Ag/SiO2/Organic Based Biomimetic Nanocomposite Membrane for High‐Stability Protein Recognition and Cell Adhesion/Detachment
Authors: Wu Yilin , Yan Ming , Cui Jiuyun , Yan Yongsheng , Li Chunxiang
Published: August 2015

Biomimetic multilevel structured membrane materials have great potential for energy‐efficient chemical separations and biomedical applications. The current study represents a simple, yet efficient, method to obtain the biomimetic protein separation membrane and controllable cell culture substrate with high stability, selectivity, and antibacterial property. Here, a molecular imprinting methodology is reported to introduce the high‐biocompatible protein ovalbumin (Ova) to a multilevel Ag/SiO2/organic based molecularly imprinted membranes (ASO‐MIMs), which have made significant achievements in protein identification and controllable growth of liver cells in vitro platform. Interestingly, the relative morphological observations of the adhered cells and in vitro viability tests show no significant difference between the ASO‐MIMs binding with 13.6 mg g−1 Ova (13.6‐ASO‐MIMs) and bare glass, indicating the excellent biocompatibility of the 13.6‐ASO‐MIMs. Here, the results on largely enhanced adsorption capacity, perm‐selectivity (β values are more than 2.2), regeneration ability (still maintained 90% of the maximum adsorption capacity after 10 cycling operation), and high‐performance cell adhesion system (controlled by the binding amount of template protein) are shown, which clearly demonstrates the potential value of this method in smart biomaterials and biosensors.
Unconventional Aluminum Ion Intercalation/Deintercalation for Fast Switching and Highly Stable Electrochromism
Authors: Tian Yuyu , Zhang Weikun , Cong Shan , Zheng Yuanchuan , Geng Fengxia , Zhao Zhigang
Published: August 2015

Electrochromic devices have many important commercial applications ranging from electronic paper like displays, antiglare rear‐view mirrors in cars, to energy‐saving smart windows in buildings. Monovalent ions such as H+, Li+, and Na+ are widely used as insertion ions in electrochromic devices but have serious limitations such as instability, high‐cost, and hard handling. The utilization of trivalent ions as insertion ions has been largely overlooked probably because of the strong electrostatic interactions between ions and intercalation framework and the resulted difficulties of intercalation. It is demonstrated that the trivalent ion, Al3+, can be used as efficient insertion ion by using metal oxide hosts in nanostructured form, which brings the desired fast‐switch, high‐contrast, and high‐stability as well to electrochromic devices. Differing from the usual structure degradation by repeated guest intercalation/deintercalation, the Al3+ insertion introduces strong electrostatic forces, which on some degree stabilize the crystal structure and consequently yield much enhanced performances.
Extracellular Stiffness Modulates the Expression of Functional Proteins and Growth Factors in Endothelial Cells
Authors: Santos Lívia , Fuhrmann Gregor , Juenet Maya , Amdursky Nadav , Horejs Christine‐Maria , Campagnolo Paola , Stevens Molly M.
Published: August 2015

Angiogenesis, the formation of blood vessels from pre‐existing ones, is of vital importance during the early stages of bone healing. Extracellular stiffness plays an important role in regulating endothelial cell behavior and angiogenesis, but how this mechanical cue affects proliferation kinetics, gene regulation, and the expression of proteins implicated in angiogenesis and bone regeneration remains unclear. Using collagen‐coated polyacrylamide (PAAm) hydrogels, human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) are exposed to an environment that mimics the elastic properties of collagenous bone, and cellular proliferation and gene and protein expressions are assessed. The proliferation and gene expression of HUVECs are not differentially affected by culture on 3 or 30 kPa PAAm hydrogels, henceforth referred to as low and high stiffness gels, respectively. Although the proliferation and gene transcript levels remain unchanged, significant differences are found in the expressions of functional proteins and growth factors implicated both in the angiogenic and osteogenic processes. The down‐regulation of the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor‐2 protein with concomitant over‐expression of caveolin‐1, wingless‐type 2, bone morphogenic protein 2, and basic fibroblast growth factor on the high stiffness PAAm hydrogel suggests that rigidity has a pro‐angiogenic effect with inherent benefits for bone regeneration.
Construction and Functions of Cyclodextrin‐Based 1D Supramolecular Strands and their Secondary Assemblies
Authors: Chen Yong , Liu Yu
Published: August 2015

Cyclodextrins (CDs), a class of cyclic oligosaccharides, are water‐soluble, nontoxic, and commercial available with a low price, and their well‐defined hydrophobic cavity can bind various organic/biological substrates. Through their molecular assembly mediated by organic, inorganic, or polymeric molecules as templates, CDs and their functional derivatives can be assembled to 1D supramolecular strands, wherein the functional groups of the CDs are closely located in a highly ordered manner. This structural feature greatly favors the cooperative effect of numerous functional groups in the supramolecular strand, as well as the interactions of the supramolecular strands with the multiple binding sites of substrates, especially biological substrates. Therefore, CD‐based 1D supramolecular strands exhibit many material, biological, and catalytic functions, and these properties can be further improved through their secondary assembly. An overview of recent advances in the development of the construction and functions of CD‐based 1D supramolecular strands and their secondary assemblies is given here. It is expected that the representative contributions described can inspire future investigations and lead to discoveries that promote the research of CD‐based functional materials.
A Flexible Ionic Liquid Gelled PVA‐Li2SO4 Polymer Electrolyte for Semi‐Solid‐State Supercapacitors
Authors: Zhang Xing , Wang Liangliang , Peng Jing , Cao Pengfei , Cai Xiaosheng , Li Jiuqiang , Zhai Maolin
Published: August 2015

A novel high‐performance flexible gel polymer electrolyte (FGPE) for supercapacitors is prepared by a freeze‐drying method. In the presence of 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium chloride (BMIMCl) ionic liquid, Li2SO4 can easily be added into poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) aqueous solution over a large concentration range. The resultant FGPE demonstrates considerably high ionic conductivity (37 mS cm−1) and a high fracture strain at 100% elongation at the optimal weight ratio of PVA:BMIMCl:Li2SO4 = 1:3:2.2. The supercapacitor fabricated with the resultant FGPE and activated carbon electrodes shows an electrode‐specific capacitance of 136 F g−1 with a stable operating voltage of 1.5 V, a maximum energy density of 10.6 Wh kg−1, and a power density of 3400 W kg−1. Double supercapacitors in series can efficiently drive a light emitting diode (LED) bulb for over 5 min and the retention of the specific capacitance reaches 90% even after 3000 charge–discharge cycles. The ionic conductivity and charge–discharge behaviors of the resultant FGPE are not affected by bending up to 180°. The flexible supercapacitor device shows only a small capacitance loss of 18% after 1000 cycles of 135° bending.