bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and Luminescence Property of Sr3Al2O6:Eu3+ Red Phosph or Prepared by Co-Precipitation Technique
Authors: Gao Hong Mei , Yan Feng Yun , He Ling
Published: April 2015

Sr3Al2O6:Eu3+ red phosphor was synthesized by co-precipitation and investigated their crystal structures and luminescent properties in detail. EuCl3 was used as rare earth sources to replace Eu2O3, which saving cost significantly. X-ray diffraction(XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) result indicated that the as-prepared phosphors was calcined at 1150 oC for 2h crystalized in cubic phase with space group of Pa-3 and uniform morphology. The average diameter of the phosphors were 1.8um. Excitation spectrum and emission spectrum results shows when Boric acid was added 3wt% and Eu3+ was added x=0.04((Sr1-xEux)3Al2O6), the red emission of Eu3+ centers was shown at peak of 611nm under near ultraviolet excitation with wavelength of 393nm. The emission spectrum was line spectrum. Luminous intensity achieved the optimum. The thermal quenching experiments indicated that it had thermal stability in the temperature of 20 oC -80 oC.
A 600V-Class Partial SOI LDMOS with Step-Doped Drift Region
Authors: Hu Yue , Wang Hao , Wang De Wen , Du Cai Xia , Ma Miao Miao , Yang Jin , He Jin
Published: April 2015

A 600V-class lateral double-diffused metal-oxide-semiconductor (LDMOS) field-effect transistor with step-doped drift region (SDD) in partial silicon-on-insulator (PSOI) is introduced to improve breakdown voltage (BV) and reduce on-resistance (Ron). The step-doped method induces an electric field peak in the surface of the device, which can reduce the surface field in the device and adjust the doping accommodation in the drift region. The adjusted drift region can allow higher doping concentration under the drain end which results in higher breakdown voltage, and accommodate more impurity atoms as a whole which provides more electrons to support higher current and thus reduce on-resistance.
Research of Structural and Optical Properties of MgZnO Films Annealed at Different Oxygen Partial Pressures
Authors: Liu Wei Wei , Zhang Zhen Zhong
Published: April 2015

Structural and optical properties of MgZnO films were investigated by annealing in oxygen at different pressures. The crystalline quality of the annealed films improves with increasing annealing pressure. After annealing at 3.03×105Pa, the grain size became larger and oxygen content in the annealed films increased. This was attributed to the recrystallization of the films under high annealing pressure. However, a decreased oxygen content was found by annealing the films at 1.01×105or 2.05×10-3Pa. According to the defect levels and the relationship between photoluminescence spectra and annealing conditions, it was suggested that the emission peak located at 2.270 eV in photoluminescence spectra was related to interstitial oxygen (Oi) which will compensate the donor defects (Znior/and VO) and lead to the MgZnO film transforming into ap-type conduction under the annealing pressure of 3.03×105Pa.
Time-Dependent Finite Element Analysis of Prestressed Concrete Beams
Authors: Liu Ting
Published: April 2015

Based on ABAQUS general finite element software, UMAT Fortran subroutine is compiled to estimate the long-term deflections of prestressed concrete beams. And the calculated values using the software corresponded well with the laboratory results. By generalizing key parameters impact on long−term deflections of prestressed concrete beams, time-dependent finite element analysis was conducted. Taking type of concrete, concrete grade, age of concrete when the initial stress was applied, effective prestressing tensile force, type of prestressed tendon, reinforcement ratio for nonprestressed compression steel reinforcement and mean relative humidity into account, a simplified formula for long-term deflection of prestressed concrete beam at midspan was suggested. And the calculated values using the suggested formula corresponded well with the laboratory and filed test results. The errors were within 10%. However, the calculated errors using the common codes were larger, which resulted in the unsafe values.
Analysis of Fatigue Mechanical Behaviors of Welding Conformations in Orthotropic Steel Bridge Deck
Authors: Yu Bo , Hong Tao , Zhang Jian , Liang Qing Yu
Published: April 2015

Due to the superior structure style, orthotropic steel bridge deck has been getting more and more widely practical application. The static and fatigue tests of the orthotropic steel bridge deck models were carried out in this research paper, which presented the fatigue damage developing laws, compared the test results with homogeneous test results in existing documents, and according to the relative fatigue accumulative damage theory, the fatigue accumulative damage equations of the sectional specimen and the whole specimen are respectively studied.
Effect of Random Inclusion of Palm Fibers on Strength Characteristics of Shanghai Cohesive Soil
Authors: Qu Ji Li , Zhao Dong Xue , Li Bei Bei
Published: April 2015

Abstract This paper presents the effect of random inclusion of palm fibers on strength characteristics of Shanghai cohesive soil. Locally available cohesive soil (CL) is used as medium and palm fibers with three lengths (l = 6, 12 and 18 mm) are used as reinforcement. Soil is compacted with standard Proctor’s maximum density with low percentage of reinforcement (0–1% by weight of oven-dried soil). Direct shear tests, unconfined compression tests and CBR tests were conducted on un-reinforced as well as reinforced soil to investigate the strength characteristics of fiber-reinforced soil. The test results reveal that the inclusion of randomly distributed palm fibers in soil increases peak and residual shear strength, unconfined compressive strength and CBR value of soil. It is noticed that the optimum fiber content for achieving maximum strength is 0.6–0.8% of the weight of oven-dried soil for fiber length 12 mm.
Second Grade Fluid for Rotating MHD of an Unsteady Free Convection Flow in a Porous Medium
Authors: Ismail Z. , Khan I. , Mohamad A.Q. , Shafie S.
Published: April 2015

Rotating effects and magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) free convection flow of second grade fluids in a porous medium is considered in this paper. It is assumed that the bounding infinite inclined plate has ramped wall temperature with the presence of heat and mass diffusion. Based on Boussinesq approximation, the analytical expressions for dimensionless velocity, temperature and concentration are obtained by using the Laplace transform method. All the derived solutions satisfying the involved differential equations with imposed boundary and initial conditions. The influence of various parameters on the velocity has been analyzed in graphs and discussed.
Statistical Investigation of Maintenance Effects on Quality of Formed Glass Tube Dimensions
Authors: Eladaw Ahmad E. , Elmetwally Hammad T. , Ibrahim R.A.
Published: April 2015

Process quality control utilizes inspection of a product while it is being produced through testing periodic samples of products. After this, if product quality characteristics have been changed, the process is stopped, and a search is made for an assignable cause. The objective of a process-capability study is to assess the ability of a process to meet product specifications. During a quality improvement initiative, capability-estimates are obtained at start and at end of study to reflect the occurred improvement. Several capability-estimates show how a process is capable of meeting its specification limits. Essentially, capability-estimates reflect the non conformance rate of a process in a single number form. This involves calculating some ratio of process specification limits. In this study, the production of a fluorescent lamp consisting of a glass tube is considered. Tube quality is affected by the production line conditions. So, the maintenance of the production line is an important stage to increase tube quality. In this paper glass tube quality is studied. Minitab is a statistical software was used to analyze obtained data. The results showed an obvious improvement of part quality after maintenance stage. All measurements were done in Toshiba factory for fluorescent lamp manufacturing.
Modelling of Bubble Growth in Supersaturated Solution Using Computational Fluid Dynamics - Population Balance Model (CFD-PBM) Approach
Authors: Ban Zhen Hong , Lau Kok Keong , Azmi Mohd Shariff
Published: April 2015

The bubble growth modelling in a supersaturated solution is difficult to be accomplished as it requires coupling of many interrelated hydrodynamics and mass transfer parameters which include pressure drop, supersaturation ratio, bubble size, etc. In the current work, all these factors have been taken into consideration to predict bubble growth in a supersaturated solution using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) – Population Balance Model (PBM) approach. A classical bubble growth model has been used in the simulation. The bubble growth rate was successfully validated with experimental data in terms of bubble size. The attempt to simulate the bubble growth phenomenon of more than a single bubble condition has also been presented. The outcome of this approach is expected to be applied in many engineering areas.
G-Jitter Induced MHD Mixed Convection Flow Past an Inclined Stretching Sheet
Authors: Rawi N.A. , Kasim A.R.M. , Isa M. , Shafie S.
Published: April 2015

This paper studies the effect of periodical gravity modulation, or g-jitter induced magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) mixed convection flow past an inclined stretching sheet. Using appropriate non-dimensional variables, the governing partial differential equations are first transformed into non-dimensional form. The obtained non-dimensional equations are then solved numerically using Keller-box method. The features of the flow with heat transfer characteristics for different values of frequency, amplitude and magnetic parameters on the velocity and temperature profiles are analyzed and discussed. The behaviour of physical quantities such as skin friction and heat transfer coefficients are also investigated. To validate the present numerical results, comparison with published results is done and found to be in a good agreement.
EBV Oncogene N-LMP1 Induces CD4 T Cell–Mediated Angiogenic Blockade in the Murine Tumor Model
Authors: Wu Tzong-Shoon , Wang Lian-Chen , Liu Shu-Chen , Hsu Ting-Yu , Lin Chun-Yen , Feng Gou-Jin , Chen Jian-Ming , Liu Hao-Ping , Chung I-Che , Yen Tzu-Chen , Chang Yu-Sun , Liao Shuen-Kuei , Chang Chen , Chow Kai-Ping N.
Published: April 2015

Antivascular immunity may provide long-term protection by preventing neovascularization that precedes tumor progression. Although the tumorigenesis promoted by EBV-encoded oncogene latent membrane protein 1 derived from Taiwanese nasopharyngeal carcinoma (N-LMP1) has been demonstrated, the potential of N-LMP1 for inducing immune surveillance remains elusive. In this article, we describe the immunogenicity of N-LMP1 (1510) and its induction of antivascular immunity in a transplantable tumor model in immunocompetent BALB/c mice. The immunogenicity of N-LMP1 was evaluated on the basis of tumor rejection following immunization. The impact of the immunization on the dynamics of tumor angiogenesis was assessed by temporal noninvasive dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging and was further confirmed by histologic study and vascular count. Through the experiments of in vivo depletion and adoptive transfer, CD4 T cells were identified as effectors that depend on IFN-γ for tumor prevention. The response was further verified by the identification of an MHC H-2 I-Ed–restricted peptide derived from N-LMP1 and by the immunization of mice with N-LMP1 peptide–loaded dendritic cells. These studies provide insight into N-LMP1–specific immunity in vivo, which suggests that CD4 T cells may play an important role in angiogenic surveillance against LMP1–associated cancer via tumor stroma targeting.
CCL7 and IRF-7 Mediate Hallmark Inflammatory and IFN Responses following Rhinovirus 1B Infection
Authors: Girkin Jason , Hatchwell Luke , Foster Paul , Johnston Sebastian L. , Bartlett Nathan , Collison Adam , Mattes Joerg
Published: April 2015

Rhinovirus (RV) infections are common and have the potential to exacerbate asthma. We have determined the lung transcriptome in RV strain 1B–infected naive BALB/c mice (nonallergic) and identified CCL7 and IFN regulatory factor (IRF)-7 among the most upregulated mRNA transcripts in the lung. To investigate their roles we employed anti-CCL7 Abs and an IRF-7–targeting small interfering RNA in vivo. Neutralizing CCL7 or inhibiting IRF-7 limited neutrophil and macrophage influx and IFN responses in nonallergic mice. Neutralizing CCL7 also reduced activation of NF-κB p65 and p50 subunits, as well as airway hyperreactivity (AHR) in nonallergic mice. However, neither NF-κB subunit activation nor AHR was abolished with infection of allergic mice after neutralizing CCL7, despite a reduction in the number of neutrophils, macrophages, and eosinophils. IRF-7 small interfering RNA primarily suppressed IFN-α and IFN-β levels during infection of allergic mice. Our data highlight a pivotal role of CCL7 and IRF-7 in RV-induced inflammation and IFN responses and link NF-κB signaling to the development of AHR.
MAVS Promotes Inflammasome Activation by Targeting ASC for K63-Linked Ubiquitination via the E3 Ligase TRAF3
Authors: Guan Kai , Wei Congwen , Zheng Zirui , Song Ting , Wu Feixiang , Zhang Yanhong , Cao Ye , Ma Shengli , Chen Wei , Xu Quanbin , Xia Weiwei , Gu Jun , He Xiang , Zhong Hui
Published: April 2015

Stringent control of inflammasome signaling pathway is important for maintaining immunological balance, yet the molecular mechanisms responsible for its tight regulation are still poorly understood. In this study, we found that the signaling pathway dependent on mitochondrial antiviral signaling protein (MAVS) was required for the optimal activation of apoptosis-associated specklike protein (ASC)–dependent inflammasome. In particular, TNFR-associated factor 3 was found to be a direct E3 ligase for ASC. Ubiquitination of ASC at Lys174 was critical for speck formation and inflammasome activation. Deficiency in MAVS or TNFR-associated factor 3 impaired ASC ubiquitination and cytosolic aggregates formation, resulting in reduced inflammasome response upon RNA virus infection. This study has identified a previously unrecognized role of MAVS in the regulation of inflammasome signaling and provided molecular insight into the mechanisms by which ubiquitination of ASC controls inflammasome activity through the formation of ASC specks.
Spatial analysis and risk mapping of Fasciola hepatica infection in dairy herds in Ireland
Authors: Selemetas Nikolaos , Ducheyne Els , Phelan Paul , O’Kiely Padraig , Hendrickx Guy , De Waal Theo
Published: April 2015

Fasciolosis is generally a subclinical infection of dairy cows and can cause marked economic losses. This study investigated the prevalence and spatial distribution of fasciolosis in dairy cow herds in Ireland using an in-house antibodydetection enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay applied to bulk tank milk (BTM) samples collected during the autumn of 2012. A total of 5,116 BTM samples were collected from 4,602 different herds, with 514 farmers submitting BTM samples in two consecutive months. Analysis of the BTM samples showed that 82% (n = 3,764) of the dairy herds had been exposed to Fasciola hepatica. A total of 108 variables, including averaged climatic data for the period 1981-2010 and contemporary meteorological data for the year 2012, such as soil, subsoil, land cover and habitat maps, were investigated for a possible role as predictor of fasciolosis. Using mainly climatic variables as the major predictors, a model of the predicted risk of fasciolosis was created by Random Forest modelling that had 95% sensitivity and 100% specificity. The most important predictors in descending order of importance were: average of annual total number of rain-days for the period 1981-2010, total rainfall during September, winter and autumn of 2012, average of annual total number of wet-days for the period 1981- 2010 and annual mean temperature of 2012. The findings of this study confirm the high prevalence of fasciolosis in Irish dairy herds and suggest that specific weather and environmental risk factors support a robust and precise distribution model.
Rare cytogenetic abnormalities and alteration of microRNAs in acute myeloid leukemia and response to therapy
Authors: Shahjahani Mohammad , Khodadi Elham , Seghatoleslami Mohammad , Mohammadi Asl Javad , Golchin Neda , Zaieri Zeynab Deris , Saki Najmaldin
Published: April 2015

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is the most common acute leukemia in adults, which is heterogeneous in terms of morphological, cytogenetic and clinical features. Cytogenetic abnormalities, including karyotype aberrations, gene mutations and gene expression abnormalities are the most important diagnostic tools in diagnosis, classification and prognosis in acute myeloid leukemias. Based on World Health Organization (WHO) classification, acute myeloid leukemias can be divided to four groups. Due to the heterogeneous nature of AML and since most therapeutic protocols in AML are based on genetic alterations, gathering further information in the field of rare disorders as well as common cytogenetic abnormalities would be helpful in determining the prognosis and treatment in this group of diseases. Recently, the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in both normal hematopoiesis and myeloid leukemic cell differentiation in myeloid lineage has been specified. miRNAs can be used instead of genes for AML diagnosis and classification in the future, and can also play a decisive role in the evaluation of relapse as well as response to treatment in the patients. Therefore, their use in clinical trials can affect treatment protocols and play a role in therapeutic strategies for these patients. In this review, we have examined rare cytogenetic abnormalities in different groups of acute myeloid leukemias according to WHO classification, and the role of miRNA expression in classification, diagnosis and response to treatment of these disorders has also been dealt with.
Prevalence of dental fluorosis among school children residing in Kanpur City, Uttar Pradesh, India
Authors: Bhalla Ashish , Malik Sonal , Sharma Sanjivini
Published: April 2015

Objective: The objective was to find the prevalence of dental fluorosis among school children residing in Kanpur city, Uttar Pradesh India. Materials and Methods: A total of 1343 school children, residing in the city since childhood and consuming the groundwater, in the age group of 7-17 years was selected from various schools. Schools were selected from all four directions of the city. Children were categorized in five age groups and were examined for dental fluorosis. Dean′s criteria for assessment of dental fluorosis were used, and observations were recorded on a study specific performa. Results: Among the 1343 children examined, 243 (18%) were found to be having dental fluorosis, among which number of males (131) was more than females (112). Among the different grades of fluorosis observed, mild dental fluorosis was observed in most of the cases (158). It was observed that the southern part of the city had a maximum number of cases of dental fluorosis. Conclusion: It was evident from the results that the city had a good number of cases of dental fluorosis and that the groundwater in certain areas had more than normal quantity of fluoride. Since this study was the first attempt in this area, more studies can be undertaken to substantiate our findings.
Oral self-care practices, dental attendance and self-perceived oral health status among internal medicine residents in Nigeria
Authors: Iwuala Sandra Omozehio , Umeizudike Kehinde Adesola , Ozoh Obianuju Beatrice , Fasanmade Olufemi Adetola
Published: April 2015

Background: Oral health is important for well-being and chronic disease prevention. Physician′s confidence and willingness to counsel patients on lifestyle practices is related to their personal behavior. Limited data exists regarding oral self-care practices among physicians in developing countries, as the majority seeks oral health advice and care from doctors rather than dentists. Aim: To determine the oral self-care practices, dental attendance, and self-perceived oral health status of internal medicine residents in Nigeria. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among internal medicine resident doctors attending an update course using a self-administered structured questionnaire, which included oral care practices. Data were analyzed with SPSS version 21.0, P < 0.05 was significant. Results: The response rate was 82.0%. Data from 109 residents from the 6 geopolitical zones in Nigeria were analyzed. The mean age of the residents was 33.1 (4.0) years. 39.8% brushed twice a day, 20.2% used dental floss regularly, 10.1% used the roll technique for brushing and 30.3% of the doctors had never been to a dentist. However, 61.1% felt dental visits should be undertaken every 6 months and 57.8% strongly agreed/agreed that the state of their oral health was excellent. There was no difference in the oral hygiene practices by gender, designation or geopolitical zone of the residency program apart from dental flossing (female > male, P = 0.002). A higher proportion of junior compared to senior residents strongly agreed/agreed and strongly disagreed/disagreed that their oral health status was excellent (P = 0.026). Conclusion: The oral self-care practices of these doctors involved in managing patients with medical conditions linked to oral health is inadequate. There is a need for better education on oral self-care among physicians.
Needs, Acceptability, and Value of Humanitarian Medical Assistance in Remote Peruvian Amazon Riverine Communities
Authors: Sanchez Juan F. , Halsey Eric S. , Bayer Angela M. , Beltran Martin , Razuri Hugo R. , Velasquez Daniel E. , Cama Vitaliano A. , Graf Paul C. F. , Quispe Antonio M. , Maves Ryan C. , Montgomery Joel M. , Sanders John W. , Lescano Andres G.
Published: April 2015

Much debate exists regarding the need, acceptability, and value of humanitarian medical assistance. We conducted a cross-sectional study on 457 children under 5 years from four remote riverine communities in the Peruvian Amazon and collected anthropometric measures, blood samples (1–4 years), and stool samples. Focus groups and key informant interviews assessed perspectives regarding medical aid delivered by foreigners. The prevalence of stunting, anemia, and intestinal parasites was 20%, 37%, and 62%, respectively. Infection with multiple parasites, usually geohelminths, was detected in 41% of children. The prevalence of intestinal parasites both individual and polyparasitism increased with age. Participants from smaller communities less exposed to foreigners expressed lack of trust and fear of them. However, participants from all communities were positive about foreigners visiting to provide health support. Prevalent health needs such as parasitic infections and anemia may be addressed by short-term medical interventions. There is a perceived openness to and acceptability of medical assistance delivered by foreign personnel.
Use of eCompliance, an Innovative Biometric System for Monitoring of Tuberculosis Treatment in Rural Uganda
Authors: Snidal Sarah Jane , Barnard Genevieve , Atuhairwe Emmanuel , Ben Amor Yanis
Published: April 2015

Directly observed therapy short-course (DOTS) requires direct observation of tuberculosis (TB) patients and manual recording of doses taken. Programmatically, manual tracking is both time-consuming and prone to human error. Our project in western Uganda assessed the impact on TB treatment outcomes of a comprehensive patient support program including eCompliance, a biometric medical record device, with the aim of increasing TB patient retention. Through an observational study of 142 patients, DOTS outcomes of patients in the intervention group were compared with two control groups. Descriptive statistical comparisons, case-cohort analysis, and difference in change over time were used to assess the impact. Intervention patients had a higher cure rate than all other patients (55.6% versus 28.3% [P < 0.01]) and the odds of having a “cured” outcome were 3.17 higher (P < 0.05). The intervention group had a statistically significantly lower odds of having a negative outcome (0% versus.17% [P < 0.01]) than patients from the control groups. Additionally, the intervention group had a lost to follow-up rate lower than all other groups (0% versus 7%) that was trending on significant. In resource-limited settings, implementing comprehensive DOTS including eCompliance may reduce the occurrence of negative DOTS outcomes for patients.
2013 Dengue Outbreaks in Singapore and Malaysia Caused by Different Viral Strains
Authors: Ng Lee-Ching , Chem Yu-kie , Koo Carmen , Mudin Rose Nani Binti , Amin Faridah Mohd , Lee Kim-Sung , Kheong Chong Chee
Published: April 2015

Characterization of 14,079 circulating dengue viruses in a cross-border surveillance program, UNITEDengue, revealed that the 2013 outbreaks in Singapore and Malaysia were associated with replacement of predominant serotype. While the predominant virus in Singapore switched from DENV2 to DENV1, DENV2 became predominant in neighboring Malaysia. Dominance of DENV2 was most evident on the southern states where higher fatality rates were observed.
Reaction rate in an evanescent random walkers system
Authors: Ré Miguel A. , Bustos Natalia C.
Published: April 2015

Diffusion mediated reaction models are particularly ubiquitous in the description of physical, chemical or biological processes. The random walk schema is a useful tool for formulating these models. Recently, evanescent random walk models have received attention in order to include finite lifetime processes. For instance, activated chemical reactions, such as laser photolysis, exhibit a different asymptotic limit when compared with immortal walker models. A diffusion limited reaction model based on a one dimensional continuous time random walk on a lattice with evanescent walkers is presented here. The absorption probability density and the reaction rate are analytically calculated in the Laplace domain. A finite absorption rate is considered, a model usually referred to as imperfect trapping. Short and long time behaviors are analyzed.Received: 20 Novembre 2014,  Accepted: 20 March 2015; Edited by: C. A. Condat, G. J. Sibona; DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4279/PIP.070003Cite as: M A Re, N C Bustos, Papers in Physics 7, 070003 (2015)This paper, by Miguel A. Re, Natalia C. Bustos , is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution License 3.0.
Determinants of Management Innovation in the Ghanaian Construction Consulting Sector
Authors: Owusu-Manu De-Graft , Badu Edward , Holt Gary D. , Edwards David
Published: April 2015

Determinants of management innovation (MI) within the Ghanaian construction consulting sector are examined. A sample of 70 consulting firms is surveyed using self-administered questionnaires. Data are analysed using descriptive statistics and factor analysis. Findings indicate that determinants of MI were interwoven among seven principal factors viz: community and market demands; financial and business management practices; human resource policies; creativity and organizational strategies; corporate social responsibility; prevailing conditions; and competitive leverage. The study adds to the discourse on evolution of innovation within the global consulting sector generally, while providing reference for practitioners and academics in the field with respect to MI determinants more specifically. It is envisaged that practitioners who adopt these findings in the construction consultancy sector would enhance their ability to provide innovative services to clients. Study recommendations include that future research should explore how innovation is diffused within consulting enterprises’ value chains.Paper Type: Research article
Performance of Project Alliancing in Australasia: a Digest of Infrastructure Development from 2008 to 2013
Authors: Walker Derek Henry Thomas , Harley James , Mills Anthony
Published: April 2015

Project and program alliances have been an accepted form of project procurement for public infrastructure engineering projects in Australia and New Zealand (Australasia). Alliancing often provides best value and superior value for money when compared to traditional approaches such as Design and Construct, however considerable debate continues about its success and applicability. This paper reports on three studies of completed construction project alliance performance in 2008, 2010 and 2012. Consolidated findings are presented on 61 project alliances, data is analysed and emerging trends discussed. Recent government policy changes in Australia at Federal and State level have led to a decline in the number of project alliances, however, while the volume of alliance activity is declining it still represents billions of dollars of infrastructure construction work being undertaken. Results also revealed that communication and trust between the executive leadership and operational management teams was a major factor contributing to the functioning of the alliance. Furthermore, the research identifies several key factors that were necessary preconditions for successful alliances.Paper Type: Research article
Methane as a diagnostic tracer of changes in the Brewer–Dobson circulation of the stratosphere
Authors: Remsberg E. E.
Published: April 2015

Abstract. This study makes use of time series of methane (CH4) data from the Halogen Occultation Experiment (HALOE) to detect whether there were any statistically significant changes of the Brewer–Dobson circulation (BDC) within the stratosphere during 1992–2005. The HALOE CH4 profiles are in terms of mixing ratio versus pressure altitude and are binned into latitude zones within the Southern Hemisphere and the Northern Hemisphere. Their separate time series are then analyzed using multiple linear regression (MLR) techniques. The CH4 trend terms for the Northern Hemisphere are significant and positive at 10° N from 50 to 7 hPa and larger than the tropospheric CH4 trends of about 3% decade−1 from 20 to 7 hPa. At 60° N the trends are clearly negative from 20 to 7 hPa. Their combined trends indicate an acceleration of the BDC in the middle stratosphere of the Northern Hemisphere during those years, most likely due to changes from the effects of wave activity. No similar significant BDC acceleration is found for the Southern Hemisphere. Trends from HALOE H2O are analyzed for consistency. Their mutual trends with CH4 are anti-correlated qualitatively in the middle and upper stratosphere, where CH4 is chemically oxidized to H2O. Conversely, their mutual trends in the lower stratosphere are dominated by their trends upon entry to the tropical stratosphere. Time series residuals for CH4 in the lower mesosphere also exhibit structures that are anti-correlated in some instances with those of the tracer-like species HCl. Their occasional aperiodic structures indicate the effects of transport following episodic, wintertime wave activity. It is concluded that observed multi-year, zonally averaged distributions of CH4 can be used to diagnose major instances of wave-induced transport in the middle atmosphere and to detect changes in the stratospheric BDC.
Using O2 to study the relationships between soil CO2 efflux and soil respiration
Authors: Angert A. , Yakir D. , Rodeghiero M. , Preisler Y. , Davidson E. A. , Weiner T.
Published: April 2015

Abstract. Soil respiration is the sum of respiration processes in the soil and is a major flux in the global carbon cycle. It is usually assumed that the CO2 efflux is equal to the soil respiration rate. Here we challenge this assumption by combining measurements of CO2 with high-precision measurements of O2. These measurements were conducted on different ecosystems and soil types and included measurements of air samples taken from the soil profile of three Mediterranean sites: a temperate forest and two alpine forests. Root-free soils from the alpine sites were also incubated in the lab. We found that the ratio between the CO2 efflux and the O2 influx (defined as apparent respiratory quotient, ARQ) was in the range of 0.14 to 1.23 and considerably deviated from the value of 0.9 ± 0.1 expected from the elemental composition of average plants and soil organic matter. At the Mediterranean sites, these deviations are explained as a result of CO2 dissolution in the soil water and transformation to bicarbonate ions in these high-pH soils, as well as by carbonate mineral dissolution and precipitation processes. Thus, a correct estimate of the short-term, chamber-based biological respiratory flux in such soils can only be made by dividing the measured soil CO2 efflux by the average (efflux-weighted) soil profile ARQ. Applying this approach to a semiarid pine forest resulted in an estimated short-term biological respiration rate that is 3.8 times higher than the chamber-measured surface CO2. The ARQ values often observed in the more acidic soils were unexpectedly low (< 0.7). These values probably result from the oxidation of reduced iron, which has been formed previously during times of high soil moisture and local anaerobic conditions inside soil aggregates. The results reported here provide direct quantitative evidence of a large temporal decoupling between soil–gas exchange fluxes and biological soil respiration.
Overcoming challenges in the classification of deep geothermal potential
Authors: Breede K. , Dzebisashvili K. , Falcone G.
Published: April 2015

Abstract. The geothermal community lacks a universal definition of deep geothermal systems. A minimum depth of 400 m is often assumed, with a further sub-classification into middle-deep geothermal systems for reservoirs found between 400 and 1000 m. Yet, the simplistic use of a depth cut-off is insufficient to uniquely determine the type of resource and its associated potential. Different definitions and criteria have been proposed in the past to frame deep geothermal systems. However, although they have valid assumptions, these frameworks lack systematic integration of correlated factors. To further complicate matters, new definitions such as hot dry rock (HDR), enhanced or engineered geothermal systems (EGSs) or deep heat mining have been introduced over the years. A clear and transparent approach is needed to estimate the potential of deep geothermal systems and be capable of distinguishing between resources of a different nature. In order to overcome the ambiguity associated with some past definitions such as EGS, this paper proposes the return to a more rigorous petrothermal versus hydrothermal classification. This would be superimposed with numerical criteria for the following: depth and temperature; predominance of conduction, convection or advection; formation type; rock properties; heat source type; requirement for formation stimulation and corresponding efficiency; requirement to provide the carrier fluid; well productivity (or injectivity); production (or circulation) flow rate; and heat recharge mode. Using the results from data mining of past and present deep geothermal projects worldwide, a classification of the same, according to the aforementioned criteria is proposed.
A comparative assessment of two different debris flow propagation approaches – blind simulations on a real debris flow event
Authors: Stancanelli L. M. , Foti E.
Published: April 2015

Abstract. A detailed comparison between the performances of two different approaches to debris flow modelling was carried out. In particular, the results of a mono-phase Bingham model (FLO-2D) and that of a two-phase model (TRENT-2D) obtained from a blind test were compared. As a benchmark test the catastrophic event of 1 October 2009 which struck Sicily causing several fatalities and damage was chosen. The predicted temporal evolution of several parameters of the debris flow (such as flow depth and propagation velocity) was analysed in order to investigate the advantages and disadvantages of the two models in reproducing the global dynamics of the event. An analysis between the models' results with survey data have been carried out, not only for the determination of statistical indicators of prediction accuracy, but also for the application of the Receiver Operator Characteristic (ROC) approach. Provided that the proper rheological parameters and boundary conditions are assigned, both models seem capable of reproducing the inundation areas in a reasonably accurate way. However, the main differences in the application rely on the choice of such rheological parameters. Indeed, within the more user-friendly FLO-2D model the tuning of the parameters must be done empirically, with no evidence of the physics of the phenomena. On the other hand, for the TRENT-2D the parameters are physically based and can be estimated from the properties of the solid material, thus reproducing more reliable results. A second important difference between the two models is that in the first method the debris flow is treated as a homogeneous flow, in which the total mass is kept constant from its initiation in the upper part of the basin to the deposition in a debris fan. In contrast, the second approach is suited to reproduce the erosion and deposition processes and the displaced mass can be directly related to the rainfall event. Application of both models in a highly urbanized area reveals the limitation of numerical simulation which is inadequate in describing some disturbances of the flows that occurred during the alluvial event (e.g. the cars, the volume of debris within buildings etc.) which have a crucial influence on the evaluation of the maximum and final flow depths.
Improved variational methods in statistical data assimilation
Authors: Ye J. , Kadakia N. , Rozdeba P. J. , Abarbanel H. D. I. , Quinn J. C.
Published: April 2015

Abstract. Data assimilation transfers information from an observed system to a physically based model system with state variables x(t). The observations are typically noisy, the model has errors, and the initial state x(t0) is uncertain: the data assimilation is statistical. One can ask about expected values of functions ⟨G(X)⟩ on the path X = {x(t0), ..., x(tm)} of the model state through the observation window tn = {t0, ..., tm}. The conditional (on the measurements) probability distribution P(X) = exp[−A0(X)] determines these expected values. Variational methods using saddle points of the "action" A0(X), known as 4DVar (Talagrand and Courtier, 1987; Evensen, 2009), are utilized for estimating ⟨G(X)⟩. In a path integral formulation of statistical data assimilation, we consider variational approximations in a realization of the action where measurement errors and model errors are Gaussian. We (a) discuss an annealing method for locating the path X0 giving a consistent minimum of the action A0(X0), (b) consider the explicit role of the number of measurements at each tn in determining A0(X0), and (c) identify a parameter regime for the scale of model errors, which allows X0 to give a precise estimate of ⟨G(X0)⟩ with computable, small higher-order corrections.
The application of terrestrial laser scanner and photogrammetry in measuring erosion and deposition processes in humid badlands in the Central Spanish Pyrenees
Authors: Nadal-Romero E. , Revuelto J. , Errea P. , López-Moreno J. I.
Published: April 2015

Abstract. Erosion and deposition processes in badland areas are usually estimated using traditional observations of topographic changes, measured by erosion pins or profile meters (invasive techniques). In recent times, geomatic techniques (non-invasive) have been routinely applied in geomorphology studies, especially in erosion studies. These techniques provide the opportunity to build high-resolution topographic models at subcentimeter accuracy. By comparing different 3-D point clouds of the same area, obtained at different time intervals, the variations in the terrain and temporal dynamics can be analyzed. The aim of this study is to assess and compare the functioning of Terrestrial Laser Scanner (TLS, RIEGL LPM-321) and close range photogrammetry techniques (Camera FUJIFILM, Finepix x100 and Software PhotoScan by AgiSoft), to evaluate erosion and deposition processes in a humid badland area in the Central Spanish Pyrenees. Results show that TLS data sets and photogrammetry techniques provide new opportunities in geomorphological erosion studies. The data we recorded over one year demonstrated that north-facing slopes experienced more intense and faster changing geomorphological dynamics than south-facing slopes as well as the highest erosion rates. Different seasonal processes were observed, with the highest topographic differences observed during winter periods and the high intensity rainfalls in summer. While TLS provided the highest resolution models, photogrammetry was still a faster methodology in the field and precise at short distances. Both techniques do not require direct contact with the soil and thus prevent the usual surface disturbance of traditional and invasive methods.
The Efficacy of Motivational Interviewing and Adapted Motivational Interviewing as an Eating Disorder Intervention: A Scoping Review
Authors: Bonder Revital , Mantler Tara
Published: April 2015

In any given year, approximately 25 million Canadians aged 15 years and older are at risk for developing an eating disorder (ED). Eating disorders (EDs) have the highest mortality rate among all mental disorders and patients have been found to be ambivalent to change. Thus, recent attention has been given to interventions focusing on enhancing patients’ readiness to change. To that end, the two-fold purpose of this scoping review was to: (1) ascertain if MI and/or adapted MI improved ED patients’ readiness to change, and (2) examine the effectiveness of MI and adapted MI on improving eating pathology. Ten studies were included in this review based on the inclusion criteria. Seven studies reported MI and adapted MI increased readiness to change from pre- to post-treatment and/or follow-up. Of these studies, five only found increases in readiness to change in the treatment group. In opposition to the other findings, Treasure et al. reported a significant increase in readiness to change in both groups, with this increase being greater in the comparison group. Three studies found non-significant changes in readiness to change; Weiss et al. reported no changes in either treatment or control group while two other studies found non-significant changes in readiness to change in both groups. Accordingly, there is potential for MI to be a successful intervention for ED patients’; however, more research is needed to develop a stronger evidence base.
George C. White in Brazil:
Authors: Monteiro George
Published: April 2015

In 1988, under the auspices of the United States Information Services, George C. White toured major cities in Brazil to talk about the Eugene O'Neill Memorial Theater Center. In São Paulo he was interviewed by Leo Gilson Ribeiro for the Jornal da Tarde. This newspaper interview appeared on October 1, 1988. It is reprinted here, for the first time in an English translation.
Karmic Cascades
Authors: Mitchell Liam ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: April 2015

The content ranking system of reddit.com, the English language Internet’s most popular social news website, plays a large but often unnoticed role in shaping what users see and how they think. By pairing informational cascade theory with textual analysis, I argue that the “karma” system elevates particular forms of content over others and generates numerical cues that unconsciously guide users’ judgments about said content and about the world. By drawing on Heidegger’s account of modern technology, I argue that the karma system both symptomatizes and engenders an ontological perspective according to which things in general are taken as available, evaluable, and disposable.
Measuring Journal Linking Success from a Discovery Service
Authors: Stuart Kenyon , Varnum Ken , Ahronheim Judith
Published: April 2015

Online linking to full text via third-party link-resolution services, such as Serials Solutions 360 Link or Ex Libris’ SFX, has become a popular method of access to users in academic libraries. This article describes several attempts made over the course of the past three years at the University of Michigan to gather data on linkage failure: the method used, the limiting factors, the changes made in methods, an analysis of the data collected, and a report of steps taken locally because of the studies. It is hoped that the experiences at one institution may be applicable more broadly and, perhaps, produce a stronger data-driven effort at improving linking services.
L’écoute musicale à l’école primaire en France : les oeuvres que les enseignants déclarent enseigner
Authors: Maizières Frédéric
Published: April 2015

L’activité d’écoute apparaît comme la deuxième pratique, après le chant, à être enseignée en éducation musicale à l’école primaire en France. La transposition didactique interne montre l’implication de l’enseignant dans la définition des savoirs à enseigner. En l’absence d’indications précises dans les programmes, quelles sont les oeuvres qu’ils choisissent de faire écouter à leurs élèves et pour quels objectifs ? Selon quels critères sélectionnent-ils les oeuvres ? Une enquête interacadémique (20 départements français) auprès de 935 professeurs des écoles, suivie d’entretiens semi-directifs auprès de 30 d’entre eux, vise à décrire et à comprendre les savoirs de référence pour la pratique de l’écoute. Ces savoirs dépendent des finalités que les enseignants poursuivent dans cette activité et des valeurs qu’ils rattachent à cet enseignement.
The asymmetry of female meiosis reduces the frequency of inheritance of unpaired chromosomes
Authors: Cortes Daniel B , McNally Karen L , Mains Paul E , McNally Francis J
Published: April 2015

Trisomy, the presence of a third copy of one chromosome, is deleterious and results in inviable or defective progeny if passed through the germ line. Random segregation of an extra chromosome is predicted to result in a high frequency of trisomic offspring from a trisomic parent. Caenorhabditis elegans with trisomy of the X chromosome, however, have far fewer trisomic offspring than expected. We found that the extra X chromosome was preferentially eliminated during anaphase I of female meiosis. We utilized a mutant with a specific defect in pairing of the X chromosome as a model to investigate the apparent bias against univalent inheritance. First, univalents lagged during anaphase I and their movement was biased toward the cortex and future polar body. Second, late-lagging univalents were frequently captured by the ingressing polar body contractile ring. The asymmetry of female meiosis can thus partially correct pre-existing trisomy.
Etkileşimli havaalanlari için geliş yolu önerisi
Authors: Şahin meriç Özlem
Published: April 2015

Özet

Yoğun trafik talebini karşılamak üzere aynı terminal hava sahası içerisine kurulan yakın konumlardaki havaalanlarının hava trafik operasyonları birbirini etkilemektedir. Bu şekilde birbirini etkileyen, geliş ve kalkış operasyonlarının yer aldığı havaalanı grubu “etkileşimli havaalanları” olarak tanımlanabilmektedir. Etkileşimli havaalanlarında artan trafik talebine verilebilecek hava trafik hizmetlerinde tüm havaalanlarına etkin ve verimli trafik akışına olanak sunacak hava sahası yol yapısının kurulması gerekmektedir..

Bu çalışmada, etkileşimli havaalanında verimli trafik akışını sağlamak amacıyla Toplama Noktası Sistemi (TNS) paralel ve seri rota yapıları kullanılarak geliş yol önerisi sunulacaktır.