bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Joint Modeling of Pedestrian and Bicycle Crashes: Copula-Based Approach
Authors: Nashad Tammam , Yasmin Shamsunnahar , Eluru Naveen , Lee Jaeyoung , Abdel-Aty Mohamed A.
Published: December 2016

This study contributes to the safety literature on active mode transportation safety by using a copula-based model for crash frequency analysis at a macro level. Most studies in the transportation safety area identify a single count variable (such as vehicular, pedestrian, or bicycle crash counts) for a spatial unit at a specific period and study the impact of exogenous variables. Although the traditional count models perform adequately in the presence of a single count variable, these approaches must be modified to examine multiple dependent variables for each study unit. The presented research developed a multivariate model by adopting a copula-based bivariate negative binomial model for pedestrian and bicycle crash frequency analysis. The proposed approach accommodates potential heterogeneity (across zones) in the dependency structure. The formulated models were estimated with pedestrian and bicycle crash count data at the statewide traffic analysis zone level for the state of Florida for 2010 through 2012. The statewide traffic analysis zone level variables considered in the analysis included exposure measures, socioeconomic characteristics, road network characteristics, and land use attributes. A policy analysis was conducted—along with a representation of hot spot identification—to illustrate the applicability of the proposed model for planning purposes. The development of such spatial profiles allows planners to identify high-risk zones for screening and subsequent treatment identification.
Comprehensive Safety Diagnosis Using Automated Video Analysis: Applications to an Urban Intersection in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
Authors: Zaki Mohamed H. , Sayed Tarek , Ibrahim Shewkar E.
Published: December 2016

This study conducted an automated safety diagnosis for a major signalized intersection in the city of Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. The study was motivated by concerns raised about the potential safety implications of increasing the speed limit across the major road corridor of the intersection to 60 km/h from the current posted speed of 50 km/h. The diagnosis was performed with video data collected at the intersection for two consecutive days. Traffic conflicts at the location were identified, analyzed, and categorized according to such criteria as severity and road user type. Temporal and spatial violations were automatically identified. Automated data collection for traffic counts and travel speeds was performed and validated. It was observed that the high frequency of conflicts between vehicles and vulnerable road users (i.e., pedestrians and cyclists) and the presence of heavy vehicles could lead to more severe conflicts and possible collisions if the speed limit is raised. According to the outcome of the performed analysis, it was recommended that the existing speed limit not be raised, but kept at the current level. Several safety countermeasures were suggested to improve the safety at the intersection. This study demonstrated the practical application of automated traffic conflict analysis technology and its ability to help traffic engineers conduct a comprehensive safety assessment.
Effect of N and F content on structural, optical and photocatalytic methylene blue degradation properties of TiO2
Authors: Elena Fakhrutdinova , Anastasiia Shabalina , Valery Svetlichnyi , Alexei Salanov
Published: December 2016

Photocatalytic systems based on fluorine- and nitrogen-doped titanium dioxide were obtained via the sol–gel method. Titanium tetraisopropoxide and ammonium fluoride were used as precursors. Transmission electron microscopy and measurement of Brunauer–Emmett–Teller surface area and porosity were used to establish that the concentration of ammonium fluoride has an impact on the structural parameters of titanium dioxide produced in the sol–gel process. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy revealed that the dopants (F and N) are not incorporated into the crystal lattice of titanium dioxide, but affect the optical properties of titanium dioxide due to the emergence of additional bands in the absorption spectra in the range of 380–450 nm. Sorption and photoactivity were found using methylene blue photodecomposition under visible light. It was found that dopant introduction increases both sorption ability and photoactivity of the materials.
Novel Synthetic Approach for the Access of Functionalised 4H-Chromenes
Authors: Sadeghpour Mahdieh , Bagheri Fatemeh
Published: December 2016

A simple, efficient and high-yielding one-pot protocol for the synthesis of novel functionalised 4H-chromenes and chromene carboxylic acids has been developed using multi-component domino coupling reactions of anil-like compounds with 1,3-diketones and indole in the presence of formic acid catalyst under solvent-free conditions. The protocol avoids the use of expensive catalysts, toxic solvents and chromatographic separation.
Heteropoly acid/NaY zeolite as a reusable solid catalyst for highly efficient synthesis of gem-dihydroperoxides and 1,2,4,5-tetraoxanes
Authors: Khosravi Kaveh , Zendehdel Mojgan , Naserifar Shirin , Tavakoli Fatemeh , Khalaji Kobra , Asgari Atefeh
Published: December 2016

gem-Dihydroperoxides and 1,2,4,5-tetraoxanes were synthesised from aldehydes and ketones catalysed by heteropoly acid/NaY zeolite (HPA/NaY) as a new, effective and reusable solid catalyst using 30% aqueous hydrogen peroxide at room temperature. The reactions proceeded with high rates and excellent yields.
Eleocharis neglecta (Cyperaceae), a new species from Konkan region of Maharashtra, India
Authors: Borude D.B. , Chandore A.N. , Gholave A.R. , Yadav S.R.
Published: December 2016

Eleocharis neglecta Borude, Chandore, Gholave & S.R. Yadav, a new species from Konkan region of Maharashtra, India is described and illustrated. This species belongs to Eleocharis subgen. Limnochloa (P. Beauv. ex Lestib.) Torr. and it is closely allied to Eleocharis dulcis (Burm. f.) Trin. ex Hensch. in having terete and septate culms.Bangladesh J. Plant Taxon. 23(2): 91-96, 2016 (December)
Morphological and anatomical studies of the newly recorded genus Plagiopteron Griff. (Celastraceae) from Vietnam
Authors: Chinh Vu Tien , Choudhary Ritesh Kumar , Bach Tran The , Quang Bui Hong , Hai Do Van , Eum Sangmi , Lee Joongku
Published: December 2016

Plagiopteron Griff. (Celastraceae), collected from Bac Giang Province of Vietnam is reported here as a new generic record for the flora of Vietnam. It is supposedly an early derived member of the subfamily Hippocrateoideae (composed of tribes Campylostemoneae and Hippocrateeae), within Hippocrateaceae. The genus differs from other members of Celastraceae by its many bicyclically arranged stamens. Leaf anatomical studies have been performed to understand various features such as venation, vascular bundles, collenchyma and stomata. Taxonomic notes, description, and photographs are provided, together with short notes on the distribution, ecology and phenology of the species.Bangladesh J. Plant Taxon. 23(2): 161-166, 2016 (December)
Numerical taxonomic analysis in leaf architectural traits of some Hoya R. Br. species (Apocynaceae) from Philippines
Authors: Jumawan Jess H. , Buot Inocencio E.
Published: December 2016

The present study examines the leaf variations in leaf traits of four Hoya R. Br. species from Philippines namely: (1) H. buotii Kloppenburg, (2) H. halconensis Kloppenburg, (3) H. mindorensis Schlechter red bearing flowers; and (4) H. mindorensis Schlechter yellow bearing flowers. Leaf samples (n= 30 leaves) were collected from each plant group and measured with nine architectural traits. The results showed variability in the leaves using univariate and multivariate analysis. Data ordination depicted variations in leaf morphology. The two plant groups H. mindorensis red bearing flowers and H. mindorensis yellow bearing flowers were consistently variable as supported by principal coordinate analysis, cluster analysis and two way Anova (P<0.001). The variability of the two plant groups could be due to developmental instability, plasticity or taxonomic identity, one being the subspecies of the other. Hence, a closer study to investigate the significant variability of the two plant groups was recommended. Distinct separation of H. buotii and H. halconensis was detected being regularly mistaken as one species. The study demonstrated the applicability of multivariate analysis as effective tool in numerical taxonomy. Multivariate analysis can be employed to demonstrate likelihood of relationship among various Hoya species.Bangladesh J. Plant Taxon. 23(2): 199-207, 2016 (December)
Palynological studies on some species of Anabasis L. (Amaranthaceae) from Iran
Authors: Assadi M. , Hamdi S.M.M. , Fajani F.
Published: December 2016

The paper presents pollen micromorphology by scanning electron microscopy of seven Anabasis L. species namely, A. haussknechtii Bge., A. aphylla L., A. calcarea (Charif & Allen) Bokhari & Wendelbo, A. eugeniae Iljin, A. eriopoda (Shrernk) Volkens, A. annua Bge. and A. setifera Moq. from Iran. Pollen grains in all studied species are peripolyporate, spherical and are of two basic types based on pores diameter inner of holes. The study showed that the sculpturing of exine provides valuable characters in species delimitation, sometimes even for closely related ones. An artificial key based on pollen characters for seven species is provided.Bangladesh J. Plant Taxon. 23(2): 247-253, 2016 (December)
Zika Virus in Bangladesh
Authors: Ali Md Yusuf
Published: December 2016

Abstract not availableFaridpur Med. Coll. J. Jan 2016;11(1): 01
Efficacy of Oral Mini Pulse Betamethasone in the Treatment of Vitiligo-A Study in FMCH
Authors: Mostofa Md Kamal , Sen Krishna Gopal , Ali Ahammed , Sarkar Sumitendra Kumar , Khan Md Mesbah Uddin , Begum Kohinoor , Das Asit Ranjan , Miah Md A Wadud , Alam Jahangir , Saha Shyamol Kumar , Biswas Nripendra Nath
Published: December 2016

Vitiligo is an acquired multifactorial polygenic disorder with a complex pathogenesis, characterized by depigmented macules in skin. A clinical trial was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of oral mini pulse betamethasone in the treatment of vitiligo patients. The study was done in the department of Dermatology and Venereology, Faridpur Medical College Hospital (FMCH), Faridpur, Bangladesh from July 2014 to June 2015. Among thirty patients of vitiligo, most of the male patients (53.33%) and most of the female patients (40%) were between 20 to 25 years of age. Majority of patients (70%) had been suffering from vitiligo for less than 3 years and 50% patients had positive family history. Eighteen (60%) patients had acro-facial type of vitiligo and 20 (66.67%) cases were progressive in nature. In this study, response was slight in 36.67%, moderate in 33.33%, marked in 20% and excellent in 10% of cases after 12 weeks. Eight (26.66%) of total patients were seen to be with clinical side effects. Among the side effects, weight gain 4 (13.33%) was most prevalent, others include general weakness in 2 (6.66%) and acne in 2 (6.66%) patients. In conclusion, oral mini pulse betamethasone seems to be an effective treatment modality to arrest the progression of vitiligo and induction of repigmentation.Faridpur Med. Coll. J. Jan 2016;11(1): 26-29
A Case Report on Recurrent Acute Pancreatitis with Primary Hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Sah Mukesh Prasad , Ahmed Dewan Saifuddin , Jannat Syeda Nur E , Kabir Md Alamgir , Huq Muhammad Rezeul , Mia Md Moshiur Rahman , Arefin Muhammad Sayedul , Wadud Md Abdul
Published: December 2016

Pancreatitis is a common non-bacterial inflammatory disease caused by activation, interstitial liberation and auto digestion of pancreas by its own enzymes. Common causes of acute pancreatitis are gall stones, alcohol, drugs, trauma, viral infections and hypertriglyceridemia. Much is known about the causes of pancreatitis but huge experimental data available about understanding of its pathogenesis is still incomplete. Hypercalcemia as a cause of pancreatitis is rarely reported. Hypercalcemia is usually the result of Primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) and the most common cause of PHPT is parathyroid adenoma. It is thought that the increased calcium concentration in pancreatic juice resulting from hypercalcemia may prematurely activate proteases. Mutations in different genes have been proposed as well to justify why only some patients with primary hyperparathyroidism and hypercalcemia develop acute pancreatitis. Here we present a case of recurrent acute pancreatitis resulting from hypercalcemia due to parathyroid adenoma in a 38-year-old man. Hyperparathyroidism was suspected when despite severe pancreatitis calcium level remained high and parathormone level was grossly raisedFaridpur Med. Coll. J. Jan 2016;11(1): 36-38
A Case Report on Congenital Ichthyosis - Collodion Baby
Authors: Hassan Md Kamrul , Saha Aloke Kumar , Begum Poly , Akter Tahmina , Saha Shyamol Kumar
Published: December 2016

Collodion baby describes a highly characteristic clinical entity in newborns encased in a yellowish translucent membrane resembling collodion. In most cases the condition either precedes the development of one of a variety of ichthyoses, the commonest of which are lamellar ichthyosis and non-bullous ichthyosiform erythroderma, or occasionally represents an initial phase of other ichthyoses such as ichthyosis vulgaris. In at least 10% of all cases of collodion baby, the condition is followed by a mild ichthyosis of lamellar type, so mild as to be considered more or less normal, so-called self-healing collodion baby or 'lamellar ichthyosis of the newborn'. In this report, we present a severe form of ichthyosis.Faridpur Med. Coll. J. Jan 2016;11(1): 39-42
Unsteady CFD simulation of 3D AUV hull at different angles of attack
Authors: Ray Sudipta , Chatterjee Dipankar , Nandy Sambhunath
Published: December 2016

An unsteady, three-dimensional flow simulation is carried out over the bare hull of the autonomous underwater vehicle currently being developed by CSIR-CMERI, Durgapur, India at various angles of attack with the help of a Finite Volume-based CFD software. The purpose of the study is to provide estimation of various hydrodynamic forces acting on the bare hull at different angles of operation. The operating range of velocity of the vehicle is 0-6 knot (0-3 m/s), considering up to 2 knots of upstream current. For the purpose of the CFD simulation, the widely-implemented RANS approach is used, wherein the turbulent transport equations are solved using the low-Re version of the SST ?-? turbulence model. The motion of the vehicle is considered within a range of the pitch angle (0<=alpha<=20). The results are presented in terms of variations of the relevant hydrodynamic parameters. The effects of the angle of attack on the drag and pressure coefficients are discussed in detail.
Green Tea and Other Tea Polyphenols: Effects on Sebum Production and Acne Vulgaris
Authors: Saric Suzana , Notay Manisha , Sivamani Raja
Published: December 2016

Polyphenols are antioxidant molecules found in many foods including nuts, fruits, vegetables, chocolate, wine, and tea. Polyphenols have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antineoplastic properties. Recent studies suggest that tea polyphenols may be used for reducing sebum production in the skin and for treatment of acne vulgaris. This review examines the evidence for use of topically and orally ingested tea polyphenols against sebum production and for acne treatment and prevention. The PubMed database was searched for studies on tea polyphenols, sebum secretion, and acne vulgaris. Of the 59 studies found, eight met the inclusion criteria. Two studies evaluated tea polyphenol effects on sebum production; six studies examined tea polyphenol effects on acne vulgaris. Seven studies evaluated topical tea polyphenols; one study examined systemic tea polyphenols. None of the studies evaluated both topical and systemic tea polyphenols. Tea polyphenol sources included green tea (six studies) and tea, type not specified (two studies). Overall, there is some evidence that tea polyphenols in topical formulation may be beneficial in reducing sebum secretion and in treatment of acne. Research studies of high quality and with large sample sizes are needed to assess the efficacy of tea polyphenols in topical and oral prevention of acne vulgaris and lipid synthesis by the sebaceous glands.
Thermochromic Oxide-Based Thin Films and Nanoparticle Composites for Energy-Efficient Glazings
Authors: Granqvist Claes , Niklasson Gunnar
Published: December 2016

Today’s advances in materials science and technology can lead to better buildings with improved energy efficiency and indoor conditions. Particular attention should be directed towards windows and glass facades—jointly known as “glazings”—since current practices often lead to huge energy expenditures related to excessive inflow or outflow of energy which need to be balanced by energy-intensive cooling or heating. This review article outlines recent progress in thermochromics, i.e., it deals with materials whose optical properties are strongly dependent on temperature. In particular, we discuss oxide-based thin surface coatings (thin films) and nanoparticle composites which can be deposited onto glass and are able to regulate the throughput of solar energy while the luminous (visible) properties remain more or less unaltered. Another implementation embodies lamination materials incorporating thermochromic (TC) nanoparticles. The thin films and nanocomposites are based on vanadium dioxide (VO2), which is able to change its properties within a narrow temperature range in the vicinity of room temperature and either reflects or absorbs infrared light at elevated temperatures, whereas the reflectance or absorptance is much smaller at lower temperatures. The review outlines the state of the art for these thin films and nanocomposites with particular attention to recent developments that have taken place in laboratories worldwide. Specifically, we first set the scene by discussing environmental challenges and their relationship with TC glazings. Then enters VO2 and we present its key properties in thin-film form and as nanoparticles. The next part of the article gives perspectives on the manufacturing of these films and particles. We point out that the properties of pure VO2 may not be fully adequate for buildings and we elaborate how additives, antireflection layers, nanostructuring and protective over-coatings can be employed to yield improved performance and durability that make TC glazings of considerable interest for building-related applications. Finally, we briefly describe recent developments towards TC light scattering and draw some final conclusions.
In Situ FTIR Analysis of CO-Tolerance of a Pt-Fe Alloy with Stabilized Pt Skin Layers as a Hydrogen Anode Catalyst for Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cells
Authors: Ogihara Yoshiyuki , Yano Hiroshi , Matsumoto Takahiro , Tryk Donald , Iiyama Akihiro , Uchida Hiroyuki
Published: December 2016

The CO-tolerance mechanism of a carbon-supported Pt-Fe alloy catalyst with two atomic layers of stabilized Pt-skin (Pt2AL–PtFe/C) was investigated, in comparison with commercial Pt2Ru3/C (c-Pt2Ru3/C), by in situ attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy in 0.1 M HClO4 solution at 60 °C. When 1% CO (H2-balance) was bubbled continuously in the solution, the hydrogen oxidation reaction (HOR) activities of both catalysts decreased severely because the active sites were blocked by COad, reaching the coverage θCO ≈ 0.99. The bands in the IR spectra observed on both catalysts were successfully assigned to linearly adsorbed CO (COL) and bridged CO (COB), both of which consisted of multiple components (COL or COB at terraces and step/edge sites). The Pt2AL–PtFe/C catalyst lost 99% of its initial mass activity (MA) for the HOR after 30 min, whereas about 10% of the initial MA was maintained on c-Pt2Ru3/C after 2 h, which can be ascribed to a suppression of linearly adsorbed CO at terrace sites (COL, terrace). In contrast, the HOR activities of both catalysts with pre-adsorbed CO recovered appreciably after bubbling with CO-free pure H2. We clarify, for the first time, that such a recovery of activity can be ascribed to an increased number of active sites by a transfer of COL, terrace to COL, step/edge, without removal of COad from the surface. The Pt2AL–PtFe/C catalyst showed a larger decrease in the band intensity of COL, terrace. A possible mechanism for the CO-tolerant HOR is also discussed.
Reversible Single-Crystal-to-Single-Crystal Phase Transition of Chiral Salicylidenephenylethylamine
Authors: Takanabe Akifumi , Katsufuji Takuro , Johmoto Kohei , Uekusa Hidehiro , Shiro Motoo , Koshima Hideko , Asahi Toru
Published: December 2016

The chiral crystal of enantiomeric (S)-N-3,5-di-tert-butylsalicylidene-1-phenylethylamine in the enol form [enol-(S)-1] undergoes a reversible single-crystal-to-single-crystal (SCSC) phase transition at Tc ≈ 3 °C from the room temperature α-form in orthorhombic space group P212121 (Z′ = 1) to the low temperature β-form in the monoclinic space group P21 (Z′ = 2) with a thermal hysteresis of approximately 1.7 °C. A detailed comparison of the crystal structures of the α- and β-forms revealed that the 5-tert-butyl group of one molecule in the asymmetric unit of the β-form rotated by ca. 60°, and the dihedral angle between the phenyl and salicyl planes increased slightly in the β-form crystal. However, the changes in the molecular conformation and packing arrangement are small, which leads to the reversible SCSC phase transition with no destruction of the crystal lattice. The dielectric constant along the b-axis was small, probably due to the weak intermolecular interactions in the crystals.
Modelling Growth of Juvenile Crown-of-Thorns Starfish on the Northern Great Barrier Reef
Authors: Wilmes Jennifer , Matthews Samuel , Schultz Daniel , Messmer Vanessa , Hoey Andrew , Pratchett Morgan
Published: December 2016

The corallivorous crown-of-thorns starfish (Acanthaster spp.) is a major cause of coral mortality on Indo-Pacific reefs. Despite considerable research into the biology of crown-of-thorns starfish, our understanding of the early post-settlement life stage has been hindered by the small size and cryptic nature of recently settled individuals. Most growth rates are derived from either laboratory studies or field studies conducted in Fiji and Japan. The Great Barrier Reef (GBR) is currently experiencing its fourth recorded outbreak and population models to inform the progression of outbreaks lack critical growth rates of early life history stages. High numbers of 0+ year juveniles (n = 3532) were measured during extensive surveys of 64 reefs on the northern GBR between May and December 2015. An exponential growth model was fitted to the size measurement data to estimate monthly ranges of growth rates for 0+ year juveniles. Estimated growth rates varied considerably and increased with age (e.g., 0.028–0.041 mm·day−1 for one-month-old juveniles versus 0.108–0.216 mm·day−1 for twelve-month-old juveniles). This pioneering study of 0+ year juveniles on the GBR will inform population models and form the basis for more rigorous ongoing research to understand the fate of newly settled Acanthaster spp.
Experimental Study on Specific Heat of Concrete at High Temperatures and Its Influence on Thermal Energy Storage
Authors: Pan Jianwen , Zou Renxin , Jin Feng
Published: December 2016

Using concrete as a thermal energy storage (TES) material is a promising option for large-scale solar-thermal resource development and utilization. Specific heat is one of the most important characteristics for TES performance. In this paper, the half-open dynamic method based on the mixing principle is proposed and applied to measure concrete-specific heat at temperatures up to 600 °C. Measurement of the specific heat of corundum ceramic (99% Al2O3) is first performed, and the test results illustrate the accuracy and efficiency of the proposed test method. Furthermore, concrete-specific heat tests are carried out at high temperatures. It found that the specific heat increases as the temperature rises, especially, linearly in the range of 300–600 °C, in which the concrete TES module is expected to be in operation. Finally, the effect of concrete-specific heat changes with temperature on its TES capacity is investigated, demonstrating that specific heat is of great significance for concrete TES design for concentrating solar power.
Evolving Protected-Area Impacts in Mexico: Political Shifts as Suggested by Impact Evaluations
Authors: Pfaff Alexander , Santiago-Ávila Francisco , Joppa Lucas
Published: December 2016

For protected areas (PAs), variation in forest impacts over space—including types of PA—are increasingly well documented, while shifts in impacts over time receive less attention. For Mexico, in the 1990s, PAs effectively were ‘paper parks’. Thus, achieving impacts on the forest would require shifts over time in the politics of PA siting and PA implementation. We rigorously analyze the impacts of Mexican PAs on 2000–2005 loss of natural land cover, using matching to reduce location bias caused by typical land-use economics and politics. We find a 3.2% lower loss, on average, due to PAs. Since politics often vary by type of PA, we also show that in Mexico stricter PAs are closer to cities and have greater impact than mixed-use PAs. These shifts in impacts suggest some potential for PAs to conserve forests.
Brief Counseling on Secondhand Smoke Exposure in Pregnant Women in Argentina and Uruguay
Authors: Alemán Alicia , Morello Paola , Colomar Mercedes , Llambi Laura , Berrueta Mabel , Gibbons Luz , Buekens Pierre , Althabe Fernando
Published: December 2016

Argentina and Uruguay have a high prevalence of smoking during pregnancy, as well as of secondhand smoke (SHS) exposure. In this secondary analysis of a trial to implement brief smoking cessation counseling during antenatal care in Argentina and Uruguay, we aim to evaluate the effects of the intervention on the rates of self-reported SHS exposure at home and at work, and on attitudes recalled by non-smoker women enrolled in the intervention group compared with the control group. We randomly assigned (1:1) 20 antenatal care clusters in Argentina and Uruguay to receive a multifaceted intervention to implement brief smoking cessation counseling, which also included questions and counseling regarding SHS exposure, or to receive the standard of care. There was not a statistically significant difference between groups of the intervention’s effect (reduction of exposure to SHS) on any of the three exposure outcome measures (exposure at home, work or other indoor areas) or on the attitudes of women regarding exposure (avoiding breathing SHS and having rooms where smoking is forbidden). This analysis shows that we should not expect reductions in SHS exposure with this modest intervention alone. To achieve such reductions, strategies engaging partners and other household members may be more effective.
Antiproliferative Effects of Cynara cardunculus L. var. altilis (DC) Lipophilic Extracts
Authors: Ramos Patrícia , Guerra Ângela , Guerreiro Olinda , Santos Sónia , Oliveira Helena , Freire Carmen , Silvestre Armando , Duarte Maria
Published: December 2016

Besides being traditionally used to relieve hepatobiliary disorders, Cynara cardunculus L. has evidenced anticancer potential on triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). This study highlights the antiproliferative effects of lipophilic extracts from C. cardunculus L. var. altilis (DC) leaves and florets, and of their major compounds, namely cynaropicrin and taraxasteryl acetate, against MDA-MB-231 cells. Our results demonstrated that MDA-MB-231 cells were much less resistant to leaves extract (IC50 10.39 µg/mL) than to florets extract (IC50 315.22 µg/mL), during 48 h. Moreover, leaves extract and cynaropicrin (IC50 6.19 µg/mL) suppressed MDA-MB-231 cells colonies formation, via an anchorage-independent growth assay. Leaves extract and cynaropicrin were also assessed regarding their regulation on caspase-3 activity, by using a spectrophotometric assay, and expression levels of G2/mitosis checkpoint and Akt signaling pathway proteins, by Western blotting. Leaves extract increased caspase-3 activity, while cynaropicrin did not affect it. Additionally, they caused p21Waf1/Cip1 upregulation, as well as cyclin B1 and phospho(Tyr15)-CDK1 accumulation, which may be related to G2 cell cycle arrest. They also downregulated phospho(Ser473)-Akt, without changing total Akt1 level. Cynaropicrin probably contributed to leaves extract antiproliferative action. These promising insights suggest that cultivated cardoon leaves lipophilic extract and cynaropicrin may be considered toward a natural-based therapeutic approach on TNBC.
A Case Study for the Welding of Dissimilar EN AW 6082 and EN AW 5083 Aluminum Alloys by Friction Stir Welding
Authors: Kasman Sefika , Kahraman Fatih , Emiralioğlu Anıl , Kahraman Haydar
Published: December 2016

The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of keeping constant the tool rotational speed to the welding speed ratio (υ ratio) on the mechanical properties of the dissimilar friction stir welding of EN AW6082-T6 and EN AW5083-H111. Two different pins shaped as triangular and pentagonal were associated with the constant υ ratio. From the tensile test results, it was found that the υ ratio does not create an evident change in the weld joint strength. The small cavity- and tunnel-type defects were observed at the nugget zone and located on the advancing side of the pin. These defects caused a decrease in the strength and elongation of the weld joint. The most important inference obtained from the experimental results is that if the υ ratio is kept constant, the weld joint strength for each weld does not correspond to a constant value.
The Morphologies of Different Types of Fe2SiO4–FeO in Si-Containing Steel
Authors: Zhou Mingxing , Xu Guang , Hu Haijiang , Yuan Qing , Tian Junyu
Published: December 2016

Red scale defect is known to be mainly caused by net-like Fe2SiO4–FeO. In the present study, the morphology of Fe2SiO4–FeO in a Si-containing steel was investigated by simultaneous thermal analysis, high-temperature laser scanning confocal microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and energy dispersive spectroscopy. Only liquid Fe2SiO4–FeO can form a net-like morphology. Liquid Fe2SiO4–FeO is classified into two types in this work. Type-1 liquid Fe2SiO4–FeO is formed by melting pre-existing solid Fe2SiO4–FeO that already exists before the melting point of Fe2SiO4–FeO. Type-2 liquid Fe2SiO4–FeO is formed at a temperature higher than the melting point of Fe2SiO4–FeO. The results show that type-1 liquid Fe2SiO4–FeO is more likely to form a net-like morphology than is type-2 liquid Fe2SiO4–FeO. The penetration depth of type-1 liquid Fe2SiO4–FeO is also larger at the same oxidation degree. Therefore, type-1 liquid Fe2SiO4–FeO should be avoided in order to eliminate red scale defect. Net-like Fe2SiO4–FeO may be alleviated by two methods: decreasing the oxygen concentration in the heating furnace before the melting point of Fe2SiO4–FeO is reached and increasing the reheating rate before the melting point. In addition, FeO is distributed with a punctiform or lamellar morphology on Fe2SiO4.
Fully Automated Trimethylsilyl (TMS) Derivatisation Protocol for Metabolite Profiling by GC-MS
Authors: Zarate Erica , Boyle Veronica , Rupprecht Udo , Green Saras , Villas-Boas Silas , Baker Philip , Pinu Farhana
Published: December 2016

Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) has long been used for metabolite profiling of a wide range of biological samples. Many derivatisation protocols are already available and among these, trimethylsilyl (TMS) derivatisation is one of the most widely used in metabolomics. However, most TMS methods rely on off-line derivatisation prior to GC-MS analysis. In the case of manual off-line TMS derivatisation, the derivative created is unstable, so reduction in recoveries occurs over time. Thus, derivatisation is carried out in small batches. Here, we present a fully automated TMS derivatisation protocol using robotic autosamplers and we also evaluate a commercial software, Maestro available from Gerstel GmbH. Because of automation, there was no waiting time of derivatised samples on the autosamplers, thus reducing degradation of unstable metabolites. Moreover, this method allowed us to overlap samples and improved throughputs. We compared data obtained from both manual and automated TMS methods performed on three different matrices, including standard mix, wine, and plasma samples. The automated TMS method showed better reproducibility and higher peak intensity for most of the identified metabolites than the manual derivatisation method. We also validated the automated method using 114 quality control plasma samples. Additionally, we showed that this online method was highly reproducible for most of the metabolites detected and identified (RSD < 20) and specifically achieved excellent results for sugars, sugar alcohols, and some organic acids. To the very best of our knowledge, this is the first time that the automated TMS method has been applied to analyse a large number of complex plasma samples. Furthermore, we found that this method was highly applicable for routine metabolite profiling (both targeted and untargeted) in any metabolomics laboratory.
The Effects of Destruxin A on Relish and Rel Gene Regulation to the Suspected Immune-Related Genes of Silkworm
Authors: Hu Weina , He Guangwei , Wang Jingjing , Hu Qiongbo
Published: December 2016

Destruxin A (DA), a cyclodepsipeptidic mycotoxin of entomopathogenic fungus, Metarhizium anisopliae, has anti-immunity activity against insects, but the mechanism of immune regulation is not clear yet. In our previous experiment, the significant expression changes of Bm_nscaf2838_045, Bm_nscaf2674_066, and Bm_nscaf2767_133 genes in a silkworm’s hemocytes were found, which suggested that these genes might be involved in insect’s innate immunity. In the current experiment, the silkworm cell line Bm12 was used to survey the expression levels of these genes after the cells were treated with DA and the transcription factors BmRel, BmRelish1 and BmRelish2 were silenced by specific siRNA. The results indicated that, after the cells were treated by DA, the gene expression level of BmRelish2 was significantly downregulated, but BmRel and BmRelish1 were not changed. The results also showed that the gene expression levels of Bm_nscaf2838_045 and Bm_nscaf2674_066 had similar phenomena, i.e., downregulation with individual BmRelish1 gene silence or DA treatment, upregulation with combination of BmRelish1 gene silence and DA treatment, upregulation with individual BmRelish2 gene silence, and downregulation with combination of BmRelish2 gene silence plus DA treatment, but no changes in the BmRel gene silence combined with DA treatment. For the Bm_nscaf2767_133 gene, the downregulated expressions were found in individual BmRelish2 gene silence or DA treatment, upregulation in the combination treatment of BmRelish2 gene silence plus DA, and the individual treatment of BmRel or BmRelish1 silence. It is suggested that expressions of the Bm_nscaf2838_045 and Bm_nscaf2674_066 genes are closely related to the Imd signal pathway, but Bm_nscaf2767_133 genes might involve in both Toll and Imd pathways. Furthermore, the BmRelish1 gene acts as an activator and the BmRelish2 gene acts as a repressor for both Bm_nscaf2838_045 and Bm_nscaf2674_066 gene expressions. It also implies that DA may participate in the splicing process of BmRelish where BmRelish2 was promoted. Our research will provide new insights on the understanding of the activity mechanisms of destruxins.
Isolation of CHS Gene from Brunfelsia acuminata Flowers and Its Regulation in Anthocyanin Biosysthesis
Authors: Li Min , Cao Yu-Ting , Ye Si-Rui , Irshad Muhammad , Pan Teng-Fei , Qiu Dong-Liang
Published: December 2016

Chalcone synthase gene (BaCHS) from Brunfelsia acuminata flowers was isolated using RT-PCR and RACE. The coding region of the gene is 1425-bp with an open reading frame of 1170-bp, 73-bp 5′UTR, and 172-bp 3′UTR. Its deduced protein does not have a signal peptide but does contain a cond_enzyme superfamily domain, and consists of 389 amino acids with a predicted molecular mass of 42,699 Da and a pI of 6.57. The deduced amino acid sequence of BaCHS shares 90%, 88%, 85%, 84% and 79% identity with CHS from Petunia hybrida, Nicotiana tabacum, Solanum lycopersicum, Capsicum annuum and Camellia sinensis, respectively. The striking color change from dark purple to light purple and ultimately lead to pure white resulted from a decline in anthocyanin content of the petals and was preceded by a decrease in the expression of BaCHS. Its gene expression was positively correlated with the contents of anthocyanin (p ≤ 0.01).
Potential of ALOS2 and NDVI to Estimate Forest Above-Ground Biomass, and Comparison with Lidar-Derived Estimates
Authors: Vaglio Laurin Gaia , Pirotti Francesco , Callegari Mattia , Chen Qi , Cuozzo Giovanni , Lingua Emanuele , Notarnicola Claudia , Papale Dario
Published: December 2016

Remote sensing supports carbon estimation, allowing the upscaling of field measurements to large extents. Lidar is considered the premier instrument to estimate above ground biomass, but data are expensive and collected on-demand, with limited spatial and temporal coverage. The previous JERS and ALOS SAR satellites data were extensively employed to model forest biomass, with literature suggesting signal saturation at low-moderate biomass values, and an influence of plot size on estimates accuracy. The ALOS2 continuity mission since May 2014 produces data with improved features with respect to the former ALOS, such as increased spatial resolution and reduced revisit time. We used ALOS2 backscatter data, testing also the integration with additional features (SAR textures and NDVI from Landsat 8 data) together with ground truth, to model and map above ground biomass in two mixed forest sites: Tahoe (California) and Asiago (Alps). While texture was useful to improve the model performance, the best model was obtained using joined SAR and NDVI (R2 equal to 0.66). In this model, only a slight saturation was observed, at higher levels than what usually reported in literature for SAR; the trend requires further investigation but the model confirmed the complementarity of optical and SAR datatypes. For comparison purposes, we also generated a biomass map for Asiago using lidar data, and considered a previous lidar-based study for Tahoe; in these areas, the observed R2 were 0.92 for Tahoe and 0.75 for Asiago, respectively. The quantitative comparison of the carbon stocks obtained with the two methods allows discussion of sensor suitability. The range of local variation captured by lidar is higher than those by SAR and NDVI, with the latter showing overestimation. However, this overestimation is very limited for one of the study areas, suggesting that when the purpose is the overall quantification of the stored carbon, especially in areas with high carbon density, satellite data with lower cost and broad coverage can be as effective as lidar.
Honey Bee Colonies Remote Monitoring System
Authors: Gil-Lebrero Sergio , Quiles-Latorre Francisco , Ortiz-López Manuel , Sánchez-Ruiz Víctor , Gámiz-López Victoria , Luna-Rodríguez Juan
Published: December 2016

Bees are very important for terrestrial ecosystems and, above all, for the subsistence of many crops, due to their ability to pollinate flowers. Currently, the honey bee populations are decreasing due to colony collapse disorder (CCD). The reasons for CCD are not fully known, and as a result, it is essential to obtain all possible information on the environmental conditions surrounding the beehives. On the other hand, it is important to carry out such information gathering as non-intrusively as possible to avoid modifying the bees’ work conditions and to obtain more reliable data. We designed a wireless-sensor networks meet these requirements. We designed a remote monitoring system (called WBee) based on a hierarchical three-level model formed by the wireless node, a local data server, and a cloud data server. WBee is a low-cost, fully scalable, easily deployable system with regard to the number and types of sensors and the number of hives and their geographical distribution. WBee saves the data in each of the levels if there are failures in communication. In addition, the nodes include a backup battery, which allows for further data acquisition and storage in the event of a power outage. Unlike other systems that monitor a single point of a hive, the system we present monitors and stores the temperature and relative humidity of the beehive in three different spots. Additionally, the hive is continuously weighed on a weighing scale. Real-time weight measurement is an innovation in wireless beehive—monitoring systems. We designed an adaptation board to facilitate the connection of the sensors to the node. Through the Internet, researchers and beekeepers can access the cloud data server to find out the condition of their hives in real time.
Target Detection over the Diurnal Cycle Using a Multispectral Infrared Sensor
Authors: Zhao Huijie , Ji Zheng , Li Na , Gu Jianrong , Li Yansong
Published: December 2016

When detecting a target over the diurnal cycle, a conventional infrared thermal sensor might lose the target due to the thermal crossover, which could happen at any time throughout the day when the infrared image contrast between target and background in a scene is indistinguishable due to the temperature variation. In this paper, the benefits of using a multispectral-based infrared sensor over the diurnal cycle have been shown. Firstly, a brief theoretical analysis on how the thermal crossover influences a conventional thermal sensor, within the conditions where the thermal crossover would happen and why the mid-infrared (3~5 μm) multispectral technology is effective, is presented. Furthermore, the effectiveness of this technology is also described and we describe how the prototype design and multispectral technology is employed to help solve the thermal crossover detection problem. Thirdly, several targets are set up outside and imaged in the field experiment over a 24-h period. The experimental results show that the multispectral infrared imaging system can enhance the contrast of the detected images and effectively solve the failure of the conventional infrared sensor during the diurnal cycle, which is of great significance for infrared surveillance applications.
Design of a Mobile Low-Cost Sensor Network Using Urban Buses for Real-Time Ubiquitous Noise Monitoring
Authors: Alsina-Pagès Rosa , Hernandez-Jayo Unai , Alías Francesc , Angulo Ignacio
Published: December 2016

One of the main priorities of smart cities is improving the quality of life of their inhabitants. Traffic noise is one of the pollutant sources that causes a negative impact on the quality of life of citizens, which is gaining attention among authorities. The European Commission has promoted the Environmental Noise Directive 2002/49/EC (END) to inform citizens and to prevent the harmful effects of noise exposure. The measure of acoustic levels using noise maps is a strategic issue in the END action plan. Noise maps are typically calculated by computing the average noise during one year and updated every five years. Hence, the implementation of dynamic noise mapping systems could lead to short-term plan actions, besides helping to better understand the evolution of noise levels along time. Recently, some projects have started the monitoring of noise levels in urban areas by means of acoustic sensor networks settled in strategic locations across the city, while others have taken advantage of collaborative citizen sensing mobile applications. In this paper, we describe the design of an acoustic low-cost sensor network installed on public buses to measure the traffic noise in the city in real time. Moreover, the challenges that a ubiquitous bus acoustic measurement system entails are enumerated and discussed. Specifically, the analysis takes into account the feature extraction of the audio signal, the identification and separation of the road traffic noise from urban traffic noise, the hardware platform to measure and process the acoustic signal, the connectivity between the several nodes of the acoustic sensor network to store the data and, finally, the noise maps’ generation process. The implementation and evaluation of the proposal in a real-life scenario is left for future work.
Odor-Sensing System to Support Social Participation of People Suffering from Incontinence
Authors: Ortiz Pérez Alvaro , Kallfaß-de Frenes Vera , Filbert Alexander , Kneer Janosch , Bierer Benedikt , Held Pirmin , Klein Philipp , Wöllenstein Jürgen , Benyoucef Dirk , Kallfaß Sigrid , Mescheder Ulrich , Palzer Stefan
Published: December 2016

This manuscript describes the design considerations, implementation, and laboratory validation of an odor sensing module whose purpose is to support people that suffer from incontinence. Because of the requirements expressed by the affected end-users the odor sensing unit is realized as a portable accessory that may be connected to any pre-existing smart device. We have opted for a low-cost, low-power consuming metal oxide based gas detection approach to highlight the viability of developing an inexpensive yet helpful odor recognition technology. The system consists of a hotplate employing, inkjet-printed p-type semiconducting layers of copper(II) oxide, and chromium titanium oxide. Both functional layers are characterized with respect to their gas-sensitive behavior towards humidity, ammonia, methylmercaptan, and dimethylsulfide and we demonstrate detection limits in the parts-per-billion range for the two latter gases. Employing a temperature variation scheme that reads out the layer’s resistivity in a steady-state, we use each sensor chip as a virtual array. With this setup, we demonstrate the feasibility of detecting odors associated with incontinence.
Empirical Prediction of Turnovers in NFL Football
Authors: Bock Joel
Published: December 2016

Turnovers in the National Football League (NFL) occur whenever a team loses possession of the ball due to a fumble, or an interception. Turnovers disrupt momentum of the offensive team, and represent lost opportunities to advance downfield and score. Teams with a positive differential turnover margin in a given game win 70 % of the time. Turnovers are statistically rare events, occurring apparently randomly. These characteristics make them difficult to predict. This investigation advances the hypothesis that turnovers are predictable in NFL football. Machine learning models are developed to learn the concept: At any point within a football game, what is the likelihood that a turnover will be observed on the next play from scrimmage? NFL play-by-play data for 32 teams spanning seven full seasons were used to train the models. Results presented suggest evidence to support the working hypothesis. Under certain conditions, both fumbles and interceptions can be anticipated at low false discovery rates (less than 15 % ). When a turnover is predicted on the impending play from scrimmage, a high degree of confidence is associated with that prediction. The ability to anticipate catastrophic in-game events may lead to their management and control, ultimately improving the performance of individual athletes and their teams. This investigation contributes to the sports science literature by demonstrating the predictability of in-game events often considered to be essentially random in their occurrence. To the author’s knowledge, direct prediction of turnovers has not previously appeared in the literature, which has focused on retrospective statistical analyses of turnover margin in football games.