bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Application of Informatics in Delineating the Proof of Concept for Creating Knowledge of the Value Added by Interprofessional Practice and Education
Authors: Cerra Frank , Pacala James , Brandt Barbara , Lutfiyya May
Published: November 2015

The resurgence of interest in the promise of interprofessional education and collaborative practice (IPECP) to positively impact health outcomes, requires the collection of appropriate data that can be analyzed and from which information and knowledge linking IPECP interventions to improved health outcomes might be produced and reported to stakeholders such as health systems, policy makers and regulators, payers, and accreditation agencies. To generate such knowledge the National Center for Interprofessional Practice and Education at the University of Minnesota has developed three strategies, the first two of which are: (1) creating an IPECP research agenda, and (2) a national Nexus Innovation Network (NIN) of intervention projects that are generating data that are being input and housed in a National Center Data Repository (NCDR). In this paper, the informatics platform supporting the work of these first two strategies is presented as the third interconnected strategy for knowledge generation. The proof of concept for the informatics strategy is developed in this paper by describing: data input from the NIN into the NCDR, the linking and merging of those data to produce analyzable data files that incorporate institutional and individual level data, and the production of meaningful analyses to create and provide relevant information and knowledge. This paper is organized around the concepts of data, information and knowledge—the three conceptual foundations of informatics.
Green Space Attachment and Health: A Comparative Study in Two Urban Neighborhoods
Authors: Zhang Yang , Van Dijk Terry , Tang Jianjun , Berg Agnes
Published: November 2015

The positive relationships between urban green space and health have been well documented. Little is known, however, about the role of residents’ emotional attachment to local green spaces in these relationships, and how attachment to green spaces and health may be promoted by the availability of accessible and usable green spaces. The present research aimed to examine the links between self-reported health, attachment to green space, and the availability of accessible and usable green spaces. Data were collected via paper-mailed surveys in two neighborhoods (n = 223) of a medium-sized Dutch city in the Netherlands. These neighborhoods differ in the perceived and objectively measured accessibility and usability of green spaces, but are matched in the physically available amount of urban green space, as well as in demographic and socio-economic status, and housing conditions. Four dimensions of green space attachment were identified through confirmatory factor analysis: place dependence, affective attachment, place identity and social bonding. The results show greater attachment to local green space and better self-reported mental health in the neighborhood with higher availability of accessible and usable green spaces. The two neighborhoods did not differ, however, in physical and general health. Structural Equation Modelling confirmed the neighborhood differences in green space attachment and mental health, and also revealed a positive path from green space attachment to mental health. These findings convey the message that we should make green places, instead of green spaces.
Different Choices of Drinking Water Source and Different Health Risks in a Rural Population Living Near a Lead/Zinc Mine in Chenzhou City, Southern China
Authors: Huang Xiao , He Liping , Li Jun , Yang Fei , Tan Hongzhuan
Published: November 2015

This study aimed to describe the households’ choices of drinking water sources, and evaluate the risk of human exposure to heavy metals via different drinking water sources in Chenzhou City of Hunan Province, Southern China. A cross-sectional face-to-face survey of 192 householders in MaTian and ZhuDui village was conducted. The concentrations of heavy metals in their drinking water sources were analyzed. Carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risk assessment was performed according to the method recommended by the United States Environmental Protection Agency. In total, 52.60% of the households used hand-pressed well water, and 34.89% used barreled water for drinking. In total, 6.67% of the water samples exceeded the Chinese drinking water standards. The total health risk of five metals is 5.20 × 10−9~3.62 × 10−5. The total health risk of five metals was at acceptable levels for drinking water sources. However, the total risk of using hand-pressed well water’s highest value is 6961 times higher than the risk of using tap water. Household income level was significantly associated with drinking water choices. Arsenic (As) and lead (Pb) are priority controlled pollutants in this region. Using safe drinking water (tap water, barreled water and so on) can remarkably reduce the risk of ingesting heavy metals.
Death Rates among Detained Immigrants in the United States
Authors: Granski Megan , Keller Allen , Venters Homer
Published: November 2015

The United States system of immigrant detention centers has been the subject of considerable scrutiny with respect to health care of detainees. We sought to characterize the rates and types of deaths that have occurred within this system between the years 2003–2015. We analyzed a file of detainee deaths released by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security as part of a freedom of information request. Between 2003 and 2015, 150 deaths were recorded. During this time period, the annual rate of death among detainees dropped dramatically, whether measured by annual admissions or by person years of exposure. The most common causes of death were cardiovascular, cancer and suicide. More research is needed to adequately account for the contributors to these declining rates of death in immigration detention settings.
EZH2 in Bladder Cancer, a Promising Therapeutic Target
Authors: Martínez-Fernández Mónica , Rubio Carolina , Segovia Cristina , López-Calderón Fernando , Dueñas Marta , Paramio Jesús
Published: November 2015

Bladder Cancer (BC) represents a current clinical and social challenge. The recent studies aimed to describe the genomic landscape of BC have underscored the relevance of epigenetic alterations in the pathogenesis of these tumors. Among the epigenetic alterations, histone modifications occupied a central role not only in cancer, but also in normal organism homeostasis and development. EZH2 (Enhancer of Zeste Homolog 2) belongs to the Polycomb repressive complex 2 as its catalytic subunit, which through the trimethylation of H3 (Histone 3) on K27 (Lysine 27), produces gene silencing. EZH2 is frequently overexpressed in multiple tumor types, including BC, and plays multiple roles besides the well-recognized histone mark generation. In this review, we summarize the present knowledge on the oncogenic roles of EZH2 and its potential use as a therapeutic target, with special emphasis on BC pathogenesis and management.
Antibacterial Activity of Shikimic Acid from Pine Needles of Cedrus deodara against Staphylococcus aureus through Damage to Cell Membrane
Authors: Bai Jinrong , Wu Yanping , Liu Xiaoyan , Zhong Kai , Huang Yina , Gao Hong
Published: November 2015

Shikimic acid (SA) has been reported to possess antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, whereas the mode of action of SA is still elusive. In this study, the antibacterial activity and mechanism of SA toward S. aureus by cell membrane damage was investigated. After SA treatment, massive K+ and nucleotide leakage from S. aureus, and a significant change in the membrane potential was observed, suggesting SA may act on the membrane by destroying the cell membrane permeability. Through transmission electron microscopic observations we further confirmed that SA can disrupt the cell membrane and membrane integrity. Meanwhile, SA was found to be capable of reducing the membrane fluidity of the S. aureus cell. Moreover, the fluorescence experiments indicated that SA could quench fluorescence of Phe residues of the membrane proteins, thus demonstrating that SA can bind to S. aureus membrane proteins. Therefore, these results showed the antibacterial activity of SA against S. aureus could be caused by the interactions of SA with S. aureus membrane proteins and lipids, resulting in causing cell membrane dysfunction and bacterial damage or even death. This study reveals the potential use of SA as an antibacterial agent.
Vitamin D Analogs Potentiate the Antitumor Effect of Imatinib Mesylate in a Human A549 Lung Tumor Model
Authors: Maj Ewa , Filip-Psurska Beata , Świtalska Marta , Kutner Andrzej , Wietrzyk Joanna
Published: November 2015

In previous papers, we presented data on studies on the anticancer activity of the vitamin D3 analogs, named PRI-2191 and PRI-2205, in different cancer models. In this study, we showed the improved antiproliferative activity of a combination of imatinib mesylate (Gleevec, GV) and cytostatic agents in in vitro studies, when used with a third compound, namely PRI-2191, in an A549 human lung cancer model. Furthermore, we analyzed the influence of both PRI-2191, as well as PRI-2205 on the anticancer activity of GV in mice bearing A549 tumors. The route of PRI-2191 analog administration showed a significant impact on the outcome of GV treatment: subcutaneous injection was more efficient and less toxic than oral gavage. Moreover, both vitamin D compounds increased the anticancer activity of GV; however, they might also potentiate some adverse effects. We also evaluated in tumor tissue the expression of VEGF, PDGF-BB, vitamin D receptor, CYP27B1, CYP24, p53 and Bcl-2, as well as PDGF receptors: α and β. We observed the upregulation of p53 expression and the downregulation of Bcl-2, as well as VEGF in A549 tumors as a result of the tested treatment. However, vitamin D analogs did not significantly influence the expression of these proteins.
Abnormalities in Alternative Splicing of Apoptotic Genes and Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Dlamini Zodwa , Tshidino Shonisani , Hull Rodney
Published: November 2015

Apoptosis is required for normal heart development in the embryo, but has also been shown to be an important factor in the occurrence of heart disease. Alternative splicing of apoptotic genes is currently emerging as a diagnostic and therapeutic target for heart disease. This review addresses the involvement of abnormalities in alternative splicing of apoptotic genes in cardiac disorders including cardiomyopathy, myocardial ischemia and heart failure. Many pro-apoptotic members of the Bcl-2 family have alternatively spliced isoforms that lack important active domains. These isoforms can play a negative regulatory role by binding to and inhibiting the pro-apoptotic forms. Alternative splicing is observed to be increased in various cardiovascular diseases with the level of alternate transcripts increasing elevated in diseased hearts compared to healthy subjects. In many cases these isoforms appear to be the underlying cause of the disease, while in others they may be induced in response to cardiovascular pathologies. Regardless of this, the detection of alternate splicing events in the heart can serve as useful diagnostic or prognostic tools, while those splicing events that seem to play a causative role in cardiovascular disease make attractive future drug targets.
Chemical Profiles and Protective Effect of Hedyotis diffusa Willd in Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Renal Inflammation Mice
Authors: Ye Jian-Hong , Liu Meng-Hua , Zhang Xu-Lin , He Jing-Yu
Published: November 2015

Protective effect of Hedyotis diffusa (H. diffusa) Willd against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced renal inflammation was evaluated by the productions of cytokines and chemokine, and the bioactive constituents of H. diffusa were detected by the ultra-fast liquid chromatography -diode array detector-quadrupole-time of flight mass spectrometry (UFLC-DAD-Q-TOF-MS/MS) method. As the results showed, water extract of H. diffusa (equal to 5.0 g/kg body weight) obviously protected renal tissues, significantly suppressed the productions of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)-1, as well as significantly promoted the production of IL-10 in serum and renal tissues. According the chemical profiles of H. diffusa, flavonoids, iridoid glycosides and anthraquinones were greatly detected in serum from H. diffusa extract treatment mice. Two main chemotypes, including eight flavonoids and four iridoid glycosides were found in renal tissues from H. diffusa extract treatment mice. The results demonstrated that water extract of H. diffusa had protective effect on renal inflammation, which possibly resulted from the bioactive constituents consisting of flavonoids, iridoids and anthraquinones.
Pbx4 is Required for the Temporal Onset of Zebrafish Myocardial Differentiation
Authors: Kao Robert , Rurik Joel , III Gist , Dong Xiu , Majesky Mark , Maves Lisa
Published: November 2015

Proper control of the temporal onset of cellular differentiation is critical for regulating cell lineage decisions and morphogenesis during development. Pbx homeodomain transcription factors have emerged as important regulators of cellular differentiation. We previously showed, by using antisense morpholino knockdown, that Pbx factors are needed for the timely activation of myocardial differentiation in zebrafish. In order to gain further insight into the roles of Pbx factors in heart development, we show here that zebrafish pbx4 mutant embryos exhibit delayed onset of myocardial differentiation, such as delayed activation of tnnt2a expression in early cardiomyocytes in the anterior lateral plate mesoderm. We also observe delayed myocardial morphogenesis and dysmorphic patterning of the ventricle and atrium, consistent with our previous Pbx knock-down studies. In addition, we find that pbx4 mutant larvae have aberrant outflow tracts and defective expression of the proepicardial marker tbx18. Finally, we present evidence for Pbx expression in cardiomyocyte precursors as well as heterogeneous Pbx expression among the pan-cytokeratin-expressing proepicardial cells near the developing ventricle. In summary, our data show that Pbx4 is required for the proper temporal activation of myocardial differentiation and establish a basis for studying additional roles of Pbx factors in heart development.
Production of a Novel Fucoidanase for the Green Synthesis of Gold Nanoparticles by Streptomyces sp. and Its Cytotoxic Effect on HeLa Cells
Authors: Manivasagan Panchanathan , Oh Junghwan
Published: November 2015

Marine actinobacteria-produced fucoidanases have received considerable attention as one of the major research topics in recent years, particularly for the medical exploitation of fucoidans and their degradation products. The present study describes the optimization and production of a novel fucoidanase for the green synthesis of gold nanoparticles and its biological applications. The production of fucoidanase was optimized using Streptomyces sp. The medium components were selected in accordance with the Plackett-Burman design and were further optimized via response surface methodology. The fucoidanase was statistically optimized with the most significant factors, namely wheat bran 3.3441 g/L, kelp powder 0.7041 g/L, and NaCl 0.8807 g/L, respectively. The biosynthesized gold nanoparticles were determined by UV-vis spectroscopy and were further characterized by X-ray diffraction analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray analysis, and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. Furthermore, the biosynthesized gold nanoparticles exhibited a dose-dependent cytotoxicity against HeLa cells and the inhibitory concentration (IC50) was found to be 350 µg/mL at 24 h and 250 µg/mL at 48 h. Therefore, the production of novel fucoidanase for the green synthesis of gold nanoparticles has comparatively rapid, less expensive and wide application to anticancer therapy in modern medicine.
Polyphenol-Rich Fraction of Ecklonia cava Improves Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in High Fat Diet-Fed Mice
Authors: Park Eun-Young , Choi Hojung , Yoon Ji-Young , Lee In-Young , Seo Youngwan , Moon Hong-Seop , Hwang Jong-Hee , Jun Hee-Sook
Published: November 2015

Ecklonia cava (E. cava; CA) is an edible brown alga with beneficial effects in diabetes via regulation of various metabolic processes such as lipogenesis, lipolysis, inflammation, and the antioxidant defense system in liver and adipose tissue. We investigated the effect of the polyphenol-rich fraction of E. cava produced from Gijang (G-CA) on nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in high-fat diet (HFD)-fed mice. C57BL6 mice were fed a HFD for six weeks and then the HFD group was administered 300 mg/kg of G-CA extracts by oral intubation for 10 weeks. Body weight, fat mass, and serum biochemical parameters were reduced by G-CA extract treatment. MRI/MRS analysis showed that liver fat and liver volume in HFD-induced obese mice were reduced by G-CA extract treatment. Further, we analyzed hepatic gene expression related to inflammation and lipid metabolism. The mRNA expression levels of inflammatory cytokines and hepatic lipogenesis-related genes were decreased in G-CA-treated HFD mice. The mRNA expression levels of cholesterol 7 alpha-hydroxylase 1 (CYP7A1), the key enzyme in bile acid synthesis, were dramatically increased by G-CA treatment in HFD mice. We suggest that G-CA treatment ameliorated hepatic steatosis by inhibiting inflammation and improving lipid metabolism.
β–Cyclodextrin–Propyl Sulfonic Acid Catalysed One-Pot Synthesis of 1,2,4,5-Tetrasubstituted Imidazoles as Local Anesthetic Agents
Authors: Ran Yan , Li Ming , Zhang Zong-Ze
Published: November 2015

Some functionalized 1,2,4,5-tetrasubstituted imidazole derivatives were synthesized using a one-pot, four component reaction involving 1,2-diketones, aryl aldehydes, ammonium acetate and substituted aromatic amines. The synthesis has been efficiently carried out in a solvent free medium using β-cyclodextrin-propyl sulfonic acid as a catalyst to afford the target compounds in excellent yields. The local anesthetic effect of these derivatives was assessed in comparison to lidocaine as a standard using a rabbit corneal and mouse tail anesthesia model. The three most potent promising compounds were subjected to a rat sciatic nerve block assay where they showed considerable local anesthetic activity, along with minimal toxicity. Among the tested analogues, 4-(1-benzyl-4,5-diphenyl-1H-imidazol-2-yl)-N,N-dimethylaniline (5g) was identified as most potent analogue with minimal toxicity. It was further characterized by a more favourable therapeutic index than the standard.
α-Linolenic Acid, A Nutraceutical with Pleiotropic Properties That Targets Endogenous Neuroprotective Pathways to Protect against Organophosphate Nerve Agent-Induced Neuropathology
Authors: Piermartiri Tetsade , Pan Hongna , Figueiredo Taiza , Marini Ann
Published: November 2015

α-Linolenic acid (ALA) is a nutraceutical found in vegetable products such as flax and walnuts. The pleiotropic properties of ALA target endogenous neuroprotective and neurorestorative pathways in brain and involve the transcription factor nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a major neuroprotective protein in brain, and downstream signaling pathways likely mediated via activation of TrkB, the cognate receptor of BDNF. In this review, we discuss possible mechanisms of ALA efficacy against the highly toxic OP nerve agent soman. Organophosphate (OP) nerve agents are highly toxic chemical warfare agents and a threat to military and civilian populations. Once considered only for battlefield use, these agents are now used by terrorists to inflict mass casualties. OP nerve agents inhibit the critical enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE) that rapidly leads to a cholinergic crisis involving multiple organs. Status epilepticus results from the excessive accumulation of synaptic acetylcholine which in turn leads to the overactivation of muscarinic receptors; prolonged seizures cause the neuropathology and long-term consequences in survivors. Current countermeasures mitigate symptoms and signs as well as reduce brain damage, but must be given within minutes after exposure to OP nerve agents supporting interest in newer and more effective therapies. The pleiotropic properties of ALA result in a coordinated molecular and cellular program to restore neuronal networks and improve cognitive function in soman-exposed animals. Collectively, ALA should be brought to the clinic to treat the long-term consequences of nerve agents in survivors. ALA may be an effective therapy for other acute and chronic neurodegenerative disorders.
Dietary Intakes and Nutritional Issues in Neurologically Impaired Children
Authors: Penagini Francesca , Mameli Chiara , Fabiano Valentina , Brunetti Domenica , Dilillo Dario , Zuccotti Gian
Published: November 2015

Neurologically impaired (NI) children are at increased risk of malnutrition due to several nutritional and non-nutritional factors. Among the nutritional factors, insufficient dietary intake as a consequence of feeding difficulties is one of the main issues. Feeding problems are frequently secondary to oropharyngeal dysphagia, which usually correlates with the severity of motor impairment and presents in around 90% of preschool children with cerebral palsy (CP) during the first year of life. Other nutritional factors are represented by excessive nutrient losses, often subsequent to gastroesophageal reflux and altered energy metabolism. Among the non-nutritional factors, the type and severity of neurological impairment, ambulatory status, the degree of cognitive impairment, and use of entiepileptic medication altogether concur to determination of nutritional status. With the present review, the current literature is discussed and a practical approach for nutritional assessment in NI children is proposed. Early identification and intervention of nutritional issues of NI children with a multidisciplinary approach is crucial to improve the overall health and quality of life of these complex children.
Impact of Nutrition on Cerebral Circulation and Cognition in the Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Mellendijk Laura , Wiesmann Maximilian , Kiliaan Amanda
Published: November 2015

The increasing prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome (MetS), defined as the clustering of abdominal obesity, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and hyperglycemia, appears to be driving the global epidemics cardiovascular disease (CVD) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Nutrition has a major impact on MetS and plays an important role in the prevention, development, and treatment of its features. Structural and functional alterations in the vasculature, associated with MetS, might form the link between MetS and the increased risk of developing CVD and T2DM. Not only does the peripheral vasculature seem to be affected, but the syndrome has a profound impact on the cerebral circulation and thence brain structure as well. Furthermore, strong associations are shown with stroke, cognitive impairment, and dementia. In this review the impact of nutrition on the individual components of MetS, the effects of MetS on peripheral and cerebral vasculature, and its consequences for brain structure and function will be discussed.
HAGR-D: A Novel Approach for Gesture Recognition with Depth Maps
Authors: Santos Diego , Fernandes Bruno , Bezerra Byron
Published: November 2015

The hand is an important part of the body used to express information through gestures, and its movements can be used in dynamic gesture recognition systems based on computer vision with practical applications, such as medical, games and sign language. Although depth sensors have led to great progress in gesture recognition, hand gesture recognition still is an open problem because of its complexity, which is due to the large number of small articulations in a hand. This paper proposes a novel approach for hand gesture recognition with depth maps generated by the Microsoft Kinect Sensor (Microsoft, Redmond, WA, USA) using a variation of the CIPBR (convex invariant position based on RANSAC) algorithm and a hybrid classifier composed of dynamic time warping (DTW) and Hidden Markov models (HMM), called the hybrid approach for gesture recognition with depth maps (HAGR-D). The experiments show that the proposed model overcomes other algorithms presented in the literature in hand gesture recognition tasks, achieving a classification rate of 97.49% in the MSRGesture3D dataset and 98.43% in the RPPDI dynamic gesture dataset.
Using a Novel Wireless-Networked Decentralized Control Scheme under Unpredictable Environmental Conditions
Authors: Chang Chung-Liang , Huang Yi-Ming , Hong Guo-Fong
Published: November 2015

The direction of sunshine or the installation sites of environmental control facilities in the greenhouse result in different temperature and humidity levels in the various zones of the greenhouse, and thus, the production quality of crop is inconsistent. This study proposed a wireless-networked decentralized fuzzy control scheme to regulate the environmental parameters of various culture zones within a greenhouse. The proposed scheme can create different environmental conditions for cultivating different crops in various zones and achieve diversification or standardization of crop production. A star-type wireless sensor network is utilized to communicate with each sensing node, actuator node, and control node in various zones within the greenhouse. The fuzzy rule-based inference system is used to regulate the environmental parameters for temperature and humidity based on real-time data of plant growth response provided by a growth stage selector. The growth stage selector defines the control ranges of temperature and humidity of the various culture zones according to the leaf area of the plant, the number of leaves, and the cumulative amount of light. The experimental results show that the proposed scheme is stable and robust and provides basis for future greenhouse applications.
First Results of Field Absolute Calibration of the GPS Receiver Antenna at Wuhan University
Authors: Hu Zhigang , Zhao Qile , Chen Guo , Wang Guangxing , Dai Zhiqiang , Li Tao
Published: November 2015

GNSS receiver antenna phase center variations (PCVs), which arise from the non-spherical phase response of GNSS signals have to be well corrected for high-precision GNSS applications. Without using a precise antenna phase center correction (PCC) model, the estimated position of a station monument will lead to a bias of up to several centimeters. The Chinese large-scale research project “Crustal Movement Observation Network of China” (CMONOC), which requires high-precision positions in a comprehensive GPS observational network motived establishment of a set of absolute field calibrations of the GPS receiver antenna located at Wuhan University. In this paper the calibration facilities are firstly introduced and then the multipath elimination and PCV estimation strategies currently used are elaborated. The validation of estimated PCV values of test antenna are finally conducted, compared with the International GNSS Service (IGS) type values. Examples of TRM57971.00 NONE antenna calibrations from our calibration facility demonstrate that the derived PCVs and IGS type mean values agree at the 1 mm level.
Near-Field Sound Localization Based on the Small Profile Monaural Structure
Authors: Kim Youngwoong , Kim Keonwook
Published: November 2015

The acoustic wave around a sound source in the near-field area presents unconventional properties in the temporal, spectral, and spatial domains due to the propagation mechanism. This paper investigates a near-field sound localizer in a small profile structure with a single microphone. The asymmetric structure around the microphone provides a distinctive spectral variation that can be recognized by the dedicated algorithm for directional localization. The physical structure consists of ten pipes of different lengths in a vertical fashion and rectangular wings positioned between the pipes in radial directions. The sound from an individual direction travels through the nearest open pipe, which generates the particular fundamental frequency according to the acoustic resonance. The Cepstral parameter is modified to evaluate the fundamental frequency. Once the system estimates the fundamental frequency of the received signal, the length of arrival and angle of arrival (AoA) are derived by the designed model. From an azimuthal distance of 3–15 cm from the outer body of the pipes, the extensive acoustic experiments with a 3D-printed structure show that the direct and side directions deliver average hit rates of 89% and 73%, respectively. The closer positions to the system demonstrate higher accuracy, and the overall hit rate performance is 78% up to 15 cm away from the structure body.
A Unique Self-Sensing, Self-Actuating AFM Probe at Higher Eigenmodes
Authors: Wu Zhichao , Guo Tong , Tao Ran , Liu Leihua , Chen Jinping , Fu Xing , Hu Xiaotang
Published: November 2015

With its unique structure, the Akiyama probe is a type of tuning fork atomic force microscope probe. The long, soft cantilever makes it possible to measure soft samples in tapping mode. In this article, some characteristics of the probe at its second eigenmode are revealed by use of finite element analysis (FEA) and experiments in a standard atmosphere. Although the signal-to-noise ratio in this environment is not good enough, the 2 nm resolution and 0.09 Hz/nm sensitivity prove that the Akiyama probe can be used at its second eigenmode under FM non-contact mode or low amplitude FM tapping mode, which means that it is easy to change the measuring method from normal tapping to small amplitude tapping or non-contact mode with the same probe and equipment.
Suffering Has No Race or Nation: The Psychological Impact of the Refugee Crisis in Hungary and the Occurrence of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Authors: Kéri Szabolcs
Published: November 2015

The “European migrant crisis” is one of the greatest social, political, and cultural challenges since World War II. Hundreds of thousands of people exposed to multiple psychological traumas are trying to find shelter in Europe. It would be indispensable to gain more information about the mental health of these individuals. The aim of the present study was to explore the occurrence of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder among refugees arriving in Hungary. Participants received the Harvard Trauma Questionnaire-Revised (HTQ), which was validated against the Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview 6.0 (MINI). We interviewed 450 asylum seekers (332 male, 43% from Syria). There were 189 men (57%) and 85 women (72%) who received the diagnosis of PTSD. Altogether, 274 asylum seekers (61%) met PTSD criteria. Individuals from Syria, Afghanistan, and Iraq plus other countries displayed similar PTSD rates. The extremely high occurrence of PTSD in asylum seekers suffering from the global crisis calls for immediate attention and efforts to implement integrated solutions in Europe.
Method of Relating Grain Size Distribution to Hydraulic Conductivity in Dune Sands to Assist in Assessing Managed Aquifer Recharge Projects: Wadi Khulays Dune Field, Western Saudi Arabia
Authors: Lopez Oliver , Jadoon Khan , Missimer Thomas
Published: November 2015

Planning for use of a dune field aquifer for managed aquifer recharge (MAR) requires that hydraulic properties need to be estimated over a large geographic area. Saturated hydraulic conductivity of dune sands is commonly estimated from grain size distribution data by employing some type of empirical equation. Over 50 samples from the Wadi Khulays dune field in Western Saudi Arabia were collected and the grain size distribution, porosity, and hydraulic conductivity were measured. An evaluation of 20 existing empirical equations showed a generally high degree of error in the predicted compared to the measured hydraulic conductivity values of these samples. Statistical analyses comparing estimated versus measured hydraulic conductivity demonstrated that there is a significant relationship between hydraulic conductivity and mud percentage (and skewness). The modified Beyer equation, which showed a generally low prediction error, was modified by adding a second term fitting parameter related to the mud concentration based on 25 of the 50 samples analyzed. An inverse optimization process was conducted to quantify the fitting parameter and a new empirical equation was developed. This equation was tested against the remaining 25 samples analyzed and produced an estimated saturated hydraulic conductivity with the lowest error of any empirical equation. This methodology can be used for large dune field hydraulic conductivity estimation and reduce planning costs for MAR systems.
Space in the 20th Century Theatre: 2. Determination, Consequence and Assumption
Authors: Dinulović Radivoje
Published: November 2015

BACKGROUND: Interaction of literature, visual and performing arts as well as media, especially in the second half of the twentieth century, has substantially transformed the technical and artistic resources the theatre uses.AIM: The aim of this study is to present determination, consequence and assumption as parts of Space in the 20th Century Theatre.MATERIAL AND METHODS: Three aspects of the architecture were described in details: determination, consequence and assumption of the space in the 20th century theatre.RESULTS: The idea of theatre is conveyed through houses, books, research documents, history and theory, but it is also conveyed through "theatre people". This concept, can be and must be understood the two ways: as a guideline for a highly heterogeneous and inarticulate "global tribe", and at the same time, as the common name for members of a particular theatre - the theatre as a troupe, or theatre as a movement, but mostly the theatre as an institution of what we often call "the theatre house".CONCLUSION: The causal system of relationships between the theatre house, theatre people and theatre as an idea (or the idea of theatre) is the central theme of my understanding of the definitions, values and purpose of theatre.
Crise économique grecque et nouvelles dynamiques agraires : l'exemple de la Thessalie orientale
Authors: Perucho Lola , Bazin Gilles , Goussios Dimitris
Published: November 2015

La Thessalie orientale est une plaine bordée de paysages de semi-montagne abritant un élevage ovin-caprin laitier valorisant des ressources agro-pastorales collectives et privées. Sous l'effet combiné du découplage des aides européennes, de la chute des prix du coton irrigué et de l'épuisement des aquifères s'amorce aujourd'hui un retour vers la complémentarité entre élevage de semi-montagne et productions fourragères de plaine. Parallèlement, les pertes d'emplois et de revenus engendrées par la crise économique poussent à la reconversion d'activité vers l'élevage sur parcours, qui prend souvent la forme d'une économie de semi-subsistance à bas coût, fonctionnant en tout ou partie sur des espaces collectifs. L'analyse de ces deux évolutions est intéressante car leur combinaison au sein d'un même système agraire pourrait aboutir à une complémentarité dans la gestion de l'espace favorable au développement des systèmes d'élevage de petits ruminants créateurs d'emploi et de valeur ajoutée. Ces systèmes présentent cependant de nombreuses limites à leur développement. Les orientations de la nouvelle Politique Agricole Commune (PAC) et la situation économique de la Grèce ne permettront pas de conserver le niveau actuel de soutien au revenu agricole et aux politiques de développement rural. Il faut donc orienter le développement agricole vers la réduction des coûts et la valorisation des productions à travers un retour aux ressources fourragères locales et le développement des filières de proximité.
Changement climatique et risques côtiers dans les îles tropicales
Authors: Duvat Virginie
Published: November 2015

Cet article propose une analyse des impacts du changement climatique sur l'évolution des risques d'érosion et de submersion dans les petites îles tropicales. Il repose sur les connaissances scientifiques les plus actualisées (connaissances théoriques, mesures instrumentales et études de cas) pour démontrer que les impacts du changement climatique sont et continueront à être très variables d'une région insulaire à une autre et d'une île à une autre. L'auteur s'appuie sur l'analyse de la forte variabilité des pressions climatiques et anthropiques et de leurs impacts sur l'évolution des risques côtiers pour apporter la preuve de la diversité des trajectoires de vulnérabilité des îles hautes et des îles basses. Ce faisant, le texte met en évidence les progrès récents de la connaissance ainsi que les difficultés qui persistent dans la détection des changements et leur attribution au changement climatique. Il débouche sur la proposition d'une typologie des chaînes d'impacts du changement climatique en milieu tropical insulaire.
Gains d'efficience dans la gestion de zones humides estuariennes par des associations syndicales de propriétaires
Authors: Péreau Jean-Christophe , Milliet Alice , Lavaud Sébastien , Fauvet Natacha , Ferrari Sylvie , Point Patrick
Published: November 2015

La gestion des zones humides dans l'estuaire de la Gironde est principalement assurée par deux types d'acteurs : publics avec les syndicats intercommunaux de bassin-versant ( Sibv ) et privés par l'intermédiaire des associations syndicales de propriétaires ( Asp ). La recherche d'une meilleure efficacité économique dans la gestion de ces zones humides est actuellement un objectif affiché par les autorités publiques à travers une logique de regroupement des Sibv en plus grandes entités. Cet article examine si la création d'unions d' Asp dont les périmètres seraient comparables avec ceux des futurs Sibv peut se justifier par une recherche d'économies d'échelle concernant les dépenses d'entretien des Asp . Les résultats mettent en avant des opportunités de gain d'efficience mais soulignent la nature des conflits possibles entre les Asp sur la répartition de ces gains.
Le patrimoine immobilier des chapitres cathédraux du Moyen Âge à l’époque moderne
Authors: Álvarez Fernández María , Beltrán Suárez María Soledad , Menjot Denis
Published: November 2015

Le feu qui a détruit Oviedo en 1521 a fait disparaître les bâtiments médiévaux capitulaires, dont la structure peut être reconstituée grâce aux inspections immobilières des années 1510 et 1514. C’est grâce à cette inspection détaillée ordonnée par le chapitre de la cathédrale d’Oviedo (le principal propriétaire de biens immeubles dans la ville) qu’il est possible d’identifier les réformes entreprises avant et après le désastre, lesquelles entraînent la modification, et parfois la démolition, de l’architecture originale, et sont aussi la source principale pour la connaissance de l’architecture domestique à Oviedo lors de la transition du Moyen Âge à la Modernité, ainsi que du rôle que celle-ci jouait dans la morphologie urbaine.
La gestion d’un patrimoine ecclésiastique urbain à la fin du Moyen Âge : l’inscription du chapitre cathédral de Barcelone dans la ville
Authors: Conesa Soriano Julia
Published: November 2015

Sommet de la hiérarchie ecclésiastique du diocèse, symbole de la puissance divine, la cathédrale est également au Moyen Âge un important seigneur foncier. À Barcelone, bien que placée sous l’autorité de l’évêque, elle est, d’un point de vue concret, administrée par le chapitre cathédral. À travers cette fonction, ce dernier se trouve alors au contact de la société urbaine par un autre biais que ses attributions religieuses, l’encadrement des fidèles ou son activité caritative. Il s’inscrit véritablement dans la ville, en se posant comme un des principaux propriétaires fonciers et en interagissant avec les habitants lors de la gestion de son patrimoine. À la fin du XV e siècle, alors que Barcelone se rétablit après une décennie de guerre civile, ce patrimoine est caractérisé par la diversité de sa localisation et de sa nature. Sa gestion témoigne d’une forte adaptabilité et apporte un éclairage sur les modes de fonctionnements des seigneuries foncières ecclésiastiques au bas Moyen Âge.
Le lotissement médiéval de la « vieille ville » de Nice
Authors: Chouquer Gérard , González Villaescusa Ricardo
Published: November 2015

Cette étude analyse le parcellaire de la partie centrale de la « vieille ville » de Nice, à partir du plan cadastral de 1870. Elle met en évidence la présence d’une trame régulière organisée en bandes parallèles et disposant de mesures répétitives. Il s’agit du lotissement, datant vraisemblablement du XIII e siècle, de la double condamina que l’abbaye de Saint-Pons possédait en ce lieu. Grâce au chartrier de cette abbaye, on peut suivre les concessions emphytéotiques de parcelles ou casales aux preneurs. Avec ce projet de lotissement, on assiste à la création d’une ville basse au pied de l’ancienne ville haute. L’analyse morphologique démontre la construction de cette trame par « la médiane des bandes ». Elle permet de réfuter l’hypothèse selon laquelle ce plan serait le vestige de la ville grecque de Nikaia .
L’invention du centre-ville européen
Authors: Feriel Cédric
Published: November 2015

Cet article étudie la mutation des espaces centraux des villes européennes entre 1960 et 1980 à travers la politique des secteurs piétons. La recherche sur la ville du second XX e siècle s’est surtout intéressée aux espaces périphériques, pourtant les centres anciens connaissent aussi de profonds bouleversements liés à l’éclatement de l’espace urbain. Alors qu’aucun secteur piéton n’existe en Europe en 1950, il devient impossible d’établir un recensement exhaustif en 1980 tant cet espace s’est imposé dans le paysage urbain européen. Or, la politique des secteurs piétons n’est pas simplement l’expression d’une nostalgie de la ville pré-industrielle : sa radicalité même la place d’emblée dans le champ des interventions modernes sur le tissu urbain. Dans un travail de première délimitation du phénomène, cet article propose une étude des phases de cette mutation.
L’invention d’un territoire de la vieillesse à Paris au XIX e siècle
Authors: Rossigneux-Méheust Mathilde
Published: November 2015

Sous le Second Empire, tous les établissements publics réservés à l’accueil des vieux Parisiens quittent le centre de Paris pour s’installer en périphérie, à l’exception de l’hospice de la Salpêtrière. Cet article interroge la façon dont s’opère et s’explique, matériellement et idéologiquement, la mise à l’écart et la mise en ordre de ces cités de vieillards. Ces déménagements s’inscrivent dans les politiques urbaines du Second Empire mais reflètent également une évolution des normes de confort pour la vieillesse. Au moment où les vieillards sont exilés loin de Paris au nom du calme et du repos, les hospices, qui sont parfois d’immenses cités de vieillards, deviennent des lieux de commerce, de divertissement et d’associations entre vieux. Ces déménagements amorcent aussi une dynamique durable : celle de la totalisation des maisons de retraite, prenant en charge tous les aspects de la vie des individus qui y vivent. Le double mouvement d’éloignement des hospices et de spécialisation de l’offre d’assistance contribue à la formation d’une conscience de classe d’âge soucieuse de mettre en avant les besoins spécifiques d’un nouveau groupe social forgé à la faveur d’une expérience assistancielle, la vie d’hospice.
Mesurer et localiser le travail des artisans paveurs dans la ville : les dépenses de pavage du Domaine à Paris au XV e siècle
Authors: Hermenault Léa
Published: November 2015

Les dépenses de pavage du Domaine de la ville de Paris au XV e siècle montrent que les axes qui mènent aux portes de l’enceinte de Charles V concentrent les investissements, même si d’autres rues, aux dimensions plus modestes, ont toutefois de plus en plus tendance à faire l’objet de réfections de pavage à partir de la seconde moitié du siècle. Par ailleurs, au même moment, chacune des opérations de la chaîne du pavage des rues (livraison des pavés, transports des matières premières, pavage) fait l’objet d’une spécialisation professionnelle, rendue peut-être possible par une amélioration du contexte économique, et à laquelle doivent s’adapter le receveur des comptes et les scribes en introduisant diverses innovations dans l’écriture comptable de ces dépenses de pavage.
Police des signes, ordre et désordre urbains en temps de crise (1814-1816)
Authors: Fureix Emmanuel
Published: November 2015

La discontinuité du temps vécu, de la chute de l’Empire à la Deuxième Restauration, se traduit avec une acuité particulière dans les luttes de signes et de symboles, qui disent les basculements de souveraineté vécus ou espérés. Avant l’âge de la statuomanie, ces signes visuels (drapeaux, cocardes, bustes, etc.) se font plus discrets, moins spectaculaires, mais aussi plus disséminés. Dans un moment postrévolutionnaire où les opinions s’expriment autant par des signes que par des mots, leur place est décisive dans la maîtrise de l’ordre urbain. L’article se propose d’étudier cette « police des signes » dans les villes de France, entre 1814 et 1816. Cette dernière constitue un observatoire pertinent de l’ordre et du désordre urbains en temps de crise, du contrôle des identités politiques visibles, des formes de résistance à l’ordre, et d’appropriations de souveraineté en acte.
Probiotic yeast Kluyveromyces marxianus CIDCA 8154 shows anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative stress properties in in vivo models
Authors: Romanin D.E. , Llopis S. , Genovés S. , Martorell P. , Ramón V.D. , Garrote G.L. , Rumbo M.
Published: November 2015

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) are complex affections with increasing incidence worldwide. Multiple factors are involved in the development and maintenance of the symptoms including enhanced oxidative stress in intestinal mucosa. The conventional therapeutic approaches for IBDs are based on the use anti-inflammatory drugs with important collateral effects and partial efficacy. In the present work we tested the anti-inflammatory capacity of Kluyveromyces marxianus CIDCA 8154 in different models. In vitro, we showed that the pretreatment of epithelial cells with the yeast reduce the levels of intracellular reactive oxygen species. Furthermore, in a murine model of trinitro benzene sulfonic acid-induced colitis, yeast-treated animals showed a reduced histopathological score (P<0.05) and lower levels of circulating interleukin 6 (P<0.05). The capacity to modulate oxidative stress in vivo was assessed using a Caenorhabditis elegans model. The yeast was able to protect the nematodes from oxidative stress by modulating the SKN-1 transcription factor trough the DAF-2 pathway. These results indicate that K. marxianus CIDCA 8154 could control the intestinal inflammation and cellular oxidative stress. Deciphering the mechanisms of action of different probiotics might be useful for the rational formulation of polymicrobial products containing microorganisms targeting different anti-inflammatory pathways.