bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Boundary value problems for fractional differential equation with causal operators
Authors: Jiang Jingfei , Cao Dengqing , Chen Huatao
Published: May 2016

In this paper, we study the two-point boundary value problems for fractional differential equation with causal operator. By lower and upper solution method and the monotone iterative technique, some results for the extremal solution and quasisolutions are obtained. At last, an example is given to demonstrate the validity of assumptions and theoretical results.
Centers: their integrability and relations with the divergence
Authors: Llibre J.
Published: May 2016

This is a brief survey on the centers of the analytic differential systems in ℝ2. First we consider the kind of integrability of the different types of centers, and after we analyze the focus–center problem, i.e. how to distinguish a center from a focus. This is a difficult problem which is not completely solved. We shall present some recent results using the divergence of the differential system.
Vertex PI
v
Topological Index of Titania Carbon Nanotubes TiO
2
(m,n)
Authors: Farahani Mohammad Reza , Jamil Muhammad Kamran , Imran Muhammad
Published: May 2016

A topological index of a graph G is a numeric quantity related to G which is invariant under automorphisms of G. The Padmakar-Ivan (PI) index of a graph G is defined as PI(G) = Σ
e=uv∈E(G) [nu
+ nv
], where nu
is the number of edges of G lying closer to v than u, analogously nv
. In this paper, we compute the vertex PI index of Titania carbon Nanotubes TiO
2[m,n].
Vibrational resonance: a study with high-order word-series averaging
Authors: Murua A. , Sanz-Serna J.M.
Published: May 2016

We study a model problem describing vibrational resonance by means of a high-order averaging technique based on so-called word series. With the technique applied here, the tasks of constructing the averaged system and the associated change of variables are divided into two parts. It is first necessary to build recursively a set of so-called word basis functions and, after that, all the required manipulations involve only scalar coefficients that are computed by means of simple recursions. As distinct from the situation with other approaches, with word-series, high-order averaged systems may be derived without having to compute the associated change of variables. In the system considered here, the construction of high-order averaged systems makes it possible to obtain very precise approximations to the true dynamics.
Suicide Rates in Aboriginal Communities in Labrador, Canada
Authors: Pollock Nathaniel J. , Mulay Shree , Valcour James , Jong Michael
Published: May 2016

Objectives. To compare suicide rates in Aboriginal communities in Labrador, including Innu, Inuit, and Southern Inuit, with the general population of Newfoundland, Canada.

Methods. In partnership with Aboriginal governments, we conducted a population-based study to understand patterns of suicide mortality in Labrador. We analyzed suicide mortality data from 1993 to 2009 from the Vital Statistics Death Database. We combined this with community-based methods, including consultations with Elders, youths, mental health and community workers, primary care clinicians, and government decision-makers.

Results. The suicide rate was higher in Labrador than in Newfoundland. This trend persisted across all age groups; however, the disparity was greatest among those aged 10 to 19 years. Males accounted for the majority of deaths, although suicide rates were elevated among females in the Inuit communities. When comparing Aboriginal subregions, the Innu and Inuit communities had the highest age-standardized mortality rates of, respectively, 165.6 and 114.0 suicides per 100 000 person-years.

Conclusions. Suicide disproportionately affects Innu and Inuit populations in Labrador. Suicide rates were high among male youths and Inuit females.
Access and Quality of Care by Insurance Type for Low-Income Adults Before the Affordable Care Act
Authors: Nguyen Kevin H. , Sommers Benjamin D.
Published: May 2016

Objectives. To compare access to care and perceived health care quality by insurance type among low-income adults in 3 southern US states, before Medicaid expansion under the Affordable Care Act.

Methods. We conducted a telephone survey in 2013 of 2765 low-income US citizens, aged 19 to 64 years, in Arkansas, Kentucky, and Texas. We compared 11 measures of access and quality of care for respondents with Medicaid, private insurance, Medicare, and no insurance with adjustment for sociodemographics and health status.

Results. Low-income adults with Medicaid, private insurance, and Medicare reported significantly better health care access and quality than uninsured individuals. Medicaid beneficiaries reported greater difficulty accessing specialists but less risk of high out-of-pocket spending than those with private insurance. For other outcomes, Medicaid and private coverage performed similarly.

Conclusions. Low-income adults with insurance report significantly greater access and quality of care than uninsured adults, regardless of whether they have private or public insurance. Access to specialty care in Medicaid may require policy attention.

Public Health Implications. Many states are still considering whether to expand Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act and whether to pursue alternative models for coverage expansion. Our results suggest that access to quality health care will improve under the Affordable Care Act's coverage expansions, regardless of the type of coverage.
Evaluation of American Indian Health Service Training in Pain Management and Opioid Substance Use Disorder
Authors: Katzman Joanna G. , Fore Chris , Bhatt Snehal , Greenberg Nina , Griffin Salvador Julie , Comerci George C. , Camarata Christopher , Marr Lisa , Monette Rebecca , Arora Sanjeev , Bradford Andrea , Taylor Denise , Dillow Jenny , Karol Susan
Published: May 2016

We examined the benefits of a collaboration between the Indian Health Service and an academic medical center to address the high rates of unintentional drug overdose in American Indians/Alaska Natives.

In January 2015, the Indian Health Service became the first federal agency to mandate training in pain and opioid substance use disorder for all prescribing clinicians. More than 1300 Indian Health Service clinicians were trained in 7 possible 5-hour courses specific to pain and addiction.

We noted positive changes in pre- and postcourse knowledge, self-efficacy, and attitudes as well as thematic responses showing the trainings to be comprehensive, interactive, and convenient.
Population Survey Features and Response Rates: A Randomized Experiment
Authors: Guo Yimeng , Kopec Jacek A. , Cibere Jolanda , Li Linda C. , Goldsmith Charles H.
Published: May 2016

Objectives. To study the effects of several survey features on response rates in a general population health survey.

Methods. In 2012 and 2013, 8000 households in British Columbia, Canada, were randomly allocated to 1 of 7 survey variants, each containing a different combination of survey features. Features compared included administration modes (paper vs online), prepaid incentive ($2 coin vs none), lottery incentive (instant vs end-of-study), questionnaire length (10 minutes vs 30 minutes), and sampling frame (InfoCanada vs Canada Post).

Results. The overall response rate across the 7 groups was 27.9% (range = 17.1–43.4). All survey features except the sampling frame were associated with statistically significant differences in response rates. The survey mode elicited the largest effect on the odds of response (odds ratio [OR] = 2.04; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.61, 2.59), whereas the sampling frame showed the least effect (OR = 1.14; 95% CI = 0.98, 1.34). The highest response was achieved by mailing a short paper survey with a prepaid incentive.

Conclusions. In a mailed general population health survey in Canada, a 40% to 50% response rate can be expected. Questionnaire administration mode, survey length, and type of incentive affect response rates.
Mobilizing Local Authorities Around Public Health Priorities
Authors: Lévesque Benoit , Huppé Vicky , Tourigny André
Published: May 2016

Large Analysis and Review of European Housing and Health Status (LARES) was conducted in Europe in 2002 to 2003 to study the relationship between citizens’ health and built environments. One of its objectives was to put public health priorities on the agenda of local decision-makers to implement solutions for the community. We adapted the LARES protocol as a pilot project in a small French-Canadian town in Quebec Province in 2012. The distinguishing feature of this project was the collaborative approach taken with local actors, especially the municipality, which was committed a priori to using survey data from an urban planning perspective. The project produced interesting results that were used to motivate actions concerning people living in bad sanitary conditions; to draft the urban plan including the development of parks, green spaces, and bicycle paths; and to allow the municipality to meet eligibility criteria for access to renovation programs. If a partnership with the local actors and their commitment to promote and realize the project were obtained at the beginning, then the survey could be replicated in other communities.
Water Retention Capacity in Coarse Podzol Profiles Predicted from Measured Soil Properties
Authors: Mecke M. , Westman C. J. , Ilvesniemi H.
Published: May 2016

Fennoscandian podzols consist of coarse parent materials with a strongly developed secondary structure in the Spodic B‐horizons. For such materials, predictive standard water retention models developed for soils with a wide range of texture, including fine clay‐rich soils, do not give estimates of water retention capacity with high enough precision. In this study we describe an approach to predict water content of coarse podzolic soils separately at seven potentials using multiple linear regression approach and stepwise regression analysis (Rawls et al., 1982, 1983). One model is constructed using only the easily measurable soil texture and dry bulk density data. To include the effects of secondary structure, two other models are constructed by using several measured soil physical and chemical properties for all horizons, or for all horizons excluding the eluvial horizons. These models explain between 90 and 95% of variation in water content (i.e., R2 = 0.90–0.95) at potentials −3.2 to −100 kPa and at saturation, but not at the −1585 kPa potential. The validity of the models is tested on soils from four different sites covering a large range of soil properties of Fennoscandian podzols. Two of the models give accurate estimates of water content with errors ≤0.02 ± 0.03 m3 m−3 at potentials of −10 kPa, −100 kPa, and at saturation. Results show that podzolization processes, including formation of secondary structure by enriched Al and Fe, affect soil water retention, but estimates based on oxalate extractable Al and Fe content cannot be generalized to other soils using the same model calibration.
Microbial Community Profiles and Activities among Aggregates of Winter Fallow and Cover‐Cropped Soil
Authors: Schutter Mary E. , Dick Richard P.
Published: May 2016

Microorganisms and their activities can be heterogeneously distributed among soil aggregates, and their distribution may change in response to management practices that affect aggregate formation. In this study, aggregates of a winter fallow and winter cover‐cropped soil were analyzed over time for microbial biomass (MBC), respiration, and N mineralization potential. Communities were characterized across aggregate sizes according to their extractable fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) profiles and Biolog substrate utilization patterns. Size distribution of soil aggregates and total N in aggregates changed over time. The percentage of the largest aggregate size fraction (2.0–5.0 mm) declined from March to August, whereas the percentage of 0.25‐ to 2.0‐mm aggregates increased. For aggregates <2.0 mm, total N was greatest in July compared with other sampling dates. Cover crop residues enhanced MBC, respiration, and N mineralization in whole soils and aggregates, and shifted microbial community FAME profiles. Microbial respiration, MBC, and N mineralization were greatest in the intermediate aggregate size fractions, although specific distribution patterns changed over time or in response to cover crops. Community FAME structure was correlated with total C and N, MBC, respiration, and N mineralization potential. Some FAMEs, includingi17:0, 10Me16:0, 19:0 cy, and 18:2ω6c, varied among soil aggregates, and communities were classified according to aggregate size class by canonical discriminant analysis. Community Biolog substrate utilization patterns changed over time but were not affected strongly by aggregate size. Lack of community differentiation may be due to the frequent mixing of soil during cultivation and tillage events, whereby microbial communities become evenly distributed among soil aggregates.
Effects of Furrow Diking on Corn Response to Limited and Full Sprinkler Irrigation
Authors: Howell T. A. , Schneider A. D. , Dusek D. A.
Published: May 2016

Corn (Zea mays L.) is a major irrigated crop in the Southern High Plains of the USA that is usually fully irrigated. The trend has been toward center pivot sprinklers equipped with low pressure, closely spaced spray heads that have a large instantaneous application rate that can cause surface water redistribution and/or runoff. This study was conducted to evaluate three surface tillage systems—furrow diking, clean furrows, and flat tillage—on corn yields and yield components during three different growing seasons under two irrigation regimes—full soil water replenishment (FI) and limited irrigation (LI), which was irrigated at the same time as FI but with one‐half of the irrigation amount—in a semiarid environment at Bushland, TX. Irrigations were applied with a lateral‐move sprinkler system equipped with low‐drift spray nozzles. Yields were significantly (P < 0.05) affected by year and all treatments. The 1997 and 1999 yields were similar, but the 1998 yields were reduced by a combination of drought and disease. Furrow diking increased corn yields significantly across years and irrigation regimes in this semiarid environment. Irrigation regime almost doubled mean yield from 6.5 Mg ha−1 to 12.6 Mg ha−1 for the LI and FI regimes, respectively.
Quantitative Mapping of Soil Drainage Classes Using Topographical Data and Soil Electrical Conductivity
Authors: Kravchenko A. N. , Bollero G. A. , Omonode R. A. , Bullock D. G.
Published: May 2016

In this study we applied discriminant analysis and geostatistics to create soil drainage maps using topographical and soil electrical conductivity (EC) data as auxiliary information. Drainage classes were determined on 107 soil cores collected from a 20‐ha field in Illinois. Approximately 1500 elevation points and 6500 EC points were collected from the field. Slope, curvature, and flow accumulation were derived. Discriminant analysis and logistic discrimination were applied to study the effect of topography and EC on drainage. Spatial variability of the soil drainage data and its relationship with variability of topography and EC were analyzed using variograms and cross‐variograms. Indicator kriging and soft indicator cokriging were used. Soil EC, terrain slope, and distance to a drainageway were selected by a stepwise discriminant procedure as significant predictors of the soil drainage class (P= 0.15). When these variables were used as additional information in predicting soil drainage class using either discriminant analysis or cokriging procedures, they slightly improved overall prediction accuracy, compared with the soil survey map (scale 1:15840) and indicator kriging. Discriminant analysis and cokriging correctly estimated drainage classes for more than 90% of the sites, compared with 85 and 63% correct estimates obtained from indicator kriging and soil survey data, respectively. Indicator kriging and cokriging are exact estimators and thus are more suitable for mapping than is discriminant analysis. We recommend the use of stepwise discriminant procedure to select among the available secondary variables and to create drainage maps using cokriging with the selected variables.
Forest Floor Carbon and Nitrogen Losses Due to Prescription Fire
Authors: Caldwell T. G. , Johnson D. W. , Miller W. W. , Qualls R. G.
Published: May 2016

Fire is the dominant factor affecting C and N losses from the semiarid forests of the eastern Sierra Nevada. As prescription fire becomes a best management practice, it is critical to develop an estimate of these fluxes. The objectives of this study were (i) to test and refine methods to estimate the volatilized C and N losses from the forest floor following fire, (ii) to investigate the interactions between O‐horizon temperature and nutrient loss, and (iii) to assess measured N losses in the context of atmospheric N deposition, leaching, and N fixation. The quantities of C and N volatilized from the forest floor by prescription fire in the Sierra Nevada were measured using two different field‐based methods: weight loss estimation and Ca/element ratio determination. Three sites were included in the study: Marlene, Sawtooth and Spooner. The weight method indicated C losses of 6.12, 7.39, and 17.8 Mg C ha−1 at the Sawtooth, Marlene, and Spooner sites, respectively. The ratio method indicated comparable C losses from the Sawtooth (6 Mg C ha−1) site, but greater losses at Marlene (16 Mg C ha−1) and Spooner (24 Mg C ha−1) sites. The weight method indicated N losses of 56.2, 60.8, and 362 kg N ha−1, at the Sawtooth, Marlene, and Spooner sites, respectively. The ratio method indicated comparable N losses of 59.9 kg N ha−1 at the Sawtooth site, but considerably greater losses at Marlene (243 kg N ha−1), and Spooner (524 kg N ha−1) sites. The Ca‐element method was preferred because of minimal needs for preburn sampling. Regardless of method, the estimated losses were significant, particularly for N, compared with deposition and leaching rates. Volatilization will represent the major mechanism for N loss from forest ecosystems of this region subjected to prescribed fire.
Bermudagrass Management in the Southern Piedmont USA. II. Soil Phosphorus
Authors: Franzluebbers A. J. , Stuedemann J. A. , Wilkinson S. R.
Published: May 2016

Plant production can be limited by low levels of available P due to high P‐fixation capacity in soils of the southeastern USA. On the other hand, there is increasing concern about excessive application of P to soil, especially when manure application is based upon N content. We evaluated changes in Mehlich‐I extractable soil P during 5 yr of bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylon(L.) Pers.] management varying in fertilization [inorganic and broiler chicken (Gallus gallus) litter] and harvest strategy (unharvested, low and high cattle (Bos taurus) grazing pressure, and haying). Broiler litter supplied eight times more P than inorganic fertilization to meet the N requirement. At a depth of 0 to 6 cm, Mehlich‐I extractable soil P increased 0.8 ± 1.6 mg kg−1yr−1(4 ± 8% of total P added) with inorganic‐only fertilization, 2.4 ± 3.0 mg kg−1yr−1(9 ± 11% of total P added) with clover (Trifolium incarnatumL.) cover crop plus inorganic fertilization, and 8.7 ± 9.8 mg kg−1yr−1(6 ± 7% of total P added) with broiler litter. Haying kept Mehlich‐I extractable soil P constant with time due to removal of P with harvest of biomass. At the end of 5 yr of broiler litter application to grazed land, Mehlich‐I extractable soil P was 135, 50, 22, and 4 mg kg−1higher than with inorganic fertilization at depths of 0 to 3, 3 to 6, 6 to 12, and 12 to 20 cm, respectively. Broiler litter fertilization was effective at increasing Mehlich‐I extractable soil P to an agronomically productive level (50 to 60 mg kg−115 cm−1), but continued application could lead to excessive P accumulation that could threaten water quality from surface runoff unless appreciable soil fixation or removal of forage biomass were to occur.
Oxidation of Chromium(III) to (VI) by Manganese Oxides
Authors: Kim Jae Gon , Dixon Joe B. , Chusuei Charles C. , Deng Youjun
Published: May 2016

Manganese oxides in soils oxidize Cr from a stable form to a more toxic mobile form. The influence of Mn oxide diversity on Cr oxidation is the subject of this report. Oxidation of Cr(III) to Cr(VI) by coarse clay‐size natural Mn oxides, birnessite, todorokite, and lithiophorite was studied at pH 4 and 7, and at 200 and 400 μM initial Cr(III) concentrations. The oxidation rate obeyed the first‐order rate law at the 400 μM Cr(III) initial concentration; the 200 μM concentration was too low and reverse reactions may have interfered. Rate law is valid only far from equilibrium. The rate of oxidation was greater for todorokite and birnessite that contained the most quadrivalent Mn and least for lithiophorite that contained a greater proportion of trivalent Mn determined by x‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The deviation of Mn oxidation state from the frequently assumed quadrivalent form in Mn oxides suggests the need for a thorough assessment of the ion species of Mn in Mn oxides that occur in soils. At 400 μM Cr(III), the rate of Cr oxidation by the pyrolusite sample was intermediate between birnessite and todorokite suggesting that the sample was not pure pyrolusite. Apparently, the synthesis process did not reach equilibrium with pyrolusite. The sample used as a chemical standard was apparently more soluble and more effective in oxidizing Cr(III) than would be expected for the natural mineral pyrolusite.
Modeling of Nitrogen Sequestration in Coastal Marsh Soils
Authors: Hussein A. H. , Rabenhorst M. C.
Published: May 2016

Extensive field‐based data from two representative submerged upland tidal marsh soils in the Chesapeake Bay area were gathered to develop a predictive model for total N sequestration. The data covered the range in physiographic position and variation in marsh habitats. Sampling protocol and model validation assure the validity of the model, and placed 80% confidence, and 10% accuracy on the rate of total N sequestration and the predictive model. In coastal marsh ecosystems, total N sequestration continues to occur with time by accumulation in the organic horizons and sea‐level rise is the driving force. The predictive model was a two‐step linear function indicating accelerated sequestration of total N in the past two centuries. During the last 150 yr, the rate of total N sequestration averaged 4.2 ± 1.15 g m−2 yr−1, while over the last one or two millennia the rate of total N sequestration averaged 1.47 ± 0.3 g m−2 yr−1 In the next century, modeled prediction of total N sequestration in newly forming marshes averaged 20 ± 7.9 g m−2 yr−1 Present and long‐term rates of organic S and total N sequestration in coastal marsh ecosystems were comparable as well as their future predictions. Sequestration of total N in terrestrial closed systems and coastal marshes showed similar long‐term trends.
Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Extended Infusion Versus Short Infusion Piperacillin-Tazobactam in Critically Ill Patients Undergoing CRRT
Authors: Shotwell Matthew S. , Nesbitt Ross , Madonia Phillip N. , Gould Edward R. , Connor Michael J. , Salem Charbel , Aduroja Olufemi A. , Amde Milen , Groszek Joseph J. , Wei Peilin , Taylor Maria E. , Tolwani Ashita J. , Fissell William H.
Published: May 2016

Background and objectives

Infection is the most common cause of death in severe AKI, but many patients receiving continuous RRT do not reach target antibiotic concentrations in plasma. Extended infusion of β-lactams is associated with improved target attainment in critically ill patients; thus, we hypothesized that extended infusion piperacillin-tazobactam would improve piperacillin target attainment compared with short infusion in patients receiving continuous RRT.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

We conducted an institutional review board–approved observational cohort study of piperacillin-tazobactam pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics in critically ill patients receiving continuous venovenous hemodialysis and hemodiafiltration at three tertiary care hospitals between 2007 and 2015. Antibiotic concentrations in blood and/or dialysate samples were measured by liquid chromatography, and one– and two–compartment pharmacokinetic models were fitted to the data using nonlinear mixed effects regression. Target attainment for piperacillin was defined as achieving four times the minimum inhibitory concentration of 16 μg/ml for >50% of the dosing cycle. The probabilities of target attainment for a range of doses, frequencies, and infusion durations were estimated using a Monte Carlo simulation method. Target attainment was also examined as a function of patient weight and continuous RRT effluent rate.

Results

Sixty-eight participants had data for analysis. Regardless of infusion duration, 6 g/d piperacillin was associated with ≤45% target attainment, whereas 12 g/d was associated with ≥95% target attainment. For 8 and 9 g/d, target attainment ranged between 68% and 85%. The probability of target attainment was lower at higher effluent rates and patient weights. For all doses, frequencies, patient weights, and continuous RRT effluent rates, extended infusion was associated with higher probability of target attainment compared with short infusion.

Conclusions

Extended infusions of piperacillin-tazobactam are associated with greater probability of target attainment in patients receiving continuous RRT.
A new telerehabilitation system based on internet of things
Authors: Vukicevic Sanja , Stamenkovic Zoran , Murugesan San , Bogdanovic Zorica , Radenkovic Bozidar
Published: May 2016

Internet of Things (IoT) applied in healthcare system has a huge potential to
improve patients' quality of life. Representing network of devices embedded
with electronics and sensors, IoT enables constant monitoring of vital body
functions, tracking of physical activities of a person and aids rehab
physical therapy. Such an IoT-based system would allow standalone recovery
process, minimizing the need for dedicated medical personnel and could be
used in both hospital and home conditions. In this paper, we present a
telerehabilitation system that uses wearable muscle sensor and Microsoft
Kinect to create interactive personalized physical therapy that can be
carried out at home. Early experiments and results of pilot implementation
validate the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed IoT-enabled
telerehabilitation system.
Using internet of things in monitoring and management of dams in Serbia
Authors: Martac Rastko , Milivojevic Nikola , Milivojevic Vladimir , Cirovic Vukasin , Barac Dusan
Published: May 2016

This paper discusses harnessing Internet of Things in monitoring and managing
dams in Republic of Serbia. Large dams are of major importance, primarily
because of their use for electricity, but risks which are associated with it
should be greatly taken into account. There is a need to consolidate
information related to dam facilities in order to use them for dam management
in the Republic of Serbia. An information system has been developed based on
the existing systems, allowing utilization of intelligent network sensors.
The aim of the paper is to describe possibilities of the Internet of Things
application within a specific system for dam safety management. In order to
facilitate the inclusion of a large number of intelligent sensors, a new data
acquisition module for communication with sensors in the monitoring network
is defined. The system should provide on time alerting in case security
parameters deviate from the expected values.
A smart home system based on sensor technology
Authors: Davidovic Boban , Labus Aleksandra
Published: May 2016

This paper presents a new approach to utilize technology in a practical and
meaningful manner within a smart home system that can be widely deployed into
residential settings. In the modern world, people are rapidly turning to
technology as a fast and cost-effective way of improving quality of daily
living. This primary goal is to address the needs of the end user by
employing networked low-power sensors sensitive to the environment, so it can
be altered to their liking. The proposed system consists of following steps:
direct environment sensing, collecting and analyzing data and then allowing
user to customize the settings and initiate specific commands. This research
will present the design and implementation of a practical and simple smart
home system, which can be further extended. The system is based on: group of
sensors, Raspberry Pi device as a server system and Bluetooth as a
communication protocol. These devices can be easily controlled via
user-friendly interface for Android phones. The main advantage of the
proposed system is that it is a sensible, secure and easily configurable
system that provides end users with a neat home automation solution.
Speech and language abilities of children with the familial form of 22q11.2 deletion syndrome
Authors: Rakonjac Marijana , Cuturilo Goran , Stevanovic Milena , Jovanovic Ida , Jelicic-Dobrijevic Ljiljana , Mijovic Marija , Drakulic Danijela
Published: May 2016

The 22q11.2 Deletion Syndrome (22q11.2DS), which encompasses Shprintzen
syndrome, DiGeorge and velocardiofacial syndrome, is the most common
microdeletion syndrome in humans with an estimated incidence of
approximately 1/4000 per live births. After Down syndrome, it is the second
most common genetic syndrome associated with congenital heart malformations.
The mode of inheritance of the 22q11.2DS is autosomal dominant. In
approximately 72 - 94% of the cases the deletion has occurred de novo, while
in 6 to 28% of patients deletion was inherited from a parent. As a part of a
multidisciplinary study we examined the speech and language abilities of
members of two families with inherited form of 22q11.2DS. The presence of
22q11.2 microdeletion was revealed by fluorescence in situ hybridization
(FISH) and/or multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA). In
one family we detected 1.5 Mb 22q11.2 microdeletion, while in the other
family we found 3Mb microdeletion. Patients from both families showed delays
in cognitive, socio-emotional, speech and language development. Furthermore,
we found considerable variability in the phenotypic characteristics of
22q11.2DS and the degree of speech-language pathology not only between
different families with 22q11.2 deletion, but also among members of the same
family. In addition, we detected no correlation between the phenotype and
the size of 22q11.2 microdeletion.
Relationship between genetic distance, specific combining abilities and heterosis in maize (Zea mays L.)
Authors: Pavlov Jovan , Delic Nenad , Zivanovic Tomislav , Ristic Danijela , Camdzija Zoran , Stevanovic Milan , Tolimir Miodrag
Published: May 2016

Six maize inbred lines for which we assumed that have a similar genetic
background were selected for the study. Inbred lines were crossed according
to incomplete diallel design and fifteen hybrid combinations were obtained.
Hybrid combinations and their parental lines were used in our study. The
objective of the study was to examine genetic polymorphism of parental lines,
as well as to determine relationships between SSR genetic distance and values
of high parent heterosis and specific combining abilities for grain yield. By
using 19 SSR primers we classified inbred lines in two groups. First cluster
consists of inbred lines L1, L2, L3, L4 and L5, while inbred line L6 formed
second cluster, indicating different heterotic background in comparison to
the other five inbred lines. The Spearman?s correlation coefficients between
SSR based genetic distance and specific combining abilities for grain yield
had a value of (r=0,53*), while positive correlation were also found between
genetic distance and high parent heterosis (r=0,57*).
Characterization of Pseudomonas syringae pathovars from different sweet cherry cultivars by RAPD analysis
Authors: Ilicic Renata , Balaz Jelica , Stojsin Vera , Josic Dragana
Published: May 2016

Pseudomonas syringae pvs., isolated from sweet cherry grown on different
localities in Serbia, were genetically characterized using RAPD analysis.
Four out of eleven tested primers (SPH1, DJP 17, DJ 15, and DJ 16) were
selected on the basis of the differences between isolates within two
pathovars - syringae and morsprunorum race 1. Cumulative RAPD analysis
indicated heterogeneity within the population of both groups of tested
isolates, revealing four different patterns in each group. RAPD analysis
showed up to 24% differences among pv. syringae isolates, as well as 41% in
comparison with the reference strain KFB0103 (pv. syringae), while
differences of 15% among isolates pv. morsprunorum 1 race and 36% compared to
the reference strain CFBP2119 (pv. morsprunorum 1) were observed. Isolates
from locality Selenca exhibited three different genotypic patterns of pv.
morsprunorum race 1 and one pattern of pv. syringae. Isolates of pv.
morsprunorum collected in the same year from two plant organs (branches and
leaves) of the cv. Vanda yielded two different patterns. The pv. morsprunorum
on cv. Kordia and pv. syringae on cv. Regina were detected at Mikicevo
locality. The same patterns were observed for isolates of pv. syringae from
Kanjiza and Selenca, as well as from Gornji Tavankut in two years of
isolation. Differences were noted between isolates from the same pathovar
originating from Ljutovo and Mikicevo, as well as with respect to all other
isolates of same pathovar.
Comparative study of drought and salt stress effects on germination and seedling growth of pea
Authors: Petrovic Gordana , Jovicic Dusica , Nikolic Zorica , Tamindzic Gordana , Ignjatov Maja , Milosevic Dragana , Milosevic Branko
Published: May 2016

Seed germination is first critical and the most sensitive stage in the life
cycle of plants compromise the seedlings establishment. Salt and drought
tolerance testing in initial stages of plant development is of vital
importance, because the seed with more rapid germination under salt or water
deficit conditions may be expected to achieve a rapid seedling establishment,
resulting in higher yields. The aim of this study was to determine whether
the pea seed germination and seedling growth were inhibited by the salt
toxicity and osmotic effect during the seedling development, and also
identification of the sensitive seedling growth parameters in response to
those stresses. Based on the obtained results, pea has been presented to be
more tolerant to salt than water stress during germination and early embryo
growth. Investigated cultivars showed greater susceptibility to both abiotic
stresses when it comes growth parameters compared to seed germination.
Variability and heritability of floral development in apple full-sib off springs
Authors: Atay Ayşe , Ozongun Şerif , Seymen Turgay , Bayav Alamettin , Atay Ersin
Published: May 2016

The timing of blooming in spring is highly crucial for temperate zone tree
fruit production. In this study, we aimed to investigate floral development
using the all parents and full-sib offsprings of two different crossing
combinations (?Ka?el 37? ? ?Delbarestivale? and ?Ka?el 41? ? ?Williams?
Pride?). Assessments of variability in floral development have been done
according to a numerical assessment scheme defined by ten stages (stage 0-9).
The assessments were conducted three different dates, early (21 04),
intermediate (28 04), and late (05 05). The results showed significant
variations for floral development among the 273 genotypes. In particular, the
genotypes 326, 340, 369, 88 and 146 were found as superiors for floral
development. The broad sense heritability (h2 b) for floral development was
reliable on the first assessment date, with no reliability on the other
assessment dates. Our results would be useful to geneticists and breeders.
Key words: Amasya, breeding, F1, Malus slyvestris, new cultivar, progeny,
spring frost.
Binding Analysis of Human Immunoglobulin G as a Zinc-Binding Protein
Authors: Yamanaka Yu , Matsugano Sho , Yoshikawa Yasunaga , Orino Koichi
Published: May 2016

Human immunoglobulin G (IgG) binding with zinc ions was examined using zinc ions immobilized on chelating Sepharose beads (Zn-beads). Human IgG bound to Zn-beads but not to Sepharose beads (control beads). Mouse, rat, bovine and equine IgGs also bound to Zn-beads, similar to human IgG. The human IgG F(c) fragment showed zinc ion–binding activity whereas the Fab fragment did not. Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA)-treated Zn-beads no longer bound human IgG; however, washing the beads, followed by the addition of zinc ions, restored the binding activity towards human IgG. Zn-beads saturated with human fibrinogen could bind human IgG, and Zn-beads saturated with human IgG could bind fibrinogen. These results suggest that animal IgGs, including human, specifically bind zinc ions, probably through a zinc-binding site in the F(c) fragment and not in the Fab fragment. In addition, IgG and fibrinogen interact with each other and/or bind zinc ions through different mechanisms.
Colloidal Photonic Crystals Containing Silver Nanoparticles with Tunable Structural Colors
Authors: Lai Chun-Feng , Wang Yu-Chi
Published: May 2016

Polystyrene (PS) colloidal photonic crystals (CPhCs) containing silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) present tunable structural colors. PS CPhC color films containing a high concentration of AgNPs were prepared using self-assembly process through gravitational sedimentation method. High-concentration AgNPs were deposited on the bottom of the substrate and acted as black materials to absorb background and scattering light. Brilliant structural colors were enhanced because of the absorption of incoherent scattering light, and color saturation was increased by the distribution AgNPs on the PS CPhC surfaces. The vivid iridescent structural colors of AgNPs/PS hybrid CPhC films were based on Bragg diffraction and backward scattering absorption using AgNPs. The photonic stop band of PS CPhCs and AgNPs/PS hybrid CPhCs were measured by UV–visible reflection spectrometry and calculated based on the Bragg–Snell law. In addition, the tunable structural colors of AgNPs/PS hybrid CPhC films were evaluated using color measurements according to the Commission International d’Eclairage standard colorimetric system. This paper presents a simple and inexpensive method to produce tunable structural colors for numerous applications, such as textile fabrics, bionic colors, catalysis, and paints.
An Event-Triggered Online Energy Management Algorithm of Smart Home: Lyapunov Optimization Approach
Authors: Fan Wei , Liu Nian , Zhang Jianhua
Published: May 2016

As an important component of the smart grid on the user side, a home energy management system is the core of optimal operation for a smart home. In this paper, the energy scheduling problem for a household equipped with photovoltaic devices was investigated. An online energy management algorithm based on event triggering was proposed. The Lyapunov optimization method was adopted to schedule controllable load in the household. Without forecasting related variables, real-time decisions were made based only on the current information. Energy could be rapidly regulated under the fluctuation of distributed generation, electricity demand and market price. The event-triggering mechanism was adopted to trigger the execution of the online algorithm, so as to cut down the execution frequency and unnecessary calculation. A comprehensive result obtained from simulation shows that the proposed algorithm could effectively decrease the electricity bills of users. Moreover, the required computational resource is small, which contributes to the low-cost energy management of a smart home.
Exosome: A Novel Approach to Stimulate Bone Regeneration through Regulation of Osteogenesis and Angiogenesis
Authors: Qin Yunhao , Sun Ruixin , Wu Chuanlong , Wang Lian , Zhang Changqing
Published: May 2016

The clinical need for effective bone regeneration therapy remains in huge demands. However, the current “gold standard” treatments of autologous and allogeneic bone grafts may result in various complications. Furthermore, safety considerations of biomaterials and cell-based treatment require further clarification. Therefore, developing new therapies with stronger osteogenic potential and a lower incidence of complications is worthwhile. Recently, exosomes, small vesicles of endocytic origin, have attracted attention in bone regeneration field. The vesicles travel between cells and deliver functional cargoes, such as proteins and RNAs, thereby regulating targeted cells differentiation, commitment, function, and proliferation. Much evidence has demonstrated the important roles of exosomes in osteogenesis both in vitro and in vivo. In this review, we summarize the properties, origins and biogenesis of exosomes, and the recent reports using exosomes to regulate osteogenesis and promote bone regeneration.
Using Remote Sensing and Random Forest to Assess the Conservation Status of Critical Cerrado Habitats in Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
Authors: Reynolds Jason , Wesson Kathryn , Desbiez Arnaud , Ochoa-Quintero Jose , Leimgruber Peter
Published: May 2016

Brazil’s Cerrado is a highly diverse ecosystem and it provides critical habitat for many species. Cerrado habitats have suffered significant degradation and decline over the past decades due to expansion of cash crops and livestock farming across South America. Approximately 1,800,000 km2 of the Cerrado remain in Brazil, but detailed maps and conservation assessments of the Cerrado are lacking. We developed a land cover classification for the Cerrado, focusing on the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, which may also be used to map critical habitat for endangered species. We used a Random Forest algorithm to perform a supervised classification on a set of Landsat 8 images. To determine habitat fragmentation for the Cerrado, we used Fragstats. A habitat connectivity analysis was performed using Linkage Mapper. Our final classification had an overall accuracy of 88%. Our classification produced higher accuracies (72%) in predicting Cerrado than existing government maps. We found that remaining Cerrado habitats were severely fragmented. Four potential corridors were identified in the southwest of Mato Grosso do Sul, where large Cerrado patches are located. Only two large patches remain in Mato Grosso do Sul: one within the Kadiwéu Indian Reserve, and one near the southeastern edge of the Pantanal-dominated landscape. These results are alarming for rare species requiring larger tracts of habitat such as the giant armadillo (Priodontes maximus).
Theoretical and Experimental Study of the Friction Behavior of Halogen-Free Ionic Liquids in Elastohydrodynamic Regime
Authors: Janardhanan Karthik , Iglesias Patricia
Published: May 2016

Ionic Liquids have emerged as effective lubricants and additives to lubricants, in the last decade. Halogen-free ionic liquids have recently been considered as more environmentally stable than their halogenated counterparts, which tend to form highly toxic and corrosive acids when exposed to moisture. Most of the studies using ionic liquids as lubricants or additives of lubricants have been done experimentally. Due to the complex nature of the lubrication mechanism of these ordered fluids, the development of a theoretical model that predicts the ionic liquid lubrication ability is currently one of the biggest challenges in tribology. In this study, a suitable and existing friction model to describe lubricating ability of ionic liquids in the elastohydrodynamic lubrication regime is identified and compared to experimental results. Two phosphonium-based, halogen-free ionic liquids are studied as additives to a Polyalphaolefin base oil in steel–steel contacts using a ball-on-flat reciprocating tribometer. Experimental conditions (speed, load and roughness) are selected to ensure that operations are carried out in the elastohydrodynamic regime. Wear volume was also calculated for tests at high speed. A good agreement was found between the model and the experimental results when [THTDP][Phos] was used as an additive to the base oil, but some divergence was noticed when [THTDP][DCN] was added, particularly at the highest speed studied. A significant decrease in the steel disks wear volume is observed when 2.5 wt. % of the two ionic liquids were added to the base lubricant.
Investigation on Polylactide (PLA)/Poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT)/Bark Flour of Plane Tree (PF) Eco-Composites
Authors: Dou Qiang , Cai Jun
Published: May 2016

Polylactide (PLA)/poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT)/bark flour of plane tree (PF) eco-composites were prepared via melt blending. The morphologies, mechanical properties, crystal structures and melting and crystallization behaviors of the eco-composites were investigated by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM), mechanical tests, polarized light microscopy (PLM), wide angle X-ray diffraction (WAXD) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), respectively. It is shown that the interfacial adhesion between PLA matrix and PF is weak and the mechanical properties of PLA/PF eco-composites are poor. The titanate treatment improves the adhesion between the matrix and the filler and enhances the stiffness of the eco-composites. The toughness is improved by PBAT and ductile fractured surfaces can be found. The spherulitic size of PLA is decreased by the addition of PF. The α crystalline form of PLA remains in the composites. Compared with PF, T-PF (PF treated by a titanate coupling agent) and PBAT have negative effects on the crystallization of PLA.
Lipidomic Approaches towards Deciphering Glycolipids from Microalgae as a Reservoir of Bioactive Lipids
Authors: Da Costa Elisabete , Silva Joana , Mendonça Sofia , Abreu Maria , Domingues Maria
Published: May 2016

In recent years, noteworthy research has been performed around lipids from microalgae. Among lipids, glycolipids (GLs) are quite abundant in microalgae and are considered an important source of fatty acids (FAs). GLs are rich in 16- and 18-carbon saturated and unsaturated fatty acids and often contain polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) like n-3 α-linolenic (ALA 18:3), eicosapentaenoic (EPA, 20:5) and docosahexaenoic (DHA, 22:6). GLs comprise three major classes: monogalactosyldiacyl glycerolipids (MGDGs), digalactosyl diacylglycerolipids (DGDGs) and sulfoquinovosyl diacylglycerolipids (SQDGs), whose composition in FA directly depends on the growth conditions. Some of these lipids are high value-added compounds with antitumoral, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities and also with important nutritional significance. To fully explore GLs’ bioactive properties it is necessary to fully characterize their structure and to understand the relation between the structure and their biological properties, which can be addressed using modern mass spectrometry (MS)-based lipidomic approaches. This review will focus on the up-to-date FA composition of GLs identified by MS-based lipidomics and their potential as phytochemicals.