bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Residual Oil Saturation in the Secondary Gas Cap of a Mature Carbonate Reservoir from Multi-Dimensional Magnetic Resonance Logging
Authors: Ofield W. P. , Al-Haddad A. , Saldungaray P. J. , Bachman H. N. , Ur-Rehman S. , Azam H.
Published: December 2013

Tatweer Petroleum is a joint venture established in the Kingdom of Bahrain with the mission to reactivate the Bahrain field. One of the main oil producing reservoirs in the field is Mauddud, a shallow-water Cretaceous limestone. The reservoir has been producing for several decades with pressure support from crestal gas injection, thus a large secondary gas cap has developed covering the upper half of the reservoir. There is evidence that this section is preferentially oil-wet, with high Residual Oil Saturation (Sor). Tatweer’s challenge is to quantify the Sor in the gas cap and design an EOR scheme to improve the oil recovery.

Conventional resistivity, neutron, and density log methods can be used to compute the water and hydrocarbon volumes. However, the low formation water salinity combined with the uncertainty in the Archie coefficients and neutron-density end-points result in insufficient saturation accuracy. In this paper we will focus on the integration of conventional logs with advanced multi-dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analysis to overcome the limitations.

Modern NMR logging tools perform specialized acquisition sequences featuring a combination of polarization times, number of echoes and variable echo spacings in order to characterize the formation fluids simultaneously in T2 (Transverse Relaxation Time), in T1 (Longitudinal Relaxation Time) and D (Diffusivity). The result is reliable, continuous log quantification of fluid saturations based on the resulting D-T1 or D-T2 maps to subdivide the total NMR porosity into water, oil and gas volumes. In addition a crude oil viscosity can be derived from the oil signal. The water can be further divided into free and bound water. The methodology was applied in several Mauddud wells and shows results that are consistent with core data and a new petrophysical model developed by Tatweer based on rock types and saturation height modeling.
The problem of aesthetic judgment: Perspectives of aesthetics
Authors: Popovic Una
Published: December 2013

This paper deals with the interpretation of Kant?s Critique of Judgment from
the perspective of aesthetics. Our aim here is to show the immanent
relationship between the two main motifs of this work: the analysis of
traditional aesthetic problems, such as beauty and taste, on the one hand,
and the systematical thinking, philosophy, and Kant?s critical project, on
the other. This interpretation is developed in consideration of the prob?lem
of aesthetics as a philosophical discipline, within which, for each of the
motifs of Kant?s third critique it is shown how it redefines aesthetic into
philosophical thought. Finally, the character of critical positioning of
aesthetic problems in Kant is shown in light of the opening of the
perspective of subjective universality as a theme that connects the two
motifs of third critique, but also allows a different view in the domain of
intersubjectivity.
Zweckmäßigkeit, Harmonie, sensus communis und Orientierung
Authors: Cvejic Igor
Published: December 2013

In dem ersten Teil dieses Texts wird zuerst eine Analyse von Kants Begriffen
des Zweckm??igkeit und Harmonie und ihren Verh?ltnisse miteinander, so wie
mit dem Gef?hl der Lust, unternommen werden. Diese Analyse wird mit Bezug
auf Shaftesbury Ansicht auf die, heutige sogenannte, ?Affektionen zweiter
Ordnung? und ihre Bedeutung in der sozialen und politischen Philosophie
betrachten werden. Abschlie?end dieser erste Teil besch?ftigt sich mit Kants
Konzeption der sensus communis, und versucht einige sei?ner Besonderheiten
hinzuweisen, die erm?glichen, sensus communis nicht als eine empirische
Tatsache anzunehmen. Im zweiten Teil der Arbeit wird versucht werden, die
Position der sensus communis in Kants politische - Philosophie und -
Situation hinzuweisen, und einige Auswirkungen, die daraus abgeleitet werden
k?nnten.
The institution of group and genocidal acts
Authors: Bojanic Petar
Published: December 2013

This critique is focused on a small theory regarding the constituting of a
group through the simultaneous exclusion of some other group. Is it possible,
then, to produce social and non-social acts (negative social acts) at the
same time? Or is it possible to construct a group which acts ?genocidally?,
meaning that it destroys another group or ?the groupness? of a group, and at
the same time affirm its own unity and its ontological stability? (I have
used the word ?institution? in the title, since we are dealing with a group
that is lasting, and not temporary.) Finally, does this thematization of the
group through inter-group antagonism have anything to do with Lemkin?s word
?genocide??
Calculation of Welding Trusses Overlap Joints Made of Rectangular Hollow Sections
Authors: Bródka J. , Broniewicz M.
Published: December 2013

The basis for calculating of resistance of welded RHS connections is provided by codes and international guidebooks. In the matter of calculation of the resistance of welded joints, the European standard contains very general recommendations without specifying the detailed calculation procedures, which (the) designers could use in their work. Estimation of resistance of welded semi-rigid joints is a complex issue because it requires determining of effective lengths of welds, their placement on the member walls with their different rigidity, and distribution of components of the load acting on each section of welds in various joint areas. In this paper an approximate assessment is suggested of the resistance of the welded connection in the overlapped K type joints, made of rectangular hollow sections.
Enantioselective Michael additions of aldehydes to nitroalkenes catalyzed with ionically tagged organocatalyst
Authors: Šebesta Radovan , Latika Attila
Published: December 2013

Enantioselective organocatalytic Michael additions affords useful building blocks for many biologically and medicinally relevant compounds. Ionically-tagged diphenylprolinol silyl ether efficiently catalyzes several Michael additions of aldehydes to nitroalkenes in ionic liquids. The Michael additions work well in ionic liquids; yields up to 95% and enantioselectivities up to 95% ee were achieved. Furthermore, in some cases, the catalytic system was reusable.
Quartic del Pezzo surfaces over function fields of curves
Authors: Hassett Brendan , Tschinkel Yuri
Published: December 2013

We classify quartic del Pezzo surface fibrations over the projective line via numerical invariants, giving explicit examples for small values of the invariants. For generic such fibrations, we describe explicitly the geometry of spaces of sections to the fibration, and mappings to the intermediate Jacobian of the total space. We exhibit examples where these are birational, which has applications to arithmetic questions, especially over finite fields.
Maximal pseudocompact spaces and the Preiss-Simon property
Authors: Alas Ofelia , Tkachuk Vladimir , Wilson Richard
Published: December 2013

We study maximal pseudocompact spaces calling them also MP-spaces. We show that the product of a maximal pseudocompact space and a countable compact space is maximal pseudocompact. If X is hereditarily maximal pseudocompact then X × Y is hereditarily maximal pseudocompact for any first countable compact space Y. It turns out that hereditary maximal pseudocompactness coincides with the Preiss-Simon property in countably compact spaces. In compact spaces, hereditary MP-property is invariant under continuous images while this is not true for the class of countably compact spaces. We prove that every Fréchet-Urysohn compact space is homeomorphic to a retract of a compact MP-space. We also give a ZFC example of a Fréchet-Urysohn compact space which is not maximal pseudocompact. Therefore maximal pseudocompactness is not preserved by continuous images in the class of compact spaces.
The variational iteration method for solving linear and nonlinear ODEs and scientific models with variable coefficients
Authors: Wazwaz Abdul-Majid
Published: December 2013

We apply the variational iteration method (VIM) for solving linear and nonlinear ordinary differential equations with variable coefficients. We use distinct Lagrange multiplier for each order of ODE. We emphasize the power of the method by testing a variety of models with distinct orders and variable coefficients. Scientific models, namely, the hybrid selection model, the Thomas-Fermi equation, the Kidder equation of the Unsteady flow of gas through a porous medium, and the Riccati equation, are studied as well.
A Rare Association of Celiac Disease with Turner Syndrome
Authors: Ramar Praveen , Roy Shuvendu
Published: December 2013

Celiac Disease is an immune mediated enteropathy, with wide spectrum of extra intestinal manifestation and rare autoimmune and syndromic associations. We report one such exclusive extra intestinal manifestation of celiac disease with association of Turner syndrome. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jnps.v33i3.7829   J. Nepal Paediatr. Soc. 2013;33(3):218-219
A Rare Case Report of Siblings with Infantile and Late Infantile Forms of Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinoses
Authors: Ghosh Moumita , Chowdhury Jasodhara , Das Shubhadeep , Banerjee Mukut , Chakraborty Swapna
Published: December 2013

Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinoses is a neurodegenerative disorder predominantly involving grey matter. The 4 classic forms are Infantile type, Late Infantile type, Juvenile type and Adult type. We present a case of 3 siblings of unrelated parents where the eldest had Infantile form of NCL, the second child had Late Infantile Form, and the third child is normal. Both children having different phenotypic presentations have curvilinear inclusion bodies on EM of axillary skin biopsy, low levels of tripeptidyl amino peptidase 1(TPP1) and normal levels of palmitoyl protein thioesterase 1(PPT1), a finding classically present in the Late Infantile variety involving CLN2 mutation. After extensive search we failed to find a case report describing a similar finding. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jnps.v33i3.7924   J. Nepal Paediatr. Soc. 2013;33(3):220-222
Dyskeratosis congenita: a rare case report
Authors: Roy Banasree , Mondal Gobinda , Paul Dilip Kumar , Kalam Abul , Basu Kausambi
Published: December 2013

Dyskeratosis congenita is a rare congenital disorder affecting mainly the integumentary system. It is a progressive disease with involvement of bone marrow. A triad of hyperpigmentation, nail dystrophy and leucoplakia are characteristic of this disease. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jnps.v33i3.8166   J. Nepal Paediatr. Soc. 2013;33(3):223-226
Effects of Third Trimester Maternal Hemoglobin Upon Newborn Anthropometry
Authors: Madaan Gautam , Bhardwaj Anand Kumar , Narang Sunny , Sharma PD
Published: December 2013

Introduction: Maternal anemia during pregnancy can lead to poor fetal outcome as risks of morbidity and mortality is increased. Materials and Methods: All Singleton pregnancies delivered in MMIMSR, Mullana, Ambala from 5 April 2012 to 5 October 2012 fulfilling the criteria were included. The pregnant mothers were grouped into 4 categories according to the corresponding hemoglobin concentration: normal (=or>11), mild (10.9-9.0g/dl), moderate (8.9-7.0 g/dl), and severe anemia (less than 7 g/dl). Results: Out of 334 pregnant women included in the study 249 (74.6%) were found to be anemic. Among anemic mothers 9 had severe (2.7%), 51 had moderate (15.3%) and 189 had mild (56.6) anemia. The anthropometric measurements (birth weight, length, chest circumference, head circumference) with decreasing severity of anemia showed statistically significant difference (p = 0.000, p = 0.000, p = 0.017, p = 0.001) respectively. It was seen that as the number of pregnancies (gravida) increases the severity of anemia increases with each pregnancy. Conclusion: Anemia during pregnancy negatively affected the anthropometric measurements of a newborn and severe anemia had significant negative effect on neonatal anthropometric measurements. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jnps.v33i3.8251   J. Nepal Paediatr. Soc. 2013;33(3):186-189
West Syndrome: How Early is Early for its Presentation?
Authors: Shrestha Bikash , Kiran Kamal , Ghulliani Ranjit
Published: December 2013

West syndrome is the triad of mental retardation, infantile spasms and characteristic hypsarrhythmia on electroencephalograph. West syndrome usually presents in mid-infancy period. We present this as a rare presentation of West syndrome in the neonatal period. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jnps.v33i3.8639   J. Nepal Paediatr. Soc. 2013;33(3):239-242
Anachronistic Aesthetics: Maria Edgeworth and the “Uses” of History
Authors: Mullen Mary
Published: December 2013

Scholars often understand Maria Edgeworth as a belated Enlightenment writer in a Romantic age because she seeks to organize both her fiction and the history it represents so that they can be put to use. In this article, however, I argue that Maria Edgeworth’s Irish writing legitimates lived relationships between past and present that her politics wished to eradicate. Although she attempts to periodize within her fiction to shape a useful history—separating past and present in order to bring about an imagined future—her anachronistic aesthetics unsettle her historical periods and show the political value of discordance, contingency, and historical misuse. Focusing especially on An Essay on Irish Bulls and Castle Rackrent, I consider how Edgeworth’s anachronisms imagine political possibilities that do not simply support either union with England or Irish nationalism. The heterogeneity created by portable aesthetic forms—whether literary language that transcends its historical context or forms of metalepsis that propel readers forward and backward in time—foster transhistorical relationships that expand our understanding of the present and imagine a more open future.
Local delivery of angiogenesis-inhibitor minocycline combined with radiotherapy and oral temozolomide chemotherapy in 9L glioma
Authors: Bow Hansen , Hwang Lee S. , Schildhaus Noam , Xing Joanna , Murray Luke , Salditch Quinn , Ye Xiaobu , Zhang Yonggang , Weingart Jon , Brem Henry , Tyler Betty
Published: December 2013

Object

Over the past several years, there has been increasing interest in combining angiogenesis inhibitors with radiotherapy and temozolomide chemotherapy in the treatment of glioblastoma. Although the US FDA approved bevacizumab for the treatment of glioblastoma in 2009, the European Medicines Agency rejected its use due to its questionable impact on patient survival. One factor contributing to the failure of angiogenesis inhibitors to increase overall patient survival may be their inability to cross the blood-brain barrier. Here the authors examined in a 9L glioma model whether intracranial polymer-based delivery of the angiogenesis inhibitor minocycline potentiates the effects of both radiotherapy and temozolomide chemotherapy in increasing median survival. The authors also investigated whether the relative timing of minocycline polymer implantation with respect to radiotherapy affects the efficacy of radiotherapy.

Methods

Minocycline was incorporated into the biodegradable polymer polyanhydride poly(1,3-bis-[p-carboxyphenoxy propane]-co-[sebacic anhydride]) (CPP:SA) at a ratio of 50:50 by weight. Female Fischer 344 rats were implanted with 9L glioma on Day 0. The minocycline polymer was then implanted on either Day 3 or Day 5 posttumor implantation. Cohorts of rats were exposed to 20 Gy focal radiation on Day 5 or were administered oral temozolomide (50 mg/kg daily) on Days 5–9.

Results

Both minocycline polymer implantations on Days 3 and 5 increased survival from 14 days to 19 days (p < 0.001 vs control). Treatment with a combination of both minocycline polymer and radiotherapy on Day 5 resulted in a 139% increase in median survival compared with treatment with radiotherapy alone (p < 0.005). There was not a statistically significant difference in median survival between the group that received minocycline implanted on the same day as radiotherapy and the group that received minocycline polymer 2 days prior to radiotherapy. Lastly, treatment with a combination of minocycline polymer with oral temozolomide resulted in a 38% extension of median survival compared with treatment of oral temozolomide alone (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

These results show that minocycline delivered locally potentiates the effects of both radiotherapy and oral temozolomide in increasing median survival in a rodent glioma model. More generally, these results suggest that traditional therapy in combination with local, as opposed to systemic, delivery of angiogenesis inhibitors may be able to increase median survival for patients with glioblastoma.
Minimally invasive tubular resection of the anomalous transverse process in patients with Bertolotti's syndrome
Authors: Li Yumeng , Lubelski Daniel , Abdullah Kalil G. , Mroz Thomas E. , Steinmetz Michael P.
Published: December 2013

Object

Bertolotti's syndrome consists of low-back pain caused by lumbosacral transitional vertebrae (LSTVs) and LSTV-associated biomechanical spinal changes. There is a lack of consensus regarding the cause, clinical significance, and treatment of this condition. The authors aim to characterize the clinical presentation of patients with Bertolotti's syndrome and describe a minimally invasive surgical treatment for this condition.

Methods

Seven patients who underwent minimally invasive paramedian tubular-based resection of the LSTV for Bertolotti's syndrome were identified over the course of 5 years. Diagnosis was based on patient history of chronic low-back pain, radiographic findings of LSTV, and pain relief on trigger-site injection with steroid and/or anesthetics. Electronic medical records were reviewed to identify demographics, operative data, and outcomes.

Results

All patients presented with severe, chronic low-back pain lasting an average of 8 years that was resistant to nonoperative care. At presentation, 6 (86%) of 7 patients experienced radicular pain that was ipsilateral to the LSTV. Radiographic evidence showed a presence of LSTV in all patients on the left (43%), right (29%), or bilaterally (29%). Degenerative disc changes at the L4–5 level immediately above the anomalous LSTV were observed in 6 of 7 (86%) patients; these changes were not seen at the level below the LSTV. Following pseudo-joint injection, all patients experienced temporary relief of their symptoms. All patients underwent a minimally invasive, paramedian tubular-based approach for resection of the LSTV. Three (43%) of 7 patients reported complete resolution of low-back pain, 2 (29%) of 7 patients had reduced low-back pain, and 2 patients (29%) experienced initial relief but return of low-back pain at 1 and 4 years postoperatively. Three (50%) of the 6 patients with radicular pain had complete relief of this symptom. The median follow-up time was 12 months. No intraoperative complication was reported. Two (29%) of 7 patients developed postoperative complications including one with a wound hematoma and another with new L-5 radiculopathy that resolved 2 years after surgery.

Conclusions

Diagnosis of Bertolotti's syndrome should be considered with adequate patient history, imaging studies, and diagnostic injections. A minimally invasive surgical approach for resection of the LSTV is presented here for symptomatic treatment of select patients with Bertolotti's syndrome whose conditions are refractory to conventional therapy and who have pain that can be attributed to the LSTV. Several short-term complications were noted with this procedure, but overall this procedure is effective for treating symptoms related to Bertolotti's syndrome.
‘The past isn't dead … it's deadly’: Horror, History and Locale in Whitechapel
Authors: Williams Rebecca
Published: December 2013

This article analyses the ITV crime drama Whitechapel (2009 –), contributing to academic understandings of the horror and Gothic genres on television. It does so by examining the importance of place in TV horror, expanding on prior work that has concentrated on the rural by focusing on television horror within the urban London district of Whitechapel which has a specific history and legacy. Given the recent boom in history television programming and the ‘potential and variety of the popular history drama in engaging with the past’ (de Groot 2009: 207), it also contributes to work on televising the past by examining how history is ambiguously represented in the Gothic crime drama. The piece explores how the past can be used to create television horror, depicting events from history as potentially threatening and as a source of dread and unease which is indebted to the Gothic's emphasis upon the past. In portraying a more nuanced relationship between the present and past, the potential limits of partial knowledge and an over-reliance on historical precedent, Whitechapel offers an instructive convincing case study regarding the intersections of place, history and Gothic/horror tropes in contemporary television drama.
A Method for Negotiating Various Customer Requirements for Public Service Design
Authors: Shimomura Yoshiki , Nemoto Yutaro , Akasaka Fumiya , Kimita Koji
Published: December 2013

A method for public service design, which enables designers to realize high-value added service design by considering plural different customer groups in parallel, is proposed. In General, service designs focus on specific customers. However, because of the diversity of customer requirements, it is difficult to design a public service that addresses the requirements of all customers. To achieve higher customer satisfaction, it is imperative to summarize the requirements of various customers and design a service by considering customers belonging to different categories. In this article, we propose a method that enables highly public service development by considering groups of various customers and minimizing customer dissatisfaction by adopting a group-decision-making approach. As a consequence, improvement of effectiveness of highly public service development can be expected.
Contemporary Network Proteomics and Its Requirements
Authors: Goh Wilson , Wong Limsoon , Sng Judy
Published: December 2013

The integration of networks with genomics (network genomics) is a familiar field. Conventional network analysis takes advantage of the larger coverage and relative stability of gene expression measurements. Network proteomics on the other hand has to develop further on two critical factors: (1) expanded data coverage and consistency, and (2) suitable reference network libraries, and data mining from them. Concerning (1) we discuss several contemporary themes that can improve data quality, which in turn will boost the outcome of downstream network analysis. For (2), we focus on network analysis developments, specifically, the need for context-specific networks and essential considerations for localized network analysis.
Functionalization of Aligned Carbon Nanotubes to Enhance the Performance of Fuel Cell
Authors: Liu Jingbo , Yuan Yuan , Bashir Sajid
Published: December 2013

The focus of this research lies on fundamental research to provide guidelines for the design of new nanocatalyst toward improvement of the performance of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). To achieve this overarching goal, several specific steps were taken with aims to: (1) provide guidelines for the design of new catalysts; (2) promote nanocatalyst applications towards alternative energy applications; and (3) integrate advanced instrumentation into nanocharacterization and fuel cell (FC) electrochemical behavior. In tandem with these goals, the cathode catalysts were extensively refined to improve the performance of PEMFCs and minimize noble metal usage. In this study, the major accomplishment was producing aligned carbon nanotubes (ACNTs), which were then modified by platinum (Pt) nanoparticles via a post-functionalization colloidal chemistry approach. The Pt-ACNTs demonstrated improved cathodic catalycity, by building better device endurance and decreased Pt loading. It was also determined that surface mechanical properties, such as elastic modulus and hardness were increased. Collectively, these enhancements provided an improved FC device. The electrochemical analyses indicated that the power density of the PEMFCs was increased to 900 mW/cm2 and current density to 3000 mA/cm2, respectively. The Pt loading was controlled at lower than 0.2 mg/cm2 to decrease the manufacturing expenses.
Performance Analysis of an Integrated Fixed Bed Gasifier Model for Different Biomass Feedstocks
Authors: Begum Sharmina , Rasul Mohammad , Akbar Delwar , Ramzan Naveed
Published: December 2013

Energy recovery from biomass by gasification technology has attracted significant interest because it satisfies a key requirement of environmental sustainability by producing near zero emissions. Though it is not a new technology, studies on its integrated process simulation and analysis are limited, in particular for municipal solid waste (MSW) gasification. This paper develops an integrated fixed bed gasifier model of biomass gasification using the Advanced System for Process ENngineering (Aspen) Plus software for its performance analysis. A computational model was developed on the basis of Gibbs free energy minimization. The model is validated with experimental data of MSW and food waste gasification available in the literature. A reasonable agreement between measured and predicted syngas composition was found. Using the validated model, the effects of operating conditions, namely air-fuel ratio and gasifier temperature, on syngas production are studied. Performance analyses have been done for four different feedstocks, namely wood, coffee bean husks, green wastes and MSWs. The ultimate and proximate analysis data for each feedstock was used for model development. It was found that operating parameters have a significant influence on syngas composition. An air-fuel ratio of 0.3 and gasifier temperature of 700 °C provides optimum performance for a fixed bed gasifier for MSWs, wood wastes, green wastes and coffee bean husks. The developed model can be useful for gasification of other biomasses (e.g., food wastes, rice husks, poultry wastes and sugarcane bagasse) to predict the syngas composition. Therefore, the study provides an integrated gasification model which can be used for different biomass feedstocks.
Evaluation of Biofuel Cells with Hemoglobin as Cathodic Electrocatalysts for Hydrogen Peroxide Reduction on Bare Indium-Tin-Oxide Electrodes
Authors: Ayato Yusuke , Matsuda Naoki
Published: December 2013

A biofuel cell (BFC) cathode has been developed based on direct electron transfer (DET) of hemoglobin (Hb) molecules with an indium-tin-oxide (ITO) electrode and their electrocatalysis for reduction of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). In this study, the ITO-coated glass plates or porous glasses were prepared by using a chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method and examined the electrochemical characteristics of the formed ITO in pH 7.4 of phosphate buffered saline (PBS) solutions containing and not containing Hb. In half-cell measurements, the reduction current of H2O2 due to the electrocatalytic activity of Hb increased with decreasing electrode potential from around 0.1 V versus Ag|AgCl|KCl(satd.) in the PBS solution. The practical open-circuit voltage (OCV) on BFCs utilizing H2O2 reduction at the Hb-ITO cathode with a hydrogen (H2) oxidation anode at a platinum (Pt) electrode was expected to be at least 0.74 V from the theoretical H2 oxidation potential of −0.64 V versus Ag|AgCl|KCl(satd.) in pH 7.4. The assembled single cell using the ITO-coated glass plate showed the OCV of 0.72 V and the maximum power density of 3.1 µW cm−2. The maximum power per single cell was recorded at 21.5 µW by using the ITO-coated porous glass.
Predictive Modeling of West Nile Virus Transmission Risk in the Mediterranean Basin: How Far from Landing?
Authors: Chevalier Véronique , Tran Annelise , Durand Benoit
Published: December 2013

The impact on human and horse health of West Nile fever (WNF) recently and dramatically increased in Europe and neighboring countries. Involving several mosquito and wild bird species, WNF epidemiology is complex. Despite the implementation of surveillance systems in several countries of concern, and due to a lack of knowledge, outbreak occurrence remains unpredictable. Statistical models may help identifying transmission risk factors. When spatialized, they provide tools to identify areas that are suitable for West Nile virus transmission. Mathematical models may be used to improve our understanding of epidemiological process involved, to evaluate the impact of environmental changes or test the efficiency of control measures. We propose a systematic literature review of publications aiming at modeling the processes involved in WNF transmission in the Mediterranean Basin. The relevance of the corresponding models as predictive tools for risk mapping, early warning and for the design of surveillance systems in a changing environment is analyzed.
Fucoxanthin: A Marine Carotenoid Exerting Anti-Cancer Effects by Affecting Multiple Mechanisms
Authors: Kumar Sangeetha , Hosokawa Masashi , Miyashita Kazuo
Published: December 2013

Fucoxanthin is a marine carotenoid exhibiting several health benefits. The anti-cancer effect of fucoxanthin and its deacetylated metabolite, fucoxanthinol, is well documented. In view of its potent anti-carcinogenic activity, the need to understand the underlying mechanisms has gained prominence. Towards achieving this goal, several researchers have carried out studies in various cell lines and in vivo and have deciphered that fucoxanthin exerts its anti-proliferative and cancer preventing influence via different molecules and pathways including the Bcl-2 proteins, MAPK, NFκB, Caspases, GADD45, and several other molecules that are involved in either cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, or metastasis. Thus, in addition to decreasing the frequency of occurrence and growth of tumours, fucoxanthin has a cytotoxic effect on cancer cells. Some studies show that this effect is selective, i.e., fucoxanthin has the capability to target cancer cells only, leaving normal physiological cells unaffected/less affected. Hence, fucoxanthin and its metabolites show great promise as chemotherapeutic agents in cancer.
Community Road Safety Initiatives for the Minerals Industry
Authors: Horberry Tim , Harris Jill , Shi Meng , Kirsch Philipp , Rifkin Will , Harris Andrew
Published: December 2013

Major companies in the minerals industry are increasingly recognizing that their operations have an impact in the wider community. Regarding transportation issues, this impact extends beyond purely the safety of company vehicle fleets to consideration of Community Road Safety (CRS) concerns, which address the driving, walking, and riding practices of community members in a locale with increased heavy vehicle traffic. Our assessment here of national and international trends in approaches to road safety awareness and associated road safety strategies is meant to inform companies in the minerals industry of developments that can influence the design of their road safety initiatives. The review begins by considering the overall road safety context and the dominant “safe systems” framework employed internationally. Thereafter, it considers what is typically included in CRS initiatives for the minerals industry. Three case studies are then presented to highlight approaches that feature exemplary collaboration, design, implementation, or impact. Thereafter, we analyze lessons learnt by key researchers and practitioners in the CRS field. Finally, we conclude that best CRS practices for the minerals industry rely on eleven factors, including for example collaboration with local entities and stepwise implementation.
An Efficient Approach to the Synthesis of Highly Congested 9,10-Dihydrophenanthrene-2,4-dicarbonitriles and Their Biological Evaluation as Antimicrobial Agents
Authors: Faidallah Hassan , Al-Shaikh Khalid , Sobahi Tariq , Khan Khalid , Asiri Abdullah
Published: December 2013

An efficient and novel method for the synthesis in moderate to good yield (72%–84%) of a series of 3-amino-1-substituted-9,10-dihydrophenanthrene-2,4-dicarbonitriles 1–5 via one-pot multi-component reactions of aldehydes, malononitrile, 1-tetralone and ammonium acetate has been delineated. Cyclocondensation attempts of aminocyanophenanthrene derivatives 1, 2, 4 and 5 with acetic anhydride in the presence of conc. H2SO4 failed and instead the diacetylamino derivatives 10–13 were obtained. All prepared compounds were structurally elucidated by various spectroscopic methods and X-ray crystallography. N,N-diacetylamino-derivatives of phenanthrene have shown good antimicrobial activity.
Structure and Antioxidant Activity of Polyphenols Derived from Propolis
Authors: Kurek-Górecka Anna , Rzepecka-Stojko Anna , Górecki Michał , Stojko Jerzy , Sosada Marian , Świerczek-Zięba Grażyna
Published: December 2013

Propolis is a potential source of natural antioxidants such as phenolic acids and flavonoids. Its wide biological effects have been known and used since antiquity. In the modern world natural substances are sought which would be able to counteract the effects of antioxidative stress, which underlies many diseases, such as cancer, diabetes and atherosclerosis. This paper aims to present the antioxidative activity of phenolic acids and flavonoids present in Polish propolis and the relationship between their chemical structure and antioxidative activity influencing its medicinal properties. Data concerning the biological activity of propolis are summarized here, including its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anticarcinogenic, antiatherogenic, estrogenic effects, as well as AIDS- counteracting and reparative-regenerative function.
The Effects of Acute Post Exercise Consumption of Two Cocoa-Based Beverages with Varying Flavanol Content on Indices of Muscle Recovery Following Downhill Treadmill Running
Authors: Peschek Katelyn , Pritchett Robert , Bergman Ethan , Pritchett Kelly
Published: December 2013

Dietary flavanols have been associated with reduced oxidative stress, however their efficacy in promoting recovery after exercise induced muscle damage is unclear. This study examined the effectiveness of acute consumption of cocoa-flavanols on indices of muscle recovery including: subsequent exercise performance, creatine kinase, muscle tenderness, force, and self-perceived muscle soreness. Eight endurance-trained athletes (VO2max 64.4 ± 7.6 mL/kg/min) completed a downhill running protocol to induce muscle soreness, and 48-h later completed a 5-K (kilometer) time trial. Muscle recovery measurements were taken at PRE, 24 h-POST, 48 h-POST, and POST-5K. Participants consumed 1.0 g of carbohydrate per kilogram of body weight of a randomly assigned beverage (CHOC: 0 mg flavanols vs. CocoaCHOC: 350 mg flavanols per serving) immediately after the downhill run and again 2 h later. The same protocol was repeated three weeks later with the other beverage. An ANOVA revealed no significant difference (p = 0.97) between trials for 5 K completion time (CHOC 1198.3 ± 160.6 s, CocoaCHOC 1195.5 ± 148.8 s). No significant difference was found for creatine kinase (CK) levels (p = 0.31), or muscle soreness (p = 0.21) between groups over time. These findings suggest that the acute addition of cocoa flavanols to low-fat chocolate milk offer no additional recovery benefits.
Feasibility of Ocean Acoustic Waveguide Remote Sensing (OAWRS) of Atlantic Cod with Seafloor Scattering Limitations
Authors: Jain Ankita , Ignisca Anamaria , Yi Dong , Ratilal Purnima , Makris Nicholas
Published: December 2013

Recently reported declines in the population of Atlantic cod have led to calls for additional survey methods for stock assessments. In combination with conventional line-transect methods that may have ambiguities in sampling fish populations, Ocean Acoustic Waveguide Remote Sensing (OAWRS) has been shown to have a potential for providing accurate stock assessments (Makris N.C., et al. Science 2009, 323, 1,734–1,737; 54th Northeast Regional Stock Assessment Workshop (54th SAW) US Department of Commerce, Northeast Fisheries Science Center, 2012). The use of OAWRS technology enables instantaneous wide-area sensing of fish aggregations over thousands of square kilometers. The ratio of the intensity of scattered returns from fish versus the seafloor in any resolution cell typically determines the maximum fish detection range of OAWRS, which then is a function of fish population density, scattering amplitude and depth distribution, as well as the level of seafloor scattering. With the knowledge of oceanographic parameters, such as bathymetry, sound speed structure and attenuation, we find that a Rayleigh–Born volume scattering approach can be used to efficiently and accurately estimate seafloor scattering over wide areas. From hundreds of OAWRS measurements of seafloor scattering, we determine the Rayleigh–Born scattering amplitude of the seafloor, which we find has a ƒ2,4 frequency dependence below roughly 2 kHz in typical continental shelf environments along the US northeast coast. We then find that it is possible to robustly detect cod aggregations across frequencies at and near swim bladder resonance for observed spawningconfigurations along the U.S. northeast coast, roughly the two octave range 150–600 Hzfor water depths up to roughly 100 m. This frequency range is also optimal for long-rangeocean acoustic waveguide propagation, because it enables multimodal acoustic waveguidepropagation with minimal acoustic absorption and forward scattering losses. As the sensingfrequency moves away from the resonance peak, OAWRS detection of cod becomesincreasingly less optimal, due to a rapid decrease in cod scattering amplitude. In otherenvironments where cod depth may be greater, the optimal frequencies for cod detectionare expected to increase with swim bladder resonance frequency.
Development of a Multi-Channel Piezoelectric Acoustic Sensor Based on an Artificial Basilar Membrane
Authors: Jung Youngdo , Kwak Jun-Hyuk , Lee Young , Kim Wan , Hur Shin
Published: December 2013

In this research, we have developed a multi-channel piezoelectric acoustic sensor (McPAS) that mimics the function of the natural basilar membrane capable of separating incoming acoustic signals mechanically by their frequency and generating corresponding electrical signals. The McPAS operates without an external energy source and signal processing unit with a vibrating piezoelectric thin film membrane. The shape of the vibrating membrane was chosen to be trapezoidal such that different locations of membrane have different local resonance frequencies. The length of the membrane is 28 mm and the width of the membrane varies from 1 mm to 8 mm. Multiphysics finite element analysis (FEA) was carried out to predict and design the mechanical behaviors and piezoelectric response of the McPAS model. The designed McPAS was fabricated with a MEMS fabrication process based on the simulated results. The fabricated device was tested with a mouth simulator to measure its mechanical and piezoelectrical frequency response with a laser Doppler vibrometer and acoustic signal analyzer. The experimental results show that the as fabricated McPAS can successfully separate incoming acoustic signals within the 2.5 kHz–13.5 kHz range and the maximum electrical signal output upon acoustic signal input of 94 dBSPL was 6.33 mVpp. The performance of the fabricated McPAS coincided well with the designed parameters.
Physico-Chemical, Biological and Therapeutic Characteristics of Electrolyzed Reduced Alkaline Water (ERAW)
Authors: Henry Marc , Chambron Jacques
Published: December 2013

The consumption of alkaline reduced water produced by domestic electrolysis devices was approved in Japan in 1965 by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare for the cure of gastro-intestinal disorders. Today, these devices are freely available in several countries and can be easily purchased without reserve. The commercial information included with the device recommends the consumption of 1–1.5 L of water per day, not only for gastro-intestinal disorders but also for numerous other illnesses such as diabetes, cancer, inflammation, etc. Academic research in Japan on this subject has been undergoing since 1990 only but has established that the active ingredient is dissolved dihydrogen that eliminates the free radical HO• in vivo. In addition, it was demonstrated that degradation of the electrodes during functioning of the device releases very reactive nanoparticles of platinum, the toxicity of which has not yet been clearly proven. This report recommends alerting health authorities of the uncontrolled availability of these devices used as health products, but which generate drug substances and should therefore be sold according to regulatory requirements.
Toponymie des chaussées romaines en Belgique et dans les régions avoisinantes
Authors: Carnoy Albert
Published: December 2013

Le long des chaussées romaines se trouvent le plus grand nombre de toponymes pré-francs. L'auteur a suivi le tracé de ces chaussées en Belgique et dans le Nord de la France. Il a noté les noms de lieux les plus caractéristiques recueillis de la sorte, se rapportant aux chemins, aux bifurcations, aux indicateurs, aux auberges, aux fortins, aux enclos et lieux d'élevage, aux ponts et gués, aux villas, aux points élevés et aux déclivités, etc. Il montre que l'origine et la signification de beaucoup de ces toponymes s'éclaire d'un jour nouveau par leur position sur les routes. (La première section de l'article va jusqu'aux fortins).
L'agriculture vietnamienne dans la « paix française »
Authors: Cao Duong Pham
Published: December 2013

During the period just before the French intervention in Vietnam in the nineteenth century, the country for a long time was hard hit by rebellions, piracy and banditism. The emperors were quite unable to remove them. Vietnamese peasants could not work in peace. After the conquest and pacification, during which sometimes peasants supported the invaders, French colonial authorities did many efforts to improve agriculture : irrigation, draining,improvement of dams along the rivers, chiefly the Song Coi, establishment of institutes and schools to turn out native technicians and chambers of Agriculture to give advisements to the administration. In 1939, we can note the increase of the cultivated area and the production and the spreading of new crops.
Ancient Ghana : a Reassessment of some Arabie Sources
Authors: Levtzion Nehemia
Published: December 2013

Les trois notes présentées ici visent à réévaluer certaines références à l'ancien Ghana des sources arabes médiévales. 1. — La référence la plus ancienne à « Ghana, le pays de l'or » figure dans un passage de al-Fazàrî cité par al-Mascûdi. On a jusqu'ici admis que al-Fazâri l'avait écrit à la fin du Ville siècle. On suggère ici qu'il l'a été entre 815 et 828. 2. — Une analyse critique des concepts géographiques de al-Idrlsl suggère que, considérant le Soudan comme un pays aride, il plaçait toutes les villes sur un fleuve. C'est ce concept (erroné) plutôt qu'une preuve concrète qui le conduisit à placer la capitale du Ghana sur « le Nil » . 3. — En 595/1 199 le voyageur al-Sarakhsi vit une lettre adressée par le gouverneur Almohade de Sijilmasa au « roi du Soudan à Ghana », qui maltraitait les marchands du Maghreb et qui apparaît avoir été non-musulman. On peut supposer que cela fait référence à la conquête de Ghana par les Soso, peu avant 1199.
Entrée d'esclaves noirs à Valence (1445-1482) : le remplacement de la voie saharienne par la voie atlantique
Authors: Teixeira da Mota Avelino
Published: December 2013

L'Archivo del Reino de Valencia conserve des fonds qui permettent d'étudier l'entrée d'esclaves pendant le XVe siècle. On a fait l'étude des entrées de 1445 à 1482.

A l'exception de deux années de pointe, en 1474 et 1475, le nombre « moros » non noirs ajouté aux individus à la peau claire et aux mulâtres oscille normalement entre 5 et 25. Ce groupe est en prédominance dans la période 1445-1451, en 1457-1458, en 1472 et dans la période 1474-1479. Le nombre d'esclaves originaires de Barca est très réduit, et il y en a seulement en 1445-1448 et 1464. Les esclaves noirs apparaissent pour la première fois en 1447, et leur nombre est réduit jusqu'en 1460 ; ils ne sont en majorité qu'en 1454, puis presque toujours à partir de 1460. Jusqu'en 1454 ils sont distribués entre les groupes « nègres », « moros nègres », « moros de Barberia nègres » et « moros nègres de Mondb arques ». En 1457, apparaît pour la première fois un « nègre de Guinea », groupe que l'on enregistre presque toujours dans les années suivantes, et c'est fréquemment le groupe le plus nombreux. En 1470, on enregistre pour la première fois le groupe des « nègres de Jaloff », et en 1461 le groupe des « moros nègres de Guinea ». L'apparition des origines « Guinea » et « Jaloff » est la conséquence de la traite maritime pratiquée par les Portugais dans l'Atlantique, ce qui est confirmé par la réduction substantielle du nombre d'esclaves noirs entrés dans les années 1474 à 1479 (à cause de la guerre entre le Portugal et la Castille) et par l'indication concrète de ce qu'un grand nombre des esclaves proviennent du Portugal.
La « Juridiction » du Fort Saint-Antoine d'Axim
Authors: Van Dantzig Albert
Published: December 2013

A l'époque pré-coloniale, les Européens ne revendiquèrent guère d'influence directe au-delà des murs de leurs factoreries sur la Côte de Guinée. A Elmina, depuis 1486 une cité portugaise, le Gouverneur exerçait une certaine juridiction hors des murs du château St. Georges, mais à Axim la position des Portugais était bien plus faible et souvent ils devaient faire face à des attaques africaines. Ce n'est qu'au XVIIe siècle qu'ils ont commencé à y étendre leur influence. Après leur conquête d'Elmina, les Hollandais ne semblaient pas très pressés de conquérir Axim, station qu'ils considéraient comme peu importante. Mais quand un peu plus tard des concurrents cherchèrent à s'installer dans la région, la Compagnie néerlandaise des Indes Occidentales justifia ses droits de monopole en insistant sur le fait qu'elle avait reçu en héritage des Portugais une juridiction sur nombre de petits États autour d'Axim. Afin de prouver leurs droits, les Hollandais firent une véritable collecte de traditions locales ; souvent on disait que ces droits remontaient à «un temps immémorial», admettant en même temps qu'ils résultaient de contrats passés entre Portugais et Africains encore vivants. En vérité la « juridiction » d'Axim n'a jamais été très effective, mais on peut considérer cette entreprise unique, à savoir la construction du fortin « Ruychaver » loin dans lintérieur et l'intérêt que les Hollandais continuaient à porter à l'exploitation de l'or du bassin de l'Ankobra, comme issue de cette idée de succession.