bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cellular Reparative Mechanisms of Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Retinal Diseases
Authors: Ding Suet , Kumar Suresh , Mok Pooi
Published: July 2017

The use of multipotent mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) has been reported as promising for the treatment of numerous degenerative disorders including the eye. In retinal degenerative diseases, MSCs exhibit the potential to regenerate into retinal neurons and retinal pigmented epithelial cells in both in vitro and in vivo studies. Delivery of MSCs was found to improve retinal morphology and function and delay retinal degeneration. In this review, we revisit the therapeutic role of MSCs in the diseased eye. Furthermore, we reveal the possible cellular mechanisms and identify the associated signaling pathways of MSCs in reversing the pathological conditions of various ocular disorders such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), retinitis pigmentosa, diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma. Current stem cell treatment can be dispensed as an independent cell treatment format or with the combination of other approaches. Hence, the improvement of the treatment strategy is largely subjected by our understanding of MSCs mechanism of action.
RETRACTED: Hsia et al. Advanced Glycation End-Products Enhance Lung Cancer Cell Invasion and Migration. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2016, 17, 1289
Authors:   International Journal of Molecular Sciences Editorial Office
Published: July 2017

In article [1], severalWestern blot bands in Figures 1–4 have been questioned due to similarity. [...]
Secretion of Galectin-9 as a DAMP during Dengue Virus Infection in THP-1 Cells
Authors: Dapat Isolde , Pascapurnama Dyshelly , Iwasaki Hiroko , Labayo Hannah , Chagan-Yasutan Haorile , Egawa Shinichi , Hattori Toshio
Published: July 2017

Damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) are endogenous cellular molecules released to the extracellular environment in response to stress conditions such as virus infection. Galectins are β-galactoside-binding proteins that are widely expressed in cells and tissues of the immune system, are localized in the cell cytoplasm, and have roles in inflammatory responses and immune responses against infection. Elevated levels of galectin-9 (Gal-9) in natural human infections have been documented in numerous reports. To investigate the effect of dengue virus (DENV) infection on expression of endogenous Gal-9, monocytic THP-1 cells were infected with varying doses of DENV-3 (multiplicity of infection (MOI) 0.01, 0.03 and 0.1) and incubated at varying time points (Day 1, Day 2, Day 3). Results showed augmentation of Gal-9 levels in the supernatant, reduction of Gal-9 levels in the cells and decreased expression of LGALS9 mRNA, while DENV-3 mRNA copies for all three doses remained stable through time. Dengue virus induced the secretion of Gal-9 as a danger response; in turn, Gal-9 and other inflammatory factors, and stimulated effector responses may have limited further viral replication. The results in this pilot experiment add to the evidence of Gal-9 as a potential DAMP.
A Simple Procedure for the Evaluation of Bone Vitality by Staining with a Tetrazolium Salt
Authors: Schiffner René , Reiche Juliane , Brodt Steffen , Brinkmann Olaf , Bungartz Matthias , Matziolis Georg , Schmidt Martin
Published: July 2017

Presently, no intra-operative method for a direct assessment of bone vitality exists. Therefore, we set out to test the applicability of tetrazolium-based staining on bone samples. The explanted femoral heads of 37 patients were used to obtain either cancellous bone fragments or bone slices. Samples were stained with 2,3,5-triphenyl-2H-tetrazolium chloride (TTC) or 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (thiazolyl blue, MTT) at different times (one to twelve hours) after explantation. Staining was quantified either spectrophotometrically after extraction of the dyes or by densitometric image analysis. TTC-staining of cancellous bone fragments and bone slices, respectively, indicated the detectability of vital cells in both types of samples in a window of up to six hours after explantation. Staining intensity at later time-points was indistinguishable from the staining of untreated samples or sodium azide treated samples, which represent dead cells. In contrast, MTT-staining of bone slices revealed intense unspecific staining, which obscured the evaluation of the vitality of the samples. The lack of a detectable increase of colour intensity in TTC-stained bone samples, which were treated more than six hours after explantation, corresponds to reduced fracture healing. The described simple procedure could provide a basis for an intraoperative decision by the orthopaedic surgeon.
Big Data Management with Incremental K-Means Trees–GPU-Accelerated Construction and Visualization
Authors: Wang Jun , Zelenyuk Alla , Imre Dan , Mueller Klaus
Published: July 2017

While big data is revolutionizing scientific research, the tasks of data management and analytics are becoming more challenging than ever. One way to remit the difficulty is to obtain the multilevel hierarchy embedded in the data. Knowing the hierarchy enables not only the revelation of the nature of the data, it is also often the first step in big data analytics. However, current algorithms for learning the hierarchy are typically not scalable to large volumes of data with high dimensionality. To tackle this challenge, in this paper, we propose a new scalable approach for constructing the tree structure from data. Our method builds the tree in a bottom-up manner, with adapted incremental k-means. By referencing the distribution of point distances, one can flexibly control the height of the tree and the branching of each node. Dimension reduction is also conducted as a pre-process, to further boost the computing efficiency. The algorithm takes a parallel design and is implemented with CUDA (Compute Unified Device Architecture), so that it can be efficiently applied to big data. We test the algorithm with two real-world datasets, and the results are visualized with extended circular dendrograms and other visualization techniques.
Simplified Three-Microphone Acoustic Test Method
Authors: Pelletier Mathew , Holt Greg , Wanjura John
Published: July 2017

Accepted acoustic testing standards are available; however, they require specialized hardware and software that are typically out of reach economically to the occasional practitioner. What is needed is a simple and inexpensive screening method that can provide a quick comparison for rapid identification of the top candidates. This research reports on the development of an acoustical rapid-test method that achieves these objectives. The method is based upon a reformulation of the well-regarded three-microphone method. The new formulation reduces the number of required microphones to a single microphone and removes the need for simultaneous capture and extensive signal-processing analysis. The study compares the proposed simplified method to two standard methods and the three-microphone method. The results of the correlation analysis between the new method versus the original method produced a coefficient of determination of r2 = 0.994. A simulation study highlighted several unique accuracy advantages of this new proposed method in comparison to the existing standard methods. The proposed new method represents an easy-to-use technique that requires little in the way of equipment and can be set up with minimal training and expense.
Counting the Photons: Determining the Absolute Storage Capacity of Persistent Phosphors
Authors: Van der Heggen David , Joos Jonas , Rodríguez Burbano Diana , Capobianco John , Smet Philippe
Published: July 2017

The performance of a persistent phosphor is often determined by comparing luminance decay curves, expressed in cd/m 2 . However, these photometric units do not enable a straightforward, objective comparison between different phosphors in terms of the total number of emitted photons, as these units are dependent on the emission spectrum of the phosphor. This may lead to incorrect conclusions regarding the storage capacity of the phosphor. An alternative and convenient technique of characterizing the performance of a phosphor was developed on the basis of the absolute storage capacity of phosphors. In this technique, the phosphor is incorporated in a transparent polymer and the measured afterglow is converted into an absolute number of emitted photons, effectively quantifying the amount of energy that can be stored in the material. This method was applied to the benchmark phosphor SrAl 2 O 4 :Eu,Dy and to the nano-sized phosphor CaS:Eu. The results indicated that only a fraction of the Eu ions (around 1.6% in the case of SrAl 2 O 4 :Eu,Dy) participated in the energy storage process, which is in line with earlier reports based on X-ray absorption spectroscopy. These findings imply that there is still a significant margin for improving the storage capacity of persistent phosphors.
Synchrotron Microtomography Reveals the Fine Three-Dimensional Porosity of Composite Polysaccharide Aerogels
Authors: Ghafar Abdul , Parikka Kirsti , Haberthür David , Tenkanen Maija , Mikkonen Kirsi , Suuronen Jussi-Petteri
Published: July 2017

This study investigates the impact of ice-templating conditions on the morphological features of composite polysaccharide aerogels in relation to their mechanical behavior and aims to get a better insight into the parameters governing these properties. We have prepared polysaccharide aerogels of guar galactomannan (GM) and tamarind seed xyloglucan (XG) by enzymatic oxidation with galactose oxidase (GaO) to form hydrogels, followed by conventional and unidirectional ice-templating (freezing) methods and lyophilization to form aerogels. Composite polysaccharide aerogels were prepared by incorporating nanofibrillated cellulose (NFC) into polysaccharide solutions prior to enzymatic oxidation and gel formation; such a cross linking technique enabled the homogeneous distribution of the NFC reinforcement into the gel matrix. We conducted phase-enhanced synchrotron X-ray microtomography (XMT) scans and visualized the internal microstructure of the aerogels in three-dimensional (3D) space. Volume-weighted pore-size and pore-wall thickness distributions were quantitatively measured and correlated to the aerogels’ mechanical properties regarding ice-templating conditions. Pore-size distribution and orientation depended on the ice-templating methods and the NFC reinforcement that significantly determined the mechanical and shape-recovery behavior of the aerogels. The results obtained will guide the design of the microporous structure of polysaccharide aerogels with optimal morphology and mechanical behavior for life-sciences applications.
Effect of Austenitising Temperature on Mechanical Properties of Nanostructured Bainitic Steel
Authors: Zhao Jing , Li Jiemin , Ji Honghong , Wang Tiansheng
Published: July 2017

Nanostructured bainite was obtained in high-carbon Si-Al-rich steel by low-temperature (220–260 °C) isothermal transformation after austenitisation at different temperatures (900 °C, 1000 °C, and 1150 °C). Improved strength-ductility-toughness balance was achieved in the nanostructured bainitic steel austenitised at low temperatures (900 °C and 1000 °C). Increasing the austenitising temperature not only coarsened prior austenite grains and bainite packets, but also increased the size and fraction of blocky retained austenite. High austenitising temperature (1150 °C) remarkably decreased ductility and impact toughness, but had a small effect on strength and hardness.
Design of High-Reliability Micro Safety and Arming Devices for a Small Caliber Projectile
Authors: Wang Dakui , Lou Wenzhong , Feng Yue , Zhang Xinzhao
Published: July 2017

With the development of micro technology, the fuse for small-caliber projectiles tends to be miniaturized and intelligent, the traditional fuse no longer meets the requirements. In this paper, we demonstrate a micro safety and arming (S & A) device with small volume and high reliability in small caliber projectile platforms. The working principle of S & A devices is that a centrifugal insurance mechanism could deform under a centrifugal load and thus cause fuse safety arming. The centrifugal insurance mechanism is designed theoretically, verified by simulation and experimental methods. The experimental results show that, when the rotary speed is over 36,000 rpm, the fuse was armed safely. In addition, the experimental, simulation, and theoretical results are basically consistent, and indicate that the centrifugal insurance mechanism meets the expected criteria.
Diversity and Control of Spoilage Fungi in Dairy Products: An Update
Authors: Garnier Lucille , Valence Florence , Mounier Jérôme
Published: July 2017

Fungi are common contaminants of dairy products, which provide a favorable niche for their growth. They are responsible for visible or non-visible defects, such as off-odor and -flavor, and lead to significant food waste and losses as well as important economic losses. Control of fungal spoilage is a major concern for industrials and scientists that are looking for efficient solutions to prevent and/or limit fungal spoilage in dairy products. Several traditional methods also called traditional hurdle technologies are implemented and combined to prevent and control such contaminations. Prevention methods include good manufacturing and hygiene practices, air filtration, and decontamination systems, while control methods include inactivation treatments, temperature control, and modified atmosphere packaging. However, despite technology advances in existing preservation methods, fungal spoilage is still an issue for dairy manufacturers and in recent years, new (bio) preservation technologies are being developed such as the use of bioprotective cultures. This review summarizes our current knowledge on the diversity of spoilage fungi in dairy products and the traditional and (potentially) new hurdle technologies to control their occurrence in dairy foods.
Structural Behavior of a Semiflexible Polymer Chain in an Array of Nanoposts
Authors: Benková Zuzana , Rišpanová Lucia , Cifra Peter
Published: July 2017

The structural properties of a flexible and semiflexible circular chain confined in an array of parallel nanoposts with a square lattice cross-sectional projection were studied using coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations. To address the effect of the circular topology, a comparison with linear analogs was also carried out. In the interpretation of the chain structural properties, the geometry of the post array is considered as a combination of a channel approximating the interstitial volume with the diameter dc and a slit approximating the passage aperture with the width wp. The number of interstitial volumes occupied by a chain monotonically increases with the decreasing ratio dc/wp regardless of the way the geometry of the post array is varied. However, depending on how the array geometry is modified, the chain span along the posts displays a monotonic (constant post separation) or a non-monotonic behavior (constant passage width) when plotted as a function of the post diameter. In the case of monotonic trend, the width of interstitial spaces increases with the increasing chain occupation number, while, in the case of non-monotonic trend, the width of interstitial spaces decreases with the increasing chain occupation number. In comparison with linear topology, for circular topology, the stiffness affects more significantly the relative chain extension along the posts and less significantly the occupation number. The geometrical parameters of the post arrays are stored in the single-chain structure factors. The characteristic humps are recognized in the structure factor which ensue from the local increase in the density of segments in the circular chains presented in an interstitial volume or from the correlation of parallel chain fragments separated by a row of posts. Although the orientation correlations provide qualitative information about the chain topology and the character of confinement within a single interstitial volume, information about the array periodicity is missing.
Diurnal Cycle Relationships between Passive Fluorescence, PRI and NPQ of Vegetation in a Controlled Stress Experiment
Authors: Alonso Luis , Van Wittenberghe Shari , Amorós-López Julia , Vila-Francés Joan , Gómez-Chova Luis , Moreno Jose
Published: July 2017

In order to estimate vegetation photosynthesis from remote sensing observations; some critical parameters need to be quantified. From all absorbed light; the plant needs to release any excess that is not used for photosynthesis; by non-photochemical quenching; by fluorescence emission and unregulated thermal dissipation. Non-photochemical quenching (NPQ) processes are controlled photoprotective mechanisms which; once activated; strongly control the dynamics of photochemical efficiency. With illumination conditions increasing and decreasing during a diurnal cycle; photoprotection mechanisms needs to change accordingly. The goal of this work is to quantify dynamic NPQ; measured from active fluorescence measurements; based on passive proximal sensing leaf measurements. During a 22-day controlled light and water stress experiment on a tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) leaf we measured the diurnal dynamics of passive fluorescence (Chl F); the Photochemical Reflectance Index (PRI); the Absorbed Photosynthetically Active Radiation (APAR) and leaf temperature in combination with the actively retrieved non-photochemical quenching (NPQ) parameter. Based on a bi-linear combination of diurnal APAR and PRI (plane fit model) we succeeded to estimate NPQ with a RMSE of 0.08. The simple plane fit model estimation represents well the diurnal NPQ dynamics; except for the high light stress phase; when additional reversible photoinhibition processes took place. The present works presents a way of determining NPQ from passive remote sensing measurements; as a necessary step towards estimating photosynthetic rate.
Supervised Classification of Power Lines from Airborne LiDAR Data in Urban Areas
Authors: Wang Yanjun , Chen Qi , Liu Lin , Zheng Dunyong , Li Chaokui , Li Kai
Published: July 2017

Automatic extraction of power lines using airborne LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) data has been one of the most important topics for electric power management. However, this is very challenging over complex urban areas, where power lines are in close proximity to buildings and trees. In this paper, we presented a new, semi-automated and versatile framework that consists of four steps: (i) power line candidate point filtering, (ii) local neighborhood selection, (iii) spatial structural feature extraction, and (iv) SVM classification. We introduced the power line corridor direction for candidate point filtering and multi-scale slant cylindrical neighborhood for spatial structural features extraction. In a detailed evaluation involving seven scales and four types for local neighborhood selection, 26 structural features, and two datasets, we demonstrated that the use of multi-scale slant cylindrical neighborhood for individual 3D points significantly improved the power line classification. The experiments indicated that precision, recall and quality rate of power line classification is more than 98%, 98% and 97%, respectively. Additionally, we showed that our approach can reduce the whole processing time while achieving high accuracy.
Determination of the State of Strain of Large Floating Covers Using Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Aided Photogrammetry
Authors: Ong Wern , Chiu Wing , Kuen Thomas , Kodikara Jayantha
Published: July 2017

Floating covers used in waste water treatment plants are one of the many structures formed with membrane materials. These structures are usually large and can spread over an area measuring 470 m × 170 m. The aim of this paper is to describe recent work to develop an innovative and effective approach for structural health monitoring (SHM) of such large membrane-like infrastructure. This paper will propose a potentially cost-effective non-contact approach for full-field strain and stress mapping using an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) mounted with a digital camera and a global positioning system (GPS) tracker. The aim is to use the images acquired by the UAV to define the geometry of the floating cover using photogrammetry. In this manner, any changes in the geometry of the floating cover due to forces acting beneath resulting from its deployment and usage can be determined. The time-scale for these changes is in terms of weeks and months. The change in the geometry can be implemented as input conditions to a finite element model (FEM) for stress prediction. This will facilitate the determination of the state of distress of the floating cover. This paper investigates the possibility of using data recorded from a UAV to predict the strain level and assess the health of such structures. An investigation was first conducted on a laboratory sized membrane structure instrumented with strain gauges for comparison against strains, which were computed from 3D scans of the membrane geometry. Upon validating the technique in the laboratory, it was applied to a more realistic scenario: an outdoor test membrane structure and capable UAV were constructed to see if the shape of the membrane could be computed. The membrane displacements were then used to calculate the membrane stress and strain, state demonstrating a new way to perform structural health monitoring on membrane structures.
Load Identification for a Cantilever Beam Based on Fiber Bragg Grating Sensors
Authors: Song Xuegang , Zhang Yuexin , Liang Dakai
Published: July 2017

Load identification plays an important role in structural health monitoring, which aims at preventing structural failures. In order to identify load for linear systems and nonlinear systems, this paper presents methods to identify load for a cantilever beam based on dynamic strain measurement by Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) sensors. For linear systems, the proposed inverse method consists of Kalman filter with no load terms and a linear estimator. For nonlinear systems, the proposed inverse method consists of cubature Kalman filter (CKF) with no load terms and a nonlinear estimator. In the process of load identification, the state equations of the beam structures are constructed by using the finite element method (FEM). Kalman filter or CKF is used to suppress noise. The residual innovation sequences, gain matrix, and innovation covariance generated by Kalman filter or CKF are used to identify a load. To prove the effectiveness of the proposed method, numerical simulations and experiments of the beam structures are employed and the results show that the method has an excellent performance.
Methodology for the Successful Integration of an Energy Management System to an Operational Environmental System
Authors: Uriarte-Romero Rafael , Gil-Samaniego Margarita , Valenzuela-Mondaca Edgar , Ceballos-Corral Juan
Published: July 2017

Despite the fact that the implementation of ISO 50001 has helped organizations to successfully accomplish energy saving policies, there is still a significant disparity in the number of companies certificated under ISO 50001 compared with other standards such as ISO 14001. Considering the compatibilities between both standards, a potential sector is identified for the integration of ISO 50001 in organizations that operate under ISO 14001 systems. The cost and time associated with the development and implementation of the Energy Management System are identified as being amongst the most important obstacles, restricting the number of companies that are inclined to this energy certification. As an attempt to overcome this limitation, in this work, both standards were analyzed in detail and their coincidences identified and organized to propose a novel methodology that allows companies to naturally integrate an Energy Management System based on ISO 50001 into an ISO 14001 already in operation. The results provide evidence of a strong compatibility among the energy and environmental management systems, allowing enterprises to integrate the former with minimum investment and resources. In order to validate the proposed methodology and to demonstrate the agreement between both programs, these procedures were applied in a manufacturing company of the automotive sector, considered as a high energy consumer according to the classification made by the National Commission for the Efficient Use of Energy in Mexico.
Teaching Sustainability Using an Active Learning Constructivist Approach: Discipline-Specific Case Studies in Higher Education
Authors: Kalamas Hedden Maria , Worthy Roneisha , Akins Edwin , Slinger-Friedman Vanessa , Paul R.
Published: July 2017

In this paper we present our rationale for using an active learning constructivist approach to teach sustainability-related topics in a higher education. To push the boundaries of ecological literacy, we also develop a theoretical model for sustainability knowledge co-creation. Drawing on the experiences of faculty at a major Southeastern University in the United States, we present case studies in architecture, engineering, geography, and marketing. Four Sustainability Faculty Fellows describe their discipline-specific case studies, all of which are project-based learning experiences, and include details regarding teaching and assessment. Easily replicated in other educational contexts, these case studies contribute to the advancement of sustainability education.
Password Authenticated Key Exchange and Protected Password Change Protocols
Authors: Chang Ting-Yi , Hwang Min-Shiang , Yang Chou-Chen
Published: July 2017

In this paper, we propose new password authenticated key exchange (PAKE) and protected password change (PPC) protocols without any symmetric or public-key cryptosystems. The security of the proposed protocols is based on the computational Diffie-Hellman assumption in the random oracle model. The proposed scheme can resist both forgery server and denial of service attacks.
A Low-Cost, Wearable Opto-Inertial 6-DOF Hand Pose Tracking System for VR
Authors: Maereg Andualem , Secco Emanuele , Agidew Tayachew , Reid David , Nagar Atulya
Published: July 2017

In this paper, a low cost, wearable six Degree of Freedom (6-DOF) hand pose tracking system is proposed for Virtual Reality applications. It is designed for use with an integrated hand exoskeleton system for kinesthetic haptic feedback. The tracking system consists of an Infrared (IR) based optical tracker with low cost mono-camera and inertial and magnetic measurement unit. Image processing is done on LabVIEW software to extract the 3-DOF position from two IR targets and Magdwick filter has been implemented on Mbed LPC1768 board to obtain orientation data. Six DOF hand tracking outputs filtered and synchronized on LabVIEW software are then sent to the Unity Virtual environment via User Datagram Protocol (UDP) stream. Experimental results show that this low cost and compact system has a comparable performance of minimal Jitter with position and orientation Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) of less than 0.2 mm and 0.15 degrees, respectively. Total Latency of the system is also less than 40 ms.
The Middle Fragment of Helicobacter pylori CagA Induces Actin Rearrangement and Triggers Its Own Uptake into Gastric Epithelial Cells
Authors: Tohidpour Abolghasem , Gorrell Rebecca , Roujeinikova Anna , Kwok Terry
Published: July 2017

Cytotoxin-associated gene product A (CagA) is a major virulence factor secreted by Helicobacter pylori. CagA activity in the gastric epithelium is associated with higher risk of gastric cancer development. Bacterial type IV secretion system (T4SS)-mediated translocation of CagA into the cytosol of human epithelial cells occurs via a poorly understood mechanism that requires CagA interaction with the host membrane lipid phosphatidylserine (PS) and host cell receptor integrin α5β1. Here we have characterized the isolated recombinant middle fragment of CagA (CagA-M) that contains the positively-charged PS-binding region (aa 613–636) and a putative β1 integrin binding site, but lacks the EPIYA region, secretion signal peptide and the CagA multimerization motif. We show that CagA-M, when immobilized on latex beads, is capable of binding to, and triggering its own uptake into, gastric epithelial cells in the absence of infection with cagA-positive H. pylori. Using site-directed mutagenesis, fluorescent and electron microscopy, and highly-specific inhibitors, we demonstrate that the cell-binding and endocytosis-like internalization of CagA-M are dependent on (1) binding to PS; (2) β1 integrin activity; and (3) actin dynamics. Interaction of CagA-M with the host cells is accompanied by the development of long filopodia-like protrusions (macrospikes). This novel morphology is different from the hummingbird phenotype induced by the translocation of full-length CagA. The determinants within CagA-M and within the host that are important for endocytosis-like internalization into host cells are very similar to those observed for T4SS-mediated internalization of full-length CagA, suggesting that the latter may involve an endocytic pathway.
Le régime légal des réserves MAB en France
Authors: Comba Danilo
Published: July 2017

Greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction or sequestration projects (especially Afforestation/ Reforestation projects) – when implemented in developing countries who ratified the Kyoto Protocol and following the process defined by the Clean Development Mechanism – can generate tradable emission credits which certify real, additional and sustainable GHG emission reductions. Those emission credits or «Certified Emission Reduction » are freely transferable to a third party. But, as for any sale, the seller must be the owner or its mandatory. He must be able to do the sale and transfer the property rights to the buyer while keeping in mind that the right to dispose of something is solely the owner right. But, what is the thing we are talking about concerning Certified Emission Reduction ? Who is considered as the owner ? How the rights of the different parties involved in such project or impacted by it could be considered ? This is precisely the diverse elements that are analysed in this article.
Le Protocole sur la conservation et l’utilisation durable de la biodiversité des Carpates : une nouvelle étape dans le développement du droit international de la montagne
Authors: Dutu Mircea
Published: July 2017

Le système conventionnel concernant les Carpates est en construction. Il est uniquement composé, jusqu’à présent, par la Convention-cadre sur la protection et le développement durable des Carpates (2003) et le Protocole additionnel sur la conservation et l’utilisation durable de la diversité biologique et de la diversité des paysages (2008). Ce dispositif succède et s’inspire de celui visant les Alpes, tout en représentant, en même temps, une étape supérieure du développement du cadre juridique de la coopération régionale pour la gestion intégrée des problèmes économiques et sociaux des chaînes de montagnes transnationales. La Convention des Carpates et le Protocole s’inscrivent dans la génération de documents de l’après-Rio, en réalisant une corrélation et une approche directe avec la conception de la Convention sur la biodiversité (1992). En tant que document ouvert aux influences des réalités concrètes et aux évolutions conventionnelles, le Protocole sur la biodiversité promeut une vision dynamique, flexible, en permanente adaptation et peut constituer, à son tour, un nouveau point de départ dans le développement de la dimension environnementale du droit international (régional) de la montagne.
Learning by doing. Les procédures de non-respect de la Convention d’Espoo et de son Protocole de Kiev
Authors: Richard Vanessa
Published: July 2017

The set up of an ad hoc non-compliance procedure for the Espoo Convention and its Kiev Protocol is representative of the ’ learning by doing’ method many conventional regimes have adopted. On the one hand, a reactive monitoring system is little by little developed not by means of additional conventional obligations but by using successive strata of decisions made by the Conference of the Parties. On the other hand, the non-compliance procedure is progressively fleshed out as the review of implementation and non-compliance procedures grow intertwined but also on the basis of the experience gained in the handling of potential non-compliance situations, which contributes to the progressive clarification of both the scope of the non-compliance review and the consequences a non-compliant party might face.
Le régime des crédits carbone générés par les projets de boisement ou de reboisement dans le cadre du mécanisme pour un développement propre : un défi pour les juristes et développeurs de projet
Authors: Pérez Correa Sergio , Demenois Julien , Wemaëre Matthieu
Published: July 2017

Les réserves de biosphère sont des aires privilégiées reconnues dans le cadre du programme de l’UNESCO sur l’homme et la nature (MAB). Désignation internationale, les Etats doivent poursuivre une série d’objectifs et respecter certains principes. Il ne s’agit pas de règles strictes, la créativité dans la définition et la mise en oeuvre nationale du concept de biosphère étant considérée comme une de ses forces. Le Plan d’action de Madrid (2008-2013) souhaite valoriser les réserves de biosphère en tant que notion distincte, recommandant aux Etats qu’elles reçoivent une reconnaissance juridique renforcée. L’objectif est en particulier de stimuler la création des aires de transition. Contrairement à d’autres pays européens, les discussions n’ont pas favorisé l’émergence d’une notion autonome dans l’ordre français. En l’absence d’une notion spécifique, il faut néanmoins considérer la richesse de son cadre législatif. On évaluera si la discipline nationale permet de valoriser les réserves de biosphère conformément aux objectifs du programme MAB. Une attention particulière est d’ailleurs donnée à la procédure de révision dont les réserves MAB font l’objet.
Biodiversité et changement climatique : la méthode et le discours. Des mots du droit au droit des mots
Authors: Naim-Gesbert Éric
Published: July 2017

Biodiversity law and Climate change law, if both have their own method and language, concur in making the norm adapt to reality and accommodate what is changing. And this, in a way that one may call the adequate cause of environmental law which conditions its just normativity and determines sovereign fields governed by reason and equity – the cause ultimately changing the words of law in a law of words.
Energie électrique photovoltaïque : chronique d’un fiasco législatif à l’espagnole
Authors: Trébuchet Pierre-Jean
Published: July 2017

Evolution, révolution : voici le secteur des énergies renouvelables sous le feu croisé d’un législateur espagnol marquant le point d’orgue d’un cadre normatif décidément peu propice à l’enthousiasme. Après avoir réduit les aides accordées à l’énergie éolienne, le gouvernement espagnol s’attaque désormais au solaire photovoltaïque : près d’un an d’application effective du décret-loi royal législatif n° 14/ 2010, du 23 décembre 2010, témoigne de la récurrence des mesures visant à la réduction ou suppression rétroactive de subventions, dans un secteur dont le potentiel ne cesse pourtant de croître sur une péninsule ibérique inondée de soleil.
La gestion étatique des permis exclusifs de recherches du « gaz et huile de schiste » : sécurité énergétique et impacts environnementaux, à la recherche d’un subtil ou impossible équilibre ?
Authors: Cournil Christel
Published: July 2017

Notre article montre la chronologie de la mise en place «mouvementée » d’une première législation française sur l’exploration du gaz et huile de schiste. Cette gouvernance interroge concrètement la mise en oeuvre des principes environnementaux tels que le principe de prévention, d’information et de participation du public constitutionnalisés dans la Charte de l’environnement de 2005. Les hésitations du Gouvernement illustrent les difficultés de la gestion étatique d’une nouvelle ressource d’hydrocarbures non conventionnels impactant particulièrement l’environnement. Le législateur a adopté, le 13 juillet 2011, une loi mettant fin à l’utilisation de la fracturation hydraulique pour la recherche du gaz et huile de schiste. Si cette loi est une première dans le monde, élaborée dans l’urgence, elle laisse un sentiment d’insatisfaction pour tous les acteurs en présence. Nous reviendrons sur cette chronologie des événements en s’intéressant à cette gouvernance gouvernementale et législative cacophonique face à une mobilisation citoyenne inédite.
Les chemins tortueux de la mise en oeuvre de la Convention sur la diversité biologique dans l’outre-mer français. Spécificités des règles de mise en oeuvre et scénarios pour une mise en application complète et cohérente des dispositifs d'accès et de partage des avantages (APA) dans l'outre-mer français
Authors: Burelli Thomas
Published: July 2017

L’année 2010 a été l’occasion de constater la progression des processus d’érosion de la biodiversité à l’échelle mondiale. Des instruments légaux existent pourtant à l’image de la Convention sur la diversité biologique (CDB) pour tenter de promouvoir la conservation et encadrer l’utilisation de la biodiversité. Cette convention consacre notamment l’APA (l’accès et le partage des avantages) qui vise à la régulation de l’accès et de l’utilisation des ressources génétiques et des savoirs traditionnels associés. La France, qui a été parmi les premiers Etats à signer et à ratifier la CDB, n’a pas mis en place de dispositif dans les territoires de l’outre-mer à l’exception de quelques dispositions concernant le parc amazonien de Guyane. Cette adoption parcellaire, qui peut s’expliquer par les règles de mise en oeuvre de la CDB dans l’outremer, n’est pas sans conséquences négatives pour les différents acteurs impliqués. Ce développement incomplet impose une réflexion quant aux stratégies disponibles afin de maximiser la mise en oeuvre cohérente de l’APA dans l’outre-mer français.
Recent and Future Developments in (the System of) Environmental Law in the Netherlands
Authors: Seerden René
Published: July 2017

Cet article traite de l’évolution récente et à venir du droit de l’environnement (c’est-à-dire de l’aménagement du territoire, de la prévention des pollutions et de la conservation de la nature) aux Pays-Bas. Malgré quelques changements du droit substantif dans certains domaines (eau, air…), les changements les plus notables concernent le cadre général du système juridique. Plus qu’auparavant, sont adoptées des règles d’ensemble, en particulier dans le domaine de la prévention de la pollution. Quand des permis spécifiques sont encore requis, l’élément clé devient l’intégration d’une grande variété d’autorisations ayant des répercussions sur l’environnement (prévention des pollutions, planification du territoire et conservation de la nature). Ajoutons que la législation concernant l’accélération des procédures et le toilettage des garanties procédurales devient plus importante. Jusqu’où peut aller le législateur dans le compactage, la simplification, la modernisation et l’assouplissement du droit de l’environnement ?
First discovery of the charophycean green alga Lychnothamnus barbatus (Charophyceae) extant in the New World
Authors: Karol Kenneth G. , Skawinski Paul M. , McCourt Richard M. , Nault Michelle E. , Evans Reesa , Barton Martha E. , Berg Matthew S. , Perleberg Donna J. , Hall John D.
Published: July 2017

PREMISE OF THE STUDY:

Although some species of Characeae, known as stoneworts, can be found on every continent except Antarctica, many species and some genera have limited geographic distributions. The genus Lychnothamnus, represented by a single extant species L. barbatus, was known only from scattered localities in Europe and Australasia until it was recently discovered in North America.

METHODS:

Morphological identifications were made from specimens collected in Minnesota and Wisconsin, USA. DNA sequences were obtained for three plastid‐encoded genes (atpB, psbC, rbcL) from seven putative Lychnothamnus samples from two states in the USA Distribution and abundance were estimated in each lake using point intercept surveys where surveyors sampled aquatic vegetation.

KEY RESULTS:

Fourteen lakes in Wisconsin and two lakes in Minnesota, USA, were found to harbor Lychnothamnus barbatus. These represent the first report of this rare charophycean extant in the New World. The North American specimens matched the morphological description for L. barbatus and were compared directly with the neotype. Phylogenetic results using three plastid‐encoded genes confirmed the identification placing New World samples with those from Europe and Australasia. Our phylogenetic analyses also confirmed the sister relationship between L. barbatus and Nitellopsis obtusa.

CONCLUSIONS:

Because this taxon is not known for aggressive invasiveness in its native range, it may have existed in heretofore‐undiscovered native populations, although the possibility that it is a recent introduction cannot be eliminated. The potential for discovery of novel lineages of green algae in even well‐studied regions is apparently far from exhausted.
IslandFAST: A Semi-numerical Tool for Simulating the Late Epoch of Reionization
Authors: Xu Yidong , Yue Bin , Chen Xuelei
Published: July 2017

We present the algorithm and main results of our semi-numerical simulation, islandFAST, which was developed from 21cmFAST and designed for the late stage of reionization. The islandFAST simulation predicts the evolution and size distribution of the large-scale underdense neutral regions (neutral islands), and we find that the late Epoch of Reionization proceeds very fast, showing a characteristic scale of the neutral islands at each redshift. Using islandFAST, we compare the impact of two types of absorption systems, i.e., the large-scale underdense neutral islands versus small-scale overdense absorbers, in regulating the reionization process. The neutral islands dominate the morphology of the ionization field, while the small-scale absorbers dominate the mean-free path of ionizing photons, and also delay and prolong the reionization process. With our semi-numerical simulation, the evolution of the ionizing background can be derived self-consistently given a model for the small absorbers. The hydrogen ionization rate of the ionizing background is reduced by an order of magnitude in the presence of dense absorbers.
Two Stage Minimally Invasive Method with Locking Plate Application on Distal Tibia Fractures - Our Experience
Authors: Hasani Ilir , Kaftandziev Igor , Stojmenski Slavco , Trpeski Simon , Kostov Hristijan , Nikolov Ljupcho , Arsovski Oliver , Emini Saliamet
Published: July 2017

INTRODUCTION: In the past distal tibia fractures, including intraarticular fractures, frequently led to poor functional outcomes. The Ruedi-Allgower four steps open method, and later the Patterson and Sirkin recommendations for delayed operative treatment has made a drastic advancement in the treatment of these fractures. The two-stage minimally-invasive protocol using locking plate fixation proved a historical turning point, improving functional results to the highest levels compared to all other methods.AIM: To present the superior results of the two-stage minimally-invasive method using locking plate fixation, making this a historic step forward in treating distal tibia fractures.MATERIAL AND METHODS: A prospective longitudinal study, collecting data from Traumatology-Clinic in the 2014-2016 periods, available for nine-month follow-up. Twenty-three patients were finally included in the study.RESULTS: In analysing the data collected, we focused our attention on the final functional outcomes as indicated by dorsiflexion nine months after injury and also according to the AOFAS Ankle-Hindfoot Scale. Results were excellent with no or minimal consequences. Where complications were present, these were benign and did not require further surgery.CONCLUSION: We believe this modern method for the treatment of distal tibia fractures should be applied routinely and considered as the gold standard in this domain.
ACEITABILIDADE DE ALMÔNDEGAS PREPARADAS COM FILÉ DE TUCUNARÉ (Cichla monoculus)
Authors: Louzada Buill Shaide Borges , Sanches Alex Guimarães , Moreira Elaine Gleice Silva , Costa Jaqueline Macedo , Silva Maryelle Barros da , Cosme Shirley Silva , Cordeiro Carlos Alberto Martins
Published: July 2017

O consumo da carne de pescado no Brasil é muito baixo em relação ao consumo de outras carnes, devido a problemas na distribuição e comercialização destes, com isso é imprescindível que se busque novas alternativas para a utilização desta matéria-prima, com o fim de transformá-la em mercadorias aceitáveis pela população como produtos prontos ou semi-prontos. O experimento teve como objetivo avaliar a aceitabilidade de almôndegas de peixe desenvolvidas com diferentes ligantes sendo, F1 (farinha de pão), F2 (batata e trigo) e F3 (farinha de rosca e trigo). O pescado usado como matéria-prima foi o tucunaré (Cichla monoculus) onde foi feito a filetagem depois moído e separado em bandejas plásticas e acondicionado no freezer para a preparação das almôndegas. Realizou-se uma análise sensorial utilizando-se 60 provadores, onde constatou que não houve diferença significativa entre as três formulações. A partir dos resultados analisados, a almôndega feita com a 1formulação dois foi à mais preferida entre os provadores, com um índice de aceitação de 82,96% e média global de 7,47.
APPLICATION OF SENSORY ANALYSES IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF A NEW APPLE CIDER
Authors: Los Paulo Ricardo , Braga Cíntia Maia , Carvalho José Ricardo , Simões Deise Rosana Silva , Nogueira Alessandro
Published: July 2017

The development of a sparkling apple cider based on French technology and quality and desirable characteristics for Brazilian consumer may be a stratagem to development of a new beverage. The objective of this work was to develop and to characterize this beverage through physical-chemical and sensory analysis. The ordering and acceptability test and quantitative descriptive analysis (QDA) were performed in this work. The QDA was performed with 13 selected and trained testers. 16 aspects of product were evaluated: color, foam, turbidity, brightness, bubbles, the fruity, alcoholic, acetic, and fermented aromas, sweetness, astringency, acidity, alcohol, apple flavor and viscosity. The alcoholic degree was standardized in 4.5 oGL. The ordering test showed 50.0 g L-1 and 0.75 g 100mL-1 of residual sugar and acidity, respectively. The foam characteristics were obtained with 4.0 g hL-1 of propylene glycol alginate. The residual sugar was standardized with cryoconcentrated apple juice, which provided striking fruity aroma. The product was classified as sweet, low viscosity, cloudy however yellow as beer, with pleasant and persistent foam and bubbles. The acceptance rate was 81.6%, with purchase intent of circa 85.0%. The results indicate a high quality sparkling beverage with good marketing perspectives.