bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of Finite Element Method for Modeling of Multi-tube Fixed Bed Catalytic Reactors
Authors: Roohi Parham , Alizadeh Reza , Fatehifar Esmaeil , Salami Hosseini Mehdi
Published: November 2013

In this article, the finite element method (FEM) was applied for modeling of multi-tube fixed bed catalytic reactor (FBCR). For this purpose, a more sophisticated 2D pseudo-heterogeneous model was used to calculate steady-state temperature and partial pressure profiles through the reactor. This model has a vast capability in the prediction of temperature and partial pressure distribution, separately, in the fluid and catalyst phases. The finite element results were compared with de wasch and Froment’s numerical work which developed for a well-established reaction in the multi-tube FBCR (o-xylene partial oxidation). The R-squared analysis indicated that the FEM results agree favorably with finite difference results which reported in the literature. Numerical solution coincidence of FEM and FDM increases with reduction of inlet gas temperature. The results show that the finite element as a powerful numerical method can be used to describe the multi-tube fixed bed catalytic reactor.
Production of Bio-oil from Native Algae of Solani Aquaduct Roorkee
Authors: Soni N. K. , Varma A. K. , Mondal P. , Srivastava M. N.
Published: November 2013

The present paper deals with the production of bio-oil from algal biomass collected from Solani aqua-duct, Roorkee. The taxonomy of algal sample shows the dominance of
Effect of HDPE addition on the Pre-reduction of Mn3O4 to MnO by Metallurgical Coke
Authors: Dankwah J.R. , Koshy P.
Published: November 2013

The effect of high density polyethylene (HDPE) addition on the pre-reduction of Mn3O4 to MnO by metallurgical coke (Coke) has been investigated through experiments conducted in a laboratory horizontal tube furnace coupled with off-gas analysis through an infrared (IR) gas analyser. Composite pellets of Mn3O4 with Coke, HDPE and blends of Coke with HDPE (in three different proportions) were rapidly heated at 1150 °C under pure argon gas and the off gas was analysed continuously for CO, CO2 and CH4. The extent of pre-reduction of Mn3O4 to MnO was then calculated by mass balance for removable oxygen. The results showed improvements in the extent of pre-reduction of Mn3O4 to MnO when coke is blended with HDPE. The time for complete pre-reduction was found to decrease with an increase in the amount of HDPE that was blended with coke. A decrease in CO2 emissions was observed with HDPE addition.
Hot Deformation and Processing Maps of 7005 Aluminum Alloy
Authors: Wang Mingliang , Jin Peipeng , Wang Jinhui
Published: November 2013

The deformation behavior of 7005 alloy was studied by hot compression tests. The processing map was constructed by superimposing the instability map over the power dissipation map at a strain of 0.7 using the corrected flow stress data to eliminate the effect of friction. Microstructural examination was performed for validation. It can be found that the flow stresses increase with the decrease of deformation temperature or the increase of strain rate. At the relatively high strain rates, the material exhibits flow instability manifesting as adiabatic shear bands or flow localization. A large volume of coarse precipitations distributing in the grain boundaries in one of the peak efficiency domains: 275–325 °C/0.0005–0.001 s−1, which may result in inter-granular corrosion and spalling layer, should be avoided in the final deformed alloy. The optimum hot working domain is the temperature range of 400–450 °C and strain rate range of 0.0005–0.005 s−1, at which DRX is identified.
Targeted Minimum Loss-Based Estimation of Causal Effects in Right-Censored Survival Data with Time-Dependent Covariates: Warfarin, Stroke, and Death in Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Brooks Jordan C. , van der Laan Mark J. , Singer Daniel E. , Go Alan S.
Published: November 2013

Causal effects in right-censored survival data can be formally defined as the difference in the marginal cumulative event probabilities under particular interventions. Conventional estimators, such as the Kaplan-Meier (KM), fail to consistently estimate these marginal parameters under dependent treatment assignment or dependent censoring. Several modern estimators have been developed that reduce bias under both dependent treatment assignment and dependent censoring by incorporating information from baseline and time-dependent covariates. In the present article we describe a recently developed targeted minimum loss-based estimation (TMLE) algorithm for general longitudinal data structures and present in detail its application in right-censored survival data with time-dependent covariates. The treatment-specific marginal cumulative event probability is defined via a series of iterated conditional expectations in a time-dependent counting process framework. The TMLE involves an initial estimator of each conditional expectation and sequentially updates these such that the resulting estimator solves the efficient influence curve estimating equation in the nonparametric statistical model. We describe the assumptions required for consistent estimation of statistical parameters and additional assumptions required for consistent estimation of the causal effect parameter. Using simulated right-censored survival data, the mean squared error, bias, and 95% confidence interval coverage probability of the TMLE is compared with those of the conventional KM and the inverse probability of censoring weight estimating equation, conventional maximum likelihood substitution estimator, and the double robustaugmented inverse probability of censoring weighted estimating equation. We conclude the article with estimation of the causal effect of warfarin medical therapy on the probability of “stroke or death” within a 1-year time frame using data from the ATRIA-1 observational cohort of persons with atrial fibrillation. Our results suggest that a fixed policy of warfarin treatment for all patients would result in 2% fewer deaths or strokes within 1-year as compared with a policy of withholding warfarin from all patients.
Hollow-core photonic bandgap fibers: technology and applications
Authors: Poletti Francesco , Petrovich Marco N. , Richardson David J.
Published: November 2013

Since the early conceptual and practical demonstrations in the late 1990s, Hollow-Core Photonic Band Gap Fibres (HC-PBGFs) have attracted huge interest by virtue of their promise to deliver a unique range of optical properties that are simply not possible in conventional fibre types. HC-PBGFs have the potential to overcome some of the fundamental limitations of solid fibres promising, for example, reduced transmission loss, lower nonlinearity, higher damage thresholds and lower latency, amongst others. They also provide a unique medium for a range of light: matter interactions of various forms, particularly for gaseous media. In this paper we review the current status of the field, including the latest developments in the understanding of the basic guidance mechanisms in these fibres and the unique properties they can exhibit. We also review the latest advances in terms of fibre fabrication and characterisation, before describing some of the most important applications of the technology, focusing in particular on their use in gas-based fibre optics and in optical communications.
Expression of defence-related genes against Phytophthora cinnamomi in five avocado rootstocks
Authors: Engelbrecht Juanita , Van den Berg Noëlani
Published: November 2013

Avocado (Persea americana) – a major fruit crop worldwide – is threatened by root rot caused by Phytophthora cinnamomi. This pathogen is known to infect the plant via the feeder roots leading to branch dieback, and eventually tree mortality. While it is known that different avocado rootstocks have varying degrees of susceptibility to Phytophthora root rot, little research has been done on the avocado–Phytophthora interaction. In this study, transcript abundance levels of defence-related genes coding for phenylalanine ammonia-lyase, lipoxygenase, pathogenesis-related protein 5, endochitinase, gluthathionine S-transferase and metallothionein were characterised and compared among five rootstocks with varying susceptibility to root rot, after exposure to P. cinnamomi. Root samples were collected at 0 h, 3 h, 6 h, 12 h, 24 h, 48 h and 72 h post-infection and transcript abundance of the defence-related genes was determined using quantitative real-time reverse transcription PCR. The results indicated the involvement of PR-5 and endochitinase in the defence response of all avocado rootstocks to P. cinnamomi but these genes could not be directly linked to the observed phenotypic resistance. PR-5 and endochitinase were highly upregulated at 72 h post-infection. Differences in transcript abundance of phenylalanine ammonia-lyase and lipoxygenase genes were seen when comparing tolerant and less tolerant rootstocks, which may suggest that transcripts of these genes contribute to resistance. These data provide important insights into plant defence and into how different avocado rootstocks may exhibit increased resistance to infection by P. cinnamomi.
Mathematical model of electro-osmotic consolidation for soft ground improvement
Authors: HU L. , WU H.
Published: November 2013

Electro-osmotic consolidation is an attractive, soft ground improvement technique. In this paper a theoretical model is proposed for electro-osmotic consolidation by coupling the seepage field, electric field, and the stress and strain field. The soil mass deformation, pore-water pressure and the electrical voltage are the basic variables in the governing equations. A three-dimensional numerical model based on the finite-element method was developed to simulate the electro-osmotic consolidation process, predicting the tempo-spatial variation of soil mass displacement. The numerical model is compared with previous analytical solutions. Three common electrode installation patterns are illustrated and analysed with the numerical model, and the results indicate that the triangular pattern can achieve the largest average surface settlement and the smallest differential settlement. The effect of the penetrating depth of the electrodes on the ground settlement is also investigated. An engineering field application is simulated to validate the developed numerical formulation.
A concrete reactive barrier for acid mine drainage treatment
Authors: Ekolu Stephen O. , Azene Firehiwot Z. , Diop Souleymane
Published: November 2013

Pervious concrete was investigated for potential use as a permeable reactive barrier (PRB) for treatment of acid mine drainage (AMD). Pervious concrete mixtures of various water/cement ratios (0·50, 0·40, 0·35, 0·30, 0·27) and cement contents (300, 360, 380, 400 kg/m3) were prepared. Dolomite and granite aggregate types, size 9·5 mm, were employed. The tests performed were density, compressive strength and porosity. Water treatment was determined by analysis of the influent and effluent AMD after passage through the pervious concrete. It was found that a filter thickness of at least 500 mm was required to increase the pH of acidic mine water from 2·8 to between 5 and 7, and achieve a corresponding reduction in electrical conductivity. When used in the filter mix design, the granite aggregate gave better treatment performance in comparison with the dolomite aggregate. The concrete PRB treatment led to the effective removal of major metals from the AMD. The treatment reduced the metals in the AMD by 30% sulfate, 99% iron, 50–83% manganese, 85% calcium and 30% total dissolved solids. There was, however, a noticeable increase in magnesium concentration in the water effluent 49–66%. These results are short-term tests and further work is in progress to investigate the system's life expectancy.
Outcome of Enamel Matrix Derivative Treatment in the Presence of Chronic Stress: Histometric Study in Rats
Authors: Corrêa Mônica G. , Gomes Campos Mirella L. , Marques Marcelo Rocha , Bovi Ambrosano Glaucia Maria , Casati Marcio Z. , Nociti Francisco H. , Sallum Enilson A.
Published: November 2013

Background: Psychologic stress and clinical hypercortisolism have been related to direct effects on bone metabolism. However, there is a lack of information regarding the outcomes of regenerative approaches under the influence of chronic stress (CS). Enamel matrix derivative (EMD) has been used in periodontal regenerative procedures, resulting in improvement of clinical parameters. Thus, the aim of this histomorphometric study is to evaluate the healing of periodontal defects after treatment with EMD under the influence of CS in the rat model.

Methods: Twenty Wistar rats were randomly assigned to two groups; G1: CS (restraint stress for 12 hours/day) (n = 10), and G2: not exposed to CS (n = 10). Fifteen days after initiation of CS, fenestration defects were created at the buccal aspect of the first mandibular molar of all animals from both groups. After the surgeries, the defects of each animal were randomly assigned to two subgroups: non‐treated control and treated with EMD. The animals were euthanized 21 days later.

Results: G1 showed less bone density (BD) compared to G2. EMD provided an increased defect fill (DF) in G1 and higher BD and new cementum formation (NCF) in both groups. The number of tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase–positive osteoclasts was significantly higher in G1 when compared to G2 and in EMD‐treated sites of both groups.

Conclusions: CS may produce a significant detrimental effect on BD. EMD may provide greater DF compared to non‐treated control in the presence of CS and increased BD and NCF in the presence or absence of CS.
Disinfection capacity of seven constructed wetlands and ponds
Authors: Rühmland S. , Barjenbruch M.
Published: November 2013

The disinfection performance of three subsurface flow constructed wetlands (SSF), a free-water surface-constructed wetland and three ponds were investigated. They functioned as advanced treatment stage following treatment in a large municipal wastewater treatment plant equipped with nutrient removal. Despite low influent concentrations of 103.9/100 mL, Escherichia coli underwent a reduction of 1.7 (ditch) to 2.3 (sandy loamy SSF) orders of magnitude. After passing through these treatment plants E. coli was lowered sufficiently to within the permitted levels thus allowing it to be used in drip irrigation of fruits and vegetables. The change of seasons and hydraulic loading (in the range of 50–150 mm/day) as well as short-term overloadings did not impact the effluents' quality.
Correct manipulation method of MBR operating parameters in membrane fouling studies
Authors: Kayaalp N. , Kinaci C.
Published: November 2013

In this study, various parameter manipulation methods, variable sludge retention time (SRT)–variable mixed liquor suspended solids (MLSS) concentration, constant SRT–variable MLSS concentration and variable SRT–constant MLSS concentration, were compared based on the interrelationships among the following membrane bioreactor operating parameters: SRT, food to microorganisms (biomass) (F/M) ratio, MLSS concentration, volumetric organic loading rate (OLR) and membrane flux. Although it is the most applied method, concurrent change of SRT (or F/M ratio) and MLSS concentration is not a good parameter manipulation method because it causes unnecessary changes in many other parameters such as viscosity, oxygen transfer efficiency and oxygen utilization rate. The method of constant SRT–variable MLSS concentration has similar disadvantages to the method of variable SRT–variable MLSS concentration. The best alternative parameter manipulation method to study membrane fouling is the method of variable SRT–constant MLSS concentration because this method eliminates unnecessary changes in other parameters. In addition, while changing OLR or hydraulic retention time (HRT), contrary to the common application, membrane flux should be kept constant because any change in flux overrides changes in other parameters. Accordingly, required changes in OLR or HRT should be made by adjusting membrane area rather than membrane flux.
The Relationship Between Separation Logic and Implicit Dynamic Frames
Authors: Parkinson Matthew J. , Summers Alexander J.
Published: November 2013

Separation logic is a concise method for specifying programs that manipulate
dynamically allocated storage. Partially inspired by separation logic, Implicit
Dynamic Frames has recently been proposed, aiming at first-order tool support.
In this paper, we precisely connect the semantics of these two logics. We
define a logic whose syntax subsumes both that of a standard separation logic,
and that of implicit dynamic frames as sub-syntaxes. We define a total heap
semantics for our logic, and, for the separation logic subsyntax, prove it
equivalent the standard partial heaps model. In order to define a semantics
which works uniformly for both subsyntaxes, we define the novel concept of a
minimal state extension, which provides a different (but equivalent) definition
of the semantics of separation logic implication and magic wand connectives,
while also giving a suitable semantics for these connectives in implicit
dynamic frames. We show that our resulting semantics agrees with the existing
definition of weakest pre-condition semantics for the implicit dynamic frames
fragment. Finally, we show that we can encode the separation logic fragment of
our logic into the implicit dynamic frames fragment, preserving semantics. For
the connectives typically supported by tools, this shows that separation logic
can be faithfully encoded in a first-order automatic verification tool
(Chalice).
Transfer Function Synthesis without Quantifier Elimination
Authors: Brauer Jörg , King Andy
Published: November 2013

Traditionally, transfer functions have been designed manually for each
operation in a program, instruction by instruction. In such a setting, a
transfer function describes the semantics of a single instruction, detailing
how a given abstract input state is mapped to an abstract output state. The net
effect of a sequence of instructions, a basic block, can then be calculated by
composing the transfer functions of the constituent instructions. However,
precision can be improved by applying a single transfer function that captures
the semantics of the block as a whole. Since blocks are program-dependent, this
approach necessitates automation. There has thus been growing interest in
computing transfer functions automatically, most notably using techniques based
on quantifier elimination. Although conceptually elegant, quantifier
elimination inevitably induces a computational bottleneck, which limits the
applicability of these methods to small blocks. This paper contributes a method
for calculating transfer functions that finesses quantifier elimination
altogether, and can thus be seen as a response to this problem. The
practicality of the method is demonstrated by generating transfer functions for
input and output states that are described by linear template constraints,
which include intervals and octagons.
Weak Alternating Timed Automata
Authors: Parys Pawel , Walukiewicz Igor
Published: November 2013

Alternating timed automata on infinite words are considered. The main result
is a characterization of acceptance conditions for which the emptiness problem
for these automata is decidable. This result implies new decidability results
for fragments of timed temporal logics. It is also shown that, unlike for MITL,
the characterisation remains the same even if no punctual constraints are
allowed.
Forward Analysis for WSTS, Part II: Complete WSTS
Authors: Finkel Alain , Goubault-Larrecq Jean
Published: November 2013

We describe a simple, conceptual forward analysis procedure for
infinity-complete WSTS S. This computes the so-called clover of a state. When S
is the completion of a WSTS X, the clover in S is a finite description of the
downward closure of the reachability set. We show that such completions are
infinity-complete exactly when X is an omega-2-WSTS, a new robust class of
WSTS. We show that our procedure terminates in more cases than the generalized
Karp-Miller procedure on extensions of Petri nets and on lossy channel systems.
We characterize the WSTS where our procedure terminates as those that are
clover-flattable. Finally, we apply this to well-structured counter systems.
Full Abstraction for the Resource Lambda Calculus with Tests, through Taylor Expansion
Authors: Ehrhard Thomas , Bucciarelli Antonio , Carraro Alberto , Manzonetto Giulio
Published: November 2013

We study the semantics of a resource-sensitive extension of the lambda
calculus in a canonical reflexive object of a category of sets and relations, a
relational version of Scott's original model of the pure lambda calculus. This
calculus is related to Boudol's resource calculus and is derived from Ehrhard
and Regnier's differential extension of Linear Logic and of the lambda
calculus. We extend it with new constructions, to be understood as implementing
a very simple exception mechanism, and with a "must" parallel composition.
These new operations allow to associate a context of this calculus with any
point of the model and to prove full abstraction for the finite sub-calculus
where ordinary lambda calculus application is not allowed. The result is then
extended to the full calculus by means of a Taylor Expansion formula. As an
intermediate result we prove that the exception mechanism is not essential in
the finite sub-calculus.
Off-line test selection with test purposes for non-deterministic timed automata
Authors: Bertrand Nathalie , Jéron Thierry , Stainer Amélie , Krichen Moez
Published: November 2013

This article proposes novel off-line test generation techniques from
non-deterministic timed automata with inputs and outputs (TAIOs) in the formal
framework of the tioco conformance theory. In this context, a fi?rst problem is
the determinization of TAIOs, which is necessary to foresee next enabled
actions after an observable trace, but is in general impossible because not all
timed automata are determinizable. This problem is solved thanks to an
approximate determinization using a game approach. The algorithm performs an
io-abstraction which preserves the tioco conformance relation and thus
guarantees the soundness of generated test cases. A second problem is the
selection of test cases from a TAIO speci?fication. The selection here relies
on a precise description of timed behaviors to be tested which is carried out
by expressive test purposes modeled by a generalization of TAIOs. Finally, an
algorithm is described which generates test cases in the form of TAIOs equipped
with verdicts, using a symbolic co-reachability analysis guided by the test
purpose. Properties of test cases are then analyzed with respect to the
precision of the approximate determinization: when determinization is exact,
which is the case on known determinizable classes, in addition to soundness,
properties characterizing the adequacy of test cases verdicts are also
guaranteed.
Asymptotically almost all \lambda-terms are strongly normalizing
Authors: David René , Grygiel Katarzyna , Kozik Jakub , Raffalli Christophe , Theyssier Guillaume , Zaionc Marek
Published: November 2013

We present quantitative analysis of various (syntactic and behavioral)
properties of random \lambda-terms. Our main results are that asymptotically
all the terms are strongly normalizing and that any fixed closed term almost
never appears in a random term. Surprisingly, in combinatory logic (the
translation of the \lambda-calculus into combinators), the result is exactly
opposite. We show that almost all terms are not strongly normalizing. This is
due to the fact that any fixed combinator almost always appears in a random
combinator.
Tree-Automatic Well-Founded Trees
Authors: Huschenbett Martin , Kartzow Alexander , Liu Jiamou , Lohrey Markus
Published: November 2013

We investigate tree-automatic well-founded trees. Using Delhomme's
decomposition technique for tree-automatic structures, we show that the
(ordinal) rank of a tree-automatic well-founded tree is strictly below
omega^omega. Moreover, we make a step towards proving that the ranks of
tree-automatic well-founded partial orders are bounded by omega^omega^omega: we
prove this bound for what we call upwards linear partial orders. As an
application of our result, we show that the isomorphism problem for
tree-automatic well-founded trees is complete for level Delta^0_{omega^omega}
of the hyperarithmetical hierarchy with respect to Turing-reductions.
Infinite sequential Nash equilibrium
Authors: Roux Stephane Le
Published: November 2013

In game theory, the concept of Nash equilibrium reflects the collective
stability of some individual strategies chosen by selfish agents. The concept
pertains to different classes of games, e.g. the sequential games, where the
agents play in turn. Two existing results are relevant here: first, all finite
such games have a Nash equilibrium (w.r.t. some given preferences) iff all the
given preferences are acyclic; second, all infinite such games have a Nash
equilibrium, if they involve two agents who compete for victory and if the
actual plays making a given agent win (and the opponent lose) form a
quasi-Borel set. This article generalises these two results via a single
result. More generally, under the axiomatic of Zermelo-Fraenkel plus the axiom
of dependent choice (ZF+DC), it proves a transfer theorem for infinite
sequential games: if all two-agent win-lose games that are built using a
well-behaved class of sets have a Nash equilibrium, then all multi-agent
multi-outcome games that are built using the same well-behaved class of sets
have a Nash equilibrium, provided that the inverse relations of the agents'
preferences are strictly well-founded.
Total Representations
Authors: Selivanov Victor
Published: November 2013

Almost all representations considered in computable analysis are partial. We
provide arguments in favor of total representations (by elements of the Baire
space). Total representations make the well known analogy between numberings
and representations closer, unify some terminology, simplify some technical
details, suggest interesting open questions and new invariants of topological
spaces relevant to computable analysis.
Effective Characterizations of Simple Fragments of Temporal Logic Using Carton--Michel Automata
Authors: Sebastian Preugschat , Wilke Thomas
Published: November 2013

We present a framework for obtaining effective characterizations of simple
fragments of future temporal logic (LTL) with the natural numbers as time
domain. The framework is based on a form of strongly unambiguous automata, also
known as prophetic automata or complete unambiguous B\"uchi automata and
referred to as Carton-Michel automata in this paper. These automata enjoy
strong structural properties, in particular, they separate the "finitary
fraction" of a regular language of infinite words from its "infinitary
fraction" in a natural fashion. Within our framework, we provide
characterizations of several natural fragments of temporal logic, where, in
some cases, no effective characterization had been known previously, and give
lower and upper bounds for their computational complexity.
Abstract GSOS Rules and a Modular Treatment of Recursive Definitions
Authors: Milius Stefan , Moss Lawrence S , Schwencke Daniel
Published: November 2013

Terminal coalgebras for a functor serve as semantic domains for state-based
systems of various types. For example, behaviors of CCS processes, streams,
infinite trees, formal languages and non-well-founded sets form terminal
coalgebras. We present a uniform account of the semantics of recursive
definitions in terminal coalgebras by combining two ideas: (1) abstract GSOS
rules l specify additional algebraic operations on a terminal coalgebra; (2)
terminal coalgebras are also initial completely iterative algebras (cias). We
also show that an abstract GSOS rule leads to new extended cia structures on
the terminal coalgebra. Then we formalize recursive function definitions
involving given operations specified by l as recursive program schemes for l,
and we prove that unique solutions exist in the extended cias. From our results
it follows that the solutions of recursive (function) definitions in terminal
coalgebras may be used in subsequent recursive definitions which still have
unique solutions. We call this principle modularity. We illustrate our results
by the five concrete terminal coalgebras mentioned above, e.\,g., a finite
stream circuit defines a unique stream function.
Indexed Induction and Coinduction, Fibrationally
Authors: Ghani Neil , Johann Patricia , Fumex Clement
Published: November 2013

This paper extends the fibrational approach to induction and coinduction
pioneered by Hermida and Jacobs, and developed by the current authors, in two
key directions. First, we present a dual to the sound induction rule for
inductive types that we developed previously. That is, we present a sound
coinduction rule for any data type arising as the carrier of the final
coalgebra of a functor, thus relaxing Hermida and Jacobs' restriction to
polynomial functors. To achieve this we introduce the notion of a quotient
category with equality (QCE) that i) abstracts the standard notion of a
fibration of relations constructed from a given fibration; and ii) plays a role
in the theory of coinduction dual to that played by a comprehension category
with unit (CCU) in the theory of induction. Secondly, we show that inductive
and coinductive indexed types also admit sound induction and coinduction rules.
Indexed data types often arise as carriers of initial algebras and final
coalgebras of functors on slice categories, so we give sufficient conditions
under which we can construct, from a CCU (QCE) U:E \rightarrow B, a fibration
with base B/I that models indexing by I and is also a CCU (resp., QCE). We
finish the paper by considering the more general case of sound induction and
coinduction rules for indexed data types when the indexing is itself given by a
fibration.
Computability of Probability Distributions and Characteristic Functions
Authors: Mori Takakazu , Tsujii Yoshiki , Yasugi Mariko
Published: November 2013

As a part of our works on effective properties of probability distributions,
we deal with the corresponding characteristic functions. A sequence of
probability distributions is computable if and only if the corresponding
sequence of characteristic functions is computable. As for the onvergence
problem, the effectivized Glivenko's theorem holds. Effectivizations of
Bochner's theorem and de Moivre-Laplace central limit theorem are also proved.
Bridging Spaces: Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Promoting Positive Online Learning Experiences
Authors: Luyt Ilka
Published: November 2013

The globalization of online courses has transformed online learning into cross-cultural learning spaces. Students from non-English backgrounds are enrolling in credit-bearing courses and must adjust their thinking and writing to adapt to online practices. Online courses have as their aim the construction of knowledge, but students' perceptions of the learning environment and teacher interactions may influence the quality of educational experiences. Limited social presence, delayed feedback, lack of social cues, gender, and cultural dynamics contribute to the complex online social context. This article explores how the globalization of online learning creates unique challenges in online courses in terms of how dominant pedagogical structures based on Western educational practices reinforce ways of knowing, thinking, and writing. Online courses can transform learning through self-reflection, critical thinking, and consciousness-raising when culturally inclusive assignments are designed to link both instructors' and students' lived experiences to classroom learning.
What are the Best Approaches for Encouraging the Diffusion of a New Instructional Technology among Faculty Members in Higher Education? A Look at Eportfolio Use at Stony Brook University
Authors: Kardasz Sara M.
Published: November 2013

This article will summarize and explain the Diffusion of Innovations Theory put forth by Everett M. Rogers (2003). It will then share some of the other research that has been conducted relevant to diffusion, especially those researchers who have looked at the diffusion of instructional technology in higher education. It will consider criticisms of diffusion theory and alternate ideas that have been proposed. Rogers' (2003) Diffusion of Innovations Theory will then be considered in light of a specific example of instructional technology—the diffusion of ePortfolio use among faculty members at Stony Brook University. Consideration will be given to what has been done so far at Stony Brook University relevant to ePortfolio use, and how these steps compare to Diffusion of Innovations Theory. Recommendations will be made for moving forward with this technology and how to best encourage faculty members to try ePortfolios with their students. Finally, questions and gaps that might benefit from further research will be proposed.
Evaluating the Developmental Stages of Digital Educational Programs: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Ahn Jeehae , Greene Jennifer C.
Published: November 2013

The US Institute of Education Sciences (IES) currently provides a progressive series of education research grants that can support the development of innovative and creative educational programs, starting with exploratory grants, and progressing through developmental grants, efficacy trials, and finally, effectiveness studies. The IES further requires an evaluation component for each of these program developmental stages. In this article, the authors report on their experiences as evaluators of the developmental stage of a digital educational program called Scholar. Their reflections concentrate on what might be uniquely relevant to digital educational programs and to programs at the IES developmental stage. The key issues discussed include: (a) the challenge of assessing implementation fidelity and variability for a developmental project; (b) the challenge of assessing the program's reach to diverse program participants, especially those least well served in a given context; and (c) the challenges of securing sufficient and relevant implementation data, and of addressing pressures for gathering preliminary efficacy data. Interwoven through these discussions are snapshots of selected program participants' voices describing their own program experiences and views. The article concludes with the authors' reflections and commentary on future directions for evaluating comparable digital educational programs at the IES developmental stage.
Air mobility of people and airport growth potential in regions of Russia
Authors: Ryazanov Vlas
Published: November 2013

The article is about Russian regional airports, air mobility of people in regions of Russia, geographical distribution and results of econometric forecasting of these figures based on demographic and economic factors. Also some historical reviews, a description of the current situation and international comparisons are provided. The research revealed that people’s income and investment (both current and accumulated) are the main factors affecting air transportation growth in the studied airports. In the long-term perspective air traffic of Russian airports can triple by 2030, while Russian air mobility figures can exceed the present ones in Western Europe.
Regulation of NLRP3 activation by the ubiquitin system
Authors: López-Castejón Gloria
Published: November 2013

Inflammasomes, molecular complexes activated in response to pathogens or injury, are involved in the activation and release of the proinflammatory cytokine interleukin-1β. Inflammasome activation is tightly controlled and its dysregulation is associated with the development of inflammatory disorders. Ubiquitination, the conjugation of ubiquitin to a protein, is a post-translational protein modification essential for a wide variety of cellular processes. What was initially considered to be just a signal for protein degradation has become a major regulator for signalling pathways that is also involved in the regulation of NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Similarly to the inflammasome, dysregulation of ubiquitin signalling is associated with the initiation and development of pathologies including immune disorders such as arthritis or lupus erythematous, highlighting the relevance of these systems in the inflammatory processes. How the ubiquitin system regulates the NLRP3 inflammasome is discussed here
Oxyhumolite influence on adsorption and desorption of phosphate on blast furnace slag in the process of two-stage selective adsorption of Cu(II) and phosphate
Authors: Kohutová Hana , Kostura Bruno , Kukutschová Jana , Matýsek Dalibor
Published: November 2013

Two-stage adsorption was used for selective removal of Cu(II) and phosphate from aqueous solutions. In the first stage, adsorption of Cu(II) and phosphate on oxyhumolite (OX) was examined. The pseudo second-order equation was found to be the best fit for the kinetic adsorption data. The adsorption capacity of OX for Cu(II) and phosphate depends on the adsorption time, the equilibrium pH influences only the adsorption of Cu(II). The high adsorption efficiency (E = 95 %, pH 3.5, 0.5 g of the solid sorbent and 50 cm3 of the solution, c = 4 mmol dm−3) of OX for Cu(II) is caused by the presence of humic acids (HA). In the second stage, blast furnace slag (BFS) and activated blast furnace slag (BFS-A) were used to remove phosphates. The presence of OX in the first stage positively influences the adsorption efficiency of sorbents in the second stage due to the soluble humic compounds and residues of humic acids (HA) which support the precipitation of Ca-phosphates on BFS and the ions exchange reactions on BFS-A. Adsorption equilibrium of phosphate on both slags at 298 K can be well described by the Langmuir isotherm equation. Desorption of Cu(II) from OX was around 70 %. The presence of OX in the first stage also influences the desorption of phosphate bound in the second stage. Desorption efficiency of both slags for phosphate was about 60 %.
Selection of surfactants as main components of ecological wetting agent for effective extinguishing of forest and peat-bog fires
Authors: Rakowska Joanna , Prochaska Krystyna , Twardochleb Bożena , Rojewska Monika , Porycka Bożenna , Jaszkiewicz Anna
Published: November 2013

The results of research into obtaining an ecological wetting agent for wildfires are presented. First, measurements of the equilibrium and dynamic surface tension for anionic and non-ionic commercial surfactants and their binary mixtures were conducted. Next, the parameters of adsorption facilitating a quantitative description of the process in both binary systems as well as single-component solutions were estimated. In addition, the static and dynamic contact angles on model surfaces with different hydrophobicity were studied (glass, polyethylene, pressed peat). In a few mixed systems, a synergism in reducing the critical micelle concentration and/or a synergy of the ability to wetting model surfaces was identified. Next, research into the sorptivity and wettability of peat (loose and pressed) was conducted. It was found that non-ionic and anionic surfactants exhibit different abilities in respect of foaming and moistening of peat. From an analysis of the preliminary results, the surface-active components were selected to obtain a wetting agent composition. The wettability and adsorption characteristics and an evaluation of the foaming ability using solutions of the prepared compositions were tested. The effectiveness of the wetting composition thus obtained was confirmed in the laboratory and in field firefighting. The test results confirmed the better wettability and sorptivity on peat and the effectivity for combating wildfires, compared with some typical commercial products.
Synthesis of new eburnamine-type alkaloid via direct hydroalkoxylation
Authors: Liu Xiong , Yang Dong-Liang , Liu Jia-Jia , Zhou Jing , Zhao Nana
Published: November 2013

This study concerns the preparation of a new eburnamine-type alkaloid, methyl (3α,14β,15β,16α)-17,18-didehydro-14,15-dihydroeburnamine-15-methoxy-14-carboxylate (VIII). This alkaloid was prepared from (+)-17,18-dehydroapovincamine (V) using Lewis acid and/or ion exchange resin as catalyst. The hydroalkoxylation reaction of V with methanol was investigated in terms of catalyst, solvent, temperature, and time of reaction. A one-pot method for synthetising this alkaloid was established. The optimal conditions for the reaction are discussed.
Effects of overseas adaption on job satisfaction of expatriates in textile industry
Authors: Chien-Hsiung Lin , Chich-Jen Shieh
Published: November 2013

Opening a factory overseas requires a large amount of capitals and technical experiences, and the number of
native cadres expatriated overseas is also considerable. The relationships between Overseas Adaption and Job
Satisfaction of expatriates are worth research and exploration. This study, therefore, aims to discuss the effects of
Overseas Adaption on Job Satisfaction of expatriates in textile industry. The questionnaires for expatriates of Far
Eastern New Century are distributed and collected through mails. With convenience sampling, a total of 400 copies
are distributed and 263 valid ones are retrieved, with the retrieval rate of 66%. Based on the statistical analyses
with SPSS, the sample data are further proceeded with factor analysis, reliability analysis, regression analysis,
and analysis of variance. The research findings show the significantly positive correlations between (1) Overseas
Adaption and Needs for Survival, (2) Overseas Adaption and Needs for Relatedness, and (3) Overseas Adaption
and Needs for Growth; and (4) the correlations between Overseas Adaption and Job Satisfaction show remarkable
differences in personal attributes.
In-Vehicle Stopping Decision Advisory System for Drivers Approaching a Traffic Signal
Authors: Bar-Gera Hillel , Oron-Gilad Tal , Musicant Oren
Published: November 2013

All drivers are familiar with the basic traffic signal dilemma: whether to enter the intersection or to stop when they see the green phase ending. Wrong decisions to cross may lead to red light running (RLR) violations and to angle crashes; unnecessary stop decisions lead to excess queue and frustration and may lead to rear-end crashes. This study examined a conceptual in-vehicle system designed to facilitate the decision making of drivers approaching a signal. According to the distance from the traffic light and the remaining time for the green phase, the system provided an auditory and visual indication to drivers if they needed to stop. A driving simulator experiment was conducted with 20 participants; each participant drove through 28 interurban traffic lights, 14 with and 14 without the evaluated system. Results showed a 96% reduction in RLR violations and a 70% reduction in the behavioral dilemma zone range. Change in signal crossing decision probability was modest (6% reduction) and not statistically significant. An exploratory evaluation suggested that driver hesitation during the amber light was substantially reduced and that intersection clearing time was shorter and much more predictable. If similar effects occur in reality, fewer angle crashes and fewer rear-end crashes can be expected.
Analysis of Drivers’ Stop-or-Run Behavior at Signalized Intersections with High-Resolution Traffic and Signal Event Data
Authors: Wu Xinkai , Vall Natanael D. , Liu Henry X. , Cheng Wen , Jia Xudong
Published: November 2013

Intersection safety is a national priority, and a driver's stop-or-run decision at signalized intersections is an important factor that can lead to red light running (RLR) and cause intersection-related accidents. This paper investigated this important issue by using high-resolution traffic and signal event data collected from loop detectors. First, a simple method was developed to identify first-to-stop, yellow light running, and RLR cases by using information from stop bar detectors located right behind the stop line and advance detectors located several hundred feet upstream from the stop line. Traffic data collected from advance detectors (including occupancy time and time gap), signal information collected from the signal system (including used yellow time and time left to yellow start), information from three preceding vehicles, and information from vehicles on adjacent lanes were all applied to identify the factors that significantly affect drivers’ decision making. A binary logistical regression method was applied to analyze the significance of all these factors. From the investigation results, it was found that occupancy time, time gap, used yellow time, time left to yellow start, time gap between first two preceding vehicles, whether the nearest preceding vehicle runs through the intersection during yellow, and whether there is a vehicle passing through the intersection on the adjacent lane showed a significant effect on drivers’ decisions. A prediction model, which predicted whether a driver stopped or ran through the intersection, was also developed with the information collected by advance detectors. The testing experiment showed that the model's accuracy was as high as 87%.
Evaluation of Rejuvenator's Effectiveness with Conventional Mix Testing for 100% Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement Mixtures
Authors: Zaumanis Martins , Mallick Rajib B. , Frank Robert
Published: November 2013

This paper presents research evaluating the effectiveness of rejuvenators for production of very high (40% to 100%) reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) content mixtures. Nine differently originated softening agents were tested; these included plant oils, waste-derived oils, engineered products, and traditional and nontraditional refinery base oils. Two different dosages of the agents were added to binder extracted from RAP to evaluate their softening potential through testing of kinematic viscosity and penetration at two different temperatures. At 25°C the softening efficiency varied by a factor of 12 between the most and least effective rejuvenators. Consistency results at different temperatures were used to express temperature susceptibility by means of penetration index (PI), penetration–viscosity number, and bitumen test data chart of the softened binders. The PI results varied measurably depending on the rejuvenator and supported the low-temperature mixture test results, showing that PI may be a good and simple measure of rejuvenation effectiveness. Low-temperature mixture embrittlement was evaluated at 210°C through determination of the indirect tensile strength and creep compliance for rejuvenated 100% RAP mixture samples. It can be concluded that four of the nine tested rejuvenators reduced extracted binder consistency to the necessary level and reduced susceptibility of RAP mixtures to low-temperature embrittlement. Of the four, two engineered products tested had notably different performance but neither was superior to similar generic oils.