bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Importance of soil nutrients in the distribution of forest communities on a large geographical scale
Authors: Marage Damien , Gégout Jean‐Claude 
Published: November 2008

ABSTRACTAim Soil nutrient content plays a key role in plant growth through mineral nutrition and toxicity. Its impact on plant species and community distribution is studied on a large geographical scale through surrogates like topography or geology. We investigated the importance of soil pH and C:N ratio, as direct nutritional gradients, to determine, with climatic factors, the spatial distribution of plant communities over large territories.Location We studied the distribution of six beech habitats of the NATURA 2000 network throughout France (550,000 km2).Methods Models were calibrated with 2108 floristic plots classified in the NATURA 2000 system and including climatic and topographic variables and soil nutritional measurements carried out in a laboratory. Logistic regression was used to model habitat distribution according to environmental variables. Climatic layers, a digital elevation model and maps of soil pH and nitrogen content, created using plant indicator values and large floristic databases, were used to map the sites suitable for beech communities. Distribution models were evaluated with an independent set of 2091 phytosociological plots.Results pH and nitrogen supply were the key distribution drivers for four of the six beech communities on a national scale. Their use in the distribution models distinguished within homogeneous climatic territories a gradient of nutritional conditions from acidic areas, suitable for nutrient‐poor beech communities, to calcareous areas suitable for nutrient‐rich ones. Predicted maps of beech habitats fit the spatial distribution of validation plots.Main conclusions Soil pH and nitrogen supply strongly improve predictions of forest community distribution carried out with climatic variables on a broad geographical scale. They allow delineation of areas with nutritional conditions suitable for each community, as well as the realization of predictive high‐resolution maps over large areas useful for sustainable and conservation management.Nomenclature Tutin & Heywood (2001)Flora Europaea. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge.
Graffiti: A Computer‐Aided Construction Process Knowledge‐Based System
Authors: Paul Jean Claude , Gertsch Damien , Pytel Laurent 
Published: November 2008

Abstract: This paper presents a computer‐aided construction process program based on a heuristic research knowledge‐based system, logical procedures for constraints propagation, as well as on operational research algorithms. The system is interactive: it is the user, not the program, who controls the heuristic research. Furthermore, it is graphics oriented: a reflexive architecture between the knowledge‐based system and a geometrical modeller allows permanent graphic visualization of the work in progress. The application presented includes a variety of operations, ranging from the geometric modelling of the architectural project to the intelligent analysis of its structure, its division into component types (e.g. shuttering posts, beams, floors, walls) and the planning of the construction process (production cycles, tasks scheduling).Tested by engineers of a private international building company, the system has now received new implementations, which allow us to simulate different technologies and modify very rapidly many various parameters, thus giving to the users a real computer‐aided construction process environment.
An Approach for Integrating GIS and Watershed Analysis Models
Authors: DePinto Joseph V. , Calkins Hugh W. , Densham Paul J. , Atkinson Joseph F. , Guan Weihe , Lin Hui , Rodgers Paul W. 
Published: November 2008

Abstract: The application of a dynamic watershed model requires efficient management and manipulation of large spatial and temporal data sets. Today's geographic information systems (GISs) offer many tools that can greatly facilitate the modeling process. The intention to link GIS and watershed analysis models has led to the design of an integrated system which is called GEO‐WAMS (Geographically Based Watershed Analysis and Modeling System).GEO‐WAMS has been designed as a modeling support system. It consists of five components: a GIS‐based spatial/temporal data management system, an integrated watershed modeling system, a data‐model management interface, an analyst support toolkit, and an interactive user interface.This paper introduces the general design of GEO‐WAMS as well as a more specific description of some of the capabilities that have been built into the GEO‐WAMS prototype system. The prototype couples a GIS (ARC/INFO) with a watershed loading model as well as a modified version of EPA's WASP4 model for simulation of dissolved oxygen in a receiving water body.
An Object‐Oriented Model of Building Procurement
Authors: Aouad G. F. , Kirkham J. A. , Child T. , Cooper G. S. , Ford S. , Brandon P. S. , Brown F. E. , Oxman R. E. , Young B. 
Published: November 2008

Abstract: This paper reports on an object‐oriented building procurement model being developed at the University of Salford as part of an integrated database for the construction industry (ICON). The model is based on a top‐down approach using the information engineering method (IEM), object‐oriented method (OOM), and an object‐oriented CASE (computer‐aided software/system engineering) tool. This paper illustrates the way the information requirements of the building procurement process are identified and stored as graphic representations using activity, object, and process models. Ultimately, code is generated from these graphic representations, and a physical object‐oriented database (OODB) for the building procurement process is established.The object‐oriented approach to information modeling will be described in detail with an illustration of how the use of a CASE tool can help the analysis phase. Various features of the object‐oriented paradigm will be described within the building procurement context. In addition, examples will be given to help the reader understand the recent developments in the object‐oriented field. Finally, the different modeling techniques used within the object‐oriented method such as object and event schemas will be presented and analyzed.
Neural Networks as Inference and Learning Engines
Authors: Crespo José L. , Mora Eduardo 
Published: November 2008

Abstract: This paper presents an abridgment of a neural network constructive methodology and applications with real data. The neural network can be considered as the learning core and inference engine of an expert system that produces either different network designs or simulations as output, its input being data sequences. Basically, it consists of additive structural learning, limiting it by a cross‐validation technique.Considerations about uncertainty treatment in neural networks are also presented, including uncertainty in data, in neuron activation, in outputs, and combination of several uncertainty sources.Applications include three different sets of data, all of them related to the energy field. First, river streamflow estimation is discussed. Then CO2 concentration prediction from gas injection rate is studied. Finally, the program learns to imitate a feedwater control system in a nuclear reactor. All tests show good results, as can be seen when compared with other standard methods.
An Open Architecture for Environmental Decision Support
Authors: Frysinger Steven P. 
Published: November 2008

Abstract: A class of environmental information systems, called environmental decision support systems, is defined. The requirements for such systems are elaborated, and a software architecture that supports these requirements is developed. This architecture is then illustrated through the example of the Sandia Environmental Decision Support System (SEDSS). The SEDSS is a family of workstation applications based on the architecture developed by AT&T Bell Laboratories and prototyped in collaboration with the Environmental Restoration Organization of Sandia National Laboratories. Sharing a common user interface philosophy and software architecture, the members of the SEDSS family are designed to facilitate human decision making with respect to the hydrologic aspects of hazardous waste management. In order to achieve these objectives, the SEDSS family integrates geographic information systems, hydrologic models, Monte Carlo simulation, and a highly interactive graphical user interface, into a coherent software system based on the X Window System.This architecture is currently being applied to such similar environmental management problems as well‐head protection area analysis, in addition to nongroundwater problems such as coastal fisheries management. Applied research in environmental decision support systems continues in the areas of uncertainty management, treatment of qualitative parameters, and the human factors of environmental decision making.
Intelligent Geometric Modeling of Standard Bridges
Authors: Lakmazaheri Sivand 
Published: November 2008

Abstract: Artificial intelligence (AI) is a branch of computer science that deals with the development of approaches and techniques for enabling the machine to mimic human intelligence. The marriage of AI and computer‐aided design (CAD) results in a new breed of systems called intelligent CAD systems. These systems are superior to conventional CAD systems in that they exhibit certain capabilities, such as deductive reasoning, that have been attributes to intelligent beings.Deductive reasoning is a central activity in CAD in general and in geometric modeling in particular. This paper presents a framework for developing intelligent CAD systems that support deductive reasoning. More specifically, the paper (1) discusses the integration of predicate logic as a mechanism for deductive reasoning with conventional CAD systems and (2) illustrates the use of the framework for geometric modeling of standard bridges. This illustration involves (1) representing the geometry of standard bridges using the language of predicate logic and (2) generating, modifying, and verifying the geometry of standard bridges via logical inference.
Association between Presenilin‐1 and TRAF6 modulates regulated intramembrane proteolysis of the p75NTR neurotrophin receptor
Authors: Powell James C. , Twomey Ciara , Jain Raunak , McCarthy Justin V. 
Published: November 2008

AbstractThe p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR) is a member of the tumour necrosis factor superfamily, which relies on the recruitment of cytosolic protein partners including the tumour necrosis factor receptor‐associated factor 6 (TRAF6) E3 ubiquitin ligase to produce cellular responses. Recently, p75NTR was also shown to undergo presenilin‐dependent, γ‐secretase‐mediated regulated intramembrane proteolysis. In this study, we report the characterization of a highly conserved TRAF6‐binding site (PxExxAr/Ac) in presenilin‐1 (PS1) that mediates nerve growth factor (NGF)‐induced association between PS1 and TRAF6. We demonstrate that disruption of this interaction between PS1 and TRAF6 inhibits TRAF6 autoubiquitination and γ‐secretase cleavage of p75NTR. Additionally, we show that PS1‐deficiency antagonizes NGF‐induced I‐κB degradation. Finally, we also show that p75NTR is a substrate for TRAF6‐mediated ubiquitination and that TRAF6 E3 ligase activity is required for regulated intramembrane proteolysis of p75NTR. In summary, our data suggest that an NGF‐induced association between PS1 and TRAF6 influences regulated intramembrane proteolysis of p75NTR.
Altered hippocampal long‐term synaptic plasticity in mice deficient in the PGE2 EP2 receptor
Authors: Yang Hongwei , Zhang Jian , Breyer Richard M. , Chen Chu 
Published: November 2008

AbstractOur laboratory demonstrated previously that PGE2‐induced modulation of hippocampal synaptic transmission is via a pre‐synaptic PGE2 EP2 receptor. However, little is known about whether the EP2 receptor is involved in hippocampal long‐term synaptic plasticity and cognitive function. Here we show that long‐term potentiation at the hippocampal perforant path synapses was impaired in mice deficient in the EP2 (KO), while membrane excitability and passive properties in granule neurons were normal. Importantly, escape latency in the water maze in EP2 KO was longer than that in age‐matched EP2 wild‐type littermates (WT). We also observed that long‐term potentiation was potentiated in EP2 WT animals that received lipopolysaccharide (LPS, i.p.), but not in EP2 KO. Bath application of PGE2 or butaprost, an EP2 receptor agonist, increased synaptic transmission and decreased paired‐pulses ratio in EP2 WT mice, but failed to induce the changes in EP2 KO mice. Meanwhile, synaptic transmission was elevated by application of forskolin, an adenylyl cyclase activator, both in EP2 KO and WT animals. In addition, the PGE2‐enhanced synaptic transmission was significantly attenuated by application of PKA, IP3 or MAPK inhibitors in EP2 WT animals. Our results show that hippocampal long‐term synaptic plasticity is impaired in mice deficient in the EP2, suggesting that PGE2‐EP2 signaling is important for hippocampal long‐term synaptic plasticity and cognitive function.
Enhanced generation of Alzheimer’s amyloid‐β following chronic exposure to phorbol ester correlates with differential effects on alpha and epsilon isozymes of protein kinase C
Authors: Da Cruz e Silva Odete A. B. , Rebelo Sandra , Vieira Sandra I. , Gandy Sam , Da Cruz e Silva Edgar F. , Greengard Paul 
Published: November 2008

AbstractAlzheimer’s amyloid precursor protein (APP) sorting and processing are modulated through signal transduction mechanisms regulated by protein phosphorylation. Notably, protein kinase C (PKC) appears to be an important component in signaling pathways that control APP metabolism. PKCs exist in at least 11 conventional and unconventional isoforms, and PKCα and PKCε isoforms have been specifically implicated in controlling the generation of soluble APP and amyloid‐β (Aβ) fragments of APP, although identification of the PKC substrate phospho‐state‐sensitive effector proteins remains challenging. In the current study, we present evidence that chronic application of phorbol esters to cultured cells in serum‐free medium is associated with several phenomena, namely: (i) PKCα down‐regulation; (ii) PKCε up‐regulation; (iii) accumulation of APP and/or APP carboxyl‐terminal fragments in the trans Golgi network; (iv) disappearance of fluorescence from cytoplasmic vesicles bearing a green fluorescent protein tagged form of APP; (v) insensitivity of soluble APP release following acute additional phorbol application; and (vi) elevated cellular APP mRNA levels and holoprotein, and secreted Aβ. These data indicate that, unlike acute phorbol ester application, which is accompanied by lowered Aβ generation, chronic phorbol ester treatment causes differential regulation of PKC isozymes and increased Aβ generation. These data have implications for the design of amyloid‐lowering strategies based on modulating PKC activity.
The glutamatergic nature of TRPV1‐expressing neurons in the spinal dorsal horn
Authors: Zhou Hong‐Yi , Chen Shao‐Rui , Chen Hong , Pan Hui‐Lin 
Published: November 2008

AbstractThe transient receptor potential vanilloid receptor 1 (TRPV1) is expressed on primary afferent terminals and spinal dorsal horn neurons. However, the neurochemical phenotypes and functions of TRPV1‐expressing post‐synaptic neurons in the spinal cord are not clear. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that TRPV1‐expressing dorsal horn neurons are glutamatergic. Immunocytochemical labeling revealed that TRPV1 and vesicular glutamate transporter‐2 were colocalized in dorsal horn neurons and their terminals in the rat spinal cord. Resiniferatoxin (RTX) treatment or dorsal rhizotomy ablated TRPV1‐expressing primary afferents but did not affect TRPV1‐ and vesicular glutamate transporter‐2‐expressing dorsal horn neurons. Capsaicin significantly increased the frequency of glutamatergic spontaneous excitatory post‐synaptic currents and miniature excitatory post‐synaptic currents in almost all the lamina II neurons tested in control rats. In RTX‐treated or dorsal rhizotomized rats, capsaicin still increased the frequency of spontaneous excitatory post‐synaptic currents and miniature excitatory post‐synaptic currents in the majority of neurons examined, and this effect was abolished by a TRPV1 blocker or by non‐NMDA receptor antagonist. In RTX‐treated or in dorsal rhizotomized rats, capsaicin also produced an inward current in a subpopulation of lamina II neurons. However, capsaicin had no effect on GABAergic and glycinergic spontaneous inhibitory post‐synaptic currents of lamina II neurons in RTX‐treated or dorsal rhizotomized rats. Collectively, our study provides new histological and functional evidence that TRPV1‐expressing dorsal horn neurons in the spinal cord are glutamatergic and that they mediate excitatory synaptic transmission. This finding is important to our understanding of the circuitry and phenotypes of intrinsic dorsal horn neurons in the spinal cord.
New trends in face rejuvenation by hyaluronic acid injections
Authors: Andre Pierre 
Published: November 2008

SummaryBackground  Injection techniques are growing, thanks to safer and more suitable filling agents. Hyaluronic acid (HA), a biodegradable product, has become the “gold standard” for fillers. With its wide range, it not only improves wrinkles but also restores volume.Methods  Since 1996, many patients have been injected for wrinkles, fine lines, and nasolabial folds. For 3 years, more viscous HAs have been launched, allowing us to restore volumes. Some new procedures are described. These can correct anomalies of the chin and of the nose, and allow a betterment of the periocular area by correcting hollow and falling eyebrows.Results  The use of different HAs for each area and indication is suitable and offers real possibilities to rejuvenate the skin without downtime. Longevity of the correction depends on treated areas, HA used, and on the individual.Conclusion  HAs are safe and suitable for wrinkles and volume restoration, but besides their mechanical properties, they have numerous physiological functions. With the analysis of literature about the action mechanism of HA and its receptors, it is evident that HA also has a stimulating action on different physiological process.
Clinical tolerance and efficacy of capryloyl salicylic acid peel compared to a glycolic acid peel in subjects with fine lines/wrinkles and hyperpigmented skin
Authors: Oresajo Christian , Yatskayer Margarita , Hansenne Isabelle 
Published: November 2008

SummaryBackground  Several chemical agents are currently used to perform superficial peels of the face to reduce facial hyperpigmentation and fine lines/wrinkles. Some of the most commonly used agents are alpha hydroxyl acids, such as glycolic acid (GA), or beta hydroxy acid, such as salicylic acid.Aim  This study aims to compare the efficacy of GA to that of a novel derivative of salicylic acid, capryloyl salicylic acid (LHA).Subjects/Methods  In a split‐face study, 50 female volunteers between the ages of 35 and 60 years with mild to moderate facial hyperpigmentation and fine lines/wrinkles were randomized and LHA or GA peel was applied to one side of the face. Increasing peel concentrations were applied (5–10% LHA or 20–50% GA) based on the tolerance level of the subjects and clinical observations of an expert dermatologist for 12 weeks at biweekly intervals.Results  Of the 44 volunteers who completed the study, at 12 weeks 41% of LHA‐treated and 30% of GA‐treated subjects demonstrated significant reduction of fine lines/wrinkles compared to baseline. Forty‐six percent of LHA‐treated subjects and 34% of GA‐treated subjects showed significant reduction of hyperpigmentation compared to baseline. LHA treatment was better than GA peels, although there were no statistically significant differences between the two groups.Conclusions  Five percent to 10% of LHA peel is generally safe and as effective as 20–50% GA peel in reducing facial hyperpigmentation and fine lines/wrinkles.
A study to determine the efficacy of a novel handheld light‐emitting diode device in the treatment of photoaged skin
Authors: Sadick Neil S 
Published: November 2008

SummaryThe use of visible or near‐infrared spectral light alone for the purpose of skin rejuvenation has been previously reported in the literature. These devices use large arrays of diodes to deliver light to the skin. In this study, a novel method of light‐emitting diode (LED) photo rejuvenation incorporating a combination of these wavelengths delivered from a small handheld unit is proposed. Twenty‐two subjects with facial rhytides received eight light therapy treatments over a course of 4 weeks, using the Omnilux handheld LED system. Assessment of global skin grading was evaluated at weeks 6, 9, and 12 by a dermatologist. Additional outcome measures included assessments of clinical photography and patient satisfaction scores. Seventy‐four percent of the subjects reported a visible improvement in fine lines and wrinkles at 8 weeks posttreatment. Combination red and near‐infrared LED therapy delivered from a small portable handheld unit represents an effective and acceptable method of photo rejuvenation. Further studies to optimize the parameters of treatment are required.
Evaluation of additive effects of hydrolyzed jojoba (Simmondsia chinensis) esters and glycerol: a preliminary study
Authors: Meyer Jaimi , Marshall Brooke , Gacula Maximo , Rheins Lawrence 
Published: November 2008

SummaryBackground  Glycerol has long served the topical prescriptive and personal care industry as a versatile and functional active and inactive ingredient. In skin care products, it acts primarily as an emollient, softening the skin through robust humectant hydration action. Hydrolyzed Jojoba Esters K‐20W (K‐20W) have been shown to increase skin hydration and improve sensory skin “feel” when included in a variety of skin, hair, and nail care cosmetic/personal care formulations. The addition of glycerol and hydrolyzed jojoba esters provides a substantial long‐acting 24 h (moisturizing) skin hydration effect for topical products.Aim  A small pilot study was conducted to support the “proof of concept” that an enhanced, additive role exists between these two ingredients resulting in a long‐term (24 h) skin moisturization effect.Method  Topical treatments were applied to the skin (lower leg) of subjects, and evaluations were made at baseline and 8‐ to 24‐h postapplication. Skin hydration data were obtained via bioinstrumental transepidermal water loss (TEWL) measurements and expert clinical skin grading, including standardized digital clinical photography.Results  Clinical skin grading evaluations and TEWL measurements found that significantly lower evaporative (P < 0.05) TEWL values occurred in the topical formulations containing 3.75% glycerol and 1.25% K‐20W (hydrolyzed jojoba esters) than with glycerol alone in a standard base skin care lotion at 8 and 24 h posttreatment.Conclusion  This preliminary data “proof of concept” supports the position that glycerol and hydrolyzed jojoba esters work in tandem to enhance skin moisturization for at least 24 h. This unique moisturizing potential may prove valuable in the future development of cosmetic and over‐the‐counter/prescriptive topical products, including new medicaments containing botanicals. This fact is further reinforced with the recent greater commercial use and demand for defined safe botanicals in cosmetic as well as pharmaceutical topical formulations. Additional mechanistic studies are underway.