bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PHENOLOGY ANALYSIS OF FOREST VEGETATION TO ENVIRONMENTAL VARIABLES DURING PRE- AND POST-MONSOON SEASONS IN WESTERN HIMALAYAN REGION OF INDIA
Authors: Khare S. , Latifi H. , Ghosh K.
Published: June 2016

Abstract. To assess the phenological changes in Moist Deciduous Forest (MDF) of western Himalayan region of India, we carried out NDVI time series analysis from 2013 to 2015 using Landsat 8 OLI data. We used the vegetation index differencing method to calculate the change in NDVI (NDVIchange) during pre and post monsoon seasons and these changes were used to assess the phenological behaviour of MDF by taking the effect of a set of environmental variables into account. To understand the effect of environmental variables on change in phenology, we designed a linear regression analysis with sample-based NDVIchange values as the response variable and elevation aspect, and Land Surface Temperature (LST) as explanatory variables. The Landsat-8 derived phenology transition stages were validated by calculating the phenology variation from Nov 2008 to April 2009 using Landsat-7 which has the same spatial resolution as Landsat-8. The Landsat-7 derived NDVI trajectories were plotted in accordance with MODIS derived phenology stages (from Nov 2008 to April 2009) of MDF. Results indicate that the Landsat -8 derived NDVI trajectories describing the phenology variation of MDF during spring, monsoon autumn and winter seasons agreed closely with Landsat-7 and MODIS derived phenology transition from Nov 2008 to April 2009. Furthermore, statistical analysis showed statistically significant correlations (p < 0.05) amongst the environmental variables and the NDVIchange between full greenness and maximum frequency stage of Onset of Greenness (OG) activity.. The major change in NDVI was observed in medium (600 to 650 m) and maximum (650 to 750 m) elevation areas. The change in LST showed also to be highly influential. The results of this study can be used for large scale monitoring of difficult-to-reach mountainous forests, with additional implications in biodiversity assessment. By means of a sufficient amount of available cloud-free imagery, detailed phenological trends across mountainous forests could be explained.
USING MCDA AND GIS FOR LANDFILL SITE SELECTION: CENTRAL DISTRICTS OF ANTALYA PROVINCE
Authors: Aksoy E. , San B. T.
Published: June 2016

Abstract. The aim of this study is to select new landfill sites in Antalya, Turkey which is the fifth biggest city according to the population, approximately 1.2 million. It is the first rank according to the population growth rate in Turkey. The city of Antalya is the touristic places and its climate is Mediterranean climate. Therefore, choosing landfill site is very crucial and it affects the future of the city. Existing landfill site will not be sufficient in near future. The study was implemented in the Aksu, Dosemealti, Kepez, Konyaalti, and Muratpasa districts in Antalya. The study area has almost 1980 km-square. Twelve parameters which are geology, fault lines, landslides, river, lake, elevation, slope, aspect, population, rain, road network, and temperature data were determined. These parameters were assessed using Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) method and the weights of criteria layers were computed. Then, the computed weights were checked by the consistency index and consistency ratio which were found as 0.12 and 8.5%, respectively. The consistency index for 12 parameters should be lower than 1.48 and the consistency ratio should be less than 10%. This means that the constructed AHP matrix is suitable for analysis. Finally, the most suitable areas for landfill were computed according to the weights achieved from AHP matrix. The results were obtained in a range between 0.39 and 0.90. When the obtained results were compared with the existing landfill site called Kizilli area, the AHP score was found as 0.62. Therefore, new landfill area(s) should be selected from the determined results.
HOW TRAVEL DEMAND AFFECTS DETECTION OF NON-RECURRENT TRAFFIC CONGESTION ON URBAN ROAD NETWORKS
Authors: Anbaroglu B. , Heydecker B. , Cheng T.
Published: June 2016

Abstract. Occurrence of non-recurrent traffic congestion hinders the economic activity of a city, as travellers could miss appointments or be late for work or important meetings. Similarly, for shippers, unexpected delays may disrupt just-in-time delivery and manufacturing processes, which could lose them payment. Consequently, research on non-recurrent congestion detection on urban road networks has recently gained attention. By analysing large amounts of traffic data collected on a daily basis, traffic operation centres can improve their methods to detect non-recurrent congestion rapidly and then revise their existing plans to mitigate its effects. Space-time clusters of high link journey time estimates correspond to non-recurrent congestion events. Existing research, however, has not considered the effect of travel demand on the effectiveness of non-recurrent congestion detection methods. Therefore, this paper investigates how travel demand affects detection of non-recurrent traffic congestion detection on urban road networks. Travel demand has been classified into three categories as low, normal and high. The experiments are carried out on London’s urban road network, and the results demonstrate the necessity to adjust the relative importance of the component evaluation criteria depending on the travel demand level.
URBAN RAIN GAUGE SITING SELECTION BASED ON GIS-MULTICRITERIA ANALYSIS
Authors: Fu Yanli , Jing Changfeng , Du Mingyi
Published: June 2016

Abstract. With the increasingly rapid growth of urbanization and climate change, urban rainfall monitoring as well as urban waterlogging has widely been paid attention. In the light of conventional siting selection methods do not take into consideration of geographic surroundings and spatial-temporal scale for the urban rain gauge site selection, this paper primarily aims at finding the appropriate siting selection rules and methods for rain gauge in urban area. Additionally, for optimization gauge location, a spatial decision support system (DSS) aided by geographical information system (GIS) has been developed. In terms of a series of criteria, the rain gauge optimal site-search problem can be addressed by a multicriteria decision analysis (MCDA). A series of spatial analytical techniques are required for MCDA to identify the prospective sites. With the platform of GIS, using spatial kernel density analysis can reflect the population density; GIS buffer analysis is used to optimize the location with the rain gauge signal transmission character. Experiment results show that the rules and the proposed method are proper for the rain gauge site selection in urban areas, which is significant for the siting selection of urban hydrological facilities and infrastructure, such as water gauge.
ON-LINE GIS ANALYSIS AND IMAGE PROCESSING FOR GEOPORTAL KIELCE/POLAND DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Hejmanowska B. , Głowienka E. , Florek-Paszkowski R.
Published: June 2016

Abstract. GIS databases are widely available on the Internet, but mainly for visualization with limited functionality; very simple queries are possible i.e. attribute query, coordinate readout, line and area measurements or pathfinder. A little more complex analysis (i.e. buffering or intersection) are rare offered. Paper aims at the concept of Geoportal functionality development in the field of GIS analysis. Multi-Criteria Evaluation (MCE) is planned to be implemented in web application. OGC Service is used for data acquisition from the server and results visualization. Advanced GIS analysis is planned in PostGIS and Python programming. In the paper an example of MCE analysis basing on Geoportal Kielce is presented. Other field where Geoportal can be developed is implementation of processing new available satellite images free of charge (Sentinel-2, Landsat 8, ASTER, WV-2). Now we are witnessing a revolution in access to the satellite imagery without charge. This should result in an increase of interest in the use of these data in various fields by a larger number of users, not necessarily specialists in remote sensing. Therefore, it seems reasonable to expand the functionality of Internet's tools for data processing by non-specialists, by automating data collection and prepared predefined analysis.
TOWARDS ADAPTIVE HIGH-RESOLUTION IMAGES RETRIEVAL SCHEMES
Authors: Kourgli A. , Sebai H. , Bouteldja S. , Oukil Y.
Published: June 2016

Abstract. Nowadays, content-based image-retrieval techniques constitute powerful tools for archiving and mining of large remote sensing image databases. High spatial resolution images are complex and differ widely in their content, even in the same category. All images are more or less textured and structured. During the last decade, different approaches for the retrieval of this type of images have been proposed. They differ mainly in the type of features extracted. As these features are supposed to efficiently represent the query image, they should be adapted to all kind of images contained in the database. However, if the image to recognize is somewhat or very structured, a shape feature will be somewhat or very effective. While if the image is composed of a single texture, a parameter reflecting the texture of the image will reveal more efficient. This yields to use adaptive schemes. For this purpose, we propose to investigate this idea to adapt the retrieval scheme to image nature. This is achieved by making some preliminary analysis so that indexing stage becomes supervised. First results obtained show that by this way, simple methods can give equal performances to those obtained using complex methods such as the ones based on the creation of bag of visual word using SIFT (Scale Invariant Feature Transform) descriptors and those based on multi scale features extraction using wavelets and steerable pyramids.
THE DESIGN AND PRODUCT OF NATIONAL 1:1000000 CARTOGRAPHIC DATA OF TOPOGRAPHIC MAP
Authors: Wang Guizhi
Published: June 2016

Abstract. National administration of surveying, mapping and geoinformation started to launch the project of national fundamental geographic information database dynamic update in 2012. Among them, the 1:50000 database was updated once a year, furthermore the 1:250000 database was downsized and linkage-updated on the basis. In 2014, using the latest achievements of 1:250000 database, comprehensively update the 1:1000000 digital line graph database. At the same time, generate cartographic data of topographic map and digital elevation model data. This article mainly introduce national 1:1000000 cartographic data of topographic map, include feature content, database structure, Database-driven Mapping technology, workflow and so on.
COMPRESSION AND PROGRESSIVE RETRIEVAL OF MULTI-DIMENSIONAL SENSOR DATA
Authors: Lorkowski P. , Brinkhoff T.
Published: June 2016

Abstract. Since the emergence of sensor data streams, increasing amounts of observations have to be transmitted, stored and retrieved. Performing these tasks at the granularity of single points would mean an inappropriate waste of resources. Thus, we propose a concept that performs a partitioning of observations by spatial, temporal or other criteria (or a combination of them) into data segments. We exploit the resulting proximity (according to the partitioning dimension(s)) within each data segment for compression and efficient data retrieval. While in principle allowing lossless compression, it can also be used for progressive transmission with increasing accuracy wherever incremental data transfer is reasonable. In a first feasibility study, we apply the proposed method to a dataset of ARGO drifting buoys covering large spatio-temporal regions of the world´s oceans and compare the achieved compression ratio to other formats.
ANALYSIS AND VALIDATION OF GRID DEM GENERATION BASED ON GAUSSIAN MARKOV RANDOM FIELD
Authors: Aguilar F. J. , Aguilar M. A. , Blanco J. L. , Nemmaoui A. , García Lorca A. M.
Published: June 2016

Abstract. Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) are considered as one of the most relevant geospatial data to carry out land-cover and land-use classification. This work deals with the application of a mathematical framework based on a Gaussian Markov Random Field (GMRF) to interpolate grid DEMs from scattered elevation data. The performance of the GMRF interpolation model was tested on a set of LiDAR data (0.87 points/m2) provided by the Spanish Government (PNOA Programme) over a complex working area mainly covered by greenhouses in Almería, Spain. The original LiDAR data was decimated by randomly removing different fractions of the original points (from 10% to up to 99% of points removed). In every case, the remaining points (scattered observed points) were used to obtain a 1 m grid spacing GMRF-interpolated Digital Surface Model (DSM) whose accuracy was assessed by means of the set of previously extracted checkpoints. The GMRF accuracy results were compared with those provided by the widely known Triangulation with Linear Interpolation (TLI). Finally, the GMRF method was applied to a real-world case consisting of filling the LiDAR-derived DSM gaps after manually filtering out non-ground points to obtain a Digital Terrain Model (DTM). Regarding accuracy, both GMRF and TLI produced visually pleasing and similar results in terms of vertical accuracy. As an added bonus, the GMRF mathematical framework makes possible to both retrieve the estimated uncertainty for every interpolated elevation point (the DEM uncertainty) and include break lines or terrain discontinuities between adjacent cells to produce higher quality DTMs.
MODELING URBAN DYNAMICS USING RANDOM FOREST: IMPLEMENTING ROC AND TOC FOR MODEL EVALUATION
Authors: Ahmadlou M. , Delavar M. R. , Shafizadeh-Moghadam H. , Tayyebi A.
Published: June 2016

Abstract. The importance of spatial accuracy of land use/cover change maps necessitates the use of high performance models. To reach this goal, calibrating machine learning (ML) approaches to model land use/cover conversions have received increasing interest among the scholars. This originates from the strength of these techniques as they powerfully account for the complex relationships underlying urban dynamics. Compared to other ML techniques, random forest has rarely been used for modeling urban growth. This paper, drawing on information from the multi-temporal Landsat satellite images of 1985, 2000 and 2015, calibrates a random forest regression (RFR) model to quantify the variable importance and simulation of urban change spatial patterns. The results and performance of RFR model were evaluated using two complementary tools, relative operating characteristics (ROC) and total operating characteristics (TOC), by overlaying the map of observed change and the modeled suitability map for land use change (error map). The suitability map produced by RFR model showed 82.48% area under curve for the ROC model which indicates a very good performance and highlights its appropriateness for simulating urban growth.
GEOSPATIAL MODELLING APPROACH FOR 3D URBAN DENSIFICATION DEVELOPMENTS
Authors: Koziatek O. , Dragićević S. , Li S.
Published: June 2016

Abstract. With growing populations, economic pressures, and the need for sustainable practices, many urban regions are rapidly densifying developments in the vertical built dimension with mid- and high-rise buildings. The location of these buildings can be projected based on key factors that are attractive to urban planners, developers, and potential buyers. Current research in this area includes various modelling approaches, such as cellular automata and agent-based modelling, but the results are mostly linked to raster grids as the smallest spatial units that operate in two spatial dimensions. Therefore, the objective of this research is to develop a geospatial model that operates on irregular spatial tessellations to model mid- and high-rise buildings in three spatial dimensions (3D). The proposed model is based on the integration of GIS, fuzzy multi-criteria evaluation (MCE), and 3D GIS-based procedural modelling. Part of the City of Surrey, within the Metro Vancouver Region, Canada, has been used to present the simulations of the generated 3D building objects. The proposed 3D modelling approach was developed using ESRI’s CityEngine software and the Computer Generated Architecture (CGA) language.
SPECTRAL COLOR INDICES BASED GEOSPATIAL MODELING OF SOIL ORGANIC MATTER IN CHITWAN DISTRICT, NEPAL
Authors: Mandal Umesh K.
Published: June 2016

Abstract. Space Technology provides a resourceful-cost effective means to assess soil nutrients essential for soil management plan. Soil organic matter (SOM) is one of valuable controlling productivity of crops by providing nutrient in farming systems. Geospatial modeling of soil organic matter is essential if there is unavailability of soil test laboratories and its strong spatial correlation. In the present analysis, soil organic matter is modeled from satellite image derived spectral color indices. Brightness Index (BI), Coloration Index (CI), Hue Index (HI), Redness Index (RI) and Saturation Index (SI) were calculated by converting DN value to radiance and radiance to reflectance from Thematic Mapper image. Geospatial model was developed by regressing SOM with color indices and producing multiple regression model using stepwise regression technique. The multiple regression equation between SOM and spectral indices was significant with R = 0. 56 at 95% confidence level. The resulting MLR equation was then used for the spatial prediction for the entire study area. Redness Index was found higher significance in estimating the SOM. It was used to predict SOM as auxiliary variables using cokringing spatial interpolation technique. It was tested in seven VDCs of Chitwan district of Nepal using Thematic Mapper remotely sensed data. SOM was found to be measured ranging from 0.15% to 4.75 %, with a mean of 2.24 %. Remotely sensed data derived spectral color indices have the potential as useful auxiliary variables for estimating SOM content to generate soil fertility management plans.
SPATIAL-TEMPORAL DETECTION OF CHANGES ON THE SOUTHERN COAST OF THE BALTIC SEA BASED ON MULTITEMPORAL AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHS
Authors: Michalowska K. , Glowienka E. , Pekala A.
Published: June 2016

Abstract. Digital photogrammetry and remote sensing solutions applied under the project and combined with the geographical information system made it possible to utilize data originating from various sources and dating back to different periods. Research works made use of archival and up-to-date aerial images, satellite images, orthophotomaps. Multitemporal data served for mapping and monitoring intermediate conditions of the Baltic Sea shore zone without a need for a direct interference in the environment. The main objective of research was to determine the dynamics and volume of sea shore changes along the selected part of coast in the period of 1951-2004, and to assess the tendencies of shore development in that area. For each of the six annual data sets, the following were determined: front dune base line, water line and the beach width. The location of the dune base line, which reflects the course of the shoreline in a given year was reconstructed based on stereoscopic study of images from each annual set. Unidirectional changes in the period of 1951-2004 occurred only within 10% of the examined shore section length. The examined shore is marked by a high and considerable dynamics of changes. Almost half of the shore, in particular the middle coast shows big changes, in excess of 2 m/year. The limits of shoreline changes ranged from 120 to -90 m, and their velocity from 0 to 11 m/year, save that the middle and west parts of the examined coast section were subjected to definitely more intense shore transformations. Research based on the analysis of multitemporal aerial images made it possible to reconstruct the intermediate conditions of the Baltic Sea shoreline and determine the volume and rate of changes in the location of dune base line in the examined period of 53 years, and to find out tendencies of shore development and dynamics.
ESTABLISHING A NATIONAL 3D GEO-DATA MODEL FOR BUILDING DATA COMPLIANT TO CITYGML: CASE OF TURKEY
Authors: Ates Aydar S. , Stoter J. , Ledoux H. , Demir Ozbek E. , Yomralioglu T.
Published: June 2016

Abstract. This paper presents the generation of the 3D national building geo-data model of Turkey, which is compatible with the international OGC CityGML Encoding Standard. We prepare an ADE named CityGML-TRKBIS.BI that is produced by extending existing thematic modules of CityGML according to TRKBIS needs. All thematic data groups in TRKBIS geo-data model have been remodelled in order to generate the national large scale 3D geo-data model for Turkey. Specific attention has been paid to data groups that have different class structure according to related CityGML data themes such as building data model. Current 2D geo-information model for building data theme of Turkey (TRKBIS.BI) was established based on INSPIRE specifications for building (Core 2D and Extended 2D profiles), ISO/TC 211 standards and OGC web services. New version of TRKBIS.BI which is established according to semantic and geometric rules of CityGML will represent 2D-2.5D and 3D objects. After a short overview on generic approach, this paper describes extending CityGML building data theme according to TRKBIS.BI through several steps. First, building models of both standards were compared according to their data structure, classes and attributes. Second, CityGML building model was extended with respect to TRKBIS needs and CityGML-TRKBIS Building ADE was established in UML. This study provides new insights into 3D applications in Turkey. The generated 3D geo-data model for building thematic class will be used as a common exchange format that meets 2D, 2.5D and 3D implementation needs at national level.
Desertification of forest, range and desert in Tehran province, affected by climate change
Authors: Eskandari Hadi , Borji Moslem , Khosravi Hassan , Mesbahzadeh Tayebeh
Published: June 2016

Abstract. Climate change has been identified as a leading human and environmental crisis of the twenty-first century. Drylands throughout the world have always undergone periods of degradation due to naturally occurring fluctuation in climate. Persistence of widespread degradation in arid and semiarid regions of Iran necessitates monitoring and evaluation. This paper aims to monitor the desertification trend in three types of land use, including range, forest and desert, affected by climate change in Tehran province for the 2000s and 2030s. For assessing climate change at Mehrabad synoptic station, the data of two emission scenarios, including A2 and B2, were used, utilizing statistical downscaling techniques and data generated by the Statistical DownScaling Model (SDSM). The index of net primary production (NPP) resulting from Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) satellite images was employed as an indicator of destruction from 2001 to 2010. The results showed that temperature is the most significant driving force which alters the net primary production in rangeland, forest and desert land use in Tehran province. On the basis of monitoring findings under real conditions, in the 2000s, over 60 % of rangelands and 80 % of the forest were below the average production in the province. On the other hand, the long-term average changes of NPP in the rangeland and forests indicated the presence of relatively large areas of these land uses with a production rate lower than the desert. The results also showed that, assuming the existence of circumstances of each emission scenarios, the desertification status will not improve significantly in the rangelands and forests of Tehran province.
X-ray CT analyses, models and numerical simulations: a comparison with petrophysical analyses in an experimental CO2 study
Authors: Henkel Steven , Pudlo Dieter , Enzmann Frieder , Reitenbach Viktor , Albrecht Daniel , Ganzer Leonhard , Gaupp Reinhard
Published: June 2016

Abstract. An essential part of the collaborative research project H2STORE (hydrogen to store), which is funded by the German government, was a comparison of various analytical methods for characterizing reservoir sandstones from different stratigraphic units. In this context Permian, Triassic and Tertiary reservoir sandstones were analysed. Rock core materials, provided by RWE Gasspeicher GmbH (Dortmund, Germany), GDF Suez E&P Deutschland GmbH (Lingen, Germany), E.ON Gas Storage GmbH (Essen, Germany) and RAG Rohöl-Aufsuchungs Aktiengesellschaft (Vienna, Austria), were processed by different laboratory techniques; thin sections were prepared, rock fragments were crushed and cubes of 1 cm edge length and plugs 3 to 5 cm in length with a diameter of about 2.5 cm were sawn from macroscopic homogeneous cores. With this prepared sample material, polarized light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy, coupled with image analyses, specific surface area measurements (after Brunauer, Emmet and Teller, 1938; BET), He-porosity and N2-permeability measurements and high-resolution microcomputer tomography (μ-CT), which were used for numerical simulations, were applied. All these methods were practised on most of the same sample material, before and on selected Permian sandstones also after static CO2 experiments under reservoir conditions. A major concern in comparing the results of these methods is an appraisal of the reliability of the given porosity, permeability and mineral-specific reactive (inner) surface area data. The CO2 experiments modified the petrophysical as well as the mineralogical/geochemical rock properties. These changes are detectable by all applied analytical methods. Nevertheless, a major outcome of the high-resolution μ-CT analyses and following numerical data simulations was that quite similar data sets and data interpretations were maintained by the different petrophysical standard methods. Moreover, the μ-CT analyses are not only time saving, but also non-destructive. This is an important point if only minor sample material is available and a detailed comparison before and after the experimental tests on micrometre pore scale of specific rock features is envisaged.
Investigating the Extent to Which Personality Traits and Demographics Affect Job Satisfaction
Authors: Saeed Muhammad Sajid
Published: June 2016

The primary concern of this paper is to investigatethe extent to which three variables (i.e. personality traits, demographic variables, and job satisfaction) are interrelated with each other and what effect they have on each other in relation to the UK retail sector. The four different types of retail stores i.e. Tesco, Primark, Ikea and WH Smith were selected for survey purpose to minimise the class biasness.Total 300 close-ended questionnaires were distributed and 220 responses were obtained.The findings reveal that ‘Neuroticism’ is negatively associated with job satisfaction as well as with ‘Extraversion’. However, it is positively correlated with other three personality groups including ‘Agreeableness’, ‘Conscientious’, and ‘Openness’. On the other hand, ‘Openness to experience’ has a negative relationship with ‘Agreeableness’.It is also found from the ranking analysis that employees with ‘Agreeableness’ and ‘Conscientiousness’ personalities are more successful in their career and consequently they are more satisfied with their jobs.
Are The Cop21 Objectives Implementable?
Authors: Lane Jan Erik
Published: June 2016

Policy implementation is often difficult to achieve, especially in a heavily decentralised structure, policy analysts like Wildavsky & Sabatier suggested. Now, the international community is going to guide a large number of governments or states towards the accomplishment of the COP21 objectives, although no governance mechanisms have yet been set up or identified. The implementation process for the COP21 Agreement must now start in order to have any chance of succeeding with its main objective of a 40% reduction in CO2 emissions until 2030. Actually, this process of implementation is expected to go on for the entire century, as COP21 promises a carbon free economy sometime after 2050. I argue that it is likely that many governments will only deliver small changes in emission decreases, but keep enough fossil fuel energy sources in order to maintain some positive rate of economic growth. Complete decarbonisation of entire societies is a figment of Sachs’ imagination concerning “sustainable development”. Thee management tasks in relation to the fulfilment of the COP21 goals are mindboggling.
Impact of Accounting Information on Share Price: Empirical Evidence from Pakistan Stock Exchange
Authors: Asif Muhammad , Arif Kashif , Akbar Waqar
Published: June 2016

Purpose—The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship between accounting information and share price. In order to achieve this, a model that includes specific accounting ratios (earning per share, book value per share, capital employed per share and operating cash flow per share) and shares a price is developed. Design/methodology/approach—The data were collected from the companies listed in KSE-30 index. The time frame spans from 2006 to 2013 and OLS regression models were used to examine the relationshipsFindings—The resulting evidence suggest that accounting information parameters have significant influence on share price and they have joint explanatory power in determining stock prices. This research finds the consistent results with pervious empirical researches.Originality/value—The present study adds to the existing literature by examining the impact of accounting information on share prices within the context of an emerging capital market such as Pakistan Stock Exchange using KSE-30 companies. This is believed to be the first study which considers the aforementioned issues in the Pakistan’s capital market environment.
Kontroll og tilsyn med medisinsk forskning
Authors: Simonsen Sigmund , Nylenna Magne
Published: June 2016

En rekke ulike organer fører i dag kontroll med medisinsk forskning i Norge. Det er imidlertid vanskelig, både for forskere og myndigheter, å ha full oversikt over hvilke skjemaer som skal sendes hvor, og hvilken instans som har ansvaret for hva. Organenes virksomhet overlapper til en viss grad hverandre og de er satt til å håndheve et fragmentert og uklart regelverk. Disse forhold kan være et problem, både for forsøkspersoner og forskere, men også for samfunnet for øvrig. Artikkelforfatterne er tilknyttet Nylennautvalget, som er oppnevnt av Regjeringen for å gjennomgå reguleringen av medisinsk forskning som involverer mennesker og humant biologisk materiale. Utvalget skal komme med forslag til tiltak som kan sikre en hensiktsmessig og klar regulering av medisinsk forskningENGLISH SUMMARYA great many agencies monitor medical research in Norway. Both researchers and public authorities find it hard to get an overview over the current system. The agencies’ scopes are overlapping and they apply a fragmentary and unclear set of rules. Those circumstances may be a problem for research subjects and researchers, as well as for the society at large. The authors are engaged in the Nylennautvalget, a Committee of independent national experts appointed by the Norwegian government to evaluate the regulation of medical research involving human subjects and human material. The Committee is asked to recommend initiatives that may secure a clear and adequate regulation of medical research.
Epidemiologisk forskning med utgangspunkt i Medisinsk fødselsregister
Authors: Daltveit Anne Kjersti , Irgens Lorentz M.
Published: June 2016

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Reseptbasert legemiddelregister: Et viktig verktøy for å oppnå detaljert legemiddelstatistikk
Authors: Strøm Hanne
Published: June 2016

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Pasienter ut av ingenmannsland: Registeret for myalgisk encefalopati – ME/post viralt fatigue syndrom – PVFS.
Authors: Kreyberg Sidsel E.
Published: June 2016

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Populasjons-basert kreftregister i etiologisk forskning; illustrert ved studier basert på kobling mellom høyde- og vektdata og Kreftregisteret
Authors: Tretli Steinar , Robsahm Trude Eid
Published: June 2016

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Registerforskning i Danmark
Authors: Mortensen Preben Bo
Published: June 2016

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Miljø og helse
Authors: Nafstad Per , Dybing Erik
Published: June 2016

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The Norwegian National Reporting System and Register of Severe Allergic Reactions to Food
Authors: Løvik Martinus , Namork Ellen , Fæste Christiane , Egaas Eliann
Published: June 2016

The Norwegian National Reporting System and Register of Severe Allergic Reactions to Food, or the Food Allergy Register, is a nation-wide, government-funded permanent reporting and registration system for severe allergic reactions to food. The Food Allergy Register collects information based on a one-page reporting form, serum samples for specific IgE analysis, and food samples for food allergen analysis. Reporting physicians receive in return an extensive commentary on the reported case and the relevant allergies, and results of the specific IgE analysis and food allergen analysis.The Food Allergy Register has, after being active for a little more than four years, given valuable information about several important aspects of food allergy in Norway. The Food Allergy Register has revealed food safety problems in relation to allergy that probably could be discovered only with the help of a systematic, nation-wide registration of cases. The reactions of peanut allergic individuals to lupine flour in bakery products is an example of how the Food Allergy Register is able to reveal potentially serious problems that would otherwise probably have gone unnoticed and certainly unexplained. The amount and the value of the information from the Food Allergy Register are increasing as new reports of more cases are added. The typical Norwegian patient with a severe allergic reaction to food appears to be a young adult, female rather than male. The offending meal is consumed at a restaurant or fast-food stand or in a private party away from home, and peanuts, nuts and shellfish are among the most common offending foods, while fish allergy appears to be rather rare.
Eldre personer er sårbare i ekstreme værsituasjoner
Authors: Ranhoff Anette Hylen
Published: June 2016

I fjor sommer ble Europa rammet av en hetebølge og tusenvis av eldre mennesker døde. Sammenhengen mellom helsetilstand og påvirkning av klima er kompleks og medisinske, sosiale og miljømessige faktorer er involvert. Imidlertid er hete- og kulderelaterte sykdommer, skade og død i høy grad mulig å forebygge, og det er behov for å analysere denne situasjonen og andre ekstreme værsituasjoner for å kunne sikre helsen til eldre personer ved liknede hendelser i fremtiden.   Artikkelen gir en oversikt over litteratur som omhandler sykelighet og dødelighet som følge av ekstreme værforhold: hete, kulde og situasjoner der transport, elektrisitet og andre leveranser er begrenset, som etter en orkan, enorme snøfall eller liknende. Sammenhenger mellom sykelighet, dødelighet og temperatur i alminnelighet bli også omtalt, med spesielt fokus på de eldre.            Eldre som lever alene og er sosialt isolerte, og spesielt de som har funksjonshemning eller kognitiv svikt har høyest risiko for sykdom, skade og død i ekstreme værsituasjoner. Dette kan trolig i stor grad forebygges. Det anbefales at alle kommuner har kriseplaner for naturkatastrofer og ekstreme værsituasjoner som spesielt inneholder tiltak rettet mot sårbare eldre. Planene bør inneholde generell alarmering og informasjon samt systemer for oppsøkende virksomhet overfor risikogrupper. The 2003 heat wave in Europe was responsible for the deaths of thousands of elderly people. Heat- and cold-related illnesses, injuries and deaths are supposed to be largely preventable, and it is a need for analysing this situation and other situations with extreme weather conditions where elderly people are believed to be particularly vulnerableThis article is a review of the literature concerning morbidity and mortality in extreme weather conditions like heat, cold and situations where transportation, electricity, and other supplies are limited as a consequence of extreme weather such as after a hurricane or an enormous snowfall. Associations between mortality, morbidity and temperature in general are also discussed with focus on the elderly population. after a hurricane or an enormous snowfall. The frailest elderly are at the highest risk. In situati The elderly are at high risk for illnesses, injuries and death in extreme weather conditions. There are numerous reports from heat waves, but also cold-related problems are well documented. Other risk factors are disability, cognitive impairment, chronic disease, the use of special drugs and social isolation. Many risk factors are common for heat-, and cold-related problems, and also for other situations like ons with extreme weather conditions, we recommend local and central authorities to have emergency plans with special adaptations to the needs of elderly people and other vulnerable groups. These plans should include general warning and information and systems for preventive visits to high-risk groups..
Tidlige brukere av alkohol – hvem er de? Kjennetegn ved ungdom som starter tidlig med alkohol
Authors: Grimsmo Anders
Published: June 2016

SAMMENDRAGDebutalder med alkoholrus er en sterk prediktor for senere alkoholbruk. I denne undersøkelsen har visammenliknet de som starter med alkohol tidlig og før det er kulturelt akseptert, med ungdommenesom begynner i konfirmasjonsalder og de som utsetter alkoholdebuten. Vi finner at gruppen sombegynner tidlig ikke bare bryter de lokale tradisjonene for alkoholkonsum, men er i opposisjon tilnormer og autoriteter generelt. Alkohol er et positivt symbol for gruppen og det å ruse seg et ritualesom gir mening i deres miljø. Hjemmet står i den sterkeste posisjonen til å kunne utsette ungdommensalkoholdebut. Vi skisserer hvilke implikasjoner dette bør ha for strategien i det forebyggende arbeidet.
Påliteligheten av selvrapportert alkoholkonsum. Svalbardstudien 1988-89
Authors: Høyer m. fl Georg
Published: June 2016

SAMMENDRAGSvalbard er spesielt godt egnet til å vurdere påliteligheten av selvrapportert alkoholkonsum. På grunn av detlave prisnivået for alkohol er ulovlig import eller hjemmeproduksjon av alkohol ukjent på Svalbard. Dessutener samfunnet lite og oversiktlig, slik at det er praktisk mulig å undersøke hele befolkningen. I den aktuellestudien registrerte vi alt salg av alkohol til fastboende nordmenn på Svalbard i oktober og november 1988. Isamme tidsperiode ble alle nordmenn 18 år eller eldre invitert til å ta del i en helseundersøkelse der det inngikkspørsmål om alkoholbruk. Vi fant at selvrapportert alkoholkonsum utgjorde rundt 40% av salgsvolumet.På grunn av de spesielle forhold når det gjelder alkoholomsetning på Svalbard er det grunn til å anta atestimatet i denne studien er mer pålitelig sammenlignet med tilsvarende studier fra andre områder.Høyer G, Nilssen O, Brenn T, Schirmer H. The reliability of self-reported alcohol consumption.The Svalbard study 1988-89. Nor J Epidemiol 1996; 6 (1): 109-113.ENGLISH SUMMARYThe Norwegian island of Spitzbergen, Svalbard offers a unique setting for validation studies on self-reportedalcohol consumption. No counterfeit production or illegal import exists, thus making a complete registrationof all sources of alcohol possible. In this study we recorded sales from all agencies selling alcohol onSvalbard over a two month period in 1988. During the same period all adults living permanently on Svalbardwere invited to take part in a health screening. As part of the screening a self-administered questionnaire onalcohol consumption was introduced to the participants. We found that the self-reported volume accounted forapproximately 40 percent of the sales volume. Because of the unique situation applying to Svalbard, theestimate made in this study is believed to be more reliable compared to other studies using sales volume tovalidate self-reports.
A Matter of Love: Exploring What Enables Work-family Enrichment
Authors: Kim Sowon , Heras Mireia Las , Bosch Maria Jose
Published: June 2016

The purpose of this empirical study is to examine the conditions under which work-family enrichment happens. We conducted a total of 30 interviews with managers (and their spouses) participating in a demanding executive education program at a prestigious business school in Spain in order to explore how work and family resources are generated and transferred from one role to the other. Based on the qualitative results, we developed a model and surveyed 302 Chilean employees across an organization in the industrial sector in order to test our preliminary results in the qualitative stage. In our qualitative study, we find that there is a unique resource generated only in the family domain, which we define as “agape love” that contributes to enrichment. Our quantitative study confirms that, the more individuals experience agape love from spouse and children, the more the family enriches the employee’s work life.
Effects of Delayed Sample Processing on Determination of Total and High Molecular Weight (HMW) Adiponectin in Serum and Plasma: A Pilot Study
Authors: Ng Choaping , Rose Felicity J , Keshvari Sahar , Reeves Marina M , Dimeski Goce , Hickman Ingrid J , Whitehead Jonathan P
Published: June 2016

Adiponectin is a beneficial adipocyte-secreted hormone, which circulates in a variety of multimeric forms termed low and high molecular weight (LMW/HMW). Effectiveness of clinical therapeutic trials which target adiponectin rely on accurate determination of circulating total and HMW adiponectin levels but the accuracy may be influenced by variations in sample handling processes. The aim of this pilot study was to investigate the effects of delayed processing of blood samples on the concentration of total and HMW adiponectin.

Materials and Methods: Fasting blood samples were collected for analysis of total and HMW adiponectin concentrations in EDTA plasma and serum from eight healthy participants.  Samples were centrifuged post 15 min storage at 4oC as the comparative ‘ideal’ method or after up to 72 h of refrigerated storage or 6 h at room temperature. Total and HMW adiponectin concentrations were measured by ELISA.

Results: Under ideal handling conditions measurements of total and HMW adiponectin concentrations were significantly higher in serum than in plasma (mean difference: -1.3 µg/mL [95% CI: -1.6, -1.0], p<0.001; and, -0.6 µg/mL [95% CI: -0.7, -0.5], p<0.001, respectively).  Storage of blood samples at 4oC for 72 h resulted in significant reductions in concentration of total adiponectin in serum (mean difference: -1.4 µg/mL [95% CI: -2.0, -0.8], p=0.001) and HMW adiponectin in plasma (mean difference: -0.6 µg/mL [95%CI: -0.9, -0.2], p=0.007), compared with ideal conditions.  Further analysis of serum samples showed a significant decrease in total adiponectin concentration after 6 h storage at 4oC (mean difference: -1.4 µg/mL [95% CI: -2.0, -0.8], p=0.001) compared with ideal conditions.

Conclusions: Delayed processing of samples may have differential effects on the concentration of total and HMW adiponectin in serum or plasma. Larger studies are warranted for clinical intervention trials.
Analysis of Psychological Spouse Abuse against Men in Iranian Couples: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Nouri Ahmad , Etemadi Ozra , Jazayeri Rezvanossadat , Fatehizade Maryam
Published: June 2016

This study aimed to explore the psychological spouse abuse against men in a sample of Iranian couples. This qualitative study used the grounded theory in triangulation. The statistical population consisted of a compilation of electronic resources, books, theses, and journals, family counseling experts’ opinions and men who suffered from spouse abuse in Isfahan. Purposeful sampling began and continued until saturation of the categories. Data collection consisted of 15 semi-structured interviews with abused married men, 10 interviews with family counseling experts and content analysis of books, articles, and journals related to psychological spouse abuse. The results showed that some cases of spouse abuse against the men are neglecting the spouse’ needs, lack of commitment and accountability, arbitrary behavior, turning to anti-moral values and some habits and annoying personality traits. Spouse abuse is rooted in social, religious, economic, environmental, cultural backgrounds and family life. Intervening factors include factors related to the others, personality traits of the abused person and background factors. The causal factors include the interpersonal conditions and personality types. The most important strategy for men against spouse abuse include aggressive-confronting response, silence, peaceful, defense, reform reaction and alternative reaction. The psychological consequences of marital violence include, individual, interpersonal, family, and social consequences. As a result, psychological spouse abuse against men is affected by a number of factors that were discussed in this study.
Microbial Glycosylation of Flavonoids
Authors: SORDON SANDRA , POPŁOŃSKI JAROSŁAW , HUSZCZA EWA
Published: June 2016

Flavonoids constitute a large group of polyphenolic compounds naturally found in plants, which have a wide range of biological activity. Although flavonoids are beneficial to human health, their application is limited by their low bioavailability and poor water-solubility. Therefore, recently there has been a particular interest in glycosylated forms of flavonoids, which usually are better soluble, more stable, and more functional compared to their aglycones. Microbial transformation of natural flavonoids may be an attractive way of receiving their glycosylated derivatives in amounts sufficient for the research on the effect of glycoside group on compound properties and for further application of these compounds as ingredients of dietary supplements and pharmaceuticals.
Interaction of Gram-Positive and Gram-Negative Bacteria with Ceramic Nanomaterials Obtained by Combustion Synthesis – Adsorption and Cytotoxicity Studies
Authors: BORKOWSKI ANDRZEJ , OWCZAREK FILIP , SZALA MATEUSZ , SELWET MAREK
Published: June 2016

This paper presents the interactions of Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) and Gram-negative (Pseudomonas putida) bacteria with ceramic materials obtained by combustion synthesis. These studies were conducted based on an analysis of the adsorption of bacteria onto aggregates of ceramic materials in an aqueous suspension. The materials used in the studies were of a nanostructured nature and consisted mainly of carbides: silicon carbide (SiC) in the form of nanofibers (NFs) and nanorods (NRs), titanium carbide, and graphite, which can also be formed by combustion synthesis. Micrometric SiC was used as a reference material. Gram-positive bacteria adsorbed more strongly to these materials. It seems that both the point of zero charge value and the texture of the ceramic material affected the bacterial adsorption process. Additionally, the viability of bacteria adsorbed onto aggregates of the materials decreased. Generally, P. putida cells were more sensitive to the nanomaterials than S. aureus cells. The maximum loss of viability was noted in the case of bacteria adsorbed onto NRSiC and NFSiC aggregates.