bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Methodological Challenges in Protein Microarray and Immunohistochemistry for the Discovery of Novel Autoantibodies in Paediatric Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis
Authors: Peschl Patrick , Ramberger Melanie , Höftberger Romana , Jöhrer Karin , Baumann Matthias , Rostásy Kevin , Reindl Markus
Published: March 2017

Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) is a rare autoimmune-mediated demyelinating disease affecting mainly children and young adults. Differentiation to multiple sclerosis is not always possible, due to overlapping clinical symptoms and recurrent and multiphasic forms. Until now, immunoglobulins reactive to myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG antibodies) have been found in a subset of patients with ADEM. However, there are still patients lacking autoantibodies, necessitating the identification of new autoantibodies as biomarkers in those patients. Therefore, we aimed to identify novel autoantibody targets in ADEM patients. Sixteen ADEM patients (11 seronegative, 5 seropositive for MOG antibodies) were analysed for potential new biomarkers, using a protein microarray and immunohistochemistry on rat brain tissue to identify antibodies against intracellular and surface neuronal and glial antigens. Nine candidate antigens were identified in the protein microarray analysis in at least two patients per group. Immunohistochemistry on rat brain tissue did not reveal new target antigens. Although no new autoantibody targets could be found here, future studies should aim to identify new biomarkers for therapeutic and prognostic purposes. The microarray analysis and immunohistochemistry methods used here have several limitations, which should be considered in future searches for biomarkers.
Activity of Amphotericin B and Anidulafungin Combined with Rifampicin, Clarithromycin, Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid, N-Acetylcysteine, and Farnesol against Candida tropicalis Biofilms
Authors: Fernández-Rivero Marcelo , Del Pozo José , Valentín Amparo , De Diego Araceli , Pemán Javier , Cantón Emilia
Published: March 2017

We evaluated the activity of (1) amphotericin-B (AMB), combined with rifampicin (RIF), clarithromycin (CLA), N-acetylcysteine (NAC), ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), and farnesol (FAR) (1000, 1000, 1000, 4000, and 30,000 mg/L, and 300 µM, respectively), against Candida tropicalis biofilms formed on polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and (2) anidulafungin (ANF) combined with the same compounds at 8, 10, 5, 40, and 30 mg/L, and 30 µM, respectively, against biofilms formed on titanium. Biofilm growth kinetics were performed in a CDC Biofilm Reactor (CBR). PTFE or titanium disks were removed from the CBR at 24, 48, 72, and 96 h to determine the Log10CFU/cm2. Killing kinetics were performed by adding the drugs to 24-h-mature biofilms (time 0). Disks were removed after 24, 48, and 72 h of drug exposure to determine Log10CFU/cm2. Viable cells in biofilms were 4.73 and 4.29 Log10CFU/cm2 on PTFE and titanium, respectively. Maximum Log10 decreases in CFU/cm2 depend on the combination and were: 3.53 (AMB + EDTA), 2.65 (AMB + RIF), 3.07 (AMB + NAC), 2.52 (AMB + CLA), 1.49 (AMB + FAR), 2.26 (ANF + EDTA), 2.45 (ANF + RIF), 2.47 (ANF + NAC), 1.52 (ANF + CLA), and 0.44 (ANF + FAR). In conclusion, EDTA, NAC, RIF, and CLA improve the activity of AMB and ANF against biofilms developed on both surfaces, which could be an effective strategy against C. tropicalis biofilm-related infections.
Study of the Corrosion Resistance of Austenitic Stainless Steels during Conversion of Waste to Biofuel
Authors: Cabrini Marina , Lorenzi Sergio , Pastore Tommaso , Pellegrini Simone , Burattini Mauro , Miglio Roberta
Published: March 2017

The paper deals with the corrosion behavior of stainless steels as candidate materials for biofuel production plants by liquefaction process of the sorted organic fraction of municipal solid waste. Corrosion tests were carried out on AISI 316L and AISI 304L stainless steels at 250 °C in a batch reactor during conversion of raw material to bio-oil (biofuel precursor), by exposing specimens either to water/oil phase or humid gas phase. General corrosion rate was measured by weight loss tests. The susceptibility to stress corrosion cracking was evaluated by means of U-bend specimens and slow stress rate tests at 10−6 or 10−5 s−1 strain rate. After tests, scanning electron microscope analysis was carried out to detect cracks and localized attacks. The results are discussed in relation with exposure conditions. They show very low corrosion rates strictly dependent upon time and temperature. No stress corrosion cracking was observed on U-bend specimens, under constant loading. Small cracks confined in the necking cone of specimens prove that stress corrosion cracking only occurred during slow strain rate tests at stresses exceeding the yield strength.
Prevalence and Determinants of Suboptimal Vitamin D Levels in a Multiethnic Asian Population
Authors: Man Ryan , Li Ling-Jun , Cheng Ching-Yu , Wong Tien , Lamoureux Ecosse , Sabanayagam Charumathi
Published: March 2017

This population-based cross-sectional study examined the prevalence and risk factors of suboptimal vitamin D levels (assessed using circulating 25-hydroxycholecalciferol (25(OH)D)) in a multi-ethnic sample of Asian adults. Plasma 25(OH)D concentration of 1139 Chinese, Malay and Indians (40–80 years) were stratified into normal (≥30 ng/mL), and suboptimal (including insufficiency and deficiency, <30 ng/mL) based on the 2011 Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guidelines. Logistic regression models were used to assess the associations of demographic, lifestyle and clinical risk factors with the outcome. Of the 1139 participants, 25(OH)D concentration was suboptimal in 76.1%. In multivariable models, age ≤65 years (compared to age >65 years), Malay and Indian ethnicities (compared to Chinese ethnicity), and higher body mass index, HbA1c, education and income levels were associated with suboptimal 25(OH)D concentration (p < 0.05). In a population-based sample of Asian adults, approximately 75% had suboptimal 25(OH)D concentration. Targeted interventions and stricter reinforcements of existing guidelines for vitamin D supplementation are needed for groups at risk of vitamin D insufficiency/deficiency.
Beetroot Juice Supplementation Improves High-Intensity Intermittent Type Exercise Performance in Trained Soccer Players
Authors: Nyakayiru Jean , Jonvik Kristin , Trommelen Jorn , Pinckaers Philippe , Senden Joan , Van Loon Luc , Verdijk Lex
Published: March 2017

It has been shown that nitrate supplementation can enhance endurance exercise performance. Recent work suggests that nitrate ingestion can also increase intermittent type exercise performance in recreational athletes. We hypothesized that six days of nitrate supplementation can improve high-intensity intermittent type exercise performance in trained soccer players. Thirty-two male soccer players (age: 23 ± 1 years, height: 181 ± 1 m, weight: 77 ± 1 kg, playing experience: 15.2 ± 0.5 years, playing in the first team of a 2nd or 3rd Dutch amateur league club) participated in this randomized, double-blind cross-over study. All subjects participated in two test days in which high-intensity intermittent running performance was assessed using the Yo-Yo IR1 test. Subjects ingested nitrate-rich (140 mL; ~800 mg nitrate/day; BR) or a nitrate-depleted beetroot juice (PLA) for six subsequent days, with at least eight days of wash-out between trials. The distance covered during the Yo-Yo IR1 was the primary outcome measure, while heart rate (HR) was measured continuously throughout the test, and a single blood and saliva sample were collected just prior to the test. Six days of BR ingestion increased plasma and salivary nitrate and nitrite concentrations in comparison to PLA (p < 0.001), and enhanced Yo-Yo IR1 test performance by 3.4 ± 1.3% (from 1574 ± 47 to 1623 ± 48 m; p = 0.027). Mean HR was lower in the BR (172 ± 2) vs. PLA trial (175 ± 2; p = 0.014). Six days of BR ingestion effectively improves high-intensity intermittent type exercise performance in trained soccer players.
Consumption of Yogurt and the Incident Risk of Cardiovascular Disease: A Meta-Analysis of Nine Cohort Studies
Authors: Wu Lei , Sun Dali
Published: March 2017

Previous systematic reviews and meta-analyses have evaluated the association of dairy consumption and the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). However, the findings were inconsistent. No quantitative analysis has specifically assessed the effect of yogurt intake on the incident risk of CVD. We searched the PubMed and the Embase databases from inception to 10 January 2017. A generic inverse-variance method was used to pool the fully-adjusted relative risks (RRs) and the corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) with a random-effects model. A generalized least squares trend estimation model was used to calculate the specific slopes in the dose-response analysis. The present systematic review and meta-analysis identified nine prospective cohort articles involving a total of 291,236 participants. Compared with the lowest category, highest category of yogurt consumption was not significantly related with the incident risk of CVD, and the RR (95% CI) was 1.01 (0.95, 1.08) with an evidence of significant heterogeneity (I2 = 52%). However, intake of ≥200 g/day yogurt was significantly associated with a lower risk of CVD in the subgroup analysis. There was a trend that a higher level of yogurt consumption was associated with a lower incident risk of CVD in the dose-response analysis. A daily dose of ≥200 g yogurt intake might be associated with a lower incident risk of CVD. Further cohort studies and randomized controlled trials are still demanded to establish and confirm the observed association in populations with different characteristics.
Reaction-Multi Diffusion Model for Nutrient Release and Autocatalytic Degradation of PLA-Coated Controlled-Release Fertilizer
Authors: Irfan Sayed , Razali Radzuan , KuShaari KuZilati , Mansor Nurlidia
Published: March 2017

A mathematical model for the reaction-diffusion equation is developed to describe the nutrient release profiles and degradation of poly(lactic acid) (PLA)-coated controlled-release fertilizer. A multi-diffusion model that consists of coupled partial differential equations is used to study the diffusion and chemical reaction (autocatalytic degradation) simultaneously. The model is solved using an analytical-numerical method. Firstly, the model equation is transformed using the Laplace transformation as the Laplace transform cannot be inverted analytically. Numerical inversion of the Laplace transform is used by employing the Zakian method. The solution is useful in predicting the nutrient release profiles at various diffusivity, concentration of extraction medium, and reaction rates. It also helps in explaining the transformation of autocatalytic concentration in the coating material for various reaction rates, times of reaction, and reaction-multi diffusion. The solution is also applicable to the other biodegradable polymer-coated controlled-release fertilizers.
Potential and Recycling Strategies for LCD Panels from WEEE
Authors: Ueberschaar Maximilian , Schlummer Martin , Jalalpoor Daniel , Kaup Nora , Rotter Vera
Published: March 2017

Indium is one of the strategically important materials, which have been characterized as critical by various industrialized countries. Despite its high relevance, only low recycling rates are realized. Its main application is in indium tin oxide (ITO), which is used in the production of liquid crystal displays (LCD). However, recovery strategies for indium from LCDs are not yet being implemented in recycling practices. Although LCDs consist of a sandwich compound with additional materials such as glass (80% ± 5%) and polarizer foils (20% ± 5%), recently published recycling approaches focus mainly on the recovery of indium exclusively. This study, first of all, provides information about the quantity and quality of the materials applied in the LCD panels of the various equipment types investigated, such as notebooks, tablets, mobile phones, smartphones, PC monitors, and LCD TVs. The highest indium mass fraction per mass of LCD was determined in mobile phones and the least indium was found in smartphones. Additionally, we found the significant use of contaminating metals like antimony, arsenic, lead, and strontium in the glass fraction. Thus, specific recovery strategies should focus on selected equipment types with the highest indium potential, which is directly related to the sales of new devices and the number of collected end-of-life devices. Secondly, we have developed and successfully tested a novel recycling approach for separating the sandwich compound to provide single output fractions of panel glass, polarizer foils, and an indium concentrate for subsequent recycling. Unfortunately, the strongly varying content of contaminating metals jeopardizes the recycling of this output fraction. Nonetheless, economic recycling approaches need to address all materials contained, in particular those with the highest share in LCD panels such as polarizer foils and panel glass.
A Sparse SAR Imaging Method Based on Multiple Measurement Vectors Model
Authors: Ao Dongyang , Wang Rui , Hu Cheng , Li Yuanhao
Published: March 2017

In recent decades, compressive sensing (CS) is a popular theory for studying the inverse problem, and has been widely used in synthetic aperture radar (SAR) image processing. However, the computation complexity of CS-based methods limits its wide applications in SAR imaging. In this paper, we propose a novel sparse SAR imaging method using the Multiple Measurement Vectors model to reduce the computation cost and enhance the imaging result. Based on using the structure information and the matched filter processing, the new CS-SAR imaging method can be applied to high-quality and high-resolution imaging under sub-Nyquist rate sampling with the advantages of saving the computational cost substantially both in time and memory. The results of simulations and real SAR data experiments suggest that the proposed method can realize SAR imaging effectively and efficiently.
Monitoring Concrete Deterioration Due to Reinforcement Corrosion by Integrating Acoustic Emission and FBG Strain Measurements
Authors: Li Weijie , Xu Changhang , Ho Siu , Wang Bo , Song Gangbing
Published: March 2017

Corrosion of concrete reinforcement members has been recognized as a predominant structural deterioration mechanism for steel reinforced concrete structures. Many corrosion detection techniques have been developed for reinforced concrete structures, but a dependable one is more than desired. Acoustic emission technique and fiber optic sensing have emerged as new tools in the field of structural health monitoring. In this paper, we present the results of an experimental investigation on corrosion monitoring of a steel reinforced mortar block through combined acoustic emission and fiber Bragg grating strain measurement. Constant current was applied to the mortar block in order to induce accelerated corrosion. The monitoring process has two aspects: corrosion initiation and crack propagation. Propagation of cracks can be captured through corresponding acoustic emission whereas the mortar expansion due to the generation of corrosion products will be monitored by fiber Bragg grating strain sensors. The results demonstrate that the acoustic emission sources comes from three different types, namely, evolution of hydrogen bubbles, generation of corrosion products and crack propagation. Their corresponding properties are also discussed. The results also show a good correlation between acoustic emission activity and expansive strain measured on the specimen surface.
Technical Aspects and Validation of a New Biofeedback System for Measuring Lower Limb Loading in the Dynamic Situation
Authors: Raaben Marco , Holtslag Herman , Augustine Robin , Van Merkerk Rutger , Koopman Bart , Blokhuis Taco
Published: March 2017

Background: A variety of techniques for measuring lower limb loading exists, each with their own limitations. A new ambulatory biofeedback system was developed to overcome these limitations. In this study, we described the technical aspects and validated the accuracy of this system. Methods: A bench press was used to validate the system in the static situation. Ten healthy volunteers were measured by the new biofeedback system and a dual-belt instrumented treadmill to validate the system in the dynamic situation. Results: Bench press results showed that the sensor accurately measured peak loads up to 1000 N in the static situation. In the healthy volunteers, the load curves measured by the biofeedback system were similar to the treadmill. However, the peak loads and loading rates were lower in the biofeedback system in all participants at all speeds. Conclusions: Advanced sensor technologies used in the new biofeedback system resulted in highly accurate measurements in the static situation. The position of the sensor and the design of the biofeedback system should be optimized to improve results in the dynamic situation.
Stability Study and a 14-Day Oral Dose Toxicity in Rats of Plantain Leaf Extract (Plantago lanceolata L.) Syrup
Authors: Mansoor Kenza , Qadan Fadi , Schmidt Mathias , Mallah Eyad , Abudayyih Wael , Matalka Khalid
Published: March 2017

Plants have been used since antiquity to treat and prevent diseases. Plantain (Plantago lanceolata L.) is traditionally used for the treatment of the common cold and associated symptoms such as cough. This study was designed to evaluate the oral toxicity of plantain leaf extract-containing syrup. In preparation of the toxicological examination and to ensure the quality of the herbal preparation, analytical methods were developed and validated, and stability testing was performed. Physicochemical and microbial quality, thin layer chromatography patterns and high performance liquid chromatography fingerprints complied with the specifications during the entire period of stability testing. The marker substance, acteoside, remained within the stability-defining limits of 90%–110% for quantitative determinations. No hint of toxicity emerged from 14-day repeat dose toxicity testing in rats. The animals were given doses of 3, 6, or 12 mL of syrup per kg body weight by gavage twice daily. All animals showed normal appearance and behavior. Body and organ weights at the end of the study were similar to those in the control group. Overall, P. lanceolata syrup was found to be stable and non-toxic under the test conditions.
A More Sustainable Way for Producing RC Sandwich Panels On-Site and in Developing Countries
Authors: Graziani Lorenzo , Quagliarini Enrico , D’Orazio Marco , Lenci Stefano , Scalbi Agnese
Published: March 2017

The purpose of this work is to assess if traditionally used welded connectors for joining the two skins of reinforced concrete (RC) sandwich panels, used as structural walls and horizontal structural elements, can be substituted with bent ones. In this way, the scope of the effort is to reduce drastically the energy required during manufacturing, thus having a much more sustainable building product. Wire mesh on site production, in fact, requires a large amount of energy for the welding process, as stated by several Environmental Product Declaration (EPD). In addition, the production of sandwich panels with bent connectors requires a low level of automation and no qualified labor allowing the diffusion in developing countries. The procedures used to execute the work were both experimental and numerical. Structural performances were examined by testing full-scale sandwich panels under (axial and eccentric) compression and flexural loads. Additionally, a Finite Element (FE) study was developed to investigate and to optimize the dimension of welded mesh and the number of connectors. The major findings show that it is possible to substitute welded connectors with bent ones without compromising the structural performance of the tested RC sandwich panels, thus having a more sustainable way for producing these last ones.
Sustainability through the Lens of Environmental Sociology: An Introduction
Authors: Islam Md
Published: March 2017

Our planet is undergoing radical environmental and social changes. Sustainability has now been put into question by, for example, our consumption patterns, loss of biodiversity, depletion of resources, and exploitative power relations. With apparent ecological and social limits to globalization and development, current levels of consumption are known to be unsustainable, inequitable, and inaccessible to the majority of humans. Understanding and achieving sustainability is a crucial matter at a time when our planet is in peril—environmentally, economically, socially, and politically. Since its official inception in the 1970s, environmental sociology has provided a powerful lens to understanding the challenges, possibilities, and modes of sustainability. This editorial, accompanying the Special Issue on “sustainability through the Lens of Environmental Sociology”, first highlights the evolution of environmental sociology as a distinct field of inquiry, focusing on how it addresses the environmental challenges of our time. It then adumbrates the rich theoretical traditions of environmental sociology, and finally examines sustainability through the lens of environmental sociology, referring to various case studies and empirical analyses.
The Integrated Approach for Sustainable Performance Evaluation in Value Chain of Vietnam Textile and Apparel Industry
Authors: Le Thi-Nham , Wang Chia-Nan
Published: March 2017

The impressive growth of the Vietnam textile and apparel industry has led to some concerns due to its insufficient value chain and fierce competition within the industry. Thus, performance evaluation is significant issue to estimate the values of companies over time. Firstly, the grey prediction is used to forecast future data for 20 largest enterprises in six years (2016–2021) based on actual indicators. Then, the paper uses Malmquist productivity index and its decomposition into efficiency and technical change to measure the past productivity growth. Finally, window analysis is applied to significantly detect the trends of performance in 12 years (2010–2021) from large number of inputs and outputs. The results are found that how technology changes is the determinant for productivity growth and undeveloped technology causes a huge barrier to industry. In addition, the results are illustrated that textile companies are predicted to be more stable due to the importance of supplying materials for the entire industry. This paper aims to prove in-depth analysis can be conducted through combined models and also provide some recommendations for enhancing the sustainability performance of the industry.
A Bi-Band Binary Mask Based Land-Use Change Detection Using Landsat 8 OLI Imagery
Authors: Li Xian , Zhao Shuhe , Yang Hong , Cong Dianmin , Zhang Zhaohua
Published: March 2017

Land use and cover change (LUCC) is important for the global biogeochemical cycle and ecosystem. This paper introduced a change detection method based on a bi-band binary mask and an improved fuzzy c-means algorithm to research the LUCC. First, the bi-band binary mask approach with the core concept being the correlation coefficients between bands from different images are used to locate target areas with a likelihood of having changed areas. Second, the improved fuzzy c-means (FCM) algorithm was used to execute classification on the target areas. This improved algorithm used distances to the Voronoi cell of the cluster instead of the Euclidean distance to the cluster center in the calculation of membership, and some other improvements were also used to decrease the loops and save time. Third, the post classification comparison was executed to get more accurate change information. As references, change detection using univariate band binary mask and NDVI binary mask were executed. The change detection methods were applied to Landsat 8 OLI images acquired in 2013 and 2015 to map LUCC in Chengwu, north China. The accuracy assessment was executed on classification results and change detection results. The overall accuracy of classification results of the improved FCM is 95.70% and the standard FCM is 84.40%. The average accuracy of change detection results using bi-band mask is 88.92%, using NDVI mask is 81.95%, and using univariate band binary mask is 56.01%. The result of the bi-band mask change detection shows that the change from farmland to built land is the main change type in the study area: total area is 9.03 km2. The developed method in the current study can be an effective approach to evaluate the LUCC and the results helpful for the land policy makers.
Interweaving the Principle of Least Potential Energy in School and Introductory University Physics Courses
Authors: Ben-Abu Yuval , Eshach Haim , Yizhaq Hezi
Published: March 2017

Understanding advanced physical phenomena such as vertically hanging elastic column, soap bubbles, crystals and cracks demands expressing and manipulating a system’s potential energy under equilibrium conditions. However, students at schools and universities are usually required to consider the forces acting on a system under equilibrium conditions, rather than taking into account its potential energy. As a result, they find it difficult to express the system’s potential energy and use it for calculations when they do need to do so. The principle of least potential energy is a powerful idea for solving static equilibrium physics problems in various fields such as hydrostatics, mechanics, and electrostatics. In the current essay, the authors describe this principle and provide examples where students can apply it. For each problem, the authors provide both the force consideration solution approach and the energy consideration solution approach.
Myeloid C-Type Lectin Receptors in Viral Recognition and Antiviral Immunity
Authors: Monteiro João , Lepenies Bernd
Published: March 2017

Recognition of viral glycans by pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) in innate immunity contributes to antiviral immune responses. C-type lectin receptors (CLRs) are PRRs capable of sensing glycans present in viral pathogens to activate antiviral immune responses such as phagocytosis, antigen processing and presentation, and subsequent T cell activation. The ability of CLRs to elicit and shape adaptive immunity plays a critical role in the inhibition of viral spread within the host. However, certain viruses exploit CLRs for viral entry into host cells to avoid immune recognition. To block CLR interactions with viral glycoproteins, antiviral strategies may involve the use of multivalent glycan carrier systems. In this review, we describe the role of CLRs in antiviral immunity and we highlight their dual function in viral clearance and exploitation by viral pathogens.
Emerging Interaction Patterns in the Emiliania huxleyi-EhV System
Authors: Ruiz Eliana , Oosterhof Monique , Sandaa Ruth-Anne , Larsen Aud , Pagarete António
Published: March 2017

Viruses are thought to be fundamental in driving microbial diversity in the oceanic planktonic realm. That role and associated emerging infection patterns remain particularly elusive for eukaryotic phytoplankton and their viruses. Here we used a vast number of strains from the model system Emiliania huxleyi/Emiliania huxleyi Virus to quantify parameters such as growth rate (µ), resistance (R), and viral production (Vp) capacities. Algal and viral abundances were monitored by flow cytometry during 72-h incubation experiments. The results pointed out higher viral production capacity in generalist EhV strains, and the virus-host infection network showed a strong co-evolution pattern between E. huxleyi and EhV populations. The existence of a trade-off between resistance and growth capacities was not confirmed.
Silent No More: Inclusion of Post-Conflict Women in Truth Commissions
Authors:   RTI International, Boggs Abbey
Published: March 2017

This paper explores the gendered dimension of conflict in transitional societies. Particularly, it argues that truth commissions must be inclusive of women to address their marginalization, which precedes, flourishes in, and often survives mass atrocity. Truth commissions have historically been gender neutral; in other words, they have made no distinction between men and women and, thus, not taken into account the differences in men’s and women’s experiences. To understand, redress, and transform the inequality experienced by women, the context surrounding women’s lives must be considered throughout the transitional justice process. This paper explains that women experience sexual, reproductive, and other abuse, but also recognizes that many indirect causes and effects of this abuse are entrenched in historical, cultural, and social constructs. Three case studies are included to illustrate attempts to account for gender in truth commissions. Scholars have conducted extensive research on truth commissions in Peru, South Africa, and Timor-Leste and provide a blueprint of expertise on the multifaceted components truth commissions must take into account when considering gender. The case studies provide examples of successes and failures in the commissions’ approaches and demonstrate the importance of contextualizing women’s positions when confronting post-conflict scenarios. As gender issues become more commonly acknowledged throughout the world, it is important to recognize the far-reaching grasp of gender inequality and to draw from past examples of truth commissions to better the future for post-conflict women through respect, acknowledgment, and sensitivity.
ASSESSING URBAN GREEN SPACE DISTRIBUTION IN A COMPACT MEGACITY BY LANDSCAPE METRICS
Authors: LIANG Huilin , CHEN Di , ZHANG Qingping
Published: March 2017

The pattern and structure of urban green space (UGS) plays a significant role in the landscape and ecological quality (LEQ) of UGS, especially in a compact city with limited space. Based on landscape metrics, this study proposes an innovative method to quantify the effects of UGS pattern and structure on LEQ. Taking Shanghai, China as the study area, we calculated all landscape-level spatial metrics in FRAGSTATS, used correlation analysis in SPSS for data reduction, and adopted factor analysis and cluster analysis to statistically analyze the metrics and assesse the LEQ of UGS. These methods bridge the research gap of UGS distribution assessment for LEQ value by landscape metrics. Results showed that new districts usually have higher LEQ of UGS than old towns. Of the 17 districts in Shanghai, Chongming has the highest LEQ of UGS and Hongkou has the lowest. For the UGS pattern and structure, the eight old towns are similar, in contrast to the new districts of Chongming and Pudong, which are more dissimilar than the other districts for LEQ of UGS. The findings could help compact cities having limited UGS to develop and achieve better LEQ.
GREEN ALGAE CHLORELLA VULGARIS CULTIVATION IN MUNICIPAL WASTEWATER AND BIOMASS COMPOSITION
Authors: VENCKUS Petras , KOSTKEVIČIENĖ Jolanta , BENDIKIENĖ Vida
Published: March 2017

This paper deals with the accumulation of lipids, carbohydrates and proteins in the biomass of the green algae Chlorella vulgaris that is cultivated in the municipal wastewater of Vilnius City. The growth rate of the culture on different chemical compositions of media was investigated. Dependence of lipid, carbohydrate and protein content on total phosphorus and nitrogen initial concentrations in wastewater and removal of nutrients was investigated. Data showed that the higher amount of total nitrogen is the main factor leading to a higher rate of biomass increase. The study showed that Chlorella vulgaris is capable of very efficient nutrient removal from wastewater (up to 86% of total nitrogen and 87% phosphorus was removed). Data showed that there is strong correlation between the initial concentration of nitrogen, and in some cases phosphorus, in the media and content of proteins and carbohydrates in the biomass. A higher amount of nitrogen in the starting media leads to a higher amount of proteins and a lower amount of carbohydrate in the biomass. There was no correlation found between the initial nitrogen or phosphorus concentration in the media and content of lipids in the biomass.
Warm Ionized Medium throughout the Sagittarius–Carina Arm
Authors: Krishnarao Dhanesh , Haffner L. Matthew , Benjamin Robert A. , Hill Alex S. , Barger Kathleen A.
Published: March 2017

Wisconsin H-Alpha Mapper observations of Hα and [S ii] λ6716 emission are used to trace the vertical distribution and physical conditions of the warm ionized medium along the Sagittarius–Carina arm. CO emission, tracing cold molecular gas in the plane of the Galaxy, is used as a guide to isolate Hα and [S ii] λ6716 emission along individual spiral arms. Exponential scale heights of electron density squared (or emission measure) are determined using Hα emission above (below) the midplane to be

along the near Sagittarius arm,

along the near Carina arm, and

along the far Carina arm. The emission measure scale height tends to increase as a function of Galactocentric radius along the Sagittarius–Carina arm for

. Physical conditions of the ionized gas are analyzed using the [S ii]/Hα line ratio, which more closely traces I
Hα
 than height above the plane, z, suggesting a stronger relationship with the in situ electron density. We interpret this result as further evidence for the majority of the observed diffuse emission originating from in situ ionized gas as opposed to scattered light from classical H ii regions in the plane.
The Most Massive Active Galactic Nuclei at 1 ≲ z ≲ 2
Authors: Jun Hyunsung D. , Im Myungshin , Kim Dohyeong , Stern Daniel
Published: March 2017

We obtained near-infrared spectra of 26 Sloan Digital Sky Survey quasars at

with reported rest-frame ultraviolet M
BH ∼ 1010
M
⊙ to critically examine the systematic effects involved with their mass estimations. We find that active galactic nuclei (AGNs) heavier than 1010
M
⊙ often display double-peaked Hα emission, extremely broad Fe ii complex emission around Mg ii, and highly blueshifted and broadenedC iv emission. The weight of this evidence, combined with previous studies, cautions against the use of M
BH values based on any emission line with a width over 8000 km s−1. Also, the M
BH estimations are not positively biased by the presence of ionized narrow line outflows, anisotropic radiation, or the use of line FWHM instead of σ for our sample, and unbiased with variability, scatter in broad line equivalent width, or obscuration for general type-1 quasars. Removing the systematically uncertain M
BH values, ∼1010
M
⊙ black holes (BHs) in 1 ≲ z ≲ 2 AGNs can still be explained by anisotropic motion of the broad line region from ∼109.5
M
⊙ BHs, although current observations support that they are intrinsically most massive, and overmassive to the host’s bulge mass.
Star Streams and the Assembly History of the Galaxy
Authors: Carlberg Raymond G.
Published: March 2017

Thin halo star streams originate from the evaporation of globular clusters and therefore provide information about the early epoch globular cluster population. The observed tidal tails from halo globular clusters in the Milky Way are much shorter than expected from a star cluster orbiting for 10 Gyr. The discrepancy is likely the result of the assumptions that nearly nonevolving clusters have been orbiting in a nonevolving galactic halo for a Hubble time. As a first step toward more realistic stream histories, a toy model that combines an idealized merger model with a simplified model of the internal collisional relaxation of individual star clusters is developed. On average, the resulting stream velocity dispersion increases with distance, causing the density of the stream to decline with distance. The accretion time sets an upper limit to the length of the readily visible stream, with the internal evolution of the cluster usually playing the dominant role in limiting the sky visibility of the older parts of streams. Nevertheless, the high surface density segment of the stellar streams created from the evaporation of the more massive globular clusters should all be visible in low-obscuration parts of the sky if closer than about 30 kpc. The Pan-STARRS1 halo volume is used to compare the numbers of halo streams and globular clusters.
Gas Sloshing in Abell 2204: Constraining the Properties of the Magnetized Intracluster Medium
Authors: Chen Huanqing , Jones Christine , Andrade-Santos Felipe , ZuHone John A. , Li Zhiyuan
Published: March 2017

The rich galaxy cluster Abell 2204 exhibits edges in its X-ray surface brightness at ∼65 and

west and east of its center, respectively. The presence of these edges, which were interpreted as sloshing cold fronts, implies that the intracluster medium (ICM) was recently disturbed. We analyze the properties of the ICM using multiple Chandra observations of Abell 2204. We find a density ratio of

and a temperature ratio of 

(projected, or 1.87 ± 0.56 deprojected) across the western edge, and correspondingly

and

(projected, or 1.25 ± 0.26 deprojected) across the eastern edge. These values are typical of cold fronts in galaxy clusters. This, together with the spiral pattern observed in the cluster core, supports the sloshing scenario for Abell 2204. No Kelvin–Helmholtz eddies are observed along the cold front surfaces, indicating that they are effectively suppressed by some physical mechanism. We argue that the suppression is likely facilitated by the magnetic fields amplified in the sloshing motion and deduce from the measured gas properties that the magnetic field strength should be greater than 24 ± 6 μG and 32 ± 8 μG along the west and east cold fronts, respectively.
Muscle Strength is Impaired in Men but not in Women Living with HIV Taking Antiretroviral Therapy
Authors: Oliveira Vitor HF , Wiechmann Susana L , Narciso Argéria MS , Webel Allison R , Deminice Rafael
Published: March 2017

Background

There is evidence that HIV antiretroviral therapy adverse effects may be sex-dependent, but data examining these sex differences in muscle strength is scarce. Our aim was to compare dynamic and isokinetic parameters of muscle strength between HIV-infected men and women to HIV-uninfected subjects.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, muscle strength was evaluated in 44 HIV-infected (20 men, 24 women) and 25 age-, race- and body mass index-matched HIV-uninfected subjects (11 men, 14 women). We assessed knee flexion and extension efforts in isokinetic dynamometer at angular velocities of 60° and 180°/s, and 1 repetition maximum test (1RM) for bench press, leg press and arm curl exercises, respectively. Lean body mass (LBM) was measured using bioelectrical impedance.

Results

HIV-infected men had significantly less dynamic muscle strength for 1RM total (262.5 versus 357.2 kg), bench press (48.6 versus 60.3 kg), leg press (182.7 versus 261 kg) and arm curl (31.2 versus 36.5 kg) compared to HIV-uninfected men ( P≤0.05); no differences were found among women. Men had lower values for peak torque in extension and flexion movements at 60°/s and 180°/s, while HIV-infected women presented higher peak torque in extension movement at 60°/s compared to controls. No differences were found in LBM. Moreover, isokinetic evaluation demonstrated that HIV-infected subjects showed greater acceleration and deceleration time in some variables, compared to controls, related to difficulty in activating motor units.

Conclusions

HIV infection is associated with impaired dynamic and isokinetic strength in men compared to HIV-uninfected controls, but not in women.
L’orientation entrepreneuriale d’une collectivité territoriale vue à travers le prisme d’une démarche d’accompagnement
Authors: Nobile Didier , Husson Julien
Published: March 2017

Cet article s’intéresse à la dimension entrepreneuriale des collectivités territoriales. En nous appuyant sur une étude de cas consacrée au Conseil Régional de Lorraine qui a décidé de structurer la filière Santé Biotechnologies, nous montrons que le concept d’orientation entrepreneuriale trouve toute sa pertinence dans le contexte des collectivités territoriales. Nous aboutissons en outre au constat que si cette collectivité s’illustre par son inclinaison à l’innovation, à la proactivité et à la prise de risque, la dimension sociale constitue un élément saillant de son orientation entrepreneuriale et plaidons pour qu’une attention particulière lui soit accordée.
Comment un intermédiaire en tourisme durable insémine des capacités dynamiques d’innovation responsable chez ses bénéficiaires
Authors: Van Der Yeught Corinne
Published: March 2017

Cet article présente une expérience originale réalisée par un intermédiaire en tourisme durable qui aide des petites structures touristiques à innover dans le cadre d’un tourisme responsable et solidaire. La recherche mobilise la théorie des capacités dynamiques. À l’issue d’une étude qualitative longitudinale, elle montre les mécanismes par lesquels l’organisation intermédiaire favorise le déclenchement, puis le développement, d’une capacité à innover chez les petites organisations accompagnées, malgré les difficultés structurelles dont elles souffrent.
La « génération Y » entrera dans la carrière. Étude intergénérationnelle des schémas de carrière des ingénieurs français
Authors: Pralong Jean , Philippe Xavier , Peretti-Ndiaye Marie
Published: March 2017

La question intergénérationnelle est croissante dans les préoccupations gestionnaires. Pourtant, la réalité des différences intergénérationnelles demeure spéculative. L’objectif de cet article est de théoriser et d’analyser empiriquement les différences de rapport à la carrière des ingénieurs français de générations différentes. La notion de schéma de carrière est mobilisée pour examiner les influences conjuguées de la génération et des organisations sur les individus. Les résultats sont recueillis auprès d’un échantillon de 613 ingénieurs représentant les trois générations en âge de travailler. Les schémas de carrière des ingénieurs sont structurés par quatre facteurs indépendants ; la variable génération n’a pas d’influence sur ces quatre facteurs.
La philosophie méthodique comme soubassement des sciences, y compris de gestion : l’exemple de la démarche « hypothèse, déductions, test »
Authors: Dromby Frédéric
Published: March 2017

La manière ‘hypothético-déductive’ de fabriquer de la connaissance est aujourd’hui majoritaire en sciences. Souvent présentée comme inspirée des mathématiques, elle a en fait son mode de fonctionnement propre. Originellement posée comme substitut à une démarche purement déductive (« Faute de mieux » est l’expression qui introduisit sa vraisemblable première occurrence voici 24 siècles) elle a progressivement raffiné & augmenté ses outils, ainsi que précisé son rapport à l’expérience. Compliquée cependant, elle peut être obscure aux apprentis-chercheurs. Une analyse philosophique & historique aide à mieux la faire comprendre. Deux périodes-clés sont distinguées, avec pour chacune d’elles, une série de travaux pionniers.
Sobre la distribución geográfica de Scarabaeus (Scarabaeus) aegyptiacus Stolfa, 1938 (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae): primer registro para el Sáhara Atlántico (suroeste de Marruecos)
Authors: Ruiz J. L. , Yubero S. , García-Cardenete L.
Published: March 2017

Scarabaeus aegyptiacus es una especie ampliamente distribuida desde la Península Arábiga hasta Marruecos, ocupando ambientes áridos y desérticos. A pesar de su amplio rango de distribución, el número de localidades precisas conocidas es muy escaso (diez localidades) y sus poblaciones se encuentran aparentemente fragmentadas y muy distanciadas entre sí. Durante muestreos recientes en el suroeste de Marruecos, hemos hallado una población de S. aegyptiacus en una estepa pedregosa (hamada) en las cercanías de Msied (provincia de Tan-Tan, región de Guelmín-Smara), que constituye el primer registro para el Sáhara Atlántico y amplía unos 1000 km hacia el suroeste su área de distribución conocida. Los individuos estudiados fueron hallados en el interior de un aljibe (“matfiya” en lengua local), infraestructura que actúa como trampa mortal para numerosos animales, especialmente anfibios, reptiles y artrópodos epígeos, cuyo impacto negativo sobre las comunidades de invertebrados no ha sido evaluado. Se sintetiza la información corológica disponible y se aportan datos sobre el hábitat de la especie.
Role of Sex Ratio and Density on Fertilization Success of Intensively Cultured Endangered Woundfin
Authors: Maskill Paige A.C. , Miller Isaac R. , Halvorson Leif J. , Treanor Hilary B. , Fraser Cal W. , Webb Molly A.H.
Published: March 2017

Woundfin Plagopterus argentissimus are a small, endangered cyprinid found solely in the Virgin River across Utah, Arizona, and Nevada. As of now, only three facilities culture Woundfin for conservation propagation purposes, but there is growing concern that current extensive culture protocols are not meeting the conservation recovery goals outlined in the Virgin River Resource Management and Recovery Program. The development of alternative rearing methodology, like effective intensive culture conditions, could help increase production to more effectively meet the conservation propagation needs for this species. Our goal was to assess the effect of different sex ratios and fish densities on reproductive success at indoor facilities. We measured fertilization success at three different sex ratios (1:1, 1:3, 1:5; female:male) and three different fish densities (0.05, 0.21, and 0.47 fish/L) in a laboratory setting. Sex ratio did not significantly affect fertilization success (P = 0.73). Fertilization was completely inhibited at a density of 0.05 fish/L, but there was no difference in fertilization success between the two other density treatments (P = 0.92). Our findings suggest that a density greater than 0.05 fish/L and a sex ratio of 1:1, 1:3, or 1:5 will likely enhance fertilization success. The results and conclusions of this paper provide valuable rearing information for the Virgin River Resource Management and Recovery Program and hatchery managers attempting to increase production of Woundfin in an intensive culture setting.
Nέος et νεότης dans les Argonautiques d’Apollonios de Rhodes : de la jeunesse unie au nouveau regard sur le monde
Authors: André Laury-Nuria
Published: March 2017

Cet article traite des expressions littéraires de la jeunesse et de la nouveauté chez Apollonios de Rhodes. Il examine l’usage du langage de nouveauté dans plusieurs passages des Argonautiques tout en employant des méthodes philologiques, herméneutiques et métalittéraires, afin de démontrer que le principe et le langage de nouveauté chez Apollonios expriment un nouveau regard sur le monde.