bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of Independent Component Analysis in Machine Fault Diagnosis
Authors: Miao Feng , Zhao Rong Zhen
Published: April 2014

A novel fast algorithm for lndependent Component Analysis is introduced, which can be used for blind source separation and machine fault diagnosis feature extraction. It is shown how a neural network learning rule can be transformed into a fixed-point iteration, which provides an algorithm that is very simple, does not depend on any user-defined parameters, and is fast to converge to the most accurate solution allowed by the data. The purpose of this paper is to review the application of blind source separation in the machine fault diagnosis,including the following aspects: noise elimination and extraction of the weak signals,the separation of multi-fault sources,redundancy reduction,feature extraction and pattern classification based on independent component analysis. And its application in machine fault diagnosis is illustrated by the examples. In addition, some prospects about using blind source separation for machine fault diagnosis are discussed.
Text Document Classification Using Support Vector Machine with Feature Selection Using Singular Value Decomposition
Authors: Dau Hoan Manh , Xu Ning
Published: April 2014

Text document classification is content analysis task of the text document and then giving decision (or giving a prediction) whether this text document belongs to which group among given text document ones. There are many classification techniques such as decision method basing on Naive Bayer, decision tree, k-Nearest neighbor (KNN), neural network, Support Vector Machine (SVM) method. Among those techniques, SVM is considered the popular and powerful one, especially, it is suitable to huge and multidimensional data classification. Text document classification with characteristics of very huge dimensional numbers and selecting features before classifying impact the classification results. Support Vector Machine is a very effective method in this field. This article studies Support Vector Machine and applies it in the problem of text document classification. The study shows that Support Vector Machine method with choosing features by singular value decomposition (SVD) method is better than other methods and decision tree.
Fast Face Recognition on GPUs
Authors: Lei Yi , Fan Xiao Ya , Zhang Meng
Published: April 2014

Face recognition is popular in the field of pattern recognition and image processing. However, traditional recognition technologies spend too long there are a lot of images to be recognized or trained for great accuracy in the recognition. Parallel computing is an effective way to improve the processing speed. With the improvement of GPU performance, its widely applied in computing-concentrated data operations. This paper presents a study of performance speedup achieved by applying GPU for face recognition based on PCA (Principal Component Analysis) algorithm. We successfully accelerated the testing phase by 6868-folds compared to a sequential C implementation when it has 100 test images and 2400 training images.
Research on Discrete Fourier Transform Representation for Image Quality Assessment
Authors: Zhao Shi Lin , Ji Xiu Hua
Published: April 2014

Recently the Structural Similarity (SSIM) is proposed, and attracts a lot of attentions for its good performance and simple calculation. By deeply studying the SSIM, we find it fails to measure the badly blurred images. Based on this, we develop an improved objective quality assessment method which is based on Discrete Fourier Transform representation (called as MDFT). Experiment results show the proposed method is more consistent with HVS than SSIM especially for blurred images and fading images.
In Situ Growth of Mesoporous NiO Nanoplates on Graphene Matrix as Anode Material for Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Qiu Dan Feng , Xia Yong Jun , Ma He Qing , Bu Gang
Published: April 2014

Graphene-NiO nanocomposites were prepared via a solvothermal method. The nanostructure and morphology of the samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). SEM and TEM results indicated that NiO nanoplates distributed homogeneously on graphene sheets. The electrochemical properties of the samples as active anode materials for lithium-ion batteries were examined by constant current charge-discharge cycling. With graphene as conductive matrix, homogeneous distribution of NiO nanoplates can be ensured and volume changes of thenanocomposite during the charge and discharge processes can be accomodated effectively, which results in good electrochemical performance of the composites.
The Risks of Data Transmissions in Intrusion and Hold-Up Alarm Systems and Solutions Thereto
Authors: Hart Jan , Nídlová Veronika
Published: April 2014

With regard to the resulting security of the guarded building, the issue of data transmissions in intrusion and hold-up alarm systems is highly important. Several risk factors of operation impact upon intrusion and hold-up alarm systems, influencing the resulting running of the system. Whether this concerns incorrect installation, external influences impacting upon the devices, improper maintenance or an improperly trained user, all can lead to fatal consequences. Amongst the most fundamental risks which may arise are risks in data transmissions. When the alarm information is affected, the system can no longer be relied upon. On the basis of measurements and the results thereof, a number of innovations have been created, which should help better protect data transmissions.
Wireless Sensor Network Based Bridge Health Monitoring System for Long-Span Bridges
Authors: Sun Jun Zu , Huang Qiao
Published: April 2014

With the convenience to add or replace sensors, to maintain and extend, a new solution of wireless sensor network based bridge health monitoring system for long-span bridges was proposed, which includes advanced and low power-consumption sensors, wide-range short-distance wireless communication module, high-speed long-distance wireless communication module, efficient and practical management software. 433 MHz industrial wireless module was selected for short-distance wireless communication among nodes and between nodes and gateways. 3G WCDMA was chosen for long-distance wireless communication between gateways and the control centers. Whole process controlled management software was specially developed.
Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Based Agricultural Remote Sensing Multispectral Image Processing Methods
Authors: Zhao Yu , Meng Fan Feng , Feng Jiang
Published: April 2014

In order to provide more flexibility in remote sensing image collection, unmanned aerial vehicle has been used to kinds of agricultural productions. Images acquired from the UAV based RS system were very useful as a result of their high spatial resolution and low turn-around time. This paper discussed general methods to process the multispectral RS data at image process level. The distortion correction caused by sensor was introduced. The geometric distortion comprised sensor distortion and external distortion caused by external parameters. At last, the general image mosaic methods were discussed.
An Energy Efficient Communication Routing Protocol Based on LEACH for WSN
Authors: Zhai Ya Xing , Li La Yuan , Li Chun Lin
Published: April 2014

Aiming at LEACH protocol in WSN in cluster heads selection disequilibrium, the cluster head nodes energy consumption too fast, and the network uneven energy consumption problem, this paper based on double cluster heads routing algorithms, try to blend in fixed partition network, use multiple hops routing strategy and improve the cluster heads routing algorithms in LEACH protocol, then put forward EDCH-LEACH protocol. The simulation results show that: the EDCH-LEACH protocol can effectively improve the previously mentioned problems of the cluster heads selection imbalance, local energy consumption too fast, achieve the goal of prolong the life cycle of the whole network.
Preparation of Graphene/Fe3O4/Polypyrrole Nanocomposite and its Adsorption for Cr(VI) Ions
Authors: Yao Wei , Lu Yun
Published: April 2014

The novel magnetic nanocomposites have been prepared by simultaneous forming of Fe3O4 nanospheres and graphene sheets in an anchoring mode and polymerizing of pyrrole on the Fe3O4 surface. TEM, XRD and XPS were used to characterize the as-prepared products. Nanocomposites exhibit excellent adsorption capability of 348.4 mg g-1 for heavy metal Cr (VI) ions, and moreover, are stable, separable easily under external magnetic field and recyclable, retaining about 83.1% of the removal efficiency after four adsorption-desorption cycles. The adsorption isotherm has been studied and shows a good consistency with the Langmuir mode. The nanocomposites could be a good candidate for efficient removal of Cr (VI) from the wastewater.
Multiuser Detection with Delay Feedback Scheme for Asynchronous Cooperative Networks
Authors: Zhang Ying Hui , Zeng Zhi Min , Zhang Tian Kui
Published: April 2014

The transmission antennas in cooperative systems are spatially distributed on multiple nodes, so the received signal can be asynchronous due to the propagation delays. In this paper, we propose a novel feedback mechanism for cooperative relay networks to improve the performance by increasing the forwarding delay. In contrast to a previous work by the authors, where the performance is poor for small delay, the proposed feedback scheme in amore attractive scenario where the destination can deal with any delay with the better performance. Simulation results illustrate the performance of the proposed scheme in comparison with forward and backward interference cancellation (FBIC) scheme without feedback. Finally, we demonstrate that the greater the delay, the more obvious advantages of the algorithm complexity than bounded delay tolerant Alamouti codes (BDT-AC).
Research and Implementation on CDR Synthesis Scheme of GTPV2 Protocol in LTE Network
Authors: Ran Di , Zhang Zhi Zhong , Li Zhen
Published: April 2014

According to the functional requirements of LTE tester, research on signaling and service processes on S5/S8/S4/S11 interfaces of LTE network, and the analysis of GTPV2 protocol, this paper proposes a Hash enhanced dynamic synthetic algorithm aiming to improving the efficiency of CDR synthesis in gtpv2 protocol stack, which analyzes the principle of the CDR synthesis and related algorithms. The scheme has been applied to the network monitoring system. It works efficiently with existing network data testing.
Snap-Stabilizing Wave Algorithm with Multiple Initiators in Arbitrary Networks
Authors: Nandakumaran Ganesh , Karaata Mehmet Hakan
Published: April 2014

A wave is a distributed execution, often made up of a broadcast phase followed by a feedback phase, requiring the participation of all the system processes before a particular event called decision is taken. Solutions to a large number of problems such as globalsnapshots can be solved efficiently using multiple concurrent initiators. In this paper, we propose an optimal snapstabilizing algorithm, referred to as an mwave algorithm, that would be initiated by one or more initiator processes, essentially forming a collection of individual waves. Having multiple initiators enables a better reach and faster completion of broadcasted messages as a result. Our algorithm differs from existing multi-node broadcasting techniques in a few notable ways, such as working in any arbitrary network and having dynamic initiator processes that participate in an m-wave cycle depending on the presence of an external input. Being snap-stabilizing ensures the proposed algorithm always behaves according to its specification.
The Improvement of MIPv6 Protocol with Point-to-Point Tactics
Authors: Hu Qing Gui
Published: April 2014

Firstly, the traditional MIPv6 protocol is analyzed. Secondly, the point-to-point MIPv6 protocol is put forward to solve the key question of the mobile IP technology. Then, it is introduced how the new protocol works. After that, the performance of the new protocol is simulated with OPNET software, whose result shows the performance of the new protocol is better than that of the traditional protocol.
The Development of a Local Area Network Communication Software Based on Peer-to-Peer Mode
Authors: Zhao Jing Ying , Guo Hai
Published: April 2014

Compared with traditional client/server modes, peer-to-peer (P2P) mode has obvious advantages in eliminating the performance bottleneck of server and enhancing the utilization rate of network resources. Based on P2P technology, local area network (LAN) communication software was well designed in this paper. By using the support function of Java for multithreading technology and socket technology, P2P mode was adopted to realize various communication functions, such as LAN text message transmission, file transfer and voice transmission. Though processing multicast messages, the software can detect the login and logout status of LAN users. Proved by testing, this software can operate stably in a system environment installed with Java Virtual Machine (JVM).
A Survey of Using Weakly Supervised and Semi-Supervised for Cross-Domain Sentiment Classification
Authors: Dau Hoan Manh , Xu Ning , Truong Tung Khac
Published: April 2014

Supervised machine learning techniques can analyze sentiment very effectively. However, in many languages, there are few appropriate data for training sentiment classifiers. Thus, they need a large corpus of training data. In this paper, weakly-supervised techniques using a large collection of unlabeled text to determine sentiment is presented. The performance of this method maybe less depends on the domain, topic and time period represented by the testing data. In addition, semi-supervised classification using a sentiment-sensitive thesaurus is mentioned. It can be applicable when it does not have any labeled data for a target domain but have some labeled data for other multiple domains designated as the source domains. This method can learn efficiently from multiple source domains. The results show that the weakly-supervised techniques are suitable for applications requiring sentiment classification across some domains and semi-supervised techniques can learn efficiently from multiple source domains.
Nanomaterials Ontology Model
Authors: Artemieva Irene L. , Ryabchenko Natalya V.
Published: April 2014

Using intelligent modeling systems for explaining the results of calculations in terms of a particular domain provides more options by contrast with program systems of other classes. A formally described domain ontology that defines the unambiguous interpretation of the terms makes it possible to develop intelligent modeling systems combining knowledge and data of different sections of this domain and program systems for solving application issues. Nanoscience is of a cross-disciplinary nature which implies the necessity to use knowledge of various disciplines, i.e. there are ontologies of other domains in this ontology. The paper proposes a mathematical ontology model of the nanomaterials domain with complicated structures and terms from ontologies of organic chemistry and physical chemistry.
Computional Dynamics for Diffusionless Lorenz Equations with Periodic Parametric Perturbation
Authors: Wang Zhen , Li Yong Xin , Xi Xiao Jian , Wang Xian Feng
Published: April 2014

The dynamics of diffusionless Lorenz equations (DLE) with periodic parametric perturbation is studied through numerical and experimental investigations in this paper. A method for calculating Lyapunov exponents (LEs), Lyapunov dimension (LD) from time series is presented. Furthermore, bifurcation and some complex dynamic behaviors such as periodic, quasi-periodic motion and chaos which occurred in the system are analyzed. And an algorithm for detecting unstable periodic orbits (UPOs) is presented. Also, give some numerical simulation studies of the system in order to verify the analytic results.
Research on the Current Development Situation of the Third-Generation Search Engine
Authors: Zhang Li Na , Yang Zhi Yin , Yang Bo
Published: April 2014

Taking the search engines mentioned in Related Documents, Alexa website and100 best alternative search engines as the basic samples, this paper selects 43 third-generation search engines according with the definition standard from 148 basic samples, and makes the investigation on selected third-generation search engines from two aspects of basic features and functions, and analyzes the investigation results from five aspects of types distribution, functions distribution , languages distribution , popularities distribution and searching effects evaluation.
Research on Recognition of Maize Disease Based on Mobile Internet and Support Vector Machine Technique
Authors: Zhang Li Na , Yang Bo
Published: April 2014

This paper studies acquisition of image data of maize disease using web service method, it is a kind of mobile Internet technique, using the mobile terminal as the main tool for disease information collection, identify maize disease by using SVM (support vector machine) classification method in server, then return the recognition results to the mobile terminal in real time. It improves the efficiency of agricultural producers and technical staff, at the same time that SVM classifications with small training sample still have good generalization ability. In the experiment adjusts SVM parameters, experiment shows that this method is more suitable to the identification of maize disease.
The Design of Intelligent Apartments for the Elderly Remote Management Control System Based on 3G
Authors: Chen Yu Jie , Liu Pei Xue , Jin Pei Fen , Guo Ying Jing
Published: April 2014

A design of the intelligent apartment management system based on 3G, which can realize the remote video monitoring, monitoring of blood pressure and pulse, temperature and humidity monitoring function,can reach the purpose of socialization serves on advanced information technology. This paper introduces the overall design scheme of the system, and analysis the hardware and software module. Under the new situation of the apartment management in China's pension, the system will be widely used.
Quality of Service for Cloud Computing
Authors: Al-Shehri Saleh Fadel S. , Li Chun Lin
Published: April 2014

Cloud Computing has recently been recognized as one of the most emerging technology. A considerable amount of research has been carried out to explore different areas in Cloud Computing. This paper focuses on the QoS and new trends in cloud computing based on extant information systems literature, industry reports, and practical experience reflections. Additionally, it highlights the significance of DNS (Domain Name System) cloud computing QoS (Quality of Service) and its implications for practitioner and academics. This paper aims also to create higher performance and reliability, ensuring no DNS-related outages that could lead to poor customer experience and churn. Latency can also be reduced by ensuring adequate capacity as close as possible to the user. It concludes by outlining the opportunities associated with the development of Cloud Computing. Additionally, this type of technology needs more development and improvement in Saudi Arabia.
Data Security and Data Privacy in Cloud Computing
Authors: Al-Museelem Waleed , Li Chun Lin
Published: April 2014

Cloud computing has led to the development of IT to more sophisticated levels by improving the capacity and flexibility of data storage and by providing a scalable computation and processing power which matches the dynamic data requirements. Cloud computing has many benefits which has led to the transfer of many enterprise applications and data to public and hybrid clouds. However, many organizations refer to the protection of privacy and the security of data as the major issues which prevent them from adopting cloud computing. The only way successful implementation of clouds can be achieved is through effective enhancement and management of data security and privacy in clouds. This research paper analyzes the privacy and protection of data in cloud computing through all data lifecycle stages providing an overall perspective of cloud computing while highlighting key security issues and concerns which should be addressed. It also discusses several current solutions and further proposes more solutions which can enhance the privacy and security of data in clouds. Finally, the research paper describes future research work on the protection of data privacy and security in clouds.
Framework Design of Information Integration Based on Web Service
Authors: Tian Jing
Published: April 2014

The paper introduces the concept and architecture of Web Services, analyzes principle and advantages of the information integration based on Web Services. An information integration framework is presented in view of ontology based on information integration thought of semantics, and the key point in the process is analyzed.
The Influential Mechanism Research of Leisure-Skill Sharing Intention of the Elder Adult within Community in Hangzhou: Based on the Social Exchange Theory
Authors: Zhu Shang Shang , Zhang Yi Qi
Published: April 2014

Whether the quality of some leisure activity is high depends on the mastery of leisure skill. Sharing-education is more suitable for the elderly rather than teaching-education. The object of this study is the retired elderly of 50-70 in Hangzhou. Based on the social exchange theory, the study is aimed at the influence mechanism of leisure skills sharing intention as well as the attitude within the community. We find that the most significant factor affecting the sharing intention is altruism, then interdependence, then self-efficacy, then trust. While the influences of reciprocity, reputation, and skill-sharing effort on knowledge-sharing behavior intention are insignificant. The result can give guidance for the design of the local virtual community of leisure skill among the elderly.
The Study and Application of Middle School Teacher Evaluation System Based on Support Vector Machine
Authors: Yang Bo , Zhang Li Na
Published: April 2014

In this paper, the Support Vector Machine (SVM) theory is applied to secondary school teachers evaluation systems. And the evaluation attributes of secondary school teachers are set in accordance with certain requirements. Through the use of sample data on the teacher evaluation system for a certain amount of training, we get a trained model, then evaluate and analyze the teachers data to be measured. This approach can make secondary school teachers assessment more accurate and reasonable, greatly reduce the workload of teaching management, and reduce the number of artificially errors in the evaluation process.
Contractor Prequalification in Taiwan
Authors: Chiang Fu Yuan , Luarn Pin
Published: April 2014

It is very important for the project owner to screen out potential failure contractors from the bidding process. Contractor prequalification has been established as a standard practice in solving this problem. This study uses a prequalification that is a financial ratios model to assess the contractor's financial capability in Taiwan. Do not consider non-quantifiable factor, the model is effective in assessing the financial ability of construction contractors' selection.
Resource Leveling in the Project Design Process by Petri Net Using
Authors: Kuzenkov Vadim , Zebzeev Alexey , Gromakov Evgeniy
Published: April 2014

Petri net using for dynamic design of projects is reviewed, the resource leveling algorithm is offered.
Assessing Pedestrian Profile According to Age and Gender in Central Business District, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Authors: Bahari Noor Iza , Arshad Ahmad Kamil , Yahya Zahrullaili
Published: April 2014

Pedestrian activities usually influenced by the pedestrian perception on the quality of the built environment of a city. Challenges faced by local authorities in providing facilities that are suitable for each group of pedestrians due to lack of information on the pedestrian profiles pattern. Therefore, the objective of this paper is to assess on the pedestrian profile pattern in one of the Central business district within Kuala Lumpur City Center that are among the highest pedestrian volume and adequate pedestrian facilities. On-street questionnaire survey was conducted first in order to ensure that the existing pedestrian facilities of the selected area were between acceptable to good quality range. The parameters includes are overall travel experience, sidewalk condition, aesthetic and amenities, crossings, street furniture, personal safety and adjacent traffic. Then, Pedestrian classification counts were carried out on afternoon peak-hour for one whole week. From the result, similar pedestrian profile pattern were observed on Monday to Thursday and the number of trips made increased on weekends for both count location. The result also shows that female pedestrian, especially in the 18 to 34 age range made the highest number of trips. In overall, the female pedestrian used the existing pedestrian facilities more than male for every group profile except for elderly person with disabilities/with prams.
Vocabulary Resource in Coursebooks - A Computer-Aided Analysis
Authors: Lu Jun
Published: April 2014

This paper addresses teachers and researchers of English as a second or foreign language and for coursebook compliers as well. The study reports the vocabulary resource in a set of college English coursebook widely used in higher institutions with the help of computer running RANGE. Based on Cunningsworth (2002) coursebook evaluation theory, in view of several checklist items and the adoption of quantitative and qualitative approach, the result of the analysis shows that the coursebooks fail to provide college students with adequate vocabulary which is necessary for their future communication and career development.
A Study on the Optical and Electrical Properties of GZO/Pt/GZO Multilayered Transparent Electrodes for Photonic Applications
Authors: Jeong Moon Ki , Lee Hee Chul
Published: April 2014

We have proposed, prepared, and characterized Pt-inserted Ga-doped ZnO (GZO) transparent electrodes of GZO/Pt/GZO (GPG) multilayers on glass substrates. The GZO and Pt films were in-situ deposited by RF and DC sputtering without breaking vacuum, respectively. The grain structure and deposition rate of the GZO films grown on the Pt insertion layer were different from those of the GZO films sputtered on glass substrates. Pt-inserted GZO electrodes showed remarkably decreased resistivity although the thickness of the Pt layer was as thin as 9 nm. However, the optical transmittance of the GPG electrodes was severely degraded with an increasing thickness of the Pt layer. The structural, optical, and electrical properties of GPG multilayered transparent electrodes were affected by post-annealing conditions such as environment and temperature. That may be associated with an increase in crystallinity and inter-diffusion between Pt and GZO films.
The Moral Hazard Effect of Vehicle Insurance on Road Safety in China
Authors: Zhang Guang Nan , Gong Xiang Pu , Zhao Yong Liang
Published: April 2014

Road traffic injuries and fatalities have been an increasingly severe public health problem in China. In order to provide victims with basic financial protection, since 2006, all the vehicles ran in China are forced to be insured by compulsory third party insurance. However, according to the textbook economic model, the compulsory insurance decreases the motivation for drivers to spend care when driving due to moral hazard effect. To test whether the moral hazard effect of compulsory insurance exists in China, we empirically reviewed the data obtained from Guangdong, China by using logistic regression. Evidence supports the moral hazard effect showing that the likelihood for the insured drivers to be involved in speeding is 1.182 times higher than their uninsured counterpart in China. Also we found that the speeding probability for insured drivers decreased by 14.679% when China introduced floating premium regime.
Preparation of Light Guide Plates with Micro-Patterned Functional Resin Layers by Using UV Nano-Imprint Process
Authors: Park Se Yong , Sung Min Ho , Lee Han Byul , Lee Seong Eui , Lee Hee Chul
Published: April 2014

In this study, we fabricated and characterized light guide plates (LGP) with micro-patterned functional resin layers. PVC stamp was hot-embossed by a stainless-steel master mold. Functional resin layers with micro-patterns were also prepared on a PMMA substrate by UV nanoimprint process. Various resins with different refraction indexes were used and the pitch of master mold was varied from 60 to 100 μm. The LGP with 100-μm-spaced PR-58H (n~1.578) resin patterns showed the best luminance of 544 cd/m2, which was improved by 8.6% compared to the bare PMMA substrate. For all functionally patterned samples, the optical spectra with wavelengths were almost identical with that of the bare PMMA, implying little shift of color coordinates by additional resin layers.
Endoplasmic Reticulum Targeting Alters Regulation of Expression and Antigen Presentation of Proinsulin
Authors: Hsu Hsiang-Ting , Janßen Linda , Lawand Myriam , Kim Jessica , Perez-Arroyo Alicia , Culina Slobodan , Gdoura Abdel , Burgevin Anne , Cumenal Delphine , Fourneau Yousra , Moser Anna , Kratzer Roland , Wong F. Susan , Springer Sebastian , van Endert Peter
Published: April 2014

Peptide ligands presented by MHC class I (MHC-I) molecules are produced by degradation of cytosolic and nuclear, but also endoplasmic reticulum (ER)–resident, proteins by the proteasome. However, Ag processing of ER proteins remains little characterized. Studying processing and presentation of proinsulin, which plays a pivotal role in autoimmune diabetes, we found that targeting to the ER has profound effects not only on how proinsulin is degraded, but also on regulation of its cellular levels. While proteasome inhibition inhibited degradation and presentation of cytosolic proinsulin, as expected, it reduced the abundance of ER-targeted proinsulin. This targeting and protein modifications modifying protein half-life also had profound effects on MHC-I presentation and proteolytic processing of proinsulin. Thus, presentation of stable luminal forms was inefficient but enhanced by proteasome inhibition, whereas that of unstable luminal forms and of a cytosolic form were more efficient and compromised by proteasome inhibitors. Distinct stability of peptide MHC complexes produced from cytosolic and luminal proinsulin suggests that different proteolytic activities process the two Ag forms. Thus, both structural features and subcellular targeting of Ags can have strong effects on the processing pathways engaged by MHC-I–restricted Ags, and on the efficiency and regulation of their presentation.
IFN-γ–Producing CD4+ T Cells Promote Generation of Protective Germinal Center–Derived IgM+ B Cell Memory against Salmonella Typhi
Authors: Perez-Shibayama Christian , Gil-Cruz Cristina , Pastelin-Palacios Rodolfo , Cervantes-Barragan Luisa , Hisaki Emiliano , Chai Qian , Onder Lucas , Scandella Elke , Regen Tommy , Waisman Ari , Isibasi Armando , Lopez-Macias Constantino , Ludewig Burkhard
Published: April 2014

Abs play a significant role in protection against the intracellular bacterium Salmonella Typhi. In this article, we investigated how long-term protective IgM responses can be elicited by a S. Typhi outer-membrane protein C– and F–based subunit vaccine (porins). We found that repeated Ag exposure promoted a CD4+ T cell–dependent germinal center reaction that generated mutated IgM-producing B cells and was accompanied by a strong expansion of IFN-γ–secreting T follicular helper cells. Genetic ablation of individual cytokine receptors revealed that both IFN-γ and IL-17 are required for optimal germinal center reactions and production of porin-specific memory IgM+ B cells. However, more profound reduction of porin-specific IgM B cell responses in the absence of IFN-γR signaling indicated that this cytokine plays a dominant role. Importantly, mutated IgM mAbs against porins exhibited bactericidal capacity and efficiently augmented S. Typhi clearance. In conclusion, repeated vaccination with S. Typhi porins programs type I T follicular helper cell responses that contribute to the diversification of B cell memory and promote the generation of protective IgM Abs.
Recognition of Distinct Cross-Reactive Virus-Specific CD8+ T Cells Reveals a Unique TCR Signature in a Clinical Setting
Authors: Nguyen Thi H. O. , Rowntree Louise C. , Pellicci Daniel G. , Bird Nicola L. , Handel Andreas , Kjer-Nielsen Lars , Kedzierska Katherine , Kotsimbos Tom C. , Mifsud Nicole A.
Published: April 2014

Human CMV still remains problematic in immunocompromised patients, particularly after solid organ transplantation. CMV primary disease and reactivation greatly increase the risks associated with incidences of chronic allograft rejection and decreased survival in transplant recipients. But whether this is due to direct viral effects, indirect viral effects including cross-reactive antiviral T cell immunopathology, or a combination of both remains undetermined. In this article, we report the novel TCR signature of cross-reactive HLA-A*02:01 (A2) CMV (NLVPMVATV [NLV])–specific CD8+ T cells recognizing a specific array of HLA-B27 alleles using technical advancements that combine both IFN-γ secretion and multiplex nested RT-PCR for determining paired CDR3α/β sequences from a single cell. This study represents the first evidence, to our knowledge, of the same A2-restricted cross-reactive NLV-specific TCR-α/β signature (TRAV3TRAJ31_TRBV12-4TRBJ1-1) in two genetically distinct individuals. Longitudinal posttransplant monitoring of a lung transplant recipient (A2, CMV seropositive) who received a HLA-B27 bilateral lung allograft showed a dynamic expansion of the cross-reactive NLV-specific TCR repertoire before CMV reactivation. After resolution of the active viral infection, the frequency of cross-reactive NLV-specific CD8+ T cells reduced to previremia levels, thereby demonstrating immune modulation of the T cell repertoire due to antigenic pressure. The dynamic changes in TCR repertoire, at a time when CMV reactivation was subclinical, illustrates that prospective monitoring in susceptible patients can reveal nuances in immune profiles that may be clinically relevant.
Maternal KIR in Combination with Paternal HLA-C2 Regulate Human Birth Weight
Authors: Hiby Susan E. , Apps Richard , Chazara Olympe , Farrell Lydia E. , Magnus Per , Trogstad Lill , Gjessing Håkon K. , Carrington Mary , Moffett Ashley
Published: April 2014

Human birth weight is subject to stabilizing selection; babies born too small or too large are less likely to survive. Particular combinations of maternal/fetal immune system genes are associated with pregnancies where the babies are ≤5th birth weight centile, specifically an inhibitory maternal KIR AA genotype with a paternally derived fetal HLA-C2 ligand. We have now analyzed maternal KIR and fetal HLA-C combinations at the opposite end of the birth weight spectrum. Mother/baby pairs (n = 1316) were genotyped for maternal KIR as well as fetal and maternal HLA-C. Presence of a maternal-activating KIR2DS1 gene was associated with increased birth weight in linear or logistic regression analyses of all pregnancies >5th centile (p = 0.005, n = 1316). Effect of KIR2DS1 was most significant in pregnancies where its ligand, HLA-C2, was paternally but not maternally inherited by a fetus (p = 0.005, odds ratio = 2.65). Thus, maternal KIR are more frequently inhibitory with small babies but activating with big babies. At both extremes of birth weight, the KIR associations occur when their HLA-C2 ligand is paternally inherited by a fetus. We conclude that the two polymorphic immune gene systems, KIR and HLA-C, contribute to successful reproduction by maintaining birth weight between two extremes with a clear role for paternal HLA.
Reforming Land Tenure Policies After Civil War: A Comparative Analysis of Rwanda & Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Cronin Katherine M.
Published: April 2014

Using Côte d’Ivoire and Rwanda as case studies, this paper explores the challenges of implementing strong land tenure policies and promoting peace in post-conflict environments. This paper analyzes the degree to which a lack of clear time horizons, land boundaries, land transfer laws, and enforcement capacity to uphold land tenure laws increases the risk for land-related conflict to occur. Furthermore, this paper adds to the existing literature that supports the implementation and promotion of new and more equitable land tenure laws in post-conflict reconstruction processes in order to fix the deficiencies that contributed to the initial conflict.
Direct Democracy and the Politics of Abortion: Evaluating the Responsiveness of State Abortion Policy to State Abortion Attitudes
Authors: Holquist Samantha E.
Published: April 2014

In 1993, researchers began to explore whether public policies in states with initiative and referendum mechanisms are more responsive to public opinion than in those states that do not have such mechanisms. There is yet no conclusive answer to this question. To examine this relationship, I add to the work of Kevin Arceneaux’s 2002 study, which utilizes public opinion data to analyze the responsiveness of state abortion policies to citizen abortion attitudes in states with and without initiatives and referendums. Additionally, my analysis looked to differentiate policy responsiveness along the lines of how difficult the implementation environment is within a state. My results showed that there is stronger responsiveness to public opinion in direct democracy states as contrasted to states with no initiative and referendum procedures. Further, I found measured statistical differences within direct democracy states when contrasting easy and difficult implementation procedures.
The Incentives of Wind Power Production and Integration in US Policy
Authors: Webster Samuel S.
Published: April 2014

This paper analyzes the impact of the federal Production Tax Credit on the development of wind energy in the US. Following an analysis of the incentives these policies produce for wind energy generation and integration, this paper finds that, although the Production Tax Credit has proven effective at promoting some level of wind power development, the effectiveness of the Production Tax Credit varies by region and by itself is unlikely to achieve the deep levels of wind power penetration desired by some policymakers and the U.S. Department of Energy.
The Mortgage Interest Deduction: An Example of an Upside Down Federal Government Housing Subsidy
Authors: Woodruff Frank W.
Published: April 2014

Federal housing subsidies overwhelmingly benefit homeowners over renters and wealthier Americans over poorer Americans through the US tax code. A better balance in both areas is needed to encourage equitable economic growth. The mortgage interest deduction is the primary driver of this imbalance and is by far the federal government’s largest investment in housing. Further, no evidence exists that the mortgage interest deduction encourages renters to become owners. Rather, its documented effect has been to encourage those who would purchase homes to buy bigger homes. Modest reforms to the mortgage interest deduction are necessary because of its size and inequitable nature. Any and all savings achieved through reforms must be used to balance housing subsidies by providing more resources for low- and moderate-income renters and owners.
Private Enterprise and Public Education
Authors: Hawkins Joselynn
Published: April 2014

No abstract available.
Accuracy of Serial PET-CT Imaging in Systemic Sarcoidosis
Authors: Carbone Roberto G. , Penna Daniele , Baughman Robert P. , Lower Elyse E.
Published: April 2014

Positron emission tomography (PET) in combination with computed tomography (PET-CT) is commonly used to identify malignant lesion in the lung. Despite there being only a few reports in literature, PET-CT imaging may have many advantages in the study of sarcoidosis, being useful in the diagnosis as well as in monitoring the response to treatment. The object of this case report is to highlight the clinical utility of integrated PET-CT imaging for evaluation of patients with systemic sarcoidosis and for comparing baseline findings to follow-up readings.
Incidence of and Risk Factors for Hospital-Acquired Diarrhea in Three Tertiary Care Public Hospitals in Bangladesh
Authors: Bhuiyan Mejbah Uddin , Luby Stephen P. , Zaman Rashid Uz , Rahman M. Waliur , Sharker M. A. Yushuf , Hossain M. Jahangir , Rasul Choudhury H. , Ekram A. R. M. Saifuddin , Rahman Mahmudur , Sturm-Ramirez Katharine , Azziz-Baumgartner Eduardo , Gurley Emily S.
Published: April 2014

During April 2007–April 2010, surveillance physicians in adult and pediatric medicine wards of three tertiary public hospitals in Bangladesh identified patients who developed hospital-acquired diarrhea. We calculated incidence of hospital-acquired diarrhea. To identify risk factors, we compared these patients to randomly selected patients from the same wards who were admitted > 72 hours without having diarrhea. The incidence of hospital-acquired diarrhea was 4.8 cases per 1,000 patient-days. Children < 1 year of age were more likely to develop hospital-acquired diarrhea than older children. The risk of developing hospital-acquired diarrhea increased for each additional day of hospitalization beyond 72 hours, whereas exposure to antibiotics within 72 hours of admission decreased the risk. There were three deaths among case-patients; all were infants. Patients, particularly young children, are at risk for hospital-acquired diarrhea and associated deaths in Bangladeshi hospitals. Further research to identify the responsible organisms and transmission routes could inform prevention strategies.
Rickettsia felis in Ctenocephalides felis felis from Five Geographic Regions of Brazil
Authors: Horta Mauricio C. , Ogrzewalska Maria , Azevedo Milka C. , Costa Francisco B. , Ferreira Fernando , Labruna Marcelo B.
Published: April 2014

This study evaluated rickettsial infection in 701 Ctenocephalides felis felis fleas that were collected from dogs and cats in 31 municipalities, encompassing all regions and major biomes of Brazil. A total of 268 (38.2%) fleas from 30 municipalities were polymerase chain reaction (PCR) positive for the rickettsial gltA gene. The PCR products from 44 fleas, consisting of at least 1 PCR-positive flea from each of 30 municipalities, generated DNA sequences identical to Rickettsia felis. Rickettsial prevalence was highly variable among 30 municipalities, with values ranging from 2.9% to 100%. Significantly higher infection rates by R. felis were associated with the Pampa biome (southern Brazil), and the temperate climate that prevails in southern Brazil. In contrast, lowest R. felis-infection rates were significantly associated with the Caatinga biome, and its semiarid climate. Further studies should evaluate the effect of temperature and moisture on the R. felis infection in Ctenocephalides fleas world widely.
Rare temperature histories and cirrus ice number density in a parcel and one-dimensional model
Authors: Murphy D. M.
Published: April 2014

Abstract. A parcel and a one-dimensional model are used to investigate the temperature dependence of predicted ice crystal number density. The number of ice crystals initially formed in a cold cirrus cloud is very sensitive to the nucleation mechanism and the detailed history of cooling rates during nucleation. In a parcel model, the slow growth rate of ice crystals at low temperatures inherently leads to a strong increase in ice number density at low temperatures. This temperature dependence is opposite to what is observed. The model temperature dependence occurs for a wide range of assumptions and for either homogeneous or, less strongly, heterogeneous freezing. However, the parcel model also shows that random temperature fluctuations result in an extremely wide range of ice number density. A one-dimensional model is used to show that the rare temperature trajectories resulting in the lowest number densities are disproportionately important. Low number density ice crystals sediment and influence a large volume of air. When such fall streaks are included, the ice number becomes less sensitive to the details of nucleation than it is in a parcel model. The one-dimensional simulations have a more realistic temperature dependence than the parcel mode. The one-dimensional model also shows that layers with vertical dimensions of meters arise even if the temperature forcing has a much broader vertical wavelength. The importance of sedimentation for cirrus clouds is due to them frequently being surrounded by supersaturated air, unlike warm clouds.
Evaluation of gridded scanning ARM cloud radar reflectivity observations and vertical doppler velocity retrievals
Authors: Lamer K. , Tatarevic A. , Jo I. , Kollias P.
Published: April 2014

Abstract. The scanning Atmospheric Radiation Measurement (ARM) cloud radars (SACRs) provide continuous atmospheric observations aspiring to capture the 3-D cloud-scale structure. Sampling clouds in 3-D is challenging due to their temporal–spatial scales, the need to sample the sky at high elevations and cloud radar limitations. Thus, a suggested scan strategy is to repetitively slice the atmosphere from horizon to horizon as clouds advect over the radar (Cross-Wind Range-Height Indicator – CW-RHI). Here, the processing and gridding of the SACR CW-RHI scans are presented. First, the SACR sample observations from the ARM Southern Great Plains and Cape Cod sites are post-processed (detection mask, gaseous attenuation correction, insect filtering and velocity de-aliasing). The resulting radial Doppler moment fields are then mapped to Cartesian coordinates with time as one of the dimensions. Next the Cartesian-gridded Doppler velocity fields are decomposed into the horizontal wind velocity contribution and the vertical Doppler velocity component. For validation purposes, all gridded and retrieved fields are compared to collocated zenith-pointing ARM cloud radar measurements. We consider that the SACR sensitivity loss with range, the cloud type observed and the research purpose should be considered in determining the gridded domain size. Our results also demonstrate that the gridded SACR observations resolve the main features of low and high stratiform clouds. It is established that the CW-RHI observations complemented with processing techniques could lead to robust 3-D cloud dynamical representations up to 25–30 degrees off zenith. The proposed gridded products are expected to advance our understanding of 3-D cloud morphology, dynamics and anisotropy and lead to more realistic 3-D radiative transfer calculations.