bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of CO2 enhancement on beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) seedling root rot due to Phytophthora plurivora and Phytophthora cactorum
Authors: Tkaczyk Miłosz , Sikora Katarzyna , Nowakowska Justyna A. , Kubiak Katarzyna , Oszako Tomasz
Published: February 2015

Global climate change is associated with higher concentrations of atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2). The ongoing changes are likely to have significant, direct or indirect effects on plant diseases caused by many biotic agents such as phytopathogenic fungi. This study results showed that increased CO2 concentration did not stimulate the growth of 1-year-old beech Fagus sylvatica L seedlings but it activated pathogenic Phytophthora species (P. plurivora and P. cactorum) which caused significant reduction in the total number of fine roots as well as their length and area. The results of the greenhouse experiment indicated that pathogens once introduced into soil survived in pot soil, became periodically active (in sufficient water conditions) and were able to damage beech fine roots. However, the trees mortality was not observed during the first year of experiment. DNA analyses performed on soil and beech tissue proved persistence of introduced Phytophthora isolates.
Improved Robustness of Generalized Predictive Control for Uncertain Systems
Authors: Khelifa Khelifi Otmane , Noureddine Bali , Lazhari Nezli
Published: February 2015

An off-line methodology has been developed to improve the robustness of an initial generalized predictive control (GPC) through convex optimization of the Youla parameter. However, this method is restricted with the case of the systems affected only by unstructured uncertainties. This paper proposes an extension of this method to the systems subjected to both unstructured and polytopic uncertainties. The basic idea consists in adding supplementary constraints to the optimization problem which validates the Lipatov stability condition at each vertex of the polytope. These polytopic uncertainties impose a non convex quadratically constrained quadratic programming (QCQP) problem. Based on semidefinite programming (SDP), this problem is relaxed and solved. Therefore, the robustification provides stability robustness towards unstructured uncertainties for the nominal system, while guaranteeing stability properties over a specified polytopic domain of uncertainties. Finally, we present a numerical example to demonstrate the proposed method.
Mixture Dilution on a Natural Gas SI Engine Operating at Low Load
Authors: Vávra JiŘí , Takáts Michal , Bohac Stani
Published: February 2015

Shrnutí

V článku je prezentován výsledek experimentálního průzkumu spalování zředěné směsi zemního plynu se vzduchem při nízkém zatížení zážehového motoru. Zředění směsi vzduchem a recirkulujícími spalinami bylo porovnáno s provozem na stechiometrickou směs. Byla provedená detailní termodynamická analýza záznamu průběhu tlaku ve válci a byl vyhodnocen a analyzován průběh hoření. Výsledky naznačují potenciál ke zlepšení účinnosti motoru a současně možnost významného snížení emise NOX v surových spalinách v porovnání se spalováním homogenní stechiometrické směsi.
Regional variation in the effect of schooling on people's incomes in Poland
Authors: Domański Henryk , Pokropek Artur
Published: February 2015

The analysis, based on a Polish national sample from 2006, aims to cast light on the regional variation in the effect of education on incomes. Building on the conceptual framework developed in the theory of human capital we investigate to what extent pay-offs for human capital differ across detailed administrative districts in Poland. By incorporating contextual characteristics, we examine how micro- and macro-level factors shape labour market outcomes. Our findings provide further support for the hypothesis that there is much regional variation in the influence of education on incomes, which suggests that there are better and worse places for the development of a meritocratic distribution of incomes. It appears that education pays more highly in more economically-developed regions, marked by a higher rate of occupational activity.
Phlegmon of the Foot As A Camel Bite Complication
Authors: Skonieczny Bartosz , Skonieczny Wojciech
Published: February 2015

The great popularity of foreign excursions and travel in exotic directions, as well as increasing popularity of breeding exotic animals at home, is evidence that in daily practice one may observe injuries inflicted by animals atypically occurring in Poland.

The study presented and described a rare case of a patient attacked by a camel living in an agro-tourism farm in our country. Thanks to the combination of surgical and conservative treatment complete wound healing was observed, including the skin grafts, with preserved motor function of the foot.
A Case of Traumatic Rupture of the Pancreas. Combined Surgical and Endoscopic Management
Authors: Paszkiewicz Izabela , Płatkowski Cezary , Dobosz Łukasz , Dobosz Marek
Published: February 2015

Traumatic rupture of the pancreas is a rare and difficult diagnostic and therapeutic problem. The authors present a case of traumatic rupture of the pancreas (grade IV on AAST scale) where concurrent endoscopic and surgical management was used.
Lymph Node Harvest (LNH) in Colorectal Cancer; A Critical Appraisal
Authors: Haboubi Najib , Berho Mariana
Published: February 2015

abs
Advocating mixed-methods approaches in health research
Authors: MacKenzie Bryers H , VanTeijlingen E , Pitchforth E
Published: February 2015

This methods paper provides researchers in Nepal with a broad overview of the practical and philosophical aspects of mixed-methods research.   The three authors have a wide-ranging expertise in planning and conducting mixed-methods studies.  The paper outlines the different paradigms or philosophies underlying quantitative and qualitative methods and some of the on-going debates about mixed-methods.   The paper further highlights a number of practical issues, such as (a) the particular mix and order of quantitative and qualitative methods; (b) the way of integrating methods from different philosophical stance; and (c) how to synthesise mixed-methods findings. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/nje.v4i5.12018 Nepal Journal of Epidemiology 2014; 4(5):417-22
Efficacy of Statins in Dyslipidemia: A Non interventional comparative study in a tertiary care hospital, Ajman, UAE
Authors: John LJ , Esheiba EM , Fathi MAM , Agarwal AK , Sreedharan J , Muttappallymyalil J , Shantakumari N
Published: February 2015

BackgroundThe reduction of serum total cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol levels varies with different statins. The objective of the present study was to compare the efficacy of Simvastatin, Atorvastatin and Rosuvastatin in the treatment of newly diagnosed dyslipidemia.Material and Methods:A prospective, non-interventional 12-week study was conducted after approval from the Ethics Committee. A total of 70 patients with newly diagnosed dyslipidemia receiving 20mg of Simvastatin, Atorvastatin or Rosuvastatin were included. The primary efficacy measure was reduction of lipid levels from the initial baseline values at the end of 12 weeks with the respective Statins. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, Paired -t test, and analysis of variance (ANOVA).Results:Of total 70 patients, 14 patients received Simvastatin; 40 patients received Atorvastatin and 16 patients received Rosuvastatin. Demographic and baseline clinical characteristics were similar between the three groups. Significant reduction in lipid levels (total cholesterol, and LDL) was seen within the three treatment groups (p<0.01). However, statistically significant difference in the reduction lipid levels was not observed between the three groups.Conclusion:We found no significant difference in the reduction of lipid levels between Simvastatin, Atorvastatin or Rosuvastatin patients with newly diagnosed dyslipidemia.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/nje.v4i5.12023 Nepal Journal of Epidemiology 2014; 4(5):428-32
Rethinking Postcolonial Melodrama and Affect
Authors: Majithia Sheetal
Published: February 2015

ABSTRACT:

This article rethinks melodrama’s history, uses, and effects, through an analysis of Deepa Mehta’s film Earth (1998), an adaptation of Bapsi Sidhwa’s novel on the partition of British India, Cracking India (1991). The film offers an encounter with postcolonial and global melodrama that raises questions of comparison, categorization, and periodization, as well as of the association of the melodramatic mode with “secular modernity” – the universal condition to which Peter Brooks suggests melodrama owes its rise. In Mehta’s film, the often disparaged aesthetic of melodrama makes sense of affective history by signifying the body and generating potential ethical knowledge through “affective reason,” which is often conveyed through Mehta’s use of interruptions, flashbacks, reversals, and simultaneities. The film thereby suggests a temporality that stands as an alternative to the progressive and teleological linearity underlying concepts of a homogenous and secular modernity and to official, realist accounts of nationalism.
Evaluation of Rail Infrastructure Investments Related to the New Rail Regulatory Environment in Some Countries
Authors: Tsamboulas Dimitrios
Published: February 2015

As for any transportation infrastructure project, rail investment projects are subject to appraisals, which traditionally include an economic evaluation to determine public benefits and a financial analysis to determine the purely financial returns. When the company that owns and manages the rail infrastructure, termed the “infrastructure manager,” is legally different from the company that provides the rail service, appraisals are typically carried out separately for the infrastructure manager and the train operator. The appraisal process is different from the process when the same legal entity owns and manages both infrastructure and train operations. The distinction is especially pertinent for European Union member states. This study proposed a comprehensive methodology for rail investment project appraisal for the case of rail infrastructure and train operations that were owned and managed by separate legal entities. The study defined the socioeconomic viability of a project from the infrastructure manager's perspective, which reflected social welfare, as well as the financial viability of the project from the perspectives of the infrastructure manager and the operator. It was recognized that a project would proceed only if the socioeconomic evaluation were positive. In the case of a negative financial appraisal, which was often the case for low-volume rail links, the study demonstrated how the use of subsidies could render the rail investment financially viable. The methodology was applied for a proposed investment in the western extensions of the railway network of Greece project.
Geographically Focused Incentives to Foster Off-Hour Deliveries
Authors: Holguín-Veras José , Aros-Vera Felipe
Published: February 2015

This study evaluated geographically focused incentives to receivers for their commitment to accept off-hour deliveries (OHD). A behavioral microsimulation was used to describe the joint decision of carriers and receivers toward OHD. The study assessed the performance of incentive structures by analyzing the percentage of trucks and deliveries that would switch to OHD and the budget required for the implementation of OHD. The results were analyzed in conjunction with previous theoretical research on the benefits of providing incentives by geographic location. Policy recommendations shed light on the implementation of OHD programs.
Developing a Toolkit for Hazardous Materials Transportation Education
Authors: Bronzini Michael S. , Abkowitz Mark D. , Baird Malcolm E. , Camp Janey
Published: February 2015

The objective of this project was to develop model postsecondary education curricula that would address the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed for the safe, secure, and efficient transportation of hazardous materials (hazmat). More than 170 existing hazmat-related education and training programs and other resources offered by industry and government were identified and evaluated to assess the state of the art and to locate materials that might be used in the model curricula. Stakeholder groups that would benefit from hazmat transportation education were identified and defined, and draft materials were developed around a set of topics to meet stakeholder needs. The draft curricula were reviewed at a peer exchange workshop involving approximately 50 stakeholders representing various interests in hazmat transportation. The final model curricula, presented in the form of a toolkit that can be adapted for various audiences and educational purposes, consist of PowerPoint presentations and supporting materials covering eight topics: introduction to hazmat transportation, hazmat logistics, legal and regulatory environment, mode and route selection, risk management, hazmat transportation incident management, security of hazmat transportation shipments, and workforce development issues. The paper considered barriers to implementation of the model curricula and proposed follow-up activities to help overcome them.
GPS Data Analysis of the Impact of Tolling on Truck Speed and Routing
Authors: Wang Zun , Goodchild Anne V.
Published: February 2015

Roadway tolls are designed to raise revenue to fund transportation investments and manage travel demand and as such may affect transportation system performance and route choice. Yet, limited research has quantified the impact of tolling on truck speed and route choice because of the lack of truck-specific movement data. Most existing tolling impact studies rely on surveys in which drivers are given several alternative routes and their performance characteristics and asked to estimate route choices. The limitations of such an approach are that the results may not reflect actual truck route choices and the surveys are costly to collect. The research described in this paper used truck GPS data to observe empirical responses to tolling, following the implementation of a toll on the State Route 520 (SR-520) bridge in Seattle, Washington. Truck GPS data were used to evaluate route choice and travel speed along SR-520 and the alternate toll-free Route I-90. It was found that truck travel speed on SR-520 improved after tolling, although travel speed on the alternative toll-free Route I-90 decreased during the peak period. A set of logit models was developed to determine the influential factors in truck routing. The results indicated that travel time, travel time reliability, and toll rate were all influential factors during peak and off-peak periods. The values of truck travel time during various time periods were estimated, and it was found that the values varied with the definition of peak and off-peak periods.
Use of Logbook Data to Assess 34-Hour Restart Charges
Authors: Short Jeffrey
Published: February 2015

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's (FMCSA) hours-of-service (HOS) rules govern the number of hours that a commercial driver may be on duty and operate a commercial motor vehicle and how much rest is required between periods of work. Recent changes to the HOS, which included a change to the 34-h restart rule, were supported by an FMCSA regulatory impact analysis (RIA) that assessed the costs and benefits of the changes. The foundation of this analysis was logbook data from a small sample of carriers undergoing FMCSA safety audits and compliance reviews and thus more likely to have compliance issues. To assess the accuracy of the FMCSA cost–benefit analysis, which found a net benefit of $133 million annually for the new restart provisions, the American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) research team replicated the most critical analyses of the RIA. As part of this process, a larger logbook data set that represented normal trucking operations was utilized. ATRI found that FMCSA's intense-schedule drivers, a group that was critical to FMCSA's net benefit findings, did not exist within normal carrier operations. Consequently, the agency's cost–benefit results were found to be overestimated. Analysis of the normal logbook data showed that a net loss, not a net benefit, would result from the new restart provisions. In addition, costs not captured by FMCSA's analysis were incorporated in the analysis to show an annual loss of $189 million considering that the average driver might lose a modest 15 min of productivity per week because of the new provisions.
Effect of Laboratory Mixing and Compaction Temperatures on Asphalt Mixture Volumetrics and Dynamic Modulus
Authors: Zeinali Alireza , Blankenship Phillip B. , Mahboub Kamyar C.
Published: February 2015

Employment of conventional asphalt testing protocols for characterization of polymer-modified asphalts remains a challenge. NCHRP launched Project 9–39 to identify an approach to determine the mixing and compaction temperatures applicable to unmodified and modified asphalt binders. The Asphalt Institute, Lexington, Kentucky, in cooperation with FHWA, embarked on the research reported here to evaluate how mixture performance is affected by laboratory mixing and compaction temperatures. Samples were mixed and conditioned at various temperatures and conditioning durations with modified and unmodified binders. Volumetric analysis confirmed that slight changes in the mixing temperature did not change the results of volumetric testing. Compacted samples were tested to determine the dynamic modulus as an indication of pavement performance. A comprehensive statistical analysis was performed, and the overall results showed that the impact of the conditioning temperature and duration on the dynamic modulus was more significant than the influence of the mixing temperature. Further, for modified binders the significance of the impact of the mixing temperature seemed to be a function of the crude source of the binders.
Use of System Dynamics to Understand Long-Term Impact of Climate Change on Pavement Performance and Maintenance Cost
Authors: Mallick Rajib B. , Radzicki Michael J. , Daniel Jo Sias , Jacobs Jennifer M.
Published: February 2015

An increase in the vulnerability of the nation's roadway network to changes in climatic conditions has become an issue of significant concern. Heavy rainfall and high temperatures are examples of climatic factors that can affect pavement performance and conditions in a detrimental way. Some of these effects, specifically on costs associated with constructing and maintaining roads, may not be significant in the short term but may become significant in the long term. The objective of this study was to present a framework to use system dynamics to understand the long-term impact of climate change on pavement performance and maintenance activity. A system dynamics model was created with available pavement performance and climate change data, and the effects on various key factors, such as pavement life and maintenance cost, were evaluated through simulation. Preliminary results show that the long-term effects of changes in air temperature, rainfall, seawater–level rise, and number of hurricanes on pavement performance are significant and that costs are expected to increase significantly (>160% in 100 years) and nonlinearly. From these findings, recommendations are made for obtaining more accurate and reliable data on relevant climate change factors and for using a system dynamics approach to integrate the multi-disciplinary topics of climate change, pavement design and performance, and economics into comprehensive studies.
Estimating Vehicle Operating Costs Caused by Pavement Surface Conditions
Authors: Zaabar Imen , Chatti Karim
Published: February 2015

This paper presents a summary of findings on the effect of pavement roughness [international roughness index (IRI)] and texture [mean profile depth (MPD)] on vehicle operating costs. The most important cost affected by roughness was fuel consumption, followed by repair and maintenance, then tire wear. An increase in IRI of 1 m/km (63.4 in./mi) increased fuel consumption of passenger cars by 2% to 3%, regardless of speed. For heavy trucks, this increase was 1% to 2% at 70 mph and 2% to 3% at 35 mph. Surface texture and pavement type had no effect on fuel consumption for vehicle classes except heavy trucks. An increase in MPD of 1 mm (0.039 in.) increased fuel consumption by 1.5% at 55 mph and 2% at 35 mph. The effect of pavement type on fuel consumption was statistically not significant for all light vehicles and was statistically significant for heavy trucks only at 35 mph in summer conditions (308C). No data were available for heavy trucks in winter. For repair and maintenance, there was no effect of roughness up to an IRI of 3 m/km (190 in./mi). Beyond this range, an increase in IRI up to 4 m/km (254 in./mi) increased repair and maintenance costs by 10% for passenger cars and heavy trucks. At an IRI of 5 m/km (317 in./mi), the increase was up to 40% for passenger cars and 50% for heavy trucks. An increase in IRI of 1 m/km (63.4 in./mi) increased tire wear of passenger cars and heavy trucks by 1% at 55 mph.
Prediction of Driver Action at Signalized Intersections by Using a Nested Logit Model
Authors: Gates Timothy J. , Savolainen Peter T. , Maria Honey-Um
Published: February 2015

The primary objective of this research was to identify factors that influenced whether a vehicle would stop or proceed through, either legally or illegally, during the yellow indication when the vehicle was approaching a signalized intersection. For this objective to be accomplished, naturalistic driver behavioral data were collected at 72 signalized intersection approaches selected from four regions of the United States. Data were obtained for 6,208 vehicles that were approaching a study intersection during the yellow interval. With these data, a nested logit model was developed to investigate the influence of various factors on the likelihood that a driver approaching a signalized intersection during the yellow interval would stop, would proceed through legally, or would commit red light running (RLR). The nested logit model represented an improvement over prior binary logistic regression models, because it allowed the simultaneous estimation of all three potential driver actions. With the use of this model, RLR was determined to be more likely to occur under the following conditions: (a) the duration of the yellow interval was equal to or less than 4.5 s, (b) the subject vehicle was part of a platoon, (c) the approach speed limit was less than or equal to 40 mph, (d) the subject vehicle was farther from the intersection at the onset of the yellow indication, or (e) the subject vehicle approached at a lower rate of speed. The results may be used to improve the accuracy of algorithms for real-time prediction of RLR, including those used in conjunction with traffic signal phase extension systems.
Traffic Sign Recognition Using Sparse Representations and Active Contour Models
Authors: Okyere Adu-Gyamfi Yaw , Attoh-Okine Nii
Published: February 2015

Automated traffic sign recognition (TSR) remains an integral component of road sign inventory programs administered by transportation agencies. However, current practices for TSR are labor-intensive and time-consuming. This paper presents a novel TSR algorithm that can be integrated into the traffic sign management systems of infrastructure managers. The methodology proposed the use of a multiscale principal component pursuit (mPCP) for detection of the locations of traffic signs that decomposes each video frame into a background image (trees, cars, illumination, etc.) and foreground image (traffic sign information). Next, a novel model method for edge detection called “active contours,” or “snakes,” was introduced to extract traffic sign geometries for classification. The active contour models showed promise for the detection of different types of traffic signs in noisy environments. The ability of these models to split and match topologies of the image data was essential for accurate sign location and shape detection. The evaluation of the proposed methodology was conducted with data from video logs. The performance of the system developed was compared with that of the Canny- and Hough-based TSR algorithms. The test results indicated that the mPCP–active contour-based TSR algorithm remarkably outperformed the selected benchmark algorithms, with the highest detection rate (92.6%) and precision (87.2%). These results demonstrated the potential for practical application of the proposed methodology.
Investigation of Pedestrian Crossing Speeds at Signalized Intersections with Heavy Pedestrian Volumes
Authors: Park H. Joon , Yang Weili , Yu Weizhe , Wagner Ilana , Ahmed Shakil
Published: February 2015

The policy of the New York City Department of Transportation on the use of pedestrian crossing speeds is intended to provide sufficient time for pedestrians to cross the street and, thus, to support pedestrian safety at signalized intersections. This policy adheres to current guidelines provided in the Highway Capacity Manual 2010 and the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices, which generally recommend the use of a fixed walking speed; however, pedestrian walking speeds at crosswalks vary depending on pedestrian density. As crosswalks become more crowded, pedestrian walking speeds become slower. The purpose of the study described in this paper, therefore, was to identify the need for and recommend a guideline for dynamic pedestrian walking speeds during pedestrian clearance intervals that fluctuated on the basis of how pedestrians behaved in crosswalks with various pedestrian densities. Such control could help provide appropriate pedestrian clearance intervals at crosswalks with distinctively high densities. This study modeled the relationships between pedestrian walking speeds and densities and between speeds and the proportions of pedestrian flows by direction at signalized intersections with heavy pedestrian volumes, as in central business district locations in New York City. On the basis of the relationships analyzed, speed and density levels were identified as measures of safety and congestion levels. Furthermore, the study showed that pedestrian crossing speeds within high-density crosswalks were affected by opposing pedestrian flows.
Parameters Estimation of Uncertain Fractional-Order Chaotic Systems via a Modified Artificial Bee Colony Algorithm
Authors: Hu Wei , Yu Yongguang , Wang Sha
Published: February 2015

Parameter estimation for fractional-order chaotic systems has been an interesting and important issue in theory and various fields of application. In this paper, fractional orders, as well as systematic parameters of fractional-order chaotic systems are considered by treating fractional orders as additional parameters. The parameter estimation is transformed into a multidimensional optimization problem, and an effective modified artificial bee colony algorithm is proposed to solve this problem. Numerical simulations are conducted on two typical fractional-order chaotic systems to show the effectiveness of the proposed scheme.
Three-Dimensional Collagen Type I Matrix Up-Regulates Nuclear Isoforms of the Microtubule Associated Protein Tau Implicated in Resistance to Paclitaxel Therapy in Ovarian Carcinoma
Authors: Gurler Hilal , Yu Yi , Choi Jacqueline , Kajdacsy-Balla Andre , Barbolina Maria
Published: February 2015

Epithelial ovarian carcinoma is the deadliest gynecologic malignancy. One reason underlying treatment failure is resistance to paclitaxel. Expression of the microtubule associated protein tau has recently been proposed as a predictor of response to paclitaxel in ovarian carcinoma patients. Expression of tau was probed using immunohistochemistry in 312 specimens of primary, and 40 specimens of metastatic, ovarian carcinoma. Serous epithelial ovarian carcinoma cell line models were used to determine the expression of tau by Western blot and immunofluorescence staining. Subcellular fractionation and Western blot were employed to examine nuclear and cytoplasmic localization of tau. Gene silencing and clonogenic assays were used to evaluate paclitaxel response. Tau was expressed in 44% of all tested cases. Among the primary serous epithelial ovarian carcinoma cases, 46% were tau-positive. Among the metastatic serous epithelial ovarian carcinomas, 63% were tau-positive. Cell culture experiments demonstrated that tau was expressed in multiple isoforms. Three-dimensional collagen I matrix culture conditions resulted in up-regulation of tau protein. Silencing of tau with specific siRNAs in a combination with three-dimensional culture conditions led to a significant decrease of the clonogenic ability of cells treated with paclitaxel. The data suggest that reduction of tau expression may sensitize ovarian carcinoma to the paclitaxel treatment.
Synthesis of a Temperature-Sensitive Matrine-Imprinted Polymer and Its Potential Application for the Selective Extraction of Matrine from Radix Sophorae Tonkinensis
Authors: Jiang Minjie , Wang Lisheng , Liu Xu , Yang Hua , Ren Fan , Gan Lizhen , Jiang Weizhe
Published: February 2015

A temperature-sensitive matrine-imprinted polymer was prepared in chloroform by free-radical cross-linking copolymerization of methacrylic acid at 60 °C in the presence of ethylene glycol dimethacrylate as the cross-linker, N-isopropyl acrylamide as the temperature-responsive monomer and matrine as the template molecule. Binding experiments and Scatchard analyses revealed that two classes of binding sites were formed on molecular imprinted polymer (MIP) at 50 °C. Additionally, the thermoresponsive MIP was tested for its application as a sorbent material for the selective separation of matrine from Chinese medicinal plant radix Sophorae tonkinensis. It was shown that the thermoresponsive MIP displayed different efficiency in clean-up and enrichments using the SPE protocol at different temperatures.
Phytochemical Composition and Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Extracts from the Whole-Meal Flour of Italian Durum Wheat Cultivars
Authors: Laddomada Barbara , Durante Miriana , Minervini Fiorenza , Garbetta Antonella , Cardinali Angela , D'Antuono Isabella , Caretto Sofia , Blanco Antonio , Mita Giovanni
Published: February 2015

In this study, the quali-quantitative composition of hydrophilic (phenolic acids) and lipophilic (isoprenoids) extracts from whole-meal flour of five elite Italian durum wheat cultivars was determined. Significant differences in the content of bioactive compounds were observed among the wheat extracts, in particular concerning the content of bound phenolic acids, lutein and β-tocotrienols. The cultivars Duilio and Svevo showed the highest amount of phenolic acids and isoprenoids, respectively. Extracts were evaluated for their anti-inflammatory activity on HT-29 human colon cells by measuring the levels of interleukin 8 (IL-8) and transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1). Durum wheat extracts significantly inhibited the secretion of the pro-inflammatory IL-8 mediator at 66 µg/mL of phenolic acids and at 0.2 µg/mL of isoprenoids. Conversely, the secretion of the anti-inflammatory mediator TGF-β1 was not modified by neither hydrophilic nor lipophilic extracts. These results provide further insight into the potential of durum wheat on human health suggesting the significance of varieties with elevated contents of bioactive components.
Ω3 Supplementation and Intermittent Hypobaric Hypoxia Induce Cardioprotection Enhancing Antioxidant Mechanisms in Adult Rats
Authors: Herrera Emilio , Farías Jorge , González-Candia Alejandro , Short Stefania , Carrasco-Pozo Catalina , Castillo Rodrigo
Published: February 2015

Intermittent hypobaric hypoxia (IH) is linked with oxidative stress, impairing cardiac function. However, early IH also activate cardio-protective mechanisms. Omega 3 fatty acids (Ω3) induce cardioprotection by reducing infarct size and reinforcing antioxidant defenses. The aim of this work was to determine the combined effects of IH and Ω3 on cardiac function; oxidative balance and inflammatory state. Twenty-eight rats were randomly divided into four groups: normobaric normoxia (N); N + Ω3 (0.3 g·kg−1·day−1); IH; and IH + Ω3. IH was induced by 4 intercalate periods of hypoxia (4 days)—normoxia (4 days) in a hypobaric chamber during 32 days. At the end of the exposure, hearts were mounted in a Langendorff system and subjected to 30 min of ischemia followed by 120 min of reperfusion. In addition, we determined HIF-1α and ATP levels, as well as oxidative stress by malondialdehyde and nitrotyrosine quantification. Further, the expression of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase was determined. NF-kappaB and myeloperoxidase levels were assessed in the hearts. Relative to N hearts, IH improved left ventricular function (Left ventricular developed pressure: N; 21.8 ± 3.4 vs. IH; 42.8 ± 7.1 mmHg; p < 0.05); reduced oxidative stress (Malondialdehyde: N; 14.4 ± 1.8 vs. IH; 7.3 ± 2.1 μmol/mg prot.; p < 0.05); and increased antioxidant enzymes expression. Supplementation with Ω3 induces similar responses as IH group. Our findings suggest that both, IH and Ω3 in an independent manner, induce functional improvement by antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms, establishing cardio-protection.
Structure Design and Implementation of the Passive μ-DMFC
Authors: Liu Xiaowei , Fang Shuo , Ma Zezhong , Zhang Yufeng
Published: February 2015

A dual-chamber anode structure is proposed in order to solve two performance problems of the conventional passive micro direct methanol fuel cell (μ-DMFC). One of the problems is the unstable performance during long time discharge. The second problem is the short operating time. In this structure, low concentration chamber is filled with methanol solution with appropriate concentration for the μ-DMFC. Pure methanol in high concentration chamber diffuses to the low concentration chamber to keep the concentration of methanol solution suitable for long-term discharge of μ-DMFC. In this study, a Nafion-Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) composite membrane is inserted between the two chambers to conduct pure methanol. The experimental results during long-term discharge show that the stable operating time of passive μ-DMFC increases by nearly 2.3 times compared to a conventional one with the same volume. These results could be applied to real products.
6-Gingerol Protects against Nutritional Steatohepatitis by Regulating Key Genes Related to Inflammation and Lipid Metabolism
Authors: Tzeng Thing-Fong , Liou Shorong-Shii , Chang Chia , Liu I-Min
Published: February 2015

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, including non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), appears to be increasingly common worldwide. The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of 6-gingerol ((S)-5-hydroxy-1-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-3-decanone), a bioactive ingredient of plants belonging to the Zingiberaceae family, on experimental models of NASH. In HepG2 cells, 6-gingerol (100 μmol/L) treatment inhibited free fatty acids mixture (0.33 mmol/L palmitate and 0.66 mmol/L oleate)-induced triglyceride and inflammatory marker accumulations. Male C57BL/6 mice were fed with a methionine and choline-deficient (MCD) diet to induce steatohepatitis. After four weeks of MCD diet feeding, the mice were dosed orally with 6-gingerol (25, 50 or 100 mg/kg/day) once daily for another four weeks. 6-Gingerol (100 mg/kg/day) attenuated liver steatosis and necro-inflammation in MCD diet-fed mice. The expressions of inflammatory cytokine genes, including those for monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, tumor necrosis factor-α, and interleukin-6, and nuclear transcription factor (NF-κB), which were increased in the livers of MCD diet-fed mice, were attenuated by 6-gingerol. 6-Gingerol possesses a repressive property on hepatic steatosis, which is associated with induction of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α. Our study demonstrated the protective role of 6-gingerol in ameliorating nutritional steatohepatitis. The effect was mediated through regulating key genes related to lipid metabolism and inflammation.
Relative Localization in Wireless Sensor Networks for Measurement of Electric Fields under HVDC Transmission Lines
Authors: Cui Yong , Wang Qiusheng , Yuan Haiwen , Song Xiao , Hu Xuemin , Zhao Luxing
Published: February 2015

In the wireless sensor networks (WSNs) for electric field measurement system under the High-Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) transmission lines, it is necessary to obtain the electric field distribution with multiple sensors. The location information of each sensor is essential to the correct analysis of measurement results. Compared with the existing approach which gathers the location information by manually labelling sensors during deployment, the automatic localization can reduce the workload and improve the measurement efficiency. A novel and practical range-free localization algorithm for the localization of one-dimensional linear topology wireless networks in the electric field measurement system is presented. The algorithm utilizes unknown nodes’ neighbor lists based on the Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) values to determine the relative locations of nodes. The algorithm is able to handle the exceptional situation of the output permutation which can effectively improve the accuracy of localization. The performance of this algorithm under real circumstances has been evaluated through several experiments with different numbers of nodes and different node deployments in the China State Grid HVDC test base. Results show that the proposed algorithm achieves an accuracy of over 96% under different conditions.
Towards an Optimized Method of Olive Tree Crown Volume Measurement
Authors: Miranda-Fuentes Antonio , Llorens Jordi , Gamarra-Diezma Juan , Gil-Ribes Jesús , Gil Emilio
Published: February 2015

Accurate crown characterization of large isolated olive trees is vital for adjusting spray doses in three-dimensional crop agriculture. Among the many methodologies available, laser sensors have proved to be the most reliable and accurate. However, their operation is time consuming and requires specialist knowledge and so a simpler crown characterization method is required. To this end, three methods were evaluated and compared with LiDAR measurements to determine their accuracy: Vertical Crown Projected Area method (VCPA), Ellipsoid Volume method (VE) and Tree Silhouette Volume method (VTS). Trials were performed in three different kinds of olive tree plantations: intensive, adapted one-trunked traditional and traditional. In total, 55 trees were characterized. Results show that all three methods are appropriate to estimate the crown volume, reaching high coefficients of determination: R2 = 0.783, 0.843 and 0.824 for VCPA, VE and VTS, respectively. However, discrepancies arise when evaluating tree plantations separately, especially for traditional trees. Here, correlations between LiDAR volume and other parameters showed that the Mean Vector calculated for VCPA method showed the highest correlation for traditional trees, thus its use in traditional plantations is highly recommended.
Metabolomics of the Bio-Degradation Process of Aflatoxin B1 by Actinomycetes at an Initial pH of 6.0
Authors: Eshelli Manal , Harvey Linda , Edrada-Ebel RuAngelie , McNeil Brian
Published: February 2015

Contamination of food and feed by Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is a cause of serious economic and health problems. Different processes have been used to degrade AFB1. In this study, biological degradation of AFB1 was carried out using three Actinomycete species, Rhodococcus erythropolis ATCC 4277, Streptomyces lividans TK 24, and S. aureofaciens ATCC 10762, in liquid cultures. Biodegradation of AFB1 was optimised under a range of temperatures from 25 to 40 °C and pH values of 4.0 to 8.0. An initial concentration of 20 µg/mL of AFB1 was used in this study. The amount of AFB1 remaining was measured against time by thin layer chromatography (TLC) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), coupled with UV and mass spectrometry (LC-MS). All species were able to degrade the AFB1, and no significant difference was found between them. AFB1 remained in the liquid culture for R. erythropolis, S. lividans and S. aureofaciens were 0.81 µg/mL, 2.41 µg/mL and 2.78 µg/mL respectively, at the end of the first 24 h. Degradation occurred at all incubation temperatures and the pH with the optimal conditions for R. erythropolis was achieved at 30 °C and pH 6, whereas for S. lividans and S. aureofaciens the optimum conditions for degradation were 30 °C and pH 5. Analysis of the degradative route indicated that each microorganism has a different way of degrading AFB1. The metabolites produced by R. erythropolis were significantly different from the other two microorganisms. Products of degradation were identified through metabolomic studies by utilizing high-resolution mass spectral data. Mass spectrometric analysis indicated that the degradation of AFB1 was associated with the appearance of a range of lower molecular weight compounds. The pathway of degradation or chemical alteration of AFB1 was followed by means of high resolution Fourier transform mass spectrometry (HR-FTMS) analysis as well as through the MS2 fragmentation to unravel the degradative pathway for AFB1. AFB1 bio-degradation was coupled with the accumulation of intermediates of fatty acid metabolism and glycolysis. A plausible mechanism of degradation of AFB1 by Rhodococcus was hypothesized.
Application of the Multimodel Ensemble Kalman Filter Method in Groundwater System
Authors: Xue Liang
Published: February 2015

With the development of in-situ monitoring techniques, the ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF) has become a popular data assimilation method due to its capability to jointly update model parameters and state variables in a sequential way, and to assess the uncertainty associated with estimation and prediction. To take the conceptual model uncertainty into account during the data assimilation process, a novel multimodel ensemble Kalman filter method has been proposed by incorporating the standard EnKF with Bayesian model averaging framework. In this paper, this method is applied to analyze the dataset obtained from the Hailiutu River Basin located in the northwest part of China. Multiple conceptual models are created by considering two important factors that control groundwater dynamics in semi-arid areas: the zonation pattern of the hydraulic conductivity field and the relationship between evapotranspiration and groundwater level. The results show that the posterior model weights of the postulated models can be dynamically adjusted according to the mismatch between the measurements and the ensemble predictions, and the multimodel ensemble estimation and the corresponding uncertainty can be quantified.
A contribution to the aeolian history of the Tanezrouft
Authors: Besler Hegla
Published: February 2015

L 'analyse des sables dunaires dans le Tanezrouft et le Tidikelt montre que des dunes isolées du Tanezrouft sont d'origine locale et d'âge Pleistocène tardif, que leur sable provenait d'un cône alluvial du Hoggar et que, après le dépôt des dunes, il n'y eut plus guère d'activité éolienne dans la région.
Patellar groove replacement in patellar luxation with severe femoro-patellar osteoarthritis
Authors: Dokic Z. , Lorinson D. , Weigel J. P. , Vezzoni A.
Published: February 2015

Objective: To report a novel method of treating femoro-patellar instability in association with severe femoro-patellar osteoarthritis, by substituting the femoral trochlear with a patellar groove replacement prosthesis.

Study design: Retrospective case series.

Methods: Preoperative lameness was scored from 0–4, and radiographic studies including standard positions for patellar luxation were obtained for evidence of malalignment and femoro-patellar osteoarthritis. Cases with or without previous surgeries were included. The size of trochlear implant was determined by transparent templates and confirmed intra-operatively with trials. Radiographic images, together with clinical examinations, were reviewed immediately and at three months postoperatively and at longer term when available.

Results: Thirty-five cases of patellar luxation ranging from grades II to IV were included. Eleven of these cases had prior surgical interventions which failed to stabilize the patella. Fourteen dogs required additional surgical procedures in conjunction with patellar groove replacement. Complications occurred in six patients, of which three required revision. Complete resolution of subjectively- assessed lameness was evident in 24/35 cases by the third month and in another seven of 35 patients on the longer term re-evaluations.

Clinical significance: Use of a patellar groove replacement prosthesis has the potential to decrease the lameness associated with severe femoro-patellar arthritis, to improve patellar stability, and to correct the alignment of the extensor mechanism.
Deux points de vue sur le changement linguistique
Authors: Béguelin Marie-José
Published: February 2015

Bien des auteurs abordent aujourd’hui le changement linguistique dans une perspective déterministe, via des échelles de grammaticalisation conduisant du « lexical » au « grammatical », du « moins grammatical » au « plus grammatical », du « sémantiquement plein » au « sémantiquement vide ». Cette vision orientée, unidirectionnelle, du changement trouve une critique précoce dans les réflexions de F. de Saussure, aux yeux de qui le changement grammatical est aléatoire, a-téléologique, dû aux (ré) analyses accidentelles du matériau langagier qui interviennent hic et nunc dans l’esprit des sujets parlants, sous la pression exclusive des formes contemporaines. On examine, à l’aune de ces deux points de vue antagonistes, quelques cas de changement syntaxique, avant de poser la question de savoir où se situent au juste les supposées « tendances » en matière d’évolution linguistique.
La réanalyse syntaxique et le conflit formaliste-fonctionnaliste en linguistique
Authors: Newmeyer Frederick J.
Published: February 2015

Deux positions sur la réanalyse se sont largement répandues dans la littérature. La première correspond à la position classique du courant syntaxique dominant en principes et paramètres. Selon cette approche, le fait de réinitialiser brutalement un paramètre donne lieu à un ensemble de réanalyses structurales. La seconde approche s’est dans un premier temps développée dans le contexte de la linguistique fonctionnelle. Selon cette vision des choses, le changement diachronique est « flou », dans la mesure où les catégories et les constructions syntaxiques subissent une réanalyse graduelle. Dans cet article, je défends l’idée qu’aucune des deux positions n’est correcte. La réanalyse est en fait discrète et brutale. Cependant, il faut abandonner l’idée selon laquelle les réanalyses pourraient être posées en termes de réinitialisation de paramètres.
Réanalyses du relateur et
Authors: Corminboeuf Gilles
Published: February 2015

Cette étude porte sur deux classes de constructions articulées par et , l’une en ancien français, l’autre en français contemporain : (i) des constructions « à cumul » de l’ancien français comme (1) Quant vit abatu son escu, / Et lors n’i a plus atendu ( Sone de Nansai , cité par Antoine 1958) ; (ii) des constructions à inversion de pronom clitique sujet, articulées par et comme (2) La tension monte-t-elle à une table, et sa voix de velours suffit à l’apaiser (presse écrite). Dans les deux cas, la réanalyse de la structure entraîne une modification de la valeur de et . À partir de ces deux micro-phénomènes, je ferai plusieurs observations sur l’appréhension théorique des changements linguistiques.