bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An architecture for pervasive healthcare system based on the IP multimedia subsystem and body sensor network
Authors: Miskovic Vanja , Babic Djordje
Published: July 2015

One of the most promising applications of sensor networks is mobile health
monitoring. The key concept of New Generation Networks (NGN) is IP Multimedia
Subsystem (IMS). The possibility of using mobile devices as gateways between
sensor networks and IMS has led to the development of integrated solutions
such as the one proposed in this paper. Event-based SIP for Instant Messaging
and Presence Leveraging Extensions (SIMPLE) architecture is considered as the
best solution for IMS based mobile health monitoring. This paper also
describes usage of the Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) protocol to
communicate with the IMS core, whereas data are transmitted within the body
of SIP messages. Thus there is no need for additional transport protocol.
Presence Information Data Format (PIDF) is used as data format and data
privacy is controlled by XML Configuration Access Protocol (XCAP), which also
provides the ability to manage groups of patients.
Using a two-contact circular test structure to determine the specific contact resistivity of contacts to bulk semiconductors
Authors: Collins Aaron , Pan Yue , Holland Anthony
Published: July 2015

We present a numerical method to extract specific contact resistivity (SCR)
for three-dimensional (3-D) contact structures using a two-electrode test
structure. This method was developed using Finite Element Modeling (FEM).
Experimental measurements were performed for contacts of 200 nm nickel (Ni)
to p+-type germanium (Ge) substrates and 200 nm of Titanium (Ti) on
4H-Silicon Carbide (SiC). The SCR obtained was (2.3-27)?10-6 ??cm2 for the
Ni-Ge contacts and (1.3-2.4)?10-3 ??cm2 for the Ti-SiC.
Spectral, thermal, optical and biological studies on (E)-4-[(2-hydroxyphenyl)imino]pentan-2-one and its complexes
Authors: Hosny Nasser , Ibrahim Reyad , El-Asmy Ahmed
Published: July 2015

Metal complexes derived from the reaction of Cu(II), Co(II), Ni(II) and
Zn(II) acetates and (E)-4-(2-hydroxyphenylimino)pentan-2-one (H2L) have been
synthesized and characterized by elemental analyses, MS, IR, UV-Vis., 1H NMR,
thermal analyses (TGA and DTG) and magnetic measurements. In all complexes
except for Zn(II) complex, the Schiff base ligand acts as a mono-negative
tridentate (NOO) donor, through the azomethine nitrogen, the hydroxyl oxygen
and the enolic carbonyl oxygen. The structure of the Cu(II) complex is
square-planar, the Co(II) is octahedral while, the Ni(II) and Zn(II) are
tetrahedral. The optical band gap measurements indicated a semi-conducting
nature of these complexes. The biological activities have been screened
against two bacteria and two fungi. Some of the studied complexes showed
activity against bacteria and fungi.
Cooperation, a sense of justice, and neuroenhancement
Authors: Mladenovic Ivan
Published: July 2015

In this paper we shall explore the neurobiological basis of human
cooperation, as well as some biomedical means for enhancing cooperation
capacities that are already available, or that will be available in the near
future. For that reason we will pay special attention to the role that
hormone oxitocin (Oxt) plays in inducing trust among humans. Some recent
experiments in neuroeconomics suggest that increase of the level of oxitocin
in human brain increases readiness for cooperation. We shall argue that these
experiments are crucially important for the enhancement debate, especially on
the topic of moral enhancement. Nevertheless, we will raise several
objections against the straightforward use of these experiments in
pro-enhancement arguments. The first problem, that is biomedical in its
nature, concerns the issue of side effects. The second problem is that
increased readiness for cooperation may result in some unintended
consequences both on individual and societal level. Finally, we will address
the political problem of finding an adequate institutional response to the
possibility of moral neuroenhancement.
The dispute about the nature of divine attributes in Jewish medieval philosophy
Authors: Soc Andrija
Published: July 2015

In this paper I discuss a dispute between Jewish medieval philosophers about
the status of divine attributes. The paper consists of three parts. In the
first part, I outline Philo?s and Saadia?s reasons as to why God must be
thought as perfect and simple. Using the aristotelian distinction
?substance/accidence?, I explain why it is problematic to ascribe to God, as
seen within Judaic tradition, properties such as omniscience, power,
goodness, and others. In the second part, I examine Maimonides? negative
theology. Maimonides holds that one must not predicate anything to God.
Because God and human beings are incommensurable, any such ascription would
be equivocal. Under the influence of Saadia, Maimonides maintains that one
cannot say anything about God except that He exists. To prove his thesis,
Maimonides was prepared to interpret the content of Jewish Holy writs as
being highly metaphorical and it?s most profound meaning as beyond the grasp
of the majority of those practicing the principles of Judaism. Even though
Maimonides? influence was felt on many subsequent Jewish thinkers, many of
them didn?t always agree with him. In the third part of the paper, I sketch
Gersonides?, Crescas? and Albo?s alternative solutions to the problem of
ascribing attributes to God. Aside from discussing a question of the status
of Divine attributes, in this paper I also try to put forward a thesis that
goes beyond the framework of the mentioned dispute. Namely, Jewish
philosophers, Maimonides being the paradigmatic example, didn?t simply adopt
the official interpretations of religious dogma, nor did they compromise with
it when it comes to proving their theses. In that regard, they came very
close to early modern philosophers, who discussed philosophical and
theological problems in light of principles of rational examination, rather
than accepting the claims of ecclesiastical authority.
Definition and Properties of Direct Sum Decomposition of Groups1
Authors: Nakasho Kazuhisa , Yamazaki Hiroshi , Okazaki Hiroyuki , Shidama Yasunari
Published: July 2015

In this article, direct sum decomposition of group is mainly discussed. In the second section, support of element of direct product group is defined and its properties are formalized. It is formalized here that an element of direct product group belongs to its direct sum if and only if support of the element is finite. In the third section, product map and sum map are prepared. In the fourth section, internal and external direct sum are defined. In the last section, an equivalent form of internal direct sum is proved. We referred to [23], [22], [8] and [18] in the formalization.
Fuzzy Logic modelling of non-catalytic, multi-step hydrogen reduction of molybdenum disulfide in the presence of lime
Authors: Afsahi Mohammad Mehdi , Abolpour Bahador , Kumar Ramachndran Vasant , Abolpour Milad
Published: July 2015

Investigations have been carried out on the application of the Fuzzy Logic model to the “direct reduction” of molybdenum disulfide by hydrogen in the presence of lime, as an alternative method for producing molybdenum powder. The objective was to seek a predictor model via a well-defined relationship between the vital variables (bulk temperature, ratio of molar quantities of the solid reactants, pellet thickness, hydrogen concentration in the gaseous bulk, normalised weight loss of the pellet, sulfur fixation in the pellet, and time required for completion of reaction). Finally, the results predicted by the Fuzzy Logic model have been evaluated and validated using both a mathematical model and experimental data.
The Role of ESR Spectroscopy in Advancing Catalytic Science: Some Recent Developments
Authors: Rhodes Christopher J.
Published: July 2015

Recent progress is surveyed in regard to the importance of molecular species containing unpaired electrons in catalytic systems, as revealed using ESR spectroscopy. The review begins with studies of enzymes and their role directly in biological systems, and then discusses investigations of various artificially created catalysts with potential human and environmental significance, including zeolites. Among the specific types of catalytic media considered are those for photocatalysis, water splitting, the degradation of environmental pollutants, hydrocarbon conversions, fuel cells, ionic liquids and sensor devices employing graphene. Studies of muonium-labelled radicals in zeolites are also reviewed, as a means for determining the dynamics of transient radicals in these nanoporous materials.
A Clustering Based Archive Multi Objective Gravitational Search Algorithm
Authors: Abbasian Mohammad Amir , Nezamabadi-pour Hossein , Amoozegar Maryam
Published: July 2015

Gravitational search algorithm(GSA) is a recent created metaheuristic optimization algorithm with good results in function optimization as well as real world optimization problems. Many real world problems involve multiple (often conflicting) objectives, which should be optimized simultaneously. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to propose a multi-objective version of GSA, namely clustering based archive multi-objective GSA (CA-MOGSA). Proposed method is created based on the Pareto principles. Selected non-dominated solutions are stored in an external archive. To control the size of archive, the solutions with less crowding distance are removed. These strategies guarantee the elitism and diversity as two important features of multi-objective algorithms. The archive is clustered and a cluster is randomly selected for each agent to apply the gravitational force to attract it. The selection of the proper cluster is based on the distance between clusters representatives and population member (the agent). Therefore, suitable trade-off between exploration and exploitation is provided. The experimental results on eight standard benchmark functions reveal that CA-MOGSA is a well-organized multi-objective version of GSA. It is comparable with the state-of-the- art algorithms including non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm-II (NSGA-II), strength Pareto evolutionary algorithm (SPEA2) and better than multi-objective GSA (MOGSA), time-variant particle swarm optimization (TV-PSO), and non-dominated sorting GSA (NSGSA).
Maximizing T-complexity
Authors: Clark Gregory , Teutsch Jason
Published: July 2015

We investigate Mark Titchener’s T-complexity, an algorithm which measures the information content of finite strings. After introducing the T-complexity algorithm, we turn our attention to a particular class of “simple” finite strings. By exploiting special properties of simple strings, we obtain a fast algorithm to compute the maximum T-complexity among strings of a given length, and our estimates of these maxima show that T-complexity differs asymptotically from Kolmogorov complexity. Finally, we examine how closely de Bruijn sequences resemble strings with high T-complexity.
Characterising Concurrent Histories
Authors: Janicki Ryszard , Kleijn Jetty , Koutny Maciej , Mikulski Łukasz
Published: July 2015

Non-interleaving semantics of concurrent systems is often expressed using posets, where causally related events are ordered and concurrent events are unordered. Each causal poset describes a unique concurrent history, i.e., a set of executions, expressed as sequences or step sequences, that are consistent with it. Moreover, a poset captures all precedence-based invariant relationships between the events in the executions belonging to its concurrent history. However, concurrent histories in general may be too intricate to be described solely in terms of causal posets. In this paper, we introduce and investigate generalised mutex order structures which can capture the invariant causal relationships in any concurrent history consisting of step sequence executions. Each such structure comprises two relations, viz. interleaving/mutex and weak causality. As our main result we prove that each generalised mutex order structure is the intersection of the step sequence executions which are consistent with it.
Particle Swarm Optimization based Sequential and Parallel Tasks Scheduling Model for Heterogeneous Multiprocessor Systems
Authors: Kumar Paulraj Ranjith , Babu P. , Palani Sankaran
Published: July 2015

Multiprocessors have emerged as a powerful computing means for running real-time applications, especially where a uniprocessor system would not be sufficient enough to execute all the tasks. The high performance and reliability of multiprocessors have made them a powerful computing resource. Such computing environment requires an efficient algorithm to determine when and on which processor a given task should be executed. In multiprocessor systems, an efficient scheduling of sequential and parallel tasks onto the processors is known to be NP- Hard problem. In this paper, the problem of minimizing schedule length with energy consumption constraint and the problem of minimizing energy consumption with schedule length constraint on homogeneous and heterogeneous multiprocessor computers through independent sequential and parallel tasks are proposed. These problems emphasize the tradeoff between power and performance and are defined such that the power-performance product is optimized by fixing one factor and minimizing the other and vice versa. The performance of the proposed algorithm with optimal solution is validated using Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) The PSO algorithm achieves 47.5% and 32% of power savings for scheduling sequential and parallel tasks to the processors respectively and also 45.5% of energy saving are achieved for scheduling both sequential or parallel tasks to the processors.
Multigranulation Decision-theoretic Rough Set in Ordered Information System
Authors: Li Wentao , Xu Weihua
Published: July 2015

The decision-theoretic rough set model based on Bayesian decision theory is a main development tendency in the research of rough sets. To extend the theory of decision-theoretic rough set, the article devotes this study to presenting multigranulation decision-theoretic rough set model in ordered information systems. This new multigranulation decision-theoretic rough set approach is characterized by introducing the basic set assignment function in an ordered information system. It is addressed about how to construct probabilistic rough set and multigranulation decision-theoretic rough set models in an ordered information system. Moreover, three kinds of multigranulation decision-theoretic rough set model are analyzed carefully in an ordered information system. In order to explain probabilistic rough set model and multigranulation decision-theoretic rough set models in an ordered information system, an illustrative example is considered, which is helpful for applying these theories to deal with practical issues.
On Q-rationality of Fuzzy Choice Functions on Base Domains
Authors: Desai Santosh S. , Chaudhari Shrikant R.
Published: July 2015

Many researchers have studied the rationality of fuzzy choice functions with transitive rationalization. However, not much is known when transitivity is weakened to quasi-transitivity or any other weaker property of the preference relation. In the present paper we study the rationality of fuzzy choice functions with quasi-transitive rationalization for the domains that contain characteristic functions of all single and two element subsets of the universal set.
Mesh Algorithms for Coxeter Spectral Classification of Cox-regular Edge-bipartite Graphs with Loops, II. Application to Coxeter Spectral Analysis
Authors: Kasjan Stanisław , Simson Daniel
Published: July 2015

This is the second part of our two part paper with the same title. Following our Coxeter spectral study in [Fund. Inform. [123(2013), 447-490] and [SIAM J. Discr. Math. 27(2013), 827-854] of the category 𝒰ℬigrn of loop-free edge-bipartite (signed) graphs Δ, with n ≥ 2 vertices, we study here the larger category ℛℬigrn of Cox-regular edge-bipartite graphs Δ (possibly with dotted loops), up to the usual ℤ-congruences ~Z and ≈Z. The positive graphs Δ in ℛℬigrn, with dotted loops, are studied by means of the complex Coxeter spectrum speccΔ ⊂ℂ, the irreducible mesh root systems of Dynkin types 𝔹n, n≥2,ℂn, n≥3, 𝔽4, 𝔾2, the isotropy group Gl( n, ℤ)Δ (containing the Weyl group of Δ), and by applying the matrix morsification technique introduced in [J. Pure A ppl. Algebra 215(2011), 13-24] and [Fund. Inform. [123(2013), 447-490].

One of our aims of our two part paper is to study the Coxeter spectral analysis question: “ Does the congruence Δ ≈ℤ Δ′ hold, for any pair of connected positive graphs Δ, Δ′∈ℛℬigrn such that speccΔ=speccΔ′ and the numbers of loops in Δ and Δ′ coincide?” We do it by a reduction to the Coxeter spectral study of the G1(n, ℤ)D-orbits in the set MorD ⊂ 𝕄n(ℤ) of matrix morsifications of a Dynkin diagram D=DΔ∈𝒰Bigrn associated with Δ. In this second part, we construct numeric algorithms for computing the connected positive edge-bipartite graphs Δ in ℛℬigrn, for a fixed n ≥ 2, mesh algorithms for computing the set of all ℤ-invertible matrices B ∈ G1(n, ℤ) definining the ℤ-congruence Δ≈ℤΔ', for positive graphs Δ, Δ′∈ℛℬigrn, with ngeq2 fixed, and mesh-type algorithms for the mesh root systems Γ(RΔ•,ΦΔ). We also present a classification and a structure type results for positive Cox-regular edge-bipartite graphs Δ with dotted loops.
Algorithms for Isotropy Groups of Cox-regular Edge-bipartite Graphs
Authors: Kasjan Stanisław , Simson Daniel
Published: July 2015

This paper can be viewed as a third part of our paper [Fund. Inform. 2015, in press]. Following our Coxeter spectral study in [Fund. Inform. 123(2013), 447-490] and [SIAM J. Discr. Math. 27(2013), 827-854] of the category 𝒰ℬigrn of loop-free edge-bipartite (signed) graphs Δ, with n ≥ 2 vertices, we study a larger category ℛℬigrn of Cox-regular edge-bipartite graphs Δ (possibly with dotted loops), up to the usual ℤ-congruences ∼Z and ≈Z. The positive graphs Δ in ℛℬigrn, with dotted loops, are studied by means of the complex Coxeter spectrum speccΔ ⊂ℂ, the irreducible mesh root systems of Dynkin types 𝔹n, n≥2,ℂn, n≥3, 𝔽4, 𝔾2, the isotropy group Gl( n, ℤ)Δ (containing the Weyl group of Δ), and by applying the matrix morsification technique introduced in [J. Pure A ppl. Algebra 215(2011), 13-24] Here we present combinatorial algorithms for constructing the isotropy groups G1(n, ℤ)Δ.

One of the aims of our three paper series is to develop computational tools for the study of the ℤ-congruence ∼ℤ and the following Coxeter spectral analysis question: “ Does the congruence Δ ≈ℤ Δ′ holds, for any pair of connected positive graphs Δ, Δ′∈ℛℬigrn such that speccΔ=speccΔ′ and the numbers of loops in Δ and Δ′ coincide?”

For this purpose, we construct in this paper a extended inflation algorithm Δ↦𝒟Δ, with 𝒟Δ∼ℤΔ, that allows a reduction of the question to the Coxeter spectral study of the G1(n, ℤ)D-orbits in the set MorD ⊂ 𝕄n(ℤ) of matrix morsifications of the associated edge-bipartite Dynkin graph D=𝒟Δ∈ℛBigrn. We also outline a construction of a numeric algorithm for computing the isotropy group G1(n, ℤ)Δ of any connected positive edge-bipartite graph Δ in ℛℬigrn. Finally, we compute the finite isotropy group G1(n, ℤ)D, for each of the Cox-regular edge-bipartite Dynkin graphs D.
S-approximation Spaces: A Three-way Decision Approach
Authors: Shakiba Ali , Hooshmandasl Mohammad R.
Published: July 2015

In this paper, we investigate properties of the lower and upper approximations of an S-approximation space under different assumptions for its S operator. These assumptions are partial monotonicity, complement compatibility and functional partial monotonicity. We also extend the theory of three way decisions to non-inclusion relations. Also in this work, a new representation for partial monotone S-approximation spaces, called inflections, is introduced. We will also discuss the computational complexity of representing an S-approximation space in terms of inflection sets. Finally, the usefulness of the introduced concepts is illustrated by an example.
A Turkish Architect at Technical Unversity of Budapest: Semih Rüstem
Authors: Gümüş M. Dila
Published: July 2015

Semih Rüstem (1898-1946), is a Turkish Early Republican era architect who studied architecture at the Technical University of Budapest. His relationship with Hungarian Turanism and his architectural education in Hungary makes him an exception among Turkish architects. In the early 1930’s, he designed several buildings mostly under the influence of European Modernism but traces of these Hungary-related steps can also be followed in some of his designs. The  information gathered in the process of this research, which aims to examine Semih Rüstem’s life and career in the context of cultural relationships between Hungary and the Ottoman Empire, provides a basis for a discussion on the formal sources of the buildings he designed.
Conditional Random Fields for Pattern Recognition Applied to Structured Data
Authors: Burr Tom , Skurikhin Alexei
Published: July 2015

Pattern recognition uses measurements from an input domain, X, to predict their labels from an output domain, Y. Image analysis is one setting where one might want to infer whether a pixel patch contains an object that is “manmade” (such as a building) or “natural” (such as a tree). Suppose the label for a pixel patch is “manmade”; if the label for a nearby pixel patch is then more likely to be “manmade” there is structure in the output domain that can be exploited to improve pattern recognition performance. Modeling P(X) is difficult because features between parts of the model are often correlated. Therefore, conditional random fields (CRFs) model structured data using the conditional distribution P(Y|X = x), without specifying a model for P(X), and are well suited for applications with dependent features. This paper has two parts. First, we overview CRFs and their application to pattern recognition in structured problems. Our primary examples are image analysis applications in which there is dependence among samples (pixel patches) in the output domain. Second, we identify research topics and present numerical examples.
Measurement of Ozone Concentration on the Elevation Gradient of a Low Hill by a Semiconductor-Based Portable Monitor
Authors: Kanda Isao
Published: July 2015

Ozone concentration has a complex distribution in mountain areas, but the low spatial density of high elevation monitoring stations has limited our understanding of ozone behavior. To achieve high spatial density, mobile measurement was carried out using a portable ozone monitor based on a semiconductor sensor. On the elevation gradient of a relatively low hill (273 m above seal level) in Matsuyama, Japan, 66 walking measurements were conducted in the pre-dawn hours of the winter in 2012 and 2013. The ozone concentration at the top of the hill was positively correlated with the daily maximum concentration on the plain on the previous day. The difference in ozone concentration between the top and bottom of the hill was found to increase with increasing vertical temperature difference. The measurement method established in this study provides a low-cost alternative to grasp the distribution of ozone in mountain areas.
The Economics of Health Damage and Adaptation to Climate Change in Europe: A Review of the Conventional and Grey Literature
Authors: Martinez Gerardo , Williams Eloise , Yu Shwe
Published: July 2015

Economic evidence is a key component of public policy responses to complex societal and health problems, including climate change. Activities to protect human health from climate change should routinely be evaluated not only in terms of their effectiveness or unintended consequences, but also in terms of the health damage cost of inaction, the cost of health adaptation, and the monetized benefits of different alternatives. In this paper we reviewed the economic evidence on the health impacts of climate change and health-relevant adaptation within the 53 Member States of the World Health Organization (WHO) European Region, including grey literature and conventional scientific literature. We found that the evidence base on the health economics of climate change is scarce, incomplete and inconsistent. Despite these shortcomings, the existing evidence clearly indicates that adaptation to avert the health impacts of climate change could provide substantial economic benefits, particularly in the poorer areas of the Region.
Broad Niche Overlap between Invasive Nile Tilapia Oreochromis niloticus and Indigenous Congenerics in Southern Africa: Should We be Concerned?
Authors: Zengeya Tsungai , Booth Anthony , Chimimba Christian
Published: July 2015

This study developed niche models for the native ranges of Oreochromis andersonii, O. mortimeri, and O. mossambicus, and assessed how much of their range is climatically suitable for the establishment of O. niloticus, and then reviewed the conservation implications for indigenous congenerics as a result of overlap with O. niloticus based on documented congeneric interactions. The predicted potential geographical range of O. niloticus reveals a broad climatic suitability over most of southern Africa and overlaps with all the endemic congenerics. This is of major conservation concern because six of the eight river systems predicted to be suitable for O. niloticus have already been invaded and now support established populations. Oreochromis niloticus has been implicated in reducing the abundance of indigenous species through competitive exclusion and hybridisation. Despite these well-documented adverse ecological effects, O. niloticus remains one of the most widely cultured and propagated fish species in aquaculture and stock enhancements in the southern Africa sub-region. Aquaculture is perceived as a means of protein security, poverty alleviation, and economic development and, as such, any future decisions on its introduction will be based on the trade-off between socio-economic benefits and potential adverse ecological effects.
Assessing the Effect of Leaf Litter Diversity on the Decomposition and Associated Diversity of Fungal Assemblages
Authors: Gao Jing , Kang Fengfeng , Li Tianyu , Song Xiaoshuai , Zhao Weihong , Yu Xiaowen , Han Hairong
Published: July 2015

Although the effect of litter mixture on decomposition has been well documented, few studies have examined the relationships between richness and relative abundance of leaf species in litter mixture and changes in universal fungal communities during the decomposition process in temperate forests. In this study, we used the litterbag method and included three leaf litter species, i.e., aspen (Populus davidiana Dode), birch (Betula platyphylla Sukaczev) and oak (Quercus mongolica Fischer ex Ledebour), to investigate the mass loss rate and diversity of universal fungal communities in each litter treatment, which were sampled in situ after 180, 240, 300 and 360 days of decomposition (between 2012 and 2013) in broadleaved mixed forests in Chinese temperate forests. Eight mixture proportions were examined: pure aspen litter (10A), pure birch litter (10B), pure oak litter (10O), 50% aspen litter mixed with 50% birch litter (5A:5B), 50% aspen litter mixed with 50% oak (5A:5O), 50% birch litter mixed with 50% oak litter (5B:5O), 10% birch litter mixed with 80% aspen litter and 10% oak litter (1B:8A:1O), 30% birch litter mixed with 40% aspen litter and 30% oak litter (3B:4A:3O). Over 360 days of decomposition, approximately 46.6%, 43.6%, 28.0%, 54.4%, 40.2%, 39.5%, 54.5% and 49.46% of litter mass was lost from 10A, 10B, 10O, 5A:5B, 5A:5O, 5B:5O, 1B:8A:1O and 3B:4A:3O, respectively. In addition, the number of fungal denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) bands showed a positive correlation with mass loss rate, indicating a positive feedback between leaf litter decomposition and universal fungal communities in the leaf litter. The results revealed that the 5A:5B, 1B:8A:1O and 3B:4A:3O litter mixtures had a synergistic effect on the litter mixture, while the 5A:5O and 5B:5O litter mixtures had a nearly neutral effect on the litter mixture. Thus, leaf litter species composition and relative abundance seem to be more important than leaf litter richness in driving the direction and magnitude of litter mixture decomposition.
RNF20-SNF2H Pathway of Chromatin Relaxation in DNA Double-Strand Break Repair
Authors: Kato Akihiro , Komatsu Kenshi
Published: July 2015

Rapid progress in the study on the association of histone modifications with chromatin remodeling factors has broadened our understanding of chromatin dynamics in DNA transactions. In DNA double-strand break (DSB) repair, the well-known mark of histones is the phosphorylation of the H2A variant, H2AX, which has been used as a surrogate marker of DSBs. The ubiquitylation of histone H2B by RNF20 E3 ligase was recently found to be a DNA damage-induced histone modification. This modification is required for DSB repair and regulated by a distinctive pathway from that of histone H2AX phosphorylation. Moreover, the connection between H2B ubiquitylation and the chromatin remodeling activity of SNF2H has been elucidated. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge of RNF20-mediated processes and the molecular link to H2AX-mediated processes during DSB repair.
Hypopituitarism in Traumatic Brain Injury—A Critical Note
Authors: Klose Marianne , Feldt-Rasmussen Ulla
Published: July 2015

While hypopituitarism after traumatic brain injury (TBI) was previously considered rare, it is now thought to be a major cause of treatable morbidity among TBI survivors. Consequently, recommendations for assessment of pituitary function and replacement in TBI were recently introduced. Given the high incidence of TBI with more than 100 pr. 100,000 inhabitants, TBI would be by far the most common cause of hypopituitarism if the recently reported prevalence rates hold true. The disproportion between this proposed incidence and the occasional cases of post-TBI hypopituitarism in clinical practice justifies reflection as to whether hypopituitarism has been unrecognized in TBI patients or whether diagnostic testing designed for high risk populations such as patients with obvious pituitary pathology has overestimated the true risk and thereby the disease burden of hypopituitarism in TBI. The findings on mainly isolated deficiencies in TBI patients, and particularly isolated growth hormone (GH) deficiency, raise the question of the potential impact of methodological confounding, determined by variable test-retest reproducibility, appropriateness of cut-off values, importance of BMI stratified cut-offs, assay heterogeneity, pre-test probability of hypopituitarism and lack of proper individual laboratory controls as reference population. In this review, current recommendations are discussed in light of recent available evidence.
Cryptococcus: Shedding New Light on an Inveterate Yeast
Authors: Haidar Ghady , Singh Nina
Published: July 2015

Cryptococcus has emerged as a significant pathogen in immunocompromised patients. While the diagnostic testing and the antifungal treatment of cryptococcal infections have become firmly established in clinical practice, new developments and areas of ambiguity merit further consideration. These include the potential for donor transmission of Cryptococcus; cirrhosis-associated cryptococcosis, particularly during transplant candidacy; the utility of serum cryptococcal antigen testing of asymptomatic individuals in high-prevalence, poor-resource areas; pathogenesis and treatment of the immune reconstitution syndrome, specifically in relation to antiretroviral therapy and immunosuppressive medications; and new challenges posed by the emerging species of Cryptococcus gatti. In this article, we summarize the literature pertaining to these topics, focusing on recent progress.
A Novel Technique for the Connection of Ceramic and Titanium Implant Components Using Glass Solder Bonding
Authors: Mick Enrico , Tinschert Joachim , Mitrovic Aurica , Bader Rainer
Published: July 2015

Both titanium and ceramic materials provide specific advantages in dental implant technology. However, some problems, like hypersensitivity reactions, corrosion and mechanical failure, have been reported. Therefore, the combining of both materials to take advantage of their pros, while eliminating their respective cons, would be desirable. Hence, we introduced a new technique to bond titanium and ceramic materials by means of a silica-based glass ceramic solder. Cylindrical compound samples (Ø10 mm × 56 mm) made of alumina toughened zirconia (ATZ), as well as titanium grade 5, were bonded by glass solder on their end faces. As a control, a two-component adhesive glue was utilized. The samples were investigated without further treatment, after 30 and 90 days of storage in distilled water at room temperature, and after aging. All samples were subjected to quasi-static four-point-bending tests. We found that the glass solder bonding provided significantly higher bending strength than adhesive glue bonding. In contrast to the glued samples, the bending strength of the soldered samples remained unaltered by the storage and aging treatments. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) analyses confirmed the presence of a stable solder-ceramic interface. Therefore, the glass solder technique represents a promising method for optimizing dental and orthopedic implant bondings.
Experimental Simulation of Long Term Weathering in Alkaline Bauxite Residue Tailings
Authors: Santini Talitha , Fey Martin , Gilkes Robert
Published: July 2015

Bauxite residue is an alkaline, saline tailings material generated as a byproduct of the Bayer process used for alumina refining. Developing effective plans for the long term management of potential environmental impacts associated with storage of these tailings is dependent on understanding how the chemical and mineralogical properties of the tailings will change during weathering and transformation into a soil-like material. Hydrothermal treatment of bauxite residue was used to compress geological weathering timescales and examine potential mineral transformations during weathering. Gibbsite was rapidly converted to boehmite; this transformation was examined with in situ synchrotron XRD. Goethite, hematite, and calcite all precipitated over longer weathering timeframes, while tricalcium aluminate dissolved. pH, total alkalinity, and salinity (electrical conductivity) all decreased during weathering despite these experiments being performed under “closed” conditions (i.e., no leaching). This indicates the potential for auto-attenuation of the high alkalinity and salinity that presents challenges for long term environmental management, and suggests that management requirements will decrease during weathering as a result of these mineral transformations.
Experimental West Nile Virus Infection in Rabbits: An Alternative Model for Studying Induction of Disease and Virus Control
Authors: Suen Willy , Uddin Muhammad , Wang Wenqi , Brown Vienna , Adney Danielle , Broad Nicole , Prow Natalie , Bowen Richard , Hall Roy , Bielefeldt-Ohmann Helle
Published: July 2015

The economic impact of non-lethal human and equine West Nile virus (WNV) disease is substantial, since it is the most common presentation of the infection. Experimental infection with virulent WNV strains in the mouse and hamster models frequently results in severe neural infection and moderate to high mortality, both of which are not representative features of most human and equine infections. We have established a rabbit model for investigating pathogenesis and immune response of non-lethal WNV infection. Two species of rabbits, New Zealand White (Oryctolagus cuniculus) and North American cottontail (Sylvilagus sp.), were experimentally infected with virulent WNV and Murray Valley encephalitis virus strains. Infected rabbits exhibited a consistently resistant phenotype, with evidence of low viremia, minimal-absent neural infection, mild-moderate neuropathology, and the lack of mortality, even though productive virus replication occurred in the draining lymph node. The kinetics of anti-WNV neutralizing antibody response was comparable to that commonly seen in infected horses and humans. This may be explained by the early IFNα/β and/or γ response evident in the draining popliteal lymph node. Given this similarity to the human and equine disease, immunocompetent rabbits are, therefore, a valuable animal model for investigating various aspects of non-lethal WNV infections.
Multi-Period Dynamic Optimization for Large-Scale Differential-Algebraic Process Models under Uncertainty
Authors: Washington Ian , Swartz Christopher
Published: July 2015

A technique for optimizing large-scale differential-algebraic process models under uncertainty using a parallel embedded model approach is developed in this article. A combined multi-period multiple-shooting discretization scheme is proposed, which creates a significant number of independent numerical integration tasks for each shooting interval over all scenario/period realizations. Each independent integration task is able to be solved in parallel as part of the function evaluations within a gradient-based non-linear programming solver. The focus of this paper is on demonstrating potential computation performance improvement when the embedded differential-algebraic equation model solution of the multi-period discretization is implemented in parallel. We assess our parallel dynamic optimization approach on two case studies; the first is a benchmark literature problem, while the second is a large-scale air separation problem that considers a robust set-point transition under parametric uncertainty. Results indicate that focusing on the speed-up of the embedded model evaluation can significantly decrease the overall computation time; however, as the multi-period formulation grows with increased realizations, the computational burden quickly shifts to the internal computation performed within the non-linear programming algorithm. This highlights the need for further decomposition, structure exploitation and parallelization within the non-linear programming algorithm and is the subject for further investigation.
Monitoring Spatio-Temporal Distribution of Rice Planting Area in the Yangtze River Delta Region Using MODIS Images
Authors: Shi Jingjing , Huang Jingfeng
Published: July 2015

A large-area map of the spatial distribution of rice is important for grain yield estimations, water management and an understanding of the biogeochemical cycling of carbon and nitrogen. In this paper, we developed the Normalized Weighted Difference Water Index (NWDWI) for identifying the unique characteristics of rice during the flooding and transplanting period. With the aid of the ASTER Global Digital Elevation Model and the phenological data observed at agrometeorological stations, the spatial distributions of single cropping rice and double cropping early and late rice in the Yangtze River Delta region were generated using the NWDWI and time-series Enhanced Vegetation Index data derived from MODIS/Terra data during the 2000–2010 period. The accuracy of the MODIS-derived rice planting area was validated against agricultural census data at the county level. The spatial accuracy was also tested based on a land use map and Landsat ETM+ data. The decision coefficients for county-level early and late rice were 0.560 and 0.619, respectively. The MODIS-derived area of late rice exhibited higher consistency with the census data during the 2000–2010 period. The algorithm could detect and monitor rice fields with different cropping patterns at the same site and is useful for generating spatial datasets of rice on a regional scale.
Top-Down CMOS-NEMS Polysilicon Nanowire with Piezoresistive Transduction
Authors: Marigó Eloi , Sansa Marc , Pérez-Murano Francesc , Uranga Arantxa , Barniol Núria
Published: July 2015

A top-down clamped-clamped beam integrated in a CMOS technology with a cross section of 500 nm × 280 nm has been electrostatic actuated and sensed using two different transduction methods: capacitive and piezoresistive. The resonator made from a single polysilicon layer has a fundamental in-plane resonance at 27 MHz. Piezoresistive transduction avoids the effect of the parasitic capacitance assessing the capability to use it and enhance the CMOS-NEMS resonators towards more efficient oscillator. The displacement derived from the capacitive transduction allows to compute the gauge factor for the polysilicon material available in the CMOS technology.
The Use of an Innovative Jig to Stimulate Awareness of Sustainable Technologies among Freshman Engineering Students
Authors: Hertzog Pierre , Swart Arthur
Published: July 2015

Renewable energy systems, such as photovoltaic (PV) systems, still require a great deal of research and development in order to improve efficiency, reduce overall manufacturing costs, and to become more sustainable in the future. Solar power production using PV modules has increased and is currently one of the fastest growing energy technologies worldwide, leading to speculation that it will be the main source of electrical power in future. This on-going research and implementation of PV modules and systems necessitates the effective training of technicians, technologists and engineers required to install, maintain or interface with these systems. The Department for Electrical, Electronic and Computer Engineering at the Central University of Technology, Free State (CUT) in South Africa has implemented a Higher Certificate in Renewable Energy Technologies (HCRET) in January 2014. The purpose of this article is to outline a practical innovative jig that was used to stimulate awareness and understanding of the fundamental operating principles of one specific sustainable technology, namely PV modules. Electronic measurements from this innovative jig are obtained by using an ARDUINO UNO board which interfaces with LabVIEW. Student perceptions of using this innovative jig are further presented, which indicate that the practical experiments were satisfying, challenging, relevant and applicable to PV module operation.
Treatment of Chronic Migraine with Focus on Botulinum Neurotoxins
Authors: Schaefer Sara , Gottschalk Christopher , Jabbari Bahman
Published: July 2015

Migraine is the most common neurological disorder, and contributes to disability and large healthcare costs in the United States and the world. The treatment of migraine until recently has focused on medications, both abortive and prophylactic, but treatment of chronic migraine has been revolutionized with the introduction of botulinum toxin injection therapy. In this review, we explore the current understanding of migraine pathophysiology, and the evolution of the use of botulinum toxin therapy including proposed pathophysiological mechanisms through animal data. We also discuss the similarities and differences between three injection techniques.
Experimenting with Coupled Hydro-Ecological Models to Explore Measure Plans and Water Quality Goals in a Semi-Enclosed Swedish Bay
Authors: Arheimer Berit , Nilsson Johanna , Lindström Göran
Published: July 2015

Measure plans are currently being developed for the Water Framework Directive (WFD) by European water authorities. In Sweden, such plans include measures for good ecological status in the coastal ecosystem. However, the effect of suggested measures is not yet known. We therefore experimented with different nutrient reduction measures on land and in the sea, using a model system of two coupled dynamic models for a semi-enclosed bay and its catchment. The science question was whether it is worthwhile to implement measures in the local catchment area to reach local environmental goals, or if the status of the Bay is more governed by the water exchange with the Sea. The results indicate that by combining several measures in the catchment, the nutrient load can be reduced by 15%–20%. To reach the same effect on nutrient concentrations in the Bay, the concentrations of the sea must be reduced by 80%. Hence, in this case, local measures have a stronger impact on coastal water quality. The experiment also show that the present targets for good ecological status set up by the Swedish water authorities may be unrealistic for this Bay. Finally, we discuss when and how to use hydro-ecological models for societal needs.
A complementation assay for in vivo protein structure/function analysis in Physcomitrella patens (Funariaceae)
Authors: Scavuzzo‐Duggan Tess R. , Chaves Arielle M. , Roberts Alison W.
Published: July 2015

Premise of the study:

A method for rapid in vivo functional analysis of engineered proteins was developed using Physcomitrella patens.

Methods and Results:

A complementation assay was designed for testing structure/function relationships in cellulose synthase (CESA) proteins. The components of the assay include (1) construction of test vectors that drive expression of epitope‐tagged PpCESA5 carrying engineered mutations, (2) transformation of a ppcesa5 knockout line that fails to produce gametophores with test and control vectors, (3) scoring the stable transformants for gametophore production, (4) statistical analysis comparing complementation rates for test vectors to positive and negative control vectors, and (5) analysis of transgenic protein expression by Western blotting. The assay distinguished mutations that generate fully functional, nonfunctional, and partially functional proteins.

Conclusions:

Compared with existing methods for in vivo testing of protein function, this complementation assay provides a rapid method for investigating protein structure/function relationships in plants.
Development and characterization of microsatellite loci for Ficus hirta (Moraceae)
Authors: Zheng Linna , Nason John D. , Liang Dan , Ge Xuejun , Yu Hui
Published: July 2015

Premise of the study:

Microsatellite primers were developed to investigate population genetic structure in Ficus hirta (Moraceae).

Methods and Results:

Sixteen microsatellite primers were developed and optimized for F. hirta using Illumina paired‐end sequencing of pre‐receptive and receptive developmental‐phase female flowers. Out of 16 primers, nine were found to be polymorphic in four populations of F. hirta. Alleles per locus ranged from two to 15 across the 94 F. hirta individuals, while within‐population observed and expected heterozygosity per locus ranged from 0.000 to 0.955 and from 0.000 to 0.882, respectively. In addition, the 16 primers were tested in 29 additional Ficus species, with all found to amplify in at least 11 of these species and with most amplifying in a majority of the species.

Conclusions:

This set of microsatellite primers is the first specifically developed for F. hirta and will facilitate studies of genetic diversity within and genetic differentiation among populations of Ficus species.
Isolation via next‐generation sequencing of microsatellites from the Tasmanian macroalgae Lessonia corrugata (Lessoniaceae)
Authors: Durrant Halley M. S. , Burridge Christopher P. , Gardner Michael G.
Published: July 2015

Premise of the study:

Microsatellite markers for the macroalgae Lessonia corrugata (Lessoniaceae) were developed, for the first time, to enable population genetic assessment of this important foundation species.

Methods and Results:

Ion Torrent sequencing identified 16,622 loci, 29 of which were trialed in L. corrugata. Seven loci were found to be polymorphic and screened for variation in 76 individuals from two populations in Tasmania, Australia. Observed heterozygosity ranged from 0.086 to 0.686 (mean 0.386) and the number of alleles per locus ranged from two to five (mean 2.57). Heterozygosity was not significantly different from expected values.

Conclusions:

These loci can be used to study the population genetics of L. corrugata, a key habitat‐forming species in the Tasmanian marine ecosystem, and will help to assess gene flow among spatially discrete populations such as those in marine protected areas.
A New Approach to Contrastive Topic: Partition Semantics and Pragmatics
Authors: Yabushita Katsuhiko
Published: July 2015

No abstract.
A Unified Analysis of Indicative and Biscuit Conditionals as Topics
Authors: Ebert Christian , Endriss Cornelia , Hinterwimmer Stefan
Published: July 2015

No abstract.
Comparative Correlatives as Anaphora to Differentials
Authors: Brasoveanu Adrian
Published: July 2015

No abstract.