bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determining Diagonal Branches in Mine Ventilation Networks
Authors: Krach Andrzej
Published: December 2014

The present paper discusses determining diagonal branches in a mine ventilation network by means of a method based on the relationship A⊗ PT(k, l) = M, which states that the nodal-branch incidence matrix A, modulo-2 multiplied by the transposed path matrix PT(k, l ) from node no. k to node no. l, yields the matrix M where all the elements in rows k and l - corresponding to the start and the end node - are 1, and where the elements in the remaining rows are 0, exclusively. If a row of the matrix M is to contain only „0” elements, the following condition has to be fulfilled: after multiplying the elements of a row of the matrix A by the elements of a column of the matrix PT(k, l), i.e. by the elements of a proper row of the matrix P(k, l ), the result row must display only „0” elements or an even number of „1” entries, as only such a number of „1” entries yields 0 when modulo-2 added - and since the rows of the matrix A correspond to the graph nodes, and the path nodes level is 2 (apart from the nodes k and l, whose level is 1), then the number of „1” elements in a row has to be 0 or 2. If, in turn, the rows k and l of the matrix M are to contain only „1” elements, the following condition has to be fulfilled: after multiplying the elements of the row k or l of the matrix A by the elements of a column of the matrix PT(k, l), the result row must display an uneven number of „1” entries, as only such a number of „1” entries yields 1 when modulo-2 added - and since the rows of the matrix A correspond to the graph nodes, and the level of the i and j path nodes is 1, then the number of „1” elements in a row has to be 1. The process of determining diagonal branches by means of this method was demonstrated using the example of a simple ventilation network with two upcast shafts and one downcast shaft.
Controlling the anodizing conditions in preparation of an nanoporous anodic aluminium oxide template
Authors: Nazemi Azadeh , Abolfazl Seyed , Sadjadi Seyed
Published: December 2014

Porous anodic aluminium oxide (AAO) template is commonly used in the synthesis of one-dimensional nanostructures, such as nanowires and nanorods, due to its simple fabrication process. Controlling the anodizing conditions is important because of their direct influence on the size of AAO template pores; it affects the size of nanostructures that are fabricated in AAO template. In present study, several alumina templates were fabricated by a two-step electrochemical anodization in different conditions, such as the time of first process, its voltage, and electrolyte concentration. The effect of these factors on pore diameters of AAO templates was investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
Chemical modification of TiO2 by H2PO4−/HPO42− anions using the sol-gel route with controlled precipitation and hydrolysis: enhancing thermal stability
Authors: Elghniji Kais , Saad Mohamed , Araissi Manel , Elaloui Elimame , Moussaoui Younes
Published: December 2014

Two titanium phosphate materials (TpP and ThP) have been successfully synthesized by sol-gel route with controlled precipitation and hydrolysis. The TpP material was obtained from the reaction between precipitated titania and phosphate buffer solution H2PO4− /HPO42− (pH = 7.3). The TpP material was prepared through hydrolysis of titanium in the presence of H2PO4−/HPO42. The probable state of the phosphate anions in titania framework and their effect on the anatase-to-rutile transformation were characterized by ICP-AES, DTA-TG, 31P NMR, FT-IR, and Raman analysis HRTEM/SEM. FT-IR and 31P NMR analyses of titanium phosphate TpP calcined at low temperature showed that the phosphate species existed not only as Ti-O-P in the bulk TiO2 but also as amorphous titanium phosphates, including bidentate Ti(HPO4)2 and monodentate Ti(H2PO4)4. Increased calcination temperature only gave an enrichment of bidentate structure on the titania surface. For the TpP material, H2PO4−/HPO42− anions were introduced into the initial solution, before precipitation, what promoted their lattice localization. At high temperatures, all the phosphorus inside the bulk of TiO2 migrated to the surface. The Raman analysis of both samples showed that the bidentate phosphates increased the temperature of the anatase-to-rutile phase transformation to more than 1000 °C with the formation of well crystalline TiP2O7 phase. This phenomenon was more evident for TpP sample.
Structure and hyperfine interactions in multiferroic Aurivillius Bim+1Ti3Fem−3O3m+3 compounds prepared by mechanical activation
Authors: Mazurek Mariusz , Oleszak Dariusz , Czekaj Dionizy
Published: December 2014

The aim of the study was to determine the structure and hyperfine interactions of Bim+1Ti3Fem−3O3m+3 multiferroic Aurivillius compounds prepared by mechanical activation process. X-ray diffraction and Mössbauer spectroscopy were applied as complementary methods. After the process of mechanical milling, desired Aurivillius phases were not formed, thus, thermal treatment needed to be applied. Heating the product of mechanical activation up to 993 K allowed to obtain Aurivillius phases with relatively large amount of non-reacted hematite. However, after the material was annealed at an elevated temperature of 1073 K, the content of not fully synthesized hematite was significantly reduced. Mössbauer spectroscopy confirmed that Aurivillius compounds remain in paramagnetic state at room temperature.
Investigating the Validity of the Environmental Framework Underlying the Original and Modified Dynamic Gait Index
Authors: Shumway-Cook Anne , Matsuda Patricia Noritake , Taylor Catherine
Published: December 2014

Background

The modified Dynamic Gait Index (mDGI), developed from a person-environment model of mobility disability, measures mobility function relative to specific environmental demands. The framework for interpreting mDGI scores relative to specific environmental dimensions has not been investigated.

Objective

The aim of this study was to examine the person-environmental model underlying the development and interpretation of mDGI scores.

Design

This was a cross-sectional, descriptive study.

Methods

There were 794 participants in the study, including 140 controls. Out of the total study population, 239 had sustained a stroke, 140 had vestibular dysfunction, 100 had sustained a traumatic brain injury, 91 had gait abnormality, and 84 had Parkinson disease. Exploratory factor analysis was used to investigate whether mDGI scores supported the 4 environmental dimensions.

Results

Factor analysis showed that, with some exceptions, tasks loaded on 4 underlying factors, partially supporting the underlying environmental model.

Limitations

Limitations of this study included the uneven sample sizes in the 6 groups.

Conclusions

Support for the environmental framework underlying the mDGI extends its usefulness as a clinical measure of functional mobility by providing a rationale for interpretation of scores that can be used to direct treatment and infer change in mobility function.
Life Science Start-up Activities at the Universities of Applied Sciences (UAS)
Authors: Huber Gerda
Published: December 2014

The universities of applied sciences (UAS) provide several values for the society and economy of a country. Besides education of high level professionals, transfer of knowledge from research to applications in industry or as new start-up companies is an important task. This is done
in different ways in the various disciplines. In Life Sciences, a key industry branch in Switzerland, innovation is a competitive success factor and research findings from UAS/Life Sciences contribute to the valorization of new technologies to products, services and to business performance.
In order to foster awareness for the innovation need of industry, UAS install processes and support for transfer of research and technology results to marketable applications. Furthermore they may facilitate contacts of researchers and students with entrepreneurs in order to animate start-up
founding as a true alternative to being employed. Access to coaching and entrepreneurial training completes the essential basis.
Seed Capital for Young Entrepreneurs since more than 25 Years
Authors: Vuilleumier Jean-Pierre
Published: December 2014

The WA de Vigier Foundation has supported start-up companies with a total of almost CHF 10 million since the late 1980s. And very successfully too: thanks to the seed money from Solothurn, the sponsored start-ups have provided hundreds of jobs.
Overcoming healthcare workers’ vaccine refusal – competition between egoism and altruism
Authors: Betsch C
Published: December 2014

Binary file ES_Abstracts_Final_ECDC.txt matches
ESwab challenges influenza virus propagation in cell cultures
Authors: Trebbien R , Andersen B , Rønn J , McCauley J , Kølsen Fischer T
Published: December 2014

Although the ESwab kit (Copan, Brescia, Italy) is intended for sampling bacteria for culture, this kit is increasingly also used for virus sampling. The effect of ESwab medium on influenza virus detection by real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) or virus propagation in Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cell culture was investigated. The ESwab medium was suitable for viral RNA detection but not for viral propagation due to cytotoxicity. Sampling influenza viruses with ESwab challenges influenza surveillance by strongly limiting the possibility of antigenic characterisation.
Comparing introduction to Europe of highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses A(H5N8) in 2014 and A(H5N1) in 2005
Authors: Adlhoch C , Gossner C , Koch G , Brown I , Bouwstra R , Verdonck F , Penttinen P , Harder T
Published: December 2014

Since the beginning of November 2014, nine outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAIV) A(H5N8) in poultry have been detected in four European countries. In this report, similarities and differences between the modes of introduction of HPAIV A(H5N1) and A(H5N8) into Europe are described. Experiences from outbreaks of A(H5N1) in Europe demonstrated that early detection to control HPAIV in poultry has proven pivotal to minimise the risk of zoonotic transmission and prevention of human cases.
Reidentification of Trucks on Basis of Axle-Spacing Measurements to Facilitate Analysis of Weigh-in-Motion Accuracy
Authors: Cetin Mecit , Nichols Andrew P. , Chou Chih-Sheng
Published: December 2014

This study examined weigh-in-motion (WIM) data from two states to evaluate the performance of an improved reidentification methodology that had been used to match vehicles between WIM stations. The improvement allowed the reidentification model to be trained without the use of ground truth data (i.e., true vehicle matches). The training data set was instead developed by following a three-step manual investigation of the characteristics of assumed vehicle matches between two WIM stations. The trained reidentification methodology was validated with data from Oregon, where the model was able to match identical vehicles with 70% to 90% accuracy. The reidentification was then applied to data from two WIM stations in West Virginia, where the downstream station had 6,178 vehicles with 10,427 possible matches at the upstream station. At a high confidence threshold of .98 (of 1.0), the algorithm identified 526 likely matches. Furthermore, this study examined the differential calibration of the weight sensors at each WIM location by comparing the axle weight measurements between the matched vehicles. The data from the two WIM stations in Oregon illustrated good correlation in weight measurements. However, the two WIM stations in West Virginia did not illustrate consistent relationships across all axle measurements.
Application of Seasonal Adjustment Factors to Subsequent Year Data
Authors: Desai Harshad , Cunagin Wiley , Cunagin Kevin , Hoyt Denise , Reel Richard L. , Bentz Steven
Published: December 2014

Seasonal adjustment factors are used by state highway agencies to convert short-term traffic counts into estimates of annual average daily traffic (AADT). These factors are typically calculated from continuous traffic counter data. The protocol for the process is described in FHWA's Traffic Monitoring Guide. This protocol specifies that temporary counts collected during a year should be adjusted by seasonal factors computed from continuous data collected during the same calendar year. The authors had suggested that, if the prior year seasonal factors could be used, AADT estimates would be available soon after temporary counts were collected. This study investigated whether the seasonal factors from sequential years could be applied without loss of statistical accuracy. No significant loss of accuracy was found in estimating AADT when prior-year seasonal adjustment factors were applied to current-year short-term counts of traffic volume. Likewise, no significant loss of accuracy was found when vehicle miles of travel were computed by using prior-year seasonal adjustment factors.
Analytical Methodology to Determine the Composition of Filler Used in Hot-Mix Asphalt
Authors: Makowska Michalina , Pellinen Terhi , Martinez Pablo Olmos , Laukkanen Olli-Ville
Published: December 2014

For more understanding about asphalt pavement deterioration in Finland, a premature failure of major arterial Ring Road II surface layers was investigated. Documentation of mix design (MD), construction, and material quality analysis, before and after construction, was reviewed and compared with samples collected from the road. The traditional quality assessment of the pavement by means of binder content and aggregate gradation analysis, air void content, and indirect tensile stiffness and strength, as well as binder tests (penetration, ring and ball softening point, and dynamic shear rheometer), did not provide information on the possible reasons for failure. A discrepancy was then found in the filler composition; the discovery was made by applying the standard analytical procedure of hydrochloric acid solubility, coupled with material composition simulations. This finding (and forensic technique) was positively verified by means of thermogravimetral analysis and X-ray diffraction. Scanning electron microscopy, supported by the BET-adsorption (Brunauer–Emmet–Teller) surface area measurements, suggested that, between the stage of MD and construction, the limestone filler was substituted with a mixture of limestone and fly ash. The filler blends were reconstructed on the basis of the MD report and established forensic laboratory findings. The comparative analysis of reconstructed fillers, by means of Fourier transform infrared spectrom-etry, verified that an almost ideal match was obtained with the latter. Alteration of construction material is suggested as the main reason for discrepancies between the MD and actual properties of the analyzed performance of the wearing course.
A prospective comparative study of microscope-integrated intraoperative fluorescein and indocyanine videoangiography for clip ligation of complex cerebral aneurysms
Authors: Lane Brandon , Bohnstedt Bradley N. , Cohen-Gadol Aaron A.
Published: December 2014

OBJECT

The authors prospectively analyzed 2 microscope-integrated videoangiography techniques using intravenous indocyanine green (ICG) and fluorescein for assessment of cerebral aneurysm obliteration and adjacent vessel patency.

METHODS

The authors prospectively enrolled 22 patients who underwent clip ligation of their aneurysm and used intraoperative videoangiography to assess obliteration of the aneurysmal sac and patency of the adjacent branching and perforating arteries. Patients underwent ICG videoangiography (ICG-VA) and the newly developed fluorescein videoangiography (FL-VA) using microscope-integrated fluorescence modules. Two independent observers compared the videoangiography recordings for value and quality to assess aneurysm exclusion and the patency of adjacent arteries.

RESULTS

All 22 patients first underwent FL-VA and then ICG-VA after clip application. In 7 cases (32%), FL-VA provided superior detail to assess perforating arteries (4 cases), distal branches (2 cases), and both (1 case); such detail was not readily available on ICG-VA. In 1 patient, ICG-VA offered better visualization of posterior communicating artery aneurysm occlusion than FL-VA because of staining artifact on the aneurysm dome from the adjacent tentorium. In 2 patients, FL-VA offered the needed advantage of real-time manipulation of the vessels and flow assessment by visualization through the operating microscope oculars. In 2 other cases, ICG-VA was more practical for repeat usage because of its more efficient clearance from the intravascular space. The ICG-VA image quality was often degraded at higher magnification in deep operative fields, partly due to chromatic aberration. Both ICG-VA and FL-VA afforded restricted views of vasculature based on the angle of surgical approach and obscuration by blood clot, aneurysm, or brain tissue.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with ICG-VA, FL-VA can potentially provide an improved visualization of vasculature at high magnification in deep surgical fields. ICG-VA is more effective for repeated use during clip repositioning due to ICG's minimal vascular wall extravasation. Therefore, in certain cases, FL-VA may offer some advantages and play a complementary role along with ICG-VA in intraoperative fluorescence evaluation during microsurgical management of aneurysms.
Use of intraoperative Doppler ultrasound with neuronavigation to guide arteriovenous malformation resection: a pediatric case series
Authors: Walkden James S. , Zador Zsolt , Herwadkar Amit , Kamaly-Asl Ian D.
Published: December 2014

OBJECT

Over the last 20 years, several intraoperative adjuncts, including ultrasonography, neuronavigation, and angiography, have been said to aid the intraoperative localization and resection of cerebral arteriovenous malformations (AVMs). The authors assessed the value of intraoperative Doppler ultrasonography in conjunction with neuronavigation during surgery for cerebral AVMs in the pediatric population.

METHODS

The authors reviewed all cranial AVM resections performed by a single surgeon at their institution in the period from 2007 to 2013 and here describe their experience and results in a series of 20 consecutive AVM resections in 19 pediatric patients. Intraoperative Doppler ultrasonography had been used in conjunction with preoperative CT or neuronavigational MRI. Preoperative and postoperative clinical findings, patient age, and Spetzler-Martin AVM grade were identified in all patients.

RESULTS

All patients, whose ages ranged from 2 to 16 years, underwent craniotomy and excision of an AVM, which was supratentorial in 18 cases and infratentorial in 2. Patients in 11 cases underwent preoperative embolization, and all other patients underwent cerebral angiography prior to surgery, except for 2 patients who were urgently surgically treated because of low Glasgow Coma Scale scores and associated hematoma. Spetzler-Martin Grades I (3 cases), II (6), III (7), and IV (4) AVMs were represented in this series. Intraoperative Doppler ultrasound provided high-quality images in all cases and demonstrated the location, size, and flow characteristics of the AVM and any associated hematoma. Delayed postoperative cerebral angiography demonstrated successful AVM resection in all cases. An assessment of clinical outcomes revealed no new long-term neurological deficits at 3 months postoperatively.

CONCLUSIONS

Intraoperative Doppler ultrasonography is a reliable and useful tool for intraoperative localization and guidance for AVM resection in the pediatric population. When used in conjunction with neuronavigation equipment and modern microscopes, this technique has shown a very high complete resection rate with extremely low associated morbidity.
Multiple-level lumbar spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis
Authors: Liu Xinyu , Wang Lianlei , Yuan Suomao , Tian Yonghao , Zheng Yanping , Li Jianmin
Published: December 2014

OBJECT

Lumbar spondylolysis and isthmic spondylolisthesis occur most commonly at only one spinal level. The authors report on 13 cases of lumbar spondylolysis with spondylolisthesis at multiple levels.

METHODS

During July 2007–March 2012, multiple-level spondylolysis associated with spondylolisthesis was diagnosed in 13 patients (10 male, 3 female) at Qilu Hospital of Shandong University. The mean patient age was 43.5 ± 14.6 years. The duration of low-back pain was 11.7 ± 5.1 months. Spondylolysis occurred at L-2 in 2 patients, L-3 in 4 patients, L-4 in all patients, and L-5 in 5 patients. Spondylolysis occurred at 3 spinal levels in 3 patients and at 2 levels in 10 patients. All patients had spondylolisthesis at 1 or 2 levels. Japanese Orthopaedic Association and visual analog scale scores were used to evaluate preoperative and postoperative neurological function and low-back pain. All patients underwent pedicle screw fixation and interbody fusion or direct pars interarticularis repair.

RESULTS

Both low-back pain scores improved significantly after surgery (p < 0.05). Postoperative radiographs or CT scans showed satisfactory interbody fusion or pars interarticularis healing. No breakage, dislodging, or loosening of the pedicle screw hardware was observed for any patient.

CONCLUSIONS

Multiple-level lumbar spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis occurred more often in men. Most multiplelevel lumbar spondylolysis occurred at 2 spinal levels and was associated with sports, trauma, or heavy labor. Multiplelevel lumbar spondylolysis occurred mostly at L3–5; associated spondylolisthesis usually occurred at L-4 and L-5, mostly at L-4. The treatment principle was the same as that for single-level spondylolisthesis.
Clinical implications of medulloblastoma subgroups: incidence of CSF diversion surgery
Authors: Schneider Christian , Ramaswamy Vijay , Kulkarni Abhaya V. , Rutka James T. , Remke Marc , Tabori Uri , Hawkins Cynthia , Bouffet Eric , Taylor Michael D.
Published: December 2014

OBJECT

While medulloblastoma was initially thought to comprise a single homogeneous entity, it is now accepted that it in fact comprises 4 discrete subgroups, each with its own distinct demographics, clinical presentation, transcriptomics, genetics, and outcome. Hydrocephalus is a common complication of medulloblastoma and not infrequently requires CSF diversion. The authors report the incidence of CSF diversion surgery in each of the subgroups of medulloblastoma (Wnt, Shh, Group 3, and Group 4).

METHODS

The medical and imaging records for patients who underwent surgery for medulloblastoma at The Hospital for Sick Children were retrospectively reviewed. The primary outcome was the requirement for CSF diversion surgery either before or within 60 days of tumor resection. The modified Canadian Preoperative Prediction Rule for Hydrocephalus (mCPPRH) was compared among subgroups.

RESULTS

Of 143 medulloblastoma patients, treated from 1991 to 2013, sufficient data were available for 130 patients (15 with Wnt, 30 with Shh, 30 with Group 3, and 55 with Group 4 medulloblastomas). Of these, 28 patients (22%) ultimately underwent CSF diversion surgery: 0% with Wnt, 29% with Shh, 29% with Group 3, and 43% with Group 4 tumors. Patients in the Wnt subgroup had a lower incidence of CSF diversion than all other patients combined (p = 0.04). Wnt patients had a lower mCPPRH score (lower risk of CSF diversion, p = 0.045), were older, had smaller ventricles at diagnosis, and had no leptomeningeal metastases.

CONCLUSIONS

The overall rate of CSF diversion surgery for Shh, Group 3, and Group 4 medulloblastomas is around 30%, but no patients in the present series with a Wnt medulloblastoma required shunting. The low incidence of hydrocephalus in patients with Wnt medulloblastoma likely reflects both host factors (age) and disease factors (lack of metastases). The absence of hydrocephalus in patients with Wnt medulloblastomas likely contributes to their excellent rate of survival and may also contribute to a higher quality of life than for patients in other subgroups.
Fusion of Multiple Pyroelectric Characteristics for Human Body Identification
Authors: Zhou Wanchun , Xiong Ji , Li Fangmin , Jiang Na , Zhao Ning
Published: December 2014

Due to instability and poor identification ability of single pyroelectric infrared (PIR) detector for human target identification, this paper proposes a new approach to fuse the information collected from multiple PIR sensors for human identification. Firstly, Fast Fourier Transform (FFT), Short Time Fourier Transform (STFT), Wavelet Transform (WT) and Wavelet Packet Transform (WPT) are adopted to extract features of the human body, which can be achieved by single PIR sensor. Then, we apply Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Support Vector Machine (SVM) to reduce the characteristic dimensions and to classify the human targets, respectively. Finally, Fuzzy Comprehensive Evaluation (FCE) is utilized to fuse recognition results from multiple PIR sensors to finalize human identification. The pyroelectric characteristics under scenarios with different people and/or different paths are analyzed by various experiments, and the recognition results with/without fusion procedure are also shown and compared. The experimental results demonstrate our scheme has improved efficiency for human identification.
Integrating CBM into Land-Use Based Mitigation Actions Implemented by Local Communities
Authors: Torres Arturo , Acuña Lucio , Vergara José
Published: December 2014

In 2009, the conference of the parties of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change recognized the need to engage communities and indigenous groups into the systems to monitor, report and verify the results of REDD+. Since then, many countries have started to prepare for REDD+ implementation. This article reviews early experiences under development in 11 projects financed by the Alliance Mexico REDD+ located in four Early Action Areas to identify the potential integration of Community Based Monitoring (CBM). The evaluation of the projects is made based on a multi-criteria analysis which considers the potential to produce information relevant for national monitoring systems and the prospects for sustained monitoring practices over time. Results indicate there are challenges to harmonizing monitoring practices and protocols between projects since activities proposed differ greatly from one project to another. Technical specifications for integrating local data into national systems are thus required. The results of these projects can help to identify best practices for planning and implementing REDD+. Findings indicate that in general, resources and capacities to gather, analyse and report information as part of CBM systems are in place in the projects, but usually these reside with non-local experts (i.e., NGOs and Academia); however, there are notable examples where these capacities reside in the communities. If national forest monitoring systems are geared to include information gathered through locally-driven processes REDD+ should promote activities that produce local benefits, but countries would need to build local capacities for managing and monitoring natural resources and would also need to create agreements for sharing and using local data. Otherwise, national systems may need to rely on monitoring practices external to communities, which depend on the continued availability of external financial resources.
Nano-Scale Spatial Assessment of Calcium Distribution in Coccolithophores Using Synchrotron-Based Nano-CT and STXM-NEXAFS
Authors: Sun Shiyong , Yao Yanchen , Zou Xiang , Fan Shenglan , Zhou Qing , Dai Qunwei , Dong Faqin , Liu Mingxue , Nie Xiaoqin , Tan Daoyong , Li Shuai
Published: December 2014

Calcified coccolithophores generate calcium carbonate scales around their cell surface. In light of predicted climate change and the global carbon cycle, the biomineralization ability of coccoliths has received growing interest. However, the underlying biomineralization mechanism is not yet well understood; the lack of non-invasive characterizing tools to obtain molecular level information involving biogenic processes and biomineral components remain significant challenges. In the present study, synchrotron-based Nano-computed Tomography (Nano-CT) and Scanning Transmission X-ray Microscopy-Near-edge X-ray Absorption Fine Structure Spectromicroscopy (STXM-NEXAFS) techniques were employed to identify Ca spatial distribution and investigate the compositional chemistry and distinctive features of the association between biomacromolecules and mineral components of calcite present in coccoliths. The Nano-CT results show that the coccolith scale vesicle is similar as a continuous single channel. The mature coccoliths were intracellularly distributed and immediately ejected and located at the exterior surface to form a coccoshpere. The NEXAFS spectromicroscopy results of the Ca L edge clearly demonstrate the existence of two levels of gradients spatially, indicating two distinctive forms of Ca in coccoliths: a crystalline-poor layer surrounded by a relatively crystalline-rich layer. The results show that Sr is absorbed by the coccoliths and that Sr/Ca substitution is rather homogeneous within the coccoliths. Our findings indicate that synchrotron-based STXM-NEXAFS and Nano-CT are excellent tools for the study of biominerals and provide information to clarify biomineralization mechanism.
Emerging Regulation and Function of Betatrophin
Authors: Tseng Yi-Hsin , Yeh Yung-Hsin , Chen Wei-Jan , Lin Kwang-Huei
Published: December 2014

Betatrophin, also known as TD26/RIFL/lipasin/ANGPTL8/C19orf80, is a novel protein predominantly expressed in human liver. To date, several betatrophin orthologs have been identified in mammals. Increasing evidence has revealed an association between betatrophin expression and serum lipid profiles, particularly in patients with obesity or diabetes. Stimulators of betatrophin, such as insulin, thyroid hormone, irisin and caloric intake, are usually relevant to energy expenditure or thermogenesis. In murine models, serum triglyceride levels as well as pancreatic cell proliferation are potently enhanced by betatrophin. Intriguingly, conflicting phenomena have also been reported that betatrophin suppresses hepatic triglyceride levels, suggesting that betatrophin function is mediated by complex regulatory processes. However, its precise physiological role remains unclear at present. In this review, we have summarized the current findings on betatrophin and their implications.
Lunasin Sensitivity in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Cells Is Linked to Suppression of Integrin Signaling and Changes in Histone Acetylation
Authors: Inaba Junichi , McConnell Elizabeth , Davis Keith
Published: December 2014

Lunasin is a plant derived bioactive peptide with both cancer chemopreventive and therapeutic activity. We recently showed lunasin inhibits non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cell proliferation in a cell-line-specific manner. We now compared the effects of lunasin treatment of lunasin-sensitive (H661) and lunasin-insensitive (H1299) NSCLC cells with respect to lunasin uptake, histone acetylation and integrin signaling. Both cell lines exhibited changes in histone acetylation, with H661 cells showing a unique increase in H4K16 acetylation. Proximity ligation assays demonstrated lunasin interacted with integrins containing αv, α5, β1 and β3 subunits to a larger extent in the H661 compared to H1299 cells. Moreover, lunasin specifically disrupted the interaction of β1 and β3 subunits with the downstream signaling components phosphorylated Focal Adhesion Kinase (pFAK), Kindlin and Intergrin Linked Kinase in H661 cells. Immunoblot analyses demonstrated lunasin treatment of H661 resulted in reduced levels of pFAK, phosphorylated Akt and phosphorylated ERK1/2 whereas no changes were observed in H1299 cells. Silencing of αv expression in H661 cells confirmed signaling through integrins containing αv is essential for proliferation. Moreover, lunasin was unable to further inhibit proliferation in αv-silenced H661 cells. This indicates antagonism of integrin signaling via αv-containing integrins is an important component of lunasin’s mechanism of action.
Extrusion Roller Imprinting with a Variotherm Belt Mold
Authors: Frenkel Raymond , Kim Byung , Yao Donggang
Published: December 2014

Although many precision fabrication techniques have demonstrated the ability to produce microstructures and micro-devices with sub 100 nm accuracy, we are yet to see a scalable manufacturing process for large-area production. One promising solution to scalable micro- and nanofabrication is thermal roller imprinting. However, existing investigations on thermal roller imprinting revealed poor pattern transfer fidelity, especially for high aspect ratio features. The standard roller imprinting process suffers from the lack of an effective holding and cooling stage so that the adverse effects from the viscoelastic nature of polymers are not managed. To rectify this problem and further improve the production rate, a new extrusion roller imprinting process with a variotherm belt mold is designed, and its prototype was established at a laboratory scale. The process testing results demonstrate that a 30 μm sawtooth pattern can be faithfully transferred to extruded polyethylene film at take-up speeds higher than 10 m/min. The results are promising in that microfeatures or even nanofeatures may be successfully replicated by a robust and scalable industrial process suitable for large-area, continuous production.
Contactless Mechanical Components: Gears, Torque Limiters and Bearings
Authors: Perez-Diaz Jose , Diez-Jimenez Efren , Valiente-Blanco Ignacio , Cristache Cristian , Alvarez-Valenzuela Marco-Antonio , Sanchez-Garcia-Casarrubios Juan
Published: December 2014

Contactless mechanical components are mechanical sets for conversion of torque/speed, whose gears and moving parts do not touch each other, but rather they provide movement with magnets and magnetic materials that exert force from a certain distance. Magneto-mechanical transmission devices have several advantages over conventional mechanisms: no friction between rotatory elements (no power losses or heat generation by friction so increase of efficiency), no lubrication is needed (oil-free mechanisms and no lubrication auxiliary systems), reduced maintenance (no lubricant so no need of oil replacements), wider operational temperature ranges (no lubricant evaporation or freezing), overload protection (if overload occurs magnet simply slides but no teeth brake), through-wall connection (decoupling of thermal and electrical paths and environmental isolation), larger operative speeds (more efficient operative conditions), ultralow noise and vibrations (no contact no noise generation). All these advantages permit us to foresee in the long term several common industrial applications in which including contactless technology would mean a significant breakthrough for their performance. In this work, we present three configurations of contactless mechanical passive components: magnetic gears, magnetic torque limiters and superconducting magnetic bearings. We summarize the main characteristic and range of applications for each type; we show experimental results of the most recent developments showing their performance.
Synthetic Approaches to the Lamellarins—A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Imbri Dennis , Tauber Johannes , Opatz Till
Published: December 2014

The present review discusses the known synthetic routes to the lamellarin alkaloids published until 2014. It begins with syntheses of the structurally simpler type-II lamellarins and then focuses on the larger class of the 5,6-saturated and -unsaturated type-I lamellarins. The syntheses are grouped by the strategy employed for the assembly of the central pyrrole ring.
Impact of DHA on Metabolic Diseases from Womb to Tomb
Authors: Arnoldussen Ilse , Kiliaan Amanda
Published: December 2014

Long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFAs) are important mediators in improving and maintaining human health over the total lifespan. One topic we especially focus on in this review is omega-3 LC-PUFA docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Adequate DHA levels are essential during neurodevelopment and, in addition, beneficial in cognitive processes throughout life. We review the impact of DHA on societal relevant metabolic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, obesity, and diabetes mellitus type 2 (T2DM). All of these are risk factors for cognitive decline and dementia in later life. DHA supplementation is associated with a reduced incidence of both stroke and atherosclerosis, lower bodyweight and decreased T2DM prevalence. These findings are discussed in the light of different stages in the human life cycle: childhood, adolescence, adulthood and in later life. From this review, it can be concluded that DHA supplementation is able to inhibit pathologies like obesity and cardiovascular disease. DHA could be a dietary protector against these metabolic diseases during a person’s entire lifespan. However, supplementation of DHA in combination with other dietary factors is also effective. The efficacy of DHA depends on its dose as well as on the duration of supplementation, sex, and age.
Photocatalytic Oxidation of Diethyl Sulfide Vapor over TiO2-Based Composite Photocatalysts
Authors: Selishchev Dmitry , Kozlov Denis
Published: December 2014

Composite TiO2/activated carbon (TiO2/AC) and TiO2/SiO2 photocatalysts with TiO2 contents in the 10 to 80 wt. % range were synthesized by the TiOSO4 thermal hydrolysis method and characterized by AES, BET, X-ray diffraction and FT-IR ATR methods. All TiO2 samples were in the anatase form, with a primary crystallite size of about 11 nm. The photocatalytic activities of the TiO2/AC and TiO2/SiO2 samples were tested in the gas-phase photocatalytic oxidation (PCO) reaction of diethyl sulfide (DES) vapor in a static reactor by the FT-IR in situ method. Acetaldehyde, formic acid, ethylene and SO2 were registered as the intermediate products which finally were completely oxidized to the final oxidation products – H2O, CO2, CO and SO42− ions. The influence of the support on the kinetics of DES PCO and on the TiO2/AC and TiO2/SiO2 samples’ stability during three long-term DES PCO cycles was investigated. The highest PCO rate was observed for TiO2/SiO2 photocatalysts. To evaluate the activity of photocatalysts the turnover frequency values (TOF) were calculated for three photocatalysts (TiO2, TiO2/AC and TiO2/SiO2) for the same amount of mineralized DES. It was demonstrated that the TOF value for composite TiO2/SiO2 photocatalysts was 3.5 times higher than for pure TiO2.
Multi-Sensor Fusion of Landsat 8 Thermal Infrared (TIR) and Panchromatic (PAN) Images
Authors: Jung Hyung-Sup , Park Sung-Whan
Published: December 2014

Data fusion is defined as the combination of data from multiple sensors such that the resulting information is better than would be possible when the sensors are used individually. The multi-sensor fusion of panchromatic (PAN) and thermal infrared (TIR) images is a good example of this data fusion. While a PAN image has higher spatial resolution, a TIR one has lower spatial resolution. In this study, we have proposed an efficient method to fuse Landsat 8 PAN and TIR images using an optimal scaling factor in order to control the trade-off between the spatial details and the thermal information. We have compared the fused images created from different scaling factors and then tested the performance of the proposed method at urban and rural test areas. The test results show that the proposed method merges the spatial resolution of PAN image and the temperature information of TIR image efficiently. The proposed method may be applied to detect lava flows of volcanic activity, radioactive exposure of nuclear power plants, and surface temperature change with respect to land-use change.
High Frequency Amplitude Detector for GMI Magnetic Sensors
Authors: Asfour Aktham , Zidi Manel , Yonnet Jean-Paul
Published: December 2014

A new concept of a high-frequency amplitude detector and demodulator for Giant-Magneto-Impedance (GMI) sensors is presented. This concept combines a half wave rectifier, with outstanding capabilities and high speed, and a feedback approach that ensures the amplitude detection with easily adjustable gain. The developed detector is capable of measuring high-frequency and very low amplitude signals without the use of diode-based active rectifiers or analog multipliers. The performances of this detector are addressed throughout the paper. The full circuitry of the design is given, together with a comprehensive theoretical study of the concept and experimental validation. The detector has been used for the amplitude measurement of both single frequency and pulsed signals and for the demodulation of amplitude-modulated signals. It has also been successfully integrated in a GMI sensor prototype. Magnetic field and electrical current measurements in open- and closed-loop of this sensor have also been conducted.
Enhancing the Sustainability of a Location-Aware Service through Optimization
Authors: Tsai Horng-Ren , Chen Toly
Published: December 2014

A location-aware service (LAS) is an imperative topic in ambient intelligence; an LAS recommends suitable utilities to a user based on the user’s location and context. However, current LASs have several problems, and most of these services do not last. This study proposes an optimization-based approach for enhancing the sustainability of an LAS. In this paper, problems related to optimizing a LAS system are presented. The distinct nature of a LAS optimization problem in comparison with traditional optimization problems is subsequently described. Existing methods applicable to solving a LAS optimization problem are also reviewed. The advantages and disadvantages of each method are then discussed as a motive for combining multiple optimization methods in this study, as illustrated by an example. Finally, opportunities and challenges faced by researchers in this field are presented.
Can Rebound Effects Explain Why Sustainable Mobility Has Not Been Achieved?
Authors: Walnum Hans , Aall Carlo , Løkke Søren
Published: December 2014

Since the report “Our Common Future” launched sustainable development as a primary goal for society in 1987, both scientific and political discussions about the term’s definition and how to achieve sustainable development have ensued. The manifold negative environmental impacts of transportation are an important contributor to the so-far non-sustainable development in financially rich areas of the world. Thus, achieving sustainable mobility is crucial to achieving the wider challenge of sustainable development. In this article, we limit our sustainability focus to that of energy use and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. We discuss whether rebound effects can reveal why sustainable mobility has not been reached. Rebound effects refer to behavioral or other systemic responses after the implementation of new technologies or other measures to reduce energy consumption. Three main strategies exist for achieving sustainable mobility: efficiency, substitution, and volume reduction. (1) The efficiency strategy is based on the idea that environmental problems caused by transport can be improved by developing new and more efficient technologies to replace old, inefficient, and polluting materials and methods; (2) The second strategy—substitution—argues for a change to less polluting means of transport; (3) The volume reduction strategy argue that efficiency and substitution are not sufficient, we must fundamentally change behavior and consumption patterns; people must travel less, and freight volumes must decrease. We found rebound effects associated with all three of the main strategies that will lead to offsetting expected savings in energy use and GHG emissions in the transport sector.
Systematic Study of Binding of μ-Conotoxins to the Sodium Channel NaV1.4
Authors: Mahdavi Somayeh , Kuyucak Serdar
Published: December 2014

Voltage-gated sodium channels (NaV) are fundamental components of the nervous system. Their dysfunction is implicated in a number of neurological disorders, such as chronic pain, making them potential targets for the treatment of such disorders. The prominence of the NaV channels in the nervous system has been exploited by venomous animals for preying purposes, which have developed toxins that can block the NaV channels, thereby disabling their function. Because of their potency, such toxins could provide drug leads for the treatment of neurological disorders associated with NaV channels. However, most toxins lack selectivity for a given target NaV channel, and improving their selectivity profile among the NaV1 isoforms is essential for their development as drug leads. Computational methods will be very useful in the solution of such design problems, provided accurate models of the protein-ligand complex can be constructed. Using docking and molecular dynamics simulations, we have recently constructed a model for the NaV1.4-μ-conotoxin-GIIIA complex and validated it with the ample mutational data available for this complex. Here, we use the validated NaV1.4 model in a systematic study of binding other μ-conotoxins (PIIIA, KIIIA and BuIIIB) to NaV1.4. The binding mode obtained for each complex is shown to be consistent with the available mutation data and binding constants. We compare the binding modes of PIIIA, KIIIA and BuIIIB to that of GIIIA and point out the similarities and differences among them. The detailed information about NaV1.4-μ-conotoxin interactions provided here will be useful in the design of new NaV channel blocking peptides.
Genomic Sequencing and Biological Characteristics of a Novel Escherichia Coli Bacteriophage 9g, a Putative Representative of a New Siphoviridae Genus
Authors: Kulikov Eugene , Golomidova Alla , Letarova Maria , Kostryukova Elena , Zelenin Alexandr , Prokhorov Nikolai , Letarov Andrey
Published: December 2014

Bacteriophage 9g was isolated from horse feces using Escherichia coli C600 as a host strain. Phage 9g has a slightly elongated capsid 62 × 76 nm in diameter and a non-contractile tail about 185 nm long. The complete genome sequence of this bacteriophage consists of 56,703 bp encoding 70 predicted open reading frames. The closest relative of phage 9g is phage PhiJL001 infecting marine alpha-proteobacterium associated with Ircinia strobilina sponge, sharing with phage 9g 51% of amino acid identity in the main capsid protein sequence. The DNA of 9g is resistant to most restriction endonucleases tested, indicating the presence of hypermodified bases. The gene cluster encoding a biosynthesis pathway similar to biosynthesis of the unusual nucleoside queuosine was detected in the phage 9g genome. The genomic map organization is somewhat similar to the typical temperate phage gene layout but no integrase gene was detected. Phage 9g efficiently forms stable associations with its host that continues to produce the phage over multiple passages, but the phage can be easily eliminated via viricide treatment indicating that no true lysogens are formed. Since the sequence, genomic organization and biological properties of bacteriophage 9g are clearly distinct from other known Enterobacteriaceae phages, we propose to consider it as the representative of a novel genus of the Siphoviridae family.