bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ADPKD presenting as congestive cardiac failure secondary to dilated cardiomyopathy - a case report
Authors: Haque Nasim Ul , Karim Rakhshinda
Published: January 2015

ADPKD presenting as congestive cardiac failure due to dilated cardiomyopathy is rare. ADPKD is an inherited systemic disorder with major renal manifestation and in some cases extrarenal manifestation or combination of both. In this report 45 year male patient presented with complains of dyspnoea, abdominal distension, pain right hypochondriac region. He was hospitalized, examined clinically and advised various bio-chemical and imaging tests. The finding was suggestive of ADPKD with dilated cardiomyopathy with congestive cardiac failure. He was managed with diuretics, ACE inhibitors, digoxin, Moist oxygen inhalation and he responded to the treatment. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjms.v14i1.16635 Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.14(1) 2015 p.85-86
Pandemic Influenza Virus: An expected rival encountered with empty arsenal
Authors: Munshi Saifullah
Published: January 2015

Abstract not available DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jsf.v11i2.21458 Journal of Science Foundation, 2013;11(2): 35-36
Growth and Yield of Basmati Rice as Affected by Planting Date in Boro Season
Authors: Mannan MA , Bhuiya MSU , Akhand MIM , Rana MM , Zahan A
Published: January 2015

The experiment was conducted at the Bangladesh Rice Research Institute Farm, Gazipur, in Boro season. BasmatiPNR, Basmati370, Basmati375 and Basmati-D were transplanted started from 10 December, and continued up to 25 January in the following year, at an interval of 15 days. Forty day old seedlings were transplanted spaced at 20 cm × 15 cm, to find out the optimum planting time and to select the Basmati varieties having high yield potential. The tallness of plants, number of tillers and dry matter were increased with the advancement of planting dates. On the country, number of panicles, grains panicle-1, panicle length, grain yield and growth duration decreased as delayed planting dates. The short stature BasmatiPNR and tall plant of Basmati375 exhibited higher number of panicles, grains panicle-1 and heavier individual grain which contributed to increase grain yield. Thus, high yield potential varieties BasmatiPNR and Basmati375 to be planted in optimum time on 10 December, to obtain maximum grain yield of rice in Boro season.  DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jsf.v11i2.21594  Journal of Science Foundation, 2013;11(2):37-42
A sociomaterial model of the teaching-learning continuum
Authors: Zürcher Reinhard
Published: January 2015

It is widely accepted today that the range between informal and formal learning can be conceptualized as a continuum. Since substantial models are not available, the specific features of this continuum depend on one's preference. In this paper, I will propose a model for the continuum that defines its constituting variable 'formalization' and thereby its points and ends. Because the parameters of the learning process can reach different degrees of formalization, the continuum is split into sub-continua for each parameter. In a second step, the perspective on learning is expanded to the general teaching-learning process, with the consequence of complementing the learning continuum with a teaching continuum. In order to argue for entangled teachinglearning states and to address questions of materiality and causality, I draw on sociomaterial theories. Finally, some consequences for (adult) education research are discussed.
Azumaya Monads and Comonads
Authors: Mesablishvili Bachuki , Wisbauer Robert
Published: January 2015

The definition of Azumaya algebras over commutative rings \(R\) requires the tensor product of modules over \(R\) and the twist map for the tensor product of any two \(R\)-modules. Similar constructions are available in braided monoidal categories, and Azumaya algebras were defined in these settings. Here, we introduce Azumaya monads on any category \(\mathbb{A}\) by considering a monad \((F,m,e)\) on \(\mathbb{A}\) endowed with a distributive law \(\lambda: FF\to FF\) satisfying the Yang–Baxter equation (BD%please define -law). This allows to introduce an opposite monad \((F^\lambda,m\cdot \lambda,e)\) and a monad structure on \(FF^\lambda\). The quadruple \((F,m,e,\lambda)\) is called an Azumaya monad, provided that the canonical comparison functor induces an equivalence between the category \(\mathbb{A}\) and the category of \(FF^\lambda\)-modules. Properties and characterizations of these monads are studied, in particular for the case when \(F\) allows for a right adjoint functor. Dual to Azumaya monads, we define Azumaya comonads and investigate the interplay between these notions. In braided categories (V\(,\otimes,I,\tau)\), for any V-algebra \(A\), the braiding induces a BD-law \(\tau_{A,A}:A\otimes A\to A\otimes A\), and \(A\) is called left (right) Azumaya, provided the monad \(A\otimes-\) (resp. \(-\otimes A\)) is Azumaya. If \(\tau\) is a symmetry or if the category V admits equalizers and coequalizers, the notions of left and right Azumaya algebras coincide.
Retrofitting Precincts for Heatwave Resilience: Challenges and Barriers in Australian Context
Authors: Hatvani-Kovacs Gertrud , Boland John
Published: January 2015

As the frequency and intensity of heatwaves are growing in Australia, strategies to combat heat are becoming more vital. Cities are exposed to urban heat islands (UHIs) due to excess urbanisation. In this study, a definition of urban heatwave (UHW) is conceptualised to investigate the combined impacts of heatwaves and UHIs. To quantify the negative impacts of UHW, indicators—such as excess morbidity, electricity and water consumption—are considered. The intensity of UHWs is calculated using the unit of excess heat factor (EHF), developed by the Australian Bureau of Meteorology. EHF enables the comparability of UHWs in different geographical locations. Using the indicators and the intensity of UHWs, a calculation method to quantify heatwave resilience at a precincts scale is proposed. The study summarises the assumed influential factors of precinct heatwave resilience based on the existing literature and propose a “cool retrofitting toolkit” (CRT). CRT creates the framework to assess the adaptation to and mitigation of UHWs available to retrofit existing precincts, and to evaluate potential retrofitting strategies in terms of energy and carbon efficiency, financial affordability and perceived acceptability by population. This study illuminates the importance of climate, function, built environment and population characteristics-conscious retrofitting.
Combining Lidar and Synthetic Aperture Radar Data to Estimate Forest Biomass: Status and Prospects
Authors: Kaasalainen Sanna , Holopainen Markus , Karjalainen Mika , Vastaranta Mikko , Kankare Ville , Karila Kirsi , Osmanoglu Batuhan
Published: January 2015

Research activities combining lidar and radar remote sensing have increased in recent years. The main focus in combining lidar-radar forest remote sensing has been on the retrieval of the aboveground biomass (AGB), which is a primary variable related to carbon cycle in land ecosystems, and has therefore been identified as an essential climate variable. In this review, we summarize the studies combining lidar and radar in estimating forest AGB. We discuss the complementary use of lidar and radar according to the relevance of the added value. The most promising prospects for combining lidar and radar data are in the use of lidar-derived ground elevations for improving large-area biomass estimates from radar, and in upscaling of lidar-based AGB data across large areas covered by spaceborne radar missions.
Developing Key Skills as a Science Communicator: Case Studies of Two Scientist-Led Outreach Programmes
Authors: Illingworth Samuel , Roop Heidi
Published: January 2015

Outreach by scientific researchers in school classrooms often results in widespread benefit for learners, classroom teachers and researchers. This paper presents a consideration of these benefits using two case studies in the Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences (GEES). In each case, different school classroom-based activities were designed by scientists, but were improved by input from educational professionals, which helped to maximize the mutual learning experiences and to ensure the quality of the content and its delivery. Each case study suggests an improvement in scientist’s working knowledge of best practices for classroom-based outreach activities, which can translate to improved practices for University-level teaching, among other tangible career-relevant benefits. Despite these benefits, these projects highlight the well-established need for improved training for researchers in effective outreach practices, increased value on programme evaluation, and the growing need for meaningful professional recognition for researchers involved in these important, and ever-growing, outreach activities.
Effects of Horizontal Acceleration on Human Visual Acuity and Stereopsis
Authors: Horng Chi-Ting , Hsieh Yih-Shou , Tsai Ming-Ling , Chang Wei-Kang , Yang Tzu-Hung , Yauan Chien-Han , Wang Chih-Hung , Kuo Wu-Hsien , Wu Yi-Chang
Published: January 2015

The effect of horizontal acceleration on human visual acuity and stereopsis is demonstrated in this study. Twenty participants (mean age 22.6 years) were enrolled in the experiment. Acceleration from two different directions was performed at the Taiwan High-Speed Rail Laboratory. Gx and Gy (< and >0.1 g) were produced on an accelerating platform where the subjects stood. The visual acuity and stereopsis of the right eye were measured before and during the acceleration. Acceleration <0.1 g in the X- or Y-axis did not affect dynamic vision and stereopsis. Vision decreased (mean from 0.02 logMAR to 0.25 logMAR) and stereopsis declined significantly (mean from 40 s to 60.2 s of arc) when Gx > 0.1 g. Visual acuity worsened (mean from 0.02 logMAR to 0.19 logMAR) and poor stereopsis was noted (mean from 40 s to 50.2 s of arc) when Gy > 0.1 g. The effect of acceleration from the X-axis on the visual system was higher than that from the Y-axis. During acceleration, most subjects complained of ocular strain when reading. To our knowledge, this study is the first to report the exact levels of visual function loss during Gx and Gy.
BRD4 Inhibitor Inhibits Colorectal Cancer Growth and Metastasis
Authors: Hu Yuan , Zhou Jieqiong , Ye Fei , Xiong Huabao , Peng Liang , Zheng Zihan , Xu Feihong , Cui Miao , Wei Chengguo , Wang Xinying , Wang Zhongqiu , Zhu Hongfa , Lee Peng , Zhou Mingming , Jiang Bo , Zhang David
Published: January 2015

Post-translational modifications have been identified to be of great importance in cancers and lysine acetylation, which can attract the multifunctional transcription factor BRD4, has been identified as a potential therapeutic target. In this paper, we identify that BRD4 has an important role in colorectal cancer; and that its inhibition substantially wipes out tumor cells. Treatment with inhibitor MS417 potently affects cancer cells, although such effects were not always outright necrosis or apoptosis. We report that BRD4 inhibition also limits distal metastasis by regulating several key proteins in the progression of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). This effect of BRD4 inhibitor is demonstrated via liver metastasis in animal model as well as migration and invasion experiments in vitro. Together, our results demonstrate a new application of BRD4 inhibitor that may be of clinical use by virtue of its ability to limit metastasis while also being tumorcidal.
Synthesis and Antiproliferative Activity of Thiazolyl-bis-pyrrolo[2,3-b]pyridines and Indolyl-thiazolyl-pyrrolo[2,3-c]pyridines, Nortopsentin Analogues
Authors: Carbone Anna , Parrino Barbara , Vita Gloria , Attanzio Alessandro , Spanò Virginia , Montalbano Alessandra , Barraja Paola , Tesoriere Luisa , Livrea Maria , Diana Patrizia , Cirrincione Girolamo
Published: January 2015

Two new series of nortopsentin analogues, in which the imidazole ring of the natural product was replaced by thiazole and indole units were both substituted by 7-azaindole moieties or one indole unit was replaced by a 6-azaindole portion, were efficiently synthesized. Compounds belonging to both series inhibited the growth of HCT-116 colorectal cancer cells at low micromolar concentrations, whereas they did not affect the viability of normal-like intestinal cells. A compound of the former series induced apoptosis, evident as externalization of plasma membrane phosphatidylserine (PS), and changes of mitochondrial trans-membrane potential, while blocking the cell cycle in G2/M phase. In contrast, a derivative of the latter series elicited distinct responses in accordance with the dose. Thus, low concentrations (GI30) induced morphological changes characteristic of autophagic death with massive formation of cytoplasmic acid vacuoles without apparent loss of nuclear material, and with arrest of cell cycle at the G1 phase, whereas higher concentrations (GI70) induced apoptosis with arrest of cell cycle at the G1 phase.
Identification of a 4-Deoxy-l-erythro-5-hexoseulose Uronic Acid Reductase, FlRed, in an Alginolytic Bacterium Flavobacterium sp. Strain UMI-01
Authors: Inoue Akira , Nishiyama Ryuji , Mochizuki Shogo , Ojima Takao
Published: January 2015

In alginate-assimilating bacteria, alginate is depolymerized to unsaturated monosaccharide by the actions of endolytic and exolytic alginate lyases (EC 4.2.2.3 and EC 4.2.2.11). The monosaccharide is non-enzymatically converted to 4-deoxy-l-ery thro-5-hexoseulose uronic acid (DEH), then reduced to 2-keto-3-deoxy-d-gluconate (KDG) by a specific reductase, and metabolized through the Entner–Doudoroff pathway. Recently, the NADPH-dependent reductase A1-R that belongs to short-chain dehydrogenases/reductases (SDR) superfamily was identified as the DEH-reductase in Sphingomonas sp. A1. We have subsequently noticed that an SDR-like enzyme gene, flred, occurred in the genome of an alginolytic bacterium Flavobacterium sp. strain UMI-01. In the present study, we report on the deduced amino-acid sequence of flred and DEH-reducing activity of recombinant FlRed. The deduced amino-acid sequence of flred comprised 254 residues and showed 34% amino-acid identities to that of A1-R from Sphingomonas sp. A1 and 80%–88% to those of SDR-like enzymes from several alginolytic bacteria. Common sequence motifs of SDR-superfamily enzymes, e.g., the catalytic tetrad Asn-Lys-Tyr-Ser and the cofactor-binding sequence Thr-Gly-x-x-x-Gly-x-Gly in Rossmann fold, were completely conserved in FlRed. On the other hand, an Arg residue that determined the NADPH-specificity of Sphingomonas A1-R was replaced by Glu in FlRed. Thus, we investigated cofactor-preference of FlRed using a recombinant enzyme. As a result, the recombinant FlRed (recFlRed) was found to show high specificity to NADH. recFlRed exhibited practically no activity toward variety of aldehyde, ketone, keto ester, keto acid and aldose substrates except for DEH. On the basis of these results, we conclude that FlRed is the NADH-dependent DEH-specific SDR of Flavobacterium sp. strain UMI-01.
Activation of p53 with Ilimaquinone and Ethylsmenoquinone, Marine Sponge Metabolites, Induces Apoptosis and Autophagy in Colon Cancer Cells
Authors: Lee Hyun-Young , Chung Kyu , Hwang In , Gwak Jungsuk , Park Seoyoung , Ju Bong , Yun Eunju , Kim Dong-Eun , Chung Young-Hwa , Na MinKyun , Song Gyu-Yong , Oh Sangtaek
Published: January 2015

The tumor suppressor, p53, plays an essential role in the cellular response to stress through regulating the expression of genes involved in cell cycle arrest, apoptosis and autophagy. Here, we used a cell-based reporter system for the detection of p53 response transcription to identify the marine sponge metabolites, ilimaquinone and ethylsmenoquinone, as activators of the p53 pathway. We demonstrated that ilimaquinone and ethylsmenoquinone efficiently stabilize the p53 protein through promotion of p53 phosphorylation at Ser15 in both HCT116 and RKO colon cancer cells. Moreover, both compounds upregulate the expression of p21WAF1/CIP1, a p53-dependent gene, and suppress proliferation of colon cancer cells. In addition, ilimaquinone and ethylsmenoquinone induced G2/M cell cycle arrest and increased caspase-3 cleavage and the population of cells that positively stained with Annexin V-FITC, both of which are typical biochemical markers of apoptosis. Furthermore, autophagy was elicited by both compounds, as indicated by microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 (LC3) puncta formations and LC3-II turnover in HCT116 cells. Our findings suggest that ilimaquinone and ethylsmenoquinone exert their anti-cancer activity by activation of the p53 pathway and may have significant potential as chemo-preventive and therapeutic agents for human colon cancer.
Enzyme-Assisted Extraction of Bioactive Material from Chondrus crispus and Codium fragile and Its Effect on Herpes simplex Virus (HSV-1)
Authors: Kulshreshtha Garima , Burlot Anne-Sophie , Marty Christel , Critchley Alan , Hafting Jeff , Bedoux Gilles , Bourgougnon Nathalie , Prithiviraj Balakrishnan
Published: January 2015

Codium fragile and Chondrus crispus are, respectively, green and red seaweeds which are abundant along the North Atlantic coasts. We investigated the chemical composition and antiviral activity of enzymatic extracts of C. fragile (CF) and C. crispus (CC). On a dry weight basis, CF consisted of 11% protein, 31% neutral sugars, 0.8% sulfate, 0.6% uronic acids, and 49% ash, while CC contained 27% protein, 28% neutral sugars, 17% sulfate, 1.8% uronic acids, and 25% ash. Enzyme-assisted hydrolysis improved the extraction efficiency of bioactive materials. Commercial proteases and carbohydrases significantly improved (p ≤ 0.001) biomass yield (40%–70% dry matter) as compared to aqueous extraction (20%–25% dry matter). Moreover, enzymatic hydrolysis enhanced the recovery of protein, neutral sugars, uronic acids, and sulfates. The enzymatic hydrolysates exhibited significant activity against Herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) with EC50 of 77.6–126.8 μg/mL for CC and 36.5–41.3 μg/mL for CF, at a multiplicity of infection (MOI) of 0.001 ID50/cells without cytotoxity (1–200 μg/mL). The extracts obtained from proteases (P1) and carbohydrases (C3) were also effective at higher virus MOI of 0.01 ID50/cells without cytotoxity. Taken together, these results indicate the potential application of enzymatic hydrolysates of C. fragile and C. crispus in functional food and antiviral drug discovery.
Biosynthesis of Akaeolide and Lorneic Acids and Annotation of Type I Polyketide Synthase Gene Clusters in the Genome of Streptomyces sp. NPS554
Authors: Zhou Tao , Komaki Hisayuki , Ichikawa Natsuko , Hosoyama Akira , Sato Seizo , Igarashi Yasuhiro
Published: January 2015

The incorporation pattern of biosynthetic precursors into two structurally unique polyketides, akaeolide and lorneic acid A, was elucidated by feeding experiments with 13C-labeled precursors. In addition, the draft genome sequence of the producer, Streptomyces sp. NPS554, was performed and the biosynthetic gene clusters for these polyketides were identified. The putative gene clusters contain all the polyketide synthase (PKS) domains necessary for assembly of the carbon skeletons. Combined with the 13C-labeling results, gene function prediction enabled us to propose biosynthetic pathways involving unusual carbon-carbon bond formation reactions. Genome analysis also indicated the presence of at least ten orphan type I PKS gene clusters that might be responsible for the production of new polyketides.
Lipid Extract from Hard-Shelled Mussel (Mytilus coruscus) Improves Clinical Conditions of Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Fu Yuanqing , Li Guipu , Zhang Xinhua , Xing Gengyan , Hu Xiaojie , Yang Lifeng , Li Duo
Published: January 2015

Studies have suggested a lipid extract from hard-shelled mussel (Mytilus coruscus) (HMLE) possessed strong anti-inflammatory activity in arthritis model of rats. This study investigated whether HMLE could improve clinical conditions of rheumatoid arthritis patients. Fifty rheumatoid arthritis patients (28–75 years) were randomly assigned to receive HMLE capsules or receive placebo capsules for 6 months. Forty-two subjects and 50 subjects were included in per-protocol and intention-to-treat analysis, respectively. Significant differences in changes on disease activity score (DAS28) and clinical disease activity index (CDAI) after 6-month intervention (p < 0.01) were observed in both analyses with more evident efficacy shown in per-protocol population (∆DAS28 = 0.47; ∆CDAI = 4.17), which favored the benefits of the HMLE group. TNF-α (tumor necrosis factor α), interleukin (IL)-1β and PGE2 (prostaglandin E2) but not IL-6, were significantly decreased in both groups, and the decrements were much larger in the HMLE group for TNF-α and PGE2 after 6 months from baseline (p < 0.05). IL-10 was significantly increased in both groups and the change was much more evident in the HMLE group (p < 0.05). In conclusion, HMLE exhibited benefits for the clinical conditions of rheumatoid patients in relation to improvement in the balance between pro- and anti-inflammatory factors, which indicated its potential to serve as adjunctive treatment for rheumatoid arthritis. (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02173587).
Photo-Ionization of Noble Gases: A Demonstration of Hybrid Coupled Channels Approach
Authors: Majety Vinay , Scrinzi Armin
Published: January 2015

We present here an application of the recently developed hybrid coupled channels approach to study photo-ionization of noble gas atoms: Neon and Argon. We first compute multi-photon ionization rates and cross-sections for these inert gas atoms with our approach and compare them with reliable data available from R-matrix Floquet theory. The good agreement between coupled channels and R-matrix Floquet theory show that our method treats multi-electron systems on par with the well established R-matrix theory. We then apply the time dependent surface flux (tSURFF) method with our approach to compute total and angle resolved photo-electron spectra from Argon with linearly and circularly polarized 12 nm wavelength laser fields, a typical wavelength available from Free Electron Lasers (FELs).
UAV Remote Sensing for Urban Vegetation Mapping Using Random Forest and Texture Analysis
Authors: Feng Quanlong , Liu Jiantao , Gong Jianhua
Published: January 2015

Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) remote sensing has great potential for vegetation mapping in complex urban landscapes due to the ultra-high resolution imagery acquired at low altitudes. Because of payload capacity restrictions, off-the-shelf digital cameras are widely used on medium and small sized UAVs. The limitation of low spectral resolution in digital cameras for vegetation mapping can be reduced by incorporating texture features and robust classifiers. Random Forest has been widely used in satellite remote sensing applications, but its usage in UAV image classification has not been well documented. The objectives of this paper were to propose a hybrid method using Random Forest and texture analysis to accurately differentiate land covers of urban vegetated areas, and analyze how classification accuracy changes with texture window size. Six least correlated second-order texture measures were calculated at nine different window sizes and added to original Red-Green-Blue (RGB) images as ancillary data. A Random Forest classifier consisting of 200 decision trees was used for classification in the spectral-textural feature space. Results indicated the following: (1) Random Forest outperformed traditional Maximum Likelihood classifier and showed similar performance to object-based image analysis in urban vegetation classification; (2) the inclusion of texture features improved classification accuracy significantly; (3) classification accuracy followed an inverted U relationship with texture window size. The results demonstrate that UAV provides an efficient and ideal platform for urban vegetation mapping. The hybrid method proposed in this paper shows good performance in differentiating urban vegetation mapping. The drawbacks of off-the-shelf digital cameras can be reduced by adopting Random Forest and texture analysis at the same time.
Development of Fabric-Based Chemical Gas Sensors for Use as Wearable Electronic Noses
Authors: Seesaard Thara , Lorwongtragool Panida , Kerdcharoen Teerakiat
Published: January 2015

Novel gas sensors embroidered into fabric substrates based on polymers/ SWNT-COOH nanocomposites were proposed in this paper, aiming for their use as a wearable electronic nose (e-nose). The fabric-based chemical gas sensors were fabricated by two main processes: drop coating and embroidery. Four potential polymers (PVC, cumene-PSMA, PSE and PVP)/functionalized-SWCNT sensing materials were deposited onto interdigitated electrodes previously prepared by embroidering conductive thread on a fabric substrate to make an optimal set of sensors. After preliminary trials of the obtained sensors, it was found that the sensors yielded a electrical resistance in the region of a few kilo-Ohms. The sensors were tested with various volatile compounds such as ammonium hydroxide, ethanol, pyridine, triethylamine, methanol and acetone, which are commonly found in the wastes released from the human body. These sensors were used to detect and discriminate between the body odors of different regions and exist in various forms such as the urine, armpit and exhaled breath odor. Based on a simple pattern recognition technique, we have shown that the proposed fabric-based chemical gas sensors can discriminate the human body odor from two persons.
Improvement of the Trapezoid Method Using Raw Landsat Image Digital Count Data for Soil Moisture Estimation in the Texas (USA) High Plains
Authors: Shafian Sanaz , Maas Stephan
Published: January 2015

Variations in soil moisture strongly affect surface energy balances, regional runoff, land erosion and vegetation productivity (i.e., potential crop yield). Hence, the estimation of soil moisture is very valuable in the social, economic, humanitarian (food security) and environmental segments of society. Extensive efforts to exploit the potential of remotely sensed observations to help quantify this complex variable are ongoing. This study aims at developing a new index, the Thermal Ground cover Moisture Index (TGMI), for estimating soil moisture content. This index is based on empirical parameterization of the relationship between raw image digital count (DC) data in the thermal infrared spectral band and ground cover (determined from raw image digital count data in the red and near-infrared spectral bands).The index uses satellite-derived information only, and the potential for its operational application is therefore great. This study was conducted in 18 commercial agricultural fields near Lubbock, TX (USA). Soil moisture was measured in these fields over two years and statistically compared to corresponding values of TGMI determined from Landsat image data. Results indicate statistically significant correlations between TGMI and field measurements of soil moisture (R2 = 0.73, RMSE = 0.05, MBE = 0.17 and AAE = 0.049), suggesting that soil moisture can be estimated using this index. It was further demonstrated that maps of TGMI developed from Landsat imagery could be constructed to show the relative spatial distribution of soil moisture across a region.
Economic and Financial Comparison between Organic and Conventional Farming in Sicilian Lemon Orchards
Authors: Sgroi Filippo , Candela Matteo , Trapani Anna , Foderà Mario , Squatrito Riccardo , Testa Riccardo , Tudisca Salvatore
Published: January 2015

Sicily has a long tradition in citrus fruit cultivations that with vineyard and olive tree represent the main Mediterranean tree crops. In this paper we have evaluated the economic and financial sustainability of lemon production, both in organic farming and in conventional farming; the two systems differing just for inputs utilized in production process. Economic analysis has been carried out in a representative case study located in the Sicilian northwestern coast, considering an orchard economic life equal to 50 years. Results, which referred to one hectare area, showed both a higher economic and financial sustainability of organic farming respect to conventional farming. The higher profitability of organic farming was due to minor labor requirement and to greater market appreciation for organic products that granted a premium price respect to conventional prices. Moreover, greater profitability of organic farming and use of environmentally friendly inputs in production process make farms competitive and eco-friendly.
Dihedral Reductions of Cyclic DNA Sequences
Authors: Viana Marlos
Published: January 2015

The data-analytic methodology of dihedral reductions for cyclic orbits of distinct-base codons is described both in terms of Fourier analysis over the dihedral groups and in (algebraically equivalent) terms of canonical projections. Numerical evaluations are presented for discrete and continuous scalar data indexed by cyclic orbits.
The Recombinant Maize Ribosome-Inactivating Protein Transiently Reduces Viral Load in SHIV89.6 Infected Chinese Rhesus Macaques
Authors: Wang Rui-Rui , Au Ka-Yee , Zheng Hong-Yi , Gao Liang-Min , Zhang Xuan , Luo Rong-Hua , Law Sue , Mak Amanda , Wong Kam-Bo , Zhang Ming-Xu , Pang Wei , Zhang Gao-Hong , Shaw Pang-Chui , Zheng Yong-Tang
Published: January 2015

Ribosome inactivating proteins (RIPs) inhibit protein synthesis by depurinating the large ribosomal RNA and some are found to possess anti-human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) activity. Maize ribosome inactivating protein (RIP) has an internal inactivation loop which is proteolytically removed for full catalytic activity. Here, we showed that the recombinant active maize RIP protected chimeric simian-human immunodeficiency virus (SHIV) 89.6-infected macaque peripheral blood mononuclear cells from lysis ex vivo and transiently reduced plasma viral load in SHIV89.6-infected rhesus macaque model. No evidence of immune dysregulation and other obvious side-effects was found in the treated macaques. Our work demonstrates the potential development of maize RIP as an anti-HIV agent without impeding systemic immune functions.
Identification of a Novel Human Rhinovirus C Type by Antibody Capture VIDISCA-454
Authors: Jazaeri Farsani Seyed Mohammad , Oude Munnink Bas , Canuti Marta , Deijs Martin , Cotten Matthew , Jebbink Maarten , Verhoeven Joost , Kellam Paul , Loens Katherine , Goossens Herman , Ieven Margareta , Van der Hoek Lia
Published: January 2015

Causative agents for more than 30 percent of respiratory infections remain unidentified, suggesting that unknown respiratory pathogens might be involved. In this study, antibody capture VIDISCA-454 (virus discovery cDNA-AFLP combined with Roche 454 high-throughput sequencing) resulted in the discovery of a novel type of rhinovirus C (RV-C). The virus has an RNA genome of at least 7054 nt and carries the characteristics of rhinovirus C species. The gene encoding viral protein 1, which is used for typing, has only 81% nucleotide sequence identity with the closest known RV-C type, and, therefore, the virus represents the first member of a novel type, named RV-C54.
A Polyprotein-Expressing Salmonid Alphavirus Replicon Induces Modest Protection in Atlantic Salmon (Salmo Salar) Against Infectious Pancreatic Necrosis
Authors: Abdullah Azila , Olsen Christel , Hodneland Kjartan , Rimstad Espen
Published: January 2015

Vaccination is an important strategy for the control and prevention of infectious pancreatic necrosis (IPN) in farmed Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) in the post-smolt stage in sea-water. In this study, a heterologous gene expression system, based on a replicon construct of salmonid alphavirus (SAV), was used for in vitro and in vivo expression of IPN virus proteins. The large open reading frame of segment A, encoding the polyprotein NH2-pVP2-VP4-VP3-COOH, as well as pVP2, were cloned and expressed by the SAV replicon in Chinook salmon embryo cells (CHSE-214) and epithelioma papulosum cyprini (EPC) cells. The replicon constructs pSAV/polyprotein (pSAV/PP) and pSAV/pVP2 were used to immunize Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) by a single intramuscular injection and tested in a subsequent IPN virus (IPNV) challenge trial. A low to moderate protection against IPN was observed in fish immunized with the replicon vaccine that encoded the pSAV/PP, while the pSAV/pVP2 construct was not found to induce protection.
Stakeholder Views, Financing and Policy Implications for Reuse of Wastewater for Irrigation: A Case from Hyderabad, India
Authors: Starkl Markus , Brunner Norbert , Amerasinghe Priyanie , Mahesh Jampani , Kumar Dinesh , Asolekar Shyam , Sonkamble Sahebrao , Ahmed Shakeel , Wajihuddin Mohammed , Pratyusha Adepu , Sarah Sarah
Published: January 2015

When flowing through Hyderabad, the capital of Telangana, India, the Musi River picks up (partially) treated and untreated sewage from the city. Downstream of the city, farmers use this water for the irrigation of rice and vegetables. Treatment of the river water before it is used for irrigation would address the resulting risks for health and the environment. To keep the costs and operational efforts low for the farmers, the use of constructed wetlands is viewed as a suitable option. Towards this end, the paper investigates the interests and perceptions of government stakeholders and famers on the treatment of wastewater for irrigation and further explores the consumer willingness to pay a higher price for cleaner produced vegetables. Full cost recovery from farmers and consumers cannot be expected, if mass scale treatment of irrigation water is implemented. Instead, both consumers and farmers would expect that the government supports treatment of irrigation water. Most stakeholders associated with the government weigh health and environment so high, that these criteria outweigh cost concerns. They also support the banning of irrigation with polluted water. However, fining farmers for using untreated river water would penalize them for pollution caused by others. Therefore public funding of irrigation water treatment is recommended.
Elites baleares: epigrafía y movilidad socio-geográfica durante el siglo II dC
Authors: Sanchez Leon Maria Luisa
Published: January 2015

Balearic elites: epigraphy and social-geographic mobility during the 2nd Century A.D.

This work analyses several cases of social-geographical mobility as witnessed by the epigraphic documentation of the Balearic Islands and Tarraco during the 2nd Century A. D. In a first step, the mobility takes place in the Islands local civil elite, then progresses, for the most outstanding members of the group, into the provincial elite.
Les banquets dans les cités grecques : bilan historiographique
Authors: Schmitt-Pantel Pauline
Published: January 2015

Banquets in the Greek cities: historiographic review.

The review takes into account the bibliography of the researches on the banquets in the Greek cities from 1991 to 2011. These new researches are first presented in a chronological order from the Mycenean time to the Hellenistic period. Then emphasis is put on some themes such as the meals in the framework of the associations, the discourses on food and on banquets, banquet and gender.
D’Apicius à la table des rois « barbares »
Authors: Cabouret Bernadette
Published: January 2015

From Apicius to the table of the barbarian kings.

Interest in the history of diet and of feeding practices, in the field of social and cultural history, is to be found also in studies on late Antiquity, which is not a simple transition period between Antiquity and the Middle Ages. Several orientations can be drawn out of a review of works from the last twenty, if not thirty years. The traditional social approach (culinary taste as a sign of distinction) is completed by the study of political rituals, and also by a more economical point of view. Finally, in a cultural perspective, affirmation of identity through cooking practices is considered, without neglecting the contribution of anthropology, which takes a diachronic interest in human experience. Therefore, Alimentary practices and rituals are a promising field of research.
Boosting the local anodic oxidation of silicon through carbon nanofiber atomic force microscopy probes
Authors: Rius Gemma , Lorenzoni Matteo , Matsui Soichiro , Tanemura Masaki , Perez-Murano Francesc
Published: January 2015

Many nanofabrication methods based on scanning probe microscopy have been developed during the last decades. Local anodic oxidation (LAO) is one of such methods: Upon application of an electric field between tip and surface under ambient conditions, oxide patterning with nanometer-scale resolution can be performed with good control of dimensions and placement. LAO through the non-contact mode of atomic force microscopy (AFM) has proven to yield a better resolution and tip preservation than the contact mode and it can be effectively performed in the dynamic mode of AFM. The tip plays a crucial role for the LAO-AFM, because it regulates the minimum feature size and the electric field. For instance, the feasibility of carbon nanotube (CNT)-functionalized tips showed great promise for LAO-AFM, yet, the fabrication of CNT tips presents difficulties. Here, we explore the use of a carbon nanofiber (CNF) as the tip apex of AFM probes for the application of LAO on silicon substrates in the AFM amplitude modulation dynamic mode of operation. We show the good performance of CNF-AFM probes in terms of resolution and reproducibility, as well as demonstration that the CNF apex provides enhanced conditions in terms of field-induced, chemical process efficiency.
A Synoptic Account of Flora of Solapur District, Maharashtra (India)
Authors: Garad Krushnadeoray , Gore Ramchandra , Gaikwad Sayajirao
Published: January 2015

The present paper provides the first systematic and comprehensive account of the flora of Solapur district of Maharashtra (India). The flora of this region demonstrates a wide range of species diversity and growth forms. The vegetation of the district mainly represents tropical dry deciduous forests, thorny open scrub and vast grasslands. During the present work, a total of 1441 taxa belonging to 699 genera and 125 families of flowering plants were recorded. A new species Crinum solapurense Gaikwad et al. is described. Fabaceae is the dominant family with 210 taxa, followed by Poaceae (157 taxa), Asteraceae (85 taxa), Malvaceae (68 taxa) and Euphorbiaceae (48 taxa). Acacia is the largest genus with 25 taxa, followed by Euphorbia (23), Cyperus (22), Crotalaria (19) and Ipomoea (19). The herbaceous flora of the district is notable as it amounts to 56.21% of the whole of flora. The ratio of indigenous woody to herbaceous components is 1:1.28. The proportion of indigenous taxa (978) to the cultivated ones (460) is 1.35: 0.5 in the district.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Is Common in Never-smoking Patients with Primary Sjögren Syndrome
Authors: Nilsson Anna Matilda , Diaz Sandra , Theander Elke , Hesselstrand Roger , Piitulainen Eeva , Ekberg Olle , Wollmer Per , Mandl Thomas
Published: January 2015

Objective.

To assess the prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in patients with primary Sjögren syndrome (pSS) and to study the association of COPD with cigarette smoking, radiographic features, respiratory symptoms, disease activity, and laboratory inflammatory and serological features in patients with pSS.

Methods.

Fifty-one consecutive patients with pSS (mean age 60 yrs, range 29–82 yrs, 49 women) were assessed by pulmonary function tests (PFT). The PFT results were compared with previously studied population-based controls, standardizing results with regard to sex, age, height, weight, and cigarette smoking. In addition, patients with pSS were assessed by computed tomography of the chest, the European League Against Rheumatism Sjögren Syndrome Disease Activity Index and Patient Reported Index, the St. George’s Respiratory Questionnaire (which evaluates respiratory symptoms), and by laboratory inflammatory and serological tests.

Results.

Forty-one percent of all patients with pSS and 30% of the never-smoking patients with pSS fulfilled the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease criteria for COPD. Vital capacity (VC), forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), FEV1/VC ratio, and DLCO were significantly decreased while residual volume (RV) and the RV/total lung capacity ratio were significantly increased in patients with pSS. Moderate correlations between PFT results, symptoms, and disease activity were found. However, laboratory inflammatory and serological features were poorly associated with PFT results in patients with pSS.

Conclusion.

COPD was a common finding in patients with pSS, even among never-smoking patients. An obstructive pattern was the predominant PFT finding in patients with pSS, although a superimposed restrictive lung disease could not be excluded. The results suggest that the disease per se is involved in the development of COPD in pSS.
The Role of Innate Immunity in Osteoarthritis: When Our First Line of Defense Goes On the Offensive
Authors: Orlowsky Eric W. , Kraus Virginia Byers
Published: January 2015

Although osteoarthritis (OA) has existed since the dawn of humanity, its pathogenesis remains poorly understood. OA is no longer considered a “wear and tear” condition but rather one driven by proteases where chronic low-grade inflammation may play a role in perpetuating proteolytic activity. While multiple factors are likely active in this process, recent evidence has implicated the innate immune system, the older or more primitive part of the body’s immune defense mechanisms. The roles of some of the components of the innate immune system have been tested in OA modelsin vivoincluding the roles of synovial macrophages and the complement system. This review is a selective overview of a large and evolving field. Insights into these mechanisms might inform our ability to identify patient subsets and give hope for the advent of novel OA therapies.
Rates of Serious Infections and Malignancies Among Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis Receiving Either Tumor Necrosis Factor Inhibitor or Rituximab Therapy
Authors: Aaltonen Kalle Jyri , Joensuu Jaana Tuulikki , Virkki Liisa , Sokka Tuulikki , Aronen Pasi , Relas Heikki , Valleala Heikki , Rantalaiho Vappu , Pirilä Laura , Puolakka Kari , Uusitalo Tea , Blom Marja , Konttinen Yrjö Tapio , Nordström Dan
Published: January 2015

Objective.

Because of the role of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) in host defense, it was hypothesized that its inhibition might lead to an increased risk of malignancies and infections. The objective of our study was to assess the incidence of serious infections leading to hospitalization and malignancies among patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) receiving either TNF inhibitor or rituximab (RTX) therapy.

Methods.

The study population was identified from the National Register for Biologic Treatment in Finland and the hospital records of Central Finland Central Hospital for conventional disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (cDMARD) users. Data on infections and malignancies were acquired from national healthcare registers. A Poisson model was used to calculate the adjusted incidence rate ratios (aIRR) and was composed of age, sex, time from diagnosis, year of the beginning of the followup, rheumatoid factor status, Disease Activity Score at 28 joints, Health Assessment Questionnaire, prior malignancy, prior serious infection, prior biologic use, and time-updated use of methotrexate, sulfasalazine, hydroxychloroquine, and oral corticosteroids as confounders.

Results.

In total, during the followup of 10,994 patient-years, 92 malignancies and 341 serious infections were included in the analyses. The aIRR of infections compared to cDMARD users were 1.2 (95% CI 0.63–2.3), 0.84 (95% CI 0.53–1.3), 0.98 (95% CI 0.60–1.6), and 1.1 (95% CI 0.59–1.9) for the patients treated with infliximab (IFX), etanercept, adalimumab, and RTX, respectively. The crude rates of malignancies were highest among the users of cDMARD and RTX, and lowest among patients treated with IFX with no differences in aIRR.

Conclusion.

Our results provide some reassurance of the safety of biologic treatments in the treatment of RA.
Safety and Efficacy of Rituximab in Childhood-onset Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Other Rheumatic Diseases
Authors: Tambralli Ajay , Beukelman Timothy , Cron Randy Quentin , Stoll Matthew Laurence
Published: January 2015

Objective.

Rituximab (RTX) has been used to treat many pediatric autoimmune conditions. We investigated the safety and efficacy of RTX in a variety of pediatric autoimmune diseases, especially systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Methods.

Retrospective study of children treated with RTX. Effectiveness data was recorded for patients with at least 12 months of followup; safety data was recorded for all subjects.

Results.

The study included 104 children; 50 had SLE. Improvements in corticosteroid dosage, physician’s global assessment of disease activity, and SLE-associated markers of disease activity were seen. The incidence of hospitalized infections was similar to previous studies of patients with childhood-onset SLE.

Conclusion.

RTX can be safely administered to children and appears to contribute to decreased disease activity and steroid burden.
Adaptation et réflexivité
Authors: Jacquot Sophie , Vitale Tommaso
Published: January 2015

Cet article part d’un premier constat, relatif à un usage très différencié des mobilisations juridiques par deux acteurs collectifs transnationaux, le Lobby européen des femmes (LEF) et le Forum européen des Roms et des gens du voyage (FERV) qui pourtant appartiennent au même secteur européen de la lutte contre les discriminations. Il a pour objectif d’expliquer les raisons de cet usage différencié, et de discuter les dimensions d’analyse pertinentes. Il s’inscrit dans la problématique plus générale de la réponse des acteurs collectifs au changement de l’action publique. Les données empiriques ont été recueillies sur la base d’un principe de triangulation entre sources secondaires, sources documentaires et entretiens semi-directifs et elles ont été élaborées dans une optique qualitative de process-tracing . Dans une première partie nous explorons les différentes stratégies de promotion des droits du LEF et du FERV (le droit comme référence et le droit comme ressource), pour nous concentrer ensuite sur les principaux facteurs à l’origine de cette situation contrastée : le rôle des ressources organisationnelles des groupes et des cadres d’identité collective, mais également le rôle des effets itératifs liés aux interactions entre groupes et leur positionnement au sein du système européen de gouvernance. L’apport principal de ce travail comparatif est de montrer que face aux évolutions des modalités de gouvernance, les acteurs collectifs ont dû s’adapter de façon réflexive, pas seulement en regardant les marges de manœuvre et les incitations existantes, mais avec une forte attention à leur propre composition, à la recherche de formules organisationnelles et stratégiques capables de prendre en compte les conflits internes et à leur environnement concurrentiel.