bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self-Reported Experiences of Climate Change in Nigeria: The Role of Personal and Socio-Environmental Factors
Authors: Ajibade Idowu , Armah Frederick , Kuuire Vincent , Luginaah Isaac , McBean Gordon
Published: December 2014

In this study, we examined the individual and socio-environmental factors that mediate differential self-reported experiences of climate change in coastal communities in Lagos, Nigeria. Binary complementary log-log multivariate regression was used to model residents’ experiences of changing rainfall patterns, ocean surges, and flood events. An analysis of both compositional and contextual factors showed that there were urban communities where vulnerability to flooding tends to be clustered, and that this was not fully explained by the characteristics of the people of whom the community was composed. This study, thus, underscores the importance and complex nature of the interaction between personal and socio-environmental determinants in shaping climate change experiences and vulnerability of individuals across coastal neighbourhoods. Key findings suggest certain sub-populations as well as geographic clusters in Lagos require special attention from disaster mitigation experts and policy makers.
A Color Image Encryption Algorithm Based on a Fractional-Order Hyperchaotic System
Authors: Huang Xia , Sun Tiantian , Li Yuxia , Liang Jinling
Published: December 2014

In this paper, a new color image encryption algorithm based on a fractional-order hyperchaotic system is proposed. Firstly, four chaotic sequences are generated by a fractional-order hyperchaotic system. The parameters of such a system, together with the initial value, are regarded as the secret keys and the plain image is encrypted by performing the XOR and shufﬂing operations simultaneously. The proposed encryption scheme is described in detail with security analyses, including correlation analysis, histogram analysis, differential attacks, and key sensitivity analysis. Experimental results show that the proposed encryption scheme has big key space, and high sensitivity to keys properties, and resists statistical analysis and differential attacks, so it has high security and is suitable for color image encryption.
A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Dengue Risk with Temperature Change
Authors: Fan Jingchun , Wei Wanxia , Bai Zhenggang , Fan Chunling , Li Shulan , Liu Qiyong , Yang Kehu
Published: December 2014

Dengue fever (DF) is the most serious mosquito-borne viral disease in the world and is significantly affected by temperature. Although associations between DF and temperatures have been reported repeatedly, conclusions have been inconsistent. Six databases were searched up to 23 March 2014, without language and geographical restrictions. The articles that studied the correlations between temperatures and dengue were selected, and a random-effects model was used to calculate the pooled odds ratio and 95% confidence intervals. Of 1589 identified articles, 137 were reviewed further, with 33 satisfying inclusion criteria. The closest associations were observed between mean temperature from the included studies (23.2–27.7 °C) and DF (OR 35.0% per 1 °C; 95% CI 18.3%–51.6%) positively. Additionally, minimum (18.1–24.2 °C) (29.5% per 1 °C; 20.9%–38.1%) and maximum temperature (28.0–34.5 °C) (28.9%; 10.3%–47.5%) were also associated with increased dengue transmission. The OR of DF incidence increased steeply from 22 °C to 29 °C, suggesting an inflexion of DF risk between these lower and upper limits of DF risk. This discovery is helpful for government decision-makers focused on preventing and controlling dengue in areas with temperatures within this range.
Daily Physical Activity and Screen Time, but Not Other Sedentary Activities, Are Associated with Measures of Obesity during Childhood
Authors: Lee Shoo , Wong Jyh , Shanita Safii , Ismail Mohd , Deurenberg Paul , Poh Bee
Published: December 2014

Childhood obesity is related to low physical activity level and a sedentary lifestyle. The aim of this study was to assess the physical activity level and sedentary behaviour of Malaysian children aged 7 to 12 years and to examine their association with body mass index (BMI), BMI-for-age Z-score (BAZ), body fatness (%BF) and waist circumference (WC). A total of 1736 children, representing all ethnic groups were recruited from six regions of Malaysia. Anthropometric measurements included body weight, height and waist circumference. Body fat percentage (%BF) was assessed using bioelectrical impedance. Physical activity was assessed by a physical activity questionnaire (PAQ) in all children and by pedometers in a subsample (n = 514). PAQ score and pedometer step counts were negatively associated with BMI, BAZ, %BF and WC after adjusting for covariates. Screen time was positively associated with BAZ and WC. However, other sedentary activities were not significantly related with any anthropometric indicators. Strategies to promote active living among children in Malaysia should focus not only on increasing physical activity but also emphasise reduction in sedentary behaviours.
Water-Borne Diseases and Extreme Weather Events in Cambodia: Review of Impacts and Implications of Climate Change
Authors: Davies Grace , McIver Lachlan , Kim Yoonhee , Hashizume Masahiro , Iddings Steven , Chan Vibol
Published: December 2014

Cambodia is prone to extreme weather events, especially floods, droughts and typhoons. Climate change is predicted to increase the frequency and intensity of such events. The Cambodian population is highly vulnerable to the impacts of these events due to poverty; malnutrition; agricultural dependence; settlements in flood-prone areas, and public health, governance and technological limitations. Yet little is known about the health impacts of extreme weather events in Cambodia. Given the extremely low adaptive capacity of the population, this is a crucial knowledge gap. A literature review of the health impacts of floods, droughts and typhoons in Cambodia was conducted, with regional and global information reviewed where Cambodia-specific literature was lacking. Water-borne diseases are of particular concern in Cambodia, in the face of extreme weather events and climate change, due to, inter alia, a high pre-existing burden of diseases such as diarrhoeal illness and a lack of improved sanitation infrastructure in rural areas. A time-series analysis under quasi-Poisson distribution was used to evaluate the association between floods and diarrhoeal disease incidence in Cambodian children between 2001 and 2012 in 16 Cambodian provinces. Floods were significantly associated with increased diarrhoeal disease in two provinces, while the analysis conducted suggested a possible protective effect from toilets and piped water. Addressing the specific, local pre-existing vulnerabilities is vital to promoting population health resilience and strengthening adaptive capacity to extreme weather events and climate change in Cambodia.
Innovative SU-8 Lithography Techniques and Their Applications
Authors: Lee Jeong , Choi Kyung-Hak , Yoo Koangki
Published: December 2014

SU-8 has been widely used in a variety of applications for creating structures in micro-scale as well as sub-micron scales for more than 15 years. One of the most common structures made of SU-8 is tall (up to millimeters) high-aspect-ratio (up to 100:1) 3D microstructure, which is far better than that made of any other photoresists. There has been a great deal of efforts in developing innovative unconventional lithography techniques to fully utilize the thick high aspect ratio nature of the SU-8 photoresist. Those unconventional lithography techniques include inclined ultraviolet (UV) exposure, back-side UV exposure, drawing lithography, and moving-mask UV lithography. In addition, since SU-8 is a negative-tone photoresist, it has been a popular choice of material for multiple-photon interference lithography for the periodic structure in scales down to deep sub-microns such as photonic crystals. These innovative lithography techniques for SU-8 have led to a lot of unprecedented capabilities for creating unique micro- and nano-structures. This paper reviews such innovative lithography techniques developed in the past 15 years or so.
Using Dyes for Evaluating Photocatalytic Properties: A Critical Review
Authors: Rochkind Malka , Pasternak Sagi , Paz Yaron
Published: December 2014

This brief review aims at analyzing the use of dyestuffs for evaluating the photocatalytic properties of novel photocatalysts. It is shown that the use of dyes as predictors for photocatalytic activity has its roots in the pre visible-light activity era, when the aim was to treat effluents streams containing hazardous dyes. The main conclusion of this review is that, in general, dyes are inappropriate as model compounds for the evaluation of photocatalytic activity of novel photocatalysts claimed to operate under visible light. Their main advantage, the ability to use UV-Vis spectroscopy, is severely limited by a variety of factors, most of which are related to the presence of other species. The presence of a second mechanism, sensitization, diminishes the generality required from a model contaminant used for testing a novel photocatalyst. While it is recommended not to use dyes for general testing of novel photocatalysts, it is still understandable that a model system consisting of a dye and a semiconductor can be of large importance if the degradation of a specific dye is the main aim of the research, or, alternatively, if the abilities of a specific dye to induce the degradation of a different type of contaminant are under study.
Memory and Energy Optimization Strategies for Multithreaded Operating System on the Resource-Constrained Wireless Sensor Node
Authors: Liu Xing , Hou Kun , De Vaulx Christophe , Xu Jun , Yang Jianfeng , Zhou Haiying , Shi Hongling , Zhou Peng
Published: December 2014

Memory and energy optimization strategies are essential for the resource-constrained wireless sensor network (WSN) nodes. In this article, a new memory-optimized and energy-optimized multithreaded WSN operating system (OS) LiveOS is designed and implemented. Memory cost of LiveOS is optimized by using the stack-shifting hybrid scheduling approach. Different from the traditional multithreaded OS in which thread stacks are allocated statically by the pre-reservation, thread stacks in LiveOS are allocated dynamically by using the stack-shifting technique. As a result, memory waste problems caused by the static pre-reservation can be avoided. In addition to the stack-shifting dynamic allocation approach, the hybrid scheduling mechanism which can decrease both the thread scheduling overhead and the thread stack number is also implemented in LiveOS. With these mechanisms, the stack memory cost of LiveOS can be reduced more than 50% if compared to that of a traditional multithreaded OS. Not is memory cost optimized, but also the energy cost is optimized in LiveOS, and this is achieved by using the multi-core “context aware” and multi-core “power-off/wakeup” energy conservation approaches. By using these approaches, energy cost of LiveOS can be reduced more than 30% when compared to the single-core WSN system. Memory and energy optimization strategies in LiveOS not only prolong the lifetime of WSN nodes, but also make the multithreaded OS feasible to run on the memory-constrained WSN nodes.
Biosignal PI, an Affordable Open-Source ECG and Respiration Measurement System
Authors: Abtahi Farhad , Snäll Jonatan , Aslamy Benjamin , Abtahi Shirin , Seoane Fernando , Lindecrantz Kaj
Published: December 2014

Bioimedical pilot projects e.g., telemedicine, homecare, animal and human trials usually involve several physiological measurements. Technical development of these projects is time consuming and in particular costly. A versatile but affordable biosignal measurement platform can help to reduce time and risk while keeping the focus on the important goal and making an efficient use of resources. In this work, an affordable and open source platform for development of physiological signals is proposed. As a first step an 8–12 leads electrocardiogram (ECG) and respiration monitoring system is developed. Chips based on iCoupler technology have been used to achieve electrical isolation as required by IEC 60601 for patient safety. The result shows the potential of this platform as a base for prototyping compact, affordable, and medically safe measurement systems. Further work involves both hardware and software development to develop modules. These modules may require development of front-ends for other biosignals or just collect data wirelessly from different devices e.g., blood pressure, weight, bioimpedance spectrum, blood glucose, e.g., through Bluetooth. All design and development documents, files and source codes will be available for non-commercial use through project website, BiosignalPI.org.
Spatiotemporal Changes of Farming-Pastoral Ecotone in Northern China, 1954–2005: A Case Study in Zhenlai County, Jilin Province
Authors: Yang Yuanyuan , Zhang Shuwen , Wang Dongyan , Yang Jiuchun , Xing Xiaoshi
Published: December 2014

Analyzing spatiotemporal changes in land use and land cover could provide basic information for appropriate decision-making and thereby plays an essential role in promoting the sustainable use of land resources, especially in ecologically fragile regions. In this paper, a case study was taken in Zhenlai County, which is a part of the farming-pastoral ecotone of Northern China. This study integrated methods of bitemporal change detection and temporal trajectory analysis to trace the paths of land cover change for every location in the study area from 1954 to 2005, using published land cover data based on topographic and environmental background maps and also remotely sensed images including Landsat MSS (Multispectral Scanner) and TM (Thematic Mapper). Meanwhile, the Lorenz curve and Gini coefficient derived from economic models were also used to study the land use structure changes to gain a better understanding of human impact on this fragile ecosystem. Results of bitemporal change detection showed that the most common land cover transition in the study area was an expansion of arable land at the expense of grassland and wetland. Plenty of grassland was converted to other unused land, indicating serious environmental degradation in Zhenlai County during the past decades. Trajectory analysis of land use and land cover change demonstrated that settlement, arable land, and water bodies were relatively stable in terms of coverage and spatial distribution, while grassland, wetland, and forest land had weak stability. Natural forces were still dominating the environmental processes of the study area, while human-induced changes also played an important role in environmental change. In addition, different types of land use displayed different concentration trends and had large changes during the study period. Arable land was the most decentralized, whereas forest land was the most concentrated. The above results not only revealed notable spatiotemporal features of land use and land cover change in the time series, but also confirmed the applicability and effectiveness of the methodology in our research, which combined bitemporal change detection, temporal trajectory analysis, and a Lorenz curve/Gini coefficient in analyzing spatiotemporal changes in land use and land cover.
The Informal Economy as a Catalyst for Sustainability
Authors: Ruzek William
Published: December 2014

Sustainability typically involves the balancing of three major factors: the economy, the environment, and some notion of equity. Though the economy is already a key aspect, the recognition of the informal economy, seems to be absent from the many possible permutations of these three. This paper will explore the various aspects of the informal economy and how it can make a considerable impact on achieving a more sustainable future. Specifically, this paper focuses on how the informal economy can encourage the sustainable use of goods, while offering an alternative to the regulated market economy. By supporting the informal sectors such as farmers markets, street vendors and non-market activities, a shift away from a car-dominated society and singular economic trajectory can begin. The informal sector can provide, social capital, promote local economies, create jobs and provide the need economic shift toward a sustainable future.
Prediction of Biomass Production and Nutrient Uptake in Land Application Using Partial Least Squares Regression Analysis
Authors: Tzanakakis Vasileios , Mauromoustakos Andy , Angelakis Andreas
Published: December 2014

Partial Least Squares Regression (PLSR) can integrate a great number of variables and overcome collinearity problems, a fact that makes it suitable for intensive agronomical practices such as land application. In the present study a PLSR model was developed to predict important management goals, including biomass production and nutrient recovery (i.e., nitrogen and phosphorus), associated with treatment potential, environmental impacts, and economic benefits. Effluent loading and a considerable number of soil parameters commonly monitored in effluent irrigated lands were considered as potential predictor variables during the model development. All data were derived from a three year field trial including plantations of four different plant species (Acacia cyanophylla, Eucalyptus camaldulensis, Populus nigra, and Arundo donax), irrigated with pre-treated domestic effluent. PLSR method was very effective despite the small sample size and the wide nature of data set (with many highly correlated inputs and several highly correlated responses). Through PLSR method the number of initial predictor variables was reduced and only several variables were remained and included in the final PLSR model. The important input variables maintained were: Effluent loading, electrical conductivity (EC), available phosphorus (Olsen-P), Na+, Ca2+, Mg2+, K2+, SAR, and NO3−-N. Among these variables, effluent loading, EC, and nitrates had the greater contribution to the final PLSR model. PLSR is highly compatible with intensive agronomical practices such as land application, in which a large number of highly collinear and noisy input variables is monitored to assess plant species performance and to detect impacts on the environment.
A carbohydrate approach for the formal total synthesis of (−)-aspergillide C
Authors: Srihari Pabbaraja , Hari Krishna Namballa , Sridhar Ydhyam , Kamal Ahmed
Published: December 2014

An enantioselective formal total synthesis of aspergillide C is accomplished using commercially available tri-O-acetyl-D-galactal employing a Ferrier-type C-glycosylation, utilizing a Trost hydrosilylation and protodesilylation as key reactions.
VARIABILITY OF HMA CHARACTERISTICS AND ITS INFLUENCE ON PAY ADJUSTMENT
Authors: Praticò Filippo Giammaria , Casciano Antonio
Published: December 2014

The goal of this paper is to formalize and validate a model in order to determine a pay adjustment on the basis of mechanical and functional performance of transportation infrastructures. A model to determine the pay adjustment based on life expectancy of a pavement and the variability of its main properties was formulated. Five different paths and points of view are used in order to obtain information on model suitability and robustness. An algorithm has been proposed to estimate a pay adjustment (PA, negative or positive), based on life cycle cost analysis, when both structural and non-structural deficiencies/surplus in characteristics are detected. The five different methodologies, used for deriving PA, demonstrate the validity of the model in which the PA depends on both position and dispersion measures. It has been demonstrated that the model can help in analysing a project and construction management under a common framework. Analyses and validation demonstrate that the proposed model can efficiently overcome typical problems in PA determination and in contract administration, where decisions based upon objective and sound criteria are needed. Both practitioners and researchers are expected to benefit from the outcomes of this study.
LABORATORY INVESTIGATION INTO THE EFFECTS OF FIBERS ON BITUMINOUS MIXTURES
Authors: Toraldo Emanuele , Mariani Edoardo , Malvicini Sara
Published: December 2014

The growing need for high quality bituminous mixtures in road construction, rehabilitation and maintenance is currently satisfied by means of techniques to produce polymer-modified bitumen, or by the addition of additives to mixtures during in-plant mixing operations. A rigorous rheological approach in the study of the bitumen modification process enables researchers to rationally compare different modifying agents and to evaluate their relative efficiency for specific field applications. As far as additives are concerned, the binder is not the only element involved in the evaluation; both binding mastics and bituminous mixtures must be evaluated to get a complete understanding of the characteristics. Moreover, the advantages that may stem from the use of fibers should be carefully taken into consideration since they may offer alternative strategies for the enhancement of bituminous mixtures. As a result of these observations, the authors have devised an experimental research project focused on the analysis of the effects of different types and dosages of cellulose-based fibers on the main performance-related properties of bituminous road materials: compaction properties, volumetric characteristics and mechanical performance. This paper provides an overview of the results obtained and some details of the specific protocols followed during the research project.
PERCEPTIONS OF AUTOMATED DATA COLLECTION TECHNOLOGY USE IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY
Authors: Sardroud Javad Majrouhi
Published: December 2014

Research projects have indicated development of several technical solutions for the management of construction activities. However, little attention has been paid to the issues regarding the adoption and implementation of these techniques. This study investigates the perception of Automated Data Collection (ADC) technology usage in construction, and identifies reasons why available ADC technology has not been fully introduced in construction. A comprehensive literature review carried out in this research identifies barriers to the adoption of ADC technology. In total, 19 key factors are identified as barriers for adoption of ADC technology in construction, and validated through an international questionnaire survey. According to the results, process related factors play an essential role in adopting automated data acquisition technologies in the construction industry. In order to form the backbone of technology adoption in real scenarios, and to identify driving factors in this field, this paper also introduces an implementation framework for ADC technology in the construction industry.
EQUILATERAL TRIANGLE AND THE HOLY TRINITY
Authors: Lenartowicz J. Krzysztof
Published: December 2014

The paper deals with architectural space designed and/or built on an equilateral triangular plan, and designated for a sacred function. The author discusses the exceptional features of equilateral triangle in comparison to other central layouts. The visual attractiveness of this geometrical shape is stressed. The architectural space built on this figure has a strong semantic potential in Christian culture in Europe, since a sacred object using such a shape is associated in an easy and unambiguous manner, which also points to the popularity of patrocinium of the Holy Trinity, as well as that of the Virgin and Child with St. Anne, among the analysed structures. A comprehensive catalogue is presented of sacred objects based on an equilateral triangular plan, which have been identified in the European culture area, and were created in the period between the 12th century and contemporary times. At the nexus of the Eastern and Western Church, which differentiate their teachings in terms of interpreting the Holy Trinity (the problem of Filioque), the patrocinium and the erection of temples in the form discussed here has an exceptional meaning, especially if these shrines belong to the Uniate Church, which merges Catholicism and the Orthodox church. The types of the corner detailing have been analysed.
Gumperz et la justice sociale
Authors: Heller Monica
Published: December 2014

L’œuvre de John Gumperz s’est caractérisée par une préoccupation pour la justice sociale. Cet article retrace la façon dont cette préoccupation s’est manifestée, par le biais de concepts comme la « situation-clé » ; et ce, dans des domaines de recherche axés sur les moments de sélection sociale dans les puissantes institutions de la nation. Il passe en revue certaines critiques faites à l’approche de Gumperz et portant sur la relation entre les différences sociales et les inégalités sociales, et certaines des réponses productives à ces critiques qui font de l’œuvre de Gumperz une contribution majeure à la sociolinguistique critique.
Place des langues sacrées chez des immigrants indiens en Europe : quelles compétences, quels rôles et quels usages ?
Authors: Haque Shahzaman
Published: December 2014

À ce jour, peu de recherches ont été effectuées sur la place des langues sacrées au sein du foyer dans une perspective sociolinguistique. Cet article concerne une étude empirique à ce sujet chez les immigrants indiens installés dans quatre pays d’Europe que sont la France, la Suède, la Norvège et la Finlande. Les langues sacrées, que sont l’arabe coranique, le sanscrit et le pendjabi ancien, n’ont été déclarées par aucun des enquêtés, mais leur présence a été révélée grâce aux instruments ethnographiques déployés sur le terrain. En fonction de la religion, de son importance au sein du foyer et selon le pays d’immigration, chaque famille mène, à l’égard de la deuxième génération, une politique linguistique différente de transmission des langues sacrées ainsi que de leurs valeurs. Les compétences dans les langues de culte, aussi minimes soient-elles, permettent, pour chacun des membres des familles immigrantes, de communiquer avec son dieu, de marquer sa propre identité au sein d’une société, mais aussi de créer et d’élargir son réseau social.
La construction des discours vocationnels comme support de légitimité dans le champ de l'intervention sociale
Authors: Iori Ruggero , Nicourd Sandrine
Published: December 2014

La construction des discours vocationnels, mettant en jeu des croyances, opère principalement par trois registres de socialisation : la trajectoire biographique, la formation et les organisations du travail. Ces trois registres s’entrecroisent et donnent source à différentes formes de justification et d’ancrage à ces discours. L’engagement est fort dans le métier lorsqu’il y a convergence dans les relais biographique, professionnel et organisationnel. Or, actuellement, il y aurait un signe de reconfiguration des ressorts des modes d’implication. Les différents discours vocationnels sont plus liés à des raisons biographiques ou à des personnalités marquantes. Les référentiels politiques, organisationnels ou sociaux apparaissent peu explicitement pour justifier l’action.
An Alphabetical Mnemonic Teaching Strategy for Constructing Nursing Care Plans
Authors: Hussein Mohamed Toufic El , Jakubec Sonya L.
Published: December 2014

The strategy of mnemonics has long been used as an aid to learning biology, physiology, pathophysiology, and health assessment in nursing. An application of an alphabetical mnemonics strategy to teaching and learning nursing processes and constructing care plans has been explored for patients with increased intracranial pressure (ICP), hepatic failure, and chronic renal failure. A specific application of this strategy for teaching care planning for patients with ICP is described. Student feedback appears to be positive, and reviews of the teaching–learning experience have received approval in students’ evaluation of instruction. The mnemonics strategy presented has the potential for applicability and transferability to other areas of nursing care planning and other course contexts. [
J Nurs Educ
. 2015;54(1):57–59.]
DESIGN OF PORTABLE EPLDALTERA MAX EPM719SQC160-7 AND DSPTMS320V5410PGE APPLICATION FOR NON-INVASIVE IN-EXTRA CRANIAL ARTERIES VASCULAR SYSTEM
Authors: Kim Whi-Young , Kim Jun-Hyoung
Published: December 2014

The incidence of brain diseases, such as dementia, Parkinson's disease and motor nerve disorder, has increased since 1980s. According to a survey conducted on the incidence in England, US, Japan, Germany and Spain, the dementia death rate, including Alzheimer's disease, had increased by three times for men. The death rate from brain disease, such as Parkinson's disease and motor nerve disorder, has increased by 50% for both men and women. Although this increase can be assumed to be caused by changes in DNA when observing from a genetic perspective, it would take hundreds of years to confirm this. Therefore, environmental factors are regarded as the actual cause. In this situation of a rapidly increasing aging population, the prevention of senile and brain diseases is considered the most important measure because treatment is difficult and the after-effects are severe. A cerebrovascular ultrasonogram, which can frequently allow a self-inspection of the blood vessels for the early detection of the risk factors for disease, is actualized to model with a characteristic test and has shown performance. Supplementation of the system can facilitate an application in the measurement of brain disorder patients with other diseases in the future. This study examined the atypical characteristics through the production of a prototype.
NOVEL APPROACHES OF EEG SIGNAL CLASSIFICATION USING IMF BANDWIDTH AND DCT FREQUENCY
Authors: Parvez Mohammad Zavid , Paul Manoranjan
Published: December 2014

Electroencephalogram (EEG) is a record of ongoing electrical signal to represent the human brain activity. It has great potential for the diagnosis to treatment of mental disorder and brain diseases such as epileptic seizure. Features extraction and classification is a crucial task to detect the stage of ictal (i.e. seizure period) and interictal (i.e. period between seizures) EEG signals for the treatment and precaution of the patient. However, existing seizure and non-seizure feature extraction techniques are not good enough for the classification of ictal and interictal EEG signals considering their non-abrupt phenomena and inconsistency in different brain locations. In this paper, we present new approaches for feature extraction using high-frequency components from discrete cosine transformation (DCT) and intrinsic mode function (IMF) extracted from empirical mode decomposition (EMD). These features are then used as an input to least square-support vector machine (LV-SVM) to classify ictal and interictal EEG signals. Experimental results show that the proposed methods outperform the existing state-of-the-art method for better classification in terms of sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy with greater consistence of ictal and interictal period of epilepsy for benchmark dataset from different brain locations.
Differential Expression of the Transcription Factor ARID3a in Lupus Patient Hematopoietic Progenitor Cells
Authors: Ratliff Michelle L. , Ward Julie M. , Merrill Joan T. , James Judith A. , Webb Carol F.
Published: December 2014

Although hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (HSPCs) are used for transplantation, characterization of the multiple subsets within this population in humans has lagged behind similar studies in mice. We found that expression of the DNA-binding protein, ARID3a, in mouse stem cells was important for normal development of hematopoietic lineages; however, progenitors expressing ARID3a in humans have not been defined. We previously showed increased numbers of ARID3a+ B cells in nearly half of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients, and total numbers of ARID3a+ B cells were associated with increased disease severity. Because expression of ARID3a in those SLE patients occurred throughout all B cell subsets, we hypothesized that ARID3a expression in patient HSPCs might also be increased relative to expression in healthy controls. Our data now show that ARID3a expression is not limited to any defined subset of HSPCs in either healthy controls or SLE patients. Numbers of ARID3a+ HSPCs in SLE patients were increased over numbers of ARID3a+ cells in healthy controls. Although all SLE-derived HSPCs exhibited poor colony formation in vitro compared with controls, SLE HSPCs with high numbers of ARID3a+ cells yielded increased numbers of cells expressing the early progenitor marker, CD34. SLE HSPCs with high numbers of ARID3a+ cells also more readily generated autoantibody-producing cells than HSPCs with lower levels of ARID3a in a humanized mouse model. These data reveal new functions for ARID3a in early hematopoiesis and suggest that knowledge regarding ARID3a levels in HSPCs could be informative for applications requiring transplantation of those cells.
Atg7 Enhances Host Defense against Infection via Downregulation of Superoxide but Upregulation of Nitric Oxide
Authors: Li Xuefeng , Ye Yan , Zhou Xikun , Huang Canhua , Wu Min
Published: December 2014

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic bacterium that can cause serious infection in immunocompromised individuals. Although autophagy may augment immune responses against P. aeruginosa infection in macrophages, the critical components and their role of autophagy in host defense are largely unknown. In this study, we show that P. aeruginosa infection–induced autophagy activates JAK2/STAT1α and increases NO production. Knocking down Atg7 resulted in increased IFN-γ release, excessive reactive oxygen species, and increased Src homology-2 domain-containing phosphatase 2 activity, which led to lowered phosphorylation of JAK2/STAT1α and subdued expression of NO synthase 2 (NOS2). In addition, we demonstrated the physiological relevance of dysregulated NO under Atg7 deficiency as atg7−/− mice were more susceptible to P. aeruginosa infection with increased mortality and severe lung injury than wild-type mice. Furthermore, P. aeruginosa–infected atg7−/− mice exhibited increased oxidation but decreased bacterial clearance in the lung and other organs compared with wild-type mice. Mechanistically, atg7 deficiency suppressed NOS2 activity by downmodulating JAK2/STAT1α, leading to decreased NO both in vitro and in vivo. Taken together, these findings revealed that the JAK2/STAT1α/NOS2 dysfunction leads to dysregulated immune responses and worsened disease phenotypes.
Comparing Risk Factors for Primary Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis and Primary Drug-Susceptible Tuberculosis in Jiangsu Province, China: A Matched-Pairs Case-Control Study
Authors: Li Xin-Xu , Lu Wei , Zu Rong-Qiang , Zhu Li-Mei , Yang Hai-Tao , Chen Cheng , Shen Tao , Zeng Guang , Jiang Shi-Wen , Zhang Hui , Wang Li-Xia
Published: December 2014

To find out the reason why some people get infected directly with multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB), whereas some get infected with drug-susceptible tuberculosis (DS-TB), a 1:1:1 matched-pairs case-control study was conducted to identify predictors associated with primary MDR-TB and primary DS-TB against the control in Jiangsu Province, China. All three groups were geographically matched (by neighborhood) and matched on sex and age (±5 years). In total, 110 participants were enrolled in each of three matched groups. Conditional logistic regression analysis showed that predictors independently associated with primary MDR-TB were illiteracy or primary school education, annual per capita income ≤ US$2,000, per capita living space < 40 m2, and interval ≥ 7 days of eating fruits; predictors with primary DS-TB were body mass index ≤ 20 and feeling higher life pressure. This indicates that there are different predictors impacting the transmission range of primary MDR-TB and primary DS-TB in the general population.
An Autochthonous Case of Severe Plasmodium knowlesi Malaria in Thailand
Authors: Nakaviroj Surat , Kobasa Teerayot , Teeranaipong Phairote , Putaporntip Chaturong , Jongwutiwes Somchai
Published: December 2014

A 58-year-old Thai man was infected with Plasmodium knowlesi in Chantaburi Province, eastern Thailand. In addition to pyrexia, the patient developed hypotension, renal failure, jaundice, and severe thrombocytopenia. The parasitemia at the time of admission was 16.67% or ∼503,400 parasites/μL. With artesunate treatment and supportive care, the patient recovered uneventfully. The occurrence of complicated knowlesi malaria in a low-endemic area underscores the risk of high morbidity from this simian malaria.
Tropospheric ozone and its precursors from the urban to the global scale from air quality to short-lived climate forcer
Authors: Monks P. S. , Archibald A. T. , Colette A. , Cooper O. , Coyle M. , Derwent R. , Fowler D. , Granier C. , Law K. S. , Stevenson D. S. , Tarasova O. , Thouret V. , von Schneidemesser E. , Sommariva R. , Wild O. , Williams M. L.
Published: December 2014

Abstract. Ozone holds a certain fascination in atmospheric science. It is ubiquitous in the atmosphere, central to tropospheric oxidation chemistry, yet harmful to human and ecosystem health as well as being an important greenhouse gas. It is not emitted into the atmosphere but is a by-product of the very oxidation chemistry it largely initiates. Much effort is focussed on the reduction of surface levels of ozone owing to its health impacts but recent efforts to achieve reductions in exposure at a country scale have proved difficult to achieve due to increases in background ozone at the zonal hemispheric scale. There is also a growing realisation that the role of ozone as a short-lived climate pollutant could be important in integrated air quality climate-change mitigation. This review examines current understanding of the processes regulating tropospheric ozone at global to local scales from both measurements and models. It takes the view that knowledge across the scales is important for dealing with air quality and climate change in a synergistic manner.
Sunkoshi landslide in Nepal and its possible impact in India: A remote sensing based appraisal
Authors: Champati ray P. K. , Chattoraj S. L.
Published: December 2014

Abstract. A devastating landslide that killed at least 156 people occurred on the right bank of Sunkoshi river at village Jure, 70 km northeast of Kathmandu in Nepal. It not only affected hydroelectric projects in the near vicinity but also had potential to flood large tracts of downstream area in Nepal and north Bihar. Timely action by Nepal Army and Indian authorities have averted a major disaster but satellite data analysis (using IRS Resourcesat-2 LISS IV, WorldView-2, RISAT-1, Radarsat-2 etc.) reveal that the site was easily identifiable on satellite image as a potential landslide zone that has been affected by landslide related mass wasting in the past. It was reactivated and intermittently slided during 2000–2012 and finally when the whole mass came down on 2nd August 2014 pushing materials up to the opposite slope, a landslide dammed lake was formed on Sunkoshi river which extended up to a distance of 2.5–3 km as observed on 5–6th August on satellite images and the volume was estimated to be around 8.26–10.5 MCM, which needs to be released safely to avert any further disaster. Attempt is made to simulate the event to assess the run out and debris thickness using process based model. Satellite observation (using IRS Resourcesat-2 LISS IV, WorldView-2, RISAT-1, Radarsat-2 etc.), aided by hydrological data obtained through telemetry immensely helped to assess the landslide dimension, lake extent, volume, discharge, water level and travel time of water in Sunkoshi river. But the question remains how to manage the large amount of debris that Sunkoshi brings to its downstream areas causing river aggradations that eventually increases the flood risk. In such situations, the most immediate landslide remedial measures are four fold: monitoring of landslide, dam and reservoir using remote sensing and hydrological observations, controlled release of water, water discharge management at Kosi barrage and mechanism/preparedness for evacuation. The Sunkoshi landslide has brought to forefront the core issue of analysing mass wasting in all major river valleys outside Indian territory that can pose risk to Indian population. In this regard, it is needless to say that remotely sensed images through Indian Remote Sensing satellites and many other satellites can provide most crucial information in short time.
A Spatio-temporal disaggregation method to derive time series of Normalized Difference Vegetation Index and Land Surface Temperature at fine spatial resolution
Authors: Bindhu V. M. , Narasimhan B.
Published: December 2014

Abstract. Estimation of evapotranspiration (ET) from remote sensing based energy balance models have evolved as a promising tool in the field of water resources management. Performance of energy balance models and reliability of ET estimates is decided by the availability of remote sensing data at high spatial and temporal resolutions. However huge tradeoff in the spatial and temporal resolution of satellite images act as major constraints in deriving ET at fine spatial and temporal resolution using remote sensing based energy balance models. Hence a need exists to derive finer resolution data from the available coarse resolution imagery, which could be applied to deliver ET estimates at scales to the range of individual fields. The current study employed a spatio-temporal disaggregation method to derive fine spatial resolution (60 m) images of NDVI by integrating the information in terms of crop phenology derived from time series of MODIS NDVI composites with fine resolution NDVI derived from a single AWiFS data acquired during the season. The disaggregated images of NDVI at fine resolution were used to disaggregate MODIS LST data at 960 m resolution to the scale of Landsat LST data at 60 m resolution. The robustness of the algorithm was verified by comparison of the disaggregated NDVI and LST with concurrent NDVI and LST images derived from Landsat ETM+. The results showed that disaggregated NDVI and LST images compared well with the concurrent NDVI and LST derived from ETM+ at fine resolution with a high Nash Sutcliffe Efficiency and low Root Mean Square Error. The proposed disaggregation method proves promising in generating time series of ET at fine resolution for effective water management.
Automated Burned Area Delineation Using IRS AWiFS satellite data
Authors: Singhal J. , Kiranchand T. R. , Rajashekar G. , Jha C. S.
Published: December 2014

Abstract. India is endowed with a rich forest cover. Over 21% of country’s area is covered by forest of varied composition and structure. Out of 67.5 million ha of Indian forests, about 55% of the forest cover is being subjected to fires each year, causing an economic loss of over 440 crores of rupees apart from other ecological effects. Studies carried out by Forest Survey of India reveals that on an average 53% forest cover of the country is prone to fires and 6.17% of the forests are prone to severe fire damage. Forest Survey of India in a countrywide study in 1995 estimated that about 1.45 million hectares of forest are affected by fire annually. According to Forest Protection Division of the Ministry of Environment and Forest (GOI), 3.73 million ha of forests are affected by fire annually in India. Karnataka is one of the southern states of India extending in between latitude 110 30' and 180 25' and longitudes 740 10' and 780 35'. As per Forest Survey of India's State of Forest Report (SFR) 2009, of the total geographic area of 191791sq.km, the state harbors 38284 sq.km of recorded forest area. Major forest types occurring in the study area are tropical evergreen and semi-evergreen, tropical moist and dry deciduous forests along with tropical scrub and dry grasslands. Typical forest fire season in the study area is from February–May with a peak during March-April every year, though sporadic fire episodes occur in other parts of the year sq.km, the state harbors 38284 sq.km of recorded forest area. Major forest types occurring in the study area are tropical evergreen and semi-evergreen, tropical moist and dry deciduous forests along with tropical scrub and dry grasslands. Significant area of the deciduous forests, scrub and grasslands is prone to recurrent forest fires every year. In this study we evaluate the feasibility of burned area mapping over a large area (Karnataka state, India) using a semi-automated detection algorithm applied to medium resolution multi spectral data from the IRS AWiFS sensor. The method is intended to be used by non-specialist users for diagnostic rapid burnt area mapping.
Remote Sensing Based Analysis of the Role of Land Use/Land Cover on Surface Temperature and Temporal Changes in Temperature; a Case Study of Ajmer District, Rajasthan
Authors: Hussain A. , Bhalla P. , Palria S.
Published: December 2014

Abstract. An attempt has been made in this research to analyze temporal variations in surface temperature in Ajmer District Rajasthan. The research is carried out to assess the relationship between the land surface temperatures (LST) and land cover (LC) changes both in quantitative and qualitative ways in Ajmer District area using Landsat TM/ETM+ data over the period 1989 to 2013.in this period we used three temporal TM/ETM data 1989, 2001 and 2013. Remote sensing of Land surface temperature (LST) has traditionally used the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) as the indicator of vegetation abundance to estimate the land surface temperature (LST)–vegetation relationship. Unsupervised classification methods have been taken to prepare the LC map. LST is derived from the thermal band of Landsat TM/ETM+ using the calibration of spectral radiance and emissivity correction of remote sensing. NDVI is derived from the NIR & RED Band using image enhancement technique (Indices). Arc-GIS have been utilized for data visualization. This procedure allowed analyzing whether LULC classes match LST classes. However, the results of such overlaying are hard to interpret. LST and LULC maps of these areas give the understanding on how the classes and corresponding LST have changed from one date to the other. Another option is to collect statistical data. it was impossible to calculate linear regression between LULC map and LST map. A solution to that matter is to use Normalized Vegetation Index (NDVI) instead of LULC classification result.
Ruim baan voor co-mediation
Authors: van der Lans Lisette , van Teijlingen Anneke
Published: December 2014

Make way for co-mediation

How to make co-mediation to a success. About managing expectations, securing confidentiality and clarifying the role of the mediator and co-mediator to everybody involved. Many very good examples of co-mediation can be found in neighbourhood mediation, cross border mediation in child obduction cases, mediation in local government and in a normal, general mediation office.

Reasons to choose for co-mediation are:

four eyes see more than two;

you can give each other feedback;

a starting mediator can gain experience without any risk for the client;

when emotions get high, parties can be split up.

Reasons not to choose for co-mediation are:

lower revenues for the mediator;

problems with planning.
The Stem Cells Translational Medicine Community
Authors: Atala Anthony
Published: December 2014

Editor-in-Chief Anthony Atala reflects on the achievements of the journal's third year of publication.