bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical Simulation of Improved Heavy Oil Recovery by Low-Salinity Water Injection and Polymer Flooding
Authors: Alzayer Hassan , Sohrabi Mehran
Published: June 2013

As heavy oil resources are making an ever-increasing contribution to the energy supply of the world, maximizing recovery from these wreservoirs has attracted significant attention in recent years. Leveraging low salinity waterflooding and polymer flooding to improve heavy oil recovery will be the focus of this paper. While low salinity waterflooding performance in light (conventional) oil reservoirs has been investigated extensively, it has not been applied in heavy oil systems.

Published literature recorded higher oil recovery by injection of low salinity water. One major component among several mechanisms of this increase in oil recovery is due to the lower residual oil saturation (Sorw) by wettability alteration. Therefore, published data was used to produce a correlation between Sorw (high salinity water) and Sorw (low salinity water). A sector model with 36,000 grid cells was used to evaluate the performance of several injection scenarios involving low salinity water and polymer under the conditions of a heavy oil reservoir at the depth of 3,000 ft with oil viscosity of 80 centipoise (20° API). The thickness of the reservoir is less than 100 ft.

The simulated results showed that low salinity waterflooding could increase the estimated ultimate recovery by approximately 5% of original oil in place (OOIP) while the polymer flood provided a similar increase with better efficiency. Subsequent simulations that combine both low salinity waterflooding and polymer resulted in an additional oil recovery of 7.5% to 10% of OOIP.

The results of this study show significant potential for enhancing heavy oil recovery by low salinity waterflooding augmented by polymer injection and multilateral horizontal wells. The commercial viability of such methods to improve heavy oil recovery would make a significant step towards increasing the recovery factor from heavy oil and viscous oil reservoirs. Subsequently, the results would need to be validated by laboratory experiments to establish clear correlation between relative permeability end points with both viscosity and water salinity on heavy oil systems.
Resveratrol Attenuates Exercise-Induced Adaptive Responses in Rats Selectively Bred for Low Running Performance
Authors: Hart Nikolett , Sarga Linda , Csende Zsolt , Koch Lauren G. , Britton Steven L. , Davies Kelvin J.A. , Radak Zsolt
Published: June 2013

Low capacity runner (LCR) rats have been developed by divergent artificial selection for treadmill endurance capacity to explore an aerobic biology-disease connection. The beneficial effects of resveratrol supplementation have been demonstrated in endurance running. In this study it was examined whether 12 weeks of treadmill exercise training and/or resveratrol can retrieve the low running performance of the LCR and impact mitochondrial biogenesis and quality control. Resveratrol regressed running performance in trained LCR (p<0.05). Surprisingly, exercise and resveratrol treatments significantly decreased pAMPK/AMPK, SIRT1, SIRT4, forkhead transcription factor 1 (FOXO1) and mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM) levels in these animals (p<0.05). Mitochondrial fusion protein, HSP78 and polynucleotide phosphorylase were significantly induced in LCR-trained, LCR-resveratrol treated, LCR-trained and resveratol treated groups compared to LCR-controls. The data indicate that the AMPK-SIRT1-NAMPT-FOXO1 axis could be important to the limited aerobic endurance capacity of low running capacity rats. Resveratrol supplementation was not beneficial in terms of aerobic endurance performance, mitochondrial biogenesis, or quality control.
Concentration-Dependent Effects of Rhodiola Rosea on Long-Term Survival and Stress Resistance of Yeast Saccharomyces Cerevisiae: The Involvement of Yap 1 and MSN2/4 Regulatory Proteins
Authors: Bayliak Maria M. , Burdyliuk Nadia I. , Izers'ka Lilia I. , Lushchak Volodymyr I.
Published: June 2013

Concentration-dependent effects of aqueous extract from R. rosea root on long-term survival and stress resistance of budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae were studied. At low concentrations, R. rosea aqueous extract extended yeast chronological lifespan, enhanced oxidative stress resistance of stationary-phase cells and resistance to number stressors in exponentially growing cultures. At high concentrations, R. rosea extract sensitized yeast cells to stresses and shortened yeast lifespan. These biphasic concentration-responses describe a common hormetic phenomenon characterized by a low-dose stimulation and a high-dose inhibition. Yeast pretreatment with low doses of R. rosea extract enhanced yeast survival and prevented protein oxidation under H2O2-induced oxidative stress. Positive effect of R. rosea extract on yeast survival under heat shock exposure was not accompanied with changes in antioxidant enzyme activities and levels of oxidized proteins. The deficiency in transcriptional regulators, Msn2/Msn4 and Yap1, abolished the positive effect of low doses of R. rosea extract on yeast viability under stress challenges. Potential involvement of Msn2/Msn4 and Yap1 regulatory proteins in realization of R. rosea beneficial effects is discussed.
Favorable Effects of Insulin Sensitizers Pertinent to Peripheral Arterial Disease in Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Althouse Andrew D. , Abbott J. Dawn , Sutton-Tyrrell Kim , Forker Alan D. , Lombardero Manuel S. , Buitrón L. Virginia , Pena-Sing Ivan , Tardif Jean-Claude , Brooks Maria Mori ,   for the BARI 2D Study Group
Published: June 2013

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this manuscript was to report the risk of incident peripheral arterial disease (PAD) in a large randomized clinical trial that enrolled participants with stable coronary artery disease and type 2 diabetes and compare the risk between assigned treatment arms.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

The Bypass Angioplasty Revascularization Investigation 2 Diabetes (BARI 2D) trial randomly assigned participants to insulin sensitization (IS) therapy versus insulin-providing (IP) therapy for glycemic control. Results showed similar 5-year mortality in the two glycemic treatment arms. In secondary analyses reported here, we examine the effects of treatment assignment on the incidence of PAD. A total of 1,479 BARI 2D participants with normal ankle-brachial index (ABI) (0.91–1.30) were eligible for analysis. The following PAD-related outcomes are evaluated in this article: new low ABI ≤0.9, a lower-extremity revascularization, lower-extremity amputation, and a composite of the three outcomes.

RESULTS

During an average 4.6 years of follow-up, 303 participants experienced one or more of the outcomes listed above. Incidence of the composite outcome was significantly lower among participants assigned to IS therapy than those assigned to IP therapy (16.9 vs. 24.1%; P < 0.001). The difference was significant in time-to-event analysis (hazard ratio 0.66 [95% CI 0.51–0.83], P < 0.001) and remained significant after adjustment for in-trial HbA1c (0.76 [0.59–0.96], P = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

In participants with type 2 diabetes who are free from PAD, a glycemic control strategy of insulin sensitization may be the preferred therapeutic strategy to reduce the incidence of PAD and subsequent outcomes.
Neurocognitive, Mental Health, and Glucose Disorders in Farmers Exposed to Organophosphorus Pesticides
Authors: Malekirad Ali Akbar , Faghih Mahya , Mirabdollahi Mansuoreh , Kiani Mahdi , Fathi Arezoo , Abdollahi Mohammad
Published: June 2013

About 25 million agricultural workers in the developing world suffer from at least one episode of poisoning each year, mainly by anticholinesterase-like organophosphates (OPs). The objective of this cross-sectional study was to establish the OP toxicity in 187 occupationally exposed farmers in terms of neurocognitive impairment, mental health status, clinical symptoms, diabetes, and haematological factors. The exposed group was compared to 187 healthy age-, sex-, and education-matching controls. Neurocognitive impairment was measured using the Subjective Neurocognition Inventory (SNI) and mental health status using the General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28). The subjects were also tested for fasting blood glucose (FBG), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), cholesterol (CL), triglycerides (TG), creatinine, oral glucose tolerance test (GTT), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). The exposed farmers showed higher FBG (p<0.001), BUN (p=0.007), CL (p<0.001), oral GTT (p<0.001), and lower AST (p<0.001), ALP (p<0.001), and creatinine (p=0.004) than controls. The rates of anxiety/ insomnia and severe depression were also significantly higher in the farmers than in controls (p=0.015 and p<0.001, respectively). Meanwhile, the rate of social dysfunction was significantly lower than in controls (p<0.001). Disorders affecting psychomotor speed, selective attention, divided attention, verbal memory, nonverbal memory, prospective memory, spatial functioning, and initiative/energy were all lower in the farmers (p<0.001). Farmers showed clinical symptoms eczema, saliva secretion, fatigue, headache, sweating, abdominal pain, nausea, superior distal muscle weakness, inferior distal muscle weakness, inferior proximal muscle weakness, breath muscle weakness, hand tingling, foot tingling, epiphoria, polyuria, miosis, dyspnoea, bradycardia, and rhinorrhoea, which all significantly correlated with the number of working years. These findings indicate that farmers who work with OPs are prone to neuropsychological disorders and diabetes.
Spectral Calculus and Lipschitz Extension for
Barycentric Metric Spaces
Authors: Mendel Manor , Naor Assaf
Published: June 2013

The metric Markov cotype of barycentric metric spaces is computed, yielding the first class of metric spaces that are not Banach spaces for which this bi-Lipschitz invariant is understood. It is shown that this leads to new nonlinear spectral calculus inequalities, as well as a unified framework for Lipschitz extension, including new Lipschitz extension results for CAT (0) targets. An example that elucidates the relation between metric Markov cotype and Rademacher cotype is analyzed, showing that a classical Lipschitz extension theorem of Johnson, Lindenstrauss and Benyamini is asymptotically sharp.
Geometric Convergence of Iterative Methods for a Problem with M-matrices and Diagonal Multivalued Operators
Authors: Lapin Alexander
Published: June 2013

A finite-dimensional problem with several M-matrices and diagonal
maximal monotone operators is studied. This problem includes variational inequalities
with M-matrices as a partial case and appears, in particular, as a mesh approximation
for a free boundary problem with several constraints and nonlinear relations.
The existence of an unique solution for the problem is studied, as well as the convergence
and geometric rate of the convergence for a class of the iterative methods, the
Schwarz alternating-type methods among them.
The application of the general results to a mesh scheme for a dam problem is considered.
Parallel iterative methods are constructed on the basis of the domain decomposition,
geometric convergence of these methods is justified.
Functional-Discrete Method with a High Order of Accuracy for the Eigenvalue Transmission Problem
Authors: Makarov V.L. , Rossokhata N.O. , Bandurskii B.I.
Published: June 2013

We develop a functional-discrete method with a high order of accuracy
to find a numerical solution of an eigenvalue transmission problem. It allows to
approximate the trial eigenvalue with any desired accuracy. This approach has no
restriction on the number of eigenvalues, an approximation to which can be found.
The convergence rate is proved as in the case of the geometric series. It is shown that
depending on the data of the original problem, two kinds of eigenvalue sequences may
exist. For the first one, the convergence rate increases as the ordinal number of the trial
eigenvalue increases. For the second one, the convergence rate is the same for all eigenvalues
and does not depend on the ordinal number of the trial eigenvalue. Based on the
asymptotic behavior of the eigenvalues of the basic problem and the functional-discrete
method, a qualitative result on the arrangement of eigenvalues of the original problem
is established. A number of numerical examples are given to support the theory.
New evidence on the origin of non-spinose pitted–cancellate species of the early Danian planktonic foraminifera
Authors: Arenillas Ignacio , Arz Jose Antonio
Published: June 2013

Intermediate forms identified in some of the most continuous lower Danian sections allow a better understanding of the origin and evolution of pitted (Globanomalina) and cancellate (Praemurica) planktonic foraminifera. Both Globanomalina and Praemurica are part of a major Paleocene lineage, namely the “non-spinose lineage”, which started to diverge in the early Danian. Transitional specimens strongly suggest the evolution from Parvularugoglobigerina to Globanomalina, and then to Praemurica. These evolutionary turnovers were quite rapid (probably lasting less than 10 kyr), and seem to have begun in the time equivalent of the lower part of the E. simplicissima Subzone, namely the middle part of the standard Zone Pa. The initial evolutionary trends within this non-spinose lineage were the increase of test size and lip thickness, and the evolution from tiny pore-murals to large pore-pits, and from smooth to pitted and finally cancellate walls. Biostratigraphic data suggest that evolution of the wall texture preceded the morphological evolution within each genus. The oldest species of both Globanomalina and Praemurica, namely G. archeocompressa and Pr. taurica, initially retained the external morphology of the ancestral Parvularugoglobigerina eugubina. Since their divergence, Globanomalina and Praemurica followed a separate evolutionary path, evolving into morphologically different species.
Stelis Minima Schenck, 1859 (Hymenoptera: Apoidea: Megachilidae) - A Species of Wild Bee New to Polish Fauna
Authors: Celary Waldemar , Wiśniowski Bogdan
Published: June 2013

The paper presents information on Stelis minima Schenck, 1859, a species of cleptoparasitic bee new to Polish fauna representing the family Megachilidae. Stelis minima. probably inhabits most of Europe except for the southern and northern parts of the continent. The species was also found in the southern part of Finland, where it reaches its northern range limit (ca. 62°N). During the years 2002- 2006 four specimens of S. minima were collected in the Kraków-Częstochowa Upland (1 male) and Roztocze region (2 females and 1 male). All specimens were observed close to nests of probable host species of solitary bees - Chelostoma campanularum (Kirby, 1802) and Heriades truncorum (Linnaeus, 1758). The female of Stelis minima can be distinguished from other Central European species by the following characteristics: rounded head, clypeus about 1.5 times wider than its length, legs black, hind basitarsus almost parallel sided (not broadened on the distal part), distances between punctures on mesopleurae ca. as big as their diameter, posterior margins of metasomal tergites (T) black and without lateral bands of hair, T1 or T1-2 with small, lateral, yellowish white maculae; the maculae are sometimes absent. The male Stelis minima can be separated from other Central European species by the following characteristics: clypeus short (not covering mandibles), legs black, distances between punctures on mesopleurae and tergites T4-5 ca. as big as their diameter, posterior margins of metasomal tergites black and without lateral bands of hair, T1-2 or T1-3 with small, lateral yellowish white maculae, posterior margin of seventh tergite with short mid-process, posterior margin of third sternite with triangular emargination in the middle, posterior margin of fourth sternite with a tooth-like, mid-process.
Oxytetracycline Residues in Honey Analyzed by Liquid Chromatography with UV Detection
Authors: Gajda Anna , Posyniak Andrzej , Bober Andrzej , Błądek Tomasz , Żmudzki Jan
Published: June 2013

A liquid chromatography method with UV detection for determination of oxytetracycline (OTC) in honey has been developed. The samples were extracted with the solution of oxalic acid. The clean-up procedure was performed by solid phase extraction (SPE) using polymeric Strata X and carboxylic acid cartridges. Chromatographic separation was carried out on the Luna C8 analytical column with mobile phase consisting of acetonitrile-0.02 M oxalic acid. The method has been successfully validated according to the requirements of the European Decision 2002/657/EC and this method is used in routine control of oxytetracycline in honey samples. The limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) of the presented method were 10 and 12.5 μg/kg, respectively. The developed method has also been verified in quantitative determination of oxytetracycline residues in honey after experimental treatment with this product in bee colonies.
Characteristics of Polish Unifloral Honeys IV. Honeydew Honey, Mainly Abies Alba L.
Authors: Rybak-Chmielewska Helena , Szczęsna Teresa , Waś Ewa , Jaśkiewicz Katarzyna , Teper Dariusz
Published: June 2013

Coniferous honeydew honey, mainly Abies alba was characterised. Samples chosen for the study had organoleptic traits characteristic for the variety: greenish, opalescence tone of brown colour, mild, sweet flavour with pleasant, slightly resinous aftertaste and aroma as well as electrical conductivity over 0.95 mS/cm. To define composition and physicochemical parameters of the variety, contents of water and total sugars were determined. In addition various carbohydrates were identified and their contents were assessed as well. These were: fructose, glucose, sucrose, maltose, turanose, trehalose, isomaltose, malezitose. Other examined parameters related to honey quality were: free acidity, pH, the content of 5-hydroxymetylofurfural (HMF), the main amino acid - proline, and the activity of α-amylase enzyme (Diastase Number). The following properties were proven to be characteristic for this variety: high electrical conductivity with the average value of 1.14 mS/cm, ranging from 0.96 to 1.32 mS/cm; content of monosaccharides lower by few percent in relation to other honey varieties (from 58.2 to 67.4 g/100 g; on average 62.0 g/100 g) and a higher content of disaccharides and trisaccharide - melezitose. The presence of this sugar confirms that a considerable part of the honey was produced from honeydew. The average value of melezitose was 3.2 g/100 g, ranging from 0.9 to 5.9 g/100 g. Also, the results of the pH measurements were slightly higher than in other honey varieties (from 4.23 to 4.99; on average 4.63). The colour value in mm Pfund ranged from 74 to 105, with the average of 93.
The Influence of Temperature on Errors of Wim Systems Employing Piezoelectric Sensors Keywords: Piezoelectric Sensors, Temperature Influence, Temperature Error Of Wim Systems, Error Correction
Authors: Gajda Janusz , Sroka Ryszard , Zeglen Tadeusz , Burnos Piotr
Published: June 2013

The paper provides analysis of the influence of temperature on the error of weigh-in-motion (WIM) systems utilizing piezoelectric polymer load sensors. Results of tests of these sensors in a climatic chamber, as well as results of long-term tests at the WIM site, are presented. Different methods for correction of the influence of changes in temperature were assessed for their effectiveness and compared.
Estimation of Random Variable Distribution Parameters by the Monte Carlo Method
Authors: Sienkowski Sergiusz
Published: June 2013

The paper is concerned with issues of the estimation of random variable distribution parameters by the Monte Carlo method. Such quantities can correspond to statistical parameters computed based on the data obtained in typical measurement situations. The subject of the research is the mean, the mean square and the variance of random variables with uniform, Gaussian, Student, Simpson, trapezoidal, exponential, gamma and arcsine distributions.
Lab-on-a-Chip Microdevice with Contactless Conductivity Detector
Authors: Blaszczyk Karolina , Chudy Michal , Brzozka Zbigniew , Dybko Artur
Published: June 2013

This paper describes a new contactless conductivity detector, whose electrodes are constructed of microchannels filled with solution of KCl - called pseudoelectrodes. The lab-on-a-chip microdevice was fabricated in poly(dimethylsiloxane) PDMS, using a moulding technique. The mould was made from a dry negative photoresist with a thickness of 50 μm. During the tests, the dimension! and arrangement of pseudoelectrodes` microchannels were evaluated. The analyte was pumped into the microchannel using a syringe pump with a flow rate of 50 μL/min. Reproducible!changes of the signal were obtained.
Quality of Life Indicators of University Students in Hungary
Authors: Edvy László
Published: June 2013

Quality of life is a new research field in the postmodern world. Results show that there are several factors beyond the material world which have an impact on our happiness and which can be influenced and developed by us. To transfer the knowledge that can help improve quality of life requires authentic channels. One of these channels could be the stratum of educated intellectuals as an influential group of society, but they are authentic only if their quality of life is really better than nonqualified population’s quality of life. We investigated this issue in Hungary. On the basis of empirical research, we compared university students’ quality of life indicators with those of common people of similar ages. The objective of this paper is to present the relevant results of this research, which show that a) the examined indicators of quality of life are not more favorable with university students than the same indicators with the non-student population; b) the quality of life indicators of female university students are worse in some respects than those of non-student women; c) the impact of some psychological factors is stronger with university students than with common persons. The major conclusion of this paper is that an appropriate intervention is needed in health education programs at universities in order to contribute to the improvement of students’ quality of life.
Débat d’idées et mise en oeuvre des projets d’actions en jeu de Football: cas des garçons de troisième année secondaire en Tunisie
Authors: Zghibi Makram , Guinoubi Chamseddine , Bennour Nabila , Moheiddine Naimi
Published: June 2013

The purpose of this article is to identify action projects developed by boys at a time of debate ideas then see how to implement these projects in game situations The method used is to choose for descriptive analysis, exploratory discursive practices of a group of boys (8 lessons, 14 boys 14 years: T = 6 hours of actual practice. In this research it was decided to: 1) study qualitative discourse analysis of the boys situation debate of ideas and identification of projects of action set, 2) a quantitative study: verification of the achievement of these common decisions. Validation action projects for both teams appear from the 6th session and allow progression for the second position played. The boys at the end of cycle better interpreting the relations of opposition and opt for more action projects feasible.
Local food and reneweable energy as emerging new alternatives of rural sustainability in Finland
Authors: Järvelä Marja , Jokinen Pekka , Huttunen Suvi , Puupponen Antti
Published: June 2013

Local food and reneweable energy as emerging new alternatives of rural sustainability in Finland

The rurality of small Northern countries such as Finland has traditionally been based on family farm practices. However, rural sustainability is polarizing between the large-scale industrial agriculture and the more regional and multifunctional small-scale specialisations. This paper addresses small-scale entrepreneurship which aims at enhancing sustainable livelihood and sustainable development on farms. We identify two main lines of pioneering rural entrepreneurship in Finland, local food and renewable energy. Firstly, it is asked what kind of barriers and development targets these new productions are expected to have. Secondly, to what extent do they reflect real transformation as described particularly by the multifunctionality and ecological modernisation thinking? The two empirical case studies were carried out in Central Finland. We find that individual farms begin to identify the importance of mutual networking while establishing new businesses meeting the sustainability criteria. This certainly indicates social transformation. However, we also conclude that farmers in Central Finland seldom go for radical alternative productions imitating strong ecological modernisation.
Modernizing Administrative Procedural Law in Slovenia as a Driving Force of Efficient and Good Administration
Authors: Kovač Polonca
Published: June 2013

The article presents the current organization and the past and potential development of administrative procedural law - particularly the General Administrative Procedure Act - in Slovenia from its independence in 1991 till 2011. The author critically evaluates the regulation of general and special administrative procedures in Slovenia in light of the insufficient overcoming of traditional patterns. Namely the regulation in place overprotects the rights of parties and rather neglects the efficiency of administrative procedures as a whole. The evaluations are supported by the development of the theory of governance, radical changes in society and the need for a shift in the understanding of state / authority in the system in Slovenia and other countries (e.g. Finland, Croatia or the USA). The Slovenian system is firstly analyzed using the historical method and later on, it is assessed in terms of the efficiency of administrative procedures as regulated and run in administrative and judicial practice by means of a SWOT analysis. Additionally, particular emphasis is put on the comparative analysis of the Slovenian system to internationally recognized principles in administrative matters, deriving from the experience of the ECHR, the EU Ombudsman code and EU member states, and theory. The main finding is that in comparison, the standardization of parties’ rights far exceeds basic rights of defense as framed in constitutional terms which in several ways diminishes the overall efficiency of administration. The author therefore proposes the basis for a multilevel model of governing administrative relations de lege ferenda, intended to regulate in more detail the procedural status of the parties on one side and simultaneously the pursuit of public interest on the other. Based on the latest scientific findings, the criteria for differentiation include: relevance of the subject, degree of conflictuality of interests, need for rationality and efficiency of administration, and the position of the authoritative body. The objective is to move administrative procedural law from the margins of modernization of the public administration as found in the development of the Slovenian system in the last two decades and to make it its driving force, instead.
Management of Contracting Public Services and its Quality in Slovakia
Authors: Nemec Juraj , Mikušová Meričková Beáta , Vozárová Zuzana
Published: June 2013

Contracting services in the public sector with private for-profit and non-profit firms is one of the most prevalent types of alternative service-delivering arrangements. Concerning the positive potential of contracting, the relevant literature proposes that contracting may, but need not, improve individual choice, cost-effectiveness and the quality of delivery, equity and to some extent also expenditure control. On the other hand, many authors provide important arguments describing weak points of contracting and some risks connected with contracting services in the public sector. The main “internal” reason why contracting does not produce the expected results and even creates perverse effects in the effectiveness and quality of contracted services, is the improper implementation of contract management. This paper seeks to answer the question of what factors account for success in contracting for services in the public sector by testing the relationship between contracting performance and selected factors connected with contract management such as competition, exante evaluation of bidders, contract monitoring, contract duration, contract payment and joint problem solving and communication between the principal and the agent. This study uses a quantitative approach to investigate the research question and to analyze the original collected survey data from our own research.

The research was supported by the Czech Grant Agency projects P403 / 12 / 0366 and P403 / 10 / 1892
The asymptotic behaviour of q-difference equations with multiple delays
Authors: Čermák Jan
Published: June 2013

We investigate asymptotic properties of solutions of a class of linear q-difference equations. We relate their behaviour to the asymptotics of some q-exponential functions and mention possible connections with the corresponding continuous case.
Homogenization of monotone type problems with uncertain data
Authors: Nechvátal Luděk
Published: June 2013

The paper deals with homogenization of nonlinear differential operators with monotone behaviour. We consider a situation, when the coefficients of the operator are not known exactly, but in certain bounds only due to errors caused by measurements. We use the deterministic approach to the problem- -worst scenario method introduced by I. Hlaváček.
Typologisierung des forstwirtschaftlichen Testbetriebsnetzes der Schweiz
Authors: Nagel Philipp , Hercher Wolfgang , Hartebrodt Christoph
Published: June 2013

Typology of the Swiss Forestry Holding Network

The requirements and policies that affect the results of individual forest enterprises are numerous. To develop functioning management and advisory mechanisms, these individual circumstances should be taken into consideration. However, compliance with all the influencing factors is not feasible in practice, wherefore a reduction in the existing complexity is necessary. Multivariate statistical methods allow to use a variety of indicators as a basis for the formation of different types of forest enterprises. The goal to consider the individual operating conditions as completely as possible can be achieved with a multivariate typology. For the Swiss Forestry Holding Network (HDN), the question arises as to whether the results of such a typology can also be reproduced by the currently used biogeographic classification of forest zones. Sixty-six variables with information about structural properties and the business results of 208 Swiss holdings from the years 2008 to 2010 formed the basis of the study data. These variables were reduced to 19 key variables. With the help of principal component and cluster analyses the holdings were divided into four clusters based on these key variables. They differ from each other significantly in most of the key variables. The results of this multivariate typology can be mapped in part by the forest zones of Switzerland. It should be noted that the variable “forest zone” also acts as a multivariate criterion, reflecting the physical and structural requirements of the enterprises. Combined with certain additional information (e.g. timber growth), the results of the multivariate analysis can be even better understood.
Effects of plasmid curing on Rhizobium spp.
Authors: Nahar Mukitu , Mahal Zinat , Zahid Hasan M , Zaman Khadiza , Jahan Fahmida , Rahman M Majibur , Noor Rashed
Published: June 2013

Present study was carried out to determine the difference between the wild type rhizobial strains and plasmid cured strains for some important characteristics such as antibiotic resistance. The rhizobial strains were isolated from locally produced legumes of different varieties such as Pisum sativum, Sesbania aculeata, Vigna mungo, Phaseolus vulgaris, Lens culinaris and Arachis hypogea.They were purified and subjected to various morphological, cultural and biochemical analysis, and also to antibiogram. All the strains showed resistance against amoxicillin and bacitracin, and exhibited higher (50% or more) resistance against ampicillin, erythromycin, nalidixic acid and strptomycin. The isolates were then subjected to plasmid profile analysis. To determine appropriate dose for plasmid curing, Sesbania nodulating rhizobial strain was treated with different concentrations of acridine orange (plasmid curing agent). Rhizobial growth was found in yeast mannitol broth after curing with 30 ?g/ml of acridine orrange. The rhizobial strain was found to be sensitive against amoxicillin, streptomycin and ampicillin after plasmid curing and no exopolysaccharides were found. The present study reveals that the plasmid in rhizobial species might confer the antibiotic resistance and possibly involve in maintaining symbiotic relationships. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/sjm.v2i1.15212 Stamford Journal of Microbiology, Vol.2(1) 2012: 34-37
Ni-Based Catalysts for Low Temperature Methane Steam Reforming: Recent Results on Ni-Au and Comparison with Other Bi-Metallic Systems
Authors: Wu Hongjing , La Parola Valeria , Pantaleo Giuseppe , Puleo Fabrizio , Venezia Anna , Liotta Leonarda
Published: June 2013

Steam reforming of light hydrocarbons provides a promising method for hydrogen production. Ni-based catalysts are so far the best and the most commonly used catalysts for steam reforming because of their acceptably high activity and significantly lower cost in comparison with alternative precious metal-based catalysts. However, nickel catalysts are susceptible to deactivation from the deposition of carbon, even when operating at steam-to-carbon ratios predicted to be thermodynamically outside of the carbon-forming regime. Reactivity and deactivation by carbon formation can be tuned by modifying Ni surfaces with a second metal, such as Au through alloy formation. In the present review, we summarize the very recent progress in the design, synthesis, and characterization of supported bimetallic Ni-based catalysts for steam reforming. The progress in the modification of Ni with noble metals (such as Au and Ag) is discussed in terms of preparation, characterization and pretreatment methods. Moreover, the comparison with the effects of other metals (such as Sn, Cu, Co, Mo, Fe, Gd and B) is addressed. The differences of catalytic activity, thermal stability and carbon species between bimetallic and monometallic Ni-based catalysts are also briefly shown.
A Review on Video-Based Human Activity Recognition
Authors: Ke Shian-Ru , Thuc Hoang , Lee Yong-Jin , Hwang Jenq-Neng , Yoo Jang-Hee , Choi Kyoung-Ho
Published: June 2013

This review article surveys extensively the current progresses made toward video-based human activity recognition. Three aspects for human activity recognition are addressed including core technology, human activity recognition systems, and applications from low-level to high-level representation. In the core technology, three critical processing stages are thoroughly discussed mainly: human object segmentation, feature extraction and representation, activity detection and classification algorithms. In the human activity recognition systems, three main types are mentioned, including single person activity recognition, multiple people interaction and crowd behavior, and abnormal activity recognition. Finally the domains of applications are discussed in detail, specifically, on surveillance environments, entertainment environments and healthcare systems. Our survey, which aims to provide a comprehensive state-of-the-art review of the field, also addresses several challenges associated with these systems and applications. Moreover, in this survey, various applications are discussed in great detail, specifically, a survey on the applications in healthcare monitoring systems.
Three Dimensional Quantitative Structure-Activity Relationship of 5H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indol-4-carboxamide JAK2 Inhibitors
Authors: Wu Xiaoyun , Wan Shanhe , Zhang Jiajie
Published: June 2013

Janus kinase 2 (JAK2) is an intracellular nonreceptor tyrosine kinase that belongs to the JAK family of kinases, which play an important role in survival, proliferation, and differentiation of a variety of cells. JAK2 inhibitors are potential drugs for the treatment of myeloproliferative neoplasms. The three dimensional quantitative structure-activity relationships have been studied on a series of JAK2 inhibitors by comparative molecular field analysis (CoMFA), and comparative molecular similarity indices analysis (CoMSIA). The CoMFA model had a cross-validated coefficient q2 of 0.633, and the relation non-cross-validated coefficient r2 of 0.976. The F value is 225.030. The contributions of steric and electrostatic fields to the activity are 55.2% and 44.8%, respectively. For the CoMSIA study, the q2, r2, and F values of the model are 0.614, 0.929, and 88.771, respectively. The contributions of steric, electrostatic, hydrophobic, hydrogen bond donor, and hydrogen bond donor fields to the activity are 27.3%, 23.9%, 16.4%, 21.7%, and 10.7%, respectively. The CoMFA and CoMSIA models showed strong predictive ability, and the 3D contour plots give the basis on the structure modification of JAK2 inhibitors.
Synthesis of guanidinium–sulfonimide ion pairs: towards novel ionic liquid crystals
Authors: Butschies Martin , Neidhardt Manuel M , Mansueto Markus , Laschat Sabine , Tussetschläger Stefan
Published: June 2013

The recently introduced concept of ionic liquid crystals (ILCs) with complementary ion pairs, consisting of both, mesogenic cation and anion, was extended from guanidinium sulfonates to guanidinium sulfonimides. In this preliminary study, the synthesis and mesomorphic properties of selected derivatives were described, which provide the first example of an ILC with the sulfonimide anion directly attached to the mesogenic unit.
Lumbar Disc Degeneration in Osteoporotic Men: Prevalence and Assessment of the Relation with Presence of Vertebral Fracture
Authors: Fabreguet Isabelle , Fechtenbaum Jacques , Briot Karine , Paternotte Simon , Roux Christian
Published: June 2013

Objective.

The relationship between osteoarthritis (OA) and osteoporosis (OP) remains controversial. An inverse relationship between spine OA and the presence of prevalent vertebral fractures has been shown in osteoporotic women. Our objective was to assess this relationship in osteoporotic men.

Methods.

All the patients had OP based on densitometric data and were aged ≥ 65 years. Spine radiographs were performed according to a standardized procedure. Vertebral fractures were assessed from T4 to L4 by a semiquantitative method. Disc degenerative changes were assessed by the presence and severity of osteophytes and disc narrowing at levels T12–L1 to L5–S1. Logistic regression was used to study the relationship between the presence of vertebral fracture and lumbar disc degeneration.

Results.

The study included 261 osteoporotic men. The prevalence of vertebral fractures was 26.4% (69/261). At least 1 osteophyte was found in 91.6% (239/261) of patients, and at least 1 disc space narrowing in 63.5% (165/260). The prevalence of at least 1 osteophyte and/or at least 1 disc space narrowing was similar in patients with and those without vertebral fracture. No relationship was found between the presence and/or the severity of osteophytes and disc narrowings and the presence of prevalent vertebral radiographic fractures.

Conclusion.

In osteoporotic men, the prevalence of lumbar spine degeneration is high. There is no relationship between lumbar disc degeneration and the presence of vertebral fracture in osteoporotic men.
Subcutaneously Administered Ofatumumab in Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Phase I/II Study of Safety, Tolerability, Pharmacokinetics, and Pharmacodynamics
Authors: Kurrasch Regina , Brown Judith C. , Chu Myron , Craigen Jenny , Overend Philip , Patel Bela , Wolfe Steven , Chang David J.
Published: June 2013

Objective.

To investigate the safety and tolerability of a single subcutaneous (SC) dose of ofatumumab, a fully human anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody, in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) taking background methotrexate (MTX). Secondary objectives included characterizing pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics.

Methods.

In this single-blind, phase I/II study, 35 patients with RA were randomized in 5 cohorts to receive a single subcutaneous (SC) ofatumumab dose ranging from 0.3 to 100 mg, or placebo, following premedication with oral acetaminophen and antihistamine. Patients were followed for 24 weeks with extended followup to monitor B cell and immunoglobulin recovery for up to 2 years if required.

Results.

Thirty-five patients received the following treatment: 0.3 mg, n = 4; 3 mg, n = 6; 30 mg, n = 8; 60 mg, n = 6; 100 mg, n = 3; placebo, n = 8. The most common adverse events in the combined ofatumumab groups were headache, nausea, and upper respiratory tract infection. Because of tolerability concerns, only 3 patients were given 100 mg. For the 30–100 mg doses, median maximum plasma concentration values ranged from 4.02 to 4.49 days. Mean elimination half-life values ranged from 5.20 to 6.83 days. Increasing peripheral median B cell depletion was observed from 0.3 mg up to 30 mg, and full target B cell depletion was achieved with 30 mg, 60 mg, and 100 mg.

Conclusion.

Treatment of RA patients with SC ofatumumab doses of 30 mg or higher resulted in profound and prolonged B cell depletion in blood. Single doses up to 60 mg were tolerated without glucocorticoid premedication. (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT00686868)
Signal Hyperintensities on Brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Patients with Primary Sjögren Syndrome and Frequent Episodic Tension-type Headache: Relation to Platelet Serotonin Level and Disease Activity
Authors: Šarac Helena , Markeljević Jasenka , Erdeljić Viktorija , Josipović-Jelić Zeljka , Hajnšek Sanja , Klapan Tatjana , Batinica Marko , Baršić Ivana , Sertić Jadranka , Dobrila Dintinjana Renata
Published: June 2013

Objective.

To examine differences in number and size of signal hyperintensities (SH) on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) between patients with primary Sjögren syndrome (pSS) and controls who all had frequent episodic tension-type headache (FETH), and to investigate their relation to platelet serotonin level (PSL), patient age, disease duration, and activity.

Methods.

SH in 22 pSS patients with FETH were compared to 20 aged-matched controls with FETH, using the modified semiquantitative rating scale. Spectrofluorimetry was used for determination of PSL, and the European League Against Rheumatism SS Disease Activity Index (ESSDAI) for disease activity assessment.

Results.

Statistically significant differences in the total number of SH were noted infratentorially (p = 0.025) and in the basal ganglia for lesions of diameter > 5 mm (p = 0.048). Significant correlations were found between disease duration and number of overall lesions > 5 mm (p = 0.04) and subcortical lesions of diameter 2–5 mm (p = 0.035). Number of periventricular SH inversely correlated to PSL (p = 0.019) and to patient age (p = 0.004), without association with markers of immunoinflammation and ESSDAI.

Conclusion.

Our study showed that SH on brain MRI are more common in specific regions of the brain in pSS patients with FETH than in controls with FETH, signifying a more widespread cerebral vasculopathy in SS patients with FETH. Periventricular SH seem to be associated to increased platelet serotonin release in pSS patients with FETH and correlated with disease duration, without correlation to the actual ESSDAI and markers of immunoinflammation, and might be linked with chronic immunoinflammation of low-grade intensity and vasculitis in pSS.
DcR3 Mutations in Patients with Juvenile-onset Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Lead to Enhanced Lymphocyte Proliferation
Authors: Chokdeemeeboon Chayanin , Ammarinthnukrowh Pramuk , Tongkobpetch Siraprapa , Srichomtong Chalurmpon , Deekajorndech Tawatchai , Rianthavorn Pornpimol , Kingwattanakul Pornchai , Avihingsanon Yingyos , Wright Helen L. , Akkahat Piyaporn , Hoven Voravee P. , Mekboonsonglarp Wanwimon , Edwards Steven W. , Hirankarn Nattiya , Suphapeetiporn Kanya , Shotelersuk Vorasuk
Published: June 2013

Objective.

Previous studies suggested a role for the death decoy receptor 3 (DcR3) in the pathogenesis of adult systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). We investigated the role of DcR3 in juvenile-onset SLE, to identify polymorphisms that might alter the function of this protein.

Methods.

DcR3 was measured in the serum of 61 patients with juvenile SLE. The coding region of the DcR3 gene was sequenced in 100 juvenile and 103 adult patients with SLE, together with 500 healthy controls.

Results.

DcR3 was elevated in the serum of juvenile patients with active SLE disease (440.8 ± 169.1 pg/ml), compared to patients with inactive disease (122.6 ± 28.05 pg/ml; p = 0.0014) and controls (69.27 ± 20.23 pg/ml; p = 0.0009). DNA sequencing identified 2 novel missense mutations: c.C167T (p.T56I) in an adult SLE patient and c.C364T (p.H122Y) in a juvenile patient. Recombinant proteins containing these mutations exhibited altered binding kinetics to FasL and they significantly increased lymphocyte proliferation, compared to the wild-type protein (p < 0.05). The adult patient with SLE carrying the p.T56I mutation had significantly increased lymphocyte proliferation compared to 3 SLE controls matched for age, sex, and disease severity.

Conclusion.

DcR3 may play an etiologic role in SLE through either elevated serum levels of wild-type DcR3 or normal levels of gain-of-function DcR3 proteins that increase lymphocyte proliferation.
Should We Redefine Treatment Targets in Rheumatoid Arthritis? Low Disease Activity Is Sufficiently Strict for Patients Who Are Anticitrullinated Protein Antibody-negative
Authors: de Punder Yvonne M.R. , Hendrikx Jos , den Broeder Alfons A. , Valls Pascual Elia , van Riel Piet L. , Fransen Jaap
Published: June 2013

Objective.

Clinical remission currently is the treatment target for all patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). At the same level of inflammation, the prognosis regarding joint damage is believed to be different for anticitrullinated protein antibody (ACPA)-negative and ACPA-positive patients. Our objective was to show the difference in prognosis at similar disease activity levels, and to illustrate how this could be translated to differentiation of treatment targets.

Methods.

Data were used from the Nijmegen Early RA Cohort. The relation between the time-averaged disease activity level (by Disease Activity Score; DAS) and joint damage progression over 3 years was analyzed, separately for ACPA-negative and ACPA-positive patients. Joint damage was assessed as change in Ratingen score, and dichotomized as occurrence of erosions in joints that were unaffected at baseline. Linear and logistic multivariable regression models were used.

Results.

The regression coefficient of DAS on change in Ratingen score was 3.9 (p < 0.001) for ACPA-negative and 4.7 (p < 0.001) for ACPA-positive patients, showing less joint damage progression at the same disease activity level in ACPA-negative patients. This difference became greater with increasing disease activity. The probability for erosions in joints unaffected at baseline was 0.35 in ACPA-negative patients when time-averaged DAS was < 2.4 versus 0.80 in ACPA-positive patients.

Conclusion.

At the same level of inflammation, ACPA-negative patients have less joint damage and lower probability for damage in newly affected joints than ACPA-positive patients. Low disease activity might be a sufficiently strict treatment target for ACPA-negative patients to prevent progression of joint damage.