bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recognition and Electrochemical Sensing of 8-Hydroxydeoxyguanosine with Molecularly Imprinted Poly (ethylene-co-vinyl alcohol) Thin Films
Authors: Lee Mei Hwa , Tsai Tain Chin , Huang Chun Yueh , Liu Bin Da , Lin Hung Yin
Published: November 2011

Biosensors using the mechanisms of electrochemical, optical, mass sensitive thermometric and magnetometric have been intensively investigated [1], and molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) has been used as recognition elements in sensors reviewed in numerous articles [1-3]. A severe challenge for MIP sensors is detection in chemically diverse environments, such as biological fluids [4-7]. There are many biomarkers discovered in biological fluid, like cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), saliva, serum and urine. Important biomarkers such as creatinine [4], urea, and albumin [8], urine contains non-protein nitrogen metabolites, carbohydrates [9], proteins and amino acids [10]; detection of analytes must be made amid this complex chemical background.
Nanostructures of Water Molecules in Iteratively Filtered Water
Authors: Elia Vittorio , Napoli Elena
Published: November 2011

This work presents some experimental results on the variation of the physico-chemical properties of pure, twice distilled water, when subject to a procedure of iterative filtrations through Pyrex glass filters (Büchner funnels). The study involves the determination of electrical conductivity. After the filtrations, electrical conductivity increases three times. Part of those increases, about 10-30%, is to be attributed to impurities released by the glass filters. The hypothesis is that the remaining 70-90% of the increases comes from variations in the super-molecular structure of water. The iterative filtration procedure involves a flux of energy and material in an open system. The energy flux is partially dissipated as heat permitting the formation of “dissipative structures”. Water, the main ingredient of living systems, exhibits an extraordinary auto-organization potentiality triggered by several kinds of perturbations, including mechanical ones.
Performance Optimization in Switched Reluctance Motor Drives
Authors: Morón Carlos , Tremps Enrique , Ramirez Puerto , Garcia Alfonso , Somolinos Jose Andrés
Published: November 2011

In this paper, switched reluctance motors (SRM) are proposed as an alternative for electric power assisted steering (EPAS) applications. A prototype machine has been developed as very attractive design for a steering electric motor, both from a cost and size perspective. A four-phase 8/6 SRM drive is designed for a rack type EPAS which should provide a maximum force of 10 kN. Two-dimension finite element analysis is used to validate the design.
Improved Selectivity of Oxidized Multiwall Carbon Nanotube Network for Detection of Ethanol Vapor
Authors: Matejik Daniel , Olejnik Robert , Slobodian Petr , Saha Petr
Published: November 2011

Two kinds of Multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) networks “Buckypaper” were made by the vacuum filtration method of MWCNT aqueous suspension. The first one was prepared from pure CNT and the second from its oxidized form by acidic KMnO4 as oxidizing agent. The CNT oxidation increase content of oxygen bonded to the surface of CNT decreasing their hydrophobic character. The sensitivity of MWCNT networks to two kind of organic solvent vapors (ethanol and hepane) has been investigated by resistance measurements. The solvents had different polarities given by Hansen solubility parameters and nearly the same volume fractions of saturated vapors at the condition of experiment. CNT oxidation significantly increases the sensitivity of CNT resistive sensor to vapors of ethanol and decrease response to heptane vapors. The present paper demonstrates the effective way how to add proper selectivity for organic vapor detection.
Conception of Research on Bionic Underwater Vehicle with Undulating Propulsion
Authors: Szymak Piotr , Morawski Marcin , Malec Marcin
Published: November 2011

Fish-like swimming has been attracting scientists and engineers attention since many years resulting in attempts of mathematical description of fish movement and its implementation in many interesting prototypes of underwater vehicles. In this paper, conception of research on simulation, implementation and control of bionic underwater vehicle BUV with undulating propulsion is presented. In the next sections, introduction and mathematical model of bionic underwater vehicle motion are included. Then, the last implementation of the robotic fish called CyberFish, which movement is based on the presented mathematic description is presented and shortly described. In the last sections, conception of research on control system of BUV and conclusions are presented.
FPGA – ARM Heterogeneous System for High Speed Signal Analysis
Authors: Jamro Ernest , Wielgosz Maciej , Bieniasz Sławomir , Cioch Witold
Published: November 2011

This paper presents a version 2 of hardware solution denoted as Programmable Unit for Diagnostic (PUD-2) based on Filed Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) and ARM-based OMAP3530 microprocessor adapted for diagnostic systems. The sampling frequency of the input analog signals and digital signals processing speed of the PUD is high beyond comparable DSP based systems. Employing ARM microprocessor allows for much quicker and easer design than only FPGA-based solution.
Optimal Control of the Searching and Tracking Head (STH) for Self Propelled Anti Aircraft Vehicle
Authors: Koruba Zbigniew
Published: November 2011

The paper presents an algorithm for controlling a searching and tracking head (STH) mounted on a mobile vehicle. A numerical analysis was conducted to establish the dynamics of the controlled STH due to the kinematic action of the vehicle moving over rough terrain. Some of the computer simulation results were represented graphically.
Determination of Suction Forces and Moment on Parallel Manoeuvring Vessels for a Future Control System
Authors: Gierusz Witold , Waszkiel Anna
Published: November 2011

Vessels moving on parallel courses on the border of two mediums interact together. Ship to ship interactions are caused by irregular pressure distribution around the hull. Higher velocity of the fluid between hulls causes formation of the decreased pressure amidships. This is the base of suction forces and moments generation. Analytical computations and computer based CFD simulations were carried out on the basis of 3DOF models of two training ships - VLCC and Passenger Car Ferry. The results of both methods are comparable. Therefore the analytical semi-empirical equations can be implemented in a future control system, which requires ship to ship interactions estimations to ensure proper working conditions.
Possibility of Automation of a Mobile Biodiesel Production Plant
Authors: Piętak Andrzej , Wierzbicki Sławomir , Duda Kamil
Published: November 2011

This paper presents a method of production and properties of ethyl esters as well as the differences between them and methyl esters. It discusses the technology of esterification and the benefits brought by the use of rapeseed ethyl esters as renewable fuel. It also presents elements of structure, actuators and control mechanisms of a mobile biodiesel production plant, owned by the Department of Mechatronics, University of Warmia and Mazury. An algorithm of a transesterification process is presented along with algorithms of a flow-through process control and the possibilities of their automation. The benefits of applying such a solution are also discussed.
Hexabenzocoronene with Swallow-Tailed Substitutes: Synthesis, Characterization and Properties
Authors: Huang Wen Qing , Liu Pei Pei , Wang Bing Bing , Liu Xu Ying , Wang Wen Guang
Published: November 2011

A hexa-peri-hexabenzocoronene (HBC) derivative, substituted at periphery by six swallow-tailed alkyl chains containing ether linkages, has been synthesized. Its thermal properties and self-organization were investigated using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and polarized optical microscopy (POM). Results showed that the peripheral side chains substituted to the aromatic core could lead the HBC to a dramatically lowered isotropization temperature compared with those reported previously, allowing thermal processing at practical temperatures.
Synthesis and Mesophases of Azobenzene Compounds with Terminal Vinyl Group
Authors: Sun Sha , Xu Wen Cai , Zhang Chun Xiu , Wu Hao
Published: November 2011

In this paper, (E)-4-(2-(4-(allyloxy) phenyl) diazenyl) benzoic acid and (E)-4-(2-(4-(hexyloxy) phenyl) diazenyl) benzoic acid were synthesized through diazotize-coupling reaction and etherification. The structures of these compounds were characterized by the methods of 1H-NMR and FTIR. Phase transition temperature was measured by DSC, and the phase behaviors were studied by the polarizing microscope. Both of them had mesomorphic phase. And the mesophase temperature of (E)-4-(2-(4-(hexyloxy) phenyl) diazenyl) benzoic acid ranged from 224.9 °C to 265.4 °C.
Electroluminescence of Naturally Oxidized Polypyrrole
Authors: Huang Yuan Ming
Published: November 2011

Soluble polypyrrole was obtained by naturally oxidizing pyrrole in air at room temperature for one to four years. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and ultraviolet-visible absorption spectroscopy were employed to characterize the chemical structures of the naturally oxidized polypyrrole. The electroluminescence from the naturally oxidized polypyrrole was recorded. The electroluminescence of the naturally oxidized polypyrrole was broad with its peak located at about 480 nm. Prototyped thin-film display panels were developed using the naturally oxidized polypyrrole as active medium.
The Fitting Measuring Method Based on Liquid Crystal Electrically Controlled Birefringence
Authors: Li Dai , Bai Lin Ling , Huang Zi Qiang
Published: November 2011

Based on liquid crystal electrically controlled birefringence, the paper theoretically deduces liquid crystal variable retarders’ (LCVRs) electrically controlled phase retardation characteristics, and establishes a mathematical analysis model which has been validated in experiment. With the fitting of research results and theoretical calculation of liquid crystal variable retarders’ electrically controlled phase retardation characteristics, a progress is made for us to further survey and understand LCVRs’ properties.
Determination of Director Profile in the Vertical Alignment Nematic Liquid Crystal Cell by the Full Leaky Guided Mode Technique
Authors: Xing Hong Yu , Ye Wen Jiang , Wu Nai Fu , Si Li Bin , Zhang Zhi Dong
Published: November 2011

By means of the full leaky guided mode technique, the transmittance of the full leaky waveguide geometry which consists of pyramid, matching fluid of refractivity, the vertical alignment nematic liquid crystal cell are investigated experimentally. The experimental curves with different voltages between polarization-conserving transmittance Tss and the internal angle (the angle of incidence for which light is incident on the vertical alignment liquid crystal cell) are obtained. Comparing these experimental curves with the theoretical curves obtained from multi-layer optics theory, the director profile of vertical alignment nematic liquid crystal cell for different voltages is determined.
Nonlinear Infrared Transmission through and Reflection Off Antiferromagnetic Sandwich NM/AFF/NM
Authors: Sun Dong Mei , Fu Shu Fang , Zhou Sheng , Li Qiang Hua
Published: November 2011

The reflectivity and transmission spectra will be discussed in an antiferromagnetic (AF) sandwich structure as ZnF2/MnF2/SiO2. Such geometry is used, where the AF anisotropy axis and external static magnetic field both are parallel to the film surfaces and normal to the incident plane. The results show that the reflectivity and transmission spectra can be governed by the incident angles and the AF thickness.
Synthesis of Monodisperse Fe3O4 and MnFe2O4 Nanospheres by Using a Solvothermal Reduction Method
Authors: Ren Gui Hua , Yu Zhi Song
Published: November 2011

The spinel ferrites, MFe2O4(where M=Fe, Mn, Co, Ni, Zn, Mg, etc.) have attracted considerable interest during the last few decades due to their potential applications in high frequency transformers, filters, high density storage devices, and microwave applications. In the latest several years, many synthesis technologies such as sol-gel, auto-combustion, thermal decomposition methods and hydrothermal reaction have been developed to prepare spinel ferrite nanoparticles. In this paper, the spinel ferrites Fe3O4and MnFe2O4nanoparticles were synthesized by using a solvothermal reduction method. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman analysis shows that all the peaks are close to the data for Fe3O4and MnFe2O4, indicating the prepared particles are single phase. The scan electronic microscopy (SEM) shows that the prepared Fe3O4and MnFe2O4are monodisperse nanospheres and with the average size of around 300nm.
Detection of Intranasally Delivered Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cells in the Lesioned Mouse Brain: A Cautionary Report
Authors: Chartoff Elena H. , Damez-Werno Diane , Sonntag Kai C. , Hassinger Linda , Kaufmann Daniel E. , Peterson Jesse , McPhie Donna , Cataldo Anne M. , Cohen Bruce M.
Published: November 2011

Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) hold promise for autologous treatment of neuropathologies. Intranasal delivery is relatively noninvasive and has recently been reported to result in transport of MSCs to the brain. However, the ability of MSCs to migrate from nasal passages to sites of neuropathology and ultimately survive has not been fully examined. In this paper, we harvested MSCs from transgenic mice expressing enhanced green fluorescent protein (cells hereafter referred to as MSC-EGFP) and delivered them intranasally to wild-type mice sustaining mechanical lesions in the striatum. Using fluorescent, colorimetric, and ultrastructural detection methods, GFP-expressing cells were undetectable in the brain from 3 hours to 2 months after MSC delivery. However, bright autofluorescence that strongly resembled emission from GFP was observed in the olfactory bulb and striatum of lesioned control and MSC-EGFP-treated mice. In a control experiment, we directly implanted MSC-EGFPs into the mouse striatum and detected robust GFP expression 1 and 7 days after implantation. These findings suggest that—under our conditions—intranasally delivered MSC-EGFPs do not survive or migrate in the brain. Furthermore, our observations highlight the necessity of including appropriate controls when working with GFP as a cellular marker.
Ticks infesting cattle in Central Equatoria region of South Sudan
Authors: Marcellino Wani L. , Julla Ibrahim I. , Salih Diaeldin A. , El Hussein Abdel R.M.
Published: November 2011

Ticks infesting cattle represent a serious problem for improvement of cattle productivity in South Sudan. There has been limited information on ticks and tick-borne diseases in southern Sudan. This study was initiated to update the current distribution of ticks infesting cattle in the Central Equatoria region of South Sudan. The surveys for the present study were conducted at various cattle camps in Juba, Mangalla and Terekeka between December 2004 and June 2005. A total of 2322 ticks were collected from the bodies of 88 randomly selected cattle. Ticks were preserved in 70% ethanol for later identification. Seven ixodid tick species were found to infest cattle in Juba whilst six species were recorded in Mangalla and only four species in Terekeka. Amblyomma variegatum was the most common and widely distributed species found on cattle across all the study locations. Amblyomma lepidum was not found during this study. Based on these findings, it would be advisable to preempt the situation and institute containment procedures before possible East Coast fever outbreaks occur.
The interplay of language and mathematics
Authors: Patkin Dorit
Published: November 2011

This article deals with an intervention unit which focused on the positive effect of integrating poems, stories and fables (the literary genre) for improving mathematical language, fostering the teaching of mathematics language, increasing satisfaction with the process and strengthening the relationship between use of daily language and mathematics language. The study was conducted amongst pre-service mathematics teachers, specialising in literacy activities designed to foster mathematics language. One of the study outcomes was a ‘bank’ of words with double meanings which can result in misguided perceptions and common errors. Another outcome was a pool of ideas for literacy activities in mathematics which can develop wide, integrative activities. Exposure to and awareness of such a bank of words may help mathematics education practitioners to cope with difficulties in mathematics teaching and learning.
Evaluations of NOx and highly reactive VOC emission inventories in Texas and their implications for ozone plume simulations during the Texas Air Quality Study 2006
Authors: Kim S.-W. , McKeen S. A. , Frost G. J. , Lee S.-H. , Trainer M. , Richter A. , Angevine W. M. , Atlas E. , Bianco L. , Boersma K. F. , Brioude J. , Burrows J. P. , de Gouw J. , Fried A. , Gleason J. , Hilboll A. , Mellqvist J. , Peischl J. , Richter D. , Rivera C. , Ryerson T. , te Lintel Hekkert S. , Walega J. , Warneke C. , Weibring P. , Williams E.
Published: November 2011

Abstract. Satellite and aircraft observations made during the 2006 Texas Air Quality Study (TexAQS) detected strong urban, industrial and power plant plumes in Texas. We simulated these plumes using the Weather Research and Forecasting-Chemistry (WRF-Chem) model with input from the US EPA's 2005 National Emission Inventory (NEI-2005), in order to evaluate emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx = NO + NO2) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the cities of Houston and Dallas-Fort Worth. We compared the model results with satellite retrievals of tropospheric nitrogen dioxide (NO2) columns and airborne in-situ observations of several trace gases including NOx and a number of VOCs. The model and satellite NO2 columns agree well for regions with large power plants and for urban areas that are dominated by mobile sources, such as Dallas. However, in Houston, where significant mobile, industrial, and in-port marine vessel sources contribute to NOx emissions, the model NO2 columns are approximately 50%–70% higher than the satellite columns. Similar conclusions are drawn from comparisons of the model results with the TexAQS 2006 aircraft observations in Dallas and Houston. For Dallas plumes, the model-simulated NO2 showed good agreement with the aircraft observations. In contrast, the model-simulated NO2 is ~60% higher than the aircraft observations in the Houston plumes. Further analysis indicates that the NEI-2005 NOx emissions over the Houston Ship Channel area are overestimated while the urban Houston NOx emissions are reasonably represented. The comparisons of model and aircraft observations confirm that highly reactive VOC emissions originating from industrial sources in Houston are underestimated in NEI-2005. The update of VOC emissions based on Solar Occultation Flux measurements during the field campaign leads to improved model simulations of ethylene, propylene, and formaldehyde. Reducing NOx emissions in the Houston Ship Channel and increasing highly reactive VOC emissions from the point sources in Houston improve the model's capability of simulating ozone (O3) plumes observed by the NOAA WP-3D aircraft, although the deficiencies in the model O3 simulations indicate that many challenges remain for a full understanding of the O3 formation mechanisms in Houston.
Organic matter mineralization and trace element post-depositional redistribution in Western Siberia thermokarst lake sediments
Authors: Audry S. , Pokrovsky O. S. , Shirokova L. S. , Kirpotin S. N. , Dupré B.
Published: November 2011

Abstract. This study reports the very first results on high-resolution sampling of sediments and their porewaters from three thermokarst (thaw) lakes representing different stages of ecosystem development located within the Nadym-Pur interfluve of the Western Siberia plain. Up to present time, the lake sediments of this and other permafrost-affected regions remain unexplored regarding their biogeochemical behavior. The aim of this study was to (i) document the early diagenesic processes in order to assess their impact on the organic carbon stored in the underlying permafrost, and (ii) characterize the post-depositional redistribution of trace elements and their impact on the water column. The estimated organic carbon (OC) stock in thermokarst lake sediments of 14 ± 2 kg m−2 is low compared to that reported for peat soils from the same region and denotes intense organic matter (OM) mineralization. Mineralization of OM in the thermokarst lake sediments proceeds under anoxic conditions in all the three lakes. In the course of the lake development, a shift in mineralization pathways from nitrate and sulfate to Fe- and Mn-oxyhydroxides as the main terminal electron acceptors in the early diagenetic reactions was suggested. This shift was likely promoted by the diagenetic consumption of nitrate and sulfate and their gradual depletion in the water column due to progressively decreasing frozen peat lixiviation occurring at the lake's borders. Trace elements were mobilized from host phases (OM and Fe- and Mn-oxyhydroxides) and partly sequestered in the sediment in the form of authigenic Fe-sulfides. Arsenic and Sb cycling was also closely linked to that of OM and Fe- and Mn-oxyhydroxides. Shallow diagenetic enrichment of particulate Sb was observed in the less mature stages. As a result of authigenic sulfide precipitation, the sediments of the early stage of ecosystem development were a sink for water column Cu, Zn, Cd, Pb and Sb. In contrast, at all stages of ecosystem development, the sediments were a source of dissolved Co, Ni and As to the water column. However, the concentrations of these trace elements remained low in the bottom waters, indicating that sorption processes on Fe-bounding particles and/or large-size organo-mineral colloids could mitigate the impact of post-depositional redistribution of toxic elements on the water column.
Engaging with the discourse on lifestyle modifications: Evidence from India
Authors: Mishra Arima
Published: November 2011

Lifestyle modifications through a range of health care practices are considered central to the management, control and prevention of chronic non-communicable diseases. While there is a critical perspective on the epistemologies of such global health discourses in existing literature, empirical evidence on how people engage with such prescriptive lifestyle modifications in different cultural contexts is very limited. The paper in this context draws on illness narratives of heart patients to discuss about the anxiety and uncertainty expressed by patients and others about notions of what constitutes ‘healthy’ and ‘risky’. It specifically unpacks the global-local dynamics in the construction of risk and healthy lifestyle and examines the contexts in which such global discourses are embodied, resisted or negotiated in different cultural contexts. The paper also examines how global health discourses travel to local sites through popular press. The paper draws on evidence collected through analyzing two Indian national English dailies and in-depth interviews with heart patients and their family members in Delhi, India in 2007-2008.
Challenging Patriarchy: Trade, outward migration and the internationalization of Commercial sex among Bayang and Ejagham women in Southwest Cameroon
Authors: Pemunta Ngambouk Vitalis
Published: November 2011

This paper documents the specific local and global socio-economic forces that led to the outward migration of Bayang and Ejagham women to work as commercial sex workers on the Cameroon-Nigeria border regions in the 1980s and 1990s. It demonstrates that these women’s personal accumulation strategies are adaptative- drawing on time and space specific modes of capitalist accumulation and kinship systems of power. The intertwined nature of these forms of accumulation demonstrate that patriarchal forms of power and capitalist forms of accumulation in this region were not competitive, but rather complementary systems. This conjuncture also gave women the latitude to claim some form of sexual and economic agency, suggesting that at least in Africa, patriarchy as a power field is dynamic and relational, simultaneously opening up spaces for both resistance and agency.The impact of sex work is disproportionate since most women of our study were involved in subsistence sex, with the risk of exposure to violence and HIV/AIDS. These women nevertheless sought to reconfigure gender relations.
ГЕОЕЛЕКТРИЧНA ИСПИТИВАЊА ЗА ОДРЕЂИВАЊЕ ПОТЕНЦИЈАЛНОСТИ АРХЕОЛОШКИХ САДРЖАЈА НА ПРОСТОРУ ЗА ИЗГРАДЊУ ВИЗИТОРСКОГ ЦЕНТРА БЛИЗУ „ГРАДА СТАРИ ГОЛУБАЦ“
Authors: Недељковић Слободан , Поповић Миодраг
Published: November 2011

Аутори у раду, указују на корисност да се као претходница при археолошким истраживањима неког простора користе полазишта палео инжењерско-геолошке и хидрогеолошке генезе датог простора. У даљем поступку корисно је спровести одговарајуће методе геофизичких истраживања, пре свега геоелектрично сондирање чије резултате треба верификовати истражним бушењем (копањем), које треба да омогуће геолошку интерпретацију резултата геофизичких мерења. На овај начин доприноси се смањењу археолошког ризика при одлуци о ископавању археолошких транше на одабраним местима на прихварљив ниво.
NEKOLIKO PRIMJERA PLITKOG TEMELJENJA OBJEKATA NA TRASI AUTO PUTA KORIDOR Vc, DIONICA SVILAJ –VUKOSAVLJE
Authors: Đurić Neđo , Đujić A. , Mitrović P.
Published: November 2011

Auto put koridor Vc je dio koridora V, koji prolazi kroz Bosnu i Hercegovinu u dužini oko 336,0 km. Dionica Svilaj – Vukosavlje nalazi se na ulaznom dijelu iz Hrvatske u Bosnu i Hercegovinu, dužine oko 17,0 km. Detaljnije počinje od rijeke Save do Vukosavlja, odnosno Modriče. Na trasi autoputa nalazi se veći broj objekata od propusta, natputnjaka, potputnjaka ili mostova, koji su različito temeljeni. Provedena su određena inženjerskogeološka istraživanja terena i laboratorijska ispitivanja. Stepen istraženosti je na zadovoljavajućem nivou. Geološka građa terena i značaj objekata opredijelili su način temeljenja. Za svaki objekat urađen je geotehički model i analiza geotehničkih uslova. U radu je prikazano nekoliko objekata koji su plitko temeljeni.
UTICAJI USLOVA SIGURNOSTI KOD IZBORA METODE OTKOPAVANJA UGLJENIH SLOJEVA KRATKIM MEHANIZOVANIM ČELOM SA VK
Authors: Ivković Mirko
Published: November 2011

U složenim i različitim uslovima ležišta uglja u Srbiji primenjuju se brojna i specifična tehničkotehnološka rešenja procesa podzemnog otkopavanja slojeva kamenog uglja, mrkog uglja i lignita, uz stalna nastajanja da se što više prilagode konkretnim prirodno-geološkim uslovima. Ova rešenja treba da daju odgovarajuću proizvodnost, produktivnost i ekonomičnost uz uslov visoke sigurnosti tehnološkog procesa i zaštite zaposlenih. S obzirom na širinu, značaj i potrebu za određivanje racionalnih sistema otkopavanja slojeva uglja velike debljine u složenim uslovima eksploatacije, u ovom radu je obrađen segment uslova sigurnosti kod izbora metode otkopavanja, kratkim mehanizovanim čelom sa VK ( vertikalna koncentracija).
KRIGOVANJE KAO GEOSTATISTIČKI POSTUPAK ANALIZE KVALITETA UGLJA U LEŽIŠTU PRI PROJEKTOVANJU TERMOENERGETSKIH OBJEKATA – TE „BANOVIĆI“
Authors: Isabegović Jasmin
Published: November 2011

Kvalitet uglja u ležištu predstavlja jedan od osnovnih parametara kod odabira tehnološkog modela pri projektovanju termoelektrane, odnosno, često je eliminatorni faktor pri usvajanju pojedinačnih rješenja tehnološkog procesa. Imajući u vidu da se pri projektovanju termoelektrane radi o dugoročnim investicionim programima (vijek termoelektrane od 40 godina) potrebno je i kvalitet definisati za dati period eksploatacije uzimajući u obzir varijacije i devijacije unutar ležišta. U ovom radu je dat prikaz metodologije korištene pri obradi osnovnih parametara kvaliteta uglja u ležištu na primjeru rudnika mrkog uglja „Banovići“.
MIKROBIOLOŠKO PREČIŠĆAVANJE KONTAMINIRANOG TLA UZ BENZINSKE PUMPE
Authors: Šabović A. , Baraković A. , Isabegović J.
Published: November 2011

U radu su prikazani procesi zagađenja tla uzrokovanog fizičkim uništavanjem tla, a koji se manifestuje u promjeni hemijskih, bioloških i fizičkih svojstava tla, što utiče na smanjenje plodnosti tla i na prinos i kvalitet poljoprivrednih proizvoda, kao i postupci sanacije uklanjanjem izvora štetnih tvari, te tehnike i tehnologije prečišćavanja kontaminiranog tla. Najčešći zagađivači tla su na bazi petroleja. Ugljikovodici iz dizel goriva i benzina su rasprostranjeni problemi kao što su i poliaromatski ugljikovodici. Ovdje je dat i slučaj prečišćavanje javnog objekta, benzinske stanice i način prečišćavanja kontaminiranog tla u njenoj blizini.
ANALIZA DIMNIH GASOVA IZ PROCESA SAGOREVANJA SLAME
Authors: Vidaković Mira
Published: November 2011

Nekontrolisano zagađenje planete i ograničenost upotrebe fosilnih goriva primorava čovečanstvo na upotrebu alternativnih izvora energije, kao i razvoj novih tehnologija kojima bi se smanjila emisija polutanata i sprečilo dalje zagađenje životne sredine. Biomasa danas predstavlja najviše korišćen izvor od svih obnovljivih izvora energije. Pri sagorevanju biomase dolazi do emisije polutanata ali ne u tolikoj meri kao pri sagorevanju fosilnih goriva. Sagorevanjem biomase kao goriva, ne produkuju se polutanti kao što su jedinjenja sumpora, koja učestvuju u procesu nastanka kiselih kiša. Predmet analize ovog rada su rezultati merenja sastava dimnih gasova iz peći koje kao gorivo koriste bale slame. Ispitano je devet kotlova za toplu vodu snage od 40-750 kW koji se proizvode su Srbiji. Rezultati merenja su pokazali da je povećan nivo emisije ugljen-monoksida zbog lošije efikasnosti koltova i niskih temperatura sagorevanja.
SO2, NOx i CO KAO NAJZNAČAJNIJI POKAZATELJI KVALITETA VAZDUHA GRADA BIJELJINE
Authors: Đurić Neđo , Babić Radenko , Đuran Perica , Vidaković Mira
Published: November 2011

SO2, NOx i CO predstavljaju najznačajnije polutante na osnovu kojih se može ocjeniti kvalitet vazduha. Na području grada Bijeljine najveći izvori emisije ovih gasova su sredstva za toplifikaciju i saobraćaj. Na teritoriji grada postavljene su tri mjerne stanice, od kojih je jedna sa automatskim monitorima i opremom za praćenje osnovnih meteoroloških parametara. Vršen je monitorinig vazduha u periodu oktobar 2010-mart 2011. Praćenje koncentracija polutanata u vazduhu bilo je svakodnevno. Dobijeni rezultati prikazani su grafički i tabelarno. Analiza dobijenih podataka pokazuje da su koncentracije sumpordioksida znatno povećane u zimskom periodu. Azotni oksidi i ugljen monoksid imaju tendenciju blagog porasta u toku grejne sezone, ali su daleko ispod graničnih vrijednosti.
Management of Depression in Adults
Authors: Simon Gregory E. , Moise Nathalie , Mohr David C.
Published: June 2024

Importance

Approximately 9% of US adults experience major depression each year, with a lifetime prevalence of approximately 17% for men and 30% for women.

Observations

Major depression is defined by depressed mood, loss of interest in activities, and associated psychological and somatic symptoms lasting at least 2 weeks. Evaluation should include structured assessment of severity as well as risk of self-harm, suspected bipolar disorder, psychotic symptoms, substance use, and co-occurring anxiety disorder. First-line treatments include specific psychotherapies and antidepressant medications. A network meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials reported cognitive therapy, behavioral activation, problem-solving therapy, interpersonal therapy, brief psychodynamic therapy, and mindfulness-based psychotherapy all had at least medium-sized effects in symptom improvement over usual care without psychotherapy (standardized mean difference [SMD] ranging from 0.50 [95% CI, 0.20-0.81] to 0.73 [95% CI, 0.52-0.95]). A network meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials reported 21 antidepressant medications all had small- to medium-sized effects in symptom improvement over placebo (SMD ranging from 0.23 [95% CI, 0.19-0.28] for fluoxetine to 0.48 [95% CI, 0.41-0.55] for amitriptyline). Psychotherapy combined with antidepressant medication may be preferred, especially for more severe or chronic depression. A network meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials reported greater symptom improvement with combined treatment than with psychotherapy alone (SMD, 0.30 [95% CI, 0.14-0.45]) or medication alone (SMD, 0.33 [95% CI, 0.20-0.47]). When initial antidepressant medication is not effective, second-line medication treatment includes changing antidepressant medication, adding a second antidepressant, or augmenting with a nonantidepressant medication, which have approximately equal likelihood of success based on a network meta-analysis. Collaborative care programs, including systematic follow-up and outcome assessment, improve treatment effectiveness, with 1 meta-analysis reporting significantly greater symptom improvement compared with usual care (SMD, 0.42 [95% CI, 0.23-0.61]).

Conclusions and Relevance

Effective first-line depression treatments include specific forms of psychotherapy and more than 20 antidepressant medications. Close monitoring significantly improves the likelihood of treatment success.
Acetaminophen and Ibuprofen in Pediatric Central Nervous System Malaria
Authors: Birbeck Gretchen L. , Seydel Karl B. , Mwanza Suzanna , Tembo Derby , Chilombe Moses , Watts Arthur , Ume-Ezeoke Ifunanya , Mathews Manoj , Patel Archana A. , Mwenechanya Musaku , Pensulo Paul , McDermott Michael P.
Published: June 2024

Importance

A third of children who survive malaria with neurological involvement (central nervous system [CNS] malaria) develop sequelae. A higher maximum temperature (Tmax) and seizures are risk factors for sequelae.

Objective

To compare aggressive antipyretic therapy using scheduled acetaminophen and ibuprofen vs usual care with acetaminophen alone given only for a temperature of 38.5 °C or higher.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This randomized clinical trial was conducted at inpatient pediatric services of 1 tertiary care and 1 district hospital in Zambia and a tertiary care center in Malawi. Included were children aged 2 to 11 years with CNS malaria (excluding those with creatinine >1.2 mg/dL), who were enrolled from 2019 to 2022. Data analysis took place from December 2022 to April 2023.

Intervention

The aggressive antipyretic group received acetaminophen (30 mg/kg load, then 15 mg/kg) plus ibuprofen, 10 mg/kg, every 6 hours, regardless of clinical temperature for 72 hours. The usual care group received 15 mg/kg of acetaminophen as needed every 6 hours for a temperature of 38.5 °C or higher.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome variable was Tmax over 72 hours, the total duration of follow-up. Secondary outcomes included seizures and parasite clearance.

Results

Five hundred fifty-three patients were screened, 226 (40.9%) were ineligible, and 57 (10.3%) declined. A total 256 participants (n = 128/group) had a mean (SD) age of 4.3 (2.1) years; 115 (45%) were female, and 141 (55%) were male. The aggressive antipyretic group had a lower Tmax, 38.6 vs 39.2 °C (difference, −0.62 °C; 95% CI, −0.82 to −0.42; P < .001) and lower odds of experiencing multiple or prolonged seizures, 10 (8%) vs 34 children (27%) in the usual care group (odds ratio [OR], 0.26; 95% CI, 0.12 to 0.56). No group difference in parasite clearance time was detected. Severe adverse events occurred in 40 children (15%), 25 (20%) in the usual care group and 15 (12%) in the aggressive antipyretic group, including 13 deaths (10 [8%] and 3 [2%], respectively). Increased creatinine resulted in study drug discontinuation in 8 children (6%) in the usual care group and 13 children (10%) in the aggressive antipyretic group (OR, 1.74; 95% CI, 0.63 to 5.07).

Conclusions and Relevance

This study found that aggressive antipyretic therapy reduced mean Tmax to temperature levels comparable with the Tmax among children without neurological impairments in prior observational studies and improved acute seizure outcomes with no prolongation of parasitemia.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03399318
The Glasgow Microenvironment Score: an exemplar of contemporary biomarker evolution in colorectal cancer
Authors: Knight Katrina , Bigley Christopher , Pennel Kathryn , Hay Jennifer , Maka Noori , McMillan Donald , Park James , Roxburgh Campbell , Edwards Joanne
Published: June 2024

Colorectal cancer remains a leading cause of mortality worldwide. Significant variation in response to treatment and survival is evident among patients with similar stage disease. Molecular profiling has highlighted the heterogeneity of colorectal cancer but has had limited impact in daily clinical practice. Biomarkers with robust prognostic and therapeutic relevance are urgently required. Ideally, biomarkers would be derived from H&E sections used for routine pathological staging, have reliable sensitivity and specificity, and require minimal additional training. The biomarker targets would capture key pathological features with proven additive prognostic and clinical utility, such as the local inflammatory response and tumour microenvironment. The Glasgow Microenvironment Score (GMS), first described in 2014, combines assessment of peritumoural inflammation at the invasive margin with quantification of tumour stromal content. Using H&E sections, the Klintrup–Mäkinen (KM) grade is determined by qualitative morphological assessment of the peritumoural lymphocytic infiltrate at the invasive margin and tumour stroma percentage (TSP) calculated in a semi‐quantitative manner as a percentage of stroma within the visible field. The resulting three prognostic categories have direct clinical relevance: GMS 0 denotes a tumour with a dense inflammatory infiltrate/high KM grade at the invasive margin and improved survival; GMS 1 represents weak inflammatory response and low TSP associated with intermediate survival; and GMS 2 tumours are typified by a weak inflammatory response, high TSP, and inferior survival. The prognostic capacity of the GMS has been widely validated while its potential to guide chemotherapy has been demonstrated in a large phase 3 trial cohort. Here, we detail its journey from conception through validation to clinical translation and outline the future for this promising and practical biomarker.
Fibulin‐4 as a potential extracellular vesicle marker of fibrosis in patients with cirrhosis
Authors: Kumagai Masaru , Tsuchiya Atsunori , Yang Yuan , Takeda Nobutaka , Natsui Kazuki , Natusi Yui , Tomiyoshi Kei , Yamazaki Fusako , Koseki Yohei , Shinchi Hiroki , Imawaka Naoko , Ukekawa Ryo , Nishibu Takahiro , Abe Hiroyuki , Sasaki Takako , Ueda Koji , Terai Shuji
Published: June 2024

Chronic liver injury leads to decreased liver function and increased fibrosis. Fibrosis is not only associated with the development of portal hypertension and carcinogenesis, but with the occurrence of events and a poor prognosis, highlighting the importance of non‐invasive fibrosis assessment in patients. In the present study, we searched for markers related to liver fibrosis via proteomic analysis of small extracellular vesicles (sEVs). In the discovery cohort, proteomic analysis was carried out in the sEVs extracted from the sera of 5 patients with decompensated cirrhosis, 5 patients with compensated cirrhosis, and 5 controls without liver disease. Interestingly, in this cohort, fibulin‐4 was significantly associated with cirrhosis while in the validation cohort [formed by 191 patients: 7 patients without disease, 16 patients without liver disease (other diseases), 38 patients with chronic liver disease (CLD), 75 patients with cirrhosis of Child–Pugh class A (36 without hepatocellular carcinoma [HCC], 29 with HCC), and 65 patients with cirrhosis of Child–Pugh class B–C (39 without HCC, 26 with HCC)], fibulin‐4/CD9 levels increased with cirrhosis progression. Furthermore, the fibulin‐4/CD9 ratio was significantly higher in patients with varices. Immunostaining also revealed strong fibulin‐4 expression in cholangiocytes within the fibrous areas and mesothelial cells in liver tissue blood vessels. Taken together, our results suggest that fibulin‐4, essential for lysyl oxidase activation, might be a new liver fibrosis marker found in the sEVs of patients with cirrhosis.
Natural colonisation rates in a UK upland landscape under different conservation management approaches following sheep removal
Authors: Porton G. , Wrigley R. , Scott C. E. , Spracklen D. V.
Published: June 2024

Natural colonisation could provide a cost‐effective means to increase woodland coverage across the UK uplands. However, there is a shortage of evidence of which factors affect the success of natural colonisation, including grazing management. The species of grazer, grazing intensity and the stage of regeneration may alter the impact of grazing on the ability of trees to colonise an area.

In this study, we quantify the effect of removing sheep from an area in the Yorkshire Dales National Park, England, and explore whether cattle or ungrazed management alters tree colonisation rates. We also tested other environmental factors such as distance from woodland, elevation and soil geology to understand the other constraints on natural colonisation. Naturally colonised trees were recorded within 60 plots at Ingleborough National Nature Reserve and surrounding Yorkshire Wildlife Trust reserves. A series of generalised linear models, with a negative binomial distribution, were created to understand the effects that years since removal of sheep, current management, elevation, distance from woodland and soil geology had on the number of naturally colonising trees.

The number of naturally colonising trees per hectare was 16% higher each year after sheep removal, with both cattle and ungrazed management being equally effective in promoting natural colonisation. Natural colonisation decreased by 25% for every additional 100 m from the nearest woodland and naturally colonising trees were much more frequent on limestone soil.

Practical implication. This study shows that sheep grazing is a key limiting factor of natural colonisation in the UK uplands. Significant natural colonisation was possible on both cattle grazed and ungrazed sites and developed at a similar rate, highlighting a change in grazing animal can be as important as grazing cessation. Tree planting will still be required to restore tree cover to areas away from seed sources and improve diversity of future woodlands.
Modifiable factors associated with Huntington's disease progression in presymptomatic participants
Authors: Gil‐Salcedo Andres , Massart Renaud , de Langavant Laurent Cleret , Bachoud‐Levi Anne‐Catherine
Published: June 2024

Objective

Huntington's disease (HD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive motor, cognitive, and psychiatric symptoms. Our aim here was to identify factors that can be modified to slow disease progression even before the first symptoms appear.

Methods

We included 2636 presymptomatic individuals (comparison with family controls) drawn from the prospective observational cohort Enroll‐HD, with more than 35 CAG repeats and at least two assessments of disease progression measured with the composite Huntington's disease rating Scale (cUHDRS). The association between sociodemographic factors, health behaviors, health history, and cUHDRS trajectory was assessed with a mixed‐effects random forest using partial dependence plots and Shapley additive explanation method.

Results

Participants were followed by an average of 3.4 (SD = 1.97) years. We confirmed the negative impact of age and a high number of CAG repeats. We found that a high level of education, a body mass index (BMI) <23 kg/m2 before the age of 40 and >23 kg/m2 thereafter, alcohol consumption of <15 units per week, current coffee consumption and no smoking were linked to slow disease progression, as did no previous exposure to antidepressants or anxiolytic, no psychiatric history or comorbidities, and being female. Other comorbidities or marital status showed no major association with HD evolution.

Interpretation

Reducing modifiable risk factors for HD is one way to support the presymptomatic population. A high level of education, low‐to‐moderate alcohol consumption, no smoking, and BMI control are likely to slow disease progression in this population.
Microstructural Evolution and Mechanical Properties of Cast Al–2.6Li–2.8Mg–(0.5, 1.4)Cu–0.2Zr–0.2Sc Alloys during Heat Treatment
Authors: Zha Zepeng , Wang Zhenqiang , Wu Zelin , Huo Dongshen , Zhang Shuai , Zhang Chunhong , Chang Yunpeng , Xu Chao , Jiang Fengchun
Published: June 2024

Cu is commonly used to improve the mechanical properties of Al–Li alloys, but its exact role in multicomponent Al–Li alloys is not fully understood. Herein, the microstructure and mechanical properties of two cast Al–2.6Li–2.8Mg–(0.5, 1.4)Cu–0.2Zr–0.2Sc (wt%) alloys aged at 165 °C are compared. The results show that Alloy 1.4Cu possesses finer grain size and better mechanical properties than Alloy 0.5Cu. The δ′ (Al3Li), Al3(Sc, Zr, Li) phases, and Guinier–Preston–Bagaryatsky zones are formed in both alloys. During the early stage of ageing (8 h), many dispersed S′ (Al2CuMg) phases precipitate only in Alloy 1.4Cu and coarsen continuously. Instead, many rod‐shaped S1 (Al2MgLi) phases start to precipitate in Alloy 0.5Cu up to ageing for 32 h and then coarsen continuously with ageing. Moreover, Alloy 1.4Cu shows narrower δ′‐precipitate‐free zones along grain boundaries than Alloy 0.5Cu. The higher strength and ductility with more uniform strain distribution for Alloy 1.4Cu than Alloy 0.5Cu is attributed to finer grain size and unique phase formation for the former.
Auxetic Two‐Phase Chevron Mechanical Metamaterial
Authors: Xu Yanzhang , Nash Richard , Batwa Ammar , Li Yaning
Published: June 2024

This investigation explores novel two‐phase chevron mechanical metamaterials that exhibit auxetic properties. Unlike traditional foam‐like cellular or porous auxetic materials, these designs are composed of chevron patterned layers embedded in anisotropic matrix. This innovation design allows for auxeticity in two orthogonal in‐plane directions (bi‐auxeticity) or in all in‐plane directions (complete auxeticity), providing not only a general strategy but also detailed guidelines for designing non‐porous auxetic mechanical metamaterials with tunable auxetic behaviors. One goal of this work is to explore the mechanical behavior, specifically effective stiffness and Poisson's ratio, of these new designs and to identify the design space for auxetic behavior using numerical and experimental methods. Systematic finite element (FE) simulations are conducted using ABAQUS and Python scripts to quantify effective stiffness and Poisson's ratio within a small strain range. To validate the numerical predictions, three representative designs are selected and fabricated via multi‐material polymer jetting. Uniaxial tension experiments are conducted on these specimens. Design spaces for non‐auxeticity, partial‐auxeticity, and complete auxeticity are identified through an integrated numerical approach. Theoretical criteria for determining the completeness of auxeticity are proposed and verified via FE simulations.