bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neuroenhancement with Vitamin B12—Underestimated Neurological Significance
Authors: Gröber Uwe , Kisters Klaus , Schmidt Joachim
Published: December 2013

Vitamin B12 is a cofactor of methionine synthase in the synthesis of methionine, the precursor of the universal methyl donor S-Adenosylmethionine (SAMe), which is involved in different epigenomic regulatory mechanisms and especially in brain development. A Vitamin B12 deficiency expresses itself by a wide variety of neurological manifestations such as paraesthesias, skin numbness, coordination disorders and reduced nerve conduction velocity. In elderly people, a latent Vitamin B12 deficiency can be associated with a progressive brain atrophy. Moderately elevated concentrations of homocysteine (>10 µmol/L) have been associated with an increased risk of dementia, notably Alzheimer’s disease, in many cross-sectional and prospective studies. Raised plasma concentrations of homocysteine is also associated with both regional and whole brain atrophy, not only in Alzheimer’s disease but also in healthy elderly people. Clinician awareness should be raised to accurately diagnose and treat early Vitamin B12 deficiency to prevent irreversible structural brain damage.
Adaptation of Soil Physical Measurement Techniques for the Delineation of Mud and Lakebed Sediments at Neusiedler See
Authors: Kogelbauer Ilse , Heine Erwin , D'Amboise Christopher , Müllebner Christoph , Sokol Wolfgang , Loiskandl Willibald
Published: December 2013

For many water management issues of shallow lakes with non-consolidated sediments hydrographic surveys of the open water area and reed belt areas are required. In the frame of water management strategy for the steppe lake Neusiedler See, located between Austria and Hungary, a hydrographic survey was conducted. In the open water area (water depth ≥1 m) a sediment echosounder was used. To validate these measurements and to distinguish between water, mud, and sediment layers in the shallow lake and reed belt area additional measurements were needed. As no common standard methods are available yet, we developed a measurement system based on two commonly applied soil physical measurement techniques providing reproducible physical values: a capacitive sensor and a cone penetrometer combined with GNSS-positioning enable dynamic measurements of georeferenced vertical water-mud-bedsediments profiles. The system bases on site-specific calibrated sensors and allows instantaneous, in situ measurements. The measurements manifest a sharp water-mud interface by a sudden decline to smaller water content which is a function of the dielectric permittivity. A second decline indicates the transition to compacted mud. That is concurrently the density where the penetrometer starts registering significant penetration resistance. The penetrometer detects shallow lakebed-sediment layers. Within the lake survey this measurement system was successfully tested.
Evaluation of Piecewise Polynomial Equations for Two Types of Thermocouples
Authors: Chen Andrew , Chen Chiachung
Published: December 2013

Thermocouples are the most frequently used sensors for temperature measurement because of their wide applicability, long-term stability and high reliability. However, one of the major utilization problems is the linearization of the transfer relation between temperature and output voltage of thermocouples. The linear calibration equation and its modules could be improved by using regression analysis to help solve this problem. In this study, two types of thermocouple and five temperature ranges were selected to evaluate the fitting agreement of different-order polynomial equations. Two quantitative criteria, the average of the absolute error values |e|ave and the standard deviation of calibration equation estd, were used to evaluate the accuracy and precision of these calibrations equations. The optimal order of polynomial equations differed with the temperature range. The accuracy and precision of the calibration equation could be improved significantly with an adequate higher degree polynomial equation. The technique could be applied with hardware modules to serve as an intelligent sensor for temperature measurement.
Combined Hand Gesture — Speech Model for Human Action Recognition
Authors: Cheng Sheng-Tzong , Hsu Chih-Wei , Li Jian-Pan
Published: December 2013

This study proposes a dynamic hand gesture detection technology to effectively detect dynamic hand gesture areas, and a hand gesture recognition technology to improve the dynamic hand gesture recognition rate. Meanwhile, the corresponding relationship between state sequences in hand gesture and speech models is considered by integrating speech recognition technology with a multimodal model, thus improving the accuracy of human behavior recognition. The experimental results proved that the proposed method can effectively improve human behavior recognition accuracy and the feasibility of system applications. Experimental results verified that the multimodal gesture-speech model provided superior accuracy when compared to the single modal versions.
Online Least Squares One-Class Support Vector Machines-Based Abnormal Visual Event Detection
Authors: Wang Tian , Chen Jie , Zhou Yi , Snoussi Hichem
Published: December 2013

The abnormal event detection problem is an important subject in real-time video surveillance. In this paper, we propose a novel online one-class classification algorithm, online least squares one-class support vector machine (online LS-OC-SVM), combined with its sparsified version (sparse online LS-OC-SVM). LS-OC-SVM extracts a hyperplane as an optimal description of training objects in a regularized least squares sense. The online LS-OC-SVM learns a training set with a limited number of samples to provide a basic normal model, then updates the model through remaining data. In the sparse online scheme, the model complexity is controlled by the coherence criterion. The online LS-OC-SVM is adopted to handle the abnormal event detection problem. Each frame of the video is characterized by the covariance matrix descriptor encoding the moving information, then is classified into a normal or an abnormal frame. Experiments are conducted, on a two-dimensional synthetic distribution dataset and a benchmark video surveillance dataset, to demonstrate the promising results of the proposed online LS-OC-SVM method.
Incineration of Pre-Treated Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) for Energy Co-Generation in a Non-Densely Populated Area
Authors: Trulli Ettore , Torretta Vincenzo , Raboni Massimo , Masi Salvatore
Published: December 2013

The planning actions in municipal solid waste (MSW) management must follow strategies aimed at obtaining economies of scale. At the regional basin, a proper feasibility analysis of treatment and disposal plants should be based on the collection and analysis of data available on production rate and technological characteristics of waste. Considering the regulations constraint, the energy recovery is limited by the creation of small or medium-sized incineration plants, while separated collection strongly influences the heating value of the residual MSW. Moreover, separated collection of organic fraction in non-densely populated area is burdensome and difficult to manage. The paper shows the results of the analysis carried out to evaluate the potential energy recovery using a combined cycle for the incineration of mechanically pre-treated MSW in Basilicata, a non-densely populated region in Southern Italy. In order to focalize the role of sieving as pre-treatment, the evaluation on the MSW sieved fraction heating value was presented. Co-generative (heat and power production) plant was compared to other MSW management solutions (e.g., direct landfilling), also considering the environmental impact in terms of greenhouse gases (GHGs) emissions.
El mundo con otro, el mundo con otros
Authors: Aguilar Mora Jorge
Published: December 2013

Les corridos et plusieurs romans donnent à voir ce qu'il y a d'unique chez Pancho Villa comme caudillo : la fusion de sa figure avec les aspirations et décisions de ses soldats a engendré des fidélités à toute épreuve. Par le biais d'images très simples, ou d'anecdotes terribles comme la fin de Vâmonos con Pancho Villa, de Rafael F. Munoz, on peut percevoir la dynamique du phénomène historique qu'était Villa : toujours en mouvement, toujours dans une action qui apporte un ordre et un sens à l'apparent chaos révolutionnaire. Les guerriers de Villa savaient que la Bola n'était pas un chaos, que c'était une composition unique faite de volontés individuelles, où l'important était la liberté avec laquelle chacun avait choisi de rejoindre Villa et la révolution, même dans les pires moments du villisme, de 19 16 au début de 1920.
La geste de Lampião
Authors: Jasmin Elise
Published: December 2013

Lampiâo, le dernier des grands cangaceiros, a sévi dans le sertâo du Nordeste brésilien de 1922 à 1938. Dès son entrée dans le banditisme, il est devenu l'un des personnages de prédilection de la littérature de cordel et des chansons de geste des trouvères du Nordeste, et il l'est resté jusqu'à aujourd'hui. Nous évoquerons ici certains faits marquants de la vie de Lampiâo, en mettant en perspective des articles de journaux, des récits et des folhetos de cordel qui ont contribué à construire, de son vivant même et bien après sa mort, la légende et la geste du célèbre cangaceiro.
Roberto Armijo, poeta de los exilios
Authors: Pailler Claire
Published: December 2013

Le Salvador, sa patrie absente, est toujours inscrit en creux au coeur de l'oeuvre de Roberto Armijo. Si le poème - satirique, dénonciateur - peut être une arme de combat politique, il permet aussi de ré-élaborer une patrie idéale, fondée sur la beauté naturelle, l'harmonie et un amour, exalté et solidaire, ou tout de tendresse et de nostalgie. Le soin apporté à la forme : emploi du sonnet, choix d'une écriture «pointilliste», place ses textes dans la tradition des grands lyriques américains dont le poète se réclame : Rubén Darfo, César Vallejo...
Le revenu de l'agriculture en France en 1956-1957
Authors: Maurel Françoise
Published: December 2013

Augmentation des recettes et des dépenses d'une centaine de milliards par rapport à 1955- 1956. Forte progression des achats de matériel agricole (tracteurs et machines notamment). Légère baisse des possibilités d'achats de biens de consommation eu égard à l'évolution générale dès prix.
Le mouvement des affaires dans l'hôtellerie au cours de l'été 1957 et les perspectives pour la saison d'hiver
Authors: Jankeliowitch R.
Published: December 2013

Activité satisfaisante de l'hôtellerie de tourisme pendant l'été 1957, à peu près équivalente à celle de 1956, un peu meilleure en fin de saison. Situation privilégiée de la région méditerranéenne. Tendance à la stabilisation de la durée des séjours. Fréquentation étrangère en très légère diminution par rapport à 1956. Difficultés accrues pour le recrutement du personnel. Perspectives d'une saison d'hiver à peu près égale à celle de 1956-1957.
Do carbonate karst terrains affect the global carbon cycle?
Authors: Martin Jonathan B. , Brown Amy , Ezell John
Published: December 2013

Carbonate minerals comprise the largest reservoir of carbon in the earth’s lithosphere, but they are generally assumed to have no net impact on the global carbon cycle if rapid dissolution and precipitation reactions represent equal sources and sinks of atmospheric carbon. Observations of both terrestrial and marine carbonate systems indicate that carbonate minerals may simultaneously dissolve and precipitate within different portions of individual hydrologic systems. In all cases reported here, the dissolution and precipitation reactions are related to primary production, which fixes atmospheric CO2 as organic carbon, and the subsequent remineralization in watersheds of the organic carbon to dissolved CO2. Deposition of carbonate minerals in the ocean represents a flux of CO2 to the atmosphere. The dissolution of oceanic carbonate minerals can act either as a sink for atmospheric CO2 if dissolved by carbonic acid, or as a source of CO2 if dissolved through sulfide oxidation at the freshwater-saltwater boundary. Since dissolution and precipitation of carbonate minerals depend on ecological processes, changes in these processes due to shifts in rainfall patterns, earth surface temperatures, and sea level should also alter the potential magnitudes of sources and sinks for atmospheric CO2 from carbonate terrains, providing feedbacks to the global carbon cycle that differ from modern feedbacks.Keywords: Global carbon cycle, carbonate terrains, organic carbon fixation, remineralization, carbonate mineral dissolution, carbonate mineral precipitation.DOI: 10.3986/ac.v42i2-3.660
Organic matter flux in the epikarst of the Dorvan karst, France
Authors: Simon Kevin S.
Published: December 2013

Availability of organic matter plays an important role in karst ecosystems. Somewhat surprisingly, study of the composition and distribution of organic matter in karst aquifers is rare. The most comprehensive study or organic matter flux to date is a two year continuous monitoring of detritus and animal flux in epikarst drip waters and an epikarst-fed cave stream in the Dorvan karst, France. Analysis of those data reveals high temporal variation in detritus and animal flux in both habitats, but little evidence of seasonality in flux. Water flux explained 30-69% of the variation in animal flux in both habitats and detritus flux in the epikarst seepage water. Detritus flux in the cave stream was better explained by peak monthly discharge. Lack of coherence between organic matter flux in epikarst seepage and the epikarst stream suggests organic matter transport is governed by differing factors in the two habitats. Overall, much of the particulate organic matter flux in the epikarst occurs as living animals suggesting a dominant role of ecological processes in organic matter transport.Keywords: Carbon, energy, epikarst, flux, seasonality, stream.DOI: 10.3986/ac.v42i2-3.665
Using isotopes of dissolved inorganic carbon species and water to separate sources of recharge in a cave spring, northwestern Arkansas, USA Blowing Spring Cave
Authors: Knierim Katherine J. , Pollock Erik , Hays Phillip D.
Published: December 2013

Blowing Spring Cave in northwestern Arkansas is representative of cave systems in the karst of the Ozark Plateaus, and stable isotopes of water (δ18O and δ2H) and inorganic carbon (δ13C) were used to quantify soil-water, bedrock-matrix water, and precipitation contributions to cave-spring flow during storm events to understand controls on cave water quality. Water samples from recharge-zone soils and the cave were collected from March to May 2012 to implement a multicomponent hydrograph separation approach using δ18O and δ2H of water and dissolved inorganic carbon (δ13C–DIC). During baseflow, median δ2H and δ18O compositions were –41.6‰ and –6.2‰ for soil water and were –37.2‰ and –5.9‰ for cave water, respectively. Median DIC concentrations for soil and cave waters were 1.8 mg/L and 25.0 mg/L, respectively, and median δ13C–DIC compositions were –19.9‰ and –14.3‰, respectively. During a March storm event, 12.2 cm of precipitation fell over 82 h and discharge increased from 0.01 to 0.59 m3/s. The isotopic composition of precipitation varied throughout the storm event because of rainout, a change of 50‰ and 10‰ for δ2H and δ18O was observed, respectively. Although, at the spring, δ2H and δ18O only changed by approximately 3‰ and 1‰, respectively. The isotopic compositions of precipitation and pre-event (i.e., soil and bedrock matrix) water were isotopically similar and the two-component hydrograph separation was inaccurate, either overestimating (>100%) or underestimating (<0%) the precipitation contribution to the spring. During the storm event, spring DIC and δ13C–DIC decreased to a minimum of 8.6 mg/L and –16.2‰, respectively. If the contribution from precipitation was assumed to be zero, soil water was found to contribute between 23 to 72% of the total volume of discharge. Although the assumption of negligible contributions from precipitation is unrealistic, especially in karst systems where rapid flow through conduits occurs, the hydrograph separation using inorganic carbon highlights the importance of considering vadose-zone soil water when analyzing storm chemohydrographs.Keywords: carbon, stable isotopes, cave, hydrograph, Arkansas.DOI: 10.3986/ac.v42i2-3.667
Isotopes of Carbon in a Karst Aquifer of the Cumberland Plateau of Kentucky, USA
Authors: Florea Lee J.
Published: December 2013

In this study, the concentration and isotopic composition of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) are measured in the karst groundwater of the Otter Creek watershed of the Cumberland Plateau of Kentucky, USA. Comparisons among these data and with the geochemistry of carbonate and gypsum equilibrium reactions reveal that DOC concentration is inversely related to discharge, multiple reaction pathways provide DIC with isotopic enrichment that may be directly related to mineral saturation, and oxidation of reduced sulfur is possible for dissolution. DOC is derived from C3 vegetation with an average δ13CDOC of ‒27‰. DIC in groundwater is derived from both pedogenic CO2 and HCO3- from dissolved carbonate. At input sites to the karst aquifers DIC concentrations are expectedly low, less than 1 mmol/L, in waters that are undersaturated with respect to calcite. At the output of these karst aquifers DIC concentrations reach 3 mmol/L in waters that are at or above calcite saturation. Values of δ13CDIC range between ‒6.3 and ‒12.4‰ with CO2 degassing and calcite precipitation at some sites obfuscating a simple relationship between δ13CDIC, discharge, and mineral saturation. In addition, concentrations of DIC in sulfur seeps within the watershed range between 2–7 mmol/L with δ13CDIC values in some samples skewed more toward the anticipated value of carbonate bedrock than would be expected from reactions with carbonic acid alone. This suggests that the oxidation of reduced sulfur from shallow oilfield brines liberates bedrock DIC through reactions with sulfuric acid.Keywords: dissolved organic carbon, dissolved inorganic carbon, sulfur redox, ion geochemistry, saturation index.Keywords: dissolved organic carbon, dissolved inorganic carbon, sulfur redox, ion geochemistry, saturation index.DOI: 10.3986/ac.v42i2-3.668
Contribution of non-troglobiotic terrestrial invertebrates to carbon input in hypogean habitats
Authors: Novak Tone , Janžekovič Franc , Lipovšček Saška
Published: December 2013

Eleven of the most important terrestrial invertebrate species in Slovenian caves were analyzed for differences in their fresh and dry biomass, energy content and carbon bulk during winter. These data were combined with the species abundance in 54 caves and adits in order to estimate their organic carbon bulk and carbon input into these habitats. In Central European caves, Troglophilus cavicola, T. neglectus, Faustina illyrica, Amilenus aurantiacus and Scoliopteryx libatrix are the most important vectors of carbon between the epigean and hypogean habitats. In contrast to the general assumption, carbon total contribution to caves via dead bodies is only 0.15% of total migratory biomass, and it is not directly available to troglobionts because of infection with entomopathogenic fungi. In winter, together with predated migratory specimens, carbon input does not exceed 0.3% of the total migratory biomass. This situation should be carefully examined in every karstic region inhabited by distinctive fauna.Keywords: biomass, carbon flux, caves, non-troglobiotic species, organic carbon, respiration.DOI: 10.3986/ac.v42i2-3.669
Physical Structure of the Epikarst
Authors: Jones William K.
Published: December 2013

Epikarst is a weathered zone of enhanced porosity on or near the surface or at the soil/bedrock contact of many karst landscapes. The epikarst is essentially the upper boundary of a karst system but is also a reaction chamber where many organics accumulate and react with the percolating water. The epikarst stores and directs percolating recharge waters to the underlying karst aquifers. Epikarst permeability decreases with depth below the surface. The epikarst may function as a perched aquifer with a saturated zone that transmits water laterally for some distance until it drains slowly through fractures or rapidly at shaft drains or dolines. Stress-release and physical weathering as well as chemical dissolution play a role in epikarst development. Epikarst may be found on freshly exposed carbonates although epikarst that develops below a soil cover should form at a faster rate due to increased carbon dioxide produced by vegetation. The accumulation of soil within the fractures may create plugs that retard the downward movement of percolating water and creates a reservoir rich in organic material. The thickness of the epikarst zone typically ranges from a few meters to 15 meters, but vertical weathering of joints may be much deeper and lead to a “stone forest” type of landscape. Some dolines are hydrologically connected directly to the epikarst while other dolines may drain more directly to the deeper conduit aquifer and represent a “hole” in the epikarst. Water stored in the epikarst may be lost to evapotranspiration, move rapidly down vertical shafts or larger joints, or drain out slowly through the soil infillings and small fractures. Much of the water pushed from the epikarst during storms is older water from storage that is displaced by the new event water.Keywords: epikarst, recharge, vadose zone, karst.DOI: 10.3986/ac.v42i2-3.672
Lateglacial studies in the western valleys of the Italian Julian Alps and in the Koritnica valley
Authors: Tintor Wolfgang , Andrič Maja
Published: December 2013

Different from the northern valleys of the Italian Julian Alps the bottoms of the western valleys do not contain any late-pleistocene moraines. However, common to all valleys is the large glaciation most probably in the Gschnitz-stage, in which the glaciers reached particularly low locations due to special favourable aspects such as north-exposure, steep and narrow gorges, high shading and considerable snow accumulation. This is also valid for the sidebranches of the Slovenian Koritnica valley which are again directed west-east. Still younger glacier stages could be found in the upper sections of the Dogna, Raccolana and Bala valley. For the moraines of very low altitudes in the Resia valley, at the entrance to Možnica and the upper Raccolana valley pollen analyses are available. All considerations in the paper are estimations based on geomorphological and climatological experience.
Spatial and social changes caused by the continuous exploitation of lignite in the Kolubara lignite basin, Serbia
Authors: Đukičin Smiljana , Đorđević Jasmina , Milanković Jelena
Published: December 2013

The Kolubara Lignite Basin in the Republic of Serbia is the most important source of this type of fossil energy. Available lignite reserves enable the production of electricity, so the priority, in this region, is its exploitation. This is the reason why all other characteristics of this region have undergone major changes. Since the lignite exploitation started, the land use and river courses have changed in the region, local communities have been moved out, the settlements, infrastructure and human activity have been altered. The whole landscape acquired a completely different image. The social aspect is a sensitive and delicate feature, but the regulation of the region is also significant. Local population in this region has faced a set of social, cultural and economic problems.
The wellbeing of Slovenia's population by region: comparison of indicators with an emphasis on health
Authors: Šprah Lilijana , Novak Tatjana , Fridl Jerneja
Published: December 2013

In broader definitions, wellbeing is commonly described as a multidimensional concept, defined by the state of happiness, health, and prosperity. However, due to various understandings of conceptual issues regarding wellbeing, professionals encounter a number of methodological problems connected with measuring it. Composite indicators are thus being increasingly used to measure population's wellbeing. Health is an important area of wellbeing and is connected with indicators similar to those used for measuring general wellbeing. This article uses composite indicators to compare various areas of wellbeing, and especially health-related wellbeing, among the twelve Slovenian statistical regions. The findings show great differences between Slovenian regions. In western Slovenia (the Central Slovenia, Soča, Coastal-Karst, and Upper Carniola regions), the level of wellbeing is generally high, and in eastern Slovenia (the Carinthia, Lower Sava, Mura, and Central Sava regions) it is lower. Except for minor deviations, the level of general wellbeing in the regions matches the level of health-related wellbeing.
Some older sources for Croatian exonym analysis
Authors: Crljenko Ivana
Published: December 2013

The article introduces the review of some older sources in the Croatian language that might be useful for the Croatian exonym analysis, and may also refer to the exonym status it the context of the Croatian language development and geographers' indifference concerning that issue. Because of frequent changes in orthography, geographical names (as well as exonyms) have experienced different modifications, which can be followed through eight analyzed editions published during the period from 1880 to 1974. It was indicated that geography as a profession has greatly failed in serious research of exonyms.
Use of geomorphological indicators for the detection of active faults in southern part of Ljubljana moor, Slovenia
Authors: Žibret Lea , Žibret Gorazd
Published: December 2013

In order to detect recently tectonically active faults, Stream Length-gradient (SL) index and a newly developed method of river gradient analysis were made for three rivers. Two methods were used on the southern part of Ljubljana moor, where rivers cross dextral (right-lateral) faults with Dinaric orientation (NW-SE). Watercourse profiles were analysed first, using a »classic«, well established method of SL index. However, this method didn't yield useful results since almost no variability in SL indexes were observed. Additionally, a second newly developed method pointed on the anomalies, which might correspond to the areas of active surface uplift and subsidence as a consequence of active tectonic movements. We compared determined anomalies with the fault lines plotted on the Basic geological map 1 : 100.000 and with the data of radar measurements of vertical movements by PSInSAR method. In this way five potentially active faults, areas of contraction and areas of extension were determined. The results of this research can be used as complementary information for the construction of tectonic model of Ljubljana field and Ljubljana moor.
Cultural events as part of cultural tourism development. Case study: Sombor and Apatin (Serbia)
Authors: Blešić Ivana , Pivac Tatjana , Đorđević Jasmina , Stamenković Igor , Janićević Sava
Published: December 2013

Festivals and special events play a significant role in communities' lives because they provide important activities and spending outlets for both locals and visitors, and enhance the tourist image of local communities and their social cohesion. Backgrounds and contents of events are various, but the most attractive ones are those devoted to gastronomy or those that cherish tradition, customs, folklore and handicrafts. The municipalities of Sombor and Apatin are multiethnic regions with authentic folklore and food out of which numerous events of economic and entertainment content emerged. The authors of this study recognized the most significant ten. The research is aimed at determining the attitudes of the local population with regard to the organization, realization and economic importance of cultural events.
Traditional house names as part of cultural heritage
Authors: Klinar Klemen , Geršič Matjaž
Published: December 2013

Traditional house names are a part of intangible cultural heritage. In the past, they were an important factor in identifying houses, people, and other structures, but modern social processes are decreasing their use. House names preserve the local dialect with its special features, and their motivational interpretation reflects the historical, geographical, biological, and social conditions in the countryside. This article comprehensively examines house names and presents the methods and results of collecting house names as part of various projects in Upper Carniola.
Evolución urbana de un sector de la ciudad de Tortosa durante la Antigüedad: intervenciones arqueológicas en la calle de Sant Domènech
Authors: Diloli Fons Jordi , Ferré Anguix Ramon , Navarro Just Sergi , Vilà Llorach Jordi
Published: December 2013

El estudio del pasado antiguo de Tortosa adolece de un retraso de varias décadas respecto al de otras ciudades con un patrimonio semejante. Para paliar este déficit, hace ya algunos años que el Seminari de Protohistoria i Arqueologia (GRESEPIA) de la Universitat Rovira i Virgili de Tarragona está llevando a cabo un proyecto de investigación, con unos resultados muy interesantes proporcionados, entre otras, por las intervenciones arqueológicas llevadas a cabo en la calle Sant Domènech de Tortosa. En este sector del casco antiguo de la ciudad han aparecido dos sepulturas correspondientes a una extensa área de necrópolis bajo-imperial, varias estructuras alto-imperiales, y finalmente, los restos de una fortificación ibérica. El hallazgo de esta construcción defensiva supone la confirmación de la existencia, largamente hipotetizada, de un importante oppidum prerromano en el cerro de la Zuda, que dominaría el núcleo antiguo de la ciudad.
Nuevo pavimento de opus sectile hallado en Pollentia (Alcudia, Mallorca)
Authors: Cau Ontiveros Miguel Ángel , Mas Florit Catalina , Vallori Márquez Bartomeu , Chávez Álvarez María Esther , Orfila Pons Margarita
Published: December 2013

Esta contribución recoge el hallazgo de un mosaico de opus sectile bícromo, en blanco y negro, descubierto en el foro de la ciudad romana y tardoantigua de Pollentia (Alcudia, Mallorca). El pavimento, asociado a un edificio aún en proceso de investigación, presenta un esquema geométrico sencillo, combinando hexágonos negros y triángulos equiláteros blancos que dibujan estrellas de seis puntas. El escaso material recuperado en la preparación del mosaico sugiere un terminus post quem del siglo I d.C. para su construcción. El pavimento constituye, el primer caso de opus sectile documentado in situ en Pollentia y el único ejemplo procedente de excavaciones recientes en la ciudad.
Centcelles y el praetorium del comes Hispaniarum Asterio en Tarraco
Authors: Remolà Vallverdú Josep Anton , Pérez Martínez Meritxell
Published: December 2013

Se presenta una nueva propuesta de interpretación cronológica y funcional para el edificio tardorromano de Centcelles (Tarraco), que descansa en el análisis arqueológico y arquitectónico del edificio, de acuerdo con el contexto histórico–arqueológico del período. Los argumentos aportados nos llevan a datar el edificio en la primera mitad del siglo V y a identificarlo como el área central de un campamento tardío emplazado junto al núcleo urbano de Tarraco, ciudad que aparece mencionada en los textos como la base de operaciones de los ejércitos imperiales que durante buena parte del siglo V intentaron reintegrar el conjunto de Hispania al poder legítimo de Occidente. Contamos para este período con un documento excepcional, la Epístola 11 de Consencio, donde se nos informa de la presencia en Tarraco, hacia el año 420, del comes Hispaniarum Asterio y su residencia, el praetorium, donde vivía con su hija y el ejército que le acompañaba en la campaña. Nuestra propuesta plantea identificar Centcelles con el campamento base de Asterio y su ejército en Tarraco. Se presentan, también, algunas consideraciones preliminares sobre la decoración de la sala de la cúpula de acuerdo con la nueva función y cronología, todavía en un estadio incipiente de desarrollo.
Producciones constructivas y decorativas. Indicadores cronológico-culturales de la alta Edad Media hispánica
Authors: Caballero Zoreda Luis
Published: December 2013

Se analiza la producción arquitectónica de cinco edificios singulares de nuestra alta Edad Media a través de sus características, las relaciones entre los talleres de albañilería y de sillería (sillería de regla y de escuadra, apertura de canteras o sillería reutilizada) y los de escultura (ex novo o reutilizada; talleres externos u ocasionales, a pie de obra o sobre el edificio). Estas relaciones productivas varían desde unos casos donde aparentemente son ajenas, de manera que la construcción acomoda una decoración realizada sin tener presente el edificio, a otros en que ambas producciones están cada vez más integradas. Dos conjuntos decorativos ofrecen datos singulares en estas relaciones, procediendo como elementos novedosos que se pueden suponer indicadores de importantes diferencias culturales y cronológicas propias de la alta Edad Media. Uno es el del mobiliario de culto (canceles y altares). Y otro el de impostas y frisos arquitectónicos que, vinculados o no a los edificios conservados y presentes en los talleres de Mérida y Toledo, se suponen característicos de la arquitectura posterior al año 711.
Identidades y ajuares en las necrópolis altomedievales. Estudios isotópicos del cementerio de San Martín de Dulantzi, Álava (siglos VI-X)
Authors: Quirós Castillo Juan Antonio , Loza Uriarte Miguel , Niso Lorenzo Javier
Published: December 2013

En este artículo se presentan los resultados de los estudios isotópicos realizados sobre los restos antropológicos recuperados en la intervención arqueológica de carácter preventivo realizada en el yacimiento altomedieval de San Martín de Dulantzi (Alegría- Dulantzi, Álava) por parte de la empresa Iterbide. El hallazgo de una serie de tumbas fechadas en los siglos VI y VII en el interior de una iglesia, algunas de las cuales dotadas de objetos de adorno personal, ha permitido analizar en términos críticos el estatus, los patrones alimentarios y la movilidad de estos individuos a partir del análisis de los isotopos y de los rituales funerarios. Más concretamente se ha podido observar que se trata de una sociedad local, con una escasa incidencia de inmigrantes, y que los objetos de adorno personal constituyen un marcador de estatus social en el seno de una comunidad que presenta niveles de vida homogéneos. Asimismo se discuten estos resultados en relación con otras fases de ocupación del yacimiento y en el contexto de otros estudios realizados en varios yacimientos europeos coetáneos.
IL-32 Promotes Angiogenesis
Authors: Nold-Petry Claudia A. , Rudloff Ina , Baumer Yvonne , Ruvo Menotti , Marasco Daniela , Botti Paolo , Farkas Laszlo , Cho Steven X. , Zepp Jarod A. , Azam Tania , Dinkel Hannah , Palmer Brent E. , Boisvert William A. , Cool Carlyne D. , Taraseviciene-Stewart Laima , Heinhuis Bas , Joosten Leo A. B. , Dinarello Charles A. , Voelkel Norbert F. , Nold Marcel F.
Published: December 2013

IL-32 is a multifaceted cytokine with a role in infections, autoimmune diseases, and cancer, and it exerts diverse functions, including aggravation of inflammation and inhibition of virus propagation. We previously identified IL-32 as a critical regulator of endothelial cell (EC) functions, and we now reveal that IL-32 also possesses angiogenic properties. The hyperproliferative ECs of human pulmonary arterial hypertension and glioblastoma multiforme exhibited a markedly increased abundance of IL-32, and, significantly, the cytokine colocalized with integrin αVβ3. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptor blockade, which resulted in EC hyperproliferation, increased IL-32 three-fold. Small interfering RNA–mediated silencing of IL-32 negated the 58% proliferation of ECs that occurred within 24 h in scrambled-transfected controls. Reduction of IL-32 neither affected apoptosis (insignificant changes in Bak-1, Bcl-2, Bcl-xL, lactate dehydrogenase, annexin V, and propidium iodide) nor VEGF or TGF-β levels, but siIL-32–transfected adult and neonatal ECs produced up to 61% less NO, IL-8, and matrix metalloproteinase-9, and up to 3-fold more activin A and endostatin. In coculture-based angiogenesis assays, IL-32γ dose-dependently increased tube formation up to 3-fold; an αVβ3 inhibitor prevented this activity and reduced IL-32γ–induced IL-8 by 85%. In matrigel plugs loaded with IL-32γ, VEGF, or vehicle and injected into live mice, we observed the anticipated VEGF-induced increase in neocapillarization (8-fold versus vehicle), but unexpectedly, IL-32γ was equally angiogenic. A second signal such as IFN-γ was required to render cells responsive to exogenous IL-32γ; importantly, this was confirmed using a completely synthetic preparation of IL-32γ. In summary, we add angiogenic properties that are mediated by integrin αVβ3 but VEGF-independent to the portfolio of IL-32, implicating a role for this versatile cytokine in pulmonary arterial hypertension and neoplastic diseases.
IL-27, a Cytokine, and IFN-λ1, a Type III IFN, Are Coordinated To Regulate Virus Replication through Type I IFN
Authors: Cao Yanhua , Zhang Rui , Zhang Wei , Zhu Chengliang , Yu Yi , Song Yu , Wang Qing , Bai Lan , Liu Yingle , Wu Kailang , Wu Jianguo
Published: December 2013

IL-27, a member of the IL-12 family, plays a critical role in the control of innate and adaptive immune responses. IFN-λ1, a member of the type III IFN family, shows antiviral abilities. In this study, we investigated the effects of IL-27 and IFN-λ1 on the replication of hepatitis B virus (HBV), a major pathogen associated with a high risk for cirrhosis, liver failure, and hepatocellular carcinoma. We revealed that HBV infection activates IL-27 expression and IFN-λ1 production and demonstrated that viral-activated IL-27 and IFN-λ1 are coordinated to inhibit HBV replication. Initially, HBV infection upregulates IL-27 expression, which, in turn, stimulates IFN-λ1 production through regulating ERK1/2 signaling and by enhancing NF-κB nuclear translocation to bind to the IFN-λ1 promoter. Moreover, IL-27–activated IFN-λ1 upregulates IFN-λ1 receptor (IL-28R1 and IL-10Rβ) activity, resulting in the activation of the STAT1/2 pathway, which, in turn, induces the expression of IFN-stimulated genes, including IFN-inducible dsRNA-activated protein kinase, oligoadenylate synthetase 1, and IFN-induced GTP-binding protein 1 and, finally, inhibits HBV protein expression and viral capsid–associated DNA replication. More interestingly, we also revealed that type I IFN (IFN-α) is also involved in the downregulation of HBV replication mediated by IL-27. Thus, we identified a previously unknown mechanism by which IL-27 and IFN-λ1 are coordinated to regulate virus replication through type I IFN.
Killer Ig-like Receptor 2DL4 Does Not Mediate NK Cell IFN-γ Responses to Soluble HLA-G Preparations
Authors: Le Page Michael E. L. , Goodridge Jodie P. , John Elisabeth , Christiansen Frank T. , Witt Campbell S.
Published: December 2013

The MHC class Ib molecule HLA-G has previously been reported to be the ligand for the NK cell receptor killer Ig-like receptor (KIR)2DL4, but this remains controversial. In this study, we investigated IFN-γ production by freshly isolated NK cells in response to both soluble and solid-phase ligands, including anti-KIR2DL4 mAbs and rHLA-G. Although freshly isolated CD56bright NK cells produced IFN-γ in response to soluble HLA-G preparations, the response was found to be absolutely dependent on the presence of small numbers of contaminating CD56−, CD14−, CD11c+ myeloid dendritic cells (mDCs). HLA-G tetramers bound only to the contaminating mDCs in the NK preparations, and Abs to KIR2DL4 and HLA-G did not block NK cell IFN-γ production. NK cells did not respond to plate-bound HLA-G. Freshly isolated NK cells also produced IFN-γ in response to unpurified soluble anti-KIR2DL4 mAb but not to low endotoxin affinity–purified Ab. The data suggest that previous reports of functional interactions between KIR2DL4 and HLA-G may have resulted from the use of purified NK cells that were contaminated with mDCs and HLA-G preparations that were contaminated with material capable of stimulating mDCs to produce cytokines that stimulate NK cells to produce IFN-γ.
Novel Mechanisms Underlying the Immediate and Transient Global Tolerization of Splenic Dendritic Cells after Vaccination with a Self-Antigen
Authors: Farkas Adam M. , Finn Olivera J.
Published: December 2013

Dendritic cells (DCs) are important orchestrators of the immune response, ensuring that immunity against pathogens is generated, whereas immunity against healthy tissues is prevented. Using the tumor Ag MUC1, we previously showed that i.v. immunization of MUC1 transgenic mice, but not wild-type, with a MUC1 peptide resulted in transient tolerization of all splenic DCs. These DCs did not upregulate costimulatory molecules and induced regulatory T cells rather than effector T cells. They were characterized by suppressed expression of a cohort of pancreatic enzymes not previously reported in DCs, which were upregulated in DCs presenting the same MUC1 peptide as a foreign Ag. In this article, we examined the self-antigen–tolerized DC phenotype, function, and mechanisms responsible for inducing or maintaining their tolerized state. Tolerized DCs share some characteristics with immature DCs, such as a less inflammatory cytokine/chemokine profile, deficient activation of NF-κB, and sustained expression of zDC and CCR2. However, tolerized DCs demonstrated a novel inducible expression of aldehyde dehydrogenase 1/2 and phospho-STAT3. Suppressed expression of one of the pancreatic enzymes, trypsin, in these DC impeded their ability to degrade extracellular matrix, thus affecting their motility. Suppressed metallopeptidases, reflected in low expression of carboxypeptidase B1, prevented optimal Ag-specific CD4+ T cell proliferation suggesting their role in Ag processing. Tolerized DCs were not refractory to maturation after stimulation with a TLR3 agonist, demonstrating that this tolerized state is not terminally differentiated and that tolerized DCs can recover their ability to induce immunity to foreign Ags.
Oral Escherichia coli Colonization Factor Antigen I Fimbriae Ameliorate Arthritis via IL-35, Not IL-27
Authors: Kochetkova Irina , Thornburg Theresa , Callis Gayle , Holderness Kathryn , Maddaloni Massimo , Pascual David W.
Published: December 2013

A Salmonella therapeutic expressing enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli colonization factor Ag I (CFA/I) fimbriae protects against collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) by eliciting two regulatory T cell (Treg) subsets: TGF-β–producing Foxp3−CD39+CD4+ T cells and IL-10–producing Foxp3+CD39+CD4+ T cells. However, it is unclear whether CFA/I fimbriae alone are protective and whether other regulatory cytokines are involved, especially in the context for the EBI3-sharing cytokines, Treg-derived IL-35 and APC-derived IL-27, both capable of suppressing Th17 cells and regulating autoimmune diseases. Subsequent evaluation revealed that a single oral dose of purified, soluble CFA/I fimbriae protected against CIA as effectively as did Salmonella-CFA/I and found that Foxp3+CD39+CD4+ T cells were the source of secreted IL-35, whereas IL-27 production by CD11c+ cells was inhibited. Inquiring into their relevance, CFA/I fimbriae–treated IL-27R–deficient (WSX-1−/−) mice were equally protected against CIA as were wild-type mice, suggesting a limited role for IL-27. In contrast, CFA/I fimbriae–mediated protection was abated in EBI3−/− mice, accompanied by the loss of TGF-β– and IL-10–producing Tregs. Adoptive transfer of C57BL/6 CD39+CD4+ T cells to EBI3−/− mice with concurrent CFA/I plus IL-35 treatment effectively stimulated Tregs suppressing proinflammatory collagen II–specific Th cells. In contrast, recipients cotransferred with C57BL/6 and EBI3−/− CD39+CD4+ T cells and treated with CFA/I plus IL-35 were not protected, implicating the importance of endogenous IL-35 for conferring CFA/I-mediated protection. Thus, CFA/I fimbriae stimulate IL-35 required for the coinduction of TGF-β and IL-10.
Effector-Memory T Cells Develop in Islets and Report Islet Pathology in Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Chee Jonathan , Ko Hyun-Ja , Skowera Ania , Jhala Gaurang , Catterall Tara , Graham Kate L. , Sutherland Robyn M. , Thomas Helen E. , Lew Andrew M. , Peakman Mark , Kay Thomas W. H. , Krishnamurthy Balasubramanian
Published: December 2013

CD8+ T cells are critical in human type 1 diabetes and in the NOD mouse. In this study, we elucidated the natural history of islet-specific glucose-6-phosphatase catalytic subunit-related protein (IGRP)-specific CD8+ T cells in NOD diabetes using MHC-tetramer technology. IGRP206–214-specific T cells in the peripheral lymphoid tissue increased with age, and their numbers correlated with insulitis progression. IGRP206–214-specific T cells in the peripheral lymphoid tissue expressed markers of chronic Ag stimulation, and their numbers were stable after diagnosis of diabetes, consistent with their memory phenotype. IGRP206–214-specific T cells in NOD mice expand, acquire the phenotype of effector-memory T cells in the islets, and emigrate to the peripheral lymphoid tissue. Our observations suggest that enumeration of effector-memory T cells of multiple autoantigen specificities in the periphery of type 1 diabetic subjects could be a reliable reporter for progression of islet pathology.
TNFR-Associated Factor 6 and TGF-β–Activated Kinase 1 Control Signals for a Senescence Response by an Endosomal NK Cell Receptor
Authors: Rajagopalan Sumati , Lee Elizabeth C. , DuPrie Matthew L. , Long Eric O.
Published: December 2013

The endosomal innate receptor CD158d (killer cell Ig-like receptor 2DL4) induces cellular senescence in human NK cells in response to soluble ligand (HLA-G or agonist Ab). These senescent NK cells display a senescence-associated secretory phenotype, and their secretome promotes vascular remodeling and angiogenesis. To understand how CD158d initiates signaling for a senescence response, we mapped the region in its cytoplasmic tail that controls signaling. We identified a conserved TNFR-associated factor 6 (TRAF6) binding motif, which was required for CD158d-induced NF-κB activation and IL-8 secretion, TRAF6 association with CD158d, and TRAF6 recruitment to CD158d+ endosomes in transfected cells. The adaptor TRAF6 is known to couple proximal signals from receptors such as endosomal TLRs and CD40 through the kinase TGF-β–activated kinase 1 (TAK1) for NF-κB–dependent proinflammatory responses. Small interfering RNA–mediated silencing of TRAF6 and TAK1, and inhibition of TAK1 blocked CD158d-dependent IL-8 secretion. Stimulation of primary, resting NK cells with soluble Ab to CD158d induced TRAF6 association with CD158d, induced TAK1 phosphorylation, and inhibition of TAK1 blocked the CD158d-dependent reprogramming of NK cells that produces the senescence-associated secretory phenotype signature. Our results reveal that a prototypic TLR and TNFR signaling pathway is used by a killer cell Ig-like receptor that promotes secretion of proinflammatory and proangiogenic mediators as part of a unique senescence phenotype in NK cells.