bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nitrogen Accumulation by Conifer Seedlings and Competitor Species From 15Nitrogen‐labeled Controlled‐Release Fertilizer
Authors: Hangs Ryan D. , Knight J. Diane , Van Rees Ken C. J.
Published: July 2014

A major impediment to the establishment of outplanted conifer seedlings is competition for available soil N by early successional species. The objective of this field study was to determine the fate of controlled‐release fertilizer (CRF) N in soils with outplanted white spruce (Picea glauca [Moench] Voss.) and jack pine (Pinus banksiana Lamb.) seedlings, and the effect of weed control or vegetation management (VM) on fertilizer N accumulation. Nitrogen‐15 labeled CRF was placed next to the seedling root plug during planting at four boreal mixed wood sites. After one growing season in the control plots, fertilizer N recovery as a percentage of 15N added was 4% in seedlings, 3% in competing vegetation, <1% leached, and 85% residual CRF. After two growing seasons, fertilizer N recovery was 15% in seedlings, 20% in competing vegetation, <1% leached, and 58% residual CRF. Overall, VM increased seedling fertilizer N uptake by almost 300% compared with conifer seedlings in control plots. In VM plots, fertilizer bags contained more N than in control plots after two growing seasons. In both treatments, >50% of the fertilizer N remained in the fertilizer bag, presumably remaining available in subsequent seasons. Calamagrostis (Calamagrostis canadensis) was the primary competitor for fertilizer N in both growing seasons, with minor competition from fireweed (Epilobium angustifolium L.), and aspen (Populus tremuloides Michx.). The use of a point source CRF delivery method resulted in high fertilizer use efficiency (FUE), and minimized losses to competing vegetation and leaching.
Nitrogen Retranslocation Response of Young Picea mariana to Nitrogen‐15 Supply
Authors: Salifu K. F. , Timmer V. R.
Published: July 2014

Nutrient loading stimulates N retranslocation, an important mechanism of N reuse in plants to support new growth. We quantified N retranslocation in young black spruce [Picea mariana (Mill.) BSP] using tracer and nontracer techniques to examine enhanced field performance after nutrient loading. Nursery reared seedlings were transplanted to sand‐filled pots fertilized with 15NH4 15NO3 at rates equivalent to 0 and 200 kg N ha−1 simulating poor and rich soils. After one growing season (120 d), biomass increased (118%) on the poor soil without N gain demonstrating the significance of internal N reserves for retranslocation to new growth. Nutrient loading improved retranslocation (218%) and new biomass (156%) after planting confirming the advantage of higher preplant N reserves (175%) for later nutrient demand. Enhanced N availability in the rich soil accelerated growth (236%), N uptake (258%), and retranslocation (23%) in seedlings. Retranslocation increased with time reflecting higher N demand as seedlings become larger and suggest the process is driven by sink strength. Nontracer estimates of N retranslocation in seedlings fell short of isotopic determinations because of inability to discriminate between soil and plant derived N in tree components. Although fertilization promoted N uptake (125–258%), 15N recovery in plants averaged 12 to 19% indicating low fertilizer efficiency in young trees. Total reliance of unfertilized plants on internal N reserves for growth on the poor soil affirms the importance of retranslocation to meet plant N demands, and also exemplifies initial short‐term independence on soil N for newly planted seedlings that can be prolonged by nutrient loading.
Air Permeability in Undisturbed Volcanic Ash Soils
Authors: Moldrup Per , Yoshikawa Seiko , Olesen Torben , Komatsu Toshiko , Rolston Dennis E.
Published: July 2014

Soil air permeability (ka) governs convective air and gas transport in soil. The increased use of soil venting systems during vadose zone remediation at polluted soil sites has created a renewed interest in ka and its dependency on soil type and soil air‐filled porosity (ε). Predictive ka(ε) models have only been tested within limited ranges of pore‐size distribution and total porosity. Andisols (volcanic ash soils) exhibit unusually high porosities and water retention properties. In this study, measurements of ka(ε) on 16 undisturbed Andisols from three locations in Japan were carried out in the soil matric potential interval from −10 cm H2O (near water saturation) to −15000 cm H2O (wilting point). Two simple power‐function ka(ε) models, both with measured ka at −100 cm H2O as a reference point, gave similar and good predictions of ka(ε) between −10 and −1000 cm H2O. For one location comprising finely textured and humic Andisols, both models largely underpredicted ka(ε) in dry soil (<−3000 cm H2O), suggesting a sudden occurrence of highly connected air‐filled pore networks during drainage. For the two other locations, the models satisfactorily predicted ka also in dry soil. Using recently published data for gas diffusivity and soil‐water retention together with the ka data in the Millington and Quirk (1964) fluid flow model, a plot of equivalent pore diameter as a function of soil matric potential was made for each soil. This plot, labeled a soil structure fingerprint (SSF), proved useful for illustrating effects of soil cultivation and high organic matter content on soil structure.
A Calibration System for Soil Carbon Dioxide‐Efflux Measurement Chambers
Authors: Widén Britta , Lindroth Anders
Published: July 2014

Comparisons have revealed large discrepancies among the many methods for measuring soil CO2 efflux indicating the need for an absolute calibration of methods. This study presents a calibration system, constructed to imitate an area of soil, and its application to two different chamber systems for the measurement of soil CO2 efflux: one open and one closed dynamic. Air rich in CO2 was allowed to diffuse through a layer of sand on top of a box of known volume. By measuring the decrease in CO2 concentration inside the box, the exact CO2 efflux could be calculated. The CO2–efflux rates measured by the chambers could then be compared with the efflux rates calculated from the box. The error of the closed‐chamber system ranged from an underestimate of 19% to an overestimate of 21%. The errors were most likely caused by a combination of underestimated chamber volume, causing an underestimation of CO2 efflux, and turbulence within the chamber, which increased the flux by disturbing the boundary layer above the surface. The open‐chamber system always overestimated the CO2 efflux. Disturbing the boundary layer alone was believed to cause a 17% increase in efflux. Increasing negative pressure difference caused a mass flow of CO2–rich air into the chamber. At a pressure difference of −0.15 Pa, the error was 11 to 40%, depending on air‐filled soil volume. Accordingly, soil‐water content, a parameter to which soil CO2 efflux is often related, was found to substantially affect the measurements made by both tested systems. These results point to the need of calibrating systems used for measuring soil CO2 efflux is measured against a known flux, to elucidate the limits and applicability of each system.
Carbon and Nitrogen in Danish Forest Soils—Contents and Distribution Determined by Soil Order
Authors: Vejre Henrik , Callesen Ingeborg , Vesterdal Lars , Raulund-Rasmussen Karsten
Published: July 2014

Increasing atmospheric CO2 concentrations, and widespread deposition of N to terrestrial ecosystems has increased the focus on soil C and N pools. The aim of this study was to estimate the size and distribution of organic C and N pools in well‐drained Danish forest soils. We examined 140 forest soil profiles from pedological surveys of Danish forest soils. We calculated total C and N pools in organic layers and mineral soils to a depth of 1 m. The profiles represent variations in texture (sandy to loamy), and soil order (USDA soil taxonomy Spodosols, Alfisols, Entisols, and Inceptisols). The average total organic C and N contents were 12.5 and 0.61 kg m−2 respectively. There were large differences in total C and N among soil orders. Spodosols had the greatest C content (14.6 kg m−2), and Alfisols the least (8.8 kg m−2), while the N content was highest in Alfisols (0.75 kg m−2) and least in Spodosols (0.51 kg m−2). The main contributor to the high C content in Spodosols is the spodic horizons containing illuvial humus, and thick organic horizons. Carbon and N concentrations decreased with soil depth. Soil clay content was negatively correlated to C content and positively correlated to N content. Soil order and horizon designations may be useful in predicting the total C and N content of Danish forest soils, and may also predict potential for C sequestration following afforestation of arable land.
Hillslope Hydrology and Soil Morphology for a Wetland Basin in South‐Central Minnesota
Authors: Reuter Ron J. , Bell Jay C.
Published: July 2014

Knowledge of soil and landscape hydrology is essential to evaluating the processes and quality of terrestrial ecosystems. Of particular interest in Southern Minnesota is the extensive Clarion–Nicollet–Webster catena, for which little quantitative work has been done in the region. The objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between soil hydrology and morphology for an undrained catena in south‐central Minnesota. Seven points along a 125‐m summit‐to‐wetland transect were instrumented with piezometers (25, 50, 100, and 200 cm), observation wells (300 cm), Pt electrodes (25, 50, 100 cm, footslope only), and thermocouples (10, 25, 50, 100 cm). Mollic epipedons were 77‐cm thick at the footslope (Cumulic Endoaquoll), thinning to 39 cm at the summit (Oxyaquic Hapludoll). The lower hillslope positions had low chroma colors below the mollic horizon, indicative of reducing conditions. The water table frequently was located in the mollic horizon for these soils and redox potentials at the footslope were frequently <200 mV. Fe content decreased from summit to footslope, indicating the reduction and removal of Fe in the lower landscape positions. With the exception of the wetland, soils had equal piezometric head with depth, indicating lateral throughflow. The wetland had alternating recharge and discharge hydrology during the study. Profile Darkness Index (PDI) had strong correlation with the duration of saturation (r = 0.88, α = 0.05). Thickness and color of surface horizons in this landscape are strong indicators of landscape hydrology, especially when redoximorphic features associated with normal water table levels are masked by thick mollic epipedons.
Time Domain Reflectometry Field Calibration in the Little Washita River Experimental Watershed
Authors: Heathman Gary C. , Starks Patrick J. , Brown Michael A.
Published: July 2014

Accurate measurement of profile soil water content is essential to many areas of environmental and agricultural research. In this study five methods were evaluated for determining volumetric profile soil water content from time domain reflectometry (TDR) data at nine locations within the Little Washita River Experimental Watershed (LWREW) in south central Oklahoma. Soil compositions for the sites ranged between 24.6 to 86.4% for sand and 5.2 to 29.2% for clay. Comparisons were made between gravimetric soil sample data and soil water content as determined by the TDR factory instrument calibration, two methods of site‐specific calibration, a regional calibration technique, and an empirically derived universal approach. Method 1 is the factory calibration, which uses average values for model coefficients that were derived from extensive laboratory work and theoretical analysis. Method 2 fits a site‐specific linear regression of TDR time delay on measured soil‐core water content. Method 3 uses the factory calibration equation and site‐specific values for the ratio of TDR time delay in dry soil, to that in air (Ts/Ta). In Method 4, a regional linear regression equation was developed from an analysis combining data from all study sites. Method 5 applies a universal equation based on the linear relationship between soil water content and the apparent dielectric constant of soil (Ka) measured by TDR. Statistical analysis of the data showed that of the five methods, only the mean root mean square error (RMSE) value for Method 2 was significantly different from all other methods (α = 0.05). Method 2 also had the smallest standard deviation and standard error, and the narrowest range of RMSE values. All field calibration methods show that it is necessary to include very low water content data in determining absolute water content. When compared with the factory calibration, all other methods improved the measurement of soil water content, with Method 2 providing the most accurate results at the site‐specific level of analysis.
An Instantaneous‐Profile Laser Scanner to Measure Soil Surface Microtopography
Authors: Darboux Frédéric , Huang Chi-hua
Published: July 2014

Soil surface roughness affects overland flow and soil erosion processes, yet studies on roughness effects are hampered by the difficulty of acquiring microtopographic data. The purpose of this study is to develop an instantaneous surface‐profile laser scanner that has significantly higher data acquisition rate and smaller overall size than previous laser scanners. This laser scanner consists of two diode lasers and a digital camera mounted on a single rail. The lasers project a bright line on the surface and the shape of this line, digitized by the camera from an oblique angle, changes depending on the surface microtopography. From the geometry of the laser‐camera assembly, the line image is converted to surface heights using a calibration procedure based on a triangulation principle. A computer drives the translation of the laser‐camera assembly along the rail, processes the images from the camera, and records the surface profile data during the scan. This ensures the reconstruction of the surface morphology by juxtaposing successive profiles. The current system can measure the microtopography of a 50 cm by 4 m surface with a positional and elevational accuracy of 0.5 mm. The scanner can digitize six surface profiles per second. This translates to a time of 7.4 min to scan a 4‐m long section with profiles taken every 1.5 mm apart. The instantaneous‐profile laser scanner is significantly faster than previous scanner technologies and allows new research opportunities in quantifying surface boundary processes, such as soil erosion.
Experimental evaluation and theoretical investigations of fiber Raman amplifiers and its gain optimization based on single forward pump
Authors: Al-Asadi H. A. , Hambali N. A. M. B. A.
Published: July 2014

In this paper, we perform the experiment evaluation and the optimization of forward pumped fiber Raman amplifiers. The pumping configuration characteristics and optimum single mode large-effective-area fiber lengths for the system are presented within the framework of the undepleted pump approximation. It is found that achievable optimal span length and Raman gain in optimized forward pumped is about 52 km and 3.92 dB (2.42 dB) using an efficient particle swarm optimization (PSO) method at signal wavelength 1500 nm, higher than that without using PSO in signal wavelength 1300 nm for 200 mW pumping power. The experimental results showed that the gain flatness of the forward Raman amplifier can be maintained over a wide wavelength with a gain ripple lower than 0.4 dB.
14C Measurements of Dissolved Inorganic and Organic Carbon in Qinghai Lake and Inflowing Rivers (NE Tibet, Qinghai Plateau), China
Authors: Jull A J T , Burr G S , Zhou W , Cheng P , Song S H , Leonard A G , Cheng L , An Z S
Published: July 2014

There have been a number of studies that have attempted to estimate the past radiocarbon reservoir effects in Qinghai Lake, China. This article reports on measurements on modern samples collected at the lake in October 2003 and October 2009, which allow us to better understand the systematics of the lake and shed new insights on the processes occurring in the lake. The results indicate that atmospheric exchange of 14C is the main process affecting surface dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) in the lake, but dissolved organic carbon (DOC) can be explained as a combination of sources. We also conclude that sediment carbon can be explained by a model where input from the surrounding rivers and groundwater are important, in agreement with the model of Yu et al. (2007).
A comparison of the effect of the ellipticity on the small and large solid-core PCF’s characteristics
Authors: Inci Halime , Ozsoy Sedat
Published: July 2014

In this paper we study small and large solid-core PCFs with elliptical shaped air-holes for the hexagonal lattice, which were constructed by omitting one air-hole (small core) and seven air-holes (large core), respectively, and we compare their characteristics with those with circular holes. We use two types of ellipticity: vertical and horizontal. Birefringence, dispersion, and the numerical apertures of the fundamental modes are analyzed using commercial simulation software. Also, the confinement loss is obtained. The effect of ellipticity on these characteristics is investigated in detail. It is found that the type of ellipticity of the air holes affects the numerical aperture and hence confinement loss significantly, but it has no crucial effect on either the dispersion or the birefringence for the small and large core PCFs.
Interference-induced enhancement of field entanglement in a microwave-driven V-type single-atom laser
Authors: Yang Wen-Xing , Chen Ai-Xi , Zha Ting-Ting , Bai Yanfeng , Lee Ray-Kuang
Published: July 2014

We demonstrate the generation of two-mode continuous-variable (CV) entanglement in a V-type three-level atom trapped in a doubly resonant cavity using a microwave field driving a hyperfine transition between two upper excited states. By numerically simulating the dynamics of this system, our results show that the CV entanglement with large mean number of photons can be generated even in presence of the atomic relaxation and cavity losses. More interestingly, it is found that the intensity and period of entanglement can be enhanced significantly with the increasing of the atomic relaxation due to the existence of the perfect spontaneously generated interference between two atomic decay channels. Moreover, we also show that the entanglement can be controlled efficiently by tuning the intensity of spontaneously generated interference and the detuning of the cavity field.
Etiology of acute pancreatitis
Authors: Gimenez Tomas , Calvo Alberto , Vicent Javier
Published: July 2014

Acute pancreatitis is a common disease with a benign course in the majority of patients, but it is associated with serious morbidity, and mortality close to 20% in up to 20% of cases. The incidence of acute pancreatitis seems to be rising in western countries. About 75% of all cases are caused by gallstones or alcoholism. The relative rate of gallstones versus alcohol as etiology depends on the age and the area of enrolment. A thorough evaluation allows cause identification in another 10% of cases, leaving about 15–20% as idiopathic. The most common causes, and a growing list of less frequent and sometimes very rare and controversial etiologies, are reviewed in this article. A classification on the pathogenic mechanisms of causes of acute pancreatitis based is used in this Review. The approach, or suggested plan of investigations, to determine the etiology of acute pancreatitis, based on the most recently published Guidelines is outlined.
p600 stabilizes microtubules to prevent the aggregation of CaMKIIα during photoconductive stimulation
Authors: Belzil Camille , Ramos Tim , Sanada Kamon , Colicos Michael , Nguyen Minh
Published: July 2014

The large microtubule-associated/Ca2+-signalling protein p600 (also known as UBR4) is required for hippocampal neuronal survival upon Ca2+ dyshomeostasis induced by glutamate treatment. During this process, p600 prevents aggregation of the Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent kinase IIα (CaMKIIα), a proxy of neuronal death, via direct binding to calmodulin in a microtubuleindependent manner. Using photoconductive stimulation coupled with live imaging of single neurons, we identified a distinct mechanism of prevention of CaMKIIα aggregation by p600. Upon direct depolarization, CaMKIIα translocates to microtubules. In the absence of p600, this translocation is interrupted in favour of a sustained self-aggregation that is prevented by the microtubule-stabilizing drug paclitaxel. Thus, during photoconductive stimulation, p600 prevents the aggregation of CaMKIIα by stabilizing microtubules. The effectiveness of this stabilization for preventing CaMKIIα aggregation during direct depolarization but not during glutamate treatment suggests a model wherein p600 has two modes of action depending on the source of cytosolic Ca2+.
The Use of a Knowledge Translation Program to Increase Use of Standardized Outcome Measures in an Outpatient Pediatric Physical Therapy Clinic: Administrative Case Report
Authors: Schreiber Joseph , Marchetti Gregory F. , Racicot Brook , Kaminski Ellen
Published: July 2014

Background and Purpose

Pediatric physical therapists face many challenges related to the application of research evidence to clinical practice. A multicomponent knowledge translation (KT) program may be an effective strategy to support practice change. The purpose of this case report is to describe the use of a KT program to improve the knowledge and frequency of use of standardized outcome measures by pediatric physical therapists practicing in an outpatient clinic.

Case Description

This program occurred at a pediatric outpatient facility with 1 primary clinic and 3 additional satellite clinics, and a total of 17 physical therapists. The initial underlying problem was inconsistency across staff recommendations for frequency and duration of physical therapist services. Formal and informal discussion with the department administrator and staff identified a need for increased use of standardized outcome measures to inform these decisions. The KT program to address this need spanned 6 months and included identification of barriers, the use of a knowledge broker, multiple workshop and practice sessions, online and hard-copy resources, and ongoing evaluation of the KT program with dissemination of results to staff. Outcome measures included pre- and post-knowledge assessment and self-report surveys and chart review data on use of outcome measures.

Outcomes

Participants (N=17) gained knowledge and increased the frequency of use of standardized outcome measures based on data from self-report surveys, a knowledge assessment, and chart reviews.

Discussion

Administrators and others interested in supporting practice change in physical therapy may consider implementing a systematic KT program that includes a knowledge broker, ongoing engagement with staff, and a variety of accessible resources.
Local and regional spread of chikungunya fever in the Americas
Authors: Cauchemez S , Ledrans M , Poletto C , Quenel P , de Valk H , Colizza V , Boëlle P Y
Published: July 2014

Chikungunya fever (CHIKV), a viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes, is currently affecting several areas in the Caribbean. The vector is found in the Americas from southern Florida to Brazil, and the Caribbean is a highly connected region in terms of population movements. There is therefore a significant risk for the epidemic to quickly expand to a wide area in the Americas. Here, we describe the spread of CHIKV in the first three areas to report cases and between areas in the region. Local transmission of CHIKV in the Caribbean is very effective, the mean number of cases generated by a human case ranging from two to four. There is a strong spatial signature in the regional epidemic, with the risk of transmission between areas estimated to be inversely proportional to the distance rather than driven by air transportation. So far, this simple distance-based model has successfully predicted observed patterns of spread. The spatial structure allows ranking areas according to their risk of invasion. This characterisation may help national and international agencies to optimise resource allocation for monitoring and control and encourage areas with elevated risks to act.
Frameless neuronavigation based only on 3D digital subtraction angiography using surface-based facial registration
Authors: Stidd David A. , Wewel Joshua , Ghods Ali J. , Munich Stephan , Serici Anthony , Keigher Kiffon M. , Theessen Heike , Moftakhar Roham , Lopes Demetrius K.
Published: July 2014

Object

Cerebrovascular lesions can have complicated abnormal anatomy that is not completely characterized by CT or MR angiography. Although 3D rotational angiography provides superior spatial and temporal resolution, catheter angiograms are not easily registered to the patient, limiting the use of these images as a source for neuronavigation. However, 3D digital subtraction angiography (DSA) contains not only vascular anatomy but also facial surface anatomy data. The authors report a novel technique to register 3D DSA images by using only the surface anatomy contained within the data set without having to fuse the DSA image set to other imaging modalities or use fiducial markers.

Methods

A cadaver model was first created to assess the accuracy of neuronavigation based on 3D DSA images registered by facial surface anatomy. A 3D DSA scan was obtained of a formalin-fixed cadaver head, with acquisitions of mask and contrast runs. The right common carotid artery was injected prior to the contrast run with a 45% contrast solution diluted with water-soluble red liquid latex. One week later, the head was registered to a neuronavigation system loaded with the 3D DSA images acquired earlier using facial surface anatomy. A right pterional craniotomy was performed and 10 different vascular landmarks were identified and measured for accuracy using the neuronavigation system. Neuronavigation based only on 3D DSA was then used to guide an open clipping procedure for a patient who presented with a ruptured distal lenticulostriate aneurysm.

Results

The accuracy of the measurements for the cadaver model was 0.71 ± 0.25 mm (mean ± SE), which is superior to the 1.8–5 mm reported for neuronavigation. The 3D DSA–based navigation-assisted surgery for the distal lenticulostriate aneurysm aided in localization, resulting in a small craniotomy and minimal brain dissection.

Conclusions

This is the first example of frameless neuronavigation based on 3D catheter angiography registered by only the surface anatomy data contained within the 3D DSA image set. This is an easily applied technique that is beneficial for accurately locating vascular pathological entities and reducing the dissection burden of vascular lesions.
Perianeurysmal edema as a predictive sign of aneurysmal rupture
Authors: Pahl Felix Hendrik , de Oliveira Matheus Fernandes , Ferreira Nelson Paes Fortes Diniz , de Macedo Leonardo Lopes , Brock Roger Schmidt , de Souza Valéria Cardoso
Published: July 2014

Subarachnoid hemorrhage following intracranial aneurysmal rupture is a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Several factors may affect the probability of rupture, such as tobacco and alcohol use; size, shape, and location of the aneurysm; presence of intraluminal thrombus; and even the sex of the patient. However, few data correlate such findings with the timing of aneurysmal rupture. The authors report 2 cases of middle-age women with headache and MRI findings of incidental aneurysms. Magnetic resonance imaging showed evidence of surrounding parenchymal edema, and in one case there was a clear increase in edema during follow-up, suggesting a progressive inflammatory process that culminated with rupture. These findings raise the possibility that bleb formation and an enlargement of a cerebral aneurysm might be associated with an inflammatory reaction of the aneurysm wall resulting in perianeurysmal edema and subsequent aneurysmal rupture. There may be a temporal link between higher degree of edema and higher risk for rupture, including risk for immediate rupture.
The efficacy of erythropoietin in treating experimental traumatic brain injury: a systematic review of controlled trials in animal models
Authors: Peng Weijun , Xing Zhihua , Yang Jingjing , Wang Yang , Wang Weihao , Huang Wei
Published: July 2014

Object

Erythropoietin (EPO) shows promise as a neuroprotective agent in animal models of traumatic brain injury (TBI). However, clinical trials of the efficacy of EPO treatment in patients with TBI yield conflicting results. The authors conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the effect of EPO in experimental animal models of TBI, the goal being to inform the design of future clinical trials.

Methods

The authors identified eligible studies by searching PubMed, Web of Science, MEDLINE, Embase, and Google Scholar in October 2013. Data were pooled using the random-effects model, and results were reported in terms of standardized mean difference. Statistical heterogeneity was examined using both I2 and chi-square tests, and the presence of small study effects was investigated with funnel plots and Egger tests. In-depth analyses were performed for lesion volume and neurobehavioral outcome, and the studies' methodological quality was also evaluated.

Results

Of a total of 290 studies, 13 found an effect of EPO on lesion volume and neurobehavioral outcome. Overall, the methodological quality of the studies was poor, and there was evidence of statistical heterogeneity among the publications as well as small-study effects. However, in-depth analyses showed statistically significant findings in favor of a beneficial effect of EPO after TBI.

Conclusions

Despite limitations of this systematic review that may have influenced the findings, the authors conclude that EPO might be beneficial in treating experimental TBI in terms of reducing lesion volume and improving neurobehavioral outcome. However, this review also indicates that more well-designed and well-reported animal studies are needed.
Biosemiotic Entropy: Concluding the Series
Authors: Oller John
Published: July 2014

This article concludes the special issue on Biosemiotic Entropy looking toward the future on the basis of current and prior results. It highlights certain aspects of the series, concerning factors that damage and degenerate biosignaling systems. As in ordinary linguistic discourse, well-formedness (coherence) in biological signaling systems depends on valid representations correctly construed: a series of proofs are presented and generalized to all meaningful sign systems. The proofs show why infants must (as empirical evidence shows they do) proceed through a strict sequence of formal steps in acquiring any language. Classical and contemporary conceptions of entropy and information are deployed showing why factors that interfere with coherence in biological signaling systems are necessary and sufficient causes of disorders, diseases, and mortality. Known sources of such formal degeneracy in living organisms (here termed, biosemiotic entropy) include: (a) toxicants, (b) pathogens; (c) excessive exposures to radiant energy and/or sufficiently powerful electromagnetic fields; (d) traumatic injuries; and (e) interactions between the foregoing factors. Just as Jaynes proved that irreversible changes invariably increase entropy, the theory of true narrative representations (TNR theory) demonstrates that factors disrupting the well-formedness (coherence) of valid representations, all else being held equal, must increase biosemiotic entropy—the kind impacting biosignaling systems.
Using Geometry to Select One Dimensional Exponential Families That Are Monotone Likelihood Ratio in the Sample Space, Are Weakly Unimodal and Can Be Parametrized by a Measure of Central Tendency
Authors: Vos Paul , Anaya-Izquierdo Karim
Published: July 2014

One dimensional exponential families on finite sample spaces are studied using the geometry of the simplex Δn°-1 and that of a transformation Vn-1 of its interior. This transformation is the natural parameter space associated with the family of multinomial distributions. The space Vn-1 is partitioned into cones that are used to find one dimensional families with desirable properties for modeling and inference. These properties include the availability of uniformly most powerful tests and estimators that exhibit optimal properties in terms of variability and unbiasedness.
eLearning: Exploring Digital Futures in the 21st Century
Authors: Finger Glenn
Published: July 2014

In a globalised knowledge economy, enabled by an increasingly pervasive digital, networked world, eLearning possibilities are being explored by educational institutions. Learning and teaching is now able to be designed to enable learning anywhere and at anytime. This opens up exciting possibilities as well as challenges. Consequently, this special issue aimed to provide evidence-based guidance through conceptual and research papers on eLearning and digital futures in the 21st century. [...]
Bio-Organic Electronics—Overview and Prospects for the Future
Authors: Mühl Susan , Beyer Beatrice
Published: July 2014

In recent years, both biodegradable and bio-based electronics have attracted increasing interest, but are also controversially discussed at the same time. Yet, it is not clear whether they will contribute to science and technology or whether they will disappear without major impact. The present review will address several aspects while showing the potential opportunities of bio-organic electronics. An overview about the complex terminology of this emerging field is given and test methods are presented which are used to evaluate the biodegradable properties. It will be shown that the majority of components of organic electronics can be substituted by biodegradable or bio-based materials. Moreover, application scenarios are presented where bio-organic materials have advantages compared to conventional ones. A variety of publications are highlighted which encompass typical organic devices like organic light emitting diodes, organic solar cells and organic thin film transistors as well as applications in the field of medicine or agriculture.
Cordycepin Down-Regulates Multiple Drug Resistant (MDR)/HIF-1α through Regulating AMPK/mTORC1 Signaling in GBC-SD Gallbladder Cancer Cells
Authors: Wu Wei-Ding , Hu Zhi-Ming , Shang Min-Jie , Zhao Da-Jian , Zhang Cheng-Wu , Hong De-Fei , Huang Dong-Sheng
Published: July 2014

Gallbladder cancer is the most common malignancy of the bile duct, with low 5-year survival rate and poor prognosis. Novel effective treatments are urgently needed for the therapy of this disease. Here, we showed that cordycepin, the bioactive compound in genus Cordyceps, induced growth inhibition and apoptosis in cultured gallbladder cancer cells (Mz-ChA-1, QBC939 and GBC-SD lines). We found that cordycepin inhibited mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) activation and down-regulated multiple drug resistant (MDR)/hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α) expression through activating of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling in gallbladder cancer GBC-SD cells. Contrarily, AMPKα1-shRNA depletion dramatically inhibited cordycepin-induced molecular changes as well as GBC-SD cell apoptosis. Further, our results showed that co-treatment with a low concentration cordycepin could remarkably enhance the chemosensitivity of GBC-SD cells to gemcitabine and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), and the mechanism may be attributed to AMPK activation and MDR degradation. In summary, cordycepin induces growth inhibition and apoptosis in gallbladder cancer cells via activating AMPK signaling. Cordycepin could be a promising new drug or chemo-adjuvant for gallbladder cancer.
mHealth for Smoking Cessation Programs: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ghorai Koel , Akter Shahriar , Khatun Fatema , Ray Pradeep
Published: July 2014

mHealth transforms healthcare delivery around the world due to its affordability and right time availability. It has been used for delivery of various smoking cessation programs and interventions over the past decade. With the proliferation of smartphone usage around the world, many smartphone applications are being developed for curbing smoking among smokers. Various interventions like SMS, progress tracking, distractions, peer chats and others are being provided to users through smartphone applications. This paper presents a systematic review that analyses the applications of mobile phones in smoking cessations. The synthesis of the diverse concepts within the literature on smoking cessations using mobile phones provides deeper insights in the emerging mHealth landscape.
Ecologies of Scale: Multifunctionality Connects Conservation and Agriculture across Fields, Farms, and Landscapes
Authors: McGranahan Devan
Published: July 2014

Agroecology and landscape ecology are two land-use sciences based on ecological principles, but have historically focused on fine and broad spatial scales, respectively. As global demand for food strains current resources and threatens biodiversity conservation, concepts such as multifunctional landscapes and ecologically-analogous agroecosystems integrate ecological concepts across multiple spatial scales. This paper reviews ecological principles behind several concepts crucial to the reconciliation of food production and biodiversity conservation, including relationships between biodiversity and ecosystem functions such as productivity and stability; insect pest and pollinator management; integrated crop and livestock systems; countryside biogeography and heterogeneity-based rangeland management. Ecological principles are integrated across three spatial scales: fields, farms, and landscapes.
Microwave Irradiation Effect on the Dispersion and Thermal Stability of RGO Nanosheets within a Polystyrene Matrix
Authors: Alsharaeh Edreese , Othman Ali , Aldosari Mohammad
Published: July 2014

Polystyrene-reduced graphene oxide (PSTY/RGO) composites were prepared via the in situ bulk polymerization method using two different preparation techniques. The general approach is to use microwave irradiation (MWI) to enhance the exfoliation and the dispersion of RGO nanosheets within the PSTY matrix. In the first approach, a mixture of GO and styrene monomers (STY) were polymerized using a bulk polymerization method facilitated by microwave irradiation (MWI) to obtain R-(GO-PSTY) composites. In the second approach, a mixture of RGO and STY monomers were polymerized using a bulk polymerization method to obtain RGO-(PSTY) composites. The two composites were characterized by FTIR, 1H-NMR, XRD, SEM, HRTEM, TGA and DSC. The results indicate that the composite obtained using the first approach, which involved MWI, had a better morphology and dispersion with enhanced thermal stability, compared with the composites prepared without MWI. Moreover, DSC results showed that the Tg value of the composites after loading the RGO significantly increased by 24.6 °C compared to the neat polystyrene.
Two New Iridoids from Verbena officinalis L.
Authors: Shu Jicheng , Chou Guixin , Wang Zhengtao
Published: July 2014

Two new iridoids, 3-(5-(methoxycarbonyl)-2-oxo-2H-pyran-3-yl)butanoic acid, named verbeofflin I (1), and 7-hydroxydehydrohastatoside (2), were isolated from the aerial part of Verbena officinalis L, along with three known iridoids, verbenalin (3), 3,4-dihydroverbenalin (4), hastatoside (5) by means of various column chromatography steps. The structures of these compounds were elucidated through analysis of their spectroscopic data obtained using 1D and 2D NMR and MS techniques. Verbeofflin I (1) is the new class of secoiridoid in the family Verbenaceae.
Thioctic Acid Derivatives as Building Blocks to Incorporate DNA Oligonucleotides onto Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Pérez-Rentero Sónia , Grijalvo Santiago , Peñuelas Guillem , Fàbrega Carme , Eritja Ramon
Published: July 2014

Oligonucleotide gold nanoparticle conjugates are being used as diagnostic tools and gene silencing experiments. Thiol-chemistry is mostly used to functionalize gold nanoparticles with oligonucleotides and to incorporate DNA or RNA molecules onto gold surfaces. However, the stability of such nucleic acid–gold nanoparticle conjugates in certain conditions may be a limitation due to premature break of the thiol-gold bonds followed by aggregation processes. Here, we describe a straightforward synthesis of oligonucleotides carrying thioctic acid moiety based on the use of several thioctic acid-L-threoninol derivatives containing different spacers, including triglycine, short polyethyleneglycol, or aliphatic spacers. The novel thioctic-oligonucleotides were used for the functionalization of gold nanoparticles and the surface coverage and stability of the resulting thioctic-oligonucleotide gold nanoparticles were assessed. In all cases gold nanoparticles functionalized with thioctic-oligonucleotides had higher loadings and higher stability in the presence of thiols than gold nanoparticles prepared with commercially available thiol-oligonucleotides. Furthermore, the thioctic derivative carrying the triglycine linker is sensitive to cathepsin B present in endosomes. In this way this derivative may be interesting for the cellular delivery of therapeutic oligonucleotides as these results provides the basis for a potential endosomal escape.
Reduction of Adhesion Molecule Production and Alteration of eNOS and Endothelin-1 mRNA Expression in Endothelium by Euphorbia hirta L. through Its Beneficial β-Amyrin Molecule
Authors: Shih Mei , Cherng Jong
Published: July 2014

The inflammatory reaction in large blood vessels involves up-regulation of vascular adhesion molecules such as endothelial cell selectin (E-selectin), soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule (sVCAM)-1, and soluble intercellular adhesion molecule (sICAM)-1. These vascular dysfunctions are associated with the development of atherosclerosis. β-Amyrin, an active component of Euphorbia hirta L., has potent anti-inflammatory effects. So far, its preventive effects against the expression of inflammatory mediator-induced adhesion molecules have not been investigated. Endothelial cells (SVEC4-10 cell line) were treated with 50% RAW conditioned media (i.e., normal SVEC4-10 culture media contains 50% of lipopolysaccharide-activated macrophage culture media) without or with β-amyrin (0.6 and 0.3 µM). The production levels of E-selectin, sICAM-1, and sVCAM-1 in the SVEC4-10 cells were measured with ELISA assay kits. Under the same treatment conditions, expression of endothelin (ET)-1 and endothelial type of NO synthase (eNOS) mRNA were analyzed by RT-PCR and agarose gel. With β-amyrin, the 50% RAW conditioned media-induced E-selectin, sICAM-1, and sVCAM-1 levels as well as ET-1 gene expression were all suppressed. β-Amyrin treatment also restored the 50% RAW conditioned media-suppressed eNOS mRNA expression. These data indicate that β-amyrin is potentially useful in preventing chronic inflammation-related vascular diseases.
Biomolecular Mechanisms of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli Biofilm Formation
Authors: Laverty Garry , Gorman Sean , Gilmore Brendan
Published: July 2014

Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli are the most prevalent Gram-negative biofilm forming medical device associated pathogens, particularly with respect to catheter associated urinary tract infections. In a similar manner to Gram-positive bacteria, Gram-negative biofilm formation is fundamentally determined by a series of steps outlined more fully in this review, namely adhesion, cellular aggregation, and the production of an extracellular polymeric matrix. More specifically this review will explore the biosynthesis and role of pili and flagella in Gram-negative adhesion and accumulation on surfaces in Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli. The process of biofilm maturation is compared and contrasted in both species, namely the production of the exopolysaccharides via the polysaccharide synthesis locus (Psl), pellicle Formation (Pel) and alginic acid synthesis in Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and UDP-4-amino-4-deoxy-l-arabinose and colonic acid synthesis in Escherichia coli. An emphasis is placed on the importance of the LuxR homologue sdiA; the luxS/autoinducer-II; an autoinducer-III/epinephrine/norepinephrine and indole mediated Quorum sensing systems in enabling Gram-negative bacteria to adapt to their environments. The majority of Gram-negative biofilms consist of polysaccharides of a simple sugar structure (either homo- or heteropolysaccharides) that provide an optimum environment for the survival and maturation of bacteria, allowing them to display increased resistance to antibiotics and predation.
Nitrogen Status Assessment for Variable Rate Fertilization in Maize through Hyperspectral Imagery
Authors: Cilia Chiara , Panigada Cinzia , Rossini Micol , Meroni Michele , Busetto Lorenzo , Amaducci Stefano , Boschetti Mirco , Picchi Valentina , Colombo Roberto
Published: July 2014

This paper presents a method for mapping the nitrogen (N) status in a maize field using hyperspectral remote sensing imagery. An airborne survey was conducted with an AISA Eagle hyperspectral sensor over an experimental farm where maize (Zea mays L.) was grown with two N fertilization levels (0 and 100 kg N ha−1) in four replicates. Leaf and canopy field data were collected during the flight. The nitrogen (N) status has been estimated in this work based on the Nitrogen Nutrition Index (NNI), defined as the ratio between the leaf actual N concentration (%Na) of the crop and the minimum N content required for the maximum biomass production (critical N concentration (%Nc)) calculated through the dry mass at the time of the flight (Wflight). The inputs required to calculate the NNI (i.e., %Na and Wflight) have been estimated through regression analyses between field data and remotely sensed vegetation indices. MCARI/MTVI2 (Modified Chlorophyll Absorption Ratio Index/Modified Triangular Vegetation Index 2) showed the best performances in estimating the %Na (R2 = 0.59) and MTVI2 in estimating the Wflight (R2 = 0.80). The %Na and the Wflight were then mapped and used to compute the NNI map over the entire field. The NNI map agreed with the NNI estimated using field data through traditional destructive measurements (R2 = 0.70) confirming the potential of using remotely sensed indices to assess the crop N condition. Finally, a method to derive a pixel based variable rate N fertilization map was proposed as the difference between the actual N content and the optimal N content. We think that the proposed operational methodology is promising for precision farming since it represents an innovative attempt to derive a variable rate N fertilization map based on the actual crop N status from an aerial hyperspectral image.
The Use of a Hand-Held Camera for Individual Tree 3D Mapping in Forest Sample Plots
Authors: Liang Xinlian , Jaakkola Anttoni , Wang Yunsheng , Hyyppä Juha , Honkavaara Eija , Liu Jingbin , Kaartinen Harri
Published: July 2014

This paper evaluated the feasibility of a terrestrial point cloud generated utilizing an uncalibrated hand-held consumer camera at a plot level and measuring the plot at an individual-tree level. Individual tree stems in the plot were detected and modeled from the image-based point cloud, and the diameter-at-breast-height (DBH) of each tree was estimated. The detected-results were compared with field measurements and with those derived from the single-scan terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) data. The experiment showed that the mapping accuracy was 88% and the root mean squared error of DBH estimates of individual trees was 2.39 cm, which is acceptable for practical applications and was similar to the results achieved using TLS. The main advantages of the image-based point cloud data lie in the low cost of the equipment required for the data collection, the simple and fast field measurements and the automated data processing, which may be interesting and important for certain applications, such as field inventories by landowners who do not have supports from external experts. The disadvantages of the image-based point cloud data include the limited capability of mapping small trees and complex forest stands.