bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cognitive Neuroscience in Space
Authors: De la Torre Gabriel
Published: July 2014

Humans are the most adaptable species on this planet, able to live in vastly different environments on Earth. Space represents the ultimate frontier and a true challenge to human adaptive capabilities. As a group, astronauts and cosmonauts are selected for their ability to work in the highly perilous environment of space, giving their best. Terrestrial research has shown that human cognitive and perceptual motor performances deteriorate under stress. We would expect to observe these effects in space, which currently represents an exceptionally stressful environment for humans. Understanding the neurocognitive and neuropsychological parameters influencing space flight is of high relevance to neuroscientists, as well as psychologists. Many of the environmental characteristics specific to space missions, some of which are also present in space flight simulations, may affect neurocognitive performance. Previous work in space has shown that various psychomotor functions degrade during space flight, including central postural functions, the speed and accuracy of aimed movements, internal timekeeping, attentional processes, sensing of limb position and the central management of concurrent tasks. Other factors that might affect neurocognitive performance in space are illness, injury, toxic exposure, decompression accidents, medication side effects and excessive exposure to radiation. Different tools have been developed to assess and counteract these deficits and problems, including computerized tests and physical exercise devices. It is yet unknown how the brain will adapt to long-term space travel to the asteroids, Mars and beyond. This work represents a comprehensive review of the current knowledge and future challenges of cognitive neuroscience in space from simulations and analog missions to low Earth orbit and beyond.
Bioactive Cembrane Derivatives from the Indian Ocean Soft Coral, Sinularia kavarattiensis
Authors: Lillsunde Katja-Emilia , Festa Carmen , Adel Harshada , De Marino Simona , Lombardi Valter , Tilvi Supriya , Nawrot Dorota , Zampella Angela , D'Souza Lisette , D'Auria Maria , Tammela Päivi
Published: July 2014

Marine organisms and their metabolites represent a unique source of potential pharmaceutical substances. In this study, we examined marine-derived substances for their bioactive properties in a cell-based Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) replicon model and for in vitro anti-inflammatory activity. In the screening of a marine sample library, crude extracts from the Indian soft coral, Sinularia kavarattiensis, showed promising activity against the CHIKV replicon. Bioassay-guided chemical fractionation of S. kavarattiensis resulted in the isolation of six known norcembranoids (1–6) and one new compound, named kavaranolide (7). The structures were elucidated on the basis of NMR and MS spectroscopic data. Compounds 1–3 and 5–7 were evaluated for their replicon-inhibiting potential in the CHIKV model by using a luminescence-based detection technique and live cell imaging. Compounds 1 and 2 showed moderate inhibition of the CHIKV replicon, but imaging studies also revealed cytotoxic properties. Moreover, the effects of the isolated compounds on primary microglial cells, an experimental model for neuroinflammation, were evaluated. Compound 2 was shown to modulate the immune response in microglial cells and to possess potential anti-inflammatory properties by dose-dependently reducing the release of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines.
Mineralogical Transformation and Electrochemical Nature of Magnesium-Rich Primers during Natural Weathering
Authors: Pathak Shashi , Blanton Michael , Mendon Sharathkumar , Rawlins James
Published: July 2014

Magnesium-rich primers (MgRP) have generated great interest as a promising alternative to chromium-based primers for the protection of aluminum substrates but their performance during exterior exposure has not been well documented. This paper focuses on the evaluation of MgRP during natural weathering to gain insight into its mineralogical phase transformation and electrochemical nature. Control studies were conducted on Mg and AA2024-T3 coupons. The results indicate that Mg particles in MgRP transform into a variety of hydroxide, carbonate, and hydroxy carbonates. During natural weathering, CO2 inhibited the dissolution of both Mg and AA2024-T3 as a result of protective carbonate layer formation in the coating.
Sequential Atmospheric Pressure Plasma-Assisted Laser Ablation of Photovoltaic Cover Glass for Improved Contour Accuracy
Authors: Gerhard Christoph , Dammann Maximilian , Wieneke Stephan , Viöl Wolfgang
Published: July 2014

In this paper, we present sequential atmospheric pressure plasma-assisted laser ablation of photovoltaic cover glass. First, glass samples were plasma pre-treated using a hydrogenous plasma process gas in order to accomplish a modification of the near-surface glass network by a chemical reduction and the implantation of hydrogen. As a result, the transmission at a wavelength of 355 nm was reduced by approximately 2% after plasma treatment duration of 60 min. Further, the surface polarity was increased by approximately 78%, indicating an increase of the near-surface index of refraction. Subsequently to the plasma pre-treatment, the samples were laser ablated applying the above-mentioned laser wavelength of a Nd:YAG nanosecond laser. Compared to untreated samples, a significant decrease of the form error by 45% without any mentionable change in the ablation rate was obtained in the case of pre-treated samples. For comparison, the results and findings are discussed with respect to previous work, where the presented plasma-assisted ablation procedure was applied to optical glasses.
Mechanistic Insight into CM18-Tat11 Peptide Membrane-Perturbing Action by Whole-Cell Patch-Clamp Recording
Authors: Fasoli Anna , Salomone Fabrizio , Benedusi Mascia , Boccardi Claudia , Rispoli Giorgio , Beltram Fabio , Cardarelli Francesco
Published: July 2014

The membrane-destabilization properties of the recently-introduced endosomolytic CM18-Tat11 hybrid peptide (KWKLFKKIGAVLKVLTTG-YGRKKRRQRRR, residues 1–7 of cecropin-A, 2–12 of melittin, and 47–57 of HIV-1 Tat protein) are investigated in CHO-K1 cells by using the whole-cell configuration of the patch-clamp technique. CM18-Tat11, CM18, and Tat11 peptides are administered to the cell membrane with a computer-controlled micro-perfusion system. CM18-Tat11 induces irreversible cell-membrane permeabilization at concentrations (≥4 µM) at which CM18 triggers transient pore formation, and Tat11 does not affect membrane integrity. We argue that the addition of the Tat11 module to CM18 is able to trigger a shift in the mechanism of membrane destabilization from “toroidal” to “carpet”, promoting a detergent-like membrane disruption. Collectively, these results rationalize previous observations on CM18-Tat11 delivery properties that we believe can guide the engineering of new modular peptides tailored to specific cargo-delivery applications.
Ni-Catalyzed Homoallylation of Polyhydroxy N,O-Acetals with Conjugated Dienes Promoted by Triethylborane
Authors: Mori Takamichi , Akioka Yusuke , Onodera Gen , Kimura Masanari
Published: July 2014

In the presence of Ni-catalyst and triethylborane, N,O-acetals prepared from glycolaldehyde and glyceraldehyde with primary amines in situ underwent homoallylation with conjugated dienes to provide 2-amino-5-hexenols in high regio- and stereoselectivity. Under similar reaction conditions, N,O-acetals from carbohydrates with primary amines provided the corresponding polyhydroxy-bishomoallylamines in good to reasonable yields.
Intramolecular Hydrogen Bond in Biologically Active o-Carbonyl Hydroquinones
Authors: Martínez-Cifuentes Maximiliano , Weiss-López Boris , Santos Leonardo , Araya-Maturana Ramiro
Published: July 2014

Intramolecular hydrogen bonds (IHBs) play a central role in the molecular structure, chemical reactivity and interactions of biologically active molecules. Here, we study the IHBs of seven related o-carbonyl hydroquinones and one structurally-related aromatic lactone, some of which have shown anticancer and antioxidant activity. Experimental NMR data were correlated with theoretical calculations at the DFT and ab initio levels. Natural bond orbital (NBO) and molecular electrostatic potential (MEP) calculations were used to study the electronic characteristics of these IHB. As expected, our results show that NBO calculations are better than MEP to describe the strength of the IHBs. NBO energies (∆Eij(2)) show that the main contributions to energy stabilization correspond to LPàσ* interactions for IHBs, O1…O2-H2 and the delocalization LPàπ* for O2-C2 = Cα(β). For the O1…O2-H2 interaction, the values of ∆Eij(2) can be attributed to the difference in the overlap ability between orbitals i and j (Fij), instead of the energy difference between them. The large energy for the LP O2àπ* C2 = Cα(β) interaction in the compounds 9-Hydroxy-5-oxo-4,8, 8-trimethyl-l,9(8H)-anthracenecarbolactone (VIII) and 9,10-dihydroxy-4,4-dimethylanthracen-1(4H)-one (VII) (55.49 and 60.70 kcal/mol, respectively) when compared with the remaining molecules (all less than 50 kcal/mol), suggests that the IHBs in VIII and VII are strongly resonance assisted.
Antioxidant Activity and Acetylcholinesterase Inhibition of Grape Skin Anthocyanin (GSA)
Authors: Pervin Mehnaz , Hasnat Md. , Lee Yoon , Kim Da , Jo Jeong , Lim Beong
Published: July 2014

We aimed to investigate the antioxidant and acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activities of the anthocyanin rich extract of grape skin. Grape skin anthocyanin (GSA) neutralized free radicals in different test systems, such as 2,-2'-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assays, to form complexes with Fe2+ preventing 2,2'-azobis(2-amidinopropane) dihydrochloride (AAPH)-induced erythrocyte hemolysis and oxidative DNA damage. Moreover, GSA decreased reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in isolated mitochondria thus inhibiting 2',-7'-dichlorofluorescin (DCFH) oxidation. In an in vivo study, female BALB/c mice were administered GSA, at 12.5, 25, and 50 mg per kg per day orally for 30 consecutive days. Herein, we demonstrate that GSA administration significantly elevated the level of antioxidant enzymes in mice sera, livers, and brains. Furthermore, GSA inhibited acetylcholinesterase (AChE) in the in vitro assay with an IC50 value of 363.61 µg/mL. Therefore, GSA could be an excellent source of antioxidants and its inhibition of cholinesterase is of interest with regard to neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease.
Exploring the Therapeutic Potentials of iNKT Cells for Anti-HBV Treatment
Authors: Lawrenczyk Agnieszka , Kim Seil , Wen Xiangshu , Xiong Ran , Yuan Weiming
Published: July 2014

CD1d-restricted invariant NKT (iNKT) cells are a group of innate-like regulatory T cells that recognize lipid antigens. Both mouse modeling experiments and human clinical studies have suggested a key role for iNKT cells in anti-HBV immunity and these potent T cells can be explored as a novel therapeutic target for anti-HBV treatment. We aim to humanize mice in the CD1d/iNKT cell lipid presentation system and provide new research tools for identifying novel anti-HBV agents.
Monolithically Integrated Ge-on-Si Active Photonics
Authors: Liu Jifeng
Published: July 2014

Monolithically integrated, active photonic devices on Si are key components in Si-based large-scale electronic-photonic integration for future generations of high-performance, low-power computation and communication systems. Ge has become an interesting candidate for active photonic devices in Si photonics due to its pseudo-direct gap behavior and compatibility with Si complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) processing. In this paper, we present a review of the recent progress in Ge-on-Si active photonics materials and devices for photon detection, modulation, and generation. We first discuss the band engineering of Ge using tensile strain, n-type doping, Sn alloying, and separate confinement of Γ vs. L electrons in quantum well (QW) structures to transform the material towards a direct band gap semiconductor for enhancing optoelectronic properties. We then give a brief overview of epitaxial Ge-on-Si materials growth, followed by a summary of recent investigations towards low-temperature, direct growth of high crystallinity Ge and GeSn alloys on dielectric layers for 3D photonic integration. Finally, we review the most recent studies on waveguide-integrated Ge-on-Si photodetectors (PDs), electroabsorption modulators (EAMs), and laser diodes (LDs), and suggest possible future research directions for large-scale monolithic electronic-photonic integrated circuits on a Si platform.
Assessment of the MODIS LAI Product Using Ground Measurement Data and HJ-1A/1B Imagery in the Meadow Steppe of Hulunber, China
Authors: Li Zhenwang , Tang Huan , Xin Xiaoping , Zhang Baohui , Wang Dongliang
Published: July 2014

The leaf area index (LAI) is a crucial parameter of vegetation structure. It provides key information for earth surface process simulations and climate change research on the global and regional scales. Focusing on the meadow steppe in Hulunber, Inner Mongolia, China, the present study assessed the accuracy of the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) LAI product in the study area. First, seven field campaigns collecting ground-based measurements were conducted during the growing season in 2013, and 252 pairs of LAIs and spectra were collected. Then, seven scenes of high-resolution LAI maps were obtained from the corresponding 30 m Chinese HJ-1A/1B charge-coupled diode (CCD) images by employing a regression approach. Finally, comparisons between the MODIS LAI product and the high resolution LAI maps were made to determine the accuracy of the MODIS LAI product. Moreover, the corresponding 500 m MODIS LAI maps were derived from the daily MODIS surface reflectance product to support the findings using the 1 km HJ LAI product and the ground-based comparison. The results showed that, compared to the ground data, the MODIS LAI product followed a reasonable seasonal trajectory during the growing season. However, an anomaly existed at the beginning of the growing season. Also, a slight overestimation was found for the MODIS LAI product compared to the HJ-retrieved LAI maps. The average overestimation for the LAI was approximately 0.4 m2/m2, and the relative absolute errors of the product ranged from 10%–50%. The overestimation at the beginning and end of the growing season was higher due to the interference of soil background and grass variation. The results of this study provide a comprehensive understanding of the accuracy of the regional MODIS LAI product for the Hulunber meadow steppe. This research is important for improving regional modeling and prediction of vegetation biogeochemical processes and earth system productivity.
High Precision UTDR Measurements by Sonic Velocity Compensation with Reference Transducer
Authors: Stade Sam , Kallioinen Mari , Mänttäri Mika , Tuuva Tuure
Published: July 2014

An ultrasonic sensor design with sonic velocity compensation is developed to improve the accuracy of distance measurement in membrane modules. High accuracy real-time distance measurements are needed in membrane fouling and compaction studies. The benefits of the sonic velocity compensation with a reference transducer are compared to the sonic velocity calculated with the measured temperature and pressure using the model by Belogol’skii, Sekoyan et al. In the experiments the temperature was changed from 25 to 60 °C at pressures of 0.1, 0.3 and 0.5 MPa. The set measurement distance was 17.8 mm. Distance measurements with sonic velocity compensation were over ten times more accurate than the ones calculated based on the model. Using the reference transducer measured sonic velocity, the standard deviations for the distance measurements varied from 0.6 to 2.0 µm, while using the calculated sonic velocity the standard deviations were 21–39 µm. In industrial liquors, not only the temperature and the pressure, which were studied in this paper, but also the properties of the filtered solution, such as solute concentration, density, viscosity, etc., may vary greatly, leading to inaccuracy in the use of the Belogol’skii, Sekoyan et al. model. Therefore, calibration of the sonic velocity with reference transducers is needed for accurate distance measurements.
Labrenzia sp. BM1: A Quorum Quenching Bacterium That Degrades N-acyl Homoserine Lactones via Lactonase Activity
Authors: Ghani Norshazliza , Norizan Siti , Chan Xin , Yin Wai-Fong , Chan Kok-Gan
Published: July 2014

We report the degradation of quorum sensing N-acylhomoserine lactone molecules by a bacterium isolated from a Malaysian marine water sample. MALDI-TOF and phylogenetic analysis indicated this isolate BM1 clustered closely to Labrenzia sp. The quorum quenching activity of this isolate was confirmed by using a series of bioassays and rapid resolution liquid chromatography analysis. Labrenzia sp. degraded a wide range of N-acylhomoserine lactones namely N-(3-hexanoyl)-l-homoserine lactone (C6-HSL), N-(3-oxohexanoyl)-l-homoserine lactone (3-oxo-C6-HSL) and N-(3-hydroxyhexanoyl)-l-homoserine lactone (3-hydroxy-C6-HSL). Re-lactonisation bioassays confirmed Labrenzia sp. BM1 degraded these signalling molecules efficiently via lactonase activity. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first documentation of a Labrenzia sp. capable of degrading N-acylhomoserine lactones and confirmation of its lactonase-based mechanism of action.
Comparative Studies of the Venom of a New Taipan Species, Oxyuranus temporalis, with Other Members of Its Genus
Authors: Barber Carmel , Madaras Frank , Turnbull Richard , Morley Terry , Dunstan Nathan , Allen Luke , Kuchel Tim , Mirtschin Peter , Hodgson Wayne
Published: July 2014

Taipans are highly venomous Australo-Papuan elapids. A new species of taipan, the Western Desert Taipan (Oxyuranus temporalis), has been discovered with two specimens housed in captivity at the Adelaide Zoo. This study is the first investigation of O. temporalis venom and seeks to characterise and compare the neurotoxicity, lethality and biochemical properties of O. temporalis venom with other taipan venoms. Analysis of O. temporalis venom using size-exclusion and reverse-phase HPLC indicated a markedly simplified “profile” compared to other taipan venoms. SDS-PAGE and agarose gel electrophoresis analysis also indicated a relatively simple composition. Murine LD50 studies showed that O. temporalis venom is less lethal than O. microlepidotus venom. Venoms were tested in vitro, using the chick biventer cervicis nerve-muscle preparation. Based on t90 values, O. temporalis venom is highly neurotoxic abolishing indirect twitches far more rapidly than other taipan venoms. O. temporalis venom also abolished responses to exogenous acetylcholine and carbachol, indicating the presence of postsynaptic neurotoxins. Prior administration of CSL Taipan antivenom (CSL Limited) neutralised the inhibitory effects of all taipan venoms. The results of this study suggest that the venom of the O. temporalis is highly neurotoxic in vitro and may contain procoagulant toxins, making this snake potentially dangerous to humans.
Peptide Dose and/or Structure in Vaccines as a Determinant of T Cell Responses
Authors: Leggatt Graham
Published: July 2014

While T cells recognise the complex of peptide and major histocompatibility complex (MHC) at the cell surface, changes in the dose and/or structure of the peptide component can have profound effects on T cell activation and function. In addition, the repertoire of T cells capable of responding to any given peptide is variable, but broader than a single clone. Consequently, peptide parameters that affect the interaction between T cells and peptide/MHC have been shown to select particular T cell clones for expansion and this impacts on clearance of disease. T cells with high functional avidity are selected on low doses of peptide, while low avidity T cells are favoured in high peptide concentrations. Altering the structure of the peptide ligand can also influence the selection and function of peptide-specific T cell clones. In this review, we will explore the evidence that the choice of peptide dose or the structure of the peptide are critical parameters in an effective vaccine designed to activate T cells.
Long-Term Changes in Pain Sensitivity in an Animal Model of Social Anxiety
Authors: Berry Alessandra , Bellisario Veronica , Capoccia Sara , Francia Nadia , Alleva Enrico , Cirulli Francesca
Published: July 2014

Animal models with an eco-ethological relevance can help in identifying novel and reliable stress-related markers. To this end, 3-month-old C57BL/6J male mice were exposed to social defeat (SD) stress for 10 days as this stressor shows good face and predictive validity for several models of human affective disorders including depression, social phobia and post-traumatic stress disorder. Social avoidance and pain threshold were assessed 24 h and 4 weeks after the end of SD stress, while corticosterone was assayed at the beginning and at the end of the stressful procedure (days 1 and 10). SD subjects were characterized by increased corticosterone levels (30 min following stress exposure), increased latency to approach the social target in the short-term as well as increased emotionality in the long-term. Moreover, an increase in nociceptive threshold (stress-induced analgesia) was found both in the short-term and 4 weeks after the end of stress. These data indicate that the SD paradigm is able to induce emotional changes associated with a stressful/traumatic event. In addition, they indicate that variations in the nociceptive threshold might represent a physiological marker of both short- and long-term effects of stress.
Femoral imaging artifacts associated with dorsal recumbency craniocaudal radiographic positioning
Authors: Siclari M. , Lesser A. , Maguire P.
Published: July 2014

Objectives: To describe the radiographic length distortion associated with femoral tilt during cranio-caudal positioning. To describe a modified bisecting angle technique to alleviate image foreshortening.

Methods: Five pairs of femurs were imaged. The femurs were tilted from 0 to 50 degrees and the X-ray anode was tilted from 0 to 40 degrees. Femoral length was measured on the resulting images. A geometric model depicting sagittal femoral positioning was described with two trigonometric formulas. Trigonometric formula 1 (TF1) was designed to predict apparent femoral length. Data generated by TF1 were compared to the cadaveric study results. Trigonometric formula 2 (TF2), based on the same model, was used to predict the ideal anode angle (iAA) to alleviate foreshortening. Unrelated to the model, a simplified linear formula (SF) was created to approximate the TF2. Data generated with the SF and the TF2 were compared.

Results: When the femoral specimens were tilted to 20 degrees or greater, significant foreshortening was appreciated (p <0.001). Increasing the anode angle increased apparent length, eliminating foreshortening. Data generated by the TF1 agreed closely with the results of the cadaveric study (R2 = 0.999). The SF and the TF2 demonstrated close agreement and were able to predict an iAA consistent with the results of the cadaveric study.

Clinical significance: A femoral tilt of 20 degrees or greater results in significant image foreshortening and may warrant alternate radiographic techniques. If the femur is tilted, adjusting the anode angle can alleviate femoral foreshortening.
Tibial tuberosity transposition-advancement for lateralization of the tibial tuberosity: An ex vivo canine study
Authors: Bertollo N. , Walsh W. , Voss K. , Newman M.
Published: July 2014

Objectives: To evaluate the degree of lateralization achievable and strength of tibial tuberosity transposition and advancement (TTTA) relative to pin and tension band wiring (PTBW) for lateral tibial tuberosity transposition.

Methods: Six pairs of cadaveric tibiae were used. Tibial tuberosity position was determined with computed tomography (CT); bones were then randomly assigned into TTTA and PTBW groups. The PTBW group had a tibial tuberosity osteotomy and fixation with pin and tension band wiring. The TTTA group had a tibial tuberosity advancement performed with lateralization of the tibial tuberosity by 50% of cage depth, using spacers on the cranial cage screw. Postoperative CT images showed lateralization and craniocaudal deviation. Single axial distractive loading was applied to the patella at 90° to the tibial plateau, and peak load, energy, and stiffness were calculated.

Results: There were significant differences in lateralization (PTBW: 67.92 ± 5.1 %; TTTA: 88.51 ± 5.5 %) (p = 0.0173) and craniocaudal deviation (PTBW: –8.30 ± 1.4 %; TTTA: 6.83 ± 0.6) (p = 0.0001). There were no significant differences in peak load to failure (N) (PTBW: 1448 ± 121; TTTA: 1597 ± 43) (p = 0.4541), energy to failure (N/mm) (PTBW: 15013 ± 2719; TTTA: 17314 ± 887) (p = 0.646), or stiffness (N/mm)(PTBW: 102.8 ± 4.7; TTTA: 92.9 ± 4.8) (p = 0.2716).

Clinical significance: The TTTA was more effective at lateralization of the tibial tuberosity, and of comparable strength to PTBW. Greater support of the osteotomized fragment with TTTA may resist cyclic loading, and requires evaluation.
Designing magnetic superlattices that are composed of single domain nanomagnets
Authors: Forrester Derek M , Kusmartsev Feodor V , Kovács Endre
Published: July 2014

Background: The complex nature of the magnetic interactions between any number of nanosized elements of a magnetic superlattice can be described by the generic behavior that is presented here. The hysteresis characteristics of interacting elliptical nanomagnets are described by a quasi-static method that identifies the critical boundaries between magnetic phases. A full dynamical analysis is conducted in complement to this and the deviations from the quasi-static analysis are highlighted. Each phase is defined by the configuration of the magnetic moments of the chain of single domain nanomagnets and correspondingly the existence of parallel, anti-parallel and canting average magnetization states.

Results: We give examples of the phase diagrams in terms of anisotropy and coupling strength for two, three and four magnetic layers. Each phase diagrams character is defined by the shape of the magnetic hysteresis profile for a system in an applied magnetic field. We present the analytical solutions that enable one to define the “phase” boundaries between the emergence of spin-flop, anti-parallel and parallel configurations. The shape of the hysteresis profile is a function of the coupling strength between the nanomagnets and examples are given of how it dictates a systems magnetic response. Many different paths between metastable states can exist and this can lead to instabilities and fluctuations in the magnetization.

Conclusion: With these phase diagrams one can find the most stable magnetic configurations against perturbations so as to create magnetic devices. On the other hand, one may require a magnetic system that can easily be switched between phases, and so one can use the information herein to design superlattices of the required shape and character by choosing parameters close to the phase boundaries. This work will be useful when designing future spintronic devices, especially those manipulating the properties of CoFeB compounds.
Bis(β-lactosyl)-[60]fullerene as novel class of glycolipids useful for the detection and the decontamination of biological toxins of the Ricinus communis family
Authors: Dohi Hirofumi , Kanazawa Takeru , Saito Akihiro , Sato Keita , Uzawa Hirotaka , Seto Yasuo , Nishida Yoshihiro
Published: July 2014

Glycosyl-[60]fullerenes were first used as decontaminants against ricin, a lactose recognition proteotoxin in the Ricinus communis family. A fullerene glycoconjugate carrying two lactose units was synthesized by a [3 + 2] cycloaddition reaction between C60 and the azide group in 6-azidohexyl β-lactoside per-O-acetate. A colloidal aqueous solution with brown color was prepared from deprotected bis(lactosyl)-C60 and was found stable for more than 6 months keeping its red color. Upon mixing with an aqueous solution of Ricinus communis agglutinin (RCA120), the colloidal solution soon caused precipitations, while becoming colorless and transparent. In contrast, a solution of concanavalin A (Con A) caused no apparent change, indicating that the precipitation was caused specifically by carbohydrate–protein interactions. This notable phenomenon was quantified by means of sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE), and the results were discussed in terms of detection and decontamination of the deadly biological toxin in the Ricinus communis family.
Why a diaminopyrrolic tripodal receptor binds mannosides in acetonitrile but not in water?
Authors: Vila-Viçosa Diogo , Francesconi Oscar , Machuqueiro Miguel
Published: July 2014

Intermolecular interactions involving carbohydrates and their natural receptors play important roles in several biological processes. The development of synthetic receptors is very useful to study these recognition processes. Recently, it was synthetized a diaminopyrrolic tripodal receptor that is selective for mannosides, which are obtained from mannose, a sugar with significant relevance in living systems. However, this receptor is significantly more active in acetonitrile than in water. In this work, we performed several molecular dynamics and constant-pH molecular dynamics simulations in acetonitrile and water to evaluate the conformational space of the receptor and to understand the molecular detail of the receptor–mannoside interaction. The protonation states sampled by the receptor show that the positive charges are always as distant as possible in order to avoid large intramolecular repulsions. Moreover, the conformational space of the receptor is very similar in water above pH 4.0 and in acetonitrile. From the simulations with the mannoside, we observe that the interactions are more specific in acetonitrile (mainly hydrogen bonds) than in water (mainly hydrophobic). Our results suggest that the readiness of the receptor to bind mannoside is not significantly affected in water (above pH 4.0). Probably, the hydrogen bond network that is formed in acetonitrile (which is weaker in water) is the main reason for the higher activity in this solvent. This work also presents a new implementation of the stochastic titration constant-pH molecular dynamics method to a synthetic receptor of sugars and attests its ability to describe the protonation/conformation coupling in these molecules.
Les avatars du néo-libéralisme dans la fabrique des politiques européennes
Authors: Crespy Amandine , Ravinet Pauline
Published: July 2014

Ce numéro spécial s’intéresse à l’institutionnalisation des idées néo-libérales dans la fabrique des politiques européennes. L’article introductif invite à considérer que ces idées ne sont pas figées puis déclinées au niveau national, mais qu’il s’agit d’incarnations changeantes (avatars) et négociées du néo-libéralisme, et ce dès la formulation des politiques européennes. Cet article propose une approche centrée sur le travail politique des acteurs dans des configurations institutionnelles mouvantes, pour expliquer le remodelage des idées dans le jeu politique et expliquer, in fine , la variété des solutions de politiques publiques adoptées. Les contributions rassemblées dans ce numéro nourrissent cette perspective originale à partir d’études de cas portant sur différents secteurs de politiques européennes : politique monétaire, énergétique, de l’emploi et de l’enseignement supérieur.
Marché, sécurité, environnement
Authors: Jegen Maya
Published: July 2014

Cet article porte sur le projet européen de créer une politique énergétique commune visant la libéralisation des marchés, la lutte aux changements climatiques et la sécurité de l’approvisionnement. Nous montrons comment la Commission européenne a développé un cadrage cognitif et normatif ( frame ) qui lie la sécurité énergétique et les changements climatiques aux compétences de l’Union européenne en matière de marché intérieur et de concurrence. Ceci lui permet de justifier son intervention dans un domaine, l’énergie, longtemps considéré comme relevant des États membres. Ce cadrage a rencontré un certain succès sur le plan institutionnel et il est maintenant largement admis par les gouvernements nationaux. À partir d’une comparaison des cas allemand et polonais, il est toutefois démontré que son effectivité relève principalement de son caractère hétéroclite combinant le vocabulaire du libéralisme avec les préoccupations géopolitiques et environnementales. Cette stratégie a ses limites puisque l’hétérogénéité des interprétations met à jour les contradictions internes du cadre, ce qui fait obstacle à sa mise en œuvre. Il convient de s’interroger sur les conditions institutionnelles et structurelles qui expliquent l’échec ou la réussite des processus de cadrage.
Le modèle danois et la flexicurité européenne
Authors: Caune Hélène
Published: July 2014

Le modèle européen de flexicurité entend concilier la flexibilité des marchés du travail et la sécurité des travailleurs. Cet article examine comment les acteurs politiques et administratifs de la Commission européenne se sont adaptés à un contexte politique et institutionnel difficile. Dans une stratégie de persuasion à deux bandes, le « triangle d’or de la flexicurité danoise » a d’abord permis d’éviter l’opposition des représentants des syndicats européens. Ce cadrage a ensuite dû être nuancé pour éviter la résistance des États membres qui refusaient d’adopter un modèle excessivement centré sur un cas national. En expliquant pourquoi, au cours des processus de cadrage, certains experts ont été préférés à d’autres, cet article met l’accent sur la dimension stratégique du choix de l’expertise et souligne ses effets dans l’affaiblissement des conflits politiques.
Natural Uniqueness and Sustainable Tourism Business. Small Tourism Enterprises in the Finnish Kvarken Archipelago World Natural Heritage Site
Authors: Berg Petra , Syrjälä Henna , Laaksonen Pirjo
Published: July 2014

La présente étude est située dans l’archipel finlandais de Kvarken, qui en 2006 obtenait le statut de Site du Patrimoine Mondial Naturel. Les petites, très petites et micro entreprises en tourisme fonctionnant à Kvarken sont face à un défi : comment faire des affaires rentables et réussies en tourisme avec le statut de Patrimoine Mondial, sans détruire les richesses les plus importantes, c’est-à-dire l’environnement unique et naturel et l’histoire socio-culturelle du site ? En conséquence le but de cet article est de découvrir comment les petites, très petites et micro entreprises en tourisme fonctionnant sur un site de Patrimoine Mondial Naturel pourraient se développer selon l’entreprenariat durable . Les principes de l’entreprenariat durable se composent de trois dimensions : écologique, socio-culturelle et économique. Ces dimensions sont approchées par une discussion théorique des interactions entre ces entreprises en tourisme et d’autres groupes de parties prenantes (clients, établissements, personnes locales et d’autres entreprises) sur le site. Les conclusions mettent en évidence des tensions auxquelles le développement durable en tourisme fait face entre et dans ces trois dimensions.
Les études quantitatives sur le tourisme durable : une analyse des principaux travaux de recherche
Authors: Diallo Mbaye Fall
Published: July 2014

Le tourisme durable connaît une importance grandissante auprès des touristes, des entrepreneurs et des pouvoirs publics. Cependant, peu de recherches se sont intéressées à une synthèse des travaux sur ce sujet. Cette recherche a pour objectif d’analyser les études quantitatives portant sur le tourisme durable en vue de présenter une synthèse des principaux résultats. En s’inspirant d’une approche méta-analytique, nous analysons les résultats de plusieurs travaux utilisant diverses méthodes statistiques (statistiques descriptives, analyse de la variance, analyse factorielle exploratoire et confirmatoire, modèles d’équations structurelles et économétrie). Les résultats montrent un usage croissant des méthodes quantitatives et de théories variées pour étudier le concept de tourisme durable. Toutefois, les travaux existants se focalisent principalement sur l’attitude des résidents et des touristes envers le tourisme durable. Ils ne permettent donc pas d’avoir une vision holiste du concept. Les implications théoriques, méthodologiques et managériales de ces résultats sont présentées et discutées.
Turquie : le mouvement kurde à l'heure du « processus de paix »
Authors: Grojean Olivier
Published: July 2014

Alors que le processus de paix entre le PKK et le gouvernement turc est au point mort, ce dernier tente de contourner les acteurs kurdes de Turquie en prenant appui sur le PDK, qui domine le Gouvernement régional du Kurdistan d’Irak. Mais les organisations qui composent le mouvement kurde en Turquie tirent leurs sources de l’espace politique turc lui-même, et ne peuvent donc être marginalisées dans les négociations. politique étrangère
Pourquoi Russie et Union européenne doivent coopérer en Ukraine
Authors: Tchernega Vladimir
Published: July 2014

L’Ukraine est traversée de divisions historiques, idéologiques, économiques, religieuses, linguistiques, que sa brève histoire a échoué à unifier. Son instabilité actuelle, largement due à l’immobilisme de la situation politico-économique, est aggravée par les pressions extérieures, russes, européennes et américaines. Un dialogue avec l’Union européenne engagé sur des fondements réalistes est seul susceptible de permettre le développement du pays, en harmonie avec les intérêts russes. politique étrangère
Les retombées stratégiques de la divulgation volontaire d'informations sur le capital immatériel : l'exemple des firmes de biotechnologie dédiées aux sciences de la vie
Authors: Sadi Nacer-Eddine , Amir-Aslani Arsia
Published: July 2014

Cette étude, de type exploratoire, tente d’élargir la perception des ressources stratégiques invisibles de firmes qui sont à la base de la nouvelle ère scientifique et de démontrer que la divulgation volontaire d’informations procure des avantages stratégiques. L’analyse repose sur un terrain d’étude portant sur les firmes de biotechnologie dédiées aux sciences de la vie. Ces firmes se particularisent par rapport à la PME traditionnelle par l’importance de leur capital technoscientifique et humain, qui conditionne leur pérennité et façonne leur potentiel de création de valeur.
La présentation du style de gestion : l'avantage distinctif pour l'attraction et la rétention du personnel
Authors: Gravel Alain
Published: July 2014

Le style de gestion est particulièrement important pour les employés francophones et les jeunes chercheurs d’emploi, qui posent souvent des questions à ce sujet en entrevue. L’engagement du recruteur à présenter son style de gestion lors de l’embauche augmente l’attraction des chercheurs d’emploi, et la perception d’un meilleur appariement hiérarchique améliore le rendement et la rétention des employés. L’article propose aux recruteurs un outil pour présenter leur style de gestion afin d’optimiser l’appariement hiérarchique au moment de l’embauche, et à une organisation d’implanter la mesure parmi ses superviseurs pour en tirer un avantage d’employeur. Ainsi, les recruteurs devraient limiter la présentation de leur style de gestion aux candidats qu’ils sont prêts à engager. Des recommandations sont présentées, d’une part, à un recruteur estimant que son style de gestion est habituellement apprécié de ses employés et, d’autre part, à un recruteur jugeant que son style de gestion ne convient pas à tous. L’article suggère à ce dernier de recruter en particulier parmi les 20 % d’employés dont le rendement et la rétention sont insensibles au style de gestion.
La gestion des compétences : quatre leçons pour surmonter les difficultés de la mise en œuvre dans le secteur public
Authors: Baret Christophe , Oiry Ewan
Published: July 2014

La littérature sur la gestion des compétences, qui est extrêmement riche, a permis de définir la compétence, d’établir les liens qu’elle entretient avec la stratégie de l’entreprise et l’engagement des salariés. En revanche, les usages des référentiels de compétences sont encore mal connus, en particulier dans le secteur public. Synthétisant les principales dimensions de la littérature sur les outils de gestion, cet article montre que les usages des référentiels de compétences sont mieux analysés lorsqu’on les étend au triangle constitué par les outils, les rôles des gestionnaires et l’organisation. Nous utilisons ce triangle conceptuel pour décrire les usages de ces référentiels dans quatre centres hospitaliers. Tout en se fondant sur un cadre théorique explicite, l’article vise à proposer aux gestionnaires, aux directeurs des ressources humaines et aux conseillers des ressources humaines des solutions pour gérer les compétences dans le service public.
Hip Arthroscopy for Space-Occupying Lesions Within the Acetabular Cotyloid Fossa
Authors: Brannon James K.
Published: July 2014

Standard hip arthroscopy emphasizes access to disease within the peripheral compartment. The author describes precise access to the central compartment for removal of space-occupying lesions within the cotyloid fossa. These lesions can compromise the space available for the ligamentum teres and possibly contribute to the development of cam/pincer lesions and articular-sided labral tears by altering the congruency of the hip joint. Importantly, this novel approach does not impair the ability to complete the more widely known surgical techniques used within the peripheral compartment. [
Orthopedics
. 2014; 37(7):461–465.]
Infection After Arthroscopic Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Kim Seung-Ju , Postigo Ricardo , Koo Sowon , Kim Jong Hun
Published: July 2014

Educational objectives

As a result of reading this article, physicians should be able to:

1.

Identify the most common pathogen of infection after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction.

2.

Outline the general principles for the treatment of infection after ACL reconstruction.

3.

Determine the indications of graft excision and hardware removal.

4.

Summarize the outcomes of infection after ACL reconstruction.

Septic arthritis is a rare but potentially devastating complication of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction surgery. The purpose of this study was to provide an evidence-based summarization of the treatment and outcome of infection after ACL reconstruction with a pooled analysis of the reported cases. The authors conducted a systematic review of published studies that evaluated the outcome of septic arthritis after arthroscopic ACL reconstruction. A structured literature review of multiple databases referenced articles from 1950 to 2012. A total of 22,836 knees from 14 published studies were assessed. Postoperative septic arthritis occurred in 121 knees, with a pooled percentage of 0.5%. Mean duration of follow-up after ACL reconstruction was 53.6 months (range, 4–218 months). An average of 1.92 procedures (range, 1–5 procedures) were performed to eradicate the infection. The grafts were retained in 77% of cases. Postoperative intravenous antibiotics were used for at least 5 days (range, 5–90 days) after debridement. At final follow-up, mean postoperative Lysholm score was 80.2 (range, 23–100). No reinfection was observed in 121 patients. This study has helped to further elucidate the outcomes of infection after ACL reconstruction. Once an infection is encountered, culture-specific antibiotics and surgical joint irrigation with graft retention are recommended as initial treatment. Graft removal can be considered only for those infections resistant to initial treatment. [Orthopedics.2014; 37(7):477–484.]
Impact of Chronic Kidney Disease Stage on Lower-extremity Arthroplasty
Authors: Deegan Brian F. , Richard Raveesh D. , Bowen Thomas R. , Perkins Robert M. , Graham Jove H. , Foltzer Michael A.
Published: July 2014

End-stage renal disease and dialysis is commonly associated with poor outcomes after joint replacement surgery. The goal of this study was to evaluate postoperative complications in patients with less advanced chronic kidney disease undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA) or total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Patients who underwent THA or TKA between 2004 and 2011 with stage 1, 2, or 3 chronic kidney disease were retrospectively reviewed via an electronic medical record. The authors compared 377 patients who had stage 1 to 2 chronic kidney disease with 402 patients who had stage 3 chronic kidney disease. No significant differences in 90-day readmission or revision rates were found between the stage 1 to 2 and stage 3 patient groups. For patients with stage 3 chronic kidney disease, the overall mortality rate was greater than that in patients with stage 1 to 2 chronic kidney disease. However, when adjusted for comorbid disease, no significant increases were seen in joint infection, readmission, or early revision between patients with stage 1 to 2 chronic kidney disease vs patients with stage 3 chronic kidney disease. The overall incidence of infection was high (3.5%) but far less than reported for patients with end-stage renal disease, dialysis, and kidney transplant. In conclusion, patients with stage 1, 2, or 3 chronic kidney disease may have a higher than expected rate of prosthetic joint infection (3.5%) after total joint arthroplasty. Patients with stage 3 chronic kidney disease are at higher risk for postoperative mortality compared with those with lesser stages of kidney disease.
Outcomes Using Titanium Elastic Nails for Open and Closed Pediatric Tibia Fractures
Authors: Economedes Demetri M. , Abzug Joshua M. , Paryavi Ebrahim , Herman Martin J.
Published: July 2014

The authors conducted a retrospective review at their level I trauma center to assess the outcomes of closed vs open pediatric tibial fractures treated with titanium elastic nails. The study group included 38 pediatric patients (median age, 12 years) treated with titanium elastic nails for tibial fractures during a 5-year period. Patient demographics, closed or open injury, Gustilo-Anderson type for open fractures, fracture location, skeletal maturity, time to union, hospital length of stay, number of procedures performed per patient, and complications were recorded. The main outcome measures were time to union and complications. Average follow-up duration was 13 months. Mean time to union was 4 months for closed and 9 months for open fractures (
P
<.001). Average time to union for type IIIA and IIIB fractures was significantly increased (11 and 12 months, respectively;
P
=.02). Delayed union (>6 months postoperatively) occurred in 1 (6%) of 17 closed fractures compared with 11 (52%) of 21 open fractures. The average number of surgical procedures for closed fractures was fewer than for open fractures (2 vs 3 procedures, respectively;
P
=.03). Mean hospital length of stay was shorter for closed than open fractures (3 vs 6 days, respectively;
P
=.03). Two infections occurred in the open fracture group. Closed and open pediatric tibial shaft fractures can be successfully treated with titanium elastic nails. Open fractures treated with titanium elastic nails have a significantly longer time to union, require additional operative procedures, and result in longer hospital stays.