bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Major Chromophore Arising from Glucose Degradation and Oxidative Stress Occurrence during Lens Proteins Glycation Induced by Glucose
Authors: Ávila Felipe , Schmeda-Hirschmann Guillermo , Silva Eduardo
Published: December 2017

Glucose autoxidation has been proposed as a key reaction associated with deleterious effects induced by hyperglycemia in the eye lens. Little is known about chromophores generated during glucose autoxidation. In this study, we analyzed the effect of oxidative and dicarbonyl stress in the generation of a major chromophore arising from glucose degradation (GDC) and its association with oxidative damage in lens proteins. Glucose (5 mM) was incubated with H2O2 (0.5–5 mM), Cu2+ (5–50 μM), glyoxal (0.5–5 mM) or methylglyoxal (0.5–5 mM) at pH 7.4, 5% O2, 37 °C, from 0 to 30 days. GDC concentration increased with incubation time, as well as when incubated in the presence of H2O2 and/or Cu2+, which were effective even at the lowest concentrations. Dicarbonylic compounds did not increase the levels of GDC during incubations. 1H, 13C and FT-IR spectra from the purified fraction containing the chromophore (detected by UV/vis spectroscopy) showed oxidation products of glucose, including gluconic acid. Lens proteins solutions (10 mg/mL) incubated with glucose (30 mM) presented increased levels of carboxymethyl-lysine and hydrogen peroxide that were associated with GDC increase. Our results suggest a possible use of GDC as a marker of autoxidative reactions occurring during lens proteins glycation induced by glucose.
The Antioxidant and Safety Properties of Spent Coffee Ground Extracts Impacted by the Combined Hot Pressurized Liquid Extraction–Resin Purification Process
Authors: Mariotti-Celis María , Martínez-Cifuentes Maximiliano , Huamán-Castilla Nils , Vargas-González Mario , Pedreschi Franco , Pérez-Correa José
Published: December 2017

Hot pressurized liquid extraction has been used to obtain polyphenols; however, its operating conditions can generate hydroxymethylfurfural, a potential human carcinogen. The addition of ethanol can reduce process temperatures and retain extraction efficiencies, but the ethanol may reduce the recovery of polyphenols in the subsequent purification stage, affecting the antioxidant properties of the extracts. This study evaluates a combined hot pressurized liquid extraction—resin purification process to obtain polyphenol extracts from spent ground coffee reduced in hydroxymethylfurfural. A multifactorial design was developed to determine the combined effect of the extraction (ethanol content: 0–16% and temperature: 60–90 °C) and purification (ethanol: 60–80%) conditions on some chemical properties of the extracts. The highest recovery of polyphenols (~8 mg GAE/g dry coffee solids) and reduction of hydroxymethylfurfural (95%) were obtained at 90 °C and 16% of ethanol during extraction and 80% of ethanol during purification. These operating conditions retained the antioxidant capacity of the crude extract between 60% and 88% depending on the determination method and recovered 90, 98, and 100% of 4-feruloylquinic acid, epicatechin, and 5-feruloylquinic acid, respectively after purification. The combined process allows differential polyphenols’ recovery and enhances the safety of the extracts. Our computational chemistry results ruled out that the overall selectivity of the integrated process was correlated with the size of the polyphenols.
Synthesis, Crystal Structure, and Supramolecular Understanding of 1,3,5-Tris(1-phenyl-1H-pyrazol-5-yl)benzenes
Authors: Martins Marcos A. P. , Meyer Alexandre R. , Salbego Paulo R. S. , Dos Santos Daniel M. , De Moraes Guilherme A. , Bonacorso Helio G. , Zanatta Nilo , Frizzo Clarissa P. , Hörner Manfredo
Published: December 2017

Understanding the supramolecular environment of crystal structures is necessary to facilitate designing molecules with desirable properties. A series of 12 novel 1,3,5-tris(1-phenyl-1H-pyrazol-5-yl)benzenes was used to assess the existence of planar stacking columns in supramolecular structures of pyrazoles. This class of molecules with different substituents may assist in understanding how small structural changes affect the supramolecular environment. The obtained compounds did not present the formation of planar stacking interactions between benzenes in solid or liquid states. This supposition was indicated by single crystal diffraction, Density Functional Theory (DFT) and quantum theory of atoms in molecules (QTAIM) calculations, and concentration-dependent liquid-state 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). NMR showed that chemical shifts of benzene and pyrazole hydrogens confirm that planar stacking interactions are not formed in solution. The crystalline structures presented different molecular conformations. The molecular structures of 5 and 9b are in a twisted conformation, while compound 7 showed a conformation analogous to a calyx form.
Analysis of Chemical Variations between Crude and Salt-Processed Anemarrhenae rhizoma Using Ultra-High-Performance Liquid Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry Methods
Authors: Ji De , Su Xiaonan , Huang Ziyan , Su Lialin , Li Lin , Lu Tulin
Published: December 2017

The present study was designed to systematically investigate the chemical profile differences between crude Anemarrhenae rhizoma (CAR) and salt-processed Anemarrhenae rhizoma (SAR). Ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography–quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC–QTOF-MS), coupled with multivariate statistical analysis was used for the discrimination of chemical profiles and the identification of the differentiation of the chemical constitutions of CAR and SAR. In addition, seven main constituents of CAR and SAR were simultaneously determined by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography–quadrupole mass spectrometry (UHPLC–MS) for analyzing the content variations. A total of 24 components were found to be the main contributors to the significant difference between CAR and SAR. The structures of the marker compounds were identified based on their chromatographic behaviors, intact precursor ions, and characteristic MS fragmentation patterns. The potential structural transformation mechanism of furostanol saponins during salt processing was explored. The results may provide a scientific foundation for deeply elucidating the processing mechanism of Anemarrhenae rhizoma.
A Combination of Coffee Compounds Shows Insulin-Sensitizing and Hepatoprotective Effects in a Rat Model of Diet-Induced Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Shokouh Pedram , Jeppesen Per , Hermansen Kjeld , Nørskov Natalja , Laustsen Christoffer , Jacques Hamilton-Dutoit Stephen , Qi Haiyun , Stødkilde-Jørgensen Hans , Gregersen Søren
Published: December 2017

Since coffee may help to prevent the development of metabolic syndrome (MetS), we aimed to evaluate the short- and long-term effects of a coffee-based supplement on different features of diet-induced MetS. In this study, 24 Sprague Dawley rats were divided into control or nutraceuticals groups to receive a high-fat/high-fructose diet with or without a mixture of caffeic acid (30 mg/day), trigonelline (20 mg/day), and cafestol (1 mg/day) for 12 weeks. An additional 11 rats were assigned to an acute crossover study. In the chronic experiment, nutraceuticals did not alter body weight or glycemic control, but improved fed hyperinsulinemia (mean difference = 30.80 mU/L, p = 0.044) and homeostatic model assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) (mean difference = 15.29, p = 0.033), and plasma adiponectin levels (mean difference = −0.99 µg/mL, p = 0.048). The impact of nutraceuticals on post-prandial glycemia tended to be more pronounced after acute administration than at the end of the chronic study. Circulating (mean difference = 4.75 U/L, p = 0.014) and intrahepatocellular alanine transaminase activity was assessed by hyperpolarized-13C nuclear magnetic resonance NMR spectroscopy and found to be reduced by coffee nutraceuticals at endpoint. There was also a tendency towards lower liver triglyceride content and histological steatosis score in the intervention group. In conclusion, a mixture of coffee nutraceuticals improved insulin sensitivity and exhibited hepatoprotective effects in a rat model of MetS. Higher dosages with or without caffeine deserve to be studied in the future.
The Impact of Precipitation Deficit and Urbanization on Variations in Water Storage in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei Urban Agglomeration
Authors: Chen Zheng , Jiang Weiguo , Wang Wenjie , Deng Yue , He Bin , Jia Kai
Published: December 2017

Depletion of water resources has threatened water security in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei urban agglomeration, China. However, the relative importance of precipitation and urbanization to water storage change has not been sufficiently studied. In this study, both terrestrial water storage (TWS) and groundwater storage (GWS) change in Jing-Jin-Ji from 1979 to the 2010s were investigated, based on the global land data assimilation system (GLDAS) and the EartH2Observe (E2O) outputs, and we used a night light index as an index of urbanization. The results showed that TWS anomaly varied in three stages: significant increase from 1981 to 1996, rapid decrease from 1996 to 2002 and increase from 2002 to the 2010s. Simultaneously, GWS has decreased with about 41.5 cm (500% of GWS in 1979). Both urbanization and precipitation change influenced urban water resource variability. Urbanization was a relatively important factor to the depletion of TWS (explains 83%) and GWS (explains 94%) since the 1980s and the precipitation deficit explains 72% and 64% of TWS and GWS variabilities. It indicates that urbanization coupled with precipitation deficit has been a more important factor that impacted depletion of both TWS and GWS than climate change only, in the Jing-Jin-Ji region. Moreover, we suggested that the cumulative effect should be considered when discussing the relationship between influence factors and water storage change.
Impact of Error in Lidar-Derived Canopy Height and Canopy Base Height on Modeled Wildfire Behavior in the Sierra Nevada, California, USA
Authors: Kelly Maggi , Su Yanjun , Di Tommaso Stefania , Fry Danny , Collins Brandon , Stephens Scott , Guo Qinghua
Published: December 2017

Light detection and ranging (Lidar) data can be used to create wall-to-wall forest structure and fuel products that are required for wildfire behavior simulation models. We know that Lidar-derived forest parameters have a non-negligible error associated with them, yet we do not know how this error influences the results of fire behavior modeling that use these layers as inputs. Here, we evaluated the influence of error associated with two Lidar data products—canopy height (CH) and canopy base height (CBH)—on simulated fire behavior in a case study in the Sierra Nevada, California, USA. We used a Monte Carlo simulation approach with expected randomized error added to each model input. Model 1 used the original, unmodified data, Model 2 incorporated error in the CH layer, and Model 3 incorporated error in the CBH layer. This sensitivity analysis showed that error in CH and CBH did not greatly influence the modeled conditional burn probability, fire size, or fire size distribution. We found that the expected error associated with CH and CBH did not greatly influence modeled results: conditional burn probability, fire size, and fire size distributions were very similar between Model 1 (original data), Model 2 (error added to CH), and Model 3 (error added to CBH). However, the impact of introduced error was more pronounced with CBH than with CH, and at lower canopy heights, the addition of error increased modeled canopy burn probability. Our work suggests that the use of Lidar data, even with its inherent error, can contribute to reliable and robust estimates of modeled forest fire behavior, and forest managers should be confident in using Lidar data products in their fire behavior modeling workflow.
Quantified, Interactive Simulation of AMCW ToF Camera Including Multipath Effects
Authors: Bulczak David , Lambers Martin , Kolb Andreas
Published: December 2017

In the last decade, Time-of-Flight (ToF) range cameras have gained increasing popularity in robotics, automotive industry, and home entertainment. Despite technological developments, ToF cameras still suffer from error sources such as multipath interference or motion artifacts. Thus, simulation of ToF cameras, including these artifacts, is important to improve camera and algorithm development. This paper presents a physically-based, interactive simulation technique for amplitude modulated continuous wave (AMCW) ToF cameras, which, among other error sources, includes single bounce indirect multipath interference based on an enhanced image-space approach. The simulation accounts for physical units down to the charge level accumulated in sensor pixels. Furthermore, we present the first quantified comparison for ToF camera simulators. We present bidirectional reference distribution function (BRDF) measurements for selected, purchasable materials in the near-infrared (NIR) range, craft real and synthetic scenes out of these materials and quantitatively compare the range sensor data.
How Myopia Archetypes Lead to Non-Sustainability
Authors: Mella Piero , Pellicelli Michela
Published: December 2017

Much of the literature on sustainability has tried to define the “virtuous behaviour” of “agents” (man and his social and economic organizations) so that it respects the “sustainability constraint.” This paper provides a “mirror-image” approach, based on the idea that it is above all necessary to understand why men and organizations tend to develop, at times unconsciously and dishonestly, damaging behaviour that turns into non-sustainability. In other words, to orient man toward sustainable behaviour it is indispensable to understand the “reasons” for the behaviour that produces non-sustainable effects. Regarding sustainability problems, we shall introduce the hypothesis that non-sustainable behaviour is not irrational in an absolute sense but derives from the action of three connected “behavioural archetypes” that accurately describe the “natural” behaviour of individuals in pursuing their aims: behaving in a way that will provide evident short-term advantages, both individual and local, while ignoring the disadvantages and harm such behaviour produces in the long run, at the collective and global level. To solve the problem, we shall try to identify the “levers” that weaken the archetypes and reverse their effects, thereby requiring sacrifices which are unacceptable to some. The paper presents four emblematic cases of non-sustainable behaviour and demonstrates that sustainability must become a fundamental strategic driver.
Evaluating the Comprehensive Benefit of Group-Affiliated New Energy Power Generation Enterprises for Sustainability: Based on a Combined Technique of STBI and TOPSIS
Authors: Yang Wenyin , Liu Lin , Yu Xiaobao
Published: December 2017

As an efficient way to deal with the exhaustion of traditional fossil fuels, new energy power generation has obtained much attention from the Chinese Government. In this context, more and more new energy power generation groups that consist of large numbers of regional enterprises have been founded and developed rapidly. However, researches related to comprehensive benefit evaluation of group-affiliated new energy power generation enterprises is still blank in China, which will hinder the benefit growth and sustainable development of such enterprises. A novel hybrid evaluation indicator system is proposed from both perspectives of sustainability and the internal management within the groups. Considering the preference information given on each of the indicators is featured by multi-source and multi-form, an evaluation framework to integrate the blended and complex evaluation information is designed. In addition, different from previous studies, this paper employs a combined technique of Stochastic Transformation for Blended Information (STBI) method and the Technique for Order Preference by Similar to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) to simulate the evaluation process and rank the comprehensive benefit of evaluation objects. It can efficiently handle the comprehensive evaluation problems with blended and complex evaluation information and preserve the initial evaluation information to the utmost simultaneously. Finally, this paper applied the evaluation model to empirical research and the results show that the model meets the actual situation of the new energy power generation group and can provide a certain reference value.
Cellular and Molecular Aspects of the β-N-Methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA) Mode of Action within the Neurodegenerative Pathway: Facts and Controversy
Authors: Delcourt Nicolas , Claudepierre Thomas , Maignien Thomas , Arnich Nathalie , Mattei César
Published: December 2017

The implication of the cyanotoxin β-N-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA) in long-lasting neurodegenerative disorders is still a matter of controversy. It has been alleged that chronic ingestion of BMAA through the food chain could be a causative agent of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and several related pathologies including Parkinson syndrome. Both in vitro and in vivo studies of the BMAA mode of action have focused on different molecular targets, demonstrating its toxicity to neuronal cells, especially motoneurons, and linking it to human neurodegenerative diseases. Historically, the hypothesis of BMAA-induced excitotoxicity following the stimulation of glutamate receptors has been established. However, in this paradigm, most studies have shown acute, rather than chronic effects of BMAA. More recently, the interaction of this toxin with neuromelanin, a pigment present in the nervous system, has opened a new research perspective. The issues raised by this toxin are related to its kinetics of action, and its possible incorporation into cellular proteins. It appears that BMAA neurotoxic activity involves different targets through several mechanisms known to favour the development of neurodegenerative processes.
Comparative Proteomic Analysis of the Effect of Periplocoside P from Periploca sepium on Brush Border Membrane Vesicles in Midgut Epithelium of Mythimna separata Larvae
Authors: Feng Mingxing , Li Yankai , Chen Xueting , Wei Quansheng , Wu Wenjun , Hu Zhaonong
Published: December 2017

Periplocoside P (PSP), a novel compound isolated from Periploca sepium Bunge, possesses insecticidal activity against some lepidopterans, such as Mythimna separata. In M. separata, the brush border membrane vesicles of the midgut epithelium are the initial site of action of periplocosides. We conducted two-dimensional gel electrophoresis and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight/time of flight mass spectrometry analysis to analyze differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) from periplocoside P (PSP)-treated M. separata. We successfully isolated seven up-regulated and three down-regulated DEPs that have been previously identified, as well as a novel DEP. The DEPs are implicated in protein degradation, transporter, folding, and synthesis, and in juvenile hormone biosynthesis. DEPs involved in the oxidative phosphorylation energy metabolism pathway are enriched. Through real-time polymerase chain reaction assay, we confirmed that vma1 expression is significantly up-regulated expression levels in PSP-treated M. separata larvae. Enzymology validation further indicated that PSP can significantly inhibit V-type ATPase activity in a concentration-dependent manner. Given these results, we speculate that in M. separata, the V-type ATPase A subunit in the midgut epithelium is the putative target binding site of periplocosides. This finding provides preliminary evidence for the mode of action of periplocosides.
An Infrared Census of DUST in Nearby Galaxies with Spitzer (DUSTiNGS). IV. Discovery of High-redshift AGB Analogs*
Authors: Boyer M. L. , McQuinn K. B. W. , Groenewegen M. A. T. , Zijlstra A. A. , Whitelock P. A. , Loon J. Th. van , Sonneborn G. , Sloan G. C. , Skillman E. D. , Meixner M. , McDonald I. , Jones O. C. , Javadi A. , Gehrz R. D. , Britavskiy N. , Bonanos A. Z.
Published: December 2017

The survey for DUST in Nearby Galaxies with Spitzer (DUSTiNGS) identified several candidate Asymptotic Giant Branch (AGB) stars in nearby dwarf galaxies and showed that dust can form even in very metal-poor systems (

). Here, we present a follow-up survey with WFC3/IR on the Hubble Space Telescope (HST), using filters that are capable of distinguishing carbon-rich (C-type) stars from oxygen-rich (M-type) stars: F127M, F139M, and F153M. We include six star-forming DUSTiNGS galaxies (NGC 147, IC 10, Pegasus dIrr, Sextans B, Sextans A, and Sag DIG), all more metal-poor than the Magellanic Clouds and spanning 1 dex in metallicity. We double the number of dusty AGB stars known in these galaxies and find that most are carbon rich. We also find 26 dusty M-type stars, mostly in IC 10. Given the large dust excess and tight spatial distribution of these M-type stars, they are most likely on the upper end of the AGB mass range (stars undergoing Hot Bottom Burning). Theoretical models do not predict significant dust production in metal-poor M-type stars, but we see evidence for dust excess around M-type stars even in the most metal-poor galaxies in our sample (

). The low metallicities and inferred high stellar masses (up to ∼10

) suggest that AGB stars can produce dust very early in the evolution of galaxies (∼30 Myr after they form), and may contribute significantly to the dust reservoirs seen in high-redshift galaxies.
Simultaneous Multiwavelength Observations of V404 Cygni during its 2015 June Outburst Decay Strengthen the Case for an Extremely Energetic Jet-base
Authors: Maitra Dipankar , Scarpaci John F. , Grinberg Victoria , Reynolds Mark T. , Markoff Sera , Maccarone Thomas J. , Hynes Robert I.
Published: December 2017

We present results of multiband optical photometry of the black hole X-ray binary system V404 Cyg obtained using Wheaton College Observatory’s 0.3 m telescope, along with strictly simultaneous INTEGRAL and Swift observations during 2015 June 25.15–26.33 UT, and 2015 June 27.10–27.34 UT. These observations were made during the 2015 June outburst of the source when it was going through an epoch of violent activity in all wavelengths ranging from radio to γ-rays. The multiwavelength variability timescale favors a compact emission region, most likely originating in a jet outflow, for both observing epochs presented in this work. The simultaneous INTEGRAL/Imager on Board the Integral Satellite (IBIS) 20–40 keV light curve obtained during the June 27 observing run correlates very strongly with the optical light curve, with no detectable delay between the optical bands as well as between the optical and hard X-rays. The average slope of the dereddened spectral energy distribution was roughly flat between the

- and V-bands during the June 27 run, even though the optical and X-ray flux varied by >25× during the run, ruling out an irradiation origin for the optical and suggesting that the optically thick to optically thin jet synchrotron break during the observations was at a frequency larger than that of V-band, which is quite extreme for X-ray binaries. These observations suggest that the optical emission originated very close to the base of the jet. A strong

emission line, probably originating in a quasi-spherical nebula around the source, also contributes significantly in the R

C
-band. Our data, in conjunction with contemporaneous data at other wavelengths presented by other groups, strongly suggest that the jet-base was extremely compact and energetic during this phase of the outburst.
Assessing the Performance of a Machine Learning Algorithm in Identifying Bubbles in Dust Emission
Authors: Xu 许 Duo 铎 , Offner Stella S. R.
Published: December 2017

Stellar feedback created by radiation and winds from massive stars plays a significant role in both physical and chemical evolution of molecular clouds. This energy and momentum leaves an identifiable signature (“bubbles”) that affects the dynamics and structure of the cloud. Most bubble searches are performed “by eye,” which is usually time-consuming, subjective, and difficult to calibrate. Automatic classifications based on machine learning make it possible to perform systematic, quantifiable, and repeatable searches for bubbles. We employ a previously developed machine learning algorithm, Brut, and quantitatively evaluate its performance in identifying bubbles using synthetic dust observations. We adopt magnetohydrodynamics simulations, which model stellar winds launching within turbulent molecular clouds, as an input to generate synthetic images. We use a publicly available three-dimensional dust continuum Monte Carlo radiative transfer code, hyperion, to generate synthetic images of bubbles in three Spitzer bands (4.5, 8, and 24 μm). We designate half of our synthetic bubbles as a training set, which we use to train Brut along with citizen-science data from the Milky Way Project (MWP). We then assess Brut’s accuracy using the remaining synthetic observations. We find that Brut’s performance after retraining increases significantly, and it is able to identify yellow bubbles, which are likely associated with B-type stars. Brut continues to perform well on previously identified high-score bubbles, and over 10% of the MWP bubbles are reclassified as high-confidence bubbles, which were previously marginal or ambiguous detections in the MWP data. We also investigate the influence of the size of the training set, dust model, evolutionary stage, and background noise on bubble identification.
A Model of the Hα and Na Transmission Spectrum of HD 189733b
Authors: Huang 黄辰 Chenliang 亮 , Arras Phil , Christie Duncan , Li Zhi-Yun
Published: December 2017

This paper presents a detailed hydrostatic model of the upper atmosphere of HD 189733b, with the goal of constraining its temperature, particle densities, and radiation field over the pressure range 10–4 to 10 μbar, where the observed Hα transmission spectrum is produced. The atomic hydrogen level population is computed including both collisional and radiative transition rates. The Lyα resonant scattering is computed using a Monte Carlo simulation. The model transmission spectra are in broad agreement with the data. Excitation of the H(2ℓ) population is mainly by Lyα radiative excitation due to the large Lyα intensity. The density of H(2ℓ) is nearly flat over two decades in pressure and is optically thick to Hα. Additional models computed for a range of the stellar Lyman continuum (LyC) flux suggest that the variability in Hα transit depth may be due to the variability in the stellar LyC. Since metal lines provide the dominant cooling of this part of the atmosphere, the atmosphere structure is sensitive to the density of species such as Mg and Na, which may themselves be constrained by observations. Since the Hα and Na D lines have comparable absorption depths, we argue that the centers of the Na D lines are also formed in the atomic layer where the Hα line is formed.
Quand la sécurité maritime vire de bord
Authors: Larrieu Violette
Published: December 2017

Longtemps, les pouvoirs publics français ont refusé l’externalisation de l’usage de la force armée. En 2014, l’État a initié, par une loi, un marché de la sécurité armée dans le domaine maritime, sous l’autorité d’une agence (le Conseil national des activités privées de sécurité). Cet article montre que ce projet a été porté par le syndicat des armateurs (les bénéficiaires de la loi), Armateurs de France, et le Cluster maritime français, prenant le rôle d’entrepreneurs politiques ( policy entrepreneur ). Profitant de l’ouverture d’une fenêtre d’opportunité, du fait de prises d’otages médiatisées et d’un contexte politique favorable, les armateurs ont « codé » leur discours pour légitimer le recours au secteur privé. Entre la mise en avant de son caractère inéluctable et la réaffirmation du maintien de la prérogative régalienne de l’État à travers son action de contrôle, la mise en marché de la sécurité maritime a pris une forme hybride, à l’intersection du protectionnisme et du libéralisme.
La fin de l’art selon Friedrich Kittler
Authors: Rieber Audrey
Published: December 2017

Le présent article prend pour point de départ la thèse de Friedrich Kittler selon laquelle l’avènement des médias optiques, de la photographie à la télévision en passant par le cinéma, aurait entraîné la fin des beaux-arts. Une fois élucidée la signification de cette version média-technique de la thèse hégélienne de la fin de l’art, nous nous demanderons ce qu’il reste de l’esthétique dans la condition numérique. L’interprétation des Médias optiques se poursuit par la lecture de six textes et conférences non traduits sur les images, le musée et l’infographie. Écrits dans les années 1990, ils sont contemporains à la conception des cours berlinois sur les médias optiques.
La injusticia cognitiva en la división internacional del conocimiento. El caso de la migración altamente cualificada
Authors: Maniglio Francesco
Published: December 2017

El aumento de los flujos migratorios de personas altamente cualificadas, indica la consolidación mundial de una demanda de mano de obra migrante en los sectores de I+D, ICT, servicios financieros, ciencia y tecnología. En este proceso, para sustentar los argumentos de liberalización del mercado del trabajo global, las posiciones desarrollistas continúan siendo dominantes. Por ejemplo, según el Banco Mundial, la migración altamente cualificada y el capital humano incrementan la democracia y la libertad económica. El objetivo de la presente investigación es analizar, desde la perspectiva de la Economía Política, la gran relevancia asumida por las migraciones altamente cualificadas en el desarrollo global de la economía del conocimiento. Argumentamos en qué medida los mecanismos de inclusión diferencial determinan unos flujos de talentos direccionales y no circulares. La injusticia social global está, por lo tanto, íntimamente unida a la injusticia cognitiva global: la migración altamente cualificada se coloca así dentro del movimiento neocolonial del capitalismo del conocimiento.
The genus Duvalius in Mount Pílio (Thessalia, Greece), with descriptions of two new species (Coleoptera Carabidae Trechinae)
Authors: Casale Achille , Giachino Pier Mauro , Vailati Dante , Felix Ron
Published: December 2017

The authors present a contribution to the knowledge of three Duvalius species known from forests and caves in Mount Pílio (Thessalia, Greece). Duvalius (Duvalius) moczarskii (G. Müller, 1917) is redescribed  from the type material and further specimens sampled in recent years. Furthermore, they describe two sympatric species living in the same massif: D. (D.) marijkeae sp. n., sampled both in a cave and in Superficial Subterranean Habitat (M.S.S.), and D. (D.) chironis sp. n., only sampled by traps in M.S.S. (two individuals in two different years).Notes about relationships and distribution of these and other Duvalius species from Greece are also added.
Insect taxonomy, biodiversity research and the new taxonomic impediments
Authors: Audisio Paolo
Published: December 2017

Not Available
Revision of the Afrotropical Xantholinini (Coleoptera Staphylinidae)
Authors: Minelli Alessandro
Published: December 2017

Not available
Weaning and complementary feeding in preterm infants: management, timing and health outcome
Authors: Barachetti Roberta , Villa Elisabetta , Barbarini Mario
Published: December 2017

The introduction of solid food is necessary for any infant in order to provide adequate nutrition because when they grow up milk is insufficient for their nutritional needs. Infants born preterm have increased nutritional requirements. The high nutrient demands as well as the organ immaturity of preterm infants combine to render it difficult to achieve dietary intakes that will allow preterm infants to match their in utero growth rates. Current guidelines for the introduction of solid food to term infants cannot be directly translated to preterm infants. For preterm infants such guidelines are lacking. Based on the limited available evidence, it could be concluded that a corrected age of 3 months (13 weeks) may be an appropriate age to start introducing solid food for most preterm infants. About celiac disease (CD), gluten may be introduced into the infant’s diet anytime between 4 and 12 completed months of age. In children at high risk for CD, earlier introduction of gluten (4 vs 6 months or 6 vs 12 months) is associated with earlier development of CD autoimmunity (defined as positive serology) and CD, but the cumulative incidence of each in later childhood is similar. Relatively to weaning and allergies, the European Society of Pediatric Allergy and Clinical Immunology and the European Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology Hepatology and Nutrition have produced joint guidelines. They recommend exclusive breastfeeding for 4–6 months or use of hypoallergenic formulas if exclusive breastfeeding is not possible. In addition, The American Academy of Pediatrics recommendations now state that there is no evidence to recommend maternal dietary restrictions during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, there is no evidence that delaying introduction of solids including allergenic foods after 4–6 months is protective.
Subcutaneous administration of tocilizumab is effective in myointimal hyperplasia remodelling in refractory Takayasu arteritis
Authors: Lo Gullo A. , Mandraffino G. , Aragona C.O. , Molica Colella A. , Saitta A. , Imbalzano E.
Published: December 2017

Takayasu arteritis (TA) is a chronic inflammatory disease of unknown origin that involves large and mediumsized arteries, primarily the aorta and its major branches. TA is a therapeutic challenge because corticosteroids and conventional immunosuppressive agents are not always effective or safe. Interleukin 6 (IL-6) has emerged as a key cytokine in the pathogenesis of TA and its serum levels have been shown to well correlate with disease activity. We report a 19 years old female patient with TA refractory to conventional immunosuppressive agents, successfully treated with subcutaneous tocilizumab, a humanized monoclonal antibody against IL-6 receptor, in which ultrasonography (US) was used as imaging tool to follow up the patient. Currently, clinical indices of disease activity, inflammatory markers, carotid intima media thickness (cIMT) as well as carotid pulse wave velocity (cPWV) normalised, while the prednisone dosage has been tapered. Tocilizumab appears to be a good option in refractory TA, with a remarkable steroid-sparing effect. In addition, it seems to have a favourable effect on endothelial function, as it improved cIMT and PWV.
Molecular characterization of locus of enterocyte effacement pathogenicity island in shigatoxic Escherichia coli isolated from human & cattle in West Bengal, India
Authors: Das Suresh Chandra , Ramamurthy Thandavanaryanalu , Ghosh Santanu , Pazhani Gururaja Perumal , Sen Tista , Singh Raghubir
Published: December 2017

Background & objectives:

Shigatoxic Escherichia coli (STEC) recovered from dairy animals of Kolkata, India, harboured the putative virulence genes; however, the animals did not exhibit clinical symptoms. Similarly, human isolates in this locality also showed variations in degree of symptoms. Hence, this study was designed to know the presence of recognized gene(s) in the locus of enterocyte effacement (LEE) pathogenicity island in these STEC isolates and functional status of the cardinal gene (eae) related to pathogenicity.

Methods:

Genes were characterized using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays, and functional status of cardinal gene (eae) was evaluated by fluorescent actin staining (FAS) assay. Variation in eae gene was determined by intimin PCR.

Results:

Cattle STEC isolates carried 22 genes in LEE pathogenicity island in different frequencies ranging from 5.63 to 47.88 per cent of the isolates. In human isolates, the genes namely ler, escRSTU, orf2, escC, escV, orf3 and tir that are associated with secretory function, were found to be absent and rest of the genes were present in lower frequency. Further, the cardinal gene (eae) responsible for initiation of pathogenesis was in a very low frequency in human (n=2; 10.5%) and cattle (n=11; 15.5%) isolates. None of these eae
+ STEC isolates from human and cattle revealed positivity in FAS assay.

Interpretation & conclusions:

Majority of human STEC isolates lacked the cardinal virulence gene (eae), and genes for secretory function that are essential for facilitating pathogenesis. This may partially be attributed to low occurrence of STEC in human clinical diarrhoea in this area. Although a few isolates (11 of 71) from cattle had eae gene, they did not express phenotypically. This could be one of the reasons for not appearing of clinical symptoms in the hosts.
Tendencies and Characteristics of Feedback Given by Primary English Language Teachers in Croatia
Authors: Cindrić Ivana , Pavić Snježana
Published: December 2017

Feedback is a constituent part of three assessment approaches: assessment for/as/of learning. Feedback about students’ learning and performance differs in the three approaches with respect to manner and purpose. Feedback associated with assessment of learning is representative of the traditional way of teaching, its role reduced to mere reporting of a score or grade. However, in the context of assessment for learning and assessment as learning, feedback plays a more significant role. It implies having a clear understanding of how, when and why feedback is given in addition to involving students in giving feedback. This preliminary research on a sample of primary school English language teachers in Croatia focuses on tendencies in giving feedback and some general characteristics of feedback given to students within the assessment for learning approach. Teachers’ estimates of their competence in providing feedback and their needs in this particular area of assessment are revealed. The results will pinpoint areas which require further research for the purpose of more closely adhering to the principles of assessment for learning and assessment as learning in English language teaching.
The IAGOS NOx Instrument – Design, Operation and First Results from Deployment aboard Passenger Aircraft
Authors: Berkes Florian , Houben Norbert , Bundke Ulrich , Franke Harald , Pätz Hans-Werner , Rohrer Franz , Wahner Andreas , Petzold Andreas
Published: December 2017

Abstract. We describe the nitrogen oxides instrument designed for the autonomous operation on board of passenger aircraft in the framework of the European Research Infrastructure IAGOS (In-service Aircraft for a Global Observing System, http://www.iagos.org). We demonstrate the performance of the instrument using data from two deployment periods aboard an A340-300 aircraft of Deutsche Lufthansa. The well-established hemiluminescence detection method is used to measure nitrogen monoxide (NO) and nitrogen oxides (NOx). NOx is measured using a photolytic converter, and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) is determined from the difference between NOx and NO. This technique allows to measure at high time resolution (4 s) and high precision (2σ) in the low ppt range (NO of 24 ppt and NOx of 35 ppt) over different ambient temperature and ambient pressure altitude ranges (from surface pressure down to 190 hPa). The IAGOS NOx instrument is characterized for (1) calibration stability and total uncertainty (2) humidity and chemical interferences (e.g. ozone, HONO, PAN) and (3) inter-instrumental precision. We demonstrate that the IAGOS NOx instrument is a robust, fully automated, and long-term stable instrument suitable for unattended operation on airborne platforms, which provides useful measurements for future air quality studies and emission estimates.
Should radar precipitation depend on incident air temperature? A new estimation algorithm for cold climates
Authors: Sivasubramaniam Kuganesan , Sharma Ashish , Alfredsen Knut
Published: December 2017

Abstract. In cold climates, the form of precipitation (snow or rain or mixture of snow and rain) results in uncertainty in radar precipitation estimation. Estimation often proceeds without distinguishing the state of precipitation which can be reliably specified as a function of associated air temperature. In the present study, we hypothesise that incident air temperature is related to the phase of the precipitation and ensuing reflectivity measurement, and therefore could be used in prediction models to improve radar precipitation estimates in cold climates. This is the first study to our knowledge that assesses the dependence of radar precipitation on incident air temperature and presents a procedure that can be used for taking it into consideration. We use a data based nonparametric statistical approach for this assessment. A nonparametric predictive model is constructed with radar rain rate and air temperature as predictor variables and gauge precipitation as observed response using a k-nearest neighbour (k-nn) regression estimator. A partial information theoretic technique is used to ascertain the relative importance of the two predictors. Six years (2011–2017) of hourly radar rain rate from the Norwegian national radar network over the Oslo region, hourly gauged precipitation from 88 raingauges and gridded observational air temperature were used to formulate the predictive model and hence evaluate our hypothesis. The predictive model with temperature as an additional covariate reduces root mean squared error (RMSE) up to 15 % compared to the predictive model with radar rain rate as the sole predictor. More than 80 % of the raingauge locations in the study area showed improvement with the new method. Further, the estimated partial weight for air temperature assumed a zero value for more than 85 % of gauge locations when temperature was above 10 °C, which indicates that the partial dependence of precipitation on air temperature is most important for colder climates.
Development and evaluation of a stochastic daily rainfall model with long-term variability
Authors: Chowdhury A. F. M. Kamal , Lockart Natalie , Willgoose Garry , Kuczera George , Kiem Anthony S. , Parana Manage Nadeeka
Published: December 2017

Abstract. The primary objective of this study is to develop a stochastic rainfall generation model that can match not only the short resolution (daily) variability but also the longer resolution (monthly to multiyear) variability of observed rainfall. This study has developed a Markov chain (MC) model, which uses a two-state MC process with two parameters (wet-to-wet and dry-to-dry transition probabilities) to simulate rainfall occurrence and a gamma distribution with two parameters (mean and standard deviation of wet day rainfall) to simulate wet day rainfall depths. Starting with the traditional MC-gamma model with deterministic parameters, this study has developed and assessed four other variants of the MC-gamma model with different parameterisations. The key finding is that if the parameters of the gamma distribution are randomly sampled each year from fitted distributions rather than fixed parameters with time, the variability of rainfall depths at both short and longer temporal resolutions can be preserved, while the variability of wet periods (i.e. number of wet days and mean length of wet spell) can be preserved by decadally varied MC parameters. This is a straightforward enhancement to the traditional simplest MC model and is both objective and parsimonious.
Medicines Counterfeiting in Africa: A View from Zimbabwe
Authors: Gwatidzo Shingai D. , Murambinda Petronella K. , Makoni Zivanai
Published: December 2017

With the sprouting of unregulated outlets on the streets of Zimbabwe, common questions that are raised include: (i) what is the Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) doing about these street vendors? and (ii) is the law against unregulated markets and proliferation of substandard and falsified (SF) medicines being actively enforced? There is no doubt that this is a new challenge for MCAZ because of the risks involved with SF medicines. Notwithstanding the rather strong regulatory framework for the regulated market that the MCAZ has major control over, and its demonstrable regulatory prowess over the last 20 years as a National Medicines Regulatory Authority (NMRA), MCAZ is increasingly challenged to take a leading role in addressing this rising phenomenon. MCAZ has attempted to address the problem through collaboration with the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), public education and inspections by port officials at ports of entry. However, the problem still persists. A general lack of concrete qualitative and quantitative data on the commonly encountered SF medicinal products on the Zimbabwe market is another major issue. This is evidently a multi-layered problem and as the Shona adage goes “chara chimwe hachitswanye inda” (loosely translated “one thumb cannot crush all lice”), there is need for engaging local and regional partners in a bid to fulfil the MCAZ's mandate of protecting public health by ensuring medicines and medical devices intended for sale and distribution in Zimbabwe, are safe, effective and of good quality.
The EU Falsified Medicines Directive: Key Implications for Dispensers
Authors: Naughton Bernard D.
Published: December 2017

The EU Falsified Medicines Directive (FMD) mandates the serialisation of prescription-only medicines using a two-dimensional (2D) barcode by pharmaceutical companies and the systematic verification of this 2D barcode in pharmacies. This European directive has ramifications for many stakeholders, including market authorization holders, wholesalers, parallel importers, and dispensers.

Focusing primarily on the impact on UK dispensers, the following questions are addressed in this article: Where should the affected medicines be scanned? and who will pay for the incoming changes to practice? The role of the EU FMD in terms of drug recalls, the preparation required for EU FMD compliance, and the potential for added healthcare value are also discussed.

Dispensers must prepare for the February 2019 EU FMD deadline date by choosing a point within their dispensing processes to scan medicines. Dispensers must also budget appropriately for the incoming costs associated with new hardware and processes.
16 anos de competição eleitoral no litoral do Paraná (2000-2016): índices e resultados
Authors: Carlomagno Márcio Cunha
Published: December 2017

Analisamos os indicadores de competição política nos sete municípios do litoral do Paraná, entre 2000 e 2016, para traçar um panorama sobre as mudanças na representação política ocorridas no período. Assumimos e explicamos o argumento teórico de que Aldrich & Griffin (2007) de que maior competição eleitoral leva a maior responsividade do eleito para com os eleitores – e, portanto, é um elemento importante para avaliar representação política. Para medir isso, utilizamos o índice de partidos efetivos de Laakso & Taagepera (1979), aplicado aos candidatos. Descobrimos que no tocante ao executivo, em geral, as disputas tendem a ter entre 2 e 3 candidatos efetivos, replicando a dualidade de disputas presidenciais das duas últimas décadas, em acordo com os resultados apresentados por Peixoto & Goulart (2014) para o plano nacional. No legislativo, todos os municípios apresentam graus razoáveis de disputa eleitoral, o que indica que não há “cadeira garantida” para os mandatários – o que, pelo argumento dos incentivos racionais, leva que os eleitos prestem mais atenção nos cidadãos, por medo da ameaça de serem trocados nas próprias eleições. Contudo, se destaca negativamente, no conjunto de municípios, a cidade de Guaraqueçaba, cujos índices de competição, tanto no legislativo quanto no executivo, apresentam queda constante no período analisado, o que pode levar ao comprometimento da representação política.