bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using airborne remote-sensing imagery to assess flow releases from a dam in order to maximize renaturalization of a regulated gravel-bed river
Authors: Lorang M.S. , Hauer F.R. , Whited D.C. , Matson P.L.
Published: July 2013

Gravel-bed river floodplains are dynamic landscapes that support a high level of ecosystem biocomplexity and biodiversity in large part because of the continual physical turnover of habitat. We evaluated the potential of a gravel-bed river to do geomorphic work on a series of floodplains below a dam by linking airborne hyperspectral imagery with corresponding groundtruth measures of flow velocity, water depth, floodplain surface topography, and vegetative cover. These data were analyzed in a geographic information system to map the spatial distribution of potential stream power over a range of discharge regimes. Nodes of flow separation at specific discharges that co-occurred with zones of high stream power were used as a metric to determine potential geomorphic threshold levels and location of channel avulsions. In order to address discharge duration as a factor affecting geomorphic change on the study floodplains, we established the relationship between discharge and total cumulative power applied to a single key floodplain and then used that relationship to examine historical discharge records and changes in flow release in terms of total cumulative power. We used the assumption that similar levels of total cumulative stream power, above a minimum geomorphic threshold, would produce similar levels of geomorphic work as a higher-magnitude, short-duration flood event. These results form the basis of an objective approach to evaluating flow releases needed from dams to maintain the dynamic structure and ecological function of gravel-bed river flood-plains. Moreover, the methodologies presented herein lend themselves to quantitative investigation of potential geomorphic changes related to complete dam removal and return of normalized flow of water and materials through the river system.
Effects of multiple small stock-pond dams in a coastal watershed in central California
Authors: Florsheim J.L. , Chin A. , Nichols A.
Published: July 2013

Small dams are often situated on low-order tributaries that drain grazed hill-slopes in dry regions of the western United States. In this paper, we use remote-sensing techniques in a case study to explore the effects of multiple small stock-pond dams on tributaries to Chileno Creek, a coastal watershed in central California. Dam density, or number of dams per drainage area, is 0.76 dams per km2, with most of the tributaries containing one or more dams. The total eroding channel length downstream of dams is ∼11% greater than total eroding length upstream. The relatively high density of the small stock-pond dams leads to cumulative effects that elevate the magnitude of (1) increased downstream erosion and (2) fragmentation of longitudinal connectivity between tributary headwaters and the main channel. The total headwater area producing sediment blocked by small dams equals 30% of the Chileno watershed. From these data, we infer that reduced sediment load due to the presence of the dams slows downstream riparian recovery. Results of the Chileno Creek case study emphasize that basin-scale management approaches and restoration strategies to restore connectivity are imperative in watersheds with high dam density. Uncertainty related to the biophysical effects of small dams and their removal may be investigated through analysis of baseline and long-term monitoring data, and adaptive assessment and management.
The shortcomings of “passive” urban river restoration after low-head dam removal, Ottawa River (northwestern Ohio, USA)
Authors: Evans J.E. , Harris N. , Webb L.D.
Published: July 2013

The concept of “passive” river restoration after dam removal is to allow the river to restore itself, within constraints such as localized bank erosion defense where infrastructure or property boundaries are at risk. This restoration strategy encounters difficulties in an urban environment where virtually the entire stream corridor is spatially constrained, and stream-bank protection is widely required. This raises the question of the meaning of river restoration in urbanized settings. In such cases, the sedimentary record can document paleohydrologic or paleogeomorphic evolution of the river system to better understand long-term response to the removal of the dam. Secor Dam was a low-head weir on the Ottawa River flowing through the City of Toledo, Ohio, and its outlying suburbs. The dam was constructed in 1928 and removed in 2007 to enhance aquatic ecosystems, improve water quality, and avoid liability concerns. Predam removal feasibility studies predicted the hydrological and sedimentological responses for the dam removal and determined that reservoir sediments were not significantly contaminated. Postdam removal studies included trenching, sediment coring, geochronology, and surveying. The buried, pre-1928 channel was located and showed that watershed urbanization resulted in channel armoring. Incision in the former reservoir exhumed a woody peat layer that was subsequently shown to be a presettlement hydromorphic paleosol currently buried beneath 1.7 m of legacy sediments, mostly deposited since ca. 1959. Today, the river flows through an incised channel between fill terraces composed of legacy sediments. Additional coring and survey work documented that the channel lateral migration rates averaged 0.32 m/yr over the past ∼80 yr, and that the meander wavelength is increasing in response to dam removal. Using sediment budget concepts, significant channel bank erosion and lateral channel migration should be expected until this river system reworks and removes accumulated legacy sediments currently in floodplain storage. In this dam removal project, “active” restoration practices, such as riparian wetland restoration, would have been more in accord with scientific understandings. That did not happen in this case because of disagreements among different constituencies and because of limitations of funding mechanisms.
The rise and fall of Mid-Atlantic streams
Authors: Merritts Dorothy , Walter Robert , Rahnis Michael , Cox Scott , Hartranft Jeffrey , Scheid Chris , Potter Noel , Jenschke Matthew , Reed Austin , Matuszewski Derek , Kratz Laura , Manion Lauren , Shilling Andrea , Datin Katherine
Published: July 2013

For safety and environmental reasons, removal of aging dams is an increasingly common practice, but it also can lead to channel incision, bank erosion, and increased sediment loads downstream. The morphological and sedimentological effects of dam removal are not well understood, and few studies have tracked a reservoir for more than a year or two after dam breaching. Breaching and removal of obsolete milldams over the last century have caused widespread channel entrenchment and stream bank erosion in the Mid-Atlantic region, even along un-urbanized, forested stream reaches. We document here that rates of stream bank erosion in breached millponds remain relatively high for at least several decades after dam breaching. Cohesive, fine-grained banks remain near vertical and retreat laterally across the coarse-grained pre- reservoir substrate, leading to an increased channel width-to-depth ratio for high-stage flow in the stream corridor with time. Bank erosion rates in breached reservoirs decelerate with time, similar to recent observations of sediment flushing after the Marmot Dam removal in Oregon. Whereas mass movement plays an important role in bank failure, particularly immediately after dam breaching, we find that freeze-thaw processes play a major role in bank retreat during winter months for decades after dam removal. The implication of these findings is that this newly recognized source of sediment stored behind breached historic dams is sufficient to account for much of the high loads of fine-grained sediment carried in suspension in Mid-Atlantic Piedmont streams and contributed to the Chesapeake Bay.
Petrography Applied to Portland-Cement Concrete
Authors: Mielenz Richard C.
Published: July 2013

The first in this series, this volume contains several engineering geology articles that are still applicable and useful today: Petrography Applied to Portland-Cement Concrete, by Mielenz; Engineering Aspects of Sediment Transport, by Bruun (includes section on Biological Aspects, by Lackey); Photo Analysis and Interpretation in Engineering Geology Investigations, by Mollard; Engineering Geology of Radioactive Waste Disposal, by de Laguna; Engineering Seismology, by Neumann; Sand and Gravel, by Lenhart; Review of USSR Publications in Selected Fields of Engineering Soil Science, by Drashevska; and Stabilization of Rock by Bolting, by Thomas.
Photo Analysis and Interpretation in Engineering-Geology Investigations
Authors: Mollard J. D.
Published: July 2013

This paper is a review of the techniques and applications of airphoto study with special reference to engineering geology. More than 80 technical publications are cited. Indeed the volume of literature is becoming so large that individual competence can hardly cope with new developments and applications of photo interpretation.

The paper is in two parts. The first part deals with the techniques of airphoto study. Commonly used terms are defined. Working hypotheses are introduced. Techniques of photo analysis and qualifications of a photo analyst are briefly discussed. A section deals with evaluating photo analysis. An example of one procedure followed in photo study is outlined step by step; the study involves selecting a new highway location in northern Canada. The second part of the paper is devoted to applications of photo interpretation in investigations involving engineering-geology considerations.
Sand and Gravel
Authors: Lenhart Walter B.
Published: July 2013

The author believes there is a place for the geologist in the sand and gravel industry and points out some of the marginal information that a geologist should have in order to meet the needs of the world's largest (tonnage-wise) mining industry. Benificiation of sand and gravel other than conventional washing and screening is rapidly becoming more important owing to depletion and to more exact specification requirements. The reader can get a quick glimpse of a great industry that has grown during the past few decades from a way-side pit to its present status. The problems of the ready-mixed concrete, the asphaltic concrete, and the sand and gravel operator are so closely related that the three industries can often be classed as one. Sources of more detailed information are included.
Engineering Aspects of Sediment Transport Per Bruun Including Section on Biological Aspects
Authors: Lackey J. B.
Published: July 2013

This paper summarizes engineering aspects in sediment transport based on our present (up to 1960) knowledge. It includes paragraphs on sediment transport in rivers, stable channels in alluvial material, sediment transport on sea shores and its importance in the design of harbor and coastal-protection works and of coastal inlets, and tracing of sediment transport with special reference to the recent development of radioactive tracers.

The section on Biological Aspects covers the principal plant and animal groups that affect sediment transport. Such transport is briefly discussed from the aspect of what organisms aid it, and how, and which ones impede it. Generally only broad aspects of marine transport are mentioned; some of these same factors are present in fresh waters.

A paper of this length dealing with a subject of such wide scope cannot give complete information about details. This shortage is to some degree compensated for by the comprehensive list of references.
Foundations for Heavy Structures
Authors: Ireland Herbert O.
Published: July 2013

The design and construction of foundations, which are those parts of structures that transfer loads to the underlying ground, is an ancient art; yet, only within the last 45 years has it passed from an empirical stage to a scientific stage which is marked by increasing understanding of the physical laws involved. The development of the relationships between predicted and actual performance has been important, for these relationships are influenced by the characteristics and behavior of the subsoil through application of the principles of soil mechanics. The common types of foundations are footings, rafts, piers, piles, and caissons. The choice of foundation types and structural material to be used depends upon the type of structure, the loads it must carry, the subsurface conditions, and the cost relative to the superstructure. Design of the foundation should be evaluated with respect to such factors as bearing capacity and settlement, possible seasonal volume changes of the subsoil, scour if the soil is subject to running water, and uplift or lateral forces. Improvement of the subsoil may sometimes be achieved by appropriate treatment, such as increasing the density by driving piles or by vibroflotation, promoting rapid consolidation through sand drains, or stabilizing by chemical or thermal means.
Pozzolan
Authors: Mather Bryant
Published: July 2013

Pozzolans are finely divided siliceous or siliceous and aluminous materials that are by themselves of little or no cementitious value but that react with calcium hydroxide in the presence of water at ordinary temperatures to form cementitious compounds. They include natural materials such as some types of volcanic tuff, opaline chert, shale, or calcined clay and artificial materials such as precipitated silica and some types of fly ash. Pozzolans are used mainly as admixtures in portland-cement concrete, particularly in massive structures, in proportions ranging from 5 per cent to more than the amount of portland cement. Their use may effect reduction in cost of construction, improve workability, decrease permeability, reduce heat of hydration, increase resistance to sulfate waters, and reduce expansion caused by alkali-aggregate reaction. Concrete made with portland-pozzolan cement generally has lower early strength and takes longer to cure than that made only with portland cement, but under favorable conditions it often has higher ultimate strength.
Portland Cement and Concrete
Authors: Erlin Bernard
Published: July 2013

Disciplines used by the geologist for understanding and interpreting the chemical and physical properties of rocks have also been used to investigate the constitution of portland cement, its hydration mechanisms, and those factors that influence the durability of concrete made with it. The information obtained helped in developing specifications and testing methods for concrete aggregates and eight types of portland cement.

The geologist and the engineering geologist, who participate in portland cement or aggregate production and testing or who are involved in geological studies related to the design and construction of concrete structures, can review herein: (1) the constitution of portland cement; (2) portland cement specifications of the American Society for Testing and Materials, American Association of State Highway Officials, and United States Government (Federal); (3) the eight types of portland cement and factors governing their usage; and (4) the more prevalent physical and chemical types of attack upon concrete by natural agencies and methods for circumventing such attack. This information may be helpful for evaluating and interpreting the data obtained in cement and concrete research concerned with quarrying operations, cement and aggregate production, and concrete uses and durability.
Sleep-related psychosis
Authors: Frase Lukas , Sixt Barbara , Nissen Christoph
Published: July 2013

We report the case of a 19-year-old male student with a Kleine-Levin syndrome who was referred to our sleep laboratory during an episode of hypersomnia, hypersexuality, cognitive impairment and bizarre behaviour. Owing to similar clinical symptoms, he had been misdiagnosed with schizophrenia. This had led to a placement in a facility for persons with chronic schizophrenia, antipsychotic pharmacotherapy for 4 years and side effects, including substantial weight gain and hypertension. After cessation of the antipsychotic medication, the weight and blood pressure normalised. We started a prophylactic treatment with lithium under which the patient had become asymptomatic and had been able to begin a vocational training since treatment.
What should I know before ordering a bone marrow aspiration/biopsy in patients with vitamin B12deficiency?
Authors: Randhawa Jaskirat , Ondrejka Sarah L , Setrakian Sebouh , Taylor Harris
Published: July 2013

Vitamin B12deficiency is a well recognised cause of macrocytic anaemia and bone marrow failure. Bone marrow aspiration/biopsy is infrequently indicated for the diagnosis in this setting. However, if a bone marrow aspiration/biopsy is performed, it is important to recognise that it may show dysplastic changes mimicking myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) or acute leukaemia. We report a case of a 66-year-old non-vegetarian man presenting with generalised weakness for 1 month and misdiagnosed on bone marrow biopsy as MDS. However, laboratory investigations revealed severe deficiency of vitamin B12. Four weeks after starting vitamin B12replacement the patient's complete blood counts reverted to normal.
Imatinib in neurofibromatosis type 2
Authors: Lim Stephanie , de Souza Paul
Published: July 2013

A 30-year-old man with a 10-year history of neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF-2) and minimal hearing in his left ear, presented with rapidly progressive disease and risk of total hearing loss. He was started on imatinib and achieved stable disease for 4 months, after which the drug was ceased due to toxicity. He was then treated with bevacizumab for 8 months with a best response of stable disease.
Cold-induced urticaria: challenges in diagnosis and management
Authors: Hochstadter Elana Fay , Ben-Shoshan Moshe
Published: July 2013

Cold-induced urticaria (CU) is a chronic physical urticaria that can be hard to diagnose and manage. Symptoms of CU can vary from mild localised urticaria, angio-oedema to anaphylaxis. CU may be induced by a wide range of cold triggers from aquatic activities to ingestions of cold substances. This exemplifies the importance of accurate diagnosis and management of patients with CU. We present three cases of CU that demonstrate the variability in triggers and clinical presentation.
Acute primary herpetic gingivostomatitis
Authors: Mohan Ravi Prakash Sasankoti , Verma Sankalp , Singh Udita , Agarwal Neha
Published: July 2013

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a double-stranded virus belonging to human herpes virus family. Although it exists in eight various forms, HSV-1 causes most of the oral infections. Since dentists are more likely to be consulted in the case of oral infections, familiarity with these lesions becomes mandatory. It is more commonly reported in children and rarely in adults. This article presents an acute episode of primary herpetic gingivostomatitis in a 32-year-old male patient.
Stability assessment of slopes with cracks using limit analysis
Authors: Michalowski Radoslaw L.
Published: July 2013

Cracks are a common occurrence in soil slopes, and a method is described for including the presence of cracks in stability assessment based on the kinematic approach of limit analysis. While many cracks may be present in a slope, the failure mechanism typically involves one crack, whose location has the most adverse influence on stability. A translational mechanism, typical of rock slope failures, is demonstrated to illustrate the method, followed by a rotation collapse analysis that is more appropriate for soils. Pre-existing (open) cracks are considered, as well as the cracks that form as part of the slope collapse mechanism. The maximum crack depth is determined by stability of the vertical crack boundary. This maximum crack depth may be reduced significantly by seepage forces in the slope. The most adverse location of the crack is determined from an optimization procedure where the minimum of the slope critical height is sought. The presence of water is included in the analysis, and stability charts are developed. The influence of the presence of cracks on stability of gentle slopes was not found to be significant, but the effect on the outcome of the analysis increases with an increase in inclination angle and the presence of pore-water pressure. The difference in the critical height of a 60° slope with an open crack and without one can be as much as 50%.
Growth and secondary compound investments in the epiphytic lichensLobaria pulmonariaandHypogymnia occidentalistransplanted along an altitudinal gradient in British Columbia
Authors: Bidussi Massimo , Goward Trevor , Gauslaa Yngvar
Published: July 2013

We investigated altitudinal variation (550–1650 m) in relative growth rates (RGR) and carbon-based secondary compounds (CBSC) in the cephalolichen Lobaria pulmonaria (L.) Hoffm. and the chlorolichen Hypogymnia occidentalis L. H. Pike transplanted for 14 months in a U-shaped valley in inland southern British Columbia. Prior to transplantation, half of the thalli were treated with phosphorus (P) to examine effects of P on carbon allocation. Growth in L. pulmonaria was substantially higher in the toe-slope position, corresponding to much higher bark pH. Sixty-four percent of the variation in RGR was accounted for by positive pH effects and adverse effects of direct light exposure in the best subset multiple regression model. For H. occidentalis, 57% of the variation in RGR was accounted for by positive and negative effects of indirect and direct light, respectively. Neither altitude nor P had a noticeable effect on RGR, the former possibly reflecting a trade-off between orographic precipitation and inversion-boosted nocturnal dew in valley bottom localities. Neither was there any correlation between altitude and CBSCs, although treatment with P did significantly trigger secondary metabolism in L. pulmonaria, but not in H. occidentalis. No significant intraspecific relationship between growth and CBSC investments was noted.
Ultrastructural changes ofSaccharomyces cerevisiaein response to ethanol stress
Authors: Ma Manli , Han Pei , Zhang Ruimin , Li Hao
Published: July 2013

In the fermentative process using Saccharomyces cerevisiae to produce bioethanol, the performance of cells is often compromised by the accumulation of ethanol. However, the mechanism of how S. cerevisiae responds against ethanol stress remains elusive. In the current study, S. cerevisiae cells were cultured in YPD (yeast extract – peptone – dextrose) medium containing various concentrations of ethanol (0%, 2.5%, 5%, 7.5%, 10%, and 15% (v/v)). Compared with the control group without ethanol, the mean cell volume of S. cerevisiae decreased significantly in the presence of 7.5% and 10% ethanol after incubation for 16 h (P < 0.05), and in the presence of 15% ethanol at all 3 sampling time points (1, 8, and 16 h) (P < 0.05). The exposure of S. cerevisiae cells to ethanol also led to an increase in malonyldialdehyde content (P < 0.05) and a decrease in sulfhydryl group content (P < 0.05). Moreover, the observations through transmission electron microscopy enabled us to relate ultrastructural changes elicited by ethanol with the cellular stress physiology. Under ethanol stress, the integrity of the cell membrane was compromised. The swelling or distortion of mitochondria together with the occurrence of a single and large vacuole was correlated with the addition of ethanol. These results suggested that the cell membrane is one of the targets of ethanol, and the degeneration of mitochondria promoted the accumulation of intracellular reactive oxygen species.
NONSMOOTH BIFURCATIONS, TRANSIENT HYPERCHAOS AND HYPERCHAOTIC BEATS IN A MEMRISTIVE MURALI–LAKSHMANAN–CHUA CIRCUIT
Authors: ISHAQ AHAMED A. , LAKSHMANAN M.
Published: July 2013

In this paper, a memristive Murali–Lakshmanan–Chua (MLC) circuit is built by replacing the nonlinear element of an ordinary MLC circuit, namely the Chua's diode, with a three-segment piecewise-linear active flux controlled memristor. The bistability nature of the memristor introduces two discontinuity boundaries or switching manifolds in the circuit topology. As a result, the circuit becomes a piecewise-smooth system of second order. Grazing bifurcations, which are essentially a form of discontinuity-induced nonsmooth bifurcations, occur at these boundaries and govern the dynamics of the circuit. While the interaction of the memristor-aided self oscillations of the circuit and the external sinusoidal forcing result in the phenomenon of beats occurring in the circuit, grazing bifurcations endow them with chaotic and hyperchaotic nature. In addition, the circuit admits a codimension-5 bifurcation and transient hyperchaos. Grazing bifurcations as well as other behaviors have been analyzed numerically using time series plots, phase portraits, bifurcation diagram, power spectra and Lyapunov spectrum, as well as the recent 0–1 K test for chaos, obtained after constructing a proper Zero Time Discontinuity Map (ZDM) and Poincaré Discontinuity Map (PDM) analytically. Multisim simulations using a model of piecewise linear memristor have also been used to confirm some of the behaviors.
PHASE TRANSITIONS IN ERROR CORRECTING AND COMPRESSED SENSING BY ℓ1 LINEAR PROGRAMMING
Authors: ASHINO RYUICHI , VAILLANCOURT RÉMI
Published: July 2013

In correcting a real linear code y = Bx + w by ℓ1 linear programming, where the encoding matrix B ∈ ℝm × n has full rank with m ≥ n and the noise w ∈ ℝm is a sparse random vector, it is numerically observed that the breakdown points of 50% successes in recovering the input vector x ∈ ℝn from the corrupted oversampled measurement y lie on the Donoho–Tanner curves when reflected in their midpoint. The curves of 50% successes in solving underdetermined systems, z = Aw, by ℓ1 linear programming with uniformly distributed compressed sensing matrices A ∈ ℝd × m, where d < m and w is a sparse vector, have been numerically observed and recently shown to coincide with the Donoho–Tanner curves for normally-distributed compressed sensing matrices A derived from geometric combinatorics. When n ≤ m/2, correcting a linear code is faster if done directly by ℓ1 linear programming. However, when n > m/2, to save computing time, this problem can be transformed into an underdetermined compressed sensing problem, Aw = z := Ay, for the syndrome z by a full rank matrix A ∈ ℝd × m, d = m – n, such that AB = 0. For this purpose, to have equivalently high mean breakdown points by ℓ1 linear programming, one can use uniformly distributed random matrices A ∈ ℝ(m-n) × m and matrices B ∈ ℝm × n with orthonormal columns spanning the null space of A. Two exceptional cases have been found. Numerical results are collected in figures and tables.
A DIGITAL IMAGE WATERMARKING FOR AUTHENTICATION BASED ON THE DUAL-TREE COMPLEX DISCRETE WAVELET TRANSFORM AND INTERVAL ARITHMETIC
Authors: MINAMOTO TERUYA , OHURA RYUJI
Published: July 2013

We propose a new digital image watermarking method for authentication based on the dual-tree complex discrete wavelet transform (DT-CDWT) and interval arithmetic (IA). This method is a kind of content-based watermarking, because it generates a watermark from the host image and authenticates the test image by comparing two types of watermarks constructed using the test image. We describe our watermarking and authentication procedure in detail and present experimental results demonstrating that our method produces high-quality watermarked images and can locate the areas that have been tampered with.
COMPLETE SPACE QUANTUM CHEMISTRY BY MULTIRESOLUTION MULTIWAVELET BASIS SET
Authors: SEKINO HIDEO , MATSUMURA AKIRA , YOKOI YUKINA , KATO TETSUYA
Published: July 2013

Quantum chemistry program based on Multiresolution Multiwavelet (MRMW) basis set is much simpler and can be more efficient than the conventional one based on Gaussian basis set in molecular geometry optimization because the Hellmann Fynman Theorem (HFT) holds for the complete space which MRMW provides. It is numerically shown that large Gaussian basis sets can provide the chemical information with chemical accuracy for very small molecular systems despite the incompleteness of their basis set. However, even for the relatively small size molecule of CH4 , the error from the basis set incompleteness results in an error larger than an acceptable chemical accuracy. The advantage of the MRMW complete basis set in vibrational analysis is also discussed.
The potential application of magnetic susceptibility as a technique for soil forensic examinations
Authors: Guedes Alexandra , Murray Raymond C. , Ribeiro Helena , Sant’Ovaia Helena , Valentim Bruno , Rodrigues Andreia , Leal Sara , Noronha Fernando
Published: July 2013

Magnetic susceptibility measurement methodology, its reproducibility and accuracy of analysis were tested on soil samples to evaluate its potential use in forensic applications. It was observed that magnetic susceptibility can enable discrimination between soil samples, measured values are reproducible over time and the analysis can be carried out on small samples. However, in order for this method to be used in a forensic soil investigation, it is important to always adopt the same analytical protocol during analysis.
Sentiment profiles of multiword expressions in test-taker essays
Authors: Klebanov Beata Beigman , Burstein Jill , Madnani Nitin
Published: July 2013

The property of idiomaticity vs. compositionality of a multiword expression traditionally pertains to the semantic interpretation of the expression. In this article, we consider this property as it applies to the expression's sentiment profile (relative degree of positivity, negativity, and neutrality). Thus, while
heart attack
is idiomatic in terms of semantic interpretation, the sentiment profile of the expression (strongly negative) can, in fact, be determined from the strongly negative profile of the head word. In this article, we (1) propose a way to measure compositionality of a multiword expression's sentiment profile, and perform the measurement on noun-noun compounds; (2) evaluate the utility of using sentiment profiles of noun-noun compounds in a sentence-level sentiment classification task. We find that the sentiment profiles of noun-noun compounds in test-taker essays tend to be highly compositional and that their incorporation improves the performance of a sentiment classification system.
Conditional Safety Certification of Open Adaptive Systems
Authors: Schneider Daniel , Trapp Mario
Published: July 2013

In recent years it has become more and more evident that openness and adaptivity are key characteristics of next-generation distributed systems. The reason for this is not least due to the advent of computing trends like ubiquitous computing, ambient intelligence, and cyber-physical systems, where systems are usually open for dynamic integration and able to react adaptively to changing situations. Despite being open and adaptive, it is a common requirement for such systems to be safe. However, traditional safety assurance techniques, both state-of-the-practice and state-of-the-art ones, are not sufficient in this context. We have recently developed some initial solution concepts based on conditional safety certificates and corresponding runtime analyses. In this article we show how to operationalize these concepts. To this end, we present in detail how to specify conditional safety certificates, how to transform them into suitable runtime models, and how these models finally support dynamic safety evaluations.
Autonomic Provisioning with Self-Adaptive Neural Fuzzy Control for Percentile-Based Delay Guarantee
Authors: Lama Palden , Zhou Xiaobo
Published: July 2013

Autonomic server provisioning for performance assurance is a critical issue in Internet services. It is challenging to guarantee that requests flowing through a multi-tier system will experience an acceptable distribution of delays. The difficulty is mainly due to highly dynamic workloads, the complexity of underlying computer systems, and the lack of accurate performance models. We propose a novel autonomic server provisioning approach based on a model-independent self-adaptive Neural Fuzzy Control (NFC). Existing model-independent fuzzy controllers are designed manually on a trial-and-error basis, and are often ineffective in the face of highly dynamic workloads. NFC is a hybrid of control-theoretical and machine learning techniques. It is capable of self-constructing its structure and adapting its parameters through fast online learning. We further enhance NFC to compensate for the effect of server switching delays. Extensive simulations demonstrate that, compared to a rule-based fuzzy controller and a Proportional-Integral controller, the NFC-based approach delivers superior performance assurance in the face of highly dynamic workloads. It is robust to variation in workload intensity, characteristics, delay target, and server switching delays. We demonstrate the feasibility and performance of the NFC-based approach with a testbed implementation in virtualized blade servers hosting a multi-tier online auction benchmark.
Adaptive Composition of Distributed Pervasive Applications in Heterogeneous Environments
Authors: Schuhmann Stephan , Herrmann Klaus , Rothermel Kurt , Boshmaf Yazan
Published: July 2013

Complex pervasive applications need to be distributed for two main reasons: due to the typical resource restrictions of mobile devices, and to use local services to interact with the immediate environment. To set up such an application, the distributed components require spontaneous composition. Since dynamics in the environment and device failures may imply the unavailability of components and devices at any time, finding, maintaining, and adapting such a composition is a nontrivial task. Moreover, the speed of such a configuration process directly influences the user since in the event of a configuration, the user has to wait. In this article, we introduce configuration algorithms for homogeneous and heterogeneous environments. We discuss a comprehensive approach to pervasive application configuration that adapts to the characteristics of the environment: It chooses the most efficient configuration method for the given environment to minimize the configuration latency. Moreover, we propose a new scheme for caching and reusing partial application configurations. This scheme reduces the configuration latency even further such that a configuration can be executed without notable disturbance of the user.
Observer-Based Decentralized Control for Uncertain Interconnected Systems of Neutral Type
Authors: Hu Heli , Zhao Dan , Zhang Qingling
Published: July 2013

The observer-based decentralized control problem is investigated for a class of uncertain interconnected systems of neutral type. Using the singular value decomposition approach, a full-order observer is designed to guarantee the asymptotic stability of the error dynamic system. A novel mathematical technique is developed to solve this design problem. Sufficient condition for uncertain interconnected systems of neutral type to be asymptotic stable is established based on the singular value decomposition method. Furthermore, the desired gains of observer and controller are obtained by the explicit expressions in terms of some free parameters. Finally, an illustrative example is used to demonstrate the proposed approach, and the corresponding simulation results are given to elucidate the effectiveness.
Sensitivity of P-Channel MOSFET to X- and Gamma-Ray Irradiation
Authors: Pejović Milić , Ciraj-Bjelac Olivera , Kovačević Milojko , Rajović Zoran , Ilić Gvozden
Published: July 2013

Investigation of Al-gate p-channel MOSFETs sensitivity following irradiation using 200 and 280 kV X-ray beams as well as gamma-ray irradiation of 60Co in the dose range from 1 to 5 Gy was performed in this paper. The response followed on the basis of threshold voltage shift and was studied as a function of absorbed dose. It was shown that the most significant change in threshold voltage was in the case of MOSFET irradiation in X-ray fields of 200 kV and when the gate voltage was +5 V. For practical applications in dosimetry, the sensitivity of the investigated MOSFETs was also satisfactory for X-ray tube voltage of 280 kV and for gamma rays. Possible processes in gate oxide caused by radiation and its impact on the response of MOSFETs were also analyzed in this paper.
The Immune Factors Involved in the Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Sjogren's Syndrome
Authors: Huang Yi-fan , Cheng Qian , Jiang Chun-miao , An Shu , Xiao Lan , Gou Yong-chao , Yu Wen-jing , Lei Lei , Chen Qian-ming , Wang Yating , Wang Jun
Published: July 2013

Sjogren's syndrome (SS) is a systemic, autoimmune disorder characterized by salivary insufficiency and lymphocytic infiltration of the exocrine glands. Even though the mechanism of its pathology and progression has been researched ever since its discovery, the roles of different parts of immune system remain inconclusive. There is no straightforward and simple theory for the pathogenesis and diagnosis of Sjogren’s syndrome because of the multiple kinds and functions of autoantibodies, changing proportion of different T-lymphocyte subsets with the progression of disease, unsuspected abilities of B lymphocytes discovered recently, crosstalk between cytokines connecting the factors mentioned previously, and genetic predisposition that contributes to the initiation of this disease. On the other hand, the number of significant reports and open-label studies of B-cell depletion therapy showing clinical efficacy in sjogren’s syndrome has continued to accumulate, which provides a promising future for the patients. In a word, further elucidation of the role of different components of the immune system will open avenues for better diagnosis and treatment of SS, whose current management is still mainly supportive.
Levels of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons, Polychlorinated Biphenyls, and Organochlorine Pesticides in Various Tissues of White-Backed Vulture in India
Authors: Dhananjayan V. , Muralidharan S.
Published: July 2013

This study provides information on the current status of contamination by polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) in the tissues of endangered White-backed VultureGyps bengalensisin India. Chemical analyses revealed detectable amounts of PAHs, PCBs, and OCPs. Concentration ranges of∑PAHs,∑PCBs, and∑OCPs in tissues were 60–2037 ng/g, 30–5790 ng/g, and 3.2–5836 ng/g wet weight, respectively. 1,1-Dichloro-2,2-bis(p-chlorophenyl)ethylene (p,p′-DDE) concentrations ranged from below detectable level to 599 ng/g wet weight, representing more than 90% of the total dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT). Among the various OCPs analyzed,p,p′-DDE was detected most frequently. All the contaminants recorded show higher accumulation in liver than other tissues. Levels of contaminants measured in the tissues of vulture are comparable with the levels documented in a number of avian species and are lower than those reported to have caused deleterious effects. Although no threat is expected from the current level of contamination, the presence of varying levels of contaminants and their additive or synergistic toxicity is a cause of concern to vultures. Values reported in this study can serve as guideline for future research.
Characterization and Complete Sequence of Lactonase Enzyme fromBacillus weihenstephanensisIsolate P65 with Potential Activity against Acyl Homoserine Lactone Signal Molecules
Authors: Mohammed Sakr Masarra , Mohamed Anwar Aboshanab Khaled , Mabrouk Aboulwafa Mohammad , Abdel-Haleem Hassouna Nadia
Published: July 2013

Acyl homoserine lactones (AHLs) are the most common class of quorum sensing signal molecules (autoinducers) that have been reported to be essential for virulence of many relevant pathogenic bacteria such asPseudomonas aeruginosa. New approach for controlling infections of such bacteria is through quorum quenching. In this study, the acyl homoserine lactone inhibitory activity of the crude enzyme from aBacillus weihenstephanensis-isolate P65 was characterized. The crude enzyme was found to have relatively high thermal stability and was stable in pH range 6 to 9. The crude enzyme extract was found to have lactonase activity of 36.3 U/mg total protein. Maximum enzyme activity was achieved within a range of 28–50°C and pH 6–9. None of the metals used enhanced the activity neither did EDTA inhibit it. However, a concentration of 10 mM Fe+2reduced the activity to 73.8%. Catalytic activity and kinetic constants were determined using hexanoyl homoserine lactone as a substrate. Studying enzyme substrate specificity using synthetic standard signals displayed broad spectrum of activity. The enzyme was found to be constitutive. Isolation and complete nucleotide sequence of the respective lactonase gene were done and submitted to the Genbank database under accession code KC823046.
Rapidly Growing Thyroid Mass in an Immunocompromised Young Male Adult
Authors: Santiago Mónica , Martinez José Hernán , Palermo Coromoto , Figueroa Carlos , Torres Oberto , Trinidad Rafael , Gonzalez Eva , Miranda Maria de Lourdes , Garcia Miosotis , Villamarzo Guillermo
Published: July 2013

We describe a 20-year-old man diagnosed with a myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), admitted to our hospital due to pancytopenia and fever of undetermined origin after myelosuppression with chemotherapy. Disseminated aspergillosis (DIA) was suspected when he developed skin and lung involvement. A rapidly growing mass was detected on the left neck area, during hospitalization. A thyroid ultrasound reported a3.7×2.5×2.9 cm oval heterogeneous structure, suggestive of an abscess versus a hematoma. Fine needle aspiration of the thyroid revealed invasion of aspergillosis. Fungal thyroiditis is a rare occurrence. Thyroid fungal infection is difficult to diagnose; for this reason it is rarely diagnosed antemortem. To our knowledge, this is the 10th case reported in the literature in an adult where the diagnosis of fungal invasion to the thyroid was able to be corroborated antemortem by fine needle aspiration biopsy.
Synthesis, Electrical Conductivity, and Dielectric Behavior of Polyaniline/V2O5Composites
Authors: Islam Shama , Lakshmi G. B. V. S. , Siddiqui Azher M. , Husain M. , Zulfequar M.
Published: July 2013

Conducting polymer composites of polyaniline/vanadium pentaoxide PANI/V2O5(with different initial weight percentage of V2O5) has been synthesized byin situpolymerization method. DC conductivity of compressed pellets has been analyzed in the temperature range 300–550 K and was found to increase with V2O5doping. This increase in conductivity is mainly due to band conduction. It has also been observed that the dielectric constant and dielectric loss increase with the level of doping of V2O5but remain independent of the frequency (50 KHz–1 MHz). X-ray diffraction pattern shows some order of crystallinity of composites due to interaction of polyaniline with V2O5. UV-visible spectroscopy shows an increase in the optical band gap with doping.
A New Neumann Series Method for Solving a Family of Local Fractional Fredholm and Volterra Integral Equations
Authors: Ma Xiao-Jing , Srivastava H. M. , Baleanu Dumitru , Yang Xiao-Jun
Published: July 2013

We propose a new Neumann series method to solve a family of local fractional Fredholm and Volterra integral equations. The integral operator, which is used in our investigation, is of the local fractional integral operator type. Two illustrative examples show the accuracy and the reliability of the obtained results.
Mechanical Characterization of Cryomilled Al Powder Consolidated by High-Frequency Induction Heat Sintering
Authors: El-Danaf Ehab A. , Soliman Mahmoud S. , Almajid Abdulhakim A. , Khalil Khalil Abdelrazek
Published: July 2013

In the present investigation, an aluminum powder of 99.7% purity with particle size of ~45 µm was cryomilled for 7 hours. The produced powder as characterized by scanning, transmission electron microscopy, and X-ray diffraction gave a particle size of ~1 µm and grain (crystallite) size of23±6 nm. This powder, after degassing process, was consolidated using high-frequency induction heat sintering (HFIHS) at various temperatures for short periods of time of 1 to 3 minutes. The present sintering conditions resulted in solid compact with nanoscale grain size (<100 nm) and high compact density. The mechanical properties of a sample sintered at 773 K for 3 minutes gave a compressive yield and ultimate strength of 270 and 390 MPa, respectively. The thermal stability of grain size nanostructured compacts is in agreement with the kinetics models based on the thermodynamics effects.
A Novel Mechanical Component Retrieval Approach Based on Differential Moment
Authors: Guo Kehua , Liu Wu , Song Hong
Published: July 2013

The differential geometry and moment invariants are important approaches in pattern recognition and artificial intelligence. In this paper, a novel approach for mechanical component retrieval is reported. This approach combines local (spatial curvature) signatures and global (moment) features of 3D mechanical component. Mean curvatures are integrated into the computation of 3D moment invariants, and differential moment invariants are constructed. Experiments indicate that differential moment invariants have a lower computation complexity than traditional 3D image retrieval approaches without reducing the retrieval rate.
Self‐Assembly of Ternary Particles for Tough Colloidal Crystals with Vivid Structure Colors
Authors: Bao Binfu , Liu Duo , Yang Youyou , Shen Zhehong , You Bo
Published: July 2013

Self‐assembly of colloidal spheres is the most frequently used method for structural colors, but the chroma of the structural colors is usually so low that people cannot observe it under natural conditions. This paper presents a facile method for fabrications of vivid structural colors by doping carbon black into the self‐assembly of colloidal polymer spheres and nanosilica particles. This approach can generate very gorgeous structural colors which can be very easily seen under natural conditions. The fabrication conditions for the self‐assembly of composite dispersions of polymer/silica/carbon black were optimized to obtain colloidal crystals with vivid colors. Thus, robust mechanical properties, large‐scale, and brilliant structural colors can guarantee the obtained crystal films to find practical applications, which are demonstrated by the fact that the successful applications of structural colors beautify the original simple and tedious surface of bamboo strand board (BSB).
Algorithm Improvement of the Low-End GNSS/INS Systems for Land Vehicles Navigation
Authors: Zhang Quan , Niu Xiaoji , Zhang Hongping , Shi Chuang
Published: July 2013

Recent advances in MEMS IMUs give the potential to develop affordable low-end GNSS/INS systems for land vehicles navigation (LVN). To improve the performance of low-end GNSS/INS systems, we made detailed quantitative analysis to the computation terms of the INS navigation equation in regard to accuracy impacts and computation loads and then proposed a simplified INS algorithm and adjusted the corresponding Kalman filter of GPS/INS integration. Comprehensive analysis was made to get the quantitative impacts of each simplified term. Results of road test have shown that the degradation of the navigation accuracy caused by the algorithm simplification was much less than that caused by the sensors errors of the MEMS IMU. Meanwhile, the computation load could be reduced by 70% with the simplified algorithm, and the reduction can go further to reach nearly 95% by downsampling IMU data rate simultaneously. Therefore, it is feasible to simplify the INS algorithm without losing accuracy and get benefits of reducing the computation load, which can further enhance the real-time performance of the navigation. The work has special significance for the applications that have limited processor resource and request strict real-time response, such as a deeply coupled GPS/INS receiver.