bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MONITORING SPATIAL PATTERNS OF VEGETATION PHENOLOGY IN AN AUSTRALIAN TROPICAL TRANSECT USING MODIS EVI
Authors: Ma X. , Huete A. , Yu Q. , Davies K. , Coupe N. R.
Published: August 2012

Abstract. Phenology is receiving increasing interest in the area of climate change and vegetation adaptation to climate. The phenology of a landscape can be used as a key parameter in land surface models and dynamic global vegetation models to more accurately simulate carbon, water and energy exchanges between land cover and atmosphere. However, the characterisation of phenology is lacking in tropical savannas which cover more than 30% of global land area, and are highly vulnerable to climate change. The objective of this study is to investigate the spatial pattern of vegetation phenology along the Northern Australia Tropical Transect (NATT) where the major biomes are wet and dry tropical savannas. For this analysis we used more than 11 years Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI) product from 2000 to 2011. Eight phenological metrics were derived: Start of Season (SOS), End of Season (EOS), Length of Season (LOS), Maximum EVI (MaxG), Minimum EVI (MinG), annual amplitude (AMP), large integral (LIG), and small integral (SIG) were generated for each year and each pixel. Our results showed there are significant spatial patterns and considerable interannual variations of vegetation phenology along the NATT study area. Generally speaking, vegetation growing season started and ended earlier in the north, and started and ended later in the south, resulting in a southward decrease of growing season length (LOS). Vegetation productivity, which was represented by annual integral EVI (LIG), showed a significant descending trend from the northern part of NATT to the southern part. Segmented regression analysis showed that there exists a distinguishable breakpoint along the latitudinal gradient, at least in terms of annual minimum EVI (EVI), which is located between 18.84°S to 20.04°S.
PLANT SPECIES MONITORING IN THE CANARY ISLANDS USING WORLDVIEW-2 IMAGERY
Authors: Nunez-Casillas L. , Micand F. , Somers B. , Brito P. , Arbelo M.
Published: August 2012

Abstract. The physical and climatic features of a relatively small volcanic island such as Tenerife (Canary Islands, Spain) cause increased difficulties to vegetation monitoring by means of moderate resolution satellite data. The use of multispectral very high resolution WorldView-2 (WV2) imagery provides promising perspectives for vegetation mapping in such a heterogeneous landscape. In order to assess its potential to estimate the cover fraction of dominant plant species in endemic Macaronesian laurel forests and heathlands, a hierarchical Multiple Endmember Spectral Mixture Analysis (MESMA) was performed within a study area where different patches from mature forest, to degraded forest and pine plantations can be found. First, a selection of pure pixels in the WV2 image for fern, Morella faya Ait., Laurus novocanariensis and the introduced species Pinus radiata were used to build a spectral library for each species. Last species Erica arborea L. was characterized in field by means of an ASD FieldSpec spectroradiometer, due to the rarity of pure pixels in this case, and to the simultaneous presence of two spectral subclasses depending on its flowering onset; WV2-adjusted spectral signatures from field reflectances were estimated by empirical calibration. Preliminary results showed a good separation of degraded from mature native forests and from plantations, although pine cover fraction is, in general, underestimated. The second MESMA cycle was useful to tell between most similar species, like in case of M. faya and L. novocanariensis.
BIOMASS ESTIMATION USING VERTICAL FOREST STRUCTURE FROM SAR TOMOGRAGHY: A CASE STUDY IN CANADIAN BOREAL FOREST.
Authors: Renaudin E. , Mercer B. , Zhang Q. , Collins M. J.
Published: August 2012

Abstract. A major goal of current research is to address temporal climatic variations that are related to CO2 emissions. A significant portion of these emissions are due to forest destruction and the resulting conversion of biomass to CO2. As 30% of the earth's landmass is forest-covered, it is important to understand the biomass content with better estimates than are currently available. This research has addressed the determination of forest biomass in a Northern Alberta forest site, using novel techniques known as POLInSAR (Polarimetry Interferometry SAR) to study the 3D vegetated structure of forests through using an L-Band single-pass airborne system. Results of this study indicate strong relation between vertical structure and above ground biomass. In this paper we show the preliminary results of the work including the resulting tomographic expression of the test forest area.
IMPROVEMENT OF THERMAL ESTIMATION AT LAND COVER BOUNDARY BY USING QUANTILE
Authors: Hosomura T.
Published: August 2012

Abstract. Land cover classification was conducted for Landsat ETM image of Urmqi. Maximum likelihood classification algorism was used for this purpose. Classification classes were urban, water body, forest, soil, bare ground1, bare ground2, vegetation1, vegetation2 and vegetation3. Mask image of each land cover was created from the obtained classification image. Thermal band image of each land cover was extracted by using the mask image. In general, mean value and standard deviation are calculated for the thermal band image. However, these values were affected by the difference of ground resolution. In this study, we introduced quantiles to avoid this problem. Quantiles are points taken at regular intervals from the cumulative distribution function. Quantiles showed the effectiveness of decreasing the error caused from the difference of ground resolution.
Multi-Modal, Multi-Touch Interaction with Maps in Disaster Management Applications
Authors: Paelke V. , Nebe K. , Geiger C. , Klompmaker F. , Fischer H.
Published: August 2012

Abstract. Multi-touch interaction has become popular in recent years and impressive advances in technology have been demonstrated, with the presentation of digital maps as a common presentation scenario. However, most existing systems are really technology demonstrators and have not been designed with real applications in mind. A critical factor in the management of disaster situations is the access to current and reliable data. New sensors and data acquisition platforms (e.g. satellites, UAVs, mobile sensor networks) have improved the supply of spatial data tremendously. However, in many cases this data is not well integrated into current crisis management systems and the capabilities to analyze and use it lag behind sensor capabilities. Therefore, it is essential to develop techniques that allow the effective organization, use and management of heterogeneous data from a wide variety of data sources. Standard user interfaces are not well suited to provide this information to crisis managers. Especially in dynamic situations conventional cartographic displays and mouse based interaction techniques fail to address the need to review a situation rapidly and act on it as a team. The development of novel interaction techniques like multi-touch and tangible interaction in combination with large displays provides a promising base technology to provide crisis managers with an adequate overview of the situation and to share relevant information with other stakeholders in a collaborative setting. However, design expertise on the use of such techniques in interfaces for real-world applications is still very sparse. In this paper we report on interdisciplinary research with a user and application centric focus to establish real-world requirements, to design new multi-modal mapping interfaces, and to validate them in disaster management applications. Initial results show that tangible and pen-based interaction are well suited to provide an intuitive and visible way to control who is changing data in a multi-user command and control interface.
SAC-D AQUARIUS A SATELLITE FOR OCEAN, CLIMATE AND ENVIRONMENT. ONE YEAR OF DATA
Authors: Torrusio S. , Lagerloef G. , Rabolli M. , LeVine D.
Published: August 2012

Abstract. The SAC-D/Aquarius satellite was launched in June 10, 2011. It's a joint mission between Argentina (through CONAE) and US (NASA). This satellite is a true Observatory with a suite of sensors for Earth Observation, its weight is 1400 kg, sun-synchronous orbit at 657 km (6 pm ascendant node), revisit of seven days. Other space agencies have contributed with instruments and support (facilities and ground segment), as CNES, CSI, ASI and AEB/INPE. The primary objective is to monitor global variations in ocean surface salinity (SSS) in order to improve the knowledge about ocean circulation, water cycle and climate. The SSS is performed with Aquarius instrument (NASA). Other oceanic and atmospheric parameters are measured with a MWR, from CONAE, in K and Ka band, as wind speed, rain rate, sea ice, water vapour and liquid water in clouds. The thermal camera (NIRST) estimates sea surface temperature and detect high temperature events (fires and volcanic eruptions). The High Sensitivity Camera (HSC) generates night images (very useful for fishery activity monitoring in the sea, studying of electrical storms, polar auroras and urban application). The DCS (Data Collection System, from CONAE) can receive meteorological and environmental data from ground platforms and distribute among users. The TDP (Technological Demonstration Package, from CONAE) measures different parameters of satellite position and velocity. Other two important instruments are ROSA (from Italy) and CARMEN 1 (from France). The first is an atmospheric sounder, it allows elaborating atmospheric profiles of temperature, pressure and humidity, and the second has detectors for studies of space debris and the effects of radiation on electronic devices. This work provides a review of the first year of data, including the status of calibration and validation, other finding and at the same time we want to present the progress in the active educational and outreach program including the information of SAC-D Aquarius Mission.
HYDROLOGIC MODELLING OF KATSINA-ALA RIVER BASIN: AN EMERGING SCENARIO FROM LAKE NYOS THREAT
Authors: Akinyede J. O. , Babamaaji R. , Vaatough M. , Adepoju K. A.
Published: August 2012

Abstract. Understanding the hydrologic system surrounding crater lakes is of great importance for prevention of flooding damages, conservation of ecological environment, and assessment of socio-economic impact of dam failure on the civilians in the downstream regions. Lake Nyos is a crater lake formed by volcanic activities at the Oku volcanic field on the Cameroon Volcanic Line. It is a freshwater lake with a maximum depth of 200 meter. In 1986, a limnic eruption at the lake emitted 1.6 million tonnes of carbon dioxide from the bottom of saturated water into the air and suffocated up to 1,800 people and 3,500 livestock at nearby villages. The lake waters are held in place by a natural dam composed of loosely consolidated volcanic rock, which is now at the verge of collapse due to accelerated erosion. This study was carried out to determine the flood risks and vulnerability of population and infrastructure along Katsina-Ala drainage basins. The project integrated both satellite images and field datasets into a hydrologic model for Katsina-Ala River Basin and its vicinity including the Lake Nyos. ArcHydro was used to construct a hydrologic database as 'data models' and MIKE SHE was employed to conduct hydrologic simulations. Vulnerable infrastructures, population and socio-economic activities were identified to assist the Federal and State governments in disaster mitigation and management plans. The result of the project provides comprehensive knowledge of hydrologic system of Katsina-Ala drainage basin to mitigate potential future disasters from a potential dam failure and manage water resources against such disasters.
Time and space variability of freshwater content, heat content and seasonal ice melt in the Arctic Ocean from 1991 to 2011
Authors: Korhonen M. , Rudels B. , Marnela M. , Wisotzki A. , Zhao J.
Published: August 2012

Abstract. The Arctic Ocean gains freshwater mainly through river discharge, precipitation and the inflowing low salinity waters from the Pacific Ocean. In addition the recent reduction in sea ice volume is likely to influence the surface salinity and thus contribute to the freshwater content in the upper ocean. The present day freshwater storage in the Arctic Ocean appears to be sufficient to maintain the upper ocean stratification and to protect the sea ice from the deep ocean heat content. The recent freshening has not, despite the established strong stratification, been able to restrain the accelerating ice loss and other possible heat sources besides the Atlantic Water, such as the waters advecting from the Pacific Ocean and the solar insolation warming the Polar Mixed Layer, are investigated. Since the ongoing freshening, oceanic heat sources and the sea ice melt are closely related, this study, based on hydrographic observations, attempts to examine the ongoing variability in time and space in relation to these three properties. The largest time and space variability of freshwater content occurs in the Polar Mixed Layer and the upper halocline. The freshening of the upper ocean during the 2000s is ubiquitous in the Arctic Ocean although the most substantial increase occurs in the Canada Basin where the freshwater is accumulating in the thickening upper halocline. Whereas the salinity of the upper halocline is nearly constant, the freshwater content in the Polar Mixed Layer is increasing due to decreasing salinity. The decrease in salinity is likely to result from the recent changes in ice formation and melting. In contrast, in the Eurasian Basin where the seasonal ice melt has remained rather modest, the freshening of both the Polar Mixed Layer and the upper halocline is mainly of advective origin. While the warming of the Atlantic inflow was widespread in the Arctic Ocean during the 1990s, the warm and saline inflow events in the early 2000s appear to circulate mainly in the Nansen Basin. Nevertheless, even in the Nansen Basin the seasonal ice melt appears independent of the continuously increasing heat content in the Atlantic layer. As no other oceanic heat sources can be identified in the upper layers, it is likely that increased absorption of solar energy has been causing the ice melt prior to the observations.
Effects of Fruits Extracts of Three Medicinal Plants on the Blood Glucose Level of Glucose-induced Hyperglycemic and Normal Rabbit Models
Authors: Ilahi Ikram , Khan Asghar , Ullah Ubaid , Khan Imran , Ali Jawad , Khan Murad
Published: August 2012

The fruits of Pistacia integerrima (PI), Withania coagulans (WC) and Withania somnifera (WS) have been reported for their medicinal values. The aim of the present study was to compare the glucose lowering activities of the fruit extracts of these three medicinal plants in glucose induced non-diabetic hyperglycemic and normal rabbit models. During the first phase of experiments, the effects of oral administration of 70% methanol extract of each plant fruit (600 mg/kg body weight) and glibenclamide (5 mg/kg body weight) were studied on the glucose level of glucose induced hyperglycemic rabbits, while in the second phase of experiments, the effects of each fruit extract (600 mg/kg body weight) and glibenclamide (5 mg/kg body weight) were assessed on the glucose level of normal rabbits. Among the three fruit extracts, maximum reduction in the blood glucose level was caused by the PI extract (P ˂0.05). The glucose lowering activity of the PI extract was greater than that of the standard, glibenclamide (5mg/kg), during the first phase of experiments. However during the second phase of experiments the hypoglycemic effect of the PI extract was comparable to that of the standard, glibenclamide (5mg/kg). In conclusion the present study reveals that the 70% methanol extract of Pistacia integerrima fruit can decrease glucose level significantly in glucose induced non-diabetic hyperglycemic and normal rabbit models.
Optical and Visual Quality Comparison of Implantable Collamer Lens and Laser in Situ Keratomileusis for Myopia Using an Adaptive Optics Visual Simulator
Authors: Pérez-Vives Cari , Dominguez-Vicent Alberto , García-Lázaro Santiago , Ferrer-Blasco Teresa , Montés-Micó Robert
Published: July 2012

Purpose.

To compare optical and visual quality of the implantable Collamer lens (ICL) and laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) for myopia.

Methods.

An adaptive optics visual simulator (CRX1, Imagine Eyes, France) was used to simulate the vision after ICL implantation and LASIK procedure from the wavefront aberration pattern for −3 and −6 D. Monocular visual acuity (VA) at different contrasts and contrast sensitivity (CS) at 10, 20, and 25 cycles/degree (cpd) were measured for 3- and 5-mm pupils. Modulation transfer function (MTF) and point spread function (PSF) were calculated for a 5-mm pupil.

Results.

The ICL showed a MTF near of diffraction-limited MTF, but the post-LASIK of MTF worsened moving away from both curves. Statistically significant differences were found in VA between both procedures for all conditions (p<0.05). For −3 D ICL and LASIK, we did not find statistically significant differences in CS between the procedures for both pupils and any spatial frequencies (p>0.05). But for −6 D ICL and LASIK, the effect of aberrations became apparent, finding statistically significant differences in CS between both procedures for 2 pupils and all spatial frequencies evaluated (p<0.05). In all cases optical and visual quality was better with the ICL procedure.

Conclusions.

Both ICL and LASIK procedures provide good optical and visual quality, although the ICL provides better outcomes, especially for large refractive errors and pupil sizes. These outcomes are due to the LASIK procedure inducing higher higher-order aberrations than ICL implantation.
Nanosilver Application in Dental Cements
Authors: Magalhães Ana Paula Rodrigues , Santos Laura Barbosa , Lopes Lawrence Gonzaga , Estrela Cyntia Rodrigues de Araújo , Estrela Carlos , Torres Érica Miranda , Bakuzis Andris Figueiroa , Cardoso Paula Carvalho , Carrião Marcus Santos
Published: July 2012

Streptococcus mutans is the microorganism mostly responsible for initiation of tooth decay and also for the progression of an established lesion. Silver has been used for its antibacterial properties for many years, in different forms: ionised and elementary forms, as silver zeolites or as nanoparticles. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the antibacterial activity of three dental cements modified by nanosilver. Three cements were used: Sealapex, RelyX ARC, and Vitrebond. The cements were incorporated with 0.05 mL of silver nanoparticles solution. Control groups were prepared without silver. Six Petri plates with BHI were inoculated with S. mutans using sterile swabs. Three cavities were made in each agar plate (total = 18) and filled with the manipulated cements. They were incubated at 37°C for 48 h, and the inhibition halos were measured. The paired t-Test was used for statistical analysis (P<0.05). No inhibition halos were obtained for Sealapex and Rely X, but Vitrebond showed bactericidal activity without silver and enhanced effect with silver incorporation.
Factors Affecting Postdispersal Weed Seed Predation in Barely Fields
Authors: Noroozi Shahrzad , Mohammad Alizadeh Hasan , Rahimian Mashhadi Hamid
Published: July 2012

Seed predation can be exploited as a mean of natural weed control. Field experiments were conducted in 2007 in four barely fields in Mashhad, NE of Iran to determine the effects of seed covering tissues, seed distribution patterns and interactions between seed density and background seed density on postdispersal seed predation. Five weed species (Avena ludoviciana, Hordeum spontaneum, Sinapis arvensis, Rumex obtusifolius and Rapistrum rugosum), three seed densities (50, 100 and 150 seed dish-1), two background seed densities (with and without), three distribution patterns (random, even, and aggregate), and two level of seed covering tissues (with and without) were arrange in a factorial randomized complete block design. Seed covering tissues had significant negative effect on predation and the most its effect was observed for H. spontaneum. Seed predation was also affected by seed distribution patterns. The highest and lowest seed predations of all species were observed from aggregate and random treatments respectively. The interaction between density and background seed density affected seed predation. Results show that seed predation can play an important role in decreasing the weed seeds on the soil surface and thus, in soil seed bank. Therefore, seed predation could be considered as a control technique in integrated weed management.
Simultaneous Determination of Six Major Constituents of the Herbal Formula Insampaedok-san Using HPLC-PDA
Authors: Seo Chang-Seob , Kim Jung Hoon , Shin Hyeun-Kyoo
Published: July 2012

A simple, rapid, and accurate high-performance liquid chromatographic method was applied to the quantitative analysis of six components of a traditional herbal formulation, Insampaedok-san (ISPDS): liquiritin (1), ferulic acid (2), naringin (3), hesperidin (4), neohesperidin (5), and glycyrrhizin (6). The six components were separated within 35 min using a Gemini C18 column maintained at 40°C. The mobile phase was composed of 1.0% (v/v) aqueous acetic acid (A) and 1.0% (v/v) acetic acid in acetonitrile (B) by gradient elution. The flow rate was 1.0 mL/min and the detector was a photodiode array (PDA) set at 254, 280, and 320 nm. The calibration curves showed good linearity (R2=1.0000) for different concentration ranges. The recovery of each component was in the range of 92.62%–105.96%, with a relative standard deviation (RSD) of less than 4.0%. The RSDs for intra- and interday precision were 0.04%–1.70% and 0.06%–2.56%, respectively. The concentration of each of the six components of ISPDS was in the range 0.72–9.88 mg g−1.
El control de las emisiones de gases de efecto invernadero en España: costes para los sectores agrarios
Authors: Bourne M. , Childs J. , Philippidis G. , Feijoo M.
Published: August 2012

Empleando un modelo dinámico recursivo de equilibrio general computable (EGC) de la economía española, este estudio analiza el impacto de las políticas medioambientales de Kioto y de la Unión Europea (el acuerdo ‘20/20/20’), sobre distintas actividades agrarias hasta 2020. En comparación con el escenario de referencia, se pronostican caídas en el PIB y el empleo de un 2,1% y 2,4%, respectivamente, en 2020, mientras que el índice de precios al consumo sube un 3,4%. En agricultura, el índice de producción (que cae un 4,3%) y el de precios (aumenta un 7,7%), empeoran y además los ingresos acumulados de los agricultores bajan 1.510 millones de euros en 2020. El impacto más acusado en el sector agrario se atribuye a la mayor intensidad de sus emisiones donde se estima un coste marginal de reducción de 86 € t-1 de CO2 equivalente para 2020, lo cual es consistente con las estimaciones existentes en la bibliografía. Además se observa que la combinación óptima de reducción de emisiones en los diferentes sectores agrarios depende del grado de sustitución de las actividades emisoras. A la vista de las pérdidas de ingresos observadas en el sector agrario, se contempla un escenario de mitigación de coste-cero para los agricultores, semejante a un pago de condicionalidad, entre 2013 y 2020. Los resultados señalan una mitigación en el incremento de los precios de los alimentos y una redistribución en la combinación óptima de las emisiones en los sectores agrarios.
Long-term effects of lowland sawah system on soil physicochemical properties and rice yield in Ashanti Region of Ghana
Authors: Obalum S. E. , Oppong J. , Nwite J. C. , Watanabe Y. , Buri M. M. , Igwe C. A. , Wakatsuki T.
Published: August 2012

Lowland sawah is viewed as a sustainable alternative to traditional rice culture in West Africa. Sawah (a bund-demarcated, puddled, leveled, and water-regulated rice field) has received growing research attention lately, but no data exist yet on the system’s long-term agronomic impact. In a clayey inland-valley soil in southern Ghana, 10-year-old sawah plots (OSP), fresh sawah plots (FSP), and non-sawah plots (NSP) were maintained under both ponded and non-ponded conditions in 2007. The OSP enhanced soil status of exchangeable nutrients compared to NSP. There were relative improvements in soil bulk density, total porosity, and field moisture content (OSP ≥ FSP > NSP), with clear benefits of ponding over non-ponding in OSP. The NSP was so unsustainable that it showed less favourable values of these variables than an adjacent fallowed plot. These soil variables deteriorated with time, with significant differences in FSP. Soil moisture retention data for tension range of 0-300 kPa depicted the importance of puddling and ponding. During 2001-2009, OSP consistently out-yielded NSP by five times on average. During 2007-2009 when all three plots co-existed, grain yields averaged 5.80, 4.80 and 1.10 Mg ha−1 in OSP, FSP and NSP, respectively. In 2007 yields, OSP minus FSP was higher than NSP; in 2008/2009, the opposite prevailed. These results highlight the agronomic benefits of continuous sawah-based rice production. Although the positive effects of puddling on the soil hydrophysical properties were largely responsible for the wide margin in yield between sawah and traditional systems, the latter lacked other yield-enhancing factors, particularly bunds for water control, were also lacking in the latter.
Short communication. Sensory evaluation of commercial beef produced in Uruguay and three European countries
Authors: San-Julián R. , Campo M. M. , Nute G. , Montossi F. , Font-i-Furnols M. , Guerrero L. , Oliver M. A. , Sañudo C.
Published: August 2012

The main goal of this study was to characterize and compare the organoleptic quality of beef from Uruguay and from three European countries. In Uruguay, 40 Hereford steers were raised exclusively under grazing conditions up to either two or three years old. Meat samples were aged for 20 days, matching commercial conditions. In Europe, one commercial local beef type, with two ageing times (7 and 20 days), from Germany, Spain and the United Kingdom were compared with Uruguayan beef samples, using 20 animals of each treatment per country. The highest beef odour and flavour scores were for the British beef aged for 7 days followed by the German and Uruguayan meat. Beef from the youngest animals (Spanish) and, especially from the UK, were up to 42 and 62%, respectively, more tender than German beef, all of them aged for 7 days. The highest juiciness scores were for the Uruguayan three years old beef. Long ageing periods (20 days) tended to produce off-aromas in the case of the British beef, which showed the highest scores in abnormal odour flavour intensities. European beef showed a significant variability in its sensory attributes that could not be justified only by differences in the ageing time. Uruguayan beef has meat with similar sensory characteristics to some European meats, and because of that it could have good consumer acceptability.
Determinación de los patrones de flujo de aire en un invernadero multitúnel mediante anemometría sónica
Authors: López A. , Valera D. L. , Molina-Aiz F. D. , Peña A.
Published: August 2012

En este trabajo se ha desarrollado una metodología para estudiar la ventilación natural en invernaderos mediterráneos mediante anemometría sónica. Los ensayos se han realizado en un invernadero multitúnel de tres módulos situado en el Campo de Prácticas de la Universidad de Almería. Esta metodología nos ha permitido obtener los patrones de ventilación natural del invernadero experimental para los vientos más comunes de la región. También nos ha permitido describir la interacción entre el efecto eólico y térmico, así como detectar deficiencias en la ventilación natural del invernadero debidas al efecto barrera de otro invernadero adyacente (provocando una reducción media en la velocidad del aire en el exterior de la ventana de barlovento de hasta el 98% para u, 63% para uy y, más importante, 88% para ux, la componente de la velocidad del aire que es perpendicular a la superficie de ventilación lateral). Los conocimientos adquiridos en este trabajo nos permitirán mejorar los algoritmos de control del sistema de ventilación. En este trabajo se realizan una serie de propuestas que podrían mejorar sustancialmente la ventilación natural del invernadero. Por ejemplo, se proponen algunas posibles modificaciones de la configuración de las ventanas laterales, buscando una mayor captación del aire exterior: se podría optar por ventanas dotadas de alerones exteriores que dirijan al aire hacia el interior o ventanas en las que la malla no se coloque directamente sobre la superficie lateral del invernadero, diseñando una antesala donde el aire pueda entrar sin la oposición de la malla. Otra propuesta sería prolongar la apertura de las ventanas laterales hasta el suelo, para favorecer así la entrada de aire a nivel del cultivo.
The effect of emamectin benzoate on two parasitoids, Aphidius colemani Viereck (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) and Eretmocerus mundus Mercet (Hymenoptera: Aphelinidae), used in pepper greenhouses
Authors: Bengochea P. , Medina P. , Amor F. , Cánovas M. , Vega P. , Correia R. , García F. , Gómez M. , Budia F. , Viñuela E. , López J. A.
Published: August 2012

Aphidius colemani Viereck and Eretmocerus mundus Mercet are two of the most representative parasitoids used as biological control agents (BCAs) primarily against aphids and whiteflies, respectively. The macrocyclic lactone emamectin benzoate (4”-deoxy-4”-methylamino-4”-epiavermectin B1 benzoate), an insecticide derived from the avermectin family of natural products, is being developed for controlling lepidopteran pests on a range of vegetable and other crops in Europe. The objective of this study was to determine the level of compatibility of the insecticide emamectin benzoate with A. colemani and Er. mundus, which are used in greenhouse vegetable production in southeastern Spain. Trials were conducted under commercial greenhouses to assess the effect of 1-, 3- and 7-day-old residues of emamectin benzoate at the highest recommended concentration (14.25 mg L-1) on the population dynamics of the parasitoids. A. colemani, although released at higher rates than those commercially used, only reached low densities (less than 1 adult per plant), without significant differences among control plots and those treated with the compound. On the contrary, a natural infestation by native Er. mundus occurred and this trial can be considered as a direct-spray trial. Neither adult population nor parasitism on emamectin benzoate treated plots differed significantly from the control. Therefore, emamectin benzoate residues did not diminish A. colemani population densities if applied 1 day before the introduction of the arthropod (exposure to 1-day old residues). Similarly, emamectin benzoate was compatible with Er. mundus if a direct spray application was used on developed populations.
Modeling and Simulation of Equivalent Circuits in Description of Biological Systems - A Fractional Calculus Approach
Authors: Gómez F. , Bernal J. , Rosales J. , Cordova T.
Published: July 2012

Using the fractional calculus approach, we present the Laplace analysis of an equivalent electrical circuit for a multilayered system, which includes distributed elements of the Cole model type. The Bode graphs are obtained from the numerical simulation of the corresponding transfer functions using arbitrary electrical parameters in order to illustrate the methodology. A numerical Laplace transform is used with respect to the simulation of the fractional differential equations. From the results shown in the analysis, we obtain the formula for the equivalent electrical circuit of a simple spectrum, such as that generated by a real sample of blood tissue, and the corresponding Nyquist diagrams. In addition to maintaining consistency in adjusted electrical parameters, the advantage of using fractional differential equations in the study of the impedance spectra is made clear in the analysis used to determine a compact formula for the equivalent electrical circuit, which includes the Cole model and a simple RC model as special cases.
Palladium‐Catalyzed 1,4‐Addition of Carboxylic Acids to Butadiene Monoxide
Authors: Hamasaki Akiyuki , Maruta Shuhei , Nakamura Aki , Tokunaga Makoto
Published: August 2012

Palladium complexes catalyze the 1,4‐addition of acetic acid to butadiene monoxide to give 4‐hydroxybut‐2‐en‐1‐yl acetate. The highest 1,4‐/1,2‐addition selectivity of 18.9 was achieved. The reaction seems to proceed via a Wacker‐like mechanism.
Lewis Acid‐Catalyzed Conjugate Addition of sp3 CH Bonds to Methylenemalononitriles
Authors: Qian Bo , Shi Dengjian , Yang Lei , Huang Hanmin
Published: August 2012

The Lewis acid‐catalyzed conjugate addition of 2‐alkylazaarenes to methylenemalononitriles through sp3 CH bond functionalization has been developed, which provides an efficient and reliable method for incorporation of the nitrile group into the heterocycles.
Red Fluorescent Proteins: Advanced Imaging Applications and Future Design
Authors: Shcherbakova Daria M. , Subach Oksana M. , Verkhusha Vladislav V.
Published: August 2012

In the past few years a large series of the advanced red‐shifted fluorescent proteins (RFPs) has been developed. These enhanced RFPs provide new possibilities to study biological processes at the levels ranging from single molecules to whole organisms. Herein the relationship between the properties of the RFPs of different phenotypes and their applications to various imaging techniques are described. Existing and emerging imaging approaches are discussed for conventional RFPs, far‐red FPs, RFPs with a large Stokes shift, fluorescent timers, irreversibly photoactivatable and reversibly photoswitchable RFPs. Advantages and limitations of specific RFPs for each technique are presented. Recent progress in understanding the chemical transformations of red chromophores allows the future RFP phenotypes and their respective novel imaging applications to be foreseen.
GENE IDENTIFICATION AND ENZYMATIC PROPERTIES OF A MEMBRANE‐BOUND TREHALASE FROM THE OVARY OF RHODNIUS PROLIXUS
Authors: Santos Rachel , Alves‐Bezerra Michele , Rosas‐Oliveira Rafael , Majerowicz David , Meyer‐Fernandes José R. , Gondim Katia C. , Meyer‐Fernandes José R. , Gondim Katia C.
Published: August 2012

Trehalose represents the main hemolymph sugar in most insects and its metabolic availability is regulated by trehalase. In this study, trehalase activity associated with the reproductive system was investigated in the insect Rhodnius prolixus, a hematophagous hemipteran vector of Chagas’ disease. A single‐copy gene that encodes a membrane‐bound trehalase (RpTre‐2) was identified in the genome of R. prolixus. RpTre‐2 deduced amino acid sequence is closely related to other insect membrane‐bound trehalases. The expression of this gene was detected in all analyzed organs, including ovary, where total trehalase enzymatic activity was determined, and was highest at day 7 after blood meal. Ovary membranes showed a major trehalase specific activity, which confirmed the presence of a membrane‐bound trehalase in this insect. This trehalase activity seemed not to be regulated at transcriptional level, as the expression of RpTre‐2 gene in the ovary did not change over the days after feeding. Similarly, ovarian follicles at different developmental stages did not show any variation in the transcription level of this gene. The RpTre‐2 kinetic parameters were also investigated. Activity was highest at pH 5.5 and followed Michaelis–Menten kinetics, with an apparent Km = 1.42 ± 0.36 mM and Vmax = 167.90 ± 12.91 nmol/mg protein/h. These data reveal the presence of a membrane‐bound trehalase in R. prolixus that is active in ovary and probably takes part in the insect carbohydrate metabolism associated with the reproductive process.
Transmission of a Chemical Signal by Sequential Transfer of Energy and Electron in a Pigment Membrane on a Semiconductor
Authors: Fromgerz Peter , Arden Wolfgang
Published: August 2012

Two pigments are mounted in a lipoid membrane matrix on a semiconductor electrode. The pigment at the electrolyte/membrane interface is a pH‐modulated light absorber and energy donor. The pigment at the membrane/electrode interface is energy acceptor and electron injector. The assembly is a molecular device. Its function is transmission of the chemical response of a dye — the acid‐base equilibrium — onto the electrical response of a semiconductor on a molecular level, by the sequential transfer of energy and electron. The single steps of synthesis are discussed, as the quality of the matrix and the yields of the coupling processes involved.
Kinetic Analysis of Protontransport‐coupled ATP Synthesis in Chloroplast
Authors: Rumberg B. , Heinze Th.
Published: August 2012

ATP formation in photosynthesis takes place at the expense of free energy stored in the light‐induced proton gradient across the thylakoid membrane. Three protons have to be translocated down the gradient for each ATP molecule which is synthesized. — Extensive studies have been performed in order to evaluate the influence of both internal and external proton concentration on the kinetics of ATP formation. The results deliver information on the coupling mechanism between the processes of proton translation and ATP formation. A detailed functional model is worked out, which is based on the model of cooperative enzymes of Monod, Wyman, and Changeux. The model is in quantitative accordance to the experimental results.
2D NMR Spectra from Stochastic NMR. Coupling and Exchange Information from Third Order Frequency Kernel
Authors: Blümich B. , Ziessow D.
Published: August 2012

It is shown how 1D and 2D NMR spectra can be derived from one NMR experiment. The method is based on the evaluation of the non‐linear response of the nuclear spin system to stochastic excitation the strength of which corresponds to values close to the maximum of the saturation curve. Thus, optimum sensitivity is obtained at the expense of slight line broadening in the 1D spectrum. Crosspeaks in the 2D plane indicate the existence of saturation transfer between two transitions at the respective frequencies. This is demonstrated with simulated (AB) as well as experimental spectra (AB, chemical exchange).
Self‐Diffusion of Components in Aniline‐Benzene Solution
Authors: Hawlicka E. , Reimschüssel W.
Published: August 2012

Self‐diffusion coefficients of aniline and benzene in aniline‐benzene solution in the temperature range 290.2 ≦ T/K ≦ 313.2 have been measured over the entire composition range. The influence of specific electro‐donor‐acceptor type interactions between aniline and benzene molecules on self‐diffusion has been observed.
Elektronenstruktur und Solvatochromie von Betain B
Authors: Finkentey Johann‐Henrich , Zimmermann Herbert W.
Published: August 2012

Betain B ist ein solvatochromer Farbstoff. In amphiprotonischen Solventien (H2O, Alkohole) wird die Absorption von B stark, in aprotonischen Solventien (DMF, DMSO, Pyridin) nur sehr schwach in Richtung kurzer Wellen verschoben. CHCl3 und CH2Cl2 nehmen eine Mittelstellung ein. — Das Absorptionsspektrum von B wurde in All‐Valenzelektronen‐CNDO‐Cl‐Näherung berechnet. Es steht mit dem experimentellen Spektrum von B in aprotonischen Lösungsmitteln in guter Übereinstimmung. An Hand der berechneten gross atomic populations des Grund‐ und des 1. angeregten Zustands wird der Lösungsmitteleffekt qualitativ diskutiert.
Coexistence Curves at Liquid‐Liquid Critical Points in the Presence of Isotope Exchange Reactions
Authors: Gansen P. , Janssen T. , Schön W. , Woermann D. , Schönert H.
Published: August 2012

Thermodynamic considerations for determining the number of components of mixtures with a miscibility gap in the presence of isotope exchange reactions are presented using the system isobutyric acid (COOH)/D2O as an example. — Systems of that kind are thermodynamically two component systems as long as one liquid phase exists. If two liquid phases coexist each phase separately is a three component system. The consequences of this analysis are studied by investigating the liquid/liquid coexistence curves of the systems isobutyric acid (COOD)/D2O and n‐butyric acid (COOH)/D2O.
On Relaxation Amplitudes in T‐jump Experiments in Micellar Solutions
Authors: Pakusch A. , Strey R.
Published: August 2012

The concentration dependence of the relative amplitude of the slow relaxation process in micellar solutions is analysed, if the equilibrium is perturbed by a T‐jump, and the relaxation is detected by following the fluorescence of an indicator. The analysis yields the temperature dependence of the mean aggregation number of the micelles as well as a statement about the change of the reaction enthalpy for the incorporation of a monomer by an aggregate with aggregation number. The theory is applied to measurements on the system H2O‐NaDS‐NH4ANS.
Kinetic Depolarization in Aqueous Solutions of Alkylammonium Bromides
Authors: Kaatze Udo
Published: August 2012

The extrapolated static permittivity of aqueous solutions of tetraalkylammonium bromides and azoniaspiroalkane bromides is discussed with respect to the recently predicted kinetic polarization deficiency. The experimental data are found to be not inconsistent with the theory. The large ions manifest universal hydration characteristics of organic particles, if the effect of kinetic depolarization is taken into consideration. Charged as well as neutral hydrophobic solutes seem to promote the short range molecular interactions of the water around them.
Ganzheitliche Beurteilung von Verkehrsinfrastrukturprojekten
Authors: Baumgärtner Ulrich , Fischer Oliver , Jungwirth Jörg , Katz Casimir , Lederer Werner , Putz Alexander , Streit Walter , Willberg Uwe , Wüst Wolfgang
Published: August 2012

Im vorliegenden Beitrag werden grundlegende Aspekte für die ganzheitliche Beurteilung der Verkehrsinfrastruktur erläutert. Abgeleitet von allgemeinen Gesichtspunkten, Besonderheiten und Zielen werden Zeitpunkte und Möglichkeiten einer Bewertung sowie Aspekte zur Auschreibung und Vergabe erläutert. Zusätzlich wird ein Vergleich zu bestehenden Bewertungssystemen im Hochbau und deren Randbedingungen gezogen und ein Überblick über derzeit laufende Forschungsvorhaben gegeben.

Abschließend werden besondere Fragestellungen bei der ganzheitlichen Beurteilung der Verkehrsinfrastruktur, z. B. Unschärfen im Betrachtungszeitraum, Bewertungsansätze für “Risiken für die lokale Umwelt” und ganzheitliche Bürgerbeteiligung in frühen Phasen mit Beispielen weiter ausgeführt.

Holistic assessment of traffic infrastructure projects

In the following paper basic aspects for a holistic assessment of traffic infrastructure projects are elucidated. Starting with general aspects, specific features and aims, the times and possibilities of a holistic assessment, as well as different aspects of an assessment concerning the placing are explained. In addition, a comparison between existing assessment systems in structural engineering and their boundary conditions is made. An overview of the current research projects follows.

Special questions concerning the holistic assessment of traffic infrastructure, e.g. inexactness for a given period, assessment methods for “risks for the local environment”, and the holistic public participation, conclude this paper with examples.
1,7‐Octadiene‐Assisted Tandem Multicomponent Cross‐Enyne Metathesis (CEYM)‐Diels–Alder Reactions: A Useful Alternative to Mori’s Conditions
Authors: Fustero Santos , Bello Paula , Miró Javier , Simón Antonio , del Pozo Carlos
Published: August 2012

The use of 1,7‐octadiene as an in situ source of ethylene led us to develop a novel multicomponent tandem cross‐enyne metathesis (CEYM)‐Diels–Alder reaction. The process can be considered a relay metathesis, in which the ethylene liberated in the ring‐closing metathesis (RCM) of 1,7‐octadiene initiates the tandem sequence. Aliphatic, aromatic, and fluorinated alkynes and several dienophiles are compatible with the process, which is particularly efficient with aromatic alkynes. This methodology constitutes a useful variant of Mori’s conditions in CEYM‐related reactions.
Facile Synthesis of an Ag2O–ZnO Nanohybrid and Its High Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Wu Ming , Yan Jun‐Min , Zhao Ming , Jiang Qing
Published: August 2012

An Ag2O–ZnO nanohybrid is synthesized for the first time through a facile, basic coprecipitation‐assisted hydrothermal strategy. This novel method endows the Ag2O–ZnO nanohybrid (Ag2O/ZnO=0.3:0.7) with small particle size and strong electronic synergistic effects owing to the uniform distribution of the constituents. The as‐synthesized nanohybrid shows excellent photocatalytic properties for degradation of rhodamine B, even under visible light irradiation. This effect is much better than pure or physical mixtures of Ag2O and ZnO, as well as the traditional homogenous Fenton catalyst (Fe3+/H2O2).
4‐*GDD(6n)s and Related Optimal Quaternary Constant‐Weight Codes
Authors: Zhu Mingzhi , Ge Gennian
Published: August 2012

Constant‐weight codes (CWCs) have played an important role in coding theory. To construct CWCs, a K‐GDD (where GDD is group divisible design) with the “star” property, denoted by K‐*GDD, was introduced, in which any two intersecting blocks intersect in at most two common groups. In this paper, we consider the existence of 4‐*GDDs. Previously, the necessary conditions for existence were shown to be sufficient for , and also sufficient for with prime powers and . We continue to investigate the existence of 4‐*GDD(6n)s and show that the necessary condition for the existence of a 4‐*GDD(6n), namely, , is also sufficient. The known results on the existence of optimal quaternary (n, 5, 4) CWCs are also extended.
Registration of prostate histology images to ex vivo MR images via strand‐shaped fiducials
Authors: Gibson Eli , Crukley Cathie , Gaed Mena , Gómez José A. , Moussa Madeleine , Chin Joseph L. , Bauman Glenn S. , Fenster Aaron , Ward Aaron D.
Published: August 2012

Purpose:

To present and evaluate a method for registration of whole‐mount prostate digital histology images to ex vivo magnetic resonance (MR) images.

Materials and Methods:

Nine radical prostatectomy specimens were marked with 10 strand‐shaped fiducial markers per specimen, imaged with T1‐ and T2‐weighted 3T MRI protocols, sliced at 4.4‐mm intervals, processed for whole‐mount histology, and the resulting histological sections (3–5 per specimen, 34 in total) were digitized. The correspondence between fiducial markers on histology and MR images yielded an initial registration, which was refined by a local optimization technique, yielding the least‐squares best‐fit affine transformation between corresponding fiducial points on histology and MR images. Accuracy was quantified as the postregistration 3D distance between landmarks (3–7 per section, 184 in total) on histology and MR images, and compared to a previous state‐of‐the‐art registration method.

Results:

The proposed method and previous method had mean (SD) target registration errors of 0.71 (0.38) mm and 1.21 (0.74) mm, respectively, requiring 3 and 11 hours of processing time, respectively.

Conclusion:

The proposed method registers digital histology to prostate MR images, yielding 70% reduced processing time and mean accuracy sufficient to achieve 85% overlap on histology and ex vivo MR images for a 0.2 cc spherical tumor. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2012; 36:1402–1412. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.