bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of Multi-Criteria Decision-Making Methodologies for the Petroleum Industry
Authors: Lev Virine , murphy Derek
Published: February 2016

Decision-making within the petroleum industry is a complex process involving extensive analysis of multiple objectives based on a variety of diverse criteria. As part of the decision-making process, companies often convert non-monetary criteria to common monetary equivalents, i.e. assigning costs allocations regarding public response to a proposed project. However, this approach has many limitations related to recognizing the company's true financial performance in comparison to quality, safety, environmental concerns and other factors.

When nominal factors are involved, it may be practical for decision-makers to rely on intuition and experience to guide their decisions. However, when multi-criteria exist, simplistic intuitive process may not be applicable in which case a more detailed and robust process is required.

The process of multicriteria decision-making starts with eliciting judgment concerning corporate decision-making policy, in particular identifying levels of risk tolerance. By interviewing key decision-makers and reviewing historical decision making policy, it is possible to identify and quantify an organizations strategic preferences and overall objectives. Such findings can then be used in the multicriteria decision analysis process to further distinguish a company's priorities and requirements.

This paper examines different multicriteria decision making methodologies including the multi-attribute utility theory (MAUT), the simple multi-attribute rating technique (SMART), and the analytic hierarchy process (AHP). This paper presents an independent review and comparison of each method while highlighting how each method can be applied for evaluating different types of decisions within the petroleum industry. This paper also creates discussion around heuristic, intuitive as well as other mental strategies that exist, placing focus on their individual strengths and weaknesses.

Intuitive and Formalized Approaches for Multicriteria Decision-Making

Multicriteria decision-making is a process that can assist an individual and/or an organization to effectively incorporate and evaluate all known factors and outcomes associated with a required decision. The goal of this process is to provide the decision-maker with sufficient information in order to choose an alternative that results in the most feasible and optimal outcome.

Traditionally, many decisions involving multiple objectives and trade-offs are made intuitively by a decision-maker without sophisticated analysis or examination. This style of decision-making relies primarily on various mental simplification techniques by each individual in determining the specific decision of choice.

In many cases these techniques, or heuristics, lead to high quality decisions, however they are often polluted by individual biases and predictable mental errors. In the case of oil and gas exploration and production, such biases may possibly lead to very damaging mistakes.
The Role of Alternative Formation Evaluation Technologies in Brownfield Revitalization in Colombia
Authors: Guarnizo Eduardo Lozano , Garcia German D. , Losada Hernan , Amaya Mauro , Nunez Gustavo , Restrepo Carmenza , Marquez Leonardo
Published: February 2016

This reference is for an abstract only. A full paper was not submitted for this conference.

The Casabe field in the middle Magdalena valley of Colombia has been producing since the mid-1940s. With some 18 million bbl remaining recoverable reserves, the field is undergoing its third redevelopment campaign. One of the biggest challenges is reducing uncertainty in the decision making process. Evaluation of the properties of the producing horizons allows the selection of the best intervals for completion and enables reliable reservoir simulations that can be used to select products and solutions to increase production. In the past, many factors led to the suboptimal exploitation of the field. The presence of potassium feldspar and other radioactive materials made gamma ray logs inconclusive for the identification of reservoir rocks. As a consequence, spontaneous potential (SP) was traditionally used as the main indicator of reservoir rocks. The evaluation of saturation has also become a challenge. In new wells, the computation of reliable water saturation is affected by a combination of high clay content and the fact that the field has experienced fresh water injection for more than 20 years. So far, 25 wells have been drilled in different areas of the field to increase production and acquire data for a better characterization of the reservoir. Many of these wells were used to test different new logging technologies, which ranged from the latest generation of resistivity- porosity tools to more sophisticated measurements like magnetic resonance, pulsed neutron, and formation testers. This paper compiles some of the results these different technologies showed in the field. A discussion of the role of such technologies in the decision-making process for completing better wells and in understanding the reservoir architecture and flow behavior is also included.
Integrated Local Reservoir Connectivity Analysis in a Channelised Turbidite Reservoir
Authors: Shams Asghar
Published: February 2016

This reference is for an abstract only. A full paper was not submitted for this conference.

A good understanding of reservoir performance for management and production requires information on the pressure and saturation variations together with the major connected paths in the system. However in complex geological settings such as channelised turbidite sands, the pathways for fluid movement and pressure evolution between the individual sand bodies are not obvious and cannot be easily inferred from geological data. The effect of gas/water injection and production is therefore hard to predict with certainty. To address this problem, a method which integrates both time-lapse seismic data and a well interference test is developed to help provide a local update to the reservoir simulation model. The benefit is derived from the overlap between the aerial resolution of the time-lapse seismic with the harder, more localised pressure data from the well test. The seismic contributes to an understanding of the 3D geometry of the connected bodies, and this information is fed into an inversion of the well test data to help reduce the non-uniqueness in the interpretation and improve stability. The technique is successfully applied to a deepwater turbidite reservoir with satisfactory results.
One-Trip Expandable Screen Installation Solves Water and Sand Management and Gas Production Issues in Nile Delta
Authors: Abdel Aal Tharwat , Fattah Mahmoud Abdel , El-Sherif Hossan , Bowen Eddie G.
Published: February 2016

In January 2006 El-Wastani Petroleum took a step outside the proverbial "box" and made a decision to use expandable technology as a solution for an existing problem. The well, Gelgel #2, located in the Nile Delta Field of South Manzala, was a prolific gas producer whose upper sand body had watered out. Along with the water came the inevitable sand production from this Miocene Age sandstone. The need to shut off the water and provide sand control within a limited work space was the challenge.

This paper will describe how the operator and service company used a one-trip expandable sand screen system to provide a solution for water shut-off and sand retention while allowing continued production of gas.

The paper will review the operator's investigation and decision-making process in selecting an expandable sand screen system for this project, whose objective was to install a 4-3/4-in. screen system to isolate the water section and allow the gas section continued production while providing a means of sand control during the process. Re-entry access through the producing sand was a critical success factor in allowing for future production logging as required.

The authors will discuss the results of the project, which indicated that the application of expandable technology was highly successful. The screen assembly, which included expandable screens and expandable packers, successfully isolated the desired zones. The water was reduced to an acceptable rate and gas rates returned to a respectable rate of 5MMSCFD, the highest gas producer in the South Manzala Field.

Introduction

The South Manzala Field, located in the Nile Delta of Northern Egypt, is a designated gas field development for the independent operator El-Wastani Petroleum Company. There are currently six producing wells in this field. The Gelgel #2 is the most prolific gas producer in the entire field.

Gelgel #2 was placed on line for production in Septemeber 2004. Initial production came from commingling the IIA and IIB reservoir sand bodies. The IIA sand, located at a depth of 905 meters to 912.5 meters, and the IIB sand, located at a depth of 920 meters to 924 meters, initially produced at an average daily rate of 14mmscf/day until July of 2005 (see Figure 1). Very little water was produced during this period. The well flowed on a 0.875in. choke for the first few months and later increased to 1.719in. until it was shut in during July 2005.

Once an indication of sand production became an issue, the decision was made to isolate the lower IIB sand and produce the upper IIA sand body independently. Isolation was accomplished by setting a bridge plug between the two sand reservoirs.
Large carbide dissolution in GCr15 continuously cast billet core
Authors: Li Zhiqiang , Wen Zhi , Su Fuyong , Zhang Ruijie
Published: February 2016

In-situ tracking was used to evaluate the large carbide dissolution process in GCr15 continuously cast billet core. The time needed to dissolve the large carbides at different temperatures was investigated. As expected, the results showed that increased temperature can significantly shorten the complete dissolution time. Based on the spherical model, a new carbide surface area model to describe carbide size is presented in this paper; the parameters needed were evaluated from the experimental data. Appropriate homogenization cycles are also proposed.
Effect of high magnetic field on carbide precipitation in W6Mo5Cr4V3 high-speed steel during low-temperature tempering
Authors: Wu Yan , Li Hui-Hui , Zhang Zhi-Wei , Tong Lu , Zhao Xiang
Published: February 2016

The effect of a high magnetic field on carbide precipitation in W6Mo5Cr4V3 high-speed steel during low-temperature tempering was investigated. The applied high magnetic field promoted the precipitation of M
6C-type carbides at boundaries and in the grain interior, but maximum spheroidization and refinement occurred for those carbides precipitated at boundaries. Compared with M
6C-type carbides, the effect of high magnetic field on the precipitation behavior of MC-type carbides is much weaker. The high magnetic field hindered M
2C-type carbide precipitation by affecting the Gibbs free energy and increased the microhardness of W6Mo5Cr4V3 high-speed steel at low tempering temperature.
Phase-field simulation of liquid phase migration in the WC–Co system during liquid phase sintering
Authors: Cheng Kaiming , Zhang Lijun , Schwarze Christian , Steinbach Ingo , Du Yong
Published: February 2016

Liquid phase sintering is a process for forming high performance, multiple-phase components from powders. The process includes very complex interactions between various mass transportation phenomena, among which the liquid phase migration represents an important one in the aspect of forming a gradient structure in cemented carbide. In the present work, phase-field simulation of the liquid phase migration phenomenon during liquid phase sintering is performed in the WC – Co based cemented carbide. The simulation results are analyzed and compared with the experimentally determined key factors of microstructural evolution, such as contiguity and liquid phase migration rate. The diffusion-controlled solution–precipitation mechanism of the liquid phase migration process in the cemented carbide system is confirmed from the current simulation result, which provides deeper understanding of the microstructural evolution during the liquid phase migration process. These simulations can offer guidance in preventing the liquid phase migration process during liquid phase sintering of cellular cemented carbide.
Influence of ceramic B4C particulate addition on tensile behavior of 6061 aluminum matrix
Authors: Rajagopal Sandeep Panyam , Lakshmikantha Rajesh Gandasi , Virupaxi Auradi , Amarappa Kori Shivputrappa
Published: February 2016

In this study, an attempt was made to prepare 6061Al – B4Cp composites through a two-step melt stirring process at 750 °C. During the preparation of the composite, preheated K2TiF6 flux along with B4Cp (ratio 0.08) was added in the melt in two steps to avoid segregation of B4CP. Microstructural characterization was done using scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction techniques. Density, hardness and tensile strength of the cast alloy and the composite were determined both at room temperature and 100 °C. Fracture studies of the tensile specimens were also done using scanning electron microscopy.
Experimental investigation by atomic force microscopy on mechanical and tribological properties of thin films
Authors: Birleanu Corina , Pustan Marius , Müller Raluca , Dudescu Cristian , Merie Violeta , Voicu Rodica , Baracu Angela
Published: February 2016

For this paper, a two part approach was taken to develop a fundamental understanding of the surface properties of four different hard thin films. On one front, atomic force microscopy was used to quantitatively measure both the adhesion and friction forces between the tip and sample surfaces. On the other front, the indentation technique was used to determine the mechanical properties of these materials (Young's modulus and hardness). The main purpose of this study was to investigate different thin films deposited on silicon wafer substrate for improving the wear life and reducing the coefficient of friction. Nanomechanical and nanotribological characterization of thin films of chromium, nickel, platinum and titanium deposited on silicon were performed.
Clinical outcomes after percutaneous transforaminal endoscopic discectomy for lumbar disc herniation: a prospective case series
Authors: Gadjradj Pravesh S. , van Tulder Maurits W. , Dirven Clemens M. F. , Peul Wilco C. , Harhangi B. Sanjay
Published: February 2016

OBJECTIVE

Throughout the last decades, full-endoscopic techniques to treat lumbar disc herniation (LDH) have gained popularity in clinical practice. To date, however, no Class I evidence on the efficacy of percutaneous transforaminal endoscopic discectomy (PTED) has been published, and studies describing its safety and short- and long-term efficacy are scarce. In this study the authors aimed to evaluate the clinical outcomes and safety in patients undergoing PTED for LDH.

METHODS

Patients who underwent PTED for LDH between January 2009 and December 2012 were prospectively followed. The primary outcomes were the visual analog scale (VAS) score for leg pain and the score on the Quebec Back Pain Disability Scale (QBPDS). Secondary outcomes were the perceived experience with the local anesthesia used and satisfaction with the results after 1 year using Likert-type scales. The pretreatment means were compared with the means obtained 6 and 52 weeks after surgery using paired t-tests.

RESULTS

A total of 166 patients underwent surgery for a total of 167 LDHs. The mean duration of surgery (± SD) was 51.0 ± 9.0 minutes. The 1-year follow-up rate was 95.2%. The mean reported scores on the VAS and QBPDS were 82.5 ± 17.3 mm and 60.0 ± 18.4 at baseline, respectively. Six weeks after surgery, the scores on the VAS and QBPDS were significantly reduced to 28.8 ± 24.5 mm and 26.7 ± 20.6, respectively (p < 0.001). After 52 weeks of follow-up, the scores were further reduced compared with baseline scores (p < 0.001) to 19.6 ± 23.5 mm on the VAS and 20.2 ± 18.1 on the QBPDS. A total of 4 complications were observed, namely 1 dural tear, 1 deficit of ankle dorsiflexion, and 2 cases of transient paresis in the foot due to the use of local anesthetics.

CONCLUSIONS

PTED appears to be a safe and effective intervention for LDH and has similar clinical outcomes compared to conventional open microdiscectomy. High-quality randomized controlled trials are required to study the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of PTED.
Patient radiation exposure during transforaminal lumbar endoscopic spine surgery: a prospective study
Authors: Iprenburg Menno , Wagner Ralf , Godschalx Alexander , Telfeian Albert E.
Published: February 2016

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to describe patient radiation exposure during single-level transforaminal endoscopic lumbar discectomy procedures at levels L2–5 and L5–S1.

METHODS

Radiation exposure was monitored in 151 consecutive patients undergoing single-level transforaminal endoscopic lumbar discectomy procedures. Two groups were studied: patients undergoing procedures at the L4–5 level or above and those undergoing an L5–S1 procedure.

RESULTS

For the discectomy procedures at L4–5 and above, the average duration of fluoroscopy was 38.4 seconds and the mean calculated patient radiation exposure dose was 1.5 mSv. For the L5–S1 procedures, average fluoroscopy time was 54.6 seconds and the mean calculated radiation exposure dose was 2.1 mSv. The average patient radiation exposure dose among these cases represents a 3.5-fold decrease compared with the senior surgeon's first 100 cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Transforaminal lumbar endoscopic discectomy can be used as a minimally invasive technique for the treatment of lumbar radiculopathy in the setting of a herniated lumbar disc without the significant concern of exposing the patient to harmful doses of radiation. One caveat is that both the surgeon and the patient are likely to be exposed to higher doses of radiation during a surgeon's early experience in minimally invasive endoscopic spine surgery.
Transforaminal endoscopic decompression of a postoperative dislocated bone fragment after a 2-level lumbar total disc replacement: case report
Authors: Wagner Ralf , Iprenburg Menno , Telfeian Albert E.
Published: February 2016

The proposed advantages of total disc replacement (TDR) over fusion in the lumbar spine are the preservation of motion and the avoidance of adjacent-level disease. One of the complications inherent in TDR is the possibility of vertebral body fracture due to trauma or a malpositioned implant. The resulting dilemma is that posterior decompression of the displaced bone fragment could then have a destabilizing effect and possibly require fusion, thus obviating the benefit of an arthroplasty procedure. In this study, the authors describe the technical considerations and feasibility of the treatment of a postoperative L-5 paresis that resulted from a dislocated bone fragment at L4–5 during a 2-level lumbar TDR.
The endoscopic transoral approach to the craniovertebral junction: an anatomical study with a clinical example
Authors: Chan Andrew K. , Benet Arnau , Ohya Junichi , Zhang Xin , Vogel Todd D. , Flis Daniel W. , El-Sayed Ivan H. , Mummaneni Praveen V.
Published: February 2016

OBJECTIVE

The microscopic transoral, endoscopic transnasal, and endoscopic transoral approaches are used alone and in combination for a variety of craniovertebral junction (CVJ) pathologies. The endoscopic transoral approach provides a more direct exposure that is not restricted by the nasal cavity, pterygoid plates, and palate while sparing the potential morbidities associated with extensive soft-tissue dissection, palatal splitting, or mandibulotomy. Concerns regarding the extent of visualization afforded by the endoscopic transoral approach may be limiting its widespread adoption.

METHODS

A dissection of 10 cadaver heads was undertaken. CT-based imaging guidance was used to measure the working corridor of the endoscopic transoral approach. Measurements were made relative to the palatal line. The built-in linear measurement tool was used to measure the superior and inferior extents of view. The superolateral extent was measured relative to the midline, as defined by the nasal process of the maxilla. The height of the clivus, odontoid tip, and superior aspect of the C-1 arch were also measured relative to the palatal line. A correlated clinical case is presented with video.

RESULTS

The CVJ was accessible in all cases. The superior extent of the approach was a mean 19.08 mm above the palatal line (range 11.1–27.7 mm). The superolateral extent relative to the midline was 15.45 mm on the right side (range 9.6–23.7 mm) and 16.70 mm on the left side (range 8.1–26.7 mm). The inferior extent was a mean 34.58 mm below the palatal line (range 22.2–41.6 mm). The mean distances were as follows: palatal line relative to the odontoid tip, 0.97 mm (range −4.9 to 3.7 mm); palatal line relative to the height of the clivus, 4.88 mm (range −1.5 to 7.3 mm); and palatal line relative to the C-1 arch, −2.75 mm (range −5.8 to 0 mm).

CONCLUSIONS

The endoscopic transoral approach can reliably access the CVJ. This approach avoids the dissections and morbidities associated with a palate-splitting technique (velopharyngeal insufficiency) and the expanded endonasal approach (mucus crusting, sinusitis, and potential lacerum or cavernous-paraclival internal carotid artery injury). For appropriately selected lesions near the palatal line, the endoscopic transoral approach appears to be the preferred approach.
Early experience with endoscopic foraminotomy in patients with moderate degenerative deformity
Authors: Madhavan Karthik , Chieng Lee Onn , McGrath Lynn , Hofstetter Christoph P. , Wang Michael Y.
Published: February 2016

OBJECTIVE

Asymmetrical degeneration of the disc is one of the most common causes of primary degenerative scoliosis in adults. Coronal deformity is usually less symptomatic than a sagittal deformity because there is less expenditure of energy and hence less effort to maintain upright posture. However, nerve root compression at the fractional curve or at the concave side of the main curve can give rise to debilitating radiculopathy.

METHODS

This study was a retrospective analysis of 16 patients with coronal deformity of between 10° and 20°. All patients underwent endoscopic foraminal decompression surgery. The pre- and postoperative Cobb angle, visual analog scale (VAS), 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36), and Oswestry Disability Index scores were measured.

RESULTS

The average age of the patients was 70.0 ± 15.5 years (mean ± SD, range 61–86 years), with a mean followup of 7.5 ± 5.3 months (range 2–14 months). The average coronal deformity was 16.8° ± 4.7° (range 10°–41°). In 8 patients the symptomatic foraminal stenosis was at the level of the fractional curve, and in the remaining patients it was at the concave side of the main curve. One of the patients included in the current cohort had to undergo a repeat operation within 1 week for another disc herniation at the adjacent level. One patient had CSF leakage, which was repaired intraoperatively, and no further complications were noted. On average, preoperative VAS and SF-36 scores showed a tendency for improvement, whereas a dramatic reduction of VAS, by 65% (p = 0.003), was observed in radicular leg pain.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with mild to moderate spinal deformity are often compensated and have tolerable levels of back pain. However, unilateral radicular pain resulting from foraminal stenosis can be debilitating. In select cases, an endoscopic discectomy or foraminotomy enables the surgeon to decompress the symptomatic foramen with preservation of essential biomechanical structures, delaying the need for a major deformity correction surgery.
Transforaminal endoscopic discectomy to relieve sciatica and delay fusion in a 31-year-old man with pars defects and low-grade spondylolisthesis
Authors: Madhavan Karthik , Chieng Lee Onn , Hofstetter Christoph P. , Wang Michael Y.
Published: February 2016

Isthmic spondylolisthesis due to pars defects resulting from trauma or spondylolysis is not uncommon. Symptomatic patients with such pars defects are traditionally treated with a variety of fusion surgeries. The authors present a unique case in which such a patient was successfully treated with endoscopic discectomy without iatrogenic destabilization.

A 31-year-old man presented with a history of left radicular leg pain along the distribution of the sciatic nerve. He had a disc herniation at L5/S1 and bilateral pars defects with a Grade I spondylolisthesis. Dynamic radiographic studies did not show significant movement of L-5 over S-1. The patient did not desire to have a fusion. After induction of local anesthesia, the patient underwent an awake transforaminal endoscopic discectomy via the extraforaminal approach, with decompression of the L-5 and S-1 nerve roots. His preoperative pain resolved immediately, and he was discharged home the same day. His preoperative Oswestry Disability Index score was 74, and postoperatively it was noted to be 8. At 2-year follow-up he continued to be symptom free, and no radiographic progression of the listhesis was noted.

In this case preservation of stabilizing structures, including the supraspinous and interspinous ligaments and the facet capsule, may have reduced the likelihood of iatrogenic instability while at the same time achieving symptom control. This may be a reasonable option for select patient symptoms confined to lumbosacral radiculopathy.
A Simple, Efficient and Solvent-free Reaction for the Synthesis of Quinolines Using Caesium Iodide
Authors: Mokhtarpour Nazanin , Eshghi Hossein , Bakavoli Mehdi , Eshkil Fatemeh
Published: February 2016

A series of quinoline derivatives has been synthesised from the reactions of 2-aminoacetophenone and 2-aminobenzophenone with different ketones in the presence of caesium iodide under solvent-free and thermal conditions. This method has the advantages of good yields, a clean reaction, simple methodology, short reaction times, easy work-up and green conditions.
Synthesis, Crystal Structure and bIological Activity of 5-(4-fluorophenyl)-N,N-dimethyl-7-(trifluoromethyl)Pyrazolo[1,5-a]Pyrimidine-3-carboxamide
Authors: Liu Ju , Song Duan-Zheng , Tian Yan-Qiu , Zhang Xin-Wei , Bai Yue-Fei , Wang Dan
Published: February 2016

The title compound, 5-(4-fluorophenyl)-N,N-dimethyl-7-(trifluoromethyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide, has been synthesised by condensation of dimethylamine with 5-(4-fluorophenyl)-7-(trifluoromethyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxylic acid. This intermediate was prepared from ethyl 5-amino-1H-pyrazole-4-carboxylate by cyclisation with 4,4,4-trifluoro-1-(4-fluorophenyl)butane-1,3-dione and then saponification with sodium hydroxide. The crystal structure of the title compound was determined. The compound possesses distinct effective inhibition on the proliferation of some cancer cell lines.
Synthesis and Characterisation of Strontium Hexaferrite Using an Electrocoagulation by-Product
Authors: González Gregorio , Parga José R. , Moreno Héctor A. , Ramos Juan , Martínez Fernando , Martínez Rodolfo , Vazquez Victor
Published: February 2016

Strontium ferrite (SrFe12O19) was synthesised in a solid phase reaction by applying the conventional ceramic method. The precursor powder, containing magnetic iron species generated by the electrocoagulation technique, was allowed to react with strontium carbonate in the solid phase. The molar ratio of the precursor to strontium carbonate was maintained at 12:1 (Fe:Sr), yielding strontium ferrite (SrFe12O19). The electrocoagulation sludge generated was characterised by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and vibrating sample magnetometry. The strontium ferrite obtained was characterised by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, differential thermal analysis and vibrating sample magnetometry. The combined results of these analyses showed that the strontium ferrite obtained was of excellent quality with excellent magnetic properties.
Target Tracking in 3-D Using Estimation Based Nonlinear Control Laws for UAVs
Authors: Ahmed Mousumi , Subbarao Kamesh
Published: February 2016

This paper presents an estimation based backstepping like control law design for an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) to track a moving target in 3-D space. A ground-based sensor or an onboard seeker antenna provides range, azimuth angle, and elevation angle measurements to a chaser UAV that implements an extended Kalman filter (EKF) to estimate the full state of the target. A nonlinear controller then utilizes this estimated target state and the chaser’s state to provide speed, flight path, and course/heading angle commands to the chaser UAV. Tracking performance with respect to measurement uncertainty is evaluated for three cases: (1) stationary white noise; (2) stationary colored noise and (3) non-stationary (range correlated) white noise. Furthermore, in an effort to improve tracking performance, the measurement model is made more realistic by taking into consideration range-dependent uncertainties in the measurements, i.e., as the chaser closes in on the target, measurement uncertainties are reduced in the EKF, thus providing the UAV with more accurate control commands. Simulation results for these cases are shown to illustrate target state estimation and trajectory tracking performance.
Selected Abiotic and Biotic Environmental Stress Factors Affecting Two Economically Important Sugarcane Stalk Boring Pests in the United States
Authors: Showler Allan
Published: February 2016

Sugarcane, Saccharum spp., in the United States is attacked by a number of different arthropod pests. The most serious among those pests are two stalk boring moths in the Family Crambidae: the sugarcane borer, Diatraea saccharalis (F.), and the Mexican rice borer, Eoreuma loftini (Dyar). The two species are affected by abiotic and biotic environmental stress factors. Water deficit and excessive soil nitrogen alter physical and physiochemical aspects of the sugarcane plant that make the crop increasingly vulnerable to E. loftini. Weed growth can be competitive with sugarcane but it also supports enhanced abundances and diversity of natural enemies that can suppress infestations of D. saccharalis. In an instance where the stalk borer is considered a stress factor, proximity of vulnerable crops to sugarcane can influence levels of E. loftini infestation of sugarcane. The adverse effects of each stress factor, in terms of stalk borer attack, can be reduced by adopting appropriate cultural practices, such as adequate irrigation, judicious use of nitrogen fertilizer, using noncompetitive weed growth, and not planting vulnerable crops near sugarcane fields. Understanding the relationships between stress factors and crop pests can provide valuable insights for plant breeders and tools for incorporation into integrated pest management strategies.
A Novel Bearing Lubricating Device Based on the Piezoelectric Micro-Jet
Authors: Li Kai , Liu Junkao , Chen Weishan , Ye Lei , Zhang Lu
Published: February 2016

A novel bearing lubricating device, which is embedded in gyroscope’s bearing system and based on the theory of the piezoelectric micro-jet, was designed for this study. The embedded structure of a bearing lubricating system can make effective use of the limited space of bearing systems without increasing the whole mass of the system. The drop-on-demand (DOD) lubrication can be realized by the piezoelectric micro-jet system to implement the long acting lubrication of the bearing system. A mathematical model of inlet boundary conditions was established to carry on the numerical simulation based on CFD. The motion states of the droplets with different voltage excitations were analyzed via numerical simulations, and the injection performances of the piezoelectric micro-jet lubricating device were tested in accordance with past experiments. The influences of different parameters of voltage excitation on injection performance were obtained, and the methods of adjusting the injection performance to meet different requirements are given according to the analyses of the results. The mathematical model and numerical simulation method were confirmed by comparing the results of past simulations and experiments.
Frequency-Dependent Amplitude Panning for the Stereophonic Image Enhancement of Audio Recorded Using Two Closely Spaced Microphones
Authors: Chun Chan , Kim Hong
Published: February 2016

In this paper, we propose a new frequency-dependent amplitude panning method for stereophonic image enhancement applied to a sound source recorded using two closely spaced omni-directional microphones. The ability to detect the direction of such a sound source is limited due to weak spatial information, such as the inter-channel time difference (ICTD) and inter-channel level difference (ICLD). Moreover, when sound sources are recorded in a convolutive or a real room environment, the detection of sources is affected by reverberation effects. Thus, the proposed method first tries to estimate the source direction depending on the frequency using azimuth-frequency analysis. Then, a frequency-dependent amplitude panning technique is proposed to enhance the stereophonic image by modifying the stereophonic law of sines. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method, we compare its performance with that of a conventional method based on the beamforming technique in terms of directivity pattern, perceived direction, and quality degradation under three different recording conditions (anechoic, convolutive, and real reverberant). The comparison shows that the proposed method gives us better stereophonic images in a stereo loudspeaker reproduction than the conventional method without any annoying effects.
A Technical Report of the Robust Affordable Next Generation Energy Storage System-BASF Program
Authors: Young Kwo-hsiung , Ng K. , Bendersky Leonid
Published: February 2016

The goal of the Robust Affordable Next Generation Energy Storage System (RANGE)-BASF program is to provide an alternative solution for the energy storage media that powers electric vehicles other than the existing Li-ion battery. With the use of a rare-earth-free metal hydride (MH) as the active negative electrode material, together with a core-shell type alpha-beta nickel hydroxide as the active positive electrode and a sealed pouch design, an energy density of 145 Wh·kg−1 and cost model of $120 kWh−1 are shown to be feasible. Combined with the proven safety record and cycle stability, we have demonstrated the feasibility of using a Ni-MH battery in EV applications.
Field Experiments on 10 kV Switching Shunt Capacitor Banks Using Ordinary and Phase-Controlled Vacuum Circuit Breakers
Authors: Sima Wenxia , Zou Mi , Yang Qing , Yang Ming , Li Licheng
Published: February 2016

During the switching on/off of shunt capacitor banks in substations, vacuum circuit breakers (VCBs) are required to switch off or to switch on the capacitive current. Therefore, the VCBs have to be operated under a harsh condition to ensure the reliability of the equipment. This study presents a complete comparison study of ordinary and phase-controlled VCBs on switching 10 kV shunt capacitor banks. An analytical analysis for switching 10 kV shunt capacitor banks is presented on the basis of a reduced circuit with an ungrounded neutral. A phase selection strategy for VCBs to switch 10 kV shunt capacitor banks is proposed. Switching on current waveforms and switching off overvoltage waveforms with, and without, phase selection were measured and discussed by field experiments in a 110 kV substation in Chongqing, China. Results show that the operation of phase-controlled VCBs for 10 kV switching shunt capacitor banks is stable, and phase-controlled VCBs can be used to implement the 10 kV switching on/off shunt capacitor banks to limit the transient overvoltage and overcurrent. The values of overvoltage and inrush current using phase-controlled VCBs are all below those with ordinary VCBs.
Barriers to Walking: An Investigation of Adults in Hamilton (Ontario, Canada)
Authors: Clark Andrew , Scott Darren
Published: February 2016

This study investigates perceived barriers to walking using data collected from 179 randomly-selected adults between the ages of 18 and 92 in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. A survey (Hamilton Active Living Study) asked questions about socio-demographics, walking, and barriers to walking. A series of binary logit models are estimated for twenty potential barriers to walking. The results demonstrate that different barriers are associated with different sub-groups of the population. Females, senior citizens, and those with a higher body mass index identify the most barriers to walking, while young adults, parents, driver’s license owners, and bus pass owners identify the fewest barriers. Understanding who is affected by perceived barriers can help policy makers and health promotion agencies target sub-groups of the population in an effort to increase walking.
Applications and Challenges for Use of Cell-Penetrating Peptides as Delivery Vectors for Peptide and Protein Cargos
Authors: Kristensen Mie , Birch Ditlev , Mørck Nielsen Hanne
Published: February 2016

The hydrophilic nature of peptides and proteins renders them impermeable to cell membranes. Thus, in order to successfully deliver peptide and protein-based therapeutics across the plasma membrane or epithelial and endothelial barriers, a permeation enhancing strategy must be employed. Cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) constitute a promising tool and have shown applications for peptide and protein delivery into cells as well as across various epithelia and the blood-brain barrier (BBB). CPP-mediated delivery of peptides and proteins may be pursued via covalent conjugation of the CPP to the cargo peptide or protein or via physical complexation obtained by simple bulk-mixing of the CPP with its cargo. Both approaches have their pros and cons, and which is the better choice likely relates to the physicochemical properties of the CPP and its cargo as well as the route of administration, the specific barrier and the target cell. Besides the physical barrier, a metabolic barrier must be taken into consideration when applying peptide-based delivery vectors, such as the CPPs, and stability-enhancing strategies are commonly employed to prolong the CPP half-life. The mechanisms by which CPPs translocate cell membranes are believed to involve both endocytosis and direct translocation, but are still widely investigated and discussed. The fact that multiple factors influence the mechanisms responsible for cellular CPP internalization and the lack of sensitive methods for detection of the CPP, and in some cases the cargo, further complicates the design and conduction of conclusive mechanistic studies.
Atrogin-1 Deficiency Leads to Myopathy and Heart Failure in Zebrafish
Authors: Bühler Anja , Kustermann Monika , Bummer Tiziana , Rottbauer Wolfgang , Sandri Marco , Just Steffen
Published: February 2016

Orchestrated protein synthesis and degradation is fundamental for proper cell function. In muscle, impairment of proteostasis often leads to severe cellular defects finally interfering with contractile function. Here, we analyze for the first time the role of Atrogin-1, a muscle-specific E3 ubiquitin ligase known to be involved in the regulation of protein degradation via the ubiquitin proteasome and the autophagy/lysosome systems, in the in vivo model system zebrafish (Danio rerio). We found that targeted inactivation of zebrafish Atrogin-1 leads to progressive impairment of heart and skeletal muscle function and disruption of muscle structure without affecting early cardiogenesis and skeletal muscle development. Autophagy is severely impaired in Atrogin-1-deficient zebrafish embryos resulting in the disturbance of the cytoarchitecture of cardiomyocytes and skeletal muscle cells. These observations are consistent with molecular and ultrastructural findings in an Atrogin-1 knockout mouse and demonstrate that the zebrafish is a suitable vertebrate model to study the molecular mechanisms of Atrogin-1-mediated autophagic muscle pathologies and to screen for novel therapeutically active substances in high-throughput in vivo small compound screens (SCS).
Prioritization of Susceptibility Genes for Ectopic Pregnancy by Gene Network Analysis
Authors: Liu Ji-Long , Zhao Miao
Published: February 2016

Ectopic pregnancy is a very dangerous complication of pregnancy, affecting 1%–2% of all reported pregnancies. Due to ethical constraints on human biopsies and the lack of suitable animal models, there has been little success in identifying functionally important genes in the pathogenesis of ectopic pregnancy. In the present study, we developed a random walk–based computational method named TM-rank to prioritize ectopic pregnancy–related genes based on text mining data and gene network information. Using a defined threshold value, we identified five top-ranked genes: VEGFA (vascular endothelial growth factor A), IL8 (interleukin 8), IL6 (interleukin 6), ESR1 (estrogen receptor 1) and EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor). These genes are promising candidate genes that can serve as useful diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Our approach represents a novel strategy for prioritizing disease susceptibility genes.
Restricted Pax3 Deletion within the Neural Tube Results in Congenital Hydrocephalus
Authors: Zhou Hong-Ming , Conway Simon
Published: February 2016

Congenital hydrocephalus is a common birth-defect whose developmental origins are poorly understood. Pax3-null mutants show defects in myogenesis, neural tube closure, neural crest morphogenesis, and heart development that, consequently, results in embryonic lethality. Here we demonstrate that conditional deletion of the mouse Pax3 transcription factor results in fully-penetrant congenital obstructive hydrocephalus. To identify the role of Pax3 during cranial development, we deleted Pax3 within the neuroepithelium (via Pax7−Cre), in the neural crest (via P0-Cre), and in both the neuroepithelium and the neural crest (via Wnt1-Cre). Only conditional mutants generated using Pax7−Cre or Wnt1-Cre developed early onset congenital hydrocephalus due to stenosis of the third ventricle, suggesting that loss of neuroepithelial Pax3 is sufficient to disturb third ventricle morphogenesis. Dilation of lateral ventricles occurs as early as E14.5, and lineage-mapping revealed that the neuroepithelial cells in the conditional mutants are present, but fail to undergo normal differentiation at the stenotic site. Concomitant with a narrowing of the mutant third ventricle, we detected ectopic apoptosis, reduced proliferation, and abnormal β-catenin localization. Furthermore, consistent with the overlapping expression pattern of Pax3 and Pax7 in early cranial neuroepithelium, we demonstrated a combinatorial role, as compound Pax3/Pax7 heterozygotes display partially-penetrant congenital hydrocephalus. These murine data provide an experimental paradigm underpinning clinical observations of the presence of PAX3 mutations in some hydrocephalic patients.
Experimental and Statistical Evaluation of the Size Effect on the Bending Strength of Dimension Lumber of Northeast China Larch
Authors: Zhong Yong , Ren Hai-Qing , Jiang Ze-Hui
Published: February 2016

This study investigated the size effect on the bending strength (modulus of rupture—MOR) of dimension lumber of Northeast China larch (Larix gmelinii); providing a basis for the further application in light wood frame construction. Experimental and statistical evaluations were conducted on the bending strength. A total of 2409 full-size dimension lumber samples were tested by static bending tests; which included three different sizes: 2 × 3; 2 × 4; and 2 × 6. Results indicate that the size has a significant effect on the MOR. Both the chi-square (χ2) and Kolmogorov-Smirnov (K-S) test results show that the lognormal distribution generally fits to the MOR better than to the normal distribution. Additionally; the effects of partial safety factor (γR) and live-to-dead load ratio (ρ) were studied by reliability analysis. Reliability analysis results indicate that the reliability index increases nonlinearly with the decrease of γR and the rise of ρ. Finally; the design value of bending strength and its adjusting factor of size effect of 2 × 3; 2 × 4; and 2 × 6 larch dimension lumber were obtained according to the Chinese National Standards’ requirements of the reliability index.
Chemopreventive and Therapeutic Effects of Edible Berries: A Focus on Colon Cancer Prevention and Treatment
Authors: Afrin Sadia , Giampieri Francesca , Gasparrini Massimiliano , Forbes-Hernandez Tamara , Varela-López Alfonso , Quiles José , Mezzetti Bruno , Battino Maurizio
Published: February 2016

Colon cancer is one of the most prevalent diseases across the world. Numerous epidemiological studies indicate that diets rich in fruit, such as berries, provide significant health benefits against several types of cancer, including colon cancer. The anticancer activities of berries are attributed to their high content of phytochemicals and to their relevant antioxidant properties. In vitro and in vivo studies have demonstrated that berries and their bioactive components exert therapeutic and preventive effects against colon cancer by the suppression of inflammation, oxidative stress, proliferation and angiogenesis, through the modulation of multiple signaling pathways such as NF-κB, Wnt/β-catenin, PI3K/AKT/PKB/mTOR, and ERK/MAPK. Based on the exciting outcomes of preclinical studies, a few berries have advanced to the clinical phase. A limited number of human studies have shown that consumption of berries can prevent colorectal cancer, especially in patients at high risk (familial adenopolyposis or aberrant crypt foci, and inflammatory bowel diseases). In this review, we aim to highlight the findings of berries and their bioactive compounds in colon cancer from in vitro and in vivo studies, both on animals and humans. Thus, this review could be a useful step towards the next phase of berry research in colon cancer.
Inhibitory Effect of Rosa rugosa Tea Extract on the Formation of Heterocyclic Amines in Meat Patties at Different Temperatures
Authors: Jamali Muneer , Zhang Yawei , Teng Hui , Li Shun , Wang Fulong , Peng Zengqi
Published: February 2016

In previous studies, heterocyclic amines (HCAs) have been identified as carcinogenic and a risk factor for human cancer. Therefore, the present study was designed to identify bioactive natural products capable of controlling the formation of HCAs during cooking. For this purpose we have evaluated the effect of Rosa rugosa tea extract (RTE) on the formation of HCAs in ground beef patties fried at 160 °C or 220 °C. RTE is rich in phenolic compounds and capable of inhibiting the formation of free radicals. The pyrido[3,4-b]indole (norharman) and 1-methyl-9H-pyrido[3,4-b]indole (harman) contents were significantly (p < 0.05) decreased in RTE-treated patties at 220 °C. 9H-3-Amino-1-methyl-5H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole acetate (Trp-P-2) and 3-amino-1,4-dimethyl-5H-pyrido-[4,3-b]indole acetate (Trp-P-1) were not detected at 160 °C and were statistically (p < 0.01) reduced at 220 °C compared to the control. RTE remarkably inhibited the formation of 2-amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo[4,5-b]pyridine (PhIP) at 220 °C (p < 0.001) and at 160 °C (p < 0.05). 2-Amino-9H-pyrido[2,3-b]indole (AαC) and 2-amino-3-methyl-9H-pyrido[2,3-b]-indole (MeAαC) were only detected in the control group at 160 °C but were comparatively (p > 0.05) similar in the control and treated groups at 220 °C. 2-Amino-3-methylimidazo[4,5-f]quinoline (IQ), 2-amino-3,4-dimethylimidazo[4,5-f]quinoline (MeIQ), 2-amino-3,8-dimethylimidazo[4,5-f]quinoxaline (MeIQx), and 2-amino-3,4,8-trimethylimidazo[4,5-f]-quinoxaline (4,8-DiMeIQx) were not detected in any sample. Total HCAs were positively correlated with cooking loss. In the RTE-treated groups, 75% of the total HCAs were decreased at 160 °C and 46% at 220 °C, suggesting that RTE is effective at both temperatures and can be used during cooking at high temperatures to lessen the amount of HCAs formed.