bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shale Gas Predictive Model SGPM – An Alternate Approach to Predict Shale Gas Production
Authors: Biswas Deepankar
Published: December 2011

Immense potential of shale gas to supplement domestic energy needs and the recent engineering strides in multi-staged fractures in long horizontal well laterals have inevitably increased interest in exploitation of such plays across the country. However, because of the continuous nature of these plays, the production potential can change significantly from one location to the other often within close proximity. For a project to be economically viable, under downward price pressures, large number of wells in multi-well drilling campaigns needs to produce commercial quantities of gas. Not surprisingly, numerous attempts are being made to type-cast mineralogy, organic contents, fracture design and completion optimization in order to reduce exploration and exploitation risks. Many uncertainties still remain, however. The proposed model (SGPM) is developed to mitigate some of these challenges. It is simple and easy-to use and unlike grid-based fine-grid models it focuses more on the flow around individual wells while conserving overall mass. First, the current status of modeling from fine grid dual-porosity/dual permeability simulations to analytical models for horizontal wells with multiple vertical fractures is explained. The assumptions, formulation and the need for SGPM are described next. The model is validated with vertical and horizontal well productions from various shale gas plays. Results of extensions to the model to account for multi-phase flow are displayed thereafter.

This paper contributes in the following manner:

Provides an alternate framework to history match and forecast shale gas production. This model is better suited for reservoir engineers’ routine reserves estimation work because of its quicker turnaround time. Provides a relatively simpler framework to incorporate specialized asset specific physics and geomechanics. Multi-phase flow feature enables accurate condensate production in plays like Marcellus and Eagle Ford.
Study of Drilling Fluid Additives and their Impact on Smectite Inhibition, Marcellus Shale Inhibition and Filtration & Rheological Properties of Bentonite Based Drilling Fluids
Authors: Onuoha Ike Eleanya , Bilgesu H. Ilkin , Ameri Sam
Published: December 2011

Shale makes up 75% of drilled formations and causes over 90% of wellbore instabilities. Although drilling fluids with acceptable performance in Shale have been formulated, the industry is still endeavouring to formulate an optimum inhibitive drilling fluid for the Marcellus Shale. In accordance, this research seeks to fabricate a means of reducing formation damage (permeability reduction leading to poor hydrocarbon production), stuck pipe incidences, heaving, sloughing and caving which are all due to the swelling of Smectite clay and shale.

This research paper, in its infinite practicality, expounds upon the predicaments associated with swelling and dispersion of shale, the chemistry behind the swelling/dispersion of shale, justification of this research and the results obtained from laboratory work and experiments, experimental procedures performed in the formulation of an optimum inhibitive drilling fluid for the Marcelus Shale such as rheological, filtration and linear swelling experiments.

Most importantly, this paper introduces a novel approach and experiment towards the development of an optimum inhibitive drilling fluid, utilizing a novel chemical in the industry: ω-α Diamino Alkanes (Diamino Butane and Diamino Hexane) as well as comparing the inhibitive capability of two familiar chemicals in the industry in conjunction with Chlorides and Hydroxides of numerous Alkali metals, Alkaline earth metals and Transition metals (K+, Na+, Ca2+, Mg2+, Li+ etc) in various concentrations.

The rheological, shale inhibition and filtration effects of the aforementioned Hydroxide and Chloride chemicals were tested and examined which led to the subsequent elimination and selection of certain fluids which this research has recommended for testing in Marcellus Shale formations in West Virginia and similar shales in the globe. Universally acceptable filtrate loss correlations have been formulated, during the course of this research, for various base drilling fluids.

Finally, it was observed that a drilling fluid system comprising of KCl, Diamino Hexane and Bentonite was effective in reducing shale and Smectite swelling when compared to the currently leading inhibitive mud currently used in drilling shale formations. This research project was limited to the Marcellus Shale formation in the State of West Virginia and the results obtained from the inhibition/swelling tests may not be universally acceptable in the evaluation of other shale formations. However, the generated rheological and filtrate loss results and correlations may be universally applied.
Analysis of Production Data in Shale Gas Reservoirs: Rigorous Corrections for Fluid and Flow Properties
Authors: Nobakht M. , Clarkson C. R.
Published: December 2011

Analysis of long-term linear flow periods associated with shale gas production has received much attention in recent literature as a means of obtaining information about stimulation efficiency. However, the most popular methods for analysis (ex. square-root of time plot) can lead to incorrect characterization. Nobakht and Clarkson (2011a) demonstrated that the square root-time plot may not be a straight line for constant gas rate production linear flow and the non-linear shape may lead to incorrect flow regime identification. The square root-time plot is however a straight line for constant flowing pressure (Nobakht and Clarkson, 2011b). Ibrahim and Wattenbarger (2005; 2006) and Nobakht and Clarkson (2011b) showed that using the slope of square root-time plot, for constant flowing pressure constraint, leads to an overestimation of fracture half-length. Additional important considerations for shale gas analysis are non-Darcy flow and non-static reservoir properties. Clarkson et al. (2011) demonstrated that ignoring gas slippage effects, thought to be important in ultra-low permeability reservoirs, can cause errors in reservoir characterization. They incorporated slippage into pseudo-variables for production data analysis, as has been done with non-static permeability (Thompson et al., 2010). Finally, Nobakht et al. (2011) extended the methodology proposed by Nobakht and Clarkson (2011b) to properly analyze linear flow in the presence of slippage and desorption.

The purpose of the current work is to evaluate the current methods for analyzing linear flow in shale gas reservoirs, and establish which method is the most accurate for reservoir characterization. First, recent studies addressing linear flow under constant flowing pressure and constant gas rate production are briefly reviewed. Then, a comparison among the above-mentioned methods for calculating fracture half-length or contacted matrix surface area is made. It is shown that Nobakht et al. (2011) method yields the fracture half-lengths that best match the expected values for constant flowing pressure. Finally, we present a method for analyzing linear flow for real production data, where neither flowing pressure nor gas rate is constant. The method is validated using three numerically-simulated cases. It is found that this method works well for the three cases provided.
Low Environmental Impact Non-Silicone Defoamers for use in Oil/Gas Separators
Authors: Rocker Jacob , Mahmoudkhani Amir , Bava Luciana , Wilson Robert
Published: December 2011

Significant quantities of water are produced alongside crude oil production which, following treatment on the platform, are then discharged into the marine environment. This water contains residues of treatment chemicals including separator additives intended to aid in oil/water/gas separation and improve operational efficiency.

Silicone products have been widely used as defoamers for oil/water/gas separators due to availability and performance. However, silicones are known to foul catalyst activity in downstream upgrading refineries and present unfavorable environmental profiles. As environmental regulations tighten, alternative chemistries will be needed to take the place of traditional additives such as silicone.

Simulated produced waters of low (0%), medium (7%), and high salinity (14%) were evaluated in combination with untreated crude oil at 0, 30, and 80% ratios to replicate typical compositions of produced fluids. Experimental data were obtained based on separator operating pressure and temperature. Sodium Sulfosuccinates have shown promise in previous evaluations and case studies of oil/water/gas separators (Wylde, 2010). The dioctyl sodium sulfoccunate (DOSS) chemistries evaluated by the above methods present valid alternatives to silicone systems, minimize environmental impact, and maintain or improve operational performance.

Several benefits and drawback to DOSS usage as a silicone alternative were realized during this study. DOSS was found to be a sufficient defoamer and antifoamer at low water ratios, though not as immediately effective as silicone. DOSS was also found to antifoam more efficiently than silicones at low water ratios and remain as effective as silicone at high water ratios. Increasing salt content was found to negatively affect DOSS defoaming and antifoaming performance. In high salt content and high water content conditions, DOSS generates more foam than the blank solution and thus may be more effectively used as a foam assisted lift (FAL) agent or during enhanced oil recovery (EOR).
International Financial Integration, Investment and Economic Performance in Sub-Saharan African Countries
Authors: Ahmed Abdullahi D.
Published: December 2011

This paper examines the issues of international and regional financial integration and its impact taking a sample 25 SSA countries. The research tests both the direct and indirect channels through which the impact of financial integration works and is transmitted to the real economy. Directly, it is argued that financial openness affects economic growth through enabling access to foreign financial markets, increasing financial service efficiency and helping in diversification of risks and consumption smoothing. Thus while inducing additional capital investment, it also fosters macroeconomic discipline. Indirectly, the process of international financial integration facilitates the transfer of technological know-how, promotes trade and enhances specialization.

While financial openness of recent years has laid a strong foundation to consolidate financial integration between regions and with international financial markets, we do not observe a robust link between financial openness and economic growth in SSA region. The empirical analysis considers the possibility of a positive indirect effect, and we report evidence in favour of the indirect transmission root. From our results, we observe a positive and statistically significant association between international financial integration and financial development under all its selected indicators. This finding suggests that financial capital market integration aids growth indirectly through promoting domestic financial markets. The study reports evidence suggesting that good institutions, higher level of human capital, and stable macroeconomic environment play an important role in mitigating the negative impacts of international financial openness.
Governments of the Left and Openness to Imports
Authors: Lutz James M.
Published: December 2011

Developed countries have provided different levels of protection to domestic economic sectors facing competition from imports. An analysis of the effective levels of protection in place in 19 developed, democratic countries found that from the 1970s to the beginning of the 21st century, higher levels of protection were present in countries where parties of the left had a greater proportion of the seats in the national legislature. These results indicate that parties of the left were more likely to guard against import competition. After 2004, however, this link disappeared, perhaps reflecting the disruptive effects of the terrorist attacks of 9/11 and the global recession that began a few years later.
Joint Ventures between Nonprofit and For-Profit Organizations
Authors: Sansing Richard C.
Published: December 2011

This paper examines the consequences of allowing a nonprofit organization to form a joint venture with a for-profit organization. Three tax regimes are considered: prohibiting all such joint ventures, allowing all such joint ventures, and restricting joint ventures between nonprofit and for-profit entities to those controlled by the nonprofit organization. The paper derives the equilibrium profit-sharing rule, output decision, and organizational form choice under each tax regime. Joint ventures can create both private and social benefits by reducing production costs. They can also create private benefits and social costs by reducing competition. Prohibitions or restrictions on joint ventures can either increase or decrease social welfare depending on whether the production cost effect or the competition effect is more important.
The Influence of Tax and Nontax Costs on Book-Tax Reporting Differences: Public and Private Firms
Authors: Mills Lillian F. , Newberry Kaye J.
Published: December 2011

We provide archival evidence on firms' book-tax reporting differences using tax return data on public and private manufacturing firms. Prior research suggests that managers should report conforming book income to minimize tax-related costs. However, reporting conformity can also impose nontax costs. We find evidence that public firms have generally higher financial-reporting costs that result in larger book-tax differences. In addition, we find that higher debt levels impose greater nontax costs on firms that are privately held or more financially distressed. Finally, our tests of differences among public firms suggest that nontax costs associated with bonus plan thresholds and book income patterns affect their book-tax reporting. Our tests extend prior studies that focus on whether firms engage in specific conforming transactions. From a tax policy perspective, our results suggest that book-tax differences may be a less useful indicator of private firms' aggressive tax positions because they have fewer incentives to report nonconforming book income.
The Impact of Firm Characteristics on Book-Tax-Conforming and Book-Tax-Difference Audit Adjustments
Authors: Chan K. Hung , Mo Phyllis L. L.
Published: December 2011

This study empirically investigates the differential impact of firm characteristics on book-tax-conforming and book-tax-difference noncompliance. Tax noncompliance is measured in terms of tax audit adjustments made by tax authorities in response to the violation of tax laws. We decompose the tax audit adjustments into book-tax-conforming adjustments (adjustments that affect both book and tax incomes) and book-tax-difference adjustments (adjustments that affect only tax income) using archival tax audit data. Based on the decomposed noncompliance, we explicitly examine the tax and nontax cost trade-off for exporters and high-tech companies when they underreport both book and tax incomes. Our results indicate that export-oriented and high-tech companies, respectively, have larger book-tax-conforming adjustments but smaller book-tax-difference adjustments than domestic-market-oriented and non-high-tech companies. Our study contributes to the literature by further explaining the determinants of corporate-tax noncompliance, and is the first to provide archival evidence of tax noncompliance on such a decomposed basis. These archival evidences on noncompliance help us understand more about the incentives or disincentives for corporations to comply with tax laws. Our results also offer guidance for public policy makers, especially those in developing economies, to design their tax policies to attract foreign investment, and for tax authorities to plan more effective and efficient tax audits.
Effect of submaximal aerobic exercise on platelet function, platelet activation, and secondary and tertiary hemostasis in dogs
Authors: Bauer Natali B. , Er Elif , Moritz Andreas
Published: December 2011

Objective—To investigate whether submaximal aerobic exercise in dogs is followed by activation of all phases of coagulation as has been reported for humans.

Animals—9 healthy Beagles.

Procedures—30 minutes before dogs were exercised, a 16-gauge central venous catheter was placed in a jugular vein of each dog by use of the catheter-through-the-needle technique. Samples were collected before exercise, after running on a treadmill (6 km/h for 13 minutes), and at 60 minutes. Platelet activation was evaluated with platelet morphology indices (mean platelet component, mean platelet volume, and number of large platelets) provided by a laser-based hematology system. Platelet function was assessed in hirudin-anticoagulated whole blood with an impedance-based aggregometer with collagen as the agonist (final concentrations, 0, 1.6, 3.2, 5, and 10 μg/mL). Prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time, and concentrations of fibrinogen, factor VIII, antithrombin, protein C, protein S, and fibrin D-dimer were determined automatically. Kaolin-activated thromboelastography variables R (reaction time), K (clot formation time), angle α, maximal amplitude, and G (clot stability) were measured in recalcified citrated whole blood.

Results—Exercise resulted in a significant decrease in mean platelet volume and the number of large platelets but did not change the mean platelet component, which reflected platelet activation as well as platelet function. Secondary and tertiary coagulation did not change significantly, nor did thromboelastography variables.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Aerobic exercise resulted in a decrease in the number of large and thus most likely activated platelets but otherwise had no major impact on coagulation in dogs.
Development and validation of a canine radius replica for mechanical testing of orthopedic implants
Authors: Little Jeffrey P. , Horn Timothy J. , Marcellin-Little Denis J. , Harrysson Ola L. A. , West Harvey A.
Published: December 2011

Objective—To design and fabricate fiberglass-reinforced composite (FRC) replicas of a canine radius and compare their mechanical properties with those of radii from dog cadavers.

Sample—Replicas based on 3 FRC formulations with 33%, 50%, or 60% short-length discontinuous fiberglass by weight (7 replicas/group) and 5 radii from large (> 30-kg) dog cadavers.

Procedures—Bones and FRC replicas underwent nondestructive mechanical testing including 4-point bending, axial loading, and torsion and destructive testing to failure during 4-point bending. Axial, internal and external torsional, and bending stiffnesses were calculated. Axial pullout loads for bone screws placed in the replicas and cadaveric radii were also assessed.

Results—Axial, internal and external torsional, and 4-point bending stiffnesses of FRC replicas increased significantly with increasing fiberglass content. The 4-point bending stiffness of 33% and 50% FRC replicas and axial and internal torsional stiffnesses of 33% FRC replicas were equivalent to the cadaveric bone stiffnesses. Ultimate 4-point bending loads did not differ significantly between FRC replicas and bones. Ultimate screw pullout loads did not differ significantly between 33% or 50% FRC replicas and bones. Mechanical property variability (coefficient of variation) of cadaveric radii was approximately 2 to 19 times that of FRC replicas, depending on loading protocols.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Within the range of properties tested, FRC replicas had mechanical properties equivalent to and mechanical property variability less than those of radii from dog cadavers. Results indicated that FRC replicas may be a useful alternative to cadaveric bones for biomechanical testing of canine bone constructs.
Validation of spectrophotometric assays for serum paraoxonase type-1 measurement in dogs
Authors: Tvarijonaviciute Asta , Tecles Fernando , Caldin Marco , Tasca Silvia , Cerón José
Published: December 2011

Objective—To evaluate and validate 3 spectrophotometric assays for measuring serum activity of paraoxonase type-1 (PON1), an enzyme associated with high-density lipoproteins, in dogs.

Animals—22 healthy adult dogs and 10 dogs with eccentrocytosis.

Procedures—2 methods were adapted for use in 96-well microplates with phenyl acetate and 5-thiobutyl butyrolactonase as substrates, and 1 was adapted for use in an automated analyzer with p-nitrophenyl acetate as substrate. Blood samples were collected from all dogs, serum was harvested, and serum PON1 activity was measured with each method.

Results—Imprecision was low for all 3 methods, with the exception of interassay imprecision for 5-thiobutyl butyrolactonase, and results were linear across serial sample dilutions. The 3 methods were able to detect low PON1 activity when EDTA was used for blood sample collection, yielded lower PON1 values in sick dogs with eccentrocytosis than in healthy dogs, and yielded highly correlated results.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The methods described here may allow a wider use of PON1 activity as a biomarker of oxidative stress in dogs in clinical and research settings. Results of each method were robust and precise (with the exception of the interassay values for the lactonase method), and the methods were easy to set up in a laboratory.
The Effect of Laurel Leaf Extract Against Toxicity Induced by 2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-P-Dioxin in Cultured Rat Hepatocytes
Authors: Turkez Hasan , Geyikoglu Fatime
Published: December 2011

The Effect of Laurel Leaf Extract Against Toxicity Induced by 2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-P-Dioxin in Cultured Rat Hepatocytes

2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) is a very toxic environmental pollutant that raises great public concern about its impact on human health. Recent studies indicate that laurel leaf extract exhibits antioxidant properties that can counter the toxic effects of certain compounds in the liver. The aim of this study was to assess how effective LE is against the toxicity of TCDD in a primary culture of rat hepatocytes. The extract (50 mg L-1, 100 mg L-1, and 200 mg L-1) was added to cultures alone or with TCDD (1.61 mg L-1 and 3.22 mg L-1) for 48 hours. Cell viability was measured using the [3-(4,5-dimethyl-thiazol-2-yl) 2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide] (MTT) assay and the lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) cytotoxicity assay, while oxidative damage was assessed by measuring total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and total oxidative stress (TOS). DNA damage was also analysed using the micronucleus (MN) assay of the cultured hepatocytes. TCDD alone lowered, and laurel extract had no effect on cell viability. TCDD also increased TOS and significantly decreased TAC. It significantly increased the frequency of micronucleated hepatocytes in a dose-dependent manner. In cultures exposed to LE alone, TOS did not change and TAC significantly increased in a dose-dependent manner. Added to TCDD, laurel countered its toxic effects and showed protective effects against TCDD-mediated DNA damage. This points to the therapeutic potential of laurel against TCDD toxicity in the liver.
Bisphenol-A in Canned Food Products: Is it Really Required?
Authors: Batra Tarun
Published: December 2011

Bisphenol-A in Canned Food Products: Is it Really Required?
Impact of 10 Sessions of Whole Body Cryostimulation on Cutaneous Microcirculation Measured by Laser Doppler Flowmetry
Authors: Renata Szyguła , Tomasz Dybek , Andrzej Klimek , Sławomir Tubek
Published: December 2011

Impact of 10 Sessions of Whole Body Cryostimulation on Cutaneous Microcirculation Measured by Laser Doppler Flowmetry

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the basic and evoked blood flow in the skin microcirculation of the hand, one day and ten days after a series of 10 whole body cryostimulation sessions, in healthy individuals.

The study group included 32 volunteers - 16 women and 16 men. The volunteers underwent 10 sessions of cryotherapy in a cryogenic chamber. The variables were recorded before the series of 10 whole body cryostimulation sessions (first measurement), one day after the last session (second measurement) and ten days later (third measurement). Rest flow, post-occlusive hyperaemic reaction, reaction to temperature and arterio-venous reflex index were evaluated by laser Doppler flowmetry.

The values recorded for rest flow, a post-occlusive hyperaemic reaction, a reaction to temperature and arterio - venous reflex index were significantly higher both in the second and third measurement compared to the initial one. Differences were recorded both in men and women. The values of frequency in the range of 0,01 Hz to 2 Hz (heart frequency dependent) were significantly lower after whole-body cryostimulation in both men and women. In the range of myogenic frequency significantly higher values were recorded in the second and third measurement compared to the first one.

Recorded data suggest improved response of the cutaneous microcirculation to applied stimuli in both women and men. Positive effects of cryostimulation persist in the tested group for 10 consecutive days.
Promoting Buddhism through Modern Sports: The Case Study of Fo Guang Shan in Taiwan
Authors: Yu Junwei
Published: December 2011

Promoting Buddhism through Modern Sports: The Case Study of Fo Guang Shan in Taiwan

In the past, traditional Buddhism in China focused on chanting and meditation that detached itself from the society. However, after generations of strenuous efforts to promote ‘Humanistic Buddhism’, several Masters have been encouraging religion to engage more in daily lives. One of the proponents was Master Hsin Yun, who was born and raised in mainland China and subsequently moved to Taiwan along with the ‘Monk Rescue Team’. It was in Taiwan that Master Hsin Yun founded Fo Guang Shan, one of the most sacred Buddhist sites on the island. At the beginning, he started the place from scratch, setting up basketball courts for the followers to take part in basketball games. Upholding the notion that Buddhism needs to engage the public, Master, therefore, has a unique way of combing religion with modern sports in an attempt to let more people get in touch with religion. Accordingly, basketball, soccer, gymnastics, and other sports were promoted and sponsored under the auspices of Fo Guang Shan, which certainly topples public stereotypes around sedentary Buddhism. In the end, Master hopes that, in the future, sports can unite healthy Fo Guang followers worldwide and bring honor to Taiwan.
System Concept of WIFI Based Passive Radar
Authors: Rzewuski Stanisław , Kulpa Krzysztof
Published: December 2011

System Concept of WIFI Based Passive Radar

In this paper idea of passive radar system based on popular wireless networks commonly named WIFI is presented. In such an networks many transmitters operates in the same channel using multiple access. Wireless networks operating on frequencies 2.4GHz and 5GHz are very common today (IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n). Classic passive radar determines bistatic distance and velocity by using cross-ambiguity function. To seek target position in XYZ space at least illumination of 3 different transmitters is required. In that paper it was assumed, that all transmitters operate on the same band frequency and the passive radar receiver has to couple each transmission burst with transmitter position by decoding the physical address of transmitter from captured data stream. Having most of the signal sources in our passive radar environment it is possible to detect and to localize objects of interest.
Infrared Imaging Fourier Transform Spectrometer as the Stand-Off Gas Detection System
Authors: Kastek Mariusz , Piątkowski Tadeusz , Trzaskawka Piotr
Published: December 2011

Infrared Imaging Fourier Transform Spectrometer as the Stand-Off Gas Detection System

The article presents the detection of gases using an infrared imaging Fourier-transform spectrometer (IFTS). The Telops company has developed the IFTS instrumentHyperCam, which is offered as a short- or long-wave infrared device. The principle ofHyperCamoperation and methodology of gas detection has been shown in the paper, as well as theoretical evaluation of gas detection possibility. Calculations of the optical path between the IFTS device, cloud of gases and background have been also discussed. The variation of a signal reaching the IFTS caused by the presence of a gas has been calculated and compared with the reference signal obtained without the presence of a gas in IFTS's field of view. Verification of the theoretical result has been made by laboratory measurements. Some results of the detection of various types of gases has been also included in the paper.
Post-Transcriptional Gene Silencing Conferred by the Ectopic Expression of the Grapevine miRNA-g1 and Inhibition of the Response by Anti-miRNA-g1 Inhibitor
Authors: Repka Vladimír , Čarná Mária
Published: December 2011

Post-Transcriptional Gene Silencing Conferred by the Ectopic Expression of the Grapevine miRNA-g1 and Inhibition of the Response by Anti-miRNA-g1 Inhibitor

Our results show that a subset (miRNA cluster 1) of grapevine (Vitis vinifera L., cv. Limberger) microRNAs (miRNAs) can be strongly induced by different apoptosis inducers including methyl jasmonate (MeJA), botrycin, cinerein and/or H2O2. We report here that the expression of endogenous miRNA-g1 and miRNA-g7 can be efficiently silenced in grapevine protoplasts using artificial miRNA (amiRNA) technology. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the ectopic expression of amiRNAs (anti-mir miRNA-g1 and pre-mir miRNA-g1) designed to target a mature miRNA-g1 directs jasmonate-induced silencing against DAD1 protein (defender against death 1). These collective results strongly support the idea that a sub-population of grapevine miRNAs induced by apoptosis may function in one of the most critical defense systems for structural and mechanical fitness.
From outrage to orthodoxy?Sociobiology and political science at 35
Authors: Losco Joseph
Published: December 2011

Few intellectual battles compare in depth of passion or theatrics to the outrage that greeted the publication of Edward O. Wilson's 1975 path-breaking volume,Sociobiology: The New Synthesis. Within days of publication, opponents organized symposia; wrote critical editorials; picketed in Harvard Square; and, at one meeting, assaulted Wilson with a bucket of cold water before he could deliver his address. Fueling this reaction was Wilson's temerity in asserting that the principles of the new synthetic theory applied no less to humans than to other species—and then to use the penultimate chapter to apply his theory to explaining human mating, aggression, and the development of moral and religious systems. Even some who were sympathetic with sociobiology were taken aback by some of the imperialistic sounding statements made by Wilson and his disciples, like Robert Trivers, who prophesized: “Sooner or later, political science, law, economics, psychology, psychiatry, and anthropology will all be branches of sociobiology.”
A founder's reflections
Authors: Peterson Steven A.
Published: December 2011

This essay reflects on the past, present, and future of biopolitics, starting with the academic interest in the link between biology and politics. Examples of primitive adumbrations of this approach appear throughout academic history; however, the modern roots of biology and politics began in the 1960s. This reflection traces biopolitics from its modern birth through the 1990s, and considers future research endeavors related to biology and politics.
System for Rating Materials-Related Distress of Concrete Airfield Pavements
Authors: Van Dam Thomas J. , Peshkin David G. , Nelson Francis , Smith Kurt
Published: December 2011

A new guide has been developed for the field evaluation of concrete pavements affected by materials-related distress (MRD). The guide assists technical personnel in identifying whether a pavement is affected by MRD and, if so, to what degree. On the basis of the observed manifestation of MRD, an MRD rating is calculated and used in the early detection and ongoing monitoring of potential MRD problems. The rating helps personnel identify the need for maintenance, repair, or more-significant rehabilitation of pavement. Although the MRD rating procedure was developed for use on airfield pavements to minimize the risk of aircraft damage caused by foreign objects and debris, it is equally applicable to use on concrete highway pavements. A detailed approach for visual assessment of pavement and calculation of the MRD rating is discussed. Examples are provided for proper identification and recording of observed MRD indicators and computation of the MRD rating.
New Method for Classifying and Quantifying Cracking of Flexible Pavements in Automated Pavement Condition Survey
Authors: Fu Pengcheng , Harvey John T. , Lee James N. , Vacura Peter
Published: December 2011

The automated pavement condition survey is gradually replacing traditional visual surveys in many highway agencies. Incompatibilities between existing survey manuals and computer imaging technologies must be addressed to obtain maximum benefits from the new survey method. Existing survey manuals are based on the ability of human surveyors to subjectively recognize distresses by identifying crack patterns in various locations on the pavement surface. New imaging technologies provide grayscale images with precise location identification and therefore computer algorithms can be used with the imaging technologies to aid and (currently) partially replace the human. A newly developed method for the classification and quantification of flexible pavement cracks is being implemented by the California Department of Transportation to take maximum advantage of new technologies while strengthening the application of the pavement condition survey in separating cracks caused by different mechanisms. Cracks are categorized into four types by mechanism and quantified by geometrical features in images, including locations, orientations, and lengths. Subjective assessments regarding interconnectivity, pattern, and causes are eliminated. In the redesigned data flow, the automated pavement condition survey service providers perform image collection and analysis and submit objective measurements regarding geometrical features of cracking at the pavement data segment level. It is the highway agency's task to segment the highway network into management segments and derive summary distress quantifications at the management segment level on the basis of the data segment level survey results. This arrangement enables service providers to handle objective measurements and the associated constant technological innovation and gives the agency the flexibility to apply pavement engineering and management principles.
Evaluating the Benefits of Accelerated Pavement Testing
Authors: Nokes W. A. , du Plessis L. , Mahdavi M. , Burmas N.
Published: December 2011

A pilot study was conducted to determine the direct economic benefits of accelerated pavement testing with heavy vehicle simulators in California. The study discusses the identification and comparison of methods used in various countries to determine the benefits from the research. The study highlights approaches in use since the 1990s, compares alternative methods in a global context, and describes the attributes of an economic evaluation methodology applied to benefits from accelerated pavement testing that was initially developed and used in Australia and subsequently enhanced in South Africa. Promising developments include a toolbox created recently in the United States, consisting of more than 30 measures, in which European and Asian transportation research agencies have expressed substantial interest. The pilot study identified a wide variety of methods at state, national, and international levels and found an emphasis on qualitative benefits. Case studies found that the Australian and South African methodology provided advantages such as quantitative, direct economic benefits (a benefit–cost ratio of around 10:1); an analysis of alternative outcomes; accounting for uncertainty; and validation interviews with implementers of research findings. Challenges identified in using this methodology included intensive cost, labor, and time requirements; sensitivity to assumptions; and subjective input.
Pavement Shear Strain Response to Dual and Wide-Base Tires
Authors: Xue Wenjing , Weaver Eric
Published: December 2011

FHWA conducted controlled loading tests on the US-23 test road in hot weather conditions in Ohio. The tests used four tire types in both dual and wide-base configurations, which were fitted on a single unit two-axle truck, maintaining a constant gross vehicle weight. Two pavement sections, one 8 in. (200 mm) and one 4 in. (100 mm) thick, were instrumented with strain gauge rosettes oriented vertically to measure strain traces induced from the passing wheel loads at three speeds and tire inflation pressures. Pavement temperature was monitored with depth during testing as well as wheel track offset distance from the strain sensors. Because of time constraints, only the sensors in the plane parallel to the direction of loading were analyzed, and response data were compared only with linear elastic pavement response models. The as-measured data were processed and evaluated for all rosettes oriented in the direction of loading. Stress relaxation modulus data were used to adjust the pavement modulus to a common temperature and loading time so all measured data could be compared at the same loading conditions. The WinLEA linear elastic model was used to determine the relationship of structural modulus to strain. Lateral offset distributions were determined from measured data to adjust all strains to the offset where maximum strain response is observed in the as-measured data. The adjustments were then applied to the as-measured strain data to make consistent comparisons between tires. Three of the four tire configurations produce nearly equivalent pavement response, which was attributed to similarities between the tire footprint widths.
Estimation of Traffic Conflict Risk for Merging Vehicles on Highway Merge Section
Authors: Yang Hong , Ozbay Kaan
Published: December 2011

This study proposed a methodology for estimating rear-end conflict risk of vehicles on freeway merge sections as a probabilistic measure. The methodology consisted of two major components. The first part estimated the merging probability of a vehicle, given its position on a merge lane. Detailed vehicle trajectory data from the Next Generation Simulation program were used to find the underlying probability density function of the merging decision. The second part derived the probabilistic risk of a merging vehicle conflicting with vehicles around it as a function of a surrogate safety measure, namely, modified time-to-collision. These two parts were combined, and an index was proposed to describe the conflict risk of each merging vehicle at each time step. With aggregation of the conflict risk over time and space, a risk map for describing the level of conflict risk could be created. A case study demonstrated the implementation of the proposed method for traffic conflict analysis in detail. The result of this study can be used to evaluate the safety level of merge sections and develop real-time traffic control strategies to reduce conflicts associated with merging traffic.
Speed Profile Variation as a Road Network Screening Tool
Authors: Boonsiripant Saroch , Rodgers Michael O. , Hunter Michael P.
Published: December 2011

Roadway sections that experience a higher-than-expected number of crashes are usually identified by long-term crash frequency data. When historical crash data are either limited or unavailable, surrogate safety measures based on roadway characteristics (e.g., road geometry, traffic volume, and speed) are often substituted. This study developed and evaluated several candidate measures to estimate crash frequency on urban streets on the basis of speed consistency along the roadway. These speed consistency measures were based on speed profiles along road segments collected from vehicles equipped with Global Positioning System (GPS) devices. The relationships between these surrogate measures and historical crash frequency were quantified with the use of a combination of regression tree and generalized linear modeling approaches. The findings support the use of the profile-based measures to evaluate the safety of road networks as the deployment of GPS-equipped vehicles becomes more prevalent.
Comparative Analysis of University Students’ Acquisition and Use of Travel Information
Authors: Son Sanghoon , Khattak Asad , Chen Ju-Yin
Published: December 2011

Advanced traveler information systems provide pretrip and en route information, which can improve the travel experience of individuals and increase the efficiency of the transportation system. While research on travelers’ acquisition and use of relevant information on their intended routes and modes has been conducted, behavioral responses of sub-populations that might be particularly sensitive to information are not well understood. A key segment of the population is university students, who are often technologically savvy, are early adopters of new information technology, have widespread access to computers and the Internet, and often use a multitude of travel modes. This study explores student responses to travel information. As part of a larger study, behavioral surveys were conducted to collect and analyze data on university students’ travel behavior. This study focuses on a subset of the collected data that deals with acquisition and use of travel information. It explores how students at four universities in Virginia acquire and respond to travel information, and it identifies important factors associated with these decisions. Statistical models are estimated to test hypotheses. Results show that travel information acquisition is higher when students report longer travel times and on urban campuses. The Internet and variable message signs have the strongest associations with travel decision changes regardless of campus location. Students alter their routes and their modes of travel relatively frequently, especially on suburban campuses, pointing to the importance of delivering multimodal information. Implications of the findings are discussed.
Intelligent Transportation System Field Demonstration
Authors: Chang Gang-Len , Park Sung Yoon , Paracha Jawad
Published: December 2011

Contending with recurrent congestion on commuting corridors has long been a challenging and pressing issue for responsible highway agencies. However, effective strategies to mitigate the congestion level and the accompanying safety issues on those highway segments remain to be developed. In response to such needs, this study presents an innovative system that integrates variable speed control and travel time information for alleviating day-to-day recurrent congestion on a highway corridor. The system presented in this study includes a set of algorithms for setting variable speeds for different highway segments based on traffic conditions detected from roadway sensors and a well-calibrated license-plate-recognition system for displaying the estimated travel time. Field experiments of the proposed system on MD-100 for 8 weeks showed that with proper speed control in real time, the congested highway segment can achieve a higher throughput, a stable traffic condition, and a shorter travel time.
Method for Preceding Vehicle Type Classification Based on Sparse Representation
Authors: Chong Yanwen , Chen Wu , Li Zhilin , Lam William H. K.
Published: December 2011

This paper proposes a novel vehicle-type classifier named SRCVT that uses video data collected from video detection units. The SRCVT uses the sparse representation classifier (SRC) technique without the requirement of an additional training procedure to construct the classification model. It classifies preceding vehicles directly from the testing samples’ sparse representation, without the need for explicit model selection. The SRCVT consists of four steps: data preparation, principal component analysis transformation, realization, and classification output. The classifier has been compared with the traditional method of using a supported vector machine. The results show that the SRCVT is more promising for vehicle-type classification in terms of classification accuracy and ease of use.
Developing an Evaluation Approach to Assess Large-Scale Improvements in Intelligent Transportation System Infrastructure
Authors: Paciulli Melissa , Collura John , Gao Song
Published: December 2011

Intelligent transportation systems (ITS) can include multiple technologies and applications to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of a transportation system or network. These applications are deployed with the hope of achieving the goals and objectives of multiple stakeholders. This research includes a methodology to evaluate large-scale ITS infrastructure projects using the I-91 ITS project as a case study. The methodology includes a literature review; a clear definition of project goals, objectives, and intended outcomes; development of hypotheses for project outcomes; specific measures of effectiveness; data-collection methods; and criteria to measure the success of achieving the objective. The I-91 ITS project team should consider the following recommendations as next steps in conducting an ITS evaluation: identify and prioritize the goals and objectives, develop a multiphase evaluation approach, identify existing sources of predeployment data, identify missing data requirements, and document the existing communication protocol before deployment. Such a large-scale evaluation requires extensive effort, and priority should be given to developing a multiphase approach. This research may be used to develop an evaluation plan, which is recommended as a component of the six-step process outlined in the evaluation guidelines from the U.S. Department of Transportation.
Design and Implementation of Cooperative Vehicle and Infrastructure System Based on IEEE 802.11n
Authors: Chen Xiaobo , Yao Danya , Zhang Yi , Su Yuelong , Zhang Yingying
Published: December 2011

A model to build a cooperative vehicle and infrastructure system that is suitable for today's national conditions in China is proposed in this study. The concept is based on the IEEE 802.11n infrastructure and ad hoc network technology with the assistance of China Telecom Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) 2000 3G cellular network technology. The advantages of these technologies include orthogonal frequency division multiplexing and multiple input–multiple output applications. The availability of the new cooperative vehicle and infrastructure system structure has been verified by three scenario experiments: CDMA 2000 network scenario, IEEE 802.11n infrastructure network scenario, and an ad hoc network scenario. Many factors, such as mobile speed, distance between wireless devices, and access mode, which may influence the quality of communication, are discussed. Several applications of this system are introduced. Future work is described.