bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pauson-Khand Reaction of Internal Dissymmetric Trifluoromethyl Alkynes. Influence of the Alkene on the Regioselectivity
Authors: Aiguabella Nuria , Arce Elsa , Del Pozo Carlos , Verdaguer Xavier , Riera Antoni
Published: February 2014

The scope of the Pauson-Khand reaction (PKR) of internal trifluoromethyl alkynes, previously described with norbornadiene, is expanded to norbornene and ethylene. A thorough structural analysis of the resulting PK adducts has been carried out to unveil that α-trifluoromethylcyclopentenones are preferred in all cases, independently of the electronic properties of the alkyne. The regioselectivity observed with norbornadiene and ethylene is higher than in the case of norbornene.
Improvement in Sensitivity of an Inductive Oil Palm Fruit Sensor
Authors: Misron Norhisam , Harun Noor , Lee Yeoh , Sidek Roslina , Aris Ishak , Wakiwaka Hiroyuki , Tashiro Kunihisa
Published: February 2014

Among palm oil millers, the ripeness of oil palm Fresh Fruit Bunch (FFB) is determined through visual inspection. To increase the productivity of the millers, many researchers have proposed with a new detection method to replace the conventional one. The sensitivity of such a sensor plays a crucial role in determining the effectiveness of the method. In our preliminary study a novel oil palm fruit sensor to detect the maturity of oil palm fruit bunches is proposed. The design of the proposed air coil sensor based on an inductive sensor is further investigated to improve its sensitivity. This paper investigates the results pertaining to the effects of the air coil structure of an oil palm fruit sensor, taking consideration of the used copper wire diameter ranging from 0.10 mm to 0.18 mm with 60 turns. The flat-type shape of air coil was used on twenty samples of fruitlets from two categories, namely ripe and unripe. Samples are tested with frequencies ranging from 20 Hz to 120 MHz. The sensitivity of the sensor between air to fruitlet samples increases as the coil diameter increases. As for the sensitivity differences between ripe and unripe samples, the 5 mm air coil length with the 0.12 mm coil diameter provides the highest percentage difference between samples and it is amongst the highest deviation value between samples. The result from this study is important to improve the sensitivity of the inductive oil palm fruit sensor mainly with regards to the design of the air coil structure. The efficiency of the sensor to determine the maturity of the oil palm FFB and the ripening process of the fruitlet could further be enhanced.
On General Off-Shell Representations of World Line (1D) Supersymmetry
Authors: Doran Charles , Hübsch Tristan , Iga Kevin , Landweber Gregory
Published: February 2014

Every finite-dimensional unitary representation of the N-extended world line supersymmetry without central charges may be obtained by a sequence of differential transformations from a direct sum of minimal Adinkras, simple supermultiplets that are identifiable with representations of the Clifford algebra. The data specifying this procedure is a sequence of subspaces of the direct sum of Adinkras, which then opens an avenue for the classification of the continuum of the so-constructed off-shell supermultiplets.
Development and characterization of EST‐SSR markers in Ostryopsis (Betulaceae)
Authors: Liu Bing‐Bing , Tian Bin , Ma Hui , Lu Zhi‐Qiang , Qiu Qiang , Mao Kang‐Shan , Liu Jian‐Quan
Published: February 2014

• Premise of the study: A set of expressed sequence tag (EST) microsatellite markers were developed and characterized using next‐generation sequencing technology for the Chinese genus Ostryopsis (Betulaceae).

• Methods and Results: A total of 38 high‐quality simple sequence repeat (SSR) primers were identified, of which 15 could be successfully amplified. Subsequently, we selected 80 individuals to represent the three species of the genus to evaluate the efficacy of these markers for examining genetic diversity of each species in the future. We found that the number of alleles per locus ranged from one to nine, with an average of 3.8. The expected heterozygosity and observed heterozygosity per locus varied from 0 to 0.829 and from 0 to 1, respectively, with their respective mean values as 0.483 and 0.416.

• Conclusions: These EST‐SSR markers will be useful for evaluating the range‐wide genetic diversity of each species and examining genetic divergence and gene flow between the three species.
Development of microsatellite loci in Scrophularia incisa (Scrophulariaceae) and cross‐amplification in congeneric species
Authors: Wang Rui‐Hong , Chen Chuan , Ma Qing , Li Pan , Fu Cheng‐Xin
Published: February 2014

• Premise of the study: To elucidate the population genetics and phylogeography of Scrophularia incisa, microsatellite primers were developed. We also applied these microsatellite markers to its closely related species S. dentata and S. kiriloviana.

• Methods and Results: Using the compound microsatellite marker technique, 12 microsatellite primers were identified in S. incisa. The number of alleles ranged from 14 to 26 when assessed in 78 individuals from four populations. With high cross‐species transferability, these primers also amplified in S. dentata and S. kiriloviana.

• Conclusions: These results indicate that these microsatellite markers are adequate for detecting and characterizing population genetic structure in the Chinese species of sect. Tomiophyllum at fine and range‐wide geographical scales.
Total synthesis and cytotoxicity of the marine natural product malevamide D and a photoreactive analog
Authors: Telle Werner , Kelter Gerhard , Fiebig Heinz-Herbert , Jones Peter G , Lindel Thomas
Published: February 2014

The marine natural product malevamide D from the cyanobacterium Symploca hydnoides was synthesized for the first time. The final peptide coupling linked the dolaisoleuine and dolaproine subunits. The phenyl group of malevamide D was also functionalized with a photoreactive diazirine moiety, which was carried through seven reaction steps. Comprehensive assessment of the cytotoxicity in a panel of 42 human cancer cell lines revealed a geomean IC70 value of 1.5 nM (IC50 0.7 nM) for malevamide D, whereas the photoreactive derivative proved to be less active by a factor of at least 200. COMPARE analysis indicated tubulin interaction as likely mode of action of malevamide D.
Les équipes mobiles de soins palliatifs : entre idéal normatif et réalité du terrain
Authors: Gamblin Vincent , Da Silva Arlette , Boudehane Houria , Sauvage Véronique , Villet Stéphanie
Published: February 2014

L’activité des équipes mobiles de soins palliatifs soulève la question du maintien d’un idéal d’accompagnement palliatif, au sein d’un cadre qu’elles ne peuvent maîtriser et dont les référentiels sont bien souvent différents. Elles représentent ainsi par excellence un lieu de questionnement éthique de la pratique palliative, au carrefour entre un certain idéal, véhiculant des normes qui lui sont propres, et les contraintes de la réalité de terrain. Cette réflexion de portée générale explorera successivement les modalités relationnelles entre services référents et équipes mobiles, les motifs de résistance à leur intervention, avant de conclure sur les points de vigilance à maintenir par les équipes mobiles de soins palliatifs.
THERMAL PERFORMANCE OF THREE DIFFERENT STRAWBALE BUILDINGS AT THE KERKENES ECO-CENTER
Authors: Elias-Ozkan Soofia Tahira , Summers Francoise
Published: February 2014

By and large, straw is not considered to be a building material, yet in comparison with traditional materials, building with straw bales is definitely more energy-efficient, eco-friendly, and low-cost; qualities that are desirable in sustainable buildings. This paper presents information on three different straw bales buildings at the Kerkenes Eco-Center, which is located in the village of Sahmuratli in central Anatolia, Turkey. The first of these was constructed with load-bearing straw bale walls; the second with straw bales as infill in a timber-frame structure; while the third utilized straw bales in combination with Autoclave Aerated Concrete (AAC) blocks. This last was a hybrid wall construction that has been tried for the first time to take advantage of the thermal-insulation property of straw combined with the humidity-regulating property of mud plaster inside and the weather-resistance property of AAC outside. These three buildings are being monitored for their temperature and humidity variances with the help of data loggers; this data is also presented herein.
LOW-ENERGY DESIGN METHODS AND ITS IMPLEMENTATION IN ARCHITECTURAL PRACTICE: STRATEGIES FOR ENERGY-EFFICIENT HOUSING OF VARIOUS DENSITIES IN TEMPERATE CLIMATES
Authors: Lee Kyung Sun , Lee Jiyoung , Lee Jae Seung
Published: February 2014

With mounting concerns over climate change and urban population growth, the demand for sustainable housing based on low-energy designs is steadily increasing. A variety of low-energy design methods have been developed to reduce energy and resource consumption; however, research shows that the implementation of such methods has been surprisingly limited. In addition, while the degree of housing density is understood to have an impact on low-energy designs, what that impact is and how it can be strategically applied have not been adequately researched. This research examines how low-energy designs are applied in housing types with various densities in temperate climates, identifies the issues and problems pertaining to the implementation of passive and active design strategies. This research uses a survey, which asks design practitioners to rate the merits of various low-energy design strategies and assesses how often these approaches are implemented in practice. The study uncovers discrepancies between perceived importance of low-energy design aspects and their practical implementation, finding that certain low-energy strategies can be more effective when they are incorporated in an early stage of the design process.
BUILDING WITH BAMBOO: A REVIEW OF CULM CONNECTION TECHNOLOGY
Authors: Disén Kira , Clouston Peggi L.
Published: February 2014

Interest in the engineering performance of bamboo is on the rise primarily due to its rapid regenerative qualities and high strength-to-weight ratio. It has been a standard, sustainable building material for thousands of years in Asia and South America, where it grows naturally. Although there are many examples of magnificent bamboo structures, standards and documentation on safe and reliable bamboo design are scarce, particularly for connection design. Traditional connections involve friction-tight lashings (eg. ropes and cords of dried grasses) and pin-and-socket connections such as dowels and pegs, but more recent advances have involved integration with steel hardware and concrete. This paper presents bamboo as a feasible alternative building material and presents a review of past, current and emerging technologies to join hollow bamboo culms in structural applications. The paper's intent is to give an overview of the current state of bamboo connection technology and to promote developments in the emerging field of bamboo engineering. Recent technological advances and visionary architects have proven that it is possible to create safe structures that are not only sustainable but have tremendous potential for use in disaster relief and quick-build scenarios.
The Origins of the Narrative Structures in the Chansons de Geste : Methodological Notes on Joël Grisward’s comparativism
Authors: Ghidoni Andrea
Published: February 2014

La recherche par Joël Grisward sur les chansons de geste a introduit un élément important dans l'étude de la formation des légendes héroïques médiévales, à savoir l’élément folklorique ; ses études décrivent la réactivation du système trifonctionnel indo-européenne – selon les théories de Georges Dumézil – que Grisward tente d’extrapoler à partir de la structure narrative. Il est nécessaire de comprendre le modèle sous-jacent de l’œuvre de Grisward, puis de réfléchir sur sa méthode. La présente révision du modèle de Grisward utilise deux outils conceptuels et épistémologiques venus d’autres domaines : le premier est emprunté aux notes inédites sur les légendes germaniques rédigés par Saussure ; le second est le concept de catégorie polythétique formulée par Rodney Needham dans un contexte anthropologique, sur le modèle de réflexions similaires dans le domaine des sciences naturelles.
Désindustrialisation et ré-industrialisation à Marseille fin XIXe-début XXe siècle
Authors: Daumalin Xavier
Published: February 2014

Longtemps minimisée et marginalisée dans les discours publics dominants, la question de la désindustrialisation de la France est aujourd’hui devenue centrale. L’objectif de cette contribution n’est toutefois pas de revenir sur les fondements et sur l’ampleur des processus en cours – toujours très discutés –, ni même de dresser un état des lieux de l’industrie marseillaise à la suite des nombreuses fermetures d’usines qui se sont produites depuis les années 1970. Il vise plutôt à interroger le passé industriel de cette ville portuaire pour essayer de comprendre comment, au tournant des XIXe et XXe siècles, à une époque où les contemporains étaient déjà confrontés à la mondialisation des marchés industriels, au renouvellement des procédés de fabrication, à l’émergence de nouvelles formes d’organisation de la production et où ils débattaient tout aussi vivement qu’aujourd’hui des mérites respectifs du libre-échange et du protectionnisme, les industriels de la place se sont adaptés pour essayer de maintenir leurs activités.
Diversité floristique des peuplements ligneux du Ferlo, Sénégal
Authors: Ousmane Ndiaye , Aly Diallo , Bassimbé Sagna Moustapha , Aliou Guissé
Published: February 2014

L’effet combiné de la péjoration climatique et de la pression anthropique a provoqué une dégradation progressive des ressources naturelles au Sahel. Ce phénomène n’a pas épargné la strate ligneuse qui constitue dans ces régions la principale source de fourrage en saison sèche. La réhabilitation de ces écosystèmes passe nécessairement par des connaissances écologiques précises, d’où l’intérêt de faire un diagnostic de la diversité floristique de la strate ligneuse. La méthode d’échantillonnage par relevés dendrométriques a été utilisée pour cette étude menée au Ferlo, dans 5 sites suivant des gradients de facteurs écologiques (Widou, Téssékéré et Labgar au nord sur l’axe est-ouest ainsi que Kamb et Déali au sud sur l’axe nord-sud). Cette méthode a permis d’inventorier 35 espèces réparties en 27 genres et inféodées dans 19 familles. Les traitements statistiques des données obtenues sur le terrain montrent que la flore est dominée par la famille des Combretaceae, des Mimosaceae et des Caesalpiniaceae. Balanites aegyptiaca, Calotropis procera et Boscia senegalensis sont les espèces prépondérantes. La richesse floristique est plus importante au Ferlo septentrional qui présente une faible similitude avec la partie méridionale.
Relation entre perceptions paysannes de la variabilité climatique et observations climatiques au Sud-Bénin
Authors: Allé Ulrich C.S. Y. , Vissoh Pierre V. , Guibert Hervé , K. Agbossou Euloge , Afouda Abel A.
Published: February 2014

L’étude a pour objectif d’analyser les perceptions paysannes de la variabilité climatique et leur pertinence par rapport aux observations climatiques. À cet effet, elle a comparé des données climatiques de 14 stations et des perceptions paysannes de la variabilité climatique recueillies à partir d’une enquête auprès de 201 chefs d’exploitation (CE) agricole répartis sur 67 villages au sud-Bénin. L’enquête était constituée d’entretiens collectifs et individuels, à questionnaires ouverts, semi-ouverts et fermés. Les CE sont davantage marqués par la dégradation de la qualité des saisons des pluies observée entre 1951-1970 et 1971-1990, en l’occurrence la modification des dates de début et de fin des saisons des pluies, la recrudescence des séquences sèches, la diminution du nombre de jours pluvieux et le déficit pluviométrique, que par la relative récente reprise des précipitations au cours des années 1990 et 2000 sur la région d’étude. Toutefois, le changement d’échelle, de régionale à locale, réduit sensiblement l’écart entre les perceptions paysannes et les observations climatiques. Les CE citent également la baisse des températures et l’augmentation de la fréquence des vents violents pendant les saisons pluvieuses. Ces perceptions sont contraires aux observations climatiques et suggèrent des investigations plus approfondies pour mieux comprendre ces divergences. Face à la variabilité climatique, les CE ont développé des mesures d’adaptation qui globalement traduisent leur perception. Ceci ouvre des perspectives pour l’élaboration de stratégies d’adaptation avec une forte chance d’attirer l’intérêt des producteurs.
Is the Cloud the Future of Computing?
Authors: Kizza Joseph M. , Yang Li
Published: February 2014

Cloud computing as a technology is difficult to define because it is evolving without a clear start point and no clear prediction of its future course. Even though this is the case, one can say that it is a continuous evolution of a computer network technology. It extends client-server technology that offers scalability, better utilization of hardware, on-demand applications and storage, and lower costs over the long run. It is done through the creation of virtual servers cloned from existing instances. The cloud technology seems to be in flux; hence, it may be one of the foundations of the next generation of computing. A grid of a few cloud infrastructures may provide computing for millions of users. Cloud computing technology consists of and rests on a number of sound, fundamental, and proven technologies. This includes virtualization, service-oriented architectures, distributed computing, and grid computing. Based on these fundamental and sound computing principles, one wonders whether cloud computing is the next trajectory of computing. This chapter discusses this in depth and also looks at the security issues involved.
A Framework for Compliance and Security Coverage Estimation for Cloud Services
Authors: Dasgupta Dipankar , Naseem Durdana
Published: February 2014

Many organizations are adopting cloud services to reduce their computing cost and increase the flexibility of their IT infrastructure. As cloud services are moving to the mainstream to meet major computing needs, the issues of ownership and chain of custody of customer data are becoming primary responsibilities of providers. Therefore, security requirements are essential for all service models (while the degree of defensive measures may vary) along with satisfying industry standard compliances. The authors develop an insurance framework called MEGHNAD for estimating the security coverage based on the type of cloud service and the level of security assurance required. This security coverage estimator may be useful to cloud providers (offering Security as a Service), cloud adopters, and cloud insurers who want to incorporate or market cloud security insurance. This framework allows the user/operator to choose a cloud service (such as Saas, Paas, IaaS) and other pertinent information in order to determine the appropriate level of security insurance coverage. This chapter describes an extension to the MEGHNAD (version 2.0) framework by incorporating security-related compliances. The compliance for each sector requires specific protection for online data such as transparency, respect for context, security, focused collection, accountability, access, and accuracy. The MEGHNAD tool can also generate a SLA document that can be used for monitoring by a certified Third-Party Assessment Organization (3PAO).
Securing Business IT on the Cloud
Authors: Ramamurthy Bina
Published: February 2014

In this chapter, the author examines the various approaches taken by the popular cloud providers Amazon Web Services (AWS), Google App Engine (GAE), and Windows Azure (Azure) to secure the cloud. AWS offers Infrastructure as a Service model, GAE is representative of the Software as a Service, and Azure represents the Platform as a Service model. Irrespective of the model, a cloud provider offers a variety of services from a simple large-scale storage service to a complete infrastructure for supporting the operations of a modern business. The author discusses some of the security aspects that a cloud customer must be aware of in selecting a cloud service provider for their needs. This discussion includes the major threats posed by multi-tenancy in the cloud. Another important aspect to consider in the security context is machine virtualization. Securing these services involves a whole range of measures from access-point protection at the client end to securing virtual co-tenants on the same physical machine hosted by a cloud. In this chapter, the author highlights the major offerings of the three cloud service providers mentioned above. She discusses the details of some important security challenges and solutions and illustrates them using screen shots of representative security configurations.
Meeting Compliance Requirements while using Cloud Services
Authors: Srinivasan S.
Published: February 2014

Compliance with government and industry regulations is an essential part of conducting business in several sectors. Many of the requirements revolve around financial, privacy, or security aspects. Most of the requirements are due to federal regulations in USA while some are industry requirements that are applicable globally. Even some of the federal regulations in USA apply to service providers abroad when they are providing service to entities in USA. In that sense, all of the compliance requirements discussed here apply to a global audience. In this chapter, the authors discuss in detail the scope of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, Sarbanes-Oxley Act, Federal Information Security Management Act, Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act, Payment Card Industry Requirements, and the Statement on Auditing Standards 70. These compliance requirements concern protecting the customer data stored in the cloud with respect to confidentiality and integrity. Several of these requirements have significant enforcement powers associated with them, and businesses need to take these requirements seriously and comply. The compliance aspect involves gathering and reporting appropriate information on a regular basis. The authors present details on all these aspects in this chapter.
Risk Management in the Cloud and Cloud Outages
Authors: Srinivasan S.
Published: February 2014

Cloud computing is facilitated often through the open Internet, which is not designed for secure communications. From the cloud user perspective, access to the cloud through a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a possibility, but this is not the default access method for all cloud users. Given this reality, the cloud service users must be prepared for risk management because they do not control the cloud hardware or the communication channels. Added to this uncertainty is the potential for cloud service outage for risk management planning. In this chapter, the authors discuss the various aspects of risk management from the cloud user perspective. In addition, they analyze some of the major cloud outages over the past five years that have resulted in loss of trust. This list includes the outages in Amazon Web Services, Google, Windows, and Rackspace.
Cloud Computing Forensics
Authors: Garcia Mario A.
Published: February 2014

As computer technology evolved over the last 30 years, so did the opportunity to use computers to break the law. Out of necessity, digital forensics was birthed. Computer forensics is the practice of extracting information from the digital media in order to prosecute the individuals that carried out the crime. Forensic challenges presented by cloud computing are vast and complex. If a company becomes the target of a digital criminal investigation and they are using cloud computing, some unique challenges are faced by a digital forensics examiner. The data in the cloud only represents a “snapshot” of when it was sent to the cloud. Establishing a chain of custody for the data would become difficult or impossible if its integrity and authenticity cannot be fully determined. There are also potential forensic issues when the customer or user exits a cloud application. Items subject to forensic analysis, such as registry entries, temporary files, and other artifacts are lost, making malicious activity difficult to prove. The challenges of applying forensics to a cloud environment are tied to cloud security. This chapter discusses securing a cloud environment and how that would help with the forensic analysis.
Glycoengineering of Therapeutic Antibodies Enhances Monocyte/Macrophage-Mediated Phagocytosis and Cytotoxicity
Authors: Herter Sylvia , Birk Martina C. , Klein Christian , Gerdes Christian , Umana Pablo , Bacac Marina
Published: February 2014

Therapeutic Abs possess several clinically relevant mechanisms of action including perturbation of tumor cell signaling, activation of complement-dependent cytotoxicity, Ab-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC), Ab-dependent cellular phagocytosis (ADCP), and induction of adaptive immunity. In view of the important role of phagocytic lineage cells in the mechanism of action of therapeutic Abs, we analyzed FcγR receptor-dependent effector functions of monocytes and macrophages triggered by glycoengineered (GE) Abs (having enhanced FcγRIIIa [CD16a] binding affinity) versus their wild-type (WT) counterparts under different experimental conditions. We first defined the precise FcγR repertoire on classical and nonclassical intermediate monocytes—M1 and M2c macrophage populations. We further show that WT and GE Abs display comparable binding and induce similar effector functions (ADCC and ADCP) in the absence of nonspecific, endogenous IgGs. However, in the presence of these IgGs (i.e., in a situation that more closely mimics physiologic conditions), GE Abs display significantly superior binding and promote stronger monocyte and macrophage activity. These data show that in addition to enhancing CD16a-dependent NK cell cytotoxicity, glycoengineering also enhances monocyte and macrophage phagocytic and cytotoxic activities through enhanced binding to CD16a under conditions that more closely resemble the physiologic setting.
A Heterobivalent Ligand Inhibits Mast Cell Degranulation via Selective Inhibition of Allergen–IgE Interactions In Vivo
Authors: Handlogten Michael W. , Serezani Ana P. , Sinn Anthony L. , Pollok Karen E. , Kaplan Mark H. , Bilgicer Basar
Published: February 2014

Current treatments for allergies include epinephrine and antihistamines, which treat the symptoms after an allergic response has taken place; steroids, which result in local and systemic immune suppression; and IgE-depleting therapies, which can be used only for a narrow range of clinical IgE titers. The limitations of current treatments motivated the design of a heterobivalent inhibitor (HBI) of IgE-mediated allergic responses that selectively inhibits allergen–IgE interactions, thereby preventing IgE clustering and mast cell degranulation. The HBI was designed to simultaneously target the allergen binding site and the adjacent conserved nucleotide binding site (NBS) found on the Fab of IgE Abs. The bivalent targeting was accomplished by linking a hapten to an NBS ligand with an ethylene glycol linker. The hapten moiety of HBI enables selective targeting of a specific IgE, whereas the NBS ligand enhances avidity for the IgE. Simultaneous bivalent binding to both sites provided HBI with 120-fold enhancement in avidity for the target IgE compared with the monovalent hapten. The increased avidity for IgE made HBI a potent inhibitor of mast cell degranulation in the rat basophilic leukemia mast cell model, in the passive cutaneous anaphylaxis mouse model of allergy, and in mice sensitized to the model allergen. In addition, HBI did not have any observable systemic toxic effects even at elevated doses. Taken together, these results establish the HBI design as a broadly applicable platform with therapeutic potential for the targeted and selective inhibition of IgE-mediated allergic responses, including food, environmental, and drug allergies.
CD4+ T Cells Contain Early Extrapulmonary Tuberculosis (TB) Dissemination and Rapid TB Progression and Sustain Multieffector Functions of CD8+ T and CD3− Lymphocytes: Mechanisms of CD4+ T Cell Immunity
Authors: Yao Shuyu , Huang Dan , Chen Crystal Y. , Halliday Lisa , Wang Richard C. , Chen Zheng W.
Published: February 2014

The possibility that CD4+ T cells can act as “innate-like” cells to contain very early Mycobacterium tuberculosis dissemination and function as master helpers to sustain multiple effector functions of CD8+ T cells and CD3− lymphocytes during development of adaptive immunity against primary tuberculosis (TB) has not been demonstrated. We showed that pulmonary M. tuberculosis infection of CD4-depleted macaques surprisingly led to very early extrapulmonary M. tuberculosis dissemination, whereas CD4 deficiency clearly resulted in rapid TB progression. CD4 depletion during M. tuberculosis infection revealed the ability of CD8+ T cells to compensate and rapidly differentiate to Th17-like/Th1-like and cytotoxic-like effectors, but these effector functions were subsequently unsustainable due to CD4 deficiency. Whereas CD3− non–T lymphocytes in the presence of CD4+ T cells developed predominant Th22-like and NK-like (perforin production) responses to M. tuberculosis infection, CD4 depletion abrogated these Th22-/NK-like effector functions and favored IL-17 production by CD3− lymphocytes. CD4-depleted macaques exhibited no or few pulmonary T effector cells constitutively producing IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-17, IL-22, and perforin at the endpoint of more severe TB, but they presented pulmonary IL-4+ T effectors. TB granulomas in CD4-depleted macaques contained fewer IL-22+ and perforin+ cells despite the presence of IL-17+ and IL-4+ cells. These results implicate a previously unknown innate-like ability of CD4+ T cells to contain extrapulmonary M. tuberculosis dissemination at very early stage. Data also suggest that CD4+ T cells are required to sustain multiple effector functions of CD8+ T cells and CD3− lymphocytes and to prevent rapid TB progression during M. tuberculosis infection of nonhuman primates.
Cutting Edge: Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Licenses Macrophages To Produce Mature IL-1β in Response to TLR4 Stimulation through a Caspase-8– and TRIF-Dependent Pathway
Authors: Shenderov Kevin , Riteau Nicolas , Yip Ronald , Mayer-Barber Katrin D. , Oland Sandy , Hieny Sara , Fitzgerald Pat , Oberst Andrew , Dillon Christopher P. , Green Douglas R. , Cerundolo Vincenzo , Sher Alan
Published: February 2014

The accumulation of improperly folded proteins within the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) generates perturbations known as ER stress that engage the unfolded protein response. ER stress is involved in many inflammatory pathologies that are also associated with the production of the proinflammatory cytokine IL-1β. In this study, we demonstrate that macrophages undergoing ER stress are able to drive the production and processing of pro–IL-1β in response to LPS stimulation in vitro. Interestingly, the classical NLRP3 inflammasome is dispensable, because maturation of pro–IL-1β occurs normally in the absence of the adaptor protein ASC. In contrast, processing of pro–IL-1β is fully dependent on caspase-8. Intriguingly, we found that neither the unfolded protein response transcription factors XBP1 and CHOP nor the TLR4 adaptor molecule MyD88 is necessary for caspase-8 activation. Instead, both caspase activation and IL-1β production require the alternative TLR4 adaptor TRIF. This pathway may contribute to IL-1–driven tissue pathology in certain disease settings.
Oral health: How much do you know? – A study on knowledge, attitude and practices of patients visiting a North Indian dental school
Authors: Singh Agiapal , Gambhir Ramandeep Singh , Singh Simarpreet , Kapoor Vinod , Singh Jagjit
Published: February 2014

Objective: This study was carried out to assess the knowledge, attitude and behavior among patients visiting the out-patient department (OPD) of Gian Sagar Dental College and Hospital, Rajpura. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 642 subjects who visited the OPD of Gian Sagar Dental College and Hospital. A self-constructed questionnaire was given to each of the participant. Responses from the subjects were calculated in terms of numbers and percentages. Result: Three hundred six (48%) of the subjects had never visited a dentist before. 304 (47%) of the subjects still prefer other cleaning aids over toothbrush. 207 (32%) subjects were of the view that dental health has no effect on general health, whereas 219 (34%) subjects were of the opinion that tooth loss is a natural sequel of the aging process. Conclusion: There is a dearth of knowledge and careless attitude among people in regard to dental health. People need to be motivated and their concepts regarding the importance of dental health should be made clear through various campaigns and personal counseling.
Heterozygous Ile453Val codon mutation in exon 7, homozygous single nucleotide polymorphisms in intron 2 and 5 of cathepsin C are associated with Haim-Munk syndrome
Authors: Aswath Nalini , Swamikannu Bhuminathan , Ramakrishnan Sankar Narayanan , Shanmugam Rajendran , Thomas Jayakar , Ramanathan Arvind
Published: February 2014

Objective: In the present study, we have investigated the genetic status of CTSC gene in a HMS subject, who along with her parents belonged to non-Jewish South Indian Dravidian community. Materials and Methods: Genomic deoxyribonucleic acid isolated from the peripheral blood of the subject was amplified with CTSC exon specific primers and were analyzed by direct sequencing. Results: Sequencing analysis identified Ile453Val mutation within exon 7 of CTSC gene in heterozygous condition, and two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within intron 2 and 5 in homozygous condition. Conclusion: The present study has identified for the first time the association of Ile453Val mutation within exon 7 and the two SNPs in a subject with HMS.
Effect of photo-activated disinfection on bond strength of three different root canal sealers
Authors: Ok Evren , Ertas Huseyin , Saygili Gokhan , Gok Tuba
Published: February 2014

Introduction: The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the bond strength of Photo-Activated Disinfection (PAD) system to dentin with different root canal sealers by using a push-out test design. Materials and Methods: A total of 30 extracted mandibular premolar teeth with single and straight roots were used. The crowns were removed and the root canals were prepared by using ProTaper rotary files. The smear layer was removed and the roots were randomly divided into two groups (n = 15) according to the use of PAD system as the final disinfecting agent. Each group was then divided into 6 (n = 5) subgroups and obturated with gutta-percha and 3 different root canal sealers. The groups were Group 1: Sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) + ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA)-AH Plus sealer; Group 2: NaOCl + EDTA + PAD-AH Plus; Group 3: NaOCl + EDTA-Sealapex; Group 4: NaOCl + EDTA + PAD-Sealapex; Group 5: NaOCl + EDTA-mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA)-Fiallapex; and Group 6: NaOCl + EDTA + PAD-MTA-Fillapex. 1-mm thickness horizontal sections (n: 5 × 4 = 20) were sliced for the push-out bond strength measurement. Results: Group 3 and 4 showed significantly lower bond strengths compared with all the other groups (P < 0.05). No statistically significant difference was found among Groups 1, 2 and 5, but there was statistically significant difference between Group 5 and 6 (P < 0.05). Conclusion: This in vitro study indicated that the PAD system adversely affected the bond strength of the MTA Fillapex root canal sealer.
Computer-designed selective laser sintering surgical guide and immediate loading dental implants with definitive prosthesis in edentulous patient: A preliminary method
Authors: Di Giacomo Giovanni , Silva Jorge , Martines Rodrigo , Ajzen Sergio
Published: February 2014

Objective: The aim of this study was to analyze a preliminary method of immediately loading dental implants and a definitive prosthesis based on the computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing systems, after 2 years of clinical follow-up. Materials and Methods: The study comprised one patient in good general health with edentulous maxilla. Cone beam computer tomography (CBCT) was performed using a radiographic template. The surgical plan was made using the digital imaging and communications in medicine protocol with ImplantViewer (version 1.9, Anne Solutions, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil), the surgical planning software. These data were used to produce a selective laser sintering surgical template. A maxilla prototype was used to guide the prosthesis technician in producing the prosthesis. Eight dental implants and a definitive prosthesis were installed on the same day. A post-operative CBCT image was fused with the image of the surgical planning to calculate the deviation between the planned and the placed implants positions. Patient was followed for 2 years. Results: On average, the match between the planned and placed angular deviation was within 6.0 ± 3.4° and the difference in coronal deviation was 0.7 ± 0.3 mm. At the end of the follow-up, neither the implant nor the prosthesis was lost. Conclusions: Considering the limited samples number, it was possible to install the dental implants and a definitive prosthesis on the same day with success.
Esthetic dental anomalies as motive for bullying in schoolchildren
Authors: Scheffel Débora Lopes Salles , Jeremias Fabiano , Fragelli Camila Maria Bullio , dos Santos-Pinto Lourdes Aparecida Martins , Hebling Josimeri , de Oliveira Osmir Batista
Published: February 2014

Facial esthetics, including oral esthetics, can severely affect children's quality-of-life, causing physical, social and psychological impairment. Children and adolescents with esthetic-related dental malformations are potential targets for bullies. This study was aimed to present and discuss patients who suffered from bullying at school and family environment due to esthetic-related teeth anomalies. Providing an adequate esthetic dental treatment is an important step in their rehabilitation when the lack of esthetic is the main source of bullying. After dental treatment, we noted significant improvement in self-esteem, self-confidence, socialization and academic performance of all patients and improvement in parental satisfaction regarding the appearance of their children. It is imperative that both family and school care providers be constantly alert about bullying in order to prevent or interrupt aggressive and discriminatory practices against children and adolescents. Clearly, dental anomalies may be a motive for bullying.
Simplicity of Partial Skew Group Rings of Abelian Groups
Authors: Gonçalves Daniel
Published: February 2014

Let A be a ring with local units, E a set of local units for A, G an abelian group, and α a partial action of G by ideals of A that contain local units. We show that A*αG is simple if and only if A is G-simple and the center of the corner eδ0(A*αGe)eδ0 is a field for all e ∊ E. We apply the result to characterize simplicity of partial skew group rings in two cases, namely for partial skew group rings arising from partial actions by clopen subsets of a compact set and partial actions on the set level.
On the relationship between Arctic ice clouds and polluted air masses over the North Slope of Alaska in April 2008
Authors: Jouan C. , Pelon J. , Girard E. , Ancellet G. , Blanchet J. P. , Delanoë J.
Published: February 2014

Abstract. Recently, two types of ice clouds (TICs) properties have been characterized using the Indirect and Semi-Direct Aerosol Campaign (ISDAC) airborne measurements (Alaska, April 2008). TIC-2B were characterized by fewer (< 10 L−1) and larger (> 110 μm) ice crystals, and a larger ice supersaturation (> 15%) compared to TIC-1/2A. It has been hypothesized that emissions of SO2 may reduce the ice nucleating properties of ice nuclei (IN) through acidification, resulting in a smaller concentration of larger ice crystals and leading to precipitation (e.g., cloud regime TIC-2B). Here, the origin of air masses forming the ISDAC TIC-1/2A (1 April 2008) and TIC-2B (15 April 2008) is investigated using trajectory tools and satellite data. Results show that the synoptic conditions favor air masses transport from three potential SO2 emission sources into Alaska: eastern China and Siberia where anthropogenic and biomass burning emissions, respectively, are produced, and the volcanic region of the Kamchatka/Aleutians. Weather conditions allow the accumulation of pollutants from eastern China and Siberia over Alaska, most probably with the contribution of acidic volcanic aerosol during the TIC-2B period. Observation Monitoring Instrument (OMI) satellite observations reveal that SO2 concentrations in air masses forming the TIC-2B were larger than in air masses forming the TIC-1/2A. Airborne measurements show high acidity near the TIC-2B flight where humidity was low. These results support the hypothesis that acidic coating on IN could be at the origin of the formation of TIC-2B.
Cavity ring-down spectroscopy sensor for detection of hydrogen chloride
Authors: Hagen C. L. , Lee B. C. , Franka I. S. , Rath J. L. , VandenBoer T. C. , Roberts J. M. , Brown S. S. , Yalin A. P.
Published: February 2014

Abstract. A laser-based cavity ring-down spectroscopy (CRDS) sensor for measurement of hydrogen chloride (HCl) has been developed and characterized. The instrument uses light from a distributed-feedback diode laser at 1742 nm coupled to a high finesse optical cavity to make sensitive and quantifiable concentration measurements of HCl based on optical absorption. The instrument has a (1σ) limit of detection of <20 pptv in 1 min and has high specificity to HCl. The measurement response time to changes in input HCl concentration is <15 s. Validation studies with a previously calibrated permeation tube setup show an accuracy of better than 10%. The CRDS sensor was preliminarily tested in the field with two other HCl instruments (mist chamber and chemical ionization mass spectrometry), all of which were in broad agreement. The mist chamber and CRDS sensors both showed a 400 pptv plume within 50 pptv agreement. The sensor also allows simultaneous sensitive measurements of water and methane, and minimal hardware modification would allow detection of other near-infrared absorbers.
Immobilized photocatalyst structure assuring optimal light distribution in a solar reactor
Authors: El-Kalliny A. S. , Ahmed S. F. , Rietveld L. C. , Appel P. W.
Published: February 2014

Abstract. Immobilized TiO2 photocatalyst with a high specific surface area was prepared on stainless steel woven meshes in order to be used packed in layers for water purification. Immobilization of such a complex shape needs a special coating technique. For this purpose, dip coating and electrophoretic deposition (EPD) techniques were used. The EPD technique gave the TiO2 coating films better homogeneity and adhesion, fewer cracks, and higher •OH formation than the dip coating technique. The woven mesh structure packed in layers guaranteed an efficient light-penetration in water treatment reactor. A simple equation model was used to describe the distribution of light through the mesh layers in the presence of absorbing medium (e.g., colored water with humic acids). Maximum three or four coated meshes were enough to harvest the solar UV light from 300 nm to 400 nm with a high penetration efficiency. The separation distance between the mesh layers played an important role in the efficiency of solar light penetration through the coated mesh layers, especially in case of colored water contaminated with high concentrations of humic acid.
Mapping current and future European public water withdrawals and consumption
Authors: Vandecasteele I. , Bianchi A. , Batista e Silva F. , Lavalle C. , Batelaan O.
Published: February 2014

Abstract. In Europe, public water withdrawals make up on average 30% and in some cases up to 60% of total water withdrawals. These withdrawals are becoming increasingly important with growing population density; hence there is a need to understand the spatial and temporal trends involved. Pan-European public/municipal water withdrawals and consumption were mapped for 2006 and forecasted for 2030. Population and tourism density were assumed to be the main driving factors for withdrawals. Country-level statistics on public water withdrawals were disaggregated to a combined population and tourism density map (the "user" density map) computed for 2006. The methodology was validated using actual regional withdrawal statistics from France for 2006. The total absolute error (TAE) calculated was proven to be reduced by taking into account the tourism density in addition to the population density. In order to forecast the map to 2030 we considered a reference scenario where per capita withdrawals were kept constant in time. Although there are large variations from region to region, this resulted in a European average increase of water withdrawals of 16%. If we extrapolate the average reduction in per capita withdrawals seen between 2000 and 2008, we forecast a reduction in average total water withdrawals of 4%. Considering a scenario where all countries converge to an optimal water use efficiency, we see an average decrease of 28%.
Streamflow simulation methods for ungauged and poorly gauged watersheds
Authors: Loukas A. , Vasiliades L.
Published: February 2014

Abstract. Rainfall-runoff modelling procedures for ungauged and poorly gauged watersheds are developed in this study. A well established hydrological model, the UBC watershed model, is selected and applied in five different river basins located in Canada, Cyprus and Pakistan. Catchments from cold, temperate, continental and semiarid climate zones are included to demonstrate the develop procedures. Two methodologies for streamflow modelling are proposed and analysed. The first method uses the UBC watershed model with a universal set of parameters for water allocation and flow routing, and precipitation gradients estimated from the available annual precipitation data as well as from regional information on the distribution of orographic precipitation. This method is proposed for watersheds without streamflow gauge data and limited meteorological station data. The second hybrid method proposes the coupling of UBC watershed model with artificial neural networks (ANNs) and is intended for use in poorly gauged watersheds which have limited streamflow measurements. The two proposed methods have been applied to five mountainous watersheds with largely varying climatic, physiographic and hydrological characteristics. The evaluation of the applied methods is based on combination of graphical results, statistical evaluation metrics, and normalized goodness-of-fit statistics. The results show that the first method satisfactorily simulates the observed hydrograph assuming that the basins are ungauged. When limited streamflow measurements are available, the coupling of ANNs with the regional non-calibrated UBC flow model components is considered a successful alternative method over the conventional calibration of a hydrological model based on the employed evaluation criteria for streamflow modelling and flood frequency estimation.