bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Model computations on the climate change effects on snow cover, soil moisture and soil frost in the boreal conditions over Finland
Authors: Kellomäki Seppo , Maajärvi Matti , Strandman Harri , Kilpeläinen Antti , Peltola Heli 
Published: March 2014

This study considered how climate change affects the accumulation of snow, the soil moisture and soil frost at sites without tree cover in boreal conditions in Finland (60Â°â70Â°N). An increase of 4.5Â Â°C in annual mean temperature and 20 % in annual precipitation were assumed for Finland by the year 2100 according to A2 emission scenario. Along with climate, the soil type of the permanent inventory plots of the Finnish National Forest Inventory was used. Soil and climate data were combined by using a process-based ecosystem model. Calculations were done for four periods: current climate (1971â2000), near future (2001â2020), mid-term future (2021â2050) and long-term future (2071â2100). According to our simulations, the average monthly duration and depth of snow decreased over the simulation period. However, the increasing precipitation may locally increase the snow depths in the mid-term calculations. In the autumn and winter, the average volumetric soil moisture content slightly increased in southern Finland during the near future, but decreased towards the end of the century, but still remained on a higher level than presently. In northern Finland, the soil moisture in the autumn and winter increased by the end of this century. In the summertime soil moisture decreased slightly regardless of the region. Throughout Finland, the length and the depth of soil frost decreased by the end of the century. In the south, the reduction in the depth was largest in the autumn and spring, while in the mid-winter it remained relatively deep in the middle of the century. In the north, the depth tended to increase during the first two calculation periods, in some areas, even during the third calculation period (2071â2100) due to reduced insulation effects of snow during cold spells. The wintertime increase in soil moisture and reduced soil frost may be reflected to reduced carrying capacity of soil for timber harvesting.
Identification, Estimation and Approximation of Risk under Interventions that Depend on the Natural Value of Treatment Using Observational Data
Authors: Young Jessica G. , Hernán Miguel A. , Robins James M. 
Published: March 2014

Abstract, Comparative Quantification of Health Risks: Global and Regional Burden of Disease Attributable to Selected Major Risk Factors. Geneva: World Health Organization) introduced the extended g-formula to estimate from observational data the risk of failure under hypothetical interventions wherein a subject’s treatment at time
The Effect of Linkage on Establishment and Survival of Locally Beneficial Mutations
Authors: Aeschbacher Simon , Bürger Reinhard 
Published: March 2014

AbstractWe study invasion and survival of weakly beneficial mutations arising in linkage to an established migration–selection polymorphism. Our focus is on a continent–island model of migration, with selection at two biallelic loci for adaptation to the island environment. Combining branching and diffusion processes, we provide the theoretical basis for understanding the evolution of islands of divergence, the genetic architecture of locally adaptive traits, and the importance of so-called “divergence hitchhiking” relative to other mechanisms, such as “genomic hitchhiking”, chromosomal inversions, or translocations. We derive approximations to the invasion probability and the extinction time of a de novo mutation. Interestingly, the invasion probability is maximized at a nonzero recombination rate if the focal mutation is sufficiently beneficial. If a proportion of migrants carries a beneficial background allele, the mutation is less likely to become established. Linked selection may increase the survival time by several orders of magnitude. By altering the timescale of stochastic loss, it can therefore affect the dynamics at the focal site to an extent that is of evolutionary importance, especially in small populations. We derive an effective migration rate experienced by the weakly beneficial mutation, which accounts for the reduction in gene flow imposed by linked selection. Using the concept of the effective migration rate, we also quantify the long-term effects on neutral variation embedded in a genome with arbitrarily many sites under selection. Patterns of neutral diversity change qualitatively and quantitatively as the position of the neutral locus is moved along the chromosome. This will be useful for population-genomic inference. Our results strengthen the emerging view that physically linked selection is biologically relevant if linkage is tight or if selection at the background locus is strong.
Seasonality of Asthma: A Retrospective Population Study
Authors: Cohen Herman Avner , Blau Hannah , Hoshen Moshe , Batat Erez , Balicer Ran D. 
Published: March 2014

OBJECTIVES:Seasonal variations in asthma are widely recognized, with the highest incidence during September. This retrospective population study aimed to investigate whether this holds true in a large group of asthmatic children in primary care and to assess the impact of age, gender, urban/rural living, and population sector.METHODS:The key study outcomes were the diagnosis of asthma exacerbations and asthma medication prescriptions, recorded by family physicians during 2005 to 2009. These were analyzed by “week of diagnosis” in Clalit Health Services’ electronic medical record database. Regression models were built to assess relative strength of secular trends, seasonality, and age-group in explaining the incidence of asthma exacerbations.RESULTS:A total of 919 873 children aged 2 to 15 years were identified. Of these, 82 234 (8.9%) were asthmatic, 61.6% boys and 38.4% girls; 49.1% aged 2 to 5 years, 24.1% 6 to 9 years, and 26.8% 10 to 15 years. We observed a 2.01-fold increase in pediatric asthma exacerbations and 2.28-fold increase in prescriptions of asthma bronchodilator medications during September (weeks 37–39 vs weeks 34–36) compared with August. The association between the opening of school and the incidence of asthma-related visits to the primary care physician was greatest in children aged 2 to 5 years (odds ratio, 2.15) and 6 to 11 years (1.90-fold). Adolescents (age 12–15 years) had a lesser peak (1.81-fold). In late fall there was a second rise, lasting with fluctuations throughout winter, with a trough in summer.CONCLUSIONS:Returning to school after summer is strongly associated with an increased risk for asthma exacerbations and unscheduled visits to the primary care physician.
Vanadium Doped Nanostructured TiO2 Dielectrics
Authors: Dogan Fatih , Chao Sheng , Peng Jing , Greenbaum Steve G. 
Published: March 2014

ABSTRACTDielectric properties of titanium oxide ceramics are strongly influenced by the microstructural features and concentration of dopants and impurity ions. Electrical conductivity (via insulation resistance) of vanadium doped nanostructured titanium dioxide (TiO2) ceramics was measured as a function of donor concentration and temperature. In order to further clarify the effect of the dopants on the microstructural development and resultant dielectric properties of TiO2, electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy was employed. Vanadium-doped TiO2 exhibited well-defined hyperfine splitting characteristics of the 51V nuclei indicating that the dopant ions are dispersed within the grains and not preferentially segregated at the grain boundaries.
Effect of Methanol/Water Mixtures on the Lower Critical Solution Temperature of Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide)
Authors: Deshmukh Sanket A. , Kamath Ganesh , Mancini Derrick C. , Sankaranarayanan Subramanian K.R.S. 
Published: March 2014

ABSTRACTPoly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) is a thermo-sensitive polymer that exhibits a lower critical solution temperature (LCST) around 305 K. Below the LCST, PNIPAM is soluble in water and above this temperature polymer chains collapse prior to aggregation. In the presence of methanol, electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy suggests that, LCST of PNIPAM is depressed up to certain mole fraction of methanol (0.35 mole fraction) and it is speculated that addition of methanol affects the PNIPAM-water interactions. Above 0.35 mole fraction of methanol, LCST gets elevated to temperatures above ∼305 K (32°C) and cannot be detected up to 373 K (100 °C). The atomistic origin of this co-solvency effect on the LCST behavior is not completely understood. In the present study, we have used molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to investigate the effect of methanol-water mixtures on conformational transitions and the LCST of PNIPAM. We employ two different force fields i.e. polymer consistent force-field (PCFF) and CHARMM to study solvation dynamics and the PNIPAM LCST phase transition in various methanol-water mixture compositions (0.018, 0.09, 0.27, 0.5, and 0.98 mole fractions). Simulations are conducted at fully atomistic level for three different temperatures (260, 278, and 310 K) and radius of gyration (Rg) of PNIPAM chains was computed for determination of LCST behavior of PNIPAM.
Audit Partner Rotation and Financial Reporting Quality
Authors: Litt Barri , Sharma Divesh S. , Simpson Thuy , Tanyi Paul N. 
Published: March 2014

SUMMARY:
Audit partner rotation has received considerable attention globally and in the U.S. since the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 accelerated the rotation period from seven to five years and expanded the cooling-off period from two to five years. However, research on the effects of audit partner rotation on financial reporting quality in the U.S. is virtually non-existent, largely due to the absence of publicly available information on audit partners. Using a novel approach to determine audit partner rotation, we investigate the effect of rotation on financial reporting quality in the U.S. We find evidence of lower financial reporting quality following an audit partner change. Specifically, we find lower financial reporting quality during the first two years with a new audit partner relative to the final two years with the outgoing partner. We find the lower financial reporting quality to be more prevalent for larger clients. Further analyses suggest the initial year post-rotation presents audit challenges for Big 4 partners, which persist for at least three years for non-Big 4 partners. Audit challenges also appear greater for city-level non-industry specialist auditors and smaller audit offices. We discuss the implications of our results for regulators, policymakers, and the profession at large.
Designing a group of single-branch filters taking into account their mutual influence
Authors: Klempka Ryszard 
Published: March 2014

Abstract
Single-branch filters are still popular and are commonly used for power quality improvement purposes. Analysis of a single-branch filter is a relatively simple task. Although individual filters tuned to specific harmonics can be easily designed, after connecting them into a group it turns out that the capacitance and inductance mutually influence each other, distorting the resulting frequency characteristics. This article presents a matrix method for design a group of single-branch filters, so that the resultant frequency characteristic satisfies the design requirements including the requirements for location of the frequency characteristic maxima. Designer indicates the frequencies of the parallel resonances
The electromagnetic calculations of complex motion common magnetic circuit electromagnetic converter
Authors: Kamiński Grzegorz , Góralski Paweł 
Published: March 2014

Abstract
This document contains results of research on complex motion common magnetic circuit electromagnetic converter characteristic that allows making independent axial and rotary shaft motion. The converter in addition to linear-rotary mechanism consists of two drive rotors and one common magnetic circuit excitator. Such a solution allows to reduce volume of the machine and makes it easier to use. The paper cites design intent and possible structure of the device. Phenomenon of common magnetic circuit adverse effect on correct operation of device is discussed. The concept of using relative error as a way to evaluate the influence of that phenomenon in the torques is discussed. Waveforms of determined relative errors for all possible cases is presented. Furthermore the concept of average relative error is defined and its use as a quantitative method of assessing the degree of common circuit impact is indicated. Definition of relative error ripple factor is given, and its usage is shown. Winding inductance calculation based on free FEM application is shown and its influence on control strategy and power system
TEMPERATURE DEPENDENCY OF FRACTURE TOUGHNESS OF HIGH-STRENGTH FERRITIC STEEL HARDOX-400
Authors: Dzioba Ihor , Pała Robert , Pała Tadeusz 
Published: March 2014

Abstract
The paper presents experimental results of the changes of strength and fracture toughness characteristics of high-strength ferritic steel Hardox-400 in the temperature range from -100 OC to +20 OC. It has been shown that the strength characteristics values increase linearly with lowering the temperature. Changes of fracture toughness characteristics from temperature are more complex and they are dependent on thickness of the tested specimens
Gradient Trajectories For Plane Singular Metrics I: Oscillating Trajectories
Authors: Grandjean Vincent 
Published: March 2014

AbstractIn this short note, we construct an example of a real plane analytic singular metric, degenerating only at the origin, such that any gradient trajectory (respectively to this singular metric) of some well chosen function spirals around the origin. The inversion mapping carries this example into an example of a gradient spiraling dynamics at infinity
Erosion of a Jurassic ophiolitic nappe-stack as indicated by exotic components in the Lower Cretaceous Rossfeld Formation of the Northern Calcareous Alps (Austria)
Authors: Krische Oliver , Goričan Špela , Gawlick Hans-Jürgen 
Published: March 2014

Abstract
The microfacies and biostratigraphy of components in mass-flow deposits from the Lower Cretaceous Rossfeld Formation of the Northern Calcareous Alps in Austria were analysed. The pebbles are classified into six groups: 1) Triassic carbonates (uppermost Werfen to basal Gutenstein Formations), 2) Upper Jurassic to lowermost Cretaceous carbonates (Oberalm Formation and Barmstein Limestone), 3) contemporaneous carbonate bioclasts (?Valanginian to ?Hauterivian), 4) siliceous pebbles (radiolarites, ophicalcites, siliceous deep-sea clays, cherts), 5) volcanic and ophiolitic rock fragments and 6) siliciclastics such as quartz-sandstones and siltstones. The radiolarites show three age groups: Ladinian to Early Carnian, Late Carnian/Norian and Late Bajocian to Callovian. The Middle Triassic radiolarites are interpreted as derived from the Meliata facies zone or from the Neotethys ocean floor, whereas the Late Triassic radiolarites give evidence of the sedimentary cover of the Neotethys ocean floor. During late Early to early Late Jurassic, the Triassic to Early/Middle Jurassic passive margin of the Neotethys attained a lower plate position and became obducted by the accreted ocean floor of the Neotethys Ocean. The accreted ocean floor was contemporaneously eroded and resedimented in different deep-water basins in front of the nappe-stack. These basin fills were subsequently incorporated in the orogen forming mélanges in this complex ophiolitic nappe-stack. The Middle Jurassic radiolarites are interpreted as the matrix of these mélanges. Together with the volcanic and ophiolitic material the siliceous rocks were eroded from this ophiolitic nappe-stack in Early Cretaceous times and brought by a fluvial system to the Rossfeld Basin within the Tirolic realm of the Northern Calcareous Alps. The different fining-upward sequences in the succession of the Lower Cretaceous Rossfeld Formation can be best explained by sea-level fluctuations and decreasing tectonic activity in the Jurassic orogen
Testicular membrane lipid damage by complex mixture of leachate from municipal battery recycling site as indication of idiopathic male infertility in rat
Authors: Akintunde Jacob K. , Oboh Ganiyu , Akindahunsi Akintunde A. 
Published: March 2014

ABSTRACT
Leachate from a municipal battery recycling site is a potent source of mixed-metal released into the environment. The present study investigated the degree at which mixed-metal exposure to the municipal auto-battery leachate (MABL) and to the Elewi Odo municipal auto-battery recycling site leachate (EOMABRL) affected the lipid membrane of the testes in in vitro experiment. The results showed elevated level of mixed-metals over the permissible levels in drinking water, as recommended by regulatory authorities. In the leachate samples, the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), a biomarker of lipid damage, was significantly (p<0.05) increased in rat testes in a dose-dependent manner. MDA induced by the municipal auto-battery leachate (MABL) was significantly (p<0.05) higher than the leachate from Elewi Odo municipal auto-battery recycling site (EOMABRL). The testicular lipid membrane capacity was compromised following treatment with leachate from the municipal battery recycling site, implicating mixed-metal exposure as the causative agent of testicular damage and male infertility.
The ameliorative effect of ascorbic acid and Ginkgo biloba on learning and memory deficits associated with fluoride exposure
Authors: Raghu Jetti , Raghuveer Vasudeva C. , Rao Mallikarjuna C. , Somayaji Nagabhooshana S. , Babu Prakash B. 
Published: March 2014

ABSTRACT
Chronic exposure to fluoride causes dental and skeletal fluorosis. Fluoride exposure is also detrimental to soft tissues and organs. The present study aimed at evaluation of the effect of Ginkgo biloba and ascorbic acid on learning and memory deficits caused by fluoride exposure. Male Wistar rats were divided into five groups (n=6). Group 1 control. Groups 2 to 5 received 100 ppm of sodium fluoride over 30 days. Groups 3, 4 and 5 were further treated for 15 days receiving respectively 1% gum acacia solution, 100 mg/kg body weight ascorbic acid, and 100mg/kg body weight Ginkgo biloba extract. After 45 days, all animals were subjected to behavioural tests. The results showed that fluoride affected learning and memory. Fluoride causes oxidative stress and neurodegeneration, thereby affecting learning and memory. Ascorbic acid and Ginkgo biloba were found to augment the reversal of learning and memory deficits caused by fluoride ingestion
Sustainable Risk Management in the Banking Sector
Authors: Županović Ivo 
Published: March 2014

Abstract
The globalization of financial markets and negative consequences of the financial crisis resulted in negative connotations in the operation of many financial institutions, businesses and citizens and imposed the need to implement appropriate risk management measures in the banking sector. Evolution of the financial sector makes a lot of news in the field of risk management and particularly the modelling of market, credit and operational risk. The main methodology for risk management is the value-at-risk, which is used in practice with other techniques such as the capital- at-risk method in order to minimize business risks and achieve optimal results in the banking and, generally, financial operations. Accordingly, at all levels of governance in the banking sector, there are prudential policies in place governing the management of all types of financial and operational risks. Based on the abovementioned, the focus of the examination was on the above postulate, and prompt recognition, control and proper management of banking risks.
Habitat preference of Common Sandpipers (Actitis hypoleucos) along the River Rába, Hungary
Authors: Hammer Tamás , Liker András , Szentirmai István 
Published: March 2014

Abstract
We investigated habitat preference of Common Sandpipers as part of a monitoring program in the Őrség National Park, Hungary. Field observations were conducted during the summers between 2008 and 2012 along a 47-km long section of the River Rába. During the observations we recorded the number and location of birds on the river bank. We divided the studied area into 1 km long sections and measured the proportion of the visually distinguishable habitat types (water, low gravel and sand bank, vegetation and degraded area) from a digitalized map. Furthermore, we recorded the number of the low banks and the number of bends of the river within each section, as well as the sections’ distance from the closest hydroelectric power plants and human settlements. In 2012 we also performed a detailed habitat mapping, recording the proportion of the vegetation types along the river bank and the number of fishing spots, embankment strengthenings and gravel banks. We tested the correlations between these habitat variables and number of birds present in the river sections. Our results show that Common Sandpipers were observed more frequently in locations which have (1) larger number and area of low gravel and sand banks, (2) less dense vegetation, and (3) lower proportion of degraded habitats. These findings can be taken into account in the conservation management of River Rába
MRI-assisted cervix cancer brachytherapy pre-planning, based on application in paracervical anaesthesia: final report
Authors: Petric Primoz , Hudej Robert , Hanuna Omar , Marolt Primoz , Al-Hammadi Noora Mohammed A A , Riyas Mohamed P. , Segedin Barbara 
Published: March 2014

Abstract
Background. Optimal applicator insertion is a precondition for the success of cervix cancer brachytherapy (BT). We aimed to assess feasibility and efficacy of MRI-assisted pre-planning, based on applicator insertion in para-cervical anaesthesia (PCA).
Patients and methods. Five days prior to BT, the pre-planning procedure was performed in 18 cervix cancer patients: tandem-ring applicator was inserted under PCA, pelvic MRI obtained and applicator removed. Procedure tolerability was assessed. High risk clinical target volume (HR CTV) and organs at risk were delineated on the pre-planning MRI, virtual needles placed at optimal positions, and dose planning performed. At BT, insertion was carried out in subarachnoidal anaesthesia according to pre-planned geometry. Pre-planned and actual treatment parameters were compared.
Results. Pre-planning procedure was well tolerated. Median difference between the pre-planned and actual needle insertion depth and position were 2 (0―10) mm and 4 (0―30) degrees, respectively. The differences between the pre-planned and actual geometric and dosimetric parameters were statistically non-significant. All actual needles were positioned inside the HR CTV and outside the organs at risk (OAR).
Conclusions. Our pre-planning approach is well tolerated and effective. Pre-planned geometry and dose distribution can be reproduced at BT.