bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Influence of Urban Natural and Built Environments on Physiological and Psychological Measures of Stress— A Pilot Study
Authors: Beil Kurt , Hanes Douglas
Published: March 2013

Environments shape health and well-being, yet little research has investigated how different real-world environmental settings influence the well-known determinant of health known as stress. Using a cross-over experimental design; this pilot study investigated the effect of four urban environments on physiological and psychological stress measures. Participants (N = 15) were exposed on separate days to one of the four settings for 20 min. These settings were designated as Very Natural; Mostly Natural; Mostly Built and Very Built. Visitation order to the four settings was individually randomized. Salivary cortisol and alpha-amylase; as well as self-report measures of stress; were collected before and after exposure to each setting. Gender was included as a variable in analysis; and additional data about environmental self-identity, pre-existing stress, and perceived restorativeness of settings were collected as measures of covariance. Differences between environmental settings showed greater benefit from exposure to natural settings relative to built settings; as measured by pre-to-post changes in salivary amylase and self-reported stress; differences were more significant for females than for males. Inclusion of covariates in a regression analysis demonstrated significant predictive value of perceived restorativeness on these stress measures, suggesting some potential level of mediation. These data suggest that exposure to natural environments may warrant further investigation as a health promotion method for reducing stress.
Nature Appropriation and Associations with Population Health in Canada’s Largest Cities
Authors: Rainham Daniel , Cantwell Rory , Jason Timothy
Published: March 2013

Earth is a finite system with a limited supply of resources. As the human population grows, so does the appropriation of Earth’s natural capital, thereby exacerbating environmental concerns such as biodiversity loss, increased pollution, deforestation and global warming. Such concerns will negatively impact human health although it is widely believed that improving socio-economic circumstances will help to ameliorate environmental impacts and improve health outcomes. However, this belief does not explicitly acknowledge the fact that improvements in socio-economic position are reliant on increased inputs from nature. Gains in population health, particularly through economic means, are disconnected from the appropriation of nature to create wealth so that health gains become unsustainable. The current study investigated the sustainability of human population health in Canada with regard to resource consumption or “ecological footprints” (i.e., the resources required to sustain a given population). Ecological footprints of the 20 largest Canadian cities, along with several important determinants of health such as income and education, were statistically compared with corresponding indicators of human population health outcomes. A significant positive relationship was found between ecological footprints and life expectancy, as well as a significant negative relationship between ecological footprints and the prevalence of high blood pressure. Results suggest that increased appropriation of nature is linked to improved health outcomes. To prevent environmental degradation from excessive appropriation of natural resources will require the development of health promotion strategies that are de-coupled from ever-increasing and unsustainable resource use. Efforts to promote population health should focus on health benefits achieved from a lifestyle based on significantly reduced consumption of natural resources.
The Multiple Faces of Prostaglandin E2 G-Protein Coupled Receptor Signaling during the Dendritic Cell Life Cycle
Authors: De Keijzer Sandra , Meddens Marjolein , Torensma Ruurd , Cambi Alessandra
Published: March 2013

Many processes regulating immune responses are initiated by G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) and report biochemical changes in the microenvironment. Dendritic cells (DCs) are the most potent antigen-presenting cells and crucial for the regulation of innate and adaptive immune responses. The lipid mediator Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) via four GPCR subtypes (EP1-4) critically regulates DC generation, maturation and migration. The role of PGE2 signaling in DC biology was unraveled by the characterization of EP receptor subtype expression in DC progenitor cells and DCs, the identification of the signaling pathways initiated by these GPCR subtypes and the classification of DC responses to PGE2 at different stages of differentiation. Here, we review the advances in PGE2 signaling in DCs and describe the efforts still to be made to understand the spatio-temporal fine-tuning of PGE2 responses by DCs.
Noninvasive Metabolomic Profiling of Human Embryo Culture Media Using a Simple Spectroscopy Adjunct to Morphology for Embryo Assessment in in Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
Authors: Zhao Qinghong , Yin Tailang , Peng Jin , Zou Yujie , Yang Jing , Shen Aiguo , Hu Jiming
Published: March 2013

Embryo quality is crucial to the outcome of in vitro fertilization (IVF); however, the ability to precisely distinguish the embryos with higher reproductive potential from others is poor. Morphologic evaluation used to play an important role in assessing embryo quality, but it is somewhat subjective. The culture medium is the immediate environment of the embryos in vitro, and a change of the substances in the culture medium is possibly related to the embryo quality. Thus, the present study aims to determine whether metabolomic profiling of the culture medium using Raman spectroscopy adjunct to morphology correlates with the reproductive potential of embryos in IVF and, thus, to look for a new method of assessing embryo quality. Fifty seven spent media samples were detected by Raman spectroscopy. Combined with embryo morphology scores, we found that embryos in culture media with less than 0.012 of sodium pyruvate and more than −0.00085 phenylalanine have a high reproductive potential, with up to 85.7% accuracy compared with clinical pregnancy. So, sodium pyruvate and phenylalanine in culture medium play an important role in the development of the embryo. Raman spectroscopy is an important tool that provides a new and accurate assessment of higher quality embryos.
Diacylglycerol Kinases: Regulated Controllers of T Cell Activation, Function, and Development
Authors: Joshi Rohan , Koretzky Gary
Published: March 2013

Diacylglycerol kinases (DGKs) are a diverse family of enzymes that catalyze the conversion of diacylglycerol (DAG), a crucial second messenger of receptor-mediated signaling, to phosphatidic acid (PA). Both DAG and PA are bioactive molecules that regulate a wide set of intracellular signaling proteins involved in innate and adaptive immunity. Clear evidence points to a critical role for DGKs in modulating T cell activation, function, and development. More recently, studies have elucidated factors that control DGK function, suggesting an added complexity to how DGKs act during signaling. This review summarizes the available knowledge of the function and regulation of DGK isoforms in signal transduction with a particular focus on T lymphocytes.
The Protective Effects of α-Lipoic Acid on Kidneys in Type 2 Diabetic Goto-Kakisaki Rats via Reducing Oxidative Stress
Authors: Feng Bo , Yan Xin-Feng , Xue Jun-Li , Xu Lei , Wang Hua
Published: March 2013

To evaluate the protective effects of α-lipoic acid on the kidneys of Goto-Kakisaki (GK) diabetic rats, ten GK diabetic rats were randomly divided into a diabetic control group and a lipoic acid-treated diabetic group with α-lipoic acid 35 mg·Kg−1 intraperitoneal injections. Four healthy Wistar rats served as normal controls. Malonaldehyde (MDA), ascorbic acid (vitamin C), vitamin E, glutathione (GSH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels in renal homogenate, and urine protein excretion were measured. The expression of mRNA for NF-κB, NADPH oxidase subunits p22phox and p47phox in renal tissue was examined by realtime PCR. Pathological changes in renal tissue were evaluated by light and electron microscopy. There were significant increases in urine protein excretion, MDA levels and the expression of mRNA of NF-κB, p22phox and p47phox, and significant decreases in GSH, SOD, vitamin C and vitamin E levels in the diabetic control group compared with the normal control group. Pathological changes of renal tissue were more progressive in the diabetic control group than in the normal control group. All the parameters above were improved in the α-lipoic acid-treated diabetic group. Oxidative stress is increased in the kidney of type 2 diabetic GK rats. It is associated with the progression of diabetic nephropathy. α-lipoic acid can protect renal function in diabetic rats via its antioxidant activity.
Alternative Oxidase: A Mitochondrial Respiratory Pathway to Maintain Metabolic and Signaling Homeostasis during Abiotic and Biotic Stress in Plants
Authors: Vanlerberghe Greg
Published: March 2013

Alternative oxidase (AOX) is a non-energy conserving terminal oxidase in the plant mitochondrial electron transport chain. While respiratory carbon oxidation pathways, electron transport, and ATP turnover are tightly coupled processes, AOX provides a means to relax this coupling, thus providing a degree of metabolic homeostasis to carbon and energy metabolism. Beside their role in primary metabolism, plant mitochondria also act as “signaling organelles”, able to influence processes such as nuclear gene expression. AOX activity can control the level of potential mitochondrial signaling molecules such as superoxide, nitric oxide and important redox couples. In this way, AOX also provides a degree of signaling homeostasis to the organelle. Evidence suggests that AOX function in metabolic and signaling homeostasis is particularly important during stress. These include abiotic stresses such as low temperature, drought, and nutrient deficiency, as well as biotic stresses such as bacterial infection. This review provides an introduction to the genetic and biochemical control of AOX respiration, as well as providing generalized examples of how AOX activity can provide metabolic and signaling homeostasis. This review also examines abiotic and biotic stresses in which AOX respiration has been critically evaluated, and considers the overall role of AOX in growth and stress tolerance.
Impact of Notch Signaling on Inflammatory Responses in Cardiovascular Disorders
Authors: Quillard Thibaut , Charreau Beatrice
Published: March 2013

Notch signaling is a major pathway in cell fate decisions. Since the first reports showing the major role of Notch in embryonic development, a considerable and still growing literature further highlights its key contributions in various pathological processes during adult life. In particular, Notch is now considered as a major player in vascular homeostasis through the control of key cellular functions. In parallel, confounding evidence emerged that inflammatory responses regulate Notch signaling in vitro in endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells or vascular infiltrating cells and in vivo in vascular and inflammatory disorders and in cardiovascular diseases. This review presents how inflammation influences Notch in vascular cells and, reciprocally, emphasizes the functional role of Notch on inflammatory processes, notably by regulating key cell functions (differentiation, proliferation, apoptosis/survival, activation). Understanding how the disparity of Notch receptors and ligands impacts on vasculature biology remains critical for the design of relevant and adequate therapeutic strategies targeting Notch in this major pathological context.
Magnetotactic Bacteria from Extreme Environments
Authors: Bazylinski Dennis , Lefèvre Christopher
Published: March 2013

Magnetotactic bacteria (MTB) represent a diverse collection of motile prokaryotes that biomineralize intracellular, membrane-bounded, tens-of-nanometer-sized crystals of a magnetic mineral called magnetosomes. Magnetosome minerals consist of either magnetite (Fe3O4) or greigite (Fe3S4) and cause cells to align along the Earth’s geomagnetic field lines as they swim, a trait called magnetotaxis. MTB are known to mainly inhabit the oxic–anoxic interface (OAI) in water columns or sediments of aquatic habitats and it is currently thought that magnetosomes function as a means of making chemotaxis more efficient in locating and maintaining an optimal position for growth and survival at the OAI. Known cultured and uncultured MTB are phylogenetically associated with the Alpha-, Gamma- and Deltaproteobacteria classes of the phylum Proteobacteria, the Nitrospirae phylum and the candidate division OP3, part of the Planctomycetes-Verrucomicrobia-Chlamydiae (PVC) bacterial superphylum. MTB are generally thought to be ubiquitous in aquatic environments as they are cosmopolitan in distribution and have been found in every continent although for years MTB were thought to be restricted to habitats with pH values near neutral and at ambient temperature. Recently, however, moderate thermophilic and alkaliphilic MTB have been described including: an uncultured, moderately thermophilic magnetotactic bacterium present in hot springs in northern Nevada with a probable upper growth limit of about 63 °C; and several strains of obligately alkaliphilic MTB isolated in pure culture from different aquatic habitats in California, including the hypersaline, extremely alkaline Mono Lake, with an optimal growth pH of >9.0.
Synthetic Aspects and Electro-Optical Properties of Fluorinated Arylenevinylenes for Luminescence and Photovoltaics
Authors: Martinelli Carmela , Farinola Gianluca , Pinto Vita , Cardone Antonio
Published: March 2013

In this review, the main synthetic aspects and properties of fluorinated arylenevinylene compounds, both oligomers and polymers, are summarized and analyzed. Starting from vinyl organotin derivatives and aryl halides, the Stille cross-coupling reaction has been successfully applied as a versatile synthetic protocol to prepare a wide series of π-conjugated compounds, selectively fluorinated on the aromatic and/or vinylene units. The impact of fluoro-functionalization on properties, the solid state organization and intermolecular interactions of the synthesized compounds are discussed, also in comparison with the non-fluorinated counterparts. Luminescent and photovoltaic applications are also discussed, highlighting the role of fluorine on the performance of devices.
Challenges for MicroRNA Microarray Data Analysis
Authors: Wang Bin , Xi Yaguang
Published: March 2013

Microarray is a high throughput discovery tool that has been broadly used for genomic research. Probe-target hybridization is the central concept of this technology to determine the relative abundance of nucleic acid sequences through fluorescence-based detection. In microarray experiments, variations of expression measurements can be attributed to many different sources that influence the stability and reproducibility of microarray platforms. Normalization is an essential step to reduce non-biological errors and to convert raw image data from multiple arrays (channels) to quality data for further analysis. In general, for the traditional microarray analysis, most established normalization methods are based on two assumptions: (1) the total number of target genes is large enough (>10,000); and (2) the expression level of the majority of genes is kept constant. However, microRNA (miRNA) arrays are usually spotted in low density, due to the fact that the total number of miRNAs is less than 2,000 and the majority of miRNAs are weakly or not expressed. As a result, normalization methods based on the above two assumptions are not applicable to miRNA profiling studies. In this review, we discuss a few representative microarray platforms on the market for miRNA profiling and compare the traditional methods with a few novel strategies specific for miRNA microarrays.
Microwave Assisted Suzuki-Miyaura and Ullmann Type Homocoupling Reactions of 2- and 3-Halopyridines Using a Pd(OAc)2/Benzimidazolium Salt and Base Catalyst System
Authors: Yılmaz Ülkü , Deniz Selma , Küçükbay Hasan , Şireci Nihat
Published: March 2013

A number of novel benzimidazole derivatives 1–4 were synthesized and the catalytic activity of these compounds in a catalytic system consisting of a benzimidazolium salt/Pd(OAc)2/K2CO3 were investigated in the Suzuki-Miyaura and Ullmann type homocoupling reactions under microwave irradiation. We obtained both cross coupling and homocoupling products of pyridine and some side products such as dimethylaminopyridine and unsubstituted pyridine.
Comparing the Suitability of Autodock, Gold and Glide for the Docking and Predicting the Possible Targets of Ru(II)-Based Complexes as Anticancer Agents
Authors: Adeniyi Adebayo , Ajibade Peter
Published: March 2013

In cancer chemotherapy, metal-based complexes have been recognized as the most promising means of inhibiting cancer growth due to the successful application of cis-platin and its derivatives above many of the existing organic anticancer agents. The limitations in their rational design can be traced to the complexity of the mechanism of their operations, lack of proper knowledge of their targets and lack of force fields in docking packages to appropriately define the metal centre of the organometallic complexes. In this paper, some of the promising anticancer complexes of Ru(II) such as the rapta-based complexes formulated as [Ru(η6-p-cymene)L2(pta)] and those with unusual ligands are considered. CatB and kinases which have been experimentally confirmed as possible targets of the complexes are also predicted by the three methods as one of the most targeted receptors while TopII and HDAC7 are predicted by two and one of the methods as best targets. The interesting features of the binding of the complexes show that some of the complexes preferentially target specific macromolecules than the others, which is an indication of their specificity and possibility of their therapeutic combination without severe side effects that may come from competition for the same target. Also, introduction of unusual ligands is found to significantly improve the activities of most of the complexes studied. Strong correlations are observed for the predicted binding sites and the orientation of the complexes within the binding site by the three methods of docking. However there are disparities in the ranking of the complexes by the three method of docking, especially that of Glide.
Synthesis and Anti-Influenza Virus Activities of a Novel Class of Gastrodin Derivatives
Authors: Xue Si-Tu , He Wei-Ying , Ma Lin-Lin , Wang Hui-Qiang , Wang Bo , Zheng Guang-Hui , Ji Xing-Yue , Zhang Tian , Li Yu-Huan , Jiang Jian-Dong , Li Zhuo-Rong
Published: March 2013

A series of substituted aryl glycoside analogues of gastrodin have been identified as potential anti-influenza agents. The most potent inhibitor 1a exhibited moderate inhibitory activity against the A/Hanfang/359/95(H3N2) and A/FM/1/47(H1N1) strains of the influenza A virus (IC50 values of 44.40 and 34.45 μM, respectively) and the oseltamivir-null B/Jifang/13/97 strain of influenza B (IC50 value of 33.01 μM). In this article, multiple doses of compound 1a (80 mg/kg/day, oral administration) were used for the treatment of mice infected with influenza A/FM/1/47-MA (H1N1), and surprisingly we found that compound 1a significantly increased the number of survivors and prolonged the mean survival time. The preliminary studies on the mechanism of antiviral activity showed no interaction between compound 1a and the neuraminidase or the M2 protein. The novel target to overcome drug resistance combined with its good in vivo profile support compound 1a to be a new lead for further development of antiviral agents.
Effects of Microstructure on Electrode Properties of Nanosheet-Derived Hx(Ni1/3Co1/3Mn1/3)O2 for Electrochemical Capacitors
Authors: Yano Masato , Suzuki Shinya , Miyayama Masaru , Ohgaki Masataka
Published: March 2013

Nanosheet-derived Hx(Ni1/3Co1/3Mn1/3)O2 was prepared by restacking (Ni1/3Co1/3Mn1/3)O2 nanosheets with large or small lateral sizes and their electrochemical properties in a 1 M KOH aqueous solution; microstructural factors were compared with those of bulk Hx(Ni1/3Co1/3Mn1/3)O2 (HNCM). The electrodes composed of small nanosheets exhibited very large capacitances of 1241 F·g−1 (395 mAh·g−1) at a current density of 50 mA·g−1, and 430 F·g−1 (100 mAh·g−1) at a large current density of 1000 mA·g−1. These large capacitances resulted from a heterogeneous layer structure with a large surface area and pore volume. The electrodes of large nanosheets, with a strongly interconnected microstructure and a surface area slightly larger than that of HNCM, exhibited good cycle stability and capacitances larger than that of HNCM. Microstructural control through the restacking of (Ni1/3Co1/3Mn1/3)O2 nanosheets improved the electrochemical properties of Hx(Ni, Co, Mn)O2.
Interactions of a Dopamine D1 Receptor Agonist with Glutamate NMDA Receptor Antagonists on the Volitional Consumption of Ethanol by the mHEP Rat
Authors: McMillen Brian , Lommatzsch Courtney , Sayonh Michael , Williams Helen
Published: March 2013

Stimulation of the dopamine D1 receptor is reported to cause the phosphorylation of DARPP-32 at the thre34 position and activates the protein. If intracellular Ca2+ is increased, such as after activation of the glutamate NMDA receptor, calcineurin activity increases and the phosphates will be removed. This balance of phosphorylation control suggests that a D1 receptor agonist and a NMDA glutamate receptor antagonist should have additive or synergistic actions to increase activated DARPP-32 and consequent behavioral effects. This hypothesis was tested in a volitional consumption of ethanol model: the selectively bred Myers’ high ethanol preferring (mHEP) rat. A 3-day baseline period was followed by 3-days of twice daily injections of drug(s) or vehicle(s) and then a 3-day post-treatment period. Vehicle, the D1 agonist SKF 38393, the non-competitive NMDA receptor antagonist memantine, or their combination were injected 2 h before and after lights out. The combination of 5.0 mg/kg SKF 38393 with either 3.0 or 10 mg/kg memantine did not produce an additive or synergistic effect. For example, 5.0 mg/kg SKF reduced consumption of ethanol by 27.3% and 10 mg/kg memantine by 39.8%. When combined, consumption declined by 48.2% and the proportion of ethanol solution to total fluids consumed declined by 17%. However, the consumption of food also declined by 36.6%. The latter result indicates that this dose combination had a non-specific effect. The combination of SKF 38393 with (+)-MK-801, another NMDA receptor antagonist, also failed to show an additive effect. The lack of additivity and specificity suggests that the hypothesis may not be correct for this in vivo model. The interaction of these different receptor systems with intraneuronal signaling and behaviors needs to be studied further.
The Leaf Adaxial-Abaxial Boundary and Lamina Growth
Authors: Nakata Miyuki , Okada Kiyotaka
Published: March 2013

In multicellular organisms, boundaries have a role in preventing the intermingling of two different cell populations and in organizing the morphogenesis of organs and the entire organism. Plant leaves have two different cell populations, the adaxial (or upper) and abaxial (or lower) cell populations, and the boundary is considered to be important for lamina growth. At the boundary between the adaxial and abaxial epidermis, corresponding to the margin, margin-specific structures are developed and structurally separate the adaxial and abaxial epidermis from each other. The adaxial and abaxial cells are determined by the adaxial and abaxial regulatory genes (including transcription factors and small RNAs), respectively. Among many lamina-growth regulators identified by recent genetic analyses, it has been revealed that the phytohormone, auxin, and the WOX family transcription factors act at the adaxial-abaxial boundary downstream of the adaxial-abaxial pattern. Furthermore, mutant analyses of the WOX genes shed light on the role of the adaxial-abaxial boundary in preventing the mixing of the adaxial and abaxial features during lamina growth. In this review, we highlight the recent studies on the dual role of the adaxial-abaxial boundary.
Crashing, Chaos, Culture and Connection
Authors: Miller Joshua
Published: March 2013

This essay considers the experience of a seasoned disaster responder who encountered a personal disaster while traveling in Thailand. The resulting injury and helplessness led to new insights about mortality, vulnerability, culture and the significance of social trust—echoing lessons gained from professional experiences, but giving them new meaning and resonance.
Estimating Crop Coefficients Using Remote Sensing-Based Vegetation Index
Authors: Kamble Baburao , Kilic Ayse , Hubbard Kenneth
Published: March 2013

Crop coefficient (Kc)-based estimation of crop evapotranspiration is one of the most commonly used methods for irrigation water management. However, uncertainties of the generalized dual crop coefficient (Kc) method of the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations Irrigation and Drainage Paper No. 56 can contribute to crop evapotranspiration estimates that are substantially different from actual crop evapotranspiration. Similarities between the crop coefficient curve and a satellite-derived vegetation index showed potential for modeling a crop coefficient as a function of the vegetation index. Therefore, the possibility of directly estimating the crop coefficient from satellite reflectance of a crop was investigated. The Kc data used in developing the relationship with NDVI were derived from back-calculations of the FAO-56 dual crop coefficients procedure using field data obtained during 2007 from representative US cropping systems in the High Plains from AmeriFlux sites. A simple linear regression model ( ) is developed to establish a general relationship between a normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) from a moderate resolution satellite data (MODIS) and the crop coefficient (Kc) calculated from the flux data measured for different crops and cropping practices using AmeriFlux towers. There was a strong linear correlation between the NDVI-estimated Kc and the measured Kc with an r2 of 0.91 and 0.90, while the root-mean-square error (RMSE) for Kc in 2006 and 2007 were 0.16 and 0.19, respectively. The procedure for quantifying crop coefficients from NDVI data presented in this paper should be useful in other regions of the globe to understand regional irrigation water consumption.
A Distributed Signature Detection Method for Detecting Intrusions in Sensor Systems
Authors: Kim Ilkyu , Oh Doohwan , Yoon Myung , Yi Kyueun , Ro Won
Published: March 2013

Sensor nodes in wireless sensor networks are easily exposed to open and unprotected regions. A security solution is strongly recommended to prevent networks against malicious attacks. Although many intrusion detection systems have been developed, most systems are difficult to implement for the sensor nodes owing to limited computation resources. To address this problem, we develop a novel distributed network intrusion detection system based on theWu–Manber algorithm. In the proposed system, the algorithm is divided into two steps; the first step is dedicated to a sensor node, and the second step is assigned to a base station. In addition, the first step is modified to achieve efficient performance under limited computation resources. We conduct evaluations with random string sets and actual intrusion signatures to show the performance improvement of the proposed method. The proposed method achieves a speedup factor of 25.96 and reduces 43.94% of packet transmissions to the base station compared with the previously proposed method. The system achieves efficient utilization of the sensor nodes and provides a structural basis of cooperative systems among the sensors.
Biaxial Yield Surface Investigation of Polymer-Matrix Composites
Authors: Ye Junjie , Qiu Yuanying , Zhai Zhi , He Zhengjia
Published: March 2013

This article presents a numerical technique for computing the biaxial yield surface of polymer-matrix composites with a given microstructure. Generalized Method of Cells in combination with an Improved Bodner-Partom Viscoplastic model is used to compute the inelastic deformation. The validation of presented model is proved by a fiber Bragg gratings (FBGs) strain test system through uniaxial testing under two different strain rate conditions. On this basis, the manufacturing process thermal residual stress and strain rate effect on the biaxial yield surface of composites are considered. The results show that the effect of thermal residual stress on the biaxial yield response is closely dependent on loading conditions. Moreover, biaxial yield strength tends to increase with the increasing strain rate.
Fabrication Quality Analysis of a Fiber Optic Refractive Index Sensor Created by CO2 Laser Machining
Authors: Chen Chien-Hsing , Yeh Bo-Kuan , Tang Jaw-Luen , Wu Wei-Te
Published: March 2013

This study investigates the CO2 laser-stripped partial cladding of silica-based optic fibers with a core diameter of 400 μm, which enables them to sense the refractive index of the surrounding environment. However, inappropriate treatments during the machining process can generate a number of defects in the optic fiber sensors. Therefore, the quality of optic fiber sensors fabricated using CO2 laser machining must be analyzed. The results show that analysis of the fiber core size after machining can provide preliminary defect detection, and qualitative analysis of the optical transmission defects can be used to identify imperfections that are difficult to observe through size analysis. To more precisely and quantitatively detect fabrication defects, we included a tensile test and numerical aperture measurements in this study. After a series of quality inspections, we proposed improvements to the existing CO2 laser machining parameters, namely, a vertical scanning pathway, 4 W of power, and a feed rate of 9.45 cm/s. Using these improved parameters, we created optical fiber sensors with a core diameter of approximately 400 μm, no obvious optical transmission defects, a numerical aperture of 0.52 ± 0.019, a 0.886 Weibull modulus, and a 1.186 Weibull-shaped parameter. Finally, we used the optical fiber sensor fabricated using the improved parameters to measure the refractive indices of various solutions. The results show that a refractive-index resolution of 1.8 × 10−4 RIU (linear fitting R2 = 0.954) was achieved for sucrose solutions with refractive indices ranging between 1.333 and 1.383. We also adopted the particle plasmon resonance sensing scheme using the fabricated optical fibers. The results provided additional information, specifically, a superior sensor resolution of 5.73 × 10−5 RIU, and greater linearity at R2 = 0.999.
Explaining the Paradox: How Pro-Environmental Behaviour can both Thwart and Foster Well-Being
Authors: Venhoeven Leonie , Bolderdijk Jan , Steg Linda
Published: March 2013

Although pro-environmental behaviour is often believed to be difficult, aggravating, and potentially threatening one’s quality of life, recent studies suggest that people who behave in a more pro-environmental way are actually more satisfied with their lives. In this manuscript, we aim to explain this apparent paradox by reviewing theoretical arguments and empirical evidence for both sides of the coin: why would acting pro-environmentally decrease one’s well-being, and why would it increase one’s well-being? We conclude that part of the answer lies in a different view on what well-being entails, and more specifically, whether the focus is on hedonic well-being (i.e., feeling pleasure) or eudaimonic well-being (i.e., feeling meaningful).
The Foamy Virus Gag Proteins: What Makes Them Different?
Authors: Müllers Erik
Published: March 2013

Gag proteins play an important role in many stages of the retroviral replication cycle. They orchestrate viral assembly, interact with numerous host cell proteins, engage in regulation of viral gene expression, and provide the main driving force for virus intracellular trafficking and budding. Foamy Viruses (FV), also known as spumaviruses, display a number of unique features among retroviruses. Many of these features can be attributed to their Gag proteins. FV Gag proteins lack characteristic orthoretroviral domains like membrane-binding domains (M domains), the major homology region (MHR), and the hallmark Cys-His motifs. In contrast, they contain several distinct domains such as the essential Gag-Env interaction domain and the glycine and arginine rich boxes (GR boxes). Furthermore, FV Gag only undergoes limited maturation and follows an unusual pathway for nuclear translocation. This review summarizes the known FV Gag domains and motifs and their functions. In particular, it provides an overview of the unique structural and functional properties that distinguish FV Gag proteins from orthoretroviral Gag proteins.
Use of Multisensory Environments in the Home for People with Dementia
Authors: Riley-Doucet Cheryl K.
Published: March 2013

The purpose of this pilot study was to explore the feasibility and effectiveness of using multisensory environments (MSE) in the home of people with dementia. A qualitative research design was used, which included semi-structured interviews and self-rated caregiver observation checklists. Field notes and audio recorded interviews were transcribed for data analysis. Data were reduced and coded for theme identification. Positive and negative effects of the use of MSE in the home on the behaviors of the person with dementia, caregiver burden, and family interpersonal relationships were revealed. Overall, MSE was discovered to promote a relaxing and calm environment in the home, which helped the person with dementia attend more to their immediate surroundings, and to improve family interactions. Although the majority of caregivers reported they enjoyed the MSE, they acknowledged their disappointment in the MSE as not providing more caregiver respite.
Incidence and Duration of Urinary Catheters in Hospitalized Older Adults: Before and After Implementing a Geriatric Protocol
Authors: Voss AnnMarie Brennan
Published: March 2013

This study examined the incidence and duration of urinary catheters in acute care older adults before and after the implementation of a protocol developed to make clinicians aware of the appropriate use of catheters and the parameters for catheter removal. A total of 187 patients (99 pre-intervention, 88 post-intervention) age 65 and older admitted to a community hospital were assessed for the insertion of an indwelling urinary catheter using retrospective record review. A significant reduction was found in the incidence of indwelling urinary catheters in the post-intervention sample (from 33% to 15.3%,
p
= 0.006). There was a 20.4% reduction in the mean duration of urinary catheterization (from 4.9 days to 3.9 days). The catheter device-days were significantly reduced (from 136 to 44,
p
< 0.000). This study supports the use of a nurse-driven protocol to reduce the incidence of catheterization and improve the quality of care for hospitalized older adults.
Ille quidem totam gemebundus obambulat Aetnen: el Cíclope ovidiano como inspiración paródica en Petronio, Sat. 100.3-5
Authors: Carmignani Marcos
Published: March 2013

Este trabajo analiza la función de las alusiones al lamento del Cíclope ovidiano en las palabras de Trifena y en la reacción de Encolpio (Sat. 100.3-5). Estas alusiones parodian la actitud del Cíclope homérico y, en general, el tema de la aventura por mar, ineludible en la novela sentimental griega. Si bien el episodio homérico es el modelo más ilustre de toda alusión al Cíclope, Petronio busca enriquecer el texto con otras connotaciones que median y complican las relaciones entre el Satyricon y Homero: esas connotaciones son las alusiones a Ovidio que permiten, mediante el cambio de tono, la parodia. Ese cambio de tono del que el Satyricon se sirve está dado por el uso de tremebundus, que alude a Ovidio, Met. XIV 188 (gemebundus). La alusión implica una degradación, es la marca intertextual que nos deja Petronio para comprender que la reacción de Encolpio carece absolutamente de decorum.
Dioniso y el vino en el Cíclope de Eurípides
Authors: Macías Otero Sara
Published: March 2013

En el drama satírico Cíclope, Eurípides trata el episodio mítico de Odiseo en la tierra de los cíclopes. Uno de los principales temas de la obra es la oposición entre el mundo civilizado del héroe y el salvajismo del monstruo, oposición que cobra especial relevancia en los términos de la hospitalidad y del banquete. Es en este último punto donde más nos centramos porque, no sólo el hecho de que el Cíclope desconozca el vino brinda a Odiseo la posibilidad de escapar, sino que también es crucial la presencia de Dioniso en la obra como uno de los motores de la acción a través de su identificación con su atributo más importante, el vino.
Simulation research of the Concentration Distribution of indoor inhaled particulate matters
Authors: Liu Hongli , Zhou Xiong , Sun Huan
Published: March 2013

Taking the small offices and residences for a studied object, this paper analyzes the process and major factors to affect the concentration and size distribution of indoor inhaled particulate matters, founds the deposition model, the penetration model and the mass balance model to predict the concentration and size distribution of indoor inhaled particulate matter. According to the real-time measuring data, the feature of building defense structure and the concentration and size distribution of outdoor inhaled particulate matters, the deposition ratio, the penetration factor and indoor air capacity are used as the input parameters of the mass balance model. We have put to the proof of the deposition model, the penetration model, simulated the mass balance model, then predicted the concentration and size distribution of indoor inhaled particulate matters.
Research on Performance Evaluation by IDSS Based on AHP
Authors: Xuelian Tang
Published: March 2013

Talent resource is the primary resource. There are two sides as the starting point and foothold in this paper. One is how to evaluate the performance of science and technology talents flow by IDSS (Intelligence Decision Supporting System). Another is how to guide the innovation work of science and technology according to the evaluation results. The evaluation index on performance system has hierarchical structure. So AHP (Analytic Hierarchy Process) is applied to evaluate the performance. Evaluation model is established and illustrated by the cases in this paper. It can be seen that the flow of performance is influenced by the growth rate of important scientific and technological achievements. Furthermore, some constructive suggestions are given based on the results of evaluation.
Internet Geographic Information Security Supervision Platform Architecture Research
Authors: Chen Wanzhi
Published: March 2013

Nowadays every link of geographical information from products manufacture, management, and distribution to application would be faced with tremendous security risks, which urgent need to establish a geography information security management and monitoring system with unified and multilevel action manner by the new technology and information measures. This article presents the overall architecture of the platform and typical services node, based on analysis of construction requirements for the Internet geographic information security supervision platform, laid the theory ground work for further research of the final geographic information security management measures and technique adapt to the development of science technology level and the requirements of social widely, and realized the overall aim of geography information security supervision in the end.
A Real-Time Thermal Test Platform for Underwater Complex Structures and Heat Transfer Analysis
Authors: Ding Kuang , Zhu Hongwu , Kong Xiangling , Hu Biao
Published: March 2013

In order to conduct an effective and reasonable heat transfer analysis, a real-time thermal test platform was established, which consists of two flow loops, the heating system, the data acquisition system, the automatic data processing software and the relative piping system. Based on this platform, a typical T-type deadleg and a gate valve assembly are adopted to investigate their heat transfer characteristics. The experiment data are compared with the numerical calculation with great good agreements. For further application, this real-time thermal test platform could be used for cool down analysis and thermal insulation assessment. Ultimately, promotional values for similar and even much larger scale complex underwater structures could be found in this study.
The Application of Gray Model and Support Vector Machine in the Forecast of Online Public Opinion
Authors: Xu Liuwei
Published: March 2013

The forecast of online public opinion is a kind of complex forecasting problem with information, small sample and uncertainty. In order to improve the accuracy for the forecast of online public opinion, a new forecasting method based on a gray model and a support vector machine is proposed. The method comprises the steps of clustering the text, extracting the hotspots, aggregating the data and implementing other pretreatments of the network data, then creating a model GM (1, 1) for the time series of online public opinion, correcting the forecasting results of the model GM (1, 1) with a support vector machine, and then testing through a simulation experiment. The experimental results show that compared with traditional forecasting methods, the application of gray model and support vector machine improves the accuracy for the forecast of online public opinion. Moreover, a new method for the forecast of online public opinion is presented to some extent.
Study on Steering by Wire Controller Based on Improved H? Algorithm
Authors: Chen Huipeng , Zhu Lingjun , Liu Xiaofan , Yu Sunan , Zhao Dingcheng
Published: March 2013

With the continuous development of vehicle and electronic industry, SBW (Steering by Wire) is replacing the traditional steering device of vehicle. Firstly this paper introduces the principle and structure of SBW, then discusses how to model the kinetic equation of SBW and how to simplify the model reasonably, and then obtains the control model of SBW. To meet the system requirement of robust performance, this paper selects the control strategy based on H? algorithm. According to the further observation and study on the curve of S/T singular value in H? algorithm, put forward a method which constructs a closed loop function and then back-step the system controller on the basis of key parameter in system frequency. The analysis of the time domain and the frequency domain of SBW, the simulation result under the interference and parameter perturbation of the model show that the controller designed by this method is simple and effective, and the controller owns perfect robust stability and robust performance.
Diets and Food Selection of Female Mallards and Blue-Winged Teal During Spring Migration
Authors: Tidwell Paul R. , Webb Elisabeth B. , Vrtiska Mark P. , Bishop Andrew A.
Published: March 2013

Waterfowl nutritional requirements and food availability at migration stopover habitats may differ from those at nesting or wintering areas. Although there is little information on factors that influence waterfowl diets and food selection during migration, we hypothesized that bird age and wetland density in the surrounding landscape would influence food selection. Thus, the objective of this study was to quantify mallard Anas platyrhynchos and blue-winged teal Anas discors diets during migration and evaluate effects of age and wetland density on waterfowl food selection. We collected 30 mallards and 29 blue-winged teal with food items present in esophagi from wetlands in south-central Nebraska during spring 2008 and 2009. Smartweed Polygonum spp. and barnyard grass Echinochloa spp. were the most common seeds found in both mallards and blue-winged teal, while Naididae and Chironomidae larvae were the most common invertebrates in mallard and blue-winged teal diets, respectively. Invertebrates were consumed by both species in greater proportion than available. Both mallards and blue-winged teal collected in wetland complexes selected some seeds over others, whereas birds in isolated wetlands foraged on foods in proportion to availability. After-hatch-year mallards also selected for some seeds over others, as compared with hatch-year birds, which foraged opportunistically on available foods. If after-hatch-year birds and birds in wetland complexes are able to be more selective in their diets relative to food availability at individual wetlands, they may be able to acquire and replenish lipids reserves more efficiently than hatch-year birds or birds in areas with lower wetland densities.
Satisfaction Evaluation Model of Bus Rapid Transits Service
Authors: Wu Hong Yang
Published: March 2013

In this paper, based on the customer satisfaction theory [ of social and experimental psychology, Satisfaction measuring model of bus rapid transits service was established by using the measure and economic method, and the pilot study for the reliability and validity of the model was implemented in Jinan city. The aim of establishing satisfaction measuring model is to provide references for the decision makers on improving service level of operated bus rapid transit.
Analysis of Strain-Stress of Cubic Hinge Sleeve
Authors: Sun Xuan , Wang Bin , Zhang Yu , Zhou Fu Ping , Hu Yi Sheng
Published: March 2013

Actual model of cubic hinge sleeve was established in Ansys. Strength of cubic hinge sleeve was calculated under high pressure load in realistic condition, which is based on practical processing, results of values of von Mises stress were obtained. It provides a theoretical basis for optimization and reliability design of cubic hinge sleeve.
Nano Colorful Cement Composite
Authors: Kazemi Babaheydari A. , Asad-Zadeh M. , Mohammadi F.
Published: March 2013

The purpose of this study is to investigate the strength and mechanical properties of concrete by partial replacement of cement with nano-pigment particles. Nano-pigment particles with the average diameter of 120 nm were used with ten different contents of 0.5%, 0.1%, 1.5% and 4.0% by weight. have been investigated by scan electron microscopy(SEM) ,¬X-ray diffraction(XRD).The results showed that the use of nano- pigment particles up to maximum replacement level of 4.0% produces concrete with improved strength and mechanical properties The SEM study of the microstructures between the cement mortar mixed with the nano-pigment particles and the plain cement mortar showed that the nano-pigment particles as a partial replacement of cement up to 4 wt% could accelerate C–S–H gel formation as a result of the increased crystalline Ca(OH)2 amount at the early ages of hydration.
Finite Element Analysis and Optimization of the Truss of Installing Wave-Maker Based on ANSYS
Authors: Wang Shou Jun , Xiong Xing , Li Chao
Published: March 2013

According to uncertainty of the design parameters for large span truss of installing wave-maker, in order to avoid the waste of materials,the truss is analyzed based on the finite element analysis software ANSYS to find out its weaknesses and various parts of the deformation. On the premise of ensuring the intensity and stiffness, the weight of the truss is reduced by adjusting its sizes and selecting different profiles, so as to achieve the optimization of the truss of installing wave-maker.