bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Optical Characteristics of Polymer Films Based on Bacteriorhodopsin for Irreversible Recording of Optical Information†
Authors: Druzhko Anna B. 
Published: February 2009

AbstractBacteriorhodopsin (BR)‐containing polymer films have been developed in which photoinduced transformations of BR molecules take place during the process of photoinduced hydroxylaminolysis (PHA). The routine simplified scheme of the phototransformation is B↔M412 in the case of polymer films based on nonmodified BR. In the case of polymer films based on BR modified by hydroxylamine (HA), this scheme is changed to where retinal oxime (RO) is a final product of chemical trapping of retinal by the HA molecule. Under certain conditions, the rate of RO to B regeneration is infinitely low. So, the irreversibility of RO formation allows one to use PHA for the preparation of films for irreversible write once recording. Some optical sensitometric characteristics are compared for polymer‐BR films and polymer‐BR–HA films. It has been shown that the photosensitivity level for polymer‐BR–HA films depends on the time after film preparation. A method is offered to increase the photosensitivity of polymer‐BR–HA films and to avoid the photosensitivity decrease with the time after film preparation.
Systems for accreditation in blood transfusion services
Authors: Hindawi S. 
Published: February 2009

Accreditation is a non‐governmental, voluntary process that evaluates institutions, agencies, and educational programs. It is defined as the process whereby an agency or association grants public recognition to Institutes or Blood Banks for having met certain established standards as determined through initial and periodic evaluations that usually involve submitting a self‐evaluation report, site inspection by a team of experts, and evaluation by an independent board or commission. To be accredited Institution and or Blood Transfusion Services should establish and maintain quality systems involving all activities that determine the quality policy objectives & responsibilities taking into account the principles of good manufacturing practice (GMP). There are many Established systems for accreditation which can help any institution to know its strengths, weaknesses and opportunities through an informed review process. Any assessment and subsequent accreditation is made with reference to a set of standards so that the standing of an institution can be compared with that of other similar institutions.In summery the accreditation is a continuous process for improvement of quality and safety of participating institutes or facilities and we should encourage all health institutes to be involved in one or another system for accreditation. There is a need for a local or regional accreditation system for health institutes especially for blood transfusion services to help in the development and improvement of the quality of their services.
Proteomics and blood transfusion
Authors: Liumbruno G. M. , D’Amici G. M. , Zolla L. , Grazzini G. 
Published: February 2009

Transfusion medicine is a clinical discipline characterized by one of the most advanced quality management systems, which is structured so as to assure the production of blood components and raw materials, for biopharmaceutical fractionation, that are safe, efficient and effective.During the production, pathogen inactivation and storage processes there is the risk of changes in the integrity of blood components, especially at the protein level. These changes could be the cause of some of the negative effects of transfusion therapy. It is therefore a major challenge to identify significant alterations of these products, and, in this context, proteomics can play a potentially relevant role in transfusion medicine to assess the protein composition of blood‐derived therapeutics, particularly for identifying modified proteins.Proteomics can also provide a more detailed understanding of the proteins found in plasma derivatives, with particular regard to peptide and protein changes related to the various procedures used for protein purification and pathogen inactivation during the modern plasma industrial factionation. The latter could cause protein modifications and/or degradation and neoantigen production, with the potential to induce adverse effects in recipients.At present, blood component quality control is mainly focused on standardized quantitative assessment, providing relatively limited information about products. Proteomics allows a comprehensive study of protein modifications, qualitative and quantitative analysis, and high‐throughput protein identification. Moreover, being the only tool to evaluate structural changes in proteins (or their degradation products) after their manipulation, and having the capacity to identify many new proteins, proteomics seems to be the most promising tool for global quality assessment and possible improvement of the production process of blood components and plasma derivatives. It can also provide comprehensive information about possible contaminants and neoantigens that may influence the immunogenic capacity of blood‐derived therapeutics.
Faint and pre‐faint reactions in whole blood donors: predictive value of pre‐donation measurements
Authors: Tomasulo P. , Custer B. , Wiltbank T. B. , Bravo M. , Giordano G. F. , Kamel H. 
Published: February 2009

Background  A small proportion of blood donors have adverse reactions. The purpose of this study was to determine predictors of faint and significant hypotensive reactions that could serve as targets for interventions to reduce reactions, thus improving the blood donation experience for those at higher risk of reactions and reducing the risk of serious adverse events.Methods  The records of 422,231 allogeneic whole blood donations from a 9‐month period were assessed for adverse reactions. Incidents related to needle insertion, such as hematoma were excluded. Demographic, biometric, and clinical measurements were collected. Reactions were analyzed by multivariate logistic regression analysis comparing donors with any adverse reaction to donors without reactions and by stratified rates according to reaction severity.Results  The overall reaction prevalence was 1·43%. Of the reactions, 63%, 29% and 8% were classified as mild, moderate and severe, respectively. Markers of reactions were: age, gender, race, blood volume, blood pressure, pulse and body mass index. Compared to donors without reactions, the strongest predictor of a reaction was a donor's blood volume <3500 ml (OR 2·9, 95% CI 2·57–3·23). Age and first time status were also associated with a significantly higher risk of reaction with 17–18 years olds (OR 2·8, 95% CI 2·59–2·98) and 19–24 year olds (OR 2·39, 95% CI 2·23–2·56) at higher risk compared to 25–65 year olds, and first time donors at higher risk compared to repeat donors (OR 2·2, 95% CI 2·07–2·33). Using a lower weight limit of 50 kg does not prevent donors from giving more than 15% of their blood volume.Conclusion  The results of this study are helpful in identifying donors at risk for adverse reactions and in understanding the contributors to reactions. Donor blood volume was a strong predictor of reaction. Selecting donors using blood volume, not weight, should reduce the frequency of reactions.
Combined intravitreal anti‐vascular endothelial growth factor (Avastin®) and photodynamic therapy to treat retinal juxtapapillary capillary haemangioma
Authors: Mennel Stefan , Meyer Carsten H. , Callizo Josep 
Published: February 2009

Abstract.Objective:  Retinal capillary haemangioma complications are characterized by progressive exudation with consecutive intraretinal and subretinal leakage. A successful therapy without side‐effects has not been found. We report a case of retinal juxtapapillary capillary haemangioma causing consecutive leakage with macular involvement. The tumour was treated with a combination of anti‐vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and photodynamic therapy (PDT) and was followed for 1 year.Methods:  A 44‐year‐old woman with retinal juxtapapillary capillary haemangioma in the right eye experienced a decrease of visual acuity from 20/20 to 20/60 because of a severe leakage from the tumour involving the macula with lipid depositions. Two sessions of PDT (sparing the part of the haemangioma located within the optic disc) and five injections of bevacizumab were applied in a period of 5 months. Visual acuity, visual field testing, retinal thickness measurements, fundus photography and fluorescein angiography were performed to evaluate the treatment effect.Results:  One year after the last injection, visual acuity increased to 20/40. All lipid exudates at the posterior pole resolved. Retinal thickness decreased from 490 to 150 μm with the restoration of normal central macular architecture. Leakage in fluorescence angiography reduced significantly, but hyperfluorescence of the tumour was still evident. Visual field testing and angiography did not show any treatment‐related vaso‐occlusive side‐effects.Conclusion:  In this single case, the combination of anti‐VEGF and PDT appeared to be an effective strategy for the treatment of retinal juxtapapillary capillary haemangioma without side‐effects. Further studies with a greater number of eyes and adequate follow‐up are necessary to support these first clinical results.
Des sites culturels submergés : l’Ouverture d’une capsule à remonter le temps
Authors: Nutley David 
Published: February 2009

RésuméLa mer, souvent perçue comme une grande destructrice, est aussi une grande préservatrice. Une fois sous l’eau, la culture matérielle a fréquemment bien plus de chance de survivre que sur terre. Cet article étudie la formation des sites du patrimoine culturel subaquatique, leur variété et leur importance, et le nouvel éclairage qu’ils projettent sur l’histoire de l’humanité.
Les dangers d’une exploitation commerciale du patrimoine culturel subaquatique
Authors: Zamora Tatiana Villegas 
Published: February 2009

RésuméIl est impossible de parler du patrimoine culturel subaquatique sans réfléchir au problème de l’exploitation commerciale des sites archéologiques submergés. La notion romantique de quête d’un trésor perdu, telle qu’elle est présentée dans les livres ou les films populaires comme les aventures d’Indiana Jones, prend un autre aspect quand on songe que la chasse au trésor est devenue l’une des menaces les plus aiguës qui pèsent sur la protection du patrimoine culturel subaquatique. Les communautés de pêcheurs, les plongeurs sportifs irresponsables qui collectionnent les souvenirs, et les « sauveteurs » commerciaux d’aujourd’hui, souvent équipés de matériel très sophistiqué, détruisent ce riche patrimoine accessible depuis peu. Leur unique motivation est le profit commercial, sans égard pour la recherche archéologique, la préservation de biens ayant une valeur culturelle et historique, ou le potentiel en termes de développement durable d’un tourisme culturel qui bénéficierait aux populations côtières. Le présent article tentera de passer brièvement en revue l’ampleur des dégâts causés par l’exploitation commerciale des sites, la perte de données scientifiques qui en résulte et des stratégies utilisées pour convaincre les gouvernements et tromper l’opinion publique.L’un des rêves les plus persistants de l’humanitéà travers les âges – juste après le désir de voler – a été d’explorer le fond des océans. Alexandre le Grand est supposé avoir été immergé dans une cage en verre et il existe des preuves indiquant que, dès 1683, des tentatives ont été faites pour atteindre les épaves de la célèbre Armada1 en Irlande à l’aide d’une cloche de plongée.
Préserver in situ : « l’option prioritaire »
Authors: Manders Martijn 
Published: February 2009

RésuméCes dernières années, l’accent a été mis sur la préférence à accorder à la préservation in situ du patrimoine culturel subaquatique, à l’intention des générations futures. Une telle option ne se fait‐elle pas au détriment du public ? Est‐il possible que celui‐ci puisse avoir accès à des sites préservés in situ ? Mais avant de se poser de telles questions, il faut comprendre ce que l’on entend par « in situ », ce que l’on préserve dans un tel environnement et quels sont les moyens d’une telle préservation, étant entendu que le public est curieux du patrimoine culturel subaquatique et de la manière dont il est protégé. Les musées ainsi que les nouvelles technologies ont un rôle important à jouer dans la transmission de l’information sur ce patrimoine au public le plus large.
Comment et en quoi la Convention de 2001 sera‐t‐elle bénéfique pour le patrimoine culturel subaquatique ?
Authors: Maarleveld Thijs J. 
Published: February 2009

RésuméLa Convention de 2001 est bénéfique au patrimoine culturel subaquatique de différentes manières : elle prend en compte les intérêts des sites et ceux des parties concernées et montre que ce patrimoine, certes fragile, est néanmoins gérable si sa conservation, son accès et sa mise en valeur répondent à des règles de bonne conduite professionnelle. Elle n’entend pas brider les initiatives raisonnées : elle favorise, au contraire, un terrain d’ententes – par le partage d’informations notamment – en soulignant que la protection de ce patrimoine est l’affaire de tous, puisqu’il appartient à l’humanité tout entière. D’ores et déjà, le texte de cet instrument juridique a influencé certaines décisions gouvernementales qui ne feront que s’élargir à d’autres États lorsque la Convention sera ratifiée et entrera en vigueur.
La préservation du patrimoine subaquatique brésilien : protection juridique et archéologie publique
Authors: Rambelli Gilson 
Published: February 2009

RésuméL’archéologie subaquatique et la protection du patrimoine culturel subaquatique sont des sujets récents pour nombre d’États, et notamment dans les pays industrialisés où n’existe pas de législation spécifique, ou lorsque leur législation est favorable à l’exploitation commerciale de ce type de patrimoine. L’auteur présente un compte rendu de la situation complexe – les intérêts fluctuant au cours des ans – spécifique au Brésil. Il décrit le rôle important joué par les archéologues qui, malgré les obstacles et des ressources financières insuffisantes, ont œuvré pour sensibiliser le public et le milieu académique au fait que ce type de patrimoine doit obéir aux mêmes règles que le patrimoine matériel sur terre. C’est pourquoi le Centre ARCHEMAR a été créé récemment pour promouvoir le patrimoine culturel subaquatique via un programme muséal – réel ou virtuel.
Un patrimoine ressource pour le développement durable : le cas de la Croatie
Authors: Mesić Jasen 
Published: February 2009

RésuméLa Méditerranée a été, depuis des lustres, le témoin d’échanges commerciaux, de conflits politiques, de batailles navales ou de colonisations multiples qui ont forgé une histoire commune, que rappellent les vestiges qui reposent au fond de la mer Adriatique. La richesse de ce patrimoine culturel subaquatique est attestée par plus de 300 épaves gréco‐romaines répertoriées sous les eaux croates. Aujourd’hui, les milliers d’îles qui prolifèrent dans la région étant devenues une véritable attraction touristique, il est devenu primordial de protéger ce patrimoine culturel. La Croatie a su, de manière exemplaire, mettre en valeur le patrimoine subaquatique dont elle a la responsabilité en encadrant son accès au public, et ce dans l’optique d’un développement durable au profit de tous.
Acute childhood leukaemia and residence next to petrol stations and automotive repair garages: the ESCALE study (SFCE)
Authors: Brosselin P , Rudant J , Orsi L , Leverger G , Baruchel A , Bertrand Y , Nelken B , Robert A , Michel G , Margueritte G , Perel Y , Mechinaud F , Bordigoni P , Hémon D , Clavel J 
Published: February 2009

Background:The association between acute childhood leukaemia and residing next to petrol stations and automotive repair garages was analysed in a national registry-based case–control study carried out in France in 2003–2004.Methods:Population controls were frequency matched with cases on age and gender. Data were collected by standardised telephone interview with the mothers. The latter were asked to report the proximity of their homes to petrol stations, automotive repair garages and other businesses from the conception of the index child to the diagnosis (for cases) or interview (for controls). Odds ratios were estimated using unconditional regression models adjusted for age, gender, number of children under 15 years of age in the household, degree of urbanisation and type of housing.Results:765 cases of acute leukaemia and 1681 controls were included. Acute leukaemia was significantly associated with residence next to petrol stations or automotive repair garages (OR 1.6, 95% CI 1.2 to 2.2) and next to a petrol station (OR 1.9, 95% CI 1.2 to 3.0). The OR showed no tendency to increase with duration of exposure. The results were not modified by adjustment for potential confounding factors including urban/rural status and type of housing.Conclusions:The results support the findings of our previous study and suggest that living next to a petrol station may be associated with acute childhood leukaemia. The results also suggest that the role of low-level exposure to benzene in acute childhood leukaemia deserves further evaluation.
The Hamilton Bar Fauna: evidence for a Hypsithermal age
Authors: Churcher C. S. , Karrow P. F. 
Published: February 2009

Bones of small vertebrates (mammals, birds, snakes, fish, amphibians) have been recovered from time to time from sites in postglacial sediments at Hamilton, Ontario, for over a century. One of these sites, at Westdale Ravine, was previously assigned a Glacial Lake Iroquois age (ca. 12 000 years BP), but is now considered compatible with environments during or since the Hypsithermal (last 5000 years). A corrected radiocarbon date of 4330 ± 210 years BP confirms such an age and indicates that the bones are younger than and intrusive within the Glacial Lake Iroquois sediments in which they were found.
Searching for threshold shifts in spawner–recruit data
Authors: Garvey James E. , Wright Russell A. , Marschall Elizabeth A. 
Published: February 2009

Relationships between spawning fish (S) and surviving offspring (recruits, R) are typically assumed to be continuous and nonlinear. However, R may change abruptly with small changes in S if population-, community-, or ecosystem-scale processes trigger low adult reproduction and cause populations to shift abruptly to regimes of low recruitment. We simulated R with low mean and variation below a known S threshold and high mean and variation of R above it. We compared simulations with published S–R relationships. For all data, we fit a conventional Ricker-type S–R model, a logistic depensatory model, and also searched for an S breakpoint with a nonparametric test. The Ricker and logistic models often fit discontinuous simulated data. The nonparametric test found the S threshold in simulated data, although its accuracy depended on underlying distributions. The Ricker and logistic models and the nonparametric test identified apparent relationships within published data, sharing common results in <50% of the data sets. Although population models often assume continuous relationships, discontinuous threshold changes in R with small changes in S may occur. Identification of the conditions that reproductive state changes abruptly in fish populations may be necessary to develop risk-averse regulatory policies.
Pre- and post-cyclic behavior of mixed clayey soils
Authors: Soroush Abbas , Soltani-Jigheh Hossein 
Published: February 2009

Soil structures are often comprised or supported by soils that are mixtures of cohesive and granular geomaterials. These soils are termed as intermediate or mixed soils and are widely found in natural deposits and man-made soil structures. The objective of this paper is to study the behavior of mixed clayey soils under monotonic, cyclic, and post-cyclic monotonic loading, with the main focus on the last of these three. For this purpose, a number of strain-controlled monotonic, cyclic, and post-cyclic triaxial compression tests were carried out on “clay–sand” and “clay–gravel” mixtures in undrained conditions. The effects of sand (or gravel) contents, number of cycles, cyclic strain amplitude, consolidation pressure, and grain size on the mechanical behavior of the mixtures are evaluated. The major findings from the laboratory study are: (i) the addition of granular materials to the clayey soils increases excess pore-water pressure during strain-controlled monotonic undrained shearing and cyclic loading and (ii) during post-cyclic monotonic shearing, mixed clayey soils behave similarly to overconsolidated soils; the higher the granular material is, the higher the overconsolidation ratio would be. Based on the research results, an algorithm for estimating post-cyclic mechanical parameters of mixed clayey soils, without conducting cyclic and post-cyclic tests, is suggested.
Road Surface Condition Forecasting in France
Authors: Bouilloud L. , Martin E. , Habets F. , Boone A. , Le Moigne P. , Livet J. , Marchetti M. , Foidart A. , Franchistéguy L. , Morel S. , Noilhan J. , Pettré P. 
Published: February 2009

Abstract
A numerical model designed to simulate the evolution of a snow layer on a road surface was forced by meteorological forecasts so as to assess its potential for use within an operational suite for road management in winter. The suite is intended for use throughout France, even in areas where no observations of surface conditions are available. It relies on short-term meteorological forecasts and long-term simulations of surface conditions using spatialized meteorological data to provide the initial conditions. The prediction of road surface conditions (road surface temperature and presence of snow on the road) was tested at an experimental site using data from a comprehensive experimental field campaign. The results were satisfactory, with detection of the majority of snow and negative road surface temperature events. The model was then extended to all of France with an 8-km grid resolution, using forcing data from a real-time meteorological analysis system. Many events with snow on the roads were simulated for the 2004/05 winter. Results for road surface temperature were checked against road station data from several highways, and results for the presence of snow on the road were checked against measurements from the Météo-France weather station network.