bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aerodynamic Analysis of a Helical Vertical Axis Wind Turbine
Authors: Cheng Qian , Liu Xiaolan , Ji Ho Seong , Kim Kyung Chun , Yang Bo
Published: April 2017

Vertical axis wind turbines (VAWTs) are gradually receiving more and more interest due to their lower sensitivity to the yawed wind direction. Compared with straight blades VAWT, blades with a certain helicity show a better aerodynamic performance and less noise emission. Nowadays computational fluid dynamics technology is frequently applied to VAWTs and gives results that can reflect real flow phenomena. In this paper, a 2D flow field simulation of a helical vertical axis wind turbine (HVAWT) with four blades has been carried out by means of a large eddy simulation (LES). The power output and fluctuation at each azimuthal position are studied with different tip speed ratio (TSR). The result shows that the variation of angle of attack (AOA) and blade-wake interaction under different TSR conditions are the two main reasons for the effects of TSR on power output. Furthermore, in order to understand the characteristics of the HVAWT along the spanwise direction, the 3D full size flow field has also been studied by the means of unsteady Reynold Averaged Navier-Stokes (U-RANS) and 3D effects on the turbine performance can be observed by the spanwise pressure distribution. It shows that tip vortex near blade tips and second flow in the spanwise direction also play a major role on the performance of VAWTs.
Multi-Objective History Matching with a Proxy Model for the Characterization of Production Performances at the Shale Gas Reservoir
Authors: Kim Jaejun , Kang Joe , Park Changhyup , Park Yongjun , Park Jihye , Lim Seojin
Published: April 2017

This paper presents a fast, reliable multi-objective history-matching method based on proxy modeling to forecast the production performances of shale gas reservoirs for which all available post-hydraulic-fracturing production data, i.e., the daily gas rate and cumulative-production volume until the given date, are honored. The developed workflow consists of distance-based generalized sensitivity analysis (DGSA) to determine the spatiotemporal-parameter significance, fast marching method (FMM) as a proxy model, and a multi-objective evolutionary algorithm to integrate the dynamic data. The model validation confirms that the FMM is a sound surrogate model working within an error of approximately 2% for the estimated ultimate recovery (EUR), and it is 11 times faster than a full-reservoir simulation. The predictive accuracy on future production after matching 1.5-year production histories is assessed to examine the applicability of the proposed method. The DGSA determines the effective parameters with respect to the gas rate and the cumulative volume, including fracture permeability, fracture half-length, enhanced permeability in the stimulated reservoir volume, and average post-fracturing porosity. A comparison of the prediction accuracy for single-objective optimization shows that the proposed method accurately estimates the recoverable volume as well as the production profiles to within an error of 0.5%, while the single-objective consideration reveals the scale-dependency problem with lesser accuracy. The results of this study are useful to overcome the time-consuming effort of using a multi-objective evolutionary algorithm and full-scale reservoir simulation as well as to conduct a more-realistic prediction of the shale gas reserves and the corresponding production performances.
Influences of Winding MMF Harmonics on Torque Characteristics in Surface-Mounted Permanent Magnet Vernier Machines
Authors: Jang Daekyu , Chang Junghwan
Published: April 2017

This paper presents the influences of winding magneto-motive force (MMF) harmonics on the torque characteristics in surface-mounted permanent magnet vernier (SPMV) machines. Based on the magnetic gearing effects, the armature magnetic field of the SPMV machines is modulated by flux modulation poles (FMPs). In the modulated magnetic field, a working harmonic which corresponds to the number of the rotor pole pairs generates torque. Unlike regular PM machines, the winding MMF harmonics in the SPMV machines can produce the working harmonic by adjusting the FMP shapes. In order to investigate the effects of the winding MMF harmonics, the operating principle of the SPMV machines is elaborated by an analytical method using the winding MMF distribution and air-gap permeance function. After that, the design method of the FMP shapes that can improve the output torque by using the winding MMF harmonics is proposed. For the SPMV machine having 6 slots and 24 FMPs, the effects of the winding MMF harmonics and the validity of the proposed design method are confirmed by the finite element analysis method. It is shown that the proposed design method can improve the performances of the SPMV machine in terms of the torque density, induced electromagnetic force, and efficiency.
Altered Adipogenesis in Zebrafish Larvae Following High Fat Diet and Chemical Exposure Is Visualised by Stimulated Raman Scattering Microscopy
Authors: Den Broeder Marjo , Moester Miriam , Kamstra Jorke , Cenijn Peter , Davidoiu Valentina , Kamminga Leonie , Ariese Freek , De Boer Johannes , Legler Juliette
Published: April 2017

Early life stage exposure to environmental chemicals may play a role in obesity by altering adipogenesis; however, robust in vivo methods to quantify these effects are lacking. The goal of this study was to analyze the effects of developmental exposure to chemicals on adipogenesis in the zebrafish (Danio rerio). We used label-free Stimulated Raman Scattering (SRS) microscopy for the first time to image zebrafish adipogenesis at 15 days post fertilization (dpf) and compared standard feed conditions (StF) to a high fat diet (HFD) or high glucose diet (HGD). We also exposed zebrafish embryos to a non-toxic concentration of tributyltin (TBT, 1 nM) or Tris(1,3-dichloroisopropyl)phosphate (TDCiPP, 0.5 µM) from 0–6 dpf and reared larvae to 15 dpf under StF. Potential molecular mechanisms of altered adipogenesis were examined by qPCR. Diet-dependent modulation of adipogenesis was observed, with HFD resulting in a threefold increase in larvae with adipocytes, compared to StF and HGD. Developmental exposure to TBT but not TDCiPP significantly increased adipocyte differentiation. The expression of adipogenic genes such as pparda, lxr and lepa was altered in response to HFD or chemicals. This study shows that SRS microscopy can be successfully applied to zebrafish to visualize and quantify adipogenesis, and is a powerful approach for identifying obesogenic chemicals in vivo.
Health Effects of Psidium guajava L. Leaves: An Overview of the Last Decade
Authors: Díaz-de-Cerio Elixabet , Verardo Vito , Gómez-Caravaca Ana , Fernández-Gutiérrez Alberto , Segura-Carretero Antonio
Published: April 2017

Today, there is increasing interest in discovering new bioactive compounds derived from ethnomedicine. Preparations of guava (Psidium guajava L.) leaves have traditionally been used to manage several diseases. The pharmacological research in vitro as well as in vivo has been widely used to demonstrate the potential of the extracts from the leaves for the co-treatment of different ailments with high prevalence worldwide, upholding the traditional medicine in cases such as diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and parasitic infections. Moreover, the biological activity has been attributed to the bioactive composition of the leaves, to some specific phytochemical subclasses, or even to individual compounds. Phenolic compounds in guava leaves have been credited with regulating blood-glucose levels. Thus, the aim of the present review was to compile results from in vitro and in vivo studies carried out with guava leaves over the last decade, relating the effects to their clinical applications in order to focus further research for finding individual bioactive compounds. Some food applications (guava tea and supplementary feed for aquaculture) and some clinical, in vitro, and in vivo outcomes are also included.
Association of Polyphenol Biomarkers with Cardiovascular Disease and Mortality Risk: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies
Authors: Rienks Johanna , Barbaresko Janett , Nöthlings Ute
Published: April 2017

Epidemiologic studies have suggested an inverse association between flavonoids and cardiovascular disease (CVD). However, the results might have been influenced by the use of dietary assessment methods, which are error prone. The aim of this paper was to systematically review and analyse the literature for evidence of associations between polyphenol biomarkers and CVD and mortality risk in observational studies. Eligible studies were identified through PubMed, Web of Science, and reference lists. Multivariable adjusted associations were extracted. Data were log-transformed and pooled using the random effects model. In total, eight studies were included, investigating 16 different polyphenol biomarkers in association with CVD and mortality. Blood and urine were used as biospecimens, and enterolactone, a lignan metabolite, was most often investigated. Three meta-analyses were conducted investigating the association between enterolactone, and all-cause and CVD mortality, and non-fatal myocardial infarction. A 30% and 45% reduced all-cause and CVD mortality risk were revealed at higher enterolactone concentrations. Furthermore, inverse associations were observed between polyphenol biomarkers and all-cause mortality, kaempferol, and acute coronary syndrome. There is evidence to suggest that enterolactone is associated with a lower CVD mortality risk. This emphasises the importance of the role of the microbiota in disease prevention. To strengthen the evidence, more studies are warranted.
Sodium and Potassium Intake in Healthy Adults in Thessaloniki Greater Metropolitan Area—The Salt Intake in Northern Greece (SING) Study
Authors: Vasara Eleni , Marakis Georgios , Breda Joao , Skepastianos Petros , Hassapidou Maria , Kafatos Anthony , Rodopaios Nikolaos , Koulouri Alexandra , Cappuccio Francesco
Published: April 2017

A reduction in population sodium (as salt) consumption is a global health priority, as well as one of the most cost-effective strategies to reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease. High potassium intake is also recommended to reduce cardiovascular disease. To establish effective policies for setting targets and monitoring effectiveness within each country, the current level of consumption should be known. Greece lacks data on actual sodium and potassium intake. The aim of the present study was therefore to assess dietary salt (using sodium as biomarker) and potassium intakes in a sample of healthy adults in northern Greece, and to determine whether adherence to a Mediterranean diet is related to different sodium intakes or sodium-to-potassium ratio. A cross-sectional survey was carried out in the Thessaloniki greater metropolitan area (northern Greece) (n = 252, aged 18–75 years, 45.2% males). Participants’ dietary sodium and potassium intakes were determined by 24-hour urinary sodium and potassium excretions. In addition, we estimated their adherence to Mediterranean diet by the use of an 11-item MedDietScore (range 0–55). The mean sodium excretion was 175 (SD 72) mmol/day, equivalent to 4220 (1745) mg of sodium or 10.7 (4.4) g of salt per day, and the potassium excretion was 65 (25) mmol/day, equivalent to 3303 (1247) mg per day. Men had higher sodium and potassium excretions compared to women. Only 5.6% of the sample had salt intake <5 g/day, which is the target intake recommended by the World Health Organization. Mean sodium-to-potassium excretion ratio was 2.82 (1.07). There was no significant difference in salt or potassium intake or their ratio across MedDietScore quartiles. No significant relationships were found between salt intake and adherence to a Mediterranean diet, suggesting that the perception of the health benefits of the Mediterranean diet does not hold when referring to salt consumption. These results suggest the need for a larger, nation-wide survey on salt intake in Greece and underline the importance of continuation of salt reduction initiatives in Greece.
Supplementation with a Polyphenol-Rich Extract, PerfLoad®, Improves Physical Performance during High-Intensity Exercise: A Randomized, Double Blind, Crossover Trial
Authors: Cases Julien , Romain Cindy , Marín-Pagán Cristian , Chung Linda , Rubio-Pérez José , Laurent Caroline , Gaillet Sylvie , Prost-Camus Emmanuelle , Prost Michel , Alcaraz Pedro
Published: April 2017

Workout capacity is energy-production driven. To produce peak metabolic power outputs, the organism predominantly relies more on anaerobic metabolism, but this undoubtedly has a negative and limiting impact on muscle function and performance. The aim of the study was to evaluate if an innovative polyphenol-based food supplement, PerfLoad®, was able to improve metabolic homeostasis and physical performance during high-intensity exercises under anaerobic conditions. The effect of a supplementation has been investigated on fifteen recreationally-active male athletes during a randomized, double-blind and crossover clinical investigation. The Wingate test, an inducer of an unbalanced metabolism associated to oxidative stress, was used to assess maximum anaerobic power during a high-intensity exercise on a cycle ergometer. Supplementation with PerfLoad® correlated with a significant increase in total power output (5%), maximal peak power output (3.7%), and average power developed (5%), without inducing more fatigue or greater heart rate. Instead, oxidative homeostasis was stabilized in supplemented subjects. Such results demonstrated that PerfLoad® is a natural and efficient solution capable of, similarly to training benefits, helping athletes to improve their physical performance, while balancing their metabolism and reducing exercise-induced oxidative stress.
Convergent Validity of a Wearable Sensor System for Measuring Sub-Task Performance during the Timed Up-and-Go Test
Authors: Beyea James , McGibbon Chris A. , Sexton Andrew , Noble Jeremy , O’Connell Colleen
Published: April 2017

Background: The timed-up-and-go test (TUG) is one of the most commonly used tests of physical function in clinical practice and for research outcomes. Inertial sensors have been used to parse the TUG test into its composite phases (rising, walking, turning, etc.), but have not validated this approach against an optoelectronic gold-standard, and to our knowledge no studies have published the minimal detectable change of these measurements. Methods: Eleven adults performed the TUG three times each under normal and slow walking conditions, and 3 m and 5 m walking distances, in a 12-camera motion analysis laboratory. An inertial measurement unit (IMU) with tri-axial accelerometers and gyroscopes was worn on the upper-torso. Motion analysis marker data and IMU signals were analyzed separately to identify the six main TUG phases: sit-to-stand, 1st walk, 1st turn, 2nd walk, 2nd turn, and stand-to-sit, and the absolute agreement between two systems analyzed using intra-class correlation (ICC, model 2) analysis. The minimal detectable change (MDC) within subjects was also calculated for each TUG phase. Results: The overall difference between TUG sub-tasks determined using 3D motion capture data and the IMU sensor data was <0.5 s. For all TUG distances and speeds, the absolute agreement was high for total TUG time and walk times (ICC > 0.90), but less for chair activity (ICC range 0.5–0.9) and typically poor for the turn time (ICC < 0.4). MDC values for total TUG time ranged between 2–4 s or 12–22% of the TUG time measurement. MDC of the sub-task times were higher proportionally, being 20–60% of the sub-task duration. Conclusions: We conclude that a commercial IMU can be used for quantifying the TUG phases with accuracy sufficient for clinical applications; however, the MDC when using inertial sensors is not necessarily improved over less sophisticated measurement tools.
Comparing the Influences of the D/H Ratio, Size, and Facade Design of an Enclosed Square on Its Perceptual Qualities as a Sustainable Urban Space in South Korea
Authors: Kim Jaecheol
Published: April 2017

This study examines the dominance of the D/H ratio as a design element for an enclosed urban square, long claimed by numerous urban designers. It claims that like the D/H ratio, other design elements significantly affect the perceptual quality of an enclosed square, but their impacts differ according to the context in which they are applied. The study reviews the literature pertaining to enclosures as an urban design strategy and design elements for an enclosed urban square. Then it presents a comparative analysis of the impact of the D/H ratio and other design elements such as the size of the square and the facade design using a visual assessment survey with computer-simulated images of urban squares. Results of the analysis support the argument that like the D/H ratio, the square size and its facade design have a considerable but distinctly different influence on users’ perceptions of urban squares.
Dengue Virus Non-Structural Protein 5
Authors: El Sahili Abbas , Lescar Julien
Published: April 2017

The World Health Organization estimates that the yearly number of dengue cases averages 390 million. This mosquito-borne virus disease is endemic in over 100 countries and will probably continue spreading, given the observed trend in global warming. So far, there is no antiviral drug available against dengue, but a vaccine has been recently marketed. Dengue virus also serves as a prototype for the study of other pathogenic flaviviruses that are emerging, like West Nile virus and Zika virus. Upon viral entry into the host cell and fusion of the viral lipid membrane with the endosomal membrane, the viral RNA is released and expressed as a polyprotein, that is then matured into three structural and seven non-structural (NS) proteins. The envelope, membrane and capsid proteins form the viral particle while NS1-NS2A-NS2B-NS3-NS4A-NS4B and NS5 assemble inside a cellular replication complex, which is embedded in endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-derived vesicles. In addition to their roles in RNA replication within the infected cell, NS proteins help the virus escape the host innate immunity and reshape the host-cell inner structure. This review focuses on recent progress in characterizing the structure and functions of NS5, a protein responsible for the replication and capping of viral RNA that represents a promising drug target.
Development of Advanced Seal Material and Downhole Packer for High Temperature Applications
Authors: Yu Chengjiao , Xu Zhiyue , Shyu Goang-Ding , Prieto Carlos
Published: April 2017

The extreme downhole environments of high-pressure high-temperature (HPHT) often lead to failures of the conventional rubber seals due to degradation and loss of elasticity. The application of metal-to-metal seal is also limited due to its small elasticity and demanding requirements of the harsh well environments. A novel Lattice seal technology, which is designed for sealing at 500°F, is presented in this paper. The Lattice seal material which is composed of a porous metallic structure with large elasticity (up to 30%) and a thermoplastic matrix was invented. Many advanced properties of the Lattice seal material, such as high elasticity, great extrusion resistance, excellent chemical stability, large expansion and incompressibility, were proven at 500°F. Prototype packers made of Lattice seal materials were designed, fabricated and tested. Finite Element Analysis (FEA) was used during the development for saving cost and shortening lead time, as well as for comprehensive investigations of the impacts of filler ring, setting forces, and differential pressures. The Lattice packer with a filler ring successfully passed the test at 450°F with 6,000 PSI differential pressure across the packer.
Assessment of Data-Driven, Machine Learning Techniques for Machinery Prognostics of Offshore Assets
Authors: Lu Ping , Liu Haitao , Serratella Christopher , Wang Xiaozhi
Published: April 2017

Accurate prediction of machinery failure is a challenging and important task for the offshore industry. Early diagnosis and prognosis of machinery failure has become a necessity to drive high levels of safety and performance in oil and gas operations. Prognostics enabled by data-driven machine learning techniques offers new insights into the health and performance of machinery and thereby improves operational efficiency. Advances in this topic are important because of the challenging nature of prognostics and the large degree of uncertainty that is associated. In this work, we demonstrate a practical approach to build and perform robust predictive machine learning models that are capable of detecting critical machinery failure early. In addition, a review of recent state-of-art machine learning approaches employed in modeling of machinery failure prediction is presented. Predictive models discussed here are based on various supervised machine learning techniques as well as on different input features. A variety of these newer algorithms include baggings, boosting, support vector machines, ramdon forest, etc., all of which have been widely applied in predictive models. Although it is evident that machine learning methods can improve our understanding of failure progression, appropriate validation schemes are necessary to evaluate machine learning models to assist in effective and accurate decision making. Therefore, we illustrate different levels of evaluation methodologies that can be trusted for these methods to be considered in the everyday operational practice. The machine learning models mentioned in this manuscript is then applied to a case of bearing failure on wind turbine gearbox. A machine learning model by utilizing XGBoost is proposed for prediction of remaining useful life with improved accuracy. This paper could also serve as a guidline to assess machine learning data analytic methods for prognostics relevant to common machinery types on offshore assets.
Stones Development: Turritella FPSO - Design and Fabrication of the World's Deepest Producing Unit
Authors: Moore Blake , Easton Andrew , Cabrera Jonathan , Webb Carl , George Babu
Published: April 2017

The Stones Project is Shell Offshore Inc.'s ("Shell") play opener discovery in the emerging Lower Tertiary trend in the Gulf of Mexico ultra-deep water (9,500 ft. water depth). To address the step wise development of the Stones field, Shell selected a floating production, storage and offloading unit ("FPSO") for the floating production system. The Turritella FPSO is the deepest floating production system in the world and presented many challenges to successful execution of the surface host facilities.

New Technology (Deep-water disconnectable buoy accommodating Steel Lazy Wave Risers)

New ways of working (minimum specification focus on technical process safety aspects)

Regulatory (2nd FPSO in the GOM)

This paper will address key design elements and choices made in the design, as well as providing a summary of the FPSO Turritella fabrication, transportation, installation and startup.

The Turritella FPSO was executed under an Engineering Procurement and Construction (EPC) contract with SBM Offshore Inc. which required a new way of working for Shell's typical Deepwater Gulf of Mexico ("GOM") delivery team. With a focus on safety, quality, and planning, the FPSO was successfully delivered and commenced production in September 2016.
Assessment of Subsea Pipelines Crossing Seismic Fault
Authors: Umid Azimov P. E. , Ali Sari P. E. , Amir Arablouei P. E.
Published: April 2017

One of the causes of hazardous substance leak from the offshore pipelines can be attributed to potential pipeline rupture due to seismic fault movement. Some of the consequences of the ruptured pipeline due to fault movement include significant environmental damage, costs associated with clean up and asset loss, and damage to reputation of the operator. Objective of this study was to review approaches to estimate the response of subsea pipelines to fault movement during a seismic event and to compare existing methodologies.

When subjected to seismic fault movement, pipelines/umbilicals undergo strains due to bending and axial tensile or compressive force (depending on the fault type). Under normal fault rupture, for example, the pipe failure mechanism, particularly for thick wall pipe (low D/t value) would likely be tensile rupture since the largest pipe strains are tensile in this case. For thin wall pipe (high D/t value), wrinkling may be the governing failure mechanism. There are two modeling approaches available to determine the response of the pipelines subjected to fault movement: 1) analytical approach and 2) finite element modeling approach. In analytical approach, the tensile strains developed in the pipe is estimated by predicting the deformed shape of the pipeline and the total elongation of the pipeline.

From the comparison of the analytical approach and the finite element analysis, the results show that although analytical approach is convenient to use, it has significant limitations as such that it is not able to capture or account for buckling (wrinkling) where the pipelines are subjected to the compression forces due to the fault movement, the effect of soil pressure, internal fluid pressure and etc. A better alternative to analytical approach is the finite element modeling approach where a pipeline or umbilical is explicitly modeled in its entirety and full dynamic simulation is performed considering large displacements, soil-structure interaction, contact, pipe internal pressure, strain rate effects and etc.

This paper discusses and quantifies effects of the factors affecting the performance of the pipelines subjected to seismic fault movement. Furthermore, the paper presents critical factors that can be optimized in order to enhance the performance of pipelines. Finally, the mitigation recommendations are presented that can improve the capability of the pipeline to sustain differential movement along the fault without developing a leak source to contaminate the environment.
Cutting Edge: A Dual TLR2 and TLR7 Ligand Induces Highly Potent Humoral and Cell-Mediated Immune Responses
Authors: Gutjahr Alice , Papagno Laura , Nicoli Francesco , Lamoureux Alain , Vernejoul Fabienne , Lioux Thierry , Gostick Emma , Price David A. , Tiraby Gérard , Perouzel Eric , Appay Victor , Verrier Bernard , Paul Stéphane
Published: April 2017

TLR agonists are currently being developed and tested as adjuvants in various formulations to optimize the immunogenicity and efficacy of vaccines. The aim of this study was to evaluate the immunostimulatory properties of a novel compound incorporating covalently linked moieties designed to stimulate both TLR2 and TLR7. This dual TLR2/TLR7 agonist induced the maturation of dendritic cells and primed substantial populations of cytolytic and highly polyfunctional effector CD8+ T cells in vitro, and safely potentiated the immunogenic properties of a nanoparticulate Ag in vivo, eliciting humoral responses with a balanced TH1/TH2 profile in mice. Collectively, these data reveal the potential utility of chimeric adjuvants with synergistic activities mediated via TLRs.
C1q-Dependent Dendritic Cell Cross-Presentation of In Vivo–Formed Antigen–Antibody Complexes
Authors: Ho Nataschja I. , Camps Marcel G. M. , de Haas Edwin F. E. , Trouw Leendert A. , Verbeek J. Sjef , Ossendorp Ferry
Published: April 2017

Dendritic cells (DCs) are specialized in Ag engulfment via a wide variety of uptake receptors on their cell surface. In the present study we investigated Ag uptake and presentation of in vivo–formed Ag–Ab complexes by i.v. injecting mice with Ag-specific Abs followed by the cognate Ag. We show by this natural Ab-mediated Ag targeting system that uptake by splenic APC subsets is severely hampered in mice lacking complement factor C1q (C1qa−/−). Moreover, no detectable Ag cross-presentation by CD8α+ DCs from C1qa−/− mice was found. On the contrary, Ag uptake was not hampered by APCs in FcγRI/II/III/IV-deficient (FcγR quadruple−/−) mice, and the cross-presentation ability of CD8α+ DCs was not affected. In conclusion, we show that C1q rather than FcγRs controls the Ab-mediated Ag uptake and its presentation by spleen APC subsets to T cells.
Bacterial Siderophores Hijack Neutrophil Functions
Authors: Saha Piu , Yeoh Beng San , Olvera Rodrigo A. , Xiao Xia , Singh Vishal , Awasthi Deepika , Subramanian Bhagawat C. , Chen Qiuyan , Dikshit Madhu , Wang Yanming , Parent Carole A. , Vijay-Kumar Matam
Published: April 2017

Neutrophils are the primary immune cells that respond to inflammation and combat microbial transgression. To thrive, the bacteria residing in their mammalian host have to withstand the antibactericidal responses of neutrophils. We report that enterobactin (Ent), a catecholate siderophore expressed by Escherichia coli, inhibited PMA-induced generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) in mouse and human neutrophils. Ent also impaired the degranulation of primary granules and inhibited phagocytosis and bactericidal activity of neutrophils, without affecting their migration and chemotaxis. Molecular analysis revealed that Ent can chelate intracellular labile iron that is required for neutrophil oxidative responses. Other siderophores (pyoverdine, ferrichrome, deferoxamine) likewise inhibited ROS and NETs in neutrophils, thus indicating that the chelation of iron may largely explain their inhibitory effects. To counter iron theft by Ent, neutrophils rely on the siderophore-binding protein lipocalin 2 (Lcn2) in a “tug-of-war” for iron. The inhibition of neutrophil ROS and NETs by Ent was augmented in Lcn2-deficient neutrophils compared with wild-type neutrophils but was rescued by the exogenous addition of recombinant Lcn2. Taken together, our findings illustrate the novel concept that microbial siderophore’s iron-scavenging property may serve as an antiradical defense system that neutralizes the immune functions of neutrophils.
Pre-service mathematics student teachers’ conceptions of nominal and effective interest rates
Authors: Makonye Judah P.
Published: April 2017

The general public consumes financial products such as loans that are administered in the realm of nominal and effective interest rates. It is debatable if most consumers really understand how these rates function. This article explores the conceptions that student teachers have about nominal and effective interest rates. The APOS theory illuminates analysis of students’ levels of conception. Seventy second-year mathematics students’ responses to Grade 12 tasks on effective and nominal interest rates were analysed, after which 12 students were interviewed about their mathematical thinking in solving the tasks. The findings varied. While some students could not do the tasks due to erratic use of formulae (algebra), I ascertained that some students obtained correct answers through scrupulous adherence to the external prompt of formulae. Most of those students remained stuck at the action and process stages and could not view their processes as mathematical objects. A few students had reached the object and schema stages, showing mature understanding of the relationship between nominal and effective interest rates. As most students remained at the operational stages rather than the structural, the findings accentuate that when teaching this topic, teachers ought to take their time to build learners’ schema for these notions. They need to guide their learners through the necessary action-process-object loop and refrain from introducing students to formulae too soon as this stalls their advancement to the object and schema stages which are useful in making them smart consumers of financial products.
Transmission and transformation in higher education: Indigenisation, internationalisation and transculturality
Authors: Horsthemke Kai
Published: April 2017

There have been various approaches to the transmission and transformation of systems, practices, knowledge and concepts in higher education in recent decades, chief among which are drives towards indigenisation, on the one hand, and towards internationalisation, on the other. After briefly discussing and dispensing with radical versions of these, theories that reject any claim to validity or legitimacy by the rival approach, this article examines more nuanced accounts that deserve appropriately serious consideration. Thus, in the former instance, there is an emphasis on the local that nonetheless acknowledges a debt to the global, whereas conversely the emphasis on the global is seen as compatible with an acknowledgement of diversity, difference and particularity. What is gained and what is lost in these various approaches to educational transmission and transformation? After reflecting, in this regard, on lessons from both Africa and Europe – in particular, on the debates in South Africa around Africanisation and decolonisation, and in Germany around global interdependence – I cautiously endorse the idea of ‘transculturality’ (as contrasted with ‘multiculturality’ and ‘interculturality’) as a promising philosophical perspective on transmission of knowledge and practices, and as conceptualising transformation of higher education. The role of philosophy, in particular, consists in part in counteracting the hegemony of both traditional and homogenising (‘colonising’) authority.
Calculus of Variations
Authors: Brendle Simon , Figalli Alessio , Jerrard Robert L. , Wickramasekera Neshan
Published: April 2017

The Calculus of Variations is subject with a long and distinguished history, a great deal of diverse current activity, and close connections to other fields such as geometry and mathematical physics. The July 2016 workshop on the Calculus of Variations presented research that resolved long-standing conjectures, shed new light on classical results, pointed toward new research directions, and displayed progress on a range of aspects, classical and otherwise, of the Calculus of Variations.
Recent Mathematical Developments in Quantum Field Theory
Authors: Abdesselam Abdelmalek , Hollands Stefan , Kopper Christoph , Lechner Gandalf
Published: April 2017

This workshop has focused on three areas in mathematical quantum field theory and their interrelations: 1) conformal field theory, 2) constructions of interacting models of quantum field theory by various methods, and 3) several approaches studying the interplay of quantum field theory and gravity.
Multiscale Interactions in Geophysical Fluids
Authors: Klein Rupert , Smith Shafer , Vanneste Jacques
Published: April 2017

The dynamics of the atmosphere and ocean involves a broad range of spatial and temporal scales, many of which emerge through complex nonlinear mechanisms from forcings at very different scales. This poses major challenges for the numerical prediction of the weather, ocean state and climate: many processes have scales that are too small to be resolved yet they play an essential role in determining large-scale features. This workshop examined how modern mathematical methods – ranging from multiscale asymptotics to adaptive numerical methods and stochastic modelling – can be applied to represent the large-scale impact of these small-scale processes and improve both deterministic and probabilistic predictions.
$C^*$-Algebras
Authors: Rordam Mikael , Thom Andreas , Vaes Stefaan , Voiculescu Dan-Virgil
Published: April 2017

The field of operator algebras is a flourishing area of mathematics with strong ties to many other areas including functional/harmonic analysis, topology, (non-commutative) geometry, group theory and dynamical systems. The

C^*

-Algebra workshop at Oberwolfach brings together leading experts and young researchers in all subjects where

C^*

-algebras play a major role. The main goal of this meeting is to foster contacts and collaborations between researchers from different directions, as well as to highlight the main developments in the field.
Self-Adaptive Numerical Methods for Computationally Challenging Problems
Authors: Bank Randolph E. , Cai Zhiqiang , Verfürth Rüdiger
Published: April 2017

Self-adaptive numerical methods provide a powerful and automatic approach in scientific computing. In particular, Adaptive Mesh Refinement (AMR) algorithms have been widely used in computational science and engineering and have become a necessary tool in computer simulations of complex natural and engineering problems. The key ingredient for success of self-adaptive numerical methods is a posteriori error estimates that are able to accurately locate sources of global and local error in the current approximation. The workshop creates a forum for junior and senior researchers in numerical analysis and computational science and engineering to discuss recent advances, initiates future research projects, and establishes new collaborations on convergence theory of adaptive numerical methods and on the construction and analysis of efficient, reliable, and robust
a posteriori
error estimators for computationally challenging problems.
Theory and Numerics of Inverse Scattering Problems
Authors: Cakoni Fioralba , Hanke-Bourgeois Martin , Kirsch Andreas , Rundell William
Published: April 2017

This workshop addressed specific inverse problems for the time-harmonic Maxwell’s equations, resp. special cases of these, such as the Helmholtz equation or quasistatic approximations like in impedance tomography. The inverse problems considered include the reconstruction of obstacles and/or their material properties in a known background, given various kinds of data, such as near or far field measurements in the scattering context and boundary measurements in the quasistatic case.
The Justification of Basic Rights
Authors: Newey Glen
Published: April 2017

The Justification of Basic Rights. A Response to Forst

This paper responds to Rainer Forst’s article ‘The Justification of Basic Rights’. I argue that Forst's main thesis is difficult to pin down, partly because it is formulated in significantly distinct ways at numerous points. I offer a possible formulation of the argument but note that this encapsulates a fallacy; I further argue that his inference of the basic rights seems to imply an over-moralisation of social life and that his argument does not distinguish rights with discretionary and non-discretionary content. Then I query Forst’s claim that a right to justification is a condition of engaging in justificatory discourse. This leads to the conclusion that what goes into the process of justification, including who figures in the discursive community, are irreducibly political questions, whose answers cannot be convincingly specified antecedently by a form of moral legislation. I argue that actual discursive processes allow for considerably more contingency and contextual variability than Forst’s construction acknowledges. This extends, as I suggest in conclusion, to the idea that content can be specified via the Kantian notion that acceptability requires the ‘containment’ of an actor's ends by another, such as an affected party.
Avaliação de serviços bancários no segmento de alta renda na cidade de São Paulo
Authors: Gouvêa Maria Aparecida , Masano Ana Carolina Raduan , Mantovani Daielly Melina Nassif
Published: April 2017

This study presents an evaluation of expectations and perceptions of individual bank clients with high income in the municipality of São Paulo. A quantitative survey with 190 interviewees was carried through drawing on attributes of bank services as well as models and scales provided by the relevant literature. The scales of quality and satisfaction were analyzed in terms of reliability and validity. The scale recommended by the SERVPERF model proved to be the most appropriate to the results collected from high-income banking clients. Additionally, it was found that, in general, clients’ expectations are high and there are some attributes with great gaps, considering its perceptions and expectations. These results can provide relevant directions to the banks that intend to improve the quality of their services.
Gestão integrada dos recursos hídricos como política de gerenciamento das águas no Brasil
Authors: Silva Mayane Bento , Herreros Mário Miguel Amin Garcia , Borges Fabricio Quadros
Published: April 2017

Due to the importance of water for life and development, several international debates focused on the construction of strategies to mitigate the risk of water scarcity, resulting in a new management paradigm, called Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM). Therefore, this study analyzes how Brazil is managing its water resources, in order to evaluate its proximity to the IWRM model, using a qualitative, exploratory research based on secondary, bibliographic and documentary sources. The results show that Brazil has advanced in terms of law, water management and use and has been progressively integrated into the IWRM model, but it still needs to enable actions that are supported in a more participatory and decentralized environment to extend homogeneously Water management mechanisms, in order to reach regions such as those in the Amazon basin.
Programa de atenção a alunos precoces com comportamento de superdotação: identificação e proposta de enriquecimento musical
Authors: Koga Fabiana Oliveira , Chacon Miguel Claudio Moriel
Published: April 2017

O presente artigo tem por objetivo apresentar o processo de identificação musical e a proposta de enriquecimento musical que orientaram os trabalhos desenvolvidos pela oficina de música do Programa d Atenção a alunos Precoces com Comportamento de Superdotação da Faculdade de Filosofia e Ciências da Universidade Estadual Paulista - UNESP campus de Marília/SP, que acontece uma ves por semana matutino e vespertino. Por meio de testes psicométricos Primary Measures of music Audition (PMMA) (GORDON, 1986a), Intermediate Measures of Music Audition (IMMA) (GORDON, 1986b) e da analíse estatistica (Wilcoxon) pretende-se apresentar o processo de identificação musical que revelará os estudantes do PAPCS que apresentam precocidade e comportamento de superdotação musical e, a partir do modelo de enriquecimento, segundo Renzulli (2004), atrelado as metodologias da área da Educação Musical, pretende-se apresentar a proposta de enriquecimento musical que embasou os trabalhos da oficina de música entre 2014  e 2015 no PAPCS, com o objetivo de atender todas as crianças identificadas. Ressalta-se que este trabalho é parte de uma pesquisa maior.
O ENSINO DE GEOGRAFIA E SUAS RELAÇÕES COM A PEDAGOGIA CRÍTICA DO LUGAR: CONTRIBUIÇÕES PARA UMA PRÁTICA INTERDISCIPLINAR
Authors: Diniz Vanessa Lessio , Compiani Maurício
Published: April 2017

Este artigo tem como objetivo apresentar as contribuições metodológicas da Pedagogia Crítica do Lugar no ensino de geografia e na prática pedagógica interdisciplinar com professoras de Matemática, Português e Artes do ensino fundamental (ciclo II) da rede estadual de Campinas-SP, essas participantes do projeto de formação continuada Ribeirão Anhumas na Escola. Para a realização desta pesquisa foi utilizada uma abordagem qualitativa, a pesquisa-ação colaborativa. Foi realizada a observação-participante durante o processo de formação das professoras, com o objetivo de compreender como ocorreu a articulação das disciplinas e a construção de conhecimentos escolares partindo do contexto do aluno e da escola.
PAULO FREIRE E A GEOGRAFIA: DIÁLOGOS COM MILTON SANTOS
Authors: Pitano Sandro De Castro , Noal Rosa Elena
Published: April 2017

O artigo é resultado de uma pesquisa bibliográfica que analisou a Geografia presente no pensamento de Paulo Freire, articulando um encontro dialógico com Milton Santos. Investiga a afinidade epistemológica entre os autores, verificando as diferentes formas de abordagem geográfica percebidas no pensamento freiriano. Busca identificar a ocorrência de conceitos clássicos da Geografia nos escritos de Freire, como espaço, território, região e lugar, além de compreender os diferentes sentidos que o mesmo atribui ao vocábulo “geografia”. O diálogo entre os autores se amplia ao problematizar o horizonte existencial do ser humano na sociedade contemporânea: sujeito social e cidadão, respectivamente. As conclusões evidenciam que Paulo Freire utiliza os principais conceitos da Geografia ao longo da sua obra e que a afinidade com Milton Santos extrapola os elementos conceituais evidenciados no texto.
ECOCIDADANIA, EDUCAÇÃO AMBIENTAL E ENSINO DE GEOGRAFIA
Authors: Botêlho Lucas Antônio Viana , Santos Francisco Kennedy Silva dos
Published: April 2017

O presente artigo parte de uma discussão teórico-conceitual sobre três questões que têm causado inquietações no campo da prática de ensino: a cidadania, a educação ambiental e o ensino de Geografia. No seio de um debate contemporâneo, em que a aprendizagem escolar torna-se objeto de investigação cada vez mais observado e refletido, a formação do cidadão, por meio do ensino de Geografia e da educação ambiental, vem tomando a linha de frente nas preocupações teóricas e metodológicas dos pesquisadores. O que se tem constatado é a emersão de novas concepções, tidas como pós-modernas, que visam humanizar o ensino, formar o sujeito crítico-atuante e promover a cidadania em sua forma mais emancipada, na medida em que os indivíduos tomam consciência da mesma. Este trabalho, portanto, visa analisar tal percurso, esboçando um estado da arte sobre os achados teóricos e sinalizando questões que permitam avançar o debate acerca destas inquietações.
Shelf off Alagoas and Sergipe (NE Brazil).5. Station list and notes on benthic bionomy.
Authors: KEMPF Marc
Published: April 2017

-
Peixes do Canal de Santa Cruz - Pernambuco - Brasil.
Authors: ESKINAZI Aida Maria
Published: April 2017

-
Plataforma Continental do Estado do Maranhão. Operação Pesquisador IV. Nota Sobrea Natureza do Fundo.
Authors: LUNA José Audísio Costa
Published: April 2017

-
Estudo Ecológico da Região de Itamaracá, Pernambuco, Brasil. VII. Crustáceos Decápodos Natantes.
Authors: RAMOS-PORTO Marilena
Published: April 2017

-
Estudo Ecológico da Região de Itamaracá, Pernambuco, Brasil. IX. Informações sobre a Alimentação dos Bagres Branco e Amarelo (Pisces, Ariidae).
Authors: GUEDES Dinalva De Souza , VASCONCELOS FILHO Antônio De Lemos
Published: April 2017

-
Dinoflagelados da Plataforma Continental do Ceará.
Authors: PASSAVANTE José Zanon De Oliveira , KOENING Maria Luise , ESKINAZI-LEÇA Enide
Published: April 2017

Dando continuidade aos estudos dos dinoflagelados da Plataforma Continental do Nordeste Brasileiro, foram analisadas amostras de plâncton, coletadas pelo barco pesqueiro CANOPUS, ao longo da Plataforma Continental do Ceará.Nas 11 estações estudadas, foram identificadas 31 espécies, distribuídas em 8 gêneros. O gênero Ceratium apresentou maior numero de espécies (20 espécies). As estações 72 e 25 foram qualitativamente mais abundantes. Duas espécies são referidas pela primeira vez para o Brasil: Ceratium tripos var. poncticun e Ceratium vultur f. sumatranum.
Estudo ecológico da região de Itamaracá, (Pernambuco-Brasil). XXVI. Clorofila "a" e material em suspensão no estuário do rio Botafogo.
Authors: PASSAVANTE José Zanon De Oliveira , KOENING Maria Luise
Published: April 2017

No estuário do Rio Botafogo (Lat. 27049'S; Long.34050'W), vem sendo realizada uma serie de estudos geológicos, hidrológicos e biológicos , com fins de se determinar a potencial idade pesqueira e a possibilidade de implantação de projetos de aqüicultura no referido estuário e áreas adjacentes. As variações anuais docoeficiente de extinção de luz, disco de Secchi; temperatura, material em suspensão e clorofila-a são apresentadas. Os valores de clorofila-a, ao longo do estuário apresentou-se homogeneo, com uma media superior a 6 mg/m3. Pelos seus altos valores, a região estudada pode ser considerada suficientemente eutrófica com amplas possibilidades para sustentar uma elevada produção secundária. '
Histórico
Authors: I.B.M.O. Instit. de Biologia Marítima e Oceanogr.
Published: April 2017

O Instituto de Biologia Maritima e Oceanografia, teve a sua origem em sugestoes de cientistas de renome internacional como: CARLOS CHAGAS, VAN EULER, ALEXANDRE MONNIER, que encontraram acolhida e concretizac;ao na pessoa do falecido Reitor Dr. JOAQUIM INACIO DE ALMEIDA AMAZONAS, homem capaz de grandes empreendimentos.