bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heuristic Methodology for Estimating the Liquid Biofuel Potential of a Region
Authors: Dusmanescu Dorel , Andrei Jean , Popescu Gheorghe , Nica Elvira , Panait Mirela
Published: August 2016

This paper presents a heuristic methodology for estimating the possible variation of the liquid biofuel potential of a region, an appraisal made for a future period of time. The determination of the liquid biofuel potential has been made up either on the account of an average (constant) yield of the energetic crops that were used, or on the account of a yield that varies depending on a known trend, which can be estimated through a certain method. The proposed methodology uses the variation of the yield of energetic crops over time in order to simulate a variation of the biofuel potential for a future ten year time period. This new approach to the problem of determining the liquid biofuel potential of a certain land area can be useful for investors, as it allows making a more realistic analysis of the investment risk and of the possibilities of recovering the investment. On the other hand, the presented methodology can be useful to the governmental administration in order to elaborate strategies and policies to ensure the necessity of fuels and liquid biofuels for transportation, in a certain area. Unlike current methods, which approach the problem of determining the liquid biofuel potential in a deterministic way, by using econometric methods, the proposed methodology uses heuristic reasoning schemes in order to reduce the great number of factors that actually influence the biofuel potential and which usually have unknown values.
Correlations between Polyacetylene Concentrations in Carrot (Daucus carota L.) and Various Soil Parameters
Authors: Kjellenberg Lars , Johansson Eva , Gustavsson Karl-Erik , Granstedt Artur , Olsson Marie
Published: August 2016

This study assessed the concentrations of three falcarinol-type polyacetylenes (falcarinol, falcarindiol, falcarindiol-3-acetate) in carrots and the correlations between these and different soil traits. A total of 144 carrot samples, from three different harvests taken a single season, were analysed in terms of their polyacetylene concentrations and root development. On one of the harvesting occasions, 48 soil samples were also taken and analysed. The chemical composition of the soil was found to influence the concentrations of falcarinol-type polyacetylenes in carrots. When the total soil potassium level was 200 mg/100 g soil, the concentration of falcarindiol (FaDOH) in the carrot samples was 630 μg/g DW, but when carrots were grown in soil with a total potassium level of 300 mg/100 g soil, the FaDOH concentration in the carrots fell to 445 μg/g DW. Carrots grown in soils generally low in available phosphorus exhibited higher levels of falcarindiol if the soil was also low in available magnesium and calcium. The concentrations of polyacetylenes in carrots were positively correlated with total soil phosphorus level, but negatively correlated with total soil potassium level. Of the three polyacetylenes analysed, FaDOH concentrations were influenced most by changes in soil chemical composition.
The Iron Chelator, Dp44mT, Effectively Inhibits Human Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cell Growth in Vitro and in Vivo
Authors: Lee Jehn-Chuan , Chiang Kun-Chun , Feng Tsui-Hsia , Chen Yu-Jen , Chuang Sung-Ting , Tsui Ke-Hung , Chung Li-Chuan , Juang Horng-Heng
Published: August 2016

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a common malignancy with a growing worldwide incidence and prevalence. The N-myc downstream regulated gene (NDRG) family of NDRG1, 2, 3, and mammary serine protease inhibitor (Maspin) gene are well-known modulators in the neoplasia process. Current research has considered iron chelators as new anti-cancer agents; however, the anticancer activities of iron chelators and their target genes in OSCC have not been well investigated. We showed that iron chelators (Dp44mT, desferrioxamine (DFO), and deferasirox) all significantly inhibit SAS cell growth. Flow cytometry further indicated that Dp44mT inhibition of SAS cells growth was partly due to induction of G1 cell cycle arrest. Iron chelators enhanced expressions of NDRG1 and NDRG3 while repressing cyclin D1 expression in OSCC cells. The in vivo antitumor effect on OSCC and safety of Dp44mT were further confirmed through a xenograft animal model. The Dp44mT treatment also increased Maspin protein levels in SAS and OECM-1 cells. NDRG3 knockdown enhanced the growth of OECM-1 cells in vitro and in vivo. Our results indicated that NDRG3 is a tumor suppressor gene in OSCC cells, and Dp44mT could be a promising therapeutic agent for OSCC treatment.
Dysregulation of TGFβ1 Activity in Cancer and Its Influence on the Quality of Anti-Tumor Immunity
Authors: Hargadon Kristian
Published: August 2016

TGFβ1 is a pleiotropic cytokine that exhibits a variety of physiologic and immune regulatory functions. Although its influence on multiple cell types is critical for the regulation of numerous biologic processes in the host, dysregulation of both TGFβ1 expression and activity is frequently observed in cancer and contributes to various aspects of cancer progression. This review focuses on TGFβ1’s contribution to tumor immune suppression and escape, with emphasis on the influence of this regulatory cytokine on the differentiation and function of dendritic cells and T cells. Clinical trials targeting TGFβ1 in cancer patients are also reviewed, and strategies for future therapeutic interventions that build on our current understanding of immune regulation by TGFβ1 are discussed.
Hierridin B Isolated from a Marine Cyanobacterium Alters VDAC1, Mitochondrial Activity, and Cell Cycle Genes on HT-29 Colon Adenocarcinoma Cells
Authors: Freitas Sara , Martins Rosário , Costa Margarida , Leão Pedro , Vitorino Rui , Vasconcelos Vitor , Urbatzka Ralph
Published: August 2016

Background: Hierridin B was isolated from a marine cyanobacterium Cyanobium sp. strain and induced cytotoxicity selectively in HT-29 adenocarcinoma cells. The underlying molecular mechanism was not yet elucidated. Methods: HT-29 cells were exposed to the IC50 concentration of hierridin B (100.2 μM) for 48 h. Non-targeted proteomics was performed using 2D gel electrophoresis and MALDI-TOF/TOF mass spectrometry. The mRNA expression of apoptotic and cell cycle genes were analyzed by real-time PCR. Automated quantification of 160 cytoplasm and mitochondrial parameter was done by fluorescence microscopy using CellProfiler software. Results: Proteomics identified 21 significant different proteins, which belonged to protein folding/synthesis and cell structure amongst others. Increase of VDAC1 protein responsible for formation of mitochondrial channels was confirmed by mRNA expression. A 10-fold decrease of cytoskeleton proteins (STMN1, TBCA) provided a link to alterations of the cell cycle. CCNB1 and CCNE mRNA were decreased two-fold, and P21CIP increased 10-fold, indicative of cell cycle arrest. Morphological analysis of mitochondrial parameter confirmed a reduced mitochondrial activity. Conclusion: Hierridin B is a potential anticancer compound that targets mitochondrial activity and function.
Simulation Study on Thermo-Mechanical Controlled Process of 800 MPa-Grade Steel for Hydropower Penstocks
Authors: Ding Qingfeng , Wang Yuefeng , Wang Qingfeng , Wang Tiansheng
Published: August 2016

The thermo-mechanical controlled process (TMCP) of 800-MPa-grade non-quenched tempered steel used for penstocks was simulated on a Gleeble-3500 thermo-mechanical simulator. The effect of the finish cooling temperature (FCT) which ranged from 350–550 °C on the microstructure and mechanical properties was studied. The microstructure of TMCP specimens is primarily composed of lath bainite (LB) and granular bainite (GB). The decreased FCT can induce the increase of LB and the decrease of GB in the volume fraction, and the decrease in the amount and the size of Martensite/Austenite (M/A) constituents with a more dispersive distribution. The LB has higher strength and hardness than GB, and the GB with fine and dispersive M/A constituents has excellent impact toughness. The minimum values of the yield strength, tensile strength and hardness, and the maximum value of the impact absorbed energy are obtained for the FCT of 450 °C. For the FCT over 450 °C, the yield strength, tensile strength and hardness are increased slightly, but the impact absorbed energy is rapidly decreased, which is mainly attributed to the formation of block M/A constituents. When the FCT is around 400 °C, the optimal combination of yield strength and impact toughness is obtained, which meets the technical requirements of 800-MPa-grade hydropower penstock steel.
Small Molecule-Photoactive Yellow Protein Labeling Technology in Live Cell Imaging
Authors: Gao Feng , Gao Tang , Zhou Kechao , Zeng Wenbin
Published: August 2016

Characterization of the chemical environment, movement, trafficking and interactions of proteins in live cells is essential to understanding their functions. Labeling protein with functional molecules is a widely used approach in protein research to elucidate the protein location and functions both in vitro and in live cells or in vivo. A peptide or a protein tag fused to the protein of interest and provides the opportunities for an attachment of small molecule probes or other fluorophore to image the dynamics of protein localization. Here we reviewed the recent development of no-wash small molecular probes for photoactive yellow protein (PYP-tag), by the means of utilizing a quenching mechanism based on the intramolecular interactions, or an environmental-sensitive fluorophore. Several fluorogenic probes have been developed, with fast labeling kinetics and cell permeability. This technology allows quick live-cell imaging of cell-surface and intracellular proteins without a wash-out procedure.
13C-NMR-Based Metabolomic Profiling of Typical Asian Soy Sauces
Authors: Kamal Ghulam , Yuan Bin , Hussain Abdullah , Wang Jie , Jiang Bin , Zhang Xu , Liu Maili
Published: September 2016

It has been a strong consumer interest to choose high quality food products with clear information about their origin and composition. In the present study, a total of 22 Asian soy sauce samples have been analyzed in terms of 13C-NMR spectroscopy. Spectral data were analyzed by multivariate statistical methods in order to find out the important metabolites causing the discrimination among typical soy sauces from different Asian regions. It was found that significantly higher concentrations of glutamate in Chinese red cooking (CR) soy sauce may be the result of the manual addition of monosodium glutamate (MSG) in the final soy sauce product. Whereas lower concentrations of amino acids, like leucine, isoleucine and valine, observed in CR indicate the different fermentation period used in production of CR soy sauce, on the other hand, the concentration of some fermentation cycle metabolites, such as acetate and sucrose, can be divided into two groups. The concentrations of these fermentation cycle metabolites were lower in CR and Singapore Kikkoman (SK), whereas much higher in Japanese shoyu (JS) and Taiwan (China) light (TL), which depict the influence of climatic conditions. Therefore, the results of our study directly indicate the influences of traditional ways of fermentation, climatic conditions and the selection of raw materials and can be helpful for consumers to choose their desired soy sauce products, as well as for researchers in further authentication studies about soy sauce.
An Assessment of the Potential Impact of Fortification of Staples and Condiments on Micronutrient Intake of Young Children and Women of Reproductive Age in Bangladesh
Authors: Leyvraz Magali , Laillou Arnaud , Rahman Sabuktagin , Ahmed Tahmeed , Rahman Ahmed , Alam Nurul , Ireen Santhia , Panagides Dora
Published: September 2016

Bangladesh has experienced rapid economic growth and achieved major health improvements in the past decade, but malnutrition rates remain high. A nationally representative study conducted in 2011 assessed the dietary habits of 841 children 24–59 months old, 1428 children 6–14 years old, and 1412 nonpregnant, nonlactating women. The study’s objective was to assess dietary intakes of key micronutrients and the consumption pattern of potentially fortifiable foods, and then to model the potential impact of the fortification of key staple foods. The current intakes of several micronutrients—namely, iron, zinc, folate, vitamin A, and vitamin B12—were found to be insufficient to meet the needs of Bangladesh’s children and women. The fortification of rice with iron and zinc and edible oil with vitamin A has the potential to fill a significant part of the nutrient gap, as these are consumed widely and in significant amounts. Wheat flour and sugar are not as promising food vehicles in the Bangladeshi context, as they were consumed by a smaller portion of the population and in smaller amounts. In conclusion, fortification of rice and oil is recommended to address the large gap in micronutrient intakes.
Agricultural Soil Alkalinity and Salinity Modeling in the Cropping Season in a Spectral Endmember Space of TM in Temperate Drylands, Minqin, China
Authors: Sun Danfeng , Jiang Wanbei
Published: August 2016

This paper presents the potential of the four-image spectral endmember (EM) space comprising sand (SL), green vegetation (GV), saline land (SA), and dark materials (DA), unmixed from Landsat TM/ETM+ to map dryland agricultural soil alkalinity and salinity (i.e., soil alkalinity (pH) and soil electrical conductivity (EC)) in the shallow root zone (0–20 cm) using partial least squares regression (PLSR) and an artificial neural network (ANN). The results reveal that SA, SL, and GV fractions at the subpixel level, and land surface temperature (LST) are necessary independent variables for soil EC modeling in Minqin Oasis, a temperate-arid system in China. The R2 (coefficient of determination) of the optimized parameters with the ANN model was 0.79, the root mean squared error (RMSE) was 0.13, and the ratio of prediction to deviation (RPD) was 1.95 when evaluated against all sampled data. In addition to the aforementioned four variables, the DA fraction and the recent historical SA fraction (SAH) in the spring dry season in 2008 were also helpful for soil pH modeling. The model performance is R2 = 0.76, RMSE = 0.24, and RPD = 1.96 for all sampled data. In summary, the stable EMs and LST space of TM imagery with an ANN approach can generate near-real-time regional soil alkalinity and salinity estimations in the cropping period. This is the case even in the critical agronomic range (EC of 0–20 dS·m−1 and pH of 7–9) at which researchers and policy-makers require near-real-time crop management information.
Precise Measurement of Stem Diameter by Simulating the Path of Diameter Tape from Terrestrial Laser Scanning Data
Authors: You Lei , Tang Shouzheng , Song Xinyu , Lei Yuancai , Zang Hao , Lou Minghua , Zhuang Chongyang
Published: August 2016

Accurate measurement of stem diameter is essential to forest inventory. As a millimeter-level measuring tool, terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) has not yet reached millimeter-level accuracy in stem diameter measurements. The objective of this study is to develop an accurate method for deriving the stem diameter from TLS data. The methodology of stem diameter measurement by diameter tape was adopted. The stem cross-section at a given height along the stem was determined. Stem points for stem diameter retrieval were extracted according to the stem cross-section. Convex hull points of the extracted stem points were calculated in a projection plane. Then, a closed smooth curve was interpolated onto the convex hull points to simulate the path of the diameter tape, and stem diameter was calculated based on the length of the simulated path. The stems of different tree species with different properties were selected to verify the presented method. Compared with the field-measured diameter, the RMSE of the method was 0.0909 cm, which satisfies the accuracy requirement for forest inventory. This study provided a method for determining the stem cross-section and an efficient and precise curve fitting method for deriving stem diameter from TLS data. The importance of the stem cross-section and convex hull points in stem diameter retrieval was demonstrated.
Detecting Terrain Stoniness From Airborne Laser Scanning Data †
Authors: Nevalainen Paavo , Middleton Maarit , Sutinen Raimo , Heikkonen Jukka , Pahikkala Tapio
Published: August 2016

Three methods to estimate the presence of ground surface stones from publicly available Airborne Laser Scanning (ALS) point clouds are presented. The first method approximates the local curvature by local linear multi-scale fitting, and the second method uses Discrete-Differential Gaussian curvature based on the ground surface triangulation. The third baseline method applies Laplace filtering to Digital Elevation Model (DEM) in a 2 m regular grid data. All methods produce an approximate Gaussian curvature distribution which is then vectorized and classified by logistic regression. Two training data sets consisted of 88 and 674 polygons of mass-flow deposits, respectively. The locality of the polygon samples is a sparse canopy boreal forest, where the density of ALS ground returns is sufficiently high to reveal information about terrain micro-topography. The surface stoniness of each polygon sample was categorized for supervised learning by expert observation on the site. The leave-pair-out (L2O) cross-validation of the local linear fit method results in the area under curve A U C = 0 . 74 and A U C = 0 . 85 on two data sets, respectively. This performance can be expected to suit real world applications such as detecting coarse-grained sediments for infrastructure construction. A wall-to-wall predictor based on the study was demonstrated.
Coal Consumption Reduction in Shandong Province: A Dynamic Vector Autoregression Model
Authors: Deng Chun , Dong Jie-Fang
Published: August 2016

Coal consumption and carbon dioxide emissions from coal combustion in China are attracting increasing attention worldwide. Between 1990 and 2013, the coal consumption in Shandong Province increased by approximately 5.29 times. Meanwhile, the proportion of coal consumption of Shandong Province to China rose from 7.6% to 10.8%, and to the world, it rose from 1.8% to 5.5%. Identifying the drivers of coal consumption in Shandong Province is vital for developing effective environmental policies. This paper uses the Vector Autoregression model to analyze the influencing factors of coal consumption in Shandong Province. The results show that industrialization plays a dominant role in increasing coal consumption. Conversely, coal efficiency is the key factor to curtailing coal consumption. Although there is a rebound effect of coal efficiency in the short term, from a long-term perspective, coal efficiency will reduce coal consumption gradually. Both economic growth and urbanization have a significant effect on coal consumption in Shandong Province. In addition, the substitution effect of oil to coal has not yet met expectations. These findings are important for relevant authorities in Shandong in developing appropriate policies to halt the growth of coal consumption.
Sustainable and Practical Firmware Upgrade for Wireless Access Point Using Password-Based Authentication
Authors: Jang Jaejin , Jung Im
Published: August 2016

Wireless access points (WAPs) are devices that provide Internet connectivity to devices such as desktops, laptops, smartphones, and tablets. Hence, it is important to provide sufficient availability to devices and security for the traffic that is routed by a WAP. However, attackers can decrease the network bandwidth or obtain the traffic including private data such as search histories, login information, and device usage patterns by exploiting the vulnerabilities in firmware upgrades to install malicious firmware. To address this problem, we propose a sustainable and practical firmware upgrade for a WAP using password-based authentication. The proposed upgrade protocol ensures security by adding freshness to the firmware whenever a firmware upgrade occurs. This freshness is different for each event and each firmware; therefore, even if the freshness of one firmware is exposed, the others are secure. In addition, confidentiality, integrity, and authentication are ensured. Furthermore, the proposed protocol can be easily implemented and adapted to WAPs. Experiments are performed to evaluate the upgrade time, resource usage, and code size in wired and wireless connected environments by implementing a prototype and analyzing the security of the protocol. The results show that the proposed upgrade is secure and practical.
Estructuras laminares cerámicas
Authors: Sánchez del Río A.
Published: September 2016

Ha sido siempre objeto de singular atención, por parte de arquitectos e ingenieros, el estudio de los problemas que plantea la construcción de cubiertas de grandes luces, y más en estos tiempos que corremos en que todo tiende a superarse.
Iglesia, en Larderello. Italia
Authors: Michelucci Giovanni
Published: September 2016

Larderello es un centro de utilización y explotación de fuerzas endógenas y núcleo industrial de importancia excepcional para toda la nación. Como consecuencia, en los últimos años, se ha desarrollado una gran actividad constructiva: viviendas, escuelas, centro social, teatro... Michelucci fue encargado de realizar la composición urbanística del conjunto y el proyecto de la iglesia.
Preparation, Microstructural Characterization, and Selected Mechanical Properties of Ti-20Zr-2.5Mo and Ti-20Zr-7.5Mo Used as Biomaterial
Authors: Kuroda Pedro Akira Bazaglia , Buzalaf Marília Afonso Rabelo , Grandini Carlos Roberto
Published: August 2016

Titanium is used in the biomedical field due to its mechanical strength/density, corrosion resistance, and biocompatibility. In this paper, the preparation, and the structural, microstructural, and mechanical characterization of Ti-20Zr-2.5Mo and Ti-20Zr-7.5Mo alloys are presented. The elements were melted into an arc furnace with an argon controlled atmosphere. To determine the amount of impurities present in each alloy, an analysis of the chemical composition was conducted using EDS. The samples were characterized by measurements of density, X-ray diffraction (with the diffractograms refined by the Rietveld method), and optical and scanning electron microscopy. The mechanical properties were evaluated using Vickers microhardness test and modulus of elasticity. The results showed that that α’/α’’ and α’'/β phases coexisted in both of the prepared alloys, respectively. The alloys have higher hardness than cp-Ti and their modulus of elasticity values are very close to the modulus values of cp-Ti.
Acute Effects of Vagotomy on Baroreflex Equilibrium Diagram in Rats with Chronic Heart Failure
Authors: Kawada Toru , Li Meihua , Zheng Can , Sugimachi Masaru
Published: August 2016

The arterial baroreflex system can be divided into the neural arc, from pressure input to efferent sympathetic nerve activity (SNA), and the peripheral arc, from SNA to arterial pressure (AP). Plotting the neural and peripheral arcs on a pressure–SNA plane yields a baroreflex equilibrium diagram. We examined the effects of vagotomy on the open-loop static characteristics of the carotid sinus baroreflex in normal control rats (NC, n = 10) and rats with heart failure after myocardial infarction (MI, n = 10). In the NC group, vagotomy shifted the neural arc toward higher SNA and decreased the slope of the peripheral arc. Consequently, the operating-point SNA increased without a significant change in the operating-point AP on the baroreflex equilibrium diagram. These vagotomy-induced effects were not observed in the MI group, suggesting a loss of vagal modulation of the carotid sinus baroreflex function in heart failure.
MultiSyn: A Webtool for Multiple Synteny Detection and Visualization of User's Sequence of Interest Compared to Public Plant Species
Authors: Baek Jeong-Ho , Kim Junah , Kim Chang-Kug , Sohn Seong-Han , Choi Dongsu , Ratnaparkhe Milind B. , Kim Do-Wan , Lee Tae-Ho
Published: August 2016

Information on multiple synteny between plants and/or within a plant is key information to understand genome evolution. In addition, visualization of multiple synteny is helpful in interpreting evolution. So far, some web applications have been developed to determine and visualize multiple homology regions at once. However, the applications are not fully convenient for biologists because some of them do not include the function of synteny determination but visualize the multiple synteny plots by allowing users to upload their synteny data by determining the synteny based only on BLAST similarity information, with some algorithms not designed for synteny determination. Here, we introduce a web application that determines and visualizes multiple synteny from two types of files, simplified browser extensible data and protein sequence file by MCScanX algorithm, which have been used in many synteny studies.
Dysregulation of Protein Kinase Gene Expression in NK Cells from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/Myalgic Encephalomyelitis Patients
Authors: Chacko Anu , Staines Donald R. , Johnston Samantha C. , Marshall-Gradisnik Sonya M.
Published: August 2016

Background

The etiology and pathomechanism of chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME) are unknown. However, natural killer (NK) cell dysfunction, in particular reduced NK cytotoxic activity, is a consistent finding in CFS/ME patients. Previous research has reported significant changes in intracellular mitogen-activated protein kinase pathways from isolated NK cells. The purpose of this present investigation was to examine whether protein kinase genes have a role in abnormal NK cell intracellular signaling in CFS/ME.

Method

Messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of 528 protein kinase genes in isolated NK cells was analyzed (nCounter GX Human Kinase Kit v2 (XT); NanoString Technologies) from moderate ( n = 11; age, 54.9 ± 10.3 years) and severe ( n = 12; age, 47.5 ± 8.0 years) CFS/ME patients (classified by the 2011 International Consensus Criteria) and nonfatigued controls ( n = 11; age, 50.0 ± 12.3 years).

Results

The expression of 92 protein kinase genes was significantly different in the severe CFS/ME group compared with nonfatigued controls. Among these, 37 genes were significantly upregulated and 55 genes were significantly downregulated in severe CFS/ME patients compared with nonfatigued controls.

Conclusions

In severe CFS/ME patients, dysfunction in protein kinase genes may contribute to impairments in NK cell intracellular signaling and effector function. Similar changes in protein kinase genes may be present in other cells, potentially contributing to the pathomechanism of this illness.
Disruptive Behavior Disorders and Marijuana Use: The Role of Depressive Symptoms
Authors: Morse Melanie C. , Benson Kari , Flory Kate
Published: August 2016

Objective

The present study sought to examine the relations among disruptive behavior disorders (DBDs; ie, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder [ADHD], conduct disorder [CD], oppositional defiant disorder [ODD]), depressive symptoms, and marijuana use among a sample of late adolescents and emerging adults.

Method

A total of 900 students (75.8% female, 80.3% Caucasian, Mage = 20) from a large public university completed an online survey.

Results

Findings indicated that depressive symptoms mediated the relation between the marijuana use and past symptoms of ADHD, past diagnosis of ADHD, CD symptoms, CD diagnosis, and ODD diagnosis.

Conclusion

Depressive symptoms represent a link between DBDs and marijuana use that is suggested, but not well documented in the existing literature. The current findings add to this evidence and suggest a need to assess individuals presenting with symptoms of DBDs for depressive symptoms, as this symptom pattern may result in a greater likelihood of marijuana use.
Diffusion in Ni-Based Single Crystal Superalloys with Density Functional Theory and Kinetic Monte Carlo Method
Authors: Sun Min , Li Zi , Zhu Guo-Zhen , Liu Wen-Qing , Liu Shao-Hua , Wang Chong-Yu
Published: August 2016

In the paper, we focus on atom diffusion behavior in Ni-based superalloys, which have important applications in the aero-industry. Specifically, the expressions of the key physical parameter – transition rate (jump rate) in the diffusion can be given from the diffusion theory in solids and the kinetic Monte Carlo (KMC) method, respectively. The transition rate controls the diffusion process and is directly related to the energy of vacancy formation and the energy of migration of atom from density functional theory (DFT). Moreover, from the KMC calculations, the diffusion coefficients for Ni and Al atoms in the γ phase (Ni matrix) and the γʹ phase (intermetallic compound Ni3Al) of the superalloy have been obtained. We propose a strategy of time stepping to deal with the multi-time scale issues. In addition, the influence of temperature and Al concentration on diffusion in dilute alloys is also reported.
Development of an Antimicrobial Stewardship Program in a Rural and Remote Health Authority
Authors: Pammett Robert T , Ridgewell Alicia
Published: August 2016

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Possible Atazanavir-Induced Cholelithiasis in a Pregnant Woman: A Case Report
Authors: Bianchi Claire , Lévesque Kateri , Boucher Marc , Ferreira Ema
Published: August 2016

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United States Health Care System: A Pharmacy Perspective
Authors: Scott David M
Published: August 2016

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Effects of Cloud Condensation Nuclei and Ice Nucleating Particles on Precipitation Processes and Supercooled Liquid in Mixed-phase Orographic Clouds
Authors: Fan Jiwen , Leung L. Ruby , Rosenfeld Daniel , DeMott Paul J.
Published: August 2016

Abstract. How orographic mixed-phase clouds respond to the change of cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) and ice nucleating particles (INPs) are highly uncertain. The main snow production mechanism in warm and cold mixed-phase orographic clouds (referred to as WMOC and CMOC, respectively, distinguished here as those having cloud tops warmer and colder than −20 °C) could be very different. We quantify the CCN and INP impacts on supercooled water content, cloud phases and precipitation for a WMOC and a CMOC case with a set of sensitivity tests. It is found that deposition plays a more important role than riming for forming snow in the CMOC, while the role of riming is dominant in the WMOC case. As expected, adding CCN suppresses precipitation especially in WMOC and low INP. However, this reverses strongly for CCN > 1000 cm−3. We find a new mechanism through which CCN can invigorate mixed-phase clouds over the Sierra Nevada Mountains and drastically intensify snow precipitation when CCN concentrations are high (1000 cm−3 or higher). In this situation, more widespread shallow clouds with greater amount of cloud water form in the valley and foothills, which changes the local circulation through more latent heat release that transports more moisture to the windward slope, leading to much more invigorated mixed-phase clouds over the mountains that produce higher amounts of snow precipitation. Increasing INPs leads to decreased riming and mixed-phase fraction in the CMOC but has the opposite effects in the WMOC, as a result of liquid-limited and ice-limited conditions, respectively. However, it increases precipitation in both cases due to an increase of deposition for the CMOC but enhanced riming and deposition in the WMOC. Increasing INPs dramatically reduces supercooled water content and increases the cloud glaciation temperature, while increasing CCN has the opposite effects with much smaller significance.
Detecting small-scale spatial heterogeneity and temporal dynamics of soil organic carbon (SOC) stocks: a comparison between automatic chamber-derived C budgets and repeated soil inventories
Authors: Hoffmann Mathias , Jurisch Nicole , Garcia Alba Juana , Albiac Borraz Elisa , Schmidt Marten , Huth Vytas , Rogasik Holger , Rieckh Helene , Verch Gernot , Sommer Michael , Augustin Jürgen
Published: August 2016

Abstract. Carbon (C) sequestration in soils plays a key role in the global C cycle. It is therefore crucial to adequately monitor dynamics in soil organic carbon (∆SOC) stocks when aiming to reveal underlying processes and potential drivers. However, small-scale spatial and temporal changes in SOC stocks, particularly pronounced on arable lands, are hard to assess. The main reasons for this are limitations of the well-established methods. On the one hand, repeated soil inventories, often used in long-term field trials, reveal spatial patterns and trends in ∆SOC but require a longer observation period and a sufficient number of repetitions. On the other hand, eddy covariance measurements of C fluxes towards a complete C budget of the soil-plant-atmosphere system may help to obtain temporal ∆SOC patterns but lack small-scale spatial resolution. To overcome these limitations, this study presents a reliable method to detect both short-term temporal as well as small-scale spatial dynamics of ΔSOC. Therefore, a combination of automatic chamber (AC) measurements of CO2 exchange and empirically modeled aboveground biomass development (NPPshoot) was used. To verify our method, results were compared with ΔSOC observed by soil resampling. AC measurements were performed from 2010 to 2014 under a silage maize/winter fodder rye/sorghum-Sudan grass hybrid/alfalfa crop rotation at a colluvial depression located in the hummocky ground moraine landscape of NE Germany. Widespread in large areas of the formerly glaciated Northern Hemisphere, this depression type is characterized by a variable groundwater level (GWL) and pronounced small-scale spatial heterogeneity in soil properties, such as SOC and nitrogen (Nt). After monitoring the initial stage during 2010, soil erosion was experimentally simulated by incorporating topsoil material from an eroded midslope soil into the plough layer of the colluvial depression. SOC stocks were quantified before and after soil manipulation and at the end of the study period. AC-based ∆SOC values corresponded well with the tendencies and magnitude of the results observed in the repeated soil inventory. The period of maximum plant growth was identified as being most important for the development of spatial differences in annual ΔSOC. Hence, we were able to confirm that AC-based C budgets are able to reveal small-scale spatial and short-term temporal dynamics of ∆SOC.
A new remote hazard and risk assessment framework for glacial lakes in the
Nepal Himalaya
Authors: Rounce David R. , McKinney Daene C. , Lala Jonathan M. , Byers Alton C. , Watson C. Scott
Published: August 2016

Abstract. Glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs) pose a significant threat to downstream communities and infrastructure due to their potential to rapidly unleash stored lake water. The most common triggers of these GLOFs are mass movement entering the lake and/or the self-destruction of the terminal moraine due to hydrostatic pressures or a buried ice core. This study initially uses previous qualitative and quantitative assessments to understand the hazards associated with eight glacial lakes in the Nepal Himalaya that are widely considered to be highly dangerous. The previous assessments yield conflicting classifications with respect to each glacial lake, which spurred the development of a new holistic, reproducible, and objective approach based solely on remotely sensed data. This remote hazard assessment analyzes mass movement entering the lake, the stability of the moraine, and lake growth in conjunction with a geometric GLOF to determine the downstream impacts such that the present and future risk associated with each glacial lake may be quantified. The new approach is developed within a hazard, risk, and management action framework with the aim that this remote assessment may guide future field campaigns, modeling efforts, and ultimately risk-mitigation strategies. The remote assessment was found to provide valuable information regarding the hazards faced by each glacial lake and results were discussed within the context of the current state of knowledge to help guide future efforts.
Using object-based geomorphometry for hydro-geomorphological analysis in a
Mediterranean research catchment
Authors: Guida Domenico , Cuomo Albina , Palmieri Vincenzo
Published: August 2016

Abstract. The aim of the paper is to apply an object-based geomorphometric procedure to define the runoff contribution areas and support a hydro-geomorphological analysis of a 3 km2 Mediterranean research catchment (southern Italy). Daily and sub-hourly discharge and electrical conductivity data were collected and recorded during a 3-year monitoring activity. Hydro-chemograph analyses carried out on these data revealed a strong seasonal hydrological response in the catchment that differed from the stormflow events that occur in the wet periods and in dry periods. This analysis enabled us to define the hydro-chemograph signatures related to increasing flood magnitude, which progressively involves various runoff components (baseflow, subsurface flow and surficial flow) and an increasing contributing area to discharge. Field surveys and water table/discharge measurements carried out during a selected storm event enabled us to identify and map specific runoff source areas with homogeneous geomorphological units previously defined as hydro-geomorphotypes (spring points, diffuse seepage along the main channel, seepage along the riparian corridors, diffuse outflow from hillslope taluses and concentrate sapping from colluvial hollows). Following the procedures previously proposed and used by authors for object-based geomorphological mapping, a hydro-geomorphologically oriented segmentation and classification was performed with the eCognition (Trimble, Inc.) package. The best agreement with the expert-based geomorphological mapping was obtained with weighted plan curvature at different-sized windows. By combining the hydro-chemical analysis and object-based hydro-geomorphotype map, the variability of the contribution areas was graphically modeled for the selected event, which occurred during the wet season, by using the log values of flow accumulation that better fit the contribution areas. The results allow us to identify the runoff component on hydro-chemographs for each time step and calculate a specific discharge contribution from each hydro-geomorphotype. This kind of approach could be useful when applied to similar, rainfall-dominated, forested and no-karst catchments in the Mediterranean eco-region.
First magmatism in the New England Orogen, Australia: Forearc and arc-backarc components in the Bakers Creek Suite gabbros
Authors: McKibbin Seann J. , Landenberger Bill , Fanning Mark C.
Published: August 2016

Abstract. The New England Orogen, Eastern Australia, was established as an outboard extension of the Lachlan Orogen through the migration of magmatism into the forearc basin and accretionary prism. Widespread S-type granitic rocks of the Hillgrove and Bundarra Supersuites represent the first pulse of magmatism, followed by I- and A-types typical of circum-Pacific extensional accretionary orogens. Associated with the former are a number of small tholeiite-gabbroic to intermediate bodies of the Bakers Creek Suite, which are a heat source for production of granitic magmas and potential tectonic markers indicating why magmatism moved into the forearc and accretionary complexes, rather than rifting the old Lachlan Orogen arc. The Bakers Creek suite gabbros capture an early (~ 305 Ma) forearc basalt-like component with low Th/Nb and with high Y/Zr and Ba/La, recording melting in the mantle wedge with little involvement of a slab flux and indicating forearc rifting. Subsequently, arc-backarc like gabbroic magmas (305–304 Ma) were emplaced followed by diverse magmatism of mixed compositions leading up to the main S-type granitic intrusion (~ 290 Ma). This trend in magmatic evolution implicates forearc and other mantle wedge melts in the heating and melting of fertile accretion complex sediments and relatively long (~ 10 Myr) timescales for such melting.
PERFORMANCE COMPARISON OF VARIOUS SURFACE MODIFYING AGENTS ON PROPERTIES OF SILICA-FILLED CHLOROPRENE RUBBER
Authors: Siriwong Chomsri , Sae-Oui Pongdhorn , Sirisinha Chakrit
Published: August 2016

Influence of the surface modifying agents (SMAs) polyethylene glycol (PEG), 3-aminopropyl triethoxysilane (APTES), and bis-(3-triethoxysilylpropyl)tetrasulfide (TESPT) on properties of silica-filled chloroprene rubber (CR) was investigated. Results reveal that the presence of SMAs greatly improves mechanical and dynamic properties of the silica-filled CR because of the reduced filler–filler interaction and improved rubber–filler interaction as evidenced by the Payne effect and bound rubber content results, respectively. When compared at the same SMA dosage, TESPT gives the best overall vulcanizate properties. This effect is attributed to high coupling efficiency of TESPT and its ability to donate sulfur atoms during vulcanization, leading to the improved filler dispersion, rubber–filler interaction, and cross-link density. APTES gives high coupling efficiency, but because of the lack of sulfur atoms, its performance is slightly inferior to that of TESPT. In contrast, PEG can only reduce filler–filler interaction, with no significant impact on rubber–filler interaction and cross-link density; therefore, PEG provides lower property improvement.
The Influence of Student Support Programs upon the Academic Success of Nontraditional Students
Authors: Dauer Renee Allen , Absher Beverly
Published: August 2016

The profile of the typical college student attending a 4-year institution is changing. Trends
indicate that while the population of traditional students, aged 18-22, remains flat or is
declining, the population of nontraditional students, aged 24 and older, is increasing. As a
result, nontraditional students have become the new traditional student population. Despite
this shift in student demographics, many colleges and universities have been slow to respond
to the changing needs of their student populations. Consequently, nontraditional students are
forced to navigate an academic environment that is ill equipped to provide the unique support
they need to achieve academic success. Previous studies have primarily focused on the
academic success of nontraditional students in relation to student attrition and retention. The
purpose of this study was to determine if there was a significant relationship between the
academic success of nontraditional students and the use of student support programs. Data
from the 2011 National Survey of Engagement were used for the study. Results from this
study indicate that there is a direct correlation between the use of student support programs
and the academic success of nontraditional students; however, the relationship is weak. In
addition, age and gender were found to influence some of the relationships between academic
success and the use of student support programs. In contrast, race or ethnicity was not shown
to influence the relationships between the variables of interest. Findings may help leaders in
higher education to make more informed and strategic decisions regarding student support
programs and resource allocation.
Problems of Jordanian Public Universities’ Students: A Survey Study
Authors: Al-khawaldeh Saleh Salem , Alkhrsha Soud Fahd
Published: August 2016

This study aims at identifying the types of problems encountered Jordanian Public
UniversityStudents according to students themselves. It also seeks to investigate the effect of
the variables of faculty, level of study, gender and academic achievement on the degree of the
intensity of such problems. For this purpose, a version of Moony checklist for problems
student, adapted by Sowanah (1983), was used; it consists of (190) items classified into six
domains. The sample of the study was randomly selected and consists of (406) male and
female students.
The results of the study revealed that Jordanian Public University Students suffer from
problems in all six domains. They are arranged in descending order according to degree of
intensity as follows: Curricula and Methods of Instruction and adapting to University Life,
Social and Recreational Activity, Health and Physical Growth, Home and Family Personal
and Psycho-affective Relationships, Financial Position and vocational. No statistically
significant difference ( a = 0.05) in the degree of the problems intensity attributed to the
variables of students' faculty, level of study, gender or academic achievement was indicated.
Results also revealed a positive attitude of the students towards the counseling services
available to them and that they felt they need the same counseling services in all the study
domains with no statistically significant difference (a = 0.05) attributed to any of the study
variables. The researchers recommended an establishment of a counseling center in order to
help the students overcome their problems.

 
An Interactionist Approach to Learning Disabilities
Authors: Scruton Hilary , McNamara John
Published: August 2016

Traditional approaches to understanding learning disabilities date back to the early twentieth
century and are based primarily on medical models. Several useful strategies and techniques
emerged from these early models and still influence today’s classrooms. However, there are
also disadvantages to traditional approaches in that the models place much of the burden of
the disability on the individual. Post-modern and strength-based perspectives on learning
disabilities have attempted to account for the drawbacks of traditional models and have
re-framed learning disabilities in broader social and cultural contexts. The current paper
reviews these three perspectives and offers an alternative approach that attempts to bridge the
modern and post-modern perspectives on learning disabilities. The interactionist approached
offered in this paper calls for a processural or multi-faceted conception of learning disabilities.
Interactionism encourages educators and students with and without learning disabilities to
engage differences in ways that explore possibilities for productive and positive learning
from each other.
Indonesian Teachers’ Implementation of New Curriculum Initiatives in Relation to Teaching Writing in Lower Primary School
Authors: Sulfasyah Sulfasyah , Haig Yvonne , Barratt-Pugh Caroline
Published: August 2016

 

This paper reports an investigation of teachers’ implementation of a new Indonesian curriculum, the Kurikulum Tingkat Satuan Pendidikan (KTSP), meaning school-based curriculum. The specific context chosen was the teaching of writing in Year 2 in the primary schools of Makassar City, Indonesia. The teachers’ implementation was examined through the lens of the KTSP’s key constructivist-based concepts. Using qualitative methods, the study found that the teachers’ implementation of the new writing curriculum reflected a traditional view of teaching, despite the intent of the KTSP to move away from this approach to one that better reflected a constructivist approach. The study also revealed that the inconsistencies between the intentions of the KTSP and the basic competencies it mandated discouraged the teachers from changing their teaching and assessment practices. These findings have important implications for the development of policy and practice regarding the implementation of existing and future curricula in Indonesia and elsewhere.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 