bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Manufacturing and Evaluating for the Two Layer/Explosive Materials and their Numerical Simulations
Authors: Kim See Jo , Mun Sang Ho , Lee Kee Ahn , Lee Chang Hee , Lee Seong
Published: July 2013

Combination of different materials used in the liner of the shaped charge is of great importance in designing for maximization of energy transfer. In general, a Cu liner is widely used for the special purpose in military as well as in industry. The reactive Cu liners require excellent mechanical properties and reactivity of the energetic materials. Pure Al powders are widely known as energetic materials. In this regard, the integrated work was done based on the three procedures. First, the kinetic-sprayed Al coating was fabricated on Cu substrate to generate a reactive Cu liner. And the reactivity, bonding and mechanical properties of kinetic-sprayed Al coatings were investigated. Second, the experimental evaluation of kinetic-sprayed Al coatings in terms of the strain rate. Finally numerical modeling and simulation were carried outand discussed for visibility validation.
Study on Behavior of Underwater Shock Wave in Enclosed Vessel
Authors: Seki Yusuke , Fukuoka Hiroshi , Miyafuji Yoshitaka , Iyama Hirofumi , Higa Osamu , Itoh Shigeru
Published: July 2013

We are developing the food processing system by using the underwater shock wave. The effect of the underwater shock wave on the pressure in the vessel is the important factor for food processing system in this research. The purpose of this study is to research the behavior of the underwater shock wave in the enclosed vessel to investigate the influence of the contour of the elliptical vessel on the pressure. In this research, we used the elliptical shape for the vessel and the explosive was used to generate the shock wave. Numerical calculation was carried out by using LS-DYNA. The ratio of the length of the major axis to minor axis of the elliptical were changed, as a main parameter. As a result, it was found that underwater shock wave was generated and propageated in the elliptical vessel following the explosion. The underwater shock wave was coverged at the focal point. At the same time, the pressure was increased by the coverged underwater shock wave at the focal point in the all elliptical vessels. It was also found that the peak pressure at the focal point was determined by the contour of the elliptical vessel.
A Computational Simulation for Explosive Ordnance Disposal
Authors: Higa Yoshikazu , Uehara Kohei , Iyama Hirofumi , Tamaki Tatsuhiro , Itoh Shigeru
Published: July 2013

In order to clarify the characteristic behavior such as shockwave propagation, dispersion of sand and the crater depth due to explosive ordnance disposal, the finite element models of soil, surrounding air and explosive have been constructed based on HyperWorks-RADIOSS (®Altair) software. By conducting a series of numerical simulations, it has been observed the effect of explosion on the crater depth and diameter, overpressure exerted on sand and the surrounding air. These results based on the computational mechanics are useful data for setting the evacuation
area and its distance associated with an explosive ordnance disposal.
Study of Unsteady Supersonic Jet Using Shock Tube with Small High-Pressure Chamber with Elliptical Cell
Authors: Sakamoto Motoki , Matsui Masazumi , Fukuoka Hiroshi , Yaga Minoru , Takiya Toshio
Published: July 2013

The unsteady supersonic jet formed by the shock tube with small high-pressure chamber was used as a simple alternative model of Pulsed laser ablation. Since the pressure of the shock wave formed by Pulsed laser ablation is very high, the interaction between the shock wave and the plume is important for the formation of nanoparticles especially under high background gas pressure. An elliptical cell is used for controlling the shock wave. The shock wave discharged in one focal point converge another focal point. Numerical calculation was carried out by solving the axisymmetric two-dimensional compressible Navier-Stokes equations. The wall static pressure monitored at the center of substrate is used to evaluate the influence of the shape and the pressure ratio on the behavior of the shock wave, the plume, and their interaction. As a result, it was found that the vortex ring was generated downstream of the cell, which is followed by the discharging shock wave from the cell exit. It was also found that the influence of the vortex ring on the wall static pressure at the center of the substrate.
THERAPEUTIC OPTIONS FOR PATIENTS WHO ARE NOT ELIGIBLE FOR INTENSIVE CHEMOTHERAPY
Authors: Estey Elihu
Published: July 2013

Although “less intense” therapies are finding more use in AML, the principal problem in AML remains lack of efficacy rather than toxicity. Hence less intense therapies are of little use if they are not more effective as well as less toxic than standard therapies.. Assignment of patients to less intense therapies should be based on other factors in addition to age. Azacitidine and decitabine, the most commonly used less intense therapies in AML very probably produce better OS than best “supportive care” or “low-dose” ara-C. However improvement is relatively small when compared to expected life expectancy in the absence of disease. Accordingly, while azacitidine or decitabine should be considered the standards against which newer therapies are compared, continued investigation of potentially more effective therapies needs to continue. Better means for evaluating the large number of these therapies (and their combinations) are also needed.
CHANGES OF VON WILLEBRAND FACTOR DURING PREGNANCY IN WOMEN WITHOUT AND WITH VON WILLEBRAND DISEASE
Authors: Castaman Giancarlo
Published: July 2013

Delivery in von Willebrand disease (VWD) represents a significant hemostatic challenge because of the variable pattern of changes observed during pregnancy of von Willebrand factor (VWF)  and factor VIII (FVIII), the protein carried by VWF. The wide heterogeneity of phenotypes and of the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms associated with this disorder prompt a careful evaluation of pregnant women with VWD to plan the most appropriate treatment at time of parturition. VWF and FVIII increase significantly during pregnancy in normal women, already within the first trimester, reaching levels by far > 100 U/dL by the time of parturition. In women with VWD, levels at baseline of VWF and FVIII > 30 U/dL are usually associated with a high likelihood to achieve normal levels at the end of pregnancy and specific anti-hemorrhagic prophylaxis is seldom required. Women with basal level < 20 U/dL usually have a poor increase since most of these women carry mutations associated with increased VWF clearance or are compound heterozygous for different VWF mutations which prevent the achievement of satisfactory hemostatic levels. While women with mutations associated with increased clearance show a full, albeit transitory correction of their hemostatic deficiency after desmopressin administration, compound heterozygous need replacement therapy because they do not respond well to this agent. Patients with abnormal VWF:RCo/VWF:Ag ratio at baseline (e.g. < 0.6), typically associated with type 2 VWD, maintain the abnormality throughout pregnancy and VWF:RCo usually does not attain safe levels ³ 50 U/dL. These women require replacement therapy with VWF-FVIII concentrates. Delayed post-partum bleeding may occur when replacement therapy is not continued for some days. Tranexamic acid may be useful at discharge to avoid excessive lochia.
Disabling sexualities: Exploring the impact of the intersection of HIV, disability and gender on the sexualities of women in Zambia
Authors: Wickenden Anna , Nixon Stephanie , Yoshida Karen K.
Published: July 2013

Background: Women with a disability are often characterised as a homogenous social group consigned to a cultural stereotype with assumptions of dependence, asexuality and gender neutrality. Furthermore, there is a void of research about the experience of people with disabilities following diagnosis with HIV. Little is known about how HIV diagnosis intersects with disability and gender and how it shapes the experiences of intimacy and gender roles of those negotiating this intersection.Objective: The objective of this study was to explore how HIV, disability and gender shape the perspectives of HIV-positive women with disabilities regarding intimacy and gender roles.Methods: Twelve women in Lusaka, Zambia were recruited for in-depth semi-structured interviews to explore their experiences of having a disability and living with HIV. Interviews were conducted in English, Bemba, Nyanja and Zambian sign language. Descriptive and thematic analyses were conducted, followed by in-depth gender analyses of data relating to intimacy and gender roles.Results: Data analysis led to the identification of two main themes: the impact of HIV diagnosis on intimate relationships amongst the participants; and the disruption and renegotiation of gender roles. These findings demonstrate the loss of intimacy (often decided by the participants) and changes in women’s gender roles (infrequently decided by them).Conclusions: The narrow approaches to sexuality and HIV that reinforce misconceptions and stereotypes need to change. In their place should be inclusive and disability and sex-positive approaches that are informed by the diverse realities of women’s lives. Further research is needed to develop stronger evidence of the impact of HIV and disability on gender roles and sexuality.
Organic potted plants amended with biochar: its effect on growth and Pythium colonization
Authors: Gravel Valérie , Dorais Martine , Ménard Claudine
Published: July 2013

Gravel, V., Dorais, M. and Ménard, C. 2013. Organic potted plants amended with biochar: its effect on growth and Pythium colonization. Can. J. Plant Sci. 93: 1217–1227. Even though the benefits from the use of charcoal in agriculture have been known for a long time, little biochar is utilized in agriculture. Therefore, we hypothesized that biochar amendment to an organic potting soil improves plant growth without promoting plant root pathogens such as Pythium ultimum. Growth of sweet pepper, lettuce, basil, geranium and coriander grown in an organic potting soil containing a commercially available biochar (1:1 vol:vol) was compared with an unamended potting soil. Macronutrients (NPK) were supplied through application of an organic liquid fertilizer three times a week via injection irrigation. The effect of biochar amendment on P. ultimum colonization and infection was also evaluated in a sub-sample. No effect of the biochar amendment on growth was observed for sweet pepper and geranium. On a dry weight basis, coriander shoot growth was 45% greater in the biochar-amended potting soil, while a decrease of 44% in shoot biomass was observed for lettuce. The negative growth impact of biochar was not related to a phytotoxicity effect as water extract from biochar did not affect seed germination. For Pythium-inoculated plants, root colonization by the pathogen was higher for all crops in potting soil amended with biochar, except for coriander. However, despite the fact that biochar offered a good environment for P. ultimum development as shown by a higher root colonization rate, no visible signs of damage to the root system or to plant development were observed. Soil respiration was lower when biochar was present in the growing medium, which could be related to a lower root biomass and the biochar-specific properties on greenhouse gases rather than to a reduction in the potting media biological activity. In conclusion, replacement of an important proportion of organic growing media with biochar may be beneficial in terms of plant growth and CO2 emission, but may also offer a good environment for Pythium ultimum development.
Epimorphisms and maximal covers in categories of compact spaces
Authors: Banaschewski B. , Hager A. W.
Published: July 2013

The category C is "projective complete"if each object has a projective cover (which is then a maximal cover). This property inherits from C to an epireflective full subcategory R provided the epimorphisms in R are also epi in C. When this condition fails, there still may be some maximal covers in R. The main point of this paper is illustration of this in compact Hausdorff spaces with a class of examples, each providing quite strange epimorphisms and maximal covers. These examples are then dualized to a category of algebras providing likewise strange monics and maximal essential extensions.
Increased aridity in southwestern Africa during the last-interglacial warmest periods
Authors: Urrego D. H. , Sánchez Goñi M. F. , Daniau A.-L. , Lechevrel S. , Hanquiez V.
Published: July 2013

Abstract. We use pollen analysis of marine sediments from core MD96-2098 to produce a paleoenvironmental record spanning from 190 to 24.7 ka (thousand years before present) from southern Africa. Our interpretations of the pollen record are supported by an analysis of present day pollen spectra for the region. We apply canonical correspondence analysis (CCA) and detrended correspondence analysis (DCA) on pollen spectra from terrestrial surface samples to investigate pollen spectra-climate relationships. We identify pollen taxa that are suitable indicators for the different South African biomes, and assess in detail the distribution and potential interpretation of Poaceae pollen signals in marine sediments along the southwestern African coast. The pollen record from MD96-2098 documented major increases of Poaceae pollen percentages, that are interpreted as expansions of semi-arid southwestern African biomes (i.e. the Nama-Karoo and fine-leaved savannas) during Marine Isotope Stage (MIS) 5e, 5c and 5a substages. These expansions coincided with minima in precession and global ice volume. They likely resulted from a combination of reduced Benguela upwelling; expanded subtropical high pressure and reduced austral-summer precipitation due to a northward shift of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ); and a southern displacement of the westerlies and decreased austral-winter precipitation. During glacial isotopic stages MIS 6, 4 and 3, Fynbos expanded at the expense of semi-arid biomes. Stage and substage transitions were characterised by small but rapid increases in Podocarpus indicating a humidity increase. Increased millennial-scale variability in the vegetation and climate of southern Africa is also suggested for the last 100 ka.
PARAMETRIC MODELLING (BIM) FOR THE DOCUMENTATION OF VERNACULAR CONSTRUCTION METHODS: A BIM MODEL FOR THE COMMISSARIAT BUILDING, OTTAWA, CANADA
Authors: Fai S. , Filippi M. , Paliaga S.
Published: July 2013

Abstract. Whether a house of worship or a simple farmhouse, the fabrication of a building reveals both the unspoken cultural aspirations of the builder and the inevitable exigencies of the construction process. In other-words, why buildings are made is intimately and inevitably associated with how buildings are made. Nowhere is this more evident than in vernacular architecture. At the Carleton Immersive Media Studio (CIMS) we are concerned that the de-population of Canada's rural areas, paucity of specialized tradespersons, and increasing complexity of building codes threaten the sustainability of this invaluable cultural resource. For current and future generations, the quantitative and qualitative values of traditional methods of construction are essential for an inclusive cultural memory. More practically, and equally pressing, an operational knowledge of these technologies is essential for the conservation of our built heritage. To address these concerns, CIMS has launched a number of research initiatives over the past five years that explore novel protocols for the documentation and dissemination of knowledge related to traditional methods of construction. Our current project, Cultural Diversity and Material Imagination in Canadian Architecture (CDMICA), made possible through funding from Canada's Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC), explores the potential of building information modelling (BIM) within the context of a web-based environment. In this paper, we discuss our work-to-date on the development of a web-based library of BIM details that is referenced to ''typical'' assemblies culled from 19C and early 20C construction manuals. The parametric potential of these ''typical'' details is further refined by evidence from the documentation of ''specific'' details studied during comprehensive surveys of extant heritage buildings. Here, we consider a BIM of the roof truss assembly of one of the oldest buildings in Canada's national capital – the Commissariat Building and current home to the Bytown Museum – as a case study within the CDMICA project.
3D DIGITIZATION OF MUSEUM CONTENT WITHIN THE 3DICONS PROJECT
Authors: Gonizzi Barsanti S. , Guidi G.
Published: July 2013

Abstract. The main purpose of the European Project "3DIcons" is to digitize masterpieces of Cultural Heritage and provide the related 3D models and metadata to Europeana, an Internet portal that acts as an interface to millions of books, paintings, films, museum objects and archival records that have been digitised throughout Europe. The purpose of this paper is to define a complete pipeline which covers all technical and logistic aspects for creating 3D models in a Museum environment with no established digitization laboratory, from the 3D data acquisition to the creation of models that has to be searchable on the Internet through Europeana. The research group of Politecnico di Milano is dealing with the 3D modelling of the Archaeological Museum of Milan and most of its valuable content. In this paper an optimized 3D modelling pipeline is shown, that takes into account all the potential problems occurring during the survey and the related data processing. Most of the 3D digitization activity have been made exploiting the Structure From Motion (SfM) technique, handling all the acquisition (e.g. objects enlightenment, camera-object relative positioning, object shape and material, etc.) and processing problems (e.g. difficulties in the alignment step, model scaling, mesh optimization, etc.), but without neglecting the metric rigor of the results. This optimized process has been applied on a significant number of items, showing how this technique can allow large scale 3D digitization projects with relatively limited efforts.
WORKFLOWS AND THE ROLE OF IMAGES FOR VIRTUAL 3D RECONSTRUCTION OF NO LONGER EXTANT HISTORIC OBJECTS
Authors: Münster S.
Published: July 2013

Abstract. 3D reconstruction technologies have gained importance as tools for the research and visualization of no longer extant historic objects during the last decade. Within such reconstruction processes, visual media assumes several important roles: as the most important sources especially for a reconstruction of no longer extant objects, as a tool for communication and cooperation within the production process, as well as for a communication and visualization of results. While there are many discourses about theoretical issues of depiction as sources and as visualization outcomes of such projects, there is no systematic research about the importance of depiction during a 3D reconstruction process and based on empirical findings. Moreover, from a methodological perspective, it would be necessary to understand which role visual media plays during the production process and how it is affected by disciplinary boundaries and challenges specific to historic topics. Research includes an analysis of published work and case studies investigating reconstruction projects. This study uses methods taken from social sciences to gain a grounded view of how production processes would take place in practice and which functions and roles images would play within them. For the investigation of these topics, a content analysis of 452 conference proceedings and journal articles related to 3D reconstruction modeling in the field of humanities has been completed. Most of the projects described in those publications dealt with data acquisition and model building for existing objects. Only a small number of projects focused on structures that no longer or never existed physically. Especially that type of project seems to be interesting for a study of the importance of pictures as sources and as tools for interdisciplinary cooperation during the production process. In the course of the examination the authors of this paper applied a qualitative content analysis for a sample of 26 previously published project reports to depict strategies and types and three case studies of 3D reconstruction projects to evaluate evolutionary processes during such projects. The research showed that reconstructions of no longer existing historic structures are most commonly used for presentation or research purposes of large buildings or city models. Additionally, they are often realized by interdisciplinary workgroups using images as the most important source for reconstruction as far as important media for communication and quality control during the reconstruction process.
ACCURACY AND BLOCK DEFORMATION ANALYSIS IN AUTOMATIC UAV AND TERRESTRIAL PHOTOGRAMMETRY – LESSON LEARNT –
Authors:   Nocerino,   Menna,   Remondino,   Saleri
Published: July 2013

Abstract. The paper reports the results of an integrated Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) and terrestrial photogrammetric survey realized in the archaeological site of the Roman theatre in Ventimiglia, Italy. The main deliverables were 2D drawings at scale 1:20, which required a Ground Sample Distance (GSD) less than 4 mm and, consequently, accuracy better than 4 mm. The UAV was employed to acquire both vertical and oblique images, while the terrestrial imaging acquisition was realized with the aim of generating separate dense point clouds of some vertical structures, corresponding to the sections required. The variability of results with automatic photogrammetric procedures against different image network configurations, with and without ground control, are analysed and presented.
RECORDING EARTHEN ARCHITECTURE AT THE PERUVIAN ANDES: THE CASE OF KUÑO TAMBO CHURCH'S HISTORIC WALL PAINTINGS
Authors: Percy K. , Hanley C. , Santana Quintero M. , Fai S. , Ouimet C. , Cancino C. , Rainer L. , Villacorta-Santamato L.
Published: July 2013

Abstract. According to UNESCO "Earthen architecture is one of the most original and powerful expressions of our ability to create a built environment with readily available resources. It includes a great variety of structures, ranging from mosques, palaces and granaries, to historic city centres, cultural landscapes and archaeological sites" (WHEAP, 2007). This contribution looks at developing effective methods for recording earthen historic structures for their rehabilitation and preservation using the Kuño Tambo church in Peru, which is a Peruvian national historic site that requires serious rehabilitation work, as a case study. This project describes the compilation of an effective metric record of the "state-of-conservation" – "as found" of wall paintings in this important and remote building using a toolbox of different "off-the-shelf" heritage recording techniques. This approach was applied by Carleton Immersive Media Studio (CIMS), as part of the Earthen Architecture Initiative of the Getty Conservation Institute (GCI).
ENRICHING THE CONTENT PROVIDED BY CULTURAL CATALOGUES WITH DATA FROM INSTITUTIONAL REPOSITORIES
Authors: Rodríguez Miranda Á. , Valle Melón J. M. , Porcal-Gonzalo M. C.
Published: July 2013

Abstract. Institutional repositories play a key role in universities and research centers for the preservation and dissemination of the knowledge generated or collected by these agents. Part of the information contained is related with Cultural Heritage and, therefore, it could be taken into account by thematic catalogues such as Europeana. In this paper, the opportunities and limitations of this connection are considered and presented by means of an ongoing case at the University of the Basque Country's institutional repository. In particular, we will deal with the information gathered about San Prudencio's Monastery (Clavijo, Spain), which includes a wide range of data from original datasets (photographs, pointclouds, coordinates, sketches and so on) up to finals results (reports, plans, 3D models, papers and so on).
POINTS CLOUDS GENERATION USING TLS AND DENSE-MATCHING TECHNIQUES. A TEST ON APPROACHABLE ACCURACIES OF DIFFERENT TOOLS
Authors: Chiabrando F. , Spanò A.
Published: July 2013

Abstract. 3D detailed models derived from digital survey techniques has increasingly developed and focused in many field of application, ranging from the land and urban areas survey, using remote sensed data, to landscape assets and finally to Cultural Heritage items. The high detailed content and accuracy of such models makes them so attractive and usable for large sets of purposes. The present paper is focused on a test aimed to point clouds generation fulfilled by archaeological data; active and passive sensors techniques and related image matching systems have been used in order to evaluate and compare the accuracy of results, achievable using proper TLS and low cost image-matching software and techniques. After a short review of approachable methods some attained results will be discussed; the test area consists of a set of mosaic floorings in a late roman domus located in Aquileia (UD-Italy) requesting a very high level of details and high scale and precision. The experimental section provides the descriptions of the applied tests in order to compare the different software and the employed methods.
INTEGRATION OF GEOMATIC TECHNIQUES FOR THE URBAN CAVITY SURVEY
Authors: Deidda M. , Sanna G.
Published: July 2013

Abstract. Cagliari, county seat of Sardinia Region (Italy), situated in the southern part of the island, is characterized by a subsoil full of cavities. The excavations in fact, which lasted more than 4000 years, had a great development due also to the special geological characteristics of the city subsoil. The underground voids, which the city is rich in, belong to different classes such as hydraulic structures (aqueducts, cisterns, wells, etc.), settlement works (tunnels, bomb shelters, tombs etc.) and various works (quarries, natural caves, etc.). This paper describes the phases of the survey of a large cavity below a high-traffic square near the Faculty of Engineering in the city of Cagliari, where the research team works. The cave, which is part of a larger complex, is important because it was used in the thirteenth century (known as the Pisan age) as a stone quarry. There are traces of this activity that have to be protected. Moreover, during the last forty years the continuous crossover of vehicles cracked the roof of the cave compromising the stability of the entire area. Consequently a plan was developed to make the whole cavity safe and usable for visits. The study of the safety of the cave has involved different professionals among which geologists, engineers, constructors. The goal of the University of Cagliari geomatic team was to solve two problems: to obtain geometrical information about the void and correctly place the cave in the context of existing maps. The survey and the products, useful for the investigation of the technicians involved, had to comply with tolerances of 3 cm in the horizontal and 5 cm in the vertical component. The approach chosen for this purpose was to integrate different geomatic techniques. The cave was surveyed using a laser scanner (Faro Photon 80) in order to obtain a 3D model of the cave from which all the geometrical information was derived, while both classic topography and GPS techniques were used to include the cave in the city map.
Coulomb static stress changes before and after the 23 October 2011 Van, eastern Turkey, earthquake (MW= 7.1): implications for the earthquake hazard mitigation
Authors: Utkucu M. , Durmuş H. , Yalçın H. , Budakoğlu E. , Işık E.
Published: July 2013

Abstract. Coulomb stress changes before and after the 23 October 2011 Van, eastern Turkey, earthquake have been analysed using available data related to the background and the aftershock seismicity and the source faults. The coseismic stress changes of the background seismicity had slightly promoted stress over the rupture plane of the 2011 Van earthquake, while it yielded a stress shadow over the Gürpı nar Fault which has been argued to have produced the 7 April 1646 Van earthquake. The stress shadow over the Gürp\\i nar fault has become more pronounced following the occurrence of the 2011 Van earthquake, meaning that the repetition of the 1646 Van earthquake has been further suppressed. Spatial distribution and source mechanisms of the 2011 Van earthquake's aftershocks have been utilised to define four clusters with regard to their relative location to the mainshock rupture. In addition, the aftershock sequence covers a much broader area toward the northeast. Correlations between the observed spatial patterns of the aftershocks and the coseismic Coulomb stress changes caused by the mainshock are determined by calculating the stress changes over both optimally oriented and specified fault planes. It is shown here that there is an apparent correlation between the mainshock stress changes and the observed spatial pattern of the aftershock occurrence, demonstrating the usefulness of the stress maps in constraining the likely locations of the upcoming aftershocks and mitigating earthquake hazard.
Clifford algebra-based structure filtering analysis for geophysical vector fields
Authors: Yu Z. , Luo W. , Yi L. , Hu Y. , Yuan L.
Published: July 2013

Abstract. A new Clifford algebra-based vector field filtering method, which combines amplitude similarity and direction difference synchronously, is proposed. Firstly, a modified correlation product is defined by combining the amplitude similarity and direction difference. Then, a structure filtering algorithm is constructed based on the modified correlation product. With custom template and thresholds applied to the modulus and directional fields independently, our approach can reveal not only the modulus similarities but also the classification of the angular distribution. Experiments on exploring the tempo-spatial evolution of the 2002–2003 El Niño from the global wind data field are used to test the algorithm. The results suggest that both the modulus similarity and directional information given by our approach can reveal the different stages and dominate factors of the process of the El Niño evolution. Additional information such as the directional stability of the El Niño can also be extracted. All the above suggest our method can provide a new powerful and applicable tool for geophysical vector field analysis.
Effect of genotype, Cr(III) and Cr(VI) on plant growth and micronutrient status in Silene vulgaris (Moench)
Authors: Pradas-del-Real A. E. , García-Gonzalo P. , Alarcón R. , González-Rodríguez A. , Lobo M. C. , Pérez-Sanz A.
Published: July 2013

Chromium released into the environment from industrial activities has become an important environmental concern. Silene vulgaris has been proven to be tolerant to many heavy metals, so it is considered an interesting species in the revegetation and restoration of polluted soils, but no information is available about its response to Cr. The objective of this work was to study uptake and influence on plant growth of Cr(III) and Cr(VI) in six genotypes (four hermaphrodites and two females) of S. vulgaris from different sites of Madrid (Spain). Plants were treated for 12 days with 60 µM of Cr(III) or Cr(VI) in semihydroponics. Dry weights, soil-plant analysis development values (SPAD) reading with chlorophylls and micronutrient and total Cr concentrations were determined. Metal uptake was higher in presence of Cr(VI) than of Cr(III) and poorly translocated to the shoots. In both cases S. vulgaris did not show visual toxicity symptoms, biomass reduction, or differences among SPAD values as consequence of Cr additions. However genotypes SV36 and SV38 showed Fe and Mn imbalance. This is the first report on the relatively good performance of hermaphrodite and female S. vulgaris genotypes in Cr uptake and physiological traits, but further studies will be necessary to elucidate the mechanisms by which the gender may influence these variables. S. vulgaris presented high diversity at genotypic level; the treatment with hexavalent Cr increased the differences among genotypes so the use of cuttings from an homogeneous genotype seems to be an adequate method for the study of this species.
A hybrid genetic algorithm for route optimization in the bale collecting problem
Authors: Gracia C. , Diezma-Iglesias B. , Barreiro P.
Published: July 2013

The bale collecting problem (BCP) appears after harvest operations in grain and other crops. Its solution defines the sequence of collecting bales which lie scattered over the field. Current technology on navigation-aid systems or auto-steering for agricultural vehicles and machines, is able to provide accurate data to make a reliable bale collecting planning. This paper presents a hybrid genetic algorithm (HGA) approach to address the BCP pursuing resource optimization such as minimizing non-productive time, fuel consumption, or distance travelled. The algorithmic route generation provides the basis for a navigation tool dedicated to loaders and bale wagons. The approach is experimentally tested on a set of instances similar to those found in real situations. In particular, comparative results show an average improving of a 16% from those obtained by previous heuristics.
Conjugated linoleic acid content in milk of Chilean Black Friesian cows under pasture conditions and supplemented with canola seed (Brassica napus) concentrate
Authors: Avilez Ruiz J. P. , Von Fabeck G. , García-Gómez F. , Alonzo M. , Delgado Pertíñez M.
Published: July 2013

At present, there is limited and contradictory information about the effects of the use of canola (Brassica napus) seed as supplement on the contents of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) in milk of grazing cows. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of a dietary supplement with canola seed on the production and composition of milk, and CLA concentration in Chilean Black Friesian cows under pasture conditions. Three experiments were done. Experiment 1: control group was fed 5 kg d-1 of commercial concentrate without canola (0-TC1) and treatment group that was fed 3.75 kg of commercial concentrate plus 1.16 kg of whole canola seed (1.16-TC1). Experiment 2: Control group was fed 8 kg d-1 commercial concentrate without canola (0-TC2) and treatment group that was fed 6.2 kg of commercial concentrate plus 1.2 kg of ground canola seed (1.2-TC2). Experiment 3: control group was fed 6 kg d-1 commercial concentrate without canola (0-TC3) and treatment group was fed 6 kg of commercial concentrate with 20% of whole canola seed (1.2 kg d-1, 1.2-TC3). The duration of each experiment was 60 days. No differences in milk production and quality were observed among the experimental groups in every assay. The CLA isomers trans-10, cis-12 and cis-10, cis-12 were higher than those normally found in the scientific literature. There was no effect of the inclusion of canola seed on total CLA content or the content of cis-9, trans-11, trans-10, cis-12 and cis-10, cis-12 isomers.
Operations planning for agricultural harvesters using ant colony optimization
Authors: Bakhtiari A. , Navid H. , Mehri J. , Berruto R. , Bochtis D. D.
Published: July 2013

An approach based on ant colony optimization for the generation for optimal field coverage plans for the harvesting operations using the optimal track sequence principle B-patterns was presented. The case where the harvester unloads to a stationary facility located out of the field area, or in the field boundary, was examined. In this operation type there are capacity constraints to the load that a primary unit, or a harvester in this specific case, can carry and consequently, it is not able to complete the task of harvesting a field area and therefore it has to leave the field area, to unload, and return to continue the task one or more times. Results from comparing the optimal plans with conventional plans generated by operators show reductions in the in-field nonworking distance in the range of 19.3-42.1% while the savings in the total non-working distance were in the range of 18-43.8%. These savings provide a high potential for the implementation of the ant colony optimization approach for the case of harvesting operations that are not supported by transport carts for the out-of-the-field removal of the crops, a practice case that is normally followed in developing countries, due to lack of resources.
Antioxidant effects of bovine serum albumin on kinetics, microscopic and oxidative characters of cryopreserved bull spermatozoa
Authors: Ashrafi I. , Kohram H. , Tayefi-Nasrabadi H.
Published: July 2013

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of bovine serum albumin (BSA) as an antioxidant on post-thaw characters of bull spermatozoa such as motion variables, viability, plasma membrane integrity, morphology, lipid peroxidation, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), total thiols (TT) and the enzymes activities. Ejaculates were collected from six proven bulls and diluted with a citrate-based extender supplemented with various concentrations of BSA (0, 0.5, 1, 1.5 and 2 g/100 mL). The results showed that the semen extender supplemented with various concentrations of BSA increased (p0.05) were detected in progressive motility, sperm track straightness, beat cross frequency, curvilinear velocity and malondialdehyde production between the experimental groups. The highest concentration of BSA (2 g/100 mL) in the semen extender reduced (p<0.05) the sperm motion variables. The results indicated that the most effective concentration of BSA is 1 g/100 mL in the semen extender which is associated with an increase in the total motility, antioxidant enzymes activities, TT and TAC.
Energy inputs-yield relationship and sensitivity analysis of pistachio (Pistacia vera L.) production in Markazi Region of Iran
Authors: Keshavarz Afshar R. , Alipour A. , Hashemi M. , Ansari Jovini M. , Pimentel D.
Published: July 2013

Pistachio is considered as an important agricultural commodity in Iran and ranks top amongst all exported agricultural products. Conducting an overall energy audit and economic analysis of pistachio production can provide useful information to help implement management strategies for improving energy efficiency. A study was conducted during 2009 and 2010 to evaluate the overall energy inputs and outputs and to perform an economic analysis of pistachio production in the Iranian province of Markazi. The results revealed that the total energy input for pistachio production was 54305 MJ ha-1. Electricity, followed by diesel fuel and nitrogen fertilizer application were the highest contributors to energy input in pistachio orchards. The contribution of direct energy was higher than indirect energy and share of non-renewable energy was more than renewable energy. Net energy, energy use efficiency, energy productivity and specific energy were 7522 MJ ha-1, 0.86, 0.08 kg MJ-1 and 13.69 MJ kg-1, respectively. Econometric model based on Cobb-Douglas function indicated that impacts of electricity, diesel fuel and chemical fertilizer energy inputs on pistachio yield were positive while the impact of machinery was negative. The marginal physical productivity (MPP) value for diesel fuel was the highest among other variables, followed by energy inputs related to the chemicals and irrigation water. The results revealed that production of pistachios in Markazi Province, under current management practices, are not energy efficient and efforts should be made to improve energy use efficiency.
Hindgut fermentation in pigs induced by diets with different sources of starch
Authors: Suárez-Belloch J. , Doti S. , Rodríguez-Romero N. , Guada J. A. , Fondevila M. , Latorre M. A.
Published: July 2013

A proportion of dietary starch reaches the hindgut, being fermented there. The characteristics of in vitro caecal fermentation and microbial community in pigs given different sources of starch were studied. Twenty-four Duroc × (Landrace × Large White) gilts given diets based on barley (B), broken rice (R), maize (M) or peas (P) (n=6) for five weeks were slaughtered with 93.6 ± 6.41 kg. No differences (p>0.10) were recorded in caecal pH, total short chain fatty acid (SCFA) and total bacterial concentration, nor in in vitro gas production from caecal contents, indicating the lack of a quantitative dietary effect on caecal environment. This could be partly due to the length of fasting time before slaughter (around 10 h). Molar SCFA proportions did not differ among diets; however, relative proportion of Lactobacillus sobrius/amylovorus as the species-type in starch digestion in hindgut of pigs, was highest with P diet (p = 0.010), and gas production from potato starch as substrate with P diet was highest at 2 h incubation (p = 0.012), and higher than B and R diets at 4 (p = 0.055) and 6 (p = 0.10) h incubation. Caecal bacterial biodiversity was higher for M and R diets than for P and B diets (Shannon index, p = 0.003). Sources of resistant or slowly digestible starch such as peas promote a microbial community with a different profile and higher capacity to ferment the starch arriving to the organ than other sources which are mostly digested in the small gut.
Effects of main reproductive and health problems on the performance of dairy cows: a review
Authors: Ghavi Hossein-Zadeh N.
Published: July 2013

This review focuses on the potential effects of twinning, dystocia, stillbirth, abortion, retained placenta and metritis on the productive and reproductive performances in dairy cattle. These are diverse disorders that are similar in that they all can result in impaired performance of dairy cows. Reproductive problems occur frequently in lactating dairy cows and can dramatically affect reproductive efficiency in a dairy herd. Poor reproductive performance is a major cause of involuntary culling and therefore reduces the opportunity for voluntary culling and has a negative influence on the subsequent productivity of a dairy herd. Reproductive performance is influenced by the interactive effect of environment, management, health, and genetic factors. In addition, diseases mainly affect dairy cow productivity by decreasing reproductive efficiency, shortening the expected length of productive life and by lowering milk production. Deciding whether to breed, treat, or cull dairy cows showing one or more of these problems is a challenge for both veterinarians and dairy producers. In addition, there is considerable debate among dairy scientists and bovine practitioners regarding the economic impact of these problems in a dairy operation and the most effective management or therapeutic intervention for treating them. Because of this controversy, dairy managers should focus on prevention and control of risk factors associated with each problem rather than on prescriptive therapeutic interventions.
Effect of increasing lysine supply during last third of gestation on reproductive performance of Iberian sows
Authors: Gómez-Carballar F. , Lara L. , Nieto R. , Aguilera J. F.
Published: July 2013

Ninety purebred Iberian (IB) sows in second or third parity were used to determine the effects of dietary lysine (Lys) concentration during last third of pregnancy on sow and litter performance. The sows were randomly assigned to one of three dietary treatments: 5.5 (LLys, Control), 7.4 (MLys) and 8.7 (HLys) g Lys kg-1 diet. Feed allowance was 2.30-2.33 kg d-1. Close to farrowing a conventional lactation diet was used. Dietary Lys did not affect body-weight (BW) gain in late gestation of second-parity sows. However, in third-parity sows, a strong tendency was observed for BW gain to increase during late pregnancy with dietary Lys levels higher than 5.5 g kg-1 (p=0.061). Body-weight losses during lactation were never influenced by Lys supply. A strong tendency (p=0.064) for a lower ratio between piglets born alive and total piglets born was observed in second-parity sows fed the Control gestation diet. Litters and piglets from sows on this diet had the lowest weight at birth (p0.05). In conclusion, under moderate energy supply, adequate reserves for subsequent lactation can be achieved in second- and third-parity IB sows with a daily provision of at least 17.2 g lysine over the last third of pregnancy, what implies a substantial increase in protein supply respect to traditional practices.
Aids na terceira década
Authors: Bastos Francisco Inácio
Published: July 2013

Este pequeno volume apresenta uma espécie de cronologia e ‘balanço’ da doença nas três últimas décadas, observando ainda os aspectos sociais e culturais de um fenômeno mundial. Ao apreciar a leitura percebemos que a história da Aids compreende, infelizmente, relatos degradantes de estigmatização e marginalização de pessoas sob risco de contrair/transmitir o HIV ou já vivendo com a infecção. Felizmente, também existem histórias de solidariedade e altruísmo, mobilização social e os avanços de uma ciência praticada com ética e qualidade.
Principles of Radiobiology of Stereotactic Radiosurgery and Clinical Applications in the Central Nervous System
Authors: Balagamwala E. H. , Chao S. T. , Suh J. H.
Published: July 2013

Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) has become an important treatment option for intracranial lesions and has recently been adapted to treat lesions outside the brain. Many studies have shown the effectiveness of SRS for the treatment of benign and metastatic tumors. Although DNA damage has been thought to be the principal form of radiation-induced damage, recent studies have shown that vascular endothelial damage is perhaps more important in the setting of high radiation doses per fraction such as those used in SRS. Furthermore, it has been shown that molecular responses to radiation differ based on dose per fraction. The principles of classical radiobiology are reviewed with explanation on why fractionation of radiotherapy allows optimization of the therapeutic ratio. The current understanding of the molecular responses that occur soon after the delivery of high radiation doses per fraction is also reviewed. A summary of current clinical evidence of radiation tolerance to SRS of brain, brainstem, optic chiasm and spinal cord is also provided. Recent advances in understanding the molecular basis of SRS response have uncovered a different biological response than previously thought. Further understanding of these molecular mechanisms will allow for the development of targeted radiosensitizers and radioprotectors to optimize the therapeutic ratio.
Impact of Dose Hot Spots on Spinal Cord Tolerance following Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy: A Generalized Biological Effective Dose Analysis
Authors: Sahgal A. , Ma L. , Fowler J. , Weinberg V. , Gibbs I. , Gerszten P. C. , Ryu S. , Soltys S. , Chang E. , Wong C. S. , Larson D. A.
Published: July 2013

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of high-dose inhomogeneous irradiation to small volumes of spinal cord with a new generalized biological effective dose (gBED) analysis for spine stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT). The gBED was applied to spinal cord dosimetric data (contoured per the thecal sac) at specified volumes for a cohort of five patients with radiation-induced myelopathy (RM) and compared to nineteen patients without RM post-SBRT. The spinal cord gBED was calculated and normalized to a conventional 2-Gy equivalent dose fraction scheme (α/β = 2 Gy for late toxicity). Differences between the conventional BED and those gBED calculations by accounting for small-volume dosing within the spinal cord was observed. Statistically significant differences in the mean gBED between the RM group and the non-RM group was observed both at the maximum point volume (gBED of 66 Gy vs. 37 Gy(p = 0.01), respectively) and at the 0.1 cm3 volume (gBED of 53 Gy vs. 28 Gy (p = 0.01), respectively). No significant difference at the 0.1 cm3 volume was observed based on the mean BED comparisons. No significant differences were observed at the larger 1 cm3, 2 cm3 or 5 cm3 volumes for either BED or gBED comparisons. We conclude that differences in dose hot spots characteristics within small inhomogenously irradiated volumes of spinal cord can affect spinal cord tolerance following SBRT treatments.