bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of the physical properties of the liquid phase on the gas-liquid mass transfer coefficient in two- and three-phase agitated systems
Authors: Kiełbus-Rąpała Anna , Karcz Joanna , Cudak Magdalena
Published: January 2011

The results of studies concerning two- and three-phase systems in an agitated vessel are presented. The aim of our research was to investigate the effect of the physical properties of the liquid phase on the value of the volumetric gas-liquid mass transfer coefficient in mechanically agitated gas-liquid and gas-solid-liquid systems. Our experimental studies were conducted in a vessel with an internal diameter of 0.288 m. The flat bottom vessel, equipped with four baffles, was filled with liquid up to a height equal to the inner diameter. The liquid volume was 0.02 m3. Three high-speed impellers of a diameter equal to 0.33 of the vessel diameter were used: Rushton turbine (RT), Smith turbine (CD 6), or A 315 impeller. The measurements were carried out in coalescing and non-coalescing systems. Distilled water and aqueous solutions of an electrolyte (sodium chloride) of two different concentrations were used as the liquid phase. The gas phase was air. In the three-phase system, particles of sea sand were used as solid phase. The measurements were conducted at five different gas-flow rates and three particle loadings. Volumetric gas-liquid mass transfer coefficients were measured using the dynamic method. The presence and concentration of an electrolyte strongly affected the value of the gas-liquid mass transfer coefficient in both two- and three-phase systems. For all agitators used, significantly higher k l a coefficient values were obtained in the 0.4 kmol m−3 and 0.8 kmol m−3 aqueous NaCl solutions compared with the data for a coalescing system (with distilled water as the liquid phase). The k l a coefficient did not exhibit a linear relationship with the electrolyte concentration. An increase in the sodium chloride concentration from 0.4 kmol m−3 to 0.8 kmol m−3 caused a considerable decrease in the volumetric mass transfer coefficient in both the two-phase and three-phase systems. It was concluded that the mass transfer processes improved at a certain concentration of ions; however, above this concentration no further increase in k l a could be achieved.
New SPME fibre for analysis of mequinol emitted from DVDs
Authors: Palacz Magdalena , Wasiak Wiesław
Published: January 2011

A piece of fused-silica fibre coated with silica modified with ketamine-groups was used as a solidphase microextraction (SPME) fibre and its efficiency in the qualitative and quantitative analysis of volatile organic compounds released from coloured overprinting on DVDs was evaluated. The effect of the parameters that can affect the SPME procedure, such as extraction time, extraction temperature, desorption temperature, was investigated to determine the analytical performance of this novel fibre in the qualitative and quantitative analyses of organic compounds. The optimised procedure was applied to the qualitative and quantitative analyses of organic compounds released from coloured overprinting on DVDs. The limit of detection of 4-methoxyphenol (mequinol) was 88 × 10−3 μg mL−1, while the limit of quantification (LOQ) was calculated as ten times the baseline noise, i.e. 3.1 × 10−1 μg mL−1. The proposed fibre was used successfully for preconcentration of the volatile organic compounds from the gaseous phase of DVD samples.
Nearly generalized Jordan derivations
Authors: Eshaghi Gordji M. , Ghobadipour N.
Published: January 2011

Let A be an algebra and let X be an A-bimodule. A ∂-linear mapping d: A → X is called a generalized Jordan derivation if there exists a Jordan derivation (in the usual sense) δ: A → X such that d(a
2) = ad(a)+δ(a)a for all a ∈ A. The main purpose of this paper is to prove the Hyers-Ulam-Rassias stability and superstability of the generalized Jordan derivations.
On representations of Banach C*-modules associated with biweights
Authors: Joiţa Maria
Published: January 2011

We introduce an order relation in the set of modular biweights on a Banach C*-module X and give a description of this order relation in terms of representation associated with each modular biweight by GNS construction. We also characterize the extreme points in the set of all biweights φ defined on X such that φ(x
0, x
0) = λ
0. Furthermore, we discuss operator representations associated with modular biweights on Banach C*-modules.
Exploring Candidate Genes for Epilepsy by Computational Disease-Gene Identification Strategy
Authors: Sha Y , Liu Q , Wang Y , Dong C , Song L
Published: January 2011

Exploring Candidate Genes for Epilepsy by Computational Disease-Gene Identification Strategy

Epilepsy is a complex disease with a strong genetic component. So far, studies have focused on experimental validation or genome-wide linkage scans for epilepsy susceptibility genes in multiple populations. We have used four bioinformatic tools (SNPs3D, PROSPECTR and SUSPECTS, GenWanderer, PosMed) to analyze 16 susceptibility loci selected from a literature search. Pathways and regulatory network analyses were performed using the Ingenuity Pathways Analysis (IPA) software. We identified a subset of 48 candidate epilepsy susceptibility genes. Five significant canonical pathways, in four typical networks, were identified: GABA receptor signaling, interleukin-6 (IL-6) signaling, G-protein coupled receptor signaling, type 2 diabetes mellitus signaling and airway inflammation in asthma. We concluded that online analytical tools provide a powerful way to reveal candidate genes which can greatly reduce experimental time. Our study contributes to further experimental tests for epilepsy susceptibility genes.
Apoptosis Gene Expression Profile in Early-Stage non Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Metodieva S , Cherneva R , Nikolova D , Genchev G , Petrov D , Toncheva D
Published: January 2011

Apoptosis Gene Expression Profile in Early-Stage non Small Cell Lung Cancer

Non small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a highly aggressive malignancy with survival rates limited to some patients in early stages (I and II). Apoptosis resistance is a hallmark of solid tumors that is tightly concerned with their biology. We analyzed the expression of 84 apoptosis-related genes in a group of Bulgarian patients with early-stage NSCLC.

RNA samples extracted from 12 early-stage NSCLC patients [five squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) and seven adenocarcinomas (AC)] and eight adjacent non neoplastic pulmonary tissues were used for gene expression analysis. We applied pathway-focused expression profiling of 84 apoptosis-related genes using real-time PCR.

Apoptosis-related genes down regulated in NSCLC compared to non tumor lung tissue (p <0.05) included representatives of the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) ligand family [TNF superfamily 8 (TNFSF8)], caspase cascade (CASP8 and CASP10) and caspase recruitment domain (CARD) family (BCL10), the positive apoptosis regulator DAPK1 and BCL2 family member MCL1. The potential of apoptosis-related genes as prognostic and predictive markers should be validated in future studies.
Implementation of Cryptographic Algorithms in Software: An Analysis of the Effectiveness
Authors: Nazaruk Vladislav , Rusakov Pavel
Published: January 2011

Implementation of Cryptographic Algorithms in Software: An Analysis of the Effectiveness

The goal of the paper is to discuss some possibilities of effective implementing cryptographic algorithms in software development. There are concerned two aspects of the term "effectiveness": efficacy (i.e., meeting a goal of using cryptographic algorithms - providing a protection of information) and efficiency (i.e., implementing cryptographic algorithms in an economical way; as well as implementing cryptographic algorithms to the effect that they execute in an economical way). In the paper, there are defined and classified errors which are the causes of possible vulnerabilities in implementation of cryptographic algorithms on a computer. There are given general recommendations, how to escape from these vulnerabilities. There is also considered implementation of cryptographic algorithms in software development by using software libraries and frameworks. Several widespread software frameworks which provide cryptographic functionality are compared with each other by the speed of execution of algorithms. Finally, there are discussed some possibilities of maximising the speed of execution of cryptographic algorithms, emphasising the importance of parallelisation of algorithms. For block ciphers, possible parallelisation is discussed especially deeply, referencing the results obtained in practical experiments that demonstrate and estimate the benefits of parallelising block ciphers.
Modelling Inventory Management System at Distribution Company: Case Study
Authors: Soshko Oksana , Vjakse Vilmars , Merkuryev Yuri
Published: January 2011

Modelling Inventory Management System at Distribution Company: Case Study

The paper presents a case study on improving inventory management at the distribution company which operates in Latvia. The case study is focused on application of different modelling approaches in inventory management under uncertain demand, namely inventory models, simulation models and optimization model. The functionality of each model as well as its benefits for the current problem is discussed in the end of the paper.
Using Fuzzy Logic to Solve Bioinformatics Tasks
Authors: Gasparovica Madara , Novoselova Natalia , Aleksejeva Ludmila
Published: January 2011

Using Fuzzy Logic to Solve Bioinformatics Tasks

The goal of this research is to investigate, collect and identify published methods that use fuzzy techniques in bioinformatics tasks. Special attention is paid to studying how the advantages of fuzzy techniques are used in various stages like preprocessing, optimization and building a classifier of classification task as difficult as processing microarray data. This article also inspects the most popular databases used in bioinformatics. The most perspective methods are given more detailed descriptions. Conclusions are made about working abilities of the algorithms and their use in further research.
Control System for a Diesel Generator and UPS Based Microgrid
Authors: Palamar Andriy , Pettai Elmo , Beldjajev Viktor
Published: January 2011

Control System for a Diesel Generator and UPS Based Microgrid

In this paper a microgrid composed of a diesel generator and two uninterruptible power supply systems with separate battery banks is introduced. The microgrid located in three academic buildings of Tallinn University of Technology. A three-level control and monitoring system for the microgrid based on the EtherNet/IP communication network is developed. In addition, a control strategy of the microgrid in the grid-connected and stand-alone mode of operation is proposed.
The Handle of Substation Remote Terminal Unit Configuration
Authors: Dmitrenko Igor , Laugis Juhan
Published: January 2011

The Handle of Substation Remote Terminal Unit Configuration

The remote control and supervision of electrical power transmission system is the balanced system between electricity generating and consuming, taking the responsibility for the stability of power supply consuming. The device to be responsible for above-mentioned tasks is a Remote Terminal Unit with faultless proper configuration.
Searching the Damaged Outgoing Feeder in Networks with Insulated Neutral by Phase-to-ground Fault
Authors: Sivokobylenko Vitaliy , Kuzmenko Dmitriy
Published: January 2011

Searching the Damaged Outgoing Feeder in Networks with Insulated Neutral by Phase-to-ground Fault

The method of searching the damaged feeder was improved by alternate disconnecting of feeder circuit-breakers, which allow to enlarge reliability of the systems of power supply by diminishing the number of multiple earth fault in electric network. Diminishing the number of multiple earth faults is attained by exception of switching overvoltage, because commutations of feeder circuit-breakers are carrying out when shunting circuit breaker is closed. The detection of damage in the feeder, when this method is used, is produced on the change of phase of current in the circuit of shunting circuit breaker after disconnecting of circuit-breaker of this feeder.
Least Squares Spectral Analysis for Detection of Systematic Behaviour of Digital Level Compensator
Authors: Amerian Y. , Voosoghi B.
Published: January 2011

Least Squares Spectral Analysis for Detection of Systematic Behaviour of Digital Level Compensator

Levelling is the most precise technique for height difference measurements in geomatics engineering. Various systematic errors affect precise levelling observations and reduce the precision of the observed height differences. This study investigates digital levels residual compensator error and observational method for its elimination. For this purpose the levelling data, which was collected with Zeiss DiNi 12 digital levels, was analysed. There are different statistical and spectral methods that can reveal the presence of systematic errors in levelling results. In this study, the Least Squares Spectral Analysis (LSSA) method is used. The analysis confirmed that using alternating pointing method (BFFB, FBBF) instead of usual observation routine (BFFB) will eliminate the Zeiss DiNi 12 digital levels residual compensator error from section height differences and discrepancies. In this way, it does not matter using different instruments in the forward and backward section runs and the discrepancies can be used to investigate other systematic errors.
Foreword
Authors: Sjöberg Lars
Published: January 2011

Foreword
Gender Differences in Patients Presenting with First-Episode Psychosis in Hong Kong: A Three-Year Follow Up Study
Authors: Chang Wing Chung , Tang Jennifer Y. M. , Hui Christy L. M. , Chiu Cindy P. Y. , Lam May M. L. , Wong Gloria H. Y. , Chung Dicky W. S. , Law C. W. , Tso Steve , Chan Kathy P. M. , Hung S. F. , Chen Eric Y. H.
Published: January 2011

Objective: The aim of the current study was to investigate gender differences with respect to pre-treatment characteristics, clinical presentation, service utilization and functional outcome in patients presenting with first-episode psychosis.

Methods: A total of 700 participants (men, n = 360; women, n = 340) aged 15 to 25 years consecutively enrolled in a territory-wide first-episode psychosis treatment programme in Hong Kong from July 2001 to August 2003 were studied. Baseline and three-year follow up variables were collected via systematic medical file review.

Results: At service entry, men had significantly lower educational attainment (p < 0.01), longer median duration of untreated psychosis (p < 0.001), fewer past suicidal attempts (p < 0.01), more severe negative symptoms (p < 0.05) and fewer affective symptoms (p < 0.01) than women. There was no significant gender difference in age of onset. In three-year follow up, men had more prominent negative symptoms (p < 0.001), fewer affective symptoms (p < 0.01), more violent behaviour and forensic records (p < 0.01), and higher rate of substance abuse (p < 0.01). Women achieved higher levels of functioning than men (Social Occupational Functioning Assessment Scale (SOFAS), p < 0.001) and a significantly higher proportion of women than men engaged in full-time employment or study for at least 12 consecutive months (p < 0.001) in the initial three years after psychiatric treatment.

Conclusion: Notable gender differences in clinical profiles, illness trajectory and functional outcome were demonstrated in Chinese young people suffering from first-episode psychosis. Differential needs between men and women and hence gender-specific therapeutic strategies should be considered in early intervention service.
Freeway Operations, Spatiotemporal-Incident Characteristics, and Secondary-Crash Occurrence
Authors: Vlahogianni Eleni I. , Karlaftis Matthew G. , Golias John C. , Halkias Bill M.
Published: January 2011

Incidents are a major source of uncertainty in freeway operations. Secondary crashes are an important category of freeway incidents. Until now, secondary crashes have been assumed to occur at the boundary of high-density queues formed upstream of an initial crash. While much research has concentrated on the relationship between incident duration and secondary-crash likelihood, the incident's influence area is widely treated as independent of prevailing traffic conditions and incident characteristics. This paper extends research by developing a Bayesian network for the probabilistic estimation of different influence areas for secondary-crash occurrence with respect to various incident and traffic characteristics. Results indicate that traffic conditions at the time of an incident, as well as the time needed to respond to and clear the crash scene, are the most significant determinants in defining the upstream influence area of a crash.
Heuristic Ramp-Metering Coordination Strategy Implemented at Monash Freeway, Australia
Authors: Papamichail Ioannis , Papageorgiou Markos , Vong Vincent , Gaffney John
Published: January 2011

A new traffic-responsive feedback control strategy, heuristic ramp-metering coordination (HERO) that coordinates local ramp-metering actions in freeway networks is presented. The proposed coordination scheme is simple and reactive [i.e., based on readily available real-time measurements without the need for real-time model calculations or external disturbance (e.g., demand) prediction]. HERO employs an extended version of the feedback regulator ALINEA at the local level. The new strategy overcomes the problem of uncertain freeway capacity by targeting the critical occupancy for maximum throughput. HERO outperforms uncoordinated local ramp metering and approaches the efficiency of sophisticated optimal control schemes. HERO has been implemented by VicRoads, the road authority for the state of Victoria, Australia, at six consecutive inbound on-ramps on the Monash Freeway in Melbourne, Australia. This pilot project is part of the Monash–CityLink–West Gate (MCW) upgrade. The obtained results show a significant increase of traffic throughput and a reduction of travel times compared with the previously used ramp-metering system. To maximize performance across the entire 75-km route of the MCW upgrade, HERO is currently under implementation at 63 on-ramps.
What Drives Decisions of Single-Occupant Travelers in High-Occupancy Vehicle Lanes?
Authors: Goodall Noah , Smith Brian L.
Published: January 2011

High-occupancy toll (HOT) lanes are in operation, under construction, and planned in several major metropolitan areas. The premise behind HOT lanes is to allow single-occupant vehicles (SOVs) to access high-occupancy vehicle lanes (and a higher level of service) if they are willing to pay a toll. To maintain a high level of service in the HOT lanes, the toll rate is set dynamically to restrict the number of SOVs that access the facility lanes as they near capacity. Thus, HOT facilities provide operators of transportation systems with an additional tool: pricing. To use pricing effectively, it is critical for those operators to understand how drivers behave when faced with a set of traffic conditions and toll levels. This paper presents the results of an empirical investigation into the relationship between toll rate, traffic conditions, and SOV driver behavior, on the basis of data from the dynamically tolled I-394 HOT facility in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Analysis of the empirical data indicated that a large percentage of SOV drivers used the HOT lanes at different, yet predictable, rates throughout the morning peak period, even when there was no clear travel time advantage. After these users were accounted for, it was determined that the remaining SOV drivers used the HOT lanes at greater rates when the cost per hour of commute time saved was lowest. A model was developed that incorporates both of these findings, predicting HOT lane usage rates based on time savings, time of day, and toll rates, with an R2 value of .684.
Multiple Stress Creep and Recovery and Time Sweep Fatigue Tests
Authors: Tabatabaee Nader , Tabatabaee Hassan Ali
Published: January 2011

Crumb rubber modification (CRM) is an effective means of improving neat asphalt performance. Numerous studies have investigated the effects of CRM using the current Superpave® laboratory tests. Recent studies have shown that the assumption of linear viscoelastic behavior or employing insufficient stress or strain levels makes current tests inadequate for properly assessing the performance of binders, especially when modified. This problem has resulted in the development of improved test methods such as the time sweep binder fatigue test and the multiple stress creep and recovery (MSCR) test for permanent deformation. The present study assesses the performance of binders modified with a wide range of crumb rubber content using these newly developed test methods. Additional binder and mixture performance tests were used to compare and validate the results. The results showed that the new tests performed well in predicting performance. Current Superpave criteria also showed good conformance with mixture test results for CRM binders. Tests results suggest that the MSCR can complement current rutting prediction testing. Also, the time sweep test produces results similar in accuracy to current Superpave tests, but it requires longer testing time and is thus not recommended for performance grading.
Evaluation of Rutting Resistance in Warm-Mix Asphalts Containing Moist Aggregate
Authors: Xiao Feipeng , Amirkhanian Serji N. , Putman Bradley J.
Published: January 2011

In recent years, rising energy prices and more stringent environmental regulations have resulted in an interest in warm-mix asphalt (WMA) technologies to decrease the energy consumption and emissions associated with conventional hot-mix asphalt production. In this study, the objective was to conduct a laboratory investigation of rutting resistance in WMA mixtures containing moist aggregates. Rut depth, weight loss, and gyration number of dry and conditioned specimens were measured for all of the mixtures. The experimental design included two aggregate moisture contents (0% and ∼0.5% by weight of the dry mass of the aggregate), two lime contents (1% and 2% lime by weight of dry aggregate), three WMA additives (Aspha-min, Sasobit, and Evotherm), and three aggregate sources. Thirty-six mixtures were prepared, and 216 specimens were tested in this study. Test results indicated that the aggregate source significantly affects the rutting resistance regardless of the WMA additive, lime content, and moisture content. In addition, rut depth of the mixture containing moist aggregate generally satisfies the demand of pavement performance without additional treatment. The mixture with Sasobit additive exhibited the best rutting resistance. The mixtures containing Aspha-min and Evotherm additives generally showed a rut resistance similar to that of the control mixture.
Effects of Pavement Surface Type and Sample Preparation Method on Tack Coat Interface Shear Strength
Authors: Mohammad Louay N. , Bae Abraham , Elseifi Mostafa A. , Button Joe , Patel Nachiketa
Published: January 2011

The objective of this study was to quantify the effects of tack coat type, tack coat application rate, and surface type (i.e., hot-mix asphalt versus portland cement concrete) including milled versus unmilled surfaces on the interface shear strength based on full-scale test application. The variation of interface shear strength between field- and laboratory-prepared samples was also investigated. To achieve this objective, five types of tack coat materials were applied at three application rates on four types of surfaces at the Pavement Research Facility site of the Louisiana Transportation Research Center. Samples were cored from the constructed test lanes, and the interface shear strength was measured using the Louisiana Interface Shear Strength Tester. Results of this study showed that a direct relationship was observed between the roughness of the existing surface and the developed shear strength at the interface. A small amount of water seemed to negatively affect interface shear strength with PG 64-22 used as a tack coat material. However, the effect of surface wetness on interface shear strength was less evident for emulsion-based tack coat materials. Laboratory-prepared samples grossly overestimated the interface shear strength when compared with field-extracted cores. While a decreasing trend was observed in the laboratory, an increasing trend in the measured interface shear strength was observed in the field.
Stiffening Mechanisms of Asphalt–Aggregate Mixtures
Authors: Kim Minkyum , Buttlar William G.
Published: January 2011

Hot-mix asphalt (HMA) is a particulate composite of mineral aggregates and asphalt binder in which the aggregate particles reinforce the soft asphalt binder phase, as evidenced by the several orders of magnitude of difference in the stiffness of HMA compared with the binder. To develop a mechanistic way of predicting the stiffness of HMAs, an experimentally constructed database of the stiffness evolution, as the volume concentration of the aggregate particles progressively increases (from asphalt binder to coarse HMA mixture), is essential. In this study, a unique database of the complex modulus (E*) was collected with a hollow cylinder tensile test device; asphalt–aggregate mixtures with varying volume concentrations of aggregate particles were tested over a range of temperatures and loading frequencies. The complex modulus master curve data for these mixtures were then compared with micromechanical model predictions, on the basis of a differential scheme effective medium theory that is known to capture accurately the reinforcing effect of stiff particles placed in a soft matrix. Stiffening mechanisms, such as volume replacement and aggregate interlock, were explored in light of this new data set and the model predictions. The volume replacement stiffening mechanism was quite pronounced; a considerable amount of aggregate interlock effect was also observed at certain aggregate volume concentrations and testing frequencies and temperatures. A detailed analysis of the data that sheds light on stiffening mechanisms in asphalt concrete mixtures is provided.
Characterization of Two-Layer Soil System Using a Lightweight Deflectometer with Radial Sensors
Authors: Senseney Christopher T. , Mooney Michael A.
Published: January 2011

Nondestructive tests to estimate stiffness modulus, such as the lightweight deflectometer (LWD), have experienced increased popularity, but very little research has been performed to evaluate the LWD with radial sensors. Results are presented from LWD testing with radial sensors that measured the deflection bowl on one- and two-layer field test beds consisting of unbound materials. LWD testing produced a measurable deflection bowl on medium-stiffness granular materials to a radial sensor spacing of 750 mm (30 in). When limited to a stiff over soft layered system, the LWD with radial sensors demonstrated the ability to backcalculate layered moduli accurately. Backcalculated moduli closely matched laboratory-determined moduli from triaxial testing at a similar stress state as in the field. The measurement depth for the LWD with radial sensors was found to be 1.8 times plate diameter versus the measurement depth of conventional LWD testing of 1.0 to 1.5 times plate diameter. The LWD with radial sensors was able to measure deeper-than-conventional LWD testing because the radial geophones measure vertical surface deflections caused almost entirely by strains in deeper material. Compared with other configurations, the 300-mm and 600-mm (12-in. and 24-in.) radial sensor configuration is recommended for unbound materials because it produces the most accurate moduli backcalculation results and captures deflections critical to the backcalculation process.
Analysis Method for Drilled Shaft–Stabilized Slopes Using Arching Concept
Authors: Liang Robert Y. , Bodour Wassel Al , Yamin Mohammad , Joorabchi Arash Erfani
Published: January 2011

The use of drilled shafts to stabilize an unstable slope has gained popularity in highway applications, mainly because it is a structural fix that does not require additional right-of-way. An analysis method for determining the factor of safety of a drilled shaft or slope system and for determining the earth thrust on the drilled shafts for structural design is introduced. The concept of the analysis is cast in the limiting equilibrium approach via the method of slices, while incorporating the drilled shaft–induced arching effects as the soil mass moved downslope and around the drilled shafts. The mathematical equations based on the limiting equilibrium calculation, together with the load transfer factor for accounting for the drilled shaft–induced arching effects, are presented. The three-dimensional finite element model parametric study using ABAQUS program was used to derive the semiempirical equations for quantifying the arching effect. A UASLOPE computer program was written to incorporate these algorithms for applications to real cases. A case study of a fully instrumented and monitored slope stabilization project, ATH-124, in Ohio, is presented. The analysis of the slope at the project site using finite element modeling and the computer code UASLOPE is presented, together with field-monitored data. On the basis of field monitoring data and the comparison between the finite element analysis results with the computer code UASLOPE results, the suggested analysis and design approach appears to be reasonable.
Cone Penetration Test Sounding and Pile Driving
Authors: Nickel Chris , Zhang Zhongjie , Tsai Ching
Published: January 2011

Hurricane Katrina severely damaged the I-10 Twin Span Bridges in New Orleans, Louisiana. Because these bridges are the primary evacuation route for the City of New Orleans, the design of the replacement bridges had to be done within a short time frame. The pile foundation of the bridges was designed with limited soil borings and cone penetration test (CPT) soundings, which resulted in a large amount of pile cutoff and potential undesirable pile buildups. The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) was able to perform additional CPT soundings to define the soil conditions better during construction. Using these additional data, the Louisiana DOTD geotechnical engineer produced a more reliable design and avoided potentially costly construction claims. The problems encountered during construction and the improved pile foundation design are documented.
Combined Use of Calcium Chloride and Fly Ash in Road Base Stabilization
Authors: Shon Chang-Seon , Saylak Donald , Mishra Surendra K.
Published: January 2011

Chemical stabilization with cementitious and chemical additives such as portland cement, lime, fly ash, and calcium chloride (CaCl2) is now being extensively used in road base or subgrade primarily to enhance mechanical strength and improve resistance to chemical attack, resulting in a more durable roadway. In recent years, there has been renewed interest in the combined use of these additives to induce a synergistic effect on the strength, as well as to improve deficiencies of a single-chemical treatment process (e.g., slow early strength development of fly ash and susceptibility to leaching of CaCl2 in wet environments). The effect of adding CaCl2 to the fly ash–treated roadbed during construction was investigated. The role of CaCl2 in the system was studied, where determination was made as to how the soluble calcium species plays a role in bringing particles closer in the aggregate system and how it has an effect on the setting time, compaction efficiency, and ultimate strength. Laboratory test data revealed that the addition of CaCl2 not only accelerated the setting rate but also increased the initial and long-term strength of the constructed roadbed. On the basis of these laboratory tests, a mathematical model was developed that predicts the strength of the composites. Finally, field performance data showed that fly ashes can be effectively used in road construction if CaCl2 is added to the system.
Recurrence of cancer cervix in patients treated by radical hysterectomy followed by adjuvant external beam radiotherapy
Authors: Sobhan Fauzia , Sobhan Farzana , Sobhan Arif
Published: January 2011

One hundred and twenty patients with FIGO stage Ib-IIa cervical cancer who had radical hysterectomy prior to January 2003 in different hospitals of Bangladesh and thereafter received external beam pelvic radiotherapy (RT) at National Institute of Cancer Research and Hospital, Dhaka were studied. Until December 2007, 50 (42%) patients developed recurrence. Thirty-four (70%) patients experienced local recurrence, 13 (26%) distant recurrence and 2 (4%) both local and distant recurrence. Of 15 patients with distant metastasis, 6 (40%) experienced it in extra-pelvic lymph nodes. The median time to recurrence was 19 months (range 6-120 months) for local failure, 33 months (range 12-108 months) for distant failure and 25 months (range 13-36 months) for those with both local and distant failure. Eighty percent recurrences occurred within 36 months. There was significant correlation between lymph node metastasis and recurrence. All 5 (100%) patients with adenocarcinoma who had positive nodes experienced local recurrence compared with 18 of 49 (37%) squamous cell carcinoma patients with positive nodes. Recurrence more than 5 years after treatment developed in 5 (4%) patients. Mentionable, 4 (80%) out of 5 patients with late recurrence had squamous cell carcinoma with negative pelvic nodes. DOI: 10.3329/bmrcb.v36i2.6987Bangladesh Med Res Counc Bull 2010; 36: 52-56
Antioxidant Activity of β-Carotene Compounds in Different in Vitro Assays
Authors: Mueller Lars , Boehm Volker
Published: January 2011

β-Carotene (BC) is the most abundant carotenoid in human diet, almost solely as (all-E)-isomer. Significant amounts of (Z)-isomers of BC are present in processed food as well as in mammalian tissues. Differences are described for the activity of various BC isomers in forming retinal and protecting against cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Eccentric cleavage of BC leads to degradation products such as carotenals. A variety of negative consequences were published for the non-vitamin A active BC metabolites, such as inducing the carcinogenesis of benzo[a]pyrene, impairing mitochondrial function, or increasing CYP activity. To increase the knowledge on the antioxidant activity, a variety of BC isomers and metabolites were tested in various in vitro assays.In the present study, no ferric reducing activity (FRAP assay) was observed for the BC isomers. Between the major BC isomers (all-E, 9Z, and 13Z) no significant differences in bleaching the ABTS●+ (αTEAC assay) or in scavenging peroxyl radicals (ROO●) generated by thermal degradation of AAPH (using a chemiluminescence assay) were detected. However, the (15Z)-isomer was less active, maybe due to its low stability. The degradation to β-apo-carotenoids increased FRAP activity and ROO● scavenging activity compared to the parent molecule. Dependence on chain length and character of the terminal function was determined in αTEAC assay with following order of increasing activity: β-apo-8’-carotenal
Expanding the Concept of G Protein-Coupled Receptor (GPCR) Dimer Asymmetry towards GPCR-Interacting Proteins
Authors: Kamal Maud , Maurice Pascal , Jockers Ralf
Published: January 2011

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), major targets of drug discovery, are organized in dimeric and/or oligomeric clusters. The minimal oligomeric unit, the dimer, is composed of two protomers, which can behave differently within the dimer. Several examples of GPCR asymmetry within dimers at the level of ligand binding, ligand-promoted conformational changes, conformational changes within transmembrane domains, G protein coupling, and most recently GPCR-interacting proteins (GIPs), have been reported in the literature. Asymmetric organization of GPCR dimers has important implications on GPCR function and drug design. Indeed, the extension of the “asymmetry concept” to GIPs adds a new level of specific therapeutic intervention.
A Refrigerated Web Camera for Photogrammetric Video Measurement inside Biomass Boilers and Combustion Analysis
Authors: Porteiro Jacobo , Riveiro Belén , Granada Enrique , Armesto Julia , Eguía Pablo , Collazo Joaquín
Published: January 2011

This paper describes a prototype instrumentation system for photogrammetric measuring of bed and ash layers, as well as for flying particle detection and pursuit using a single device (CCD) web camera. The system was designed to obtain images of the combustion process in the interior of a domestic boiler. It includes a cooling system, needed because of the high temperatures in the combustion chamber of the boiler. The cooling system was designed using CFD simulations to ensure effectiveness. This method allows more complete and real-time monitoring of the combustion process taking place inside a boiler. The information gained from this system may facilitate the optimisation of boiler processes.
A Trust Evaluation Algorithm for Wireless Sensor Networks Based on Node Behaviors and D-S Evidence Theory
Authors: Feng Renjian , Xu Xiaofeng , Zhou Xiang , Wan Jiangwen
Published: January 2011

For wireless sensor networks (WSNs), many factors, such as mutual interference of wireless links, battlefield applications and nodes exposed to the environment without good physical protection, result in the sensor nodes being more vulnerable to be attacked and compromised. In order to address this network security problem, a novel trust evaluation algorithm defined as NBBTE (Node Behavioral Strategies Banding Belief Theory of the Trust Evaluation Algorithm) is proposed, which integrates the approach of nodes behavioral strategies and modified evidence theory. According to the behaviors of sensor nodes, a variety of trust factors and coefficients related to the network application are established to obtain direct and indirect trust values through calculating weighted average of trust factors. Meanwhile, the fuzzy set method is applied to form the basic input vector of evidence. On this basis, the evidence difference is calculated between the indirect and direct trust values, which link the revised D-S evidence combination rule to finally synthesize integrated trust value of nodes. The simulation results show that NBBTE can effectively identify malicious nodes and reflects the characteristic of trust value that ‘hard to acquire and easy to lose’. Furthermore, it is obvious that the proposed scheme has an outstanding advantage in terms of illustrating the real contribution of different nodes to trust evaluation.
Preparation and Electrochemical Characterization of a Carbon Ceramic Electrode Modified with Ferrocenecarboxylic Acid
Authors: Skeika Tatiane , Zuconelli Cristiane R. , Fujiwara Sergio T. , Pessoa Christiana A.
Published: January 2011

The present paper describes the characterization of a carbon ceramic electrode modified with ferrocenecarboxylic acid (designated as CCE/Fc) by electrochemical techniques and its detection ability for dopamine. From cyclic voltammetric experiments, it was observed that the CCE/Fc presented a redox pair at Epa = 405 mV and Epc = 335 mV (DE = 70 mV), related to the ferrocene/ferrocenium process. Studies showed a considerably increase in the redox currents at the same oxidation potential of ferrocene (Epa = 414 mV vs. Ag/AgCl) in the presence of dopamine (DA), differently from those observed when using only the unmodified CCE, in which the anodic peak increase was considerably lower. From SWV experiments, it was observed that the AA (ascorbic acid) oxidation at CCE/Fc occurred in a different potential than the DA oxidation (with a peak separation of approximately 200 mV). Moreover, CCE/Fc did not respond to different AA concentrations, indicating that it is possible to determine DA without the AA interference with this electrode.
Sentido y función de los cuentecillos en El castigo sin venganza de Lope
Authors: McGrady Donald
Published: January 2011

Los cuentecillos intercalados en las comedias de Lope sirven el mismo propósito que sus canciones : a veces sólo divierten al público, pero las más veces sirven para prefigurar la acción futura, o para subrayar algún aspecto importante de la trama. Sin embargo, en El castigo sin venganza el empleo de los cuentecillos alcanza una inusitada profundidad, pues cada una de sus ocho historietas tiene al menos dos sentidos, el segundo de los cuales alude de alguna manera al adulterio de Federico y Casandra.
O vento lh'as levava : Don Denis y la tradición lírica peninsular
Authors: Beltrán Pepió V.
Published: January 2011

En este artículo se analizan las relaciones entre una cantiga de amigo de don Denis, rey de Portugal, y otra del juglar Pero Meogo. Ambas expresan un contenido amoroso mediante un repertorio de símbolos naturalistas muy arraigados en toda la tradición romance. La comparación de los elementos paisajísticos en la cantiga gallego-portuguesa con la lírica popularizante europea, especialmente la peninsular de los siglos xv a xvii, y, en menor medida, de la francesa, permite interpretar adecuadamente el motivo del viento, tanto en la cantiga objeto de este estudio como en la chanson de toile francesa.
Le « Cancionero General » de 1511 et ses trente-huit romances
Authors: Aubrun Charles Vincent
Published: January 2011

El Cancionero general de 1511 y sus treinta y ocho romances.

Dans le Cancionero General (1509-1511) figure une section de romances. Ce sont au total 38 pièces, dont l'une est rimée aabbcc..., ce qui pose le problème de la définition contemporaine du sous-genre. Il y a là cinq pièces de circonstance et quelques gracieux poèmes, tenus pour de « vieux » romances, qui doivent remonter à trente années tout au plus. Mais la plupart des pièces sont allégoriques ou conceptuelles et signées par des poètes particulièrement raffinés, pour la plupart arago- nais, c'est-à-dire catalans et valenciens. Certains incipit renvoient à des légendes épiques dont nous ignorons la forme. La matière de Bretagne apparaît ainsi que des « histoires » tirées de vieux ouvrages toujours actuels (Alexandre, Troie...). La matière carolingienne sous forme narrative est absente. Le compilateur Hernando del Castillo ne connaît pas les romances des pliegos sueltos postérieurs.
El término cuento en la literatura románica medieval
Authors: Paredes Núñez J.
Published: January 2011

Etimológicamente la voz cuento, conte, conte, deriva del latín computum (cómputo, cálculo). Del sentido primitivo de enumerar objetos se pasó, por translación semántica, a enumerar hechos. Según Gorominas, la acepción « narrar », « relatar », derivada de « contar », « calcular », del étimo latino computare, es tan antigua en castellano como la otra. Contar, en el sentido de relatar, es frecuente en los más antiguos textos castellanos. La voz cuento, por el contrario, no aparece. Encontramos los términos fábula, ensiemplo, apólogo, proverbio, estoria, etc., pero no cuento. Los autores portugueses parece que fueron más precisos. Mientras conto, exemplo, contamento, falamento, se refieren a los cuentos tradicionales, estorya se aplica a los relatos más elaborados. En la literatura francesa el término conte (con el sentido de relato) aparece ampliamente documentado desde muy temprano. Según Bédier conte es un sinónimo « non technique » de fabliau. Marie de Francia llama a sus composiciones « contes ». El término es usado también por los autores de milagros. En la literatura italiana aparece ya documentado en el Novellino, pero el término clave es novella género que Boccaccio se va a encargar de trasmitir a toda la literatura europea. En España este vocablo acabó por designar la narración larga, mientras romance (it. romanzo, fr. roman) se empleó para las baladas tradicionales y cuento vino a ocupar un espacio cubierto en otras áreas lingüísticas por los términos de derivación boccacciana como el italiano novella y el francés nouvelle. También en Francia conte y nouvelle son usados como sinónimos. Así pues, la amplitud de significación del término en la Edad Media, aplicado a la narración corta en general, parece tener su correlato exacto en la época actual.
Primeros años de Emilio Vaïsse en Chile. Noticias y documentos del fundador de la crítica literaria
Authors: Antonio González José
Published: January 2011

Dans cette étude, l'auteur apporte une information tout à fait nouvelle sur les débuts d'Emilio Vaïsse dans le grand nord chilien : les difficiles conditions d'exercice de son ministère, son premier contact avec les survivances des langues indiennes, les aventures dont il devait s'inspirer plus tard dans son œuvre littéraire.
San Juan de la Cruz : "Percepción" espiritual e imagen poética
Authors: Wilhelmsen E.
Published: January 2011

Este ensayo examina la cuestión de la correspondencia, en San Juan de la Cruz, entre la "percepción" mística y determinadas imágenes poéticas. En cuanto a esta misteriosa "percepción" nos explica que, no obstante ser interna, espiritual y desprovista de imagen sensible, tiene alguna afinidad con la percepción física, por razón de lo cual postula una serie de "sentidos espirituales". Siguiendo con atención los comentarios de San Juan a su propia poesía, se deduce que en algunos versos se" da una correlación entre el tipo de experiencia mística que pretende expresar y el tipo de imagen elegido para simbolizarla : si la aprehensión mística se recibió por la "vista espiritual", la imagen poética es visual ; si la comunicación mística se aprehendió por el "oído espiritual", la imagen es auditiva, etc. Y en algunos de los casos, cuando la aprehensión mística fue recibida por varios "sentidos espirituales", la imagen material empleada para expresarla es, correspondientemente, multisensorial. Algunas de las bellísimas estrofas sanjuanistas, pues, en la armonía de sus imágenes y en el concierto de sensaciones perceptuales que suscitan, constituyen un reflejo no sólo metafórico sino también estructural de la misma recóndita experiencia a la que dan expresión.
La biblioteca de Alonso de Barros, autor de los Proverbios morales
Authors: Dadson T.J.
Published: January 2011

Alonso de Barros, écrivain ségovien de la fin du xvi« siècle, écrivit un livre d'une certaine popularité, les Proverbios morales (Madrid, 1598 ; diverses éditions postérieures), et un autre, quasiment inconnu aujourd'hui, la Filosofía cortesana moralizada, divertissant jeu de société qui enseigne comment réussir à la cour. Lui-même en quête de faveur et de considération au palais, Alonso de Barros parlait en connaissance de cause ; pourtant, au vécu il joignit l'expérience théorique, puisque, à sa mort en 1604, il légua une bibliothèque d'un intérêt et d'une importance considérables, composée de quelque 151 titres, dont un grand nombre traitaient de politique, de philosophie et d'instruction morale. Dans cet article, nous démontrons en quoi la bibliothèque d'Alonso de Barros peut nous aider à faire ressortir avec une plus grande clarté la personne et la personnalité d'un écrivain du Siècle d'or espagnol et son milieu socio-culturel.
La letra en El Criticón
Authors: Egido Aurora
Published: January 2011

Le Criticón est un hommage à l'écriture dans lequel tous les composants jouent leur rôle. L'humanisme a favorisé une philosophie de la parole écrite qui est évidente dans la littérature du Siècle d'Or ainsi que dans les manuels propres aux écrivants ?. Mais Gracián ne s'est pas limité au développement des métaphores graphéma tiques, il est allé bien au- delà en proposant non seulement une rhétorique et une poétique de la parole écrite et de la lecture, mais encore une éthique qui invite à un déchiffrage permanent. Le cours de l'écriture s'identifie à celui de la vie même, avec une vision désenchantée du monde considéré comme une graphie mystérieuse qu'il convient de lire correctement pour atteindre la qualité de personne.