bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Theologies of Enhancement? Another Look at Oliver O'Donovan's Created Order
Authors: Berkman John , Buttrey Michael
Published: July 2015

Abstract:

In this response to Gerald McKenny's “Evolution, Biotechnology, and the Normative Significance of Created Order,” John Berkman and Michael Buttrey suggest that McKenny has not adequately substantiated his claim that O'Donovan's account of “created order” provides no objection in principle to genetically “enhancing” children. Berkman and Buttrey frame an alternative reading of O'Donovan in light of O'Donovan's emphasis on “ordered love” as the task of Christian ethics, and his resolutely Trinitarian theology of created order. Contending contra McKenny that created order inheres in human persons and not only human nature abstractly understood, Berkman and Buttrey argue that for O'Donovan an ineliminable aspect of ordered love of God and neighbour is respecting the primordial teleological order of human persons, especially parents' rightly ordered love of the children entrusted to their care. In summary, Berkman and Buttrey conclude that unless McKenny puts O'Donovan's account of created order in its Trinitarian context and connects it with O'Donovan's rich account of ordered love, McKenny cannot make his case that O'Donovan's account of created order raises no inherent moral objection to genetically enhancing our children.
“The Song They Sing Is the Song of the Road”
Authors: Walter Martin
Published: July 2015

When, in the early twentieth century, British middle-class writers went on a tour in search of their country, travel writing not only saw the re-emergence of the home tour, but also the increasing appearance of the motorcar on British roads. With the travelogue playing the role of a discursive arena in which debates about automobility were visualized, the article argues that, as they went “in search of England,” writers like Henry Vollam Morton and J. B. Priestley not only took part in the ideological framing of motoring as a social practice, but also contributed to a change in the perception of accessing a seemingly remote English countryside. By looking at a number of contemporary British travelogues, the analysis traces the strategies of how the driving subjects staged their surroundings, and follows the authors' changing attitudes toward the cultural habit of traveling: instead of highlighting the seemingly static nature of the meaning of space, the travelogues render motoring a dynamic and procedural spatial practice, thus influencing notions of nature, progress, and tradition.
Architectural Pilgrimage
Authors: Nash Joshua
Published: July 2015

Architectural pilgrimage is implicitly appreciated in architecture and design circles, especially by students who are encouraged to “travel to architecture,” with the focus on the Grand Tour as a means of architectural exploration. However, the expression has not been made explicit in the fields of architectural history, pilgrimage studies, tourism research, and mobility studies. I explore how pilgrimage to locations of modern architectural interest affects and informs pilgrims' and architects' conceptions of buildings and the pilgrimage journey itself. Drawing initially on a European architectural pilgrimage, the personal narrative highlights the importance of self-reflection and introspection when observing the built environment and the role of language in mediating processes of movement through and creation of architectural place-space.
Water-Soluble Coordination Polymers of CuII with Tetrachloroterephthalate: Resin-Assisted Solvothermal Synthesis, Structural Transformation and Luminescence Properties
Authors: Dai Ai-Qi , Yan Qi , Zhong Jing , Chen Sheng-Chun , He Ming-Yang , Chen Qun
Published: July 2015

A CuII coordination polymer with tetrachloroterephthalate (BDC–Cl4), {[Cu(BDC–Cl4)(DMF)2]·H2O}n has been synthesised by a resin-assisted solvothermal method. The complex has a one-dimensional (1-D) [Cu2(BDC–Cl4)2]n double chain structure in the solid state, exhibits high aqueous solubility, and further evaporation of its aqueous solution yielded a further coordination polymer {[Cu(BDC–Cl4) (H2O)4]·4H2O}n, which displays a 1-D [Cu(BDC–Cl4)]n single chain structure. IR spectroscopy, molar electrical conductivity, thermal stability and luminescence properties of both complexes have also been investigated.
Synthesis of 4-Aryl-7-Methyl-3,4-Dihydropyrano[4,3-b]Pyran-2,5-Dione by Three-Component and One-Pot Reaction
Authors: Hashemzaei Esmat , Hassanabadi Alireza
Published: July 2015

Three-component and one-pot, reaction between 4-hydroxy-6-methyl-2H-pyran-2-one, Meldrum's acid and aryl aldehydes in the presence of piperidine affords 4-aryl-7-methyl-3,4-dihydropyrano[4,3-b]pyran-2,5-dione in excellent yields.
Synthesis of New Functionalised Derivatives of [1,2,4]triazolo[4,3-a]Pyrimidine and Pyrimido[2,1-b][1,3,5]Thiadiazine as Aromatase Inhibitors
Authors: Gomha Sobhi M. , Abdelrazek Fathy M. , Abdulla Mohamed M.
Published: July 2015

New functionalised 3,4-dihydropyrimido[2,1-b][1,3,5]thiadiazine-6,8-(2H,7H)-dione and [1,2,4]triazolo[4,3-a]pyrimidine-5,7-(1H,6H)-dione derivatives were synthesised through the reaction of thiobarbituric acid with aromatic amines and formaldehyde and from thiobarbituric acid and hydrazonoyl halides, respectively. The structures of the target compounds were confirmed by 1H NMR, IR and MS spectra. Moreover, the newly synthesised products were tested for their aromatase inhibition activities and the results obtained were promising compared with the drug letrozole, a non-steroidal aromatase inhibitor.
Effect of harvest times on the yield and seed quality of French bean
Authors: Shaheb MR , Islam MN , Nessa A , Hossain MA
Published: July 2015

A two years field study was carried out in the research field and laboratory of Seed Technology Division, Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute, Gazipur, Bangladesh during rabi season of 2008-10. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of five different dates of harvest viz. H1: 65 Days after emergence (DAE), H2: 70 DAE, H3: 75 DAE, H4: 80 DAE and H5: 85 DAE on the seed yield and viability of French bean. The experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design (RCB) with four replications. Results showed that the yield and yield contributing parameters significantly influenced the days to harvesting. The highest seed yields of 1.15 and 1.31 t ha-1 were obtained from the harvest of 75 DAE (Days after emergence) in 2008-09 and 2009-10, respectively. On the contrary, seed quality parameters like seed germination, root length and vigour index were also significantly influenced by harvest time. The highest seed germination percentage of 91.33 and 91.56 were recorded from the seed plots harvested at 75 DAE (pods are light brown with few yellow colour) both for the year 2008-09 and 2009-10, respectively. Similarly, the vigour indexes (12.49 and 11.64) were the highest in seed harvested at 75 DAE from the year of 2008-09 and 2009-10, respectively. This might be due to more food reserve and dry matter accumulation on the seed at later harvest. However, seeds harvested in 80 and 85 DAE were also found good for seed yield and seed quality.SAARC J. Agri., 13(1): 1-13 (2015)
Genetic architecture, heterosis and inbreeding depression for yield and yield associated physiological traits in rice (Oryza sativa L.) under drought condition
Authors: Singh AK , Mall AK , Singh PK , Singh S , Singh AK , Verma OP
Published: July 2015

Simple and joint scaling tests led to similar inferences in respect of presence or absence of epistasis in majority of cases across the fourteen characters of six crosses in two conditions. The generation mean analysis revealed importance of additive (d) and/or dominance (h) gene effects as well as one or more of the epistatic gene interactions (i, j, l) for all the seven characters in most of the crosses under both the conditions. However, nature and magnitude of gene effects and epistatic interactions for a character exhibited considerable variation across the six crosses and two environmental conditions. Significance of dominance gene effects and epistatic interactions for most of the traits in six crosses under two conditions indicated that exploitation of heterosis through hybrid varieties appears to be a potential alternative. Only in drought condition, considerable number of crosses exhibited positive and significant estimates of standard heterosis across seven characters. Present study indicated apparent lack of desirable heterosis of requisite degree. It appears that extremely diverse nature of parents involved in six cross combinations may have resulted in incompatible gene combinations or genetic architecture in crosses resulting into poor performance and lack of heterosis for most of the characters. The positive and significant heterobeltiosis was noted for relative water content and membrane thermo stability in cross VI in irrigated condition.SAARC J. Agri., 13(1): 50-62 (2015)
Assessment of post harvest loss of wet fish: a novel approach based on sensory indicator assessment
Authors: Nowsad A AKM , Hossain MM , Hassan MN , Sayem SM , Polanco JF
Published: July 2015

As a very common feature of fish marketing, small-scale fisheries in tropical countries suffers from huge post-harvest loss every year. A method was proposed to quantify the post-harvest quality loss of wet fish using sensory based assessment tool. The assessments were conducted on four fish species (rohu Labeo rohita; Ilish Tenualosa ilisha, catfish Pangasius sutchi and tilapia Oreochromis niloticus) in different steps of major distribution channels in Bangladesh for a year. Sensory quality defect point data were standardized with corresponding biochemical and microbiological quality parameters through interval estimate based on regression analysis, where a near to actual sensory quality breaking point was found to be DP 3.3. High value of goodness of fit 2 R indicated a highly fitted regression model for all the fishes tested, with highly significant (p<0.01) estimated regression coefficients. Percent quality loss of fish at each step of distribution channel was determined using DP 3.3, constructing a (1-?) confidence interval for average percentage of defective fish. The loss assessment study indicated that fish did not lose quality during handling by the fishermen, and fish farmers or at landing centers and primary fish markets, except fresh T. ilisha destined for consumer market. While, T. ilisha used for salting during glut catch suffered substantial loss. Most of the quality losses were initiated at the transporters and commission agents, from 4% in P. sutchi to 11% in O. niloticus. When fish come to retailers, a 16% loss was recognized in L. rohita and O. niloticus, but 7% in P. sutchi and 9% in T. ilisha. Higher loss was observed in fish vendors, from 10% - 19%. Considering the retailers as the end-point stake in the fish distribution chain, study revealed the range of fish quality loss was 7-16% in four major consumed species in Bangladesh. The method was further validated in assessing the quality of 24 other major commercial fish species in different seasons and locations country-wide for two consecutive years and found identical results. The results suggest that the new method can be applied to any fish in quantifying the qualitative loss.SAARC J. Agri., 13(1): 75-89 (2015)
Impact of seedlings age on vegetable Marrow production
Authors: Jellani G , Ullah H , Ali M , Khan TN , Atif MJ , Musa M
Published: July 2015

A study was conducted at the research field of Horticultural Research Institute, National Research Center (NARC), Islamabad, Pakistan during two consecutive years of 2011 and 2012 to compare the performance of seedlings raised in polythene bags with traditional direct seeding in respect of early harvesting and profitability. Seedlings of three different ages (40, 50 and 60 days old) of vegetable marrow were compared with traditional direct seeded crop. Transplanted seedlings of vegetable marrow produced fruits 36-38 days earlier and availability period of 34-38 days longer than direct seeded crop. Similarly, higher fruit plant-1, fruit weight plant-1 and fruit yield ha-1 were obtained from seedling treatments. Averaged over years, 50-69% increase in yield and 64-100% increase in profit were recorded in seedling treatments than direct seeded crop. Among seedling ages, 60 days old seedlings were the best performer. The overall results of two years study revealed that seedling transplantation was superior to traditional direct seeded practice of growing vegetable marrow and among those 60 days old seedlings was the best in respect of yield components, fruit yield and profit.SAARC J. Agri., 13(1): 215-222 (2015)
Comprehensive Protein Interactome Analysis of a Key RNA Helicase: Detection of Novel Stress Granule Proteins
Authors: Bish Rebecca , Cuevas-Polo Nerea , Cheng Zhe , Hambardzumyan Dolores , Munschauer Mathias , Landthaler Markus , Vogel Christine
Published: July 2015

DDX6 (p54/RCK) is a human RNA helicase with central roles in mRNA decay and translation repression. To help our understanding of how DDX6 performs these multiple functions, we conducted the first unbiased, large-scale study to map the DDX6-centric protein-protein interactome using immunoprecipitation and mass spectrometry. Using DDX6 as bait, we identify a high-confidence and high-quality set of protein interaction partners which are enriched for functions in RNA metabolism and ribosomal proteins. The screen is highly specific, maximizing the number of true positives, as demonstrated by the validation of 81% (47/58) of the RNA-independent interactors through known functions and interactions. Importantly, we minimize the number of indirect interaction partners through use of a nuclease-based digestion to eliminate RNA. We describe eleven new interactors, including proteins involved in splicing which is an as-yet unknown role for DDX6. We validated and characterized in more detail the interaction of DDX6 with Nuclear fragile X mental retardation-interacting protein 2 (NUFIP2) and with two previously uncharacterized proteins, FAM195A and FAM195B (here referred to as granulin-1 and granulin-2, or GRAN1 and GRAN2). We show that NUFIP2, GRAN1, and GRAN2 are not P-body components, but re-localize to stress granules upon exposure to stress, suggesting a function in translation repression in the cellular stress response. Using a complementary analysis that resolved DDX6’s multiple complex memberships, we further validated these interaction partners and the presence of splicing factors. As DDX6 also interacts with the E3 SUMO ligase TIF1β, we tested for and observed a significant enrichment of sumoylation amongst DDX6’s interaction partners. Our results represent the most comprehensive screen for direct interaction partners of a key regulator of RNA life cycle and localization, highlighting new stress granule components and possible DDX6 functions—many of which are likely conserved across eukaryotes.
Effects of Low-Carbon Technologies and End-Use Electrification on Energy-Related Greenhouse Gases Mitigation in China by 2050
Authors: Guo Zheng , Liu Pei , Ma Linwei , Li Zheng
Published: July 2015

Greenhouse gas emissions in China have been increasing in line with its energy consumption and economic growth. Major means for energy-related greenhouse gases mitigation in the foreseeable future are transition to less carbon intensive energy supplies and structural changes in energy consumption. In this paper, a bottom-up model is built to examine typical projected scenarios for energy supply and demand, with which trends of energy-related carbon dioxide emissions by 2050 can be analyzed. Results show that low-carbon technologies remain essential contributors to reducing emissions and altering emissions trends up to 2050. By pushing the limit of current practicality, emissions reduction can reach 20 to 28 percent and the advent of carbon peaking could shift from 2040 to 2030. In addition, the effect of electrification at end-use sectors is studied. Results show that electrifying transport could reduce emissions and bring the advent of carbon peaking forward, but the effect is less significant compared with low-carbon technologies. Moreover, it implies the importance of decarbonizing power supply before electrifying end-use sectors.
Development of Optical Fiber-Based Daylighting System and Its Comparison
Authors: Ullah Irfan , Whang Allen
Published: July 2015

Fiber-optic daylighting systems have been shown to be a promising and effective way to transmit sunlight in the interior space whilst reducing electric lighting energy consumption. To increase efficiency in terms of providing uniform illumination in the interior, the current need is to illuminate optical fiber-bundle with uniform light flux. To this end, we propose a method for achieving collimated light, which illuminates the fiber-bundle uniformly. Light is collected through a parabolic concentrator and focused toward a collimating lens, which distributes the light over each optical fiber. An optics diffusing structure is utilized at the end side of the fiber bundle to spread light in the interior. The results clearly reveal that the efficiency in terms of uniform illumination, which also reduces the heat problem for optical fibers, is improved. Furthermore, a comparison study is conducted between current and previous approaches. As a result, the proposed daylighting system turns out convenient in terms of energy saving and reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.
Smoke-Free Multiunit Housing Policy: Caretakers’ Perspectives on Economic and Personal Impacts
Authors: Wilbur Rachel , Stein Anna , Pinzon Elena , Ahmed Osub , McNair Obie , Ribisl Kurt
Published: July 2015

Objective: Multiunit housing (MUH) operators may be motivated to adopt smoke-free policies to achieve cost savings. MUH caretakers provide a unique perspective for understanding the implications of smoke-free policies because of their role in property maintenance. We examine MUH caretakers’ perceptions regarding the economic and personal impact of smoke-free policies at their properties. Methods: We conducted and analyzed qualitative interviews with 20 multiunit housing caretakers from two large property management companies in the southeastern United States that had implemented smoke-free policies. Results: For non-smoking units, caretakers reported shortened turnover times, in addition to reduction in the need for turnover supplies and capital replacements. Caretakers reported an improvement in their work environments due to reduced workload and exposure to secondhand and thirdhand smoke after implementation of smoke-free policies. Conclusion: The potential for cost savings exists for MUH operators who enact smoke-free policies because of decreased labor, supplies, and capital costs. Smoke-free policies may also improve the work environment of caretakers and other frontline MUH employees. These are important findings for MUH companies seeking to lower their operation costs and improve their employees’ working conditions, as well as for smoke-free advocates seeking to promote policy change.
Understanding Health Information Seeking from an Actor-Centric Perspective
Authors: Batchelor Simon , Waldman Linda , Bloom Gerry , Rasheed Sabrina , Scott Nigel , Ahmed Tanvir , Khan Nazib , Sharmin Tamanna
Published: July 2015

This paper presents a conceptual approach for discussing health information seeking among poor households in Africa and Asia. This approach is part of a larger research endeavor aimed at understanding how health systems are adapting; with possibilities and constraints emerging. These health systems can be found in a context of the changing relationships between states, markets and civil society in low and middle income countries. The paper starts from an understanding of the health sector as a “health knowledge economy”, organized to provide people with access to knowledge and advice. The use of the term “health knowledge economy” draws attention to the ways the health sector is part of a broader knowledge economy changing the way individuals and households obtain and use specialist information. The paper integrates an actor centric approach with the theory of planned behavior. It seeks to identify the actors engaged in the health knowledge economy as a precursor to longer term studies on the uptake of innovations integrating health services with mobile phones, commonly designated as mHealth, contributing to an understanding of the potential vulnerabilities of poor people, and highlighting possible dangers if providers of health information and advice are strongly influenced by interest groups.
Integrated Assessment of Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Mining in Ghana — Part 3: Social Sciences and Economics
Authors: Wilson Mark , Renne Elisha , Roncoli Carla , Agyei-Baffour Peter , Tenkorang Emmanuel
Published: July 2015

This article is one of three synthesis reports resulting from an integrated assessment (IA) of artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) in Ghana. Given the complexities that involve multiple drivers and diverse disciplines influencing ASGM, an IA framework was used to analyze economic, social, health, and environmental data and to co-develop evidence-based responses in collaboration with pertinent stakeholders. We look at both micro- and macro-economic processes surrounding ASGM, including causes, challenges, and consequences. At the micro-level, social and economic evidence suggests that the principal reasons whereby most people engage in ASGM involve “push” factors aimed at meeting livelihood goals. ASGM provides an important source of income for both proximate and distant communities, representing a means of survival for impoverished farmers as well as an engine for small business growth. However, miners and their families often end up in a “poverty trap” of low productivity and indebtedness, which reduce even further their economic options. At a macro level, Ghana’s ASGM activities contribute significantly to the national economy even though they are sometimes operating illegally and at a disadvantage compared to large-scale industrial mining companies. Nevertheless, complex issues of land tenure, social stability, mining regulation and taxation, and environmental degradation undermine the viability and sustainability of ASGM as a livelihood strategy. Although more research is needed to understand these complex relationships, we point to key findings and insights from social science and economics research that can guide policies and actions aimed to address the unique challenges of ASGM in Ghana and elsewhere.
Working with Policy and Regulatory Factors to Implement Universal Design in the Built Environment: The Australian Experience
Authors: Larkin Helen , Hitch Danielle , Watchorn Valerie , Ang Susan
Published: July 2015

Built environments that are usable by all provide opportunities for engagement in meaningful occupations. However, enabling them in day to day design processes and practice is problematic for relevant professions. The purpose of this phenomenological study was to gain greater understanding of the policy and regulatory influences that promote or hinder the uptake of universal design in built environments, to inform better future design. Focus groups or telephone interviews were undertaken with 28 key building industry and disability stakeholders in Australia. Four themes were identified: the difficulties of definition; the push or pull of regulations and policy; the role of formal standards; and, shifting the focus of design thinking. The findings highlight the complexity of working within policy and regulatory contexts when implementing universal design. Occupational therapists working with colleagues from other professions must be aware of these influences, and develop the skills to work with them for successful practice.
Climate Change, Coastal Vulnerability and the Need for Adaptation Alternatives: Planning and Design Examples from Egypt and the USA
Authors: Williams S , Ismail Nabil
Published: July 2015

Planning and design of coastal protection for high-risk events with low to moderate or uncertain probabilities are a challenging balance of short- and long-term cost vs. protection of lives and infrastructure. The pervasive, complex, and accelerating impacts of climate change on coastal areas, including sea-level rise, storm surge and tidal flooding, require full integration of the latest science into strategic plans and engineering designs. While the impacts of changes occurring are global, local effects are highly variable and often greatly exacerbated by geophysical (land subsidence, faulting), oceanographic (ocean circulation, wind patterns) and anthropogenic factors. Reducing carbon emissions is needed to mitigate global warming, but adaptation can accommodate at least near future change impacts. Adaptation should include alternatives that best match region-specific risk, time frame, environmental conditions, and the desired protection. Optimal alternatives are ones that provide protection, accommodate or mimic natural coastal processes, and include landforms such as barrier islands and wetlands. Plans are often for 50 years, but longer-term planning is recommended since risk from climate change will persist for centuries. This paper presents an assessment of impacts of accelerating climate change on the adequacy of coastal protection strategies and explores design measures needed for an optimum degree of protection and risk reduction. Three coastal areas facing similar challenges are discussed: Abu-Qir Bay, Nile River delta plain, Egypt; Lake Borgne, New Orleans, Louisiana delta plain; and the New York City region.
Structure Elucidation of Procyanidins Isolated from Rhododendron formosanum and Their Anti-Oxidative and Anti-Bacterial Activities
Authors: Wang Chao-Min , Hsu Yuan-Man , Jhan Yun-Lian , Tsai Shang-Jie , Lin Shi-Xun , Su Chiu-Hsian , Chou Chang-Hung
Published: July 2015

Rhododendron formosanum is an endemic species distributed in the central mountains of Taiwan. In this study, the biological activities of major procyanidins isolated from the leaf extract of R. formosanum were investigated. Four compounds, including two procyanidin dimers, procyanidin A1 (1) and B3 (2), and two procyanidin trimmers, procyanidin C4 (4) and cinnamtannin D1 (5), were isolated and identified on the basis of spectroscopic data. The structure of a new procyanidin dimer, rhodonidin A (3), was elucidated by 2D-NMR, CD spectrum and MS. The procyanidin trimmers and rhodonidin A are reported for the first time in Ericaceae. The biological activities of these procyanidins were evaluated using anti-bacterial and anti-oxidative assays. Only the new compound 3 demonstrated strong anti-bacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus at an MIC value of 4 μg/mL. All compounds showed pronounced antioxidant activities and the activities are enhanced as the amount of OH groups in procyanidins increased. In conclusion, the pleiotropic effects of procyanidins isolated from the leaves of R. formosanum can be a source of promising compounds for the development of future pharmacological applications.
Geothermal Energy Potential in Low Enthalpy Areas as a Future Energy Resource: Identifying Feasible Targets, Quebec, Canada, Study Case
Authors: Majorowicz Jacek , Minea Vasile
Published: July 2015

Heat flow of the sedimentary succession of the Eastern Canada Sedimentary Basins varies from 40 mW/m2 close to the exposed shield in the north to high 60–70 mW/m2 in the southwest–northeast St. Lawrence corridor. As high fluid flow rates are required for a successful geothermal application, the most important targets are deep existing permeable aquifers rather than hard rock, which would need to be fracked. Unfortunately, the ten most populated Québec urban centers are in the areas where the Grenville (Canadian Shield) is exposed or at shallow depths with sedimentary cover where temperatures are 30 °C or less. The city of Drummondville will be the exception, as the basement deepens sharply southwest, and higher temperatures reaching >120 °C are expected in the deep Cambrian sedimentary aquifers near a 4–5-km depth. Deep under the area where such sediments could be occurring under Appalachian nappes, temperatures significantly higher than 140 °C are predicted. In parts of the deep basin, temperatures as high as 80 °C–120 °C exist at depths of 3–4 km, mainly southeast of the major geological boundary: the Logan line. There is a large amount of heat resource at such depths to be considered in this area for district heating.
Moving Voxel Method for Estimating Canopy Base Height from Airborne Laser Scanner Data
Authors: Maguya Almasi , Tegel Katri , Junttila Virpi , Kauranne Tuomo , Korhonen Markus , Burns Janice , Leppanen Vesa , Sanz Blanca
Published: July 2015

Canopy base height (CBH) is a key parameter used in forest-fire modeling, particularly crown fires. However, estimating CBH is a challenging task, because normally, it is difficult to measure it in the field. This has led to the use of simple estimators (e.g., the average of individual trees in a plot) for modeling CBH. In this paper, we propose a method for estimating CBH from airborne light detection and ranging (LiDAR) data. We also compare the performance of several estimators (Lorey’s mean, the arithmetic mean and the 40th and 50th percentiles) used to estimate CBH at the plot level. The method we propose uses a moving voxel to estimate the height of the gaps (in the LiDAR point cloud) below tree crowns and uses this information for modeling CBH. The advantage of this approach is that it is more tolerant to variations in LiDAR data (e.g., due to season) and tree species, because it works directly with the height information in the data. Our approach gave better results when compared to standard percentile-based LiDAR metrics commonly used in modeling CBH. Using Lorey’s mean, the arithmetic mean and the 40th and 50th percentiles as CBH estimators at the plot level, the highest and lowest values for root mean square error (RMSE) and root mean square error for cross-validation (RMSEcv) and R2 for our method were 1.74/2.40, 2.69/3.90 and 0.46/0.71, respectively, while with traditional LiDAR-based metrics, the results were 1.92/2.48, 3.34/5.51 and 0.44/0.65. Moreover, the use of Lorey’s mean as a CBH estimator at the plot level resulted in models with better predictive value based on the leave-one-out cross-validation (LOOCV) results used to compute the RMSEcv values.
Optical Fibre Pressure Sensors in Medical Applications
Authors: Poeggel Sven , Tosi Daniele , Duraibabu DineshBabu , Leen Gabriel , McGrath Deirdre , Lewis Elfed
Published: July 2015

This article is focused on reviewing the current state-of-the-art of optical fibre pressure sensors for medical applications. Optical fibres have inherent advantages due to their small size, immunity to electromagnetic interferences and their suitability for remote monitoring and multiplexing. The small dimensions of optical fibre-based pressure sensors, together with being lightweight and flexible, mean that they are minimally invasive for many medical applications and, thus, particularly suited to in vivo measurement. This means that the sensor can be placed directly inside a patient, e.g., for urodynamic and cardiovascular assessment. This paper presents an overview of the recent developments in optical fibre-based pressure measurements with particular reference to these application areas.
Robust Indoor Human Activity Recognition Using Wireless Signals
Authors: Wang Yi , Jiang Xinli , Cao Rongyu , Wang Xiyang
Published: July 2015

Wireless signals–based activity detection and recognition technology may be complementary to the existing vision-based methods, especially under the circumstance of occlusions, viewpoint change, complex background, lighting condition change, and so on. This paper explores the properties of the channel state information (CSI) of Wi-Fi signals, and presents a robust indoor daily human activity recognition framework with only one pair of transmission points (TP) and access points (AP). First of all, some indoor human actions are selected as primitive actions forming a training set. Then, an online filtering method is designed to make actions’ CSI curves smooth and allow them to contain enough pattern information. Each primitive action pattern can be segmented from the outliers of its multi-input multi-output (MIMO) signals by a proposed segmentation method. Lastly, in online activities recognition, by selecting proper features and Support Vector Machine (SVM) based multi-classification, activities constituted by primitive actions can be recognized insensitive to the locations, orientations, and speeds.
Analysis of the Environmental Efficiency of the Chinese Transportation Sector Using an Undesirable Output Slacks-Based Measure Data Envelopment Analysis Model
Authors: Song Xiaowei , Hao Yongpei , Zhu Xiaodong
Published: July 2015

Many countries are attempting to reduce energy consumption and CO2 emissions while increasing the productivity and efﬁciency of their industries. An undesirable-output-oriented data envelopment analysis (DEA) model with slacks-based measure (SBM) was used to evaluate the changes in the environmental efficiency of the transportation sector in 30 Chinese provinces (municipalities and autonomous regions) between 2003 and 2012. The potential for decreasing CO2 emissions and energy saving was also assessed. Transportation was found to be inefﬁcient in most of the provinces and the average environmental efficiency was low (0.45). The overall average efficiency reached a maximum in 2005 and continually decreased until a minimum was reached in 2009; since then, it has increased. In general, transportation is more efficient in eastern than in central or western China. A sensitivity analysis was also carried out on the input and output indicators. Based on these ﬁndings, some policies are proposed to improve the environmental efﬁciency of the transportation sector in China.
The Impact of Local Microclimate Boundary Conditions on Building Energy Performance
Authors: Pisello Anna , Pignatta Gloria , Castaldo Veronica , Cotana Franco
Published: July 2015

Local environmental boundaries play an important role in determining microclimate conditions affecting thermal-energy behavior of buildings. In this scenario, the purpose of the present work is to investigate how residential buildings are affected by different local microclimate conditions. To this aim, the continuous microclimate monitoring of (i) a rural area; (ii) a suburban area; and (iii) an urban area is carried out, and the comparative analysis of the different boundary conditions is performed. In particular, the effect of the presence of a large lake in the rural area on building energy demand for heating and cooling is evaluated, both in winter and summer. Coupled degree hour method and numerical analysis are performed in order to predict the energy requirement of buildings subject to local microclimate boundary conditions. The main results show higher air temperature and relative humidity values for the rural area. No significant mitigation effect due to the lake presence is found in urban and suburban areas because of the peculiar wind regime of the region. Additionally, the dynamic thermal-energy simulation shows a decrease of 14% and 25% in the heating consumption and an increase of 58% and 194% in cooling requirements of buildings situated in the rural area around the lake compared to the urban and suburban areas, respectively.
Employment Policies for a Green Economy at the European Union Level
Authors: Pociovălișteanu Diana , Novo-Corti Isabel , Aceleanu Mirela , Șerban Andreea , Grecu Eugenia
Published: July 2015

Sustainable economic development requires ensuring economic growth and development in terms of environmental protection by providing a bridge between sustainable economic growth, improvement in human health, social justice, employment and environmental protection. Our paper aims to study the situation of green jobs at the European Union level and the relationship between environment and employment, by analysing the link between employment and environmental policies. It highlights the main trends recorded at the European Union level in the field of employment policy to promote green jobs for sustainable economic development. Although there is little effect from environmental policies on employment, the effects are positive, which shows that the relationship between environmental and employment policy should be continued and improved by measures taken at both the macro- and microeconomic levels.
From “One Health” to “One Communication”: The Contribution of Communication in Veterinary Medicine to Public Health
Authors: Cipolla Micaela , Bonizzi Luigi , Zecconi Alfonso
Published: July 2015

Despite the fact that health communication is a discipline developed only recently, its importance in human medicine is well recognized. However, it is less considered in veterinary medicine, even if it has the potential to improve public health because of the role of veterinary medicine in public health. For this reason, an One Health approach is useful for communication as well. This approach leads to a “One Communication” concept, which is the result of the synergy in communicative efforts both in human and in veterinary medicine. Our analysis explores the potential of communication in several veterinary fields: institutions, food safety, companion animal and food-producing animal practice, pharmacology and drugs, wildlife fauna and environment. In almost all the areas of veterinary activity communication can contribute to human health. It takes many forms and use several channels, and this variety of communicative opportunities represent a challenge for veterinarians. For this reason, the communication course should be included in the curricula of Veterinary Medicine Schools. As One Health, One Communication is a strategy for expanding collaborations in health communication and it will enhance public health.
The role of root development of Avena fatua in conferring soil strength
Authors: Dumlao Matthew R. , Ramananarivo Sophie , Goyal Vivek , DeJong Jason T. , Waller Jack , Silk Wendy K.
Published: July 2015

• Premise of the study: Roots play an important role in strengthening and stabilizing soils. Existing models predict that tensile strength and root abundance are primary factors that strengthen soil. This study quantified how both factors are affected by root developmental stage.

• Methods: Focusing on early development of Avena fatua, a common grassland species with a fibrous root system, we chose three developmental stages associated with major changes in the root system. Seeds were planted in rhizotrons for easy viewing and pots to allow root growth surrounded by soil. Tensile strength was determined by subjecting root segments to a progressively larger pulling force until breaking occurred. Root abundance at two depths was characterized by the cross‐sectional area of the roots divided by the area of the soil core (i.e., root area ratio). Shear strength of 50 mm saturated soil columns was determined with a modified interface direct shear device.

• Key results: Tensile strength increased by a factor of ≥15× with distance from the root tip. Thus, soil‐strengthening properties increased with root cell development. Plants grown under dry soil conditions produced roots with higher maximal tensile strength (41.9 MPa vs. approximately 17 MPa), largely explained by 33% thinner diameters. Over 7 weeks of root growth, root abundance increased by a factor of 4.8× while saturated soil shear strength increased by 24% in the upper soil layer.

• Conclusions: Root development should be incorporated into models of soil stability to improve understanding of this important environmental property.
Exceptional reduction of the plastid genome of saguaro cactus (Carnegiea gigantea): Loss of the ndh gene suite and inverted repeat
Authors: Sanderson Michael J. , Copetti Dario , Búrquez Alberto , Bustamante Enriquena , Charboneau Joseph L. M. , Eguiarte Luis E. , Kumar Sudhir , Lee Hyun Oh , Lee Junki , McMahon Michelle , Steele Kelly , Wing Rod , Yang Tae‐Jin , Zwickl Derrick , Wojciechowski Martin F.
Published: July 2015

• Premise of the study: Land‐plant plastid genomes have only rarely undergone significant changes in gene content and order. Thus, discovery of additional examples adds power to tests for causes of such genome‐scale structural changes.

• Methods: Using next‐generation sequence data, we assembled the plastid genome of saguaro cactus and probed the nuclear genome for transferred plastid genes and functionally related nuclear genes. We combined these results with available data across Cactaceae and seed plants more broadly to infer the history of gene loss and to assess the strength of phylogenetic association between gene loss and loss of the inverted repeat (IR).

• Key results: The saguaro plastid genome is the smallest known for an obligately photosynthetic angiosperm (∼113 kb), having lost the IR and plastid ndh genes. This loss supports a statistically strong association across seed plants between the loss of ndh genes and the loss of the IR. Many nonplastid copies of plastid ndh genes were found in the nuclear genome, but none had intact reading frames; nor did three related nuclear‐encoded subunits. However, nuclear pgr5, which functions in a partially redundant pathway, was intact.

• Conclusions: The existence of an alternative pathway redundant with the function of the plastid NADH dehydrogenase‐like complex (NDH) complex may permit loss of the plastid ndh gene suite in photoautotrophs like saguaro. Loss of these genes may be a recurring mechanism for overall plastid genome size reduction, especially in combination with loss of the IR.
New palladium–oxazoline complexes: Synthesis and evaluation of the optical properties and the catalytic power during the oxidation of textile dyes
Authors: Hassani Rym , Jabli Mahjoub , Kacem Yakdhane , Marrot Jérôme , Prim Damien , Ben Hassine Béchir
Published: July 2015

The present paper describes the synthesis of new palladium–oxazoline complexes in one step with good to high yields (68–95%). The oxazolines were prepared from enantiomerically pure α-aminoalcohols. The structures of the synthesized palladium complexes were confirmed by NMR, FTIR, TOFMS, UV–visible spectroscopic analysis and X–ray diffraction. The optical properties of the complexes were evaluated by the determination of the gap energy values (Eg) ranging between 2.34 and 3.21 eV. Their catalytic activities were tested for the degradation of Eriochrome Blue Black B (a model of azo dyes) in the presence of an ecological oxidant (H2O2). The efficiency of the decolorization has been confirmed via UV–visible spectroscopic analysis and the factors affecting the degradation phenomenon have been studied. The removal of the Eriochrome reached high yields. We have found that the complex9promoted 84% of color elimination within 5 min (C0= 30 mg/L,T= 22 °C, pH 7, H2O2= 0.5 mL) and the energetic parameters have been also determined.
3D modeling options analysis in AUTOCAD2015 version
Authors: Danaitis Konstantinas Stanislovas , Usovaitė Ana
Published: July 2015

3D design technology is the basis for the modern computer graphics. AutoCAD 2015 is a powerful version of computer-aided design system. We can solve complex tasks, without which this instrument can’t be solved in general. Using 3D design technology we not only save time working with a drawing. The geometric models are the foundation of the design basics, for working with drawing we can create projections, footnotes, sections and other modern graphics elements. AutoCAD can use and process the data from the model. This progressive design technology includes all parts of the design, starting from machine details, furniture and finishing with architectural forms of complex object models.
Bump mapping effect application analysing
Authors: Usovaitė Ana
Published: July 2015

Bump mapping is an easy way to create the effect of the relief surface that allows a more detailed surface than a polygonal surface does. If there are bumps in surface, you can see light and dark place on surface. Flat surfaces reflect more light and bumpy surfaces reflect less. This effect is used in bump technology. OpenGL, WebGL and DirectX supports this bump technology. This realization is not difficult and is working fast. This is an implementation in pixel or fragment shader.
How to prepare engineering data and graphic systems for smart country
Authors: Timinskas Edgaras , Davicijonaite Migle
Published: July 2015

Currently technologies reached the level which allows to create Smart Cities. And if all the cities, towns and villages become smart in this case, perhaps the whole country can be called a Smart Country. In a Smart City all infrastructure data is important but it is not enough, you need to know what to do with this data. Its purpose is to save money and to create additional value for the country.
Engineering and computer-aided design in teaching biotechnology
Authors: Juodagalvienė Birutė , Tamulaitienė Birutė
Published: July 2015

Knowledge in engineering design is currently indispensable in many fields including bioengineering. The students attending the lecture course Engineering and Computer-Aided Design acquire the basic knowledge and skills in a very important language – graphics language. Understanding the objectives, purpose and fundamentals of the symbols and rules used in engineering design will be useful in studying other courses as well as will enable the students to apply this knowledge and skills in their professional work.
Comparing Tapering Strategy to Standard Dosing Regimen of Tumor Necrosis Factor Inhibitors in Patients with Spondyloarthritis in Low Disease Activity
Authors: Plasencia Chamaida , Kneepkens Eva L. , Wolbink Gertjan , Krieckaert Charlotte L.M. , Turk Samina , Navarro-Compán Victoria , L’Ami Merel , Nurmohamed Mike T. , van der Horst-Bruinsma Irene , Jurado Teresa , Diego Cristina , Bonilla Gema , Villalba Alejandro , Peiteado Diana , Nuño Laura , van der Kleij Desiree , Rispens Theo , Martín-Mola Emilio , Balsa Alejandro , Pascual-Salcedo Dora
Published: July 2015

Objective.

To compare clinical outcomes, incidence of flares, and administered drug reduction between patients with spondyloarthritis (SpA) under TNF inhibitor (TNFi) tapering strategy with patients receiving a standard regimen.

Methods.

In this retrospective study, 74 patients with SpA from Spain on tapering strategy (tapering group; TG) were compared with 43 patients from the Netherlands receiving a standard regimen (control group; CG). The Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index (BASDAI) was measured at visit 0 (prior to starting the TNFi), visit 1 (prior to starting tapering strategy in TG and at least 6 months with BASDAI < 4 after starting the TNFi in the TG and CG), visit 2 (6 mos after visit 1), visit 3 (1 year after visit 1), and visit 4 (the last visit available after visit 1).

Results.

An overall reduction of the administered drug was seen at visit 4 in the TG [dose reduction of 22% for infliximab (IFX) and an interval elongation of 28.7% for IFX, 45.2% for adalimumab, and 51.5% for etanercept] without significant differences in the BASDAI between the groups at visit 4 (2.15 ± 1.55 in TG vs 2.11 ± 1.31 in CG, p = 0.883). The number of patients with flares was similar in both groups [22/74 (30%) in the TG vs 8/43 (19%) in the CG, p = 0.184].

Conclusion.

The tapering strategy in SpA results in an important reduction of the drug administered, and the disease control remains similar to that of the patients with SpA receiving the standard regimen.