bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The structure of rocky reef fish assemblages across a nearshore to coastal islands' gradient in Southeastern Brazil
Authors: Gibran Fernando Zaniolo , Moura Rodrigo Leão de
Published: June 2012

Local assemblages of fishes associated with reefs are influenced by interactions among the availability of larvae and survival of recruits with subsequent biotic and abiotic forcing, as well as by periodic and episodic disturbances of varying natures and magnitudes. Therefore, besides being structurally heterogeneous and patchily distributed, reef systems are strongly context-dependent due to the influence of a broad array of ecological processes. In order to assess interactions of local factors that influence the distribution and abundance of reef fishes within a coastal mosaic of rocky reefs, we tested the null hypothesis of no significant variation in fish assemblage structure, by comparing 33 sites along the northern coast of the São Paulo State, Southeastern Brazil. Replicated stationary visual census samples (n = 396) were obtained at different distances from the coast, depths and wave exposures, including the mainland, three relatively small coastal islands, and the two margins of a wide channel between the mainland and the large São Sebastião Island (~350 km²), totaling 225 h of SCUBA diving. The regional rocky shore fish fauna comprised 106 species (41 families), with preponderance of diurnal mobile-invertebrate feeders. Samples from the outer margin of the São Sebastião Island, together with those from Alcatrazes, Búzios, and Vitória islands were significantly dissimilar from samples from the coastal sites at the São Sebastião Channel. Species richness tended to increase in a gradient from the coast to the more offshore islands. Local conditions such as depth and other habitat characteristics also influenced fish assemblages' structure. Distance from coast and depth were the main predictors for fish assemblages, followed by water transparency, temperature and benthic cover. This study represents the first regional-scale assessment of fish assemblages associated with rocky reefs in the São Paulo State coast, filling a major geographic knowledge gap in the South Atlantic. As the study region is experiencing fast coastal development and growing threats from seaport expansion, oil and gas exploitation, as well as increasing fishing and tourism pressure, the understanding of the underlying factors that influence the distribution and abundance of the reef-associated biota comprises a relevant baseline for monitoring, conservation planning and management.
Westermann Morphospace displays ammonoid shell shape and hypothetical paleoecology
Authors: Ritterbush Kathleen A. , Bottjer David J.
Published: June 2012

The Westermann Morphospace method displays fundamental morphotypes and hypothesized life modes of measured ammonoid fossils in a ternary diagram. It quantitatively describes shell shape, without assumption of theoretical coiling laws, in a single, easy-to-read diagram. This allows direct comparison between data sets presented in Westermann Morphospace, making it an ideal tool to communicate morphology. By linking measured shells to hypothesized life modes, the diagram estimates ecospace occupation of the water column. Application of this new method is demonstrated with Mesozoic data sets from monographs. Temporal variation, intraspecies variation, and ontogenetic variation are considered. This method can address hypothetical ecospace occupation in collections with tight stratigraphic, lithologic, and abundance control, even when taxonomy is in dispute.
Micro and nano patterning of carbon electrodes for bioMEMS
Authors: Sharma Swati , Madou Marc
Published: June 2012

Carbon based bioMEMS are an emerging class of miniaturized biomedical devices. Due to the numerous advantages such as scalable manufacturing processes, inexpensive and readily available precursor polymer materials, tunable surface properties and biocompatibility, carbon has become a preferred material for a wide variety of future biosensing applications. In this article, we review fabrication methodologies for carbon-MEMS (CMEMS) and carbon-NEMS (CNEMS) devices and strategies for their surface modification for biocompatibility and for biosensing. We also discuss the underlying graphitic and glassy microstructures of carbon since the biocompatibility of carbon and its microstructures are intertwined. We conclude by exploring various CMEMS and CNEMS devices that have been successfully fabricated.
Estimates of the Manning's coefficient for ice-covered rivers
Authors: Li S. Samuel
Published: June 2012

The management of ice-covered rivers presents special issues with respect to planning, design and operation of a water resources project. To address these issues properly entails a good understanding of the hydraulics of ice-covered rivers, where the composite Manning's coefficient is a fundamental parameter. The aim of this paper is to obtain field estimates of the composite coefficient associated with the ice cover and riverbed. Using four different methods, this paper analyses a large volume of winter measurements of water velocities made from shallow ice-covered rivers in Canada. The results show that the composite Manning's coefficient ranges from 0·013 to 0·040 as winter averages, but can vary up to seven-fold through the winter. The slope of the energy grade line is difficult to measure in the field and thus is rarely available; it appears to be about 30% of the water slope. The method for determining the coefficient based on the logarithmic velocity distribution fitted to measurements has shown advantages, as revealed by comparing the results of the four methods. The estimates of the composite Manning's coefficient reported in this paper are useful for modelling ice-covered river flow and determining winter discharges. This is particularly true when site-specific data are unavailable.
Carbon stocks across a chronosequence of thinned and unmanaged red pine (Pinus resinosa) stands
Authors: Powers Matthew D. , Kolka Randall K. , Bradford John B. , Palik Brian J. , Fraver Shawn , Jurgensen Martin F.
Published: June 2012

Forests function as a major global C sink, and forest management strategies that maximize C stocks offer one possible means of mitigating the impacts of increasing anthropogenic CO2emissions. We studied the effects of thinning, a common management technique in many forest types, on age‐related trends in C stocks using a chronosequence of thinned and unmanaged red pine (Pinus resinosa) stands ranging from 9 to 306 years old. Live tree C stocks increased with age to a maximum near the middle of the chronosequence in unmanaged stands, and increased across the entire chronosequence in thinned stands. C in live understory vegetation and C in the mineral soil each declined rapidly with age in young stands but changed relatively little in middle‐aged to older stands regardless of management. Forest floor C stocks increased with age in unmanaged stands, but forest floor C decreased with age after the onset of thinning around age 40 in thinned stands. Deadwood C was highly variable, but decreased with age in thinned stands. Total ecosystem C increased with stand age until approaching an asymptote around age 150. The increase in total ecosystem C was paralleled by an age‐related increase in total aboveground C, but relatively little change in total belowground C. Thinning had surprisingly little impact on total ecosystem C stocks, but it did modestly alter age‐related trends in total ecosystem C allocation between aboveground and belowground pools. In addition to characterizing the subtle differences in C dynamics between thinned and unmanaged stands, these results suggest that C accrual in red pine stands continues well beyond the 60–100 year management rotations typical for this system. Management plans that incorporate longer rotations and thinning in some stands could play an important role in maximizing C stocks in red pine forests while meeting other objectives including timber extraction, biodiversity conservation, restoration, and fuel reduction goals.
Characteristics of climate and landscape disturbance influence the dynamics of greater sage‐grouse populations
Authors: Blomberg Erik J. , Sedinger James S. , Atamian Michael T. , Nonne Daniel V.
Published: June 2012

Life histories determine how organisms interact with their environment and predict how populations respond to environmental change. Understanding relationships between life histories and environmental variability is therefore crucial for effective conservation under changing environmental conditions. Greater sage‐grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus) is a species of major conservation concern in western North America following widespread disturbance of the sagebrush ecosystems to which they are endemic. Using robust design and Pradel capture‐mark‐recapture models, we evaluated the influence of climatic processes and disturbance associated with post‐wildfire exotic grass invasion on annual survival, per‐capita recruitment, and population growth of breeding male sage‐grouse in eastern Nevada, USA. Climatic processes, indexed by annual rainfall and maximum summertime temperatures, had a strong relationship with recruitment and adult survival, respectively. The range of variation in recruitment during the study was greater than the range of variation in survival, consistent with a life‐history strategy that features lengthened lifespan to capitalize on periodically favorable reproductive conditions. Annual variation in precipitation variables (e.g., rainfall or snow depth) explained as much as 75% of the annual variance in population size during the study. Our results are consistent with bottom‐up regulation of sage‐grouse populations, where abundance is determined in large part by climate‐driven variation in resource availability. Exotic grasslands had a negative influence on recruitment that was interactive with annual rainfall; recruitment was consistently low in areas with a substantial exotic grassland footprint even following years of favorable rainfall. We found males breeding at leks with substantial exotic grassland impacts had lower annual survival compared to males at leks surrounded by native sagebrush habitats. However, models containing an interaction between exotic grasslands and maximum summer temperature were not clearly superior to models that considered only additive effects of the two variables. This research has significant implications for sage‐grouse persistence in a changing climate, where more frequent drought and increased spread of exotic grasslands will have negative impacts on sage‐grouse populations.
Comparison of Mechanical Pretreatment Methods for the Enhancement of Anaerobic Digestion of Pulp and Paper Waste Activated Sludge
Authors: Elliott Allan , Mahmood Talat
Published: June 2012

The conventional anaerobic digestion process, requiring long solids retention times (SRTs) to digest solids, is currently viewed as impractical for the pulp and paper industry because of high capital costs associated with the construction of new digesters. Recent developments in sludge solubilization technology could be promising in reducing digester size, which also allows for the potential use of decommissioned tanks, both of which can reduce the capital cost. Three pretreatment technologies for use with anaerobic digestion were tested on laboratory‐scale to investigate their feasibility. The SRTs in all three digesters systematically decreased from 20 to 3 days. The reference digester was fed waste activated sludge (WAS) to serve as the control at the same SRTs. The other digesters were fed WAS that had been preconditioned using mechanical shearing, sonication, or high‐pressure homogenization technology. Anaerobic digestion with high‐pressure homogenization produced as much methane at 3‐day mean SRT as that from the reference digester operated at 20‐day SRT. Therefore, a new digester can theoretically be 85% smaller than a conventional digester. An added benefit of WAS to methane conversion is the recovery of nutrients nitrogen and phosphorus.
Pasteurellaceae isolated from bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis) from Idaho, Oregon, and Wyoming
Authors: Miller David S. , Weiser Glen C. , Ward Alton C. S. , Drew Mark L. , Chapman Phillip L.
Published: June 2012

Objective—To elucidate the species and biovariants of Pasteurellaceae isolated from clinically normal bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis) or bighorn sheep with evidence of respiratory disease.

Sample—675 Pasteurellaceae isolates from 290 free-ranging bighorn sheep in Idaho, Oregon and Wyoming.

Procedures—Nasal and oropharyngeal swab specimens were inoculated onto selective and nonselective blood agar media. Representatives of each colony type were classified via a biovariant scheme. The association of respective β-hemolytic isolates with respiratory disease was evaluated via χ2 analyses.

Results—Bacterial isolates belonged to 4 species: Histophilus somni, Mannheimia haemolytica, Pasteurella multocida, and Bibersteinia (Pasteurella) trehalosi. Within the latter 3 species, 112 subspecies, biotypes, and biovariants were identified. Bibersteinia trehalosi 2 and B trehalosi 2B constituted 345 of 675 (51%) isolates. Most (597/618 [97%]) isolates from adult sheep were from clinically normal animals, whereas most (47/57 [82%]) isolates from lambs were from animals with evidence of respiratory disease. Twenty-two Pasteurellaceae biovariants were isolated from sheep with respiratory disease; 17 of these biovariants were also isolated from clinically normal sheep. The ability of isolates to cause β-hemolysis on blood agar was associated with respiratory disease in adult bighorn sheep (OR, 2.59; 95% confidence interval, 1.10 to 6.07).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Bighorn lambs appeared more susceptible to respiratory disease caused by Pasteurellaceae than did adult sheep. β-Hemolytic Pasteurellaceae isolates were more likely to be associated with respiratory disease than were non–β-hemolytic isolates in adult sheep. Identification of Pasteurellaceae with the greatest pathogenic potential will require studies to estimate the risk of disease from specific biovariants.
Cannabinoid receptor type 1 and 2 expression in the skin of healthy dogs and dogs with atopic dermatitis
Authors: Campora Luca , Miragliotta Vincenzo , Ricci Emanuele , Cristino Luigia , Di Marzo Vincenzo , Albanese Francesco , Federica della Valle Maria , Abramo Francesca
Published: June 2012

Objective—To determine the distribution of cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1) and cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2) in skin (including hair follicles and sweat and sebaceous glands) of clinically normal dogs and dogs with atopic dermatitis (AD) and to compare results with those for positive control samples for CB1 (hippocampus) and CB2 (lymph nodes).

Sample—Skin samples from 5 healthy dogs and 5 dogs with AD and popliteal lymph node and hippocampus samples from 5 cadavers of dogs.

Procedures—CB1 and CB2 were immunohistochemically localized in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded sections of tissue samples.

Results—In skin samples of healthy dogs, CB1 and CB2 immunoreactivity was detected in various types of cells in the epidermis and in cells in the dermis, including perivascular cells with mast cell morphology, fibroblasts, and endothelial cells. In skin samples of dogs with AD, CB1 and CB2 immunoreactivity was stronger than it was in skin samples of healthy dogs. In positive control tissue samples, CB1 immunoreactivity was detected in all areas of the hippocampus, and CB2 immunoreactivity was detected in B-cell zones of lymphoid follicles.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The endocannabinoid system and cannabimimetic compounds protect against effects of allergic inflammatory disorders in various species of mammals. Results of the present study contributed to knowledge of the endocannabinoid system and indicated this system may be a target for treatment of immune-mediated and inflammatory disorders such as allergic skin diseases in dogs.
Development of a technique for contrast radiographic examination of the gastrointestinal tract in ball pythons (Python regius)
Authors: Banzato Tommaso , Russo Elisa , Finotti Luca , Zotti Alessandro
Published: June 2012

Objective—To develop a technique for radiographic evaluation of the gastrointestinal tract in ball pythons (Python regius).

Samples—10 ball python cadavers (5 males and 5 females) and 18 healthy adult ball pythons (10 males and 8 females).

Procedures—Live snakes were allocated to 3 groups (A, B, and C). A dose (25 mL/kg) of barium sulfate suspension at 3 concentrations (25%, 35%, and 45% [wt/vol]) was administered through an esophageal probe to snakes in groups A, B, and C, respectively. Each evaluation ended when all the contrast medium had reached the large intestine. Transit times through the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine were recorded. Imaging quality was evaluated by 3 investigators who assigned a grading score on the basis of predetermined criteria. Statistical analysis was conducted to evaluate differences in quality among the study groups.

Results—The esophagus and stomach had a consistent distribution pattern of contrast medium, whereas 3 distribution patterns of contrast medium were identified in the small intestine, regardless of barium concentration. Significant differences in imaging quality were detected among the 3 groups.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Radiographic procedures were tolerated well by all snakes. The 35% concentration of contrast medium yielded the best imaging quality. Use of contrast medium for evaluation of the cranial portion of the gastrointestinal tract could be a reliable technique for the diagnosis of gastrointestinal diseases in ball pythons. However, results of this study may not translate to other snake species because of variables identified in this group of snakes.
Content of selected secondary metabolites in wild hop
Authors: Ürgeová Eva , Vulganová Katarína , Polívka Ľudovít
Published: June 2012

We focused on the determination of biologically active secondary metabolites in wild hops over the course of the vegetation period in four selected sites in Piešťany. Hop was collected in four collection periods in 2010. The objects of research were the leaves of male and female plants, and female cones. Analysis of the extracts from wild hop confirmed differences in total content of polyphenols, flavonoids between the localities and in the growing seasons over the vegetation period. The extracts from leaves from the first harvest in localities “gSládkovičova” and the river Vah showed higher levels of polyphenols (4.91–6.93 mg g−1 of dry mass), flavonoids (2.28–2.99 mg g−1 of dry mass) than the extracts from cones collected at the end of the vegetation period (polyphenols 3.63–5.33 mg g−1 of dry mass, flavonoids 1.86–2.16 mg g−1 of dry mass). The extracts from leaves from the first harvest from the “tennis court” site showed lower values of polyphenols and flavonoids. Our findings were that the leaves from the first harvest at the beginning of the growing season contained higher amounts of the secondary metabolites investigated than the cones at the end of the growing season. The content of α-bitter acids in wild hop cones ranged from 1.64 % to 2.91 %, in leaves from 0.11 % to 0.99%. Concentration of β-bitter acids in cones varied from 1.63 % to 1.93 % and in leaves from 0.02 % to 0.61 %.
Trace elements in Variegated Bolete (Suillus variegatus) fungi
Authors: Szubstarska Joanna , Jarzyńska Grażyna , Falandysz Jerzy
Published: June 2012

Metallic elements such as Ag, Al, Ba, Ca, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, Na, Ni, Pb, Rb, Sr, and Zn were determined using ICP-OES in a representative set of fifteen fruiting bodies of the edible fungus Suillus variegatus. Fruiting bodies were collected from unpolluted areas near the village of Lubichowo of the Bory Tucholskie forest complex in northern Poland in 2007–2008. The caps were richer in Ag, Al, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, K,Mg, Ni, Rb, and Zn, and the stipes in Ba, Ca, Mn, Na, Pb, and Sr. Cobalt concentration in the caps and stipes was similar. In the caps, the content of the elements decreased in the order (mg per kg of dry weight): K 29000 ± 3700, Fe 1600 ± 80, Mg 990 ± 110, Rb 320 ± 86, Zn 90 ± 19, Ca 75 ± 34, Al 68 ± 32, Na 40 ± 18, Cu 19 ± 7, Mn 13 ± 7, Cd 1.0 ± 0.5, Ni 0.64 ± 0.32, Ag 0.40 ± 0.20, Cr 0.33 ± 0.06, Pb 0.20 ± 0.17, Ba 0.19 ± 0.11, Sr 0.15 ± 0.09, and Co 0.070 ± 0.050. Apparently, S. variegatus collected from background areas are relatively low in Pb and Cd and so are suitable for human consumption.
Influence of various spices on acrylamide content in buckwheat ginger cakes
Authors: Marková Lucie , Ciesarová Zuzana , Kukurová Kristína , Zieliński Henryk , Przygodzka Małgorzata , Bednáriková Alena , Šimko Peter
Published: June 2012

The aim of this work was to study the effect of various spices (cloves, cinnamon, allspice, white pepper, anise, star anise, coriander, fennel, nutmeg, cardamom, vanilla, and ginger) on acrylamide formation in buckwheat ginger cakes. The spices were characterised by their free radical scavenging activity and applied to formulation of the buckwheat ginger cakes in the same portions. After baking, the acrylamide content was determined by LC/ESI-MS-MS. The results showed a reduction in acrylamide content of up to 23 % in the buckwheat ginger cakes with the addition of nutmeg, fennel, anise, or cloves. A decrease in acrylamide content from 5 % to 11 % was found in the buckwheat ginger cakes with vanilla, cardamom, white pepper, or ginger. By contrast, the acrylamide content in the buckwheat ginger cakes with cinnamon or coriander increased by up to 29 %. No change in the acrylamide content was observed in the buckwheat ginger cakes with star anise or allspice. Only a slight correlation between the di(phenyl)-(2,4,6-trinitrophenyl)iminoazanium (DPPH·) free radical scavenging activity of the added spices and the final acrylamide content in the buckwheat ginger cakes (0.68) was observed. The final acrylamide content was probably influenced not only by the free radical scavenging activity of the spices added, but also by their chemical composition and the reactiveness of particular constituents with synergistic/antagonistic effect in the matrix studied.
PSO based path planner of an autonomous mobile robot
Authors: Deepak B. , Parhi Dayal
Published: June 2012

A novel approach based on particle swarm optimization has been presented in this paper for solving mobile robot navigation task. The proposed technique tries to optimize the path generated by an intelligent mobile robot from its source position to destination position in its work space. For solving this problem, a new fitness function has been modelled, which satisfies the obstacle avoidance and optimal path traversal conditions. From the obtained fitness values of each particle in the swarm, the robot moves towards the particle which is having optimal fitness value. Simulation results are provided to validate the feasibility of the developed methodology in various unknown environments.
Minimal number of clues for Sudokus
Authors: Lass Christoph
Published: June 2012

In this article we will present a universal scheme for calculating the minimal number of clues needed for a generalized Sudoku to be uniquely solvable. By using equivalence partitioning and analyzing uniqueness properties of patterns, we will reduce the search space to a feasible size. As a result, we will present the minimal number for 2 × 4 Sudokus.
Carbonaceous particles reveal that Late Holocene dust causes the dark region in the western ablation zone of the Greenland ice sheet
Authors: Wientjes I.G.M. , Van De Wal R.S.W. , Schwikowski M. , Zapf A. , Fahrni S. , Wacker L.
Published: June 2012

A dark region in the western ablation zone of the Greenland ice sheet is caused by outcropping ice layers that contain more dust than the surrounding brighter ice. These higher amounts of dust were deposited in the accumulation zone of the ice sheet and travelled with the ice to the ablation zone. To deduce the period and the causes of this higher dust deposition, carbonaceous particles in ice samples from the dark region and from brighter reference ice were analysed and used for dating. Samples including ice from directly below the surface contain high amounts of modern organic carbon, probably from microorganisms on the ice surface. Deeper samples reveal low amounts of carbonaceous particles, which are originally deposited in the accumulation zone. The amount of outcropping carbonaceous particles in the dark region seems significantly higher than in the reference ice. One of the samples that contained material initially deposited in the accumulation zone was dated and revealed Late Holocene ages, coinciding with a period of enhanced eolian activity in the nearby tundra. Therefore, variable eolian activity during the Holocene effected dust fluxes towards the ice and hence leads to albedo variations in the present ablation zone of the ice sheet.
Reconstruction of basal properties in ice sheets using iterative inverse methods
Authors: Habermann Marijke , Maxwell David , Truffer Martin
Published: June 2012

Inverse problems are used to estimate model parameters from observations. Many inverse problems are ill-posed because they lack stability, meaning it is not possible to find solutions that are stable with respect to small changes in input data. Regularization techniques are necessary to stabilize the problem. For nonlinear inverse problems, iterative inverse methods can be used as a regularization method. These methods start with an initial estimate of the model parameters, update the parameters to match observation in an iterative process that adjusts large-scale spatial features first, and use a stopping criterion to prevent the overfitting of data. This criterion determines the smoothness of the solution and thus the degree of regularization. Here, iterative inverse methods are implemented for the specific problem of reconstructing basal stickiness of an ice sheet by using the shallow-shelf approximation as a forward model and synthetically derived surface velocities as input data. The incomplete Gauss-Newton (IGN) method is introduced and compared to the commonly used steepest descent and nonlinear conjugate gradient methods. Two different stopping criteria, the discrepancy principle and a recent- improvement threshold, are compared. The IGN method is favored because it is rapidly converging, and it incorporates the discrepancy principle, which leads to optimally resolved solutions.
Alpha Particle Emitter Radiolabeled Antibody for Metastatic Cancer: What Can We Learn from Heavy Ion Beam Radiobiology?
Authors: Song Hong , Senthamizhchelvan Srinivasan , Hobbs Robert F. , Sgouros George
Published: June 2012

Alpha-particle emitter labeled monoclonal antibodies are being actively developed for treatment of metastatic cancer due to the high linear energy transfer (LET) and the resulting greater biological efficacy of alpha-emitters. Our knowledge of high LET particle radiobiology derives primarily from accelerated heavy ion beam studies. In heavy ion beam therapy of loco-regional tumors, the modulation of steep transition to very high LET peak as the particle approaches the end of its track (known as the Bragg peak) enables greater delivery of biologically potent radiation to the deep seated tumors while sparing normal tissues surrounding the tumor with the relatively low LET track segment part of the heavy ion beam. Moreover, fractionation of the heavy ion beam can further enhance the peak-to-plateau relative biological effectiveness (RBE) ratio. In contrast, internally delivered alpha particle radiopharmaceutical therapy lack the control of Bragg peak energy deposition and the dose rate is determined by the administered activity, alpha-emitter half-life and biological kinetics of the radiopharmaceutical. The therapeutic ratio of tumor to normal tissue is mainly achieved by tumor specific targeting of the carrier antibody. In this brief overview, we review the radiobiology of high LET radiations learned from ion beam studies and identify the features that are also applicable for the development of alpha-emitter labeled antibodies. The molecular mechanisms underlying DNA double strand break repair response to high LET radiation are also discussed.
Multiple Bit Error Tolerant Galois Field Architectures Over GF (2m)
Authors: Poolakkaparambil Mahesh , Mathew Jimson , Jabir Abusaleh
Published: June 2012

Radiation induced transient faults like single event upsets (SEU) and multiple event upsets (MEU) in memories are well researched. As a result of the technology scaling, it is observed that the logic blocks are also vulnerable to malfunctioning when they are deployed in radiation prone environment. However, the current literature is lacking efforts to mitigate such issues in the digital logic circuits when exposed to natural radiation prone environment or when they are subjected to malicious attacks by an eavesdropper using highly energized particles. This may lead to catastrophe in critical applications such as widely used cryptographic hardware. In this paper, novel dynamic error correction architectures, based on the BCH codes, is proposed for correcting multiple errors which makes the circuits robust against radiation induced faults irrespective of the location of the errors. As a benchmark test case, the finite field multiplier circuit is considered as the functional block which can be the target for major attacks. The proposed scheme has the capability to handle stuck-at faults that are also a major cause of failure affecting the overall yield of a nano-CMOS integrated chip. The experimental results show that the proposed dynamic error detection and correction architecture results in 50% reduction in critical path delay by dynamically bypassing the error correction logic when no error is present. The area overhead for the larger multiplier is within 150% which is 33% lower than the TMR and comparable to 130% overhead of single error correcting Hamming and LDPC based techniques.
Visualization of Lake Mead Surface Area Changes from 1972 to 2009
Authors: Forsythe K. Wayne , Schatz Barbara , Swales Stephen J. , Ferrato Lisa-Jen , Atkinson David M.
Published: June 2012

For most of the last decade, the south-western portion of the United States has experienced a severe and enduring drought. This has caused serious concerns about water supply and management in the region. In this research, 30 orthorectified Landsat satellite images from the United States Geological Service (USGS) Earth Explorer archive were analyzed for the 1972 to 2009 period. The images encompassed Lake Mead (a major reservoir in this region) and were examined for changes in water surface area. Decadal lake area minimums/maximums were achieved in 1972/1979, 1981/1988, 1991/1998, and 2009/2000. The minimum lake area extent occurred in 2009 (356.4 km2), while the maximum occurred in 1998 (590.6 km2). Variable trends in water level and lake area were observed throughout the analysis period, however progressively lower values were observed since 2000. The Landsat derived lake areas show a very strong relationship with actual measured water levels at the Hoover Dam. Yearly water level variations at the dam vary minimally from the satellite derived estimates. A complete (yearly) record of satellite images may have helped to reduce the slight deviations in the time series.
Self Assembled Films of Porphyrins with Amine Groups at Different Positions: Influence of Their Orientation on the Corrosion Inhibition and the Electrocatalytic Activity
Authors: Lokesh Koodlur Sannegowda , De Keersmaecker Michel , Adriaens Annemie
Published: June 2012

Self-assembled molecular films of two cobalt porphyrins with amine groups at different positions—(5,10,15,20-tetrakis-(2-aminophenyl) porphyrin-cobalt(II), [Co(II) (T(o-NH2)PP)] and (5,10,15,20-tetrakis-(4-aminophenyl) porphyrin-cobalt(II), [Co(II)(T(p-NH2)PP)]—were formed on a gold substrate. The functionalized surfaces were characterized using Raman spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy and electrochemical methods. Both modified gold surfaces completely mask the charge transfer of a [Fe(CN)6]3−/4− redox couple in solution, indicating the layer is highly resistive in behavior. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy analyses revealed that the porphyrin film with amine groups at ortho positions shows a higher charge-transfer resistance with a better protective behavior compared to the para position modified surface. Raman, AFM and EIS data suggests that an ortho amine positioned molecule forms a more compact layer compared to the para-positioned molecule. This can be explained in terms of their orientation on the gold surface. [Co(II)(T(o-NH2)PP)] adopted a saddle shape orientation whereas [Co(II)(T(p-NH2)PP)] adopted a flat orientation on the gold surface. The porphyrin modified gold electrode catalyzes the oxygen reduction at lower potentials compared to the bare gold electrode. The shift in the overvoltage was higher in case of molecules with flat orientation compared to the saddle shaped oriented porphyrin molecules on the surface.
Consumption of a Diet Rich in Cottonseed Oil (CSO) Lowers Total and LDL Cholesterol in Normo-Cholesterolemic Subjects
Authors: Davis Kathleen E. , Prasad Chandan , Imrhan Victorine
Published: June 2012

Animal data indicates that dietary cottonseed oil (CSO) may lower cholesterol; however, the effects of a CSO-rich diet have not been evaluated in humans. Thirty-eight healthy adults (aged 18–40; 12 males, 26 females) consumed a CSO rich diet (95 g CSO daily) for one week. Anthropometric measurements were obtained, and blood was drawn pre- and post-intervention. Serum lipids (total cholesterol (TC), high density lipoprotein (HDL), low density lipoprotein (LDL), triglyceride (TG), and free fatty acids (FFA)) were assayed. There was no change in weight or waist circumference among participants. There was no change in HDL (Pre: 1.27 ± 0.4 mmol/L; Post: 1.21 ± 0.3 mmol/L) or TG (Pre: 0.91 ± 0.6 mmol/L; Post: 1.06 ± 1.0 mmol/L). Total cholesterol and LDL were reduced (TC Pre: 4.39 ± 0.9 mmol/L; Post: 4.16 ± 0.8 mmol/L; LDL Pre: 2.70 ± 0.8 mmol/L; Post: 2.47 ± 0.6 mmol/L). When data were grouped by sex, total cholesterol was reduced in female participants (Pre: 4.34 ± 0.9 mmol/L; Post: 4.09 ± 0.8 mmol/L). Consumption of a high fat, CSO-rich diet for one week reduced total cholesterol in female participants without reducing HDL.
Supplying the Power Requirements to a Sensor Network Using Radio Frequency Power Transfer
Authors: Percy Steven , Knight Chris , Cooray Francis , Smart Ken
Published: June 2012

Wireless power transmission is a method of supplying power to small electronic devices when there is no wired connection. One way to increase the range of these systems is to use a directional transmitting antenna, the problem with this approach is that power can only be transmitted through a narrow beam and directly forward, requiring the transmitter to always be aligned with the sensor node position. The work outlined in this article describes the design and testing of an autonomous radio frequency power transfer system that is capable of rotating the base transmitter to track the position of sensor nodes and transferring power to that sensor node. The system’s base station monitors the node’s energy levels and forms a charge queue to plan charging order and maintain energy levels of the nodes. Results show a radio frequency harvesting circuit with a measured S11 value of −31.5 dB and a conversion efficiency of 39.1%. Simulation and experimentation verified the level of power transfer and efficiency. The results of this work show a small network of three nodes with different storage types powered by a central base node.
WebTag: Web Browsing into Sensor Tags over NFC
Authors: Echevarria Juan Jose , Ruiz-de-Garibay Jonathan , Legarda Jon , Álvarez Maite , Ayerbe Ana , Vazquez Juan Ignacio
Published: June 2012

Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) continue to overcome many of the challenges related to wireless sensor monitoring, such as for example the design of smarter embedded processors, the improvement of the network architectures, the development of efficient communication protocols or the maximization of the life cycle autonomy. This work tries to improve the communication link of the data transmission in wireless sensor monitoring. The upstream communication link is usually based on standard IP technologies, but the downstream side is always masked with the proprietary protocols used for the wireless link (like ZigBee, Bluetooth, RFID, etc.). This work presents a novel solution (WebTag) for a direct IP based access to a sensor tag over the Near Field Communication (NFC) technology for secure applications. WebTag allows a direct web access to the sensor tag by means of a standard web browser, it reads the sensor data, configures the sampling rate and implements IP based security policies. It is, definitely, a new step towards the evolution of the Internet of Things paradigm.
Photodynamic Inactivation of Mammalian Viruses and Bacteriophages
Authors: Costa Liliana , Faustino Maria Amparo F. , Neves Maria Graça P. M. S. , Cunha Ângela , Almeida Adelaide
Published: June 2012

Photodynamic inactivation (PDI) has been used to inactivate microorganisms through the use of photosensitizers. The inactivation of mammalian viruses and bacteriophages by photosensitization has been applied with success since the first decades of the last century. Due to the fact that mammalian viruses are known to pose a threat to public health and that bacteriophages are frequently used as models of mammalian viruses, it is important to know and understand the mechanisms and photodynamic procedures involved in their photoinactivation. The aim of this review is to (i) summarize the main approaches developed until now for the photodynamic inactivation of bacteriophages and mammalian viruses and, (ii) discuss and compare the present state of the art of mammalian viruses PDI with phage photoinactivation, with special focus on the most relevant mechanisms, molecular targets and factors affecting the viral inactivation process.
The Importance of a Satisfactory Biopsy for the Diagnosis of Lung Cancer in the Era of Personalized Treatment
Authors: Ofiara L.M. , Navasakulpong A. , Ezer N. , Gonzalez A.V.
Published: June 2012

Advances in molecular biology are improving the understanding of lung cancer and changing the approach to treatment. A satisfactory biopsy that allows for histologic characterization and mutation analysis is becoming increasingly important. Most patients with lung cancer are diagnosed at an advanced stage, and diagnosis is often based on a small biopsy or cytology specimen. Here, we review the techniques available for making a diagnosis of lung cancer, including bronchoscopy, ultrasound-guided bronchoscopy, mediastinoscopy, transthoracic needle aspiration, thoracentesis, and medical thoracoscopy. We also discuss the indications, complications, and tissue yields of those techniques, especially as they pertain to testing for molecular markers.
Drug Resistance and Its Significance for Treatment Decisions in Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Tsvetkova E. , Goss G.D.
Published: June 2012

Non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) constitutes about 85% of all lung cancers. Approximately 50% of patients diagnosed with NSCLC present with advanced disease (stage III or IV) that is not amenable to curative treatment. The number of patients with stage IIIB or IV disease who are alive at 1 year after diagnosis has increased from 10% in the untreated population in the early 1980s to 50% in patients with a good performance status receiving treatment today. However, those statistics remain dismal, and the two dominant reasons are the large number of patients diagnosed with advanced-stage disease and the observed primary or secondary resistance to current therapies. The present article addresses the question of drug resistance in lung cancer, focusing on subjects that are currently topical and under intense scrutiny.
THE PRECISE MEASUREMENT OF CAR VELOCITY
Authors: Barzdžiukas Julius , Augutis Stasys Vygantas , Žilinskas Rimvydas Povilas
Published: June 2012

The system for precise measurement of car velocity is using lasers and reference distance fixed on the car. Primary application for this system is verification and calibration of stationary velocity meters without the need for disassembling or transporting them to testing area. Velocity measurements can be performed under the real traffic conditions. Principle of operation, calibration of the measurement system and uncertainties are provided. Some solutions used in this system operate in a wide range of possible environmental conditions. Additionally, ABS sensors were used for dynamic car velocity evaluation. Possibilities of this system, when used in combination with optical measurements, are provided. Experimental data demonstrates ABS sensor applicability in measurements with different road types, tire pressures and temperatures.
L'humeur comme médiateur
Authors: Tassin Jean-Pol
Published: June 2012

Résumé C’est à partir des années 1960, lorsque la pharmacologie et la neurobiologie ont montré qu’elles pouvaient intervenir de façon efficace sur certaines maladies mentales ou neurologiques, qu’une sorte de guerre s’est déclarée entre les « bio » et les « psy ». Depuis cette période, les connaissances ont considérablement progressé de part et d’autre mais les avancées n’ont pas été suffisantes pour empêcher les controverses d’être toujours présentes. Nous proposons que l’humeur, un paramètre que les « psy » connaissent bien et que les « bio » commencent à connaître, serve de médiateur entre les deux écoles. Pour certains neurobiologistes, l’humeur serait l’expression des interactions entre les trois principaux ensembles de neuromodulation du système nerveux central, la dopamine, la noradrénaline et la sérotonine. Nous avons montré que les systèmes noradrénergiques et sérotoninergiques se contrôlent mutuellement et que la prise répétée de drogues – psychostimulants, opiacés, alcool ou tabac – entraîne un découplage de ces deux systèmes. La conséquence de ce découplage serait une perturbation de la régulation de l’humeur en situation de sevrage, la prise de produit devenant la solution la plus simple pour rétablir un équilibre. Ces monoamines ne sont cependant pas que les substrats biologiques de l’humeur, l’activité de leurs neurones dépend aussi de l’environnement et d’éléments inconscients qui rassemblent et représentent l’histoire de l’individu.
Les études sur l'efficacité de la psychothérapie ou comment la science répond à une question intime
Authors: Nadeau Louise
Published: June 2012

Résumé L’article s’intéresse aux travaux sur l’efficacité des traitements pour les problèmes de santé mentale. Ces études évaluatives se sont inscrites dans un climat de controverse en raison de théories et modèles contradictoires pour expliquer la personnalité et les troubles mentaux. La thérapie est efficace et aucune technique qui a fait l’objet d’une évaluation systématique n’est supérieure à une autre. Ces résultats prennent en compte les caractéristiques des clients à leur arrivée en traitement ainsi que l’expertise du clinicien et sa capacité à établir une alliance thérapeutique avec son client, quelles que soient sa technique et son approche théorique. De plus, les préjugés du clinicien affectent également son interaction avec le patient. Lorsque l’alliance thérapeutique et la qualité de la relation avec les clients restent au premier plan, le dialogue avec les soignants de différentes obédiences théoriques reste ouvert et fructueux.
Small business participation procurement policy: Subcontracting vs Allotment
Authors: Maréchal François , Morand Pierre-Henri
Published: June 2012

Résumé L’accès des PME à la commande publique peut s’effectuer par voie de sous-traitance ou par un allotissement des marchés. Cet article propose une comparaison de ces deux procédures dans le cadre d’un marché public attribué par un appel d’offres au premier prix sous plis cachetés. Nous analysons deux objectifs à première vue contradictoires qu’un acheteur public peut poursuivre : la minimisation du coût total espéré du marché et la maximisation des profits des PME. Nous déterminons les conditions sur les fonctions de coûts des firmes selon lesquelles la procédure d’allotissement des marchés permet de satisfaire simultanément les deux objectifs de l’acheteur public. Classification JEL : D44; L51.
Obligaciones de justicia: ¿open borders o justicia Distributiva?
Authors: Loewe Daniel
Published: June 2012

En este artículo se critican aquellas posiciones que defienden la discrecionalidad de los Estados en relación al acceso de inmigrantes en el territorio de su soberanía y se investiga si desde la perspectiva de la justicia global se desprende un derecho a la movilidad libre y/o obligaciones de justicia distributiva global. Se argumenta que si lo que está en la base de la justicia global es exclusivamente la preocupación por la desigualdad de oportunidades y la pobreza, entonces existen buenas razones a favor de la justicia distributiva global. Sin embargo, aun en este caso deben reconocerse restricciones importantes a la discrecionalidad estatal en temas de inmigración.
Racismo, xenofobia, antisemitismo en el horizonte de los flujos migratorios. Enfoques teóricos y teoría crítica
Authors: Zamora José Antonio
Published: June 2012

Este artículo analiza primero las diferentes interpretaciones del racismo y la xenofobia y sus presupuestos teóricos. Después muestra tanto sus aportaciones como sus insuficiencias, y las pone en relación con los presupuestos teóricos en las que se basan. Finalmente trata de ver en qué medida la teoría del antisemitismo de la Teoría Crítica puede ser actualizada en este contexto de manera enriquecedora.
Metáfora y terrorismo étnico
Authors: De Bustos Eduardo
Published: June 2012

El discurso terrorista ha sido analizado críticamente con los instrumentos tradicionales proporcionados por el análisis del discurso, la teoría de la argumentación y, en general, la retórica. Este ensayo propone en cambio un análisis crítico del discurso terrorista étnico o nacionalista que hace uso de la teoría contemporánea de la metáfora para desvelar los marcos cognitivos que confieren sentido tanto al lenguaje terrorista de la organización ETA como al discurso nacionalista e independentista vasco en general. Este enfoque permite trascender las limitaciones de los instrumentos retóricos clásicos, centrados en el análisis léxico o argumentativo, para proporcionar una explicación de las configuraciones mentales propias de esta clase de discurso terrorista.
Liberalismo político y reciprocidad: Justificación epistémica de creencias versus justificación moral de acciones
Authors: Garreta Leclercq Mariano
Published: June 2012

Mi meta en este trabajo es proponer un nuevo tipo de argumento en defensa del ideal deliberativo de reciprocidad de justificación —que fue inicialmente introducido por el liberalismo político de John Rawls—. Dicho argumento aspira a demostrar que, aun cuando aceptemos la hipótesis de que un grupo de ciudadanos dispone de una justificación pública apropiada para creer que determinada doctrina comprehensiva es verdadera o correcta, existen razones morales fundamentales para rechazar la pretensión de que el estado pueda estar justificado para actuar sobre la base de esas creencias cuando las esencias constitucionales o cuestiones de justicia básica se encuentran en juego.
Sobre Herederos y pretendientes. Un diálogo con Francisco Vázquez
Authors: Moreno Pestaña José Luis
Published: June 2012

Este texto reconstruye el espacio intelectual en la filosofía durante los años 1940-1950. Distingue tres posiciones, las cuales se irán transformando durante los años 1960 y 1970. El texto define cada posición según sus potencialidades y límites para sobrevivir en el campo de la Filosofía. En diálogo con el libro de Francisco Vázquez intenta comprender qué permaneció y qué cambió en la filosofía española.