bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Productivity and Cost Comparison of Two Systems for Producing Biomass Fuel from Roadside Forest Treatment Residues
Authors: Anderson Nathaniel , Chung Woodam , Loeffler Dan , Jones John Greg
Published: October 2013

Forest operations generate large quantities of forest biomass residues that can be used for production of bioenergy and bioproducts. However, a significant portion of recoverable residues are inaccessible to large chip vans, making use financially infeasible. New production systems must be developed to increase productivity and reduce costs to facilitate use of these materials. We present a comparison of two alternative systems to produce biomass fuel (i.e., “hog fuel”) from forest residues that are inaccessible to chip vans: (1) forwarding residues in fifth-wheel end-dump trailers to a concentration yard, where they can be stored and then ground directly into chip vans, and (2) grinding residues on the treatment unit and forwarding the hog fuel in high-sided dump trucks to a concentration yard, where it can be stored and then reloaded into chip vans using a front-end loader. To quantify the productivity and costs of these systems, work study data were collected for both systems on the same treatment unit in northern Idaho in July 2009. With standard machine rate calculations, the observed costs from roadside to loaded chip van were $23.62 per bone dry ton (BDT) for slash forwarding and $24.52 BDT−1 for in-woods grinding. Results indicate that for harvest units with conditions similar to the test area, slash forwarding is most appropriate for sites with dispersed residues and long-distance in-woods grinder mobilization. For sites with densely piled roadside residues, in-wood grinding is likely to be a more productive and less costly option for residue recovery.
Documenting the Full Climate Benefits of Harvested Wood Products in Northern California: Linking Harvests to the Us Greenhouse Gas Inventory
Authors: Stewart William C. , Nakamura Gary M.
Published: October 2013

Using a representative sample of partial cut and clear-cut harvests from Northern California, we estimated the financial and climate benefits of the harvested products. Ton for ton, sawlogs generate far more climate benefits than wood chips initially used for energy. The presence of wood-fired energy plants provided forest managers with the opportunity to economically utilize residues that otherwise would have decomposed in the forest. The energy captured at harvest sites, sawmills, and waste-to-energy plants in urban areas are additional climate benefits not included in the forestry chapter of national greenhouse gas inventories. When current utilization practices throughout the full wood products use cycle are considered, the total estimated climate benefits per unit of harvest volume are two times larger than estimates based on historical wood utilization coefficients. A full accounting of the climate benefits across all sectors is necessary to develop accurate estimates of the climate benefits associated with harvested products under different forest management regimes.
Assessment of Woody Biomass Availability from Surface Mining Operations in West Virginia
Authors: Grushecky Shawn T. , Lin Wenshu , Wang Jingxin
Published: October 2013

Gross biomass stocks were estimated during 2010 and 2011 on three areas to be surface mined in central West Virginia. Approximately 835 acres of forest lands had been harvested for merchantable timber on the study sites during 2009 and 2010, leaving wood fiber that was to be disposed of before mining. A total of 133 one-fifth-acre forest inventory plots were established to develop standing resource and logging residue estimates. The sampled plots were dominated by cucumber tree (Magnolia acuminatae), followed by red maple (Acer rubrum), sugar maple (Acer saccharum), and yellow-poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera). The average diameter of all standing trees was 7.9 inches, and the average merchantable height of all trees was 32.5 feet. Biomass availability per acre before grubbing operations was estimated to be 31.3 green tons/acre, including 17.0 green tons/acre standing trees and 14.4 green tons/acre logging residues. When the estimated availability of 31.4 green tons/acre is extrapolated to the entire surface mine permit area, the total amount of gross biomass resources available is 26,160.6 tons and, when expanded statewide, represents 352,619 tons. The results indicate that a significant amount of woody biomass is available during surface mining operations in West Virginia.
ROMI 4.0: Updated Rough Mill Simulator
Authors: Grueneberg Timo , Thomas R. Edward , Buehlmann Urs
Published: October 2013

In the secondary hardwood industry, rough mills convert hardwood lumber into dimension parts for furniture, cabinets, and other wood products. ROMI 4.0, the US Department of Agriculture Forest Service's ROugh-MIll simulator, is a software package designed to simulate the cut-up of hardwood lumber in rough mills in such a way that a maximum possible component yield is achieved. ROMI 4.0 simulates the cut-up of lumber using two common processing modes: rip first and chop first. Additionally, this latest version of ROMI includes a novel feature that allows users to analyze each board's yield when processed in either rip-first or chop-first mode. This permits yield gains to be achieved, resulting in lower material costs for industry participants. The software also allows a user to model, simulate, and examine the complex relationship among cutting bills; part dimensions, quantities, and qualities; processing options; and lumber grade mix. ROMI 4.0 includes many improvements over the previous version, including the combined rip-and-chop option and various improvements to the user interface. We subjected the software to a complete review to assure functionality and user-friendliness. This article discusses these improvements and demonstrates the usefulness of ROMI 4.0 for hardwood dimension mills for researching yield and process improvement opportunities.
Framing Lumber from Building Removal: How Do We best Utilize this Untapped Structural Resource?
Authors: Falk Robert H. , Cramer Steven , Evans James
Published: October 2013

Compared with other construction materials, wood products are environmentally attractive because they sequester carbon, are renewable, and are low in embodied energy. Lumber salvaged from building removal possesses these same qualities but with additional environmental attributes. In spite of the environmental attractiveness of reclaimed lumber, its widespread acceptance is hampered because it is not formally recognized in our grading or engineering design standards. This causes confusion for consumers, builders, and building officials, both in the marketplace as well as at the jobsite. In this article, possible alternatives for recognizing and accommodating reclaimed lumber in lumber grading and wood engineering design standards are provided.
Surface Preparation of Wood for Application of Waterborne Coatings
Authors: Landry Véronic , Blanchet Pierre
Published: October 2013

Year after year, water-based coatings gain market share due to new regulations on volatile organic compound emissions and voluntary certification programs. Work still has to be done on wood surface preparation, however, for water-based finishes to become truly reliable. In this research, water-based and solvent-based coatings were applied to edge-glued panels of yellow birch (Betula alleghaniensis Brit.). Sandpaper grits from 150 to 280 were used to prepare wood surfaces prior to coating application. A first series of specimens was prepared with a wiping stain and a second series with a spray stain. Contact angle measurements showed that surface preparation—more precisely the sandpaper grit—strongly affects water wettability and hence coating adhesion. Adhesion was found to change with the contact angle of the water. It was found that using a 150-grit sandpaper leads to unfilled wood cavities, high contact angles, and poor coating adhesion. At the opposite end of the range, using a 180-grit sandpaper leads to good wetting and good adhesion. In our tests, surface preparation had no significant effect on the color of systems using a spray stain. With a wiping stain, however, the grit of the sandpaper was found to affect the color of the specimens.
Effects of Moulding Temperature on the Physical Properties of Wood-Based Moulding Bonded with Citric Acid
Authors: Umemura Kenji , Ueda Tomohide , Kawai Shuichi
Published: October 2013

Development of natural adhesives that do not depend on fossil resources is very important for the future of wood-based materials. We recently found that citric acid can be used as a natural adhesive for wood-based moulding. In this study, we investigated the effects of moulding temperature on the characterization of wood-based moulding bonded with citric acid. Wood powder obtained from Acacia mangium was mixed with 20 percent (by weight) citric acid, and the powder mixture was moulded at a temperature ranging from 140°C to 220°C. The press pressure and heating time were set at 4 MPa and 10 minutes, respectively. The bending properties were affected by the moulding temperature, and the moulding fabricated at 180°C showed excellent values. The average impact strength of the moulding at 180°C was 1.1 kJ/m2. Water resistance increased with moulding temperature, and good resistance against boiling water was achieved. Thermal properties were also clearly increased with moulding temperature. However, few significant differences were found in the mouldings after a repeated boiling treatment. Based on the results of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, ester linkages between wood and citric acid were confirmed, especially at high moulding temperatures.
Influence of Sawing Patterns on Lumber Quality and Yield in Large Sugi (Cryptomeria japonica) Logs
Authors: Matsumura Yukari , Murata Kohji , Ikami Yuji , Matsumura Junji
Published: October 2013

Appropriate log sorting and optimal sawing patterns are indispensable for efficient lumber production. It is also important to clarify the relationship between the quality of logs and that of sawn lumber to determine effective sorting and optimal sawing patterns. Although some information on lumber quality has been obtained for medium sugi (Cryptomeria japonica D. Don) logs, little is known about lumber quality in large logs, the supply of which is expected to increase imminently. We investigated the influence of the sawing patterns of large sugi logs on lumber quality. Large sugi logs (30 to 40 cm in diameter) were converted into sawn lumber using different sawing patterns. Sawing yields varied for each sawing pattern. Sorting logs by Young's modulus (Efr) would be useful for the efficient production of reliable sawn lumber from large logs, especially when the dimensions of the main products are large. Conversely, it is important to note the variation of Efr in logs when several main products were sawn. Lumber warp was affected by sawing pattern rather than the log sweep. There is potential to produce reliable lumber by considering sawing patterns based on the variation of Efr within a log and the difference of lumber warp.
Characteristics of Forest-Derived Woody Biomass Collected and Processed in Oregon
Authors: Smith David , Sessions John , Tuers Kevin , Way Daniel , Traver Jeff
Published: October 2013

We present a summary of the characteristics of 55 samples of processed forest biomass residues randomly collected from 34 sites in Oregon. Our purpose is to illustrate the wide diversity of field-processed grindings and chips that are currently being produced to inform managers of the potential variability in existing biomass sources. The samples vary widely with respect to moisture content, particle size distribution, species mix, and ash content. We discuss the value of residue classification for downstream processing. The primary use of forest residues is currently for combustion, but stratification of forest residues provides opportunities to create value-added products, provide rural employment, and increase transportation efficiency.
Life-Cycle Assessment of Pyrolysis Bio-Oil Production*
Authors: Steele Philip , Puettmann Maureen E. , Penmetsa Venkata Kanthi , Cooper Jerome E.
Published: October 2013

As part of the Consortium for Research on Renewable Industrial Materials' Phase I life-cycle assessments of biofuels, life-cycle inventory burdens from the production of bio-oil were developed and compared with measures for residual fuel oil. Bio-oil feedstock was produced using whole southern pine (Pinus taeda) trees, chipped, and converted into bio-oil by fast pyrolysis. Input parameters and mass and energy balances were derived with Aspen. Mass and energy balances were input to SimaPro to determine the environmental performance of bio-oil compared with residual fuel oil as a heating fuel. Equivalent functional units of 1 MJ were used for demonstrating environmental preference in impact categories, such as fossil fuel use and global warming potential. Results showed near carbon neutrality of the bio-oil. Substituting bio-oil for residual fuel oil, based on the relative carbon emissions of the two fuels, estimated a reduction in CO2 emissions by 0.075 kg CO2 per MJ of fuel combustion or a 70 percent reduction in emission over residual fuel oil. The bio-oil production life-cycle stage consumed 92 percent of the total cradle-to-grave energy requirements, while feedstock collection, preparation, and transportation consumed 4 percent each. This model provides a framework to better understand the major factors affecting greenhouse gas emissions related to bio-oil production and conversion to boiler fuel during fast pyrolysis.
Comparing Life-Cycle Carbon and Energy Impacts for Biofuel, Wood Product, and Forest Management Alternatives*
Authors: Lippke Bruce , Gustafson Richard , Venditti Richard , Steele Philip , Volk Timothy A. , Oneil Elaine , Johnson Leonard , Puettmann Maureen E. , Skog Kenneth
Published: October 2013

The different uses of wood result in a hierarchy of carbon and energy impacts that can be characterized by their efficiency in displacing carbon emissions and/or in displacing fossil energy imports, both being current national objectives. When waste wood is used for biofuels (forest or mill residuals and thinnings) fossil fuels and their emissions are reduced without significant land use changes. Short rotation woody crops can increase yields and management efficiencies by using currently underused land. Wood products and biofuels are coproducts of sustainable forest management, along with the other values forests provide, such as clean air, water, and habitat. Producing multiple coproducts with different uses that result in different values complicates carbon mitigation accounting. It is important to understand how the life-cycle implications of managing our forests and using the wood coming from our forests impacts national energy and carbon emission objectives and other forest values. A series of articles published in this issue of the Forest Products Journal reports on the life-cycle implications of producing ethanol by gasification or fermentation and producing bio-oil by pyrolysis and feedstock collection from forest residuals, thinnings, and short rotation woody crops. These are evaluated and compared with other forest product uses. Background information is provided on existing life-cycle data and methods to evaluate prospective new processes and wood uses. Alternative management, processing, and collection methods are evaluated for their different efficiencies in contributing to national objectives.
Thermal Conversion of Pine Wood Char to Carbon Nanomaterials in the Presence of Iron Nanoparticles
Authors: Mun Sung Phil , Cai Zhiyong , Watanabe Fumiya , Agarwal Umesh P , Zhang Jilei
Published: October 2013

Southern yellow pine (Pinus taeda) wood char powder was thermally treated at 1,000°C in the presence of a 25-nm-size Fe nanoparticle catalyst. The thermally treated carbon materials were analyzed by Raman spectroscopy and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. Well-aligned graphitic carbon structures with 15 to 17 layers on average were observed. These graphitic carbon structures were similar to those of graphite with an average interplanar distance of 0.34 nm. The Raman spectra results showed that the full-width half-maximum values of Raman G and D bands, and the peak intensity ratio, ID″/IG, of thermally treated pine char after an acid purification treatment were 69 cm−1, 126 cm−1, and 0.16, respectively.
Effects of Compressive Deformation on Wettability and Water Uptake Behavior of Poplar
Authors: Zhang Yang , Wang Siqun , Hosseinaei Omid , Zhou Zhaobing
Published: October 2013

Wood compression is a method of increasing the density and stiffness of wood. Using heat (thermal compression) or impregnating wood with various resins can also increase its dimensional stability. Compressed wood can be used as a structural component in buildings, but it generally must be painted to improve its durability. The objective of this research was to investigate the surface wettability and water uptake behavior of compressed poplar wood with and without melamine-formaldehyde resin impregnation in order to be able to predict the behavior of resins or paints on surfaces of compressed wood. Samples of poplar wood were pressed both in the presence of resin and without resin at 180°C for 30 minutes under different pressures (0 to 8 MPa). Compression ratios were 10, 20, and 50 percent, depending on the pressure. Results indicate that the surface contact angle of the compressed wood, without resin, increased as the compression ratio increased. The water absorption of compressed wood, without resin, was much higher than that of the compressed wood with resin treatment. Also, the amount of absorbed water in the direction of the grain was greater than that in the perpendicular-to-grain direction for both compressed wood samples.
Potential of Tannins for Exterior Grade Plywood
Authors: Mathur Smita , Sharma Pradeep , Shukla K. S. , Soni P. L.
Published: October 2013

Resins from Uncaria gambier and Acacia catechu tannins were prepared by copolymerization with phenol and formaldehyde at 100°C. Both tannins were used to substitute up to 50 percent of the phenol using 5, 8, and 11 percent alkali concentrations. Adhesive formulations and gluing conditions were tested by preparing three-ply Shorea robusta boards (53.34 by 53.34 cm). We found that U. gambier tannin can substitute up to 50 percent of the phenol, using 8 and 11 percent sodium hydroxide as a catalyst; A. catechu tannin can substitute up to 30 percent of the phenol, using 8 and 11 percent sodium hydroxide. The resultant boiling water resistance grade plywood meets the requirements laid down in Indian Standards (IS) 303-1989 for exterior grade plywood in all respects (i.e., glue shear strength in dry, water resistance, and mycological tests).
Demonstration Results from Greenhouse Heating with Bio-Oil
Authors: Steele Philip , Parish Don , Cooper Jerome
Published: October 2013

Bio-oils from loblolly pine (Pinus taeda) and white oak (Quercus alba) wood were produced by the laboratory scale auger reactor located at the Department of Forest Products, Mississippi State University (MSU). The bio-oils were esterified to boiler fuel by a technology developed at MSU. The testing of esterified bio-oil combustion was performed at Natchez Trace Greenhouses located in Kosciusko, Mississippi. At the greenhouse facility an idled natural gas/diesel boiler was retrofit with a highly aerated fuel injection system. Fifteen gallons of loblolly pine esterified boiler fuel and 15 gallons of white oak boiler fuel were successfully combusted in the retrofit boiler.
The Effect of Raw Material, Cut Length, and Chip Discharge on the Performance of an Industrial Chipper
Authors: Spinelli Raffaele , Magagnotti Natascia
Published: October 2013

In this study we examined the effect of specific factors on chipper performance by using a mobile industrial chipper in a real-life commercial setting. The comprehensive experimental design consisted of five replications per each combination of two types of raw material, two chip discharge systems, and two cut lengths (i.e., 5 × 2 × 2 × 2 = 40 replications). Each replication consisted of a full 18-m3 trailer load. Cut length was manipulated by using different drum types. When all else was equal, the doubling of cut length resulted in a 50 percent increase of average chip length, a 15 percent increase of net productivity, and a 15 percent decrease in fuel consumption. The handling characteristics of the raw material had a strong impact on chipper productivity, causing variations on the order of 20 percent. The discharge system had no significant effect on fuel consumption or productivity, but it did impact product quality and bulk density. Using a blower allowed increasing bulk density between 4 and 7 percent, whereas the installation of a belt conveyor reduced the incidence of small chips and fine particles by up to 30 percent.
Export Activities of Central Appalachian Hardwood Products Industry: The Case of West Virginia
Authors: Gazal Kathryn Arano , Wang Jingxin
Published: October 2013

The US forest products industry is struggling as it faces increasing pressure from foreign competition coupled with the current slump in the housing market. In order to survive, industries need to maintain and expand their domestic and international markets. Because the forest products industry of West Virginia is an important component of the state's economic base, the industry must explore the export market to expand its market coverage. A mail survey was conducted in 2009 to assess the problems and potential strategies regarding participation of the West Virginia forest products in the export market. Results indicate that 28 percent of the respondents exported abroad. The most common product exported was lumber, followed by logs. The main reason that companies sell abroad is to reduce risk by selling to a diverse market, while the main reason for not exporting is the perception that domestic market involvement is sufficient. As expected, exporters were relatively more knowledgeable about issues related to exporting compared with nonexporters, and they were also more knowledgeable in strategies needed to conduct international business. Based on the indicators examined, exporters were also more innovative. Of the respondents who did not participate in the export market, only 44 percent indicated that they were interested in developing export markets for their products. The top three problems that hindered competitiveness among nonexporters were production costs, lack of capital, and raw material problems.
Examination of Roundwood Utilization Rates in West Virginia
Authors: Grushecky Shawn T. , Wiedenbeck Jan , Hassler Curt C.
Published: October 2013

Forest harvesting is an integral part of the West Virginia forest economy. This component of the supply chain supports a diverse array of primary and secondary processors. A key metric used to describe the efficiency of the roundwood extraction process is the logging utilization factor (LUF). The LUF is one way managers can discern the overall use of harvested roundwood. To update LUF in West Virginia, roundwood utilization during harvesting operations was investigated on 30 active sites in 2008. Approximately 3.6 markets were used by the loggers sampled. The average utilization rate at the time of felling and bucking in the woods was 87.8 percent for trees sampled during this study. Over 97 percent of the roundwood that was processed on the landing was utilized. No relationship was found between the number of markets and utilization rates. Results from this study provide estimates on the overall efficiency of harvest operations as well as the characteristics and quantity of material being left after harvest. This information is important to those involved in the management of the hardwood resource as well as those making investments in wood processing industries.
Monsters and music: The private worlds of Maurice Sendak and Oliver Knussen
Authors: Gowar Mick
Published: October 2013

This article traces the process of composition of the opera version of Where the Wild Things Are, libretto and set and costume designs by Maurice Sendak and music by Oliver Knussen. The article looks in particular at how elements in early drafts of Where the Wild Things Are – especially motifs in a version entitled Where the Wild Horses Are – which were deleted from the published text of Where the Wild Things Are were reintroduced into the opera. The article also compares the early lives of both Sendak and the composer Knussen, and reflects on their shared tastes in music for children and the success of their collaboration.
Facebook, the public sphere and political youth leagues in South Africa
Authors: Ndlovu Musawenkosi , Mbenga Chilombo
Published: October 2013

Focusing on the Facebook presence of the African National Congress Youth League, Democratic Alliance Youth and Congress of the People Youth Movement as a collective case study, this article explores the following questions: is the Facebook presence created by youth leagues of the largest political parties an extension of South Africa’s public sphere? Can a citizen whose views are circumscribed by ideological auspices of a particular political party enhance the quality of the public sphere? What is the discourse of youth’s political deliberations in these forums? In answering the questions, the article argues that Facebook pages and groups are an extension of the public sphere as they attempt to get youth involved in politics in a technologically and socially transforming society; that as much as political party communication is propaganda and people tend to gravitate towards ideologies that conform to their world-view, party supporters on Facebook do challenge their political parties’ views; and that some arguments on Facebook enrich the public sphere discourse.
Côte d’Ivoire 2010–2011 post-electoral crisis: An approach from the media
Authors: Sendín José Carlos
Published: October 2013

The objective of this work is approaching the political crisis occurred in Côte d´Ivoire after the contested elections of 2010, through the perspective of the Ivorian media and media professionals. This study draws theoretically on the media political economy and critical understanding of the relationship between democracy and the media. After a brief description of Côte d´Ivoire political history, as well as its media political economy, perceptions from foreign correspondents and Ivoirian journalist were gathered. Conclusions show the sheer complexity of the role played by the media, which goes beyond its information provider responsibility to turn into platforms for the political struggle in a highly political polarized environment. At the same time, it is demonstrated how foreign perceptions of Ivorian media performance are built against ideal representations of media that often fail to grasp particular contexts.
Negative political advertising and the imperative of broadcast regulation in Ghana
Authors: Tietaah Gilbert K. M.
Published: October 2013

While the effects of negative election campaigns is a well-researched topic in mature democracies, it remains largely unexplored in transitional and nascent democracies such as those in Africa. This article addresses concerns that an insidious culture of intolerance, hate and insults in Ghanaian politics and electoral contests could undermine the efficacy of the country’s neo-democracy. The article draws on pre-election interviews with the two main contenders in Ghana’s 2012 elections to sound out their positions on the propriety and prudence of expressing a negative campaign platform. The interview responses are analysed in the context of past ads run by their parties, which reveal that the candidates’ disclaimers and public professions to run issue-oriented campaigns contradicted the practice of their party’s resort to negative campaigns. The article concludes that candidates and their parties are unlikely to abide by ethical injunctions and accordingly proposes the passage of a legal code to regulate broadcasting (including political advertising) in Ghana.
Will the social media lenses be the framework for sustainable development in rural Nigeria?
Authors: Madu Robert , Moguluwa Shedrack Chinwuba
Published: October 2013

Nigeria’s greatest obstacle in this twenty-first century is entrenched in the low level of sustainability in most areas of human endeavour, resulting in damaged economy and looming shallow development despite the nation’s vast and abundant resources, both human and natural. Nigeria has the enormous capability of moving from a developing country to a developed state; however, the lack of some basic elements together with the vices termed ‘Nigerian factors’ have eaten deep into the nation’s institutional fabrics and denied her the opportunity of transforming her dreams. As academia, development experts and policy-makers have continued to search for the right mix of technology, methodology, easy-to-use and understandable scientific elements and infrastructure that would suit the nation’s peculiar circumstances towards meeting her developmental needs. This situation, no doubt, calls for adaptation of social media’s unique opportunities and adjustment of its weaknesses to aptly blend with the forces of innovation and ability of cultural and behavioural changes. Concerted efforts are required of the Nigerian government and its agencies in awakening the consciousness of the citizenry to integrate social media culture into the mainstream of Nigerian culture so as to produce positive changes that are evidences of sustainability.
A Blended Learning Model of Peer Support Training Program for Women with Breast Cancer
Authors: Komatsu Hiroko , Yagasaki Kaori , Osaka Wakako , Yamauchi Hideko , Nakamura Seigo
Published: October 2013

Objectives: Peer support is an important social support for cancer patients. A blended learning model of peer support training program in breast cancer was tested for feasibility. Methods: We developed a peer support training program for women with breast cancer with a blended learning approach combining face-to-face methods with e-learning. After face-to-face orientation, a 20-session e-learning program was provided on the Web followed by a one-day workshop including role playing. Log-files were recorded to assess the pattern of use in the e-learning program. The usability and acceptability were assessed by an evaluation questionnaire with a 5-point Likert scale. Psychosocial outcomes were assessed over time (baseline, post-program, and 3-month follow-up) using repeated measured one-way analysis of variance. Results: Twenty-eight women with breast cancer experience were recruited to the study. The rates of retention and assessment completion were high (92.9% and 89.3%, respectively). Participants favorably rated on the usability of the program. The mean time taken to complete the total of 20 sessions in the e-learning program was 18.69 days. There were no adverse psychosocial effects on the participants. Conclusions: The blended learning model of the breast cancer peer support training program was feasible and well accepted by the peer support volunteers.
The challenges of stem cell research in Nigeria
Authors: Agbedia Clara Oniovokoyubu , Oshegbo Godwin Efe
Published: October 2013

Many patients and their families, have great expectations that Stem cell therapy could be the cure for a host of devastating diseases such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's dementia, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, burns, etc. As stem cell research gains ground in Nigeria, it is appropriate to explore the issues surrounding the use of human embryos for stem cell research and its implication from a nursing perspective. In this paper the socio-political implications of the use of embryonic stem cell research was addressed. The nursing, medical and legal literature (both print and electronic) related to Stem cell research and therapy were evaluated and the main ethical issues raised by the destruction of human embryos were examined.  There must be a public discussion/debate on the benefits including its cost implication. Nigerians must evaluate the appropriateness of stem cell technologies within their own national contexts and prioritize which applications are the most promising for improving their health.
Creeping flow of Micropolar fluid past a fluid sphere with non-zero spin boundary condition
Authors: Deo Satya , Shukla Pankaj
Published: October 2013

Abstract: This paper concerns the problem of creeping flow of an incompressible micropolar fluid past a fluid sphere with non-homogeneous boundary condition for micro rotation vector i.e. the micro rotation on the boundary of the fluid sphere is assumed to be proportional to the rotation rate of the velocity field on the boundary. The stream functions are determined by matching the solution of micropolar field equation for flow outside the fluid sphere with that of the Stokes equation for the flow inside the fluid sphere. The drag force experienced by a fluid sphere is evaluated and its variation is studied with respect to the material parameters. Some well-known results are then deduced.
Design of Double-E Shaped Metamaterial Structure with Negative � and ? for Enhancement of Patch Antenna Parameters, �This paper has been withdrawn�
Authors: Garg Bimal , Chitransh Tilak , Samadhiya Ankit
Published: October 2013

This paper has been withdrawn
Tunable Liquid Dielectric Antenna
Authors: Rajoriya Kamal Raj Singh , Singhal P.K.
Published: October 2013

This paper presents on modified the dielectric properties of liquid with varying salinity that was based on monopole structure. Dielectric resonator antennas (DRAs) can be made with a wide range of materials and allow many excitation methods [2]. Pure water does not work at high frequency (> 1 GHz) but increase in the salinity of water modifies the dielectric properties of water. Here proposed antenna shows that when the salinity increases in form of molar solution, the antenna was tuned at different frequency with increases return loss.
Smart Artificial Intelligence Computerized Models for Shelf Life Prediction of Processed Cheese
Authors: Goyal Sumit , Goyal Gyanendra Kumar
Published: October 2013

Linear Layer (Design) and multiple linear regression artificial intelligence computerized models were developed for predicting shelf life of processed cheese stored at 7-8C. Mean Square Error, Root Mean Square Error, Coefficient of Determination and Nash - Sutcliffo Coefficient were applied for comparing the prediction ability of the developed models. The modelling results showed excellent agreement between the experimental data and predicted values with a high determination coefficient, suggesting that the Linear Layer (Design) and MLR models are very efficient in predicting the shelf life of processed cheese stored at 7-8oC.
Improvement in Parameters of Patch Antenna By Using �Hybrid Shaped� Metamaterial Structure, �THIS PAPER HAS BEEN WITHDRAWN�
Authors: Garg Bimal , Shrivastava Himanshu , Kumar Prem
Published: October 2013

THIS PAPER HAS BEEN WITHDRAWN
Two-Phase Pressure Drop Calculations in Small Diameter Inclined Tubes
Authors: Autee Arun , Rao S.Srinivasa , Puli Ravikumar , Shrivastava Ramakant
Published: October 2013

Effect of inclination on two-phase frictional pressure drop was investigated in small diameter circular tubes with inner diameters of 4.0, 6.0, 8.0 and 10.0 mm using air and water. Pressure drop was measured and compared with various existing models commonly used for macro and micro channels such as homogeneous, Lockhart-Martinelli, Chisholm, Friedel, Mishma Hibiki, and Zang Mishma. It was found that existing correlations are inadequate in predicting pressure drop for small diameter inclined tubes. The void fraction is calculated using a general void fraction correlation in two-phase flow for various pipe orientations. Based on analysis of present experimental frictional pressure drop data, a correlation is proposed for predicting Chisholm parameter C in small diameter inclined tubes. There was a significant ordering of pressure drop data with respect to Reynolds number, Webber number and Bond number for each diameter.
Impact of Web Readability on Cultural Usability
Authors: Hussain Walayat , Junaid Muhammad , Muneer Siraj , Khan Muhammad Qasim
Published: October 2013

Web is considered one of the greatest developments of twentieth century. It provides a diverse range of applications and therefore needs different usability designs. Web usability has become a vital aspect for the success of web applications. Web usability is about fulfilling the goals and expectations of users and making their stay on the website pleasant. Web usability design includes three aspects: User Research, Web Design and Web Evaluation [1]. Today, the web design is moving from technology to users i.e. it is more user-centered than ever before. Web design must directly face users with the specific needs, and must ensure that users are pleasant to successfully complete tasks with it. [1]. In this study, we have studied the factors which affect the web readability in this part of the world. We conducted the survey in order to check how different factors play their part for the people who speak languages which are written right to left
Analyzing the Role of Semantic Web in Social Networking Sites �This paper has been withdrawn�
Authors: Sharma Ravi
Published: October 2013

This paper has been withdrawn.
Overview of Pakistan's Electricity Crisis, Generation-Mix and Renewable energy scenarios
Authors: Awan Kamran Yousaf , Rashid Abdul
Published: October 2013

Electricity is a basic need of the modern world. It is impossible for an economy to sustain without electricity. Pakistan, despite having the enormous energy resources, is facing acute shortage of Electricity. The Countrys electricity demand is rising at the rate of 11% annually, while incremental rate of production is fairly flat. Presently, only 15055MW of Electric Power is being generated while peak demand has reached up to 23953MW. Therefore, nation has to strive for meeting the deficiency of 8899 MW. Installed Power Generation Capacity of Pakistan is approximately 19,855 MW among which 67.2% is generated from thermal sources (oil and gas), 29.4% from hydel, 3.3% from nuclear and 0.1% from coal. Due to increased cost of petroleum products, slow development of hydel and nuclear power generation and negligible development of coal power generation, Country is facing severe electricity crisis. This article provides the overview of electricity shortage, problems associated with energy-mix used for power generation and root causes of electricity shortage in Pakistan. It also highlights the importance and availability of Pakistans indigenous energy resources, which can be economically used for electric power generation.
A Job Scheduling Algorithm for 2 - Machine Flow Shop Problem, �This paper has been withdrawn�
Authors: Odior Andrew , Oyawale Festus
Published: October 2013

This paper has been withdrawn.
Zigzag Pattern Metamaterial Structure With Rectangular Patch Antenna �This paper has been withdrawn�
Authors: Bhartiya Vishav Gaurav , Shrivastava Laxmi
Published: October 2013

This paper has been withdrawn
Numerical Simulation of Solitary Waves by SPH Method and Parametric Studies on the Effect of Wave Height to Water Depth Ratio
Authors: Ghadimi Parviz , Abtahi Shahryar , Dashtimanesh Abbas
Published: October 2013

Numerical simulation of fluid flow phenomena, including complicated free surface deformation, has been a main research interest for many authors. In this context, using mesh based methods has been a common choice in the past decades. However, in the recent years, Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH) as a Lagrangian meshless method has been utilized in many of applications. In the present article, a two dimensional solitary wave on a beach is generated and the effect of various wave heights to water depth ratios on solitary wave generation are studied. Furthermore, condition in which wave breaking occurs is also considered. Finally, the results of SPH simulations are compared against the available results in the literature and it is shown that Solitary wave profile simulated by SPH is in good agreement with experimental data.
Novel Quad-band Patch Antenna Design for Wireless Communications in 2.4, 5.2, 5.6 and 5.8 GHz Bands using Genetic Algorithm Optimization
Authors: Jayasinghe J.M.J.W. , Uduwawala D.N.
Published: October 2013

This paper presents the design of a novel quad band patch antenna for wireless communications in 2.4, 5.2, 5.6 and 5.8 GHz Bands. Antennas operating in these bands are available in various sizes and used in small hand-held devices as well as in wireless local area networks. A substrate with dielectric constant 3.2 and thickness 3.175mm is used for the design. The patch dimensions (40 30 mm) are similar to that of the conventional rectangular patch for the center frequency of the lowest frequency band which is 2.4 GHz. The antenna is fed by a 50? coaxial cable. Genetic algorithm optimization (GAO) is used to optimize the patch geometry and feed position. Simulations are carried out by using HFSS. The optimized antenna resonates at 2.4 GHz with fractional bandwidth of 4.1% and at 5 GHz bands with fractional bandwidth of 33.5%.
Thermal effect on unsteady flow of a dusty visco-elastic fluid between two parallel plates under different pressure gradients
Authors: R Madhura K. , G Kalpana
Published: October 2013

This article describes the effect of thermal diffusion on a flow of dusty viscous incompressible fluid which is electrically conducting and the flow is between two vertically heated, porous, parallel plates with heat source or sink. Variable separable and Laplace transform techniques are used to attain the solution of the mathematical equations. The effect of the temperature is examined for different values of Prandtl number (Pr). The consequences of the concentration is observed for different values of thermal diffusion parameter (Td). The velocity profile for the flow of fluid and the dust particles are discussed for different values of Td and chemical reaction parameter (cr). In addition to that, the solutions are exhibited graphically.
Measurement of R&D efficiency in NT and BT fields using DEA:a case in Korea
Authors: Park Hanseok , Choi Hoo-Gon
Published: October 2013

Since the Korean government has increased the R&D budget for both BT and NT areas, it needs to measure R&D efficiency and to manage the budget. The purpose of this study is to measure the efficiency of more than 2,000 BT and NT related projects supported by four basic research programs with the BCC-O model of the DEA method. Two input and five output variables are considered to determine the efficiency. The average efficiencies of both fields are low (0.3532 in the BT and 0.4677 in the NT) and the DEA projection results show that all output measures should be improved as much as 240% to 423% to be at efficiency 1. Also, correlation analysis is used to determine which variables strongly affect the efficiency in the BT and NT areas. This study could facilitate the development of better processes for project selection and many types of evaluation, provided the quantitative method such as the DEA could become widely acceptable for researchers.
Birth outcomes of cases with right sided obstructive defects of heart a population-based case-control study
Authors: Vereczkey Attila , Kósa Zsolt , Csáky-Szunyogh Melinda , Urbán Róbert , Czeizel Andrew
Published: October 2013

Background: Among structural birth defects, i.e. congenital abnormalities, the most common group includes congenital heart defects (CHDs), however, the underlying causes are unclear in the vast majority of cases with CHD.Objectives: Cases with different CHD-entities as homogeneously as possible are planned to evaluate. Thus the medically recorded birth outcomes of lethal or surgically corrected cases with different groups of right sided obstructive defects of heart (RSODH) were evaluated.Method: The population-based large dataset of the Hungarian Case-Control Surveillance of Congenital Abnormalities was used and date were analyzed between 1980-1996, including 200 live-born cases with isolated RSODH, 72, 13,7 and 108 had congenital stenosis of pulmonary valve, atresia/stenosis of tricuspid valve, Ebsteins anomaly, and atresia/stenosis of pulmonary artery, respectively compared to 304 matched controls and 38,151 population controls without any defects.Results: A higher rate of preterm birth and low birthweight was found in cases with RSODH born in somewhat elder women with higher birth order and lower socioeconomic status. However, 4 groups of RSODH were different from epidemiological aspect, and the degree of intrauterine growth restriction depended on the group of RSODH and the sex of fetuses.Conclusions: The pathogenesis-oriented classification of RSODH is not associated with similar epidemiological birth outcomes of cases with different RSODH groups.
Relationship between validity of center of gravity transferring velocities measured by rotary encoder and three-dimensional motion analysis during sit-to-stand movement in the elderly
Authors: Yamada Takayoshi , Demura Shinichi
Published: October 2013

This study examined the validity of center of gravity transferring velocity (VCG) measured by a rotary encoder (RE) during sit-to-stand (STS) movement with that measured by three-dimensional motion analysis (3DMA). Fifteen healthy elderly females (age, 78.74.6 years) were asked to stand up as fast as possible without assistance from a chair adjusted for their knee height. VCG was measured simultaneously by 3DMA and RE. The peak and mean velocities from the start to movement completion were calculated by both methods. Cross, crosswise, and vertical directions were also calculated for the 3DMA. Significant relationships were found between peak and mean velocities measured by RE and the cross and vertical velocities measured by the 3DMA (peak velocity: cross, 0.60, vertical, 0.97; mean velocity: cross, 0.77, vertical, 0.75), but low in crosswise (r<0.47). RE is useful for evaluating VCG during STS movement and is highly correlated with the vertical velocity measured by 3DMA.
Tuberculous lymphadenitis of the neck: Case series
Authors: Asuquo Maurice Efana , Nwagbara Victor I , Ebughe Godwin , Agbor Cyril , Akpan Samuel , Ugbem Theophyllus , Asuquo Inyang M
Published: October 2013

Tuberculous lymphadenitis is the most common form of extra pulmonary tuberculosis and cervical lymph nodes constitute the most common site of involvement. The proportion of extra pulmonary patients has been increasing for the last two decades. Presented are 3 consecutive female patients aged 32, 50, and 68 years that presented to a surgical unit of the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, Calabar, Nigeria. Two patients presented with lesions located in the anterior triangle of the neck, while the third had bilateral lesions located in the posterior triangle of the neck. All were referrals without prior diagnosis of tuberculosis. Diagnosis was by cytology and histology. Notable associations were miliary tuberculosis and anaemia. Provision of appropriate and effective prevention modalities, diagnostic facilities, and effective surveillance from the primary to the tertiary health facilities for early detection and treatment of the disease is advocated.
Gunshot (Pellets) injury of the Breast: A case report
Authors: Nwagbara Victor I , Asuquo Maurice E , Agbor Cyril , Nwachukwu Ijeoma E
Published: October 2013

Gunshot injuries form a major part of trauma but isolated breast injury due to gunshot is rare. Presented is a 40-year-old female with gunshot (pellets) injury of the breast. Initial surgeries to extract pellets resulted in partial amputation of the breast with surgical site infection. Management of this patient presented a dilemma in judgment of treatment in view of the effects of foreign bodies in the breast.