bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dancing for Human Rights: Engaging Labor Rights and Social Remembrance inPoor Mouth
Authors: Mullis Eric C.
Published: November 2016

There is a tradition of dance artists developing work for the concert stage in order to engage pressing social justice issues and, more specifically, the abuse of human rights. Anna Sokolow's Strange American Funeral (1935), Pearl Primus' Strange Fruit (1945), Katherine Dunham's Southland (1951), Alvin Ailey's Masekela Langage (1969), Jawole Willa Jo Zollar's Womb Wars (1992), William Forsythe's Human Writes (2005), and Douglas Wright's Black Milk (2006) are examples of acclaimed dances that address the manner in which marginalized individuals and social groups have not been granted equal ethical or political consideration.1

In this essay I consider how dance enacts secular rituals of remembrance for victims of human rights abuses characteristic of a particular community's or nation's historical legacy. This entails discussion of aesthetic strategies used to portray human rights abuse, a consideration of the ethics of memory, and analysis of specific dance work. I discuss my site-adaptive work Poor Mouth (2013) which centers on labor rights issues in the American South during the Great Depression and I argue that dance which presents such issues performs a valuable social function as it encourages audiences to remember the past in a manner that facilitates a historically informed understanding of communal identity. Further, since historical instances of human rights abuse often have contemporary correlates and since remembrance affects the significance of places associated with the history in question, the implications of such work temporally and spatially extend beyond the performance venue and thereby contribute to political discourse in the public sphere.

Dance intersects with human rights issues in many ways, but here I focus on dances intended for performance on the concert stage. For the purposes of this essay, the terms ‘dance activism’ and ‘political dance’ refer to dances that intentionally grapple with explicit human rights abuses and that are intended to be performed for a theatre-going audience. Along the way I note what bearing my points have for other forms such as popular dance, dance used in acts of public political protest, site-specific dance, and dance therapy, but I should emphasize that it is beyond the scope of this essay to consider the many ways that dance intersects with human rights and with political activism more generally. Lastly, I should say that my approach to this topic is informed by the personal experience of collaboratively creating and performing dance work in a particular community and that it is interdisciplinary in nature since its draw on aspects of philosophical ethics in order to reflect on that experience.
Role of Cytokine-Induced Glycosylation Changes in Regulating Cell Interactions and Cell Signaling in Inflammatory Diseases and Cancer
Authors: Dewald Justine , Colomb Florent , Bobowski-Gerard Marie , Groux-Degroote Sophie , Delannoy Philippe
Published: November 2016

Glycosylation is one of the most important modifications of proteins and lipids, and cell surface glycoconjugates are thought to play important roles in a variety of biological functions including cell-cell and cell-substrate interactions, bacterial adhesion, cell immunogenicity and cell signaling. Alterations of glycosylation are observed in number of diseases such as cancer and chronic inflammation. In that context, pro-inflammatory cytokines have been shown to modulate cell surface glycosylation by regulating the expression of glycosyltransferases involved in the biosynthesis of carbohydrate chains. These changes in cell surface glycosylation are also known to regulate cell signaling and could contribute to disease pathogenesis. This review summarizes our current knowledge of the glycosylation changes induced by pro-inflammatory cytokines, with a particular focus on cancer and cystic fibrosis, and their consequences on cell interactions and signaling.
A Linear Bayesian Updating Model for Probabilistic Spatial Classification
Authors: Huang Xiang , Wang Zhizhong
Published: November 2016

Categorical variables are common in spatial data analysis. Traditional analytical methods for deriving probabilities of class occurrence, such as kriging-family algorithms, have been hindered by the discrete characteristics of categorical fields. To solve the challenge, this study introduces the theoretical backgrounds of the linear Bayesian updating (LBU) model for spatial classification through an expert system. The main purpose of this paper is to present the solid theoretical foundations of the LBU approach. Since the LBU idea is originated from aggregating expert opinions and is not restricted to conditional independent assumption (CIA), it may prove to be reasonably adequate for analyzing complex geospatial data sets, such as remote sensing images or area-class maps.
Reorientation of Magnetic Graphene Oxide Nanosheets in Crosslinked Quaternized Polyvinyl Alcohol as Effective Solid Electrolyte
Authors: Lin Jia-Shuin , Ma Wei-Ting , Shih Chao-Ming , Yu Bor-Chern , Teng Li-Wei , Wang Yi-Chun , Cheng Kong-Wei , Chiu Fang-Chyou , Lue Shingjiang
Published: November 2016

This work aims to clarify the effect of magnetic graphene oxide (GO) reorientation in a polymer matrix on the ionic conduction and methanol barrier properties of nanocomposite membrane electrolytes. Magnetic iron oxide (Fe3O4) nanoparticles were prepared and dispersed on GO nanosheets (GO-Fe3O4). The magnetic GO-Fe3O4 was imbedded into a quaternized polyvinyl alcohol (QPVA) matrix and crosslinked (CL-) with glutaraldehyde (GA) to obtain a polymeric nanocomposite. A magnetic field was applied in the through-plane direction during the drying and film formation steps. The CL-QPVA/GO-Fe3O4 nanocomposite membranes were doped with an alkali to obtain hydroxide-conducting electrolytes for direct methanol alkaline fuel cell (DMAFC) applications. The magnetic field-reoriented CL-QPVA/GO-Fe3O4 electrolyte demonstrated higher conductivity and lower methanol permeability than the unoriented CL-QPVA/GO-Fe3O4 membrane or the CL-QPVA film. The reoriented CL-QPVA/GO-Fe3O4 nanocomposite was used as the electrolyte in a DMAFC and resulted in a maximum power density of 55.4 mW·cm−2 at 60 °C, which is 73.7% higher than that of the composite without the magnetic field treatment (31.9 mW·cm−2). In contrast, the DMAFC using the CL-QPVA electrolyte generated only 22.4 mW·cm−2. This research proved the surprising benefits of magnetic-field-assisted orientation of GO-Fe3O4 in facilitating the ion conduction of a polymeric electrolyte.
A Novel Boil-Off Gas Re-Liquefaction Using a Spray Recondenser for Liquefied Natural-Gas Bunkering Operations
Authors: Ryu Jiheon , Lee Chihun , Seo Yutaek , Kim Juneyoung , Seo Suwon , Chang Daejun
Published: November 2016

This study presents the design of a novel boil-off gas (BOG) re-liquefaction technology using a BOG recondenser system. The BOG recondenser system targets the liquefied natural gas (LNG) bunkering operation, in which the BOG phase transition occurs in a pressure vessel instead of a heat exchanger. The BOG that is generated during LNG bunkering operation is characterized as an intermittent flow with various peak loads. The system was designed to temporarily store the transient BOG inflow, condense it with subcooled LNG and store the condensed liquid. The superiority of the system was verified by comparing it with the most extensively employed conventional re-liquefaction system in terms of consumption energy and via an exergy analysis. Static simulations were conducted for three compositions; the results indicated that the proposed system provided 0 to 6.9% higher efficiencies. The exergy analysis indicates that the useful work of the conventional system is 24.9%, and the useful work of the proposed system is 26.0%. Process dynamic simulations of six cases were also performed to verify the behaviour of the BOG recondenser system. The results show that the pressure of the holdup in the recondenser vessel increased during the BOG inflow mode and decreased during the initialization mode. The maximum pressure of one of the bunkering cases was 3.45 bar. The system encountered a challenge during repetitive operations due to overpressurizing of the BOG recondenser vessel.
Illegal Hunting of Prey Species in the Northern Section of Bardia National Park, Nepal: Implications for Carnivore Conservation
Authors: Bhattarai Babu , Wright Wendy , Khatiwada Ambika
Published: November 2016

We interviewed 48 people from communities around Bardia National Park in Nepal, including ex-hunters and protected area management professionals. The purpose of the interviews was to understand the motivations for, and the nature of, illegal hunting of prey species of iconic predators—tigers and leopards—in the northern section of the park. Participants reported that hunting of prey species occurs mostly in spring and autumn and is less common during the summer. In the past, hunting was primarily for the purposes of obtaining meat for household consumption. Since the introduction of a road network in the region, opportunities to sell wild meat at ad hoc “highway markets” have developed. The purported medicinal properties of wild meat was also cited as a driver for illegal hunting. Guns (mostly made locally, by hand) and dogs were reported to be commonly used. Protected area managers indicated that illegal hunting problems in the study area are associated with a lack of presence of park authorities, remoteness and underdevelopment and poverty of the community. Our study suggested that skills development training for local community members might reduce dependency of local people on wild meat, for both household consumption and for income, thereby reducing illegal hunting.
Mushroom Polysaccharides: Chemistry and Antiobesity, Antidiabetes, Anticancer, and Antibiotic Properties in Cells, Rodents, and Humans
Authors: Friedman Mendel
Published: November 2016

More than 2000 species of edible and/or medicinal mushrooms have been identified to date, many of which are widely consumed, stimulating much research on their health-promoting properties. These properties are associated with bioactive compounds produced by the mushrooms, including polysaccharides. Although β-glucans (homopolysaccharides) are believed to be the major bioactive polysaccharides of mushrooms, other types of mushroom polysaccharides (heteropolysaccharides) also possess biological properties. Here we survey the chemistry of such health-promoting polysaccharides and their reported antiobesity and antidiabetic properties as well as selected anticarcinogenic, antimicrobial, and antiviral effects that demonstrate their multiple health-promoting potential. The associated antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulating activities in fat cells, rodents, and humans are also discussed. The mechanisms of action involve the gut microbiota, meaning the polysaccharides act as prebiotics in the digestive system. Also covered here are the nutritional, functional food, clinical, and epidemiological studies designed to assess the health-promoting properties of polysaccharides, individually and as blended mixtures, against obesity, diabetes, cancer, and infectious diseases, and suggestions for further research. The collated information and suggested research needs might guide further studies needed for a better understanding of the health-promoting properties of mushroom polysaccharides and enhance their use to help prevent and treat human chronic diseases.
Galaxy Cluster Outskirts from the Thermal SZ and Non-Thermal Synchrotron Link
Authors: Basu Kaustuv , Erler Jens , Sommer Martin , Vazza Franco , Eckert Dominique
Published: November 2016

Galaxy cluster merger shocks are the main agent for the thermalization of the intracluster medium and the energization of cosmic ray particles in it. Shock propagation changes the state of the tenuous intracluster plasma, and the corresponding signal variations are measurable with the current generation of X-ray and Sunyaev–Zel’dovich (SZ) effect instruments. Additionally, non-thermal electrons (re-)energized by the shocks sometimes give rise to extended and luminous synchrotron sources known as radio relics, which are prominent indicators of shocks propagating roughly in the plane of the sky. In this short review, we discuss how the joint modeling of the non-thermal and thermal signal variations across radio relic shock fronts is helping to advance our knowledge of the gas thermodynamical properties and magnetic field strengths in the cluster outskirts. We describe the first use of the SZ effect to measure the Mach numbers of relic shocks, for both the nearest (Coma) and the farthest (El Gordo) clusters with known radio relics.
A Novel Evaluation Approach for Line Simplification Algorithms towards Vector Map Visualization
Authors: Song Jia , Miao Ru
Published: November 2016

Line simplification is an important method in the context of cartographic generalization, which is helpful for improving the visualization of digital vector maps. The evaluation method for the simplification algorithms is still an open issue when facing applications of vector data, including progressive transmission, web mapping, and so on. This paper proposes a novel evaluation approach for line simplification algorithms based on several factors towards vector map visualization, including the features of displays, map scales, and the ability of the human eye to distinguish pixels. In order to ensure the evaluation of the line simplification algorithms is conducted under the consistent strength of simplification, a measurement approach for the difference between an original line and its simplified one is proposed in this study, and the method of solving the appropriate simplification threshold is presented. With this method, four simplification algorithms are evaluated at five map scales using three evaluation indicators: standard deviation, compression ratio, and simplification time. The experiment and results show the evaluation approach in this study is feasible, and represents a good means in which to facilitate the application of line simplification towards progressive transmission and visualization of vector maps.
Graphene Oxide Nanoribbons Induce Autophagic Vacuoles in Neuroblastoma Cell Lines
Authors: Mari Emanuela , Mardente Stefania , Morgante Emanuela , Tafani Marco , Lococo Emanuela , Fico Flavia , Valentini Federica , Zicari Alessandra
Published: November 2016

Since graphene nanoparticles are attracting increasing interest in relation to medical applications, it is important to understand their potential effects on humans. In the present study, we prepared graphene oxide (GO) nanoribbons by oxidative unzipping of single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) and analyzed their toxicity in two human neuroblastoma cell lines. Neuroblastoma is the most common solid neoplasia in children. The hallmark of these tumors is the high number of different clinical variables, ranging from highly metastatic, rapid progression and resistance to therapy to spontaneous regression or change into benign ganglioneuromas. Patients with neuroblastoma are grouped into different risk groups that are characterized by different prognosis and different clinical behavior. Relapse and mortality in high risk patients is very high in spite of new advances in chemotherapy. Cell lines, obtained from neuroblastomas have different genotypic and phenotypic features. The cell lines SK-N-BE(2) and SH-SY5Y have different genetic mutations and tumorigenicity. Cells were exposed to low doses of GO for different times in order to investigate whether GO was a good vehicle for biological molecules delivering individualized therapy. Cytotoxicity in both cell lines was studied by measuring cellular oxidative stress (ROS), mitochondria membrane potential, expression of lysosomial proteins and cell growth. GO uptake and cytoplasmic distribution of particles were studied by Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) for up to 72 h. The results show that GO at low concentrations increased ROS production and induced autophagy in both neuroblastoma cell lines within a few hours of exposure, events that, however, are not followed by growth arrest or death. For this reason, we suggest that the GO nanoparticle can be used for therapeutic delivery to the brain tissue with minimal effects on healthy cells.
Enhancing Anticancer Effect of Gefitinib across the Blood–Brain Barrier Model Using Liposomes Modified with One α-Helical Cell-Penetrating Peptide or Glutathione and Tween 80
Authors: Lin Kuan-Hung , Hong Shu-Ting , Wang Hsiang-Tsui , Lo Yu-Li , Lin Anya , Yang James
Published: November 2016

Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI), such as gefitinib, have been demonstrated to effectively treat the patients of extracranial non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, these patients often develop brain metastasis (BM) during their disease course. The major obstacle to treat BM is the limited penetration of anticancer drugs across the blood–brain barrier (BBB). In the present study, we utilized gefitinib-loaded liposomes with different modifications to improve gefitinib delivery across the in vitro BBB model of bEnd.3 cells. Gefitinib was encapsulated in small unilamellar liposomes modified with glutathione (GSH) and Tween 80 (SUV-G+T; one ligand plus one surfactant) or RF (SUV-RF; one α-helical cell-penetrating peptide). GSH, Tween 80, and RF were tested by the sulforhodamine B (SRB) assay to find their non-cytotoxic concentrations on bEnd.3 cells. The enhancement on gefitinib across the BBB was evaluated by cytotoxicity assay on human lung adenocarcinoma PC9 cells under the bEnd.3 cells grown on the transwell inserts. Our findings showed that gefitinib incorporated in SUV-G+T or SUV-RF across the bEnd.3 cells significantly reduced the viability of PC9 cells more than that of free gefitinib. Furthermore, SUV-RF showed no cytotoxicity on bEnd.3 cells and did not affect the transendothelial electrical resistance (TEER) and transendothelial permeability of sodium fluorescein across the BBB model. Moreover, flow cytometry and confocal laser scanning microscopy were employed to evaluate the endocytosis pathways of SUV-RF. The results indicated that the uptake into bEnd.3 cells was mainly through adsorptive-mediated mechanism via electrostatic interaction and partially through clathrin-mediated endocytosis. In conclusion, cell penetrating peptide-conjugated SUV-RF shed light on improving drug transport across the BBB via modulating the transcytosis pathway(s).
Aortic Root Dilatation in Mucopolysaccharidosis I–VII
Authors: Bolourchi Meena , Renella Pierangelo , Wang Raymond
Published: November 2016

The prevalence of aortic root dilatation (ARD) in mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS) is not well documented. We investigated aortic root measurements in 34 MPS patients at the Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC). The diagnosis, treatment status, age, gender, height, weight and aortic root parameters (aortic valve annulus (AVA), sinuses of Valsalva (SoV), and sinotubular junction (STJ)) were extracted by retrospective chart review and echocardiographic measurements. Descriptive statistics, ANOVA, and paired post-hoc t-tests were used to summarize the aortic dimensions. Exact binomial 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were constructed for ARD, defined as a z-score greater than 2 at the SoV. The patient age ranged from 3.4–25.9 years (mean 13.3 ± 6.1), the height from 0.87–1.62 meters (mean 1.24 ± 0.21), and the weight from 14.1–84.5 kg (mean 34.4 ± 18.0). The prevalence of dilation at the AVA was 41% (14/34; 95% CI: 25%–59%); at the SoV was 35% (12/34; 95% CI: 20%–54%); and at the STJ was 30% (9/30; 95% CI: 15%–49%). The highest prevalence of ARD was in MPS IVa (87.5%). There was no significant difference between mean z-scores of MPS patients who received treatment with hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) or enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) vs. untreated MPS patients at the AVA (z = 1.9 ± 2.5 vs. z = 1.5 ± 2.4; p = 0.62), SoV (z = 1.2 ± 1.6 vs. z = 1.3 ± 2.2; p = 0.79), or STJ (z = 1.0 ± 1.8 vs. z = 1.2 ± 1.6; p = 0.83). The prevalence of ARD was 35% in our cohort of MPS I–VII patients. Thus, we recommend screening for ARD on a routine basis in this patient population.
A Case Study of Landfill Leachate Using Coal Bottom Ash for the Removal of Cd2+, Zn2+ and Ni2+
Authors: Ayala Julia , Fernández Begoña
Published: November 2016

The removal of Cd2+, Zn2+ and Ni2+ by coal bottom ash has been investigated. In single metal system, metal uptake was studied in batch adsorption experiments as a function of pH (2–3), contact time (5–180 min), initial metal concentration (50–400 mg/L), adsorbent concentration (5–40 g/L), particle size, and ionic strength (0–1 M NaCl). Removal percentages of metals ions increased with increasing pH and dosage. Removal efficiency at lower concentrations was greater than at higher values. The maximum amount of metal ion adsorbed in milligrams per gram was 35.4, 35.1 and 34.6 mg/g for Zn2+, Cd2+ and Ni2+, respectively, starting out from an initial solution at pH 3. Simultaneous removal of Zn2+, Cd2+ and Ni2+ ions from ternary systems was also investigated and compared with that from single systems. Cd2+ uptake was significantly affected by the presence of competing ions at pH 2. The results obtained in the tests with landfill leachate showed that bottom ash is effective in simultaneously removing several heavy metals such as Ni, Zn, Cd, As, Mn, Cu, Co, Se, Hg, Ag, and Pb.
Effect of Thermoultrasound on the Antioxidant Compounds and Fatty Acid Profile of Blackberry (Rubus fruticosus spp.) Juice
Authors: Manríquez-Torres José , Sánchez-Franco José , Ramírez-Moreno Esther , Cruz-Cansino Nelly , Ariza-Ortega José , Torres-Valencia Jesús
Published: November 2016

Blackberry (Rubus fruticosus spp.) fruit has high antioxidant activity due to its significant content of anthocyanins and antioxidant compounds. Among emerging technologies for food preservation, thermoultrasound is a technique that reduces microbial loads and releases compounds with antioxidant properties. The objective of this study was to determine the antioxidant content and fatty acid profile of blackberry juice subjected to thermoultrasound treatment in comparison to pasteurized juice. Blackberry juice and n-hexane extracts from a control (untreated juice), pasteurized, and thermoultrasonicated samples were evaluated for antioxidant activity, fatty acid profile, and antioxidant content. The juice treated with thermoultrasound exhibited significantly (p < 0.05) higher levels of total phenols (1011 mg GAE/L), anthocyanins (118 mg Cy-3-GlE/L); antioxidant activity by ABTS (44 mg VCEAC/L) and DPPH (2665 µmol TE/L) in comparison to the control and pasteurized samples. Oil extract from thermoultrasound juice also had the highest antioxidant activity (177.5 mg VCEAC/L and 1802.6 µmol TE/L). The fatty acid profile of the n-hexane extracts showed the presence of myristic, linolenic, stearic, oleic, and linoleic acids and was not affected by the treatments except for stearic acid, whose amount was particularly higher in the control. Our results demonstrated that thermoultrasound can be an alternative technology to pasteurization that maintains and releases antioxidant compounds and preserves the fatty acids of fruit juice.
Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticle-Biomolecule Interactions Influence Oral Absorption
Authors: Jo Mi-Rae , Yu Jin , Kim Hyoung-Jun , Song Jae , Kim Kyoung-Min , Oh Jae-Min , Choi Soo-Jin
Published: November 2016

Titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles (NPs) have been widely applied in various industrial fields, such as electronics, packaging, food, and cosmetics. Accordingly, concerns about the potential toxicity of TiO2 NPs have increased. In order to comprehend their in vivo behavior and potential toxicity, we must evaluate the interactions between TiO2 NPs and biomolecules, which can alter the physicochemical properties and the fate of NPs under physiological conditions. In the present study, in vivo solubility, oral absorption, tissue distribution, and excretion kinetics of food grade TiO2 (f-TiO2) NPs were evaluated following a single-dose oral administration to rats and were compared to those of general grade TiO2 (g-TiO2) NPs. The effect of the interactions between the TiO2 NPs and biomolecules, such as glucose and albumin, on oral absorption was also investigated, with the aim of determining the surface interactions between them. The intestinal transport pathway was also assessed using 3-dimensional culture systems. The results demonstrate that slightly higher oral absorption of f-TiO2 NPs compared to g-TiO2 NPs could be related to their intestinal transport mechanism by microfold (M) cells, however, most of the NPs were eliminated through the feces. Moreover, the biokinetics of f-TiO2 NPs was highly dependent on their interaction with biomolecules, and the dispersibility was affected by modified surface chemistry.
Changes in Biochemical Parameters of the Calcium-Phosphorus Homeostasis in Relation to Nutritional Intake in Very-Low-Birth-Weight Infants
Authors: Christmann Viola , Gradussen Charlotte , Körnmann Michelle , Roeleveld Nel , Van Goudoever Johannes , Van Heijst Arno
Published: November 2016

Preterm infants are at significant risk to develop reduced bone mineralization based on inadequate supply of calcium and phosphorus (Ca-P). Biochemical parameters can be used to evaluate the nutritional intake. The direct effect of nutritional intake on changes in biochemical parameters has not been studied. Our objective was to evaluate the effect of Ca-P supplementation on biochemical markers as serum (s)/urinary (u) Ca and P; alkaline phosphatase (ALP); tubular reabsorption of P (TrP); and urinary ratios for Ca/creatinin (creat) and P/creatinin in Very-Low-Birth-Weight infants on Postnatal Days 1, 3, 5, 7, 10, and 14. This observational study compared two groups with High (n = 30) and Low (n = 40) intake of Ca-P. Birth weight: median (IRQ) 948 (772–1225) vs. 939 (776–1163) grams; and gestational age: 28.2 (26.5–29.6) vs. 27.8 (26.1–29.4) weeks. Daily median concentrations of biochemical parameter were not different between the groups but linear regression mixed model analyses showed that Ca intake increased the uCa and TrP (p = 0.04) and decreased ALP (p = 0.00). Phosphorus intake increased sP, uP and uP/creat ratio and ALP (p ≤ 0.02) and caused decrease in TrP (p = 0.00). Protein intake decreased sP (p = 0.000), while low gestational age and male gender increased renal excretion of P (p < 0.03). Standardized repeated measurements showed that biochemical parameters were affected by nutritional intake, gestational age and gender.
Vitamin B12 among Vegetarians: Status, Assessment and Supplementation
Authors: Rizzo Gianluca , Laganà Antonio , Rapisarda Agnese , La Ferrera Gioacchina , Buscema Massimo , Rossetti Paola , Nigro Angela , Muscia Vincenzo , Valenti Gaetano , Sapia Fabrizio , Sarpietro Giuseppe , Zigarelli Micol , Vitale Salvatore
Published: November 2016

Cobalamin is an essential molecule for humans. It acts as a cofactor in one-carbon transfers through methylation and molecular rearrangement. These functions take place in fatty acid, amino acid and nucleic acid metabolic pathways. The deficiency of vitamin B12 is clinically manifested in the blood and nervous system where the cobalamin plays a key role in cell replication and in fatty acid metabolism. Hypovitaminosis arises from inadequate absorption, from genetic defects that alter transport through the body, or from inadequate intake as a result of diet. With the growing adoption of vegetarian eating styles in Western countries, there is growing focus on whether diets that exclude animal foods are adequate. Since food availability in these countries is not a problem, and therefore plant foods are sufficiently adequate, the most delicate issue remains the contribution of cobalamin, which is poorly represented in plants. In this review, we will discuss the status of vitamin B12 among vegetarians, the diagnostic markers for the detection of cobalamin deficiency and appropriate sources for sufficient intake, through the description of the features and functions of vitamin B12 and its absorption mechanism.
Exploration of Learning during an International Health Elective Using Photovoice Methodology
Authors: Werremeyer Amy , Skoy Elizabeth , Aalgaard Kelly Gina
Published: November 2016

Based on surveys and structured interviews, International Health Experiences (IHEs) improve cultural sensitivity, communication, and self-confidence among health professions students. However, open-ended methods to explore student learning during an IHE are not widely utilized. We sought to explore pharmacy student-identified learning during an IHE in an open-ended fashion using Photovoice methodology. Pharmacy students on an IHE in Guatemala were given disposable cameras and asked to photograph images that reflected their learning. Through the application of Photovoice methodology students captured, reflected upon, and presented photos to describe the learning they experienced. Themes were drawn from the reflective and focus group data collected. During three IHEs, six students captured seventy-seven photos. Four main learning themes emerged: culture/cultural competence, professional growth, shifting of attitudes, and meaningful/emotional experiences. Pharmacy students documented learning in expected (cultural competence, professional growth) and unexpected (emotional experiences) domains during an IHE. Photovoice may be an effective methodology for the exploration of learning, allowing students to capture their own learning including and beyond what is expected by their instructors.
Synthesis and Functions of Jasmonates in Maize
Authors: Borrego Eli , Kolomiets Michael
Published: November 2016

Of the over 600 oxylipins present in all plants, the phytohormone jasmonic acid (JA) remains the best understood in terms of its biosynthesis, function and signaling. Much like their eicosanoid analogues in mammalian system, evidence is growing for the role of the other oxylipins in diverse physiological processes. JA serves as the model plant oxylipin species and regulates defense and development. For several decades, the biology of JA has been characterized in a few dicot species, yet the function of JA in monocots has only recently begun to be elucidated. In this work, the synthesis and function of JA in maize is presented from the perspective of oxylipin biology. The maize genes responsible for catalyzing the reactions in the JA biosynthesis are clarified and described. Recent studies into the function of JA in maize defense against insect herbivory, pathogens and its role in growth and development are highlighted. Additionally, a list of JA-responsive genes is presented for use as biological markers for improving future investigations into JA signaling in maize.
A Novel Gravity Compensation Method for High Precision Free-INS Based on “Extreme Learning Machine”
Authors: Zhou Xiao , Yang Gongliu , Cai Qingzhong , Wang Jing
Published: November 2016

In recent years, with the emergency of high precision inertial sensors (accelerometers and gyros), gravity compensation has become a major source influencing the navigation accuracy in inertial navigation systems (INS), especially for high-precision INS. This paper presents preliminary results concerning the effect of gravity disturbance on INS. Meanwhile, this paper proposes a novel gravity compensation method for high-precision INS, which estimates the gravity disturbance on the track using the extreme learning machine (ELM) method based on measured gravity data on the geoid and processes the gravity disturbance to the height where INS has an upward continuation, then compensates the obtained gravity disturbance into the error equations of INS to restrain the INS error propagation. The estimation accuracy of the gravity disturbance data is verified by numerical tests. The root mean square error (RMSE) of the ELM estimation method can be improved by 23% and 44% compared with the bilinear interpolation method in plain and mountain areas, respectively. To further validate the proposed gravity compensation method, field experiments with an experimental vehicle were carried out in two regions. Test 1 was carried out in a plain area and Test 2 in a mountain area. The field experiment results also prove that the proposed gravity compensation method can significantly improve the positioning accuracy. During the 2-h field experiments, the positioning accuracy can be improved by 13% and 29% respectively, in Tests 1 and 2, when the navigation scheme is compensated by the proposed gravity compensation method.
One-Step Fabrication of Microchannels with Integrated Three Dimensional Features by Hot Intrusion Embossing
Authors: Debono Mike , Voicu Dan , Pousti Mohammad , Safdar Muhammad , Young Robert , Kumacheva Eugenia , Greener Jesse
Published: November 2016

We build on the concept of hot intrusion embossing to develop a one-step fabrication method for thermoplastic microfluidic channels containing integrated three-dimensional features. This was accomplished with simple, rapid-to-fabricate imprint templates containing microcavities that locally control the intrusion of heated thermoplastic based on their cross-sectional geometries. The use of circular, rectangular and triangular cavity geometries was demonstrated for the purposes of forming posts, multi-focal length microlense arrays, walls, steps, tapered features and three-dimensional serpentine microchannels. Process variables, such as temperature and pressure, controlled feature dimensions without affecting the overall microchannel geometry. The approach was demonstrated for polycarbonate, cycloolefin copolymer and polystyrene, but in principle is applicable to any thermoplastic. The approach is a step forward towards rapid fabrication of complex, robust, microfluidic platforms with integrated multi-functional elements.
Influence of Fragrances on Human Psychophysiological Activity: With Special Reference to Human Electroencephalographic Response
Authors: Sowndhararajan Kandhasamy , Kim Songmun
Published: November 2016

The influence of fragrances such as perfumes and room fresheners on the psychophysiological activities of humans has been known for a long time, and its significance is gradually increasing in the medicinal and cosmetic industries. A fragrance consists of volatile chemicals with a molecular weight of less than 300 Da that humans perceive through the olfactory system. In humans, about 300 active olfactory receptor genes are devoted to detecting thousands of different fragrance molecules through a large family of olfactory receptors of a diverse protein sequence. The sense of smell plays an important role in the physiological effects of mood, stress, and working capacity. Electrophysiological studies have revealed that various fragrances affected spontaneous brain activities and cognitive functions, which are measured by an electroencephalograph (EEG). The EEG is a good temporal measure of responses in the central nervous system and it provides information about the physiological state of the brain both in health and disease. The EEG power spectrum is classified into different frequency bands such as delta (0.5–4 Hz), theta (4–8 Hz), alpha (8–13 Hz), beta (13–30 Hz) and gamma (30–50 Hz), and each band is correlated with different features of brain states. A quantitative EEG uses computer software to provide the topographic mapping of the brain activity in frontal, temporal, parietal and occipital brain regions. It is well known that decreases of alpha and beta activities and increases of delta and theta activities are associated with brain pathology and general cognitive decline. In the last few decades, many scientific studies were conducted to investigate the effect of inhalation of aroma on human brain functions. The studies have suggested a significant role for olfactory stimulation in the alteration of cognition, mood, and social behavior. This review aims to evaluate the available literature regarding the influence of fragrances on the psychophysiological activities of humans with special reference to EEG changes.
Fluctuating Asymmetry of Craniological Features of Small Mammals as a Reflection of Heterogeneity of Natural Populations
Authors: Shadrina Elena , Vol’pert Yakov
Published: November 2016

Fluctuating asymmetry (FA) in nine species of small mammals (Insectivora and Rodentia) was estimated using 10 cranial features (foramina for nerves and blood vessels). The main criterion was the occurrence of the fluctuating asymmetry manifestations (OFAM). A total of 2300 skulls collected in the taiga and forest-tundra of Yakutia (Northeast Asia) were examined. The examined species are characterized by comparable OFAM values in the vast territories of the taiga zone; on the ecological periphery of the range an increased FA level is registered. Asymmetric manifestations in analyzed features are equally likely to occur in males and females. OFAM values in juveniles are higher than in adults; this difference is more pronounced on the periphery of the geographic range. Among juveniles, lower FA levels are observed in individuals that have bred. It can be surmised that the risk of elimination of individuals with high FA levels increases in stressful periods (active reproduction and winter). In conditions that are close to optimal, populations demonstrate relatively homogeneous FA levels, while on the periphery of the area an increase in occurrence of disturbances in developmental stability is observed, which leads, on one hand, to higher average FA for the population and, on the other hand, to heterogeneity of the population in this parameter.
Haematological, Biochemical and Antioxidant Changes in Wistar Rats Exposed to Dichlorvos Based Insecticide Formulation Used in Southeast Nigeria
Authors: Kanu Kingsley , Ijioma Solomon , Atiata Odudu
Published: November 2016

The indiscriminate use of pesticide is a treat to non-target organisms. This study evaluates the haematological and biochemical changes induced by inhalation of local Nigerian dichlorvos insecticide on rats. The rats were randomly assigned to a control group which received only food and water and a test group which, in addition to food and water, was exposed to the pesticide for a period of 4 h daily for 28 days, after which exposure was discontinued for seven days. Five animals were sacrificed from each group on days 1, 7, 14, 21, 28 and 35, and blood was collected by cardiac puncture for haematological, biochemical and antioxidant analysis. Results obtained showed lowered values of red blood cell count (RBC), packed cell volume (PCV), haemoglobin, mean cell haemoglobin (MCH) and mean cell haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) (p < 0.05) with increased white blood cell count (WBC) and platelet counts after day 14 when compared to the control group. Liver enzymes aspartate amino transaminase (AST) and alanine amino transaminase (ALT) were higher in the exposed rats compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Urea and creatinine concentrations increased significantly after day 1 and at day 28, while superoxide dismutase (SOD), gluthathione (GSH) and catalase (CAT) activity increased significantly compared to the control after day 1, day 14 and day 21, respectively. The RBC, PCV and haemoglobin values of all exposed rats were restored to normal following withdrawal of the pesticide, though AST, ALT, urea, creatinine and, glutathione values remained significantly high compared to the control. Inhalation of the local insecticide is toxic to the blood, liver and kidney of laboratory rats and may be deleterious to human health following long-term exposure.
Fast Screening of Antibacterial Compounds from Fusaria
Authors: Sondergaard Teis , Fredborg Marlene , Oppenhagen Christensen Ann-Maria , Damsgaard Sofie , Kramer Nikoline , Giese Henriette , Sørensen Jens
Published: November 2016

Bio-guided screening is an important method to identify bioactive compounds from fungi. In this study we applied a fast digital time-lapse microscopic method for assessment of the antibacterial properties of secondary metabolites from the fungal genus Fusarium. Here antibacterial effects could be detected for antibiotic Y, aurofusarin, beauvericin, enniatins and fusaric acid after six hours of cultivation. The system was then used in a bio-guided screen of extracts from 14 different Fusarium species, which had been fractionated by HPLC. In this screen, fractions containing the red pigments aurofusarin and bikaverin showed effects against strains of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. The IC50 for aurofusarin against Lactobacillus acidophilus was 8 µM, and against Bifidobacterium breve it was 64 µM. Aurofusarin only showed an effect on probiotic bacteria, leading to the speculation that only health-promoting bacteria with a positive effect in the gut system are affected.
Le genre Balanus sur les côtes de Camargue et du Gard
Authors: Granier Jacky
Published: November 2016

Cette note constitue le premier travail spécialisé sur les Cirripèdes des côtes de Camargue et du Gard. L'auteur décrit et figure 6 espèces de Balanus observées sur ce littoral. Il expose les observations qu'il a pu faire sur ce genre insuffisamment étudié sur les côtes françaises de la Méditerranée. Deux des espèces récoltées (B. eburneus et B. trigonus) n'ont été citées qu'une ou deux fois sur notre littoral méditerranéen. L'auteur donne la répartition stratigraphique et géographique des espèces étudiées. Toutes les déterminations ont été effectuées à partir des pièces operculaires des échantillons vivants.
Action du Dithiotréitol sur l'inhibition de l'ouverture des stomates par le N-éthylmaléimide, l'acide abscisique et le salicylaldoxime en absence de gaz carbonique et à la lumière
Authors: Mouravieff Igor
Published: November 2016

On a montré dans une publication antérieure que l'N-éthylmaléimide avait la propriété d'empêcher l'ouverture des stomates à la lumière, même en absence de gaz carbonique. Etant donné que ce produit est un puissant inhibiteur des groupes — SH, on a supposé que l'inhibition des enzymes de la glycolyse serait à l'origine de la non-ouverture des stomates.

Afin de vérifier cette hypothèse, on a utilisé le Dithiotréitol réactivateur de choix des groupes — SH, dans le but de protéger les enzymes de l'action de l'inhibiteur. Effectivement, comme le montrent les expériences, l'ouverture des stomates est possible en présence de l'N-éthylmaléimide et du dithiotréitol.

Par contre, pour deux autres inhibiteurs, l'acide abscisique et le salicylaldoxime, l'adjonction du dithiotréitol n'a pas d'action ce qui indique que l'inhibition par ces deux produits se fait par un autre mécanisme que celui de l'inactivation de certains groupes — SH actifs des deshydrogénases.
Crenitis punctatostriata, Coléoptère d'eau douce nouveau pour la France
Authors: Roman Émile
Published: November 2016

Le Coléoptère Hyrophilidae Crenitis punctatostriata a été trouvé pour la première fois en France dans le Jura, au lac des Rousses, dans une zone à climat froid analogue à celui de ses localités suisses.
Les Tabanidae (Diptera) de France
Authors: Pernot-Visentin Odile , Beaucournu-Saguez Françoise
Published: November 2016

This study concerns 626 individuals captured throughout France. The different informations are assembled in the diagram, the departments are gathered in large geographical area according to Doctor Leclercq's diagram. This has allowed us to obtain a certain number of conclusions. The population is very diversified classes with different optimum live together among which we find a distinct predominance of euroasiatic elements (17 species and 1 variety present in 114 captures). The mediterranean ones are weakly represented (19 captures only). The first capture of Chrysops sepulchralis maurus Siebke took place in France in the Pyrénées-Orientales on August 2nd, 1967.
Recherches écologiques et biogéographiques sur deux espèces jumelles de planaires d'eau douce dans la région lyonnaise
Authors: Lascombe Claude
Published: November 2016

L'étude de la distribution des deux espèces P. nigra et P. tenuis montre que, si toutes deux peuvent cohabiter en plaine, la seconde s'élève davantage en altitude. Parmi les divers facteurs écologiques envisagés, on constate une tendance chez P. tenuis à se limiter aux milieux d'eau calme et à coloniser des stations où la température et certaines conditions chimiques atteignent des valeurs extrêmes (euryécie), P. nigra se cantonnant dans des stations où ces mêmes facteurs conservent des valeurs moyennes (sténécie). De ce fait, P. tenuis se trouve moins souvent associée à son espèce jumelle que cette dernière et plus souvent en compagnie d'autres Planaires à exigences écologiques différentes.
Le genre Leistus Froehlig (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Nebriini). - VIII. Sous-genre Leistus s. str. (1) : Groupes d'espèces et biogéographie
Authors: Perrault Georges G.
Published: November 2016

Une analyse systématique et biogéographique permet de présenter un schéma probable de l'évolution phylogénétique du genre Leistus. Le sous-genre Neoleistus Erwin est considéré comme valable. Le sous-genre Leistus s. str. est divisé en groupes d'espèces, et on donne un tableau de détermination des espèces asiatiques appartenant au groupe de L. fulvibarbis Dejean, parmi lesquelles trois sont décrites comme nouvelles : L. chaudoiri et L. ledouxi des Alpes Pontiques (Turquie) et L. semenovi du Turkestan.
Remarques sur les espèces yougoslaves de Lampyris (Coleoptera Lampyridae)
Authors: Miksic René
Published: November 2016

Suite à la révision des espèces européennes du genre Lampyris publié par Geisthardt (1984), quelques remarques concernant la faune yougoslave sont présentées en faisant référence à un travail antérieur (Miksic et Miksic, 1966). En particulier, L. zenkeri et L. germariensis citées par Geisthardt correspondent en fait à respectivement L. lusitanica et L. zenkeri ; cette dernière espèce ayant été correctement traitée dans notre travail antérieur. En outre, certains noms de localité yougoslaves sont précisés.
Deux géologues du siècle dernier : Falsan et Dumortier
Authors: Rulleau Louis
Published: November 2016

Albert Falsan (1833-1902) et Eugène Dumortier (1801-1876) tous deux disciples de Fournet sont deux géologues représentatifs de l'école lyonnaise du XIVe siècle, le premier nous a laissé, entre autres ouvrages, une admirable description géologique du Mont d'Or ; l'œuvre paléontologique du second reste encore inégalée sur le plan régional.
Découverte de Boreus hiemalis L. (Mecoptera : Boreidae) dans le Lyonnais
Authors: Keith Denis
Published: November 2016

Le mécoptère Boreus hiemalis L. est signalé pour la première fois des environs de Lyon (Département du Rhône, France). La nouvelle sation est présentée.
Quelques plantes nouvelles pour le département de l'Ardèche
Authors: Descoings Bernard-Marie
Published: November 2016

Un inventaire de la flore vasculaire du Département de l'Ardèche a été publié en 1982 par N. Denelle. Depuis, neuf espèces non encore signalées dans la dition ont été répertoriées, dont deux rares et endémiques méditerranéennes, deux rares et protégées, deux méridionales, deux étrangères envahissantes et une subalpine.
Nouvelles captures françaises d'Agabus melanarius Aubé (Coleoptera Dytiscidae)
Authors: Leblanc Pascal , Bruneel H.
Published: November 2016

The authors complete the distribution from A. melanarius in France by adding four new departments and they confirm its presence at the present day in three others. They also give some elements about the biotopes and the Hydradephaga living with this Agabus.
Remarques sur la biocénose des Cecropia (Cecropiaceae). Biologie des Coelomera Chevrolat avec la description d'une nouvelle espèce du Brésil (Coleoptera Chrysomelidae Galerucinae)
Authors: Jolivet Pierre
Published: November 2016

Outre des généralités sur la biocénose des Cecropia à fourmis, l'association des Coelomera avec ces Cecropia est décrite ici, mais de nombreux points restent obscurs notamment la biologie des Coelomera associés aux Cecropia myrmécophobes. Coelomera helenae est décrit de Cecropia hololeuca Miquel de la région de Viçosa, MG Brésil.