bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Constraints and suggestions for modern variety potato production technology
Authors: Uddin ABM Sharif , Rahman M Mostafizur , Kamaly M Hasanul Kabir , Alam M Bashirul , Sheikh M Mohiuddin
Published: June 2015

A study was carried out to determine the production constraints of modern varieties of potatoes and also find out the probable suggestions to overcome the constraints as verified the views between the farmers and extension officials. Data were collected from 232 farmers sampled randomly from 1547 potato growers and 51 extension officials from 153 population available from the study area of three upazila namely; Durgapur, Mohanpur and Bagmara under Rajshahi district of northwest area of Bangladesh. The study area was selected through multistage sampling procedure with continuous field observation and consultations with teachers, extension personnel, experts and contact farmers along with literatures reviewed. Thus, twenty important constraints regarding potato production were identified and possible suggestions for overcoming the constraints were suggested by using the same procedure. The importance of the constraints and the suggestions were measured by using Important Constraints Score Index (IPSI) and Important Suggestion Index (ISSI). Out of 20 constraints and suggestions views of farmers and officials differed significantly for 15 items and 13 items.Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 40(1): 95-108, March 2015
Molecular divergence of secondary endosymbiont, Cardinium in Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) and associates
Authors: Jahan SMH , Lee KY , Howlader MIA , Bashar HMK , Hasan GN
Published: June 2015

Whitefly, Bemisia tabaci (Hemiptera : Aleyrodidae) harbors numerous secondary endosymbionts, which are transmitted from mother to offspring by both horizontally and vertically, that have crucial role on host selection, biology, and evolution. Bacteria, Cardinium was identified in B. tabaci as well as in other whitefly population from many different countries by comparing 16S rDNA sequences. Cardinium were detected in all tested indigenous B. tabaci populations of Bangladesh, Myanmar, Nepal, and the Philippines as well as Q1 biotype of Korea. It was absent in B biotype of Korea and Q biotype of China. Cardinium was also detected in three out of five tested Aleurodicus dispersus population as well as in five out of seven Trialeurodes vaporariorum, whereas they were not detected in Tetraleurodes acaciae populatuion. In adition, Cardinium was detected in parasitoid Encarsia formosa attacking B. tabaci. Among the 19 whitefly populations from different countries, present studies identified four phylogenetic groups of Cardinium, thereby demonstrating the high diversity of this genus. Cardinium phylogeny suggests a correlation of geographical range with ecological variation at the species level.Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 40(1): 121-135, March 2015
The Neo-Victorian Doctor and Resurrected Gothic Masculinities
Authors: Kohlke Marie-Luise
Published: June 2015

Both neo-Victorian fiction and popular discourse repeatedly reprise the nineteenth-century Gothic doctor figure to represent a crisis of post-Enlightenment masculinity, as well as problematising the past's continuing influence over our own time. From parodic to sinister re-imaginings of transgressive medical men, the trope constitutes a significant schema through which the nineteenth century is filtered, formatted, and reactivated in and for the present. This essay attempts both an overview of the prevalence of this neo-Victorian trope and an exploration of its deployment in a series of literary case studies of Gothicised masculinities including Faye L. Booth's Trades of the Flesh (2009), Barbara Chase-Riboud's Hottentot Venus (2003), Sheri Holman's The Dress Lodger (1999), Matthew Kneale's English Passengers (2000), and Barbara Vine's The Blood Doctor (2002).
MAKHA—A New Hybrid Swarm Intelligence Global Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Khalil Ahmed , Fateen Seif-Eddeen , Bonilla-Petriciolet Adrián
Published: June 2015

The search for efficient and reliable bio-inspired optimization methods continues to be an active topic of research due to the wide application of the developed methods. In this study, we developed a reliable and efficient optimization method via the hybridization of two bio-inspired swarm intelligence optimization algorithms, namely, the Monkey Algorithm (MA) and the Krill Herd Algorithm (KHA). The hybridization made use of the efficient steps in each of the two original algorithms and provided a better balance between the exploration/diversification steps and the exploitation/intensification steps. The new hybrid algorithm, MAKHA, was rigorously tested with 27 benchmark problems and its results were compared with the results of the two original algorithms. MAKHA proved to be considerably more reliable and more efficient in tested problems.
Doxycycline and Tigecycline: Two Friendly Drugs with a Low Association with Clostridium Difficile Infection
Authors: Hung Yuan-Pin , Lee Jen-Chieh , Lin Hsiao-Ju , Liu Hsiao-Chieh , Wu Yi-Hui , Tsai Pei-Jane , Ko Wen-Chien
Published: June 2015

Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) is known to be associated with prior exposure to many classes of antibiotics. Standard therapy for CDI (i.e., metronidazole and vancomycin) is associated with high recurrence rates. Although tetracycline derivatives such as tetracycline, doxycycline or tigecycline are not the standard therapeutic choices for CDI, they may serve as an alternative or a component of combination therapy. Previous tetracycline or doxycycline usage had been shown to have less association with CDI development. Tigecycline, a broad-spectrum glycylcycline with potency against many gram-positive or gram-negative pathogens, had been successfully used to treat severe or refractory CDI. The in vitro susceptibility of C. difficile clinical isolates to tigecycline in many studies showed low minimal inhibitory concentrations. Tigecycline can suppress in vitro toxin production in both historical and hypervirulent C. difficile strains and reduce spore production in a dose-dependent manner. Tetracycline compounds such as doxycycline, minocycline, and tigecycline possess anti-inflammatory properties that are independent of their antibiotic activity and may contribute to their therapeutic effect for CDI. Although clinical data are limited, doxycycline is less likely to induce CDI, and tigecycline can be considered one of the therapeutic choices for severe or refractory CDI.
Characteristics and Seasonal Variations of Carbonaceous Species in PM2.5 in Taiyuan, China
Authors: He Qiusheng , Guo Wendi , Zhang Guixiang , Yan Yulong , Chen Laiguo
Published: June 2015

Seasonal characteristics of PM2.5, organic carbon (OC) and elemental carbon (EC) were studied in Taiyuan from 2009 to 2010. PM2.5 samples were collected by pre-baked quartz filters with high-volume air sampler, and then OC and EC were analyzed by thermal/optical reflectance method. The annual average concentrations of PM2.5, OC and EC were 220.2, 37.4 and 19.6 µg/m3 respectively, which were higher than those in most regions in China. Total carbonaceous aerosol (TCA) accounted for more than one third of the total PM2.5 mass. The levels of PM2.5, OC and EC were the highest in winter, followed by spring, fall and summer. OC and EC were well correlated in summer compared with other seasons, indicating the presence of other additional sources such as biomass burning in fall, coal combustion for heating in winter and dust in spring. Higher OC/EC ratios in winter might be primarily attributed to the significant increase of direct emission of OC as a result of coal and biomass combustion, and also cooling effect of carbonaceous aerosols due to low temperature and stagnated atmospheric condition. These results showed that the pollution of carbonaceous particles in Taiyuan was serious, and might be an inducing factor of dust haze, especially in winter.
Preservation of Historical Stone Surfaces by TiO2 Nanocoatings
Authors: Goffredo Giovanni , Munafò Placido
Published: June 2015

We proposed the application of titanium dioxide (TiO2) for the preservation of historical (architectural, monumental, archaeological) stone surfaces. Solar light can activate the photocatalytic effect of TiO2 nanoparticles: heterogeneous photocatalysis is the key factor for the development of self-cleaning, depolluting and biocidal treatments able to photochemically degrade external damaging materials and prolong the durability of treated substrates, maintaining their original aspect and limiting ordinary cleaning activities. In this study, TiO2 nanoparticles dispersed in an aqueous colloidal suspension were applied directly on travertine, a light-colored limestone, by spray-coating in order to obtain a nanometric film on stone samples. To assess the feasibility of use of TiO2, we studied the characteristics of the nanocoating-stone system by monitoring the microscopic features of the coatings, the aesthetical changes induced to coated surfaces and the self-cleaning efficiency. We also monitored the self-cleaning ability over time during an accelerated ageing process to evaluate the durability of TiO2-based treatments. We confirmed both compatibility and effectiveness of TiO2 coating in the short term, anyway its efficiency decreased after artificial ageing. Further studies are necessary to better evaluate and eventually improve the stability of self-cleaning efficiency over prolonged time for outdoor stone surfaces.
Effect of Climate Change Projections on Forest Fire Behavior and Values-at-Risk in Southwestern Greece
Authors: Kalabokidis Kostas , Palaiologou Palaiologos , Gerasopoulos Evangelos , Giannakopoulos Christos , Kostopoulou Effie , Zerefos Christos
Published: June 2015

Climate change has the potential to influence many aspects of wildfire behavior and risk. During the last decade, Greece has experienced large-scale wildfire phenomena with unprecedented fire behavior and impacts. In this study, thousands of wildfire events were simulated with the Minimum Travel Time (MTT) fire growth algorithm (called Randig) and resulted in spatial data that describe conditional burn probabilities, potential fire spread and intensity in Messinia, Greece. Present (1961–1990) and future (2071–2100) climate projections were derived from simulations of the KNMI regional climate model RACMO2, under the SRES A1B emission scenario. Data regarding fuel moisture content, wind speed and direction were modified for the different projection time periods to be used as inputs in Randig. Results were used to assess the vulnerability changes for certain values-at-risk of the natural and human-made environment. Differences in wildfire risk were calculated and results revealed that larger wildfires that resist initial control are to be expected in the future, with higher conditional burn probabilities and intensities for extensive parts of the study area. The degree of change in the modeled Canadian Forest Fire Weather Index for the two time periods also revealed an increasing trend in frequencies of higher values for the future.
Clinical Potential of Hyperbaric Pressure-Treated Whey Protein
Authors: Piccolomini André , Kubow Stan , Lands Larry
Published: June 2015

Whey protein (WP) from cow’s milk is a rich source of essential and branched chain amino acids. Whey protein isolates (WPI) has been demonstrated to support muscle accretion, antioxidant activity, and immune modulation. However, whey is not readily digestible due to its tight conformational structure. Treatment of WPI with hyperbaric pressure results in protein unfolding. This enhances protein digestion, and results in an altered spectrum of released peptides, and greater release of essential and branched chain amino acids. Pressurized whey protein isolates (pWPI), through a series of cell culture, animal models and clinical studies, have been demonstrated to enhance muscle accretion, reduce inflammation, improve immunity, and decrease fatigue. It is also conceivable that pWPI would be more accessible to digestive enzymes, which would allow for a more rapid proteolysis of the proteins and an increased or altered release of small bioactive peptides. The altered profile of peptides released from WP digestion could thus play a role in the modulation of the immune response and tissue glutathione (GSH) concentrations. The research to date presents potentially interesting applications for the development of new functional foods based on hyperbaric treatment of WPI to produce products with more potent nutritional and nutraceutical properties.
Expression Profiling of Circulating MicroRNAs in Canine Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease
Authors: Li Qinghong , Freeman Lisa , Rush John , Laflamme Dorothy
Published: June 2015

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that have shown promise as noninvasive biomarkers in cardiac disease. This study was undertaken to investigate the miRNA expression profile in dogs with myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD). 277 miRNAs were quantified using RT-qPCR from six normal dogs (American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine Stage A), six dogs with MMVD mild to moderate cardiac enlargement (ACVIM Stage B1/B2) and six dogs with MMVD and congestive heart failure (ACVIM Stage C/D). Eleven miRNAs were differentially expressed (False Discovery Rate < 0.05). Dogs in Stage B1/B2 or C/D had four upregulated miRNAs, including three cfa-let-7/cfa-miR-98 family members, while seven others were downregulated, compared to Stage A. Expression of six of the 11 miRNAs also were significantly different between dogs in Stage C/D and those in Stage B1/B2. The expression changes were greater as disease severity increased. These miRNAs may be candidates for novel biomarkers and may provide insights into genetic regulatory pathways in canine MMVD.
Revealing New Structural Insights from Surfactant Micelles through DLS, Microrheology and Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Amin Samiul , Blake Steven , Kennel Rachel , Lewis E.
Published: June 2015

The correlation between molecular changes and microstructural evolution of rheological properties has been demonstrated for the first time in a mixed anionic/zwitterionic surfactant-based wormlike micellar system. Utilizing a novel combination of DLS-microrheology and Raman Spectroscopy, the effect of electrostatic screening on these properties of anionic (SLES) and zwitterionic (CapB) surfactant mixtures was studied by modulating the NaCl concentration. As Raman Spectroscopy delivers information about the molecular structure and DLS-microrheology characterizes viscoelastic properties, the combination of data delivered allows for a deeper understanding of the molecular changes underlying the viscoelastic ones. The high frequency viscoelastic response obtained through DLS-microrheology has shown the persistence of the Maxwell fluid response for low viscosity solutions at high NaCl concentrations. The intensity of the Raman band at 170 cm−1 exhibits very strong correlation with the viscosity variation. As this Raman band is assigned to hydrogen bonding, its variation with NaCl concentration additionally indicates differences in water structuring due to potential microstructural differences at low and high NaCl concentrations. The microstructural differences at low and high NaCl concentrations are further corroborated by persistence of a slow mode at the higher NaCl concentrations as seen through DLS measurements. The study illustrates the utility of the combined DLS, DLS-optical microrheology and Raman Spectroscopy in providing new molecular structural insights into the self-assembly process in complex fluids.
Special Issue: 15 Years of SU8 as MEMS Material
Authors: Bertsch Arnaud , Renaud Philippe
Published: June 2015

In 1997, the first paper using SU-8 as a material for microfabrication was published [1], demonstrating the interest of this negative photoresist for the near-UV structuration of thick layers and the manufacturing of high aspect-ratio components.[...]
Hepatic Steatosis as a Marker of Metabolic Dysfunction
Authors: Fabbrini Elisa , Magkos Faidon
Published: June 2015

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the liver manifestation of the complex metabolic derangements associated with obesity. NAFLD is characterized by excessive deposition of fat in the liver (steatosis) and develops when hepatic fatty acid availability from plasma and de novo synthesis exceeds hepatic fatty acid disposal by oxidation and triglyceride export. Hepatic steatosis is therefore the biochemical result of an imbalance between complex pathways of lipid metabolism, and is associated with an array of adverse changes in glucose, fatty acid, and lipoprotein metabolism across all tissues of the body. Intrahepatic triglyceride (IHTG) content is therefore a very good marker (and in some cases may be the cause) of the presence and the degree of multiple-organ metabolic dysfunction. These metabolic abnormalities are likely responsible for many cardiometabolic risk factors associated with NAFLD, such as insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and dyslipidemia. Understanding the factors involved in the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of NAFLD will lead to a better understanding of the mechanisms responsible for the metabolic complications of obesity, and hopefully to the discovery of novel effective treatments for their reversal.
A Novel Melt-Dispersion Technique for Simplistic Preparation of Chlorpromazine-Loaded Polycaprolactone Nanocapsules
Authors: Govender Thiresen , Choonara Yahya , Kumar Pradeep , Du Toit Lisa , Modi Girish , Naidoo Dinesh , Pillay Viness
Published: June 2015

The aim of this study was to design, synthesize and optimize chlorpromazine hydrochloride (CPZ)-loaded, poly-ε-caprolactone (PCL) based nanocapsules, intended for site specific delivery to the frontal lobe, using a novel melt-dispersion technique that is non-arduous, inexpensive and devoid of any hazardous organic solvents. Experimental trials using a central composite design were performed on 13 statistically derived formulations of various combinations of PCL (1000–3000 mg) and Polysorbate 80 (2%–5% v/v) on the physicochemical and physicomechanical properties and interactive effects on PCL nanocapsule formulation. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), Temperature modulated differential scanning calorimetry (TMDSC) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) revealed that there was no thermodegardation of the constituents utilized in the melt dispersion technique. Nanocapsule yields achieved were very high however entrapment of CPZ proved to be relatively low due to the highly hydrophilic nature of CPZ and the processing of the nanocapsules post synthesis. Nanocapsule sizes were in the nanotherapeutic range and varied from 132.7 ± 6.8 nm to 566.6 ± 5.5 nm. Zeta potential ranged from 15.1 ± 0.65 mV to 28.8 ± 0.84 mV revealing capsules that were of incipient to moderate stability. Transmission electron microscopy revealed nanocapsules that were spherical shape, well individualized with a moderate degree of flocculation. In vitro CPZ release was biphasic for all formulations with an initial burst release followed by pseudo-steady controlled release over 30 days. The cytotoxicity of the optimized nanocapsule system on a PC12 neuronal cell line proved to be minimal. Following incorporation of the optimized nanocapsules within a polymeric membrane, in vivo implantation of the device in a New Zealand Albino rabbit model proved the efficacy of the system in achieving prolonged more targeted CPZ levels to the brain. Extensive in vitro testing and optimization and preclinical evaluation supports the application for the use and feasibility of the CPZ-loaded, PCL based nanocapsules for the long-term management of certain psychotropic disorders where the benefits of nanotechnology can be exploited.
Dynamic Optimization in JModelica.org
Authors: Magnusson Fredrik , Åkesson Johan
Published: June 2015

We present the open-source software framework in JModelica.org for numerically solving large-scale dynamic optimization problems. The framework solves problems whose dynamic systems are described in Modelica, an open modeling language supported by several different tools. The framework implements a numerical method based on direct local collocation, of which the details are presented. The implementation uses the open-source third-party software package CasADi to construct the nonlinear program in order to efficiently obtain derivative information using algorithmic differentiation. The framework is interfaced with the numerical optimizers IPOPT and WORHP for finding local optima of the optimization problem after discretization. We provide an illustrative example based on the Van der Pol oscillator of how the framework is used. We also present results for an industrially relevant problem regarding optimal control of a distillation column.
Assessing Metrics for Estimating Fire Induced Change in the Forest Understorey Structure Using Terrestrial Laser Scanning
Authors: Gupta Vaibhav , Reinke Karin , Jones Simon , Wallace Luke , Holden Lucas
Published: June 2015

Quantifying post-fire effects in a forested landscape is important to ascertain burn severity, ecosystem recovery and post-fire hazard assessments and mitigation planning. Reporting of such post-fire effects assumes significance in fire-prone countries such as USA, Australia, Spain, Greece and Portugal where prescribed burns are routinely carried out. This paper describes the use of Terrestrial Laser Scanning (TLS) to estimate and map change in the forest understorey following a prescribed burn. Eighteen descriptive metrics are derived from bi-temporal TLS which are used to analyse and visualise change in a control and fire-altered plot. Metrics derived are Above Ground Height-based (AGH) percentiles and heights, point count and mean intensity. Metrics such as AGH50change, mean AGHchange and point countchange are sensitive enough to detect subtle fire-induced change (28%–52%) whilst observing little or no change in the control plot (0–4%). A qualitative examination with field measurements of the spatial distribution of burnt areas and percentage area burnt also show similar patterns. This study is novel in that it examines the behaviour of TLS metrics for estimating and mapping fire induced change in understorey structure in a single-scan mode with a minimal fixed reference system. Further, the TLS-derived metrics can be used to produce high resolution maps of change in the understorey landscape.
Using Landsat Vegetation Indices to Estimate Impervious Surface Fractions for European Cities
Authors: Kaspersen Per , Fensholt Rasmus , Drews Martin
Published: June 2015

Impervious surfaces (IS) are a key indicator of environmental quality, and mapping of urban IS is important for a wide range of applications including hydrological modelling, water management, urban and environmental planning and urban climate studies. This paper addresses the accuracy and applicability of vegetation indices (VI), from Landsat imagery, to estimate IS fractions for European cities. The accuracy of three different measures of vegetation cover is examined for eight urban areas at different locations in Europe. The Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and Soil Adjusted Vegetation Index (SAVI) are converted to IS fractions using a regression modelling approach. Also, NDVI is used to estimate fractional vegetation cover (FR), and consequently IS fractions. All three indices provide fairly accurate estimates (MAEs ≈ 10%, MBE’s < 2%) of sub-pixel imperviousness, and are found to be applicable for cities with dissimilar climatic and vegetative conditions. The VI/IS relationship across cities is examined by quantifying the MAEs and MBEs between all combinations of models and urban areas. Also, regional regression models are developed by compiling data from multiple cities to examine the potential for developing and applying a single regression model to estimate IS fractions for numerous urban areas without reducing the accuracy considerably. Our findings indicate that the models can be applied broadly for multiple urban areas, and that the accuracy is reduced only marginally by applying the regional models. SAVI is identified as a superior index for the development of regional quantification models. The findings of this study highlight that IS fractions, and spatiotemporal changes herein, can be mapped by use of simple regression models based on VIs from remote sensors, and that the method presented enables simple, accurate and resource efficient quantification of IS.
Simultaneous Voltammetric/Amperometric Determination of Sulfide and Nitrite in Water at BDD Electrode
Authors: Baciu Anamaria , Ardelean Magdalena , Pop Aniela , Pode Rodica , Manea Florica
Published: June 2015

This work reported new voltammetric/amperometric-based protocols using a commercial boron-doped diamond (BDD) electrode for simple and fast simultaneous detection of sulfide and nitrite from water. Square-wave voltammetry operated under the optimized working conditions of 0.01 V step potential, 0.5 V modulation amplitude and 10 Hz frequency allowed achieving the best electroanalytical parameters for the simultaneous detection of nitrite and sulfide. For practical in-field detection applications, the multiple-pulsed amperometry technique was operated under optimized conditions, i.e., −0.5 V/SCE for a duration of 0.3 s as conditioning step, +0.85 V/SCE for a duration of 3 s that assure the sulfide oxidation and +1.25 V/SCE for a duration of 0.3 s, where the nitrite oxidation occurred, which allowed the simultaneously detection of sulfide and nitrite without interference between them. Good accuracy was found for this protocol in comparison with standardized methods for each anion. Also, no interference effect was found for the cation and anion species, which are common in the water matrix.
Citizen Sensors for SHM: Towards a Crowdsourcing Platform
Authors: Ozer Ekin , Feng Maria , Feng Dongming
Published: June 2015

This paper presents an innovative structural health monitoring (SHM) platform in terms of how it integrates smartphone sensors, the web, and crowdsourcing. The ubiquity of smartphones has provided an opportunity to create low-cost sensor networks for SHM. Crowdsourcing has given rise to citizen initiatives becoming a vast source of inexpensive, valuable but heterogeneous data. Previously, the authors have investigated the reliability of smartphone accelerometers for vibration-based SHM. This paper takes a step further to integrate mobile sensing and web-based computing for a prospective crowdsourcing-based SHM platform. An iOS application was developed to enable citizens to measure structural vibration and upload the data to a server with smartphones. A web-based platform was developed to collect and process the data automatically and store the processed data, such as modal properties of the structure, for long-term SHM purposes. Finally, the integrated mobile and web-based platforms were tested to collect the low-amplitude ambient vibration data of a bridge structure. Possible sources of uncertainties related to citizens were investigated, including the phone location, coupling conditions, and sampling duration. The field test results showed that the vibration data acquired by smartphones operated by citizens without expertise are useful for identifying structural modal properties with high accuracy. This platform can be further developed into an automated, smart, sustainable, cost-free system for long-term monitoring of structural integrity of spatially distributed urban infrastructure. Citizen Sensors for SHM will be a novel participatory sensing platform in the way that it offers hybrid solutions to transitional crowdsourcing parameters.
Fingerprint Liveness Detection in the Presence of Capable Intruders
Authors: Sequeira Ana , Cardoso Jaime
Published: June 2015

Fingerprint liveness detection methods have been developed as an attempt to overcome the vulnerability of fingerprint biometric systems to spoofing attacks. Traditional approaches have been quite optimistic about the behavior of the intruder assuming the use of a previously known material. This assumption has led to the use of supervised techniques to estimate the performance of the methods, using both live and spoof samples to train the predictive models and evaluate each type of fake samples individually. Additionally, the background was often included in the sample representation, completely distorting the decision process. Therefore, we propose that an automatic segmentation step should be performed to isolate the fingerprint from the background and truly decide on the liveness of the fingerprint and not on the characteristics of the background. Also, we argue that one cannot aim to model the fake samples completely since the material used by the intruder is unknown beforehand. We approach the design by modeling the distribution of the live samples and predicting as fake the samples very unlikely according to that model. Our experiments compare the performance of the supervised approaches with the semi-supervised ones that rely solely on the live samples. The results obtained differ from the ones obtained by the more standard approaches which reinforces our conviction that the results in the literature are misleadingly estimating the true vulnerability of the biometric system.
Gaze-Assisted User Intention Prediction for Initial Delay Reduction in Web Video Access
Authors: Lee Seungyup , Yoo Juwan , Han Gunhee
Published: June 2015

Despite the remarkable improvement of hardware and network technology, the inevitable delay from a user’s command action to a system response is still one of the most crucial influence factors in user experiences (UXs). Especially for a web video service, an initial delay from click action to video start has significant influences on the quality of experience (QoE). The initial delay of a system can be minimized by preparing execution based on predicted user’s intention prior to actual command action. The introduction of the sequential and concurrent flow of resources in human cognition and behavior can significantly improve the accuracy and preparation time for intention prediction. This paper introduces a threaded interaction model and applies it to user intention prediction for initial delay reduction in web video access. The proposed technique consists of a candidate selection module, a decision module and a preparation module that prefetches and preloads the web video data before a user’s click action. The candidate selection module selects candidates in the web page using proximity calculation around a cursor. Meanwhile, the decision module computes the possibility of actual click action based on the cursor-gaze relationship. The preparation activates the prefetching for the selected candidates when the click possibility exceeds a certain limit in the decision module. Experimental results show a 92% hit-ratio, 0.5-s initial delay on average and 1.5-s worst initial delay, which is much less than a user’s tolerable limit in web video access, demonstrating significant improvement of accuracy and advance time in intention prediction by introducing the proposed threaded interaction model.
Charity Starts … at Work? Conceptual Foundations for Research with Businesses that Donate to Food Redistribution Organisations
Authors: Vlaholias Elisha , Thompson Kirrilly , Every Danielle , Dawson Drew
Published: June 2015

As global concern about sustainability, food waste, and poverty increases, there is an urgent need to understand what motivates businesses to adopt pro-social and pro-environmental behaviours. This paper suggests that food redistribution organisations hold both pro-social and pro-environmental aims, due to their concern with reducing food surplus and food insecurity. To achieve this, they must motivate food businesses to donate their surplus food. However, little is known about the values, attitudes, and motives of food industry donors. The purpose of this paper is to provide a theoretical and conceptual overview to set out principles from which empirical data on food redistribution will be analysed or critiqued. Specifically, it explores pro-social and pro-environmental literature, as these fields have examined the motivations behind donations and reducing environmental impact. This review highlights that charitable giving of food is different to other inorganic material, such as money. Thus, future research is needed to capture the unique temporal, emotional, social, and environmental factors that motivate food donations. This information may contribute to the development of strategies that target and motivate people from the food industry to become food donors. Alternatively, it may reveal concerns about food donations, and highlight the need for other approaches to food waste and food insecurity.
Removal of Metaldehyde from Water Using a Novel Coupled Adsorption and Electrochemical Destruction Technique
Authors: Nabeerasool Mohammed , Campen Andrew , Polya David , Brown Nigel , Van Dongen Bart
Published: June 2015

Metaldehyde is a selective pesticide applied to control snails and slugs and which, particularly when application rates are high and during periods of high rainfall, may find its way into water courses, some of which may be used as drinking water supplies. Existing water treatment processes have been inadequate for reducing metaldehyde residual levels (up to 8 µg/L) found in some waters to below the EU/UK statutory limit of 0.1 µg/L. Here a novel coupled adsorption and electrochemical regeneration technology is tested to determine if it is capable of effectively removing metaldehyde. We demonstrate that metaldehyde is not only adsorbed on the adsorbent used but is also destroyed during the regeneration stage, resulting in residual metaldehyde concentrations below the EU/UK regulatory limit for drinking water. No known harmful breakdown by-products were observed to be generated by the process. The effectiveness of the process seems unaffected by organic-rich peat water, indicating the potential for the treatment of drinking water much of which in the UK is derived from upland peaty catchments. Furthermore, successive spiking experiments showed that this technology has the potential to be applied as a continuous process without the generation of substantial waste products.
Water Use Efficiency in Saline Soils under Cotton Cultivation in the Tarim River Basin
Authors: Zhao Xiaoning , Othmanli Hussein , Schiller Theresa , Zhao Chengyi , Sheng Yu , Zia Shamaila , Müller Joachim , Stahr Karl
Published: June 2015

The Tarim River Basin, the largest area of Chinese cotton production, is receiving increased attention because of serious environmental problems. At two experimental stations (Korla and Aksu), we studied the influence of salinity on cotton yield. Soil chemical and physical properties, soil water content, soil total suction and matric suction, cotton yield and water use efficiency under plastic mulched drip irrigation in different saline soils was measured during cotton growth season. The salinity (mS·cm−1) were 17–25 (low) at Aksu and Korla, 29–50 (middle) at Aksu and 52–62 (high) at Aksu for ECe (Electrical conductivity measured in saturation-paste extract of soil) over the 100 cm soil profile. The soil water characteristic curves in different saline soils showed that the soil water content (15%–23%) at top 40 cm soil, lower total suction power (below 3500 kPa) and lower matric suction (below 30 kPa) in low saline soil at Korla had the highest water use efficiency (10 kg·ha−1·mm−1) and highest irrigation water use efficiency (12 kg·ha−1·mm−1) and highest yield (6.64 t·ha−1). Higher water content below 30 cm in high saline soil increased the salinity risk and led to lower yield (2.39 t·ha−1). Compared to low saline soils at Aksu, the low saline soil at Korla saved 110 mm irrigation and 103 mm total water to reach 1 t·ha−1 yield and increased water use efficiency by 5 kg·ha−1·mm−1 and 7 kg·ha−1·mm−1 for water use efficiency (WUE) and irrigation water use efficiency (IWUE) respectively.
L'utilisation des modèles numériques de terrain dans les Systèmes d'Information Géographique (Using digital elevation model in GIS)
Authors: Maître Henri
Published: June 2015

Abstract. - The aims of our research are to produce GIS for Global analysis at different scales, and in 2-D or 3-D. We consider that such a GIS will be a scientific research tool for land-use and environmental studies, using the capabilities offered by multi-satellite data and geographic/cartographic data bases.
L'intégration des bases de données 2-D et 3-D dans les SIG (Integration of 2-D and 3-D data bases in a GIS)
Authors: Wu Y. , Bardinet Claude , Maître Henri
Published: June 2015

Résumé. - Une méthodologie de mise en œuvre d'un Système d'Information Géographique (SIG) a été proposée pour analyser les données multisatellitaires. Pour construire un tel système, nous avons besoin non seulement de rassembler les différents types de données géographiques dans une base de données, mais aussi de les convertir dans une forme convenant pour l'interprétation thématique. On utilise les méthodes de la programmation dynamique, et l'on corrige l'effet de bruit dans les images radar avant de les superposer aux images SPOT rectifiées. L'accent est mis sur le recalage des images multisources et multi-échelles, la reconstruction de Modèles Numériques de Terrain (MNT) à partir de photos aériennes numérisées, et l'intégration des bases de données 2-D-3-D dans les SIG.
Stratégies de combat contre la dégradation de l'environnement dans les écosystèmes secs ; les réponses des Nations-Unies, de la C.E.I. ; de la Chine et du Sahel (Strategies to combat environmental degradation in dry ecosystems : answers of the United Nations, the Sahelians countries of Africa, the C.E.I., China and the Sahel)
Authors: Mainguet Monique
Published: June 2015

Abstract. - Created by Aubreville in 1949 to describe the deterioration of the vegetation cover and the soil in the dry sub-humid ecosystem (Saharo-Sudanian), the word desertification was used for the first time on a worldwide scale by UNCOD (United Nations Conference on Desertification, Nairobi, 1977) and then defined as "The diminution or destruction of the biological potential of soils until the ultimate step of desert-like conditions".

The conference "Environment and Development" programmed in Rio de Janeiro in August 1992 has asked UNEP to reassess the content of the word desertification. In 1990 the following definition was proposed : "Land degradation in arid, semi-arid and dry sub-humid areas resulting from adverse human impact. LAND : in this concept includes soil and local resources, land surface and vegetation or crops. DEGRADATION : implies reduction of resource potential by one or a combination of processes acting on the land. "

Desertification can be defined as "Irreversible degradation of the environment in the dry ecosystems : arid, semi-arid, dry sub-humid". Resulting from the combination of human overuse, in vulnerable ecosystems and adverse climatic conditions, desertification became a complex problem simultaneously socio-economical and environmental.

How Africa in its Sahelian and Sahelo-Sudanian ecosystems, the C.E. I. in the Aral Sea basin and China in its dry ecosystems have adopted different strategies for the desertification control will be analysed.
La superposition d'images de télédétection d'origine spatiale, aéroportée ou terrestre (Data fusion of remotely sensed data)
Authors: Galibert G.
Published: June 2015

Abstract. - Data fusions of remote sensing imageries from analogical or digital documents allow to compare very different ground objects. When the data volumes do not exceed a few number of Megabits, simple work-stations (e.g. Sun, Intergraph, Control Data, etc.) are sufficient in order to process a routine scene, 50 km by 50 km for example. The data volumes issued from the SAR satellites (e.g. SEASAT, ERS-1, ALMAZ, etc.) are more important. The use of big computers is absolutely necessary when the users are not satisfied with the processing of small samples of image. We report the recent experiment of a specialized imaging computer Alliant 2800 FXP (400 Megaflops) in the CERFACS (Meteopole, Toulouse).
Applications didacticielles de techniques de représentations graphiques de l'espace (Training programs for global digital imagery)
Authors: Pouyllau Michel
Published: June 2015

Résumé. - Les SIG implantés sur PC et MAC peuvent être utilisés pour l'enseignement et pour la coopération technologique. Le CEGET a une grande expérience de la coopération avec les pays tropicaux étrangers, et a testé ce type d'utilisation des SIG en coopération avec le Venezuela pour une étude de la dynamique des systèmes ruraux.
Knee Arthroscopic Posteromedial Portal Placement Using the Medial Epicondyle
Authors: Lanham Nathan S. , Tompkins Marc , Milewiski Matthew , Hart Joe , Miller Mark
Published: June 2015

Posteromedial portals in the knee are used for numerous procedures, including posterior cruciate ligament reconstructions, meniscal transplantation, repair of posterior meniscal tears, removal of loose bodies, and synovectomy. Iatrogenic injury to the sartorial branch of the saphenous nerve is a known complication of posteromedial portal arthroscopy; thus, a reproducible technique for creating posteromedial portals in the knee is critical. The medial epicondyle is an easily identifiable bony landmark and palpable even in patients with a higher body mass index. Use of the medial epicondyle as a landmark for posteromedial portal placement is a reliable technique. This article describes cadaveric neurovascular relationships to the posteromedial portal using the described technique. [
Orthopedics.
2015; 38(6):366–368.]
Current Treatment Strategies for Patella Fractures
Authors: Schuett Dustin J. , Hake Mark E. , Mauffrey Cyril , Hammerberg E. Mark , Stahel Philip F. , Hak David J.
Published: June 2015

Patella fractures can be caused by excessive tension through the extensor mechanism or a direct impact. Non-displaced fractures with an intact extensor mechanism can be treated nonoperatively. Surgical treatment is recommended for fractures that either disrupt the extensor mechanism or have greater than 2 to 3 mm of step-off and greater than 1 to 4 mm of displacement. Tension band fixation is the most commonly employed surgical technique; however, this can be technically demanding, especially in multifragmentary fractures. Symptomatic hardware is the most common complication following operative treatment. Functional impairment remains common after treatment of patella fractures. The purpose of this article is to review current treatment strategies to help optimize the management of patients with such patella fractures. [
Orthopedics.
2015; 38(6):377–384.]
Ollier Disease: Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Management
Authors: Kumar Avinash , Jain Vijay Kumar , Bharadwaj Minakshi , Arya Rajendra Kumar
Published: June 2015

Ollier disease (Spranger type I) is a rare bone disease that is characterized by multiple enchondromatosis with a typical asymmetrical distribution and confined to the appendicular skeleton. The pathogenesis of enchondromatosis is not clearly understood. Recently, heterozygous mutations of PTHR1, IDH1 (most common), and/or IDH2 genes have been suggested by various authors as genetic aberrations. Genomic copy number alterations and mutations controlling many vital pathways are responsible for the pathogenesis of Ollier disease. A comprehensive description of all genetic events in Ollier disease is presented in this article. Clinically, Ollier disease has a wide variety of presentations. This article describes the plethora of clinical features, both common and rare, associated with Ollier disease. Multiple enchondromas are most commonly seen in phalanges and metacarpals. Radiologically, Ollier disease presents with asymmetrical osteolytic lesions with well-defined, sclerotic margins. In this article, various radiological features of Ollier disease, including radiographs, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging, are also discussed. Gross pathology, cytological, and histological features of both Ollier disease and its malignant transformation are outlined. Although treatment is conservative in most cases, different possible treatment options for difficult cases are discussed. In the literature, there is a paucity of data about the disease, including diagnosis, management, prognostication, and rehabilitation, necessitating a comprehensive review to further define all of the possible domains related to this disease. [
Orthopedics.
2015; 38(6):e497–e506.]
Treatment of Atypical Central Cord Injury Without Fracture or Dislocation
Authors: Wang Yi , Xue Yuan , Zong Yaqi , Ding Huairong , Li Zhiyang , He Dong , Tang Yanming , Zhao Ying , Wang Pei
Published: June 2015

In general, spinal cord injury without radiological abnormality (SCIWORA) with spondylosis is considered to be a central cord injury. This article describes the clinical features and surgical outcomes of atypical central cord injury in patients with spondylotic SCIWORA (ACCISS). Fifty-two patients were enrolled in the study from January 2006 to December 2011. Diagnoses were made from imaging (computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging) and clinical findings. The neurologic status of patients was assessed using the American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) score and Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score. Patients were divided into 3 groups with regard to the timing of surgery after injury: those undergoing early surgery (less than 24 hours after injury), those undergoing late surgery (more than 24 hours after injury but during initial admission to the hospital and within 3 weeks from injury), and those undergoing delayed surgery (during second admission to the hospital, within 3 months but later than 3 weeks from injury). Seventeen patients underwent early surgery, 22 underwent late surgery, and 13 underwent delayed surgery. Mean follow-up was 15 months (range, 5–33 months). Patients in all groups showed very good recovery after surgical treatment, with the recovery rate of ASIA and JOA scores being 68.6% and 60.2%, respectively. No significant difference in recovery rate was found between the groups with regard to the timing of surgery. This retrospective study supports the notion that surgical decompression is effective in the treatment of patients with ACCISS. Timing of surgery (less than 3 months) was not significantly associated with neurologic recovery. [
Orthopedics.
2015; 38(6):e524–e528.]
Delayed Avascular Necrosis and Fragmentation of the Lunate Following Perilunate Dislocation
Authors: Wilke Benjamin , Kakar Sanjeev
Published: June 2015

Perilunate and perilunate fracture dislocations are high-energy injuries with the wrist loaded in extension, ulnar deviation, and intercarpal supination. The force vector travels from a radial to a ulnar direction and can result in complex carpal instability. The diagnosis is often delayed, which can result in suboptimal outcomes. Nonoperative management can produce inferior results, with patients experiencing pain and weakness. Therefore, early treatment with open reduction and internal fixation is recommended to assess the osteochondral and ligamentous disruption and to achieve anatomic reduction of the carpus. Despite this, these patients can develop radiographic degenerative joint disease, which can be seen in up to 90% of cases. This can be due to difficulty in holding and maintaining carpal reduction. Increased radiodensity of the lunate following these injuries has been observed but is believed to be a transient phenomenon without risk of progression to avascular necrosis. This may be due to the blood supply of the lunate, which has varied patterns of intraosseous and extraosseous vascularity. The authors report a patient who developed avascular necrosis and delayed lunate fragmentation following a May-field Type IV perilunate dislocation. This finding highlights the importance of long-term follow-up with these patients. [
Orthopedics.
2015; 38(6):e539–e542.]