bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Two-Microphone Dereverberation for Automatic Speech Recognition of Polish
Authors: Kundegorski Mikolaj , Jackson Philip J.B. , Ziółko Bartosz
Published: March 2015

Reverberation is a common problem for many speech technologies, such as automatic speech recognition (ASR) systems. This paper investigates the novel combination of precedence, binaural and statistical independence cues for enhancing reverberant speech, prior to ASR, under these adverse acoustical conditions when two microphone signals are available. Results of the enhancement are evaluated in terms of relevant signal measures and accuracy for both English and Polish ASR tasks. These show inconsistencies between the signal and recognition measures, although in recognition the proposed method consistently outperforms all other combinations and the spectral-subtraction baseline.
Characterization of Lipid and Cell Membrane Organization by the Fluorescence Correlation Spectroscopy Diffusion Law
Authors: Ng Xue Wen , Bag Nirmalya , Wohland Thorsten
Published: April 2015

The plasma membrane organization of live cells defines a plethora of cellular processes important for cell functionality. Many membrane structures that define this organization exist at a spatial resolution below the optical diffraction limit and are highly dynamic. Therefore, a method
with millisecond time resolution and nanometer spatial resolution is required for the investigation of plasma membrane organization. However, spatial and temporal resolutions of the currently available biophysical techniques are often mutually exclusive. In a novel realization, Lenne and coworkers
developed a spot-variation modality of fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS), also known as FCS diffusion law, to harvest nanoscopic information from microscopic measurements. The FCS diffusion law, so far, has been instrumental to decode the physico-chemical origin of membrane organization
and its relationship with biological processes. Overall, the structural information of plasma membrane obtained by FCS diffusion law provides a better understanding of its coupling to the underlying cellular processes.
Skin Concentrations of Topically Applied Substances in Reconstructed Human Epidermis (RHE) Compared with Human Skin Using in vivo Confocal Raman Microscopy
Authors: Fleischli Franziska D. , Morf Fabienne , Adlhart Christian
Published: April 2015

Detailed knowledge about the skin concentration of topically applied substances is important to understand their local pharmacological activity. In particular since in vitro models of reconstructed human epidermis are increasingly used as models for diseased skin. In general,
diffusion cell experiments are performed to determine the diffusion flux of test substances through either skin models or excised skin both from humans and animals. Local concentrations of the test substances within the skin are then calculated applying diffusion laws and suitable boundary
conditions. In this study we used a direct approach to reveal the local concentrations of test substances within skin using confocal Raman microscopy. This non-invasive method can also be applied in vivo and therefore we directly compared in vivo concentrations with those obtained
from commercially available reconstructed human epidermis (RHE). Hydrophilic and lipophilic test substances with log Pow from –0.07 to 5.91 were topically applied on human skin in vivo and RHE from SkinEthic was used as the commercial skin model. Local concentration
profiles in the stratum corneum (SC) showed substantial differences between the RHE model and the in vivo situation. Differences between RHE models and human skin in vivo were also observed in their molecular composition, in particular in terms of their water profile, lipid content
and the presence of natural moisturizing factor (NMF). Confocal Raman is shown to be a powerful non-invasive method for qualitative and quantitative comparative studies between RHE models and human skin in vivo. This method can also be applied to validate RHE models for future use in clinical studies.
School Desegregation and Teenage Fertility
Authors: Bifulco Robert , Lopoo Leonard M. , Oh Sun Jung
Published: April 2015

The school desegregation efforts following the historic Brown v. Board of Education decision represent one of the most important social policy initiatives of the 20th century. Despite a large research literature that shows many positive effects of desegregation on educational outcomes, its effect on the lives of individuals outside of the educational domain are still not fully understood. In this article, we examine the effects of desegregation on the fertility of teenagers. In contrast to previous findings, our analysis suggests that desegregation did not reduce the fertility of non-White teens, and, if it had any effect at all, it likely increased birthrates among non-White teens in counties with small to average-sized non-White populations.
Health Promotion among Mentally Ill People in Nepal
Authors: Ghimire S. R. , Dhungana M , Bhagat S , Parajuli S
Published: April 2015

Mental health is a neglected area and the activities to promote mental health are limited in Nepal. Exploration of various social determinants of mental health is needed prior to starting mental health promotion that do not only lie within health sector but also deeply rooted outside. Mental health promotional and preventive program needs to be locally relevant, culturally appropriate and cost effective, and require social and public health approaches. Provision of community mental health strategy to the door step of people can be an effective strategy to promote health among mentally ill population. Health sector needs to be coordinated and collaborated with other sectors to address the complex mental health problems. Consideration of cultural and religious aspect in health care systems is essential to ensure that every community are equally respected and are treated equally despite variation.J Psychiatric Association of Nepal Vol .3, No.2, 2014, pp-3-8DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jpan.v3i2.12378
Dissociative disorders: A study of clinico-demographic profile and associated stressors
Authors: Thapa R
Published: April 2015

Objectives: To study relevant clinico-demographic profile and stressors of dissociative disorders.  Methods: this is a case control study of 39 cases of dissociative disorders and compared with 39 controls using a self designed questionnaire and G. Singh’s Presumptive Stressful Life Events Scale (PSLE). Results: The mean age of the cases was 21.23 years. Cases of Dissociative motor disorders had significantly higher age (26.4 yrs) as compared to dissociative convulsion (18.8 yrs) and dissociative stupor (20.6 yrs). (38.5%).Two thirds of the cases had comorbid neuro-psychiatric illness, the commonest one being depression (35.9%). The cases had more stressful life events in the past one year as well as whole life when compared to controls. Family conflict was seen to be the commonest precipitating stress.Conclusions: Dissociative disorder mainly affects young people. Dissociative motor disorder is a distinct subtype with a higher age of onset. Presence of neuro-psychiatric co-morbidity is the rule rather than exception. Psychosocial stressors play an important role in disease production.J Psychiatric Association of Nepal Vol .3, No.2, 2014, pp: 25-30DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jpan.v3i2.12386
Bhikkhu Vivekanand; Vipassyana Meditataion and his address as a guest of honour to the 8the SSARC Psychiatric Federation International Conference in Lumbini Nepal
Authors: Upadhyaya K D
Published: April 2015

N/AJ Psychiatric Association of Nepal Vol .3, No.2, 2014, pp: 53-54DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jpan.v3i2.12400
Reducing debinding time in thick components fabricated by powder injection molding
Authors: Safarian Asghar , Subaşi Mehmet , Karataş Çetin
Published: April 2015

Of the five steps in powder injection molding, namely feedstock formulation, mixing, injection, debinding and sintering, the one which markedly demands more time is debinding. Studying the effect of specimen thickness on debinding time in the current study, 316L stainless steel feedstock was exploited as the material for fabrication cylindrical specimens with varying thicknesses ranging from 2 to 10 mm. The thicker the specimen, the more time-consuming the debinding is. In addition, a novel method has been presented to produce thick components with large sections by powder injection molding, using preformed inserts in the injection stage. By using a wrought insert on which the feedstock is injected, the thickness of the injected section in need of debinding decreased while the whole thickness of the component was still large. Finally, defect-free specimens with diameter of 20 mm have been fabricated using inserts with different sizes, which resulted in dramatic reduction of debinding time from several days to only some hours. Moreover, it revealed that the interface of the insert and injected section was bonded properly, reaching more than 400 MPa of shear strength, depending on insert/part diameter ratio.
Study on the σ-phase precipitation of SAF2906 duplex stainless steel
Authors: Fang Yuanfang , Ren Xueping
Published: April 2015

Samples of SAF2906 duplex stainless steel were aged at 650 °C, 700 °C, 750 °C, 800 °C, 850 °C, 900 °C and 950 °C for 1 h, after high temperature solution heat treatment. The morphology of 𝜎-phase in aged SAF2906 duplex stainless steel was then studied by means of scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy, and the chemical composition of the 𝜎-phase was determined using X-ray energy dispersive spectrometry. The results indicated that the 𝜎 precipitation in SAF2906 duplex stainless steel formed both inside δ-ferrite with high Cr and Mo concentrations, and along δ-ferrite/γ-austenite interfaces; however, relative to the SAF2205 and SAF2507 duplex stainless steels, the content of Cr in 𝜎-phase increased significantly up to 70 %, which was much higher than Fe in the same phase and became the major element of 𝜎-phase.
Reflection and transmission of ocean wave spectra by a band of randomly distributed ice floes
Authors: Montiel Fabien , Squire Vernon A. , Bennetts Luke G.
Published: April 2015

A new ocean wave/sea-ice interaction model is proposed that simulates how a directional wave spectrum evolves as it travels through an arbitrary finite array of circular ice floes, where wave/ ice dynamics are entirely governed by wave-scattering effects. The model is applied to characterize the wave reflection and transmission properties of a strip of ice floes, such as an ice edge band. A method is devised to extract the reflected and transmitted directional wave spectra produced by the array. The method builds upon an integral mapping from polar to Cartesian coordinates of the scattered wave components. Sensitivity tests are conducted for a row of floes randomly perturbed from a regular arrangement. Results for random arrays are generated using ensemble averaging. A realistic ice edge band is then reconstructed from field experiment data. Simulations show good qualitative agreement with the data in terms of transmitted wave energy and directional spreading. In particular, it is observed that short waves become isotropic quickly after penetrating the ice field.
Assessment of Coagulation Disorder in Women Taking Oral Contraceptives
Authors: Samsunnahar - , Akhter Qazi Shamima , Atiquzzaman - , Akhter Najneen , Begum US Naima , Rahman Farhana
Published: March 2015

Background: Oral contraceptive pill (OCP) is related to development of hypercoagulability and the risk of thromboembolic effects in women. Objectives: To assess the coagulability status in women taking oral contraceptives by estimation of plasma fibrinogen level and total count of platelets. Methods: This cross sectional study was conducted in the Department of Physiology, Dhaka Medical College, Dhaka, during the period of January 2012 to December 2012 on sixty apparently healthy female subjects aged 25 to 45 years taking OCPs for 1 to 10 years. Thirty subjects were 1 to 5 years user group and another 30 subjects were >5 to 10 years user group. They were collected from family planning clinics of Dhaka city. In addition, age matched 30 apparently healthy women of OCP nonusers were also studied as control. For assessment of coagulability state, plasma fibrinogen and total counts of platelet levels were estimated by automated coagulation analyzer and automated hematology analyzer. Statistical analysis was done by unpaired Students t test. Results: The mean (±SE) total count of platelet level was significantly higher (P<0.001) in contraceptive user group and plasma fibrinogen level was higher in users but it was not significant. Conclusion: This study concludes that OCP users had more tendency of hypercoagulability and therefore these women are at higher risk of thromboembolic effects. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbsp.v9i1.22786 Bangladesh Soc Physiol. 2014, June; 9(1): 1-5
Effect of Deep Relaxation on Heart Rate Variability in Sedentary Females
Authors: Fatema Monzur E , Begum Noorzahan , Ferdousi Sultana
Published: March 2015

Background: Lower heart rate variability (HRV) in sedentary people is associated with higher risk of coronary heart diseases. Deep Relaxation Technique (DRT) generate higher HRV which reduces the risk of coronary heart disease. Objective: To assess HRV after practicing DRT to find out its effect on cardiac autonomic nerve function in sedentary subjects. Methods: This study with intervention by DRT was carried out in the Department of Physiology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University from July 2012 to June 2013 on 30 apparently healthy sedentary females aged 25-35 years practicing DRT for 3 months. 30 apparently healthy sedentary females who had no experience of relaxation technique constituted control. All subjects were sedentary housewives. The study subjects were participants in a private yoga center in Dhaka. HRV was assessed by RMS polynte D and frequency domain parameters were analysed. Statistical analysis was done by Independent Sample t-test. Results: Total power (p<0.001), HF power (p<0.01), HF norm (p<0.05) were significantly higher and LF power (p<0.001), LF norm (p<0.05), LF/HF (p<0.01) were significantly lower in the relaxation group than those of non relaxation group. Conclusion: Cardiac autonomic nerve function was improved by practice of DRT with parasympathetic dominance in sedentary females. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbsp.v9i1.22787 Bangladesh Soc Physiol. 2014, June; 9(1): 6-10
Insulin Secretory Status in Obese Female
Authors: Tasnim Masuma , Akhter Qazi Shamima , Akhter Salma , Lovely Nasreen Sultana , Begum Khadiza , Sinha Susmita
Published: March 2015

Background: In obesity insulin hypersecretion is a key feature indicating the abnormal pancreatic beta cell function which is the fundamental defect in the development of NIDDM, hypertension and cardiovascular diseases. Objective: To assess the secretory status of insulin in adult obese female. Methods: The present study was a cross sectional analytical study and conducted in the Department of Physiology, Dhaka Medical College, Dhaka from July 2012 to June 2013. 50 obese female subjects of 20-40 years were included from Out-patient Department (Obesity clinic) of BIRDEM Hospital, Dhaka and by personal contact from different areas of Dhaka city. 50 age matched, healthy non-obese female subjects selected as controls . Fasting serum insulin level was measured by ELISA and fasting glucose level was measured by Glucose oxidase method. The insulin secretory status was calculated by HOMA-%B using HOMA software. For statistical analysis unpaired Students t test and Pearsons correlation coefficient (r) test were performed as applicable . Result: Mean fasting serum insulin and HOMA%B (P<0.001) were higher in the obese than that non obese. Fasting serum insulin level and HOMA%B showed significantly positive correlation with WHR. Conclusion: This study concludes that obese individual develops a state of insulin hypersecretion and hyperinsulinemia. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbsp.v9i2.22800 Bangladesh Soc Physiol. 2014, December; 9(2): 72-77
Histomorphometric Study of the Proportion of Different Zones of Adrenal Cortex  A Postmortem Study
Authors: Siddiqua Dilruba , Nurunnabi Abu Sadat Mohammad , Johora Fatema , Hena Hasna , Shahriah Sunjida , Ara Shamim
Published: March 2015

Background: The human adrenal cortex shows a distinct proportion of three zones, named zona glomerulosa, zona fasciculate & zona reticularis, from outer inwards, in its histological appearance with differences in its cellular components and functions. Objective: The aim of the present study was to see the variation in the proportion of zones of the adrenal cortex in different age-group in a Bangladeshi population. Methods: This cross-sectional, descriptive study was done in the Department of Anatomy, Dhaka Medical College, Dhaka, from July 2008 to June 2009, based on collection of 140 post mortem human adrenal glands from 70 unclaimed dead bodies which were in the morgue under examination in the Department of Forensic Medicine, Dhaka Medical College, Dhaka. The samples were divided into four age-groups including A (11-20 years), B (21-30 years), C (31-40 years) & D (41-60 years). Histological slides were prepared by using routine haematoxylin and eosin stain (H & E). Five best prepared slides from each group were examined under light compound microscope with low magnification. The thickness of different layers adrenal cortex were measured by using ocular and stage micrometer and then converted into percentage volume. Results: The mean volume of the zona glomerulosa, zona fasciculata and zona reticularis of the right adrenal cortex were found 14.16±0.79%, 78.40±1.14%, 7.44±0.52% in group A; 14.58±0.38%, 78.00±0.71%, 7.42±0.38% in group B; 14.34±0.83%, 78.56±0.52%, 7.30±0.50% in group C; 14.08±1.23%, 78.80±1.10%, 7.10±0.22% in group D respectively. The mean volume of the zona glomerulosa, zona fasciculata and zona reticularis of the left adrenal cortex were found 14.66±0.34%, 78.84±0.82%, 7.72±0.48% in group A; 14.62±0.30%, 78.54±0.84%, 7.58±0.43% in group B; 14.90±0.96%, 79.20±0.45%, 7.34±0.42% in group C; 14.70±1.25%, 79.40±0.55%, 7.30±0.35% in group D respectively. Conclusion: No difference was found statistically significant in the percentage volume of the three zones of the adrenal cortex with advancing age in Bangladeshi people. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbsp.v9i2.22803 Bangladesh Soc Physiol. 2014, December; 9(2): 89-93
Desiring Revolution II
Authors: Elmarsafy Ziad
Published: April 2015

Where do revolutions come from? Where do they begin? How are we to understand, and where should we locate, the beginnings of the Egyptian Revolution of 25 January 2011? These are the questions at the heart of this essay. After a survey of the ideas of Hannah Arendt on revolution, Jacques Derrida on the messianic and Ernst Bloch and Herbert Marcuse on the intersection between desire and political action, selected works by Naguib Mahfouz (The Day the Leader Was Killed, Morning and Evening Talk) and Gamal al-Ghitani (The Za'farani Files) are read as texts with a prognostic value, ones that emit signs of the revolution to come. Through the repeated pattern of failures of desire that recurs frequently in novels written during the presidencies of Anwar Sadat and Hosni Mubarak, the conditions of impotence and anhedonia associated with the advent of capitalism become symptomatic of a dysfunctional and hopelessly corrupt society. In this framework, the articulation of desire becomes the first step towards revolution.
Real-Time Raman Monitoring during Photocatalytic Epoxidation of Cyclohexene over V-Ti/MCM-41 Catalysts
Authors: Chan Hsiang-Yu , Nguyen Van-Huy , Wu Jeffrey , Calvino-Casilda Vanesa , Bañares Miguel , Bai Hsunling
Published: March 2015

A series of V- and/or Ti-loading MCM-41 catalysts are successfully synthesized with a hydrothermal method. The photocatalytic and thermal epoxidations of cyclohexene in the presence of tert-butyl hydroperoxide (t-BuOOH) were investigated with real-time monitored by NIR-Raman spectroscopy. It suggests that both V- and Ti-loading can be responsible for the cyclohexene epoxidation. Moreover, the complementary behavior of V- and Ti-loading may be related to a similar role of activation. Interestingly, the progress of the photo-epoxidation on V0.25Ti2/MCM-41 photocatalyst was monitored by changes in intensity of the characteristic Raman bands without interference from the UV-light irradiation. The result, for the first time, reveals that cyclohexene was directly photo-epoxidized to 1,2-epoxycyclohexane by t-BuOOH during the reaction. A possible mechanism of cyclohexene photo-epoxidation is also proposed for this study.
A Comparison of the Composition and Diversity of Tree Populations along a Hydrological Gradient in Floodplains (Southern Québec, Canada)
Authors: Berthelot Jean-Sébastien , Saint-Laurent Diane , Gervais-Beaulac Vernhar , Présent Aurélien
Published: March 2015

With the current climate changes, it is essential to understand the mechanisms that govern floods and flow regimes and their effects on the dynamics of riparian forests. The aim is to assess the effects of new hydrological conditions (increase in flood frequency) on forest stands subject to frequent floods. The sampling sites (total of 94 quadrats) are located in riverine woodlands, and the choice of location corresponds to the boundaries of the flood-risk zones established by official government maps. Our study shows that there are significant differences in the composition and diversity of forest communities following differences in the flood recurrence zones. In the active floodplains (i.e., recurrence interval of 0–20 years), the tree population stands are clearly distinguished from other intermediate flood zones (interval of 20–100 years). Differences are also noted in the structure of the communities, in particular in the frequent flood zones, which are characterized by a low renewal rate, low density and less-diversified forest stands. The frequent floods risk forest stand rejuvenation and creating decline as a result of increased tree mortality and the low renewal rate. With the expected increases in the number of flood events in the coming decades, there may be greater tree mortality and a gradual disappearance of the forest communities.
Exploiting Nutritional Value of Staple Foods in the World’s Semi-Arid Areas: Risks, Benefits, Challenges and Opportunities of Sorghum
Authors: Proietti Ilaria , Frazzoli Chiara , Mantovani Alberto
Published: March 2015

Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench) is a drought-resistant crop and an important food resource in terms of nutritional as well as social-economic values, especially in semi-arid environments. Cultivar selection and processing methods have been observed to impact on composition and functional and nutritional value of sorghum. Amino acid imbalance, cyanogenic glycosides, endogenous anti-nutrients, mycotoxins and toxic elements are among factors impairing its nutritional value. This paper reviews possible approaches (varieties selection, production practices, cooking processes) to improve the benefits-to-risks balance of sorghum meal, to mitigate the risk of deficiencies and/or imbalances and to improve effects on human nutrition. Opportunity for avoiding dietary diversification in high sorghum consumers is also discussed, e.g., tryptophan and niacin deficits potentially related to pellagra, or unavailability of proteins and divalent cations (e.g., Fe, Zn) due to the antinutrient activity of phytic acid and tannins. As potential candidate for production investments, the role of sorghum in preserving biological diversity is also considered.
A Double-Edged Sword: The Role of VEGF in Wound Repair and Chemoattraction of Opportunist Pathogens
Authors: Birkenhauer Eric , Neethirajan Suresh
Published: March 2015

Wound healing is a complex process essential to repairing damaged tissues and preventing infection. Skin is the first line of defense, a chief physical barrier to microbe entry. Wound healing is a physical rebuilding process, but at the same time it is an inflammatory event. In turn, molecules for wound repair are secreted by fibroblasts and others present at the wound site. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a critical cytokine that exhibits chemoattractant properties, recruiting other immune cells to the site. Although generally beneficial, VEGF may also act as a chemoattractant for invading microorganisms, such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa. P. aeruginosa is problematic during wound infection due to its propensity to form biofilms and exhibit heightened antimicrobial resistance. Here, we explored the influence of VEGF gradients (in a microfluidic device wound model) on the motility and chemotactic properties of P. aeruginosa. At lower concentrations, VEGF had little effect on motility, but as the maximal concentration within the gradient increased, P. aeruginosa cells exhibited directed movement along the gradient. Our data provide evidence that while beneficial, VEGF, in excess, may aid colonization by P. aeruginosa. This highlights the necessity for the efficient resolution of inflammation. Understanding the dynamics of wound colonization may lead to new/enhanced therapeutics to hasten recovery.
First Evidence that Ecklonia cava-Derived Dieckol Attenuates MCF-7 Human Breast Carcinoma Cell Migration
Authors: Kim Eun-Kyung , Tang Yujiao , Kim Yon-Suk , Hwang Jin-Woo , Choi Eun-Ju , Lee Ji-Hyeok , Lee Seung-Hong , Jeon You-Jin , Park Pyo-Jam
Published: March 2015

We investigated the effect of Ecklonia cava (E. cava)-derived dieckol on movement behavior and the expression of migration-related genes in MCF-7 human breast cancer cell. Phlorotannins (e.g., dieckol, 6,6′-biecko, and 2,7″-phloroglucinol-6,6′-bieckol) were purified from E. cava by using centrifugal partition chromatography. Among the phlorotannins, we found that dieckol inhibited breast cancer cell the most and was selected for further study. Radius™-well was used to assess cell migration, and dieckol (1–100 µM) was found to suppress breast cancer cell movement. Metastasis-related gene expressions were evaluated by RT-PCR and Western blot analysis. In addition, dieckol inhibited the expression of migration-related genes such as matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). On the other hand, it stimulated the expression of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP)-1 and TIMP-2. These results suggest that dieckol exerts anti-breast cancer activity via the regulation of the expressions of metastasis-related genes, and this is the first report on the anti-breast cancer effect of dieckol.
Numerical Simulations of Two-Phase Flow in a Self-Aerated Flotation Machine and Kinetics Modeling
Authors: Fayed Hassan , Ragab Saad
Published: March 2015

A new boundary condition treatment has been devised for two-phase flow numerical simulations in a self-aerated minerals flotation machine and applied to a Wemco 0.8 m3 pilot cell. Airflow rate is not specified a priori but is predicted by the simulations as well as power consumption. Time-dependent simulations of two-phase flow in flotation machines are essential to understanding flow behavior and physics in self-aerated machines such as the Wemco machines. In this paper, simulations have been conducted for three different uniform bubble sizes (db = 0.5, 0.7 and 1.0 mm) to study the effects of bubble size on air holdup and hydrodynamics in Wemco pilot cells. Moreover, a computational fluid dynamics (CFD)-based flotation model has been developed to predict the pulp recovery rate of minerals from a flotation cell for different bubble sizes, different particle sizes and particle size distribution. The model uses a first-order rate equation, where models for probabilities of collision, adhesion and stabilization and collisions frequency estimated by Zaitchik-2010 model are used for the calculation of rate constant. Spatial distributions of dissipation rate and air volume fraction (also called void fraction) determined by the two-phase simulations are the input for the flotation kinetics model. The average pulp recovery rate has been calculated locally for different uniform bubble and particle diameters. The CFD-based flotation kinetics model is also used to predict pulp recovery rate in the presence of particle size distribution. Particle number density pdf and the data generated for single particle size are used to compute the recovery rate for a specific mean particle diameter. Our computational model gives a figure of merit for the recovery rate of a flotation machine, and as such can be used to assess incremental design improvements as well as design of new machines.
Antioxidant Activity and Nutritional Status in Anorexia Nervosa: Effects of Weight Recovery
Authors: Oliveras-López María-Jesús , Ruiz-Prieto Inmaculada , Bolaños-Ríos Patricia , De la Cerda Francisco , Martín Franz , Jáuregui-Lobera Ignacio
Published: March 2015

Few studies are focused on the antioxidant status and its changes in anorexia nervosa (AN). Based on the hypothesis that renutrition improves that status, the aim was to determine the plasma antioxidant status and the antioxidant enzymes activity at the beginning of a personalized nutritional program (T0) and after recovering normal body mass index (BMI) (T1). The relationship between changes in BMI and biochemical parameters was determined. Nutritional intake, body composition, anthropometric, hematological and biochemical parameters were studied in 25 women with AN (19.20 ± 6.07 years). Plasma antioxidant capacity and antioxidant enzymes activity were measured. Mean time to recover normal weight was 4.1 ± 2.44 months. Energy, macronutrients and micronutrients intake improved. Catalase activity was significantly modified after dietary intake improvement and weight recovery (T0 = 25.04 ± 1.97 vs. T1 = 35.54 ± 2.60μmol/min/mL; p < 0.01). Total antioxidant capacity increased significantly after gaining weight (T0 = 1033.03 ± 34.38 vs. T1 = 1504.61 ± 99.73 μmol/L; p < 0.01). Superoxide dismutase activity decreased (p < 0.05) and glutathione peroxidase did not change. Our results support an association between nutrition improvement and weight gain in patients with AN, followed by an enhancement of antioxidant capacity and catalase antioxidant system.
Maximum Stress Estimation Model for Multi-Span Waler Beams with Deflections at the Supports Using Average Strains
Authors: Park Sung , Oh Byung , Park Hyo
Published: March 2015

The safety of a multi-span waler beam subjected simultaneously to a distributed load and deflections at its supports can be secured by limiting the maximum stress of the beam to a specific value to prevent the beam from reaching a limit state for failure or collapse. Despite the fact that the vast majority of accidents on construction sites occur at waler beams in retaining wall systems, no safety monitoring model that can consider deflections at the supports of the beam is available. In this paper, a maximum stress estimation model for a waler beam based on average strains measured from vibrating wire strain gauges (VWSGs), the most frequently used sensors in construction field, is presented. The model is derived by defining the relationship between the maximum stress and the average strains measured from VWSGs. In addition to the maximum stress, support reactions, deflections at supports, and the magnitudes of distributed loads for the beam structure can be identified by the estimation model using the average strains. Using simulation tests on two multi-span beams, the performance of the model is evaluated by estimating maximum stress, deflections at supports, support reactions, and the magnitudes of distributed loads.
Sustainability in China: Bridging Global Knowledge with Local Action
Authors: Xue Bing , Tobias Mario
Published: March 2015

As the biggest emerging and developing country, and the second largest economy on the planet, China’s road to sustainability has attracted global attention; therefore, we need to have a deeper understanding to address this issue at very different levels. This editorial mainly reviews the contributions of the published papers in the Special Issue of “Sustainability in China: Bridging Global Knowledge with Local Action”, the main findings in this special edition suggest that the concept of sustainability is more comprehensive and complex, and the transformation process from scientific knowledge to local action still has a long way to go, not only in China, but also in many developing countries. More research on the fundamental and innovative processes of sustainable transformations should be conducted. China needs to make more efforts to strengthen its road to sustainability, by merging all relevant types of knowledge, both within and outside science, as well as locally and globally.As the biggest emerging and developing country, and the second largest economy on the planet, China's road to sustainability has attracted global attention; therefore, we need to have a deeper understanding to address this issue at very different levels. This editorial mainly reviews the contributions of the published papers in the Special Issue of "Sustainability in China: Bridging Global Knowledge with Local Action", the main findings in this special edition suggest that the concept of sustainability is more comprehensive and complex, and the transformation process from scientific knowledge to local action still has a long way to go, not only in China, but also in many developing countries. More research on the fundamental and innovative processes of sustainable transformations should be conducted. China needs to make more efforts to strengthen its road to sustainability, by merging all relevant types of knowledge, both within and outside science, as well as locally and globally.
L'apport du domaine récréatif aux mutations du Nord-Pas-de-Calais : vingt ans d'évolution (1965-1985) (The contribution of the recreation to the Nord and Pas-de-Calais changes : twenty years of evolution, 1965-1985)
Authors: Dewailly Jean-Michel
Published: March 2015

Abstract. - Since 1965, the Nord and Pas-de-Calais region has engaged a great impulse of recreational development, thanks to public and private actions. The obtained results are very important. The Regional Council and the association Espace Naturel Regional have taken a very large part in this impulse. The region takes not enough into consideration her «North Sea Countries » original geographical framework.
Sédimentation détritique et installation du réseau hydrographique sur les piémonts nord des monts Celtibériques occidentaux (The clastic sedimentation and the formation of drainage pattern on the northern piedmonts of the western Iberic Ranges)
Authors: Lemartinel Bertrand
Published: March 2015

Résumé. - Sur les piémonts de la chaîne ibérique occidentale, notamment septentrionaux, on repère des paléoformes et des dépôts originaux dont la mise en place précède le creusement des bassins continentaux de la Vieille-Castille et de l'Ebre. Ils montrent une évolution géomorphologique complexe pendant l'extrême-fin de Néogène.
L'introduction des nouvelles technologies dans l'industrie de l'habillement et ses conséquences (The new technologies and their consequences in the clothing business)
Authors: Montagné Villette Solange
Published: March 2015

Résumé. - Les technologies nouvelles bouleversent les techniques de fabrication dans l'industrie de l'habillement. Elles permettent une augmentation de la productivité et un abaissement des coûts qui remettent en cause sa délocalisation dans les pays à bas salaires. Elles annoncent à court terme des transformations quantitatives et qualitatives de la main-d'œuvre, ainsi que la disparition des structures familiales des entreprises.
La tête de Béatrice de Provence au Musée Granet d'Aix-en-Provence
Authors: Babelon Jean-Pierre
Published: March 2015

Trouvée en 1902 dans un mur de clôture, cette belle tête de femme du xme siècle provient incontestablement de l'ensemble des tombeaux des comtes de Provence qui décorait l'église du prieuré des chevaliers de Saint- Jean-de- Jérusalem à Aix-en- Provence. Plus précisément, d'après les gravures de l'album d'A.-L. Millin, Voyage dans le Midi delà France (1807), elle a appartenu à une statue de femme qui décorait le monument des comtes, lequel fut détruit en 1794 et reconstruit en 1828. La difficulté était d'identifier le personnage représenté, soit Béatrice de Savoie, femme de Raymond-Béranger IV, soit sa fille Béatrice de Provence qui épousa Charles d'Anjou en 1246. Des détails iconographiques et la confrontation des textes anciens permettent de penser que nous sommes en présence de la tête de cette dernière, qui fut la belle-sœur de saint Louis et reçut en 1266 la couronne de Naples avant de mourir l'année suivante. L'œuvre pourrait dater de 1275 environ.
Protein corona – from molecular adsorption to physiological complexity
Authors: Treuel Lennart , Docter Dominic , Maskos Michael , Stauber Roland H
Published: March 2015

In biological environments, nanoparticles are enshrouded by a layer of biomolecules, predominantly proteins, mediating its subsequent interactions with cells. Detecting this protein corona, understanding its formation with regards to nanoparticle (NP) and protein properties, and elucidating its biological implications were central aims of bio-related nano-research throughout the past years. Here, we discuss the mechanistic parameters that are involved in the protein corona formation and the consequences of this corona formation for both, the particle, and the protein. We review consequences of corona formation for colloidal stability and discuss the role of functional groups and NP surface functionalities in shaping NP–protein interactions. We also elaborate the recent advances demonstrating the strong involvement of Coulomb-type interactions between NPs and charged patches on the protein surface. Moreover, we discuss novel aspects related to the complexity of the protein corona forming under physiological conditions in full serum. Specifically, we address the relation between particle size and corona composition and the latest findings that help to shed light on temporal evolution of the full serum corona for the first time. Finally, we discuss the most recent advances regarding the molecular-scale mechanistic role of the protein corona in cellular uptake of NPs.
AN EARLY COST ESTIMATION MODEL FOR HYDROELECTRIC POWER PLANT PROJECTS USING NEURAL NETWORKS AND MULTIPLE REGRESSION ANALYSIS
Authors: Gunduz Murat , Sahin Haci Bayram
Published: March 2015

Energy is increasingly becoming more important in today’s world, whereas energy sources are drastically decreasing. One of the most valuable energy sources is hydro energy. Because of limited energy sources and excessive energy usage, cost of energy is rising. Among the electricity generation units, hydroelectric power plants are very important, since they are renewable energy sources and they have no fuel cost. To decide whether a hydroelectric power plant investment is feasible or not, project cost and amount of electricity generation of the investment should be precisely estimated. In this paper, fifty four hydroelectric power plant projects are analysed by using multiple regression and artificial neural network tools. As a result, two cost estimation models have been developed to estimate the hydroelectric power plant project cost in early stages of the project.
CHLORIDE PENETRATION RESISTANCE OF CONCRETE SEALER AND COATING SYSTEMS
Authors: Soudki Khaled A. , Safiuddin Md. , Jeffs Paul , Macdonald Gary , Kroker Marcos
Published: March 2015

This study investigated the chloride penetration resistance of a silane-based sealer (SS1), an acrylic-based coating (AC1), and two cementitious coatings (CC1 and CC2) when applied on concrete surface. Concrete powder samples were collected from 15, 30 and 45 mm depths of sealer and coating treated concrete prism specimens, which were exposed to H2O and de-icing solutions of NaCl, Geomelt S30, MgCl2 and CaCl2 for 100 freeze-thaw cycles followed by 25 wet-dry cycles. Chloride analysis was carried out to determine the total water-soluble chlorides of concrete. Test results revealed that the chloride penetration for exposure to the de-icing chemicals occurred at a depth of 15 mm from the concrete surface. The highest chloride penetration occurred for the non-treated concrete. The sealer ‘SS1’ exhibited good performance except with exposure to NaCl solution. Among the three different coating products, the acrylic-based coating ‘AC1’ was the best-performing coating, whereas the cementitious coating ‘CC1’ had the worst performance. The amount of penetrated water-soluble chlorides was greater than the maximum recommended value of 0.025% (by concrete weight) at 15 mm depth for the sealer ‘SS1’ when exposed to NaCl de-icing solution, and for the coating ‘CC1’ when exposed to NaCl, CaCl2 and MgCl2 solutions.
TRAVELING WAVE SOLUTIONS IN A STAGE-STRUCTURED DELAYED REACTION-DIFFUSION MODEL WITH ADVECTION
Authors: Zhang Liang , Zhao Huiyan
Published: March 2015

We investigate a stage-structured delayed reaction-diffusion model with advection that describes competition between two mature species in water flow. Time delays are incorporated to measure the time lengths from birth to maturity of the populations. We show there exists a finite positive number c∗ that can be characterized as the slowest spreading speed of traveling wave solutions connecting two mono-culture equilibria or connecting a mono-culture with the coexistence equilibrium. The model and mathematical result in [J.F.M. Al-Omari, S.A. Gourley, Stability and travelling fronts in Lotka–Volterra competition models with stage structure, SIAM J. Appl. Math. 63 (2003) 2063–2086] are generalized.
TECHNICAL EFFICIENCY AND ITS DETERMINANTS IN THE SPANISH CONSTRUCTION SECTOR PRE- AND POST-FINANCIAL CRISIS
Authors: KAPELKO Magdalena , LANSINK Alfons OUDE
Published: April 2015

This paper estimates technical efficiency in the Spanish construction sector before and after the start of the current financial crisis, and examines the impact of socio-economic factors on technical efficiency. Bias-corrected efficiency measures are obtained using Data Envelopment Analysis with bootstrap for a sample of medium-sized and large construction firms over the period 2000–2010. Next, bias-corrected efficiency scores are regressed on the variables explaining efficiency using bootstrap truncated regression. The results show that technical efficiency is very low and is significantly lower after the beginning of the financial crisis than before. Firms with the highest technical efficiency scores have the lowest input-ratio for material and employee costs to output and the highest for fixed assets. The examination of the determinants of technical efficiency indicates that efficiency is higher for firms that export, are highly leveraged, are integrated in the form of joint stock company, and are located in Spanish regions with higher GDP per capita, while firms with high stock relatively to turnover have lower technical efficiency. Technical efficiency increases with size for relatively small sized construction firms, but decreases beyond a critical firm size, while technical efficiency decreases with age for young firms, but eventually increases for older firms.
UAVS AND THEIR AVIONIC SYSTEMS: DEVELOPMENT TRENDS AND THEIR INFLUENCE ON POLISH RESEARCH AND MARKET
Authors: Szczepański Cezary
Published: March 2015

In the paper the current status of development of UAVs and their avionic systems in Poland and worldwide is presented. Technology and operation development trends, as well as key factors influencing them are described.

On this basis, research plans and suggested topics for development are proposed. The possibility of carrying them out in Poland under present conditions is taken into consideration.
Notes on Shore Flies (Diptera: Ephydridae) from Finland and north-western Russia
Authors: Kahanpää Jere , Zatwarnicki Tadeusz
Published: March 2015

The recent checklist of the Ephydridae of Finland by Zatwarnicki and Kahanpää (2014) mentioned 13 ephydrid species as new for Finland without further details. This paper presents detailed records for those species and a few other species of interest. Four species are recorded for the first time from Russia. Trimerina indistincta Krivosheina, 2004 is herein considered as a new junior synonym of Trimerina microchaeta Hendel, 1932, syn. nov.
Longterm Safety and Efficacy of Subcutaneous Tocilizumab Monotherapy: Results from the 2-year Open-label Extension of the MUSASHI Study
Authors: Ogata Atsushi , Amano Koichi , Dobashi Hiroaki , Inoo Masayuki , Ishii Tomonori , Kasama Tsuyoshi , Kawai Shinichi , Kawakami Atsushi , Koike Tatsuya , Miyahara Hisaaki , Miyamoto Toshiaki , Munakata Yasuhiko , Murasawa Akira , Nishimoto Norihiro , Ogawa Noriyoshi , Ojima Tomohiro , Sano Hajime , Shi Kenrin , Shono Eisuke , Suematsu Eiichi , Takahashi Hiroki , Tanaka Yoshiya , Tsukamoto Hiroshi , Nomura Akira ,   the MUSASHI Study Investigators
Published: April 2015

Objective.

To evaluate the longterm safety and efficacy of subcutaneous tocilizumab (TCZ-SC) as monotherapy in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods.

Of 346 patients who received 24 weeks of double-blind treatment with either TCZ-SC monotherapy, 162 mg every 2 weeks (q2w); or intravenous TCZ (TCZ-IV) monotherapy, 8 mg/kg every 4 weeks; 319 patients continued to receive TCZ-SC q2w in the 84-week open-label extension (OLE) of the MUSASHI study (JAPICCTI-101117). Efficacy, safety, and immunogenicity were evaluated for all patients treated with TCZ during 108 weeks.

Results.

The proportions of patients who achieved American College of Rheumatology 20/50/70 responses, low disease activity [28-joint Disease Activity Score (DAS28) ≤ 3.2], or remission (DAS28 < 2.6) at Week 24 were maintained until Week 108. The incidences of adverse events and serious adverse events were 498.3 and 16.9 per 100 patient-years (PY), respectively. The overall safety of TCZ-SC monotherapy was similar to that of TCZ-IV monotherapy. Rates of injection site reactions (ISR) through 108 weeks remained similar to rates through 24 weeks. ISR were mild and did not cause any patient withdrawals. No serious hypersensitivity events (including anaphylactic reactions) occurred. Anti-TCZ antibodies were present in 2.1% of patients treated with TCZ-SC monotherapy.

Conclusion.

TCZ-SC monotherapy maintained a favorable safety profile and consistent efficacy throughout the 108-week study. Like TCZ-IV, TCZ-SC could provide an additional treatment option for patients with RA.