bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Northern quahog (Mercenaria mercenaria) larval transport and settlement modeled for a temperate estuary
Authors: McManus M. Conor , Ullman David S. , Rutherford Scott D. , Kincaid Christopher
Published: August 2019

Evaluating marine species' population connectivity through larval transport can provide insight into the reliance of geographically separated areas on each other's recruitment and metapopulation resiliency. Using larval transport modeling, we assessed the significance of different regions in supporting the Narragansett Bay Northern quahog (Mercenaria mercenaria) population. We aimed to identify how areas with varying adult quahog biomass and implemented management strategies (based on water quality and commercial harvest) contribute to the overall stock's larval supply. Larval trajectories were modeled by integrating the currents from a realistic physical circulation model with quahog larval behavior applied to particles during spawning periods of 2006, 2007, and 2014. Modeled larval transport suggested that settlement occurs throughout Narragansett Bay, with 35% of spawned larvae swept out of the Bay to the coastal ocean and leaving the stock bounds. Quahogs in areas where shellfishing is prohibited due to water quality concerns produce a significant portion of the Bay's spawned larvae, theoretically serving as de facto spawning sanctuaries. The Providence River, located at the head of the Bay with high mature quahog biomass and currently closed to fishing due to water quality, is a significant source of quahog larvae for the stock. Simulated larval quahog settlement locations corresponded predominantly to sandy bottoms, with less spatial correspondence to commercial fisheries landings. Our work provides insight into the population connectivity of quahogs in Narragansett Bay and highlights the importance of considering oceanography and species' life history characteristics when constructing effective fisheries management plans.
Ebullition of oxygen from seagrasses under supersaturated conditions
Authors: Long Matthew H. , Sutherland Kevin , Wankel Scott D. , Burdige David J. , Zimmerman Richard C.
Published: August 2019

Gas ebullition from aquatic systems to the atmosphere represents a potentially important fraction of primary production that goes unquantified by measurements of dissolved gas concentrations. Although gas ebullition from photosynthetic surfaces has often been observed, it is rarely quantified. The resulting underestimation of photosynthetic activity may significantly bias the determination of ecosystem trophic status and estimated rates of biogeochemical cycling from in situ measures of dissolved oxygen. Here, we quantified gas ebullition rates in Zostera marina meadows in Virginia, U.S.A. using simple funnel traps and analyzed the oxygen concentration and isotopic composition of the captured gas. Maximum hourly rates of oxygen ebullition (3.0 mmol oxygen m−2 h−1) were observed during the coincidence of high irradiance and low tides, particularly in the afternoon when oxygen and temperature maxima occurred. The daily ebullition fluxes (up to 11 mmol oxygen m−2 d−1) were roughly equivalent to net primary production rates determined from dissolved oxygen measurements indicating that bubble ebullition can represent a major component of primary production that is not commonly included in ecosystem‐scale estimates. Oxygen content comprised 20–40% of the captured bubble gas volume and correlated negatively with its δ18O values, consistent with a predominance of mixing between the higher δ18O of atmospheric oxygen in equilibrium with seawater and the lower δ18O of oxygen derived from photosynthesis. Thus, future studies interested in the metabolism of highly productive, shallow water ecosystems, and particularly those measuring in situ oxygen flux, should not ignore the bubble formation and ebullition processes described here.
Olive‐Oil‐Derived Polyphenols Effectively Attenuate Inflammatory Responses of Human Keratinocytes by Interfering with the NF‐κB Pathway
Authors: Aparicio‐Soto Marina , Redhu Davender , Sánchez‐Hidalgo Marina , Fernández‐Bolaños José G. , Alarcón‐de‐la‐Lastra Catalina , Worm Margitta , Babina Magda
Published: August 2019

Scope

Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is rich in phenolic compounds, including hydroxytyrosol (HTy) and hydroxytyrosyl acetate (HTy‐Ac), which have presented multiple beneficial properties. Their impact on inflammatory responses in human keratinocytes and modes of action have not been addressed yet.

Methods and results

Primary human keratinocytes are pretreated with HTy‐Ac or HTy for 30 min and stimulated with IL‐1β or Toll‐like receptor 3 ligand (TLR3‐l). Thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP), measured by ELISA, is attenuated by both polyphenols in a dose‐dependent manner. The expression of several inflammation‐related genes, including distinct TSLP isoforms and IL‐8, are assessed by quantitative RT‐PCR and likewise inhibited by HTy‐Ac/HTy. Mechanistically, EVOO phenols counteracts IκB degradation and translocation of NF‐κB to the nucleus, a transcription factor of essential significance to TSLP and IL‐8 transcriptional activity; this is evidenced by immunoblotting. Accordingly, NF‐κB recruitment to critical binding sites in the TSLP and IL‐8 promoter is impeded in the presence of HTy‐Ac/HTy, as demonstrated by chromatin immunoprecipitation. Promoter reporter assays finally reveal that the neutralizing effect on NF‐κB induction has functional consequences, resulting in reduced NF‐κB‐directed transcription.

Conclusion

EVOO phenols afford protection from inflammation in human keratinocytes by interference with the NF‐κB pathway.
Potential clinical impact of multiparametric quantitative MR spectroscopy in neurological disorders: A review and analysis
Authors: Kirov Ivan I. , Tal Assaf
Published: August 2019

Purpose

Unlike conventional MR spectroscopy (MRS), which only measures metabolite concentrations, multiparametric MRS also quantifies their longitudinal (T1) and transverse (T2) relaxation times, as well as the radiofrequency transmitter inhomogeneity (B1+). To test whether knowledge of these additional parameters can improve the clinical utility of brain MRS, we compare the conventional and multiparametric approaches in terms of expected classification accuracy in differentiating controls from patients with neurological disorders.

Theory and Methods

A literature review was conducted to compile metabolic concentrations and relaxation times in a wide range of neuropathologies and regions of interest. Simulations were performed to construct receiver operating characteristic curves and compute the associated areas (area under the curve) to examine the sensitivity and specificity of MRS for detecting each pathology in each region. Classification accuracy was assessed using metabolite concentrations corrected using population‐averages for T1, T2, and B1+ (conventional MRS); using metabolite concentrations corrected using per‐subject values (multiparametric MRS); and using an optimal linear multiparametric estimator comprised of the metabolites' concentrations and relaxation constants (multiparametric MRS). Additional simulations were conducted to find the minimal intra‐subject precision needed for each parameter.

Results

Compared with conventional MRS, multiparametric approaches yielded area under the curve improvements for almost all neuropathologies and regions of interest. The median area under the curve increased by 0.14 over the entire dataset, and by 0.24 over the 10 instances with the largest individual increases.

Conclusions

Multiparametric MRS can substantially improve the clinical utility of MRS in diagnosing and assessing brain pathology, motivating the design and use of novel multiparametric sequences.
Modelling of internal erosion based on mixture theory: General framework and a case study of soil suffusion
Authors: Bui Tuan‐Anh , Gelet Rachel , Marot Didier
Published: August 2019

A general thermo‐hydro‐mechanical framework for the modelling of internal erosion is proposed based on the theory of mixtures applied to two‐phase porous media. The erodible soil is partitioned in two phases: one solid phase and one fluid phase. The solid phase is composed of nonerodible grains and erodible particles. The fluid phase is composed of water and fluidized particles. Within the fluid phase, species diffuse. Across phases, species transfer. The modelling of internal erosion is contributed directly by mass transfer from the solid phase towards the fluid phase. The constitutive relations governing the thermomechanical behaviour, generalised diffusion, and transfer are structured by the dissipation inequality.

The particular case of soil suffusion is investigated with a focus on constitutive laws. A new constitutive law for suffusion is constructed based on thermodynamic conditions and experimental investigations. This erosion law is linearly related to the power of seepage flow and to the erosion resistance index. Owing to its simplicity, this law tackles the overall trend of the suffusion process and permits the formulation of an analytical solution. This new model is then applied to simulate laboratory experiments, by both analytical and numerical methods. The comparison shows that the newly developed model, which is theoretically consistent, can reproduce correctly the overall trend of the cumulated eroded mass when the permeability evolution is small. In addition, the results are provided for four different materials, two different specimen sizes, and various hydraulic loading paths to demonstrate the applicability of the new proposed law.
Euler‐Lagrange equation: Case of energy‐optimal approach for induction machine
Authors: Abdelati Riadh , Mimouni M. Faouzi
Published: August 2019

The optimal control problem that hinges on the Euler‐Lagrange equation can be applied to electric‐machine drives and the necessary and sufficient optimality conditions around the system control and the control variables can be designed in a congruent way. In this paper, a variational problem is proposed to minimize energy consumption by an Induction Motor (IM) under a Rotor Field–Oriented Vector Drive (RFOVD) during torque and speed transients. The optimal stimulus is to take into account real applications, like perturbed load torques, and an abrupt speed input. The approach consists of an off‐line algorithm that minimizes a cost functional or integral of the weighted sum of IM energy/power under the dynamic stress of the rotor flux and of rotation speed. The variational problem leads to a nonlinear differential equation known as the Euler‐Lagrange equation. A new method is suggested to run out an analytical solution and results in a time‐varying rotor flux considered as the optimal state variable of the dynamic IM model that saves energy of the IM drive under RFOVD. This solution provides loss‐minimization in steady‐state operations at an infinite horizon and performs adaptive suboptimal minimum‐energy consumption for torque transients. Simulation and experimental results are fully performed on 1.5‐kW laboratory IM, and prove the validity of the proposed method for both steady‐state and transient‐IM drive operations.
Structural analysis of ligand‐bound states of the Salmonella type III secretion system ATPase InvC
Authors: Bernal Ivonne , Römermann Jonas , Flacht Lara , Lunelli Michele , Uetrecht Charlotte , Kolbe Michael
Published: August 2019

Translocation of virulence effector proteins through the type III secretion system (T3SS) is essential for the virulence of many medically relevant Gram‐negative bacteria. The T3SS ATPases are conserved components that specifically recognize chaperone–effector complexes and energize effector secretion through the system. It is thought that functional T3SS ATPases assemble into a cylindrical structure maintained by their N‐terminal domains. Using size‐exclusion chromatography coupled to multi‐angle light scattering and native mass spectrometry, we show that in the absence of the N‐terminal oligomerization domain the Salmonella T3SS ATPase InvC can form monomers and dimers in solution. We also present for the first time a 2.05 å resolution crystal structure of InvC lacking the oligomerization domain (InvCΔ79) and map the amino acids suggested for ATPase intersubunit interaction, binding to other T3SS proteins and chaperone–effector recognition. Furthermore, we validate the InvC ATP‐binding site by co‐crystallization of InvCΔ79 with ATPγS (2.65 å) and ADP (2.80 å). Upon ATP‐analogue recognition, these structures reveal remodeling of the ATP‐binding site and conformational changes of two loops located outside of the catalytic site. Both loops face the central pore of the predicted InvC cylinder and are essential for the function of the T3SS ATPase. Our results present a fine functional and structural correlation of InvC and provide further details of the homo‐oligomerization process and ATP‐dependent conformational changes underlying the T3SS ATPase activity.
An autonomous strawberry‐harvesting robot: Design, development, integration, and field evaluation
Authors: Xiong Ya , Ge Yuanyue , Grimstad Lars , From Pål J.
Published: August 2019

This paper presents an autonomous robot capable of picking strawberries continuously in polytunnels. Robotic harvesting in cluttered and unstructured environment remains a challenge. A novel obstacle‐separation algorithm was proposed to enable the harvesting system to pick strawberries that are located in clusters. The algorithm uses the gripper to push aside surrounding leaves, strawberries, and other obstacles. We present the theoretical method to generate pushing paths based on the surrounding obstacles. In addition to manipulation, an improved vision system is more resilient to lighting variations, which was developed based on the modeling of color against light intensity. Further, a low‐cost dual‐arm system was developed with an optimized harvesting sequence that increases its efficiency and minimizes the risk of collision. Improvements were also made to the existing gripper to enable the robot to pick directly into a market punnet, thereby eliminating the need for repacking. During tests on a strawberry farm, the robots first‐attempt success rate for picking partially surrounded or isolated strawberries ranged from 50% to 97.1%, depending on the growth situations. Upon an additional attempt, the pick success rate increased to a range of 75–100%. In the field tests, the system was not able to pick a target that was entirely surrounded by obstacles. This failure was attributed to limitations in the vision system as well as insufficient dexterity in the grippers. However, the picking speed improved upon previous systems, taking just 6.1 s for manipulation operation in the one‐arm mode and 4.6 s in the two‐arm mode.
Review of Carbon, Nitrogen, and Phosphorus Biogeochemistry
Authors: SHARP JONATHAN H.
Published: August 2019

The general subject of organic matter in the sea is treated here in a somewhat different fashion than traditionally done in geochemistry. The title of carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus biogeochemistry is intended to emphasize that coverage is of nitrogen and phosphorus nutrients as well as of dissolved organic carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus and particulate carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus. The measurement and processing of dissolved organic matter are discussed first, followed by sections on the “microbial loop”, sediment traps, sediment processes, and “new production”. Then, nutrient analyses and fluxes, nitrogen cycling and atmospheric input, nutrient limitation, and eutrophication are addressed. The last area of discussion is iron limitation and sequestering of carbon in the Antarctic. The last four years have seen extensive research in the general subject area of this review and considerable progress in our understanding of cycling of these primary bio‐elements.
The First Products of Aniline Oxidation – SERS Spectroelectrochemistry
Authors: Morávková Zuzana , Dmitrieva Evgenia
Published: August 2019

There are different opinions on the first products of aniline oxidation throughout the scientific community. While electrochemists basically accept only linear oligomers with repeating units joint in para positions, chemists have proposed formation of various branched and polycyclic oligomers. It was also suggested that one of these structures, N‐phenyl‐phenazinium cation, is responsible for the adherence of polyaniline films to substrates. In this work, a surface enhanced Raman spectroscopic and spectroelectrochemical analysis of the species adsorbed onto gold surface in aniline‐containing solution at pH 1 and 5 is presented. The influence of the pH value on the oligomer structure is declared. The results are discussed in the context of linear and branched/phenazine‐like aniline oligomers.
An Asymptotically Exact Analytical Solution for the Isotherm Based on the Gaussian Distribution on Adsorption Heat
Authors: Vigdorowitsch Michael , Tsygankova Liudmila , Uryadnikova Marina N.
Published: August 2019

Given a surface energetic heterogeneity as the normal distribution function, the approximate analytical solution has been obtained that resembles the true isotherm at both low‐ and high‐pressure limits as well as reproduces its intermediate, so‐called centrosymmetric, point. An asymptotic complement property that introduces a continuous mapping of the isotherm onto itself has been formulated, proved and shown to be applicable to a whole class of surfaces. The limiting or degenerative cases on energetically homogeneous (the Langmuir case), evenly heterogeneous (the Temkin case) and quasi‐passive surface have been considered. The role of the heterogeneity parameters of the overall Gauss isotherm has been studied. An algorithm to determine the adsorption heat characteristics of the surface has been built. Hints for future use of the asymptotic complement property have been given.
Study on the Macro‐Kinetics of NO Advanced Oxidation Removal by Decomposition of Gas‐Phase H2O2 over γ‐Fe2O3@Fe3O4
Authors: Yang Siyuan , Xiong Yuanquan , He Shanshan
Published: August 2019

Mixed maghemite–magnetite (γ‐Fe2O3@Fe3O4) has been used as catalyst for NO advanced oxidation removal under various conditions such as the reaction temperature, the feeding rate of H2O2 and the SO2 concentration in this study. The result of macro‐kinetics experiments indicate that the reaction order of NO from simulated flue gas is 1.06(CU) and 1.11(HM), respectively. The obtained first‐order activation energy for the NO removal in the presence of CU and HM were Ea=49.87KJ/mol and Ea=30.06KJ/mol, respectively. The XPS results prove that surface hydroxyl groups play an important role in the formation of •OH.
Acridine‐Thiosemicarbazones‐Stabilized Silver Nanoparticles as a Selective Sensor for Copper(II)‐Ion in Tap Water
Authors: Ali Imdad , Isaac Ibanga Okon , Ahmed Farid , Aslam Fariha , Ali Shujaat , Imran Muhammad , Alharthy Rima D. , Shah Muhammad Raza , Malik Muhammad Imran , Hameed Abdul
Published: August 2019

Environmental pollution due to heavy metals ions is becoming a serious threat to human health. In this study, we have synthesized acridine‐thiosemicarbazones‐stabilized silver nanoparticles (AT‐AgNPs) to explore their cation sensing ability and selectivity for detection copper(II)‐ion in aqueous system. Newly synthesized nanoparticle were characterized using various spectroscopic techniques such as ultraviolet–visible, Fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR), atomic force microscopy (AFM) and Zetasizer. The average size of the highly robust AT‐AgNPs was found to be in the range of 70–90 nm. The photophysical potential of AT‐AgNPs was explored using ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy. Addition of copper(II)‐ion induce significant quenching in the absorption intensity of AT‐AgNPs, whereas all other tested metals did not produce any detectable change in the UV‐visible spectrum. Further, the limit of detection (LOD) was determined by employing standard deviation method which is found to be 1 μM with a R2 equal to 0.9931. The synthesized AT‐AgNPs were highly selective for copper(II)‐ion in presence of other interferents like salts, and other metal ions. Moreover, the AT‐AgNPs were effectively and efficiently employed for the same purpose in tap water.
Selective Adsorption of p‐Cresol from a Mixture of m‐Cresol and p‐Cresol over ZSM‐5 with Controlled Micro‐ and Mesoporosity
Authors: Lv Jianhua , Xu Zeqiang , Guo Yong , Wang Hefang , Liu Jidong
Published: August 2019

Ammonium hexafluorosilicate (AHFS) 1 at different concentrations was utilized as a mesopore‐generating agent to synthesize hierarchical ZSM‐5 (Si‐ZSM‐5) adsorbents; K+‐exchanged hierarchical ZSM‐5 (K−Si‐ZSM‐5) was successfully prepared by an impregnation method. The properties of adsorbents were characterized using XRD, XRF, N2 adsorption‐desorption and NH3‐TPD. The selectivity separation of p‐cresol 2 and m‐cresol 3 on adsorbents were experimentally investigated using a liquid breakthrough method. The enhanced adsorption capacity of Si‐ZSM‐5 is attributed to the creation of mesopores, which probably led to higher adsorption diffusion. The introduction of K+ into hierarchical ZSM‐5 diminishes the acid sites, strengthens adsorption sites, and reduces the mesopore diameter. Thus, K−Si‐ZSM‐5 possessed higher separation efficiency compared with the parent HZSM‐5. The concentration of AHFS had significant impact on adsorption capacity and the separation efficiency of adsorbents, and AHFS at a concentration of 0.5 M exhibited the optimal adsorption performance. Furthermore, the adsorbent is easy to prepare under laboratory conditions, and through a large scaled‐up breakthrough experiment, it is suitable for practical industrial applications. Also, we propose separation mechanisms of m‐cresol 3 and p‐cresol 2, and these are mainly controlled by shape selection and adsorbent‐adsorbent interactions.
AurOrGlass: ORMOSIL Sol‐Gel Glasses Functionalized with Gold Nanoparticles for Advanced Optical Applications
Authors: Ciriminna Rosaria , Fidalgo Alexandra , Ilharco Laura M. , Pagliaro Mario
Published: August 2019

Dubbed AurOrGlass in this study for the first time, organically modified sol‐gel glasses functionalized with Au nanostructures and atomic clusters are endowed with exceptional optical properties. The behaviour of these plasmons is governed by key nanochemistry and physical principles addressed herein prior to their widespread adoption in several technological domains.
One‐Pot Sequential Synthesis of 2‐Amino‐4, 6‐Diaryl Pyrimidines Involving SO3H‐Functionalized Piperazinium‐Based Dicationic Ionic Liquids as Homogeneous Catalysts
Authors: Saikia Susmita , Borah Ruli
Published: August 2019

A new series of –SO3H functionalized dicationic ionic liquids based on N, N, N′, N′ ‐ tetrasulfopiperazinium cation [TSPi]+ and various anions [X]− (X=Cl, CF3SO3, TsO) is synthesized and characterized by 1H NMR, 13C NMR, FTIR, elemental analysis and thermogravimetric studies. Brönsted acidity of these ionic liquids is determined by Hammett plot using UV‐Visible absorbance spectra. Further they are examined as acidic catalyst for one‐pot preparation of 2‐amino‐4, 6‐diaryl pyrimidines through Biginelli‐like reaction of acetophenone, aromatic aldehyde and urea followed by condensation‐aromatization reaction with phenylhydrazine under solvent‐free grinding method. The most acidic [TSPi][CF3SO3]2 catalyst offers good to satisfactory yield within 15–25 min reaction time. Easy recyclability, simple and mild reaction conditions represent the advantages of this method.
Metal‐Free I2‐Catalyzed Sulfenylation of Dihydropyrans: Synthesis of Vinyl Sulfides
Authors: Safari Ensieh , Nowrouzi Najmeh , Abbasi Mohammad , Hasaninejad Alireza
Published: August 2019

I2‐catalyzed C(sp2)–H bond sulfenylation have been achieved from the reaction of thiols or disulfides with dihydropyrans under metal‐free conditions. This catalytic system was also used for thiol‐free achievement of sulfenylated dihydropyrans from aryl halides in the presence of CuI and potassium isopropyl xanthate as an effective source of sulfur.
New dynamic‐inflow engineering models based on linear and nonlinear actuator disc vortex models
Authors: Yu Wei , Tavernier Delphine , Ferreira Carlos , van Kuik Gijs A. M. , Schepers Gerard
Published: August 2019

Two new engineering models are presented for the aerodynamic induction of a wind turbine under dynamic thrust. The models are developed using the differential form of Duhamel integrals of indicial responses of actuator disc type vortex models. The time constants of the indicial functions are obtained by the indicial responses of a linear and a nonlinear actuator disc model. The new dynamic‐inflow engineering models are verified against the results of a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) model and compared against the dynamic‐inflow engineering models of Pitt‐Peters, Øye, and Energy Research Center of the Netherlands (ECN), for several load cases. Comparisons of all models show that two time constants are necessary to predict the dynamic induction. The amplitude and phase delay of the velocity distribution shows a strong radial dependency. Verifying the models against results from the CFD model shows that the model based on the linear actuator disc vortex model predicts a similar performance as the Øye model. The model based on the nonlinear actuator disc vortex model predicts the dynamic induction better than the other models concerning both phase delay and amplitude, especially at high load.
Prophylactic Negative Pressure Wound Therapy in Closed Abdominal Incisions: A Meta‐analysis of Randomised Controlled Trials
Authors: Wells Cameron I. , Ratnayake Chathura B. B. , Perrin Jenni , Pandanaboyana Sanjay
Published: August 2019

Introduction

Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) may prevent subcutaneous fluid accumulation in a closed wound and subsequently reduce surgical site infections (SSI). This meta‐analysis aimed to determine the effect of prophylactic NPWT on SSI incidence following abdominal surgery.

Methods

A systematic search of MEDLINE and EMBASE databases was performed using PRISMA methodology. All randomised trials reporting the use of NPWT in closed abdominal incisions were included, regardless of the type of operation. The primary outcome measure was the incidence of SSI, stratified by superficial and deep and organ/space infections. Secondary outcomes were wound dehiscence and length of hospital stay.

Results

Ten randomised trials met the inclusion criteria (five Caesarean, five midline laparotomy). The use of NPWT reduced overall SSI (11.6% vs. 16.7%, RR 0.67, 95% CI 0.48–0.95, p = 0.02). The rate of superficial SSI rate was also reduced (6.3% vs. 11.3%, RR 0.57, 95% CI 0.35–0.94, p = 0.03). There was no effect on deep or organ/space SSI (3.2% vs. 4.2%, RR 0.77, 95% CI 0.51–1.18, p = 0.23), wound dehiscence (9.7% vs. 10.9%, RR 0.92, 95% CI 0.69–1.21, p = 0.54), or length of hospital stay (MD 0.06 days, 95% CI–0.11 to 0.23, p = 0.51).

Conclusions

Prophylactic use of NPWT may reduce the incidence of superficial SSI in closed abdominal incisions but has no effect on deep or organ space SSI.
Nano-fluid viscosity screening and study of in situ foam pressure buildup at high-temperature high-pressure conditions
Authors: Hamza Mohammed Falalu , Soleimani Hassan , Merican Zulkifli Merican Aljunid , Sinnathambi Chandra Mohan , Stephen Karl Dunbar , Ahmad Abdelazeem Abbas
Published: August 2019

In this study, an industrial-based surfactant known as MFomax surfactant has been modified with unfunctionalized and silane-functionalized silica nanoparticles (NPs) to select the high viscous nano-fluid (NF) for generation of in situ foam to assess the differential pressure buildup (∆p) behavior in the porous media. Different weight concentrations of NPs and MFomax from 0.1 to 0.5% were studied using Design Expert Software to generate full matrix design of NF formulations. The viscosity data were analyzed with the aid of response surface analytical tool to investigate the response of NPs loading on the NF viscosity for optimization. The microstructural properties of the NFs were characterized using spectroscopic equipment. Subsequently, the high viscous NF was selected to generate in situ foam in comparison with the precursor MFomax foam for ∆p buildup assessment at 110 °C and 2023 psi in the native reservoir core. Results have shown that both the silica NPs could significantly improve the MFomax viscosity; however, the silane-functionalized silica NPs have more effect to improve the viscosity and other microstructural properties than the unfunctionalized NPs, and thus, they were selected for further experimental studies. The coreflood ∆p buildup assessment shows that NF foam built more ∆p having average value of 46 psi against 25 psi observed in the case of the precursor MFomax foam. Thus, this study demonstrates that functionalized silica NPs could improve the MFomax viscosity and eventually generates high ∆p buildup at high-temperature high-pressure conditions.
Experimental study of the effects of acid microemulsion flooding to enhancement of oil recovery in carbonate reservoirs
Authors: de Castro Dantas Tereza Neuma , de Oliveira Andrey Costa , de Souza Tamyris Thaise Costa , dos Santos Lucas Cláudio Regis , de Andrade Araújo Edson , Aum Pedro Tupã Pandava
Published: August 2019

Enhanced oil recovery (EOR) techniques play an essential role in the maintenance of petroleum production worldwide. These techniques are receiving special attention due to the continuous decline in availability of oil resources. The study of surfactants and correlated systems have been considered due to their capacity to alter the wettability and interfacial proprieties, consequently reducing residual oil saturation and increasing oil production. In this context, heterogeneity becomes one of the main challenges to overcome, for it makes the fluid flow preferably thought the highest permeability regions, affecting sweep efficiency. It is also known that acids react with carbonate formations promoting matrix dissolution. However, few works in the literature report the use of reactive fluids in EOR. Therefore, this work analyzes the effects of reactive acid flow on porous carbonate media and its impact on advanced oil recovery operations. It presents an experimental study of the effects of acid microemulsion flooding in the enhancement of oil recovery in carbonate reservoirs. Acid microemulsions studied were characterized by surface tension, droplet diameter, viscosity, and corrosiveness. Flooding experiments demonstrated that the reactive flow of acid microemulsions in porous media increases oil recovery, achieving up to 30% additional recovery of the total oil in place. However, by increasing the reactivity of the systems, severe dissolution of the porous matrix can occur. The results presented open a new path on the use of low reactive fluids in enhanced oil recovery.
Testosterone Management in Aging Males: Surveying Clinical Practices of Urologists and Endocrinologists in Israel
Authors: Ishay Avraham , Tzemah Sharon , Nitzan Ronit , Jehassi Ayellet , Cohen Michael
Published: August 2019

Introduction

Although there is increased public concern about low testosterone levels in aging men, the diagnosis and treatment of hypogonadism in this growing population is controversial.

Aim

To document the current practices of endocrinologists and urologists in the management of older men with low testosterone in Israel.

Methods

A 20-question survey of the management of hypogonadism was sent to members of the Israel Endocrine Society and the Israeli Urology Association

Main Outcome Measures

Participants were interviewed about their practice in diagnostic workup, prescription habits and monitoring of testosterone therapy.

Results

The response rate was low (range 8–12%). Significant differences were found between members of the 2 professional associations. Overall, endocrinologists take a more conservative approach to the diagnosis and initial workup, modes of treatment, and to concerns about the safety of testosterone therapy. A divergence from the published clinical guidelines was also noted in some aspects of the clinical practices in both groups.

Clinical Implications

Significant variances in the diagnosis and treatment approach of hypogonadism between endocrinologists and urologists, as well as divergences from clinical guidelines, may lead to misuse of testosterone therapy.

Strengths & Limitations

This is the first study undertaken in Israel among urologists and endocrinologists of this increasingly recognized health issue. In our country, these 2 groups of physicians comprise nearly all of the testosterone treatment providers. The limitation of this study is linked to bias of all surveys based on subjective reporting, the fact that it was performed in only 1 country, and that we did not control for the specific assay used to measure testosterone levels.

Conclusions

These findings highlight the need for the implementation of coordinated guidelines to facilitate the appropriate diagnosis and treatment of men who can benefit from testosterone therapy and to minimize the risks of this therapy.
PM Personality: Dr César Molins, Jr, FAPMI, Chairman, AMES S.A.
Authors: Capus Joseph
Published: August 2019

At the recent MPIF POWDERMET2019 conference in Phoenix, AZ, the opportunity was taken to interview Dr César Molins, Jr, CEO of AMES S.A., Barcelona, Spain, and for many years a leading personality in the European PM industry. The result was a refreshingly frank and entertaining conversation.
Computational Photography, 3-D Modeling, and Online Publication of Basketry for Cache Cave, California
Authors: Kotoula Eleni , Robinson David W. , Gandy Devlin , Jolie Edward A.
Published: August 2019

Advanced 2-D and 3-D computer visualizations are increasingly being used for recording and documentation, analysis, dissemination, and public engagement purposes. Recent technological advances not only considerably improve data acquisition, processing, and analysis but also enable easy and efficient online presentation. This article evaluates the contributions of advanced 2-D and 3-D computer visualization and discusses the potential of 3-D modeling for recording basketry technology and documenting the state of preservation of baskets. It explores the available analysis, integration, and online dissemination tools, using as case studies recently excavated baskets from Cache Cave in southern California. Results indicate that the proposed methodology, which incorporates reflectance transformation imaging visualizations and photogrammetric 3-D models, which are further processed using 3-D modeling software and integrated analysis tools and then transformed to a Web-based format, is a useful addition to the basketry analysis toolkit.
Off-design performance analysis of hybridised aircraft gas turbine
Authors: Zhao X. , Sahoo S. , Kyprianidis K. , Rantzer J. , Sielemann M.
Published: August 2019

An advanced geared turbofan with year 2035 technology level assumptions was established and used for the hybridisation study in this paper. By boosting the low-speed shaft of the turbofan with electrical power through the accessory gearbox, a parallel hybrid concept was set up. Focusing on the off-design performance of the hybridised gas turbine, electrical power input to the shaft, defined as positive hybridisation in this context, generally moves the compressor operation towards surge. On the other hand, the negative hybridisation, which is to reverse the power flow direction can improve the part-load operations of the turbofan and minimise the use of compressor handling bleeds. For the pre-defined mission given in the paper, negative hybridisation of descent, approach and landing, and taxi operations with 580 kW, 240 kW and 650 kW, respectively was found sufficient to keep a minimum compressor surge margin requirement without handling bleed.

Looking at the hybridisation of key operating points, boosting the cruise operation of the baseline geared turbofan is, however, detrimental to the engine efficiency as it is pushing the cruise operation further away from the energy optimal design point. Without major modifications to the engine design, the benefit of the hybridisation appears primarily at the thermomechanical design point, the hot-day take-off. With the constraint of the turbine blade metal temperature in mind, a 500kW positive hybridisation at hot-day take-off gave cruise specific fuel consumption (SFC) reduction up to 0.5%, mainly because of reduced cooling flow requirement. Through the introduction of typical electrical power system performance characteristics and engine performance exchange rates, a first principles assessment is illustrated. By applying the strategies discussed in the paper, a 3% reduction in block fuel burn can be expected, if a higher power density electrical power system can be achieved.
Interaction of viscous free-surface flows with topography
Authors: Hinton Edward M. , Hogg Andrew J. , Huppert Herbert E.
Published: August 2019

The interaction of gravitationally driven, free-surface flows of viscous fluid with topographic features is investigated theoretically. The motion is studied in the regime where the depth of the flow is much smaller than the streamwise extent of the topography. A lubrication model of the motion is developed, integrated numerically and analysed asymptotically. For small mounds, it is shown that the flow surmounts the obstacles, but for larger mounds the flow is deflected around it and can form dry zones in its wake into which fluid does not flow, as well as forming deeper ponded regions upstream. Which of these phenomena prevails is shown to depend upon the amplitude of the mound height and the thickness of the oncoming flow relative to the streamwise length scale over which the topography varies. By using numerical and asymptotic results, we demonstrate that relatively wide mounds lead to the development of deep ponds of material upstream, which may lead to flow overtopping if the mound is not sufficiently high. These insights can be used to inform the design of barriers that defend built infrastructures from lava flows, and it is shown how this model can also provide an upper bound on the force exerted by the flow on them.
Reading the geography of India’s district-level fertility differentials: a spatial econometric approach
Authors: Haque Ismail , Das Dipendra Nath , Patel Priyank Pravin
Published: August 2019

India has gradually progressed into fertility transition over the last few decades. However, the timing and pace of this transition has varied notably in terms of both its geography and the demographic groups most affected by it. While much literature exists on the relationships between fertility level and its influence on demographic, economic, socio-cultural and policy-related factors, the potential spatial variations in the effects of these factors on the fertility level remain unaddressed. Using the most recent district-level census data (of 2011) for India, this nationwide study has identified plausible spatial dependencies and heterogeneities in the relationships between the district-wise Total Fertility Rates (TFRs) and their respective demographic, socioeconomic and cultural factors. After developing a geocoded database for 621 districts of India, spatial regression and Geographically Weighted Regression (GWR) models were used to decipher location-based relationships between the district-level TFR and its driving forces. The results revealed that the relationships between the district-level TFR and the considered selected predictors (percentage of Muslims, urbanization, caste group, female mean age at marriage, female education, females in the labour force, net migration, sex ratio at birth and exposure to mass media) were not spatially invariant in terms of their respective strength, magnitude and direction, and furthermore, these relationships were conspicuously place- and context-specific. This study suggests that such locality-based variations and their complexities cannot be explained simply by a single narrative of either socioeconomic advancement or government policy interventions. It therefore contributes to the ongoing debate on fertility research in India by highlighting the spatial dependence and heterogeneity of the impacts made by demographic, socioeconomic and cultural factors on local fertility levels. From a methodological perspective, the study also discerns that the GWR local model performs better, in terms of both model performance and prediction accuracy, compared with the conventional global model estimates.
First evidence of the presence ofAnisakis simplexinCrangon crangonandContracaecum osculatuminGammarussp. byin situexamination of the stomach contents of cod (Gadus morhua) from the southern Baltic Sea
Authors: Pawlak Joanna , Nadolna-Ałtyn Katarzyna , Szostakowska Beata , Pachur Marzenna , Bańkowska Anna , Podolska Magdalena
Published: August 2019

Cod (Gadus morhua), an important fish species in the Baltic Sea, is the paratenic host for many parasite species, including the zoonotic nematodes,Anisakissp. andContracaecum osculatum. We aimed to identify which invertebrate species (foundin situin the fish stomach) are responsible for infection of cod with zoonotic nematodes. We found thatCrangon crangonandGammarussp., both invertebrate prey species of cod, were infected withAnisakis simplexandC.osculatum, respectively. These host–parasite systems are reported here for the first time, implicatingC.crangonandGammarussp. as sources of infection of Baltic cod with zoonotic nematodes.
Children's understanding of pronouns that differ in scope of reference
Authors: MEGHERBI Hakima , SEIGNEURIC Alix , OAKHILL Jane , BUENO Steve
Published: August 2019

Some pronouns can refer to entities that vary widely in scope. In some cases, the referent might be a noun phrase, and in other cases it might be a whole proposition. In the cases of pronouns with a noun phrase antecedent, an already existing referent is reactivated from the preceding context. In the case of pronouns with a propositional antecedent, the referent must be reformulated. The interpretation and use of such pronouns was investigated in 150 eight-year-old children in a reading comprehension task. Experiment 1 used a referent specification task and Experiment 2 used a completion task. It was more difficult for children to process a pronoun when its antecedent was a proposition compared to a noun phrase. These results are in line with the linguistic approaches (e.g., Gundelet al., 2005) according to which processing of pronouns with a propositional antecedent is more complex and requires greater cognitive effort.
‘I am the Servant of the Council’: Lord Ismay and the Making of the NATO International Staff
Authors: Risso Linda
Published: August 2019

Based on analysis of Lord Ismay's private papers and on documents from the NATO archives and the Foreign Office archives, this article examines the role of Lord Ismay as the first Secretary General of NATO. As the first person to occupy the role, with little guidance from the national governments and no previous examples to use as a guiding light, Ismay had the opportunity – and the challenge – to shape the new role and to lay the basis for the long-term development of the International Staff. This article argues that Ismay's careful approach was essential in cementing political consensus within the North Atlantic Council at a time in which the members of the Alliance were still learning to work together.
Children’s Eating Behaviour Questionnaire: association with BMI in children aged 3–10 years from Bosnia and Herzegovina
Authors: Spahić Razija , Pranjić Nurka
Published: August 2019

Objective:

To evaluate differences in children’s eating behaviour in relation to their weight status.

Design:

Prospective, cross-sectional study. Anthropometric measures were taken and age- and sex-adjusted BMI percentiles andZ-scores were calculated according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendations to assess weight status. Parents completed a questionnaire which included demographic data and the Children’s Eating Behaviour Questionnaire (CEBQ) to assess eating behaviour.

Setting:

Tuzla Canton, Bosnia and Herzegovina (September 2016–September 2017).

Participants:

Male and female children aged 3–10 years and one of their parents.

Results:

The study sample comprised 2500 children; 6·8 % of them were underweight and 14·4 % were overweight, while there were 14·8 % obese children and 64·0 % had normal weight. The factor analysis of CEBQ revealed an eight-factor solution. Significant differences in CEBQ subscale scores were found within BMI categories for all CEBQ subscales except Food Fussiness. On the other hand, child BMIZ-scores showed a linear increase with the ‘food approach’ subscales of the CEBQ, except the Desire to Drink subscale which was excluded from analysis, and a decrease with ‘food avoidant’ subscales.

Conclusions:

The present study suggests that the CEBQ is valuable for identifying specific eating styles that are associated with weight status and can be seen as important and modifiable determinants implicated in the development and maintenance of overweight/obesity as well as underweight.
Laboratory Experiments of Volcanic Ash Resuspension by Wind
Authors: Etyemezian V. , Gillies J. A. , Mastin L. G. , Crawford A. , Hasson R. , Van Eaton A. R. , Nikolich G.
Published: August 2019

Fresh volcanic eruption deposits tend to be loose, bare, and readily resuspended by wind. Major resuspension events in Patagonia, Iceland, and Alaska have lofted ash clouds with potential to impact aircraft, infrastructure, and downwind communities. However, poor constraints on this resuspension process limit our ability to model this phenomenon. Here, we present laboratory experiments measuring threshold shear velocities and emission rates of resuspended ash under different environmental conditions, including relative humidity of 25–75% and simulated rainfall with subsequent drying. Eruption deposits were replicated using ash collected from two major eruptions: the 18 May 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens and the 1912 eruption of Novarupta, in Alaska's Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes. Samples were conditioned in a laboratory chamber and prepared with bulk deposit densities of 1,300–1,500 kg/m3. A control sample of dune sand was included for comparison. The deposits were subjected to different wind speeds using a modified PI‐SWERL® instrument. Under a constant relative humidity of 50% and shear velocities 0.4–0.8 m/s, PM10 emission by resuspension ranged from 10 to >100 mg·m−2·s−1. Addition of liquid water equivalent to 5 mm of rainfall had little lasting effect on Mount St. Helens wind erosion potential, while the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes deposits exhibited lower emissions for at least 12 days. The results indicate that particle resuspension due to wind erosion from ash deposits potentially exceeds that of most desert surfaces and approaches some of the highest emissions ever measured.