bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Response of Quartz Crystal Microbalance Loaded with Single-drop Liquid in Gas Phase
Authors: Yang Li , Huang Xianhe
Published: February 2015

The frequency response of quartz crystal microbalance loaded by single-drop liquid is studied in this paper.
Previous studies have shown that the relationship between resonant frequency and properties of liquid by completely immersing
one side of the crystal in liquid. In this work, only localized portion of crystal was wetted by liquid droplet. Repeated
experiment shows the relationship between liquid property include viscosity and density to resonant frequency.
Furthermore, Theoretical formula describing the frequency change of the quartz crystal microbalance with liquid property
is proposed. The predicted results showed distinct coincide with experimental results.
Recent Patents on OPC for Central Air-Conditioning System
Authors: Li Jiejia , Yang Peng , Han Xiaoyan , Guo Pengcheng
Published: February 2015

To achieve the centralized monitoring and integrated management of the central air-conditioning system, taking
the characteristics of data communications and control complexity in the air-conditioning system into consideration, and
combined with the OPC (OLE(Object Linking and Embedding) for Process Control) technology, an intelligent central airconditioning
supervisory system is developed and designed. In this paper, after searching the OPC technology standard,
the overall structure diagram of the monitoring system is designed, and the OPC server program is also developed by using
Knight OPC Server Rapid Development Toolkits. The OPC client application program and man-machine interface are
exploited by KingView configuration software. The monitor and control system whose interface is opened is designed for
the central air-conditioning. In the end, the experiment result proves that the system operation has good performance for
temperature-controller and humidity-controller clustered controlling as well as data communications, thus, satisfying the
requirements.
The Forecast and the Optimization Control of the Complex Traffic Flow Based on the Hybrid Immune Intelligent Algorithm
Authors: Qing Li , Yongqin Tao , Yongguo Han , Qingming Zhang
Published: February 2015

Transportation system has time-varying, coupling and nonlinear dynamic characteristics. Traffic flow forecast
is one of the key technologies of traffic guidance. It is very difficult to accurately forecast them effectively. This paper has
analyzed the complexity and the evaluation index of urban transportation network and has proposed the forecasting model
of the hybrid algorithm based on chaos immune knowledge. First of all, the chaos knowledge is introduced into the topology
structure of immune network, so as to obtain the matching predictive values and knowledge base. Secondly, this algorithm
can dynamically control and adjusted the regional search speed and can fuse the information obtained by the chaos
and immune algorithm, in order to realize the short-term traffic flow forecast. Finally, the simulation experiment shows
that the traffic flow forecasting error obtained by the method is small, feasible and effective and can better meet the needs
of the traffic guidance system.
A New Hydrolyzed Formula is Well Tolerated in Infants with Suspected Food Protein Allergy or Intolerance
Authors: Borschel Marlene W. , Baggs Geraldine E.
Published: February 2015

Background:

Extensively hydrolyzed formulas (eHF) are indicated for infants with food protein allergy. The purpose of the study was to assess the tolerance and compliance of an intended population of infants to a new formulation of a hypoallergenic eHF.

Methods:

A non-random, single-group, multicenter study was conducted. Infants with suspected food protein allergy, persistent feeding intolerance, or presenting conditions where an eHF was deemed appropriate were enrolled in a 15-day feeding trial. Intake, stool patterns, weight (wt), length, and questionnaires were collected. The primary outcome was maintenance of wt for age Z-score during the study.

Results:

25 infants (85 ± 8.9 d of age) were enrolled; 7 were ≥ 4 months; 4 were preterm. At entry, 12 had symptoms of allergic colitis or food protein allergy/intolerance, 12 had persistent formula intolerance, 11 had hematochezia/heme positive stools, and 1 was recovering from necrotizing enterocolitis. Mean wt for age Z-score was -0.62 ± 0.19 at entry and -0.41 ± 0.16 at exit. Mean change in wt for age Z-score was 0.21 ± 0.10. Mean formula intake was 764 ± 48 mL/day. The mean number of stools/day was 1.8 ± 0.4 and the predominant stool consistencies were loose/mushy (48%) or soft (43%).

Conclusion:

The results suggest that this eHF was well accepted and tolerated by an intended use population of infants during the first 6 months of life which enabled adequate volume consumption, maintenance of wt for age Z-scores and a high level of parental satisfaction.
Potential Use of Proximate and Fatty Acid Composition to Distinguish Between Cultured and Wild Largemouth Bass (Micropterus salmoides)
Authors: Subhadra Bobban , Lochmann Rebecca , Goodwin Andrew
Published: February 2015

Cultured largemouth bass (LMB) cannot be sold as food in some lucrative markets due to regulatory restrictions
that protect wild LMB. Distinguishing between cultured and wild fish could open food markets for cultured fish.
Wild LMB eat freshwater fish and cultured LMB eat diets high in marine fish meal and oil, which should produce differences
in flesh composition. We analyzed the proximate and fatty acid composition of wild and cultured LMB muscle to
determine the potential for distinguishing fish origin analytically. Protein and moisture were higher in wild fish, while
lipid was higher in cultured fish. The n-3 and n-6 fatty acids, long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFA), and the
ratio of n-3 to n-6 fatty acids all differed between cultured and wild fish. The n-3 to n-6 ratio and n-3 LC-PUFA were
higher in cultured fish, while elevated arachidonic acid (20:4n-6) in wild fish was a key distinguishing feature.
Alteration of the Structure of Human Stratum Corneum Facilitates Transdermal Delivery
Authors: Mundstock Anne , Abdayem Rawad , Pirot Fabrice , Haftek Marek
Published: February 2015

Transdermal transport of pharmacologically active components into the skin depends on the ability of galenic
formulations to overcome the stratum corneum (SC) barrier. Microemulsions (ME) are thermodynamically stable liquid
systems composed of water, oil and surfactants which may be used for skin permeation and enhance penetration of
hydrophobic as well as hydrophilic compounds. We investigated using transmission electron microscopy the effect of ME
on human epidermis ex vivo, in order to establish relationship between the type of ME, i.e.: oil-in-water, water-in-oil, gellike,
thickened or not with colloidal silica, and the ultrastructural changes in SC barrier resulting from their topical
application. ME induced various degrees of dissociation of the SC. The intercellular lipid matrix in the SC became
disorganized, which contributed to the separation of corneocytes. This effect was intensified with the increasing oil
content in the ME and also when ME were applied under occlusion. The observed morphological changes were in
agreement with the increased permeability of ME-treated skin to both lipophilic and hydrophilic compounds reported in
the literature. Severe deterioration of the SC barrier induced with the selected ME makes them suitable for selected
indications only.
Numerical Investigation on the Flow, Combustion and NO Emission Characteristics in a 10 MW Premixed Gas Burner
Authors: Chen Weibo , Liu Guixiong
Published: February 2015

The characteristics of the combustion temperature, flow velocity, CO distribution and NOx emissions of a 10
MW gas burner at different primary to secondary air ratios are numerically studied using computational fluid dynamics
software Fluent. The results indicate that the primary to secondary air ratio in gas burner determines the combustion
quality through influencing some parameters directly, such as the combustion efficiency, combustion intensity, profile and
stability of flame as well as emission of NOx. Then two evaluation indexes of combustion quality are summarized after
analyzing the flame structure and characteristics of the flow. The detailed results reported in this paper may provide a
useful basis for NOx reduction and premixed gas burner design. Finally some proposals are given to choose the optimal
primary to secondary air ratio for a gas burner.
Social participation of women with breast cancer
Authors: Nikolic Snezana , Ilic-Stosovic Danijela , Kolarevic Ivan , Djurdjevic Ana , Ilic Snezana , Djuricic Milica
Published: February 2015

Background/Aim. The general problems of persons with malignant diseases
(stages of asthenia, chronic fatigue and exhaustion, followed by depression
and anxiety) lead to a decrease in functional abilities and a declining
quality of life. The aim of this study was to determine the level of
difficulty, the type of required assistance and the level of satisfaction
that derives from maintaining life habits. The study also examined the
correlation between the level of accomplishment of life habits and the level
of satisfaction with how they are maintained. Methods. The research was
conducted at the Military Medical Academy in Belgrade and in the ?Get
Together? Association of Women with Breast Cancer from June to September 2012
on a sample of 30 women. A standardised questionnaire, Assessment of Life
Habits - LIFE-H v.3.0, was administered. Results. The lowest level of
maintaining normal activities was related to education, housing and
recreation. The greatest need for support to maintain normal activities was
in the domains of housing, interpersonal relationships and employment. The
greatest satisfaction in the accomplishment of normal activities was observed
in the domains of mobility, nutrition and housing, and the lowest level of
satisfaction was in the domains of recreation, communication and
interpersonal relationships. The correlation between the level of
accomplishment of normal activities and the level of satisfaction was the
highest in the domains of general physical activity, responsibility and life
in a community; the lowest level was in the domains of personal hygiene,
housing, mobility, employment and recreation (p < 0.001). Conclusion. The
results indicate that research participants found it more difficult to
maintain their social activities than their everyday activities. This clearly
indicates the necessity to develop and implement special advisory and
educational programs aimed at preventing social exclusion and to strengthen
and support personal resources in the area of the social roles of women with
breast cancer.
Estimating disability and quality of life after different degrees of hand and forearm trauma
Authors: Marinkovic Marija , Janjic Zlata , Nikolic Jelena
Published: February 2015

Background/Aim. Hand injuries comprise up to one fourth of all injuries and
require excellent skills and aggressive physical therapy with still a high
potential to cause long term physical and functional disability which affects
one?s quality of life. The aim of this study was to evaluate disability and
quality of life in patients with different degrees of hand and forearm
injuries using the two different scoring systems and to examine the
correlation between them. Methods. This retrospective study was performed
among patients operated on at our clinic due to acute hand and forearm trauma
during the period of two years. Four groups of patients were made according
to the Modified Hand Injury Severity Score (MHISS). One year after the
treatment, phone interviews were made with those patients to answer to the
Disability of Arm Shoulder and Hand (quick-DASH) score for estimating
disability and to the World Health Organization Quality of Life BREF
(WHOQoL-BREF) score to estimate the quality of life regerding four domains:
physical, social, environmental and psychological. Results. Out of 182
patients who satisfied the inclusion criteria, only 60 completely answered to
the questionnaires, 46 (17%) men and 14 (23%) women. Most of the patients
were in the group with moderate injuries according to the MHISS, followed by
the group with major and severe injuries. A weak correlation was found
between the MHISS and quick DASH score in the group with minor injuries,
compared to no correlation between these parameters in other groups. The
lowest quality of life was registered in the physical domain, while the
highest in the social one. A negative correlation was found among the four
domains of the WHOQoL BREF score and quick- DASH score in all the groups.
Conclusion. Severity of hand and forearm injuries does not necessarily
correlate with patient?s perception of disability. The quality of life was
less affected by severity of injury than by the patient?s perception of
disability.
Executive Equity Risk-Taking Incentives and Audit Pricing
Authors: Chen Yangyang , Gul Ferdinand A. , Veeraraghavan Madhu , Zolotoy Leon
Published: February 2015

Using a large sample of U.S. firms spanning the period 2000–2010, we document a strong positive association between the sensitivity of CEO compensation portfolio to stock return volatility (vega) and audit fees. We also show that the positive association between vega and audit fees is weaker in the post-Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX) period. In supplementary tests, we show that the relation between vega and audit fees is stronger for firms with older CEOs and in firms where the CEO is also chairman of the board. Collectively, our results suggest that audit firms incorporate executive risk-taking incentives in the fees they charge for their services.

JEL Classifications: M41; M42; M52.
Why do Restatements Decrease in a Clawback Environment? An Investigation into Financial Reporting Executives' Decision-Making during the Restatement Process
Authors: Pyzoha Jonathan S.
Published: February 2015

Prior archival studies find that firms that voluntarily adopted clawback policies have experienced a reduction in restatements. I experimentally examine this outcome by investigating the influence of two key factors (i.e., executive compensation structure and auditor quality) on financial reporting executives' (hereafter, “executives”) decision-making regarding a proposed restatement that will lead to a clawback of their incentives. I find that executives (i.e., CFOs, controllers, and treasurers) facing a lower quality auditor are less likely to agree with amending prior financial statements when a higher proportion of their pay is incentive-based. However, this tendency is reduced when executives face a higher quality auditor, indicating that higher quality auditors can act as effective monitors. My results identify an ex post unintended consequence of clawback regulation that could at least partially offset the benefits of the ex ante deterrent effects of clawbacks, and that could contribute to findings of less frequent restatements when clawback policies are in place. I discuss potential implications regarding the role of executives during restatement decisions and auditors' risk assessments in a clawback environment.

Data Availability: Data are available from the author upon request.
Tarski Geometry Axioms
Authors: Richter William , Grabowski Adam , Alama Jesse
Published: February 2015

This is the translation of the Mizar article containing readable Mizar proofs of some axiomatic geometry theorems formulated by the great Polish mathematician Alfred Tarski [8], and we hope to continue this work.

The article is an extension and upgrading of the source code written by the first author with the help of miz3 tool; his primary goal was to use proof checkers to help teach rigorous axiomatic geometry in high school using Hilbert’s axioms.

This is largely a Mizar port of Julien Narboux’s Coq pseudo-code [6]. We partially prove the theorem of [7] that Tarski’s (extremely weak!) plane geometry axioms imply Hilbert’s axioms. Specifically, we obtain Gupta’s amazing proof which implies Hilbert’s axiom I1 that two points determine a line.

The primary Mizar coding was heavily influenced by [9] on axioms of incidence geometry. The original development was much improved using Mizar adjectives instead of predicates only, and to use this machinery in full extent, we have to construct some models of Tarski geometry. These are listed in the second section, together with appropriate registrations of clusters. Also models of Tarski’s geometry related to real planes were constructed.
Influence of Time and Intensity of Pruning on Growth and Flowering Behaviour of Cut Rose
Authors: Adhikari Deb Raj , Baral D. R. , Gautam D. M. , Pun U. K.
Published: February 2015

A field investigation was carried out during July 2008 to April 2009 in a farmer’s field at Gunjanagar-5, Chitwan, Nepal to evaluate the influence of time and intensity of pruning on growth and flowering behaviour of cut rose cv. Super Tata (Rosa hybrida). The experiment was laid out in a completely randomized block design with nine treatment combinations and replicated thrice. The treatments comprised of three dates of pruning i.e. 30th July, 15th August and 30th August and three pruning intensities i.e. heavy (6 buds per plant), medium (12 buds per plant) and light (18 buds per plant). Both time and intensity of pruning significantly affected growth and yield attributing parameters. The plants pruned heavily on 30th July produced highest plant height, number, length and diameter of canes. Similarly, stem bud as well as floral initiation were also earlier as compared to other treatments. On the other hand, fresh and dry weight of leaf and leaf area index were highest from the plants pruned heavily on 15th August. Flower stem diameter was higher in July 30th pruned rose plants while, flower stem length was found longer (47.67 cm) in August 15th pruned ones. Heavily pruned plants produced earlier floral initiation (45.48 days). Flower stem length (50.33 cm) and diameter (0.60 cm), length (2.91 cm) and diameter (2.29 cm) of floral buds were found highest from heavily pruned plants. Number of flowers per plant was recorded higher (22) from earlier (30th July) and lightly pruned rose plants. The longest duration of flowering (212.8 days) was observed from earlier and heavily pruned (198.1 days) plants. Sequential pruning can produce rose flowers at desired time.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v15i1.12004Nepal Journal of Science and Technology Vol. 15, No.1 (2014) 7-12
Implementation of Audio Effect Generator in FPGA
Authors: Chhetri Sujit Rokka , Poudel Bikash , Ghimire Sandesh , Shresthamali Shaswot , Sharma Dinesh Kumar
Published: February 2015

This paper describes the theory and implementation of audio effects such as echo, distortion and pitch-shift in Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA). At first the mathematical formulation for generation of such effects is explained and then the algorithm is described for its implementation in FPGA using Very high speed integrated circuit hardware descriptive language (VHDL). The digital system being designed, which is synthesizable and reconfigurable, offers a great flexibility and scalability in designing and prototyping in FPGAs. The system is divided into three HDL blocks, each for echo, distortion, and pitch-shift effect generation, which are multiplexed in order to share the common ADC and DAC. The audio effect generator designed in this paper was successfully implemented in Spartan-3E FPGA utilizing the resources available effectively. There has been tremendous research being carried out in the field of IP core. Efficient IP cores designed to carry out digital signal processing are implemented in every modern device using configurable logics. This trend hasn’t yet been realized in Nepal. Through the design and implementation of audio effect generator, this paper also aims at bringing the field of IP core development to limelight among scholars of Nepal.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v15i1.12022 Nepal Journal of Science and TechnologyVol. 15, No.1 (2014) 89-98
Study on Aircraft Noise Around Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, Nepal
Authors: Bhattarai Mohan K. , Sapkota B. K.
Published: February 2015

Present work was carried out to collect primary data from the field with the help of noise meter and thus spatial anddiurnal variation of background and aircraft noise level was analyzed. Seventeen sampling sites were chosennearby Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA) and air route of aircraft flyover. Noise measurements were carried outunder normal atmospheric environmental condition at temperature ranges from 25°C-30°C excluding rainy andwindy days. Among the sampling sites, the Equivalent Continuous Noise Level (LAeq) of background noise measuredmaximum at Balkumari (73.2 dBA) and minimum at Datidol (49.2 dBA). Noise meter was allowed to record aircraftnoise level when aircraft produced noise greater than background noise level and recorded until it reduced tobackground noise level. The maximum value of aircraft noise level, (LAeq) measured at Gothatar (101.5 dBA) whichlies north east from the TIA and at the same height as the airport ground and minimum at Datidol (63.5 dBA).Toanalyse the spatial variation of aircraft noise of different sampling sites, contour map was plotted with the help oforigin software. The LAeq of more than 60 percent sampling sites fall under the severe noise exposure class (> 75dBA) which causes substantial hearing loss. Implementation of noise control measurement and public awarenessare recommended to control adverse effect of noise pollution.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v15i1.12031Nepal Journal of Science and TechnologyVol. 15, No.1 (2014) 139-144
Characteristics of Black Carbon Aerosol during the Chinese Lunar Year and Weekdays in Xi’an, China
Authors: Wang Qiyuan , Liu Suixin , Zhou Yaqing , Cao Junji , Han Yongming , Ni Haiyan , Zhang Ningning , Huang Rujin
Published: February 2015

Black carbon (BC) aerosol plays an important role in climate forcing. The net radiative effect is strongly dependent on the physical properties of BC particles. A single particle soot photometer and a carbon monoxide analyser were deployed during the Chinese Lunar Year (CLY) and on weekdays at Xi’an, China, to investigate the characteristics of refractory black carbon aerosol (rBC). The rBC mass on weekdays (8.4 μg·m−3) exceeds that during the CLY (1.9 μg·m−3), presumably due to the lower anthropogenic emissions during the latter. The mass size distribution of rBC shows a primary mode peak at ~205 nm and a small secondary mode peak at ~102-nm volume-equivalent diameter assuming 2 g·cm−3 in void-free density in both sets of samples. More than half of the rBC cores are thickly coated during the CLY (fBC = 57.5%); the percentage is slightly lower (fBC = 48.3%) on weekdays. Diurnal patterns in rBC mass and mixing state differ for the two sampling periods, which are attributed to the distinct anthropogenic activities. The rBC mass and CO mixing ratios are strongly correlated with slopes of 0.0070 and 0.0016 μg·m−3·ppbv−1 for weekdays and the CLY, respectively.
Welcome to Batteries—A New Open Access Journal on Battery Technology and Systems
Authors: Jossen Andreas
Published: February 2015

Batteries are a key technology of the 21st century and even of the 20th century. The success of mobile communication devices, as cellular phones, tablet computers, digital still cameras, and laptop computers was strongly supported by the improvements of the energy storage technologies. In the 1980s only lead acid and nickel cadmium batteries were used in mobile applications. The development of more advanced technologies as nickel-metal hydride and Li-ion and there introduction into the market in 1990 and 1991 pushed the development of mobile devices. About 10 years later, the development of high power li-ion batteries pushed the development of cordless power tools and other new applications that were not possible with older battery technologies.[...]
Escherichia coli O-Antigen Gene Clusters of Serogroups O62, O68, O131, O140, O142, and O163: DNA Sequences and Similarity between O62 and O68, and PCR-Based Serogrouping
Authors: Liu Yanhong , Yan Xianghe , DebRoy Chitrita , Fratamico Pina , Needleman David , Li Robert , Wang Wei , Losada Liliana , Brinkac Lauren , Radune Diana , Toro Magaly , Hegde Narasimha , Meng Jianghong
Published: February 2015

The DNA sequence of the O-antigen gene clusters of Escherichia coli serogroups O62, O68, O131, O140, O142, and O163 was determined, and primers based on the wzx (O-antigen flippase) and/or wzy (O-antigen polymerase) genes within the O-antigen gene clusters were designed and used in PCR assays to identify each serogroup. Specificity was tested with E. coli reference strains, field isolates belonging to the target serogroups, and non-E. coli bacteria. The PCR assays were highly specific for the respective serogroups; however, the PCR assay targeting the O62 wzx gene reacted positively with strains belonging to E. coli O68, which was determined by serotyping. Analysis of the O-antigen gene cluster sequences of serogroups O62 and O68 reference strains showed that they were 94% identical at the nucleotide level, although O62 contained an insertion sequence (IS) element located between the rmlA and rmlC genes within the O-antigen gene cluster. A PCR assay targeting the rmlA and rmlC genes flanking the IS element was used to differentiate O62 and O68 serogroups. The PCR assays developed in this study can be used for the detection and identification of E. coli O62/O68, O131, O140, O142, and O163 strains isolated from different sources.
Optimization of Electrically Active Magnetic Nanoparticles as Accurate and Efficient Microbial Extraction Tools
Authors: Cloutier Barbara , Cloutier Ashley , Alocilja Evangelyn
Published: February 2015

Food defense requires the means to efficiently screen large volumes of food for microbial pathogens. Even rapid detection methods often require lengthy enrichment steps, making them impractical for this application. There is a great need for rapid, sensitive, specific, and inexpensive methods for extracting and concentrating microbial pathogens from food. In this study, an immuno-magnetic separation (IMS) methodology was developed for Escherichia coli O157:H7, using electrically active magnetic nanoparticles (EAMNPs). The analytical specificity of the IMS method was evaluated against Escherichia coli O55:H7 and Shigella boydii, and was improved over previous protocols by the addition of sodium chloride during the conjugation of antibodies onto MNPs. The analytical sensitivity of the IMS method was greatest when a high concentration of antibodies (1.0 mg/mL) was present during conjugation. EAMNP concentrations of 1.0 and 0.5 mg/mL provided optimal analytical sensitivity and analytical specificity. The entire IMS procedure requires only 35 min, and antibody-conjugated MNPs show no decline in performance up to 149 days after conjugation. This analytically sensitive and specific extraction protocol has excellent longevity and shows promise as an effective extraction for multiple electrochemical biosensor applications.
A Review of Two Multiscale Methods for the Simulation of Macromolecular Assemblies: Multiscale Perturbation and Multiscale Factorization
Authors: Pankavich Stephen , Ortoleva Peter
Published: February 2015

Many mesoscopic N-atom systems derive their structural and dynamical properties from processes coupled across multiple scales in space and time. That is, they simultaneously deform or display collective behaviors, while experiencing atomic scale vibrations and collisions. Due to the large number of atoms involved and the need to simulate over long time periods of biological interest, traditional computational tools, like molecular dynamics, are often infeasible for such systems. Hence, in the current review article, we present and discuss two recent multiscale methods, stemming from the N-atom formulation and an underlying scale separation, that can be used to study such systems in a friction-dominated regime: multiscale perturbation theory and multiscale factorization. These novel analytic foundations provide a self-consistent approach to yield accurate and feasible long-time simulations with atomic detail for a variety of multiscale phenomena, such as viral structural transitions and macromolecular self-assembly. As such, the accuracy and efficiency of the associated algorithms are demonstrated for a few representative biological systems, including satellite tobacco mosaic virus (STMV) and lactoferrin.
Impacts of Forest Fires and Climate Variability on the Hydrology of an Alpine Medium Sized Catchment in the Canadian Rocky Mountains
Authors: Springer Johanna , Ludwig Ralf , Kienzle Stefan
Published: February 2015

This study investigates the hydrology of Castle River in the southern Canadian Rocky Mountains. Temperature and precipitation data are analyzed regarding a climate trend between 1960 and 2010 and a general warming is identified. Observed streamflow has been declining in reaction to a decreasing snow cover and increasing evapotranspiration. To simulate the hydrological processes in the watershed, the physically based hydrological model WaSiM (Water Balance Simulation Model) is applied. Calibration and validation provide very accurate results and also the observed declining runoff trend can be reproduced with a slightly differing inclination. Besides climate change induced runoff variations, the impact of a vast wildfire in 2003 is analyzed. To determine burned areas a remote sensing method of differenced burn ratios is applied using Landsat data. The results show good agreement compared to observed fire perimeter areas. The impacts of the wildfires are evident in observed runoff data. They also result in a distinct decrease in model efficiency if not considered via an adapted model parameterization, taking into account the modified land cover characteristics for the burned area. Results in this study reveal (i) the necessity to establish specific land cover classes for burned areas; (ii) the relevance of climate and land cover change on the hydrological response of the Castle River watershed; and (iii) the sensitivity of the hydrological model to accurately simulate the hydrological behavior under varying boundary conditions. By these means, the presented methodological approach is considered robust to implement a scenario simulations framework for projecting the impacts of future climate and land cover change in the vulnerable region of Alberta’s Rocky Mountains.
Acute Effects of Exposure to a Traditional Rural Environment on Urban Dwellers: A Crossover Field Study in Terraced Farmland
Authors: Lee Juyoung , Park Bum-Jin , Ohira Tatsuro , Kagawa Takahide , Miyazaki Yoshifumi
Published: February 2015

Despite an increasing attention and public preference for rural amenities, little evidence is available on the health benefits of a rural environment. In this study, we identified physiological and psychological benefits of exposure to a rural environment using multiparametric methods. Twelve young male adults participated in a 3-day field experiment (mean ± standard deviation age, 22.3 ± 1.3 years). Sleeping environment, diet program, physical activities, and other factors possibly affecting physiological responses were controlled during experiment period. For all participants, salivary cortisol concentration, heart rate variability, and blood pressure were measured at rural and urban field sites. Self-evaluation questionnaires were administered to analyze the psychological states in two different environments. Volatile compounds in the air were also analyzed to investigate air quality. The data were compared between rural and urban environments. The data showed that exposure to a rural environment reduced stress hormone secretion and sympathetic nervous activity and increased parasympathetic nervous activity. Short-term exposure to a rural environment also improved mood states. Our findings indicate that exposure to a rural environment effectively reduced physiological stress and enhanced psychological well-being.
Oxidative Stress-Mediated Apoptosis Induced by Ethanolic Mango Seed Extract in Cultured Estrogen Receptor Positive Breast Cancer MCF-7 Cells
Authors: Abdullah Al-Shwyeh , Mohammed Abdulkarim , Rasedee Abdullah , Mirghani Mohamed
Published: February 2015

Breast cancer has become a global health issue requiring huge expenditures for care and treatment of patients. There is a need to discover newer cost-effective alternatives for current therapeutic regimes. Mango kernel is a waste product with potential as a source of anti-cancer phytochemicals, especially since it is non-toxic towards normal breast cell lines at concentrations for which it induces cell death in breast cancer cells. In this study, the anti-cancer effect of mango kernel extract was determined on estrogen receptor-positive human breast carcinoma (MCF-7) cells. The MCF-7 cells were cultured and treated with 5, 10 and 50 μg/mL of mango kernel extract for 12 and 24 h. In response to treatment, there were time- and dose-dependent increases in oxidative stress markers and pro-apoptotic factors; Bcl-2-like protein 4 (BAX), p53, cytochrome c and caspases (7, 8 and 9) in the MCF-7 cells treated with the extract. At the same time, there were decreases in pro-survival markers (Bcl-2 and glutathione) as the result of the treatments. The changes induced in the MCF-7 cells by mango kernel extract treatment suggest that the extract can induce cancer cell apoptosis, likely via the activation of oxidative stress. These findings need to be evaluated further to determine whether mango kernel extract can be developed as an anti-breast cancer agent.
The Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) Project: Linking Clinical Data with Molecular Analysis to Advance Personalized Medicine
Authors: Keen Judy , Moore Helen
Published: February 2015

Evaluation of how genetic mutations or variability can directly affect phenotypic outcomes, the development of disease, or determination of a tailored treatment protocol is fundamental to advancing personalized medicine. To understand how a genotype affects gene expression and specific phenotypic traits, as well as the correlative and causative associations between such, the Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) Project was initiated The GTEx collection of biospecimens and associated clinical data links extensive clinical data with genotype and gene expression data to provide a wealth of data and resources to study the underlying genetics of normal physiology. These data will help inform personalized medicine through the identification of normal variation that does not contribute to disease. Additionally, these data can lead to insights into how gene variation affects pharmacodynamics and individualized responses to therapy.
Diversity of Heparan Sulfate and HSV Entry: Basic Understanding and Treatment Strategies
Authors: Tiwari Vaibhav , Tarbutton Morgan , Shukla Deepak
Published: February 2015

A modified form of heparan sulfate (HS) known as 3-O-sulfated heparan sulfate (3-OS HS) generates fusion receptor for herpes simplex virus (HSV) entry and spread. Primary cultures of corneal fibroblasts derived from human eye donors have shown the clinical significance of this receptor during HSV corneal infection. 3-OS HS- is a product of a rare enzymatic modification at C3 position of glucosamine residue which is catalyzed by 3-O-sulfotransferases (3-OSTs) enzymes. From humans to zebrafish, the 3-OST enzymes are highly conserved and widely expressed in cells and tissues. There are multiple forms of 3-OSTs each producing unique subset of sulfated HS making it chemically diverse and heterogeneous. HSV infection of cells or zebrafish can be used as a unique tool to understand the structural-functional activities of HS and 3-OS HS and likewise, the infection can be used as a functional assay to screen phage display libraries for identifying HS and 3-OS HS binding peptides or small molecule inhibitors. Using this approach over 200 unique 12-mer HS and 3-OS HS recognizing peptides were isolated and characterized against HSV corneal infection where 3-OS HS is known to be a key receptor. In this review we discuss emerging role of 3-OS HS based therapeutic strategies in preventing viral infection and tissue damage.
The Multifaceted Role of Curcumin in Cancer Prevention and Treatment
Authors: Shanmugam Muthu , Rane Grishma , Kanchi Madhu , Arfuso Frank , Chinnathambi Arunachalam , Zayed M. , Alharbi Sulaiman , Tan Benny , Kumar Alan , Sethi Gautam
Published: February 2015

Despite significant advances in treatment modalities over the last decade, neither the incidence of the disease nor the mortality due to cancer has altered in the last thirty years. Available anti-cancer drugs exhibit limited efficacy, associated with severe side effects, and are also expensive. Thus identification of pharmacological agents that do not have these disadvantages is required. Curcumin, a polyphenolic compound derived from turmeric (Curcumin longa), is one such agent that has been extensively studied over the last three to four decades for its potential anti-inflammatory and/or anti-cancer effects. Curcumin has been found to suppress initiation, progression, and metastasis of a variety of tumors. These anti-cancer effects are predominantly mediated through its negative regulation of various transcription factors, growth factors, inflammatory cytokines, protein kinases, and other oncogenic molecules. It also abrogates proliferation of cancer cells by arresting them at different phases of the cell cycle and/or by inducing their apoptosis. The current review focuses on the diverse molecular targets modulated by curcumin that contribute to its efficacy against various human cancers.
Sun Exposure and Vitamin D Supplementation in Relation to Vitamin D Status of Breastfeeding Mothers and Infants in the Global Exploration of Human Milk Study
Authors: Dawodu Adekunle , Davidson Barbara , Woo Jessica , Peng Yong-Mei , Ruiz-Palacios Guillermo , Guerrero Maria , Morrow Ardythe
Published: February 2015

Although vitamin D (vD) deficiency is common in breastfed infants and their mothers during pregnancy and lactation, a standardized global comparison is lacking. We studied the prevalence and risk factors for vD deficiency using a standardized protocol in a cohort of breastfeeding mother-infant pairs, enrolled in the Global Exploration of Human Milk Study, designed to examine longitudinally the effect of environment, diet and culture. Mothers planned to provide breast milk for at least three months post-partum and were enrolled at four weeks postpartum in Shanghai, China (n = 112), Cincinnati, Ohio (n = 119), and Mexico City, Mexico (n = 113). Maternal serum 25(OH)D was measured by radioimmunoassay (<50 nmol/L was categorized as deficient). Serum 25(OH)D was measured in a subset of infants (35 Shanghai, 47 Cincinnati and 45 Mexico City) seen at 26 weeks of age during fall and winter seasons. Data collected prospectively included vD supplementation, season and sun index (sun exposure × body surface area exposed while outdoors). Differences and factors associated with vD deficiency were evaluated using appropriate statistical analysis. vD deficiency in order of magnitude was identified in 62%, 52% and 17% of Mexican, Shanghai and Cincinnati mothers, respectively (p < 0.001). In regression analysis, vD supplementation (p < 0.01), obesity (p = 0.03), season (p = 0.001) and sites (p < 0.001) predicted maternal vD status. vD deficiency in order of magnitude was found in 62%, 28%, and 6% of Mexican, Cincinnati and Shanghai infants, respectively (p < 0.001). Season (p = 0.022), adding formula feeding (p < 0.001) and a higher sun index (p = 0.085) predicted higher infant vD status. vD deficiency appears to be a global problem in mothers and infants, though the prevalence in diverse populations may depend upon sun exposure behaviors and vD supplementation. Greater attention to maternal and infant vD status starting during pregnancy is warranted worldwide.
Discrete Anisotropic Radiative Transfer (DART 5) for Modeling Airborne and Satellite Spectroradiometer and LIDAR Acquisitions of Natural and Urban Landscapes
Authors: Gastellu-Etchegorry Jean-Philippe , Yin Tiangang , Lauret Nicolas , Cajgfinger Thomas , Gregoire Tristan , Grau Eloi , Feret Jean-Baptiste , Lopes Maïlys , Guilleux Jordan , Dedieu Gérard , Malenovský Zbyněk , Cook Bruce , Morton Douglas , Rubio Jeremy , Durrieu Sylvie , Cazanave Gregory , Martin Emmanuel , Ristorcelli Thomas
Published: February 2015

Satellite and airborne optical sensors are increasingly used by scientists, and policy makers, and managers for studying and managing forests, agriculture crops, and urban areas. Their data acquired with given instrumental specifications (spectral resolution, viewing direction, sensor field-of-view, etc.) and for a specific experimental configuration (surface and atmosphere conditions, sun direction, etc.) are commonly translated into qualitative and quantitative Earth surface parameters. However, atmosphere properties and Earth surface 3D architecture often confound their interpretation. Radiative transfer models capable of simulating the Earth and atmosphere complexity are, therefore, ideal tools for linking remotely sensed data to the surface parameters. Still, many existing models are oversimplifying the Earth-atmosphere system interactions and their parameterization of sensor specifications is often neglected or poorly considered. The Discrete Anisotropic Radiative Transfer (DART) model is one of the most comprehensive physically based 3D models simulating the Earth-atmosphere radiation interaction from visible to thermal infrared wavelengths. It has been developed since 1992. It models optical signals at the entrance of imaging radiometers and laser scanners on board of satellites and airplanes, as well as the 3D radiative budget, of urban and natural landscapes for any experimental configuration and instrumental specification. It is freely distributed for research and teaching activities. This paper presents DART physical bases and its latest functionality for simulating imaging spectroscopy of natural and urban landscapes with atmosphere, including the perspective projection of airborne acquisitions and LIght Detection And Ranging (LIDAR) waveform and photon counting signals.
Dynamics of Urbanization Levels in China from 1992 to 2012: Perspective from DMSP/OLS Nighttime Light Data
Authors: Gao Bin , Huang Qingxu , He Chunyang , Ma Qun
Published: February 2015

The authenticity and reliability of urbanization levels measured by different indicators in China have not reached a consensus, which may impede our understanding of the process of urbanization and its impacts on the environment. The objective of this study was to describe a reliable method of estimating urbanization level based on the Operational Line-scan System (OLS) on the Defense Meteorological Satellite Program (DMSP) nighttime light data and to analyze the dynamics of urbanization levels in China from 1992 to 2012. We calculated the comprehensive urbanization level at the national, provincial, and county scales using a compounded night light index (CNLI) and compared the change rate of CNLI with those of the other two conventional urbanization level indicators, proportion of the nonagricultural population and proportion of built-up area. Our results showed that CNLI derived from the DMSP/OLS data set provided a relatively reliable and accurate measure of the comprehensive urbanization level in China. During the last two decades, China has experienced continued and rapid urbanization with large regional variations. The CNLI increased 3.12 times, from 1.72 × 10−3 to 7.09 × 10−3. The annual increases of CNLI in eastern provinces were much faster than those in western provinces. In addition, we found that the rates of change in these three indicators were consistent for most provinces with the exception of the four municipalities (Beijing, Tianjin, Shanghai, and Chongqing) and a few eastern coastal provinces (Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Fujian, and Guangdong). Because the imbalance among population growth, urban expansion and socioeconomic development may affect cities’ sustainable development, we should pay more attention to these regions with large disparities between different indicators.
Development of the Second Generation Berry Impact Recording Device (BIRD II)
Authors: Xu Rui , Li Changying
Published: February 2015

To quantitatively measure the impacts during blueberry harvesting and post-harvest handling, this study designed the second generation Berry Impact Recording Device (BIRD II) sensor with a size of 21 mm in diameter and a weight of 3.9 g, which reduced the size by 17% and the weight by 50% compared to the previous prototype. The sensor was able to measure accelerations up to 346 g at a maximum frequency of 2 KHz. Universal Serial Bus (USB) was used to directly connect the sensor with the computer, removing the interface box used previously. LabVIEW-based PC software was designed to configure the sensor, download and process the data. The sensor was calibrated using a centrifuge. The accuracy of the sensor was between –1.76 g to 2.17 g, and the precision was between 0.21 g to 0.81 g. Dynamic drop tests showed that BIRD II had smaller variance in measurements than BIRD I. In terms of size and weight, BIRD II is more similar to an average blueberry fruit than BIRD I, which leads to more accurate measurements of the impacts for blueberries.
Modified Omega-k Algorithm for High-Speed Platform Highly-Squint Staggered SAR Based on Azimuth Non-Uniform Interpolation
Authors: Zeng Hong-Cheng , Chen Jie , Liu Wei , Yang Wei
Published: February 2015

In this work, the staggered SAR technique is employed for high-speed platform highly-squint SAR by varying the pulse repetition interval (PRI) as a linear function of range-walk. To focus the staggered SAR data more efficiently, a low-complexity modified Omega-k algorithm is proposed based on a novel method for optimal azimuth non-uniform interpolation, avoiding zero padding in range direction for recovering range cell migration (RCM) and saving in both data storage and computational load. An approximate model on continuous PRI variation with respect to sliding receive-window is employed in the proposed algorithm, leaving a residual phase error only due to the effect of a time-varying Doppler phase caused by staggered SAR. Then, azimuth non-uniform interpolation (ANI) at baseband is carried out to compensate the azimuth non-uniform sampling (ANS) effect resulting from continuous PRI variation, which is further followed by the modified Omega-k algorithm. The proposed algorithm has a significantly lower computational complexity, but with an equally effective imaging performance, as shown in our simulation results.
Analysis of Wireless Sensor Network Topology and Estimation of Optimal Network Deployment by Deterministic Radio Channel Characterization
Authors: Aguirre Erik , Lopez-Iturri Peio , Azpilicueta Leire , Astrain José , Villadangos Jesús , Falcone Francisco
Published: February 2015

One of the main challenges in the implementation and design of context-aware scenarios is the adequate deployment strategy for Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs), mainly due to the strong dependence of the radiofrequency physical layer with the surrounding media, which can lead to non-optimal network designs. In this work, radioplanning analysis for WSN deployment is proposed by employing a deterministic 3D ray launching technique in order to provide insight into complex wireless channel behavior in context-aware indoor scenarios. The proposed radioplanning procedure is validated with a testbed implemented with a Mobile Ad Hoc Network WSN following a chain configuration, enabling the analysis and assessment of a rich variety of parameters, such as received signal level, signal quality and estimation of power consumption. The adoption of deterministic radio channel techniques allows the design and further deployment of WSNs in heterogeneous wireless scenarios with optimized behavior in terms of coverage, capacity, quality of service and energy consumption.