bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
VARIATIONS OF SEA LEVEL AND GLOBAL CLIMATE IN MODERN CONDITIONS
Authors: Malinin Valeriy , Malinin Valeriy , Gordeeva Svetlana , Gordeeva Svetlana , Shevchuk Oleg , Shevchuk Oleg , Mitina Yuliya , Mitina Yuliya , Ершова Александра , Ershova Alexandra
Published: June 2018

Global warming can result in the rise of Sea Level (SL) by 40–100 cm by the end of the XXI century with possible catastrophic consequences for coastal zone. Study and prediction of long-term fluctuations of sea level is among the most important problems of modern hydrometeorology. A series of studies of SL interannual fluctuations have been carried out in RSHU. A reconstruction of SL fluctuations during the observation period of 1861-2010, i.e. 150 years, was performed on the basis of the developed statistical model showing a powerful linear trend describing 94% of the initial row dispersion. During the XX century the trend approached 1.8 mm/year. The comparison of actual and calculated SL trends for two periods (1980–2005 and 1993-2003) has shown that the residual error makes respectively 0.21 and 0.22 mm/year that is three times less, than in the Fourth IPCC report. Also, for the first time the complex of methods of SL longterm forecast was developed: the main advantage of a simple statistical model of SL longterm forecast is a minimum of initial information, but the model accuracy is comparable with complex and expensive ocean and atmosphere circulation models. The two-decade range physical-statistical sea level prediction model was developed for the first time based on the idea that Global Air Temperature (GAT) is a major factor of SL changes. It was experimentally shown that there is a long delay (20 and 30 years) of SL fluctuations with respect to Global Air Temperature.
METEOROLOGICAL CONDITIONS AFFECTING THE CURONIAN SPIT DUNE FORMATION (SOUTHEASTERN BALTIC COAST)
Authors: Stont Zhanna , Stont Zhanna , Ulyanova Marina , Ulyanova Marina , Sergeev Alexander , Sergeev Alexander
Published: June 2018

This article presents a study of the geomorphological changes of the Curonian Spit during last century. The analysis was conducted for both geological maps and satellite images. The eastward shift the southern part of the Curonian Spit dune ridge with velocity from 2 to 5 m per year takes place. The comparison of the slopes incline directions with denudation areas was done. In addition, the meteorological parameters affecting aeolian processes on the southeastern Baltic coastal were investigated for the period of 2005-2014. On average, dunes can be dispersed by wind throughout 3617 days in a year. Velocity and direction of the wind, as well as precipitation, are of dominating importance for the dune shift.
DISTRIBUTION OF DISSOLVED CHEMICAL ELEMENTS IN THE YENISEI RIVER ESTUARY AND ADJACENT WATER AREA OF THE KARA SEA
Authors: Savenko Alla , Savenko Alla , Pokrovsky Oleg , Pokrovsky Oleg , Streletskaya Irina , Streletskaya Irina
Published: June 2018

The distribution of dissolved chemical elements (major ions, nutrients, and trace elements) in the Yenisei River estuary and adjacent water area in 2009 and 2010 are presented. These results were compared to the data obtained during previous hydrochemical studies of this region. The transport of major cations (Na, K, Mg, Ca) and some trace elements (Rb, Cs, Sr, B, F, As, Mo, U) in the estuary follows conservative mixing. Alkalinity also belongs to conservative components, however this parameter exhibits substantial spatial heterogeneity caused by complex hydrological structure of the Yenisei Bay and adjoining part of the Kara Sea formed under the influence of several sources of desalination and salty waters inflow. Concentrations of Pmin, Si, and V in the desalinized waters of photic layer decrease seaward owing to uptake by phytoplankton. The losses of these elements reach 30–57, 30, and 9% of their supply by river runoff, respectively. The content of dissolved phosphates and vanadium in the intermediate and near-bottom layers of the Yenisei River estuary strongly increases with salinity due to regeneration of precipitated organic matter, whereas silica remineralization is much less pronounced. Barium is characterized by additional input of dissolved forms in the mixing zone in the quantity comparable to that carried out by river runoff. This may be caused by its desorption from river suspended matter due to ion exchange. The transport of dissolved Al and Mn in the estuarine zone is probably controlled by the coagulation and flocculation of organic and organomineral colloids, which is indicated by a decrease in the concentration of these elements at the beginning of the estuary (31 and 56%, respectively) followed by a stable concentration further seaward.
THE PRINCIPLES AND ACTIVITIES OF THE NATIONAL SCIENTIFIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY IN THE ARCTIC ZONE OF THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION
Authors: Bubynin Mikhail , Bubynin Mikhail , Abramov Valery , Abramov Valery , Zabolotnikov Gennady , Zabolotnikov Gennady , Krylov Alexey , Krylov Alexey
Published: June 2018

The paper considers the priorities of the state policy of the Russian Federation in the Arctic, from the point of view of the development of scientific research, identified by the main strategic documents of national policy and security in the Arctic zone of the Russian Federation. Measures for implementation of priorities in the development of scientific research in the Arctic can be divided into three main sections:
1. Scientific projects and expeditions in the Arctic;
2. International activities;
3. Coordination and implementation of integrated research in the Arctic.
Note that currently the Ministry of education and science of the Russian Federation develops the Analytical Coordination Program “Comprehensive research of the Arctic and Antarctic”, in cooperation with the federal state bodies and Governance of the Subjects of the Arctic zone of the Russian Federation. The mechanism of the Program will ensure coordination between state bodies for integrated scientific researches in the Arctic in the interests of economic and scientific development of the region, and the creation of the scientific, technical and technological reserve in order to ensure of national security in the Arctic zone of the Russian Federation.
GEOECOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT OF DANGEROUS NATURAL PROCESSES DEVELOPMENT FOR THE BLACK AND AZOV SEAS COASTS WITHIN THE TAMAN REGION
Authors: Podymova Tatiana , Podymova Tatiana , Podymov Igor , Podymov Igor
Published: June 2018

The work is devoted to geoecological assessment of dangerous natural processes development for the Black and Azov seas coasts within the Taman peninsula. Special consideration has given to a factor of tectonic instability for the region. By the example of the events has shown that this factor must stay at first place during geoecological risk assessment.
MONITORING OF THE THERMOABRASIONAL AND ACCUMULATIVE COASTS NEAR THE UNDERWATER GAS PIPELINE ROUTE ACROSS THE BAYDARATSKAYA BAY, KARA SEA
Authors: Belova Nataliya , Belova Nataliya , Baranskaya Alisa , Baranskaya Alisa , Kokin Osip , Kokin Osip , Kuznetsov Dmitry , Kuznetsov Dmitry , Shilova Olga , Shilova Olga , Shabanova Nataliya , Shabanova Nataliya , Vergun Aleksey , Vergun Aleksey , Ogorodov Stanislav , Ogorodov Stanislav
Published: June 2018

The coasts of Baydaratskaya Bay are composed by loose frozen sediments. At Yamal Peninsula accumulative coasts are predominant at the site where pipeline crosses the coast, while thermoabrasional coast are prevail at the Ural coast crossing site. Coastal dynamics monitoring on both sites is conducted using field and remote methods starting from the end of 1980s. As a result of construction in the coastal zone the relief morphology was disturbed, both lithodynamics and thermal regime of the permafrost within the areas of several km around the sites where gas pipeline crosses coastline was changed. At Yamal coast massive removal of deposits from the beach and tideflat took place. The morphology of barrier beach, which previously was a natural wave energy dissipater, was disturbed. This promoted inland penetration of storm surges and permafrost degradation under the barrier beach. At Ural coast the topsoil was disrupted by construction trucks, which affected thermal regime of the upper part of permafrost and lead to active layer deepening. Thermoerosion and thermoabrasion processes have activated on coasts, especially at areas with icy sediments, ice wedges and massive ice beds. Construction of cofferdams resulted in overlapping of sediments transit on both coasts and caused sediment deficit on nearby nearshore zone areas. The result of technogenic disturbances was widespread coastal erosion activation, which catastrophic scale is facilitated by climate warming in the Arctic.
MODERN ABRASION PROCESSES OF THE AZOV SEA COAST
Authors: Bespalova Lyudmila , Bespalova Lyudmila , Ivlieva Olga , Ivlieva Olga , Tsygankova Alla , Tsygankova Alla , Ioshpa Аlexander , Ioshpa Alexander , Sknarina Irina , Sknarina Irina , Kropyanko Larisa , Kropyanko Larisa
Published: June 2018

The Azov Sea Coast is subjected to a complex of hazardous exogenous geological processes, landslides and abrasion being the most important ones. Both natural and anthropogenic factors contribute to the development and intensification of these processes. These processes are currently growing due to an increased frequency of storm surges.
SEDIMENT MAPPING AND TRANSPORT PATHWAYS IN THE NEARSHORE ZONE OF THE RUSSIAN PART OF THE SOUTH-EASTERN BALTIC SEA
Authors: Dorokhova Evgenia , Dorokhova Evgenia , Dorokhov Dmitry , Dorokhov Dmitry
Published: June 2018

To achieve a more robust interpretation of sediment conditions and transport, our study combines the two different interpretation techniques. A side-scan sonar survey was used as a basis for detail sedimentological investigation. Grain-size analyses of grab samples provided sediment transport direction and decoding of sonar data. The new detail lithological map of the underwater shore slope of the northern Sambian peninsula and the Russian part of the Curonian spit in 1:50 000 scale is created. For the first time, the stretched zone of very fine sands is outlined at depths of 25-30 m of the Curonian spit underwater slope. These sands are relicts, and their formation is connected with accumulative processes on the ancient shores of the Baltic Sea. Separate morpho-lithodynamic cells are distinguished on the submarine slope of the northern Sambian peninsula coast up to a depth of 20 m. The cape areas of the Sambian peninsula serve as cell boundaries where a divergence of sediment trend and seabed erosion are observed. The convergence of sediment transport directions is confined to the bight’s central parts. Fine and very fine-grained sand accumulation prevails here.
DYNAMICS OF THE NEARSHORE ZONE OF KALAMITSKIY GULF (BLACK SEA) UNDER INFLUENCE OF WIND WAVES
Authors: Fomin Vladimir , Fomin Vladimir , Gurov Konstantin , Gurov Konstantin , Udovik Vladimir , Udovik Vladimir , Konovalov Sergey , Konovalov Sergey
Published: June 2018

Coastal zone dynamics is especially interesting for interdisciplinary researchers. This is due to general retreat of the coast of the Western Crimea and the fast response in the beach ar-ea. This justifies the need for monitoring of morphodynamic processes in the coastal zone of Crimea with the aim of qualitative and quantitative assessments of modern coastal trans-formation, as well as forecasts of possible changes. XBeach model has been used to simulate dynamics of waves and currents, sediment transport and changes in bottom topography, as well as the processes of drying and flooding of coastal areas. Erosion and sedimentation processes for the bottom sediments of the coastal zone of the Western Crimea have been numerically studied. The bottom profile has been reconstructed on the basis of bathymetric investigations in the coastal zone of the Western Crimea. Numerical simulations have been performed for various parameters of the bed composition and wind waves. Two fractions of bottom sediments have been considered for numerical experiments. The obtained results show that XBeach model can be successfully applied to simulate the bed profile evolution and changes in bottom sediment fractionation.
RECOGNIZING ECOSYSTEM SERVICES THROUGH EDUCATION FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT THAT UTILIZES THE SEA IN THE REGION
Authors: Hirai Ken , Hirai Ken
Published: June 2018

The relationship between people and the sea is weakening every year. We have conducted education for sustainable development (ESD) of the sea, aimed at deepening their understanding of the relationship between humans and the sea. We get method and we think that it can be a model to be implemented in other areas. The content of the lessons introduced on this occasion, we think that children were able to learn broadly about the ecosystem services of the sea, and became interested in the sea from many angles. we conducted more lessons, the willingness to take action by themselves has been nurtured.
THE MANAGEMENT OF HYDROMETEOROLOGICAL RISKS IN SOCIO-ECONOMIC SYSTEMS OF COASTAL AREAS
Authors: Istomin Evgeniy , Istomin Evgeniy , Sokolov Alexander , Sokolov Alexander , Fokicheva Anna , Fokicheva Anna , Slesareva Ludmila , Slesareva Ludmila , Попов Николай , Popov Nikolay
Published: June 2018

The article considers the problems of functioning and development of complex socio-economic systems of coastal areas in unstable weather-climatic conditions. It is known that the characteristics of the spatial organization of economy of coastal zones are defined industrial and trade specialization and tourism potential of the area It is shown that socio-economic systems are subject to a number of factors, including weather and climatic conditions, which can have both positive and negative effects on economic potential. development of the coastal areas. The density distribution and the economic activities should be considered. The classification of risks of socio - economic systems of coastal areas, due to the influence of hydrometeorological conditions are described. The need to incorporate the tasks of risk management function and the development of spatial distributed systems in the concept of integrated coastal zone management is justified. The model of management of hydrometeorological risks in the system "territory - economy - natural environment" in the space-time dimension is developed. Proposed methods of solving the problems of functioning and development of complex socio-economic systems are based on complex research carried out by the authors.
PERSPECTIVES OF THE PRACTICAL USE OF THE KIZILTASHSKY LIMAN GROUP
Authors: Krylenko Marina , Krylenko Marina
Published: June 2018

The Kiziltashsky limans are the largest water bodies of land-to-sea interface zone of the Krasnodar region Black Sea coast separated from the Black Sea by Anapa bay-bar. Their territory is included in the Perspective list of the Ramsar Convention as a unique wetland of international importance. Currently, the main type of recreational use of the liman water area is active rest. A diversity of natural conditions, a small degree of economic transformation of the landscape in combination with good transport access makes it possible to combine the active recreation forms with health-improving rest at the Anapa resort. In the presented paper the different proposals for economic use of the Kiziltashsky limans are analysed in terms of influence to geoecosystem.
SELF-PURIFICATION OF SEA COASTAL WATER AREAS UNDER CLIMATIC AND ANTHROPOGENIC CHANGE
Authors: Mesenzeva Irina , Mesenzeva Irina , Sovga Elena , Sovga Elena , Khmara Tatyana , Khmara Tatyana , Tsyganova Marina , Tsyganova Marina
Published: June 2018

The ability of a bay and gulf ecosystems to self-purification was estimated and the current ecological state of the Sevastopol Bay in whole and the separated parts of the bay was given as an example. A zoning by type of anthropogenic impact subject to the water exchange with the open sea and an influence of the Chernaya River run-off were taken into account. A comparative analysis of assimilation capacity of the most environmentally disadvantaged part of the Sevastopol Bay (the Southern Bay) and the clean water area, bordering on the open sea, was carried out. The hydrodynamic regime of the Sevastopol Bay was described using numerical modelling. The prospect, opportunity and examples of the methodology for assessing the assimilation capacity of marine ecosystems are demonstrated.
Pengaruh Prilaku Kepemimpinan Pengawas Terhadap Kinerja Operator Alat Berat Pada Kontraktor Pertambangan
Authors: Supardi Supardi
Published: June 2018

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui tentang pengaruh prilaku kepemimpinan pengawas produksi terhadap kinerja operator alat berat pada industri pertambangan mineral dan batubara.Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah analisa deskriptif dengan pengumpulan data menggunakan sistem sensus melalui kuisioner. Responden dalam penelitian ini adalah pengawas selaku atasan (14 orang) dan operator alat berat selaku bawahan (125 orang), teknik pengolahan data dan analisa model menggunakan program SPSS versi 20.0Dari hasil penelitian diketahui bahwa prilaku kepemimpinan pengawas berpengaruh secara positif dan hubungan yang cukup kuat terhadap kinerja operator alat berat.Rekomendasi terkait penelitian ini adalah untuk mendukung peningkatan kinerja operator alat berat maka prilaku kepemimpinan pengawas produksi terutama fungsi instruksi, fungsi konsultasi dan fungsi pengendalian harus dijalankan di industri pertambangan mineral dan batubara.
Adam Ferguson's Discourse on ‘Rude Nations’ in the Essay and the Critique of Despotic Empire
Authors: Hill Jack A.
Published: June 2018

This chapter seeks to advance Ferguson scholarship in two respects. First, it strives to recover and reconstruct ethical motifs which are implicit in Ferguson's discourse on rude nations. Second, it seeks to illustrate the interpretive power of these motifs by showing how they can be correlated with and enhance Ferguson's trenchant critique of despotic empire. In the process, it becomes possible to appreciate how Ferguson's own distinctively modern way of seeing the world incorporated moral understandings of peoples of rude nations. Ferguson integrates particular moral aspects of a diverse range of rude nations into a ‘multi-cultural’ critique of despotic tendencies in the Essay. This critique can be elucidated by contextualizing Ferguson's discourse on rude nations within his larger dialectical argument about the nature of civil society and moral life in the Essay, including his use of the terms ‘empire’ and ‘despotism’. Then, Ferguson's fears about despotic trends in empires can be illuminated by viewing them in relation to three ethical motifs derived from rude nations: acting from the heart in opposition and concert, playing one's part in the stations of life, and fashioning freedom with creativity and ingenuity.
A Proposal for a UK Ethics Council for Animal Policy: The Case for Putting Ethics Back into Policy Making
Authors: McCulloch Steven , Reiss Michael
Published: June 2018

Substantial controversy is a consistent feature of UK animal health and welfare policy. BSE,~foot and mouth disease, bovine TB and badger culling, large indoor dairies, and wild animals in circuses are examples. Such policy issues are inherently normative; they include a substantial moral dimension. This paper reviews UK animal welfare advisory bodies such as the Animal Health and Welfare Board of England, the Farm Animal Welfare Committee and the Animals in Science Committee. These bodies play a key advisory role, but do not have adequate expertise in ethics to inform the moral dimension of policy. We propose an “Ethics Council for Animal Policy” to inform the UK government on policy that significantly impacts sentient species. We review existing Councils (e.g., the Nuffield Council on Bioethics and The Netherlands Council on Animal Affairs) and examine some widely used ethical frameworks (e.g., Banner’s principles and the ethical matrix). The Ethics Council for Animal Policy should be independent from government and members should have substantial expertise in ethics and related disciplines. A pluralistic six-stage ethical framework is proposed: (i) Problematisation of the policy issue, (ii) utilitarian analysis, (iii) animal rights analysis, (iv) virtue-based analysis, (v) animal welfare ethic analysis, and (vi) integrated ethical analysis. The~paper concludes that an Ethics Council for Animal Policy is necessary for just and democratic policy making in all societies that use sentient nonhuman species.
International Animal Protection Society Leadership: The Right People for the Right Issues
Authors: Sinclair Michelle , Phillips Clive J. C.
Published: June 2018

As the increasing body of scientific information about the experiences of other species and their ability to suffer becomes available to those working within the field of animal welfare, the amount of potential issues to address also increases. Carefully choosing issues to address, and indeed leaders to drive the cause forward, has the potential to significantly increase the efficacy of the international animal welfare movement. Within this study 15 leaders of major international animal welfare organizations were interviewed about their experiences, thoughts and strategies, which have been primarily acquired through long-term exposure to the movement, and endeavors of trial and error. After thematic analysis, key themes are presented, along with strategies and cautions that may be beneficial to the animal welfare movement. Animal welfare leaders suggested a focus on issues that fitted well with their organizations’ remit and were not too broad, to avoid spreading resources and expertise too thin. A utilitarian framework was also considered important, aiming to improve the lives of as many animals as possible for the resources deployed. Good leaders were believed to have passion for their cause, not just for animals, and an ability to build and lead good teams, hence good interpersonal human skills were also perceived as essential. It is concluded that establishing what makes a good animal welfare leader could offer useful direction for future engagement of successful leaders in this field.
Occupancy-Driven Energy-Efficient Buildings Using Audio Processing with Background Sound Cancellation
Authors: Huang Qian
Published: June 2018

Demand-driven HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) operation is essential in occupant-oriented smart buildings, where the levels of heating, cooling, and ventilation are intelligently regulated to avoid energy waste. Despite the great potential of building energy efficiency, one of the remaining technical challenges is how to accurately estimate building occupancy information in real time. In this paper, this design challenge is addressed. An advanced audio-processing technique is adopted that minimizes the impacts of environmental sounds on the recorded voice sounds of humans. Adopted mathematical modeling and signal processing procedures are elaborated in this work. Experimental studies show that our proposed audio processing with background sound cancellation algorithm improves the estimation accuracy of room occupancy quantity by approximately 11–12%, which results in an averaged ventilation energy reduction of 3.54% compared to the case of not applying background sound cancellation. The proposed audio-processing technique is promising to achieve non-intrusive, cost-effective, robust, and accurate solutions for building occupancy estimation.
The Promoting Effect of Ce on the Performance of Au/CexZr1−xO2 for γ-Valerolactone Production from Biomass-Based Levulinic Acid and Formic Acid
Authors: Li Xiaoling , Li Jianmei , Liu Xudong , Tian Qi , Hu Changwei
Published: June 2018

The production of γ-valerolactone (GVL) directly from biomass-based levulinic acid (LA) and formic acid (FA) without extra hydrogen source is attractive but challenging, due to the requirement of a highly active and stable catalyst. In present work, Au/CexZr1−xO2 with various Ce/Zr ratios were prepared as the catalyst for GVL production from LA with the equivalent molar FA, and characterized by XRD, Raman-spectra, BET, NH3-TPD, TEM and XPS. It was found that the doped Ce in Au/CexZr1−xO2 catalyst could improve the reduction of Au3+ to metallic Au0, and also promoted the dispersion of Au0, yielding uniform Au0 nanoparticles with a small average particle size of about 2.4 nm, thus enhancing both the decomposition of FA to CO-free H2 and the hydrogenation of LA. Meanwhile, a certain amount of doped Ce (x ≤ 0.4) could facilitate the formation of tetragonal phase (the most desired structure on LA conversion to GVL), and increase the amount of weak and medium-strength acidic sites of catalyst, thereby promoting the dehydration reaction of the intermediate derived from LA hydrogenation. Au/Ce0.4Zr0.6O2 catalyst exhibited the best catalytic activity, achieving 90.8% of LA conversion and 83.5% of GVL yield (TON = 2047.8), with good recyclability, and the activity showed no obvious change after 5 runs.
Behavior of Concrete under the Addition of High Volume of Polyolefin Macro Fiber and Fly Ash
Authors: Adhikary Suman Kumar , Rudzionis Zymantas
Published: June 2018

This paper deals with behavior of concrete’s compressive and bending strengths with the addition of high amount of polyolefin macro fibers. Polyolefin fiber is used to increase the bending strength and compressive strength, these experiments are done to investigate the cracking behavior and found the bending strength and compressive strength of polyolefin fiber reinforced concrete. Normally, concrete is mixed with various amount of fiber, but in this experiment five different specimens were prepared, S-1 is without fiber; S-2, homogeneous mixing of fiber volume of 10 kg/m3; S-3, homogeneous mixing of fiber volume of 25 kg/m3; S-4, homogeneous mixing of fiber volume of 35 kg/m3; and S-5, which contains 25 kg/m3 fiber mixed by hand in three different layers. A small amount of fly ash (18.18% of cement mass) is also mixed in the concrete specimens for better results. Concrete specimens were tested on 7th day and 28th day of the curing process. Water absorption capacity and compressive strength tests were done in the dry state and wet state to find the strength difference. More than 50% of flexural strength was gained on the 28th day of the destructive test. Post-cracking behavior was observed on the 28th day of the test, the specimens with fiber content were found to take load after cracking and hold more load to failure.
An Eco-Critical Analysis of Climate Change and the Unthinkable in Amitav Ghosh’s Fiction and Non-Fiction
Authors: Vincent Suhasini
Published: June 2018

In his work of non-fiction The Great Derangement (2016), Amitav Ghosh examines the inability of the present generation to grasp the scale of climate change in the spheres of Literature, History and Politics. The central premise in this work of non-fiction is based on the statement that literature will one day be accused of its complicity with the great derangement and of blind acceptance of the climate crisis. This paper will study how Ghosh’s fictional and non-fictional enterprise voices a call for more imaginative and cultural forms of fiction that articulate resistance against materialism that can destroy our planet. We shall see how Ghosh’s fictional enterprise falls within the sphere of postcolonial eco-criticism that considers the phenomenon of “material eco-criticism”. I shall also reveal Ghosh’s environmental advocacy in his works of fiction, The Ibis Trilogy and The Hungry Tide. This paper will analyze how the Ibis Trilogy is not just an exploration of the particularly heinous operation of imperial power leading up to the Opium Wars but is also an eco-critical narrative that articulates resistance against the violence of climate change. A study of The Hungry Tide will also reveal how this hybrid literary text is both a historical account of the Marichjhapi massacre and a plea to preserve the eco-system of our time. I shall thus consider the challenges that climate change poses for the postcolonial writer and the evolving grid of literary forms that shape the narrative imagination.
A Critical Review of the Use of Virtual Reality in Construction Engineering Education and Training
Authors: Wang Peng , Wu Peng , Wang Jun , Chi Hung-Lin , Wang Xiangyu
Published: June 2018

Virtual Reality (VR) has been rapidly recognized and implemented in construction engineering education and training (CEET) in recent years due to its benefits of providing an engaging and immersive environment. The objective of this review is to critically collect and analyze the VR applications in CEET, aiming at all VR-related journal papers published from 1997 to 2017. The review follows a three-stage analysis on VR technologies, applications and future directions through a systematic analysis. It is found that the VR technologies adopted for CEET evolve over time, from desktop-based VR, immersive VR, 3D game-based VR, to Building Information Modelling (BIM)-enabled VR. A sibling technology, Augmented Reality (AR), for CEET adoptions has also emerged in recent years. These technologies have been applied in architecture and design visualization, construction health and safety training, equipment and operational task training, as well as structural analysis. Future research directions, including the integration of VR with emerging education paradigms and visualization technologies, have also been provided. The findings are useful for both researchers and educators to usefully integrate VR in their education and training programs to improve the training performance.
The High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein/Albumin Ratio Predicts Long-Term Oncologic Outcomes after Curative Resection for Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Oh Tak , Choi Young-Rok , Cho Jai , Yoon Yoo-Suk , Han Ho-Seong , Park In , Ryu Jung-Hee
Published: June 2018

High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) is a prognostic factor for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), while albumin is known to be a disease severity index of the malnutrition status in HCC patients. The present study investigated the association between postoperative hsCRP/albumin ratio and both overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS) following HCC surgery. This retrospective observational study examined the medical records of 389 patients who underwent resection for HCC between 2004 and 2013. Postoperative day 0–1 hsCRP/albumin ratio was collected, and the optimal postoperative mortality cut-off point was derived using receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analysis. A postoperative hsCRP/albumin ratio increase of 1.0 was associated with a 1.171-fold increase in mortality (hazard ratio (HR): 1.171, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.072–1.278, p < 0.001) and a 1.19-fold increase in recurrence (HR: 1.190, 95% CI: 1.108–1.278, p < 0.001). The hsCRP/albumin ratio cut-off point was found to be 0.625 and 0.500. When patients were grouped by this cut-off point, the >0.625 group showed a 2.257-fold increase in mortality (HR: 2.257, 95% CI: 1.470–3.466, p < 0.001), and the >0.500 group showed a 1.518-fold increase in recurrence (HR: 1.518, 95% CI: 1.125–2.050, p = 0.006).
The Corrosion Behavior of AZ91D Magnesium Alloy in Simulated Haze Aqueous Solution
Authors: Cui Liying , Liu Zhiyong , Hu Peng , Shao Jiamin , Li Xiaogang , Du Cuiwei , Jiang Bin
Published: June 2018

The corrosion process of AZ91D magnesium alloy in simulated haze aqueous solution has been studied by electrochemical measurements, immersion tests and morphology characterization. Results show that AZ91D was corroded heavily in simulated haze aqueous solution due to the loose and breakable product film on the surface providing little corrosion barrier. The effect of different ions was investigated. It was found that both N O 3 − and N H 4 + played an important role in the corrosion process. N O 3 − helped to form passive film to protect the matrix, yet N H 4 + consumed OH−, resulting in the absence of Mg(OH)2 and serious corrosion. Meanwhile, S O 4 2 − and Cl− had influence on pitting corrosion. Magnesium aluminum oxide and MgAl2(SO4)4·22H2O instead of Mg(OH)2 were the dominate products, which is different from the former study. Corrosion rate changed with time, especially in the first 3 h. A two-stage corrosion mechanism is proposed after considering both the corrosion process and the influence of ions.
Dislocation Based Flow Stress Model of 300M Steel in Isothermal Compression Process
Authors: Chen Rongchuang , Guo Peng , Zheng Zhizhen , Li Jianjun , Feng Fei
Published: June 2018

The relationship between microstructure and flow behaviour has attracted attention from many researchers for the past decades, whilst the influences of dislocation and recrystallization on flow stress have not been well understood, which led to failure in flow stress prediction at high temperature compressions. In this work, we tried to provide a novel explanation of the relationship between microstructure evolutions and flow behaviour, and the influence of dislocation and recrystallization on flow stress was investigated. A dislocation based flow stress model was proposed and applied for 300M steel at the strain rate of 0.01–10 s−1 and the temperature of 950–1150 °C. Results showed the established model could predict the flow stress both at constant strain rate conditions and at variable strain rate conditions. The present investigation is helpful to a better understanding of hardening and softening mechanisms in hot compression of 300M steel.
On the Shaping of a Short Signal at the Output of the Receiving Piezoelectric Transducer in the Radiation-Reception System
Authors: Ee Boris , Konovalov Roman , Konovalov Sergey , Kuz’menko Andrey , Tsaplev Valery
Published: June 2018

This paper theoretically and experimentally considers the pulsed mode of operation of the radiation-receiving system. The system contains two identical piezoceramic plates separated by a layer of immersion liquid (glycerin). The emitter was excited by the complex electrical signal of the special shape, which consisted of two half-cycles of the sine wave (exciting and compensating) on the natural frequency of the piezoplates. The forms of these signals were calculated by the authors and described in their previous papers using the d’Alembert method. The length of the electrical signal was estimated at the output of the piezoelectric receiver. The problem was solved theoretically using the finite element method. The acoustical system was simulated with the help of the COMSOL Multiphysics modeling environment. A comparative study of the theoretical and experimental results is carried out. The form of the signal at the output of the system was calculated by the d’Alembert method, and the simulated form by the finite element method was in good coincidence with the results of experimental and full-scale modeling. It is shown that the usage of complex waveforms allows achieving a significant pulse duration reduction of the electrical voltage at the output of the receiver.
Prevalence of the metabolic syndrome diagnosed using three different definitions and risk of ischemic heart disease among Kaunas adult population
Authors: Lukšienė Dalia , Bacevičienė Miglė , Tamošiūnas Abdonas , Černiauskienė Liucija , Margevičienė Lilija , Rėklaitienė Regina
Published: June 2018

The aim of this study was to compare the prevalence of the metabolic syndrome diagnosed using three different definitions and to evaluate its associations with ischemic heart disease in Kaunas adult population. Material and methods. Data of preventive screening carried out in Kaunas in 2001–2002 according to the MONICA study protocol were used for analysis; a total of 1336 persons aged 35–64 years (603 men and 733 women) were recruited. The metabolic syndrome was defined by the World Health Organization, Adult Treatment Panel III, and International Diabetes Federation definitions. Ischemic heart disease was diagnosed based on the following criteria: a documented history of myocardial infarction, angina pectoris, or ischemic changes on electrocardiogram. Results. The metabolic syndrome was identified for 11.3% of men and for 9.4% of women using the World Health Organization definition, for 19.4% of men and for 26.3% of women using the Adult Treatment Panel III definition, and for 30.0% of men and for 37.7% of women using the International Diabetes Federation definition. In male and female groups, the prevalence of the metabolic syndrome (irrespective of definition) significantly increased with age (P<0.05). After adjusting for age, men diagnosed with the metabolic syndrome using the International Diabetes Federation definition (OR=2.30; P=0.001) and Adult Treatment Panel III definition (OR=1.97; P=0.01) and women diagnosed with metabolic syndrome using the International Diabetes Federation definition (OR=1.50; P=0.039) had a significantly higher risk of having ischemic heart disease as compared with those without the metabolic syndrome by the same definitions. The metabolic syndrome diagnosed using the World Health Organization definition was not associated with a significant risk of ischemic heart disease in men and women. Conclusion. In Kaunas population aged 35–64 years, the highest prevalence of the metabolic syndrome was determined according to the International Diabetes Federation definition. Usage of the International Diabetes Federation and the Adult Treatment Panel III definitions in establishing diagnosis of the metabolic syndrome provides more opportunities to identify subjects with ischemic heart disease.
New insights for adult cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Up-coming resuscitation guidelines 2010
Authors: Pranskūnas Andrius , Dobožinskas Paulius , Pilvinis Vidas , Petkevičiūtė Živilė , Jasinskas Nedas , Stašaitis Kęstutis , Vaitkaitienė Eglė , Vaitkaitis Dinas
Published: June 2018

Despite advances in cardiac arrest care, the overall survival to hospital discharge remains poor. The objective of this paper was to review the innovations in cardiopulmonary resuscitation that could influence survival or change our understanding about cardiopulmonary resuscitation. We have performed a search in the MEDLINE and the Cochrane databases for randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, expert reviews from December 2005 to March 2010 using the terms cardiac arrest, basic life support, and advanced life support. The lack of randomized trials during the last 5 years remains the main problem for crucial decisions in cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Current trends in cardiopulmonary resuscitation are toward minimizing the interruptions of chest compressions and improving the quality of cardiopulmonary resuscitation. In addition, attention should be paid to all the parts of chain of survival, which remains essential in improving survival rates.
Knocking out Ornithine Decarboxylase Antizyme 1 (OAZ1) Improves Recombinant Protein Expression in the HEK293 Cell Line
Authors: Abaandou Laura , Shiloach Joseph
Published: June 2018

Creating efficient cell lines is a priority for the biopharmaceutical industry, which produces biologicals for various uses. A recent approach to achieving this goal is the use of non-coding RNAs, microRNA (miRNA) and small interfering RNA (siRNA), to identify key genes that can potentially improve production or growth. The ornithine decarboxylase antizyme 1 (OAZ1) gene, a negative regulator of polyamine biosynthesis, was identified in a genome-wide siRNA screen as a potential engineering target, because its knock down by siRNA increased recombinant protein expression from human embryonic kidney 293 (HEK293) cells by two-fold. To investigate this further, the OAZ1 gene in HEK293 cells was knocked out using CRISPR genome editing. The OAZ1 knockout cell lines displayed up to four-fold higher expression of both stably and transiently expressed proteins, with comparable growth and metabolic activity to the parental cell line; and an approximately three-fold increase in intracellular polyamine content. The results indicate that genetic inactivation of OAZ1 in HEK293 cells is an effective strategy to improve recombinant protein expression in HEK293 cells.
Multiscale Modelling of Hydrogen Transport and Segregation in Polycrystalline Steels
Authors: Hüter Claas , Shanthraj Pratheek , McEniry Eunan , Spatschek Robert , Hickel Tilmann , Tehranchi Ali , Guo Xiaofei , Roters Franz
Published: June 2018

A key issue in understanding and effectively managing hydrogen embrittlement in complex alloys is identifying and exploiting the critical role of the various defects involved. A chemo-mechanical model for hydrogen diffusion is developed taking into account stress gradients in the material, as well as microstructural trapping sites such as grain boundaries and dislocations. In particular, the energetic parameters used in this coupled approach are determined from ab initio calculations. Complementary experimental investigations that are presented show that a numerical approach capable of massive scale-bridging up to the macroscale is required. Due to the wide range of length scales accounted for, we apply homogenisation schemes for the hydrogen concentration to reach simulation dimensions comparable to metallurgical process scales. Via a representative volume element approach, an ab initio based scale bridging description of dislocation-induced hydrogen aggregation is easily accessible. When we extend the representative volume approach to also include an analytical approximation for the ab initio based description of grain boundaries, we find conceptual limitations that hinder a quantitative comparison to experimental data in the current stage. Based on this understanding, the development of improved strategies for further efficient scale bridging approaches is foreseen.
Untargeted Metabolomic Analysis of Rat Neuroblastoma Cells as a Model System to Study the Biochemical Effects of the Acute Administration of Methamphetamine
Authors: Maker Garth L. , Green Tobias , Mullaney Ian , Trengove Robert D.
Published: June 2018

Methamphetamine is an illicit psychostimulant drug that is linked to a number of diseases of the nervous system. The downstream biochemical effects of its primary mechanisms are not well understood, and the objective of this study was to investigate whether untargeted metabolomic analysis of an in vitro model could generate data relevant to what is already known about this drug. Rat B50 neuroblastoma cells were treated with 1 mM methamphetamine for 48 h, and both intracellular and extracellular metabolites were profiled using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Principal component analysis of the data identified 35 metabolites that contributed most to the difference in metabolite profiles. Of these metabolites, the most notable changes were in amino acids, with significant increases observed in glutamate, aspartate and methionine, and decreases in phenylalanine and serine. The data demonstrated that glutamate release and, subsequently, excitotoxicity and oxidative stress were important in the response of the neuronal cell to methamphetamine. Following this, the cells appeared to engage amino acid-based mechanisms to reduce glutamate levels. The potential of untargeted metabolomic analysis has been highlighted, as it has generated biochemically relevant data and identified pathways significantly affected by methamphetamine. This combination of technologies has clear uses as a model for the study of neuronal toxicology.
3D Integrated Circuit Cooling with Microfluidics
Authors: Wang Shaoxi , Yin Yue , Hu Chenxia , Rezai Pouya
Published: June 2018

Using microfluidic cooling to achieve thermal management of three-dimensional integrated circuits (ICs) is recognized as a promising method of extending Moore law progression in electronic components and systems. Since the U.S. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency launched Intra/Inter Chip Enhanced Cooling thermal packaging program, the method of using microfluidic cooling in 3D ICs has been under continuous development. This paper presents an analysis of all publications available about the microfluidic cooling technologies used in 3D IC thermal management, and summarized these research works into six categories: cooling structure design, co-design issues, through silicon via (TSV) influence, specific chip applications, thermal models, and non-uniform heating and hotspots. The details of these research works are given, future works are suggested.
Subsidence Management System for Underground Mining
Authors: Sanmiquel Lluís , Bascompta Marc , Vintró Carla , Yubero Teresa
Published: June 2018

Potash mining is an important economic activity in the north-east of Spain. However, one of the main environmental issues produced for such type of mining is subsidence, which generates horizontal and vertical ground displacements. A Geographic Information System (GIS)-based model is proposed as a management system in a case study with two mines. This system is able to deal with subsidence data and its behavior over time. More than 1300 control points are included in the GIS, with data since 2007. These data processed by the GIS allowed determining the module, sense and direction of the displacements, the sinking velocity and the possible affectation of subsidence to infrastructures and buildings. Hence, the system created can be a useful tool to manage subsidence data, determine its evolution, predict future environmental and social impacts and control corrective measures.
In-Situ Growth of NiAl-Layered Double Hydroxide on AZ31 Mg Alloy towards Enhanced Corrosion Protection
Authors: Ye Xin , Jiang Zimin , Li Linxin , Xie Zhi-Hui
Published: June 2018

NiAl-layered double hydroxide (NiAl-LDH) coatings grown in-situ on AZ31 Mg alloy were prepared for the first time utilizing a facile hydrothermal method. The surface morphologies, structures, and compositions of the NiAl-LDH coatings were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), three dimensional (3D) optical profilometer, X-ray diffractometer (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FT-IR), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The results show that NiAl-LDH coating could be successfully deposited on Mg alloy substrate using different nickel salts, i.e., carbonate, nitrate, and sulfate salts. Different coatings exhibit different surface morphologies, but all of which exhibit remarkable enhancement in corrosion protection in 3.5 wt % NaCl corrosive electrolyte. When nickel nitrate was employed especially, an extremely large impedance modulus at a low frequency of 0.1 Hz (|Z|f = 0.1 Hz), 11.6 MΩ cm2, and a significant low corrosion current density (jcorr) down to 1.06 nA cm−2 are achieved, demonstrating NiAl-LDH coating’s great potential application in harsh reaction conditions, particularly in a marine environment. The best corrosion inhibition of NiAl-LDH/CT coating deposited by carbonate may partially ascribed to the uniform and vertical orientation of the nanosheets in the coating.
Effect of Graphene Nanowall Size on the Interfacial Strength of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Composites
Authors: Wang Xiao , Li Chaolong , Chi Yao , Piao Mingxing , Chu Jin , Zhang Heng , Li Zhenghao , Wei Wei
Published: June 2018

Graphene nanowalls (GNWs) with different sizes (i.e., length and height) were grown directly on the surface of individual carbon fibers (CFs) using a radio frequency plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (RF-PECVD) technique. The size was controlled by varying the deposition time. The GNW-modified CFs were embedded into epoxy resin matrix to prepare a series of carbon-fiber-reinforced composites (CFRCs). The results indicated that GNWs were remarkably effective in improving the interfacial shear strength (IFSS) and interlaminar shear strength (ILSS) of the carbon-fiber-reinforced composites. The enhancement effect on the strength strongly depended on the size of GNWs. It increased with the increase in the GNWs’ size and reached the maximum upon the incorporation of GNWs that were grown for 45 min. Noticeable increases of 222.8% and 41.1% were observed in IFSS and ILSS, respectively. The enhancement mechanism was revealed by means of scanning electron microscope (SEM) fractography analysis. However, further increase of GNW size led to no more improvement in the shear strength. It could result from the increased defect concentration and wrinkle size in the GNWs, which deteriorated the strength.