bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of Microfluidic Systems Enabling High-Throughput Single-Cell Protein Characterization
Authors: Fan Beiyuan , Li Xiufeng , Chen Deyong , Peng Hongshang , Wang Junbo , Chen Jian
Published: February 2016

This article reviews recent developments in microfluidic systems enabling high-throughput characterization of single-cell proteins. Four key perspectives of microfluidic platforms are included in this review: (1) microfluidic fluorescent flow cytometry; (2) droplet based microfluidic flow cytometry; (3) large-array micro wells (microengraving); and (4) large-array micro chambers (barcode microchips). We examine the advantages and limitations of each technique and discuss future research opportunities by focusing on three key performance parameters (absolute quantification, sensitivity, and throughput).
Data Mining and NIR Spectroscopy in Viticulture: Applications for Plant Phenotyping under Field Conditions
Authors: Gutiérrez Salvador , Tardaguila Javier , Fernández-Novales Juan , Diago Maria
Published: February 2016

Plant phenotyping is a very important topic in agriculture. In this context, data mining strategies may be applied to agricultural data retrieved with new non-invasive devices, with the aim of yielding useful, reliable and objective information. This work presents some applications of machine learning algorithms along with in-field acquired NIR spectral data for plant phenotyping in viticulture, specifically for grapevine variety discrimination and assessment of plant water status. Support vector machine (SVM), rotation forests and M5 trees models were built using NIR spectra acquired in the field directly on the adaxial side of grapevine leaves, with a non-invasive portable spectrophotometer working in the spectral range between 1600 and 2400 nm. The ν-SVM algorithm was used for the training of a model for varietal classification. The classifiers’ performance for the 10 varieties reached, for cross- and external validations, the 88.7% and 92.5% marks, respectively. For water stress assessment, the models developed using the absorbance spectra of six varieties yielded the same determination coefficient for both cross- and external validations (R2 = 0.84; RMSEs of 0.164 and 0.165 MPa, respectively). Furthermore, a variety-specific model trained only with samples of Tempranillo from two different vintages yielded R2 = 0.76 and RMSE of 0.16 MPa for cross-validation and R2 = 0.79, RMSE of 0.17 MPa for external validation. These results show the power of the combined use of data mining and non-invasive NIR sensing for in-field grapevine phenotyping and their usefulness for the wine industry and precision viticulture implementations.
Relationship of Two Vertical Jumping Tests to Sprint and Change of Direction Speed among Male and Female Collegiate Soccer Players
Authors: McFarland Isaiah , Dawes J. Jay , Elder Craig , Lockie Robert
Published: February 2016

In collegiate level soccer acceleration, maximal velocity and agility are essential for successful performance. Power production is believed to provide a foundation for these speed qualities. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship of change of direction speed, acceleration, and maximal velocity to both the counter movement jump (CMJ) and squat jump (SJ) in collegiate soccer players. Thirty-six NCAA Division II soccer players (20 males and 16 females) were tested for speed over 10 and 30 m, CODS (T-test, pro agility) and power (CMJ, SJ). Independent t-tests (p ≤ 0.05) were used to derive gender differences, and Pearson’s correlations (p ≤ 0.05) calculated relationships between the different power and speed tests. Female subjects displayed moderate-to-strong correlations between 30 m, pro agility and T-test with the CMJ (r = −0.502 to −0.751), and SJ (r = −0.502 to −0.681). Moderate correlations between 10 and 30 m with CMJ (r = −0.476 and −0.570) and SJ (r = −0.443 and −0.553, respectively) were observed for males. Moderate to strong relationships exist between speed and power attributes in both male and female collegiate soccer players, especially between CMJ and maximal velocity. Improving stretch shortening cycle (SSC) utilization may contribute to enhanced sport-specific speed.
Does Foreign Direct Investment Affect Green Growth? Evidence from China’s Experience
Authors: Yue Shujing , Yang Yang , Hu Yaoyu
Published: February 2016

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) not only affects the economic growth but also affects the environmental protection of the host country. With China’s background of pursuing green growth, we need to consider the performance of FDI from the economic and environmental benefit aspects. On this basis, using slacks-based measure directional distance function (SBMDDF) to build up green growth efficiency, economic efficiency and environmental efficiency indexes, empirical research on FDI in 104 Chinese cities from 2004 to 2011 has shown that: (1) Different cities have differences in their green growth efficiency. Shenzhen city is always efficient in green economic growth. (2) Overall, FDI is positive on Chinese cities’ green growth. (3) When the green growth efficiency is broken down into economic efficiency and environmental efficiency, FDI promotes China’s economic green growth through both environmental benefits and economic benefits. (4) The effect of FDI differs in different sectors. FDI in the emission-intensive sector promotes green efficiency mainly through the improvement of economic efficiency. FDI in the non-emission-intensive sector promotes economic efficiency, environmental efficiency and green efficiency.
Regional Competition, Heterogeneous Factors and Pollution Intensity in China: A Spatial Econometric Analysis
Authors: Huang Jianhuan , Xia Jiejin
Published: February 2016

Regional competition may play an important role in the balance of environmental protection and economic growth. However, it is a pending issue of whether the competition among Chinese local governments leads to a race to black development or green development. This paper aims to explore the strategic interactions in provincial development in terms of an environment-economic indicator, i.e., the pollution intensity in China from 2000 to 2013. We divide four predominant industrial pollutants into two groups according to whether the pollutant is regulated, and then test the strategic interactions among regions based on the spatial lag term by employing the spatial Durbin model. The results show that the heterogeneous factors, such as various pollutants and regional difference, may give rise to diversified competition strategies. We find that the “race to black development” hypothesis is not supported at the national level, and the “race to green development” hypothesis is established in the developed eastern regions only in terms of the regulated industrial pollutants. We also detect how pollution intensity is influenced by the direct and spatial spillover effects of environmental regulation and find that environmental legislation has been effective in reducing regulated pollutants’ pollution intensity, while the effects of environmental staff and investment are weak. Finally, some policy suggestions are discussed.
Semi- vs. Fully-Distributed Urban Stormwater Models: Model Set Up and Comparison with Two Real Case Studies
Authors: Pina Rui , Ochoa-Rodriguez Susana , Simões Nuno , Mijic Ana , Marques Alfeu , Maksimović Čedo
Published: February 2016

Urban stormwater models can be semi-distributed (SD) or fully distributed (FD). SD models are based on subcatchment units with various land use types, where rainfall is applied and runoff volumes are estimated and routed. FD models are based on the two dimensional (2D) discretization of the overland surface, which has a finer resolution with each grid-cell representing one land use type, where runoff volumes are estimated and directly routed by the 2D overland flow module. While SD models have been commonly applied in urban stormwater modeling, FD models are generally more detailed and theoretically more realistic. This paper presents a comparison between SD and FD models using two case studies in Coimbra (Portugal) and London (UK). To enable direct comparison between SD and FD setups, a model-building process is proposed and a novel sewer inlet representation is applied. SD and FD modeling results are compared against observed records in sewers and photographic records of flood events. The results suggest that FD models are more sensitive to surface storage parameters and require higher detail of the sewer network representation.
Relação entre o IMC dos pais e dos filhos
Authors: Souza William Cordeiro de , Grzelczak Marcos Tadeu , Mascarenhas Luis Paulo Gomes
Published: February 2016

OBJETIVO: Verificar a relação entre o Índice de Massa Corporal (IMC) dos pais e dos filhos.

MÉTODOS: A amostra intencional foi constituída por 36 adolescentes, com média de idade de 16,2 + 1,0 anos, e seus respectivos pais, pai com média de idade 43,6 + 3 anos e mãe com idade média 38,3 + 6,9 anos. Para a obtenção do IMC dos adolescentes foi coletado os dados de peso e estatura, sendo calculado a partir da fórmula: IMC= Peso (kg) / altura (m)². O IMC dos pais foi determinado pelo próprio autorrelato do peso corporal e da estatura, através de questionário preenchido por eles. Para as classificações do IMC foi utilizou-se os pontos de corte sugeridos pela World Health Organization (2004). No tratamento estatístico foi utilizado o software Med Calc, onde se calculou a estatística descritiva (Média e Desvio Padrão - DP). Foi realizado o teste de normalidade de Spearman para determinação do grau de correlação entre o IMC dos pais com o dos filhos, adotando-se como limiar de significância p<0,05.

RESULTADOS: Foi verificada relação significativa entre o IMC dos pais versus IMC dos filhos (r=0,43; p=0,01); e entre o IMC das Mães versus IMC dos filhos (r=0,46; p=0,004).

CONCLUSÕES: Os resultados demonstraram que existem relações positiva e moderada entre o IMC dos pais sobre o IMC dos filhos independente de sua classificação.
Premières données sur le matériel céramique de la nécropole mégalithique de Wanar (Sénégal)
Authors: Delvoye Adrien , Laporte Luc , Bocoum Hamady , Cros Jean-Paul , Diallo Mahmoud , Dartois Vincent , Lejay Mathieu , Quesnel Laurent , Bertin Francis
Published: February 2016

Les fouilles menées depuis 2005 sur la nécropole mégalithique de Wanar, inscrite au patrimoine mondial de l’UNESCO, ont permis de caractériser la complexité des pratiques funéraires et des dispositifs architecturaux. Cet article présente les premières données concernant les céramiques issues des campagnes de fouille 2005 et 2008. Les positions stratigraphiques des poteries déposées en façade orientale de cercles mégalithiques sur plusieurs sites sont étudiées, amenant à une considération nouvelle de la durée d’utilisation de ces monuments. Enfin une interprétation est proposée pour une poterie découverte en 2005 à Wanar, notable de part sa taille, sa morphologie et probablement sa fonction.
UMA EXPERIÊNCIA DE ADOÇÃO DO JAVA 6 WEB PROFILE NO DESENVOLVIMENTO DE UM SISTEMA PARA GERENCIAMENTO DE UMA CLÍNICA DE PSICOLOGIA
Authors: Allian Ana Paula , Oliveira Junior Edson A.
Published: February 2016

Os sistemas de gestão tornaram-se um dos principais componentes para gerenciar os processos de negócios das empresas. Um registro organizado e detalhado dos processos rotineiros de uma clínica como, por exemplo, controle de pacientes, agenda e controle financeiro, fornecem, instantaneamente, informações importantes sobre o desenvolvimento da empresa, incluindo dados financeiros e dados sobre pacientes. Este artigo apresenta o desenvolvimento de um sistema de gerenciamento para clínicas de psicologia, utilizando a especificação Java EE 6 (Java Enterprise Edition 6) conhecida por Web Profile. Esse perfil consiste em uma seleção de tecnologias para a construção de aplicações Web lightweight comparada à especificação Java EE 6 completa. O artigo apresenta o Web Profile, utilizando uma abordagem prática, na qual uma aplicação Web completa é desenvolvida, empregando tecnologias presentes no Web Profile como, por exemplo, EJB Lite, JPA, CDI e JSF. O artigo é relevante para desenvolvedores que trabalham ou desejam trabalhar com a implementação de aplicações Web utilizando padrões definidos na especificação Java EE 6.
Effects of Silicon Particle Size on the Morphology of Rod-Like Si3N4 Crystals Prepared by SHS Method
Authors: Chen Fei Yang , Luo Fei Xia , Zhou Ze Hua , Du Chao , Zou Yu Chun , Li Wen Kui
Published: February 2016

Silicon nitride whiskers or rod-like crystals have a wide range application due to its excellent mechanical properties and high temperature performance. Two different silicon powders with different size (mesh 200 and mesh 300, respectively) were chosen to prepare rod-like Si3N4 crystals by SHS method and the effects of silicon particle size on the morphology of rod-like Si3N4 crystals were investigated. The results indicate that rod-like Si3N4 crystals could be formed with either kind of silicon powders when no more than 9wt% extra Y2O3 was introduced, which could effectively promote the growth of rod-like Si3N4 crystals. The residual free silicon was detected when using coarse silicon powders, while the silicon could be reacted completely with nitrogen gas when using fine silicon powders. The morphology of samples with coarse Si powders as starting materials is more uniform and regular than that of fine Si powders samples. Fine silicon powders are not ideal candidates for forming uniform and regular rod-like Si3N4 crystals.
Kinetic Studies on Crystallization and Grain Growth of Amorphous Al2O3-ZrO2 Powder
Authors: Xu Xi Qing , Liu Jia Chen , Wang Yi
Published: February 2016

Nanocrystalline Al2O3-ZrO2 powders were prepared through controlled crystallization of amorphous phase, and kinetic studies on crystallization and grain growth were carried out. Based on Kissinger equation, the activation energies for crystallization were determined to be 981.8 kJ·mol-1 for (Zr0.94Y0.06)O1.88 and 1364.1 kJ·mol-1 for α-Al2O3. Average size of crystallite was obtained by Scherrer equation according to FWHMs in XRD peaks; the grain growth was slow below 1100°C, and turned severe at higher temperatures. The appropriate calcination temperatures was determined to be 1100°C, at which stable phases were formed and further severe grain growth can be restrained. SEM micrograph of Al2O3-ZrO2 powder after calcination at 1100°C revealed uniform distribution of spherical particles with size of about 20 nm, close to that determined by XRD results.
Structure and Dielectric Properties of Ce and Ca Co-Doped BaTiO3 Ceramics
Authors: Lu Da Yong , Han Dan Dan , Liu Qiao Li , Wang Yan Dong , Sun Xiu Yun
Published: February 2016

Structure and dielectric properties of 5 % Ce and Ca co-doped BaTiO3 ceramics were investigated. The site occupations and valence states were studied using XRD, Raman spectroscopy, SEM, EPR and dielectric measurements. The Ba/Ti ratio has dramatic effects on ceramic structure and properties. Two single-phase ceramics with Ba/Ti = 1 and 0.937 have tetragonal and cubic structure, showing diffuse phase transition and first-order phase transition behaviors, respectively. The former exhibit the site occupations of mixed Ca2+/Ce3+ at Ba sites and Ca2+/Ce4+ at Ti sites. Ce ions have priority over Ca2+ ions in entering Ti sites as Ce4+ when co-doping in BaTiO3, which will impede Ca2+ ions to be incorporated completely into Ti sites.
Effect of Low Content of Metakaolin Addition on the Properties and Pore Structure of Concrete
Authors: Geng Hai Ning , Li Qiu , Shi Zhi Guang , Shui Zhong He
Published: February 2016

The properties and microstructure of concrete containing 0-6wt% metakaolin (MK) were studied by analytical techniques. The compressive strength increased with the content of MK and reached the maximum by 5wt% MK addition, where the compressive strength increased by 33% at 28 days comparing to the control. The pore structure was refined in the concrete containing MK due to the increase of amount of pores smaller than 10 nm. There is a relationship between average pore diameter and compressive strength.
Comparison of Hydration Mechanism between Cements from Two Different Residual Muds
Authors: Liu Zhi Wei , Li Yu , Cang Da Qiang , Wang Hao Ran
Published: February 2016

Steel slags are byproduct of steel making process in blast oxidizing furnace (BOF) and electric arc furnace (EAF), including BOF slag, EAF slag. Residual slag mud is discharged after recover of iron from steel slag by magnetic separation after a wet grinding process. The wet disposal process has higher efficiency than dry process but would deteriorate cementitious reactivity of wet residual mud. For residual EAF slag mud and residual BOF slag mud have different composition, effects of wet disposal process on their reactivity and hydration mechanism of related cements were researched in the paper. Analyses of microstructure and testes of mechanical properties for cements from the two different mud showed that the cements composed of 25 % of different mud respectively can reach the national standard of 42.5 grade cements. But residual EAF slag mud has better reactivity. Cement composed of residual EAF slag mud had a higher increase of compressive strength during 28 days of hydrations, and fluffy C-S-H gel and needlelike AFt crystal would increase obviously. Reactivity of BOF slag would degraded more in wet disposal process for its quicker hydration than EAF slag which resulted in more Ca(OH)2 and C-S-H gel formed in the discharged mud,. EAF had lower basicity, content of less f-CaOand C3S, more P2O5 and C2S, which would contribute to its stability in the wet disposal process. EAF slag is more suitable for wet-disposal process.
Qualitative and Quantitive Analysis of the Active Component in Silane Building Protective Agents
Authors: Ding Jian Jun , Guan Hong Yan , Mei Yi Fei
Published: February 2016

Two main factors influence the protective effect of the silane building protective agents, that is, the molecular structure and the content of the active component. In this paper, qualitative and quantitive analysis of the active component in silane building protective agents were studied. Firstly, Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) is employed to identify the active component in unknown sample, according to its mass spectrum and retention time. Secondly, Gas chromatography (GC) is applied to determine the content of the active component in unknown sample. Results show that the mass spectrum of the active component in unknown sample is similar with that of n-octyl triethoxy silane and (2,4,4-trimethylpentyl) triethoxy silane. The retention time of the active component in unknown sample is 16.5 min, which is the the same as that of (2,4,4-trimethylpentyl) triethoxy silane. Nevertheless, the retention time of n-octyl triethoxy silane is 17.6 min. So the active component in unknown sample is identified as (2,4,4-trimethylpentyl) triethoxy silane, and its content is determined as 82.0% on the basis of GC method with isobutyl alcohol as the internal standard.
Evaluating High Temperature Modulus and Strength of Alumina Tube in Vacuum by a Modified Split Ring Method
Authors: Liu Zhao , Bao Yi Wang , Hu Chun Lin , Wan De Tian , Tian Yuan
Published: February 2016

Alumina is a typical ceramic material and possesses high strengthand stiffness at both room temperature and high temperature. The split ring methodhad been established to evaluate the elastic modulus and bending strength of aluminatube materials at ambient temperature. However, both equations for modulus andstrength became lightly inapplicable with the increased temperature. For theelastic modulus, it was lack of precise approaches and advices for deformationmeasurement in the heating furnace. For the bending strength, changes of sampledimensions due to thermal expansion would take an effect on the calculatingresults. In this work, several improvements have been taken into account tocalibrate the above deviations. Results revealed that the modulus and strengthregularly decreased from room temperature to 1300 °C and accorded well with other conventional testing methods.It proved the accuracy and reliability of this modified split ring method,which might be used to evaluate other ceramic tube materials at hightemperature.
Study of Hardened Cement Paste with Crystalline Glyoxal
Authors: Kudyakov Alexander I. , Steshenko Alexey B.
Published: February 2016

The results of studies of modified hardened cement paste with glyoxal-containing additive are given in this article. The goal was to study the patterns of influence of crystalline glyoxal on compressive strength of hardened cement paste. Introduction of crystalline glyoxal in the amount of 0.01-0.05% by weight of cement in the cement paste enables the increase in the compressive strength of hardened cement paste in 28 days by 7-8%. The studies have established that the introduction of crystalline glyoxal in the amount of 0.1-1% by weight of cement is inefficient; there is a decrease of the strength values in comparison with control samples. The results of microstructure investigation (of control samples and samples of the modified hardened cement paste) have shown that the introduction of crystalline glyoxal in the amount of 0.01-0.05% by weight of cement provides the structure of hardened cement paste that does not contain sedimentative pores and increases the quantity of hydroaluminate.
Synthesis and Characterization of CeO2 Nanoparticles
Authors: Lapin Ivan N. , Shabalina Anastasiia V. , Svetlichnyi Valery
Published: February 2016

Dispersions of cerium oxide nanoparticles in water, ethanol, and water-ethanol solution were synthesized for the first time using laser ablation of metallic target. The fundamental harmonic of nanosecond Nd:YAG laser was used. Nanocrystalline powders of cerium oxide were obtained from the dispersions. The average size of the crystallites was 17-19 nm. Phase composition of nanoparticles was confirmed by X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy. It was found that carbon present on the surface of CeO2 particles. The materials obtained may be used as catalyst carriers for CO oxidation, and as active components of sunscreen cosmetic products.
Research of Gypsum-Containing Raw Materials for Obtaining of Dry Building Mixes
Authors: Anikanova Lyubov , Volkova Olga , Guseva Irina , Kurmangalieva Anna
Published: February 2016

The article presents the results of overall acid fluoride raw material utilization for obtaining dry building mixes. It demonstrates that waste acid fluoride, stored for a substantial amount of time in waste piles is a crystallizing fuse for anhydrite binding materials providing improved strength performance and reduction of solidification time. Overall utilization of acid fluoride allows solving ecological problems and reduces the cost of anhydrite finishing materials due to absence of sulfate chemical additives.
Thermal Processes at Electron-Beam Treatment of Yttrium-Stabilized Zirconium Dioxide Ceramics
Authors: Ivanov Yurii F. , Tolkachev Oleg S. , Petrikova Elizaveta A. , Ivanova Оlgа V. , Ikonnikova Irina , Petyukevich Maria S.
Published: February 2016

Within the limits of one-dimensional approximation the calculations of thermal fields forming in a surface layer of sintered ceramics from zirconium dioxide partly stabilized by yttrium after sub-millisecond electron-beam irradiation were performed. The conditions of radiation of this ceramics by an intense electron beam allowing to implement various stages of ceramics surface layer’s melting are determined.
Numerical Study of Deformation and Fracture of Ceramics Nanocomposite with Different Structural Parameters under Mechanical Loading
Authors: Konovalenko Igor S. , Vodopjyanov Egor M. , Shilko Evgenii V.
Published: February 2016

Deformation, fracture and effective mechanical properties of sintered ceramics composite under uniaxial compression were studied. To perform this investigation the plain numerical model of ceramics composites based on oxides of zirconium and aluminum with different structural parameters was developed. The model construction was carried out within the frame of particle based method, namely the movable cellular automaton method (MCA). The implementation of the phase transition in the MCA-model composite was carried out on the basis of the phenomenological approach, the main point of which was the formulation of the principle of irreversible mechanical behavior of the material. Increase the fracture toughness of ceramics after (T-M) transition in its structure was realized in the model by introducing transition kinetics of the automata pair from "bound" to an "unbound" state. The structure of model composite was generated on the basis of scanning electron microscope images of micro-sections of real composite. The influence of such structural parameters as geometrical dimensions of layers, inclusions, and their spatial distribution in the sample, volume content of the composite components and their mechanical properties, as well as the amount of zirconium dioxide undergone the phase transformation on the mechanical response were investigated
Mass Transfer at Atomic Scale in MD Simulation of Friction Stir Welding
Authors: Konovalenko Ivan , Konovalenko Igor S. , Dmitriev Andrey , Psakhie Serguey , Kolubaev Evgeny A.
Published: February 2016

Mass transfer has been studied at atomic scale by molecular dynamics simulation of friction stir welding and vibration-assisted friction stir welding using the modified embedded atom potential. It was shown that increasing the velocity movement and decreasing the angle velocity of the tool reduce the penetration depth of atoms into the opposite crystallite in the connected pair of metals. It was shown also that increasing the amplitude of vibrations applied to the friction stir welding tool results in increasing the interpenetration of atoms belonging to the crystallites joined
Processing of Polypropylene by Low-Energy Pulsed Electron Beam from Forevacuum Plasma Source
Authors: Burdovitsin Victor , Kazakov Andrey , Medovnik Alexandr , Oks Efim , Puhova Irina , Smailov Almas
Published: February 2016

Influence of electron beam irradiation on the morphology and contact angle of polypropylene was investigated. Electron beam processing was carried out at 8 – 10 kV accelerating voltage and a pressure of 5 – 10 Pa. Beam current density was up to 4.5 A/cm2, and the pulse duration - from 150 to 300 μs. The morphology of irradiated polymer material was studied by scanning-electron and atomic-force microscopy methods. It was established formation of extended equally oriented “hills” divided by “valleys”. The height of hills increases with the growth of energy flux density per pulse.
Observation on dengue cases from a virus diagnostic laboratory of a tertiary care hospital in north India
Authors: Prakash Om , Singh Desh Deepak , Mishra Geetika , Prakash Shantanu , Singh Arvind , Gupta Shikha , Singh Jasmeet , Khan Danish Nasar , Jain Parul , Vishal Anamika , Pandey Manoj Kumar , Jain Amita
Published: February 2016

Background & objectives:

The epidemiology of dengue fever (DF) is complex in the Indian subcontinent as all the four serotypes are circulating. This study reports observations on dengue cases from a virus diagnostic laboratory of a north Indian tertiary care hospital catering to areas in and around Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh.

Methods:

Serum samples were obtained from suspected cases of dengue referred to the virus diagnostic laboratory during 2011 to 2013, and detailed history was taken on a pre-structured datasheet. All samples were tested for anti-dengue virus (DV) IgM antibodies and DV-non structural protein 1 antigen (NS1Ag) by ELISA. NS1Ag positive samples were tested further by conventional RT-PCR for DV-RNA detection and serotyping.

Results:

Of the 4019 suspected patients of dengue, 886 (22%) showed laboratory evidence of dengue virus infection. Of these, 19, 17 and 27 per cent were positive in 2011, 2012 and 2013, respectively. Children and adults were similarly affected by dengue in all the three years. Males were more commonly affected than females. The predominant DV serotype detected was DV-2, DV-1 and DV-3 in 2011, 2012 and 2013, respectively. DV-4 serotype was not detected. About half the cases positive for DV infection, showed symptoms of dengue with warning signs/severe dengue. A distinct seasonality with increase in number of dengue cases in the post monsoon period was seen.

Interpretation & conclusions:

Change in circulating serotype of dengue virus; a distinct adult dengue involvement; and a remarkable number of cases presenting with severe dengue manifestations are the main findings of this study.
Malaria transmission in Tripura
Authors: Dev Vas , Adak Tridibes , Singh Om P. , Nanda Nutan , Baidya Bimal K.
Published: February 2016

Background & objectives:

Malaria is a major public health problem in Tripura and focal disease outbreaks are of frequent occurrence. The State is co-endemic for both Plasmodium falciparum and P. vivax and transmission is perennial and persistent. The present study was aimed to review data on disease distribution to prioritize high-risk districts, and to study seasonal prevalence of disease vectors and their bionomical characteristics to help formulate vector species-specific interventions for malaria control.

Methods:

Data on malaria morbidity in the State were reviewed retrospectively (2008-2012) for understanding disease distribution and transmission dynamics. Cross-sectional mass blood surveys were conducted in malaria endemic villages of South Tripura district to ascertain the prevalence of malaria and proportions of parasite species. Mosquito collections were made in human dwellings of malaria endemic villages aiming at vector incrimination and to study relative abundance, resting and feeding preferences, and their present susceptibility status to DDT.

Results:

The study showed that malaria was widely prevalent and P. falciparum was the predominant infection (>90%), the remaining were P. vivax cases. The disease distribution, however, was uneven with large concentration of cases in districts of South Tripura and Dhalai coinciding with vast forest cover and tribal populations. Both Anopheles minimus s.s. and An. baimaii were recorded to be prevalent and observed to be highly anthropophagic and susceptible to DDT. Of these, An. minimus was incriminated (sporozoite infection rate 4.92%), and its bionomical characteristics revealed this species to be largely indoor resting and endophagic.

Interpretation & conclusions:

For effective control of malaria in the State, it is recommended that diseases surveillance should be robust, and vector control interventions including DDT spray coverage, mass distribution of insecticide-treated nets/long-lasting insecticidal nets should be intensified prioritizing population groups most at risk to avert impending disease outbreaks and spread of drug-resistant malaria.
Chikungunya virus susceptibility & variation in populations of Aedes aegypti (Diptera
Authors: Gokhale Mangesh D. , Paingankar Mandar S. , Sudeep Anakathil B. , Parashar Deepti
Published: February 2016

Background & objectives:

Although having immense clinical relevance, yet only a few studies have been targeted to understand the chikungunya virus (CHIKV) susceptibility and growth in Aedes aegypti populations from India. This study was undertaken to investigate CHIKV susceptibility and growth kinetics in Ae. aegypti along with genetic heterogeneity of Ae. aegypti populations.

Methods:

Dose dependent CHIKV susceptibility and growth kinetic studies for three CHIKV strains reported from India were carried out in Ae. aegypti mosquito populations. The phenotypic variation and genetic heterogeneity in five Ae. aegypti populations were investigated using multivariate morphometrics and allozyme variation studies.

Results:

The dissemination and growth kinetics studies of the three CHIKV strains showed no selective advantage for a particular strain of CHIKV in Ae. aegypti. At 100 per cent infection rate, five geographic Ae. aegypti populations showed differences in dissemination to three CHIKV strains. Morphometric studies revealed phenotypic variation in all the studied populations. The allelic frequencies, F statistics, and Nei's genetic identity values showed that genetic differences between the populations were small, but significant.

Interpretation & conclusions:

The results obtained in this study suggest that genetic background of the vector strongly influences the CHIKV susceptibility in Ae. aegypti.
Adulticidal & larvicidal efficacy of three neonicotinoids against insecticide susceptible & resistant mosquito strains
Authors: Uragayala Sreehari , Verma Vaishali , Natarajan Elamathi , Velamuri Poonam Sharma , Kamaraju Raghavendra
Published: February 2016

Background & objectives:

Due to ever growing insecticide resistance in mosquitoes to commonly used insecticides in many parts of the globe, there is always a need for introduction of new insecticides for the control of resistant vector mosquitoes. In this study, larvicidal and adulticidal efficacies of three neonicotinoids (imidacloprid, thiacloprid and thiamethoxam) were tested against resistant and susceptible populations of Anopheles stephensi Liston 1901, Aedes (Stegomyia) aegypti Linnaeus, and Culex quinquefasciatus Say (Diptera: Culicidae).

Methods:

Laboratory-reared mosquito species were used. Insecticide susceptibility tests were done using standard WHO procedures and using diagnostic dosages of insecticide test papers and larvicides. Adulticidal efficacy of candidate insecticides was assessed using topical application method and larval bioassays were conducted using standard WHO procedure.

Results:

The results of topical application on 3-5 day old female mosquitoes indicated that resistant strain of An. stephensi registered lower LC50 values than the susceptible strain. Among the three insecticides tested, thiacloprid was found more effective than the other two insecticides. Culex quinquefasciatus registered lowest LC50 for imidacloprid than the other two mosquito species tested. In larval bioassays, the LC50 values registered for imidacloprid were in the order of Cx. quinquefasciatus <An. stephensi (SS) <An. stephensi (RR) <Ae. aegypti. In case of thiacloprid, the order of efficacy (LC50) was Cx. quinquefasciatus <An. stephensi (SS) <An. stephensi (RR), whereas in case of thiamethoxam, the larvicidal efficacy was in the order of An. stephensi (RR) <An. stephensi (SS) <Cx. quinquefasciatus.

Interpretation & conclusions:

The present study indicated that insecticide resistant strains of mosquito species tested showed more susceptibility to the three neonicotinoids tested, and the possibility of using neonicotinoids for the control of resistant mosquitoes should be explored.
Pupal productivity & nutrient reserves of Aedes mosquitoes breeding in sewage drains & other habitats of Kolkata, India
Authors: Banerjee Soumyajit , Mohan Sushree , Saha Nabaneeta , Mohanty Siba Prasad , Saha Goutam K. , Aditya Gautam
Published: February 2016

Background & objectives:

The quality of breeding sites is reflected through the pupal productivity and the life history traits of Aedes mosquitoes. Using nutrient reserves and pupal productivity of Aedes as indicators, the larval habitats including sewage drains were characterized to highlight the habitat expansion and vector management.

Methods:

The pupae and adults collected from the containers and sewage drains were characterized in terms of biomass and nutrient reserves and the data were subjected to three way factorial ANOVA. Discriminant function analyses were performed to highlight the differences among the habitats for sustenance of Aedes mosquitoes.

Results:

Survey of larval habitats from the study area revealed significant differences (P<0.05) in the pupal productivity of Aedes among the habitats and months. Despite sewage drains being comparatively less utilized for breeding, the pupae were of higher biomass with corresponding adults having longer wings in contrast to other habitats. The nutrient reserve of the adults emerging from pupae of sewage drains was significantly higher (P<0.05), compared to other habitats, as reflected through the discriminant function analysis.

Interpretation & conclusions:

The present results showed that for both Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus, sewage drains were equally congenial habitat as were plastic, porcelain and earthen habitats. Availability of Aedes immature in sewage drains poses increased risk of dengue, and thus vector control programme should consider inclusion of sewage drains as breeding habitat of dengue vector mosquitoes.
Comparison of a Medication Inventory and a Dietary Supplement Interview in Assessing Dietary Supplement Use in the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos
Authors: Faurot Keturah R. , Siega-Riz Anna Maria , Gardiner Paula , Rivera Josέ O. , Young Laura A. , Poole Charles , Whitsel Eric A. , González Hector M. , Chirinos-Medina Diana A. , Talavera Gregory A. , Castañeda Sheila F. , Daviglus Martha L. , Barnhart Janice , Giacinto Rebeca E. , Van Horn Linda
Published: February 2016

Although dietary supplement use is common, its assessment is challenging, especially among ethnic minority populations such as Hispanics/Latinos. Using the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos (HCHS/SOL) (n = 16,415), this report compares two strategies for capturing dietary supplement use over a 30-day period: a medication-based inventory and a nutrition-based dietary supplement interview. Age-standardized prevalence was calculated across multiple dietary supplement definitions, adjusted with survey/nonresponse weights. The prevalence of dietary supplement use was substantially higher as measured in the dietary supplement interview, compared to the medication inventory: for total dietary supplements (39% vs 26%, respectively), for nonvitamin, nonmineral supplements (24% vs 12%), and for botanicals (9.2% vs 4.5%). Concordance between the two assessments was fair to moderate (Cohen's kappa: 0.31–0.52). Among women, inclusion of botanical teas increased the prevalence of botanical supplement use from 7% to 15%. Supplement assessment that includes queries about botanical teas yields more information about patient supplement use.
Nutrition during Pregnancy Impacts Offspring's Epigenetic Status—Evidence from Human and Animal Studies
Authors: Geraghty Aisling A. , Lindsay Karen L. , Alberdi Goiuri , McAuliffe Fionnuala M. , Gibney Eileen R.
Published: February 2016

Pregnancy is a vital time of growth and development during which maternal nutrition significantly influences the future health of both mother and baby. During pregnancy, the fetus experiences a critical period of plasticity. Epigenetics, specifically DNA methylation, plays an important role here. As nutrition is influential for DNA methylation, this review aims to determine if maternal nutrition during pregnancy can modify the offspring's epigenome at birth. Research focuses on micronutrients and methyl donors such as folate and B vitamins. Evidence suggests that maternal nutrition does not largely influence global methylation patterns, particularly in nutrient-replete populations; however, an important impact on gene-specific methylation is observed. A link is shown between maternal nutrition and the methylome of the offspring; however, there remains a paucity of research. With the potential to use DNA methylation patterns at birth to predict health of the child in later life, it is vital that further research be carried out.
Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction in Stool Detects Transmission of Strongyloides stercoralis from an Infected Donor to Solid Organ Transplant Recipients
Authors: Gómez-Junyent Joan , Paredes-Zapata David , de las Parras Esperanza Rodríguez , González-Costello José , Ruiz-Arranz Ángel , Cañizares Rosario , Saugar José María , Muñoz José
Published: February 2016

Solid organ transplant recipients can acquire Strongyloides stercoralis from an infected donor. The diagnosis of S. stercoralis in immunocompromised individuals may be challenging due to a lower sensitivity of available parasitological and serological methods, compared with immunocompetent individuals. Recently, a real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) in stool has been developed for S. stercoralis diagnosis. We report two cases of S. stercoralis infection transmitted by a donor to two solid organ transplant recipients, who were diagnosed with RT-PCR in stool. This test could play an important role in S. stercoralis diagnosis in immunosuppressed patients, facilitating rapid treatment initiation and reducing the risk of severe strongyloidiasis. Adherence to current recommendations of screening among donors and recipients from endemic areas is also urgently needed.
Cost and Predictors of Care-Seeking Behaviors Among Caregivers of Febrile Children—Uganda, 2009
Authors: Menon Manoj P. , Njau Joseph D. , McFarland Deborah A.
Published: February 2016

Fever is a major cause of morbidity and mortality among children under 5 years of age in resource-limited countries. Although prevention and treatment of febrile illnesses have improved, the costs—both financial and nonfinancial—remain barriers to care. Using data from the 2009 Uganda Malaria Indicator Survey, we describe the costs associated with the care of a febrile child and assess predictors of care-seeking behavior. Over 80% of caregivers sought care for their febrile child, however less than half did so on either the day of or the day after the development of fever. The odds of seeking care decreased with each additional month of the child's age. Caregivers living in rural areas were more likely to seek care, however were less likely to seek care promptly. Caregivers with at least a primary school education and those familiar with the protective effect of bed nets and the need to seek care promptly were more likely to seek care. Despite government assistance, the majority of caregivers did incur costs (mean 13,173 Ugandan shilling; $6.84 U.S. dollars) associated with medical care. Continued efforts targeting barriers to seeking care, including the economic burden, are necessary.
Biomass burning contribution to regional PM2.5 during winter in the North China
Authors: Zong Zheng , Wang Xiaoping , Tian Chongguo , Chen Yingjun , Qu Lin , Ji Ling , Zhi Guorui , Li Jun , Zhang Gan
Published: February 2016

Abstract. Source apportionment of fine particles (PM2.5) at a background site in the North China in winter, 2014 was assessed by statistical analysis on the chemical species grouped by the trajectory clusters, radiocarbon (14C) measurement and the Positive Matrix Factorization (PMF) modeling linked with the 14C measurement. During the sampling period, the concentration of PM2.5 was 77.6 ± 59.3 μg m−3, and the sulfate concentration was the highest, followed by nitrate, organic carbon (OC), elemental carbon (EC) and ammonium, respectively. Demonstrated by the backward trajectory, more than half of PM2.5 was found from the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei (BTH) region, followed by the Mongolia and the Shandong Peninsula. The cluster analysis showed that PM2.5 from the Shandong Peninsula had an obvious signal of biomass burning emission, while that from the BTH region showed vehicle emission pattern. The finding was further confirmed by the radiocarbon measurement of OC and EC in two merged samples selected from a successive synoptic process. The 14C measurement indicated that biogenic and biomass burning emission contributed 59 % and 52 % to OC and EC concentrations when air masses originated from the Shandong Peninsula, and the contributions fell to 46 % and 38 %, respectively, when the prevailing wind changed and came from the BTH region. In addition, minimum deviation of the source apportionments from PMF results and 14C measurement was used as the optimal choice of the model exercises. Here, two minor overestimations with the same range (3 %) suggested that the PMF results provided a reasonable source apportionment of regional PM2.5 in the North China during winter. Based on the results above, eight main sources were identified, of which, coal combustion, biomass burning and vehicle emissions were the largest contributors of PM2.5, accounting for 29.6 %, 19.3 % and 15.8 %, respectively. Compared with the overall source apportionment, the contribution of vehicle emission increased slightly when air masses came from the BTH region, the contribution of mineral dust and coal combustion rose obviously when air masses were from the Mongolia with high speed, and biomass burning became the dominant contributor when air masses carried from the Shandong Peninsula. As the largest contributor to PM2.5 in winter of North China, coal combustion has been identified as the most leading emission sector to be controlled for improving the air quality by the government. Vehicle emission contributed significantly to the PM2.5 levels in the BTH region, which has also been considered to control as the second major emission sector. Biomass burning emission was highlighted in the present study because of its dominant contribution to PM2.5 burden in the Shandong Peninsula. Some suggests were provided to wake farmers from agricultural residue burning in household and field.
Comparison of MODIS and VIIRS cloud properties with ARM ground-based observations over Finland
Authors: Sporre Moa K. , O’Connor Ewan J. , Håkansson Nina , Thoss Anke , Swietlicki Erik , Petäjä Tuukka
Published: February 2016

Abstract. Cloud retrievals from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) instruments aboard the satellites Terra and Aqua and the Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) instrument aboard the Suomi-NPP satellite are evaluated using a combination of ground-based instruments providing vertical profiles of clouds. The ground-based measurements are obtained from the Atmospheric Radiation Measurement program (ARM) mobile facility, which was deployed in Hyytiälä, Finland, between February and September 2014 for the Biogenic Aerosols – Effects on Clouds and Climate (BAECC) campaign. The satellite cloud parameters cloud top height (CTH) and liquid water path (LWP) are compared with ground-based CTH obtained from a cloud mask created using lidar and radar data and LWP acquired from an a multi-channel microwave radiometer. Clouds from all altitudes in the atmosphere are investigated. The clouds are diagnosed as single or multiple layer using the ground-based cloud mask. For single layer clouds, satellites overestimated CTH by 340 m (16 %) on average. When including multilayer clouds, satellites underestimated CTH by on average 320 m (9 %). MODIS collection 6 overestimated LWP by on average 13 g m−2 (11 %), interestingly, LWP for MODIS collection 5.1 is slightly overestimated by Aqua (4.56 %) but is underestimated by Terra (14.3 %). This underestimation may be attributed to a known issue with a drift in the reflectance bands of the MODIS instrument on Terra. This evaluation indicates that the satellite cloud parameters selected show reasonable agreement with their ground-based counterparts over Finland, with minimal influence from the large solar zenith angle experienced by the satellites in this high latitude location.