bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Diagnostic System of A – 604 Automatic Transmission
Authors: Czaban Jaroslaw , Szpica Dariusz
Published: December 2014

Automatic gearbox gains increasing popularity in Europe. Little interest in diagnosis of such type of transmission in Poland results from the fact of small share in the whole market of operated cars, so there is a lack of availability of special diagnostic devices. These factors cause issues of expensive repairs, often involving a replacement of subassembly to new or aftermarket one. To a small extent some prophylactic diagnostic tests are conducted, which can eliminate future gearbox system failures. In the paper, the proposition of diagnostic system of popular A - 604 gearbox was presented. The authors are seeking for the possibility of using such type of devices to functional elaboration of gearboxes after renovation. The built system pursues the drive of the researched object, connected with simulated load, where special controller, replacing the original one, is responsible for controlling gearbox operation. This way is used to evaluate the mechanic and hydraulic parts' state. Analysis of signal runs, registered during measurements lets conclude about operation correctness, where as comparison with stock data verifies the technical state of an automatic gearbox.
Effect Of Chitosan Application On The Performance Of Lentil Genotypes Under Rainfed Conditions
Authors: Janmohammadi Mohsen , Mostafavi Hamid , Kazemi Hamid , Mahdavinia Gholam-Reza , Sabaghnia Naser
Published: December 2014

In the current study, influences of chitosan solutions on morphological characteristics, growth and yield components of lentil (Lens culinaris Med.) under rainfed conditions have been investigated. A field experiment was conducted in the Northwest of Iran using a split-plot experiment based on a completely randomized design with three replications. The response of twelve genotypes with different origins to chitosan application at the sowing (seed soaking), vegetative and reproductive stage (spraying chitosan onto leaves) was evaluated. Results revealed that chitosan application could significantly improve the number of pods per plant, 100-seed weight, grain yield per plant and harvest index in comparison to control plants. The comparison of yield components between chitosan treatments showed that spraying chitosan during the reproductive stage was more efficient than in other stages. However, the responses of the number of pods per plants and grain yield per plants to chitosan treatments were significantly different among the genotypes. Although the highest grain yield was recorded in the 78S 26013 genotype (from Jordan), its response to chitosan treatments was different from the other genotypes and showed the best performance in plants obtained from seed soaked in chitosan solutions. We suggest that the application of chitosan as an agronomic management strategy be further investigated for an efficient technique to induce resistance in lentil plants against biotic and drought stress in semi-arid regions.
Using Welding for Renovations of Machine Parts Made of Aluminium Alloy
Authors: Votava Jiří
Published: December 2014

Due to their mechanical characteristics, aluminium alloys are materials with high potential in the automotive industry. Thus, it is useful to analyse the weldability of individual alloys, not only for possible renovations of a machine part. This paper focuses on monitoring a welded metal made by the coated electrode OK 96.20. An alloy EN AW 5754 was used as a base welding material. This base material was used in two modifications. Firstly, samples degraded in oil at a temperature of 80 °C, and secondly, samples in their standard form without grease. In the experiment, the porosity of weld beads as well as tension characteristics were analysed. In order to identify the corrosion degradation of weldments, the test was performed in compliance with the norm ČSN EN ISO 9227.
Risk Assessment Using Expanded Point Method in Civil Engineering
Authors: Žitňák Miroslav , Kollárová Katarína , Lendelová Jana , Dolejš Lukáš
Published: December 2014

Nowadays, there are increasing discussions concerning an extensive area of occupational safety and health, whether is it within the territory of the Slovak Republic or in other Member States of the European Union. Every organization prepares independently its own policy of occupational safety and health using applicable legislation. The objective of this work was to minimize the errors resulting not only from the human factor but also from incorrect working procedures, from failing to observe legal requirements, and from an incorrect use of personal protective equipment. After evaluating the risk level in working activities of employees on site, we have proposed measures to reduce the risk by means of defining correct working procedures and using personal protective equipment. That enables reducing occupational injuries, which will directly improve the overall level of occupational safety and health on a selected site.
Evaluation of the antioxidant activity of some types of red and white wines
Authors: Leahu Ana , Amariei Sonia , Damian Cristina , Oroian Mircea , Ropciuc Sorina
Published: December 2014

Samples of commercially available Romanian wines were analyzed in order to determine total phenols content and the antioxidant activity. The content of total phenolics in the extracts was determined according to the Folin-Ciocalteu method and calculated as gallic acid equivalents (mg GAE/100g). Antiradical activities of the extracts were evaluated by a micro assay using 1, 1¢-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl spectrophotometric method. Wine characteristics measurements were examined by multivariate data analysis, using principal component analysis (PCA). Total polyphenol content was correlated to the antioxidant activity of the studied wine samples. The values of the inhibition power of free radical, PI%, are ranging between 1.68 for white wine and 0.95 for red wine (“Bull blood” bottled by Tohani winery, Prahova, Romania).
Statistical analysis of yield trials by AMMI analysis of genotype × environment interaction
Authors: Hongyu Kuang , García-Peña Marisol , Araújo Lúcio Borges de , Santos Dias Carlos Tadeu dos
Published: December 2014

The genotype by environment interaction (GEI)) has an influence on the selection and recommendation of cultivars. The aim of this work is to study the effect of GEI and evaluate the adaptability and stability of productivity (kg/ha) of nine maize genotypes using AMMI model (Additive Main effects and Multiplicative Interaction). The AMMI model is one of the most widely used statistical tools in the analysis of multiple-environment trials. It has two purposes, namely understanding complex GEI and increasing accuracy. Nevertheless, the AMMI model is a widely used tool for the analysis of multiple-environment trials, where the data are represented by a two-way table of GEI means. In the complete tables, least squares estimation for the AMMI model is equivalent to fitting an additive two-way ANOVA model for the main effects and applying a singular value decomposition to the interaction residuals. It assumes equal weights for all GEI means implicitly. The experiments were conducted in twenty environments, and the experimental design was a randomized complete block design with four repetitions. The AMMI model identified the best combinations of genotypes and environments with respect to the response variable. This paper concerns a basic and a common application of AMMI: yield-trial analysis without consideration of special structure or additional data for either genotypes or environments.
Control treatments in designs with split units generated by Latin squares
Authors: Kuriki Shinji , Mejza Iwona , Ozawa Kazuhiro , Mejza Stanisław
Published: December 2014

This paper deals with two-factor experiments with split units. The whole plot treatments occur in a repeated Latin square, modified Latin square or Youden square, while subplot treatments occur in a block design within the whole plots. The statistical properties of the considered designs are examined. Special attention is paid to the case where one of the treatments is an individual control or an individual standard treatment. In addition, we give a brief overview of work on the design of experiments using the considered designs, as well as possible arrangements of controls in the experiments.
An evaluation of the efficiency of plant protection products via nonlinear statistical methods – a simulation study
Authors: Skotarczak Ewa , Bakinowska Ewa , Tomaszyk Kamila
Published: December 2014

A nonlinear statistical approach was used to evaluate the efficiency of plant protection products. The methodology presented can be implemented when the observations in an experiment are recorded as success or failure. This occurs, for example, when following the application of a herbicide or pesticide, a single weed or insect is classified as alive (failure) or dead (success). Then a higher probability of success means a higher efficiency of the tested product. Using simulated data sets, a comparison was made of three methods based on the logit, probit and threshold models, with special attention to the effect of sample size and number of replications on the accuracy of the estimation of probabilities.
Chlamydia in birds - occurrence, new species and zoonotic potential – a review
Authors: Mitura Agata , Szymańska-Czerwińska Monika , Niemczuk Krzysztof , Anara Jeleusizowa
Published: December 2014

Chlamydiales, one of the oldest bacterial orders in evolutionary terms, are widespread among animals. Blinding trachoma, a disease caused by Chlamydia trachomatis, was already known in ancient times, whereas modern reports on psittacosis date from 1879. Though these pathogens have long been known and lead to serious health problems both in human and animals, data on Chlamydiales biology has been limited. It is due to their intracellular life style and complex developmental cycle. New molecular biological methods have been recently developed expanding the possibilities of chlamydial research and diagnosis. This paper reviews data concerning avian chlamydiosis, its aetiological agent C. psittaci, newly proposed species isolated from birds, namely C. ibidis sp. nov., C. avium sp. nov., and C. gallinacea sp. nov., and their zoonotic potential.
LC-MS/MS analysis of doxycycline residues in chicken tissues after oral administration
Authors: Gajda Anna , Posyniak Andrzej , Tomczyk Grzegorz
Published: December 2014

For the purpose of quantitative determination of doxycycline (DC) residues in tissues, a sensitive liquid chromatography - tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method was developed. The method was used to determine DC residues in chicken tissues (breast and thigh muscle, liver and kidney) after oral administration with drinking water to five-weak-old broiler chickens. The DC was administered for five consecutive days at a therapeutic dose of 10 mg/kg b.w. once a day. The tissues were collected after 6 h, 24 h, 7 d, and 8 d. The method was validated and the decision limit was established for muscle - 109.2 μg/kg, for liver - 326.1 μg/kg, and for kidney - 634.0 μg/kg. The detection limit was 2 μg/kg and the limit of quantification was 5 μg/kg. In a short period after ceasing the treatment, the detected concentrations of DC were much higher than the established maximum residue limit values. The highest residue concentrations of DC were observed in the kidney, followed by the liver and muscle. The lowest concentration of DC was determined in tight muscle.
Amphenicols stability in medicated feed – development and validation of liquid chromatography method
Authors: Pietro Wojciech Jerzy , Woźniak Aneta , Pasik Katarzyna , Cybulski Wojciech , Krasucka Dorota
Published: December 2014

A liquid chromatography-ultraviolet detection method for the determination of florfenicol (FF) and thiamphenicol (TAP) in feeds is presented. The method comprises the extraction of analytes from the matrix with a mixture of methanol and acetonitrile, drying of the extract, and its dissolution in phosphate buffer. The analysis was performed with a gradient programme of the mobile phase composed of acetonitrile and buffer (pH = 7.3) on a Zorbax Eclipse Plus C18 (150 × 4.6 mm, 5 μm) analytical column with UV (λ = 220 nm) detection. The analytical procedure has been successfully adopted and validated for quantitative determination of florfenicol and thiamphenicol in feed samples. Sensitivity, specificity, linearity, repeatability, and intralaboratory reproducibility were included in the validation. The mean recovery of amphenicols was 93.5% within the working range of 50-4000 mg/kg. Simultaneous determination of chloramphenicol, which is banned in the feed, was also included within the same procedure of FF and TAP stability studies. Storing the medicated feed at room temperature for up to one month decreased concentration in the investigated drugs even by 45%. These findings are relevant to successful provision of therapy to animals.
Mitochondrial D-loop mutations can be detected in sporadic malignant tumours in dogs
Authors: Ślaska Brygida , Surdyka Magdalena , Brodzki Adam , Nisztuk Sylwia , Gurgul Artur , Bugno-Poniewierska Monika , Śmiech Anna , Różańska Dorota , Orzelski Maciej
Published: December 2014

The aim of this study was to identify mutations in the D-loop region of mtDNA in head, neck, and limb tumours in dogs, and determination of their relationship with the process of neoplastic transformation. Blood and tumour tissue samples from 19 dogs with diagnosed sporadic malignant tumours were analysed. DNA extraction, amplification, and sequencing of the mtDNA D-loop, and bioinformatic analyses were performed. Five mutations and 19 polymorphisms were observed in 68.42% of all tumours. Polymorphic variants were noted in 42.86% of the head and neck tumours and in 58.33% of the limb tumours. Mutations were observed in 21.05% of dogs. The mutations were found in 28.57% of the head and neck tumours and in 16.66% of the limb tumours. The mutations were identified in 50% of the studied epithelial cancers. In the mesenchymal tumours, no mutations in the D-loop region were observed. Mitochondrial haplotype A17 was found in over 40% cases of limb tumours. No association between the age, breed, sex, type of tumour, and detected polymorphic variants were observed. Different mutational changes in the D-loop sequences of mtDNA identified in the blood and tumour tissues may indicate a relationship between the type of tumour and individual changes in the D-loop nucleotide sequences of mtDNA.
Somatostatin-like immunoreactive primary sensory neurons supplying the porcine adrenal glands in physiological conditions and after adrenalectomy
Authors: Gonkowski Sławomir
Published: December 2014

Retrograde neuronal tracing, using fast blue, in combination with a single-labelling immunofluorescence technique, was applied to determine whether somatostatin (SOM) participates in sensory innervating of the porcine adrenal glands in physiological conditions and after adrenalectomy. In control animals, SOM-like immunoreactive neurons comprised 7.0 ± 0.7% of adrenal gland-projecting cells in dorsal root ganglia (DRG) at neuromeres Th6-7 and 6.5 ± 1.2% at neuromeres Th12-14. After adrenalectomy the percentage of SOM-positive DRG cells considerably increased and attained the level of 44.7 ± 2.5% at neuromeres Th6-7 and 36.6 ± 1.7% at neuromeres Th12-14. The obtained results demonstrate that SOM is not only a neuromediator within sensory neurones supplying the porcine adrenal glands, but also suggest the role of this substance during repairing processes within the nervous system after adrenalectomy.
Evaluation of Selected Resource Allocation and Scheduling Methods in Heterogeneous Many-Core Processors and Graphics Processing Units
Authors: Ciznicki Milosz , Kurowski Krzysztof , Węglarz Jan
Published: December 2014

Heterogeneous many-core computing resources are increasingly popular among users due to their improved performance over homogeneous systems. Many developers have realized that heterogeneous systems, e.g. a combination of a shared memory multi-core CPU machine with massively parallel Graphics Processing Units (GPUs), can provide significant performance opportunities to a wide range of applications. However, the best overall performance can only be achieved if application tasks are efficiently assigned to different types of processor units in time taking into account their specific resource requirements. Additionally, one should note that available heterogeneous resources have been designed as general purpose units, however, with many built-in features accelerating specific application operations. In other words, the same algorithm or application functionality can be implemented as a different task for CPU or GPU. Nevertheless, from the perspective of various evaluation criteria, e.g. the total execution time or energy consumption, we may observe completely different results. Therefore, as tasks can be scheduled and managed in many alternative ways on both many-core CPUs or GPUs and consequently have a huge impact on the overall computing resources performance, there are needs for new and improved resource management techniques. In this paper we discuss results achieved during experimental performance studies of selected task scheduling methods in heterogeneous computing systems. Additionally, we present a new architecture for resource allocation and task scheduling library which provides a generic application programming interface at the operating system level for improving scheduling polices taking into account a diversity of tasks and heterogeneous computing resources characteristics.
Software Measurement and Defect Prediction with Depress Extensible Framework
Authors: Madeyski Lech , Majchrzak Marek
Published: December 2014

Context. Software data collection precedes analysis which, in turn, requires data science related skills. Software defect prediction is hardly used in industrial projects as a quality assurance and cost reduction mean. Objectives. There are many studies and several tools which help in various data analysis tasks but there is still neither an open source tool nor standardized approach. Results. We developed Defect Prediction for software systems (DePress), which is an extensible software measurement, and data integration framework which can be used for prediction purposes (e.g. defect prediction, effort prediction) and software changes analysis (e.g. release notes, bug statistics, commits quality). DePress is based on the KNIME project and allows building workflows in a graphic, end-user friendly manner. Conclusions. We present main concepts, as well as the development state of the DePress framework. The results show that DePress can be used in Open Source, as well as in industrial project analysis.
Subpopulation Discovery in Epidemiological Data with Subspace Clustering
Authors: Niemann Uli , Spiliopoulou Myra , Völzke Henry , Kühn Jens-Peter
Published: December 2014

A prerequisite of personalized medicine is the identification of groups of people who share specific risk factors towards an outcome. We investigate the potential of subspace clustering for finding such groups in epidemiological data. We propose a workflow that encompasses clusterability assessment before cluster discovery and quality assessment after learning the clusters. Epidemiological usually do not have a ground truth for the verification of clusters found in subspaces. Hence, we introduce quality assessment through juxtaposition of the learned models to “models-of-randomness”, i.e. models that do not reflect a true cluster structure. On the basis of this workflow, we select subspace clustering methods, compare and discuss their performance. We use a dataset with hepatic steatosis as outcome, but our findings apply on arbitrary epidemiological cohort data that have tenths of variables and exhibit class skew.
On-Site Radon Detection of Mining-induced Fractures from Overlying Strata to the Surface: A Case Study of the Baoshan Coal Mine in China
Authors: Zhang Wei , Zhang Dong-Sheng , Wu Li-Xin , Wang Hong-Zhi
Published: December 2014

Large-scale longwall mining of shallow coal seams may cause mining-induced fractures that can project completely through to the surface. This could lead to a series of mine safety and environmental issues, further deteriorating the already fragile ecological environment in the Western mining areas in China. Therefore, an accurate and effective understanding of the spatiotemporal evolution law of mining-induced fractures in overlying strata and its relationship to upper aquifers is critical. In this paper, the application of the geophysical-chemical properties of radon in mining engineering is explored as a potential solution to the shortcomings of existing surveying methods. A radioactive measurement method is proposed for the detection of the development of mining-induced fractures from overlying strata to the surface in the Baoshan Coal Mine (BCM). The on-site test indicated that the first weighting step is approximately 60 m, the average periodic weighting step is approximately 20 m, and the influence coverage of the advanced abutment pressure is approximately 30 m. The presented method could be used as an indirect technical support to increase the safety of coal mining by acting as a simple, fast, and reliable method of detecting mining-induced fractures in overlying strata.
Wind Energy Study and Energy Cost of Wind Electricity Generation in Nigeria: Past and Recent Results and a Case Study for South West Nigeria
Authors: Ajayi Oluseyi , Fagbenle Richard , Katende James , Ndambuki Julius , Omole David , Badejo Adekunle
Published: December 2014

The study assessed the wind energy potential of ten selected sites in the south western region of Nigeria and carried out a cost benefit analysis of wind power generation at those sites. Twenty four years’ (1987 to 2010) wind speed data at 10 m height obtained from the Nigerian meteorological agency were employed to classify the sites wind profiles for electricity generation. The energy cost analysis of generating wind electricity from the sites was also carried out. The outcome showed that sites in Lagos and Oyo States were adequately suited for large scale generation with average wind speeds ranged between 2.9 and 5.8 m/s. Those from other sites may be suitable for small scale generation or as wind farms, with several small turbines connected together, to generate large enough wind power. The turbine matching results shows that turbines cut-in and rated wind speeds of between 2.0 and 3.0 m/s, and between 10 and 12.0 m/s respectively will be very suited to all the sites, particularly those in locations outside Lagos and Oyo States. The energy cost analysis shows that generation cost can be as low as 0.02 €/kWh and as high as 5.03/kWh, depending on the turbine model employed.
Multi-Objective Combinatorial Optimization of Trigeneration Plants Based on Metaheuristics
Authors: Stojiljković Mirko , Stojiljković Mladen , Blagojević Bratislav
Published: December 2014

In this paper, a methodology for multi-objective optimization of trigeneration plants is presented. It is primarily applicable to the systems for buildings’ energy supply characterized by high load variations on daily, weekly and annual bases, as well as the components applicable for flexible operation. The idea is that this approach should enable high accuracy and flexibility in mathematical modeling, while remaining efficient enough. The optimization problem is structurally decomposed into two new problems. The main problem of synthesis and design optimization is combinatorial and solved with different metaheuristic methods. For each examined combination of the synthesis and design variables, when calculating the values of the objective functions, the inner, mixed integer linear programming operation optimization problem is solved with the branch-and-cut method. The applicability of the exploited metaheuristic methods is demonstrated. This approach is compared with the alternative, superstructure-based approach. The potential for combining them is also examined. The methodology is applied for multi-objective optimization of a trigeneration plant that could be used for the energy supply of a real residential settlement in Niš, Serbia. Here, two objectives are considered: annual total costs and primary energy consumption. Results are obtained in the form of a Pareto chart using the epsilon-constraint method.
Participatory Goal Programming in Forest Management: An Application Integrating Several Ecosystem Services
Authors: Aldea Jorge , Martínez-Peña Fernando , Romero Carlos , Diaz-Balteiro Luis
Published: December 2014

In this study, we propose a procedure for integrating several ecosystem services into forest management by using the well-known multi-criteria approach called goal programming. It shows how interactions with various stakeholders are essential in order to choose the goal programming model applied, as well as some of its basic components (variant, targets, preferential weights, etc.). This methodology has been applied to a real forest management case where five criteria have been selected: timber production, wild edible mushroom production, carbon sequestration, net present value of the underlying investment, and a criterion associated with the sustainability of forest management defined by the idea of a normal forest. Given the characteristics of some of these criteria, such as mushroom production, the model has been developed in two scenarios: one deterministic and another with a Monte Carlo analysis. The results show a considerable degree of conflict between the proposed criteria. By applying several goal programming models, different Paretian efficient solutions were obtained. In addition, some results in Monte Carlo analysis for several criteria show notable variations. This fact is especially notable for the mushroom production criterion. Finally, the proposed approach seems attractive and can be directly applied to other forest management situations.
The Promise of Novel Molecular Markers in Bladder Cancer
Authors: Miremami Jahan , Kyprianou Natasha
Published: December 2014

Bladder cancer is the fourth most common malignancy in the US and is associated with the highest cost per patient. A high likelihood of recurrence, mandating stringent surveillance protocols, has made the development of urinary markers a focus of intense pursuit with the hope of decreasing the burden this disease places on patients and the healthcare system. To date, routine use of markers is not recommended for screening or diagnosis. Interests include the development of a single urinary marker that can be used in place of or as an adjunct to current screening and surveillance techniques, as well identifying a molecular signature for an individual’s disease that can help predict progression, prognosis, and potential therapeutic response. Markers have shown potential value in improving diagnostic accuracy when used as an adjunct to current modalities, risk-stratification of patients that could aid the clinician in determining aggressiveness of surveillance, and allowing for a decrease in invasive surveillance procedures. This review discusses the current understanding of emerging biomarkers, including miRNAs, gene signatures and detection of circulating tumor cells in the blood, and their potential clinical value in bladder cancer diagnosis, as prognostic indicators, and surveillance tools, as well as limitations to their incorporation into medical practice.
Multiple Beneficial Lipids Including Lecithin Detected in the Edible Invasive Mollusk Crepidula fornicata from the French Northeastern Atlantic Coast
Authors: Dagorn Flore , Buzin Florence , Couzinet-Mossion Aurélie , Decottignies Priscilla , Viau Michèle , Rabesaotra Vony , Barnathan Gilles , Wielgosz-Collin Gaëtane
Published: December 2014

The invasive mollusk Crepidula fornicata, occurring in large amounts in bays along the French Northeastern Atlantic coasts, may have huge environmental effects in highly productive ecosystems where shellfish are exploited. The present study aims at determining the potential economic value of this marine species in terms of exploitable substances with high added value. Lipid content and phospholipid (PL) composition of this mollusk collected on the Bourgneuf Bay were studied through four seasons. Winter specimens contained the highest lipid levels (5.3% dry weight), including 69% of PLs. Phosphatidylcholine (PC) was the major PL class all year, accounting for 63.9% to 88.9% of total PLs. Consequently, the winter specimens were then investigated for PL fatty acids (FAs), and free sterols. Dimethylacetals (DMAs) were present (10.7% of PL FA + DMA mixture) revealing the occurrence of plasmalogens. More than forty FAs were identified, including 20:5n-3 (9.4%) and 22:6n-3 (7.3%) acids. Fourteen free sterols were present, including cholesterol at 31.3% of the sterol mixture and about 40% of phytosterols. These data on lipids of C. fornicata demonstrate their positive attributes for human nutrition and health. The PL mixture, rich in PC and polyunsaturated FAs, offers an interesting alternative source of high value-added marine lecithin.
Anemia and Feeding Practices among Infants in Rural Shaanxi Province in China
Authors: Luo Renfu , Shi Yaojiang , Zhou Huan , Yue Ai , Zhang Linxiu , Sylvia Sean , Medina Alexis , Rozelle Scott
Published: December 2014

Anemia is one of the most prevalent public health problems among infants and iron deficiency anemia has been related to many adverse consequences. The overall goal of this study is to examine the prevalence of anemia among infants in poor rural China and to identify correlates of anemia. In April 2013, we randomly sampled 948 infants aged 6–11 months living in 351 villages across 174 townships in nationally-designated poverty counties in rural areas of southern Shaanxi Province, China. Infants were administered a finger prick blood test for hemoglobin (Hb). Anthropometric measurement and household survey of demographic characteristics and feeding practices were conducted in the survey. We found that 54.3% of 6–11 month old infants in poor rural China are anemic, and 24.3% of sample infants suffer from moderate or severe anemia. We find that children still breastfed over 6 months of age had lower Hb concentrations and higher anemia prevalence than their non-breastfeeding counterparts (p < 0.01), and that children who had ever been formula-fed had significantly higher Hb concentrations and lower anemia prevalence than their non-formula-fed counterparts (p < 0.01). The results suggest the importance of iron supplementation or home fortification while breastfeeding.
Resources and Biological Activities of Natural Polyphenols
Authors: Li An-Na , Li Sha , Zhang Yu-Jie , Xu Xiang-Rong , Chen Yu-Ming , Li Hua-Bin
Published: December 2014

The oxidative stress imposed by reactive oxygen species (ROS) plays an important role in many chronic and degenerative diseases. As an important category of phytochemicals, phenolic compounds universally exist in plants, and have been considered to have high antioxidant ability and free radical scavenging capacity, with the mechanism of inhibiting the enzymes responsible for ROS production and reducing highly oxidized ROS. Therefore, phenolic compounds have attracted increasing attention as potential agents for preventing and treating many oxidative stress-related diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, ageing, diabetes mellitus and neurodegenerative diseases. This review summarizes current knowledge of natural polyphenols, including resource, bioactivities, bioavailability and potential toxicity.
Intake of Seafood in the US Varies by Age, Income, and Education Level but Not by Race-Ethnicity
Authors: Jahns Lisa , Raatz Susan , Johnson LuAnn , Kranz Sibylle , Silverstein Jeffrey , Picklo Matthew
Published: December 2014

Current US federal dietary guidance recommends regular consumption of seafood (fish + shellfish) to promote health; however, little is known about how well Americans meet the guideline, particularly population subgroups that may be at risk for inadequate intake. The purposes of this study were to describe the prevalence of seafood consumption and, among consumers, the amounts of seafood eaten by sex, age group, income and education level, and race-ethnicity. Data from 15,407 adults aged 19+ participating in the 2005–2010 National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys were analyzed using methods to account for sporadic intake of seafood. Over 80% of Americans reported consuming any seafood over the past 30 days, 74% reported consuming fish, and 54% reported eating shellfish. The percentages varied by socio-demographic group. Younger age and lower income and education levels were associated with lower odds of being a seafood consumer (p < 0.0001). Among those who reported eating seafood, the average amount eaten of any seafood was 158.2 ± 5.6 g/week. Among seafood consumers, women and individuals of lower age and education levels consumed less seafood. Approximately 80%–90% of seafood consumers did not meet seafood recommendations when needs were estimated by energy requirements. A great deal of work remains to move Americans toward seafood consumption at current recommended levels.
Iontophoretic and Microneedle Mediated Transdermal Delivery of Glycopyrrolate
Authors: Gujjar Meera , Banga Ajay
Published: December 2014

Purpose: The objective of this study was to investigate the use of iontophoresis, soluble microneedles and their combination for the transdermal delivery of glycopyrrolate. Methods: In vitro permeation was tested using full thickness porcine ear skin mounted onto Franz diffusion cells. Iontophoresis (0.5 mA/cm2) was done for 4 h using Ag/AgCl electrodes. For microneedles, three line array (27 needles/line) of maltose microneedles were used to microporate the skin prior to mounting. Pore uniformity was determined by taking fluorescent images of distribution of calcein into pores and processing the images using an image analysis tool, which measured the fluorescent intensity in and around each pore to provide a pore permeability index (PPI). The donor chamber contained 500 µL of a 1 mg/mL solution of glycopyrrolate, and the receptor chamber contained 5 mL of 50 mM NaCl in deionized water. Samples were collected at predetermined time points over a period of 24 h and analyzed by HPLC. Skin irritation testing was performed with a 3D cell culture kit of human skin. MTT assay determined cell viability; viability less than 50% was considered irritant. Results: A control experiment which investigated passive permeation of glycopyrrolate delivered an average cumulative amount of 24.92 ± 1.77 µg/cm2 at 24 h, while microneedle pretreatment increased permeability to 46.54 ± 6.9 µg/cm2. Both iontophoresis (158.53 ± 17.50 µg/cm2) and a combination of iontophoresis and microneedles (182.43 ± 20.06 µg/ cm2) significantly increased delivery compared to passive and microneedles alone. Glycopyrrolate solution was found to be nonirritant with cell viability of 70.4% ± 5.03%. Conclusion: Iontophoresis and a combination of iontophoresis with microneedle pretreatment can be effectively used to enhance the transdermal delivery of glycopyrrolate. Glycopyrrolate was found to be non-irritant to skin.
Remote Sensing of Submerged Aquatic Vegetation in a Shallow Non-Turbid River Using an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle
Authors: Flynn Kyle , Chapra Steven
Published: December 2014

A passive method for remote sensing of the nuisance green algae Cladophora glomerata in rivers is presented using an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). Included are methods for UAV operation, lens distortion correction, image georeferencing, and spectral analysis to support algal cover mapping. Eighteen aerial photography missions were conducted over the summer of 2013 using an off-the-shelf UAV and three-band, wide-angle, red, green, and blue (RGB) digital camera sensor. Images were post-processed, mosaicked, and georeferenced so automated classification and mapping could be completed. An adaptive cosine estimator (ACE) and spectral angle mapper (SAM) algorithm were used to complete the algal identification. Digital analysis of optical imagery correctly identified filamentous algae and background coverage 90% and 92% of the time, and tau coefficients were 0.82 and 0.84 for ACE and SAM, respectively. Thereafter, algal cover was characterized for a one-kilometer channel segment during each of the 18 UAV flights. Percent cover ranged from <5% to >50%, and increased immediately after vernal freshet, peaked in midsummer, and declined in the fall. Results indicate that optical remote sensing with UAV holds promise for completing spatially precise, and multi-temporal measurements of algae or submerged aquatic vegetation in shallow rivers with low turbidity and good optical transmission.
The Impact of Time Difference between Satellite Overpass and Ground Observation on Cloud Cover Performance Statistics
Authors: Bojanowski Jędrzej , Stöckli Reto , Tetzlaff Anke , Kunz Heike
Published: December 2014

Cloud property data sets derived from passive sensors onboard the polar orbiting satellites (such as the NOAA’s Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer) have global coverage and now span a climatological time period. Synoptic surface observations (SYNOP) are often used to characterize the accuracy of satellite-based cloud cover. Infrequent overpasses of polar orbiting satellites combined with the 3- or 6-h SYNOP frequency lead to collocation time differences of up to 3 h. The associated collocation error degrades the cloud cover performance statistics such as the Hanssen-Kuiper’s discriminant (HK) by up to 45%. Limiting the time difference to 10 min, on the other hand, introduces a sampling error due to a lower number of corresponding satellite and SYNOP observations. This error depends on both the length of the validated time series and the SYNOP frequency. The trade-off between collocation and sampling error call for an optimum collocation time difference. It however depends on cloud cover characteristics and SYNOP frequency, and cannot be generalized. Instead, a method is presented to reconstruct the unbiased (true) HK from HK affected by the collocation differences, which significantly (t-test p < 0.01) improves the validation results.
An Improved Top-Hat Filter with Sloped Brim for Extracting Ground Points from Airborne Lidar Point Clouds
Authors: Li Yong , Yong Bin , Wu Huayi , An Ru , Xu Hanwei
Published: December 2014

Airborne light detection and ranging (lidar) has become a powerful support for acquiring geospatial data in numerous geospatial applications and analyses. However, the process of extracting ground points accurately and effectively from raw point clouds remains a big challenge. This study presents an improved top-hat filter with a sloped brim to enhance the robustness of ground point extraction for complex objects and terrains. The top-hat transformation is executed and the elevation change intensity of the transitions between the obtained top-hats and outer brims is inspected to suppress the omission error caused by protruding terrain features. Finally, the nonground objects of complex structures, such as multilayer buildings, are identified by the brim filter that is extended outward. The performance of the proposed filter in various environments is evaluated using diverse datasets with difficult cases. The comparison of the proposed filter with the commercial software Terrasolid TerraScan and other popular filtering algorithms demonstrates the applicability and effectiveness of this filter. Experimental results show that the proposed filter has great promise in terms of its application in various types of landscapes. Abrupt terrain features with dramatic elevation changes are well preserved, and diverse objects with complicated shapes are effectively removed. This filter has minimal omission and commission error oscillation for different test areas and thus demonstrates a stable and reliable performance in diverse landscapes. In addition, the proposed algorithm has high computational efficiency because of its simple and efficient data structure and implementation.
Do Current European Policies Prevent Soil Threats and Support Soil Functions?
Authors: Glæsner Nadia , Helming Katharina , De Vries Wim
Published: December 2014

There is currently no legislation at the European level that focuses exclusively on soil conservation. A cross-policy analysis was carried out to identify gaps and overlaps in existing EU legislation that is related to soil threats and functions. We found that three soil threats, namely compaction, salinization and soil sealing, were not addressed in any of the 19 legislative policies that were analyzed. Other soil threats, such as erosion, decline in organic matter, loss of biodiversity and contamination, were covered in existing legislation, but only a few directives provided targets for reducing the soil threats. Existing legislation addresses the reduction of the seven soil functions that were analyzed, but there are very few directives for improving soil functions. Because soil degradation is ongoing in Europe, it raises the question whether existing legislation is sufficient for maintaining soil resources. Addressing soil functions individually in various directives fails to account for the multifunctionality of soil. This paper suggests that a European Soil Framework Directive would increase the effectiveness of conserving soil functions in the EU.
Triggering of Programmed Erythrocyte Death by Alantolactone
Authors: Alzoubi Kousi , Calabrò Salvatrice , Egler Jasmin , Faggio Caterina , Lang Florian
Published: December 2014

The sesquiterpene alantolactone counteracts malignancy, an effect at least in part due to stimulation of suicidal death or apoptosis of tumor cells. Signaling of alantolactone induced apoptosis involves altered gene expression and mitochondrial depolarization. Erythrocytes lack mitochondria and nuclei but may enter suicidal death or eryptosis, which is characterized by cell shrinkage and cell membrane scrambling with phosphatidylserine exposure at the erythrocyte surface. Cellular mechanisms involved in triggering of eryptosis include increase of cytosolic Ca2+-activity ([Ca2+]i) and oxidative stress. The present study explored, whether alantolactone stimulates eryptosis. To this end, erythrocyte volume was estimated from forward scatter, phosphatidylserine-exposure at the erythrocyte surface from FITC-annexin-V-binding, [Ca2+]i from Fluo3-fluorescence, ceramide abundance from binding of fluorescent antibodies, and oxidative stress from 2',7'-dichlorodihydrofluorescein-diacetate (DCFDA) fluorescence. As a result, a 48 h exposure of human erythrocytes to alantolactone (≥20 μM) significantly decreased erythrocyte forward scatter and increased the percentage of annexin-V-binding cells. Alantolactone significantly increased Fluo3 fluorescence (60 μM), ceramide abundance (60 μM) and DCFDA fluorescence (≥40 μM). The effect of alantolactone (60 μM) on annexin-V-binding was not significantly modified by removal of extracellular Ca2+. In conclusion, alantolactone stimulates suicidal erythrocyte death or eryptosis, an effect paralleled by increase of [Ca2+]i, ceramide abundance and oxidative stress.
Phocine Distemper Virus: Current Knowledge and Future Directions
Authors: Duignan Pádraig , Van Bressem Marie-Françoise , Baker Jason , Barbieri Michelle , Colegrove Kathleen , De Guise Sylvain , De Swart Rik , Di Guardo Giovanni , Dobson Andrew , Duprex W. , Early Greg , Fauquier Deborah , Goldstein Tracey , Goodman Simon , Grenfell Bryan , Groch Kátia , Gulland Frances , Hall Ailsa , Jensen Brenda , Lamy Karina , Matassa Keith , Mazzariol Sandro , Morris Sinead , Nielsen Ole , Rotstein David , Rowles Teresa , Saliki Jeremy , Siebert Ursula , Waltzek Thomas , Wellehan James
Published: December 2014

Phocine distemper virus (PDV) was first recognized in 1988 following a massive epidemic in harbor and grey seals in north-western Europe. Since then, the epidemiology of infection in North Atlantic and Arctic pinnipeds has been investigated. In the western North Atlantic endemic infection in harp and grey seals predates the European epidemic, with relatively small, localized mortality events occurring primarily in harbor seals. By contrast, PDV seems not to have become established in European harbor seals following the 1988 epidemic and a second event of similar magnitude and extent occurred in 2002. PDV is a distinct species within the Morbillivirus genus with minor sequence variation between outbreaks over time. There is now mounting evidence of PDV-like viruses in the North Pacific/Western Arctic with serological and molecular evidence of infection in pinnipeds and sea otters. However, despite the absence of associated mortality in the region, there is concern that the virus may infect the large Pacific harbor seal and northern elephant seal populations or the endangered Hawaiian monk seals. Here, we review the current state of knowledge on PDV with particular focus on developments in diagnostics, pathogenesis, immune response, vaccine development, phylogenetics and modeling over the past 20 years.
Cetacean Morbillivirus: Current Knowledge and Future Directions
Authors: Van Bressem Marie-Françoise , Duignan Pádraig , Banyard Ashley , Barbieri Michelle , Colegrove Kathleen , De Guise Sylvain , Di Guardo Giovanni , Dobson Andrew , Domingo Mariano , Fauquier Deborah , Fernandez Antonio , Goldstein Tracey , Grenfell Bryan , Groch Kátia , Gulland Frances , Jensen Brenda , Jepson Paul , Hall Ailsa , Kuiken Thijs , Mazzariol Sandro , Morris Sinead , Nielsen Ole , Raga Juan , Rowles Teresa , Saliki Jeremy , Sierra Eva , Stephens Nahiid , Stone Brett , Tomo Ikuko , Wang Jianning , Waltzek Thomas , Wellehan James
Published: December 2014

We review the molecular and epidemiological characteristics of cetacean morbillivirus (CeMV) and the diagnosis and pathogenesis of associated disease, with six different strains detected in cetaceans worldwide. CeMV has caused epidemics with high mortality in odontocetes in Europe, the USA and Australia. It represents a distinct species within the Morbillivirus genus. Although most CeMV strains are phylogenetically closely related, recent data indicate that morbilliviruses recovered from Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops aduncus), from Western Australia, and a Guiana dolphin (Sotalia guianensis), from Brazil, are divergent. The signaling lymphocyte activation molecule (SLAM) cell receptor for CeMV has been characterized in cetaceans. It shares higher amino acid identity with the ruminant SLAM than with the receptors of carnivores or humans, reflecting the evolutionary history of these mammalian taxa. In Delphinidae, three amino acid substitutions may result in a higher affinity for the virus. Infection is diagnosed by histology, immunohistochemistry, virus isolation, RT-PCR, and serology. Classical CeMV-associated lesions include bronchointerstitial pneumonia, encephalitis, syncytia, and lymphoid depletion associated with immunosuppression. Cetaceans that survive the acute disease may develop fatal secondary infections and chronic encephalitis. Endemically infected, gregarious odontocetes probably serve as reservoirs and vectors. Transmission likely occurs through the inhalation of aerosolized virus but mother to fetus transmission was also reported.