bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multidirectional Pointing Input Using a Hardware Keyboard
Authors: Lee Byungjoo , Park Haesun , Bang Hyunwoo
Published: December 2013

Herein, we propose a novel method to create multidirectional and multilevel pointing input using only a hardware keyboard. The relative position vectors among pressed keys are calculated into an input vector. The pointing performance of this method is evaluated based on the ISO 9241‐9 recommendations. We find that the performance of the method is sufficient to create moderate pointing input, as the measurement of the throughput is close to that of a touchpad, as measured in past studies also using the ISO 9241‐9 recommendations.
In‐Vehicle AR‐HUD System to Provide Driving‐Safety Information
Authors: Park Hye Sun , Park Min Woo , Won Kwang Hee , Kim Kyong‐Ho , Jung Soon Ki
Published: December 2013

Augmented reality (AR) is currently being applied actively to commercial products, and various types of intelligent AR systems combining both the Global Positioning System and computer‐vision technologies are being developed and commercialized. This paper suggests an in‐vehicle head‐up display (HUD) system that is combined with AR technology. The proposed system recognizes driving‐safety information and offers it to the driver. Unlike existing HUD systems, the system displays information registered to the driver's view and is developed for the robust recognition of obstacles under bad weather conditions. The system is composed of four modules: a ground obstacle detection module, an object decision module, an object recognition module, and a display module. The recognition ratio of the driving‐safety information obtained by the proposed AR‐HUD system is about 73%, and the system has a recognition speed of about 15 fps for both vehicles and pedestrians.
Game Bot Detection Approach Based on Behavior Analysis and Consideration of Various Play Styles
Authors: Chung Yeounoh , Park Chang‐yong , Kim Noo‐ri , Cho Hana , Yoon Taebok , Lee Hunjoo , Lee Jee‐Hyong
Published: December 2013

An approach for game bot detection in massively multiplayer online role‐playing games (MMORPGs) based on the analysis of game playing behavior is proposed. Since MMORPGs are large‐scale games, users can play in various ways. This variety in playing behavior makes it hard to detect game bots based on play behaviors. To cope with this problem, the proposed approach observes game playing behaviors of users and groups them by their behavioral similarities. Then, it develops a local bot detection model for each player group. Since the locally optimized models can more accurately detect game bots within each player group, the combination of those models brings about overall improvement. Behavioral features are selected and developed to accurately detect game bots with the low resolution data, considering common aspects of MMORPG playing. Through the experiment with the real data from a game currently in service, it is shown that the proposed local model approach yields more accurate results.
Fast Random‐Forest‐Based Human Pose Estimation Using a Multi‐scale and Cascade Approach
Authors: Chang Ju Yong , Nam Seung Woo
Published: December 2013

Since the recent launch of Microsoft Xbox Kinect, research on 3D human pose estimation has attracted a lot of attention in the computer vision community. Kinect shows impressive estimation accuracy and real‐time performance on massive graphics processing unit hardware. In this paper, we focus on further reducing the computation complexity of the existing state‐of‐the‐art method to make the real‐time 3D human pose estimation functionality applicable to devices with lower computing power. As a result, we propose two simple approaches to speed up the random‐forest‐based human pose estimation method. In the original algorithm, the random forest classifier is applied to all pixels of the segmented human depth image. We first use a multi‐scale approach to reduce the number of such calculations. Second, the complexity of the random forest classification itself is decreased by the proposed cascade approach. Experiment results for real data show that our method is effective and works in real time (30 fps) without any parallelization efforts.
Spectrum‐Based Color Reproduction Algorithm for Makeup Simulation of 3D Facial Avatar
Authors: Jang In‐Su , Kim Jae Woo , You Ju‐Yeon , Kim Jin Seo
Published: December 2013

Various simulation applications for hair, clothing, and makeup of a 3D avatar can provide more useful information to users before they select a hairstyle, clothes, or cosmetics. To enhance their reality, the shapes, textures, and colors of the avatars should be similar to those found in the real world. For a more realistic 3D avatar color reproduction, this paper proposes a spectrum‐based color reproduction algorithm and color management process with respect to the implementation of the algorithm. First, a makeup color reproduction model is estimated by analyzing the measured spectral reflectance of the skin samples before and after applying the makeup. To implement the model for a makeup simulation system, the color management process controls all color information of the 3D facial avatar during the 3D scanning, modeling, and rendering stages. During 3D scanning with a multicamera system, spectrum‐based camera calibration and characterization are performed to estimate the spectrum data. During the virtual makeup process, the spectrum data of the 3D facial avatar is modified based on the makeup color reproduction model. Finally, during 3D rendering, the estimated spectrum is converted into RGB data through gamut mapping and display characterization.
Stable atmospheric methane in the 2000s: key-role of emissions from natural wetlands
Authors: Pison I. , Ringeval B. , Bousquet P. , Prigent C. , Papa F.
Published: December 2013

Abstract. Two atmospheric inversions (one fine-resolved and one process-discriminating) and a process-based model for land surface exchanges are brought together to analyse the variations of methane emissions from 1990 to 2009. A focus is put on the role of natural wetlands and on the years 2000–2006, a period of stable atmospheric concentrations. From 1990 to 2000, the top-down and bottom-up visions agree on the time-phasing of global total and wetland emission anomalies. The process-discriminating inversion indicates that wetlands dominate the time-variability of methane emissions (90% of the total variability). The contribution of tropical wetlands to the anomalies is found to be large, especially during the post-Pinatubo years (global negative anomalies with minima between −41 and −19 Tg yr−1 in 1992) and during the alternate 1997–1998 El-Niño/1998–1999 La-Niña (maximal anomalies in tropical regions between +16 and +22 Tg yr−1 for the inversions and anomalies due to tropical wetlands between +12 and +17 Tg yr−1 for the process-based model). Between 2000 and 2006, during the stagnation of methane concentrations in the atmosphere, the top-down and bottom-up approaches agree on the fact that South America is the main region contributing to anomalies in natural wetland emissions, but they disagree on the sign and magnitude of the flux trend in the Amazon basin. A negative trend (−3.9 ± 1.3 Tg yr−1) is inferred by the process-discriminating inversion whereas a positive trend (+1.3 ± 0.3 Tg yr−1) is found by the process model. Although processed-based models have their own caveats and may not take into account all processes, the positive trend found by the B-U approach is considered more likely because it is a robust feature of the process-based model, consistent with analysed precipitations and the satellite-derived extent of inundated areas. On the contrary, the surface-data based inversions lack constraints for South America. This result suggests the need for a re-interpretation of the large increase found in anthropogenic methane inventories after 2000.
Development of a parameterization scheme for calculating dry deposition velocity of fine, coarse and giant particles
Authors: Zhang L. , He Z.
Published: December 2013

Abstract. A parameterization scheme is developed for calculating bulk dry deposition velocity (Vd) of fine (PM2.5-particles having a diameter of ≤ 2.5 μm), coarse (PM2.5–10-particles having a diameter of 2.5–10 μm), and giant (PM10+-particles having a diameter of > 10 μm) atmospheric particles. The parameterization scheme is developed from an empirical fit of Vd data calculated using the size-resolved Vd scheme of Zhang et~al. (2001) with assumed lognormal size distributions of PM2.5, PM2.5–10 and PM10+. In the new scheme, the surface deposition velocity (Vds) is parameterized as a simple linear function of friction velocity (u*) for PM2.5 and as a polynomial function of u* for both PM2.5–10 and PM10+ over all the 26 land use categories (LUCs). An adjustment factor as an exponential function of u* and leaf area index (LAI) is also applied to Vds of PM2.5–10 and PM10+ over nine of the 26 LUCs that have variable LAI. Constant gravitational settling velocities are provided for PM2.5, PM2.5–10 and PM10+. Aerodynamic resistance between a reference height and the surface can be calculated using available analytical formulas from literature. The bulk Vd of PM2.5, PM2.5–10 and PM10+ at the reference height can then be calculated by combining the gravitational settling velocity, aerodynamic resistance and the parameterized Vds. The new parameterization scheme agrees reasonably well with the original size-resolved scheme and provides an alternative approach for calculating Vd of fine, coarse and giant particles. Vd of any particle species can be simply estimated using this scheme as long as the mass fraction in fine, coarse and giant particles are known or can be assumed.
Understanding the contributions of aerosol properties and parameterization discrepancies to droplet number variability in a Global Climate Model
Authors: Morales Betancourt R. , Nenes A.
Published: December 2013

Abstract. Aerosol indirect effects in climate models strongly depend on the representation of the aerosol activation process. In this study, we assess the process level differences across activation parameterizations that contribute to droplet number uncertainty by using the adjoints of the Abdul-Razzak and Ghan (2000) and Fountoukis and Nenes (2005) droplet activation parameterizations in the framework of the Community Atmospheric Model version 5.1 (CAM5.1). The adjoint sensitivities of Nd to relevant input parameters are used to: (i) unravel the spatially resolved contribution of aerosol number, mass, and chemical composition to changes in $N_\\mathrm{d}$ between present day and pre-industrial simulations; (ii) identify the key variables responsible for the differences in Nd fields and aerosol indirect effect estimates when different activation schemes are used within the same modeling framework. The sensitivities are computed online at minimal computational cost. Changes in aerosol number and aerosol mass concentrations were found to contribute to Nd differences much more strongly than chemical composition effects. The main sources of discrepancy between the activation parameterization considered were the treatment of the water uptake by coarse mode particles, and the sensitivity of the parameterized Nd accumulation mode aerosol geometric mean diameter. These two factors explain the different predictions of Nd over land and over oceans when these parameterizations are employed. Discrepancies in the sensitivity to aerosol size are responsible for an exaggerated response to aerosol volume changes over heavily polluted regions. Because these regions are collocated with areas of deep clouds their impact on short wave cloud forcing is amplified through liquid water path changes. Application of the adjoint-sensitivities illustrated the importance of primary organic matter emissions in controlling the droplet number concentration changes in several areas. The same framework is also utilized to efficiently explore droplet number uncertainty attributable to hygroscopicity parameter of organic aerosol (primary and secondary). Comparisons between the parameterization-derived sensitivities of droplet number against predictions with detailed numerical simulations of the activation process were performed to validate the physical consistency of the adjoint sensitivities.
Ozone vegetation damage effects on gross primary productivity in the United States
Authors: Yue X. , Unger N.
Published: December 2013

Abstract. We apply an off-line process-based vegetation model to assess the impacts of ozone (O3) vegetation damage on gross primary productivity (GPP) in the United States (US) during the past decade (1998–2007). The model's GPP simulation is evaluated at 40 sites of the North American Carbon Program (NACP) synthesis. The ecosystem-scale model version reproduces interannual variability and seasonality of GPP at most sites, especially in croplands. Inclusion of the O3 damage impact decreases biases of simulated GPP at most of the NACP sites. The simulation with the O3 damage effect reproduces 64% of the observed variance in summer GPP and 45% on the annual average. Based on a regional gridded simulation over the US, summertime average O3-free GPP is 5.9 g C m−2 day−1 (9.1 g C m−2 day−1 in the East of 95° W and 3.7 g C m−2 day−1 in the West). O3 damage decreases GPP by 3–7% on average in the eastern US and leads to significant decreases of 13–17% in east coast hotspots. Sensitivity simulations show that a reduction of 25% in surface O3 concentration alleviates the average GPP damages to 1–3%, suggesting a promising prospect for ecosystem health following the emission control.
Stimulation of microbial nitrogen cycling in aquatic ecosystems by benthic macrofauna: mechanisms and environmental implications
Authors: Stief P.
Published: December 2013

Abstract. Invertebrate animals that live at the bottom of aquatic ecosystems (i.e., benthic macrofauna) are important mediators between nutrients in the water column and microbes in the benthos. The presence of benthic macrofauna stimulates microbial nutrient dynamics through different types of animal–microbe interactions, which potentially affect the trophic status of aquatic ecosystems. This review contrasts three types of animal–microbe interactions in the benthos of aquatic ecosystems: (i) ecosystem engineering, (ii) grazing, and (iii) symbiosis. Their specific contributions to the turnover of fixed nitrogen (mainly nitrate and ammonium) and the emission of the greenhouse gas nitrous oxide are evaluated. Published data indicate that ecosystem engineering by sediment-burrowing macrofauna stimulates benthic nitrification and denitrification, which together allows fixed nitrogen removal. However, the release of ammonium from sediments is enhanced more strongly than the sedimentary uptake of nitrate. Ecosystem engineering by reef-building macrofauna increases nitrogen retention and ammonium concentrations in shallow aquatic ecosystems, but allows organic nitrogen removal through harvesting. Grazing by macrofauna on benthic microbes apparently has small or neutral effects on nitrogen cycling. Animal–microbe symbioses provide abundant and distinct benthic compartments for a multitude of nitrogen-cycle pathways. Recent studies reveal that ecosystem engineering, grazing, and symbioses of benthic macrofauna significantly enhance nitrous oxide emission from shallow aquatic ecosystems. The beneficial effect of benthic macrofauna on fixed nitrogen removal through coupled nitrification–denitrification can thus be offset by the concurrent release of (i) ammonium that stimulates aquatic primary production and (ii) nitrous oxide that contributes to global warming. Overall, benthic macrofauna intensifies the coupling between benthos, pelagial, and atmosphere through enhanced turnover and transport of nitrogen.
Synchronicity of historical dry spells in the Southern Hemisphere
Authors: Verdon-Kidd D. C. , Kiem A. S.
Published: December 2013

Abstract. A shift in climate occurred during the mid-1970s that affected the hydroclimate of the Southern Hemisphere resulting in drying trends across continental regions including Australia, New Zealand and southern and western Africa. There is also anecdotal evidence of other periods of climatic synchronicity in the Southern Hemisphere (e.g. the 1920s and 1940s), indicating that the mid 1970s event may not be anomalous. This paper identifies periods within the last ~120 yr using statistical analysis where dry spells (in terms of annual to multi-decadal rainfall deficiencies) have coincided across the continental Southern Hemisphere in order to characterize temporal consistency. It is shown that synchronicity of dry spells is (a) most likely common over the last 120 yr and (b) associated with changes in the large-scale climate modes of the Pacific, Indian and Southern Oceans. Importantly, the findings presented in this paper have marked implications for drought management and drought forecasting studies in the Southern Hemisphere.
Decomposition analysis of water footprint changes in a water-limited river basin: a case study of the Haihe River Basin, China
Authors: Zhi Y. , Yang Z. F. , Yin X. A.
Published: December 2013

Abstract. Decomposition analysis of water footprint (WF) changes, or assessing the changes in WF and identifying the contributions of factors leading to the changes, is important to water resource management. However, conventional studies focus on WF from the perspective of administrative region rather than river basin. Decomposition analysis of WF changes from the perspective of the river basin is more scientific. To address this perspective, we built a framework in which the input–output (IO) model and the Structural Decomposition Analysis (SDA) model for WF could be implemented in a river basin by computing IO data for the river basin with the Generating Regional IO Tables (GRIT) method. This framework is illustrated in the Haihe River Basin (HRB), which is a typical water-limited river basin. It shows that the total WF in the HRB increased from 4.3 × 1010 m3 in 2002 to 5.6 × 1010 m3 in 2007, and the agriculture sector makes the dominant contribution to the increase. Both the WF of domestic products (internal) and the WF of imported products (external) increased, and the proportion of external WF rose from 29.1% to 34.4%. The technological effect was the dominant contributor to offsetting the increase of WF; however, the growth of WF caused by the economic structural effect and the scale effect was greater, so the total WF increased. This study provides insights about water challenges in the HRB and proposes possible strategies for the future, and serves as a reference for WF management and policy making in other water-limited river basins.
Monolithic 2 DOF fully compliant space pointing mechanism
Authors: Merriam E. G. , Jones J. E. , Magleby S. P. , Howell L. L.
Published: December 2013

Abstract. This paper describes the conception, modeling, and development of a fully compliant two-degree-of-freedom pointing mechanism for application in spacecraft thruster, antenna, or solar array systems. The design objectives and the advantages of a compliant solution are briefly discussed. Detailed design decisions to meet project objectives are described. Analytical and numerical models are developed and subsequently verified by prototype testing and measurements in several iterations. A final design of the 3-D printed titanium monolithic pointing mechanism is described in detail and its performance is measured.
Os Tratados Internacionais de Direitos Humanos no Supremo Tribunal Federal Com Considerações do Direito Comparado e Proposta de Revisão Quanto à Incorporação, Hierarquia e Interpretação
Authors: Figueiredo Patricia Cobianchi
Published: December 2013

Este artigo tem por fim demonstrar o entendimento do Supremo Tribunal Federal com relação à incorporação, à hierarquia e à interpretação dos tratados internacionais de direitos humanos. Com menção do direito comparado trará proposta no sentido de considerar tais instrumentos internacionais como objetos de interpretação, ao lado das normas constitucionais, um meio para enfrentar o desafio atual de efetivação de tais direitos já reconhecidos fartamente em textos nacionais e internacionais. São direitos materialmente constitucionais e reforçam, complementam ou mesmo inovam o rol dos direitos previstos internamente sem qualquer ofensa à rigidez constitucional. Embora o entendimento majoritário no Supremo Tribunal Federal não se deve obstar a busca por efetiva proteção aos direitos, promovendo interpretação isolada das normas constitucionais desvencilhando-as daquelas dos tratados internacionais recebidos pela ordem constitucional e com meios aptos a solucionar eventuais “conflitos”, o que é mais uma peculiaridade a ser considerada pelo intérprete constitucional.

Palavras-chave: direitos humanos fundamentais; interpretação; convenções internacionais, Supremo Tribunal Federal.
Dispersão e acumulação do cobre nos produtos do intemperismo de depósitos cupríferos do Brasil
Authors: Parisot Jean-Claude , Creach Monique , Melfi Adolpho José , Nahon Daniel , Toledo-Groke Maria Cristina , Trescases Jean Jacques
Published: December 2013

O estudo geoquímico e mineralógico da alteração supérgena de três zonas cupríferas (Chapada Grande - Goiás; Salobo 3A - Pará e Santa Blandina - São Paulo) permitiu caracterizar o comportamento do cobre nos perfis de alteração desenvolvidos em zonas lateríticas. Este estudo mostrou que a mobilidade ou fixação do cobre depende, essencialmente, da natureza e da quantidade das fases supérgenas neoformadas e da natureza das soluções de alteração. Em Chapada Grande, a goethita é a principal fase fixadora de cobre no manto de intemperismo e as soluções percolantes são pobres em cobre. Assim, como a goethita é pouco abundante no perfil e como sua capacidade de fixar cobre é limitada, este elemento é quase que totalmente lixiviado da zona de alteração. Em Salobo 3A, são as vermiculitas, os interestratificados biotita-vermiculita e as goethitas que constituem as principais fases fixadoras de cobre mostrando que as soluções percolantes são ligeiramente mais ricas neste elemento. Nessas condições, levando-se em conta o alto poder de fixação dos filossilicatos e os teores elevados de goethita no perfil, o essencial do estoque de cobre do minério primário é conservado no manto de alteração. Em Santa Blandina, condições particulares promovem a formação, na base dos perfis, de silicatos específicos de Cu (crisocola) a partir da existência de soluções muito ricas em cobre. Neste contexto o cobre se acumula na base do manto de intemperismo.
A formação Piraçununga na região de Vargem Grande do Sul, SP: aplicação da técnica de perfis sedimentares
Authors: Freitas Ruy Osório de , Vieira Percy Corrêa , Mezzalira Sérgio
Published: December 2013

Neste trabalho, com base nos processos do Sedimentograma e dos Perfis Sedimentares (este aqui introduzido), foi feito um estudo da Formação Piraçununga na Folha de São João da Boa Vista, com a proposição informal da fácies Vargem Grande do Sul para a porção psamopelítica a sudoeste daquela cidade, interpretada como sedimentada em planícies de inundação, com possibilidade de contribuição tectônica. Para o restante da unidade deu-se o nome informal de fácies Leme, que apresenta um caráter granulométrico mais grosso e sedimentação em ambiente mais enérgico. Com base no conteúdo paleontológico (vegetal e inseto) é sugerida uma idade oligomiocênica para a fácies Vargem Grande do Sul, que pode, com restrições, ser estendida a toda a Formação Piraçununga, ou apenas ao início dela, por tratar-se a fácies em questão de deposição sincrônica com o restante ou, pelo menos, com a parte basal.
Discurso de abertura do 28º Congresso Geológico Internacional: Washington, USA - julho 1989
Authors: Cordani Umberto Giuseppe
Published: December 2013

Caros Colegas, Senhores e Senhoras,Por tradição, o Presidente da União Internacional de Ciências GeológIcas (UICG) despede-se de seu mandato na Cerimônia de Abertura do Congresso Geológico Internacional, relatando os eventos que marcaram as Geociências em seu período de atuação. Devido ao precoce falecimento de W.W. Hutchison, em 1987, encontro-me diante de vocês não para me despedir, visto que meu mandato atual estende-se até 1992. Desta forma, estaremos juntos de novo na Cerimônia de Encerramento deste Congresso, e, se tudo correr bem, a tradição será mantida por ocasião da Cerimônia Inaugural do 29? Congresso, no Japão.
Detailed Potentiometric Study of Al3+ and Cr3+ with Malic Acid in Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Hamada Yahia Z. , Harris Marcus , Burt Kiva , Greene Jasmine , Rosli Khalid
Published: December 2013

It appeared that malic acid solubilized both Al3+ and Cr3+ in aqueous solutions at all pH-values in 0.1 M NaNO3 at 25 oC. The detailed potentiometric measurements indicated that these free tri-valent metal ions released a net of three protons (3H+’s) into the solution. Free malic acid released a net of (2H+’s) into the solution from the two carboxylates. However, in the presence of metal ions malic acid effectively releases a net of three protons (3H+’s) into the solution; two from the two carboxylates and the third from the alcoholic group. The reaction mixture of Al3+:malic acid indicated the formation of a dimeric species. The proposed structure of this dimeric species is in good agreement with what has been shown in the literature. We are presenting a dimeric species that may play an important role in malate transportation across cell membrane. Formation of the Al3+-malic acid complexes cover the span of a total of 400 mV; from +250 mV to -150 mV. The Cr3+-malic acid reaction mixture indicated the formation of a dimeric species as well.
Physical and Gas Transport Properties of Asymmetric Hyperbranched Polyimide-Silica Hybrid Membranes
Authors: Miki Masako , Ishikawa Yasuyuki , Haraguchi Masaya , Yamada Yasuharu
Published: December 2013

Physical and gas transport properties of the asymmetric hyperbranched polyimide (HBPI) -silica hybrid membranes prepared with a dianhydride, 4,4’-(hexafluoroisopropylidene)diphthalic anhydride (6FDA), and an asymmetric triamine, 2,4,4’-(triaminodiphenyl)ether (TADE), were investigated and compared with those of the symmetric HBPI-silica hybrid membranes prepared with a symmetric triamine, 1,3,5-tris(4-aminophenoxy)benzene (TAPOB). The HBPI-silica hybrid membranes were prepared via sol-gel reaction using hyperbranched polyamic acid of which end groups were modified with silane coupling agents, water and tetramethoxysilane. The thermal mechanical and dynamic mechanical analysis measurements confirmed that the rigidity of asymmetric HBPI was higher than that of symmetric HBPI because of the rigid and asymmetric structure of TADE monomer. In addition, the degree of branching of asymmetric HBPI is lower than that of symmetric HBPI because of the different reactivity of the three amino groups included in TADE. The rigidity and linearity of HBPIs had an effect on the progression of sol-gel reaction, consequently the gas transport properties. The increasing of the gas permeability coefficient of the asymmetric dianhydride(DA)-HBPI-silica hybrid membranes with increasing silica content was smaller than those of symmetric DA- and amine(AM)-HBPI-silica hybrid membranes. In addition, the gas permeability coefficient of the asymmetric AM-HBPI-silica hybrid membranes decreased with increasing silica content. This was due to the fact that the dispersibility of silica in the asymmetric HBPI-silica hybrids, of which polymer chain was more rigid and linear than those of symmetric HBPI-silica hybrid, was not as fine as in the symmetric HBPI-silica hybrids, and that the long and tortuous diffusion path was newly formed by hybridization with silica.
Amélioration de la détection des Fusarium spp. et du Bipolaris sorokiniana dans les semences par l’ajout de paraquat dans les milieux de culture
Authors: Pouleur Stéphan , Couture Luc
Published: December 2013

La germination des graines complique les analyses de l’état sanitaire des semences effectuées sur milieux de culture gélosés. Cette recherche visait à identifier un inhibiteur de la germination des semences inoffensif pour les Fusarium spp. et le Bipolaris sorokiniana, des champignons pathogènes qui diminuent le pouvoir germinatif et l’état sanitaire des semences. Dans des essais préliminaires, le NaCl a été écarté, alors que le paraquat a été retenu comme candidat le plus prometteur. Des doses de paraquat de 0 à 80 mg L-1 ont été évaluées pour le recouvrement des Fusarium sur un milieu peptone-PCNB (pentachloronitrobenzène) et du B. sorokiniana sur un milieu PDA-bénomyl. Des lots de semences d’avoine, de blé et d’orge contaminés à différents degrés ont été utilisés. On a déterminé la contamination par ces champignons, la germination totale et la germination nuisible des graines après 7 j. Les doses de 40 mg L-1 pour les Fusarium spp. et de 50 mg L-1 pour le B. sorokiniana ont été retenues pour leur efficacité. On a aussi observé une diminution de divers contaminants importuns, dont des levures et des Rhizopus spp. L’ajout du paraquat aux deux milieux de culture apporte une nette amélioration technique pour la détection de ces champignons pathogènes dans les semences de céréales.
Canadian entomopathogenic nematode isolates: virulence against black cutworm (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Bélair Guy , Simard Louis , Dionne Julie
Published: December 2013

The virulence of ten indigenous and two commercial isolates of entomopathogenic nematodes against the black cutworm, Agrotis ipsilon, was assessed under laboratory conditions. When comparing commercial isolates, Steinernema carpocapsae exhibited higher virulence than S. feltiae. One indigenous isolate of S. carpocapsae (6Sc) provided similar or higher virulence than the commercial isolate against black cutworm larvae. An indigenous strain of S. kraussei demonstrated low virulence in our study.
Experiences of Kenyan healthcare workers providing services to men who have sex with men: qualitative findings from a sensitivity training programme
Authors: van der Elst Elise M , Gichuru Evans , Omar Anisa , Kanungi Jennifer , Duby Zoe , Midoun Miriam , Shangani Sylvia , Graham Susan M , Smith Adrian D , Sanders Eduard J , Operario Don
Published: December 2013

Introduction

Men who have sex with men (MSM) in Kenya are at high risk for HIV and may experience prejudiced treatment in health settings due to stigma. An on‐line computer‐facilitated MSM sensitivity programme was conducted to educate healthcare workers (HCWs) about the health issues and needs of MSM patients.

Methods

Seventy‐four HCWs from 49 ART‐providing health facilities in the Kenyan Coast were recruited through purposive sampling to undergo a two‐day MSM sensitivity training. We conducted eight focus group discussions (FGDs) with programme participants prior to and three months after completing the training programme. Discussions aimed to characterize HCWs’ challenges in serving MSM patients and impacts of programme participation on HCWs’ personal attitudes and professional capacities.

Results

Before participating in the training programme, HCWs described secondary stigma, lack of professional education about MSM, and personal and social prejudices as barriers to serving MSM clients. After completing the programme, HCWs expressed greater acknowledgement of MSM patients in their clinics, endorsed the need to treat MSM patients with high professional standards and demonstrated sophisticated awareness of the social and behavioural risks for HIV among MSM.

Conclusions

Findings provide support for this approach to improving health services for MSM patients. Further efforts are needed to broaden the reach of this training in other areas, address identified barriers to HCW participation and evaluate programme effects on patient and HCW outcomes using rigorous methodology.
Epidemiology of HIV among female sex workers, their clients, men who have sex with men and people who inject drugs in West and Central Africa
Authors: Papworth Erin , Ceesay Nuha , An Louis , Thiam‐Niangoin Marguerite , Ky‐Zerbo Odette , Holland Claire , Dramé Fatou Maria , Grosso Ashley , Diouf Daouda , Baral Stefan D
Published: December 2013

Introduction

The West and Central Africa (WCA) sub‐region is the most populous region of sub‐Saharan Africa (SSA), with an estimated population of 356 million living in 24 countries. The HIV epidemic in WCA appears to have distinct dynamics compared to the rest of SSA, being more concentrated among key populations such as female sex workers (FSWs), men who have sex with men (MSM), people who inject drugs (PWID) and clients of FSWs. To explore the epidemiology of HIV in the region, a systematic review of HIV literature among key populations in WCA was conducted since the onset of the HIV epidemic.

Methods

We searched the databases PubMed, CINAHL and others for peer‐reviewed articles regarding FSWs, MSM and PWID in 24 countries with no date restriction. Inclusion criteria were sensitive and focused on inclusion of any HIV prevalence data among key populations. HIV prevalence was pooled, and in each country key themes were extracted from the literature.

Results

The search generated 885 titles, 214 abstracts and 122 full articles, of which 76 met inclusion and exclusion criteria providing HIV prevalence data. There were 60 articles characterizing the burden of disease among FSWs, eight for their clients, one for both, six for MSM and one for PWID. The pooled HIV prevalence among FSWs was 34.9% (n=14,388/41,270), among their clients was 7.3% (n=435/5986), among MSM was 17.7% (n=656/3714) and among PWID from one study in Nigeria was 3.8% (n=56/1459).

Conclusions

The disproportionate burden of HIV among FSWs appears to be consistent from the beginning of the HIV epidemic in WCA. While there are less data for other key populations such as clients of FSWs and MSM, the prevalence of HIV is higher among these men compared to other men in the region. There have been sporadic reports among PWID, but limited research on the burden of HIV among these men and women. These data affirm that the HIV epidemic in WCA appears to be far more concentrated among key populations than the epidemics in Southern and Eastern Africa. Evidence‐based HIV prevention, treatment and care programmes in WCA should focus on engaging populations with the greatest burden of disease in the continuum of HIV care.
Outcomes of a community‐based HIV‐prevention pilot programme for township men who have sex with men in Cape Town, South Africa
Authors: Batist Elizabeth , Brown Benjamin , Scheibe Andrew , Baral Stefan D , Bekker Linda‐Gail
Published: December 2013

Introduction

Men who have sex with men (MSM) in Cape Town's townships remain in need of targeted HIV‐prevention services. In 2012, a pilot community‐based HIV‐prevention programme was implemented that aimed to reach MSM in five Cape Town townships, disseminate HIV‐prevention information and supplies, and promote the use of condoms and HIV services.

Methods

Convenience sampling was used to recruit self‐identified MSM who were 18 years old or older in five Cape Town townships. The six‐month pilot programme trained five community leaders who, along with staff, provided HIV‐prevention information and supplies to MSM through small‐group meetings, community‐based social activities and inter‐community events. After the completion of the pilot programme, in‐depth interviews and focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted with a subset of conveniently sampled participants and with each of the community leaders. Qualitative data were then analyzed thematically.

Results

Overall, 98 mostly gay‐identified black MSM consented to participate, 57 community‐based activities were facilitated and 9 inter‐community events were conducted. Following their enrolment, 60% (59/98) of participants attended at least one pilot activity. Of those participants, 47% (28/59) attended at least half of the scheduled activities. A total of 36 participants took part in FGDs, and five in‐depth interviews were completed with community leaders. Participants reported gaining access to MSM‐specific HIV‐prevention information, condoms and water‐based lubricant through the small‐group meetings. Some participants described how their feelings of loneliness, social isolation, self‐esteem and self‐efficacy were improved after taking part.

Conclusions

The social activities and group meetings were viable strategies for disseminating HIV‐prevention information, condoms and water‐based lubricant to MSM in this setting. Many MSM were also able to receive social support, reduce social isolation and improve their self‐esteem. Further research is needed to explore factors affecting attendance and the sustainability of these activities. Perspectives of MSM who did not attend pilot activities regularly were not equally represented in the final qualitative interviews, which could bias the findings. The use of community‐based activities and small‐group meetings should be explored further as components to ongoing HIV‐prevention interventions for MSM in this setting.
Imaging Tumor Oxyhemoglobin and Deoxyhemoglobin Concentrations with Ultrasound-Guided Diffuse Optical Tomography
Authors: Biswal Nrusingh C. , Xu Yan , Zhu Quing
Published: December 2013

We present an ultrasound (US)-guided diffuse optical tomography for mapping tumor deoxyhemoglobin (deoxyHb) and oxyhemoglobin (oxyHb) concentrations in blood phantoms and in in-vivo patients. Because oxyHb and deoxyHb respond differently at different wavelengths, four laser diodes of wavelengths 740 nm, 780 nm, 808 nm and 830 nm were used in the study. Tumor model experiments were performed using phantoms of different hemoglobin oxygen saturations (14%–89%) representing hemoglobin oxygenation in tissue. Targets of different sizes and located at different depths were used to validate the accuracy of oxygen saturation estimation. The absolute deviations between the estimated hemoglobin oxygen saturations obtained from reconstructed absorption maps and oxygen measurements obtained using a pO2 electrode were less than 8% over the measured range of oxygen saturation. An inhomogeneous concentric blood phantom of deoxygenated center core and oxygenated outer shell was imaged and deoxyHb and oxyHb maps revealed corresponding distributions which correlated well with inhomogeneous deoxy- and oxydistributions frequently seen in breast cancers. Clinical examples are given to demonstrate the utility of US-guided optical tomography in mapping heterogeneous deoxyHb and oxyHb distributions in breast cancers.
Fiber Confocal Back-Scattering Micro-Spectral Analysis for Single Cell
Authors: Wang C. , Li Y. , Liu G. , Ma J. , Li Z. , Wei X.
Published: December 2013

A fiber confocal back scattering micro-spectrometer (FCBS) was established, which combined fiber confocal microscopy with light scattering spectroscopy (LSS) for early diagnosis of the cancer cell at cellular level. An adherent monolayer human normal gastric epithelium line GES-1 and a carcinoma cell line NCI-N87 as well as a normal liver cell line L02 and a high-metastatic-potential hepatocellular carcinoma cell line HCC-LM3 were measured respectively. The spectral results showed that micro-back-scattering intensity from GES-1 cell and L02 cell possessed interesting oscillations in contrast to NCI-N87 and HCC-LM3 cells. There was significant difference between the spectra of the normal and the cancer cells (p < 0.001). This demonstrates that the FCBS system here is able to distinguish dysplastic cells from normal cells at cellular level.
Identification of In Vitro Electropermeabilization Equivalent Pulse Protocols
Authors: Ongaro A. , Pellati A. , Caruso A. , Battista M. , De Terlizzi F. , De Mattei M. , Fini M.
Published: December 2013

Exposure of cells to an external sufficiently strong electric field results in the formation of pores across the membrane. This phenomenon, termed electropermeabilization, permits the transport of poorly permeant molecules into cytosol. In clinical practice, cell membrane permeabilization for drug electrotransfer is achieved using the ESOPE pulse protocol (1000 V/cm, 8 pulses, 100 μs, 5 kHz). The aim of this study was to investigate several combinations of electric field amplitude and pulse number able to induce electropermeabilization as the one observed when the ESOPE protocol was applied. Decreasing electric field amplitudes (1000 to 300 V/cm) in combination with increasing number of pulses (8 to 320) were applied to in vitro MG63 cells. Propidium iodide and Calcein blue AM uptake were used to evaluate cell electropermeabilization and viability. Results showed that the threshold of local electric field needed to obtain electropermeabilization decreased exponentially with increasing the number of pulses delivered (r2 50.92, p < 0.0001). The absorbed dose threshold was dependent on the number of pulses for each voltage applied (r2 50.96, p < 0.0001). In conclusion, the possibility of applying an increased number of pulses rather than increasing the electric field amplitude to perform electropermeabilization, may become an important tool for electropermeabilization - related clinical applications.
Changes in Position and Volume of Lung Cancer Target Volumes during Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy (SBRT): Is Image Guidance Necessary?
Authors: Yi B. S. K. , Perks J. , Houston R. , Stern R. , Purdy J. A. , Chen A. M.
Published: December 2013

The purpose of this study was to analyze inter- and intra-fractional changes in tumor volume with respect to both spatial and volumetric parameters among patients treated by SBRT for lung cancer. Twelve patients (13 tumors) were treated by SBRT with abdominal compression in 3–5 fractions over a 2 week period to a median dose of 60 Gy (range, 48 to 60 Gy). Kilovoltage cone-beam CT (CBCT) was obtained prior to the delivery of each fraction as well as intra-fractionally yielding a total of 55 CBCT scans. All CBCT scans were registered with the planning CT for target alignment and shifts were recorded and analyzed. Retrospectively, gross tumor volume (GTV) was contoured on all CBCT images and compared to initial planning volumes; positional differences were evaluated utilizing directional and vector analysis. Shifts greater than 5 mm were applied inter-fractionally in 6.8% (lateral), 29.5% (longitudinal), and 6.8% (vertical) of all delivered treatments. Using a 10 mm threshold, the corresponding percentages were 2.3%, 13.6%, and 2.3%, respectively. Across all fractions, the calculated inter-fractional shift vectors ranged from 0 to 31.2 mm, with 40.9%, 15.9%, and 11.4% of all fractions having shift vectors ≥5 mm, ≥10 mm, and ≥20 mm, respectively. Intra-fractional shifts were also evaluated and found negligible in a small portion of patients evaluated. The mean overall reduction in GTV was 21.1% during SBRT. Significant changes in both position and volume occur during SBRT for lung cancer. Shifts (particularly in the superior-inferior axis) may exceed applied margins and compromise target coverage. Due to the extreme hypofractionation associated with SBRT, inter-fractional image guidance is necessary.
Modification the Oxalic Co-precipitation Method on a Novel Catalyst Cu/Zn/Al2O3/Cr2O3 for Autothermal Reforming Reaction of Methanol
Authors: Kuo Cheng-Hsin , Lesmana Donny , Wu Ho-Shing
Published: December 2013

This study addresses the catalytic performance of Cu/ZnO/Al2O3/Cr2O3 in low-temperature of autothermal reforming (ATR) reaction. Various operating conditions were used to decide the optimum reaction conditions: type of promoter (ZrO2, CeO2, and Cr2O3), precipitation temperature, precipitation pH, operation temperature, molar ratio of O2/CH3OH (O/C), and weight hourly space velocity (WHSV). The catalysts were prepared using the oxalic coprecipitation method. Characterization of the catalyst was conducted using a porosity analyzer, XRD, and SEM. The methanol conversion and volumetric percentage of hydrogen using the best catalyst (Cu/ZnO/Al2O3/Cr2O3) exceeded 93% and 43%, respectively. A catalyst prepared by precipitation at -5 oC and at pH of 1 converted methanol to 40% H2 and less than 3000 ppm CO at reaction temperature of 200 oC. The size and dispersion of copper and the degradation rate and turnover frequency of the catalyst was also calculated. Deactivation of the Cu catalyst at a reaction temperature of 200 oC occurred after 30 h. © 2013 by Authors, Published by BCREC Group. This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)
Application of Cement Clinker as Ni-Catalyst Support for Glycerol Dry Reforming
Authors: Lee Hua Chyn , Siew Kah Weng , Gimbun Jolius , Cheng Chin Kui
Published: December 2013

The increase in biodiesel production inevitably yield plethora of glycerol. Therefore, glycerol has been touted as the most promising source for bio-syngas (mixture of H2 and CO) production. Significantly, coking on nickel-based catalysts has been identified as a major deactivation factor in reforming technology. Indeed, coke-resistant catalyst development is essential to enhance syngas production. The current work develops cement clinker (comprised of 62.0% calcium oxide)-supported nickel catalyst (with metal loadings of 5, 10, 15 and 20 wt%) for glycerol dry reforming (CO2). Physicochemical characterization of the catalysts was performed using XRD, XRF, BET, TGA and FESEM-EDS techniques. Subsequently, reaction studies were conducted in a 7-mm ID fixed-bed stainless steel reactor at 1023 K with various CO2 partial pressures at constant weight-hourly space velocity (WHSV) of 7.2×104 ml gcat-1 h-1. Gas compositions were determined using Agilent 3000 micro-gas chromatography (GC) and Lancom III gas analyzer. Results obtained showed an increment of BET surface area up to 32-fold with Ni loading which was corroborated by FESEM images. Syngas (H2 and CO) ratios of less than 2 were being produced at 1023 K. A closer scrutiny to the transient profile revealed that the presence of CO2 higher or lower than CGR 1:1 promotes the Boudouard reaction. © 2013 by Authors, Published by BCREC Group. This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)
Characterization of Cannabinoid Receptors
Authors: Cox Richard F. , Rash Vincent
Published: December 2013

This unit describes the use of cannabinoid radioligands in competitive binding assays for determining affinity parameters (IC50, K
i) of unlabeled compounds at transfected CB1 and CB2 receptors expressed in cell lines. Curr. Protoc. Pharmacol. 63:1.26.1‐1.26.10. © 2013 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Overview of Safety Pharmacology
Authors: Goineau Sonia , Lemaire Martine , Froget Guillaume
Published: December 2013

Safety pharmacology entails the assessment of the potential risks of novel pharmaceuticals for human use. As detailed in the ICH S7A guidelines, safety pharmacology for drug discovery involves a core battery of studies on three vital systems: central nervous (CNS), cardiovascular (CV), and respiratory. Primary CNS studies are aimed at defining compound effects on general behavior, locomotion, neuromuscular coordination, seizure threshold, and vigilance. The primary CV test battery includes an evaluation of proarrhythmic risk using in vitro tests (hERG channel and Purkinje fiber assays) and in vivo measurements in conscious animals via telemetry. Comprehensive cardiac risk assessment also includes full hemodynamic evaluation in a large, anesthetized animal. Basic respiratory function can be examined in conscious animals using whole‐body plethysmography. This allows for an assessment of whether the sensitivity to respiratory‐depressant effects can be enhanced by exposure to increased CO2. Other safety pharmacology topics detailed in this unit are the timing of such studies, ethical and animal welfare issues, and statistical evaluation. Curr. Protoc. Pharmacol. 63:10.1.1‐10.1.8. © 2013 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.