bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
La Regla Taiji: el legado del Inmortal Durmiente
Authors: Cohen Kenneth S.
Published: June 2015

This article describes the history, development, and principles of the two major Taiji Ruler lineages: one associated with the Song Dynasty (960-1279 CE) imperial family, and the other lesser known, Daoist lineage, transmitted by Hu Yaozhen and his successors, including the well known Chen Style Taijiquan teacher, Feng Zhiqiang. The Taiji Ruler is a traditional system of health-enhancing qigong that is attributed to the Song Dynasty Daoist recluse Chen Xiyi and was first taught publicly in the 1950s. The exercises may be practiced while holding a foot-long wooden object, the Ruler, or with a variety of training devices, such as a wooden or stone ball. Mr. Cohen began studying Taji Ruler with various teachers more than 30 years ago, but also bases his research on works in Chinese and English. Both the teachers and literature agree that the ultimate goal of the Ruler is to blend with the original qi of the universe and, in the process, to achieve vitality and longevity.    
Competición Versus Tradición en el Judo Kodokan
Authors: Ebell S. Biron
Published: June 2015

Judo’s association with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and their corporate sponsors is eroding the practice, larger principles, and aims envisioned for Kodokan Judo by its founder, Jigoro Kano. In order to be accessible to a neophyte television audience, judo has had to become a more marketable commodity. These changes, among others, have devalued recreational judo in the minds of some. This paper presents a brief developmental history of judo as it evolved to meet the needs of the IOC.
Estudio bibliométrico sobre las monografías de artes marciales publicadas en España (1906-2006)
Authors: Pérez Gutiérrez Mikel , Gutiérrez García Carlos
Published: June 2015

This paper examines the martial arts monographs published in Spain between 1906 and 2006 from a bibliometric point of view. Starting from Pérez and Gutiérrez’s previous bibliography (2008), the total number of published monographs following the criteria of subject, decade and the combination of both was analyzed. The results showed a total of 2.036 books (1.285 original editions) with a prevalence of Japanese and Chinese martial arts. A group of eight subjects exceeded a hundred volumes (karate, judo/jujutsu, taijiquan, wu-shu/kung fu, classics, qigong, philosophy, history and education, and aikido), with two patterns of bibliographic evolution appearing. The first, represented by Japanese martial arts considered as a group and martial arts focused on the utilitarian and/or sporting performance aspects (judo/jujutsu, karate and wu-shu/kung fu), developed increasingly until the 80’s when it followed a steady-state and/or drop. The second model, which characterises the Chinese martial arts group and martial arts mainly focused on healthy and/or spiritual aspects of training (taijiquan, qigong, aikido), has increased significantly from the 90’s until the present moment. The interpretation of these patterns and the evolution of the martial arts bibliographic production in Spain highlights some aspects such as the development of the Spanish society and sports practice, bibliographic production, reading habits, or the cultural influences of eastern countries on Spain.
Zheng Manqing: el Salón Conmemorativo y el legado del Maestro de las Cinco Excelencias en Taiwán
Authors: Mason Russ
Published: June 2015

Professor Zheng Manqing (1902-1975), a fine artist and a notable taijiquan disciple of Yang Chengfu, emigrated to Taiwan in 1949 following the Chinese civil war between the Guomindang and Maoist factions. Under Republic of China President Chiang Kai-shek’s Cultural Renaissance Movement, Zheng played an important role in preserving the cultural treasures of traditional China. During the period of Mao Zedong’s Cultural Revolution when the Mainland was veiled to foreign eyes behind the Bamboo Curtain, Zheng was instrumental in introducing taijiquan and other elements of Chinese culture to the West. Zheng passed away at his home in Yonghe, Taiwan in 1975 but not before establishing an international reputation for his mastery in taijiquan and other arts. Recently, a portion of his former residence was converted into a memorial hall (the Zheng Manqing Jinian Guan) by senior students interested in preserving his martial tradition, paintings, calligraphy, and other artifacts. This article provides a brief history of Zheng’s life and his legacy in Taiwan, as well as a photographic tour of the Zheng Manqing Memorial Hall.
Kendo y shodo: una asociación duradera entre el camino del pincel y la espada
Authors: Wada Suien
Published: June 2015

For half of my life, I have been well supported by following two Japanese traditional “ways” that have always kept me on the right track. I would like to explain how these two “ways,” or do as they are called in Japanese, have allowed me to maintain my Japanese identity even though I live far from Japan. One is shodo (Japanese calligraphy) and the other is kendo (a Japanese sword art). This short article presents my experience with the “way” of shodo and kendo, which in turn may enrich your own martial studies.
El desvío: Una herramienta esencial en el combate libre
Authors: Hobart Peter , Wolfe Robert
Published: June 2015

In the arena of free-fighting, traditional blocking techniques and grappling entries often don’t work as well as the simple parry. The parry—a refinement of the “slap away” motion that most combatants employ instinctively when confronted with an attack—is a critical tool in the martial artist’s armamentarium, yet it has received surprisingly little scrutiny in the research and writing of the arts. Having been students and teachers of various striking and grappling arts for over twenty years, Robert Wolfe and Peter Hobart have pooled their experience to develop a step-by-step approach to understanding and applying the parry in a variety of ways. Part One focuses on the use of the parry primarily in striking engagements; Part Two in the context of grappling.
La globalización de las artes marciales: el cambio de reglas para los nuevos mercados
Authors: Ko Yong Jae , Yang Jin Bang
Published: June 2015

The rapid growth of the martial arts industry warrants a deeper understanding of the globalization process of martial arts. There is very little known about martial arts as a global consumer product and its diffusion process to date. In this article, the authors discuss the global expansion and integration of Asian martial arts. Such factors as sportification and standardization are closely examined as significant driving forces for the growth of the martial arts industry. This article also examines several important issues, such as the political environment, culture, and market strategies, in terms of their influence on the development and the martial arts’ industry future growth. This study concludes with a discussion of challenges and future opportunities for development.
Del tatami a la página impresa: Barry Eisler y la realidad de su ficción.
Authors: Sheridan Brian R.
Published: June 2015

This article looks at how a lifelong passion for the martial arts has influenced the writing of international bestselling thriller author Barry Eisler. His seven novels have garnered for him a reputation for authenticity, from his approach to fight scenes to the use of modern espionage techniques. Eisler discusses how he trained at the Kodokan, the birthplace of modern judo in Japan, and its impact on his anti-hero protagonist, John Rain. He also talks about the reaction martial artists have had toward his work. 2009 looks to be a major year for Eisler as his first non-Rain book hits bookstores and a movie based on his first novel is released.
La maza y el hacha en la tradición marcial iraní
Authors: Khorasani Manouchehr Moshtagh
Published: June 2015

The present article describes different types of maces and axes and their corresponding combat techniques based on Iranian martial arts tradition. Explaining different terms used by Persian manuscripts to refer to maces, the article then shows different types and expressions that talk about the weight and impact force of maces. Second, the article analyzes combat with maces: the way of carrying and drawing a mace, techniques of attack, offensive techniques against animals carrying the enemy, and defensive techniques. In the same manner, the article explains axes and their related techniques of attack. Some types of axes and maces as well as their techniques can be seen in pictures and miniatures in the article.
Manadas & lobos solitarios. Entrevista con Ellis Amdur sobre las tradiciones marciales japonesas
Authors: Hobart Peter
Published: June 2015

There are some significant differences in the manner that the classical Japanese martial arts are practiced in the East and in the West. Among these are the student-teacher relationship, the degree of formality and the level of emphasis on etiquette in the dojo. In this interview, noted martial arts teacher Ellis Amdur, who spent thirteen of his more than forty years of martial practice studying in Japan, explores these and other concepts, vital to anyone who wishes to understand the way these arts are (or were) taught in the country of their origin. He also discusses the two particular martial systems (koryu) which he is licensed to teach: Araki-ryu, a rugged system that emphasizes close combat; and Toda-ha Buko-ryu, a system specializing in the use of the naginata against a variety of weapons.
Psicología, discapacidad física, y la aplicación de la consciencia plena budista a los programas de artes marciales
Authors: Kelland Mark D.
Published: June 2015

Physical disabilities lead to difficult challenges for many people. The teachings of Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha (“Awakened One”), including the practice of mindfulness, have been described by some as a form of cognitive psychology. Mindfulness is a means of restraining our minds and reactions so that we might be relieved of suffering. The successful cultivation of mindfulness often begins with developing a healthy body, so that we might be able to meditate for significant periods of time as we cultivate mindfulness. Spiritually-minded martial arts training can provide numerous benefits for everyone, including individuals with disabilities who may seek formal and informal programs with such emphasis.
Piratas de las Filipinas: un ejercicio de pensamiento crítico
Authors: Macaraeg Ruel A.
Published: June 2015

Piracy had a formative impact on Filipino history, yet modern practitioners of Filipino Martial Arts generally do not acknowledge its influence. This brief study reconstructs the pirates’ martial practices through comparative historical analysis of their weapons, costume, and organization in order to draw conclusions about their relationship to martial cultures in the Philippines and across the region. Using analogous historical studies on piracy worldwide and examination of traditional arms and armor, this article restores the Iranun pirates to their rightful place as primary contributors to Filipino fighting arts and their influence in shaping Filipino national historiography as a whole.
Práctica y caracterización de las katas por profesores y árbitros de judo experimentados
Authors: Miranda Mario Luiz , Julio Ursula Ferreira , Calmet Michel , Franchini Emerson
Published: June 2015

The objective of the present study was to characterize the kata practice among judo teachers, responsible by São Paulo State Federation’s kata competition and grade examinations. A closed questionnaire was applied to 20 teachers (male = 18; female = 2). The sample was 46 ± 10 years-old, with judo practice time of 34 ± 9 years, and graduation 5 ± 1 dan. Practice often varied from 2 (50%) to 4 (30%) sessions per month. Nage no kata was identified as the most performed (78%) and preferred (31%) kata, followed by katame no kata (25%), ju no kata (21%) and kime no kata (12%). Initiation of kata study usually started at the teacher’s dojo (79%) and through courses offered by state federation (21%). Practice is directed to techniques improvement (46%), complementation for judo training (29%), spiritualized/mental practice (14%) and for competition preparation (11%). The following attributes are the most important meanings given for kata: foundation (45%), essence (25%), origin (15%), form (10%) and principle (5%).
El boxeador Zhang Songxi y los orígenes del concepto de Escuela Interna-Externa
Authors: Wells Marnix , Henning Stanley E.
Published: June 2015

Zhang Songxi was so highly respected for his boxing skills that the emperor’s grand secretary, Shen Yiguan (1531–1616), was inspired to write the Biography of Boxer Zhang Songxi. Later the historian Huang Zongxi (1610–1695) wrote an epitaph for a resistance fighter named Wang Zhengnan. In the biography he labeled both Wang and Zhang as practitioners of the “internal school of boxing,” versus what he called the Shaolin or “external school.” Since Shen Yiguan never mentioned Zhang as an internal- school practitioner, it appears that Huang was using the internal-external concept to symbolically express his dissatisfaction with China’s Manchu rulers. The Zhang Songxi biography provides some evidence that the internal-external school concept was more political than martial arts oriented.
Héroes luchadores: los valores esenciales de la tradición xia en la China antigua
Authors: Dalia Albert
Published: June 2015

The core values of China’s famed wuxia (heroic fiction) literature and cinema developed in response to the chaos and warfare of the Warring States Period (475-221 B.C.E.). In English, probably the best commercial source of information on this topic is Professor James J.Y. Liu’s book, The Chinese Knight-Errant (1967), which unfortunately is out of print. This article is based on that book, along with the author’s academic and literary work on the East Asian hero. These heroic values appear to be rooted in individualism, which would seem to contradict the region’s vaunted sense of group cohesiveness.
Condición muscular y estabilidad del tronco en judocas de nivel nacional e internacional
Authors: Juan-Recio Casto , Barbado David , López-Valenciano Alejandro , López-Plaza Diego , Montero-Carretero Carlos , Vera-Garcia Francisco J.
Published: June 2015

Background: It is theorized that the development of the ability to stabilize the trunk may improve the performance of a judoka because it improves body balance control and optimizes force transmission from the lower extremities to the upper limbs. However, there is a lack of scientific evidence to establish a clear relationship between trunk stability and performance in judo.

Aim: The purpose of this study was to determine whether the quantification of trunk stability and muscular strength and endurance allowed differentiation between national level (n = 7) and international level judoka (n = 6). In addition, the relationship between trunk stability and muscular strength and endurance of the muscles involved in trunk stability control was analyzed.

Method: To assess trunk stability, trunk responses to sudden loads applied by a pneumatic mechanism were analyzed, as well as trunk postural control through an unstable sitting paradigm. Muscular strength and endurance were assessed via a flexion and extension trunk test using an isokinetic dynamometer.

Results/Conclusions: International level judokas showed lower CoP displacement in the most complex task in unstable seat (7.00 ± 1.19 vs 8.93 ± 1.45 mm, T = .025) and higher absolute and relative peak torque in extensor muscles (7.05 ± 0.87 vs 5.74 ± 0.72 Nm, T = .013) than national level judoka. According to these results, core stability and trunk muscular condition are important qualities in the physical training of elite judoka. Correlational analysis found no relation between the analyzed variables, thus muscular strength and endurance appear to have a non-significant effect on performance in the trunk stability tests.
Impacto producido por la técnica seoi-otoshi. Relación con años de práctica y grado en judo
Authors: Montero Carretero Carlos , López Elvira José Luis
Published: June 2015

Judokas commonly train the seoi-otoshi technique (aka, drop-knee seoi-nage). A controversy exists about the convenience of its use by the younger judokas due to the risk of high loads produced by the impacts on their growing structures. The aim of the present paper was to measure the impacts against the tatami when executing the knee seoi-otoshi technique and its relationship with the years of practice and the degree or level (color of the belt). Thirty-three judokas from different years and degree volunteered to participate. Two force plates covered by standard tatami, registered the ground reaction forces while five consecutive repetitions were executed. We measured the mean and maximum peaks of force relative to their own body weight (BW). The results show peaks of more than 10 BW, which can be considered a potential risk of injury in the younger judokas, especially when repeated in time. In addition, a tendency to decrease the impact as the years of practice increase is observed (potential function; R2= 0.41, p<0.000 in the force peak), and the force in the expert group has been significantly lower than in the other groups (p<0.001). On the other hand, the degree (belt color) shows a quadratic relationship (R2= 0.45, p<0.000 in the force peak). The lack of agreement between the years of practice and the degree shows that the promotion criteria does not appear to be a valid one from a preventive viewpoint, especially in the lower degrees which would correspond to younger practitioners whose locomotor structures are still not fully developed.
First International Research Conference on Weaponology in Kyiv, Ukraine: A ground-breaking start
Authors: Toichkin Denis , Khorasani Manouchehr Moshtagh
Published: June 2015

The present report provides a short description of a conference entitled "First International Research Conference on Weaponology in Kyiv, Ukraine". It was the first scientific conference dedicated to the study of historical arms and armor in Ukraine. A number of international experts in the field of historical arms and armor were invited to the conference. Each researcher had been asked to provide a short and a long article on a specific research subject. The short articles were published as a short essay in a peer-review booklet that was handed out before the start of the conference. The long articles will be published together as a large book in future.
When is a type III functional response stabilizing? Theory and practice of predicting plankton dynamics under enrichment
Authors: Uszko Wojciech , Diehl Sebastian , Pitsch Nadine , Lengfellner Kathrin , Müller Thomas
Published: June 2015

The curvature of generalized Holling type functional response curves is controlled by a shape parameter b yielding hyperbolic type II (b = 1) to increasingly sigmoid type III (b > 1) responses. Empirical estimates of b vary considerably across taxa. Larger consumer–resource body mass ratios have been suggested to generate more pronounced type III responses and therefore to promote dynamic stability. The dependence of consumer–resource stability on b has, however, not been systematically explored, and the accurate empirical determination of b is challenging. Specifically, the shape of the functional response of the pelagic grazer Daphnia feeding on phytoplankton, and its consequences for stability, remain controversial. We derive a novel analytical condition relating b to local stability of consumer–resource interactions and use it to predict stability of empirically parameterized models of Daphnia and phytoplankton under enrichment. Functional response parameters were experimentally derived for two species of Daphnia feeding separately on single cultures of two different phytoplankton species. All experimentally studied Daphnia–algae systems exhibited type III responses. Parameterized type III responses are predicted to stabilize the modeled Daphnia–phytoplankton dynamics in some species pairs but not in others. Remarkably, stability predictions differ depending on whether functional response parameters are derived from clearance vs. ingestion rates. Accurate parameter estimation may therefore require fitting to both rates. In addition, our estimates of b for filter‐feeding Daphnia are much smaller than predicted for actively hunting predators at similar consumer–resource body mass ratios. This suggests that the relationship between functional response shape and body mass ratios may vary with predation mode.
Reliability of Laboratory Measurement of Porosity in Tight Gas Sands
Authors: Luffel D. L. , Howard W. E.
Published: June 2015

Accurate routine core porosity measurements are critically important in tight gas sands. Because of a growing concern that current routine core analysis may not be reliable at low porosity a study was conducted to verify and improve, as needed, the routine service laboratory procedures normally used.

Routine analysis of ambient porosity was performed by a service company laboratory on 242 core plugs from the Travis Peak formation of a well in Panola County, Texas. Twenty of the plugs were then analyzed by two additional service company laboratories for porosity. Each of the three laboratories had problems with their porosity results, which would normally have gone unnoticed. After reruns, agreement among the labs was excellent, with an average standard deviation of about 0.25 porosity units when comparing one lab against another.

In order to improve reliability of routine porosity analysis, recommended practices and quality control procedures are presented. In addition, basic methods of porosity measurement are reviewed along with accuracy to be expected from each method.
Effects of regional afforestation on global climate
Authors: Wang Ye , Yan Xiaodong , Wang Zhaomin
Published: June 2015

Carbon (C) sequestration following afforestation is regarded as economically, politically, and technically feasible for fighting global warming, whereas the afforested area which will contribute more efficiently as sinks for CO2 is still uncertain. To compare the benefits for C sequestration combined with its biogeochemical effects, an earth system model of intermediate complexity, the McGill Paleoclimate Model-2 (MPM-2) is used to identify the biogeophysical effects of regional afforestation on shaping global climate. An increase in forest in China has led to a prominent global warming during summer around 45° N. Conversely, the forest expansion in the USA causes a noticeable increase in global mean annual temperature during winter. Afforestation in the USA and China brings about a decrease in annual mean meridional oceanic heat transport, while the afforestation in low latitudes of the southern hemisphere causes an increase. These local and global impacts suggest that regional tree plantations may produce a differential effect on the Earth's climate, and even exert an opposite effect on the annual mean meridional oceanic heat transport; they imply that its spatial variation of biogeophysical feedbacks needs to be considered when evaluating the benefits of afforestation.
Statistical downscaling of general circulation model outputs to evaporation, minimum temperature and maximum temperature using a key-predictand and key-station approach
Authors: Sachindra D. A. , Huang F. , Barton A. F. , Perera B. J. C.
Published: June 2015

A key-predictand and key-station approach was employed in downscaling general circulation model outputs to monthly evaporation, minimum temperature (Tmin) and maximum temperature (Tmax) at five observation stations concurrently. Tmax was highly correlated (magnitudes above 0.80 at p ≤ 0.05) with evaporation and Tmin at each individual station, hence Tmax was identified as the key predictand. One station was selected as the key station, as Tmax at that station showed high correlations with evaporation, Tmin and Tmax at all stations. Linear regression relationships were developed between the key predictand at the key station and evaporation, Tmin and Tmax at all stations using observations. A downscaling model was developed at the key station for Tmax. Then, outputs of this downscaling model at the key station were introduced to the linear regression relationships to produce projections of monthly evaporation, Tmin and Tmax at all stations. This key-predictand and key-station approach was proved to be effective as the statistics of the predictands simulated by this approach were in close agreement with those of observations. This simple multi-station multivariate downscaling approach enabled the preservation of the cross-correlation structures of each individual predictand among the stations and also the cross-correlation structures between different predictands at individual stations.
Robust method for estimating grain yield in western Kenya during the growing seasons
Authors: Mugalavai Edward M. , Kipkorir Emmanuel C.
Published: June 2015

Uncertainties caused by climate change and population explosion require suitable methods for estimating grain yield during the growing seasons. This paper evaluates the applicability of the AquaCrop model in the region of western Kenya. The objectives of the study were to: simulate the long-term maize crop yields for the region using AquaCrop model for variable climate scenarios, and estimate the expected yield for the ongoing season. Climate was classified into below normal (x̅ + 1∂) conditions based on the Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) convention. Simulation of grain yield was based on model calibration results, periodic KMD forecasts and the long-term mean for the seasons. The calibrated model is able to estimate both long-term seasonal grain yield and expected harvest for the ongoing season based on climatic conditions that are compared with the long-term seasonal characteristics and complemented by meteorological forecasts. The ongoing season yield simulation was based on persistence theory of Markov processes whose results strongly correlated (r = 0.9) with actual seasonal observed yield.
Magnetohydrodynamics flow of nanofluid with homogeneous-heterogeneous reactions and velocity slip
Authors: Hayat Tasawar , Imtiaz Maria , Alsaedi Ahmad
Published: June 2015

This article focuses on the steady magnetohydrodynamic flow of viscous nanofluid. The flow is caused by a stretching surface with homogeneous-heterogeneous reactions. An incompressible fluid fills the porous space. Copper-water and silver-water nanofluids are investigated in this study. Transformation method reduces the non-linear partial differential equations governing the flow into the ordinary differential equation by similarity transformations. The obtained equations are then solved for the development of series solutions. Convergence of the obtained series solutions is explicitly discussed. Effects of different parameters on the velocity, concentration and skin friction coefficient are shown and analyzed through graphs.
Entropy generation due to external fluid flow and heat transfer from a cylinder between parallel planes
Authors: Melhem Omar , Sahin Ahmet , Yilbas Bekir
Published: June 2015

In the present study, second law analysis is introduced for circular cylinder confined between parallel planes. An analytical approach is adopted to study the effects of block age, Reynolds and Prandtl numbers on the entropy generation due to the laminar flow and heat transfer. Four different fluids are considered in the present analysis for comparison purposes. Heat transfer for the cylinder at an isothermal boundary condition is incorporated. In general, the entropy generation rate decreases as the blockage ratio decreases. In addition, the entropy generation rate increases with increasing Reynolds and Prandtl numbers. At a fixed Reynolds number, the effect of block age becomes more notice able for higher Prandtl number fluid. Similarly, for the same fluid, the effect of block age becomes more no tice able as the Reynolds number increases.
Status of Croatia’s energy sector framework: Progress, potential, challenges and recommendations
Authors: Viskovic Alfredo , Franki Vladimir
Published: June 2015

Following the accession of Croatia in the European Union a number of
questions are raised regarding Croatia's legal framework and its ability to
cope with the demands that it faces. This paper provides an overview of the
current status of the Croatian energy sector framework and discusses the
prospects of successful reform in this new Member State. One of the main aims
of this paper is to discuss the current progress, potential prospects and
challenges for implementing a successful reform model in the newest EU Member
State - Croatia. In this context, it is necessary to note the difficulties in
analysing electricity reform which derive from the fact that it can take many
different forms, that it involves a number of interrelated steps and that it
is an ongoing process. With that in mind, the approach to the problem was a
thorough literature review of all possible factors influencing the
development of the Croatian energy sector and a detailed analysis of all the
options and problems the sector faces. The study offers a detail structure of
the energy sector discusses its situation, problems and offers insights on
possible paths to improvement.
Numerical investigations of the aperture size effect for maintaining a constant temperature in a novel sulfur-ammonia water splitting cycle application
Authors: Sarwar Jawad , Srinivasa Arun , Kakosimos Konstantinos
Published: June 2015

Solar-driven thermochemical water splitting cycle is a promising, energy efficient and environmentally friendly approach to produce hydrogen. In this paper, numerical work has been undertaken using a cylindrical solar receiver to investigate fixed and variable aperture sizes to maintain constant steady-state temperature over a day for thermochemical part of a novel hybrid photo-thermochemical sulfur-ammonia cycle. A previously developed and validated optical model in commercial software, TracePro? is used to simulate the light sources of 10, 15, and 28 kW. The sunlight intensity variations for the designated reference day for this study is selected as July 1, 2011, at 39.74 N, 105.18 W and at an elevation of 1829 m. A developed and validated finite volume based coupled Monte Carlo, Heat Transfer model is used to calculate the steady-state temperatures in the receiver by utilizing the output of the optical model. The simulations are performed at different aperture diameters from 2 to 14 cm to quantify the effect of fixed aperture size on the steady-state temperatures of the receiver. Furthermore, simulations to maintain steady-state temperatures of 673, 823, and 1123 K for different sub-cycles of the selected cycle via variable aperture has been performed and compared with selected fixed apertures. It is found that the variable apertures can maintain desired constant temperatures over the day for each thermochemical sub-cycle. The comparison of overall power consumption and savings for fixed and variable apertures has also been investigated and reported.
Post-electrospinning crosslinking of guar/polyvinyl alcohol membrane
Authors: Shi Jingjing , Yang Enlong
Published: June 2015

College of Material and Textile Engineering, Jiaxing University, Jiaxing,
China The present study reports post-electrospinning crosslinking of
guar/polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/citric acid nanofiber membranes by heat
treatment. Porous, interconnected nonwoven nanofiber membranes (average
diameter 194?23 nm) were electrospun from a homogeneous blend of 1wt% guar
gum and 8wt% polyvinyl alcohol solution (3:7 weight ratio) containing 5 wt%
(by the total weight of the solution) citric acid. The electrospun nanofiber
membranes were then cured at 140 oC for 2 h. The crosslinked nanofiber
membranes were insoluble in water, while the non-crosslinked membranes
dissolved instantaneously. FT-IR spectrum investigates that crosslinking of
guar/PVA occurred through esterfication reaction during heat treatment.
Homotopy perturbation method to MHD non-Newtonian nanofluid flow through a porous medium in eccentric annuli with peristalsis
Authors: Abou-Zeid Mohamed
Published: June 2015

In this contribution, the magnetohydrodynamic non-Newtonian nanofluid flow through a porous medium in eccentric annuli with peristalsis is investigated. This has been done under the combined effect of viscous dissipation and radiation. The inner annulus is rigid and at rest, while the outer annulus has a sinusoidal wave traveling down its wall. The fundamental equations are modulated under the long wave length assumptions, and a closed form of solution is obtained for the axial velocity. While, homotopy perturbation solution is obtained, which satisfies the energy and nanoparticles equations. Numerical results for the axial velocity, temperature, and nanoparticles phenomena distributions as well as the reduced Nusselt and Sherwood numbers are obtained and tabulated for various parametric conditions.
Numerical analysis of forced convection heat transfer from two tandem circular cylinders embedded in a porous medium
Authors: Sayehvand Habib-Ollah , Dehkordi Khalili , Basiri Parsa
Published: June 2015

Study the heat and mass transfer in packed bed heat exchangers particularly in nuclear application is subject of many new researches. In this paper numerical analysis of forced convection heat transfer from two tandem circular cylinders embedded in a packed bed, which is made of spherical aluminum particles, is investigated in laminar flow. The porous medium increases the overall heat absorbed from two cylinders and cooling effect but increases the pressure drop, significantly. Also, the effect of increase the horizontal distance between two tandem circular cylinders on flow pattern and heat transfer is investigated. For the empty channel, the total wall heat flux in very small distances have a minimum due to generation of closed vortex region and for longer distances, by increases the distance between two tandem cylinder, the total wall heat flux increases. It is shown that for two circular cylinders embedded in the packed bed, the total wall heat fluxes from two cylinders and the fluid outlet temperature increase to a maximum quantity and then decrease with negative gradient. Also, the quantities of the empty channel are too smaller than the amounts of porous medium.
Impact of fuel quality and burner capacity on the performance of wood pellet stove
Authors: Petrovic-Becirovic Sanja , Manic Nebojsa , Stojiljkovic Dragoslava
Published: June 2015

Pellet stoves may play an important role in Serbia in the future when fossil
fuel fired conventional heating appliances are replaced by more efficient and
environmentally friendly devices. Experimental investigation was conducted in
order to examine the influence of wood pellet quality, as well as burner
capacity (6, 8 and 10 kW), used in the same stove configuration, on the
performance of pellet stove with declared nameplate capacity of 8 kW. The
results obtained showed that in case of nominal load and combustion of
pellets recommended by the stove manufacturer, stove efficiency of 80.03% was
achieved. The use of lower quality pellet caused additional 1.13 kW reduction
in heat output in case of nominal load and 0.63 kW in case of reduced load.
This was attributed to less favourable properties and lower bulk and particle
density of lower quality pellet. The use of different burner capacity has
shown to have little effect on heat output and efficiency of the stove when
pre-set values in the control system of the stove were not altered. It is
concluded that replacement of the burner only is not sufficient to
increase/decrease the declared capacity of the same stove configuration,
meaning that additional measures are necessary. These measures include a new
set up of the stove control system, which needs to be properly adjusted for
each alteration in stove configuration. Without the adjustment mentioned,
declared capacity of the stove cannot be altered, while its CO emission shall
be considerably increased.
Real-Time Ultrawide Field Image Evaluation of Retinopathy in a Diabetes Telemedicine Program
Authors: Silva Paolo S. , Cavallerano Jerry D. , Tolson Ann M. , Rodriguez Jessica , Rodriguez Sashida , Ajlan Radwan , Tolls Dorothy , Patel Bina , Sehizadeh Mina , Thakore Komal , Sun Jennifer K. , Aiello Lloyd Paul
Published: June 2015

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the ability of trained nonphysician retinal imagers to perform diabetic retinopathy (DR) evaluation at the time of ultrawide field retinal (UWF) imaging in a teleophthalmology program.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Clinic patients with diabetes received Joslin Vision Network protocol retinal imaging as part of their standard medical care. Retinal imagers evaluated UWF images for referable DR at the time of image capture. Training of the imagers included 4 h of standardized didactic lectures and 12 h of guided image review. Real-time evaluations were compared with standard masked gradings performed at a centralized reading center.

RESULTS

A total of 3,978 eyes of 1,989 consecutive patients were imaged and evaluated. By reading center evaluation, 3,769 eyes (94.7%) were gradable for DR, 1,376 (36.5%) had DR, and 580 (15.3%) had referable DR. Compared with the reading center, real-time image evaluation had a sensitivity and specificity for identifying more than minimal DR of 0.95 (95% CI 0.94–0.97) and 0.84 (0.82–0.85), respectively, and 0.99 (0.97–1.00) and 0.76 (0.75–0.78), respectively, for detecting referable DR. Only three patients with referable DR were not identified by imager evaluation.

CONCLUSIONS

Point-of-care evaluation of UWF images by nonphysician imagers following standardized acquisition and evaluation protocols within an established teleophthalmology program had good sensitivity and specificity for detection of DR and for identification of referable retinal disease. With immediate image evaluation, <0.1% of patients with referable DR would be missed, reading center image grading burden would be reduced by 60%, and patient feedback would be expedited.
The use of ethnobotanicals in the management of inflammation in Nigeria: a review
Authors: Fasola TR , Iyamah PC
Published: June 2015

Inflammation, one of the leading health issues in recent times call for concern. Many plants used in the management and treatment of inflammation in various parts of Nigeria have not been properly harnessed hence this review. The result of this review revealed that plants commonly used for the treatment of inflammation include: Zingiber officinale, Alstonia boonei, Plumbago zeylanica, Ocimum basilicum, Parquetina nigrescens, Peperomia pellucida, Abrus precatorius, Tetrapleura tetraptera, Alchornea cordifolia, Terminalia ivorensis, Aspilia africana, Ageratum conyzoides and Hymenocardia acida. Altogether 74 plant species are ethnobotanicals used in the management and treatment of inflammation. The plants were enumerated with their family names, common and local names, possible chemical constituents, part(s) used, route of administration and subsequent references where available.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ije.v4i2.12620 International Journal of Environment Vol.4(2) 2015: 1-18
Detection of lead (pb) and aluminum (Al) metal as contaminant in food prepared by using locally manufactured cooked pots (Hala) in Kosti City, Sudan
Authors: Salah EI , Eltayebb TEM , Sabahelkhier MK , Abuseif HM
Published: June 2015

The objectives of this study are to assess the quantities of Aluminu m; lead released into the food from locally manufactured cooked pots (Aluminium pots) in Kosti market. Seven types of pots (Pistons, Cartels, Kettles, Kettles + trays, Pepsi cans, Atmonia and Steel) which is locally manufactured cooked pots (Hala) were used. Amount of Al and Pb that leaked into the food from locally manufactured cooked pots were assessed by using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy. The results were indicated that highly significance amount of Aluminum and lead which were leaked into the food that prepared by locally manufactured cooked pots (Hala).The analysis of urine for 10 selected randomly individuals that used locally manufactured cooked pots (Hala) for preparation their food were indicated highly amount of Aluminum and Lead in their urine. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ije.v4i2.12621 International Journal of Environment Vol.4(2) 2015: 19-26
Biosorption of lead (II) ion from aqueous solution using dum palm kernel
Authors: Gutti Babagana , Iyodo Habu Mohammed , Isah Umar Abdullahi
Published: June 2015

Biosorption of the lead ions from aqueous solutions using dum palm kernel was studied, the lead ion removal depends on the contact time, pH and adsorbent dosage. The optimum contact time, pH and adsorbent mass with in the experimental limit of this work were 100 minutes, 6-7, and 2.5g/L respectively. The maximum percentage of lead ions removed was 87%. The data fitted well with Temkin and Langmuir models, the regression correlation were obtained to be 0.9660 and 0.8667, respectively. The biosorbent may be economical if developed further for industrial wastewater and natural contaminated water treatment. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ije.v4i2.12625 International Journal of Environment Vol.4(2) 2015: 68-75
Metabolic effects of pesticide effluents on Nicotiana tabacum and Vigna radiata plants
Authors: Mishra Kumkum , Sanwal Eera , Tandon PK , Gupta Kiran
Published: June 2015

Some important metabolic parameters were investigated in relation to various doses of pesticide effluents in two economically plants viz. Nicotiana and Vigna plants. Increasing doses of pesticide effluents caused decrease in both sugar and protein concentration almost similarly in both plants. However, activities of enzymes, catalase, peroxidase and MDA content were found to be stimulated by higher doses of pesticide factory effluents in both the plants. Protein and sugar content decreased at all doses in Nicotiana tabacum however there were increase in enzymatic activity like catalase and peroxidase. MDA content was also increased in same plant. On the other hand Vigna radiata showed inducing nature of protein content at lower concentration (25%) and thereafter inhibit at all doses while sugar content decreased at all concentrations. Enzymatic activity viz. catalase and peroxidase showed promoting nature at all concentrations. MDA content also increased at all concentrations. Thus it can be concluded that but for small differences in almost all the metabolic parameters towards their response towards pesticide industry effluent both the studied plants i.e. Nicotiana and Vigna were found to be quite susceptible towards pesticide effluents. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ije.v4i2.12628 International Journal of Environment Vol.4(2) 2015: 87-94
Influence of pesticide effluent on Allium cepa L. (onion) plants
Authors: Mishra Kumkum , Sanwal Eera , Tandon PK , Gupta Kiran
Published: June 2015

An investigation was made to find out the effect of different doses (25, 50, 75 and 100%) of pesticide effluents (Indian Pesticide Ltd) on plant growth and certain metabolic parameters (height, total chlorophyll, carotenoid, protein and sugar contents, MDA content, catalase and peroxidase activity ) in Allium cepa L. plants. Plant growth in terms of its height, total chlorophyll, carotenoid, protein and sugar contents were found to be decreased at increasing doses of pesticide effluents. However, other activities of two antioxidative iron viz. catalase and peroxidase also the MDA (Malondialdehyde) content were found to be progressively stimulated at increasing doses of the effluent. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ije.v4i2.12629 International Journal of Environment Vol.4(2) 2015: 95-105
Genetic potential and heritability estimates of yield traits in F3 segregating populations of bread wheat
Authors: Jan Soshma , Mohammad Fida , Khan Fahim Ullah
Published: June 2015

An experiment comprising of 24 wheat genotypes was undertaken during 2011-12, at New Developmental Research Farm, The University of Agriculture Peshawar, to elucidate information on the nature and magnitude of genetic variability, index of transmissibility and assessing the level of genetic improvement of the quantitative characters. The experimental material comprising 19 F3 populations along with their 5 parents of bread wheat were evaluated in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Analysis of variance exhibited highly significant (P ≤ 0.01) differences among genotypes for all the traits studied. F3 population Ghaznavi-98 x Pirsabak-05 showed maximum mean value for 1000-grain weight (47.3 g) and biological yield (11474.9 kg ha-1), whereas, maximum values for grain yield (4027.3 kg ha-1), and harvest index (48.1%) were observed for Pirsabak-05 x AUP-4006. Moreover, maximum spike length (11 cm) was recorded for cross combination Pirsabak-05 x Pirsabak-04 and Janbaz x Pirsabak-05, respectively. In addition, Pirsabak-04 showed maximum value for number of grains spike-1 (55.0). Genetic variances were of greater magnitude than environmental variances for all the traits except for spike length and 1000-grain weight. Heritability estimates were of higher magnitude ranged from 0.64 to 0.92 for harvest index, biological yield, grain yield, and grains spike-1. Moderate to low heritability (0.40-0.46) was observed for 1000-grain weight, and spike length, respectively. Genetic gain was for spike length (0.48 cm), grains spike-1 (8.57), 1000-grain weight (2.93 g), grain yield (639.87 kg ha-1), biological yield (1790.03 kg ha-1), and harvest index (5.32 %). From high values of heritability and genetic advance, it could be concluded that selection for traits like grains spike-1 suggested good selection criteria and could be effective for future breeding programs. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ije.v4i2.12630 International Journal of Environment Vol.4(2) 2015: 106-115
Studies of haematological parameters of Oreochromis niloticus exposed to Cadmium Chloride (CdCl2, 2H2O)
Authors: Parekh Hetalben M , Tank Shantilal K
Published: June 2015

The effects of Cadmium Chloride on the specimen Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) were examined for evaluation as acute toxicity for 96 hours. From the recorded information using Probit Analysis-Finney Method [Log-normal Distribution] the results revealed the mean 96 hour LC50 value to be 3.5095 mg/L indicating very high potential toxicity. Also derived value for mean NOEC=0.9062 mg/L defined safe limits of cadmium. In order to assess the effect of prolonged exposure of low concentration of cadmium haematological assessment was made after 24 hour, 7 days and 15 days of exposure. The study of haematological parameters demonstrated significant reduction in Red Blood Cell count, Haemoglobin, Haematocrit and Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin Concentration (MCHC) and Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin (MCH); while elevation was reported in Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV). Leading to conclusion that mature RBCs are destructed and the erythrocyte production is inhibited due to reduction of haemesynthesis. Stimulation of erythropoiesis is considered as one of the reasons for decrement in values of Haemoglobin, Haematocrit and RBC count. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ije.v4i2.12631 International Journal of Environment Vol.4(2) 2015: 116-127