bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Break-In Period on the Short-Term Outcomes of Patients Started on Peritoneal Dialysis
Authors: Liu Yaorong , Zhang Lin , Lin Aiwu , Ni Zhaohui , Qian Jiaqi , Fang Wei
Published: February 2014

Objectives

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is one of the first-line modalities of renal replacement therapy in patients with end-stage renal disease. Guidelines recommended a break-in period of at least 2 weeks before full PD start. However, the optimal duration of the break-in period is still unclear. In the present study, we investigated the effect of various break-in periods on short-term outcomes in patients on PD.

Methods

All patients who underwent Tenckhoff catheter implantation and initiated PD in Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, between 1 January 2001 and 31 December 2010 were included. Patients were grouped according to the duration of their break-in period: 7 days or less (BI≤7), 8 - 14 days (BI8 14), and more than 14 days (BI>14). Kaplan-Meier curves and log-rank tests were used to compare short-term outcomes in the various groups.

Results

Our study enrolled 657 patients (44.5% men), of whom 344, 137, and 176 patients were in the respective break-in groups. Compared with BI>14 patients, BI≤7 patients had a lower estimated glomerular filtration rate (5.34 ± 1.86 mL/min/1.73 m2 vs 6.55 ± 1.71 mL/min/1.73 m2, p < 0.001) and lower serum albumin (33.29 ± 5.36 g/L vs 36.64 ± 5.40 g/L, p < 0.001). The incidence of mechanical complications during the first 6 months was significantly higher in BI≤7 patients than in BI>14 patients (8.4% vs 1.7%, p = 0.004). However, we observed no significant differences between the three groups with respect to the prevalence of catheter dysfunction requiring surgical intervention ( p > 0.05). Logistic regression analysis showed that BI≤7 [relative risk: 4.322; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.278 to 14.608; p = 0.019] was an independent predictor of catheter dysfunction, but not of catheter dysfunction requiring surgical intervention ( p > 0.05). Catheter dysfunction [hazard ratio (HR): 20.087; 95% CI: 7.326 to 55.074; p < 0.001] and peritonitis (HR: 4.533; 95% CI: 1.748 to 11.751; p = 0.002) were risk factors for technique failure during the first 6 months, but BI≤7 was not correlated with technique failure.

Conclusions

Patients starting PD with a break-in period of less than 1 week might experience a minor increased risk of mechanical complications, but no major effect on technique survival.
The Flögel-three-component reaction with dicarboxylic acids – an approach to bis(β-alkoxy-β-ketoenamides) for the synthesis of complex pyridine and pyrimidine derivatives
Authors: Bera Mrinal K , Domínguez Moisés , Hommes Paul , Reissig Hans-Ulrich
Published: February 2014

An extension of the substrate scope of the Flögel-three-component reaction of lithiated alkoxyallenes, nitriles and carboxylic acids is presented. The use of dicarboxylic acids allowed the preparation of symmetrical bis(β-ketoenamides) from simple starting materials in moderate yields. Cyclocondensations of these enamides to 4-hydroxypyridine derivatives or to functionalized pyrimidines efficiently provided symmetrically and unsymmetrically substituted fairly complex (hetero)aromatic compounds containing up to six conjugated aryl and hetaryl groups. In addition, subsequent functionalizations of the obtained heterocycles by palladium-catalyzed couplings or by oxidations are reported. We also describe the simple synthesis of a structurally interesting macrocyclic bispyrimidine derivative incorporating a 17-membered ring, whose configuration was elucidated by DFT calculations and by subsequent reactions.
Estructura genética y germinación de semillas en poblaciones portuguesas de Cheirolophus uliginosus (Asteraceae): Implicaciones para su conservación
Authors: Vitales D. , Pellicer J. , Vallès J. , Garnatje T.
Published: February 2014

Cheirolophus uliginosus es una especie amenazada endémica de la costa atlántica de la península ibérica, donde ocupa unas pocas y reducidas localidades. En nuestro estudio, analizamos los patrones de variación de los haplotipos de ADN cloroplástico y el éxito reproductivo —capacidad germinativa— en siete poblaciones portuguesas de diferente tamaño. El éxito reproductivo de Ch. uliginosus se ha examinado en relación con la estructura genética y el tamaño de sus poblaciones. Los resultados indican una variabilidad intrapoblacional muy baja para los marcadores cloroplásticos utilizados. Nuestro estudio muestra una tasa de germinación significativamente reducida en las poblaciones pequeñas (< 50 individuos) respecto a aquellas de tamaño mediano (50-250 individuos) o grande (> 250 individuos). Para explicar este fenómeno, se deben tomar en consideración las limitaciones ecológicas y el aislamiento genético. Por otro lado, en las poblaciones de Ch. uliginosus de mayor tamaño (> 250 individuos) se ha observado una incidencia más acusada de la depredación de semillas antes de su dispersión, lo cual podría estar afectando a su respuesta reproductiva. Finalmente, las poblaciones más pequeñas —que presentan un reducido éxito reproductivo— contienen los haplotipos más distantes evolutivamente y su conservación debería ser, por tanto, prioritaria.
Vegetación y paisaje alrededor del lago de Montcortès (Prepirineos catalanes) como instrumento para el estudio paleoecológico de los sedimentos lacustres
Authors: Mercadé A. , Vigo J. , Rull V. , Vegas-Villarrúbia T. , Garcés S. , Lara A. , Cañellas-Boltà N.
Published: February 2014

El lago de Montcortès (42º 19′ N, 0º 59′ E; 1027 m altitud) posee sedimentos con laminaciones anuales, ideales para estudios paleoecológicos de alta resolución. Para el análisis palinológico de estos sedimentos, es necesario conocer en detalle la vegetación local, como fuente del polen sedimentario. El objetivo de este estudio es reconocer y cartografiar los tipos de vegetación presentes alrededor del lago, para lo cual se delimitó un área rectangular de unas 48 ha. Del estudio florístico de este espacio resultó un catálogo de 534 especies, que sirvió de base para el análisis de vegetación. Para ello, se llevaron a cabo 42 inventarios fitosociológicos, que se utilizaron para elaborar una síntesis del paisaje vegetal mediante cartografía digital. Como resultado, se obtuvieron 52 unidades de vegetación, expresión concreta de los hábitats CORINE definidos en la lista de los hábitats de Cataluña. Cada una de estas unidades se describió con criterios florísticos, fisionómicos, fitogeográficos, ambientales y de uso humano. La siguiente etapa consistirá en el estudio palinológico de las especies más representativas de los tipos de vegetación y hábitats establecidos aquí, con el fin de optimizar las interpretaciones paleoecológicas futuras.
Aportació al coneixement de l’herbari Trèmols de l’Institut Botànic de Barcelona
Authors: Gavioli L. , Ibañez N. , Soriano I.
Published: February 2014

El herbario BC-Trèmols fue creado durante la segunda mitad del siglo XIX por el químico y botánico catalán Frederic Trèmols i Borrell. Entre 1930 y 1960, el técnico Antoni Marcos llevó a cabo una profunda revisión. La colección actual consta aproximadamente de unos 9000 pliegos; está formada por 58 volúmenes reordenados por Marcos, más otros dos con la estructura original, cuatro cajas de Hieracium y 85 cajas de material adicional. Hasta la fecha se han informatizado 22 de los volúmenes y las cuatro cajas de Hieracium (3695 especímenes), se ha llevado a cabo un inventario a nivel de género de todos los volúmenes y se ha informatizado el catálogo original del herbario y el fichero taxonómico existente. También se ha elaborado un inventario preliminar del contenido de las cajas adicionales. El análisis de los 3695 especímenes revela que el herbario está formado mayoritariamente (67,1%) por pliegos de intercambio obtenidos principalmente a través de la Société Helvétique pour l’Échange des Plantes y la Societat Botànica Barcelonesa. Entre los materiales estudiados se han localizado dos pliegos que consideramos interesantes desde un punto de vista taxonómico y/o nomenclatural (isótipos de Silene holzmanii Heldr. ex Boiss. y de Arenaria minutiflora Loscos). El interés principal del herbario radica, pues, en la gran diversidad de procedencias geográficas de las plantas, que hacen de esta colección uno de los primeros «herbarios europeos» de Cataluña.

[ca] L’herbari BC-Trèmols fou creat durant la segona meitat del segle XIX pel químic i botànic català Frederic Trèmols i Borrell. Entre 1930 i 1960, el tècnic Antoni Marcos va fer-ne una profunda revisió. La col·lecció actual consta aproximadament d’uns 9000 plecs; està formada per 58 volums reordenats per Marcos, dos volums amb l’estructura original, quatre capses de Hieracium i 85 capses de material addicional. Fins ara s’han informatitzat 22 dels volums i les quatre capses de Hieracium (3695 espècimens), s’ha realitzat un inventari a nivell de gènere de tots els volums i s’ha informatitzat el catàleg original de l’herbari i el fitxer taxonòmic existent. També s’ha elaborat un inventari preliminar del contingut de les capses addicionals. L’anàlisi dels 3695 espècimens fa evident que l’herbari està format majoritàriament (67,1%) per plecs d’intercanvi obtinguts sobretot mitjançant la Société Helvétique pour l’Échange des i la Societat Botànica Barcelonesa. Entre els materials estudiats s’han trobat dos plecs que considerem interessants des d’un punt de vista taxonòmic i/o nomenclatural (isotipus de Silene holzmanii Heldr. ex Boiss. i d’Arenaria minutiflora Loscos). L’interès principal de l’herbari, doncs, rau en la gran diversitat de procedències geogràfiques de les plantes, que fan d’aquesta col·lecció un dels primers «herbaris europeus» de Catalunya.
Olive oils from Algeria: Phenolic compounds, antioxidant and antibacterial activities
Authors: Laincer F. , Laribi R. , Tamendjari A. , Arrar L. , Rovellini P. , Venturini S.
Published: February 2014

The phenolic compositions, antioxidant and antimicrobial activities against six bacteria of phenolic extracts of olive oil varieties from eleven Algerian varieties were investigated. The antioxidant activity was assessed by determining the scavenging effect on the DPPH and ABTS.+ radicals. The antimicrobial activity was measured as a zone of inhibition and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) on human harmful and foodborne pathogens. The results show that total phenols was significantly (p < 0.05) correlated with DPPH (r = 0.72) and ABTS.+ radicals (r = 0.76). Among the bacteria tested, S. aureus and to a lesser extent B. subtilis showed the highest sensitivity; the MIC varied from 0.6 to 1.6 mg·mL-1 and 1.2 to 1.8 mg·mL-1, respectively. The results reveal that Algerian olive oils may constitute a good source of antioxidant and antimicrobial agents.
Time course of muscle fatty acid composition of cultured meagre (Argyrosomus regius) during the first sixteen months of a cage culture
Authors: García Mesa S. , Suárez M. D. , Rincón Cervera M. A. , Guil Guerrero J. L. , González G. , Cárdenas S. , García Gallego M.
Published: February 2014

Juvenile meagre were sampled at intervals during their first 500 days in a cage-based fish farm. Fish muscle showed a relatively low fat content (0.65–2.0%) when compared with other species of farmed fish, corroborating the consideration of meagre as a lean fish. At the beginning of the assay, saturated and monounsaturated fatty acids were in a similar proportion (approximately 30%), while polyunsaturated were close to 39% of total FAs, the n-3:n-6 ratio being of 3.8. Throughout the experiment a notable reduction in the sum of PUFA n-3 and an increase of linoleic (18:2n-6) and oleic acid (18:1n-9) was found. These changes led to a fall of n-3:n-6 ratio to values close to or lower than 1.0. Most probably, these changes reflect variations in the feeding regime applied during farming. In any case, fish offered good indices of lipid quality for human consumption.
Antioxidant capacity of the phenolic fraction and its effect on the oxidative stability of olive oil varieties grown in the southwest of Spain
Authors: Franco M. N. , Galeano-Díaz T. , Sánchez J. , De Miguel C. , Martín-Vertedor D.
Published: February 2014

The characterization of olive oils from seven representative fruit varieties (Arbequina, Carrasqueña, Corniche, Manzanilla Cacereña, Morisca, Picual, and Verdial de Badajoz) from the southwest of Spain is carried out according to antioxidant capacity of the phenolic fraction and oxidative stability in different ripening stages. Antioxidant capacity is measured through the reduction of a 2,2′-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonic acid radical cation previously oxidized with peroxidase/hydrogen peroxide. The decrease in absorbance at 730 nm at 3 min was measured. Values like Trolox Equivalents Antioxidant Capacity and oxidative stability varied from 0.6 to 2.5 mmol Trolox·kg–1 oil and 28.3 to 170.9 hours Rancimat respectively. The best positive correlation between total phenolic compounds and antioxidant capacity were in the Carrasqueña and Arbequina varieties. The rest showed moderated correlations. Correlation between antioxidant capacity and oxidative stability was found in a range from 0.66 to 0.97, depending on varieties.
Simultatenous determination of diacetyl and acetoin in traditional turkish butter stored in sheep’s rumen (Karinyagi)
Authors: Gokce R. , Akdogan A. , Divriklib U. , Elci L.
Published: February 2014

Commercial Karinyagi (traditionally named karin) is made of cows’ milk cream and is produced by filling butter in cleaned sheep’s rumen. The effect of butter storage in sheep’s rumen on the production of diacetyl and acetoin was investigated. These compounds were determined by GC-MS and they are the typical butter flavor commonly found in fermented dairy products. The modified method for the simultaneous extraction of diacetly and acetoin from butter samples was accurate and precise. The recoveries of diacetyl and acetoin were 94.7 and 110.8%, respectively, while the detection limits were 1.83 and 0.51 mg·L-1, respectively. The proposed method was applied for the monitoring of aroma compounds in Karin butter samples during different time intervals. The concentration of acetoin remained stable through 0–50 days while the concentration of diacetyl increased to 33.0 μg·g-1 up to 40 days and remained constant through 40–50 days.
Synthesis of palm-based ethylhexyl ester as a synthetic base oil for drilling fluids using chemical transesterification
Authors: Habib N. S.H.A. , Yunus R. , Rashid U. , Taufiq-Yap Y. H. , Abidin Z. Z. , Syam A. M.
Published: February 2014

In the present study the synthesis of a palm based ethylhexyl ester was examined through a transesterification reaction of palm oil methyl ester (POME) with 2-ethylhexanol (EH). A sodium methoxide in methanol solution was used as a catalyst. The reaction was carried out at a fixed pressure of 1.5 mbar by varying the temperature (80–140 °C), POME/2EH molar ratio (1:1.5–1:2.2), reaction time (0.5–4 h) and catalyst concentration (1–2% w/w). The reaction with 2-ethylhexanol involved a single step reversible reaction, thus, the reaction was completed in a very short time. The optimum conditions were obtained in less than 30 minutes with 1.5 mbar pressure, 70 °C, and 1:2 molar ratio of POME to 2EH. The analysis of the final product (ethylhexyl ester) was performed using gas chromatography which exhibited 98% of ethyl hexyl ester yield. The gas chromatography analysis of ethyl hexyl ester revealed two major esters peaks i.e. ethyl hexyl palmitate and ethylhexyl oleate.
Stability of rice bran oil extracted by SFE and soxhlet methods during accelerated shelf-life storage
Authors: Mariod A. , Ismail M. , Abd Rahman N. F. , Matthaus B.
Published: February 2014

Supercritical fluid high oryzanol (SFE HO) and supercritical fluid low oryzanol (SFE LO) rice bran oils were obtained and compared with that extracted by the Soxhlet (SOX) method. Their composition and stability during storage were determined. The amount of unsaponifiable matter and gamma oryzanol of SFE samples were significantly (p < 0.05) higher than SOX. While the amount of tocopherol in SOX (4.0 mg·g-1) was higher than that reported in SFE HO and SFE LO, at 3.2 and 2.6 mg·g-1, respectively. After storage for 42 days at 70 °C the PV, FFA%, conjugated diene and p-anisidine values of SOX were higher than those of SFE HO, and SFE LO. The SFE samples showed better stability than SOX under successive heating and the addition of BHA decreased PV, FFA%, conjugated diene and p-anisidine levels in all samples.
Semantic Annotation of Resources of Distance Learning Based Intelligent Agents
Authors: Abderrahman Chekry , Aziz Oriche , Mohamed Khaldi
Published: February 2014

This paper presents a system based on intelligent agents for the semantic annotation of learning resources taking into account the context of training. Semantic annotations systems rarely treat existing semantic annotations in the field of distance education (e-learning), most researchers in the field of education limits annotations to specific cases (teacher annotation, learner annotation, annotation of electronic documents etc.) these annotations are edited by users with an annotation tools, by cons in our approach, we propose a semantic annotation system based on intelligent agents that manage semantic annotations of educational resources, these annotations are guided by domain ontologies and ontology applications. We believe that the original resource annotations, a storehouse of learning objects standardized by LOM profile, these learning objects are managed using an ontology learning.
U.Porto, its Faculty of Engineering and PBL approaches
Authors: Restivo Maria Teresa
Published: February 2014

The University of Porto (U.Porto) was founded in 1911. Its Faculty of Engineering (FEUP) is the largest school of U.Porto.

U.Porto and FEUP are very active in research, development and innovation with about 20% of all scientific papers in Portugal among the 15 public Universities in the country.

FEUP is also aware of the important role of higher education in training future engineers. U.Porto and FEUP have been following discussions and significant efforts have been made for promoting teacher professional development in order to guaranty new teaching/learning methodologies and initiatives to promote engineering education.

Diverse initiatives came out since 2000. This work describes different projects specially developed at FEUP like the EMPE project and the FEUP project will be described and results will be addressed. Also, a global and huge program from U.Porto, iJUP, will be presented as very unifying interdisciplinary program at U.Porto involving together teachers/researchers and students from all its 14 schools, and particularly from FEUP.
Public Leadership Framework: Studying Approaches to Diversify Engineering Education
Authors: Gopakumar Govind
Published: February 2014

Despite the recent interest in diversifying engineering education there has been very little analysis regarding the nature of interventions needed to refashion engineering education. This article proposes a preliminary framework referred to here as the Public Leadership Framework (PLF) to examine efforts to diversify engineering education. By comparing three highly regarded programs, the PLF is used here to reveals not just their topical differences but also the differences in their orientations and the nature of engagement with society.
Use of AUVs to Inform Management of Deep-Sea Corals
Authors: Kilgour Morgan J. , Auster Peter J. , Packer David , Purcell Michael , Packard Gregory , Dessner Michael , Sherrell Andrew , Rissolo Dominique
Published: February 2014

AbstractNational and international obligations to protect vulnerable species, communities, habitats, and ecosystems (VSCHEs) require greater attention as human uses extend to deeper water. These obligations increase the need for improved understanding of the distribution
and abundance of VSCHEs to develop management actions. Data from low-speed vehicles that operate at the seafloor (e.g., remotely operated vehicles, camera sleds) predominate. These “low and slow” approaches, while providing high-resolution data, do not operate at the scale required
for management. We suggest autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) flown at relatively high altitude and high speed over the seafloor as a “high and fast” approach to survey areas at the scale fisheries and other activities operate. We used REMUS 6000 AUVs to collect presence data
for VSCHEs in a rapid assessment on Physalia Seamount. AUVs were programmed to collect digital images, side-scan sonar (120/410 kHz), and environmental parameters and could navigate a 40° slope. Our preliminary results of this approach, predicated on the assumption that coarse taxonomic
resolution is adequate for management needs, indicates AUVs can be effective tools for large area surveys in short time periods.
XuelongNavigation in Fast Ice Near the Zhongshan Station, Antarctica
Authors: Wang Xianwei , Cheng Xiao , Hui Fengming , Cheng Cheng , Fok H.S. , Liu Yan
Published: February 2014

AbstractNavigation in polar sea regions requires special attention to the sea ice condition because it is a major barrier for an icebreaker to break the drift ice or fast ice, allowing the vessel to keep moving forward. The advancement of remote sensing imagery provides an effective means to classify and identify various features, including different types of sea ice. Hence, it permits fuel and time saving for the entire voyage, especially when drift ice or fast ice becomes a barrier for the icebreaker. In this study, we exploit the potential usage of high-resolution synthetic aperture radar (SAR) imageries from Radarsat-2 to identify sea ice conditions for precise navigation of China’s icebreaker vessel (Xuelong) during the 29th Chinese Antarctic Research Expedition in December 2012. Different features on the fast ice were identified from horizontal-transmit and horizontal-receive polarized imagery. The potential usage of SAR imagery for precise navigation was confirmed by an expert witness on theXuelongvessel at that time. The final voyage route has validated our analysis of fast ice and navigation of theXuelongvessel. The predicted regions for unloading locations were also found to be matching well with the actual vessel unloading locations after the final voyage route.
Testing the Effects of Near-Shore Environmental Variables on Acoustic Detections: Implications on Telemetry Array Design and Data Interpretation
Authors: Stocks Jerom R. , Gray Charles A. , Taylor Matthew D.
Published: February 2014

AbstractAcoustic technology is a common means to study the movements and habitat utilization of aquatic organisms. This study simultaneously assesses the relative importance of a number of major environmental variables affecting the detection range and detection frequency
of acoustic tracking technology in near-shore marine environments. Transmitter power output and diel index in order of relative importance were the most influential variables affecting detection range within a temperate reef habitat. Wave height, transmitter power output, and diel index in
order of relative importance were the most influential variables affecting detection range within the wash zone. Similar models resulted when examining detection frequency at 100 m within the two habitat types. Attention is also drawn to the selection of transmitter power output based upon
the habitat type and environmental conditions of the study site. This study demonstrates the importance of in situ range test studies in array design and interpretation of acoustic telemetry data.
The parasitoid communities associated with Ceutorhynchus species (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) in Ontario and Québec, Canada
Authors: Mason P.G. , Miall J.H. , Bouchard P. , Brauner A. , Gillespie D.R. , Gibson G.A.P.
Published: February 2014

Surveys were conducted in Ontario and Québec, Canada to determine the parasitoid communities associated with Ceutorhynchus Germar (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) weevil species that are potential nontarget hosts of candidate biological control agents of the cabbage seedpod weevil, Ceutorhynchus obstrictus (Marsham). New host plant associations are documented for Ceutorhynchus americanus Buchanan, Ceutorhynchus neglectus Blatchley, and Ceutorhynchus omissus Fall. More than 18 species of Chalcidoidea (Hymenoptera) were associated with six Ceutorhynchus species reared from siliques and stems of Brassicaceae plants. Silique-feeding Ceutorhynchus species supported a more diverse parasitoid community than stem-feeding or root crown-feeding species. The major components of the parasitoid assemblage of the native C. neglectus included Mesopolobus gemellus Baur and Muller, Mesopolobus moryoides Gibson, Trichomalus lucidus (Walker) (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae) and a cryptic species complex previously reported as Necremnus tidius (Walker) (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae). These species, plus Trimeromicrus maculatus Gahan (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae) were the main parasitoids attacking the native C. omissus. The major parasitoids associated with the accidently introduced Ceutorhynchus erysimi (Fabricius) and Ceutorhynchus typhae (Herbst) included T. maculatus, the N. tidius species complex, M. gemellus, and M. moryoides. Trichomalus perfectus (Walker) (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae), a major parasitoid of C. obstrictus in Europe, is an accidental introduction first reared in Canada from that host in 2009 and first collected from C. omissus in 2011. Mesopolobus gemellus is shown to have a broad host range. These findings highlight the need for a cautious approach before introducing new biological control agents.
Regulation of MHC Class I Expression by Foxp3 and Its Effect on Regulatory T Cell Function
Authors: Mu Jie , Tai Xuguang , Iyer Shankar S. , Weissman Jocelyn D. , Singer Alfred , Singer Dinah S.
Published: February 2014

Expression of MHC class I molecules, which provide immune surveillance against intracellular pathogens, is higher on lymphoid cells than on any other cell types. In T cells, this is a result of activation of class I transcription by the T cell enhanceosome consisting of Runx1, CBFβ, and LEF1. We now report that MHC class I transcription in T cells also is enhanced by Foxp3, resulting in higher levels of class I in CD4+CD25+ T regulatory cells than in conventional CD4+CD25− T cells. Interestingly, the effect of Foxp3 regulation of MHC class I transcription is cell type specific: Foxp3 increases MHC class I expression in T cells but represses it in epithelial tumor cells. In both cell types, Foxp3 targets the upstream IFN response element and downstream core promoter of the class I gene. Importantly, expression of MHC class I contributes to the function of CD4+CD25+ T regulatory cells by enhancing immune suppression, both in in vitro and in vivo. These findings identify MHC class I genes as direct targets of Foxp3 whose expression augments regulatory T cell function.
TCR Scanning of Peptide/MHC through Complementary Matching of Receptor and Ligand Molecular Flexibility
Authors: Hawse William F. , De Soumya , Greenwood Alex I. , Nicholson Linda K. , Zajicek Jaroslav , Kovrigin Evgenii L. , Kranz David M. , Garcia K. Christopher , Baker Brian M.
Published: February 2014

Although conformational changes in TCRs and peptide Ags presented by MHC protein (pMHC) molecules often occur upon binding, their relationship to intrinsic flexibility and role in ligand selectivity are poorly understood. In this study, we used nuclear magnetic resonance to study TCR–pMHC binding, examining recognition of the QL9/H-2Ld complex by the 2C TCR. Although the majority of the CDR loops of the 2C TCR rigidify upon binding, the CDR3β loop remains mobile within the TCR–pMHC interface. Remarkably, the region of the QL9 peptide that interfaces with CDR3β is also mobile in the free pMHC and in the TCR–pMHC complex. Determination of conformational exchange kinetics revealed that the motions of CDR3β and QL9 are closely matched. The matching of conformational exchange in the free proteins and its persistence in the complex enhances the thermodynamic and kinetic stability of the TCR–pMHC complex and provides a mechanism for facile binding. We thus propose that matching of structural fluctuations is a component of how TCRs scan among potential ligands for those that can bind with sufficient stability to enable T cell signaling.
Stable isotopes (δ13C and δ15N) from North West Argentina: paleodietary implications
Authors: Ammann Matías G. , Mendonça Osvaldo J. , Merlo Noelia I. , Bordach María A. , Tykot Robert H.
Published: February 2014

Presented here are the first results of an ongoing research project on stable isotopic analysis of human bone samples from six sites located at Jujuy province, NW Argentina. The region was inhabited by hunter gatherers as early as 10,000 years ago (Archaic Period). Sometime between 500 BC-AD 1600, peoples from the region became agricultural-pastoralists. The prehistoric development of these societies was severed in 1596 by the Spanish Conquest. A diversity of environmental as well as chronological differences led the prehistoric societies of the region to adopt and display a series of adaptive responses. Active exchange of products was a common fact. The aforementioned circumstances raise expectations concerning the existence of possible variations in the actual consumption of available alimentary items in Puna (3000 to 4700 m asl), as well as in Quebrada de Humahuaca (2000 to 2800 m asl). The obtained δ13C and δ15N values on both apatite and collagen show elevated consumption of C4 resources in Quebrada de Humahuaca since the onset of the Formative Period (ca. 500 BC). Puna samples, on the other hand, show a sustained, long lasting chronological emphasis on camelid production and consumption as well as other C3 resources exploited. We conclude that, in spite of the considerable interactions and trading that took place between these two regions in prehistoric times, they were not strong enough to erase the environmental influences that determined the existence of distinctive stable isotope patterns related to diet (and composition of meals) between Quebrada de Humahuaca and Puna peoples.
Twisted Plane Wave Expansions Using Hypercomplex Methods
Authors: Colombo Fabrizio , Sabadini Irene , Sommen Franciscus , Struppa Daniele C.
Published: February 2014

The purpose of this paper is to derive various representations of the Dirac delta distribution, including a Bony-type twisted Radon decomposition, from boundary values of monogenic functions. This leads to a new and simpler approach based on the properties of the analogue of the Cauchy kernel in the context of monogenic functions.
On a WKB-Theoretic Transformation for a Completely Integrable System near a Degenerate Point where Two Turning Points Coalesce
Authors: Hirose Sampei
Published: February 2014

We discuss the exact WKB analysis for a completely integrable system in two variables with a large parameter. Using a WKB-theoretic transformation, we study the behavior of the system near a degenerate point where two turning points coalesce.
Witt Groups of Algebraic Groups
Authors: Yagita Nobuaki
Published: February 2014

Let

G_k

be a split reductive group over a subfield

k

of

\mathbb C

corresponding to a Lie group

G

. Let

T

be a maximal torus of

G

. We show the isomorphism

W^*(G_k)\cong W^*(G_k/T_k)

of Balmer–Witt groups. When

k

is algebraically closed, we prove that

W^*(G_k)

is isomorphic to the topological

K

-theory

KO^{2*-1}(G/T)

of the flag manifold

G/T

. Then we compute it explicitly by using the fact that

W^*(G_k)

is a Hopf algebra.
The Results of a 2-Year Randomized Trial of a Worksite Weight Management Intervention
Authors: Williams Andrew E. , Stevens Victor J. , Albright Cheryl L. , Nigg Claudio R. , Meenan Richard T. , Vogt Thomas M.
Published: February 2014

Purpose.

We assessed the effectiveness of a worksite management intervention (the 3W program) for overweight and obese hotel employees.

Design.

The program was tested in a 2-year cluster-randomized trial involving 30 hotels that employed nearly 12,000 individuals.

Setting.

All participating hotels were on Oahu, Hawaii. The intervention was implemented within hotel worksites.

Subjects.

Participants were included in the analysis if they had an initial body mass index (BMI) ≥ 25, were assessed at least twice, were not missing other data needed for the analysis, and did not switch to employment at a hotel in a different experimental condition. Of the 6519 employees we assessed, data from 1207 individuals (intervention: 598; control: 610) met these criteria and contributed to the analysis.

Intervention.

The intervention had two components: (1) group meetings and (2) a workplace environment intervention.

Measures.

Weight and waist to height ratio (WHtR) were measured at three annual assessments.

Analysis.

The effect of the intervention on change in BMI and WHtR was estimated in hierarchical mixed regression models using full maximum likelihood to estimate model parameters.

Results.

The effects on change in BMI and WHtR were in the expected direction but were not statistically significant.

Conclusion.

The 3W program was not effective. The low intensity of the intervention may have contributed to its ineffectiveness.
A Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial of a Nutrition Intervention Program in a Multiethnic Adult Population in the Corporate Setting Reduces Depression and Anxiety and Improves Quality of Life: The GEICO Study
Authors: Agarwal Ulka , Mishra Suruchi , Xu Jia , Levin Susan , Gonzales Joseph , Barnard Neal D.
Published: February 2014

Purpose.

To determine whether a plant-based nutrition program in a multicenter, corporate setting improves depression, anxiety, and productivity.

Design.

A quasi-experimental study examined the impact of diet on emotional well-being and productivity.

Setting.

The study was conducted in 10 corporate sites of a major U.S. insurance company.

Subjects.

There were 292 participants (79.8% women, 20.2% men), with body mass index ≥25 kg/m2 and/or previous diagnosis of type 2 diabetes.

Intervention.

Either weekly instruction in following a vegan diet or no instruction was given for 18 weeks.

Measures.

Depression and anxiety were measured using the Short Form-36 questionnaire. Work productivity was measured using the Work Productivity and Activity Impairment questionnaire.

Analysis.

Baseline characteristics were examined by t-test for continuous variables and χ2 test for categorical variables. Analysis of covariance models were adjusted for baseline covariates. Paired t-tests were used to determine within-group changes and t-tests for between-group differences.

Results.

In an intention-to-treat analysis, improvements in impairment because of health (p < .001), overall work impairment because of health (p = .02), non-work-related activity impairment because of health (p < .001), depression (p = .02), anxiety (p = .04), fatigue (p < .001), emotional well-being (p = .01), daily functioning because of physical health (p = .01), and general health (p = 0.02) in the intervention group were significantly greater than in the control group. Results were similar for study completers.

Conclusion.

A dietary intervention improves depression, anxiety, and productivity in a multicenter, corporate setting.
Experimental determination of L X-ray fluorescence cross sections for elements with 45 < Z < 50 at 10 keV
Authors: Bonzi Edgardo , Grad Gabriela , Barrea Raúl
Published: February 2014

Synchrotron radiation at 10 keV was used to experimentally determine the Ll, L, LI, LII, LI and LII fluorescence cross sections for elements with 45 < Z < 50, as part of an ongoing investigation at low energies. The measured data were compared with calculated values obtained using coefficients from Scofield, Krause and Puri et al.Received: 19 December 2013,  Accepted: 20 January 2014; Reviewed by: J. P. Marques, Departamento de Física, Centro de Física Atómica, Fac. de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Portugal.; Edited by: P. Weck; DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4279/PIP.060001Cite as: E V Bonzi, G B Grad, R A Barrea, Papers in Physics 6, 060001 (2014)
Temporal changes in the emissions of CH4 and CO from China estimated from CH4 / CO2 and CO / CO2 correlations observed at Hateruma Island
Authors: Tohjima Y. , Kubo M. , Minejima C. , Mukai H. , Tanimoto H. , Ganshin A. , Maksyutov S. , Katsumata K. , Machida T. , Kita K.
Published: February 2014

Abstract. In situ observation of the atmospheric CO2, CH4, and CO mixing ratios at Hateruma Island (HAT, 24.05° N, 123.80° E) often show synoptic-scale variations with correlative elevations during winter, associated with air transport from the East Asian countries. We examine winter (November– March) trends in ΔCH4 / ΔCO2, ΔCO / ΔCO2, and ΔCO / ΔCH4 observed at Hateruma over the period 1999 to 2010. To investigate the relationship between the East Asian emissions and the short-term variations in the atmospheric mixing ratios, we use the FLEXPART Lagrangian particle dispersion model (LPDM). The observed ratios ΔCH4 / ΔCO2 and ΔCO / ΔCO2 both show an overall gradual decrease over the study period due to a recent rapid increase in fossil fuel consumption in China. We note, however, that the decreasing rates of ΔCH4 / ΔCO2 and ΔCO / ΔCO2 show gradual decrease and increase, respectively, during the entire observation periods used in this study. The ΔCO / ΔCH4 slope, on the other hand, shows an increasing trend during 1999–2004 but a decrease during 2005–2010. Calculation of the concentration footprint for the atmospheric observation at HAT by using the FLEXPART LPDM indicates that most of the short-term variations are caused by emission variations from northern and eastern China. Combined with a set of reported emission maps, we have estimated the temporal changes in the annual CH4 and CO emissions from China under the assumption that the estimate of the fossil-fuel-derived CO2 emissions based on the energy statistics are accurate. The estimated annual CH4 emissions, corresponding to nonseasonal sources or anthropogenic sources without rice fields, show a nearly constant value of 39 ± 7 TgCH4 yr−1 during 1998–2002, and then gradually increase to 46 ± 8 TgCH4 yr−1 in 2009/2010. The estimated annual CO emissions increase from 134 ± 32 TgCO yr−1 in 1998/1999 to 182 ± 42 TgCO yr−1 in 2004/2005, level off after 2005, and then slightly decrease to less than 160 TgCO yr−1 in 2008–2010.
The fate of buried organic carbon in colluvial soils: a long-term perspective
Authors: Wang Z. , Van Oost K. , Lang A. , Quine T. , Clymans W. , Merckx R. , Notebaert B. , Govers G.
Published: February 2014

Abstract. Colluvial soils are enriched in soil organic carbon (SOC) in comparison to the soils of upslope areas due to the deposition and progressive burial of SOC. This burial of SOC has important implications for the global carbon cycle, but the long-term dynamics of buried SOC remain poorly constrained. We addressed this issue by determining the SOC burial efficiency (i.e. the fraction of originally deposited SOC that is preserved in colluvial deposits) of buried SOC as well as the SOC stability in colluvial soils. We quantified the turnover rate of deposited SOC by establishing sediment and SOC burial chronologies. The SOC stability was derived from soil incubation experiments and the δ13C values of SOC. The C burial efficiency was found to decrease with time, reaching a constant ratio of approximately 17% by about 1000–1500 yr post-burial. This decrease is attributed to the increasing recalcitrance of the remaining buried SOC with time and a less favourable environment for SOC decomposition with increasing depth. Buried SOC in colluvial profiles was found to be more stable and degraded in comparison to SOC sampled at the same depth at a stable reference location. This is due to the preferential mineralisation of the labile fraction of the deposited SOC. Our study shows that SOC responds to burial over a centennial timescale; however, more insight into the factors controlling this response is required to fully understand how this timescale may vary, depending on specific conditions such as climate and depositional environment.
Interpretation of Cluster WBD frequency conversion mode data
Authors: Pickett J. S. , Christopher I. W. , Kirchner D. L.
Published: February 2014

Abstract. The Cluster wide-band data (WBD) plasma wave receiver mounted on each of the four Cluster spacecraft obtains high time resolution waveform data in the frequency range of ~70 Hz to 577 kHz. In order to make measurements above 77 kHz, it uses frequency conversion to sample the higher frequency waves at one of three different conversion frequencies (~125, 250 and 500 kHz, these frequencies being the possible options for setting the base frequency of the frequency range being sampled) in one of three different filter bandwidths (9.5, 19 and 77 kHz). Within the WBD instrument, a down-conversion technique, built around quadrature mixing, is used to convert these data to baseband (0 kHz) in order to reduce the sample rate for telemetry to the ground. We describe this down-conversion technique and illustrate it through data obtained in space. Because these down-converted data sometimes contain pulses, which can be indicative of nonlinear physical structures (e.g., electron phase-space holes and electron density enhancements and depletions), it is necessary to understand what effects mixing and down conversion have on them. We present simulations using constructed signals containing pulses, nonlinear wave packets, sinusoids and noise. We show that the pulses and impulsive wave packets, if of sufficient amplitude and of appropriate width, survive the down-conversion process, sometimes with the same pulse shape but usually with reduced amplitude, and have timescales consistent with the filter bandwidth at the base frequency. Although we cannot infer the actual timescale of the pulses and impulsive wave packets as originally recorded by the WBD instrument before mixing and down conversion, their presence indicates nonlinear processes occurring at or somewhat near the location of the measurement. Sinusoidal waves are represented in the down-conversion timescale as sinusoids of nearly the same amplitude and at frequencies adjusted down by the conversion frequency. The original input waveforms, regardless of their shape, whether pulses or sinusoids, can never be recovered from the down-converted waveforms.
Atmospheric inverse modeling with known physical bounds: an example from trace gas emissions
Authors: Miller S. M. , Michalak A. M. , Levi P. J.
Published: February 2014

Abstract. Many inverse problems in the atmospheric sciences involve parameters with known physical constraints. Examples include nonnegativity (e.g., emissions of some urban air pollutants) or upward limits implied by reaction or solubility constants. However, probabilistic inverse modeling approaches based on Gaussian assumptions cannot incorporate such bounds and thus often produce unrealistic results. The atmospheric literature lacks consensus on the best means to overcome this problem, and existing atmospheric studies rely on a limited number of the possible methods with little examination of the relative merits of each. This paper investigates the applicability of several approaches to bounded inverse problems. A common method of data transformations is found to unrealistically skew estimates for the examined example application. The method of Lagrange multipliers and two Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) methods yield more realistic and accurate results. In general, the examined MCMC approaches produce the most realistic result but can require substantial computational time. Lagrange multipliers offer an appealing option for large, computationally intensive problems when exact uncertainty bounds are less central to the analysis. A synthetic data inversion of US anthropogenic methane emissions illustrates the strengths and weaknesses of each approach.
User investment and behavior policing on 4chan
Authors: Trammell Matthew
Published: February 2014

In this paper I explore the posting habits of anonymous users of the “Sports” (/sp/) board of the infamous American imageboard 4chan. Through qualitative analysis of the content of various posts, I argue that, contrary to the purported ideology and discourse of anonymity associated with controversial, anonymous online spaces like 4chan, users of the site are in fact highly invested in delimiting and policing the borders of what counts as “acceptable” posting behavior within the community, and are also eager to defend themselves from accusations of unfamiliarity with the mores of the community’s subcultural practices. These findings are remarkable given that anonymous users gain no consistent reputation among their fellow users by taking part in these practices and have nothing to risk in terms of community prestige. I conclude that member registration and expression of a virtual embodied identity are not required for inspiring investment of user energy in preserving and enforcing the boundaries and culture of a virtual community, and that anonymous spaces like 4chan actually have more in common with communities that depend on persistent user identity than they care to admit.
Intravitreal Anti-VEGF Therapy for Vascularized Pigment Epithelium Detachment in Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Giansanti Fabrizio , Bacherini Daniela , Giacomelli Giovanni , Virgili Gianni , Finocchio Lucia , Fiore Tito , Vannozzi Lorenzo , Menchini Ugo
Published: February 2014

Purpose

To assess the efficacy of intravitreal anti—vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) treatment of vascularized pigment epithelial detachment (PED) due to age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Methods

A total of 26 patients with vascularized PED secondary to AMD were retrospectively analyzed and treated with anti-VEGF intravitreal injections according to a PRN regimen after 3 initial injections. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), optical coherence tomography, and fluorescein angiography were performed at baseline and quarterly.

Results

Mean follow-up ranged from 9 to 26 months (mean 13.5). There was a deterioration in mean BCVA from 0.46 at baseline to 0.79 logMAR at 12 months (p<0.001). The mean PED greatest linear diameter (GLD) increased from 4499 at baseline to 5206 μm at 1-year follow-up (p<0.001). The mean PED maximum height decreased from 669 μm at baseline to 305 μm at 1-year follow-up (p = 0.001). The mean central retinal thickness (CRT) was unchanged (from 277 to 209 μm at 1 year follow-up) (p = 0.099). No effect was seen on the change of VA according to groups of baseline predictors as defined by the medial value: baseline VA, PED height, and CRT (p>0.10). There was a borderline trend (p = 0.064) that GLD affected response to treatment. The mean number of injections was 5.5 (3 to 9). Seven out of 26 (27%) patients developed a retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) tear.

Conclusions

Intravitreal anti-VEGF therapy, with a PRN regimen, did not prevent visual acuity loss or RPE tear.
Research Note: Are Hotel Property Taxes Fully Passed on to Hotel Guests? Implications from Recent Research on Property Tax Incidence
Authors: Mak James
Published: February 2014

Recent research on the excise tax effects of the property tax in small, multi-sector open economies suggests that the property tax may not be fully forward shifted to consumers, as previously believed. This paper adapts this analysis to examine whether local hotel property taxes in Hawaii are fully passed on to hotel guests as lawmakers had intended. The paper concludes that full forward shifting is unlikely. It argues that an excise/sales tax on hotel occupancy is preferable to the property tax as a tourist tax.