bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
UV “Indices”—What Do They Indicate?
Authors: Moshammer Hanns , Simic Stana , Haluza Daniela
Published: October 2016

Ultra-Violet (UV) radiation covers the spectrum of wavelengths from 100 to 400 nm. The potency and biological activity for a variety of endpoints differ by wavelength. For monitoring and communication purposes, different UV action spectra have been developed. These spectra use different weighting functions. The action spectrum for erythemal dose is the most widely used one. This erythemal dose per time or dose-rate has been further simplified into a “UV index”. Following this example, in our review we use the term “index” or (plural) “indices” in a more general description for all simplified single-value measures for any biologically effective UV dose, e.g., for human non-melanoma skin cancer and for previtamin D production rate. Ongoing discussion about the existence of an increased melanoma risk due to UV-A exposure underscores the uncertainties inherent in current weighting functions. Thus, we performed an online literature search to review the data basis for these indices, to understand their relevance for an individual, and to assess the applicability of the indices for a range of exposure scenarios. Even for natural (solar) UV, the spectral composition varies spatially and temporally. Artificial UV sources and personal protection introduce further variation to the spectral composition. Many biological effects are proposed for UV radiation. Only few endpoints have been studied sufficiently to estimate a reliable index. Weighting functions for chronic effects and most importantly for cancer endpoints have been developed in animal models, and often for proxy endpoints only. Epidemiological studies on biological effects of UV radiation should not only depend on single-value weighted UV dose estimates (indexes) but should strive for a more detailed description of the individual exposure. A better understanding of the adverse and beneficial effects of UV radiation by wavelength would also improve medical counseling and health communication regarding individual health-supportive behavior.
Differential Amino Acid, Carbohydrate and Lipid Metabolism Perpetuations Involved in a Subtype of Rheumatoid Arthritis with Chinese Medicine Cold Pattern
Authors: Guo Hongtao , Niu Xuyan , Gu Yan , Lu Cheng , Xiao Cheng , Yue Kevin , Zhang Ge , Pan Xiaohua , Jiang Miao , Tan Yong , Kong Hongwei , Liu Zhenli , Xu Guowang , Lu Aiping
Published: October 2016

Pattern classification is a key approach in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and it is used to classify the patients for intervention selection accordingly. TCM cold and heat patterns, two main patterns of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) had been explored with systems biology approaches. Different regulations of apoptosis were found to be involved in cold and heat classification in our previous works. For this study, the metabolic profiling of plasma was explored in RA patients with typical TCM cold or heat patterns by integrating liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS) and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) platforms in conjunction with the Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) software. Three main processes of metabolism, including amino acid, carbohydrate and lipid were focused on for function analysis. The results showed that 29 and 19 differential metabolites were found in cold and heat patterns respectively, compared with healthy controls. The perturbation of amino acid metabolism (increased essential amino acids), carbohydrate metabolism (galactose metabolism) and lipid metabolism, were found to be involved in both cold and heat pattern RA. In particular, more metabolic perturbations in protein and collagen breakdown, decreased glycolytic activity and aerobic oxidation, and increased energy utilization associated with RA cold pattern patients. These findings may be useful for obtaining a better understanding of RA pathogenesis and for achieving a better efficacy in RA clinical practice.
Association Analysis of Noncoding Variants in Neuroligins 3 and 4X Genes with Autism Spectrum Disorder in an Italian Cohort
Authors: Landini Martina , Merelli Ivan , Raggi M. , Galluccio Nadia , Ciceri Francesca , Bonfanti Arianna , Camposeo Serena , Massagli Angelo , Villa Laura , Salvi Erika , Cusi Daniele , Molteni Massimo , Milanesi Luciano , Marabotti Anna , Mezzelani Alessandra
Published: October 2016

Since involved in synaptic transmission and located on X-chromosome, neuroligins 3 and 4X have been studied as good positional and functional candidate genes for autism spectrum disorder pathogenesis, although contradictory results have been reported. Here, we performed a case-control study to assess the association between noncoding genetic variants in NLGN3 and NLGN4X genes and autism, in an Italian cohort of 202 autistic children analyzed by high-resolution melting. The results were first compared with data from 379 European healthy controls (1000 Genomes Project) and then with those from 1061 Italian controls genotyped by Illumina single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array 1M-duo. Statistical evaluations were performed using Plink v1.07, with the Omnibus multiple loci approach. According to both the European and the Italian control groups, a 6-marker haplotype on NLGN4X (rs6638575(G), rs3810688(T), rs3810687(G), rs3810686(C), rs5916269(G), rs1882260(T)) was associated with autism (odd ratio = 3.58, p-value = 2.58 × 10−6 for the European controls; odds ratio = 2.42, p-value = 6.33 × 10−3 for the Italian controls). Furthermore, several haplotype blocks at 5-, 4-, 3-, and 2-, including the first 5, 4, 3, and 2 SNPs, respectively, showed a similar association with autism. We provide evidence that noncoding polymorphisms on NLGN4X may be associated to autism, suggesting the key role of NLGN4X in autism pathophysiology and in its male prevalence.
Dissecting the Heterogeneity of Circulating Tumor Cells in Metastatic Breast Cancer: Going Far Beyond the Needle in the Haystack
Authors: Bulfoni Michela , Turetta Matteo , Del Ben Fabio , Di Loreto Carla , Beltrami Antonio , Cesselli Daniela
Published: October 2016

Although the enumeration of circulating tumor cells (CTC) defined as expressing both epithelial cell adhesion molecule and cytokeratins (EpCAM+/CK+) can predict prognosis and response to therapy in metastatic breast, colon and prostate cancer, its clinical utility (i.e., the ability to improve patient outcome by guiding therapy) has not yet been proven in clinical trials. Therefore, scientists are now focusing on the molecular characterization of CTC as a way to explore its possible use as a “surrogate” of tumor tissues to non-invasively assess the genomic landscape of the cancer and its evolution during treatment. Additionally, evidences confirm the existence of CTC in epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) characterized by a variable loss of epithelial markers. Since the EMT process can originate cells with enhanced invasiveness, stemness and drug-resistance, the enumeration and characterization of this population, perhaps the one truly responsible of tumor recurrence and progression, could be more clinically useful. For these reasons, several devices able to capture CTC independently from the expression of epithelial markers have been developed. In this review, we will describe the types of heterogeneity so far identified and the key role played by the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in driving CTC heterogeneity. The clinical relevance of detecting CTC-heterogeneity will be discussed as well.
Effects of Proton Pump Inhibitor Administration and Intake of a Combination of Yogurt and Galactooligosaccharides on Bone and Mineral Metabolism in Rats
Authors: Takasugi Satoshi , Shioyama Miho , Kitade Masami , Nagata Masashi , Yamaji Taketo
Published: October 2016

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of proton pump inhibitor (PPI), the most potent acid-suppressing drug, administration and intake of a combination of yogurt and galactooligosaccharides (YG) on bone and mineral metabolism in adult rats. Twelve-week-old male Wistar rats were divided into three groups: a control group fed the control diet with vehicle administration, a PPI group fed the control diet with PPI administration and a YG + PPI group fed the YG diet with PPI administration. All of the groups received their respective experimental diets and daily subcutaneous injection of the vehicle or PPI for 12 weeks. The PPI group showed significantly lower bone mineral density (BMD) of the femur and the lumbar vertebrae and serum fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) and significantly higher phosphorus absorption and serum 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25(OH)2D) than the control group, although PPI did not affect calcium absorption. The PPI + YG group showed significantly higher BMD and serum FGF23 and significantly lower phosphorus absorption and serum 1,25(OH)2D than the PPI group. Furthermore, the PPI + YG group showed higher calcium absorption than the control group. These results suggest that although PPI administration did not affect calcium absorption, it adversely affected BMD and influenced phosphorus metabolism in adult rats. Furthermore, the YG diet beneficially affected BMD and attenuated the effects of PPI administration on phosphorus metabolism.
Proanthocyanidins Attenuation of Chronic Lead-Induced Liver Oxidative Damage in Kunming Mice via the Nrf2/ARE Pathway
Authors: Long Miao , Liu Yi , Cao Yu , Wang Nan , Dang Meng , He Jianbin
Published: October 2016

Lead is harmful for human health and animals. Proanthocyanidins (PCs), a natural antioxidant, possess a broad spectrum of pharmacological and medicinal properties. However, its protective effects against lead-induced liver damage have not been clarified. This study was aimed to evaluate the protective effect of PCs on the hepatotoxicity of male Kunming mice induced by chronic lead exposure. A total of 70 healthy male Kunming mice were averagely divided into four groups: control group, i.e., the group exposed to lead, the group treated with PCs, and the group co-treated with lead and PCs. The mice exposed to lead were given water containing 0.2% lead acetate. Mice treated in the PCs and PCs lead co-treated groups were given PC (100 mg/kg) in 0.9% saline by oral gavage. Lead exposure caused a significant elevation in the liver function parameters, lead level, lipid peroxidation, and inhibition of antioxidant enzyme activities. The induction of oxidative stress and histological alterations in the liver were minimized by co-treatment with PCs. Meanwhile, the number of Transferase-Mediated Deoxyuridine Triphosphate-Biotin Nick End Labeling (TUNEL)-positive cells was significantly reduced in the PCs/lead co-treated group compared to the lead group. In addition, the lead group showed an increase in the expression level of Bax, while the expression of Bcl-2 was decreased. Furthermore, the lead group showed an increase in the expression level of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-related genes and protein (GRP78 and CHOP). Co-treated with PCs significantly reversed these expressions in the liver. PCs were, therefore, demonstrated to have protective, antioxidant, and anti-ER stress and anti-apoptotic activities in liver damage caused by chronic lead exposure in the Kunming mouse. This may be due to the ability of PCs to enhance the ability of liver tissue to protect against oxidative stress via the Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway, resulting in decreasing ER stress and apoptosis of liver tissue.
Aptamers: A New Technological Platform in Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Pastor Fernando
Published: October 2016

The renaissance of cancer immunotherapy is, nowadays, a reality. In the near future, it will be very likely among the first-line treatments for cancer patients. There are several different approaches to modulate the immune system to fight against tumor maladies but, so far, monoclonal antibodies may currently be the most successful immuno-tools used to that end. The number of ongoing clinical trials with monoclonal antibodies has been increasing exponentially over the last few years upon the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of the first immune-checkpoint blockade antibodies. In spite of the proved antitumor effect of these reagents, the unleashing of the immune system to fight cancer cells has a cost, namely auto-inflammatory toxicity. Additionally, only a small fraction of all patients treated with immune-checkpoint antibodies have a clinical benefit. Taking into account all this, it is urgent new therapeutic reagents are developed with a contained toxicity that could facilitate the combination of different immune-modulating pathways to broaden the antitumor effect in most cancer patients. Based on preclinical data, oligonucleotide aptamers could fulfill this need. Aptamers have not only been successfully used as antagonists of immune-checkpoint receptors, but also as agonists of immunostimulatory receptors in cancer immunotherapy. The simplicity of aptamers to be engineered for the specific delivery of different types of cargos to tumor cells and immune cells so as to harvest an efficient antitumor immune response gives aptamers a significant advantage over antibodies. In this review all of the recent applications of aptamers in cancer immunotherapy will be described.
Underwater Communications for Video Surveillance Systems at 2.4 GHz
Authors: Sendra Sandra , Lloret Jaime , Jimenez Jose , Rodrigues Joel
Published: October 2016

Video surveillance is needed to control many activities performed in underwater environments. The use of wired media can be a problem since the material specially designed for underwater environments is very expensive. In order to transmit the images and videos wirelessly under water, three main technologies can be used: acoustic waves, which do not provide high bandwidth, optical signals, although the effect of light dispersion in water severely penalizes the transmitted signals and therefore, despite offering high transfer rates, the maximum distance is very small, and electromagnetic (EM) waves, which can provide enough bandwidth for video delivery. In the cases where the distance between transmitter and receiver is short, the use of EM waves would be an interesting option since they provide high enough data transfer rates to transmit videos with high resolution. This paper presents a practical study of the behavior of EM waves at 2.4 GHz in freshwater underwater environments. First, we discuss the minimum requirements of a network to allow video delivery. From these results, we measure the maximum distance between nodes and the round trip time (RTT) value depending on several parameters such as data transfer rate, signal modulations, working frequency, and water temperature. The results are statistically analyzed to determine their relation. Finally, the EM waves’ behavior is modeled by a set of equations. The results show that there are some combinations of working frequency, modulation, transfer rate and temperature that offer better results than others. Our work shows that short communication distances with high data transfer rates is feasible.
Stress, Depression, and Occupational Injury among Migrant Farmworkers in Nebraska
Authors: Ramos Athena , Carlo Gustavo , Grant Kathleen , Trinidad Natalia , Correa Antonia
Published: October 2016

Agriculture is one of the most dangerous industries in the United States. Farmworkers, including migrant farmworkers, are at risk for work-related injuries. This study explores the association between stress, depression, and occupational injury among migrant farmworkers in Nebraska. Occupational injury was hypothesized to significantly increase the odds of farmworkers being stressed and depressed. Two hundred migrant farmworkers (mean age = 33.5 years, standard deviation (SD) = 12.53; 93.0% men, 92.9% of Mexican descent) were interviewed. In bivariate analyses, results indicated that stress and depression were positively associated with occupational injury. Two logistic regression models were developed. Occupational injury was a significant factor for depression, but not for stress. Participants who had been injured on the job were over seven times more likely to be depressed. These results highlight the interconnection between the work environment and mental health. More must be done to foster well-being in rural, agricultural communities. Improving occupational health and safety information and training, integrating behavioral health services into primary care settings, and strengthening the protections of the Migrant and Seasonal Agricultural Worker Protection Act may improve conditions for migrant farmworkers in the rural Midwest.
Deep-Learning-Based Approach for Prediction of Algal Blooms
Authors: Zhang Feng , Wang Yuanyuan , Cao Minjie , Sun Xiaoxiao , Du Zhenhong , Liu Renyi , Ye Xinyue
Published: October 2016

Algal blooms have recently become a critical global environmental concern which might put economic development and sustainability at risk. However, the accurate prediction of algal blooms remains a challenging scientific problem. In this study, a novel prediction approach for algal blooms based on deep learning is presented—a powerful tool to represent and predict highly dynamic and complex phenomena. The proposed approach constructs a five-layered model to extract detailed relationships between the density of phytoplankton cells and various environmental parameters. The algal blooms can be predicted by the phytoplankton density obtained from the output layer. A case study is conducted in coastal waters of East China using both our model and a traditional back-propagation neural network for comparison. The results show that the deep-learning-based model yields better generalization and greater accuracy in predicting algal blooms than a traditional shallow neural network does.
Resident Knowledge and Willingness to Engage in Waste Management in Delhi, India
Authors: Bhawal Mukherji Sudipta , Sekiyama Makiko , Mino Takashi , Chaturvedi Bharati
Published: October 2016

Delhi generates about 8360 tons of municipal solid waste per day, and there is low compliance to rules regarding waste management. The objective of this paper was to understand the situation in Delhi with respect to the segregation, storage, collection, and disposal of household waste, and to assess the knowledge of the residents of Delhi, and their willingness to engage in solid-waste management. A stratified random sample, comprising 3047 respondents, was chosen for a questionnaire survey, covering all municipalities of Delhi, with socio-economic classification as the stratifying variable. Survey results indicate that 60% of residents do not know the difference between biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste, and only 2% of them segregate waste. Fifty-eight percent of respondents reported that the waste collector mixes the segregated waste, 97% of respondents reported that they sold items to an itinerant waste buyer, and 87% of households are covered by doorstep waste collection services. Abstract knowledge (general knowledge about waste management) is seen to have a significant correlation with willingness to engage in waste management. Differences between the socio-economic groups indicate that the highest (most educated and wealthy), as well as the lowest socio-economic category (least educated and poor), older age-groups, and women, have greater abstract knowledge. Socio-economic categories having higher abstract knowledge can be active participants in decentralized models of waste management.
Identifying Potential Area and Financial Prospects of Rooftop Solar Photovoltaics (PV)
Authors: Ninsawat Sarawut , Hossain Mohammad
Published: October 2016

In an urban area, the roof is the only available surface that can be utilized for installing solar photovoltaics (PV), and the active surface area depends on the type of roof. Shadows on a solar panel can be caused by nearby tall buildings, construction materials such as water tanks, or the roof configuration itself. The azimuth angle of the sun varies, based on the season and the time of day. Therefore, the simulation of shadow for one or two days or using the rule of thumb may not be sufficient to evaluate shadow effects on solar panels throughout the year. In this paper, a methodology for estimating the solar potential of solar PV on rooftops is presented, which is particularly applicable to urban areas. The objective of this method is to assess how roof type and shadow play a role in potentiality and financial benefit. The method starts with roof type extraction from high-resolution satellite imagery, using Object Base Image Analysis (OBIA), the generation of a 3D structure from height data and roof type, the simulation of shadow throughout the year, and the identification of potential and financial prospects. Based on the results obtained, the system seems to be adequate for calculating the financial benefits of solar PV to a very fine scale. The payback period varied from 7–13 years depending on the roof type, direction, and shadow impact. Based on the potentiality, a homeowner can make a profit of up to 200%. This method could help homeowners to identify potential roof area and economic interest.
Decision Making Process for Constructing Low-Energy Buildings in the Public Housing Sector in Sweden
Authors: Wahlström Åsa , Berggren Björn , Florell Josefin , Nygren Rickard , Sundén Thomas
Published: October 2016

The built environment accounts for a significant share of energy consumption and energy efficiency in this sector is important for the Swedish environmental objectives. Only a limited share of the total new construction of multifamily houses are constructed as low-energy buildings. Current building regulations lay down requirements for energy efficiency for new construction, and these will be tightened further in the future. Public housing companies often aim to be at the forefront, and the public housing sector has now built half of Sweden’s low-energy blocks of flats. Many public housing companies have tried, but it is uncertain if they will, or have, the possibilities to construct low-energy buildings on a large scale. Twenty public housing companies around Sweden have been interviewed with the aim of identifying obstacles and possibilities to be forerunners and build better than required by the building regulations. The study shows that the public housing companies build better than the law demands and intend to continue doing so. Low-energy buildings are particularly suitable in central locations where land is attractive and the required returns lower. The driving motivation is to be at the forefront and to build green. The new pressure to increase house building can lead to a risk of energy and quality issues being passed over. For the increase in the construction of low-energy buildings to continue, extended, shared and comparable decision making support for the public housing companies is needed.
Bone Marrow Stromal Cells Combined with Sodium Ferulate andn-Butylidenephthalide Promote the Effect of Therapeutic Angiogenesis via Advancing Astrocyte-Derived Trophic Factors after Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Zhang Qian , Chen Zhen-Wei , Zhao Yong-Hua , Liu Bo-Wen , Liu Nai-Wei , Ke Chien-Chih , Tan Hong-Mei
Published: October 2016

Being a potential candidate for stroke treatment, bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (BM-MSCs) have been demonstrated to be able to enhance angiogenesis and proliferation of reactive astrocytes, which subsequently leads to the amelioration of neurological injury. Increasing evidence further indicates that combining BM-MSCs with certain agents, such as simvastatin, may improve therapeutic effects. Sodium ferulate (SF) and n-butylidenephthalide (BP), two main components of Radix Angelica Sinensis, are proven to be important regulators of stem cells in cell migration, differentiation, and pluripotency maintenance. This study aimed to investigate whether combining BM-MSCs with SF and BP had better therapeutic effect in the treatment of stroke, and the underlying molecular basis for the therapeutic effects was also investigated. The results showed that combination treatment notably reduced neurological injury after stroke and increased the expression of astrocyte-derived vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and von Willebrand factor-positive vascular density in the ischemic boundary zone as evaluated by immuno fluorescence staining. After treatment with BM-MSCs plus SF and BP, astrocytes showed increased expression of VEGF and BDNF by upregulating protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin (AKT/mTOR) expression in an oxygen- and glucose-deprived (OGD) environment. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) incubated with the conditioned medium (CM) derived from OGD astrocytes treated with BM-MSCs plus SF and BP showed significantly increased migration and tube formation compared with those incubated with the CM derived from OGD astrocytes treated with BM-MSCs alone. These results demonstrate that combination treatment enhances the expression of astrocyte-derived VEGF and BDNF, which contribute to angiogenesis after cerebral ischemia, and the underlying mechanism is associated with activation of the astrocytic AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. Our study provides a potential therapeutic approach for ischemic stroke.
Cell Therapy for Liver Disease Using Bioimaging Rats
Authors: Haga Junko , Enosawa Shin , Kobayashi Eiji
Published: October 2016

Advances in stem cell research suggest that cell therapy is a potential alternative to liver transplantation. The use of individualized and minimally invasive cell therapy is desirable to avoid rejection and reduce patient burden. While allo-hepatocyte transplantation has been performed for metabolic hepatic disease, auto-bone marrow transplantation (BMT) has shifted toward mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) transplantation for liver cirrhosis. In this article, an overview of cell transplantation research for liver disease is provided through our recent rat studies. We have developed various kinds of rat imaging models and have evaluated the effect of cell therapy for liver disease. Bone marrow cells (BMCs) of the Alb-DsRed2 rat were transplanted via the portal vein (PV) in acute and chronic liver damage models. The number of Alb-DsRed2+ albumin-producing cells increased, and the size of the cells increased in the chronic liver damage model as well as in the acute liver damage model. Luciferase transgenic (luc-Tg) rat hepatocytes were transplanted into the hepatectomized LEW rat via the PV. Luminescence intensity lasted for 2 months in the hepatectomized rat. BMCs obtained from green fluorescent protein (GFP) Tg rats were transplanted repeatedly via the PV using an implanted catheter with a port. Repeated BMT via the PV reduced the liver fibrosis. Adipocyte-derived MSCs from the luc-Tg rat were transplanted into the hepatectomized rat model via the PV after ischemic reperfusion. MSCs inhibited hepatocyte apoptosis and promoted liver regeneration. Transplanting the optimal number of cells by an effective and safe way is important for clinical application. Bioimaging rats are a powerful tool for cell transplantation research because it makes observation of the in vivo kinetics of transplanted cells possible. Cell transplantation research using bioimaging rats contributes greatly to evaluating effective methods of cell therapy.
MODELLING THE ASSESSMENT OF TRAFFIC RISK AT LEVEL CROSSINGS OF LITHUANIAN RAILWAYS
Authors: Bureika Gintautas , Gaidamauskas Eduardas , Kupinas Jonas , Bogdevičius Marijonas , Steišūnas Stasys
Published: October 2016

The article discusses the problem of railway safety management and the criteria for evaluating the traffic risk described in various scientific publications. The research aims to assess the risk posed to railway infrastructure objects and to create a model for safety risk evaluation. The research on the traffic safety risk with respect to the infrastructure of the rail transport system was divided into three stages. The Plan–Do–Check–Act (PDCA) model can be used for investigating the problem of managing railway traffic safety risks in the Lithuanian railways. The main threats to railway infrastructure objects are defined, and the catalogue of technical parameters of level crossings of the Lithuanian railways is presented. The maximum allowable train speed, the intensity of railway and road traffic, as well as the size (width) and visibility of level crossings from the train driver’s cab are chosen as the main criteria for evaluating the vulnerability of a level crossing. The logistic regression method has been applied to rank and assess the safety of level crossings of the Lithuanian railways. The validity of the model developed in the present work for assessing traffic safety risks at level crossings of Lithuanian railways is about 86%. The suggested risk evaluation model is flexible and can be easily adapted for the evaluation and monitoring of safety risk of other elements pertaining to railway infrastructure. Finally, the basic conclusions and recommendations are provided.
PERIODIC ORBIT FAMILIES IN THE GRAVITATIONAL FIELD OF IRREGULAR-SHAPED BODIES
Authors: Jiang Yu , Baoyin Hexi
Published: October 2016

The discovery of binary and triple asteroids in addition to the execution of space missions to minor celestial bodies in the past several years have focused increasing attention on periodic orbits around irregular-shaped celestial bodies. In the present work, we adopt a polyhedron shape model for providing an accurate representation of irregular-shaped bodies and employ the model to calculate their corresponding gravitational and effective potentials. We also investigate the characteristics of periodic orbit families and the continuation of periodic orbits. We prove a fact, which provides a conserved quantity that permits restricting the number of periodic orbits in a fixed energy curved surface about an irregular-shaped body. The collisions of Floquet multipliers are maintained during the continuation of periodic orbits around the comet 1P/Halley. Multiple bifurcations in the periodic orbit families about irregular-shaped bodies are also discussed. Three bifurcations in the periodic orbit family have been found around the asteroid 216 Kleopatra, which include two real saddle bifurcations and one period-doubling bifurcation.
NEW ORBITS BASED ON SPECKLE INTERFEROMETRY AT SOAR∗
Authors: Tokovinin Andrei
Published: October 2016

The orbits of 55 visual binary stars are computed using recent speckle interferometry data from the SOAR telescope: 33 first-time orbits and 22 revisions of previous orbit calculations. The orbital periods range from 1.4–370 years, and the quality of the orbits ranges from definitive to preliminary and tentative. Most binaries consist of low-mass dwarfs and have short periods (median period 31 years). The dynamical parallaxes and masses are evaluated and compared to the Hipparcos parallaxes. Using differential speckle photometry, binary components are placed on the color–magnitude diagram.
A QUICK METHOD TO IDENTIFY SECULAR RESONANCES IN MULTI-PLANET SYSTEMS WITH A BINARY COMPANION
Authors: Pilat-Lohinger E. , Bazsó A. , Funk B.
Published: October 2016

Gravitational perturbations in multi-planet systems caused by an accompanying star are the subject of this investigation. Our dynamical model is based on the binary star HD 41004 AB where a giant planet orbits HD 41004 A. We modify the orbital parameters of this system and analyze the motion of a hypothetical test planet surrounding HD 41004 A on an interior orbit to the detected giant planet. Our numerical computations indicate perturbations due to mean motion and secular resonances (SRs). The locations of these resonances are usually connected to high eccentricity and highly inclined motion depending strongly on the binary-planet architecture. As the positions of mean motion resonances can easily be determined, the main purpose of this study is to present a new semi-analytical method to determine the location of an SR without huge computational effort.
COUPLING OF CORONAL AND HELIOSPHERIC MAGNETOHYDRODYNAMIC MODELS: SOLUTION COMPARISONS AND VERIFICATION
Authors: Merkin V. G. , Lionello R. , Lyon J. G. , Linker J. , Török T. , Downs C.
Published: October 2016

Two well-established magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) codes are coupled to model the solar corona and the inner heliosphere. The corona is simulated using the MHD algorithm outside a sphere (MAS) model. The Lyon–Fedder–Mobarry (LFM) model is used in the heliosphere. The interface between the models is placed in a spherical shell above the critical point and allows both models to work in either a rotating or an inertial frame. Numerical tests are presented examining the coupled model solutions from 20 to 50 solar radii. The heliospheric simulations are run with both LFM and the MAS extension into the heliosphere, and use the same polytropic coronal MAS solutions as the inner boundary condition. The coronal simulations are performed for idealized magnetic configurations, with an out-of-equilibrium flux rope inserted into an axisymmetric background, with and without including the solar rotation. The temporal evolution at the inner boundary of the LFM and MAS solutions is shown to be nearly identical, as are the steady-state background solutions, prior to the insertion of the flux rope. However, after the coronal mass ejection has propagated through the significant portion of the simulation domain, the heliospheric solutions diverge. Additional simulations with different resolution are then performed and show that the MAS heliospheric solutions approach those of LFM when run with progressively higher resolution. Following these detailed tests, a more realistic simulation driven by the thermodynamic coronal MAS is presented, which includes solar rotation and an azimuthally asymmetric background and extends to the Earth’s orbit.
EXAMINING THE ACCURACY OF ASTROPHYSICAL DISK SIMULATIONS WITH A GENERALIZED HYDRODYNAMICAL TEST PROBLEM
Authors: Raskin Cody , Owen J. Michael
Published: October 2016

We discuss a generalization of the classic Keplerian disk test problem allowing for both pressure and rotational support, as a method of testing astrophysical codes incorporating both gravitation and hydrodynamics. We argue for the inclusion of pressure in rotating disk simulations on the grounds that realistic, astrophysical disks exhibit non-negligible pressure support. We then apply this test problem to examine the performance of various smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) methods incorporating a number of improvements proposed over the years to address problems noted in modeling the classical gravitation-only Keplerian disk. We also apply this test to a newly developed extension of SPH based on reproducing kernels called CRKSPH. Counterintuitively, we find that pressure support worsens the performance of traditional SPH on this problem, causing unphysical collapse away from the steady-state disk solution even more rapidly than the purely gravitational problem, whereas CRKSPH greatly reduces this error.
THE KEY ROLE OF SOLAR DYNAMICS IN THE CHROMOSPHERIC HANLE POLARIZATION
Authors: Carlin E. S. , Bianda M.
Published: October 2016

The quantum theory of polarized light allows one to model scattering in the solar atmosphere for inferring its properties. This powerful approach has revealed two key long-standing problems in solar physics: the puzzling dilemmas between theory and observations in several anomalously polarized spectral lines and the need for inferring the ubiquitous weak chromospheric magnetic fields, which requires discriminating the Hanle effect in dynamic optically thick plasmas. However, the ever-present dynamics, i.e., the temporal evolution of heatings and macroscopic motions, has been widely disregarded when modeling and interpreting the scattering polarization. This has hindered a consistent theoretical solution to the puzzle while falsifying the Hanle diagnosis. Here, we show that the dynamical evolution is a keystone for solving both problems because its systematic impact allows an explanation of the observations from “anomalous” instantaneous polarization signals. Evolution accounted for, we reproduce amplitudes and (spectral and spatial) shapes of the Ca i 4227 Å polarization at solar disk center, identifying a restrictive arrangement of magnetic fields, kinematics, heatings, and spatio-temporal resolution. We find that the joint action of dynamics, Hanle effect, and low temporal resolutions mimics Zeeman linear polarization profiles, the true weak-field Zeeman signals being negligible. Our results allow reinterpretation of many polarization signals of the solar spectra and support time-dependent scattering polarization as a powerful tool for deciphering the spatio-temporal distribution of chromospheric heatings and fields. This approach may be a key aid in developing the Hanle diagnosis for the solar atmosphere.
Assessment of Increase in Aortic and Carotid Intimal Medial Thickness in Type 1 Diabetic Patients
Authors: Abd El Dayem Soha M. , Battah Ahmed A. , El Bohy Abo El Magd
Published: October 2016

AIM: To assess aortic and carotid intima-media thickness (aIMT and cIMT) in diabetic patients.PATIENTS AND METHODS: The study included 75 type 1 diabetic patients and 30 age and sex matched healthy volunteer. A blood sample was taken for analysis of HbA1 and lipid profile and the urine sample was taken for analysis of albumin/ creatinine ratio. aIMT and cIMT via ultrasound were also done.RESULTS: cIMT & aIMT were significantly higher in diabetics. aIMT was found to be significantly higher than cIMT in diabetic patients (0.72 Â± 0.11 vs. 0.52 Â± 0.06, P = 0.0001). Ten of our patients (14%) with normal cIMT revealed significantly increased aIMT. aIMT had a significant positive correlation with age of patients, waist/hip ratio & cIMT.CONCLUSION: Diabetic patients had increased aIMT and cIMT with a relatively greater increase in the aIMT than in the cIMT. Because atherosclerosis begins first in the intima of the aorta, these data suggest that the aIMT might provide the best currently available noninvasive marker of preclinical atherosclerosis in children. We recommend frequent follow up of diabetic patients for early detection of diabetic complication.
No taxonomists? No progress
Authors: Yen A.L. , Van Itterbeeck J.
Published: October 2016

Western societies currently show considerable interest in using insects as human food and/or as animal feed to reduce loss of habitats, use less energy to produce the food or feed in much smaller spaces, and to provide foods and feeds of high nutritional values. There appears to be emphasis on a small number of species for practical reasons: the domestic cricket, mealworms, and the black soldier fly seem to be the main species. There are most probably practical reasons for this emphasis including: the efficiency in building on established knowledge, the extensive use of model species in academic research, and, related to the two former reasons, the need for highly successful projects showing that insects indeed can be the food of the future. While practical reasons are often legitimate, the adoption of a small number of insect species as food and feed is contradictory to the concept that edible insect diversity will help feed the world. An emphasis on further building up knowledge of a small number of species will receive criticism that is very similar to the criticism on the use of a small number of vertebrate or plant species as food.
Aerobic Granular Sludge
Authors: Amorim Catarina L. , Moreira Irina S. , Duque Anouk F. , van Loosdrecht Mark C. M. , Castro Paula M. L.
Published: October 2016

Aerobic Granular Sludge (AGS) has been successfully applied for carbon, nitrogen and phosphorous removal from wastewaters, in a single tank, reducing the space and energy requirements. This is especially beneficial for, often space restricted, industrial facilities. Moreover, AGS holds a promise for the toxic pollutants removal, due to its layered and compact structure and the bacteria embedding in a protective extracellular polymeric matrix. These outstanding features contribute to AGS tolerance to toxicity and stability. Strategies available to deal with toxic compounds, namely granulation with effluents containing toxics and bioaugmentation, are addressed here. Different applications for the toxics/micropollutants removal through biosorption and/or biodegradation are presented, illustrating the technology versatility. The anthropogenic substances effects on system performance and bacterial populations established within AGS are also addressed. Combination of contaminants removal to allow water discharge, and simultaneous valuable products recovery are presented as final remark.
Blended learning in a first-year language class: Evaluating the acceptance of an interactive learning environment
Authors: Olivier Jako
Published: October 2016

Increasingly blended learning, as a combination of face-to-face and online instruction is applied in university classrooms. In this study the use of an interactive learning environment (ILE), within a Sakai-based learning management system, as well as face-to-face teaching and learning in a first-year Afrikaans language class is explored. The Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) was employed by means of a survey and the Structure Equation Model was used to explore factors relevant to this first-year class. In addition, qualitative research was conducted through an open questionnaire in order to determine the perceptions regarding the blended learning context and the ILE. It was found that students are generally able to function within the ILE and they are quite positive towards the use of the learning environment for learning and teaching. However, it is clear that some students still prefer printed study material. Despite the fact that students indicated that they use the ILE daily, actual usage statistics did not always correspond. Finally, this paper makes suggestions with regard to adapting teaching in terms of students’ behaviour based on their computer anxiety and Internet self-efficacy as well as the perceived usefulness and ease of use of the ILE.
Consistent regional fluxes of CH4 and CO2 inferred from
GOSAT proxy XCH4:XCO2 retrievals, 2010–2014
Authors: Feng Liang , Palmer Paul I. , Bösch Hartmut , Parker Robert J . , Webb Alex J. , Correia Caio S. C. , Deutscher Nicholas M. , Domingues Lucas G. , Feist Dietrich G. , Gatti Luciana V. , Gloor Emanuel , Hase Frank , Kivi Rigel , Liu Yi , Miller John B. , Morino Isamu , Sussmann Ralf , Strong Kimberly , Uchino Osamu , Wang Jing , Zahn Andreas
Published: October 2016

Abstract. We use the GEOS-Chem global 3-D model of atmospheric chemistry and transport and an ensemble Kalman filter to simultaneously infer regional fluxes of methane (CH4) and carbon dioxide (CO2) directly from GOSAT retrievals of XCH4:XCO2, using sparse ground-based CH4 and CO2 mole fraction data to anchor the ratio. This work builds on previously reported theory that takes advantage that: (1) these ratios are less prone to systematic error than either the full physics data products or the proxy CH4 data products; and (2) the resulting CH4 and CO2 fluxes are self-consistent. We show that a posteriori fluxes inferred from the GOSAT data generally outperform the fluxes inferred only from in situ data, as expected. GOSAT CH4 and CO2 fluxes are consistent with global growth rates for CO2 and CH4 reported by NOAA, and with a range of independent data including in particular new profile measurements (0–7 km) over the Amazon basin that were collected specifically to help validate GOSAT over this geographical region. We find that large-scale multi-year annual a posteriori CO2 fluxes inferred from GOSAT data are similar to those inferred from the in situ surface data but with smaller uncertainties, particularly over the tropics. GOSAT data are consistent with smaller peak-to-peak seasonal amplitudes of CO2 than either a priori or the in situ inversion, particularly over the tropics and the southern extra-tropics. Over the northern extra-tropics, GOSAT data show larger uptake than the a priori but less than the in situ inversion, resulting in small net emissions over the year. We also find evidence that the carbon balance of tropical South America was perturbed following the droughts of 2010 and 2012 with net annual fluxes not returning to an approximate annual balance until 2013. In contrast, GOSAT data significantly changed the a priori spatial distribution of CH4 emission with a 40 % increase over tropical South America and tropical Asia and smaller decrease over Eurasia and temperate South America. We find no evidence from GOSAT that tropical South American CH4 fluxes were dramatically affected by the two large-scale Amazon droughts. However, we find that GOSAT data are consistent with double seasonal peaks in fluxes that are reproduced over the five years we studied: a small peak in January to April and a larger peak in June to October, which is likely due to superimposed emissions from different geographical regions.
Filamentary field-aligned currents at the polar cap region during
northward interplanetary magnetic field derived with the Swarm
constellation
Authors: Lühr Hermann , Huang Tao , Wing Simon , Kervalishvili Guram , Rauberg Jan , Korth Haje
Published: October 2016

Abstract. ESA's Swarm constellation mission makes it possible for the first time to determine field-aligned currents (FACs) in the ionosphere uniquely. In particular at high latitudes, the dual-satellite approach can reliably detect some FAC structures which are missed by the traditional single-satellite technique. These FAC events occur preferentially poleward of the auroral oval and during times of northward interplanetary magnetic field (IMF) orientation. Most events appear on the nightside. They are not related to the typical FAC structures poleward of the cusp, commonly termed NBZ. Simultaneously observed precipitating particle spectrograms and auroral images from Defense Meteorological Satellite Program (DMSP) satellites are consistent with the detected FACs and indicate that they occur on closed field lines mostly adjacent to the auroral oval. We suggest that the FACs are associated with Sun-aligned filamentary auroral arcs. Here we introduce in an initial study features of the high-latitude FAC structures which have been observed during the early phase of the Swarm mission. A more systematic survey over longer times is required to fully characterize the so far undetected field aligned currents.
Western Faculty Profile: Dr. Greg Thorn
Authors: Lau Alex
Published: October 2016

Dr Greg Thorn is a professor at the department of Biology. His research focuses on phylogenetic systematics and ecology, biodiversity and discovering "missing" fungal diversity. The long-term research goal of the Thorn lab is to explore the relationships between phylogeny and function - evolution and ecology - in fungi. He also teaches various third year biology courses in University of Western Ontario, specifically entailing fungi and plants. He is one of the few professors in UWO that has actually been brought up in London and will provide an interesting perspective towards graduate opportunities for prospective students.