bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anterior Cervical Hypertrichosis: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Megna Matteo , Balato Nicola , Patruno Cataldo , Ayala Fabio
Published: June 2014

Anterior cervical hypertrichosis (ACH), or “hairy throat,” is a rare form of localized hypertrichosis that refers to the presence of a tuft of terminal hair on the anterior neck. Only 40 cases of ACH have been reported in the literature. Although it is usually an isolated finding, it may be associated with systemic disorders such as neurologic abnormalities (peripheral neuropathy, developmental delay, mental retardation), ophthalmologic disorders (optic atrophy, chorioretinal changes), hallux valgus, and dorsal hypertrichosis. Thus it is strongly advised to take a thorough family history and to perform clinical examinations and investigations (neurologic and ophthalmologic examination, electromyography, X‐ray of the feet) in all patients with ACH to exclude possible associated abnormalities. We report the case of a 7‐year‐old Italian girl who presented with this condition as an isolated finding.
Differential defence responses of susceptible and resistant kimchi cabbage cultivars to anthracnose, black spot and black rot diseases
Authors: Lee Y. H. , Hong J. K.
Published: June 2014

The resistance of 27 commercial kimchi cabbage cultivars against Colletotrichum higginsianum causing anthracnose was evaluated. Among the cultivars with different disease severity, three cultivars, CR‐Hagwang, CR‐Hwangrock and Houseking‐125, showed moderate resistance. Two cultivars, Buram‐3‐ho (susceptible) and CR‐Hagwang (moderate resistance), were chosen for further investigation. Severe necrotic lesions were observed on the C. higginsianum‐inoculated leaves in cv. Buram‐3‐ho, whereas only a few scattered spot lesions were formed on the inoculated leaves of cv. CR‐Hagwang. Interestingly, similar susceptibility and resistance were shown in both cultivars when inoculated by fungal (Alternaria brassicicola) or bacterial (Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris) pathogens causing black spot or black rot disease, respectively. Pathogenesis‐related (PR) gene expression was analysed during resistant and susceptible responses to anthracnose, black spot and black rot diseases. Semiquantitative RT‐PCR analysis revealed that the transcriptional activation of PR1, BGL2, Chi1, PR4, VSP2, LOX2 and GST1 were differentially regulated in the kimchi leaves during resistant, as compared to susceptible, responses. In addition, the PR gene expression was regulated by defence‐related hormones salicylic acid, jasmonic acid and ethylene. Taken together, these results suggest that differential defence signalling crosstalk and PR gene expression are involved in cultivar‐specific resistance of kimchi cabbage plants to anthracnose, black spot and black rot diseases, and that resistance is strongly associated with the hormone‐dependent transcriptional induction of defence genes.
Climate Change Beliefs and Perceptions of Weather‐Related Changes in the United Kingdom
Authors: Taylor Andrea , de Bruin Wändi Bruine , Dessai Suraje
Published: June 2014

Public perception research in different countries has suggested that real and perceived periods of high temperature strengthen people's climate change beliefs. Such findings raise questions about the climate change beliefs of people in regions with moderate climates. Relatively little is known about whether public concerns about climate change may also be associated with perceived changes in other weather‐related events, such as precipitation or flooding. We examine the relationship between perceived changes in weather‐related events and climate change beliefs among U.K. residents at a time of below‐average winter temperatures and recent flooding. National survey data (n = 1,848) revealed that heat waves and hot summers were perceived to have become less common during respondents’ lifetimes, while flooding, periods of heavy rainfall, coastal erosions, and mild winters were perceived to have increased in frequency and cold winters were perceived to be unchanged. Although perceived changes in hot‐weather‐related events were positively associated with climate change beliefs, perceived changes in wet‐weather‐related events were found to be an even stronger predictor. Self‐reported experience of “flooding in own area” and “heat‐wave discomfort” also significantly contributed to climate change beliefs. These findings highlight the importance of salient weather‐related events and experiences in the formation of beliefs about climate change. We link our findings to research in judgment and decision making, and propose that those wishing to engage with the public on the issue of climate change should not limit their focus to heat.
Could There Be a Superhuman Species?
Authors: Oderberg David S.
Published: June 2014

Transhumanism is the school of thought that advocates the use of technology to enhance the human species, to the point where some supporters consider that a new species altogether could arise. Even some critics think this at least a technological possibility. Some supporters also believe the emergence of a new, improved, superhuman species raises no special ethical questions. Through an examination of the metaphysics of species, and an analysis of the essence of the human species, I argue that the existence of an embodied, genuinely superhuman species is a metaphysical impossibility. Finally, I point out an interesting ethical consideration that this metaphysical truth raises.
Precipitation but not soil texture alters effectiveness of dicyandiamide to decrease nitrate leaching from dairy cow urine
Authors: Shepherd M. , Welten B. , Wyatt J. , Balvert S.
Published: June 2014

This experiment compared the effectiveness of the nitrification inhibitor dicyandiamide (DCD) in decreasing NO3‐N leaching from dairy cow urine (1000 kg N/ha equivalent). DCD was applied to perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) and white clover (Trifolium repens L.) on three soil types (silt loam, sandy loam and clay) and under two precipitation regimes using intact soil monolith zero tension lysimeters (50 cm diameter by 65 cm deep). Over the two experiment years, annual precipitation (rainfall plus supplemented irrigation) covered the range 1103 to 2351 mm. Soil type affected the forms of N that leached after urine application. Most urea was lost from the clay soil in the first drainage collections after application. Ammonium‐N leached from the sandy soil. Apart from one soil type (sandy loam) giving a nil response to DCD in 1 yr, there was no strong evidence that soil type changed DCD effectiveness (the amount of NO3‐N retained, expressed as a percentage of the NO3‐N leached from untreated urine). Where DCD decreased leaching, effectiveness ranged between 6 and 57% with a mean value of 34 ± 5%. Drainage depth explained 50% of the variation in DCD effectiveness (P < 0.05) and indicated a 7% decrease per 100 mm extra drainage. Extra pasture growth and N uptake were strongly related to the amount of N saved by DCD application. We conclude that there may be scope to use rainfall/drainage as an estimate of likely DCD effectiveness at a site, but further work is required to test this across a wider range of circumstances.
Antagonism of serotonin receptor 1B decreases viability and promotes apoptosis in the COS canine osteosarcoma cell line
Authors: Viall A. K. , Goodall C. P. , Stang B. , Marley K. , Chappell P. E. , Bracha S.
Published: June 2014

Serotonin receptor 1B (5HTR1B) traditionally exhibits anti‐proliferative activity in osteoblasts. We examined the expression and function of 5HTR1B in the COS canine osteosarcoma cell line and normal canine osteoblasts. Equal levels of 5HTR1B gene and protein expression were found between normal and malignant osteoblasts. Treatment with serotonin enhanced viability of osteosarcoma cells but not normal osteoblasts. Challenge with the 5HTR1B agonist anpirtoline caused no change in cell viability. Rather incubation with the specific receptor antagonist SB224289 caused reduction in osteoblast viability, with this effect more substantial in osteosarcoma cells. Investigation of this inhibitory activity showed 5HTR1B antagonism induces apoptosis in malignant cells. Evaluation of phosphorylated levels of CREB and ERK, transcriptional regulators associated with serotonin receptor signalling in osteoblasts, revealed aberrant 5HTR1B signalling in COS. Our results confirm the presence of 5HTR1B in a canine osteosarcoma cell line and highlight this receptor as a possible novel therapeutic target.
MN typing discrepancies based on GYPA‐B‐A hybrid
Authors: Polin H. , Danzer M. , Reiter A. , Brisner M. , Gaszner W. , Weinberger J. , Gabriel C.
Published: June 2014

Background and Objectives

Gene conversion events between GYPA and GYPB or GYPA and GYPE are facilitated by the close chromosomal proximity and high degree of sequence homology and can lead to the formation of GP hybrid genes. Discrepant results between blood group genotyping and haemagglutination in 22 random blood donors induced molecular characterization.

Materials and Methods

Sequence analysis of GYPA exons 1–7 and GYPB exons 1–5 was performed for gDNA and cDNA. The linkage of the nucleotide alterations was defined by haplotype separation.

Results

DNA analysis demonstrated a normal GYPA haplotype (GYPA*N n = 20, GYPA*M n = 2) with an altered GP hybrid nucleotide sequence in trans. A GYPB homologue sequence of minimal 10‐bp encompassing intron 1 and exon 2 was translated into GYPA, accounting for an amino acid substitution from arginine to glutamic acid at position 13 (38 C>A). Genomic DNA analysis demonstrated the cis‐linkage of the hybrid nucleotide sequence with each GYPA(Ser20, Gly24) (n = 20) associated with the expression of M and GYPA(Leu20, Glu24) (n = 2) encoding the N phenotype. The serologic data indicate that the changes do not affect the expression of a normal M and N antigen. cDNA sequences confirmed the gDNA results and furthermore identified a heterozygous deletion of GYPB exon 2 in all probands.

Conclusion

The results document a GYPA‐B‐A hybrid gene, probably produced via a single unequal homologous recombination event. A segmental transfer of GYPB seems most likely accounting for the allelic dropout.
Evaluating -functions with few known coefficients
Authors: Farmer David W. , Ryan Nathan C.
Published: June 2014

We address the problem of evaluating an $L$-function when only a small number of its Dirichlet coefficients are known. We use the approximate functional equation in a new way and find that it is possible to evaluate the $L$-function more precisely than one would expect from the standard approach. The method, however, requires considerably more computational effort to achieve a given accuracy than would be needed if more Dirichlet coefficients were available.
On the Bessel function in the transition region
Authors: Krasikov Ilia
Published: June 2014

We give an approximation for the value of the Bessel function $J_\nu (x)$ in the transition region with an explicit sharp error term.
High-rank elliptic curves with torsion induced by Diophantine triples
Authors: Dujella Andrej , Peral Juan Carlos
Published: June 2014

We construct an elliptic curve over the field of rational functions with torsion group$\mathbb{Z}/2\mathbb{Z}\times \mathbb{Z}/4\mathbb{Z}$and rank equal to four, and an elliptic curve over$\mathbb{Q}$with the same torsion group and rank nine. Both results improve previous records for ranks of curves of this torsion group. They are obtained by considering elliptic curves induced by Diophantine triples.
Finite-element simulation models and experimental verification for through-silicon-via etching: Bosch process and single-step etching
Authors: Ouyang Zihao , Xu Wenyu , Ruzic D. N. , Kiehlbauch Mark , Schrinsky Alex , Torek Kevin
Published: June 2014

In this study, time-dependent simulation models are established for both the Bosch process and single-step through-silicon-via (TSV) etching using SF6 and C4F8 chemistry by employing a finite-element-method method. The simulation models take into account the thermal etching of F radicals, ion-enhanced etching, neutral deposition and ion-enhanced deposition mechanisms, as well as the angular dependence of the ion sputtering with aspect to a surface element. Comparison between the simulation results and experiments suggests that consideration of two ion fluxes (high-energy and low-energy) is critical for matching the simulation etch profile with the experiments. It is found that the underlying reason for the transition formed on the TSVs using the single-step etching originates from the difference of the ion angular distributions of etching species and depositing species. The Bosch process model successfully predicted profile details, such as the top scallops of the TSV profile, and the model established for single-step etching can be used to predict the transition position shown on the sidewalls. The simulation models can be used to study the individual effects of low-energy ions and the high-energy ions in the etching and passivation mechanisms for TSV etching in both Bosch process and single-step etching techniques.
Identification of a Novel HIV-1 Circulating Recombinant Form (CRF72_BF1) in Deep Sequencing Data from Blood Donors in Southeastern Brazil
Authors: Pessôa Rodrigo , Carneiro Proietti Anna Bárbara de Freitas , Busch Michael P. , Sanabani Sabri S.
Published: June 2014

We report the identification of a novel HIV-1 circulating recombinant form (CRF72_BF1) in deep sequencing data from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of five blood donors in southeastern Brazil. Detection of this circulating recombinant form (CRF) confirms the need for effective surveillance to monitor the prevalence and distribution of HIV variants in a variety of settings in Brazil.
Forecasting the burden of type 2 diabetes in Singapore using a demographic epidemiological model of Singapore
Authors: Phan Thao P , Alkema Leontine , Tai E Shyong , Tan Kristin H X , Yang Qian , Lim Wei-Yen , Teo Yik Ying , Cheng Ching-Yu , Wang Xu , Wong Tien Yin , Chia Kee Seng , Cook Alex R
Published: June 2014

Objective

Singapore is a microcosm of Asia as a whole, and its rapidly ageing, increasingly sedentary population heralds the chronic health problems other Asian countries are starting to face and will likely face in the decades ahead. Forecasting the changing burden of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes in Singapore is vital to plan the resources needed and motivate preventive efforts.

Methods

This paper describes an individual-level simulation model that uses evidence synthesis from multiple data streams—national statistics, national health surveys, and four cohort studies, and known risk factors—aging, obesity, ethnicity, and genetics—to forecast the prevalence of type 2 diabetes in Singapore. This comprises submodels for mortality, fertility, migration, body mass index trajectories, genetics, and workforce participation, parameterized using Markov chain Monte Carlo methods, and permits forecasts by ethnicity and employment status.

Results

We forecast that the obesity prevalence will quadruple from 4.3% in 1990 to 15.9% in 2050, while the prevalence of type 2 diabetes (diagnosed and undiagnosed) among Singapore adults aged 18–69 will double from 7.3% in 1990 to 15% in 2050, that ethnic Indians and Malays will bear a disproportionate burden compared with the Chinese majority, and that the number of patients with diabetes in the workforce will grow markedly.

Conclusions

If the recent rise in obesity prevalence continues, the lifetime risk of type 2 diabetes in Singapore will be one in two by 2050 with concomitant implications for greater healthcare expenditure, productivity losses, and the targeting of health promotion programmes.
In utero exposure to alcohol and puberty in boys: a pregnancy cohort study
Authors: Håkonsen Linn Berger , Brath-Lund Mette Louise , Hounsgaard Marie Louise , Olsen Jørn , Ernst Andreas , Thulstrup Ane Marie , Bech Bodil Hammer , Ramlau-Hansen Cecilia Høst
Published: June 2014

Objectives

Epidemiological studies have raised concerns about the reproductive consequences of in utero exposure to alcohol. Maternal lifestyle factors have been associated with altered pubertal development, but the impact of prenatal alcohol exposure on male puberty is unknown. Thus, the objective was to explore whether prenatal alcohol exposure alters pubertal development in boys.

Setting

Follow-up of a Danish pregnancy cohort.

Participants

Sons (N=2522) of women who were enrolled in a Danish pregnancy cohort between 1984 and 1987.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Indicators of pubertal development, assessed by age at first nocturnal emission, voice break, acne and regular shaving.

Results

We found a tendency towards a later age at first nocturnal emission and voice break following in utero exposure to binge drinking. Boys exposed to ≥5 binge drinking episodes during pregnancy experienced their first nocturnal emission 7.3 months (95% CI −2.8 to 17.4) later and voice break 4.9 months (95% CI −0.6 to 10.4) later than the unexposed boys. Results for average weekly alcohol consumption were in the same direction, but differences were smaller and not statistically significant.

Conclusions

We found no strong support for the hypothesis that in utero exposure to weekly alcohol consumption is a risk factor for altered pubertal development, but a tendency towards delayed pubertal development among boys exposed to binge drinking during fetal life was observed. Longitudinal studies, with data collected as children go through puberty, are needed to explore this further.
Treatment delay affects clinical severity of tuberculosis: a longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Virenfeldt J , Rudolf F , Camara C , Furtado A , Gomes V , Aaby P , Petersen E , Wejse C
Published: June 2014

Objectives

To describe the risk factors for treatment delay and the effect of delay on the severity of tuberculosis (TB) in a prospectively followed TB cohort at the Bandim Health Project in Guinea-Bissau.

Background

Treatment delay in patients with TB is associated with increased mortality and transmission of disease. However, it is not well described whether delay influences clinical severity at diagnosis. Previously reported risk factors for treatment delay vary in different geographical and cultural settings. Such information has never been investigated in our setting. Change in delay over time is rarely reported and our prospectively followed TB cohort gives an opportunity to present such data.

Participants

Patients were included at the time of diagnosis at three local TB clinics and the national TB reference hospital. Inclusion criteria were age >15 years and diagnosis of TB by either sputum examination or by the WHO clinical criteria. Patients with extrapulmonary TB were excluded.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The primary outcome was treatment delay. Delay was assessed by patient questionnaires. The secondary outcome was Bandim TBscore as a measure of TB morbidity and all-cause mortality.

Results

A total of 1424 persons were diagnosed with TB in the study area between 2003 and 2010. We included 973 patients with TB in the study. The median treatment delay was 12.1 weeks. Risk factors for delay were low educational level, HIV-1+HIV-2 dual infection and negative sputum smear. TB treatment delay decreased by 10.3% (7.9–12.6%) per year during the study period. Delay was significantly associated with clinical severity at presentation with 20.8% severe TB cases in the low delay quartile compared with 33.9% if delay was over the median of 12.1 weeks.

Conclusions

Long treatment delay was associated with more severe clinical presentation. Treatment delay in TB cases is decreasing in Guinea-Bissau.
What is the risk of death or severe harm due to bone cement implantation syndrome among patients undergoing hip hemiarthroplasty for fractured neck of femur? A patient safety surveillance study
Authors: Rutter Paul D , Panesar Sukhmeet S , Darzi Ara , Donaldson Liam J
Published: June 2014

Objective

To estimate the risk of death or severe harm due to bone cement implantation syndrome (BCIS) among patients undergoing hip hemiarthroplasty for fractured neck of femur.

Setting

Hospitals providing secondary and tertiary care throughout the National Health Service (NHS) in England and Wales.

Participants

Cases reported to the National Reporting and Learning System (NRLS) in which the reporter clearly describes severe acute patient deterioration associated with cement use in hip hemiarthroplasty for fractured neck of femur (assessed independently by two reviewers).

Outcome measures

Primary—number of reported deaths, cardiac arrests and periarrests per year. Secondary—timing of deterioration and outcome in relation to cement insertion.

Results

Between 2005 and 2012, the NRLS received 62 reports that clearly describe death or severe harm associated with the use of cement in hip hemiarthroplasty for fractured neck of femur. There was one such incident for every 2900 hemiarthroplasties for fractured neck of femur during the period. Of the 62 reports, 41 patients died, 14 were resuscitated from cardiac arrest and 7 from periarrest. Most reports (55/62, 89%) describe acute deterioration occurring during or within a few minutes of cement insertion. The vast majority of deaths (33/41, 80%) occurred on the operating table.

Conclusions

These reports provide narrative evidence from England and Wales that cement use in hip hemiarthroplasty for fractured neck of femur is associated with instances of perioperative death or severe harm consistent with BCIS. In 2009, the National Patient Safety Agency publicised this issue and encouraged the use of mitigation measures. Three-quarters of the deaths in this study have occurred since that alert, suggesting incomplete implementation or effectiveness of those mitigation measures. There is a need for stronger evidence that weighs the risks and benefits of cement in hip hemiarthroplasty for fractured neck of femur.
Knowledge of and attitudes towards palliative care and hospice services among patients with advanced chronic kidney disease
Authors: Davison Sara N , Jhangri Gian S , Koffman Jonathan
Published: June 2014

Objectives

Palliative care is greatly underutilised for patients dying from advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD). This study explored CKD patients’ knowledge of, and attitudes to, palliative and hospice care.

Design and intervention

This was a cross-sectional interview-based survey of stage 5 CKD patients.

Setting

Both dialysis patients and those managed without dialysis were assessed in a university-based renal programme in Alberta, Canada.

Outcome measures

The primary outcome was validated patient knowledge of, and attitudes, towards palliative and hospice care. Secondary analyses of associations between knowledge and potential explanatory variables such as patient demographics, living circumstances, self-assigned ethnicity, socioeconomic position and sources of knowledge were explored.

Results

Only 22.2% and 17.9% of 436 patients surveyed possessed a correct understanding of palliative and hospice care, respectively, and perceptions were mostly negative. Sources of knowledge of these services rarely involved healthcare professionals (3.1%–7.7%). Multivariable analysis identified that white participants were more than 12 times more likely to have accurate knowledge than non-Caucasian patients, not accounted for by socioeconomic position. Accurate knowledge was also more likely among patients who had personal experience with palliative care, or obtained their knowledge firsthand from family and friends. After palliative and hospice care were described, the vast majority of patients felt these services were valuable and should be offered to patients with advanced CKD (87.8% and 89.7%, respectively).

Conclusions

Based on study findings, CKD patient and family education about the benefits of palliative and hospice services is likely important in optimal use of these services.
Sexually transmitted infection incidence among adolescents in Ireland
Authors: Davoren Martin P , Hayes Kevin , Horgan Mary , Shiely Frances
Published: June 2014

Objective

The burden of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) rests with young people, yet in Ireland there has been very little research into this population. The purpose of this study was to determine the incidence rate and establish risk factors that predict STI occurrence among adolescents in Ireland.

Design

Routine diagnostic, demographic and behavioural data from first-time visits to three screening centres in the southwest of Ireland were obtained. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression models were used to assess risk factors that predict STI occurrence among adolescents.

Results

A total of 2784 first-time patients, aged 13–19 years, received 3475 diagnoses between January 1999 and September 2009; 1168 (42%) of adolescents had notifiable STIs. The incidence rate of STIs is 225/100 000 person-years. Univariate analysis identified eligible risk factors (p<0.2) for inclusion in the multivariable model. Multivariable logistic regression showed the dominant risk factors for STI diagnosis to be: males who sometimes [odds ratio (OR) 2.02] or never (OR 1.83) use condoms; and females 18–19 years (OR 2.26) and 16–18 years (OR 1.8), with 2 (OR 1.33) or 3+ (OR 1.56) partners in the last 12 months, who are non-intravenous drug users (OR 0.72), are most likely to receive a positive STI diagnosis.

Conclusions

STI diagnosis has become increasingly common in Ireland. The proportion of notifications among those aged under 20 years is increasing. These data illustrate the significance of age, condom use and number of sexual partners as risk factors for STI diagnosis. Furthermore, providing data for the first time, we report on the high incidence rate of STIs among adolescents in Ireland. The high levels of risk-taking behaviour and STI acquisition are highlighted and suggest that there is a need for an integrated public health approach to combat this phenomenon in the adolescent population.
Impact of the ASPECT scores and distribution on outcome among patients undergoing thrombectomy for acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Spiotta Alejandro M , Vargas Jan , Hawk Harris , Turner Raymond , Chaudry M Imran , Battenhouse Holly , Turk Aquilla S
Published: June 2014

Introduction

This study investigates whether the Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (ASPECTS) quantification is associated with outcome following mechanical thrombectomy.

Objective

To determine whether preintervention non-perfect ASPECT scores involving cortical or subcortical regions and the side of the non-perfect ASPECT score affects outcomes.

Methods

A retrospective review of a prospectively maintained database of patients with acute ischemic stroke involving the anterior circulation who underwent thrombectomy between May 2008 and August 2012 at a single tertiary care center. The device for mechanical thrombectomy used was the penumbra aspiration system (Penumbra Inc, Alameda, California, USA) and the Solitaire stent retriever (ev3, Irvine, California, USA). A ‘blinded’ neuroradiologist obtained ASPECTS quantification and noted each region demonstrating early changes.

Results

149 patients (51.7% female, mean age 66.1±15.1 years) were included with an average National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale of 16.2±6.7. Patients with non-perfect ASPECT scores on pretreatment imaging were more likely to have a hemorrhagic conversion (p=0.04) evident on post-procedure CT. However, functional outcomes were the same. Patients with both cortical and basal ganglia non-perfect ASPECT scores were more likely to be in a persistent vegetative state or expire. No differences were identified in outcome among patients with left- versus right-sided infarcts affecting the basal ganglia or cortical regions.

Conclusions

These findings support a strategy of selecting candidacy for thrombectomy that does not exclude patients with non-perfect ASPECT scores involving either the basal ganglia or cortical regions. Outcomes were identical among patients with no non-perfect ASPECT scores and those with cortical or subcortical infarcts, despite a higher incidence of hemorrhagic conversion found among those with non-perfect ASPECT scores.
Sustainability and geotechnical engineering: perspectives and review
Authors: Basu Dipanjan , Misra Aditi , Puppala Anand J.
Published: June 2014

The built environment serves as a dynamic interface through which human society and the ecosystem interact and influence each other. Understanding this interdependence is a key to understanding sustainability as it applies to civil engineering. There is a growing consensus that delivering a sustainable built environment starts with incorporating sustainability thoughts at the planning and design stages of an infrastructure construction project. Geotechnical engineering can significantly influence the sustainability of infrastructure development because of its early position in the construction process. In this paper, the scope of geotechnical engineering towards sustainable development of civil infrastructure is reviewed. The philosophies and definitions of sustainability as applicable to geotechnical engineering are discussed. A comprehensive review of the research and case studies performed in geotechnical engineering, in relation to sustainable development, is presented in an effort to outline the scope and goals of sustainable geotechnical engineering.
Determinants of demand for wood products in the US construction sector: an econometric analysis of a system of demand equations
Authors: Haim David , Adams Darius M. , White Eric M.
Published: June 2014

A system of conditional demand equations for wood products in the US construction sector is derived from the relevant end-use cost functions by taking advantage of the duality between the production function and the cost functions. Seven different inputs, including five wood products, labor, and capital, and three different end uses (new housing construction, repair and remodeling, and nonresidential construction) are analyzed. A seemingly unrelated regression estimation procedure is employed using a detailed annual time series database that spans the period from 1950 to 2009. Results suggest large variability in own-price long-term demand elasticity among wood inputs and across end uses. Softwood lumber, for example, is highly inelastic for new housing construction, inelastic for repair and remodeling, and nearly unitary elastic for nonresidential construction. Softwood plywood, on the other hand, is elastic for new housing construction and highly inelastic for nonresidential construction. In addition, we find that dynamic adjustments to long-term conditional intensity factor demand are prevalent across all inputs and among all three end-use categories.
Real-time PCR detection and discrimination of the Ceratocystis coerulescens complex and of the fungal species from the Ceratocystis polonica complex validated on pure cultures and bark beetle vectors
Authors: Lamarche Josyanne , Stewart Don , Pelletier Gervais , Hamelin Richard C. , Tanguay Philippe
Published: June 2014

Eight Ceratocystis Ellis & Halst. species belonging to the Ceratocystis coerulescens complex are pathogens causing blue-stain on Pinaceae. Three of these species, namely C. polonica, C. laricicola, and C. fujiensis, are particularly aggressive and can cause tree mortality. Although currently absent from the North American landscape, they are considered a significant potential threat to the Canadian boreal forest. As they are difficult to distinguish from native North American species belonging to the C. coerulescens complex, we developed a real-time PCR detection test for each of the three species to detect the equivalent of one fungal spore directly from insect vectors. DNA from at least one species of the C. coerulescens complex was detected on 86% of the beetles (Ips typographus (Linnaeus, 1758) and Ips cembrae (Heer, 1836)), whereas C. polonica DNA was detected on 60% of the I. typographus and C. laricicola DNA was detected on 84% of the I. cembrae. Between 20 and 344 225 spore equivalents were detected on the beetle specimens, and no inhibition effect of DNA extract from environmental samples was observed. These molecular detection tools will allow for rapid and reliable detection of C. polonica, C. laricicola, or C. fujiensis, allowing for a rapid implementation of eradication measures in case of introduction into Canada.
Mechanical and electronic properties of Ti2AlN and Ti4AlN3: a first-principles study
Authors: Feng Wenxia , Cui Shouxin
Published: June 2014

Investigations into the electronic properties, elastic properties, and ideal tensile strengths for Ti2AlN and Ti4AlN3 were conducted using first-principles density functional calculations. The electronic band structures and density of states show metallic conductivity in which Ti 3d states dominate for Ti2AlN and Ti4AlN3. Moreover, the hybridization peak of Ti 3d and N 2p lies at a lower energy than that of Ti 3d and Al 3p, which suggests that the Ti 3d – N 2p bond is stronger than the Ti 3d – Al 3p bond. The variations of elastic constants with pressure indicate that Ti2AlN and Ti4AlN3 possess higher mechanical stability in the pressure range 0–100 GPa. By calculating the bulk-modulus-to-shear-modulus ratio and Cauchy pressure, we predict that Ti2AlN and Ti4AlN3 are brittle. We show that the structural failure of these ternary compounds can be ascribed to the breakage of weak Ti–Al bonds under uniaxial tension and that layered structural stability is determined by the strength of the Ti–Al bond under tensile deformation.
Trigonella foenum-graecumprotection against deltamethrin-induced toxic effects on haematological, biochemical, and oxidative stress parameters in rats
Authors: Abdel-Daim Mohamed M. , Abd Eldaim Mabrouk A. , Mahmoud Mohamed M.
Published: June 2014

Trigonella foenum-graecum L. is enriched with many active ingredients. TFG oil was evaluated for its protective effect against deltamethrin toxicity in rats. Rats of the control group were administered saline. The 2nd group was administered deltamethrin (DLM) orally at a concentration of 15 mg/kg body mass. The 3rd and 4th groups were administered DLM at a concentration of 15 mg/kg body mass and were fed diets containing 2.5% and 5% TFG oil, respectively. DLM intoxication reduced red blood cell and platelet counts, hemoglobin concentration, and hematocrit value while it induced leucocytosis. Furthermore, it increased serum levels of lactate dehydrogenase, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, γ-glutamyltransferase, triglycerides, cholesterol, uric acid, urea, and creatinine; increased hepatic, renal, and brain lipid peroxidation; decreased serum acetylcholine esterase level; and decreased hepatic, renal, and brain antioxidant markers’ activities. However, TFG oil kept the studied hematological and biochemical parameters within normal ranges. In addition, it prevented lipid peroxidation and oxidative stress induced by DLM intoxication in a dose-dependent manner. Therefore, these results indicated that TFG oil inhibited the toxic effects of DLM on hematological and biochemical parameters as well as oxidative status by its free radical scavenging and potent antioxidant activities, and it appeared to be a promising protective agent against DLM-induced toxicity.
Electronic structure and magnetic properties of diluted magnetic semiconductor K and Mn co-doped BaCd2As2 from first-principles calculations
Authors: Hua L. , Zhu Q. L.
Published: June 2014

In this paper, we have investigated the electronic structure and magnetic properties of K and Mn co-doped BaCd 2 As 2 using density functional theory within the generalized gradient approximation ( GGA ) + U schemes. Calculations show that the ground state magnetic structure of Mn -doped BaCd 2 As 2 is antiferromagnetic while K and Mn co-doped BaCd 2 As 2 is ferromagnetic. Electronic structures indicate that the superexchange mechanism leads to the antiferromagnetic coupling between Mn atoms in Mn -doped BaCd 2 As 2 while the hole-mediated Zener's p–d exchange mechanism leads to the ferromagnetic coupling between Mn atoms in K and Mn co-doped BaCd 2 As 2.
A Comparative Study of Bug Classification Algorithms
Authors: Nagwani Naresh Kumar , Verma Shrish
Published: June 2014

The performance of ten classic algorithms to classify the software bugs for different bug repositories are compared. The algorithms included in the study are Naïve Bayes, Naïve Bayes Multinomial, Discriminative Multinomial Naïve Bayes (DMNB), J48, Support Vector Machine, Radial Basis Function (RBF) Neural Network, Classification using Clustering, Classification using Regression, Adaptive Boosting (AdaBoost) and Bagging. These algorithms are applied on four open source bug repositories namely Android, JBoss-Seam, Mozilla and MySql. The classification is evaluated using 10-fold cross validation technique. The accuracy and F-measure parameters are compared for all of the algorithms. The concept of software bug taxonomy hierarchy is also introduced with eleven standard bug categories (classes). The comparative study also covers the effect of number of categories over performance of classifiers in terms of accuracy and F-measure. The results are produced in tabular and graphical forms.
A New Pattern-Based Flexible Approach for Maintaining a Constrained Workflow
Authors: Sarmah Achyanta Kumar , Sinha Smriti Kumar , Hazarika Shyamanta M.
Published: June 2014

The context of any workflow has functional and non functional characteristics. Functional characteristics give rise to Workflow Patterns (WPs) in a workflow. Changes may occur to the relationships amongst patterns in a workflow after the initial enactment. Run-time changes could occur due to roles executing the patterns. Design-time changes could occur due to changing user specifications and subsequent decisions being taken by the workflow composer. An approach of accommodating and propagating such changes is required. These changes are to be accommodated in a manner that the relationships amongst the existing patterns remain consistent. This paper formalizes an approach that facilitates composition and accommodation of changes into a composed workflow maintaining consistency. We make use of tools and algorithms from Formal Concept Analysis (FCA) to organize WPs as a lattice. Graph searching techniques are exploited for composition of the workflow graph. For accommodating changes into the composed workflow, we consider the WPs as Reference Intervals from Allen's Interval Algebra (IA) framework. Change accommodation in our approach is achieved by three functionalities - a transform function that traces a Reference Interval Hierarchy (RIH) from the workflow graph; a constraint propagation function that accommodates raised changes into the RIH; an inverse transform function that updates the corresponding workflow graph with the changes in the RIH.
Privacy-Preserving Assessment of Social Network Data Trustworthiness
Authors: Dai Chenyun , Rao Fang-Yu , Truta Traian Marius , Bertino Elisa
Published: June 2014

Extracting useful knowledge from social network datasets is a challenging problem. While large online social networks such as Facebook and LinkedIn are well known and gather millions of users, small social networks are today becoming increasingly common. Many corporations already use existing social networks to connect to their customers. Seeing the increasing usage of small social networks, such companies will likely start to create in-house online social networks where they will own the data shared by customers. The trustworthiness of these online social networks is essentially important for decision making of those companies. In this paper, our goal is to assess the trustworthiness of local social network data by referencing external social networks. To add to the difficulty of this problem, privacy concerns that exist for many social network datasets have restricted the ability to analyze these networks and consequently to maximize the knowledge that can be extracted from them. This paper addresses this issue by introducing the problem of data trustworthiness in social networks when repositories of anonymized social networks exist that can be used to assess such trustworthiness. Three trust score computation models (absolute, relative, and weighted) that can be instantiated for specific anonymization models are defined and algorithms to calculate these trust scores are developed. Using both real and synthetic social networks, the usefulness of the trust score computation is validated through a series of experiments.
On the complex zeros of Airy and Bessel functions and those of their derivatives
Authors: Gil Amparo , Segura Javier
Published: June 2014

We study the distribution of zeros of general solutions of the Airy and Bessel equations in the complex plane. Our results characterize the patterns followed by the zeros for any solution, in such a way that if one zero is known it is possible to determine the location of the rest of zeros.
Improving Customer Relationship Management Through Business Intelligence
Authors: Handzic Meliha , Ozlen Kursad , Durmic Nermina
Published: June 2014

This paper examines empirically the role of business intelligence (BI) in customer relationship management (CRM). Drawing on relevant literature on BI and CRM, the research model for the current investigation proposes that BI approaches of an organisation and its competition influence organisational business strategy which in turn impacts its customer strategy. The model is tested empirically using survey data of 165 respondents from 73 different private and state owned businesses operating in a transitional economy of East Europe. Empirical evidence confirms a key role of BI in CRM through its impact on organisational business and customer strategies development. Such findings make two important contributions. For research, they provide an improved understanding of the factors and processes involved in realising benefits from BI. For practice, they show managers how BI can be leveraged to achieve performance gains through competitive actions. Further research is recommended to confirm and extend the current investigation.
Atomistic investigations of tensile and shear mechanical properties of nanotwinned copper with embedded defects
Authors: Zheng Yong-Gang , Fu Yi-Fei , Zhang Hong-Wu , Ye Hong-Fei
Published: June 2014

The tensile and shear mechanical properties of nanotwinned copper with embedded defects have been investigated by using molecular dynamics simulations. Simulation results show that the stress concentration at the tips of crack-like defects dominates the first partial dislocation nucleation at the onset of plastic deformation, the joint action of twin boundaries and dislocations controls the yield stress at the earlier plastic deformation stage and the dislocation/twin boundary–dislocation interactions determine the plastic flow stage. Furthermore, it is found that the yield stress decreases nonlinearly with the increase of the crack length, while it decreases almost linearly with the increase of the temperature.
Fatally bitten ammonites from the Lower Calcareous Grit Formation (Upper Jurassic) of NE Yorkshire, UK
Authors: Wright John K. , Bassett-Butt Lewis , Collinson Margaret
Published: June 2014

Two hundred and sixty-six specimens of cardioceratid ammonites found in concretions from the Tenants’ Cliff Member of the Lower Calcareous Grit Formation (Upper Oxfordian, Upper Jurassic) at Tenants’ Cliff, near Scarborough, England, were analysed to determine the type of damage within the assemblage. Forty-five specimens were severely damaged. They consist largely of just a body chamber fragment, with small pieces of fractured shell scattered through the matrix. This type of damage is characteristic of predation by sharks or marine reptiles. Fourteen, almost complete but damaged specimens showed an indent that is either subcrescentic or V-shaped. Measurements of the position of this damage showed that the V-shaped indent was present on the body chamber of these specimens anterior to the final suture. Comparisons with other specimens from different localities and time periods, as well as sedimentological evidence and modern behavioural records, suggests that such damage was caused by squids.
Procedures and criteria for the definition of Global Heritage Stone Resources
Authors: Marker Brian R.
Published: June 2014

The Global Heritage Stone Resource (GHSR) and Global Heritage Stone Province (GHSP) designations provide a means by which geoscientists, planners and industry can explain the importance of some types of stone in the repair and maintenance of historic structures, new building and objects such as sculptures. Defining criteria are envisaged as including: wide ranging geographical use for a significant period; utilization in significant industrial projects; recognition as a cultural icon; continuing availability; and potential benefits of designation. Consideration is needed of the future composition and administration of the overseeing Board, refinement of the mechanism for making and approving nominations and how to consult the cultural heritage sector on nominations. It is likely that a larger panel of reviewers will be needed to support the work. It is important that criteria are clear and widely known and that discussions and decisions are well documented and publicly available. A mechanism for appeals against decisions is also needed. It is considered that the cultural heritage qualification should be the primary criterion supported by timescale and scale of use, both geographically and quantitatively.
Metabolic remodeling of white adipose tissue in obesity
Authors: Cummins Timothy D. , Holden Candice R. , Sansbury Brian E. , Gibb Andrew A. , Shah Jasmit , Zafar Nagma , Tang Yunan , Hellmann Jason , Rai Shesh N. , Spite Matthew , Bhatnagar Aruni , Hill Bradford G.
Published: June 2014

Adipose tissue metabolism is a critical regulator of adiposity and whole body energy expenditure; however, metabolic changes that occur in white adipose tissue (WAT) with obesity remain unclear. The purpose of this study was to understand the metabolic and bioenergetic changes occurring in WAT with obesity. Wild-type (C57BL/6J) mice fed a high-fat diet (HFD) showed significant increases in whole body adiposity, had significantly lower V̇o2, V̇co2, and respiratory exchange ratios, and demonstrated worsened glucose and insulin tolerance compared with low-fat-fed mice. Metabolomic analysis of WAT showed marked changes in lipid, amino acid, carbohydrate, nucleotide, and energy metabolism. Tissue levels of succinate and malate were elevated, and metabolites that could enter the Krebs cycle via anaplerosis were mostly diminished in high-fat-fed mice, suggesting altered mitochondrial metabolism. Despite no change in basal oxygen consumption or mitochondrial DNA abundance, citrate synthase activity was decreased by more than 50%, and responses to FCCP were increased in WAT from mice fed a high-fat diet. Moreover, Pgc1a was downregulated and Cox7a1 upregulated after 6 wk of HFD. After 12 wk of high-fat diet, the abundance of several proteins in the mitochondrial respiratory chain or matrix was diminished. These changes were accompanied by increased Parkin and Pink1, decreased p62 and LC3-I, and ultrastructural changes suggestive of autophagy and mitochondrial remodeling. These studies demonstrate coordinated restructuring of metabolism and autophagy that could contribute to the hypertrophy and whitening of adipose tissue in obesity.