bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
GROWTH AND NUTRIENT ACCUMULATION BY EICCHORNIA CRASSIPES (MART.) SOLMS IN ROBERTSON LAKE, JABALPUR, INDIA
Authors: Jaiswal Sadhana
Published: December 2013

Macrophytes play an important role in nutrient dynamics of the lake ecosystem. The aim of this study is to determine the growth pattern and to evaluate the nutrient accumulation capacity of water hyacinth [Eichhornia crassipes (Mart) Solms] growing in Robrtson Lake, Jabalpur. The paper is outcome of in situ experiment conducted in Robertson lake (which has a dense mat of water hyacinth), as well as laboratory microcosms experiment. Water hyacinth grew at an average rate of 3.85 g dw m-2d and it accumulates 263 kg N ha-1 yr-1 and 67 kg P ha-1 yr-1, respectively. The chemistry of lake water does not show any significant seasonal variation; however the growth of water hyacinth in laboratory microcosms removed 79% of PO4-P and 58% NO3-N from the growth medium. Thus, the data reveal that water hyacinth stands growing in the lake highly buffered the water chemistry by reducing nutrient level, in spite of heavy nutrient load in the lake from domestic waste and factory effluent. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/eco.v18i0.9416Ecoprint: An International Journal of EcologyVol. 18, 2011 Page: 91-100 Uploaded date: 12/22/2013
Impacts of Correlations on Reliable Shortest Path Finding
Authors: Zockaie Ali , Nie Yu (Marco) , Wu Xing , Mahmassani Hani S.
Published: December 2013

This paper examines how correlations in link travel times affect reliable path finding in a stochastic network. The reliable path is defined as the path that requires the lowest travel time budget to ensure a given probability of on-time arrival. Such a path can be found by solving the shortest path problem considering on-time arrival reliability (SPOTAR). SPOTAR is solved approximately by using an approach based on Monte Carlo simulation. A major advantage of the simulation-based algorithm is its ability to deal with correlated link travel times. Through the use of a real-world network, the simulation-based algorithm is first validated by comparing it with a label-correcting algorithm that can solve the uncorrelated case exactly; the impacts of the correlations on link travel times are then examined. The results of the numerical experiments indicate that correlations affect the optimal SPOTAR solutions significantly. However, larger correlations do not always lead to larger errors in the reliable route choices that ignore them.
Algebraic Approach for Performance Bound Calculus on Transportation Networks
Authors: Farhi Nadir , Haj-Salem Habib , Lebacque Jean-Patrick
Published: December 2013

An application of the basic results of deterministic network calculus theory to road traffic flow theory is presented. Network calculus is a theory based on min-plus algebra. This calculus uses algebraic techniques to compute performance bounds in communication networks, such as maximum end-to-end delays and backlogs. The objective of this paper is to investigate the application of those techniques for determining performance bounds on road networks, such as upper bounds for travel times. A traffic model is proposed for cars moving in a single-lane ring road without passing. The model is compatible with network calculus theory and permits derivation of an upper bound of the travel time of cars on the road. An approach for extending the model to calculate upper bounds for the travel times of cars on paths passing through intersections in a whole network is also proposed.
Sensor Location Model to Optimize Origin–Destination Estimation with a Bayesian Statistical Procedure
Authors: Wang Ning , Mirchandani Pitu
Published: December 2013

For transportation planning and operations decisions, static origin–destination (O-D) matrices, which specify the number of trips between each O-D pair, are an essential input. One approach for estimating O-D matrices is to use data from traditional counting sensors on links with assumptions or models concerning how drivers choose routes on the network. The inverse problem is to locate a given number of counting sensors to obtain good O-D matrix estimates. A new model for locating sensors to minimize the uncertainties in route flow estimates is presented in this paper. A route choice set from each origin to each destination is assumed to be known, and prior estimates of flows on the routes in this set are given. The reliabilities for each O-D route prior estimate and the link flow measurements are assumed to be given as well. The sensors in this problem scenario are not necessarily perfect, and measurement errors may occur; however, the reliabilities of the sensors are assumed to be known. Extensive computational experiments and comparisons with existing sensor location models indicate that the proposed model consistently gives more reliable estimates of O-D flows.
Solving the Multiclass Percentile User Equilibrium Traffic Assignment Problem
Authors: Wu Xing , Nie Yu (Marco)
Published: December 2013

The multiclass percentile user equilibrium (MCPUE) problem discussed in this paper assumes that travelers, subject to uncertainty in a transportation network, strive to minimize reserved travel time (also known as the travel time budget) to ensure a probability of arriving at their destinations on time. An MCPUE, defined as an extension of the Wardrop equilibrium in a probabilistic network, is achieved when no travelers, regardless of their preferred on-time arrival probability, can reduce their reserved travel time by unilaterally changing their routes. Efficient numerical procedures for computing the MCPUE are studied in this paper. Specifically, a proposed new gradient projection algorithm avoids path enumeration through a column generation procedure based on a reliable shortest path algorithm. Implementation details of inner iterations, which are critical to the overall efficiency of the algorithm, are also discussed. Numerical experiments are conducted to test the computational performance of the proposed algorithm.
Latent Class Choice Model of Heterogeneous Drivers' Route Choice Behavior Based on Learning in a Real-World Experiment
Authors: Tawfik Aly M. , Rakha Hesham A.
Published: December 2013

This paper presents a route choice model of latent class heterogeneous drivers that is based on learning in a real-world experiment. Previous publications have presented findings about personal differences in route-switching aggressiveness among drivers. These differences were described by behavior (or driver) types reflecting aggressiveness in route-switching behavior. Behavior types were predictable from driver demographics and from personality traits, as well as from choice situation characteristics. In addition, the behavior types were significant in predicting route choice behavior. This paper does not use the hierarchical procedure that models behavior type on one level and then models route choice at a second level on the basis of behavior type. Instead, both models are estimated simultaneously. In the estimated latent class choice models, the latent classes represent the behavior types, and the choice model is the route-switching behavior. The models developed in this paper are based on a sample of 20 drivers who made more than 2,000 real-world route choices. The results of the developed models indicate that (a) driver classes exist and appear to be similar to the behavior types identified in earlier publications; (b) latent driver classes depend on driver demographics, personality traits, and choice situation characteristics; (c) different driver classes follow different route choice strategies; and (d) incorporating behavior types or latent classes improves route choice model performance, but latent class models perform better than hierarchical behavior-type models.
Reconsidering the Choice between Gasoline- and Diesel-Powered Cars
Authors: Breteau Vincent , Weber Simon
Published: December 2013

Fuel may be taxed to cover the environmental costs associated with fuel consumption by road vehicles. Fuel taxation represents a large source of government revenue, especially in Europe and particularly in France. Furthermore, different levels of fuel taxation often have been used as a way to support an industrial sector. In France, the main fuel tax is lower for diesel fuel than for gasoline. From an environmental viewpoint, several studies show that gasoline is overtaxed and diesel fuel is undertaxed. But from the users' viewpoint, diesel-powered cars are appealing: they are more fuel-efficient, and their fuel is cheaper (at least in France and several other European countries). However, diesel cars are more expensive to purchase, partly because automakers capture part of the expected gains. A change in the fuel taxation levels thus is expected to affect how households and businesses choose engine types, and in response, automakers would change their pricing strategies. The expected outcome is undetermined. Insights into this question are given by using French data to model the demand and the supply sides of the car market. Expected long-term outcomes of different taxation schemes are given at the car fleet level for France. A 60% increase in the diesel fuel tax would bring about a decrease in the dieselization rate at the fleet level from 64% to 45% between 2011 and 2030 and a decrease in overall carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions of passenger cars by 3.5%, whereas a scheme including a decreased gasoline tax could bring about an increase in CO2 emissions.
Urban Transportation Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Their Link with Urban Form, Transit Accessibility, and Emerging Green Technologies
Authors: Zahabi Seyed Amir H. , Miranda-Moreno Luis F. , Patterson Zachary , Barla Philippe
Published: December 2013

A greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions inventory is estimated at the household level from disaggregated trip data considering all emitting modes. Trip-level GHG emissions are estimated by combining data sources (e.g., origin–destination surveys, vehicle fleet characteristics, transit rider ship data) and by using modeling tools (traffic assignment and GHG models) developed for Montreal, Quebec, Canada. A simultaneous equation model framework is implemented to investigate links between urban form, transit supply, sociodemographics, and travel GHGs, taking into account the issue of residential self-selection. The potential impacts of land use and transit supply strategies with emerging green technology scenarios are then compared with each other. Findings are consistent with the literature; built environment attributes are statistically significant (10% increase in density, transit accessibility, and land use mix results in 3.5%, 5.8%, and 2.5% GHG reductions, respectively), and the number of workers and retirees make important contributions to GHG emissions at the household level (102% increase from adding one worker and 51% decrease from adding one retiree). Also, if the current transit fleet were replaced with electric trains and hybrid buses, transit GHGs would decrease by 32%. If current trends persist in the private motor vehicle fleet, continued improvements in car fuel economy are estimated to reduce car GHGs 7% by 2020. The two most effective strategies for reducing regional and household GHGs appear to be to improve the fuel efficiency of the private motor vehicle fleet and to increase transit accessibility.
Management of Urban Mobility to Control Climate Change in Cities in Spain
Authors: Sobrino Natalia , Monzon Andres
Published: December 2013

The need to decarbonize urban mobility is one of the main motivations for all countries to achieve reduction targets for greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. In general, the transport modes that have experienced the most growth in recent years tend to be the most polluting. Most efforts have focused on improvements in vehicle efficiency and on the renewal of vehicle fleets; more emphasis should be placed on strategies related to the management of urban mobility and modal share. Research of individual travel that analyzes carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions and car and public transport share in daily mobility will enable better assessments of the potential of urban mobility measures introduced to limit GHG emissions produced by transport in cities. The climate change impacts of daily mobility in Spain are explored with data from two national travel surveys in 2000 and 2006, and a method for estimating the CO2 emissions associated with each journey and each surveyed individual is provided. The results demonstrate that from 2000 to 2006, daily mobility has increased and has led to a 17% increase in CO2 emissions. When these results are separated by transport mode, cars prove to be the main contributor to that increase, followed by public transport. More focus should be directed toward modal shift strategies, which take into account not only the number of journeys but also the distance traveled. These contributions have potential applications in the assessment of current and future urban transport policies related to low-carbon urban transportation.
Amerindian Cosmologies and European Prehistoric Cave Art: Reasons for and Usefulness of a Comparison
Authors: Comba Enrico
Published: December 2013

Several anthropological studies conducted in recent years among different Native American cultures have revealed a series of common features in ontological premises and cosmological frameworks. These features seem to be shared by most of the Native peoples in both North and South America. They include: a system of relationships between humans and non-human beings based on an ontology “of persons” as contrasted to the ontology “of things” typical of the Western attitude towards Nature; a structure of the cosmos made by superposed layers, which express the idea of a reality represented as comprising hidden dimensions and invisible domains; and the key role played by ecstatic practitioners in establishing relationships with and acquiring knowledge from these multiple dimensions of the universe. Here, the idea is suggested that these elements could be profitably utilized to interpret the meaning of Paleolithic cave art, not simply implying a series of typological likenesses, but suggesting the possibility of historic (pre-historic) links. It should be remembered that the main settlement of the Americas occurred in a period (from 30,000–20,000 years B.P.) which is contemporaneous with the creation of the masterworks in the caves of France and Spain.
What is a Multiscale Problem in Molecular Dynamics?
Authors: Site Luigi
Published: December 2013

In this work, we make an attempt to answer the question of what a multiscale problem is in Molecular Dynamics (MD), or, more in general, in Molecular Simulation (MS). By introducing the criterion of separability of scales, we identify three major (reference) categories of multiscale problems and discuss their corresponding computational strategies by making explicit examples of applications.
Computing Equilibrium Free Energies Using Non-Equilibrium Molecular Dynamics
Authors: Dellago Christoph , Hummer Gerhard
Published: December 2013

As shown by Jarzynski, free energy differences between equilibrium states can be expressed in terms of the statistics of work carried out on a system during non-equilibrium transformations. This exact result, as well as the related Crooks fluctuation theorem, provide the basis for the computation of free energy differences from fast switching molecular dynamics simulations, in which an external parameter is changed at a finite rate, driving the system away from equilibrium. In this article, we first briefly review the Jarzynski identity and the Crooks fluctuation theorem and then survey various algorithms building on these relations. We pay particular attention to the statistical efficiency of these methods and discuss practical issues arising in their implementation and the analysis of the results.
Dynamical Non-Equilibrium Molecular Dynamics
Authors: Ciccotti Giovanni , Ferrario Mauro
Published: December 2013

In this review, we discuss the Dynamical approach to Non-Equilibrium Molecular Dynamics (D-NEMD), which extends stationary NEMD to time-dependent situations, be they responses or relaxations. Based on the original Onsager regression hypothesis, implemented in the nineteen-seventies by Ciccotti, Jacucci and MacDonald, the approach permits one to separate the problem of dynamical evolution from the problem of sampling the initial condition. D-NEMD provides the theoretical framework to compute time-dependent macroscopic dynamical behaviors by averaging on a large sample of non-equilibrium trajectories starting from an ensemble of initial conditions generated from a suitable (equilibrium or non-equilibrium) distribution at time zero. We also discuss how to generate a large class of initial distributions. The same approach applies also to the calculation of the rate constants of activated processes. The range of problems treatable by this method is illustrated by discussing applications to a few key hydrodynamic processes (the “classical” flow under shear, the formation of convective cells and the relaxation of an interface between two immiscible liquids).
Advances on Optical Fiber Sensors
Authors: Mescia Luciano , Prudenzano Francesco
Published: December 2013

In this review paper some recent advances on optical fiber sensors are reported. In particular, fiber Bragg grating (FBG), long period gratings (LPGs), evanescent field and hollow core optical fiber sensors are mentioned. Examples of recent optical fiber sensors for the measurement of strain, temperature, displacement, air flow, pressure, liquid-level, magnetic field, and the determination of methadone, hydrocarbons, ethanol, and sucrose are briefly described.
Chloride Channelopathies of ClC-2
Authors: Bi Miao , Hong Sen , Zhou Hong , Wang Hong , Wang Li , Zheng Ya
Published: December 2013

Chloride channels (ClCs) have gained worldwide interest because of their molecular diversity, widespread distribution in mammalian tissues and organs, and their link to various human diseases. Nine different ClCs have been molecularly identified and functionally characterized in mammals. ClC-2 is one of nine mammalian members of the ClC family. It possesses unique biophysical characteristics, pharmacological properties, and molecular features that distinguish it from other ClC family members. ClC-2 has wide organ/tissue distribution and is ubiquitously expressed. Published studies consistently point to a high degree of conservation of ClC-2 function and regulation across various species from nematodes to humans over vast evolutionary time spans. ClC-2 has been intensively and extensively studied over the past two decades, leading to the accumulation of a plethora of information to advance our understanding of its pathophysiological functions; however, many controversies still exist. It is necessary to analyze the research findings, and integrate different views to have a better understanding of ClC-2. This review focuses on ClC-2 only, providing an analytical overview of the available literature. Nearly every aspect of ClC-2 is discussed in the review: molecular features, biophysical characteristics, pharmacological properties, cellular function, regulation of expression and function, and channelopathies.
Development and Experimental Testing of an Optical Micro-Spectroscopic Technique Incorporating True Line-Scan Excitation
Authors: Biener Gabriel , Stoneman Michael , Acbas Gheorghe , Holz Jessica , Orlova Marianna , Komarova Liudmila , Kuchin Sergei , Raicu Valerică
Published: December 2013

Multiphoton micro-spectroscopy, employing diffraction optics and electron-multiplying CCD (EMCCD) cameras, is a suitable method for determining protein complex stoichiometry, quaternary structure, and spatial distribution in living cells using Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) imaging. The method provides highly resolved spectra of molecules or molecular complexes at each image pixel, and it does so on a timescale shorter than that of molecular diffusion, which scrambles the spectral information. Acquisition of an entire spectrally resolved image, however, is slower than that of broad-bandwidth microscopes because it takes longer times to collect the same number of photons at each emission wavelength as in a broad bandwidth. Here, we demonstrate an optical micro-spectroscopic scheme that employs a laser beam shaped into a line to excite in parallel multiple sample voxels. The method presents dramatically increased sensitivity and/or acquisition speed and, at the same time, has excellent spatial and spectral resolution, similar to point-scan configurations. When applied to FRET imaging using an oligomeric FRET construct expressed in living cells and consisting of a FRET acceptor linked to three donors, the technique based on line-shaped excitation provides higher accuracy compared to the point-scan approach, and it reduces artifacts caused by photobleaching and other undesired photophysical effects.
The Relationship between Urban Sprawl and Farmland Displacement in the Pearl River Delta, China
Authors: Du Shiqiang , Shi Peijun , Van Rompaey Anton
Published: December 2013

China is rapidly urbanizing and will inevitably face trade-offs between promoting economic growth through further urbanization and protecting fertile farmland against accelerated urban expansion. This paper presents how this dilemma is being addressed in one of the most rapidly urbanizing regions in China, the Pearl River Delta (PRD), by means of assessing urban growth and farmland dynamic, as well as their complex relationships. Land use maps derived from Landsat imagery for 1990, 2000 and 2010 show a process of accelerated urban sprawl whereby built-up lands have more than quadrupled and scattered centers have merged into megacities. Nonetheless, the land use efficiency is considerably low and is declining relative to Hong Kong and Macau with respect to urban population density. On the other hand, the spreading of urban areas on farmlands causes new farmland reclamation and accelerated deforestation in the hilly surroundings. In addition, the displaced farmlands do not ensure food production because of both reclaiming farmlands on infertile lands and diversifying farming activities from grain production to market-oriented ones. The accelerated urbanization and farmland displacement are driven by profit-oriented development strategy and ineffective land use planning. Our findings demonstrate how spatial analysis can help to investigate the integrated effects of land policies on landscape.
Nucleophilic Trapping Nitrilimine Generated by Photolysis of Diaryltetrazole in Aqueous Phase
Authors: Zhang Yixin , Liu Wujun , Zhao Zongbao
Published: December 2013

Nitrilimine generated by photolysis of diaryltetrazole in aqueous phase under mild conditions was trapped by nucleophiles including amines and thioalcohols. The representative products were characterized, while products with all 20 natural amino acids and a peptide were observed by MALDI-TOF mass spectroscopy. Competitive studies showed that this reaction also occurred in the presence of acrylamide. These results provided new information for understanding the potential side reactions when tetrazole-alkene pairs were used as a bioorthogonal reaction in labeling proteins and related studies in buffered systems.
1,6- and 1,7-Regioisomers of Asymmetric and Symmetric Perylene Bisimides: Synthesis, Characterization and Optical Properties
Authors: Tsai Hsing-Yang , Chang Che-Wei , Chen Kew-Yu
Published: December 2013

The 1,6- and 1,7-regioisomers of dinitro- (1,6-A and 1,7-A) and diamino-substituted perylene bisimides (1,6-B and 1,7-B), and 1-amino-6-nitro- and 1-amino-7-nitroperylene bisimides (1,6-C and 1,7-C) were synthesized. The 1,6-A and 1,7-A regioisomers were successfully separated by high performance liquid chromatography and characterized by 500 MHz 1H-NMR spectroscopy, and subsequently, their reduction which afforded the corresponding diaminoperylene bisimides 1,6-B and 1,7-B, respectively. On the other hand, the monoreduction of 1,6-A and 1,7-A, giving the asymmetric 1-amino-6-nitro (1,6-C) and 1-amino-7-nitroperylene bisimides (1,7-C), respectively, can be performed by shortening the reaction time from 6 h to 1 h. This is the first time the asymmetric 1,6-disubstituted perylene bisimide 1,6-C is obtained in pure form. The photophysical properties of 1,6-A and 1,7-A were found to be almost the same. However, the regioisomers 1,6-C and 1,7-C, as well as 1,6-B and 1,7-B, exhibit significant differences in their optical characteristics. Time-dependent density functional theory calculations performed on these dyes are reported in order to rationalize their electronic structure and absorption spectra.
Effects of Lipid Emulsions in Parenteral Nutrition of Esophageal Cancer Surgical Patients Receiving Enteral Nutrition: A Comparative Analysis
Authors: Wang Wu-Ping , Yan Xiao-Long , Ni Yun-Feng , Guo Kang , Ke Chang-Kang , Cheng Qing-Shu , Lu Qiang , Zhang Lan-Jun , Li Xiao-Fei
Published: December 2013

Background: Olive oil-based lipid emulsion (LE) and medium chain triglyceride/long chain triglyceride (MCT/LCT) emulsion are both LEs with low ω-6 polyunsaturated fat acids (PUFAs) content. However, which one of these LEs is associated with a lower infection risk in patients receiving parenteral nutrition (PN) remains unclear. The aim of the study was to compare the effects of the two LEs in PN in esophageal cancer patients undergoing surgery. Methods: Patients with resectable esophageal carcinoma were recruited and allocated randomly to two groups. The test group was given enteral nutrition (EN) with PN containing olive oil-based LE after tumor resection for ≥7 days, and the patients in the control group were supported by EN with MCT/LCT emulsion-based PN after surgery for the same time period. Immunological markers and inflammatory indicators were tested and perioperative clinical outcomes were determined. The trial was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Register, number ChiCTR-TRC-13003562. 94 Patients were recruited, and grouped (olive oil-based LE, n = 46 and MCT/LCT, n = 48), matched for sex, age, body mass index, histological type, TNM stage, and nutrition risk screening (NRS) 2002 score. Results: There were no differences in perioperative fever (>38 °C), infectious complications, length of hospital stay (>14 days), length of critical care stay (>2 days), time for oral food intake, and in-hospital mortality between the two groups. The test group showed a higher increase in IgG level compared with the MCT/LCT group (p = 0.028). There was no difference in other immunological markers and inflammatory indicators between the two groups. Conclusion: PN containing olive oil-based or MCT/LCT LEs had similar effects on perioperative outcome, cell-mediated immune function and inflammatory response in esophageal cancer patients who had undergone surgery and were receiving EN.
Identification of a Bioactive Compound against Adult T-cell Leukaemia from Bitter Gourd Seeds
Authors: Kai Hisahiro , Akamatsu Ena , Torii Eri , Kodama Hiroko , Yukizaki Chizuko , Akagi Isao , Ino Hisatoshi , Sakakibara Yoichi , Suiko Masahito , Yamamoto Ikuo , Okayama Akihiko , Morishita Kazuhiro , Kataoka Hiroaki , Matsuno Koji
Published: December 2013

In our previous report, an 80% ethanol bitter gourd seed extract (BGSE) was found to suppress proliferation of adult T-cell leukemia (ATL) cell lines. The present study aimed to identify the bioactive compounds from BGSE specific against ATL. From the result of an HPLC-MS analysis, α-eleostearic acid (α-ESA) was present in BGSE at 0.68% ± 0.0022% (±SD, n = 5). In the cell proliferation test, α-ESA potently suppressed proliferation of two ATL cell lines (ED and Su9T01; IC50 = 8.9 and 29.3 µM, respectively) more than several other octadecanoic acids. However, α-ESA moderately inhibited phytohemagglutinin-activated human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC; IC50 = 31.0 µM). These results suggest that BGSE-derived α-ESA has potential as a functional food constituent because of its activity against ATL, particularly against ED cells. Moreover, α-ESA might be effective for the prevention of moderate adverse effects of ATL on normal T cells.
Synthesis of Gelatin-γ-Polyglutamic Acid-Based Hydrogel for the In Vitro Controlled Release of Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG) from Camellia sinensis
Authors: Garcia John , Hsieh Ming-Fa , Doma Bonifacio , Peruelo Dorothy , Chen Ing-Ho , Lee Hung-Maan
Published: December 2013

The antioxidant property and other health benefits of the most abundant catechin, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), are limited because of poor stability and permeability across intestine. Protecting the EGCG from the harsh gastrointestinal tract (GIT) environment can help to increase its bioavailability following oral administration. In this study, EGCG was loaded to hydrogel prepared from ionic interaction between an optimized concentration of gelatin and γ-polyglutamic acid (γ-PGA), with ethylcarbodiimide (EDC) as the crosslinker. Physicochemical characterization of hydrogel was done using Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The dependence of the swelling degree (SD) of the hydrogel to the amount of gelatin, γ-PGA, EDC, swelling time and pH was determined. A high SD of the crosslinked hydrogel was noted at pH 4.5, 6.8 and 9.0 compared to pH 7.4, which describes pH-responsiveness. Approximately 67% of the EGCG from the prepared solution was loaded to the hydrogel after 12 h post-loading, in which loading efficiency was related to the amount of EDC. The in vitro release profile of EGCG at pH 1.2, 6.8 and 7.4, simulating GIT conditions, resulted in different sustained release curves. Wherein, the released EGCG was not degraded instantly compared to free-EGCG at controlled temperature of 37 °C at different pH monitored against time. Therefore, this study proves the potential of pH-responsive gelatin-γ-PGA-based hydrogel as a biopolymer vehicle to deliver EGCG.
Vibration Sensor Data Denoising Using a Time-Frequency Manifold for Machinery Fault Diagnosis
Authors: He Qingbo , Wang Xiangxiang , Zhou Qiang
Published: December 2013

Vibration sensor data from a mechanical system are often associated with important measurement information useful for machinery fault diagnosis. However, in practice the existence of background noise makes it difficult to identify the fault signature from the sensing data. This paper introduces the time-frequency manifold (TFM) concept into sensor data denoising and proposes a novel denoising method for reliable machinery fault diagnosis. The TFM signature reflects the intrinsic time-frequency structure of a non-stationary signal. The proposed method intends to realize data denoising by synthesizing the TFM using time-frequency synthesis and phase space reconstruction (PSR) synthesis. Due to the merits of the TFM in noise suppression and resolution enhancement, the denoised signal would have satisfactory denoising effects, as well as inherent time-frequency structure keeping. Moreover, this paper presents a clustering-based statistical parameter to evaluate the proposed method, and also presents a new diagnostic approach, called frequency probability time series (FPTS) spectral analysis, to show its effectiveness in fault diagnosis. The proposed TFM-based data denoising method has been employed to deal with a set of vibration sensor data from defective bearings, and the results verify that for machinery fault diagnosis the method is superior to two traditional denoising methods.
Physical Characterization and Effect of Effective Surface Area on the Sensing Properties of Tin Dioxide Thin Solid Films in a Propane Atmosphere
Authors: Gómez-Pozos Heberto , González-Vidal José , Torres Gonzalo , Olvera María , Castañeda Luis
Published: December 2013

The physical properties and the effect of effective surface area (ESA) on the sensing properties of tin dioxide [SnO2] thin films in air and propane [C3H8] atmosphere as a function of operating temperature and gas concentration have been studied in this paper. SnO2 thin films with different estimated thicknesses (50, 100 and 200 nm) were deposited on glass substrates by the chemical spray technique. Besides, they were prepared at two different deposition temperatures (400 and 475 °C). Tin chloride [SnCl4∙5H2O] with 0.2 M concentration value and ethanol [C2H6O] were used as tin precursor and solvent, respectively. The morphological, and structural properties of the as-prepared films were analyzed by AFM and XRD, respectively. Gas sensing characteristics of SnO2 thin solid films were measured at operating temperatures of 22, 100, 200, and 300 °C, and at propane concentration levels (0, 5, 50, 100, 200, 300, 400, and 500 ppm). ESA values were calculated for each sample. It was found that the ESA increased with the increasing thickness of the films. The results demonstrated the importance of the achieving of a large effective surface area for improving gas sensing performance. SnO2 thin films deposited by spray chemical were chosen to study the ESA effect on gas sensing properties because their very rough surfaces were appropriate for this application.
Mycobacterium tuberculosis DNA Detection Using Surface Plasmon Resonance Modulated by Telecommunication Wavelength
Authors: Hsu Shih-Hsiang , Lin Yan-Yu , Lu Shao-Hsi , Tsai I-Fang , Lu Yen-Ta , Ho Hsin-Tsung
Published: December 2013

A surface plasmon resonance sensor for Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) is developed using repeatable telecommunication wavelength modulation based on optical fiber communications laser wavelength and stability. MTB DNA concentrations of 1 μg/mL and 10 μg/mL were successfully demonstrated to have the same spectral half-width in the dip for optimum coupling. The sensitivity was shown to be −0.087 dB/(μg/mL) at all applied telecommunication wavelengths and the highest sensitivity achieved was 115 ng/mL without thiolated DNA immobilization onto a gold plate, which is better than the sensor limit of 400 ng/mL possible with commercial biosensor equipment.
Remote Management for Multipoint Sensing Systems Using Hetero-Core Spliced Optical Fiber Sensors
Authors: Goh Lee , Anoda Yuji , Kazuhiro Watanabe , Shinomiya Norihiko
Published: December 2013

This paper describes the design and experimental verification of a multipoint sensing system with hetero-core spliced optical fiber sensors and its remote management using an internet-standard protocol. The study proposes two different types of design and conducts experiments to verify those systems’ feasibility. In order to manage the sensing systems remotely, the management method uses a standard operation and maintenance protocol for internet: the Simple Network Management Protocol is proposed. The purpose of this study is to construct a multipoint sensing system remote management tool by which the system can also determine the status and the identity of fiber optic sensors. The constructed sensing systems are verified and the results have demonstrated that the first proposed system can distinguish the responses from different hetero-core spliced optical fiber sensors remotely. The second proposed system shows that data communications are performed successfully while identifying the status of hetero-core spliced optical fiber sensors remotely.
The Ghost-Image on Metropolitan Borders—In Terms of Phantom of the Opera and 19th-Century Metropolis Paris
Authors: Lee Changnam
Published: December 2013

This paper reviews Gaston Leroux’s Phantom of the Opera in the context of the social and cultural changes of the metropolis Paris at the end of the 19th century. The Phantom of the Opera, a success in the literary world and widely proliferated in its musical and film renditions afterward, is considered and interpreted mainly in the literary and artistic tradition. In this paper, however, this work will be considered from an urban sociological perspective, especially from that of Walter Benjamin, who developed the theory of the urban culture, focusing on the dreaming collectives at the end of the 19th century. Leroux’s novel can be regarded as an exemplary social form of the collective dreams of the period expressed in arts, architectures, popular stories and films and other popular arts. Given the premise that the dream images in the novel, so-called kitsch, reflect the fears and desires of the bourgeois middle class that were pathologized in the figure of the ghost, this paper reveals the cultural, social and transnational implications of the Ghost-Image in relation to the rapidly changing borders of the 19th century metropolis.
Social Capital and Longitudinal Change in Sustainability Plans and Policies: U.S. Cities from 2000 to 2010
Authors: Pierce John , Lovrich Nicholas , Johnson Bonnie , Reames Tony , Budd William
Published: December 2013

This study examines changes from 2000 to 2010 in the adoption of sustainability plans and policies in a sample of U.S. cities. The study’s framework posits sustainability initiatives as communitarian outcomes intended to meet the needs of both current and future generations. We hypothesize, accordingly, that a community’s social capital level, in the form of the relative presence of social trust, is a primary facilitating condition for the adoption of sustainability initiatives. The analysis assesses whether trust-based social capital is similarly associated with the adoption of plans and policies at both time points (2000 and 2010), as well as whether social capital is associated with change in the adoption levels documented across the ten-year period. The paper concludes by suggesting that the effect of social capital is substantially reduced in 2010 as a consequence of institutional network dynamics featured in the theory of isomorphic change.
Sustainability Life Cycle Cost Analysis of Roof Waterproofing Methods Considering LCCO2
Authors: Kim Sangyong , Kim Gwang-Hee , Lee Young-Do
Published: December 2013

In a construction project, selection of an appropriate method in the planning/design stage is very important for ensuring effective project implementation and success. Many companies have adopted the life cycle cost (LCC) method, one of the methods for analyzing economic efficiency, for appropriate decision-making in the basic/detailed design stage by estimating overall costs and expenses generated over the entire project. This paper presents an LCC method for calculating the LCC of CO2 (LCCO2), based on materials committed during the lifecycle of a structure for each roof waterproofing method and adding this cost to the LCC for comparative analysis. Thus, this technique presents the LCC that includes the cost of CO2 emission. The results show that in terms of initial construction cost, asphalt waterproofing had the highest CO2 emission cost, followed by sheet waterproofing. LCCO2 did not greatly influence the initial construction cost and maintenance cost, as it is relatively smaller than the LCC. However, when the number of durable years was changed, the LCC showed some changes.
Surface Plasmon Resonance Biosensor Method for Palytoxin Detection Based on Na+,K+-ATPase Affinity
Authors: Alfonso Amparo , Pazos María-José , Fernández-Araujo Andrea , Tobio Araceli , Alfonso Carmen , Vieytes Mercedes , Botana Luis
Published: December 2013

Palytoxin (PLTX), produced by dinoflagellates from the genus Ostreopsis was first discovered, isolated, and purified from zoanthids belonging to the genus Palythoa. The detection of this toxin in contaminated shellfish is essential for human health preservation. A broad range of studies indicate that mammalian Na+,K+-ATPase is a high affinity cellular receptor for PLTX. The toxin converts the pump into an open channel that stimulates sodium influx and potassium efflux. In this work we develop a detection method for PLTX based on its binding to the Na+,K+-ATPase. The method was developed by using the phenomenon of surface plasmon resonance (SPR) to monitor biomolecular reactions. This technique does not require any labeling of components. The interaction of PLTX over immobilized Na+,K+-ATPase is quantified by injecting different concentrations of toxin in the biosensor and checking the binding rate constant (kobs). From the representation of kobs versus PLTX concentration, the kinetic equilibrium dissociation constant (KD) for the PLTX-Na+,K+-ATPase association can be calculated. The value of this constant is KD = 6.38 × 10−7 ± 6.67 × 10−8 M PLTX. In this way the PLTX-Na+,K+-ATPase association was used as a suitable method for determination of the toxin concentration in a sample. This method represents a new and useful approach to easily detect the presence of PLTX-like compounds in marine products using the mechanism of action of these toxins and in this way reduce the use of other more expensive and animal based methods.
Replication Cycle and Molecular Biology of the West Nile Virus
Authors: Brinton Margo
Published: December 2013

West Nile virus (WNV) is a member of the genus Flavivirus in the family Flaviviridae. Flaviviruses replicate in the cytoplasm of infected cells and modify the host cell environment. Although much has been learned about virion structure and virion-endosomal membrane fusion, the cell receptor(s) used have not been definitively identified and little is known about the early stages of the virus replication cycle. Members of the genus Flavivirus differ from members of the two other genera of the family by the lack of a genomic internal ribosomal entry sequence and the creation of invaginations in the ER membrane rather than double-membrane vesicles that are used as the sites of exponential genome synthesis. The WNV genome 3' and 5' sequences that form the long distance RNA-RNA interaction required for minus strand initiation have been identified and contact sites on the 5' RNA stem loop for NS5 have been mapped. Structures obtained for many of the viral proteins have provided information relevant to their functions. Viral nonstructural protein interactions are complex and some may occur only in infected cells. Although interactions between many cellular proteins and virus components have been identified, the functions of most of these interactions have not been delineated.
Pilot Study on the Use of DNA Priming Immunization to Enhance Y. pestis LcrV-Specific B Cell Responses Elicited by a Recombinant LcrV Protein Vaccine
Authors: Li Wei , Wang Shixia , Lu Shan
Published: December 2013

Recent studies indicate that DNA immunization is powerful in eliciting antigen-specific antibody responses in both animal and human studies. However, there is limited information on the mechanism of this effect. In particular, it is not known whether DNA immunization can also enhance the development of antigen-specific B cell development. In this report, a pilot study was conducted using plague LcrV immunogen as a model system to determine whether DNA immunization is able to enhance LcrV-specific B cell development in mice. Plague is an acute and often fatal infectious disease caused by Yersinia pestis (Y. pestis). Humoral immune responses provide critical protective immunity against plague. Previously, we demonstrated that a DNA vaccine expressing LcrV antigen can protect mice from lethal mucosal challenge. In the current study, we further evaluated whether the use of a DNA priming immunization is able to enhance the immunogenicity of a recombinant LcrV protein vaccine, and in particular, the development of LcrV-specific B cells. Our data indicate that DNA immunization was able to elicit high-level LcrV antibody responses when used alone or as part of a prime-boost immunization approach. Most significantly, DNA immunization was also able to increase the levels of LcrV-specific B cell development. The finding that DNA immunization can enhance antigen-specific B cell responses is highly significant and will help guide similar studies in other model antigen systems.
Inter-Event Time Definition Setting Procedure for Urban Drainage Systems
Authors: Joo Jingul , Lee Jungho , Kim Joong , Jun Hwandon , Jo Deokjun
Published: December 2013

Traditional inter-event time definition (IETD) estimate methodologies generally take into account only rainfall characteristics and not drainage basin characteristics. Therefore, they may not succeed in providing an appropriate value of IETD for any sort of application to the design of urban drainage system devices. To overcome this limitation, this study presents a method of IETD determination that considers basin characteristics. The suggested definition of IETD is the time period from the end of a rainfall event to the end of a direct runoff. The suggested method can identify the independent events that are suitable for the statistical analysis of the recorded rainfall. Using the suggested IETD, the IETD of the Joong-Rang drainage system was determined and the area-IETD relation curve was drawn. The resulting regression curve can be used to determinate the IETD of ungauged urban drainage systems, with areas ranging between 40 and 4400 ha. Using the regression curve, the IETDs and time distribution of the design rainfall for four drainage systems in Korea were determined and rainfall-runoff simulations were performed with the Storm Water Management Model (SWMM). The results were compared with those from Huff's method which assumed a six-hour IETD. The peak flow rates obtained by the suggested method were 11%~15% greater than those obtained by Huff’s method. The suggested IETD determination method can identify independent events that are suitable for the statistical analysis of the recorded rainfall aimed at the design of urban drainage system devices.
Patrimonio, Minería y Rutas en el Valle de Alcudia y Sierra Madrona (Ciudad Real)
Authors: Cañizares Ruiz María del Carmen
Published: December 2013

Analizar el patrimonio territorial vinculado con las actividades mineras mediante la confección de una ruta específica en el Territorio Valle de Alcudia-Sierra Madrona es el objetivo principal de este artículo. La información ofrecida por la Asociación para el Desarrollo Sostenible del Valle de Alcudia y Sierra Madrona ha sido de gran utilidad junto con la revisión de fuentes bibliográficas y del trabajo de campo. Los resultados se resumen en la caracterización del patrimonio minero en esta zona, de la inserción de los elementos más destacados en la Ruta de la Minería, y de su complementación con otras rutas (Ruta de las Pinturas Rupestres, Ruta de la Trashumancia, etc.). Se propone, además, aprovechar las sinergias ofrecidas por otros territorios mineros próximos para la elaboración de un itinerario de mayor entidad que integre Almadén, declarada recientemente Patrimonio de la Humanidad, y Puertollano, ambos en la provincia de Ciudad Real (Castilla-La Mancha).

[fr] L’objectif principal de cet article est d’analyser le patrimoine territorial lié aux activités minières à travers la conception d’une route spécifique dans le territoire Valle de Alcudia- Sierra Madrona L’information fournie par l’Association pour le développement durable de Valle de Alcudia et Sierra Madrona a été d’une grande utilité, ainsi que l’examen de sources bibliographiques et le travail sur le terrain. Les résultats produits consistent à la caractérisation du patrimoine minier de la région, l’insertion des éléments saillants dans la Route de l’industrie minière et leur complémentarité avec d’autres routes (Route des peintures rupestres, Route de la transhumance, etc.). Nous proposons également d’exploiter les synergies offertes par d’autres territoires miniers proches en vue de la conception d’un itinéraire plus ambitieux intégrant Almadén, site récemment inscrit sur la liste du patrimoine mondial, et Puertollano, tous deux dans la province de Ciudad Real (Castilla-La Mancha).