bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of Algerian Honey from Tiaret Region and Immunoassay Study of Its Immunomodulatory Effect in BALB/c Mice
Authors: MEHDI Yamina , MEBREK Saâd , DJEBARA Soraya , AISSAOUI Yamina , BENAHMED Khadidja , BENALI Amina Imène , BENALI Mohammed , BELBRAOUET Slimane
Published: December 2015

Honey is a food that possesses several antiseptic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. In this study, the immunomodulatory effect of honey was evaluated by Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) using ovalbumin as an allergen model. To compare the honey quality, we conducted a range of physicochemical analyses on four different samples from the Tiaret region (Algeria) using the immunosuppressive or immunomodulatory effect in Balb/c mice. Our results show that the injection of 100 μL of honey before 6 hours, 6 hours after and at the same time as the injection of antigen (ovalbumin) causes a significant suppressive activity on production of the IgG isotype by Balb/c mice. This result corroborates this therapeutic virtue ascribed to honey which has resulted in a suppressive demonstration of honey on the humoral immune response. This opens an interesting perspective in the clinical area, as immunosuppressive agents play an important role in the transfer of various organs and immune system diseases.
Consumer Responses to Proposed Instructions for Cooking Mechanically Tenderized Beef Steaks
Authors: Klassen M. D. , Gill C. O.
Published: December 2015

Mechanical tenderizing of beef can result in bacteria, which may include enteric pathogens such as Escherichia coli O157:H7, from the surface being carried into previously sterile deep tissues. A telephone survey of 1021 Canadian consumers was conducted during September 2013 to determine current steak cooking practices, and responses to proposed instructions for cooking to ensure microbiological safety intended for labels on packs of mechanically tenderized beef (MTB) steaks. The responses indicated that 95% of Canadian consumers preferably cook steaks to a medium rare or more well done condition while 66% turn steaks over twice or more during cooking. These practices are those required to ensure the microbiological safety of MTB steaks. Apparently, over 80% of consumers would have no difficulty understanding, and would be likely to follow instructions that specify these practices for the safe cooking of MTB steaks.
Nanotechnology: A Journey towards Finding Solutions
Authors: Singh Satya Pal
Published: December 2015

Nanotechnology is the understanding and control of matter at the diemnsions ranging between 1-100 nm. One nanometer is one billionth of a meter. Nanotechnology involves manipulation of atoms, imaging, measuring and modelling at nano scale. Its potentials were first highlighted by Richard Feynman in the American Physical Scociety meeting in 1959. Though, he did not coin the world nanotechnology himself but he explored the possiblities of functional materials at the bottom of the scale. In last two decades this technology has been commercialized to great extent and gaining importance day by day influencing the economies of different countries and henceforth enforcing the policy makers to address the issues like environment, health and safety. Governments are regularisaing and monitoring its research, uses, applications and technology transfer which includes intelluctaul property rights. This paper addresses the dimensions and trends of nanotechnology covering economic aspects. The paper is focussed on the changes in the functional properties of nanomaterials as physical, chemical, optical, electronic, electrical, magnetic etc. in comparision to those of the bulk of material. It has been discussed how the basic and advance research in nanoscience could be explotiedfor making technologies for its commercial and industrial applications for the benefit and safety of the soceity. Thin film magnetism is demonstrated using Monte Carlo simulation method. Experimental synthesisof some of thenanorods and qunatum dots are also discussed.
Minderjarige slachtoffers in herstelbemiddeling: positie en ervaringen
Authors: Renders Eline , Vanfraechem Inge
Published: December 2015

Young victims in victim-offender mediation: position and experiences

This article studies the position of young victims in restorative justice and mediation. First we study the literature, which shows that although young victims may have specific needs, their position within restorative justice remains underexposed. Therefore, we have set up a small explorative study in the beginning of 2015. Through nine interviews with young victims who have gone through a mediation process in Flanders, we sought to answer three central questions. The article discusses whether these victims were satisfied with the mediation process, whether they could have a say in the process and what the importance was of having support persons throughout the mediation process.

We found that the participation of the parents does influence the mediation process, since the parents are the main support persons for the young victim. Other support people are seldom present in the process, although some victims wanted the school or a friend to participate. Most of the young victims found they had a say in the process, but the presence of the parents could be an impediment in that regard. Young victims interviewed were generally satisfied with the mediator and mediation process, but not always with the outcome of the mediation. Ensuring that these young victims really get a say in the process proved to be a point of attention for practice.
Previsão das séries temporais do Índice Carbono Eficiente (ICO2) da BM&FBOVESPA: uma análise por meio de modelos de alisamento exponencial
Authors: Lima Áurea Isis Cassimiro , Souza André Luis , Faria Juliano Almeida , Rodrigues Lívia
Published: December 2015

Neste estudo, objetivou-se analisar e discutir a contribuição dos modelos exponenciais de Holt-Winters e o modelo de SARIMA para previsão do Índice Carbono Eficiente (ICO2) da BM&FBOVESPA para o ano de 2014. Realizou-se pesquisa bibliográfica e documental de natureza exploratória, com abordagem quantitativa, analítica e descritiva, utilizando-se dois métodos estatísticos para prever os valores dos pontos médios do ICO2, quais sejam: Holt-Winters e SARIMA (2,1,1) x (0,1,1). Ambos foram avaliados pelo Erro Quadrático Médio (EQM) e escolhidos a partir do menor valor deste para representar a previsão dos pontos médios do ICO2 por determinado período. Verificou-se que, em períodos curtos (até seis meses), com o SARIMA (2,1,1) x (0,1,1) estima-se melhor do que com o Holt-Winters e, para períodos longos (a partir de seis meses), com o HoltWinters efetuam-se previsões melhor do que com o SARIMA (2,1,1) x (0,1,1). Sugere-se que outros modelos sejam testados, para verificar sua adequação e também para que as previsões sejam o mais possível sensíveis, diminuindo, assim, a diferença entre valores previstos e reais.
Métodos de avaliação de empreendimentos em tecnologia de informação e inovação: uma análise financeira em condições de incerteza
Authors: Carmona Charle Ulises De Montreuil , Falcão Sobral Marcos Felipe , Silveira Menelau Almir , Cavalcanti Filho André Marques , Marques Cabral Romilson
Published: December 2015

Neste estudo, analisou-se a melhor forma de avaliar empreendimentos de tecnologia de informação e inovação, considerando que estes são realizados em ambientes de elevada incerteza financeira com resultados difíceis de projetar. Utilizou-se a teoria das opções reais, mais recomendada porque permite capturar as alternativas de flexibilidade do negócio e incorporar o impacto da volatilidade, cujos efeitos não podem ser mensurados pelos métodos de avaliação clássicos. Avaliaram-se as informações sobre a situação financeira das cinco principais empresas globais do setor mencionado, como representantes típicos da área de inovação que realizam projetos e empreendimentos em condições de alto risco negocial, cujo estudo, contudo, pode ser estendido a outros negócios. Analisou-se a evolução dos preços das ações, que definem o valor de mercado dessas empresas, utilizando a simulação de Monte Carlo, comparando com as trajetórias teóricas de preços e suas principais distorções. Finalmente, examinaram-se as principais alternativas flexíveis que favorecem a metodologia proposta e as principais limitações do trabalho.
Previsão da produção industrial por meio da análise espectral multivariada
Authors: Orge Carlos Alberto , De Senna Valter
Published: December 2015

Neste estudo, aplicou-se o modelo espectral de análise multivariada ao conjunto de séries temporais da produção de diferentes segmentos da indústria de transformação, no Brasil, considerando-se a capacidade desse modelo em capturar estruturas que representem o comportamento abrangente da série temporal em estudo. A escolha dos segmentos industriais deu-se por conta do destaque de cada um deles no total produzido no ano de 2013. O modelo espectral de análise multivariada demonstrou-se adequado, quando comparado com dois modelos clássicos que levam em consideração a sazonalidade, ao permitir um maior número de melhores desempenhos das previsões dos preços. Os resultados obtidos no período fora da amostra, mediante o uso das medidas de erro e do teste estatístico preditivo, confirmam isso. A pesquisa pode auxiliar os gestores na formulação e aplicação de políticas direcionadas ao setor industrial. A possibilidade de antever o comportamento da produção pode ser decisiva no que diz respeito às políticas de estabilização da produção, ao longo do ano, eliminado os possíveis entraves provocados pela sazonalidade.
Análise sobre o grau de maturidade em gestão da inovação nas micro e pequenas empresas do setor de tecnologia de Santos/SP uenas empresas do setor de tecnologia de Santos/SP
Authors: Pozo Hamilton , Bueno Marielys Siqueira
Published: December 2015

Esta pesquisa tem como principal finalidade identificar e analisar o grau de maturidade em gestão da inovação das Micro e Pequenas Empresas (MPE) de TI da cidade de Santos-SP. Analisaram-se, por meio de uma pesquisa descritiva, as MPE do setor de Tecnologia da Informação em Santos considerando cinco grupos de indicadores: indicadores de entrada (recursos financeiros e humanos investidos em inovação), formas de inovação (como ocorre a inovação na empresa), fontes de inovação (quem proporciona o processo de inovação) indicadores de saída (resultados mensuráveis que analisam quantitativamente o retorno da inovação) e impactos da inovação (o que mudou na empresa a partir do momento da adoção de gestão de inovação). A partir do método empregado, classificaram-se as MPE em: a. não inovadoras b. inovadoras e c. inovadoras avançadas. Além disso, 64% delas foram enquadradas como medianamente inovadora – MIN.
Aplicação e comparação dos métodos ELECTRE II e PROMETHEE II como ferramentas de auxílio à tomada de decisões hospitalares
Authors: Arcanjo Carlos Firmino Durães , Amaral Thiago Magalhães , Sá Gabriella Luiza Pereira de
Published: December 2015

Vários métodos utilizados pela Pesquisa Operacional (PO) vêm ganhando notoriedade tanto no setor industrial como no de serviços, principalmente no que tange aos serviços hospitalares. Neste artigo, objetivou-se comparar dois métodos de sobreclassificação: o Preference Ranking Organization Method for Enrichment Evaluation (PROMETHEE) II e o Elimination Et Choix Traduisant la Realité (ELECTRE) II aplicados em um hospital de emergência e urgência a fim de mostrar as vantagens e desvantagens de cada método. A comparação entre os rankings obtidos pelos métodos mostra claramente a distinção entre a ordem obtida, apesar de ambos terem posicionado em primeiro lugar a alternativa “Disciplinar a Equipe Médica”. Os resultados mostraram que o algoritmo do Promethee II conseguiu evitar o empate entre alternativas.
Inappropriation et 'diversalité' chez J. M. G. Le Clézio
Authors: Ridon Jean-Xavier
Published: December 2015

Tout en partant de la polémique que suscita la publication du manifeste Pour une littérature-monde en 2007, cet article analysera comment J.M.G. Le Clézio se situe par rapport au concept de littérature-monde. À partir de sa manière
toute particulière d'occuper différents lieux du monde, l'étude définira ce qu'une appartenance multiple signifie pour lui et sa façon de penser le transnationalisme. L'article se concentrera essentiellement sur les derniers essais et interventions publiques
de J.M.G. Le Clézio, au cours desquels il tente de redéfinir le concept d'appartenance. L'article posera la question de savoir si la notion d'interculturel dont Le Clézio se sert n'est pas en définitive une autre version du concept d'hybridité mis en avant
par les théories postcoloniales. L'étude mettra ainsi en avant les contradictions de son approche tout en montrant comment il nous force à repenser les notions de cosmopolitisme et de 'diversalité'.
Introduction: Transnational/Transartistic Journeys
Authors: Silvester Rosalind , Topping Margaret
Published: December 2015

In the past two decades we have witnessed a series of epistemological shifts, springing from traditional area studies and departing from nationally bounded fields. These moves seem to dislocate and problematize categories of identity by focusing on translocality and by calling attention
to processes of displacement, dispersion, objects and ideas, and to the new cultural and imaginary territories that these mobilizations effect. Such formulations, while historically situated, illuminate flows and favour transformation, as opposed to producing ontological crystallisations.
This issue will explore the view that the creation of new cultural phenomena may be achieved, in the richest of ways, through the mixing of genres and the crossing of media. It will seek to investigate how various contemporary art forms serve to express, envision, challenge and renegotiate
Francophone identities that reach across cultures.
Living on in Translation: Fin de siècle Operatic Adaptations of Pierre Loti's Le Mariage de Loti
Authors: Ewart Rebecca
Published: December 2015

This article focuses on two operatic adaptations of Pierre Loti's Le Mariage de Loti: Léo Delibes' Lakmé (1883) and Reynaldo Hahn's L'Île du rêve (1898). It will analyse these operas as translations that initiate afterlives for the original
text by transforming and adapting it in new contexts of production and reception. These translations will also be considered as afterlives of Polynesian culture as it is represented in Loti's text. The article will look at the shifts, or changes, enacted upon the original text by the translator,
as well as the extent to which the translations adhere to or shift away from exoticist norms. It will argue that Lakmé reinforces such norms, while also at times enacting shifts which call them into question. L'Île du rêve offers a close translation of Le
Mariage that only deviates from the original in order to reinstate the exoticist norms that Loti attempted to challenge.
[Use of tenofovir monotherapy in a cohort of prisoners confined in the prisons of the Molise region and affected by mild HBV-related chronic hepatitis]
Authors: Patriarchi Roberto , Di Nicola Antonio , Grassi Orazio , De Bartolomeo Giuseppe
Published: December 2015

Inmates are a population at risk for hepatitis B virus infection. It affects about 2% of Italian prisoners, while the prevalence in the Molise region seems to be higher, accounting for around 4% of the inmates.The Authors report their experience in a penitentiary in the management of chronic hepatitis B with tenofovir. In particular, 10 male patients affected by HBV-related chronic hepatitis naïves to treatment confined in the prisons of the Molise region were treated with tenofovir 245 mg/die. The results show a satisfactory response, excellent tolerance, and no interruptions.[Article in Italian]
Le placement auprès de personnes significatives au Québec
Authors: Hélie Sonia , Turcotte Geneviève , Turcotte Daniel , Carignan Audrée-Jade
Published: December 2015

Cette étude propose un premier portrait représentatif des enfants placés auprès d’une personne significative (PS) au Québec après l’entrée en vigueur de nouvelles dispositions législatives en protection de la jeunesse, ainsi que certaines modalités de leur placement. Tous les enfants évalués en protection de la jeunesse en 2007-2008 et placés auprès de PS (n = 941) ou en famille d’accueil (FA) (n = 1 586) avant novembre 2009 sont inclus dans l’étude. Les résultats suggèrent que les enfants confiés à des PS présentent moins de vulnérabilités que les enfants placés en FA. Ils montrent également que le placement auprès de PS est utilisé en début de processus et que l’enfant est retourné chez lui pour l’étape de la prise en charge dans 38 % des cas. Ces résultats sont analysés à la lumière des connaissances actuelles sur ce type de placement dans d’autres pays, et des pistes de réflexion sont dégagées pour améliorer cette pratique de plus en plus fréquente en protection de la jeunesse.
Modeling transport of energetic particles in corotating interaction regions: A case study
Authors: Zhao Lulu , Li Gang , Ebert R. W. , Dayeh M. A. , Desai M. I. , Mason G. M. , Wu Z. , Chen Y.
Published: December 2015

We investigate energetic particle transport in corotating interaction regions (CIRs) through a case study. The CIR event we study occurred on 8 February 2008 and was observed by both the Advanced Composition Explorer (ACE) and the twin Solar TErrestrial RElations Observatory (STEREO) B spacecraft. An in situ reverse shock was observed by STEREO B (1.0 AU) but not ACE (0.98 AU). Using STEREO B observations and assuming the CIR structure does not vary significantly in the corotating frame, we estimate the shock location at later times for both the STEREO B and ACE observations. Further assuming the accelerated particle spectral shape at the shock does not vary with shock location, we calculate the particle differential intensities as observed by ACE and STEREO B at two different times by solving the focused transport equation using a Monte Carlo simulation. We assume that particles move along Parker's field and experience no cross‐field diffusion. We find that the modulation of sub‐MeV/nucleon particles is significant. To obtain reasonable comparisons between the simulations and the observations by both ACE and STEREO B, one has to assume that the CIR shock can accelerate more particles at a larger heliocentric distance than at a smaller heliocentric distance.
Small‐scale fluctuations in barium drifts at high latitudes and associated Joule heating effects
Authors: Hurd L. D. , Larsen M. F.
Published: December 2015

Most previous estimates of Joule heating rates, especially the contribution of small‐scale structure in the high‐latitude ionosphere, have been based on incoherent scatter or coherent scatter radar measurements. An alternative estimate can be found from the plasma drifts obtained from ionized barium clouds released from sounding rockets. We have used barium drift data from three experiments to estimate Joule heating rates in the high‐latitude E region for different magnetic activity levels. In particular, we are interested in the contribution of small‐scale plasma drift fluctuations, corresponding to equivalent electric field fluctuations, to the local Joule heating rate on scales smaller than those typically resolved by radar or other measurements. Since Joule heating is a Lagrangian quantity, the inherently Lagrangian estimates provided by the chemical tracer measurements are a full description of the effects of electric field variance and neutral winds on the heating, differing from the Eulerian estimates of the type provided by ground‐based measurements. Results suggest that the small‐scale contributions to the heating can be more than a factor of 2 greater than the mean field contribution regardless of geomagnetic conditions, and at times the small‐scale contribution is even larger. The high‐resolution barium drift measurements, moreover, show that the fine structure in the electric field can be more variable than previous studies have reported for similar conditions. The neutral winds also affect the heating, altering the height‐integrated Joule heating rates by as much as 12%, for the cases studied here, and modifying the height distribution of the heating profile as well.
Stress‐induced seismic azimuthal anisotropy in the upper crust across the North West Shelf, Australia
Authors: Gavin Lisa J. , Lumley David
Published: December 2015

Seismic azimuthal anisotropy (SAA) is observed in many areas of the Earth, and fast polarized directions (ϕ) have been mapped using earthquake surface waves and teleseismic S wave splitting over large regional and tectonic scales. Higher‐resolution petroleum exploration data, including 3‐D seismic surveys and dipole shear logs, often exhibit azimuthal anisotropy; however, we are unaware of any published studies mapping SAA from exploration‐scale data to study large‐scale regional and tectonic SAA trends. The physical mechanisms causing SAA in earthquake data are a subject of great interest; comparing regional ϕ trends to the higher‐resolution exploration trends may help understand these mechanisms. We present a SAA analysis using seismic exploration data across the North West Shelf (NWS) of Australia. We map the fast polarization directions ϕ from 34 dipole shear logs and two 3‐D seismic surveys and compare them to in situ maximum horizontal stress orientations (σH). Our results show that the ϕ and σH trends correlate across a geographical area spanning almost 2000 km and are similar to published results in the region from earthquake seismology. These results suggest that differential horizontal stress is the likely mechanism causing SAA at a wide range of spatial scales on the NWS of Australia. We also show that SAA is not observed at exploration scales in some areas of the NWS and propose a lithology‐dependent stress sensitivity model in which SAA is strongest in clean, unconsolidated quartz‐dominated sandstones and weaker or nonexistent in well‐consolidated cemented rocks and shale‐dominated sediments.
A multiscale climate emulator for long‐term morphodynamics (MUSCLE‐morpho)
Authors: Antolínez José Antonio A. , Méndez Fernando J. , Camus Paula , Vitousek Sean , González E. Mauricio , Ruggiero Peter , Barnard Patrick
Published: December 2015

Interest in understanding long‐term coastal morphodynamics has recently increased as climate change impacts become perceptible and accelerated. Multiscale, behavior‐oriented and process‐based models, or hybrids of the two, are typically applied with deterministic approaches which require considerable computational effort. In order to reduce the computational cost of modeling large spatial and temporal scales, input reduction and morphological acceleration techniques have been developed. Here we introduce a general framework for reducing dimensionality of wave‐driver inputs to morphodynamic models. The proposed framework seeks to account for dependencies with global atmospheric circulation fields and deals simultaneously with seasonality, interannual variability, long‐term trends, and autocorrelation of wave height, wave period, and wave direction. The model is also able to reproduce future wave climate time series accounting for possible changes in the global climate system. An application of long‐term shoreline evolution is presented by comparing the performance of the real and the simulated wave climate using a one‐line model.
Intermittency of gravity wave momentum flux in the mesopause region observed with an all‐sky airglow imager
Authors: Cao Bing , Liu Alan Z.
Published: December 2015

The intermittency of gravity wave momentum flux (MF) near the OH airglow layer (∼87 km) in the mesopause region is investigated for the first time using observation of all‐sky airglow imager over Maui, Hawaii (20.7°N, 156.3°W), and Cerro Pachón, Chile (30.3°S, 70.7°W). At both sites, the probability density function (pdf) of gravity wave MF shows two distinct distributions depending on the magnitude of the MF. For MF smaller (larger) than ∼16 m2 s−2 (0.091 mPa), the pdf follows a lognormal (power law) distribution. The intermittency represented by the Bernoulli proxy and the percentile ratio shows that gravity waves have higher intermittency at Maui than at Cerro Pachón, suggesting more intermittent background variation above Maui. It is found that most of the MF is contributed by waves that occur very infrequently. But waves that individually contribute little MF are also important because of their higher occurrence frequencies. The peak contribution is from waves with MF around ∼2.2 m2 s−2 at Cerro Pachón and ∼5.5 m2 s−2 at Maui. Seasonal variations of the pdf and intermittency imply that the background atmosphere has larger influence on the observed intermittency in the mesopause region.
Intestinal removal of free fatty acids from hosts by Lactobacilli for the treatment of obesity
Authors: Chung Hea‐Jong , Yu Jae G. , Lee In‐Ah , Liu Ming‐Jie , Shen Yan‐Fei , Sharma Satya P. , Jamal Mohammad A. H. M. , Yoo Jun‐Hyun , Kim Hyeon‐Jin , Hong Seong‐Tshool
Published: December 2015

Recent findings on the association of gut microbiota with various diseases, including obesity, prompted us to investigate the possibility of using a certain type of gut bacteria as a safe therapeutic for obesity. Lactobacillus mutants with enhanced capacity in absorption of free fatty acids (FFAs) were isolated to show reduced absorption of FFAs by the administered host, attributing to inhibition of body weight gain and body fat accumulation as well as amelioration of blood profiles. Consequently, high throughput screening of natural FFAs‐absorbing intestinal microbes led to the isolation of Lactobacillus reuteri JBD30 l. The administration of Lactobacillus JBD30l lowered the concentration of FFAs in the gut fluid content of small intestine, thus reducing intestinal absorption of FFAs whereas promoting fecal excretion of FFAs. Animal data also confirmed that the efficacy of Lactobacillus JBD30l on body weight similar to that of orlistat, an FDA‐approved pharmaceutical for long‐term use to treat obesity. In a subsequent random, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled clinical trial (KCT0000452 at Clinical Research Information Service of Korea), there was a statistically significant difference in the percentage change in body weight between the Lactobacillus JBD301 and the placebo group (P = 0.026) as well as in the BMI (P = 0.036) from the 0‐week assessment to the 12‐week assessment. Our results show that FFA‐absorbing Lactobacillus JBD301 effectively reduces dietary fat absorption, providing an ideal treatment for obesity with inherent safety.
Dendritic Cells
Authors: See Peter , Ginhoux Florent
Published: December 2015

Dendritic cells (DCs) are distributed in almost all tissues body, acting as sentinels of the immune system. They serve as specialised pathogen‐sensing and antigen‐presenting cells that initiate and regulate the immune response. DCs are derived from unique progenitors present in the bone marrow, which seed the tissues where they differentiate into mature DCs. Transcriptomic, phenotypic and functional analyses indicate that human and murine DCs can be divided into three subsets: two subsets of conventional DCs (cDC) named cDC1 and cDC2, and a third lineage of plasmacytoid DCs (pDCs). Each subset is unique and has distinct functional specialisations to control specific T‐cell responses. DCs form a complex cellular network capable of integrating multiple environmental signals and can induce either immunity or tolerance. As a consequence, DCs are suitable candidates for therapeutic intervention in immune‐mediated conditions.

Key Concepts

Dendritic cells are a heterogeneous group of specialised pathogen‐sensing and antigen‐presenting cells.

They are distributed in almost all tissues and organs, and act as sentinels of the immune system.

They are derived from DC‐restricted progenitors present in the bone marrow and arise from a dedicated lineage.

They can be grouped into three subsets based on ontogeny and transcription factor dependency: two lineages of conventional DCs named cDC1 and cDC2, as well as a third lineage of plasmacytoid DCs (pDCs).

Each subset is unique and has distinct functional specialisations.

The cDC1 subset is efficient at cross‐presentation, and elicits Th1 responses.

The cDC2 subset is capable of eliciting Th2 and Th17 responses.

pDCs produce large amounts of type I interferons to combat viral infections.
Natural Antibodies
Authors: Zouali Moncef
Published: December 2015

Natural antibodies are essentially antibodies of the immunoglobulin M (IgM) isotype present in the circulation of normal humans and other mammalian species. They are detectable in the serum of healthy individuals before deliberate immunisation. They are often directed against highly conserved epitopes and often bind to ligands of varying chemical composition with low affinity. This antibody subset contrasts with immune antibodies, which are produced in response to the introduction of antigens to the immune system. Natural antibodies are frequently directed to intracellular structures, rather than to cell‐surface antigens. They have been found to play an innate‐like role in protection against infectious agents and to exert homeostatic functions in a variety of experimental models. Other investigations suggest that natural antibodies can play a pathogenic role in autoinflammatory diseases.

Key Concepts

A natural antibody is an antibody present in the circulation of an animal or a subject that had not been previously exposed to the corresponding antigen.

Certain B‐lymphocyte subsets, such as B‐1a cells, are committed to natural antibody production.

The antibody repertoire expressed in B‐cell malignancies exhibits several features in common with those of the natural antibody repertoire of healthy subjects.

It is possible that natural antibody production is driven by microorganisms indigenous to the organism, such as bacteria living in the intestine.

Natural antibodies play a role in shaping the B‐cell repertoire and may represent the precursors of antibodies to pathogens.

Natural antibodies could serve as innate recognition receptors, recognising various bacterial cell‐wall components or parasites.

Studies of rodents rendered deficient in natural antibodies suggest that this antibody subset is endowed with a homeostatic potential and housekeeping functions, such as recognition and removal of senescent cells and other self‐antigens.

Circumstantial evidence suggests that natural antibodies can be associated with protection against Alzheimer disease, atherosclerosis or cancer development.

B lymphocytes secreting natural antibodies could represent a reservoir capable of mutating their immunoglobulin variable region genes to give rise to high‐affinity pathogenic autoantibodies.
W
arburg,
O
tto
H
einrich
Authors: Nickelsen Kärin
Published: December 2015

Otto Heinrich Warburg (1883–1970) was a German biochemist and Director of the Kaiser Wilhelm Institute for Cell Physiology in Berlin‐Dahlem. Warburg is noted for eminent studies of central metabolic processes, such as respiration, cancer and photosynthesis. He revolutionised cell physiological and biochemical research through the introduction of physical methods and techniques (manometry, spectrophotometry and others) and he was able to identify and crystallise a number of important (co‐)enzymes. For his work in cellular respiration, Warburg was awarded the Nobel Prize in Medicine or Physiology in 1931.
Clostridia
Authors: Dürre Peter
Published: December 2015

Clostridia are strictly anaerobic or moderately aerotolerant bacteria, gaining adenosine triphosphate (ATP) mostly by substrate level phosphorylation. However, electron transport chains and membrane pumps for H
+
or Na
+
extrusion are also found. These ions are then used for energy conservation by respective ATPases. A variety of heterotrophic compounds can be degraded, and a number of different fermentation pathways are employed. Several clostridia are also able of autotrophic growth, using CO
2
and CO as carbon source. Sophisticated methods for culturing and genetic manipulation are established. Several pathogenic species belong to the genus, but even some of the toxins are meanwhile used in therapy, research and cosmetic industry. Biotechnologically important are clostridial enzymes, the clostridial solvent production and cancer therapy by recombinant clostridial endospores. A recent industrial application at large scale is the production of bulk and fine chemicals from waste gases, especially synthesis gas.

Key Concepts

Clostridia are composing a taxonomically diverse group, which undergoes frequent reclassification.

Clostridia are anaerobic (sometimes not strictly) and form endospores, which is the cause for their ubiquitous occurrence.

Members of the genus
Clostridium
are nutritionally extremely versatile, able to degrade a large variety of heterotrophic substrates and able to grow under autotrophic conditions.

Clostridia participate to a large extent in biogeochemical cycles (e.g. of carbon, nitrogen and metals).

Few clostridia produce one or several toxins, however, among these toxins are the most potent known (botulinum toxin).

Both, clostridial toxins and clostridial cells are already used as or being developed into medical applications for therapy.

Autotrophic clostridia gained industrial relevance and are being used for converting waste gases into bulk and fine chemicals.
Nitrogen Fixation in Cyanobacteria
Authors: Stal Lucas J
Published: December 2015

Cyanobacteria are oxygenic photosynthetic bacteria that are widespread in marine, freshwater and terrestrial environments, and many of them are capable of fixing atmospheric nitrogen. However, ironically, nitrogenase, the enzyme that is responsible for the reduction of N
2
, is extremely sensitive to O
2
. Therefore, oxygenic photosynthesis and N
2
fixation are not compatible. Hence, cyanobacteria had to evolve a variety of strategies circumventing this paradox, allowing them to grow at the expense of N
2
, a ubiquitous source of nitrogen. Some filamentous cyanobacteria differentiate heterocysts. These cells lack the oxygenic photosystem and possess a glycolipid cell wall that keeps the oxygen concentration sufficiently low for nitrogen fixation to take place. This strategy is known as spatial separation of oxygenic photosynthesis and nitrogen fixation. Nonheterocystous cyanobacteria may temporally separate these processes by fixing nitrogen during the night. Again others use a combination of these strategies.

Key Concepts

Cyanobacteria may fix the ubiquitously available CO
2
and N
2
, and therefore cover the demand of the two most important elements.

The fixation of N
2
comes at a high metabolic energy cost, but cyanobacteria are phototrophic organisms that use sunlight to cover their energy demand.

Nitrogenase, the enzyme complex responsible for the fixation of N
2
, is sensitive to oxygen and requires a near‐to‐anoxic environment.

Cyanobacteria are phototrophic organisms evolving oxygen and they developed various strategies to combine this with N
2
fixation.

In order to fix N
2
, cyanobacteria separate the incompatible processes of oxygenic photosynthesis and N
2
fixation spatially (in different cells) or temporally (during the night), or a combination of both.

N
2
fixation in the ocean is restricted to the (sub)tropics and carried out by free‐living nonheterocystous filamentous and unicellular cyanobacteria and by symbiotic cyanobacteria living with microalgae.

Heterocystous cyanobacteria are found in freshwater, brackish water, terrestrial environments and symbiotic in plants and algae.

Cyanobacteria have a circadian clock that synchronises metabolic processes and allow for the fixation of N
2
.
N
otch Signalling in Cancer
Authors: Aithal Madhuri GS , Narayanappa Rajeswari
Published: December 2015

The Notch pathway is an evolutionarily conserved signalling pathway involved in the development of diverse organisms from drosophila to humans. It plays a pivotal role in maintenance of stem cells and cell‐fate determination in both developing embryos and adult organisms. Aberrant Notch signalling is oncogenic and is documented in various cancers such as cervical, breast, skin, colon, pancreatic, leukaemia, brain tumour and so on. Genome defects including both genetic and epigenetic alterations contribute to cancer development. Both Notch gain‐of‐function and loss‐of‐function mutations have been reported in various cancers. On the basis of the type of tissue, Notch genes are found to function as both oncogenes and tumour‐suppressor genes. Epigenetic alterations of Notch genes including DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) methylation and histone modifications contribute to cancer development through transcription regulation, resulting in inappropriate activation or silencing of genes. Thus, Notch pathway plays an important role in tumour development through genetic and epigenetic modifications in several different ways.

Key Concepts

Notch pathway is an evolutionarily conserved cell‐signalling pathway involved in the development of both vertebrate and invertebrate species.

It is responsible for communication between adjacent cells controlling multiple cell differentiation through regulation of gene expression during embryonic and adult life.

Aberrant Notch signalling is linked with various human diseases including cancers by modifying the developmental state of the cells and subsequently maintaining the cells in an undifferentiated or proliferative fate.

Abnormal Notch signalling is found to influence oncogenesis through genome defects involving both genetic and epigenetic alterations.

Depending on the cellular context, altered Notch pathway genes can act either as oncogenes or tumour‐suppressor genes.

The first reported Notch mutation was the chromosome translocation in T‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia patients creating an active and oncogenic Notch1. Since then, Notch mutations, both gain‐of‐function and loss‐of‐function, have been identified in various cancers.

Promoter hypermethylation in Notch genes is more common in cancer compared to hypomethylation.

Histone modifications are covalent, and among various forms, lysine acetylation and lysine/arginine methylation are most common in cancer.
Mitochondrial Depletion Syndromes
Authors: Finsterer Josef , Wakil Salma M
Published: December 2015

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) depletion syndromes (MDDSs) are a clinically and molecularly heterogeneous group of mitochondrial disorders characterised by severely reduced mtDNA copy number in affected tissues. Phenotypically, MDDSs manifest as Alpers‐Huttenlocher disease (AHD), mitochondrial neurogastrointestinal encephalomyopathy (MNGIE), infantile‐onset spinocerebellar ataxia (IOSCA), hepatocerebral MDDS, encephalomyopathic MDDS or myopathic MDDS. Genotypically, MDDSs are due to mutations in nine genes (POLG1, C10orf2/PEO1, DGUOK, MPV17, TK2, RRM2B, SUCLA2, SUCLG1, TYMP). Except for AHD and IOSCA, MDDSs are genetically heterogeneous. The diagnosis is established upon clinical and instrumental investigations and demonstration of depleted mtDNA in affected tissues, such as muscle, liver, brain or intestines. Treatment is symptomatic in the vast majority of the cases and can substantially relief clinical manifestations. A causal therapeutic approach with allogeneic, hematopoietic stem‐cell transplantation is available for MNGIE. MDDSs have a poor prognosis in the majority of the cases. The outcome is usually better the later the onset of the MDDSs.

Key Concepts

Paediatric and adult neurologist must be aware of multisystem mitochondrial depletion syndromes (MDDSs).

MDDSs predominantly manifest in the brain, muscle, liver, kidneys and intestines.

In addition to mutations in one of the nine classical genes associated with MDDS, it may be caused by mutations in other genes as well.

MDDSs are diagnosed by demonstration of mtDNA depletion upon biopsy of the most affected tissues.

mtDNA copy number may be normal in tissues hardly phenotypically affected.

Clinical severity of MDDS depends on the amount of the residual mtDNA copy number.

MDDSs may rarely also occur in adults due to mutations in nuclear genes other than the nine classical ones.
The Concept of Consecutive Matching Stria (
CMS
) and the Philosophy Behind the Concept of Individuality in Striated Match Comparisons
Authors: Heard Brian J.
Published: December 2015

This article discusses concept of using consecutive matching stria (CMS) as a quantitative method of describing an observed pattern match, its philosophy, history, a discussion on the relevance of such a concept and its relevance in a court of law.
Technology and Cognitive Bias
Authors: Heyer Rebecca
Published: December 2015

A range of forensic identification technologies have been introduced to assist forensic examiners to search through the large amounts of data with which they are faced. These technologies have been introduced based on the assumption that a human–technology partnership will be more effective than either the human or technology alone. However, human performance in the field of forensic comparison is highly variable and humans by their very nature are susceptible to bias. Contrary to depictions in popular media, forensic identification technologies are not perfect either. While they are highly accurate and improvements in their performance are consistently being realized, they are susceptible to error and a range of variables can impact on their accuracy. This article outlines how the technical performance realities of forensic identification technologies can interact with an examiner's own biases to influence decision outcomes. It also demonstrates how decision making can be biased by the way in which information is presented to examiners by the technology, and potentially lead to erroneous decisions being made. The article concludes with a discussion of how increasing awareness, practical training, adjustments to workflow, and interface design that is sensitive to the cognitive capabilities of users can help to minimize such biases.
Firearms – Bullet and Cartridge Case Identification: A Brief History of Firearms Identification
Authors: Heard Brian J.
Published: December 2015

This article discusses a history of Forensic Firearms Identification including equipment and techniques used, the difference between class and individual characteristics, and the life expectancy of said markings. Problematical markings and possible solutions for the visualisation of these stria are covered as well as accidental mismatches with manufacturing marks. The importance of the Daubert trilogy in testing the credibility of expert witnesses in US Courts of Law is discussed. The criteria for the concept of consecutively matching stria (CMS), its use, misuse, and history are discussed in detail.
Neuropsychological Assessment: Child
Authors: Tramontana Michael G.
Published: December 2015

Child neuropsychological assessment is examined as a tool in the evaluation of brain abnormalities in children. How it differs from other diagnostic methods is carefully reviewed, as are the special challenges involved in the assessment of children versus adults. There is an overview of different clinical applications and of the major test methods and approaches currently available. There is also a critical analysis of key conceptual and practical issues in the field.
Right to Treatment
Authors: Christopher Sheresa , Vitacco Michael
Published: December 2015

Through a series of court cases, the right of mental health patients to receive treatment for their mental illness is well established. For instance, in Wyatt v. Stickney (1972) and O' Connor v. Donaldson (1975) the need for the state to provide treatment services was made explicit. Yet, within this treatment availability model, maintaining and protecting the rights of the consumer remains paramount. Relying on therapeutic jurisprudence, an appropriate balance can be provided between the right to treatment and mandated treatment. The article delineates both controversies and challenges associated with a right to treatment in juvenile offenders, sex offenders, and prisoners.
Gallium: Inorganic Chemistry
Authors: Banger Kulbinder K.
Published: December 2015

This article is based on the original article written by Barronet al., which provides an overview of the inorganic chemistry of gallium and its compounds. While the structure has remained the same, the sections have been updated to include areas of current studies in this field. In addition, the use of various Ga‐related alloys as either binary or ternary semiconducting material for bulk, thin film, and nanotechnology is reported. The chemistry of Ga inorganic and coordination derivatives is also reviewed and discussed.
Manganese Proteins with Mono‐ and Dinuclear Metal Sites
Authors: Dzul Stephen , Stemmler Timothy L. , Penner‐Hahn James E.
Published: December 2015

Although manganese is not as widely recognized in bioinorganic chemistry as iron and copper, it nevertheless plays an essential role in several key biological processes. Consequently, manganese concentrations are tightly regulated in most cells. Several Mn‐specific transporters have been identified and a novel Mn‐regulatory protein has been characterized. Manganese‐activated enzymes are proteins that have relatively weak affinities for Mn; in many cases, these are isolated without any metal bound. Manganese‐activated enzymes are especially important in hydrolytic reactions and appear, in at least some cases, to have physiologically significant changes in activity that respond to changes in Mn concentration. The best‐characterized Mn proteins are redox‐active enzymes, where Mn typically cycles between the Mn(II) and Mn(III) oxidation states, although some Mn(IV)‐containing species are known.
Metal Ion Toxicity
Authors: Crisponi Guido , Nurchi Valeria M.
Published: December 2015

General principles of metal ion toxicity in humans are discussed including comparative stabilities with a variety of ligands and interdependencies among metal ions. Short reviews are presented for lead, mercury, cadmium, chromium, beryllium, cobalt, nickel, and actinides.
Single‐Walled Carbon Nanotubes: Functionalization by Intercalation
Authors: Shiozawa Hidetsugu , Pichler Thomas , Pfeiffer Rudolf , Kuzmany Hans
Published: December 2015

The article reviews recent progresses in functionalization of single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs). We describe detailed studies of electronic, chemical, and structural properties of intercalated and filled carbon nanotubes using state‐of‐the‐art spectroscopic and microscopic techniques. Intercalation with alkali metal allows one to finely tune the electron doping level of SWCNTs. A photoemission study of potassium intercalation compounds of SWCNT bundles unveils a transition of the metallic ground state of an SWCNT bundle from a Tomonaga–Luttinger liquid state to a Fermi liquid state. In turn, the filling of SWCNTs with fullerenes and organic molecules facilitates a reality of nanochemistry using carbon nanotubes as a nanoreactor. Spectroscopic and microscopic studies of the interconversion of encapsulated fullerenes and organic molecules show catalytic and noncatalytic processes for the inner tube growth from different filling precursors. Unique atomic wires and clusters can be created inside SWCNTs. We present that such chemical reactions of the encapsulated molecules result in the evolution of doping and bonding properties of the carbon nanotube host.
Status as Strategic Metals
Authors: Kramer Deborah A.
Published: December 2015

Throughout US history, light metals have played a vital role in defense applications in everything from aircraft and ships to missiles, satellites, and batteries for electronic communications equipment. Especially since World War II, the need for these metals has been recognized, and various actions have been taken to ensure a readily available supply of sufficient quantities of these materials. Aluminum, beryllium, and magnesium have been included in the National Defense Stockpile (NDS) that was established after World War II to ensure a ready supply of these materials. This article looks at the changing uses for aluminum, beryllium, lithium, and magnesium in defense applications, the history and current status of the NDS as a means of ensuring sufficient mineral supplies, and future trends.