bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multi-Component Physical Sorption Investigation Of Gas Shales at the Core Level
Authors: Aljamaan Hamza
Published: September 2015

The purpose of this paper is to investigate multi-component sorption in gas shales at the core level in order to better understand the connectivity and flow mechanism in these tight rocks. Such data allow us to recognize the sensitivity of shale physical properties to the gas mixture saturating the pore space.

To investigate multi-component gas sorption at the core level two experimental setups were constructed in house: a high precision volumetric gas adsorption apparatus and a dynamic breakthrough apparatus. The novelty in the volumetric apparatus lies in the thermodynamically closed system design in which simultaneous measurements of three fundamental rock properties at the core level are obtained including porosity, permeability and excess adsorption. Initial experiments using both apparatuses were conducted to measure the sorption properties of samples from the Haynesville and Barnett shale plays. Different gases were used to assess the preferential adsorption of each component in a gas mixture.

Utilizing the volumetric apparatus, excess sorption measurements were carried out on three intact shale core samples with pure gases including N2, CH4, and CO2. Absolute sorption calculations confirmed the preferential sorption of CO2 in shales compared to other gases. The Barnett sample in particular adsorbed about four and a half times more CO2 than CH4. N2 and CH4 sorption were fitted with a Langmuir model where a monolayer sorption is assumed. The, CO2 sorption isotherm did not follow the standard Langmuir model and was fitted with an N-BET model where multilayer sorption is occurring. With these pure isotherm measurements, mixed gas sorption measurements were also carried out on shales for the first time, to quantify the recovery and selectivity of each component in a gas mixture. Results show a preferential adsorption of methane over nitrogen as indicated by an increasing selectivity coefficient. Dynamic breakthrough measurements were also carried out for the first time on shales. Measurements were conducted with methane on both core and powder-sized samples. Results indicate a methane capacity with powder that is 5 times higher in comparison to core level measurements. These experimental results shed light on the importance of carrying out adsorption measurements at the core level for accurate gas in place estimations.
Errors in Estimating Interporosity Flow Coefficient in Naturally Fractured Reservoirs
Authors: Rebolledo Leilani C. , Ershaghi Iraj
Published: September 2015

As indicated by Kazemi et al1 and Dean and Lo2, when dual porosity methods are used for reservoir forecasting purposes in naturally fractured reservoirs, a shape factor is needed for representing the block geometry and as a measure of matrix-fracture communication. Warren and Root3 in 1963 suggested a dimensionless parameter λ for the representation of the interporosity coefficient in naturally fractured reservoirs. Shape factor may be obtained from the estimation of λ. The interporosity coefficientλ, defines the extent of the communication between the matrix and fractures. Warren and Root offered no solutions for estimation of λ. Later on, solutions were proposed by several authors. A methodology suggested by the Gringarten3 method has been widely included in textbooks. In our study, we have demonstrated that this technique may result in errors of several orders of magnitude. This of course creates significant uncertainties in the estimation of the shape factor. Examples are included to highlight the errors, and it is emphasized that various other techniques including non-linear parameter estimations should be tried to ascertain the estimated values for λ.
Sources of organic matter in first flush runoff from urban roadways
Authors: Wada K. , Takei N. , Sato T. , Tsuno H.
Published: September 2015

This study aims to explore the influential sources of organic matter in first flush runoff from urban roadways by comparing organic carbon content and particle size distribution in road dust with those from discharge from vehicles during rainfall. Samples on first flush runoff and road dust were collected from urban roadways. In addition, vehicle drainage was assumed to flow from vehicles during rainfall events, so vehicle wash-off water was collected by spraying water onto the top and from the underside of vehicles to simulate accumulation during a vehicle run. In road dust, the organic carbon content in the <0.2 mm fraction was about twice that of the 0.2–2 mm fraction. The particle size distributions of both first flush runoff and vehicle wash-off water were similar, and particles <0.2 mm contributed to over 95% of the total volume. The dissolved organic carbon concentration in the vehicle wash-off water was considerably higher than that in the road dust/water mixture. The total organic carbon content in road dust was positively correlated with annual daily traffic. Therefore, vehicles were thought to strongly influence the nature of road dust.
Coupled dam-break flow and bed load modelling using HLLC-WAF scheme
Authors: Hosseinzadeh-Tabrizi Alireza , Ghaeini-Hessaroeyeh Mahnaz
Published: September 2015

A two-dimensional numerical model predicting flow over a mobile bed has been developed. Governing equations consist of the shallow water equations and the Exner equation. The finite volume method on an unstructured triangular grid was deployed to discretize the governing equations. The local Riemann problem is solved by the Harten, Lax and van Leer–contact (HLLC) method in the interface of the cells and the equations are solved using a fully coupled method. Then the flux modelling has been deployed by the total variation diminishing (TVD) version of the weighted average flux (WAF) scheme. The model was verified by comparison of the results and available experimental data for dam-break flow, in a laboratory test, via a channel with sudden enlargement and erodible bed conditions. Comparison of these two sets of results shows that increasing the accuracy of flux modelling caused the model results to have a reasonable agreement with the experimental data.
Development of a new wastewater treatment process for resource recovery of carotenoids
Authors: Sato H. , Nagare H. , Huynh T. N. C. , Komatsu H.
Published: September 2015

A new wastewater treatment process that involves coagulation, ozonation, and microalgae cultivation has been developed. Here, two challenges are discussed. The first was minimizing phosphorus removal during coagulation in order to maximize algal production. The second was to optimize microalgae cultivation; algal species that grow rapidly and produce valuable products are ideal for selection. Haematococcus pluvialis, which produces the carotenoid astaxanthin, was used. Growth rate, nutrient removal ability, and astaxanthin production of H. pluvialis in coagulated wastewater were investigated. After coagulation with chitosan, the turbidity and suspended solids decreased by 89% ± 8.4 → 8% and 71 → 73% ± 16%, respectively. The nitrogen and phosphorus contents of the supernatant remained at 86% ± 6% and 69 → 67% ± 24%, respectively. These results indicate that coagulation with chitosan can remove turbidity and SS while preserving nutrients. H. pluvialis grew well in the supernatant of coagulated wastewater. The astaxanthin yield from coagulated wastewater in which microalgae were cultured was 3.26 mg/L, and total phosphorus and nitrogen contents decreased by 99.0% ± 1.4% → 99% + 1% and 90.3% ± 7.6% → 90% ± 8% (Days 31–35), respectively.
Analysis Fatty Acids Profile in Tabanus bivittatus Mats with Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Yanhua Wang , Fuhua Wu , Zhaohan Guo , Mingxing Peng , Min Xia , Zhenling Pang , Xiaoli Wang , Zian Liang , Naiqun Zhang
Published: September 2015

Tabanus bivittatus Mats., a traditional Chinese medicine, is commonly used for cardiovascular disorders treatment including atherosclerosis. There have been only a few researches on its chemical components, and no detailed report has appeared on its fatty acids. To develop a simple and effective method for the extraction of total fatty acids from Tabanus bivittatus Mats., the Soxhlet extraction (SE) condition was optimized with response surface methodology. The fatty acid composition of the extract were determined by GC-MS with previous derivatization to fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs). The major fatty acids in Tabanus bivittatus Mats. were oleic acid, palmitic acid, linoleic acid, palmitoleic acid, and stearic acid, and the unsaturated fatty acids occupy 63.9% of the total fatty acids.
Research on Mechanical Characteristic of Weak Surrounding Rock Large Span Double and Multi-Arch Tunnel Construction
Authors: Lu Junfu , Yu Yu , Wang Xun
Published: September 2015

According to construction scheme of some weak surrounding rock large span double and multi-arch tunnel
works, finite element value simulation method is adopted to research weak surrounding rock deformation characteristic,
anchor bolt mechanics characteristic, preliminary support and secondary lining structure mechanical characteristics, etc,
and the research result shows that: repeatedly disturbance of excavation of middle pilot tunnel and subsequent supporting
excavation shall easily reduce surrounding rock strength in the range of middle wall top and middle line of arch top of left
and right pilot tunnels, therefore, prior to excavation of middle pilot tunnel, surrounding rock of tunnel top shall be pregrouting
reinforced to improve integrated strength of surrounding rock of arch top, max. Accumulated settlement displacement
of tunnel is 19.45 mm, max. Horizontal convergence displacement of side wall of left and right tunnel is 9.71
mm, max. Vertical upheaval displacement of middle wall bottom is 8.82 mm, above displacement can all be within controlled
range satisfying design requirement; max. plastic zone vertical depth of upper side of left and right tunnel arch top
is respectively 1.23 m and 2.06 m, inverted arch bottom plastic zone vertical depth is 2.74 m and 3.37 m, radial depth of
middle plastic zone of side wall of left and right tunnel is respectively 0.87 m and 1.73 m, mutual impact range of spatial
effect of tunnel face of left and right tunnel is 3 folds tunnel span. This research shall be referred to by similar Tunnel design
and construction.
Research on Establishing City Low Carbon Economy Evaluation Theory Model
Authors: Wei Xiao
Published: September 2015

To explore the method of creating a theoretical model of urban low-carbon economy evaluation, and analyze
the development status and level of low carbon economy in cities in the middle and lower reaches of Yangtze River;
Method To introduce the basic theory of low-carbon economy, the principle and the technical route for creating the
evaluation system of urban low-carbon economy, develop 3 layers of 5 categories of 18 evaluation indicators, conduct
weighted calculation using Delphi method, analytic hierarchy process(AHP) , fuzzy evaluation method and fuzzy AHP
method, investigate into 7 cities, such as Shanghai, Nanjing in the middle and lower reaches of Yangtze River, and evaluate
the urban low-carbon economic status using the created models; Results The evaluation result shows that at present
China has many cities at “medium to high carbon economy” or “high carbon economy” types. The development level of
low-carbon economy lagged behind many western countries; Conclusion It is a most efficient pathway to improve the present
low-carbon economic level by vigorously developing the low-carbon technology, developing the low-carbon environmental
education and promoting the low-carbon concept.
Study on the Slope Bolt Support Design Based on GIS
Authors: Zhao Junlan , Wu Huarui
Published: September 2015

As the main means of monitoring and early warning of geological disaster, the slope stability analysis is an
important part of the geological disaster prevention project. GIS plays an important role in the evaluation of slope
stability due to its powerful functions for data processing and spatial analysis. This article discusses the key
technology of GIS applied in the slope bolt support design. According to the bolting design specifications and GIS
platform combined with the limit equilibrium theory, the slope bolting design module was developed. The automatic
management of the design process and visual output of the design results can be realized in this module. The project
of Sichuan Saide Slop Engineering was evaluated quantitatively and qualitatively using this module system. The
result showed that the module system was feasible and the effect was accurate.
Improving Anti-seismic and Collapse-Resistance Ability of Building Structure Based on Building Information Model
Authors: Hou Weijun , Liu Yuanchuan , Fu Qiang , Ahn Heesung
Published: September 2015

Building information model plays an irreplaceable role in strengthening anti-seismic ability of building structure,
it can form automatically by applying Finite Element Analysis Software and Open System for Earthquake Engineering
Simulation. Conducted effective structure analysis model according to international basic-class industrial file and select
targeted information data. The angle and prospectiveness of model analysis can be developed continuously so that anti-
seismic and collapse-resistance ability of building structure can be strengthened constantly. Relevant sub-model transfers
various information data in order to improve accuracy of model data analysis. Finite Element Analysis Software and
Open System for Earthquake Engineering Simulation positively promote constructing information model; at the same
time, they actively strengthen digital construction of model, reasonability and systematicness of information data analysis.
Wish this study can provide useful data and theory support for further exploring work. Hope building information model
can be applied more in enhancing anti-seismic and collapse-resistance ability of building structure.
Serum Markers for the Noninvasive Diagnosis of Endometriosis
Authors: Luisi Stefano , Pinzauti Serena , Regini Cristina , Petraglia Felice
Published: September 2015

Endometriosis is a disease that affects millions of women worldwide and its diagnosis is still challenging. Medical history, symptoms together with imaging data may address the correct diagnosis, but the gold standard remains laparoscopic assessment with histological confirmation. The development of serum markers as diagnostic tools for endometriosis may allow a prompt and noninvasive diagnosis. Several serum biomarkers have been investigated over the years, but none of these have shown a clinical utility and nowadays the more realistic diagnostic biomarker consists in a panel of biomarkers. The recent introduction of new technologies such as genomics and proteomics may represent the future perspective of endometriosis diagnosis.
Correlations between the anatomical traits of Gymnocladus canadensis Lam. in heartwood and sapwood of early- and latewood zones of growth rings
Authors: Jokanovic Dusan , Vilotic Dragica , Mitrovic Suzana , Miljkovic Danijela , Rebic Milan , Stankovic Dragica , Nikolic Vesna
Published: September 2015

This paper shows correlations between vessel characteristics and differences
in growth-ring width in heartwood and sapwood. Analyzed samples were from an
iron-wood tree (Gymnocladus canadensis Lam.) that grew in the Muzljanski Rit
area, of the Srpska Crnja municipality in Serbia. According to previous
research, it was deduced that Gymnocladus canadensis Lam. belongs to
ring-porous species with big vessel lumen in the earlywood zone and thicker
cell walls in the latewood. Vessels were more numerous in the latewood zone,
and the same was true for heartwood and sapwood. For both layers, sapwood
possessed a few more vessels than heartwood, and a statistically significant
difference was confirmed by t-test during the early phase. The greatest
negative value of correlation coefficient was between the number of vessels
and growth-ring width during the early phase for sapwood. The number of
vessels decreased in the wider growth rings. The correlation between
growth-ring width and the area of vessels had a statistically significant
positive value of correlative coefficient, which means that wider growth
rings had larger vessel areas in the early phase for sapwood.
Construction of a genetic linkage map in Lilium using a RIL mapping population based on SRAP marker
Authors: Chen Li-Jing , Li Hong-Mei , Sun Shao-Kun , Irfan Muhammad , Lin Jing-Wei , Zhong Ming , Ma Hui , Guo Zhi-Fu , Li Tian-Lai
Published: September 2015

A genetic linkage map of lily was constructed using RILs (recombinant inbred
lines) population of 180 individuals. This mapping population was developed
by crossing Raizan No.1 (Formolongo) and Gelria (Longiflomm) cultivars
through single-seed descent (SSD). SRAPs were generated by using restriction
enzymes EcoRI in combination with either MseI. The resulting products were
separated by electrophoresis on 6% denaturing polyacrylamide gel and
visualized by silver staining. The segregation of each marker and linkage
analysis was done using the program Mapmaker3.0. With 50 primer pairs, a
total of 189 parental polymorphic bands were detected and 78 were used for
mapping. The total map length was 2,135.5 cM consisted of 16 linkage groups.
The number of markers in the linkage groups varied from 1 to 12. The length
of linkage groups was range from 11.2 cM to 425.9 cM and mean marker interval
distance range from 9.4 cM to 345.4 cM individually. The mean marker interval
distance between markers was 27.4 cM. The map developed in the present study
was the first sequence-related amplified polymorphism markers map of lily
constructed with recombinant inbred lines, it could be used for genetic
mapping and molecular marker assisted breeding and quantitative trait locus
mapping of Lilium.
Wenyangbushen-induced-expression of VEGF, OPG, RANK, and RANKL in rabbits with steroid-induced femoral head avascular necrosis
Authors: Song Hongmei , Wei Yingchen , Li Nan , Wu Bin , Na Xie , Wang Heming
Published: September 2015

This study was aimed to investigate the effects of Wenyangbushen formula on
the mRNA and protein expression of VEGF, OPG, RANK, and RANKL in the steroid-
induced avascular necrosis of the rabbit femoral head (SANFH) and to further
explore the potential mechanism of this formula on the treatment of SANFH.
One hundred and thirty six New Zealand rabbits were randomly divided into 5
groups (n=24 rabbits in each group): normal group, model group, Traditional
Chinese Medicine (TCM) Wenyangbushen decoction at low, moderate and high dose
group. The normal group and positive control group were intragastrically
(i.g.) administered with saline. The TCM group was treated with Wenyangbushen
decoction at the indicated dosage. After treated for eight weeks, the mRNA
and protein expression of VEGF, OPG, RANK, and RANKL in the femoral head
tissues was determined by RT-PCR and Western blotting, respectively.
Wenyangbushen decoction treatment can effectively promote bone cells,
osteoblasts and chondrocytes growth, as well as prevent the cell apoptosis in
SANFH. The mRNA and protein expression of OPG and VEGF was increased while
the levels of RANK and RANKL were reduced in the necrotic tissue of model
group compared with those in the normal rabbits. And Wenyangbushen treatment
prevented those changes, as manifested by up-regulation of VEGF and OPG,
while down-regulation of RANK and RANKL levels in a dose-dependent manner.
Wenyangbushen Formula treatment can alleviate necrosis of femoral head
induced by steroid. It can promote bone cells, osteoblasts and chondrocytes
growth, as well as prevent the cell apoptosis. Meanwhile, it up-regulates OPG
and VEGF while inhibits RANK and RANKL expression. This may be one of the
mechanisms for the effective treatment of SANFH.
Detection of toxin genes and RAPD analysis of bacillus cereus isolates from different soil types
Authors: Savic Dejana , Josic Dragana , Ristanovic Elizabeta , Pivic Radmila , Stanojkovic-Sebic Aleksandra , Lepsanovic Zorica
Published: September 2015

The aim of this study was to detect genes for enterotoxins (hbla, entFM and
bceT) and for emetic toxin (cer), to determine antibiotic resistance, and to
estimate intraspecies diversity in B. cereus isolates by RAPD analysis. B.
cereus was identified in 12 out of 117 indigenous Bacillus spp. using the
classical microbiological methods and PCR. All isolates were resistant to
penicillin and ampicillin, two to tetracyclin and four to
trimethoprim-sulphamethoxazole. Also, all isolates produced inducible
penicillinases and ?-lactamase. Toxin genes were detected with PCR. EntFM and
cer genes were present in all isolates, hbla in all, but two, and bceT in
none. RAPD analysis was performed with four different primers, two of them
designed for this study. The intraspecies diversity revealed 10 different
patterns at the 90% similarity level. Two separate clusters were formed
regardless of a soil type or utilization. The detection of genes encoding
toxins in all B. cereus isolates indicated these bacteria as potentially
pathogenic and seriously for human health. Regardless of a soil type or
utilization, the RAPD analysis showed high intraspecies heterogeneity in B.
cereus isolates. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to
analyse the presence of entero- and emetic toxin genes and genetic
heterogeneity in B. cereus isolates from different soil types and different
soil utilization in Serbia.
Allelic state at the microsatellite locus Xgwm261 marking the dwarfing gene Rht8 in Egyptian bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) genotypes released from 1947 to 2004
Authors: Salem Khaled
Published: September 2015

Rht8 is widely used in dry environments such as Mediterranean regions where
it increases plant adaptability. Variation at the Gatersleben wheat
microsatellite Xgwm261 locus, whose 192-bp allele closely linked to the
dwarfing gene Rht8, on chromosome 2D within 0.6 cM, was used to screen thirty
Egyptian bread wheat genotypes released from (1947-2004) to assess the
variation at this locus. There were three microsatellite allelic variants
based on size. Screening of this wheat collection showed that the three
alleles Xgwm261-165, Xgwm261-174 and Xgwm261-192 bp were the most frequent.
The highest allele frequency was observed for a Xgwm261-165 bp fragment
(65.52%) followed by a Xgwm261-174 bp fragment (24.14%). However, the allele
frequency of a Xgwm261-192 bp fragment among these wheat genotypes was
10.34%. The percentage distribution of dwarfing alleles for the
microsatellite locus Xgwm261 in the Egyptian wheat breeding programs was 30,
20, 20 and 30% for the wheat breeding program Giza, Sakha, Gemmiza and Sids,
respectively. PIC for Xgwm261 was 0.527. Genetic heritage of Egyptian
genotypes at the microsatellite locus Xgwm261 is consequence of new parental
components usage, carriers short plant and early maturity attributes and
consequent selection progeny with these traits in breeding programs. The
present study will be helpful in characterization Egyptian wheat genotypes,
as well as in accurate selection of parents for wheat breeding program in
Egypt.
Dry matter accumulation and remobilization in winter barley as affected by genotype and sowing date
Authors: Mirosavljevic Milan , Przulj Novo , Momcilovic Vojislava , Hristov Nikola , Maksimovic Ivana
Published: September 2015

Knowledge about the effect of genotypic variation and sowing date on dry
matter accumulation, remobilization and partitioning in winter barley is
important for crop management. Therefore, in field studies, six winter barley
genotypes of various origin and maturity groups were studied across four
sowing dates. In general, grain yield and dry matter content decreased with
delayed sowing, after mid-October, and average grain yield in late October
and November sowing was lower 14.2% and 16.9%, respectively, compared to the
yield in the optimal sowing date. Among the tested genotypes, high grain
yield and dry matter content was obtained from late and medium early barley
genotypes. Delayed sowing dates, on average, reduced dry matter
remobilization and contribution of vegetative dry matter to grain yield. In
years characterized by high spring precipitation, late September and early
October sowing of medium early and late barley genotypes enable increased
accumulation and remobilization of dry matter and obtainment of high grain
yield.
Association of 1,5-Anhydroglucitol With Cardiovascular Disease and Mortality
Authors: Selvin Elizabeth , Rawlings Andreea , Lutsey Pamela , Maruthur Nisa , Pankow James S. , Steffes Michael , Coresh Josef
Published: September 2015

In diabetes, low concentrations of the biomarker 1,5-anhydroglucitol (1,5-AG) reflect hyperglycemic excursions over the prior 1–2 weeks. To the extent that hyperglycemic excursions are important in atherogenesis, 1,5-AG may provide independent information regarding cardiovascular risk. Nonetheless, few studies have evaluated associations of 1,5-AG with long-term cardiovascular outcomes in a population-based setting. We measured 1,5-AG in 11,106 participants in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study without cardiovascular disease at baseline (1990–1992) and examined prospective associations with coronary heart disease (n = 1,159 events), ischemic stroke (n = 637), heart failure (n = 1,553), and death (n = 3,120) over 20 years of follow-up. Cox proportional hazards models were adjusted for demographic and cardiovascular risk factors. Compared with persons with 1,5-AG ≥6 μg/mL and no history of diabetes, persons with diabetes and 1,5-AG <6.0 μg/mL had an increased risk of coronary heart disease (HR 3.85, 95% CI 3.11–4.78), stroke (HR 3.48, 95% CI 2.66–4.55), heart failure (HR 3.50, 95% CI 2.93–4.17), and death (HR 2.44, 95% CI 2.11–2.83). There was a threshold effect, with little evidence for associations at “nondiabetic” concentrations of 1,5-AG (e.g., >10 μg/mL). Associations remained but were attenuated with additional adjustment for fasting glucose or HbA1c. These data add to the growing evidence for the prognostic value of 1,5-AG for long-term complications in the setting of diabetes.
Noncontact Monitoring of Respiration by Dynamic Air-Pressure Sensor
Authors: Takarada Tohru , Asada Tetsunosuke , Sumi Yoshihisa , Higuchi Yoshinori
Published: September 2015

We have previously reported that a dynamic air-pressure sensor system allows respiratory status to be visually monitored for patients in minimally clothed condition. The dynamic air-pressure sensor measures vital information using changes in air pressure. To utilize this device in the field, we must clarify the influence of clothing conditions on measurement. The present study evaluated use of the dynamic air-pressure sensor system as a respiratory monitor that can reliably detect change in breathing patterns irrespective of clothing. Twelve healthy volunteers reclined on a dental chair positioned horizontally with the sensor pad for measuring air-pressure signals corresponding to respiration placed on the seat back of the dental chair in the central lumbar region. Respiratory measurements were taken under 2 conditions: (a) thinly clothed (subject lying directly on the sensor pad); and (b) thickly clothed (subject lying on the sensor pad covered with a pressure-reducing sheet). Air-pressure signals were recorded and time integration values for air pressure during each expiration were calculated. This information was compared with expiratory tidal volume measured simultaneously by a respirometer connected to the subject via face mask. The dynamic air-pressure sensor was able to receive the signal corresponding to respiration regardless of clothing conditions. A strong correlation was identified between expiratory tidal volume and time integration values for air pressure during each expiration for all subjects under both clothing conditions (0.840–0.988 for the thinly clothed condition and 0.867–0.992 for the thickly clothed condition). These results show that the dynamic air-pressure sensor is useful for monitoring respiratory physiology irrespective of clothing.
International Trade Effects: Lower Cost or Higher Quality?
Authors: Niem Le Duc
Published: September 2015

In this paper, we modify the model of Liao (2008) to investigate the trade of quality differentiated goods between countries. We show that main effects of the trade are on quality improvement of all goods and the trade does not make the goods cheaper. Thus, we argue that New Trade Theory might not explain international trade that is based on quality differentiation.The Journal of Development and Administrative Studies, Vol. 22, No. 1-2, pp. 15-26, 2014
Urinary Bladder Carcinoma: Impact of Smoking, Age and its Clinico-Pathological Spectrum
Authors: Joshi HN , Makaju R , Karmacharya A , Kamracharya RM , Shrestha B , Shrestha R , De Jong IJ , Shrestha RKM
Published: September 2015

Background Urinary bladder carcinoma is common urological malignancy. Although epidemiological evidence favors role of occupational exposure to chemical carcinogen as the aetiological factor of bladder carcinoma, many cases arise with no obvious occupational exposure to chemical carcinogen. Tobacco and cigarette smoking is common in both rural and urban areas of Nepal.Objective The objective of this study was to determine the impact of smoking and age in urinary bladder carcinoma with related clinicopathological correlations.Method A total of 56 (44 males and 12 females) cases of urinary bladder cancer treated at Dhulikhel Hospital, Kathmandu University Teaching Hospital during time period of January 2004 to December 2013 were included in the study. Data of patients with Urinary bladder cancer were obtained from hospital records and evaluated for age, sex, history of smoking, clinical presentations, cystoscopic findings and histopathological characteristics.Results Out of 56 cases, 51 (91.1%) of the patients had hematuria. History of smoking was found in 44 patients. Smoking was found much higher in males (88%) than females (41.66%). Transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) was the most common histological variety, which was seen in 51 (91.07%) patients. The significant impact of smoking was found in terms of grade of TCC.Conclusion The incidence of bladder carcinoma is higher in male and TCC is the most common variety of Urinary bladder malignancy. History of smoking correlated with grade.Kathmandu Univ Med J 2013; 11(4): 292-295
A Study of Assessment of Partial Edentulous Patients Based on Kennedy’s Classification at Dhulikhel Hospital Kathmandu University Hospital
Authors: Sapkota B , Adhikari B , Upadhaya C
Published: September 2015

Background Oral health contributes significantly towards quality of life (QOL). Edentulousness falls in a special category among the various conditions of dental origin. Dietary intake and nutritional status is affected by poor oral health and loss of teeth. This will ultimately compromise general health.Objective To identify the frequency of Kennedy’s classification among partial edentulous patients and to compare occurrence among gender and between upper and lower arches and also to compare edentulousness among employed and unemployed population.Methods This study was carried out at Dhulikhel Hospital Dental Department. The study was conducted randomly among 194 patients in dental OPD who were partially edentulous. A structured pro forma was used to find out the edentulousness based on Kennedy,s classification.Results Among the Kennedy’s classification Class III was found to be most common. Among them females and unemployed group were found to have more edentulousness and upper arch was more common. It was also found that females were more conscious and get the replacement of missing teeth among which those having Class IV missing were replaced most often.Conclusion The Kennedy Class III partial edentulousness type is most commonly found in this study.Kathmandu Univ Med J 2013; 11(4): 325-327
Improving the Decision Value of Hierarchical Text Clustering Using Term Overlap Detection
Authors: Nathawitharana Nilupulee , Alahakoon Damminda , Matharage Sumith
Published: September 2015

Humans are used to expressing themselves with written language and language provides a medium with which we can describe our experiences in detail incorporating individuality. Even though documents provide a rich source of information, it becomes very difficult to identify, extract, summarize and search when vast amounts of documents are collected especially over time. Document clustering is a technique that has been widely used to group documents based on similarity of content represented by the words used. Once key groups are identified further drill down into sub-groupings is facilitated by the use of hierarchical clustering. Clustering and hierarchical clustering are very useful when applied to numerical and categorical data and cluster accuracy and purity measures exist to evaluate the outcomes of a clustering exercise. Although the same measures have been applied to text clustering, text clusters are based on words or terms which can be repeated across documents associated with different topics. Therefore text data cannot be considered as a direct ‘coding’ of a particular experience or situation in contrast to numerical and categorical data and term overlap is a very common characteristic in text clustering. In this paper we propose a new technique and methodology for term overlap capture from text documents, highlighting the different situations such overlap could signify and discuss why such understanding is important for obtaining value from text clustering. Experiments were conducted using a widely used text document collection where the proposed methodology allowed exploring the term diversity for a given document collection and obtain clusters with minimum term overlap.
Addressing the Complexities of Big Data Analytics in Healthcare: The Diabetes Screening Case
Authors: De Silva Daswin , Burstein Frada , Jelinek Herbert F. , Stranieri Andrew
Published: September 2015

The healthcare industry generates a high throughput of medical, clinical and omics data of varying complexity and features. Clinical decision-support is gaining widespread attention as medical institutions and governing bodies turn towards better management of this data for effective and efficient healthcare delivery and quality assured outcomes. Amass of data across all stages, from disease diagnosis to palliative care, is further indication of the opportunities and challenges to effective data management, analysis, prediction and optimization techniques as parts of knowledge management in clinical environments. Big Data analytics (BDA) presents the potential to advance this industry with reforms in clinical decision-support and translational research. However, adoption of big data analytics has been slow due to complexities posed by the nature of healthcare data. The success of these systems is hard to predict, so further research is needed to provide a robust framework to ensure investment in BDA is justified. In this paper we investigate these complexities from the perspective of updated Information Systems (IS) participation theory. We present a case study on a large diabetes screening project to integrate, converge and derive expedient insights from such an accumulation of data and make recommendations for a successful BDA implementation grounded in a participatory framework and the specificities of big data in healthcare context.
Business Analytics Editorial
Authors: Ong Kok-Leong , Alahakhoon Damminda , Shanks Graeme
Published: September 2015

Editorial for the Business Analytics Special Section
Multiagent Route Choice Game for Transportation Engineering
Authors: Di Xuan , Liu Henry X. , Levinson David M.
Published: September 2015

In undergraduate transportation engineering courses, traffic assignment is a difficult concept for instructors to teach and for students to learn because the concept involves advanced mathematical modeling and computations. A multiplayer game, called multiagent route choice, is designed to engage students in making route choices so that they can visualize how traffic gradually reaches a user equilibrium. In addition, the Braess paradox phenomenon, a concept not generally taught in undergraduate transportation courses, is embedded in the game for students to explore. A before-and-after comparison and a case–control study are performed to evaluate the effectiveness of the game as a curriculum tool. The impact of students' learning preferences is also investigated.
Use of Both Travel Time and Travel Time Reliability Measures to Quantify Benefits of Signal Timing Maintenance and Optimization
Authors: Li Howell , Lavrenz Steven M. , Day Christopher M. , Stevens Amanda L. , Bullock Darcy M.
Published: September 2015

Maintaining and optimizing signal timing contribute directly to an improved end-user driving experience. With recent developments in crowdsourced vehicle probe data, travel time improvements associated with signal retimings can be quantitatively assessed without costly infrastructure. This study considers a three-stage evaluation of signalized corridor performance—( a) using existing controller settings, ( b) after synchronization of controller clocks and time-of-day plans, and ( c) after offset optimization—for the weekday morning peak, midday, and evening peak periods. The percentage of vehicles arriving on green and the vehicle travel time distributions were evaluated for each of the tasks in each period. The travel time data were then used to quantify user benefits with the mean–variance method to determine the dollar savings for the tasks performed. Signal time-of-day plan maintenance and clock synchronization accounted for some of the travel time benefits, but the savings were less reliable than with progression optimization, which improved both travel times and reliability.
Calving of a tidewater glacier driven by melting at the waterline
Authors: Pętlicki Michał , Ciepły Michał , Jania Jacek A. , Promińska Agnieszka , Kinnard Christophe
Published: September 2015

We present a study of the development of a thermo-erosional notch at the waterline and its influence on calving of Hansbreen, a medium-sized grounded tidewater glacier in southern Svalbard. The study is based on the results of undercut notch melt modelling, based on measurements of sea-water properties, repeated terrestrial laser scans and analysis of time-lapse camera images. There is a strong correlation between observed calving activity and modelled melt rate of the undercut notch. Measured depths of the undercut reach 4 m and vary greatly over time. The calving activity of Hansbreen was significantly lower in 2011 than in 2012, due to the persistent presence of the ice pack in Hornsund fjord, which cooled the sea surface and suppressed the wave action. Calving on Hansbreen is controlled by a local imbalance of forces at the front, due to thermo-erosional undercutting at the sea waterline. Calving activity is therefore sensitive to changes in sea-water temperature and wave height. It may be expected that calving rates will rise with increased advection of warm oceanic water to the Arctic.
Polyethylene-Based Carbon Fibers by the Use of Sulphonation for Stabilization
Authors: Wortberg Gisa , De Palmenaer Andreas , Beckers Markus , Seide Gunnar , Gries Thomas
Published: September 2015

Polyethylene has great potential as an alternative material for carbon fiber production. Polyethylene can be processed in the economic melt spinning process. These precursors are prepared for the subsequent process step of carbonization by using chemical stabilization (sulphonation). The strategy is to adjust these precursor properties by the melt spinning process, thus resulting in a precursor, which can be stabilized sufficiently by sulphonation. The objective is to find the correlation between precursor properties and the results of the sulphonation. In this paper, the chemical stabilization is described and the results of the chemical stabilization are discussed. The novelty in this paper is that the results of the sulphonation are brought in correlation with the precursor properties. It can be shown that the filament diameter and the polymer structure (e.g., the crystallinity) of the precursor have an influence on the sulphonation process.
Adaptive Strategies and Person-Environment Fit among Functionally Limited Older Adults Aging in Place: A Mixed Methods Approach
Authors: Lien Laura L. , Steggell Carmen D. , Iwarsson Susanne
Published: September 2015

Older adults prefer to age in place, necessitating a match between person and environment, or person-environment (P-E) fit. In occupational therapy practice, home modifications can support independence, but more knowledge is needed to optimize interventions targeting the housing situation of older adults. In response, this study aimed to explore the accessibility and usability of the home environment to further understand adaptive environmental behaviors. Mixed methods data were collected using objective and perceived indicators of P-E fit among 12 older adults living in community-dwelling housing. Quantitative data described objective P-E fit in terms of accessibility, while qualitative data explored perceived P-E fit in terms of usability. While accessibility problems were prevalent, participants’ perceptions of usability revealed a range of adaptive environmental behaviors employed to meet functional needs. A closer examination of the P-E interaction suggests that objective accessibility does not always stipulate perceived usability, which appears to be malleable with age, self-perception, and functional competency. Findings stress the importance of evaluating both objective and perceived indicators of P-E fit to provide housing interventions that support independence. Further exploration of adaptive processes in older age may serve to deepen our understanding of both P-E fit frameworks and theoretical models of aging well.
Exogenous GA3 Application Enhances Xylem Development and Induces the Expression of Secondary Wall Biosynthesis Related Genes in Betula platyphylla
Authors: Guo Huiyan , Wang Yucheng , Liu Huizi , Hu Ping , Jia Yuanyuan , Zhang Chunrui , Wang Yanmin , Gu Shan , Yang Chuanping , Wang Chao
Published: September 2015

Gibberellin (GA) is a key signal molecule inducing differentiation of tracheary elements, fibers, and xylogenesis. However the molecular mechanisms underlying the effect of GA on xylem elongation and secondary wall development in tree species remain to be determined. In this study, Betula platyphylla (birch) seeds were treated with 300 ppm GA3 and/or 300 ppm paclobutrazol (PAC), seed germination was recorded, and transverse sections of hypocotyls were stained with toluidine blue; the two-month-old seedlings were treated with 50 μM GA3 and/or 50 μM PAC, transverse sections of seedling stems were stained using phloroglucinol–HCl, and secondary wall biosynthesis related genes expression was analyzed by real-time quantitative PCR. Results indicated that germination percentage, energy and time of seeds, hypocotyl height and seedling fresh weight were enhanced by GA3, and reduced by PAC; the xylem development was wider in GA3-treated plants than in the control; the expression of NAC and MYB transcription factors, CESA, PAL, and GA oxidase was up-regulated during GA3 treatment, suggesting their role in GA3-induced xylem development in the birch. Our results suggest that GA3 induces the expression of secondary wall biosynthesis related genes to trigger xylogenesis in the birch plants.
Dual Inhibition of MEK and PI3K Pathway in KRAS and BRAF Mutated Colorectal Cancers
Authors: Temraz Sally , Mukherji Deborah , Shamseddine Ali
Published: September 2015

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a heterogeneous disease with multiple underlying causative genetic mutations. Genetic mutations in the phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase (PI3K) and the mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways are frequently implicated in CRC. Targeting the downstream substrate MEK in these mutated tumors stands out as a potential target in CRC. Several selective inhibitors of MEK have entered clinical trial evaluation; however, clinical activity with single MEK inhibitors has been rarely observed and acquired resistance seems to be inevitable. Amplification of the driving oncogene KRAS(13D), which increases signaling through the ERK1/2 pathway, upregulation of the noncanonical wingless/calcium signaling pathway (Wnt), and coexisting PIK3CA mutations have all been implicated with resistance against MEK inhibitor therapy in KRAS mutated CRC. The Wnt pathway and amplification of the oncogene have also been associated with resistance to MEK inhibitors in CRCs harboring BRAF mutations. Thus, dual targeted inhibition of MEK and PI3K pathway effectors (mTOR, PI3K, AKT, IGF-1R or PI3K/mTOR inhibitors) presents a potential strategy to overcome resistance to MEK inhibitor therapy. Many clinical trials are underway to evaluate multiple combinations of these pathway inhibitors in solid tumors.
Modulation of the PI3K/Akt Pathway and Bcl-2 Family Proteins Involved in Chicken’s Tubular Apoptosis Induced by Nickel Chloride (NiCl2)
Authors: Guo Hongrui , Cui Hengmin , Peng Xi , Fang Jing , Zuo Zhicai , Deng Junliang , Wang Xun , Wu Bangyuan , Chen Kejie , Deng Jie
Published: September 2015

Exposure of people and animals to environments highly polluted with nickel (Ni) can cause pathologic effects. Ni compounds can induce apoptosis, but the mechanism and the pathway of Ni compounds-induced apoptosis are unclear. We evaluated the alterations of apoptosis, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), phosphoinositide-3-kinase (PI3K)/serine-threonine kinase (Akt) pathway, and Bcl-2 family proteins induced by nickel chloride (NiCl2) in the kidneys of broiler chickens, using flow cytometry, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase 2ʹ-deoxyuridine 5ʹ-triphosphate dUTP nick end-labeling (TUNEL), immunohistochemstry and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). We found that dietary NiCl2 in excess of 300 mg/kg resulted in a significant increase in apoptosis, which was associated with decrease in MMP, and increase in apoptosis inducing factor (AIF) and endonuclease G (EndoG) protein and mRNA expression. Concurrently, NiCl2 inhibited the PI3K/Akt pathway, which was characterized by decreasing PI3K, Akt1 and Akt2 mRNA expression levels. NiCl2 also reduced the protein and mRNA expression of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL and increased the protein and mRNA expression of pro-apoptotic Bax and Bak. These results show that NiCl2 causes mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis by disruption of MMP and increased expression of AIF and EndoG mRNA and protein, and that the underlying mechanism of MMP loss involves the Bcl-2 family proteins modulation and PI3K/Akt pathway inhibition.