bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Comparison of Household Carbon Emission Patterns of Urban and Rural China over the 17 Year Period (1995–2011)
Authors: Qu Jiansheng , Maraseni Tek , Liu Lina , Zhang Zhiqiang , Yusaf Talal
Published: September 2015

The household sector consumes a large amount of goods and services and is therefore a major source of global carbon emissions. This study aims to analyze per person household carbon emission (HCEs) patterns of urban and rural China over the period from 1995 to 2011. Annual macroeconomic data for the study were obtained from authentic Chinese government sources. Direct HCE estimates for each fossil fuel were obtained using the IPCC’s reference approach, and indirect HCEs were calculated by input-output analysis. In 1995, per person HCEs from direct sources for urban and rural China were 0.50 tCO2 and 0.22 tCO2, respectively; by 2011, these values had increased to 0.60 tCO2 and 0.61 tCO2, an increase of 20% and 177.27%, respectively. Similarly, in 1995, per person HCEs from indirect sources for urban and rural China were 0.43 tCO2 and 0.16 tCO2, respectively; by 2011, these values had increased to 1.77 tCO2 and 0.53 tCO2, respectively, an increase of 306% and 235%. The reasons for these differences and the sets of policies required to rectify increasing emissions are discussed. If current trends and practices continue, with a RMB1000 increase in per capita income from 2011 levels, per person HCEs in urban and rural China will increase by 0.119 tCO2 and 0.197 tCO2, respectively. This result indicates that the sector of society which is most vulnerable will contribute most to China’s increasing HCEs. Therefore, while developing energy consumption and emissions reduction policies and programs, principles of fairness and equity need to be followed.
Exploring Local Perspectives for Conservation Planning: A Case Study from a Remote Forest Community in Indonesian Papua
Authors: Van Heist Miriam , Liswanti Nining , Boissière Manuel , Padmanaba Michael , Basuki Imam , Sheil Douglas
Published: September 2015

Reconciling conservation and livelihoods is a concern wherever forests are important in local people’s lives. We plead for engaging these people in survey activities to clarify what is important to them, as a first step in conservation planning. This will help to address their priorities and gain their guidance and support for interventions. This paper presents the results of such a survey with the community of Kwerba in Mamberamo, a remote and little known part of Indonesian Papua. Views and priorities were explored through interviews, scoring exercises, community mapping and a field survey. Whereas small gardens provided most staple food, culture and livelihoods were linked to the forest. People scored primary forest highest for nearly all use categories. Primary forest was particularly highly valued as a source of construction materials, ornaments and rituals, and as a hunting place. We developed a list of the overall most important plants and animals. Many natural resources were used, but few were commercially exploited. The community had rules to control access to certain areas and resources. Taboos to restrict access to sacred places were also maintained. Our evaluation identified opportunities to achieve conservation outcomes jointly with the Kwerba people. In follow-up activities, the community presented local government with a land-use plan for their territory. The government recognized the value of our approach and requested training to implement it more widely in the region.
Building on Two Decades of Ecosystem Management and Biodiversity Conservation under the Northwest Forest Plan, USA
Authors: DellaSala Dominick , Baker Rowan , Heiken Doug , Frissell Chris , Karr James , Nelson S. , Noon Barry , Olson David , Strittholt James
Published: September 2015

The 1994 Northwest Forest Plan (NWFP) shifted federal lands management from a focus on timber production to ecosystem management and biodiversity conservation. The plan established a network of conservation reserves and an ecosystem management strategy on ~10 million hectares from northern California to Washington State, USA, within the range of the federally threatened northern spotted owl (Strix occidentalis caurina). Several subsequent assessments—and 20 years of data from monitoring programs established under the plan—have demonstrated the effectiveness of this reserve network and ecosystem management approach in making progress toward attaining many of the plan’s conservation and ecosystem management goals. This paper (1) showcases the fundamental conservation biology and ecosystem management principles underpinning the NWFP as a case study for managers interested in large-landscape conservation; and (2) recommends improvements to the plan’s strategy in response to unprecedented climate change and land-use threats. Twenty years into plan implementation, however, the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management, under pressure for increased timber harvest, are retreating from conservation measures. We believe that federal agencies should instead build on the NWFP to ensure continuing success in the Pacific Northwest. We urge federal land managers to (1) protect all remaining late-successional/old-growth forests; (2) identify climate refugia for at-risk species; (3) maintain or increase stream buffers and landscape connectivity; (4) decommission and repair failing roads to improve water quality; (5) reduce fire risk in fire-prone tree plantations; and (6) prevent logging after fires in areas of high conservation value. In many respects, the NWFP is instructive for managers considering similar large-scale conservation efforts.
Quantifying Vulnerability to Extreme Heat in Time Series Analyses: A Novel Approach Applied to Neighborhood Social Disparities under Climate Change
Authors: Benmarhnia Tarik , Grenier Patrick , Brand Allan , Fournier Michel , Deguen Séverine , Smargiassi Audrey
Published: September 2015

Objectives: We propose a novel approach to examine vulnerability in the relationship between heat and years of life lost and apply to neighborhood social disparities in Montreal and Paris. Methods: We used historical data from the summers of 1990 through 2007 for Montreal and from 2004 through 2009 for Paris to estimate daily years of life lost social disparities (DYLLD), summarizing social inequalities across groups. We used Generalized Linear Models to separately estimate relative risks (RR) for DYLLD in association with daily mean temperatures in both cities. We used 30 climate scenarios of daily mean temperature to estimate future temperature distributions (2021–2050). We performed random effect meta-analyses to assess the impact of climate change by climate scenario for each city and compared the impact of climate change for the two cities using a meta-regression analysis. Results: We show that an increase in ambient temperature leads to an increase in social disparities in daily years of life lost. The impact of climate change on DYLLD attributable to temperature was of 2.06 (95% CI: 1.90, 2.25) in Montreal and 1.77 (95% CI: 1.61, 1.94) in Paris. The city explained a difference of 0.31 (95% CI: 0.14, 0.49) on the impact of climate change. Conclusion: We propose a new analytical approach for estimating vulnerability in the relationship between heat and health. Our results suggest that in Paris and Montreal, health disparities related to heat impacts exist today and will increase in the future.
Childhood ADHD Symptoms: Association with Parental Social Networks and Mental Health Service Use during Adolescence
Authors: Bussing Regina , Meyer Johanna , Zima Bonnie , Mason Dana , Gary Faye , Garvan Cynthia
Published: September 2015

Objective: This study examines the associations of childhood attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) risk status with subsequent parental social network characteristics and caregiver strain in adolescence; and examines predictors of adolescent mental health service use. Methods: Baseline ADHD screening identified children at high risk (n = 207) and low risk (n = 167) for ADHD. At eight-year follow-up, parents reported their social network characteristics, caregiver strain, adolescents’ psychopathology and mental health service utilization, whereas adolescents self-reported their emotional status and ADHD stigma perceptions. Analyses were conducted using ANOVAs and nested logistic regression modeling. Results: Parents of youth with childhood ADHD reported support networks consisting of fewer spouses but more healthcare professionals, and lower levels of support than control parents. Caregiver strain increased with adolescent age and psychopathology. Increased parental network support, youth ADHD symptoms, and caregiver strain, but lower youth stigma perceptions were independently associated with increased service use. Conclusions: Raising children with ADHD appears to significantly impact parental social network experiences. Reduced spousal support and overall lower network support levels may contribute to high caregiver strain commonly reported among parents of ADHD youth. Parental social network experiences influence adolescent ADHD service use. With advances in social networking technology, further research is needed to elucidate ways to enhance caregiver support during ADHD care.
The Role of PTP1B O-GlcNAcylation in Hepatic Insulin Resistance
Authors: Zhao Yun , Tang Zhuqi , Shen Aiguo , Tao Tao , Wan Chunhua , Zhu Xiaohui , Huang Jieru , Zhang Wanlu , Xia Nana , Wang Suxin , Cui Shiwei , Zhang Dongmei
Published: September 2015

Protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B), which can directly dephosphorylate both the insulin receptor and insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS-1), thereby terminating insulin signaling, reportedly plays an important role in insulin resistance. Accumulating evidence has demonstrated that O-GlcNAc modification regulates functions of several important components of insulin signal pathway. In this study, we identified that PTP1B is modified by O-GlcNAcylation at three O-GlcNAc sites (Ser104, Ser201, and Ser386). Palmitate acid (PA) impaired the insulin signaling, indicated by decreased phosphorylation of both serine/threonine-protein kinase B (Akt) and glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK3β) following insulin administration, and upregulated PTP1B O-GlcNAcylation in HepG2 cells. Compared with the wild-type, intervention PTP1B O-GlcNAcylation by site-directed gene mutation inhibited PTP1B phosphatase activity, resulted in a higher level of phosphorylated Akt and GSK3β, recovered insulin sensitivity, and improved lipid deposition in HepG2 cells. Taken together, our research showed that O-GlcNAcylation of PTP1B can influence insulin signal transduction by modulating its own phosphatase activity, which participates in the process of hepatic insulin resistance.
The Current Role of Omega-3 Fatty Acids in the Management of Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Christou Georgios , Christou Konstantinos , Korantzopoulos Panagiotis , Rizos Evangelos , Nikas Dimitrios , Goudevenos John
Published: September 2015

Background: The main dietary source of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA) is fish, which contains eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). In the present manuscript, we aimed to review the current evidence regarding the clinical role of n-3 PUFA in the prevention of atrial fibrillation (AF) and the possible underlying mechanisms. Methods: A literature search based on PubMed listings was performed using “Omega-3 fatty acids” and “atrial fibrilation” as key search terms. Results: n-3 PUFA have been shown to attenuate structural atrial remodeling, prolong atrial effective refractory period through the prevention of reentry and suppress ectopic firing from pulmonary veins. Dietary fish intake has been found to have no effect on the incidence of AF in the majority of studies. Circulating DHA has been consistently reported to be inversely associated with AF risk, whereas EPA has no such effect. The majority of studies investigating the impact of n-3 PUFA supplementation on the incidence of AF following cardiac surgery reported no benefit, though most of them did not use n-3 PUFA pretreatment for adequate duration. Studies using adequate four-week pretreatment with n-3 PUFA before cardioversion of AF showed a reduction of the AF incidence. Conclusions: Although n-3 PUFA have antiarrhythmogenic properties, their clinical efficacy on the prevention of AF is not consistently supported. Further well-designed studies are needed to overcome the limitations of the existing studies and provide robust conclusions.
Roles of NlAKTIP in the Growth and Eclosion of the Rice Brown Planthopper, Nilaparvata lugens Stål, as Revealed by RNA Interference
Authors: Hao Peiying , Lu Chaofeng , Ma Yan , Xu Lingbo , Zhu Jiajun , Yu Xiaoping
Published: September 2015

AKT-interacting protein (AKTIP) interacts with serine/threonine protein kinase B (PKB)/AKT. AKTIP modulates AKT’s activity by enhancing the phosphorylation of the regulatory site and plays a crucial role in multiple biological processes. In this study, the full length cDNA of NlAKTIP, a novel AKTIP gene in the brown planthopper (BPH) Nilaparvata lugens, was cloned. The reverse transcription quantitive PCR (RT-qPCR) results showed that the NlAKTIP gene was strongly expressed in gravid female adults, but was relatively weakly expressed in nymphs and male adult BPH. In female BPH, treatment with dsAKTIP resulted in the efficient silencing of NlAKTIP, leading to a significant reduction of mRNA levels, about 50% of those of the untreated control group at day 7 of the study. BPH fed with dsAKTIP had reduced growth with lower body weights and smaller sizes, and the body weight of BPH treated with dsAKTIP at day 7 decreased to about 30% of that of the untreated control. Treatment of dsAKTIP significantly delayed the eclosion for over 7 days relative to the control group and restricted ovarian development to Grade I (transparent stage), whereas the controls developed to Grade IV (matured stage). These results indicated that NlAKTIP is crucial to the growth and development of female BPH. This study provided a valuable clue of a potential target NlAKTIP for inhibiting the BPH, and also provided a new point of view on the interaction between BPH and resistant rice.
Quality of Life with Macular Degeneration Is Not as Dark as It May Seem: Patients’ Perceptions of the MacDQoL Questionnaire
Authors: Ord Lisa , Wright JoAnne , DeAngelis Margaret , Feehan Michael
Published: September 2015

To determine the perceived relevance and value of an individualized measure of the impact of macular degeneration on quality of life (QoL) for elderly people with Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) in the USA, through the assessment of the suitability of the measure’s domains and by gaining a deeper insight into the impact of AMD on patients’ QoL vis-á-vis these domains, community-dwelling older adults in the metropolitan Salt Lake City, Utah area were interviewed using the macular degeneration on quality of life (MacDQoL) instrument. Participants felt that the MacDQoL was a relevant instrument for use in this US study population, though it could be improved by adding items pertaining to transportation, and independent driving, in particular, as an important QoL indicator. The emerging theme from analysis of the respondent’s commentary was that, in spite of AMD, these respondents were committed to engage in, and enjoy life. This is an important concept for clinicians and those who offer support programs to integrate into their care planning and reinforce in messaging to patients with the condition.
Feasibility Studies of Palm Oil Mill Waste Aggregates for the Construction Industry
Authors: Kanadasan Jegathish , Fauzi Auni , Razak Hashim , Selliah Paramananthan , Subramaniam Vijaya , Yusoff Sumiani
Published: September 2015

The agricultural industry in Malaysia has grown rapidly over the years. Palm oil clinker (POC) is a byproduct obtained from the palm oil industry. Its lightweight properties allows for its utilization as an aggregate, while in powder form as a filler material in concrete. POC specimens obtained throughout each state in Malaysia were investigated to evaluate the physical, chemical, and microstructure characteristics. Variations between each state were determined and their possible contributory factors were assessed. POC were incorporated as a replacement material for aggregates and their engineering characteristics were ascertained. Almost 7% of density was reduced with the introduction of POC as aggregates. A sustainability assessment was made through greenhouse gas emission (GHG) and cost factor analyses to determine the contribution of the addition of POC to the construction industry. Addition of POC helps to lower the GHG emission by 9.6% compared to control specimens. By channeling this waste into the construction industry, an efficient waste-management system can be promoted; thus, creating a cleaner environment. This study is also expected to offer some guides and directions for upcoming research works on the incorporation of POC.
Penetration of HIV-1 Tat47–57 into PC/PE Bilayers Assessed by MD Simulation and X-ray Scattering
Authors: Neale Chris , Huang Kun , García Angel , Tristram-Nagle Stephanie
Published: September 2015

The interactions of the basic, cell-penetrating region (Y47GRKKRRQRRR57) of the HIV-1 Tat protein with dioleoylphosphatidylcholine (DOPC) bilayers were previously assessed by comparing experimental X-ray diffuse scattering with atomistic molecular dynamics simulations. Here, we extend this investigation by evaluating the influence of phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) lipids. Using experimental bilayer form factors derivedfrom X-ray diffuse scattering data as a guide, our simulations indicate that Tat peptides localize close to the carbonyl-glycerol group in the headgroup region of bilayers composed of either DOPC or DOPC:DOPE (1:1) lipid. Our results also suggest that Tat peptides may more frequently insert into the hydrophobic core of bilayers composed of PC:PE (1:1) lipids than into bilayers composed entirely of PC lipids. PE lipids may facilitate peptide translocation across a lipid bilayer by stabilizing intermediate states in which hydrated peptides span the bilayer.
Quantitative Structure–Property Relationship (QSPR) Models for a Local Quantum Descriptor: Investigation of the 4- and 3-Substituted-Cinnamic Acid Esterification
Authors: Rodrigues-Santos Cláudio , Echevarria Aurea , Sant’Anna Carlos , Bitencourt Thiago , Nascimento Maria , Bauerfeldt Glauco
Published: September 2015

In this work, the theoretical description of the 4- and 3-substituted-cinnamic acid esterification with different electron donating and electron withdrawing groups was performed at the B3LYP and M06-2X levels, as a two-step process: the O-protonation and the nucleophile attack by ethanol. In parallel, an experimental work devoted to the synthesis and characterization of the substituted-cinnamate esters has also been performed. In order to quantify the substituents effects, quantitative structure–property relationship (QSPR) models based on the atomic charges, Fukui functions and the Frontier Effective-for-Reaction Molecular Orbitals (FERMO) energies were investigated. In fact, the Fukui functions, ƒ+C and ƒ−O, indicated poor correlations for each individual step, and in contrast with the general literature, the O-protonation step is affected both by the FERMO energies and the O-charges of the carbonyl group. Since the process was shown to not be totally described by either charge- or frontier-orbitals, it is proposed to be frontier-charge-miscere controlled. Moreover, the observed trend for the experimental reaction yields suggests that the electron withdrawing groups favor the reaction and the same was observed for Step 2, which can thus be pointed out as the determining step.
Electrical Properties of Multi-Pyrene/Porphyrin-Dendrimers
Authors: Martínez-Klimov Mark , Organista-Mateos Ulises , Borja-Miranda Andrés , Rivera Margarita , Amelines-Sarria Oscar , Martínez-García Marcos
Published: September 2015

Dendrimers bearing pyrene donor groups have been obtained and act as efficient light-harvesting antennae capable of transferring light energy through space from their periphery to their core. The light-harvesting ability increases with each generation due to an increase in the number of peripheral pyrenes. In order to evaluate the photovoltaic properties of the compounds, thermal evaporated thin films were produced and the voltage response in the presence of visible light was obtained. The energy transfer efficiency was found to be almost quantitative for the first and second generations. The dendrimers have the potential to become integral components of molecular photonic devices.
Three New Cytotoxic ent-Kaurane Diterpenes from Isodon excisoides
Authors: Dai Li-Ping , Li Chun , Yang Han-Ze , Lu Yan-Qing , Yu Hong-Yan , Gao Hui-Min , Wang Zhi-Min
Published: September 2015

Three types of ent-kaurane diterpenoids were isolated from the aerial parts of Isodon excisoides, including three new diterpenoids, 1α,7α,14β-trihydroxy-20-acetoxy-ent-kaur-15-one (1); 1α,7α,14β,18-tetrahydroxy-20-acetoxy-ent-kaur-15-one (2); and 1α-acetoxy-14β-hydroxy-7α,20-epoxy-ent-kaur-16-en-15-one (3); together with six known diterpenes henryin (4); kamebanin (5); reniformin C (6); kamebacetal A (7); kamebacetal B (8); and oridonin (9). The structures of the isolated compounds were elucidated by means of nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and high-resolution mass spectrometry in conjunction with published data for their analogs, as well as their fragmentation patterns. Compounds 5 and 9 were isolated from Isodon excisoides for the first time. To explore the structure-activity relationships of the isolated compounds, they were tested for their cytotoxic effects against five human cancer cell lines: HCT-116, HepG2, A2780, NCI-H1650, and BGC-823. Most of the isolated compounds showed certain cytotoxic activity against the five cancer cell lines with IC50 values ranging from 1.09–8.53 µM. Among the tested compounds, compound 4 exhibited the strongest cytotoxic activity in the tested cell lines, with IC50 values ranging from 1.31–2.07 µM. Compounds 1, 6, and 7 exhibited selective cytotoxic activity.
Rutin Increases Muscle Mitochondrial Biogenesis with AMPK Activation in High-Fat Diet-Induced Obese Rats
Authors: Seo Sangjin , Lee Mak-Soon , Chang Eugene , Shin Yoonjin , Oh Soojung , Kim In-Hwan , Kim Yangha
Published: September 2015

Decreased mitochondrial number and dysfunction in skeletal muscle are associated with obesity and the progression of obesity-associated metabolic disorders. The specific aim of the current study was to investigate the effects of rutin on mitochondrial biogenesis in skeletal muscle of high-fat diet-induced obese rats. Supplementation with rutin reduced body weight and adipose tissue mass, despite equivalent energy intake (p < 0.05). Rutin significantly increased mitochondrial size and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) content as well as gene expression related to mitochondrial biogenesis, such as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator-1α (PGC-1α), nuclear respiratory factor-1 (NRF-1), transcription factor A (Tfam), and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD)-dependent deacetylase, sirtulin1 (SIRT1) in skeletal muscle (p < 0.05). Moreover, rutin consumption increased muscle adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activity by 40% (p < 0.05). Taken together, these results suggested at least partial involvement of muscle mitochondria and AMPK activation in the rutin-mediated beneficial effect on obesity.
Preferential Incorporation of Azelaic Acid Units into the Crystalline Phase of the Copoly(Alkylene Dicarboxylate) Derived from 1,9-Nonanediol and an Equimolar Mixture of Pimelic and Azelaic Acids
Authors: Díaz Angélica , Casas María , Puiggalí Jordi
Published: September 2015

The crystalline structure of two biodegradable odd-odd polyesters (i.e., poly(nonamethylene pimelate) (PES 9,7) and poly(nonamethylene azelate) (PES 9,9)) was investigated by means of electron and X-ray diffraction of single crystals and oriented fibers, respectively. Truncated rhombic crystals were obtained with an aspect ratio that was strongly depended on the supercooling degree. The crystalline structure of both homopolyesters was defined by an orthorhombic P21ab space group and a large unit cell containing four molecular segments with an all-trans conformation. Nevertheless, the structure in the chain axis projection was equivalent to a simpler cell containing only two segments. Crystalline lamellae were effectively degraded by lipases, starting the enzymatic attack on the lamellar surfaces. The random copolymer constituted by an equimolar amount of pimelate and azelate units (COPES 9,7/9) crystallized according to regular lamellae with a similar molecular arrangement in the chain axis projection. The structure of this copolymer was preferably conditioned by the azelate component as could be deduced from both, diffraction and spectroscopic data. Analysis of small angle X-ray scattering patterns pointed out that less crystalline lamellae with higher amorphous thickness had developed in the copolymer. This feature was interpreted as a consequence of the preferential incorporation of pimelate comonomer units in the folding surface.
High-Resolution Mapping of Urban Surface Water Using ZY-3 Multi-Spectral Imagery
Authors: Yao Fangfang , Wang Chao , Dong Di , Luo Jiancheng , Shen Zhanfeng , Yang Kehan
Published: September 2015

Accurate information of urban surface water is important for assessing the role it plays in urban ecosystem services under the content of urbanization and climate change. However, high-resolution monitoring of urban water bodies using remote sensing remains a challenge because of the limitation of previous water indices and the dark building shadow effect. To address this problem, we proposed an automated urban water extraction method (UWEM) which combines a new water index, together with a building shadow detection method. Firstly, we trained the parameters of UWEM using ZY-3 imagery of Qingdao, China. Then we verified the algorithm using five other sub-scenes (Aksu, Fuzhou, Hanyang, Huangpo and Huainan) ZY-3 imagery. The performance was compared with that of the Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI). Results indicated that UWEM performed significantly better at the sub-scenes with kappa coefficients improved by 7.87%, 32.35%, 12.64%, 29.72%, 14.29%, respectively, and total omission and commission error reduced by 61.53%, 65.74%, 83.51%, 82.44%, and 74.40%, respectively. Furthermore, UWEM has more stable performances than NDWI’s in a range of thresholds near zero. It reduces the over- and under-estimation issues which often accompany previous water indices when mapping urban surface water under complex environmental conditions.
Remotely Sensed Nightlights to Map Societal Exposure to Hydrometeorological Hazards
Authors: Gómez Agnes , Di Baldassarre Giuliano , Rodhe Allan , Pohjola Veijo
Published: September 2015

This study used remotely sensed maps of nightlights to investigate the etiology of increasing disaster losses from hydrometeorological hazards in a data-scarce area. We explored trends in the probability of occurrence of hazardous events (extreme rainfall) and exposure of the local population as components of risk. The temporal variation of the spatial distribution of exposure to hydrometeorological hazards was studied using nightlight satellite imagery as a proxy. Temporal (yearly) and spatial (1 km) resolution make them more useful than official census data. Additionally, satellite nightlights can track informal (unofficial) human settlements. The study focused on the Samala River catchment in Guatemala. The analyses of disasters, using DesInventar Disaster Information Management System data, showed that fatalities caused by hydrometeorological events have increased. Such an increase in disaster losses can be explained by trends in both: (i) catchment conditions that tend to lead to more frequent hydrometeorological extremes (more frequent occurrence of days with wet conditions); and (ii) increasing human exposure to hazardous events (as observed by amount and intensity of nightlights in areas close to rivers). Our study shows the value of remote sensing data and provides a framework to explore the dynamics of disaster risk when ground data are spatially and temporally limited.
Assimilation of Two Variables Derived from Hyperspectral Data into the DSSAT-CERES Model for Grain Yield and Quality Estimation
Authors: Li Zhenhai , Wang Jihua , Xu Xingang , Zhao Chunjiang , Jin Xiuliang , Yang Guijun , Feng Haikuan
Published: September 2015

The combination of remote sensing and crop growth models has become an effective tool for yield estimation and a potential method for grain quality estimation. In this study, two assimilation variables (derived from a hyperspectral sensor), called leaf area index (LAI) and canopy nitrogen accumulation (CNA), were jointly used to calibrate the sensitive parameters and initial states of the DSSAT-CERES crop model, to improve simulated output of the grain yield and protein content of winter wheat. The results show that the modified simple ratio (MSR) and normalized difference red edge (NDRE) better estimated LAI and CNA, respectively, compared with the other possible vegetation indices. The integration of both LAI and CNA resulted in a more robust DSSAT-CERES models with than each one alone. The R2 and RMSE values, respectively, of the regression between the simulated (using the two assimilation variables method) and measured LAI were 0.828 and 0.494, and for CNA were 0.808 and 20.26 kg N∙ha−1. These two assimilation variables resulted in grain yield and protein content estimates of winter wheat with a high precision and R2 and RMSE values of 0.698 and 0.726 ton∙ha−1, and 0.758% and 1.16%, respectively. This study provides a more robust method for estimating the grain yield and protein content of winter wheat based on the integration of the DSSAT-CERES crop model and remote sensing data.
An Enhanced Error Model for EKF-Based Tightly-Coupled Integration of GPS and Land Vehicle’s Motion Sensors
Authors: Karamat Tashfeen , Atia Mohamed , Noureldin Aboelmagd
Published: September 2015

Reduced inertial sensor systems (RISS) have been introduced by many researchers as a low-cost, low-complexity sensor assembly that can be integrated with GPS to provide a robust integrated navigation system for land vehicles. In earlier works, the developed error models were simplified based on the assumption that the vehicle is mostly moving on a flat horizontal plane. Another limitation is the simplified estimation of the horizontal tilt angles, which is based on simple averaging of the accelerometers’ measurements without modelling their errors or tilt angle errors. In this paper, a new error model is developed for RISS that accounts for the effect of tilt angle errors and the accelerometer’s errors. Additionally, it also includes important terms in the system dynamic error model, which were ignored during the linearization process in earlier works. An augmented extended Kalman filter (EKF) is designed to incorporate tilt angle errors and transversal accelerometer errors. The new error model and the augmented EKF design are developed in a tightly-coupled RISS/GPS integrated navigation system. The proposed system was tested on real trajectories’ data under degraded GPS environments, and the results were compared to earlier works on RISS/GPS systems. The findings demonstrated that the proposed enhanced system introduced significant improvements in navigational performance.
Configuration Analysis of the ERS Points in Large-Volume Metrology System
Authors: Jin Zhangjun , Yu Cijun , Li Jiangxiong , Ke Yinglin
Published: September 2015

In aircraft assembly, multiple laser trackers are used simultaneously to measure large-scale aircraft components. To combine the independent measurements, the transformation matrices between the laser trackers’ coordinate systems and the assembly coordinate system are calculated, by measuring the enhanced referring system (ERS) points. This article aims to understand the influence of the configuration of the ERS points that affect the transformation matrix errors, and then optimize the deployment of the ERS points to reduce the transformation matrix errors. To optimize the deployment of the ERS points, an explicit model is derived to estimate the transformation matrix errors. The estimation model is verified by the experiment implemented in the factory floor. Based on the proposed model, a group of sensitivity coefficients are derived to evaluate the quality of the configuration of the ERS points, and then several typical configurations of the ERS points are analyzed in detail with the sensitivity coefficients. Finally general guidance is established to instruct the deployment of the ERS points in the aspects of the layout, the volume size and the number of the ERS points, as well as the position and orientation of the assembly coordinate system.
Optimizing the De-Noise Neural Network Model for GPS Time-Series Monitoring of Structures
Authors: Kaloop Mosbeh , Hu Jong
Published: September 2015

The Global Positioning System (GPS) is recently used widely in structures and other applications. Notwithstanding, the GPS accuracy still suffers from the errors afflicting the measurements, particularly the short-period displacement of structural components. Previously, the multi filter method is utilized to remove the displacement errors. This paper aims at using a novel application for the neural network prediction models to improve the GPS monitoring time series data. Four prediction models for the learning algorithms are applied and used with neural network solutions: back-propagation, Cascade-forward back-propagation, adaptive filter and extended Kalman filter, to estimate which model can be recommended. The noise simulation and bridge’s short-period GPS of the monitoring displacement component of one Hz sampling frequency are used to validate the four models and the previous method. The results show that the Adaptive neural networks filter is suggested for de-noising the observations, specifically for the GPS displacement components of structures. Also, this model is expected to have significant influence on the design of structures in the low frequency responses and measurements’ contents.
Adsorptive Removal of Fluoroquinolone Antibiotics Using Bamboo Biochar
Authors: Wang Yanbin , Lu Jian , Wu Jun , Liu Qing , Zhang Hua , Jin Song
Published: September 2015

The occurrence of fluoroquinolone antibiotics in wastewater has drawn great attention. Adsorption of widely used fluoroquinolone antibiotics (enrofloxacin and ofloxacin) in wastewater using bamboo biochar was investigated. More than 99% of fluoroquinolone antibiotics were removed from the synthetic wastewater through adsorption. Adsorption capacities of bamboo biochar slightly changed when pH increased from 3.0 to 10.0. The adsorption capacity of bamboo biochar increased sharply when the initial concentration of enrofloxacin or ofloxacin increased from 1 to 200 mg L−1 and then began to plateau with further increases in initial concentration. The maximum adsorption capacity (45.88 ± 0.90 mg·g−1) was observed when the ratio of bamboo biochar to fluoroquinolone antibiotics was 10. The enrofloxacin adsorption capacity of bamboo biochar decreased from 19.91 ± 0.21 mg·g−1 to 14.30 ± 0.51 mg·g−1 while that of ofloxacin decreased from 19.82 ± 0.22 mg·g−1 to 13.31 ± 0.56 mg·g−1 when the NaCl concentrations increased from 0 to 30 g·L−1. The adsorptions of fluoroquinolone on bamboo biochar have isotherms that obeyed the Freundlich model (r2 values were in the range of 0.990–0.991).
Impact of Gastrointestinal Bacillus anthracis Infection on Hepatic B Cells
Authors: Colliou Natacha , Sahay Bikash , Zadeh Mojgan , Owen Jennifer , Mohamadzadeh Mansour
Published: September 2015

Ingestion of Bacillus anthracis results in rapid gastrointestinal (GI) infection, known as GI anthrax. We previously showed that during GI anthrax, there is swift deterioration of intestinal barrier function leading to translocation of gut-associated bacteria into systemic circulation. Additionally, we described dysfunction in colonic B cells. In concordance with our previous studies, here, we report early migration of the Sterne strain of B. anthracis along with other gut-resident bacteria into the infected murine liver. Additionally, despite a global decrease in the B cell population, we observed an increase in both B-1a and marginal zone (MZ)-like B cells. Both of these cell types are capable of producing immunoglobulins against common pathogens and commensals, which act as a general antibody barrier before an antigen-specific antibody response. Accumulation of these cells in the liver was associated with an increase in chemokine expression. These data suggest that the presence of Sterne and other commensals in the liver trigger migration of MZ-like B cells from the spleen to the liver to neutralize systemic spread. Further research is required to evaluate the possible cause of their failure to clear the infection within the liver, including the potential role of dysfunctional mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling.
Self-assessment of Rheumatoid Arthritis Disease Activity Using a Smartphone Application
Authors: Ito H. , Yamada M. , Yoshitomi H. , Furu M. , Ito M. , Shinohara A. , Ura T. , Okamoto K. , Aoyama T. , Tsuboyama Tadao , Nishiguchi S.
Published: September 2015

Introduction: This article is part of the Focus Theme of Methods of Information in Medicine on “Methodologies, Models and Algorithms for Patients Rehabilitation”. Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a progressive inflammatory disease that causes damage to multiple joints, decline in functional status, and premature mortality. Thus, effective and frequent objective assessments are necessary. Then, we developed a self-assessment system for RA patients based on a smartphone application. Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the feasibility of a self-assessment system for RA patients using a smart-phone application. Methods: We measured daily disease activity in nine RA patients who used the smart-phone application for a period of three months. A disease activity score (DAS28) predictive model was used and feedback comments relating to disease activity were shown to patients via the smartphone application each day. To assess participants’ RA disease activity, the DAS28 based on the C-reactive protein level was measured by a rheumatologist during monthly clinical visits. Results: The disease activity measured by the application correlated well with the patients’ actual disease activity during the 3-month period, as assessed by clinical examination. Furthermore, most participants gave favourable responses to a questionnaire administered at the end of the 3-month period containing questions relating to the ease of use and usefulness of the system. Conclusions: The results of this feasibility study indicated that the DAS28 predictive model can longitudinally predict DAS28 and may be an acceptable and useful tool for assessment of RA disease activity for both patients and healthcare providers.
Cognitive Maps to Visualise Clinical Cases in Handovers
Authors: Flemming D. , Przysucha M. , Hübner U.
Published: September 2015

Background: Clinical handovers at changes of shifts are typical scenarios of time restricted and information intensive communication, which are highly cognitively demanding. The currently available applications supporting handovers typically present complex information in a textual checklist-like manner. This presentation style has been criticised for not meeting the specific user requirements.

Objectives: We, therefore, aimed at developing a concept for visualising the overview of a clinical case that serves as an alternative way to checklist-like presentations in clinical handovers. We also aimed at implementing this concept in a handoverEHR in order to support the pre-handover phase, the actual handover, and the post-handover phase as well as at evaluating its usability and attractiveness.

Results: We developed and implemented a concept that draws on Tolman’s pioneering work on cognitive maps that we designed in accordance with Gestalt principles. These maps provide a pictorial overview of a clinical case. The application to build, manipulate, and store the cognitive maps was integrated into an openEHR based handover record that extends conventional records with handover specific information. Usability (n = 28) and attractiveness (n = 26) testing with experienced clinicians resulted in good ratings for suitability for the task as well as for attractiveness and pragmatism.

Conclusion: We propose cognitive maps to represent and visualise the clinical case in situations where there is limited time to present complex information.
Active site diversification of P450cam with indole generates catalysts for benzylic oxidation reactions
Authors: Kelly Paul P , Eichler Anja , Herter Susanne , Kranz David C , Turner Nicholas J , Flitsch Sabine L
Published: September 2015

Cytochrome P450 monooxygenases are useful biocatalysts for C–H activation, and there is a need to expand the range of these enzymes beyond what is naturally available. A panel of 93 variants of active self-sufficient P450cam[Tyr96Phe]-RhFRed fusion enzymes with a broad diversity in active site amino acids was developed by screening a large mutant library of 16,500 clones using a simple, highly sensitive colony-based colorimetric screen against indole. These mutants showed distinct fingerprints of activity not only when screened in oxidations of substituted indoles but also for unrelated oxidations such as benzylic hydroxylations.
EXPLORING THE INFLUENCES OF THE USE OF ELEMENTS COMPRISING INFORMATION SYSTEM DEVELOPMENT METHODOLOGIES ON STRATEGIC BUSINESS GOALS
Authors: HOVELJA Tomaž , VASILECAS Olegas , VAVPOTIČ Damjan
Published: September 2015

As the competitive pressure of the global market for information systems (IS) continues to increase, IS development enterprises should start to consider if and how the use of IS development methodologies (ISDM) influences their main strategic business goals. More precisely, they should start to consider two different dimensions of the actual use of ISDM: the number of times an opportunity for ISDM use arises and the number of times the ISDM is actually used. Otherwise, they run the risk of mismanaging their ISDM-related investments. The goal of this study is to develop a model that would enable academics and IS practitioners to better examine and understand how different dimensions of the use of ISDM influence strategic business goals of cost leadership, differentiation and cornering niche markets in IS development enterprises. Given the limited literature on the research topic, this study was considered exploratory and theory building in nature. The main result of the presented exploratory study is a clearly defined model for examining how different dimensions of ISDM influence strategic business goals. Exploratory results show that the actual use of ISDM has a significantly positive influence on strategic business goals of differentiation and cornering of niche markets, but not the cost leadership.
Comment devient-on un « gars du groupe » quand on est une fille ?
Authors: Ginhoux Bérangère
Published: September 2015

Le monde du football et celui des supporters ultras restent très majoritairement dominés par les hommes. Les femmes, engagées dans ces mondes, sont régulièrement déconsidérées et leurs pratiques disqualifiées. Cet article s’intéresse spécifiquement à l’engagement des membres féminins de groupes de supporters ultras. Comment arrivent-elles à mener à bien leur carrière dans un contexte hostile à leur investissement ? Quelles sont les combines auxquelles elles ont recours afin d’être considérées comme des « gars du groupe » ? Cet article repose sur des données issues d’un travail d’enquête ethnographique, mené par observation participante au sein de groupes ultras et par entretiens semi-directifs avec des supportrices et des supporters ultras en Europe.
Apprendre du stigmate par l’expérimentation
Authors: Bailleul Michaël
Published: September 2015

Cet article montre comment et en quoi l’expérimentation du stigmate d’être un jeune issu d’un « quartier » peut devenir une source de savoirs, voire constituer un tuteur d’apprentissage positif. Il fait l’hypothèse que certains « jeunes des quartiers » tout en vivant au quotidien avec le stigmate dépassent le sentiment de soumission et parviennent à construire de nouvelles aptitudes qui leur sont profitables. Il montre que la connaissance des origines du stigmate peut être source de contrebalancement positif et être utilisé par les jeunes dans le cadre de stratégies d’interaction élaborées. Ce mécanisme d’émancipation qui émerge partiellement dans cette enquête témoigne d’une certaine capacité à s’affranchir.
Inclusion scolaire et action publique, entre contradictions et inachèvement
Authors: Mazereau Philippe
Published: September 2015

Cet article traite de la place et de la fonction de deux politiques publiques dans la réduction des inégalités sociales. L’apparition d’une configuration qui combine exclusion-mixité sociale-inclusion en posant une question sociale transversale proposerait un nouvel horizon mobilisateur. L’auteur développe ce point de vue à partir de deux histoires parallèles : celle du développement, à partir de 1975, d’une politique publique sociale envers les personnes handicapées, et celle de l’école républicaine, du système éducatif, lequel tient une place éminente dans la production de la cohésion nationale. L’article rend compte des principales articulations de ce qui s’apparente, selon l’auteur, à un chassé-croisé entre les réorientations législatives de ces deux politiques publiques, entre politique scolaire et du handicap.
Using Simulation Pedagogy in the Formation of Family-Focused Generalist Nurses
Authors: Eggenberger Sandra K. , Krumwiede Norma K. , Young Patricia K.
Published: September 2015

Background:

Nursing practice with families is essential because a family member’s illness affects the family and, reciprocally, the family influences health outcomes. Yet, nurses often report a lack of confidence in their ability to meet the needs of families, whereas family members often describe troubling experiences with nurses. These challenges may have beginning roots in nursing education. This article explores the use of simulation in the formation of family-focused generalist nurses.

Method:

Simulation pedagogy was used to guide students in developing an understanding of the importance of family nursing care, gaining confidence in family practices, and developing family competencies.

Results:

Innovative simulation learning experiences in an undergraduate nursing curriculum helped students to learn how to develop nurse–family relationships and gain humanistic skills of family nursing practices. Students and faculty reported that simulation guides students to achieve meaningful outcomes.

Conclusion:

In this curriculum, faculty consistently directs attention to the family in simulation learning experiences, and students value this pedagogy. [
J Nurs Educ.
2015;54(10):588–593.]
Horizontal Gaze Palsy With Progressive Scoliosis and Severe Keratoconus With a Compound Heterozygous Mutation in ROBO3
Authors: Pina Susana , Pedrosa Catarina , Feijóo Bernardo , Machado Sara , Prieto Isabel , Costa Cristina , Santos Maria João
Published: September 2015

The authors report the case of a child with horizontal gaze palsy with progressive scoliosis and keratoconus. ROBO3 analysis identified compound heterozygous mutations. Keratoconus surgical approach resulted in visual acuity improvement in both eyes. The previously unreported occurrence of keratoconus with horizontal gaze palsy with progressive scoliosis suggests that ophthalmologic assessment should search for signs of this ectasia in these patients.
[J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus 2014;51:e29–e32.]