bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Proteomic Analysis Reveals CACN-1 Is a Component of the Spliceosome inCaenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Doherty Michael F , Adelmant Guillaume , Cecchetelli Alyssa D , Marto Jarrod A , Cram Erin J
Published: August 2014

Cell migration is essential for embryonic development and tissue formation in all animals. cacn-1 is a conserved gene of unknown molecular function identified in a genome-wide screen for genes that regulate distal tip cell migration in the nematode worm Caenorhabditis elegans. In this study we take a proteomics approach to understand CACN-1 function. To isolate CACN-1−interacting proteins, we used an in vivo tandem-affinity purification strategy. Tandem-affinity purification−tagged CACN-1 complexes were isolated from C. elegans lysate, analyzed by mass spectrometry, and characterized bioinformatically. Results suggest significant interaction of CACN-1 with the C. elegans spliceosome. All of the identified interactors were screened for distal tip cell migration phenotypes using RNAi. Depletion of many of these factors led to distal tip cell migration defects, particularly a failure to stop migrating, a phenotype commonly seen in cacn-1 deficient animals. The results of this screen identify eight novel regulators of cell migration and suggest CACN-1 may participate in a protein network dedicated to high-fidelity gonad development. The composition of proteins comprising the CACN-1 network suggests that this critical developmental module may exert its influence through alternative splicing or other post-transcriptional gene regulation.
Defining threshold values for pavement surface characteristics
Authors: Papageorgiou Grigorios , Mouratidis Anastasios
Published: August 2014

In the context of a rational road management strategy, pavement surface characteristics, which significantly affect comfort and safety, have to be adequately monitored and appraised in the frame of routine or preventive maintenance activities. Pavement characteristics are commonly monitored by the use of appropriate devices and evaluated by the assessment method in force. Equipment and methods may vary from one country to another or even from one highway agency to another. Undeniably, the recently elaborated and published European norms provide a reliable basis for identifying pavement properties. There still remains, however, the major issue of threshold values of pavement characteristics, which indicate the performance requirements to be fulfilled at each stage of a road's lifetime. Moreover, this issue arises not only at the operational stage of a road but also much earlier, upon completion of construction. In this paper, a systematic approach for minimum requirements of pavement condition at the initial stage of a road's lifetime is presented and threshold values of pavement characteristics are introduced. The roadway structure is represented by three major components (skid resistance, evenness, rutting) that illustrate the overall pavement surface condition. At the ‘opening to traffic' stage, the road authority or operator should specify suitable values for these pavement characteristics and this is an important issue that raises various questions. How can one define these values at the very beginning of a road's lifetime when the overall condition is practically perfect? What may be the beneficial input of effectively defining these threshold values to the highway operator? The main concept presented here is to proceed to maintenance operations once all three pavement characteristics drop below limit acceptance values. The establishment of acceptance criteria for these characteristics at the operational stage of the road and the formulation of adequate relationships for the development of pavement condition under traffic then lead to initial requirements of threshold values for the sideways force coefficient (skid resistance) and international roughness index (evenness) for main and secondary networks.
Water flow and fin shape polymorphism in coral reef fishes
Authors: Binning Sandra A. , Roche Dominique G.
Published: August 2014

Water flow gradients have been linked to phenotypic differences and swimming performance across a variety of fish assemblages. However, the extent to which water motion shapes patterns of phenotypic divergence within species remains unknown. We tested the generality of the functional relationship between swimming morphology and water flow by exploring the extent of fin and body shape polymorphism in 12 widespread species from three families (Acanthuridae, Labridae, Pomacentridae) of pectoral‐fin swimming (labriform) fishes living across localized wave exposure gradients. The pectoral fin shape of Labridae and Acanthuridae species was strongly related to wave exposure: individuals with more tapered, higher aspect ratio (AR) fins were found on windward reef crests, whereas individuals with rounder, lower AR fins were found on leeward, sheltered reefs. Three of seven Pomacentridae species showed similar trends, and pectoral fin shape was also strongly related to wave exposure in pomacentrids when fin aspect ratios of three species were compared across flow habitats at very small spatial scales (<100 m) along a reef profile (reef slope, crest, and back lagoon). Unlike fin shape, there were no intraspecific differences in fish body fineness ratio across habitats or depths. Contrary to our predictions, there was no pattern relating species' abundances to polymorphism across habitats (i.e., abundance was not higher at sites where morphology is better adapted to the environment). This suggests that there are behavioral and/or physiological mechanisms enabling some species to persist across flow habitats in the absence of morphological differences. We suggest that functional relationships between swimming morphology and water flow not only structure species assemblages, but are yet another important variable contributing to phenotypic differences within species. The close links between fin shape polymorphism and local water flow conditions appear to be important for understanding species' distributions as well as patterns of diversification across environmental gradients.
Using Vignettes to Tap Into Moral Reasoning in Public Health Policy: Practical Advice and Design Principles From a Study on Food Advertising to Children
Authors: Mah Catherine L. , Taylor Emily , Hoang Sylvia , Cook Brian
Published: August 2014

In this article, we describe a process for designing and applying vignettes in public health policy research and practice. We developed this methodology for a study on moral reasoning underpinning policy debate on food advertising to children.

Using vignettes prompted policy actors who were relatively entrenched in particular ways of speaking professionally about a controversial and ethically challenging issue to converse in a more authentic and reflective way.

Vignettes hold benefits and complexities. They can focus attention on moral conflicts, draw out different types of evidence to support moral reasoning, and enable simultaneous consideration of real and ideal worlds. We suggest a process and recommendations on design features for crafting vignettes for public health policy.
Sexual Orientation, Adult Connectedness, Substance Use, and Mental Health Outcomes Among Adolescents: Findings From the 2009 New York City Youth Risk Behavior Survey
Authors: Seil Kacie S. , Desai Mayur M. , Smith Megan V.
Published: August 2014

Objectives. We examined associations between identifying as lesbian, gay, or bisexual (LGB) and lacking a connection with an adult at school on adolescent substance use and mental health outcomes including suicidality.

Methods. We analyzed data from the 2009 New York City Youth Risk Behavior Survey (n = 8910). Outcomes of interest included alcohol use, marijuana use, illicit drug use, depressive symptomatology, suicide ideation, and suicide attempt.

Results. The prevalence of each outcome was significantly higher among LGB adolescents than heterosexual adolescents and among those who lacked an adult connection at school than among those who did have such a connection. Even when LGB adolescents had an adult connection at school, their odds of most outcomes were significantly higher than for heterosexual adolescents. Those LGB adolescents who lacked a school adult connection had the poorest outcomes (about 45% reported suicide ideation; 31% suicide attempt).

Conclusions. Adolescents who are LGB, particularly those who lack a connection with school adults, are at high risk for substance use and poorer mental health outcomes. Interventions should focus on boosting social support and improving outcomes for this vulnerable group.
A Framework for Evaluating the Impact of Obesity Prevention Strategies on Socioeconomic Inequalities in Weight
Authors: Backholer Kathryn , Beauchamp Alison , Ball Kylie , Turrell Gavin , Martin Jane , Woods Julie , Peeters Anna
Published: August 2014

We developed a theoretical framework to organize obesity prevention interventions by their likely impact on the socioeconomic gradient of weight. The degree to which an intervention involves individual agency versus structural change influences socioeconomic inequalities in weight. Agentic interventions, such as standalone social marketing, increase socioeconomic inequalities. Structural interventions, such as food procurement policies and restrictions on unhealthy foods in schools, show equal or greater benefit for lower socioeconomic groups. Many obesity prevention interventions belong to the agento–structural types of interventions, and account for the environment in which health behaviors occur, but they require a level of individual agency for behavioral change, including workplace design to encourage exercise and fiscal regulation of unhealthy foods or beverages. Obesity prevention interventions differ in their effectiveness across socioeconomic groups. Limiting further increases in socioeconomic inequalities in obesity requires implementation of structural interventions. Further empirical evaluation, especially of agento–structural type interventions, remains crucial.
Impact of an Exercise Intervention on Physical Activity During Pregnancy: The Behaviors Affecting Baby and You Study
Authors: Hawkins Marquis , Chasan-Taber Lisa , Marcus Bess , Stanek Edward , Braun Barry , Ciccolo Joe , Markenson Glenn
Published: August 2014

Objectives. We examined the impact of a prenatal exercise intervention on physical activity in 260 women at risk for gestational diabetes mellitus.

Methods. We randomized participants in the Behaviors Affecting Baby and You (BABY) Study, which took place from 2007 to 2012, to either a 12-week individually tailored, motivationally matched exercise intervention (n = 132) or to a comparison health and wellness intervention (n = 128). We assessed physical activity with the Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire. We used linear mixed models to evaluate the impact of the interventions on change in physical activity according to intensity and type, total walking, and sedentary behavior.

Results. Compared with the health and wellness arm, the exercise arm had significantly greater increases in sports or exercise activity (0.3 vs 5.3 metabolic equivalent of task [MET] hours/week; P < .001), and smaller declines in total activity (–42.7 vs –2.1 MET hours/week; P = .02) and activities of moderate to vigorous intensity (–30.6 vs −10.6 MET hours/week; P = .05), and was more likely to achieve recommended guidelines for physical activity (odds ratio = 2.12; 95% confidence interval = 1.45, 3.10).

Conclusions. These findings extend the previous literature by demonstrating the benefits of a clinically feasible exercise intervention in an ethnically and socio-economically diverse population. Given the increased risk of adverse maternal health outcomes in ethnic minority groups, these findings may have important implications for reducing health disparities.
The Alcohol Policy Environment and Policy Subgroups as Predictors of Binge Drinking Measures Among US Adults
Authors: Xuan Ziming , Blanchette Jason , Nelson Toben F. , Heeren Timothy , Oussayef Nadia , Naimi Timothy S.
Published: August 2014

Objectives. We examined the relationships of the state-level alcohol policy environment and policy subgroups with individual-level binge drinking measures.

Methods. We used generalized estimating equations regression models to relate the alcohol policy environment based on data from 29 policies in US states from 2004 to 2009 to 3 binge drinking measures in adults from the 2005 to 2010 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System surveys.

Results. A 10 percentage point higher alcohol policy environment score, which reflected increased policy effectiveness and implementation, was associated with an 8% lower adjusted odds of binge drinking and binge drinking 5 or more times, and a 10% lower adjusted odds of consuming 10 or more drinks. Policies that targeted the general population rather than the underage population, alcohol consumption rather than impaired driving, and raising the price or reducing the availability of alcohol had the strongest independent associations with reduced binge drinking. Alcohol taxes and outlet density accounted for approximately half of the effect magnitude observed for all policies.

Conclusions. A small number of policies that raised alcohol prices and reduced its availability appeared to affect binge drinking.
Epigenome: Biosensor of Cumulative Exposure to Chemical and Nonchemical Stressors Related to Environmental Justice
Authors: Olden Kenneth , Lin Yu-Sheng , Gruber David , Sonawane Babasaheb
Published: August 2014

Understanding differential disease susceptibility requires new tools to quantify the cumulative effects of environmental stress. Evidence suggests that social, physical, and chemical stressors can influence disease through the accumulation of epigenetic modifications.

Geographically stable epigenetic alterations could identify plausible mechanisms for health disparities among the disadvantaged and poor. Relations between neighborhood-specific epigenetic markers and disease would identify the most appropriate targets for medical and environmental intervention. Complex interactions among genes, the environment, and disease require the examination of how epigenetic changes regulate susceptibility to environmental stressors. Progress in understanding disparities in disease susceptibility may depend on assessing the cumulative effect of environmental stressors on genetic substrates.

We highlight key concepts regarding the interface between environmental stress, epigenetics, and chronic disease.
Diversity of Microscopic Fungi in the Raw Milk from Latvian Organic Farms
Authors: Gulbe Gundega , Valdovska Anda
Published: August 2014

Raw milk is an ideal growth medium for microorganisms (including many fungal species), as such milk provides all necessary nutrients and conditions for their growth. The objective of the present study was to investigate the diversity of microscopic fungi in the milk obtained in Latvian organic farms depending on cow herd size and season. The study was carried out on 547 milk samples taken from 14 organic dairy farms from December 2011 to November 2012. The farms were divided into three groups according to herd size: small (S - 3-30 cows per shed), medium (M – 31–60 cows per shed), and large (L – 61–120 cows per shed). Milk samples from all four quarters in the same sampling tube were studied. Yeasts and moulds were found in 63.1% and 44.2% of samples, respectively. The identified mould strains belonged to 15 genera - most frequently to Absidia, Aspergillus, Apophysomyces, Mucor, Penicillium, and Rhizopus spp. The highest occurrence of yeasts and moulds was in L herds (73.6% and 50.9%, respectively). Also, milk samples from L herds had the greatest degree of yeast and mould contamination (5.3 and 2.8 log CFU mL-1, respectively). It was found that the occurrence of yeasts was similar by seasons (54.9–68.9%), varying from 5.5 log CFU mL-1 in winter to 2.1–3.3 log CFU mL-1 in other seasons. The occurrence of moulds was the highest in spring (61.6%) and autumn (58.5%), but in winter and summer it was twice lower. The milk samples obtained in winter and summer contained more mould colonies (2.7 and 2.5 log CFU mL-1, respectively) than those obtained in spring and autumn (1.8–1.3 log CFU mL-1, respectively).
Low dose computerized tomography examinations of coronary occlusive disease
Authors: Mladenovic Ana , Markovic Zeljko , Radenković Sandra , Orbovic Bojana , Mirčetić Vladimir , Tomašek Goran
Published: August 2014

Background: The aim of this study was to present an original technique of low-dose coronary computerized tomographyangiography (CCTA) for the evaluation and early diagnosis of coronary occlusive disease (COD) and to compare from this technique of CCTA with those resulting from the latest conventional angiography and multidetector computerized tomography units. Methodology: The study included 820 CCTA exams of patients with COD (average age 61 +/− 7 years), with a follow-up exam in 204 male (39%) and 62 female (20%) patients with hemodynamically insignificant coronary occlusion. Exams were performed using a 64-slice computerized tomography (CT) unit using electrocardiography (ECG)-triggering and individual settings (voltage of the x-ray tube and effective tube-current) based on each patient’s body mass index. Exponential dose for each exam was defined. Results:There was a statistically significant progression in the number of patients in whom occlusion of one of 3 coronary arteries occurred in hemodynamically significant occlusive disease (occlusion of more than 50% of lumen) — 60 of 204 males and 12 of 62 females (p<0.0001 and p<0.001). The mid-effective radiation dose during CCTA exams was 1.9+/-0.7mSv (range of 0.9 to 3.9 mSv). Conclusion: Prospective ECG-triggering allowed for low-dose CCTA exams while still enabling high diagnostic accuracy in evaluating patients with COD. The technique used in this study resulted in 2 times less the exponential dose than conventional angiography.
Involvement of melatonin applied to Vigna radiata L. seeds in plant response to chilling stress
Authors: Szafrańska Katarzyna , Szewczyk Rafał , Janas Krystyna
Published: August 2014

The impact of melatonin (50 µM L−1) applied to Vigna radiata seeds by hydro-priming on phenolic content, L-phenylalanine ammonialyase (PAL) activity, MEL level, antioxidant properties of ethanol extracts as well as electrolyte leakage from chilled and re-warmed Vigna radiata roots of seedlings were examined. Seedlings obtained from non-primed seeds, hydro-primed and hydro-primed with MEL were investigated after 2 days of chilling and 2 days of re-warming. At 25°C, the level of MEL in roots derived from seeds hydro-primed with MEL was 7-fold higher than in roots derived from non-primed seeds. However, the content of MEL significantly decreased in all variants investigated after re-warming, in contrast to PAL activity and phenolic levels, which reached the highest values. The antioxidant capacity of ethanol extracts from chilled and re-warmed roots, determined by ABTS+· assay, was correlated with phenolic content while the reducing ability of these extracts, determined by the FRAP method, correlated with PAL activity. However, both were the highest in rewarmed roots with applied MEL, which was accompanied by a significant decline in electrolyte leakage. Taken together, results may indicate that MEL can play a positive role in plant acclimation to stressful conditions and activation of phenolic pathway by this molecule.
Effect of ELF-EMF on antioxidant status and micronuclei in K562 cells and normal lymphocytes
Authors: Srdjenovic Branislava , Mrdjanovic Jasminka , Galovic Aleksandra , Kladar Nebojsa , Bozin Biljana , Jurisic Vladimir , Bogdanovic Gordana
Published: August 2014

The effect of ELF-EMF on DNA through changes in antioxidative enzyme activities has not been sufficiently explored yet. The aim of this study was to determine ELF-EMF effect on antioxidative enzymes in cancer cell line and genotoxic potential on normal human lymphocytes. K562 cells were exposed to 50 Hz ELF-EMF (40 μT, 100 μT; 3 h, 24 h) and spectrophotometric determination of lipid peroxidation and antioxidative enzyme activities was conducted. Genotoxicity of ELF-EMF (50 Hz, 100 μT) was investigated by cytokinesis-block micronucleus assay in a normal human lymphocytes (exposure 24 h and 48 h). Results demonstrated that ELF-EMF did not alter the process of lipid peroxidation and superoxide dismutase activity. Catalase activity was increased only after application of 100 μT EMF for 24 h. Glutathione-S-transferase and -reductase activities were increased. Treatment with 100 μT ELF-EMF (24 h, 48 h) significantly reduced micronuclei incidence, while cell proliferation was significantly increased. Results indicate that 50 Hz ELF-EMF (40 μT, 100 μT) are week stressors which alone cannot generate enough ROS to induce process of lipid peroxidation in cancer cell line but strong enough to induce response of antioxidative system. Furthermore, 100 μT ELF-EMF in human lymphocytes did not exhibit genotoxic potential during 24 h and 48 h treatment, but stimulated cell proliferation.
Effects of smoke water and karrikin on seed germination of 13 species growing in China
Authors: Zhou Junfang , Teixeira da Silva Jaime , Ma Guohua
Published: August 2014

Plant-derived smoke water (SW), derived from combusted plant material, has been shown to stimulate seed germination and improve seedling vigor of a number of plant species from fire-dependent Mediterranean-type climate areas. The effects of SW on seed germination of 13 plant species from southern tropical and subtropical monsoon climate regions of South China are reported for the first time in this study using laboratory and pot trials. Among the 13 species tested, only Aristolochia debilis showed a significant positive response to commercial SW when diluted 1:10. Seed germination of A. debilis was also stimulated by 1–100 nM 3-methyl-2H-furo [2, 3-c] pyran-2-one (karrikin 1 or KAR1) and by 10–1000 µM gibberellic acid (GA3). GA3 stimulated seed germination of Santalum album and significantly elongated the radicles of A. debilis while SW could not. The functions and/or metabolic pathways of Kar1 and GA3 are likely to be separate and/or distinct.
Water salinity effects on embryogenesis of the lesser sandeel, Ammodytes tobianus (Linnaeus, 1758)
Authors: Bonisławska Małgorzata , Tański Adam , Szulc Joanna , Machula Sylwia , Formicki Krzysztof
Published: August 2014

Effects of water salinity (3.0–9.0 PSU) on the duration and outcome of embryogenesis in the lesser sandeel (Ammodytes tobianus (L.) as well as on survival, size, and malformation rate of the newly hatched larvae were followed, based on observations involving equipment consisting of a microscope and still and digital cameras. The images obtained and measurements of egg and larval dimensions were analyzed using the NIS elements Br. computer software package. The lowest salinity tested (3.0 PSU), similar to that in the inshore Baltic Sea waters native for the species studied, produced a lower fertilization rate and resulted in extended embryogenesis, reduced embryo survival, changes in the hatch size, and increased larval malformation rate. The high-end salinity (7.5–9.0 PSU), higher than that prevailing in the species’s spawning grounds in the Baltic Sea, resulted — similarly to the low-end salinity — in disturbed development and growth of the embryos.
Analysis of benthic macroinvertebrate communities from the Lower sections of Large river in relation to different environmental factors
Authors: Krepski Tomasz , Pilecka-Rapacz Małgorzata , Czerniawski Robert , Domagała Józef
Published: August 2014

The aim of this study was to make a comparative analysis of macrozoobenthos composition at different sites at selected sections of lower the Odra River with relation to different physicochemical factors. The observations were made on the lower section of Odra River at five study sites: two of them were localized in the main channel, one in the left branch of river, another one in the channel carrying post-cooling water from Dolna Odra power plant, and the last one was in the channel connecting both branches of Odra River. At all sites, 26 taxa were found representing by: Bivalvia, Gastropoda, Oligochaeta, Hirudinea, Malacostraca and Insecta. The greatest biodiversity and the highest abundance of zoobenthos organisms were noted in the channel joining the two branches of the river, site 5, characterised by the lowest water flow rates and the densest coverage of the macrophytes at the bottom. Temperature was the sole parameter to be studied that affected the composition of benthic invertebrates. A clearly negative impact of temperature on the diversity of invertebrates was observed only in the channel with post-cooling water discharged from the power plant.
Observations on oocyst development of Eimeria stiedai in rabbits
Authors: Ball Stanley , Pittilo Micheal , Snow Keith
Published: August 2014

The formation of the oocyst wall was examined in Eimeria stiedai in the bile duct epithelium of the rabbit and was found to follow the general eimerian pattern. However from the beginning of the formation of the outer layer of the oocyst wall the parasite was surrounded by a rarely reported veil membrane. Cell damage of the bile ducts at the gamogony stage of parasite development is depicted.
Ocular system involvement in the course of human trichinellosis. Pathological and diagnostic aspects
Authors: Kocięcki Jarosław , Czaplicka Ewa , Kocięcka Wanda
Published: August 2014

Pathomechanism of lesions in the course of trichinellosis was discussed, representing a sum of immunopathologicaI, pathomorphological and biochemical phenomena. Particular attention was devoted to clinical pathology of the visual organ, which prevails at the acute stage of trichinellosis. In evaluation of clinical signs/symptoms manifested in the visual organ traits of its anatomic, morphological structure, function of the eyeball muscles and eyeball vascular system were taken into account. Ocular lesions in the course of trichinellosis reflect in principle angiomyositis due to immunopathology resulting from migration of Trichinella larvae to many organs and to structures of visual system.
Transcranial magnetic stimulation modulates left premotor cortex activity in facial expression recognition as a function of anxiety level
Authors: Balconi Michela , Canavesio Ylenia , Finocchiaro Roberta
Published: August 2014

Recognition of emotional facial expressions is based on simulation and mirroring processes, and the premotor cortex is supposed to support this simulation mechanism. The role of this prefrontal area in processing emotional faces with different valence (anger, fear, happiness and neutral) was explored taking into account the effect of the lateralization model (more right-side activation for negative emotions; more left-side activation for positive emotions) of face processing and anxiety level (high vs low). High-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS, 10 Hz) was applied to the left prefrontal area to induce an increased activation response within the left premotor cortex. Twenty-nine subjects, who were divided into two different groups depending on their anxiety level (high/low anxiety; State-Trait-Anxiety Inventory (STAI), were asked to detect emotion / no emotion. Accuracy (AcI) and response times (RTs) were considered in response to the experimental conditions. A general significant increased performance was found in response to positive emotions in the case of left-side stimulation. Moreover, whereas high-anxiety subjects revealed a significant negative-valence bias in absence of stimulation, they showed a more significant AcI increasing and RTs decreasing in response to positive emotions in case of left premotor brain activation. The present results highlight the role of the premotor system for facial expression processing as a function of emotional type, supporting the existence of a valence-specific lateralized system within the prefrontal area. Finally, a sort of “restoring effect” induced by TMS was suggested for high-anxiety subjects.
Anosognosia for hemianesthesia: from the syndrome to tactile awareness
Authors: Pia Lorenzo , Cavallo Marco , Garbarini Francesca
Published: August 2014

Patients with a neurologically based loss of tactile processing on the contralesional side of the body can firmly deny the deficit (i.e., anosognosia for hemianesthesia). Previous studies attempted to feature the disease in both clinical and anatomo-functional terms. However, the picture is still incomplete and, most importantly, to date it is unclear whether and to which extent it can shed light on the mechanisms subserving tactile processing in the intact brain. Here we will briefly review the literature and we will put forward a possible anatomo-functional interpretation of anosognosia for hemianesthesia.
The ex-factor: Characteristics of online and offline post-relationship contact and tracking among Canadian emerging adults
Authors: Lee Brenda H. , O'Sullivan Lucia F.
Published: August 2014

The breakup of an intimate relationship is a highly distressing event among emerging adults (Cutler, Glaeser, Norberg, 2001) and can often be accompanied by difficulty adjusting to the loss and “letting go” (Mearns, 1991). Research on stalking and cyberstalking behaviours address criminal activities that incite fear in a target (e.g., Spitzberg & Cupach, 2007). Little is known about more general post-relationship contact and tracking (PRCT), that is, efforts to maintain or re-establish contact with an ex-partner or to track their whereabouts, new partnerships or activities. To understand both the use and experience of PRCT, we examined reports from 271 Canadian emerging adults (aged 18–25) regarding their most recent breakup within the prior year. Results indicated that online and offline forms of post-relationship contact and tracking were common, characterizing 87.8% of all recent breakups, and were typically used in conjunction. In fact, online forms rarely occurred in isolation. Attempts to keep in contact were most commonly reported by users and targets of behaviours, whereas extreme and threatening behaviours that might comprise stalking or cyberstalking were rare. No gender differences were found in the use of PRCT behaviours, although women reported experiencing more offline forms.
Flame Retarded PE with MH/ATH/Microencapsulated Red Phosphorous and its Toughening by Polymeric Compatibilizers
Authors: Hong X.-D. , Liang B. , Yang D.-X.
Published: August 2014

Non-halogen flame retarded polyethylene (PE) can be prepared by filling metallic hydroxides magnesium hydroxide (MH) or aluminium hydroxide (ATH), the mechanical properties of polymer composites will decline greatly when filling much more inorganic particles. Selecting microencapsulating particles, suitable synergistic agents or compatibilizers are good methods for improving the combination performance of composites. In this study, microencapsulated red phosphorous (MRP) was synthesized by using melamine-formaldehyde resin through in-situ polymerization, and used as a synergistic agent of MH and ATH, and the best proportion of three flame retardants was studied in detail. Results showed that flame retarded PE had a better combination performance when filling with 45 wt% compound flame retardants of MRP, MH and ATH under the weight ratio of 46/46/8. In order to improve the mechanical performance of composite, two polymeric compatibilizers POE-g-MAH and EPDM-g-MAH were selected to toughen the flame retarded PE composite. Results showed the flame resistance and mechanical properties of composites improved greatly with an increase of compatibilizer content, under the same condition, POE-g-MAH has a better contribution on the flame resistance and EPDM-g-MAH has a better toughening effect. The best flame retarded PE composite can be obtained by filling with 45 wt% compound flame retardants and 10 wt% EPDM-g-MAH.
Epoxidized Esters of Palm Kernel Oil as an Effective Plasticizer for PVC: A Study of Mechanical Properties and Effect of Processing Conditions
Authors: Dutta K. , Das S. , Kundu P. P.
Published: August 2014

One of the most commonly used vegetable oil plasticizer in polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is epoxidized soybean oil (ESBO). On the contrary, epoxidized palm oil is among the least used, because of its low compatibility with PVC. This work reports that epoxidized and esterified palm kernel oil (EEPKO) has the potential to be used as a plasticizer for PVC. In this study, it was found that a maximum of 65 phr of EEPKO could be incorporated within the PVC resin. In addition, subjecting this EEPKO plasticized PVC (p-PVC) at a processing temperature of 200 °C resulted in much reduced plasticizer loss. EEPKO lowers the glass transition temperature of PVC from 79 °C to −23 °C. The optimum mechanical properties, namely tensile strength, elongation at break and hardness, were obtained for p-PVC processed at 200 °C.
Carbon Capture and Storage Development Trends from a Techno-Paradigm Perspective
Authors: Zheng Bobo , Xu Jiuping
Published: August 2014

The world’s energy needs have been continually growing over the past decade, yet fossil fuels are limited. Renewable energies are becoming more prevalent, but are still a long way from being commonplace worldwide. Literature mining is applied to review carbon capture and storage (CCS) development trends and to develop and examine a novel carbon capture and storage technological paradigm (CCSTP), which incorporates CCSTP competition, diffusion and shift. This paper first provides an overview of the research and progress in CCS technological development, then applies a techno-paradigm theory to analyze CCSTP development and to provide a guide for future CCS technological trends. CCS could avoid CO2 being released into the atmosphere. Moreover, bioenergy with CCS (BECCS) can make a significant contribution to a net removal of anthropogenic CO2 emissions. In this study, we compare the different CCSTP developmental paths and the conventional techno-paradigm by examining the S-curves. The analyses in this paper provide a useful guide for scholars seeking new inspiration in their research and for potential investors who are seeking to invest research funds in more mature technologies. We conclude that political barriers and public acceptance are the major distinctions between the CCSTP and the conventional techno-paradigm. It is expected that policy instruments and economic instruments are going to play a pivotal role in the accomplishment of global carbon reduction scenarios.
Comparison Between Wind Power Prediction Models Based on Wavelet Decomposition with Least-Squares Support Vector Machine (LS-SVM) and Artificial Neural Network (ANN)
Authors: De Giorgi Maria , Campilongo Stefano , Ficarella Antonio , Congedo Paolo
Published: August 2014

A high penetration of wind energy into the electricity market requires a parallel development of efficient wind power forecasting models. Different hybrid forecasting methods were applied to wind power prediction, using historical data and numerical weather predictions (NWP). A comparative study was carried out for the prediction of the power production of a wind farm located in complex terrain. The performances of Least-Squares Support Vector Machine (LS-SVM) with Wavelet Decomposition (WD) were evaluated at different time horizons and compared to hybrid Artificial Neural Network (ANN)-based methods. It is acknowledged that hybrid methods based on LS-SVM with WD mostly outperform other methods. A decomposition of the commonly known root mean square error was beneficial for a better understanding of the origin of the differences between prediction and measurement and to compare the accuracy of the different models. A sensitivity analysis was also carried out in order to underline the impact that each input had in the network training process for ANN. In the case of ANN with the WD technique, the sensitivity analysis was repeated on each component obtained by the decomposition.
Comparison and Impact of Waste Heat Recovery Technologies on Passenger Car Fuel Consumption in a Normalized Driving Cycle
Authors: Legros Arnaud , Guillaume Ludovic , Diny Mouad , Zaïdi Hamid , Lemort Vincent
Published: August 2014

The purpose of this article was to compare different waste heat recovery system technologies designed for automotive applications. A complete literature review is done and results in two comparative graphs. In the second part, simulation models are built and calibrated in order to assess the fuel consumption reduction that can be achieved on a real driving cycle. The strength of this article is that the models are calibrated using actual data. Finally, those simulations results are analyzed and the Rankine cycle and turbocompound are the two most profitable solutions. However the simulations of the turbocompound shows its limitations because the impact on the exhaust pressure drop is not taken into account in the assessment of the car fuel consumption. Fuel reduction of up to 6% could be achieved, depending on the driving cycle and the waste heat recovery technology.
Modulation of Nitrosative Stress via Glutathione-Dependent Formaldehyde Dehydrogenase and S-Nitrosoglutathione Reductase
Authors: Ken Chuian-Fu , Huang Chih-Yu , Wen Lisa , Huang Jenq-Kuen , Lin Chi-Tsai
Published: August 2014

Glutathione-dependent formaldehyde dehydrogenase (GFD) from Taiwanofungus camphorata plays important roles in formaldehyde detoxification and antioxidation. The enzyme is bifunctional. In addition to the GFD activity, it also functions as an effective S-nitrosoglutathione reductase (GSNOR) against nitrosative stress. We investigated the modulation of HEK (human embryonic kidney) 293T cells under nitrosative stress by transfecting a codon optimized GFD cDNA from Taiwanofungus camphorata (Tc-GFD-O) to these cells. The parental and transfected HEK 293T cells were then subjected to S-nitrosoglutathione treatment to induce nitrosative stress. The results showed that in Tc-GFD-O-transfected 293T cells, the expression and activity of GFD increased. Additionally, these cells under the nitrosative stress induced by S-nitrosoglutathione showed both higher viability and less apoptosis than the parental 293T cells. This finding suggests that the Tc-GFD-O in HEK 293T cells may provide a protective function under nitrosative stress.
Adhesive/Repulsive Codes in Vertebrate Forebrain Morphogenesis
Authors: Cavodeassi Florencia
Published: August 2014

The last fifteen years have seen the identification of some of the mechanisms involved in anterior neural plate specification, patterning, and morphogenesis, which constitute the first stages in the formation of the forebrain. These studies have provided us with a glimpse into the molecular mechanisms that drive the development of an embryonic structure, and have resulted in the realization that cell segregation in the anterior neural plate is essential for the accurate progression of forebrain morphogenesis. This review summarizes the latest advances in our understanding of mechanisms of cell segregation during forebrain development, with and emphasis on the impact of this process on the morphogenesis of one of the anterior neural plate derivatives, the eyes.
Isoxazolium N-ylides and 1-oxa-5-azahexa-1,3,5-trienes on the way from isoxazoles to 2H-1,3-oxazines
Authors: Khlebnikov Alexander F , Novikov Mikhail S , Gorbunova Yelizaveta G , Galenko Ekaterina E , Mikhailov Kirill I , Pakalnis Viktoriia V , Avdontceva Margarita S
Published: August 2014

Theoretical and experimental studies of the reaction of isoxazoles with diazo compounds show that the formation of 2H-1,3-oxazines proceeds via the formation of (3Z)-1-oxa-5-azahexa-1,3,5-trienes which undergo a 6π-cyclization. The stationary points corresponding to the probable reaction intermediates, isoxazolium N-ylides, were located by DFT calculations at the B3LYP/6-31G(d) level only for derivatives without a substituent in position 3 of the isoxazole ring. These isoxazolium N-ylides are thermodynamically and kinetically very unstable. According to the calculations and experimental results 2H-1,3-oxazines are usually more thermodynamically stable than the corresponding open-chain isomers, (3Z)-1-oxa-5-azahexa-1,3,5-trienes. The exception are oxaazahexatrienes derived from 5-alkoxyisoxazoles, which are thermodynamically more stable than the corresponding 2H-1,3-oxazines. Therefore, the reaction of diazo esters with 5-alkoxyisoxazoles is a good approach to 1,4-di(alkoxycarbonyl)-2-azabuta-1,3-dienes. The reaction conditions for the preparation of aryl- and halogen-substituted 2H-1,3-oxazines and 1,4-di(alkoxycarbonyl)-2-azabuta-1,3-dienes from isoxazoles were investigated.
On the Identification of Modeler Communities
Authors: van der Linden Dirk , Hoppenbrouwers Stijn J.B.A. , Proper Henderik A.
Published: August 2014

The authors discuss the use and challenges of identifying communities with shared semantics in Enterprise Modeling (EM). People tend to understand modeling meta-concepts (i.e., a modeling language's constructs or types) in a certain way and can be grouped by this conceptual understanding. Having an insight into the typical communities and their composition (e.g., what kind of people constitute such a semantic community) can make it easier to predict how a conceptual modeler with a certain background will generally understand the meta-concepts s/he uses, which is useful for e.g., validating model semantics and improving the efficiency of the modeling process itself. The authors have observed that in practice decisions to group people based on certain shared properties are often made, but are rarely backed up by empirical data demonstrating their supposed efficacy. The authors demonstrate the use of psychometric data from two studies involving experienced (enterprise) modeling practitioners and computing science students to find such communities. The authors also discuss the challenge that arises in finding common real-world factors shared between their members to identify them by and conclude that there is no empirical support for commonly used (and often implicit) grouping properties such as similar background, focus and modeling language.
Knowledge Management Practices and the Focus on the Individual
Authors: Rechberg Isabel , Syed Jawad
Published: August 2014

This paper reviews the current knowledge management (KM) practices to examine the attention (or lack thereof) paid to the individual in managing knowledge in organisations. It identifies and reviews four key practices of KM - i.e., information technology, organisational culture and structure, communities of practice, and human resource practices - to examine how knowledge is interpreted, processed and managed, and the role individuals play in such interpretations, processing and management. The review shows that existing KM practices may be improved through an increased focus on the role of individuals (an individual-centric approach) in designing and implementing KM in organisations.
Empirical Evaluation of Smartphone Augmented Reality Browsers in an Urban Tourism Destination Context
Authors: Yovcheva Zornitza , Buhalis Dimitrios , Gatzidis Christos , van Elzakker Corné P.J.M.
Published: August 2014

Today, exposure to new and unfamiliar environments is a necessary part of daily life. Effective communication of location-based information through location-based services has become a key concern for cartographers, geographers, human-computer interaction and professional designers alike. Recently, much attention was directed towards Augmented Reality (AR) interfaces. Current research, however, focuses primarily on computer vision and tracking, or investigates the needs of urban residents, already familiar with their environment. Adopting a user-centred design approach, this paper reports findings from an empirical mobile study investigating how tourists acquire knowledge about an unfamiliar urban environment through AR browsers. Qualitative and quantitative data was used in the development of a framework that shifts the perspective towards a more thorough understanding of the overall design space for such interfaces. The authors analysis provides a frame of reference for the design and evaluation of mobile AR interfaces. The authors demonstrate the application of the framework with respect to optimization of current design of AR.
Designing for Frustration and Disputes in the Family Car
Authors: Cycil Chandrika , Perry Mark , Laurier Eric
Published: August 2014

Families spend an increasing amount of time in the car carrying out a number of activities including driving to work, caring for children and co-ordinating drop-offs and pick ups. While families travelling in cars may face stress from difficult road conditions, they are also likely to be frustrated by coordinating a number of activities and resolving disputes within the confined space of car. A rising number of in-car infotainment and driver-assistance systems aim to help reduce the stress from outside the vehicle and improve the experience of driving but may fail to address sources of stress from within the car. From ethnographic studies of family car journeys, the authors examine the work of parents in managing multiple stresses while driving, along with the challenges of distractions from media use and disputes in the car. Keeping these family extracts as a focus for analysis, we draw out some design considerations that help build on the observations from our empirical work.
Reflections on U-PriSM 2
Authors: Chiasson Sonia , Crawford Heather , Egelman Serge , Irani Pourang
Published: August 2014

The Second Usable Privacy and Security for Mobile Devices Workshop (U-PriSM 2) was co-located with MobileHCI'13 in Munich, Germany. The U-PriSM 2 was an opportunity for researchers and practitioners to discuss research challenges and experiences around the usable privacy and security of mobile devices (smartphones and tablets). Security and privacy often involve having non-security experts, or even novice users, regularly making important decisions while their main focus is on other primary tasks. This is especially true for mobile devices where users can quickly and easily install apps, where user interfaces are minimal due to space constraints, and where users are often distracted by their environment. Likewise, mobile devices present unique privacy and security risks because they allow third-party applications access to personal information and sensor data. The amount and sensitivity of such personally identifying information is likely to increase as device functionality increases. The convergence of these factors means that improvements to security and privacy provisions on mobile devices are becoming increasingly important. Workshop participants had a chance to explore mobile device usage and the unique usable security and privacy challenges that arise, discuss proposed systems and ideas that address these needs, and work towards the development of design principles to inform future development in the area.
Citizens' E-Government Services Adoption
Authors: Nasri Wadie
Published: August 2014

This study investigates the factors that influencing citizens' intention to use e-government services and its causal relationships using the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology model (UTAUT). Data relating to the constructs were collected from 150 respondents but only 85 responses were received and subjected to Structural Equation Modeling analysis (SEM). The proposed model fits the data well. The findings reveal that facilitating condition, social influence, attitude, effort expectancy and performance expectancy determine citizens' intention towards e-government services. Additionally, attitude is predicted jointly by effort expectancy and performance expectancy. This study would help government policy decision makers to increase the adoption of e-government services in Tunisia country.