bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enzymatic Synthesis of Magnetic Nanoparticles
Authors: Kolhatkar Arati , Dannongoda Chamath , Kourentzi Katerina , Jamison Andrew , Nekrashevich Ivan , Kar Archana , Cacao Eliedonna , Strych Ulrich , Rusakova Irene , Martirosyan Karen , Litvinov Dmitri , Lee T. , Willson Richard
Published: April 2015

We report the first in vitro enzymatic synthesis of paramagnetic and antiferromagnetic nanoparticles toward magnetic ELISA reporting. With our procedure, alkaline phosphatase catalyzes the dephosphorylation of l-ascorbic-2-phosphate, which then serves as a reducing agent for salts of iron, gadolinium, and holmium, forming magnetic precipitates of Fe45±14Gd5±2O50±15 and Fe42±4Ho6±4O52±5. The nanoparticles were found to be paramagnetic at 300 K and antiferromagnetic under 25 K. Although weakly magnetic at 300 K, the room-temperature magnetization of the nanoparticles found here is considerably greater than that of analogous chemically-synthesized LnxFeyOz (Ln = Gd, Ho) samples reported previously. At 5 K, the nanoparticles showed a significantly higher saturation magnetization of 45 and 30 emu/g for Fe45±14Gd5±2O50±15 and Fe42±4Ho6±4O52±5, respectively. Our approach of enzymatically synthesizing magnetic labels reduces the cost and avoids diffusional mass-transfer limitations associated with pre-synthesized magnetic reporter particles, while retaining the advantages of magnetic sensing.
A New and Practical Synthetic Method for the Synthesis of 6-O-Methyl-scutellarein: One Metabolite of Scutellarin in Vivo
Authors: Lin Hang , Zhang Wei , Dong Ze-Xi , Gu Ting , Li Nian-Guang , Shi Zhi-Hao , Kai Jun , Qu Cheng , Shang Guan-Xiong , Tang Yu-Ping , Fang Fang , Li He-Min , Yang Jian-Ping , Duan Jin-Ao
Published: April 2015

Scutellarin (1) has been used for the treatment of angina pectoris, cerebral infarction and coronary heart disease with a large market share in China. Pharmacokinetic studies on scutellarin showed that scutellarin (1) is readily converted into its metabolites in vivo. In this paper, a new and practical synthetic method for the synthesis of 6-O-methyl-scutellarein (3) (one metabolite of scutellarin in vivo) is reported. The benzyl bromide was firstly used to selectively replace the acetyl group at C-7 in 7, and was then used to protect the hydroxy groups at C-4' in 10, 6-O-methyl-scutellarein (3) is obtained in high yield through these methods.
An Overview of Pest Species of Bactrocera Fruit Flies (Diptera: Tephritidae) and the Integration of Biopesticides with Other Biological Approaches for Their Management with a Focus on the Pacific Region
Authors: Vargas Roger , Piñero Jaime , Leblanc Luc
Published: April 2015

Fruit flies (Diptera: Tephritidae) are among the most economically important pest species in the world, attacking a wide range of fruits and fleshy vegetables throughout tropical and sub-tropical areas. These species are such devastating crop pests that major control and eradication programs have been developed in various parts of the world to combat them. The array of control methods includes insecticide sprays to foliage and soil, bait-sprays, male annihilation techniques, releases of sterilized flies and parasitoids, and cultural controls. During the twenty first century there has been a trend to move away from control with organophosphate insecticides (e.g., malathion, diazinon, and naled) and towards reduced risk insecticide treatments. In this article we present an overview of 73 pest species in the genus Bactrocera, examine recent developments of reduced risk technologies for their control and explore Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Programs that integrate multiple components to manage these pests in tropical and sub-tropical areas.
Perspectives on Genetic and Genomic Technologies in an Academic Medical Center: The Duke Experience
Authors: Katsanis Sara , Minear Mollie , Vorderstrasse Allison , Yang Nancy , Reeves Jason , Rakhra-Burris Tejinder , Cook-Deegan Robert , Ginsburg Geoffrey , Simmons Leigh
Published: April 2015

In this age of personalized medicine, genetic and genomic testing is expected to become instrumental in health care delivery, but little is known about its actual implementation in clinical practice. Methods. We surveyed Duke faculty and healthcare providers to examine the extent of genetic and genomic testing adoption. We assessed providers’ use of genetic and genomic testing options and indications in clinical practice, providers’ awareness of pharmacogenetic applications, and providers’ opinions on returning research-generated genetic test results to participants. Most clinician respondents currently use family history routinely in their clinical practice, but only 18 percent of clinicians use pharmacogenetics. Only two respondents correctly identified the number of drug package inserts with pharmacogenetic indications. We also found strong support for the return of genetic research results to participants. Our results demonstrate that while Duke healthcare providers are enthusiastic about genomic technologies, use of genomic tools outside of research has been limited. Respondents favor return of research-based genetic results to participants, but clinicians lack knowledge about pharmacogenetic applications. We identified challenges faced by this institution when implementing genetic and genomic testing into patient care that should inform a policy and education agenda to improve provider support and clinician-researcher partnerships.
Numerical Treatments of Slipping/No-Slip Zones in Cold Rolling of Thin Sheets with Heavy Roll Deformation
Authors: Shigaki Yukio , Nakhoul Rebecca , Montmitonnet Pierre
Published: April 2015

In the thin sheet cold rolling manufacturing process, a major issue is roll elastic deformation and its impact on roll load, torque and contact stresses. As in many systems implying mechanical contact under high loading, a central part is under “sticking friction” (no slip) while both extremities do slip to accommodate the material acceleration of the rolled metal sheet. This is a crucial point for modeling of such rolling processes and the numerical treatment of contact and friction (“regularized” or not), of the transition between these zones, does have an impact on the results. Two ways to deal with it are compared (regularization of the stick/slip transition, direct imposition of a no-slip condition) and recommendations are given.
Frictional Characteristics of a Small Aerostatic Linear Bearing
Authors: Araki Ryosuke , Takita Akihiro , Nachaisit Prin , Shu Dong-Wei , Fujii Yusaku
Published: April 2015

Frictional characteristics of a small aerostatic linear bearing are accurately evaluated by means of a method, in which the force acting on the moving part of the bearing is measured as the inertial force. An optical interferometer is newly developed to measure the Doppler shift frequency of the laser light reflected on the small moving part. From the measured time-varying Doppler shift frequency, the velocity, the position, the acceleration and the inertial force of the moving part are numerically calculated. It is confirmed that the dynamic frictional force acting inside the bearing is almost proportional to the velocity of the moving part and is similar to the theoretical value calculated under the assumption that the flow inside the bearing is the Couette flow.
N-benzyl-(3E,5E)-3,5-bis(2-hydroxybenzylidene)-4-piperidone
Authors: Eryanti Yum , Herlina Tati , Zamri Adel , Shiono Yoshihito , Awang Khalijah , Halim Siti , Supratman Unang
Published: April 2015

A novel N-benzyl-(3E,5E)-3,5-bis(2-hydroxybenzylidene)-4-piperidone (3), was synthesized in good yield by a condensation reaction of 2-hydroxybenzaldehyde (1) and N-benzyl-4-piperidone (2) under microwave irradiation in the presence of 10% NaOH solution. The chemical structure was assigned on the basis of UV-visible, IR, 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR and mass spectral data.
All-Ceramic Single Crown Restauration of Zirconia Oral Implants and Its Influence on Fracture Resistance: An Investigation in the Artificial Mouth
Authors: Kohal Ralf-Joachim , Kilian Jolanta , Stampf Susanne , Spies Benedikt
Published: April 2015

The aim of the current investigation was to evaluate the fracture resistance of one-piece zirconia oral implants with and without all-ceramic incisor crowns after long-term thermomechanical cycling. A total of 48 implants were evaluated. The groups with crowns (C, 24 samples) and without crowns (N, 24 samples) were subdivided according to the loading protocol, resulting in three groups of 8 samples each: Group “0” was not exposed to cyclic loading, whereas groups “5” and “10” were loaded with 5 and 10 million chewing cycles, respectively. This resulted in 6 different groups: C0/N0, C5/N5 and C10/N10. Subsequently, all 48 implants were statically loaded to fracture and bending moments were calculated. All implants survived the artificial aging. For the static loading the following average bending moments were calculated: C0: 326 Ncm; C5: 339 Ncm; C10: 369 Ncm; N0: 339 Ncm; N5: 398 Ncm and N10: 355 Ncm. To a certain extent, thermomechanical cycling resulted in an increase of fracture resistance which did not prove to be statistically significant. Regarding its fracture resistance, the evaluated ceramic implant system made of Y-TZP seems to be able to resist physiological chewing forces long-term. Restauration with all-ceramic single crowns showed no negative influence on fracture resistance.
Dietary Docosahexaenoic Acid and Eicosapentaenoic Acid Influence Liver Triacylglycerol and Insulin Resistance in Rats Fed a High-Fructose Diet
Authors: Salim de Castro Gabriela , Deminice Rafael , Cordeiro Simões-Ambrosio Livia , C. Calder Philip , A. Jordão Alceu , Vannucchi Helio
Published: April 2015

This study aimed to examine the benefits of different amounts of omega-3 (n-3) polyunsaturated fatty acids from fish oil (FO) on lipid metabolism, insulin resistance and gene expression in rats fed a high-fructose diet. Male Wistar rats were separated into two groups: Control (C, n = 6) and Fructose (Fr, n = 32), the latter receiving a diet containing 63% by weight fructose for 60 days. After this period, 24 animals from Fr group were allocated to three groups: FrFO2 (n = 8) receiving 63% fructose and 2% FO plus 5% soybean oil; FrFO5 (n = 8) receiving 63% fructose and 5% FO plus 2% soybean oil; and FrFO7 (n = 8) receiving 63% fructose and 7% FO. Animals were fed these diets for 30 days. Fructose led to an increase in liver weight, hepatic and serum triacylglycerol, serum alanine aminotransferase and HOMA1-IR index. These alterations were reversed by 5% and 7% FO. FO had a dose-dependent effect on expression of genes related to hepatic β-oxidation (increased) and hepatic lipogenesis (decreased). The group receiving the highest FO amount had increased markers of oxidative stress. It is concluded that n-3 fatty acids may be able to reverse the adverse metabolic effects induced by a high fructose diet.
Prophylactic Administration of Fucoidan Represses Cancer Metastasis by Inhibiting Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) and Matrix Metalloproteinases (MMPs) in Lewis Tumor-Bearing Mice
Authors: Huang Tse-Hung , Chiu Yi-Han , Chan Yi-Lin , Chiu Ya-Huang , Wang Hang , Huang Kuo-Chin , Li Tsung-Lin , Hsu Kuang-Hung , Wu Chang-Jer
Published: April 2015

Fucoidan, a heparin-like sulfated polysaccharide, is rich in brown algae. It has a wide assortment of protective activities against cancer, for example, induction of hepatocellular carcinoma senescence, induction of human breast and colon carcinoma apoptosis, and impediment of lung cancer cells migration and invasion. However, the anti-metastatic mechanism that fucoidan exploits remains elusive. In this report, we explored the effects of fucoidan on cachectic symptoms, tumor development, lung carcinoma cell spreading and proliferation, as well as expression of metastasis-associated proteins in the Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) cells-inoculated mice model. We discovered that administration of fucoidan has prophylactic effects on mitigation of cachectic body weight loss and improvement of lung masses in tumor-inoculated mice. These desired effects are attributed to inhibition of LLC spreading and proliferation in lung tissues. Fucoidan also down-regulates expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Moreover, the tumor-bearing mice supplemented with fucoidan indeed benefit from an ensemble of the chemo-phylacticity. The fact is that fucoidan significantly decreases viability, migration, invasion, and MMPs activities of LLC cells. In summary, fucoidan is suitable to act as a chemo-preventative agent for minimizing cachectic symptoms as well as inhibiting lung carcinoma metastasis through down-regulating metastatic factors VEGF and MMPs.
3-[4-(1H-Indol-3-yl)-1,3-thiazol-2-yl]-1H-pyrrolo[2,3-b]pyridines, Nortopsentin Analogues with Antiproliferative Activity
Authors: Parrino Barbara , Carbone Anna , Di Vita Gloria , Ciancimino Cristina , Attanzio Alessandro , Spanò Virginia , Montalbano Alessandra , Barraja Paola , Tesoriere Luisa , Livrea Maria , Diana Patrizia , Cirrincione Girolamo
Published: April 2015

A new series of nortopsentin analogues, in which the imidazole ring of the natural product was replaced by thiazole and the indole unit bound to position 2 of the thiazole ring was substituted by a 7-azaindole moiety, was efficiently synthesized. Two of the new nortopsentin analogues showed good antiproliferative effect against the totality of the NCI full panel of human tumor cell lines (~60) having GI50 values ranging from low micromolar to nanomolar level. The mechanism of the antiproliferative effect of these derivatives, investigated on human hepatoma HepG2 cells, was pro-apoptotic, being associated with externalization of plasma membrane phosphatidylserine and mitochondrial dysfunction. Moreover, the compounds induced a concentration-dependent accumulation of cells in the subG0/G1phase, while confined viable cells in G2/M phase.
Characterization at 25 °C of Sodium Hyaluronate in Aqueous Solutions Obtained by Transport Techniques
Authors: Mráček Aleš , Gřundělová Lenka , Minařík Antonín , Veríssimo Luís , Barros Marisa , Ribeiro Ana
Published: April 2015

Mutual diffusion coefficients, D, were determined for aqueous solutions of sodium hyaluronate (NaHy) at 25 °C and concentrations ranging from 0.00 to 1.00 g·dm−3 using the Taylor dispersion technique. From these experimental data, it was possible to estimate some parameters, such as the hydrodynamic radius Rh, and the diffusion coefficient at infinitesimal concentration, D0, of hyaluronate ion, permitting us to have a better understanding of the structure of these systems of sodium hyaluronate in aqueous solutions. The additional viscosity measurements were done and Huggins constant, kH, and limiting viscosity number, [η], were computed for interaction NaHy/water and NaHy/NaHy determination.
Probing the Relationship between Anti-Pneumocystis carinii Activity and DNA Binding of Bisamidines by Molecular Dynamics Simulations
Authors: Żołek Teresa , Maciejewska Dorota , Żabiński Jerzy , Kaźmierczak Paweł , Rezler Mateusz
Published: April 2015

The anti-Pneumocystis carinii activity of 13 synthetic pentamidine analogs was analyzed. The experimental differences in melting points of DNA dodecamer 5'-(CGCGAATTCGCG)2-3' complexes (ΔTm), and in the biological activity measured using ATP bioluminescence assay (IC50) together with the theoretical free energy of DNA-ligand binding estimated by the proposed computational protocol, showed that the experimental activity of the tested pentamidines appeared to be due to the binding to the DNA minor groove with extended AT sequences. The effect of heteroatoms in the aliphatic linker, and the sulfonamide or methoxy substituents on the compound inducing changes in the interactions with the DNA minor groove was examined and was correlated with biological activity. In computational analysis, the explicit solvent approximation with the discrete water molecules was taken into account, and the role of water molecules in the DNA-ligand complexes was defined.
Target Fortification of Breast Milk: How Often Should Milk Analysis Be Done?
Authors: Rochow Niels , Fusch Gerhard , Zapanta Bianca , Ali Anaam , Barui Sandip , Fusch Christoph
Published: April 2015

Target fortification (TFO) reduces natural macronutrient variation in breast milk (BM). Daily BM analysis for TFO increases neonatal intensive care unit work load by 10–15 min/patient/day and may not be feasible in all nurseries. The variation of macronutrient intake when BM analysis is done for various schedules was studied. In an observational study, we analyzed 21 subsequent samples of native 24-h BM batches, which had been prepared for 10 healthy infants (gestational age 26.1 ± 1.3 weeks, birth weight: 890 ± 210 g). Levels of protein and fat (validated near-infrared milk analyzer), as well as lactose (UPLC-MS/MS) generated the database for modelling TFO to meet recommendations of European Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology Hepatology and Nutrition. Intake of macronutrients and energy were calculated for different schedules of BM measurements for TFO (n = 1/week; n = 2/week; n = 3/week; n = 5/week; n = 7/week) and compared to native and fixed dose fortified BM. Day-to-day variation of macronutrients (protein 20%, carbohydrate 13%, fat 17%, energy 10%) decreased as the frequency of milk analysis increased and was almost zero for protein and carbohydrate with daily measurements. Measurements two/week led to mean macronutrient intake within a range of ±5% of targeted levels. A reduced schedule for macronutrient measurement may increase the practical use of TFO. To what extent the day-to-day variation affects growth while mean intake is stable needs to be studied.
Maternal Dietary Patterns during Pregnancy in Relation to Offspring Forearm Fractures: Prospective Study from the Danish National Birth Cohort
Authors: Petersen Sesilje , Rasmussen Morten , Olsen Sjurdur , Vestergaard Peter , Mølgaard Christian , Halldorsson Thorhallur , Strøm Marin
Published: April 2015

Limited evidence exists for an association between maternal diet during pregnancy and offspring bone health. In a prospective study, we examined the association between dietary patterns in mid-pregnancy and offspring forearm fractures. In total, 101,042 pregnancies were recruited to the Danish National Birth Cohort (DNBC) during 1996–2002. Maternal diet was collected by a food frequency questionnaire. Associations were analyzed between seven dietary patterns extracted by principal component analysis and offspring first occurrence of any forearm fracture diagnosis, extracted from the Danish National Patient Register, between time of birth and end of follow-up (<16 year) (n = 53,922). In multivariable Cox regression models, offspring of mothers in the fourth vs. first quintile of the Western pattern had a significant increased risk (Hazard ratio, 95% confidence interval: 1.11, 1.01–1.23) of fractures, and there was a borderline significant positive trend (p = 0.06). The other dietary patterns showed no associations and neither did supplementary analyses of macro- and micronutrients or single food groups, except for the intake of artificially sweetened soft drinks, which was positively associated with offspring forearm fractures (p = 0.02). In the large prospective DNBC high mid-pregnancy consumption of Western diet and artificially sweetened soft drinks, respectively, indicated positive associations with offspring forearm fractures, which provides interesting hypotheses for future research.
Role of Dietary Protein and Thiamine Intakes on Cognitive Function in Healthy Older People: A Systematic Review
Authors: Koh Freda , Charlton Karen , Walton Karen , McMahon Anne-Therese
Published: April 2015

The effectiveness of nutritional interventions to prevent and maintain cognitive functioning in older adults has been gaining interest due to global population ageing. A systematic literature review was conducted to obtain and appraise relevant studies on the effects of dietary protein or thiamine on cognitive function in healthy older adults. Studies that reported on the use of nutritional supplementations and/or populations with significant cognitive impairment were excluded. Seventeen eligible studies were included. Evidence supporting an association between higher protein and/or thiamine intakes and better cognitive function is weak. There was no evidence to support the role of specific protein food sources, such as types of meat, on cognitive function. Some cross-sectional and case-control studies reported better cognition in those with higher dietary thiamine intakes, but the data remains inconclusive. Adequate protein and thiamine intake is more likely associated with achieving a good overall nutritional status which affects cognitive function rather than single nutrients. A lack of experimental studies in this area prevents the translation of these dietary messages for optimal cognitive functioning and delaying the decline in cognition with advancing age.
Antibiotic-Free Selection in Biotherapeutics: Now and Forever
Authors: Mignon Charlotte , Sodoyer Régis , Werle Bettina
Published: April 2015

The continuously improving sophistication of molecular engineering techniques gives access to novel classes of bio-therapeutics and new challenges for their production in full respect of the strengthening regulations. Among these biologic agents are DNA based vaccines or gene therapy products and to a lesser extent genetically engineered live vaccines or delivery vehicles. The use of antibiotic-based selection, frequently associated with genetic manipulation of microorganism is currently undergoing a profound metamorphosis with the implementation and diversification of alternative selection means. This short review will present examples of alternatives to antibiotic selection and their context of application to highlight their ineluctable invasion of the bio-therapeutic world.
Interval Analysis: A New Tool for the Characterization of an Epoxy-Amine/Aluminum System
Authors: Pomes-Hadda Mickaël , Aufray Maëlenn , Diaham Sombel
Published: April 2015

Epoxy-amine/aluminum chemical systems or sandwich structures with and without interphase formation are prepared using two different curing cycles and are characterized with dielectric spectroscopy. The sample without interphase formation is obtained when the reaction between epoxy and amine groups is favored, which occurs at high temperature. The interphase formation results from the reaction between the amine group and aluminum surface at room temperature. Dielectric spectra are fitted using the Set Inversion Via Interval Analysis (SIVIA) algorithm applied to DiElectric spectroscopy algorithm (SADE) developed using the method of intervals analysis. A new approach is implemented using a sum of Debye relaxations to optimize and guarantee the fitting. The results achieved show a distribution of relaxation times, which always take place at the same time as demonstrated. In this study, five Debye relaxations were found which fit the β-relaxation with our model. Finally, we showed that the more intensive of our five β -relaxations follows the Arrhenius law.
Deposito Diademate: Augustine’s Emperors
Authors: Kaufman Peter
Published: April 2015

To assist colleagues from other disciplines who teach Augustine’s texts in their core courses, this contribution to the Lilly Colloquium discusses Augustine’s assessments of Emperors Constantine and Theodosius. His presentations of their tenure in office and their virtues suggest that his position on political leadership corresponds with his general skepticism about political platforms and platitudes. Yet careful reading of his revision of Ambrose’s account of Emperor Theodosius’s public penance and reconsideration of the last five sections of his fifth book City of God—as well as a reappraisal of several of his sermons on the Psalms—suggest that he proposes a radical alternative to political conformity relevant to undergraduates’ conventional expectations of society’s progress and their parts in it.
Distal and Proximal Religiosity as Protective Factors for Adolescent and Emerging Adult Alcohol Use
Authors: Porche Michelle , Fortuna Lisa , Wachholtz Amy , Stone Rosalie
Published: April 2015

Data from emerging adults (ages 18–29, N = 900) in the National Comorbidity Survey Replication Study was used to examine the influence of childhood and emerging adult religiosity and religious-based decision-making, and childhood adversity, on alcohol use. Childhood religiosity was protective against early alcohol use and progression to later abuse or dependence, but did not significantly offset the influence of childhood adversity on early patterns of heavy drinking in adjusted logistic regression models. Religiosity in emerging adulthood was negatively associated with alcohol use disorders. Protective associations for religiosity varied by gender, ethnicity and childhood adversity histories. Higher religiosity may be protective against early onset alcohol use and later development of alcohol problems, thus, should be considered in prevention programming for youth, particularly in faith-based settings. Mental health providers should allow for integration of clients’ religiosity and spirituality beliefs and practices in treatment settings if clients indicate such interest.
Building Extraction from Airborne Laser Scanning Data: An Analysis of the State of the Art
Authors: Tomljenovic Ivan , Höfle Bernhard , Tiede Dirk , Blaschke Thomas
Published: April 2015

This article provides an overview of building extraction approaches applied to Airborne Laser Scanning (ALS) data by examining elements used in original publications, such as data set area, accuracy measures, reference data for accuracy assessment, and the use of auxiliary data. We succinctly analyzed the most cited publication for each year between 1998 and 2014, resulting in 54 ISI-indexed articles and 14 non-ISI indexed publications. Based on this, we position some built-in features of ALS to create a comprehensive picture of the state of the art and the progress through the years. Our analyses revealed trends and remaining challenges that impact the community. The results show remaining deficiencies, such as inconsistent accuracy assessment measures, limitations of independent reference data sources for accuracy assessment, relatively few documented applications of the methods to wide area data sets, and the lack of transferability studies and measures. Finally, we predict some future trends and identify some gaps which existing approaches may not exhaustively cover. Despite these deficiencies, this comprehensive literature analysis demonstrates that ALS data is certainly a valuable source of spatial information for building extraction. When taking into account the short civilian history of ALS one can conclude that ALS has become well established in the scientific community and seems to become indispensable in many application fields.
Global and Local Real-Time Anomaly Detectors for Hyperspectral Remote Sensing Imagery
Authors: Zhao Chunhui , Wang Yulei , Qi Bin , Wang Jia
Published: April 2015

Anomaly detection has received considerable interest for hyperspectral data exploitation due to its high spectral resolution. A well-known algorithm for hyperspectral anomaly detection is the RX detector. A number of variations have been studied since then, including global and local versions for different type of anomalies. Aiming at a real-time requirement for practical applications, this paper extends the concept of global and local anomaly detectors to be real-time detectors. The algorithms exploit the fact that a true real-time detector must produce its output in a causal manner and at the same time as an input comes in. Taking advantage of the Woodbury matrix identity, the global and local real-time detectors can be implemented and processed pixel-by-pixel in real time. Both synthetic and real hyperspectral imagery are conducted to demonstrate their performance.
Coarse Initial Orbit Determination for a Geostationary Satellite Using Single-Epoch GPS Measurements
Authors: Kim Ghangho , Kim Chongwon , Kee Changdon
Published: April 2015

A practical algorithm is proposed for determining the orbit of a geostationary orbit (GEO) satellite using single-epoch measurements from a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver under the sparse visibility of the GPS satellites. The algorithm uses three components of a state vector to determine the satellite’s state, even when it is impossible to apply the classical single-point solutions (SPS). Through consideration of the characteristics of the GEO orbital elements and GPS measurements, the components of the state vector are reduced to three. However, the algorithm remains sufficiently accurate for a GEO satellite. The developed algorithm was tested on simulated measurements from two or three GPS satellites, and the calculated maximum position error was found to be less than approximately 40 km or even several kilometers within the geometric range, even when the classical SPS solution was unattainable. In addition, extended Kalman filter (EKF) tests of a GEO satellite with the estimated initial state were performed to validate the algorithm. In the EKF, a reliable dynamic model was adapted to reduce the probability of divergence that can be caused by large errors in the initial state.
Piezoelectric Micromachined Ultrasound Transducer (PMUT) Arrays for Integrated Sensing, Actuation and Imaging
Authors: Qiu Yongqiang , Gigliotti James , Wallace Margeaux , Griggio Flavio , Demore Christine , Cochran Sandy , Trolier-McKinstry Susan
Published: April 2015

Many applications of ultrasound for sensing, actuation and imaging require miniaturized and low power transducers and transducer arrays integrated with electronic systems. Piezoelectric micromachined ultrasound transducers (PMUTs), diaphragm-like thin film flexural transducers typically formed on silicon substrates, are a potential solution for integrated transducer arrays. This paper presents an overview of the current development status of PMUTs and a discussion of their suitability for miniaturized and integrated devices. The thin film piezoelectric materials required to functionalize these devices are discussed, followed by the microfabrication techniques used to create PMUT elements and the constraints the fabrication imposes on device design. Approaches for electrical interconnection and integration with on-chip electronics are discussed. Electrical and acoustic measurements from fabricated PMUT arrays with up to 320 diaphragm elements are presented. The PMUTs are shown to be broadband devices with an operating frequency which is tunable by tailoring the lateral dimensions of the flexural membrane or the thicknesses of the constituent layers. Finally, the outlook for future development of PMUT technology and the potential applications made feasible by integrated PMUT devices are discussed.
LCI Databases Sensitivity Analysis of the Environmental Impact of the Injection Molding Process
Authors: Elduque Ana , Javierre Carlos , Elduque Daniel , Fernández Ángel
Published: April 2015

During the last decades, society’s concern for the environment has increased. Specific tools like the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), and software and databases to apply this method have been developed to calculate the environmental burden of products or processes. Calculating the environmental impact of plastic products is relevant as the global plastics production rose to 288 million tons in 2012. Among the different ways of processing plastics, the injection molding process is one of the most used in the industry worldwide. In this paper, a sensitivity analysis of the environmental impact of the injection molding process has been carried out. In order to perform this study, the EcoInvent database inventory for injection molding, and the data from which this database is created, have been studied. Generally, when an LCA of a product is carried out, databases such as EcoInvent, where materials, processes and transports are characterized providing average values, are used to quantify the environmental impact. This approach can be good enough in some cases but in order to assess a specific production process, like injection molding, a further level of detail is needed. This study shows how the final results of environmental impact differ for injection molding when using the PVC’s, PP’s or PET’s data. This aspect suggests the necessity of studying, in a more precise way, this process, to correctly evaluate its environmental burden. This also allows us to identify priority areas and thereby actions to develop a more sustainable way of manufacturing plastics.
International Direct Investment and Transboundary Pollution: An Empirical Analysis of Complex Networks
Authors: Deng Yuping , Xu Helian
Published: April 2015

Using complex networks and spatial econometric methods, we empirically test the extent to which a country’s influence and its position in an international investment network affect environmental quality as well as the country’s role in transboundary pollution transfer. The estimated results show that the ties connecting nodes together in an international investment network have significant impacts on global environmental pollution. Additionally, node linkages between developing countries have stronger negative effects on environmental quality than node linkages between developed countries. Moreover, greater node importance and node centrality accelerate the speed and scale of the growth of polluting industries, which allows developed countries to more easily transfer their pollution-intensive industries to developing countries that possess higher node dependency. We also find that the factor endowment effect coexists with the pollution haven effect, the effects of environmental regulation advantage in the international investment network are greater than the impact of factor endowment advantage.
A New Fluctuating Asymmetry Index, or the Solution for the Scaling Effect?
Authors: Pertoldi Cino , Kristensen Torsten
Published: April 2015

Two principal methods are commonly employed for the estimation of developmental instability at the population level. Some studies use variances of morphological traits (σ2p), while others use fluctuating asymmetry (FA). In both cases, differences in the degree of developmental instability can be tested with an F-test, which is the most common way to compare variances. However, the variance is expected to scale proportionally to the square of the mean as there is a tendency in biological data for σ2p to scale proportionally to the square of the mean ( ): σ2p = Z ξ, where ξ is the scaling exponent, which is expected to be two for pure statistical reasons, is the mean of the trait and Z is a measure of individual-level variability. Because of this scaling effect, the fluctuating asymmetry will be affected, FA is estimated as the variance between the right and the left sides of a trait (σ2r − l = σ2r + σ2l − 2rσrσl), where σ2r and σ2l are the variances of the right and the left trait values, respectively. In this paper, we propose a novel method that allows an exact correction of the scaling effect, which will enable a proper comparison of the degree of fluctuating asymmetry for a trait. The problem of the scaling of the FA with the trait size is quite crucial if FA is to be considered an indicator of fitness or an indicator of environmental or genetic stress, as different stresses or fitness levels are typically accompanied by a change of the traits’ .
Development of a Recombination System for the Generation of Occlusion Positive Genetically Modified Anticarsia Gemmatalis Multiple Nucleopolyhedrovirus
Authors: Haase Santiago , McCarthy Christina , Ferrelli M. , Pidre Matias , Sciocco-Cap Alicia , Romanowski Victor
Published: April 2015

Anticarsia gemmatalis is an important pest in legume crops in South America and it has been successfully controlled using Anticarsia gemmatalis Multiple Nucleopolyhedrovirus (AgMNPV) in subtropical climate zones. Nevertheless, in temperate climates its speed of kill is too slow. Taking this into account, genetic modification of AgMNPV could lead to improvements of its biopesticidal properties. Here we report the generation of a two-component system that allows the production of recombinant AgMNPV. This system is based on a parental AgMNPV in which the polyhedrin gene (polh) was replaced by a bacterial β-galactosidase (lacZ) gene flanked by two target sites for the homing endonuclease I-PpoI. Co-transfection of insect cells with linearized (I-PpoI-digested) parental genome and a transfer vector allowed the restitution of polh and the expression of a heterologous gene upon homologous recombination, with a low background of non-recombinant AgMNPV. The system was validated by constructing a recombinant occlusion-positive (polh+) AgMNPV expressing the green fluorescent protein gene (gfp). This recombinant virus infected larvae normally per os and led to the expression of GFP in cell culture as well as in A. gemmatalis larvae. These results demonstrate that the system is an efficient method for the generation of recombinant AgMNPV expressing heterologous genes, which can be used for manifold purposes, including biotechnological and pharmaceutical applications and the production of orally infectious recombinants with improved biopesticidal properties.
Rethinking Sustainability, Scaling Up, and Enabling Environment: A Framework for Their Implementation in Drinking Water Supply
Authors: Amjad Urooj , Ojomo Edema , Downs Kristen , Cronk Ryan , Bartram Jamie
Published: April 2015

The terms sustainability, scaling up, and enabling environment are inconsistently used in implementing water supply projects. To clarify these terms we develop a framework based on Normalization Process Theory, and apply the framework to a hypothetical water supply project in schools. The resulting framework provides guidance on how these terms could be implemented and analyzed in water supply projects. We conclude that effective use of the terms sustainability, scaling up, and enabling environment would focus on purpose, process, and perspective. This is the first known attempt to analyze the implementation of the three terms together in the context of water supply services.
Hybridization is associated with changes in sexual system in the bryophyte genus Atrichum
Authors: Perley Danielle S. , Jesson Linley K.
Published: April 2015

• Premise of the study: Over 50% of bryophytes have separate sexes, and numerous transitions have occurred between combined and separate sexes. Polyploidy and hybridization is one proximate mechanism hypothesized to cause evolutionary transitions to hermaphroditism in bryophytes because sex is expressed at the haploid stage and in nonpolyploid dioecious species males have a single V chromosome and females a U. Hermaphroditism can arise if gametophytes of allopolyploids have both U and V chromosomes. We examined the association between polyploidy and hermaphroditism in the bryophyte genus Atrichum, which has species where gametophytes can be haploid, diploid, or triploid, and some species have hermaphroditic individuals.

• Methods: We generated phylogenies of Atrichum from sequences of three plastid regions (rbcL, rps4, and trnL‐trnF) and the second intron for the nuclear gene Leafy/Floricaula to further understand the relationships among haploid, diploid, and triploid species, and those with combined or separate sexes.

• Key results: The existence of multiple sequences of Leafy/Floricaula in diploid and triploid, but not haploid, individuals is consistent with independent allopolyploid origins of the diploid and triploid species. Allopolyploidy was associated with a likely gain in hermaphroditism in triploid Atrichum undulatum and possibly diploid A. altecristatum, but not in the allopolyploid A. crispulum (diploid at the gametophyte level).

• Conclusions: These results highlight a role for hybridization and polyploidy in sexual system evolution, but the presence of diploid (allopolyploid) dioecious species suggest that other factors may influence the maintenance of sexual systems after an evolutionary transition.
Characterization of 23 polymorphic SSR markers in Salix humboldtiana (Salicaceae) using next‐generation sequencing and cross‐amplification from related species
Authors: Bozzi Jorge A. , Liepelt Sascha , Ohneiser Sebastian , Gallo Leonardo A. , Marchelli Paula , Leyer Ilona , Ziegenhagen Birgit , Mengel Christina
Published: April 2015

Premise of the study:

We present a set of 23 polymorphic nuclear microsatellite loci, 18 of which are identified for the first time within the riparian species Salix humboldtiana (Salicaceae) using next‐generation sequencing.

Methods and Results

To characterize the 23 loci, up to 60 individuals were sampled and genotyped at each locus. The number of alleles ranged from two to eight, with an average of 4.43 alleles per locus. The effective number of alleles ranged from 1.15 to 3.09 per locus, and allelic richness ranged from 2.00 to 7.73 alleles per locus.

Conclusions

The new marker set will be used for future studies of genetic diversity and differentiation as well as for unraveling spatial genetic structures in S. humboldtiana populations in northern Patagonia, Argentina.
Nanostructuring of GeTiO amorphous films by pulsed laser irradiation
Authors: Teodorescu Valentin Serban , Ghica Cornel , Maraloiu Adrian Valentin , Vlaicu Mihai , Kuncser Andrei , Ciurea Magdalena Lidia , Stavarache Ionel , Lepadatu Ana M , Scarisoreanu Nicu Doinel , Andrei Andreea , Ion Valentin , Dinescu Maria
Published: April 2015

Laser pulse processing of surfaces and thin films is a useful tool for amorphous thin films crystallization, surface nanostructuring, phase transformation and modification of physical properties of thin films. Here we show the effects of nanostructuring produced at the surface and under the surface of amorphous GeTiO films through laser pulses using fluences of 10–30 mJ/cm2. The GeTiO films were obtained by RF magnetron sputtering with 50:50 initial atomic ratio of Ge:TiO2. Laser irradiation was performed by using the fourth harmonic (266 nm) of a Nd:YAG laser. The laser-induced nanostructuring results in two effects, the first one is the appearance of a wave-like topography at the film surface, with a periodicity of 200 nm and the second one is the structure modification of a layer under the film surface, at a depth that is related to the absorption length of the laser radiation. The periodicity of the wave-like relief is smaller than the laser wavelength. In the modified layer, the Ge atoms are segregated in spherical amorphous nanoparticles as a result of the fast diffusion of Ge atoms in the amorphous GeTiO matrix. The temperature estimation of the film surface during the laser pulses shows a maximum of about 500 °C, which is much lower than the melting temperature of the GeTiO matrix. GeO gas is formed at laser fluences higher than 20 mJ/cm2 and produces nanovoids in the laser-modified layer at the film surface. A glass transition at low temperatures could happen in the amorphous GeTiO film, which explains the formation of the wave-like topography. The very high Ge diffusivity during the laser pulse action, which is characteristic for liquids, cannot be reached in a viscous matrix. Our experiments show that the diffusivity of atomic and molecular species such as Ge and GeO is very much enhanced in the presence of the laser pulse field. Consequently, the fast diffusion drives the formation of amorphous Ge nanoparticles through the segregation of Ge atoms in the GeTiO matrix. The nanostructuring effects induced by the laser irradiation can be used in functionalizing the surface of the films.
Graphene on SiC(0001) inspected by dynamic atomic force microscopy at room temperature
Authors: Telychko Mykola , Berger Jan , Majzik Zsolt , Jelínek Pavel , Švec Martin
Published: April 2015

We investigated single-layer graphene on SiC(0001) by atomic force and tunneling current microscopy, to separate the topographic and electronic contributions from the overall landscape. The analysis revealed that the roughness evaluated from the atomic force maps is very low, in accord with theoretical simulations. We also observed that characteristic electron scattering effects on graphene edges and defects are not accompanied by any out-of-plane relaxations of carbon atoms.
Mineralogical, textural and physical-mechanical study of hydraulic lime mortars cured under different moisture conditions
Authors: Arizzi A. , Martinez-Huerga G. , Sebastián-Pardo E. , Cultrone G.
Published: April 2015

This work focuses on the chemical-mineralogical, textural and physical-mechanical properties of hydraulic lime mortars made with siliceous and calcareous aggregate. Mortars were cured at 60% and 90% of relative humidity, so as to assess the variability of mortar petrophysical properties in the hardened state due to the moisture conditions. The final aim was to determine the most adequate moisture conditions to be maintained during application and hardening of hydraulic mortars intended for repair interventions. We found out that using a calcareous aggregate and curing mortar at 90% of relative humidity give place to better textural and mechanical properties. However, these characteristics mostly depend on the maximum size of the aggregate grains, which should be smaller than 6 mm, in order to avoid the occurrence of mechanical discontinuities in the mortar.
Differentiation through Service Excellence
Authors: Spreer Philipp , Kallweit Katrin
Published: April 2015

Service excellence is one of the key differentiators for retailers in the digital environment. To ensure a high level of service quality at the point of sale, retailers contemplate the implementation of Self-Service Information Technologies (SSITs). This chapter 1) examines the mediation effect of service quality within the technology acceptance model and 2) identifies relevant segments based on the level of acceptance and the perception of the service quality provided by an SSIT. Building on data from a laboratory experiment using a fully functional application for Tablet PCs, the partial least squares approach and a combined hierarchical and non-hierarchical cluster analysis were used. The findings reveal that the perceived service quality partially mediates the effect of the attitude towards using on the intention to reuse. Moreover, two distinct segments are identified: the “occasional handymen” and the “enthusiastic experts,” who differ significantly in terms of SSIT acceptance.
Towards a Benchmark in the Innovation of the Retail Channel
Authors: Viassone Milena
Published: April 2015

In recent years, the issue of innovation in marketing channels has assumed an increasing importance, but this topic has been considered in reference to specific areas of innovation or to single categories of subjects within channels. Despite this, there is a lack of contributions that provide guidelines to excel in innovative retail channels. This chapter aims at describing the set of features of benchmark firms awarded for the innovation in retail channels and proposing an illustrative framework to be followed by retailers who choose the path of innovation. This objective is carried out throughout a systematic analysis of related literature both on innovation and benchmark in retail channels and throughout the analysis of 127 benchmark retailers awarded with two important prizes for innovation in the period 2011-2014. Results allow the creation of a set of best practices for innovative retailers, thus providing an important contribution to this topic.