bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FAME-C: cloud property retrieval using synergistic AATSR and MERIS observations
Authors: Carbajal Henken C. K. , Lindstrot R. , Preusker R. , Fischer J.
Published: November 2014

Abstract. A newly developed daytime cloud property retrieval algorithm, FAME-C (Freie Universität Berlin AATSR MERIS Cloud), is presented. Synergistic observations from the Advanced Along-Track Scanning Radiometer (AATSR) and the Medium Resolution Imaging Spectrometer (MERIS), both mounted on the polar-orbiting Environmental Satellite (Envisat), are used for cloud screening. For cloudy pixels two main steps are carried out in a sequential form. First, a cloud optical and microphysical property retrieval is performed using an AATSR near-infrared and visible channel. Cloud phase, cloud optical thickness, and effective radius are retrieved, and subsequently cloud water path is computed. Second, two cloud top height products are retrieved based on independent techniques. For cloud top temperature, measurements in the AATSR infrared channels are used, while for cloud top pressure, measurements in the MERIS oxygen-A absorption channel are used. Results from the cloud optical and microphysical property retrieval serve as input for the two cloud top height retrievals. Introduced here are the AATSR and MERIS forward models and auxiliary data needed in FAME-C. Also, the optimal estimation method, which provides uncertainty estimates of the retrieved property on a pixel basis, is presented. Within the frame of the European Space Agency (ESA) Climate Change Initiative (CCI) project, the first global cloud property retrievals have been conducted for the years 2007–2009. For this time period, verification efforts are presented, comparing, for four selected regions around the globe, FAME-C cloud optical and microphysical properties to cloud optical and microphysical properties derived from measurements of the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on the Terra satellite. The results show a reasonable agreement between the cloud optical and microphysical property retrievals. Biases are generally smallest for marine stratocumulus clouds: −0.28, 0.41 μm and −0.18 g m−2 for cloud optical thickness, effective radius and cloud water path, respectively. This is also true for the root-mean-square deviation. Furthermore, both cloud top height products are compared to cloud top heights derived from ground-based cloud radars located at several Atmospheric Radiation Measurement (ARM) sites. FAME-C mostly shows an underestimation of cloud top heights when compared to radar observations. The lowest bias of −0.3 km is found for AATSR cloud top heights for single-layer clouds, while the highest bias of −3.0 km is found for AATSR cloud top heights for multilayer clouds. Variability is low for MERIS cloud top heights for low-level clouds, and high for MERIS cloud top heights for mid-level and high-level single-layer clouds, as well as for both AATSR and MERIS cloud top heights for multilayer clouds.
Glyoxal retrieval from the Ozone Monitoring Instrument
Authors: Chan Miller C. , Gonzalez Abad G. , Wang H. , Liu X. , Kurosu T. , Jacob D. J. , Chance K.
Published: November 2014

Abstract. We present an algorithm for the retrieval of glyoxal from backscattered solar radiation, and apply it to spectra measured by the Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI). The algorithm is based on direct spectrum fitting, and adopts a two-step fitting routine to account for liquid water absorption. Previous studies have shown that glyoxal retrieval algorithms are highly sensitive to the position of the spectral fit window. This dependence was systematically tested on real and simulated OMI spectra. We find that a combination of errors resulting from uncertainties in reference cross sections and spectral features associated with the Ring effect are consistent with the fit-window dependence observed in real spectra. This implies an optimal fitting window of 435–461 nm, consistent with previous satellite glyoxal retrievals. The results from the retrieval of simulated spectra also support previous findings that have suggested that glyoxal is sensitive to NO2 cross-section temperature. The retrieval window limits of the liquid water retrieval are also tested. A retrieval window 385–470 nm reduces interference with strong spectral features associated with sand. We show that cross-track dependent offsets (stripes) present in OMI can be corrected using offsets derived from retrieved slant columns over the Sahara, and apply the correction to OMI data. Average glyoxal columns are on average lower than those of previous studies likely owing to the choice of reference sector for offset correction. OMI VCDs (vertical column densities)are lower compared to other satellites over the tropics and Asia during the monsoon season, suggesting that the new retrieval is less sensitive to water vapour abundance. Consequently we do not see significant glyoxal enhancements over tropical oceans. OMI-derived glyoxal-to-formaldehyde ratios over biogenic and anthropogenic source regions are consistent with surface observations.
Humidity sensor failure: a problem that should not be neglected
Authors: Liu Y. , Tang N.
Published: November 2014

Abstract. The problem of abnormally dry bias induced by radiosonde humidity sensor failure in the low and mid-troposphere is studied based on the global operational radiosonde relative humidity observations from December 2008 to November 2009. The concurrent humidity retrievals from the FORMOSAT-3/COSMIC radio occultation mission are also used to assess the quality of the radiosonde humidity observations. It is found that extremely dry relative humidity are common in the low and mid-troposphere, with an annual globally averaged occurrence of 4.2%. These low-humidity observations usually exist between 20 and 40° latitude in both the Northern Hemisphere and Southern Hemisphere, and from heights of 700 to 450 hPa. Winter and spring are the favored seasons for their occurrence, with a maximum fraction of 9.53 % in the Northern Hemisphere and 16.82% in the Southern Hemisphere. The phenomenon does not result from natural atmospheric variability, but rather humidity sensor failure. If the performance of humidity sensors is not good, low-humidity observations occur easily, particularly when the radiosonde ascends through stratiform clouds with high moisture content. The humidity sensor cannot adapt to the huge change of the atmospheric environment inside and outside stratiform clouds, resulting in sensor failure and no response to atmospheric change. These extremely dry relative humidity observations are erroneous. However, they have been archived as formal data and applied in many research studies. This may seriously undermine the reliability of numerical weather prediction and the analysis of weather and climate if quality control is not applied before using these data.
Global Hawk dropsonde observations of the Arctic atmosphere obtained during the Winter Storms and Pacific Atmospheric Rivers (WISPAR) field campaign
Authors: Intrieri J. M. , de Boer G. , Shupe M. D. , Spackman J. R. , Wang J. , Neiman P. J. , Wick G. A. , Hock T. F. , Hood R. E.
Published: November 2014

Abstract. In February and March of 2011, the Global Hawk unmanned aircraft system (UAS) was deployed over the Pacific Ocean and the Arctic during the Winter Storms and Pacific Atmospheric Rivers (WISPAR) field campaign. The WISPAR science missions were designed to (1) mprove our understanding of Pacific weather systems and the polar atmosphere; (2) evaluate operational use of unmanned aircraft for investigating these atmospheric events; and (3) demonstrate operational and research applications of a UAS dropsonde system at high latitudes. Dropsondes deployed from the Global Hawk successfully obtained high-resolution profiles of temperature, pressure, humidity, and wind information between the stratosphere and surface. The 35 m wingspan Global Hawk, which can soar for ~ 31 h at altitudes up to ~ 20 km, was remotely operated from NASA's Dryden Flight Research Center at Edwards Air Force Base (AFB) in California. During the 25 h polar flight on 9–10 March 2011, the Global Hawk released 35 sondes between the North Slope of Alaska and 85° N latitude, marking the first UAS Arctic dropsonde mission of its kind. The polar flight transected an unusually cold polar vortex, notable for an associated record-level Arctic ozone loss, and documented polar boundary layer variations over a sizable ocean–ice lead feature. Comparison of dropsonde observations with atmospheric reanalyses reveal that, for this day, large-scale structures such as the polar vortex and air masses are captured by the reanalyses, while smaller-scale features, including low-level jets and inversion depths, are mischaracterized. The successful Arctic dropsonde deployment demonstrates the capability of the Global Hawk to conduct operations in harsh, remote regions. The limited comparison with other measurements and reanalyses highlights the potential value of Arctic atmospheric dropsonde observations where routine in situ measurements are practically nonexistent.
Quality-based generation of weather radar Cartesian products
Authors: Ośródka K. , Szturc J.
Published: November 2014

Abstract. Weather radar data volumes are commonly processed to obtain various 2-D Cartesian products based on the transfer from polar to Cartesian representations through a certain interpolation method. In this research, an algorithm of the spatial interpolation of polar reflectivity data with respect to QI (quality index) data is applied to find the Cartesian reflectivity as PPI (plan position indicator) product and generate a corresponding QI field. On this basis, quality-based versions of standard algorithms for the generation of the following products have been developed: ETOP (echo top), MAX (maximum of reflectivity), and VIL (vertically integrated liquid water). Moreover, as an example of a higher-level product, a CONVECTION (detection of convection) has been defined as a specific combination of the above-listed standard products. A corresponding QI field is determined for each generated product, taking into account the quality of the pixels from which a given product was determined and how large a fraction of the investigated heights was scanned. Examples of such quality-based products are presented in the paper.
Block based cloud classification with statistical features and distribution of local texture features
Authors: Cheng H.-Y. , Yu C.-C.
Published: November 2014

Abstract. This work performs cloud classification on all-sky images. To deal with mixed cloud types in one image, we propose to perform block division and block based classification. In addition to classical statistical texture features, the proposed method incorporates local binary pattern, which extracts local texture features in the feature vector. The combined feature can effectively preserve global information as well as more discriminating local texture features of different cloud types. The experimental results have shown that applying the combined feature results in higher classification accuracy compared to using classical statistical texture features. In our experiments, it is also validated that using block-based classification outperforms classification on the entire images. Moreover, we report the classification accuracy using different classifiers including k-nearest neighbor classifier, Bayesian classifier, and support vector machine in this paper.
3-D geomechanical–numerical model of the contemporary crustal stress state in the Alberta Basin (Canada)
Authors: Reiter K. , Heidbach O.
Published: November 2014

Abstract. In the context of examining the potential usage of safe and sustainable geothermal energy in the Alberta Basin, whether in deep sediments or crystalline rock, the understanding of the in situ stress state is crucial. It is a key challenge to estimate the 3-D stress state at an arbitrarily chosen point in the crust, based on sparsely distributed in situ stress data. To address this challenge, we present a large-scale 3-D geomechanical–numerical model (700 km × 1200 km × 80 km) from a large portion of the Alberta Basin, to provide a 3-D continuous quantification of the contemporary stress orientations and stress magnitudes. To calibrate the model, we use a large database of in situ stress orientation (321 SHmax) as well as stress magnitude data (981 SV, 1720 Shmin and 2 (+11) SHmax) from the Alberta Basin. To find the best-fit model, we vary the material properties and primarily the displacement boundary conditions of the model. This study focusses in detail on the statistical calibration procedure, because of the large amount of available data, the diversity of data types, and the importance of the order of data tests. The best-fit model provides the total 3-D stress tensor for nearly the whole Alberta Basin, and allows estimation of stress orientation and stress magnitudes in advance of any well. First-order implications for the well design and configuration of enhanced geothermal systems are revealed. Systematic deviations of the modelled stress from the in situ data are found for stress orientations in the Peace River and the Bow Island Arch as well as for leak-off test magnitudes.
Precision agriculture suitability to improve vineyard terroir management
Authors: Terrón J. M. , Blanco J. , Moral F. J. , Mancha L. A. , Uriarte D. , Marques da Silva J. R.
Published: November 2014

Abstract. Precision agriculture is a useful tool to assess plant growth and development in vineyards. Current study was focused in the spatial and temporal vegetation growth variability analysis; considering four irrigation treatments with four replicates; carried out in a vineyard located in the southwest of Spain during 2012 and 2013 growing seasons. Two multispectral sensors mounted on ATV were used in the different growing seasons/stages in order to calculate the vineyard Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI). Soil apparent Electrical Conductivity (ECa) was measured up to 0.8 m soil depth using a geophysical sensor. All measured data was statistically analysed by means of Principal Component Analysis (PCA). The spatial and temporal NDVI and ECa variations showed relevant differences between irrigation treatments and climatological years.
A process-based approach to estimate point snow instability
Authors: Reuter B. , Schweizer J. , van Herwijnen A.
Published: November 2014

Abstract. Snow instability data provide information about the mechanical state of the snow cover and are essential for forecasting snow avalanches. So far, direct observations of instability (recent avalanches, shooting cracks or whumpf sounds) are complemented with field tests such as the rutschblock test, since no measurement method for instability exists. We propose a new approach based on snow mechanical properties derived from the snow micro-penetrometer that takes into account the two essential processes during dry-snow avalanche release: failure initiation and crack propagation. To estimate the propensity of failure initiation we define a stress-based failure criterion, whereas the propensity of crack propagation is described by the critical cut length as obtained with a propagation saw test. The input parameters include layer thickness, snow density, effective elastic modulus, strength and specific fracture energy of the weak layer – all derived from the penetration-force signal acquired with the snow micro-penetrometer. Both instability measures were validated with independent field data and correlated well with results from field tests. Comparisons with observed signs of instability clearly indicated that a snowpack is only prone to avalanche if the two separate conditions for failure initiation and crack propagation are fulfilled. To our knowledge, this is the first time that an objective method for estimating snow instability has been proposed. The approach can either be used directly based on field measurements with the snow micro-penetrometer, or be implemented in numerical snow cover models. With an objective measure of instability at hand, the problem of spatial variations of instability and its causes can now be tackled.
Brief Communication: Contending estimates of early 21st century glacier mass balance over the Pamir-Karakoram-Himalaya
Authors: Kääb A. , Nuth C. , Treichler D. , Berthier E.
Published: November 2014

Abstract. We present glacier thickness changes over the entire Pamir-Karakoram-Himalaya arc based on ICESat satellite altimetry data for 2003–2008. The strongest thinning (< −1 m yr−1) is observed for the East Nyainqêntanglha Shan. Conversely, glaciers of the West Kunlun Shan are slightly gaining volume, and Pamir and Karakoram seem to be on the western edge of an anomaly rather than its centre. For the Ganges, Indus and Brahmaputra basins, the glacier mass change reaches −22 ± 3 Gt yr−1, about 10% of the current glacier contribution to sea-level rise. For selected catchments over the study area we estimate glacier imbalance contributions to river runoff from a few percent to far over 10%. We highlight the importance of C-band penetration for studies based on the SRTM elevation model. To the very east and west of our study area, this penetration seems to be of larger magnitude and variability than previously assumed.
Spatiotemporal variations in the surface velocities of Antarctic Peninsula glaciers
Authors: Chen J. , Ke C. Q. , Shao Z. D.
Published: November 2014

Abstract. Velocity is an important parameter for the estimation of glacier mass balance, which directly signals the response of glaciers to climate change. Antarctic ice sheet movement and the associated spatiotemporal velocity variations are of great significance to global sea level rise. In this study, we estimate Antarctic Peninsula glacier velocities using the co-registration of optically sensed images and correlation (hereafter referred to as COSI-Corr) based on moderate-resolution imaging spectroradiometer Level 1B data (hereafter referred to as MODIS L1B). The results show that the glaciers of Graham Land and the Larsen Ice Shelf have substantially different velocity features. The Graham Land glaciers primarily flow from the peninsula ridge towards the Weddell Sea and Bellingshausen Sea on the east and west sides, respectively. There are very large velocity variations among the different ice streams, with a minimum of < 20 m a−1 and a maximum of 1500 m a−1 (with an average of 100–150 m a−1). Over the period 2000–2012, the glaciers of Graham Land accelerated in the south but slowed down in the north. In contrast, the Larsen Ice Shelf flows in a relatively uniform direction, mainly towards the northeast into the Weddell Sea. Its average velocity is 750–800 m a−1 and the maximum is > 1500 m a−1. During the period 2000–2012, the Larsen Ice Shelf experienced significant acceleration. The use of COSI-Corr based on MODIS L1B data is suitable for glacier velocity monitoring on the Antarctic Peninsula over long time series and large spatial scales. This method is clearly advantageous for analysing macro-scale spatiotemporal variations in glacier movement.
Palliative Care for the Homeless: An intervention to reduce the healthcare economic cost
Authors: Pineau Eleanor R
Published: November 2014

Canada's health care system is one of the defining features of the Country. For the past few years - since the economic downturn of 2008 - the health care system has been strained. Furthermore, with Canada's population aging at a fast rate, and older adults being the population that uses the most health care resources, it is imperative to find ways that decrease expenditures while continuing to provide effective care. Through implementing palliative care for Canada's homeless population, resources will be used more effectively and efficiently. In the Ottawa Inner City Health Project - The Hospice - $1.39 million were saved for a mere 28 clients who used the hospice services over an average of 120 days. Providing homeless people palliative care helps to solve this problem and provides services to people who are marginalized and often unable to access care - it shows the humanity that people associate with Canada.
Notes on Prayerful Rhetoric with Divinities
Authors: Mailloux Steven
Published: November 2014

This article explores some rhetorical paths of thinking about prayer in relation to traditional humanism and its alternatives. It seeks to develop a Heideggerian rhetorical hermeneutics in relation to a nonpersonal, extrahuman model of communication between the human and the divine. Eventually, the article pivots away from God as the addressee of prayerful rhetoric and focuses instead on angels as the name for the finite, contingent conditions in which the rhetoric of prayer takes place.
Parmenides, Ontological Enaction, and the Prehistory of Rhetoric
Authors: Rickert Thomas
Published: November 2014

The Presocratic thinker Parmenides is portrayed in philosophy and rhetoric as a philosopher of static monism anticipating reason's triumph over myth. Such a portrayal is narrow and ill fits the evidence. Parmenides was associated with a cult of priest-healers (iatromantis) of Apollo who practiced incubation, usually in caves, in order to receive wisdom and truth. Parmenides's famous poem “On Being” (“Peri Phuseōs”) reflects these practices. The poem directly invokes altered states of consciousness, revelations from the gods, and an underworld descent (katabasis). Further, the poem is of strong rhetorical interest because it directly discusses rhetorical themes of persuasion, truth, and knowledge. Additionally, the poem suggests that rationality alone cannot suffice to liberate human beings from worldly illusions; rather, reason must be accompanied by a combination of divine inspiration and mêtis (cunning wisdom).
Autozoography: Notes Toward a Rhetoricity of the Living
Authors: Davis Diane
Published: November 2014

In philosophy and rhetorical studies, self-knowledge inscribes the absolutely indivisible line that separates “the human” from “the animal.” Autodeixis, the self-reflexive power of the I, is the condition both for language acquisition and for reason; it names an exceptional sort of auto–affection in which a being demonstrates the capacity to step back from itself enough to recognize itself and so to refer to itself as itself. What I propose in this article, however, is that autodeixis involves not a specifically human power to disclose an ontological as such (as Heidegger wanted) but the extrahuman operations of an allegorical as if. The presumption of self-knowledge is not an innate quality of “the human” but the already relational condition for any living being that must repeat itself to be itself. A kind of preoriginary rhetoricity, I argue, is the very condition for the singularity and functioning of any living being.
Inflammatory myofibroblastic tumour in a female urethra: A rare benign lesion that mimics malignancy
Authors: Aslzare Mohammad , Jafarian Amirhosein , Ghoreifi Alireza
Published: November 2014

Inflammatory myofibroblastic tumour (IMT) is a rare spindle tumour that mimics malignant processes. It can affect any part of the body, but rarely occurs in the genitourinary tract. We report a case of urethral IMT in a 31-year-old female. The diagnosis was established by histological findings and confirmed by immunohistochemical staining.
Three-layer reconstruction of large urethrocutaneous fistulas using scrotal-septal flaps
Authors: Zhou Yu , Li Qiang , Zhou Chuande , Li Fengyong , Xie Linhai , Li Senkai
Published: November 2014

Introduction: The repair of large urethrocutaneous fistulas (UCFs) commonly involves reconstruction of the urethra, waterproof layer and skin coverage, which deploy different tissues from different flaps. To simplify the multiple procedures, we explored to use one flap (a scrotal-septal flap) to reconstruct three layers in UCF repairing in one stage.Methods: Between January 2011 and July 2012, 29 patients with large UCFs (ranging from 1.0 to 2.0 cm) were treated using scrotal-septal flaps for three-layer reconstruction. Every patient has an unbroken scrotum. The hair follicles in the donor site were destroyed using a radiosurgical knife 2 months before the operation. The flap was divided into three zones, which were flipped, folded, and extended respectively to form the urethra, waterproof layer and skin coverage.Results: The patients were followed up between 6 to 12 months. No fistula recurrence was observed. All flaps survived, except in one case, in which the distal skin flap was lost but stenosis or fistula did not develop. Two patients underwent second operations to refine the aesthetic results.Conclusions: The scrotal-septal flap can be transferred in an overturning-folding-advancement fashion and can simultaneously involve the reconstruction of the urethra, waterproof barrier and skin coverage. This is a simple and reliable alternative for large UCFs (≤2 cm) repairing at the penoscrotal junction; however, it cannot be used in patients with a damaged scrotal septum.
Prognostic factors for overall survival with targeted therapy in Chinese patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Zhao Juping , Huang Xin , Sun Fukang , Ma Renyi , Wang Haofei , Shao Kun , Zhu Yu , Zhou Wenlong , Xu Zhaoping , Shen Zhoujun
Published: November 2014

Introduction: We wanted to identify the prognostic factors for overall survival (OS) in Chinese patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC) treated with first-line targeted therapy (sorafenib or sunitinib).Methods: We retrospectively reviewed clinical data from 119 mRCC patients administered sorafenib or sunitinib at the Ruijin Hospital since 2007. OS rates were calculated by the Kaplan-Meier method. Each variable was investigated univariately and then multivariately using a stepwise algorithm. A multivariate Cox regression model analyzed baseline variables for prognostic significance.Results: The mean patient age was 57 ± 12 years; 37 patients (31%) received sorafenib and 82 (69%) received sunitinib. The mean OS was 22.7 ± 15.6 months (range: 2.8–68.7). OS rates at year 1, 3 and 5 were 74%, 57%, and 36%, respectively. Univariate analysis identified significant negative prognostic factors (p < 0.05) as Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status ≥2, symptoms, no prior nephrectomy, microscopic necrosis, ≥2 metastatic sites, presence of liver, bone, or pancreas metastasis, hemoglobin less than the lower limit of normal (female <115 g/L, male <130 g/L), and serum alkaline phosphatase greater than the upper limit of normal (126 IU/L) at baseline, as well as a relative dose intensity of targeting agents in the first month (1M-RDI) of <50%. Multivariate analysis of OS identified 4 independent predictors: no symptoms, no bone or pancreas metastasis, and 1M-RDI of targeting agents (≥50%).Conclusions: With targeted therapy, there is some change in the prognostic factors for mRCC and target drug therapies (1M-RDI ≥50%) play an important role in the prognosis of mRCC. Continued progress in the identification of patient-specific prognostic factors for mRCC will require further advances in the understanding of tumour biology.
Five-year follow-up of active surveillance for prostate cancer: A Canadian community-based urological experience
Authors: Andrews J. Matthew J. , Ashfield James E. , Morse Michael , Whelan Thomas F.
Published: November 2014

Introduction: We assessed oncological outcomes of active surveillance (AS) using a community database and identified factors associated with disease reclassification on surveillance biopsy.Methods: A retrospective review was performed on 200 men on AS. Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) was measured every 3 to 6 months. Prostate biopsies were performed every 1 to 4 years, and at the individual physician’s discretion. Disease reclassification was defined as clinical T1 to cT2 progression, or histologically as >2 cores positive, Gleason score >6, or >50% core involvement on surveillance biopsy. Multivariate Cox regression analysis evaluated factors associated with disease reclassification. Kaplan-Meier survival curves were plotted.Results: We assessed a heterogeneous cohort of 86 patients, with a median age 67.2 years, who received ≥1 surveillance biopsies. The median follow-up was 5.2 years. The median times to first and second surveillance biopsies were 730 and 763 days, respectively. Overall, 47% of patients were reclassified on surveillance biopsy after a median 2.1 years. Factors associated with disease reclassification were PSA density >0.20 (p < 0.0001, hazard ratio [HR] 4.55, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.116–9.782) and ≥3 positive cores (p = 0.0152, HR 3.956, 95% CI 1.304–12.003) at diagnosis, and number of positive cores on surveillance biopsy. In total, 25 (29%) patients received delayed intervention, with a median time to intervention of 2.6 years. The median time on AS was 4.4 years, with an overall survival of 95% and prostate-specific survival of 100%.Conclusions: Our community study supports AS to reduce over treatmentof prostate cancer. PSA density >0.20 and ≥3 cores positive are associated with disease reclassification on surveillance biopsy.
On revised szeged spectrum of a graph
Authors: Habibi Nader , Ashrafi Ali Reza
Published: November 2014

The revised Szeged index is a molecular structure descriptor equal to the sum of products $[n_u(e) + \frac{n_0(e)}{2}][n_v(e) + \frac{n_0(e)}{2}]$ over all edges $e = uv$ of the molecular graph $G$, where $n_0(e)$ is the number of vertices equidistant from $u$ and $v$, $n_u(e)$ is the number of vertices closer to $u$ than $v$ and $n_v(e)$ is defined analogously. The adjacency matrix of a graph weighted in this way is called its revised Szeged matrix and the set of its eigenvalues is the revised Szeged spectrum of $G$. In this paper some new results on the revised Szeged spectrum of graphs are presented.
Preliminary results of the study on some hematological and biochemical values of Takhi
Authors: Bayar-Enkh B , Ganbat S , Enkhtuya P
Published: November 2014

Some hematological values, blood total protein, protein fractions, and minerals such as calcium and phosphorus of takhi, which are now being reintroduced in Khustain natural park, were measured. There were 8.3 million red blood cells and 8000 white blood cells in 1 mm3 whole blood of takhi reintroduced in Khustain natural park, and hemoglobin was 179.6±3.2 g/l. As well, total proteins, calcium and phosphorus of takhi were 67± 0.6 g/l, 2.1±0.31 mmol/l, and 1.1±0.2 mmol/l respectively and they were similar to those in Mongolian horses. It has been necessary to investigate further adaptability of takhi in asscoation with both internal and external environments of its body.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjas.v11i2.206 Mongolian Journal of Agricultural Sciences Vol.11(2) 2013 pp.3-6
Phylogenic analysis of the M genes of influenza viruses isolated from shorebirds
Authors: Dashzevge Erdenechimeg , Imai Kunitoshi , Ogawa Haruko
Published: November 2014

Tracheal and cloacal swabs were collected from a total of 195 juvenile shorebirds in the area in 2012 in Eastern Hokkaido, Japan. Viruses showing hemagglutination activity were successfully recovered from 28 bird samples. All viruses were identified as AIV by RT-PCR to detect viral M genes of influenza A virus, and were determined to be H4N7 subtype by RT-PCR for subtyping of AIV. Phylogenic analysis of the matrix (M) genes of 12 strains selected on the basis of their different places and date of surveillance. The M genes of 12 strains belonged to the Eurasian Lineages. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjas.v11i2.207 Mongolian Journal of Agricultural Sciences Vol.11(2) 2013 pp.7-15
Immunological characterization of Neospora caninum Cyclophilin
Authors: Punsantsogvoo Myagmarsuren , Ibrahim Hany , Sandagdorj Narantsatsral , Banzragch Battur , Badgar Battsetseg , Xuan Xuenan , Nishikawa Yoshifumi
Published: November 2014

Neosporosis is caused by an intracellular protozoan,Neospora caninum, which is an important pathogen of dogs and cattle. In this study, we analyzed Neospora caninum cyclophilin 18 protein (NcCyp18), which regulates proliferation and migration of murine macrophages and lymphocytes. From our study, NcCyp18 showed the activity of macrophage proliferation in a CCR5-independent manner and activity of spleen cell proliferation in a CCR5-dependent manner. NcCyp18 showed the activity of macrophage migration in a CCR5-independent manner and activity of spleen cell migration in a CCR5-dependent manner. Moreover, recombinant NcCyp18 induced the production of the nitric oxide and IL-12 p40. The data suggest that NcCyp18 recruits host cells and enhances the growth of host cells at the site of infection for maintenance of interaction between the parasite and host. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjas.v11i2.209 Mongolian Journal of Agricultural Sciences Vol.11(2) 2013 pp.17-23
Trichostatin A, a potential drug for treatment of animal Babesia infections
Authors: Nyamjargal T , Oshima N , Xuan X , Igarashi I , Munkhjargal T , Suzuki H
Published: November 2014

In the present study, we evaluated the inhibitory effect of trichostatin A on the asexual growth of bovine, equine, and canine Babesia parasites in vitro as well as on the in vivo growth of Babesia microti (B.microti) in mice. The growth of Babesia bovis (B.bovis), Babesia bigemina (B.bigemina), Babesia caballi (B.caballi), Theileria equi (T.equi), and Babesia gibsoni (B.gibsoni) species was significantly inhibited (P < 0.05) by very low concentrations of trichostatin A (IC50 values = 2.6, 2.4, 2.3, 2.4, and 2.3 nM, respectively). Furthermore, in B.microti-infected mice, trichostatin A caused significant higher (P < 0.05) inhibition of the growth of B.microti at the dose of 2 mg/kg body weight than that in the control group. These results indicated the trichostatin A might be a chemotherapeutic agent for treatment of babesiosis. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjas.v11i2.210 Mongolian Journal of Agricultural Sciences Vol.11(2) 2013 pp.24-26
Isolation of bioactive substance from pure mumie
Authors: Enkh-Oyun T , Tsatsralt Ts , Bayarmaa J
Published: November 2014

Mumie contains humid and fulvic acids. For this study, pure mumie was fractionated into fulvic acid (FA) and humic acid (HA) fractions. Humic and Fulvic Acids are highly active bioregulators, and also they contain both macro- and micro-nutrients needed by human and animal bodies. Mumie is stone like material found in Mongolia at higher altitude, which has various medical applications in Mongolia and other Asian countries [2,3]. In the present study, the biological activity of mumie and its fractions was measured. Fractions were prepared according to the protocol described by I. A. Scheretkin and A.I. Khlebnikov. Both humic and fulvic acids can be obtained with the yields of 5.3% and 18.6 % respectively DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjas.v11i2.213 Mongolian Journal of Agricultural Sciences Vol.11(2) 2013 pp.33-35
Possibility of elimination of pathogen from Babesia infected animals by means of embryo transfer
Authors: Erdenetogtokh P , Ganbat S , Suzuki Hiroshi
Published: November 2014

Babesia infections occur mainly in animals, and are transmitted by ticks. The severity of the diseases varies considerably depending on the species of Babesia involved as well as the immune response of the infected animal. In Mongolia infection produced by Babesia parasites is widely spread, provoking severe damage to the agricultural and economic sectors. Currently, strategies to control and prevent the infection are inefficient. Indeed, the necessity to look for suitable and accessible strategies to obtain animals free from the infection is needed. Currently, assisted reproductive technologies (ART) are used for the improvement of productivity in livestock. Moreover, embryo transfer seams to be useful approach to obtain clean embryos obtained from infected animals. Therefore, by using a mice model (ICR) infected with Babesia microti, an alternative method to obtain animals free from infection was examined. ICR mice at 8 weeks old were challenged with 0.2 ml of 1x107 IRBC/ml by i.p injection. After infection, superovulation was induced and then embryos were obtained and washed. Then, their development stage along with their morphological characteristics were monitored. In vitro embryos obtained from uninfected mice were used as a control group. The results indicate that the infection does not have any influence on pre-implantation embryonic development and morphological characteristics. Thus, we suggest that embryos obtained from infected animals might be useful for embryo transfer in order to improve productivity of livestock and reduce the risk of congenital infection. In summary, ART such as embryo transfer might be an useful technique in countries where Babesiosis is an endemic disease. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjas.v11i2.214 Mongolian Journal of Agricultural Sciences Vol.11(2) 2013 pp.36-42
Mongolian animal protein's resource and usage problem
Authors: Chimegee N , Damdinsuren L , Lkhagvasuren S , Badamkhand L
Published: November 2014

In a year, it’s calculated that to prepare 11885 ton animal internal organ’s and derivative raw materials protein for food stuff and defined ways of usage DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjas.v11i2.216 Mongolian Journal of Agricultural Sciences Vol.11(2) 2013 pp.49-53
Genetic polymorphism of blood potassium in goat belonging to the different breeds and subbreed in Mongolia
Authors: Myagmarsuren P , Battsetseg B , Altangerel D , Dungu D , Myagmardulam U
Published: November 2014

In the goats belonging to the different breeds and sub breed the genetic polymorphism at the determinant locus of blood potassium was revealed by flame spectrophotometer method. The kalemic systems, in those breeds were characterized by a polymorphism of middle level due to the existence of the two phenotypes and of three genotypes. The polymorphic character of this system is given by the distributional discontinuity of potassium ions in whole blood, the discontinuous space ranging were 10-34 m eq/L in the Mongolian native breed, 0.38-20.3 m eq/L in the Govigurbansaihan breed, 10.27- 15.8 m eq/ L in the AltainUlaan sub breed. The remarkable differences in the whole blood of potassium concentrations were recognized between Mongol and Govi-Gurban Saikhan breeds td=6.46 or (p<0.001), Govi-Gurban Saikhan and Altai ulaan (td=5.7) or (p<0.001). As this trait, the slight difference was revealed between Mongol and Altai ulaan breeds (td=1.87) or (p>0.05). The correlation of the trait was also high r=0.57 between these breeds. The animals with potassium ion concentration below the discontinuity space are of LK type and those with ionic concentration above the discontinuity space are of HK type. The blood potassium level is determined by two alleles; KL and Kh, being in incomplete dominance relationship; the allele K L, responsible for low potassium, is dominant compared to its recessive Kh allele which causes high levels of blood potassium. These two alleles at the Ks locus, located on an autosomal chromosome, determine three genotypes; KLKL (dominant homozygote), KLKh (heterozygote), and KhKh (recessive homozygote). In the Mongolian native breed the allele Kh was less frequent (20%) than its dominant KL (80%), in the Govi Gurban Saihan breed, the frequency of the alleles were also 5 %, 95% respectively. The phenotype LK (80%-100%) achieved a much higher frequency than the phenotype HK (5%-20%) in those breeds. Consequently, the recessive homozygosis and heterozygosis recorded in an equally frequency (50%, 50%) in the Mongolian native breed, instead, the frequency of recessive homozygosis were slightly higher than heterozygosis (66%>34%) in the Govi Gurban Saihan. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjas.v11i2.217 Mongolian Journal of Agricultural Sciences Vol.11(2) 2013 pp.54-58
Effect of herbicides applied against of weeds in soybean (Glycine max L.) field
Authors: Ariunaa O , Otgonsuren M , Bayarsukh N
Published: November 2014

Herbicides, if used properly, are safe and effective in controlling weeds in soybean. The choice of herbicide, however, depends on the predominant weed species and the availability of the herbicide. In soybean field distributed 21 species of weedsof 20 genus belonging to 14 families, that are the determined 71.5% annual, 9.5% biennialweeds and 19.0% perennial weeds. Herbicides are available for pre-emergence or post emergence weed control in soybean. For examining testable variations, 278 weeds in 1m2 area were counted awet weight 1000 g, a dry weight 138.1 referring to weed density at the highestdoses 1.5-2.0 L of Targonherbicide applied in variations, whereas 92 weeds in 1m2 area were counted a wet weight 575 g, a dry weight 120.1 were to rubbish most lesser Gallant superherbicide doses at 0.45-0.65 L/ha applied in variations. In soybean field for controlling to weeds were applied Targon herbicide at doses 1.0-2.0l/ha , whereas weed species density reduced by 91.4-93.2% and the weight by 47.2-59.7%, Gallant super herbicide at doses 0.45-0.65 l/ha,the weed species density reduced by 91.1-96.3, and the weight by 37.3-58.9%, Cobra herbicide at doses 0.45-0.55 l/ha that weed species density reduced by 90.2- 95.0% and the weight by 36.7-41.4%, Flex herbicide at doses 1.65-1.85 l/ha that weed species density reduced by 95.6-94.6% and the weight by 31.2-32.5 percent respectively. The effect of chemical weed control with reduced herbicide doses on the weed population density in soybean yield was observed. Weed competition has reduced an important morpho-physiological trait in soybean. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjas.v11i2.218 Mongolian Journal of Agricultural Sciences Vol.11(2) 2013 pp.59-62
Influence of sowing time productivity of green mass of Sudan grass dry steppe zone in northern Kazakhstan
Authors: Serekpaev N , Seifullin S , Nogayev A , Bekbulatov S , Dorj B , Batmunkh L , Batdelger B
Published: November 2014

In this article we analyze the effect of sowing date on yield of Sudan grass green mass. The study was conducted over 2 years on the basis of working farms in the dry steppe zone of Kazakhstan. The yield of Sudan grass green mass is depending on the most favorable sowing dates. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjas.v11i2.219 Mongolian Journal of Agricultural Sciences Vol.11(2) 2013 pp.63-67
Tissue culture of the monocot
Authors: Dogsom Bolormaa , Batsukh Buyanchimeg
Published: November 2014

PsbS is a 22-kDa protein of photosystem II involved in nonphotochemical quenching of chlorophyll fluorescence but the mechanism is still unclear. We designed and generated transgenic rice plants with significantly reduced PsbS1 protein level using RNA interference (RNAi). Transformation confirmed by vector-specific primers and transformants were screened by RT-PCR for OsPsbS1 transcript levels and PsbS1 protein level. We could identify three PsbS1-RNAi lines. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjas.v11i2.225 Mongolian Journal of Agricultural Sciences Vol.11(2) 2013 pp.87-91
Effects of air pollution on morphological characteristics of cones and pollens of Pinus sylvestris L.
Authors: Jamiyansuren S , Tsengel B
Published: November 2014

The aim of this study is to determine the morphological characteristics of cones and pollens of Pinus sylvestris L (Scots pine). The average length of the pollen was measured 9.3 μm, and the width was 11.4 μm. Comparing to results of previous studies conducted by Jamyansuren S. and Suntsov A. B during the period of 1983 to 1985, the current morphological measurements of cones have decreased by 5 mm and number of cone scales reduced by 12.6. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjas.v11i2.226 Mongolian Journal of Agricultural Sciences Vol.11(2) 2013 pp.92-95
Current statement of the industry sector seed production of annual feed grasses in the Akmola region Republic of Kazakhstan
Authors: Serekpaev N , Nogayev A , Bekbulatov S
Published: November 2014

The role of agriculture, including fodder production to ensure food security of the country, job growth and economic development have repeatedly stressed the head of state, including those in the Message President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev to the people of Kazakhstan on January 27, the 2012 "Socio-economic modernization - the main vector of development of Kazakhstan" [1]. Within agricultural development program "Agribusiness 2020" is providing the measures to develop fodder production and recovery, irrigation of degraded pasture land [2]. To date in connection with the development of animal husbandry requires a strong forage base and cheap food, which can be obtained by growing annual forage grasses. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjas.v11i2.227 Mongolian Journal of Agricultural Sciences Vol.11(2) 2013 pp.96-97
CES estimation on milk supply of Ulaanbaatar
Authors: Tseren Tserendavaa , Jamsranjav Battulga
Published: November 2014

Food security is a worldwide problem that has called the attention to Governments and the scientific community. In Mongolia, insecurity of dairy products is considered most serious in urban rather than rural. Therefore, we discuss a supply of milk, self-sufficiency in Ulaanbaatar and determine the optimal distribution of the production and imports using CES function. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjas.v11i2.228 Mongolian Journal of Agricultural Sciences Vol.11(2) 2013 pp.98-102
State impact on potato market in Irkutsk region
Authors: Novikov A
Published: November 2014

Under the conditions of accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO) there is a particularly urgent problem of the provision of basic food products. One of the most important foods is potato. Potato is one of the few products for which the period of the reforms, there had been no sharp decline in production due to shortfalls in potato and other agricultural organizations almost full compensation due to its households producing potatoes for their own needs and remaining completely abandoned by the state. The main problem of the production and sales of potatoes is still a lack of state involvement in the formation and development of the potato market. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjas.v11i2.232 Mongolian Journal of Agricultural Sciences Vol.11(2) 2013 pp.125-128
Conjoint analysis on Mongolian meat consumption
Authors: Odsuren T , Nyamaa N
Published: November 2014

The diet in Mongolia is essentially based on animal products: meat, considered as "red food", and dairy products, "white food". Related to urbanization and changes of lifestyle, Mongolian food consumption structure is changing. But, meat is still important food for Mongolians. Therefore, Improvement of meat quality and meat safety issues is core issues of meat production and meat consumption. The study applied conjoint analysis methodology for consumer choice of meat. In result of Conjoint Analysis, Mongolians prefer good price and high fat content meat and safety meat. In future, the Mongolian Government should be oriented meat production and supply with trade mark and increase a production of Mongolian Brand meat. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjas.v11i2.234 Mongolian Journal of Agricultural Sciences Vol.11(2) 2013 pp.133-137
Characterization of polysaccharides isolated from stem of Angelica dahurica
Authors: Nyamhuu TS , Pagmadulam N , Khureltogoo Kh
Published: November 2014

Such pectin (5.77±0.02)%, fiber (24±0.01)%, lignine (10.790.03)% have been founded in the medicinal herb called ‘Angelica’. The average molecule mass of pholysugar was determined by the methodology of chromatography of chromatography of gel-filtration of the (15500-400000). It has founded first time that the glucose thermal galactose has connected as 1,4 connection in connection with the monomer assortment of neutral pholysugar founded in monosaccharide. The rhamnose-terminal, xylose-terminal are connected by 1,3 connection in the circulation of macromolecule of polysaccharide. Pectin of substance derivative compound to extract. In polysaccharide has to establish etherify carboxyl group (7.47)% and methoxyl group (5.14)% and etherification degree (51.4)%. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjas.v11i2.236 Mongolian Journal of Agricultural Sciences Vol.11(2) 2013 pp.142-145