bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Automated Supply Chain Management System and Its Performance Evaluation
Authors: Kart Firat , Moser Louise E. , Melliar-Smith P. Michael
Published: February 2012

The MIDAS system is an automated supply chain management system that enables customers, manufacturers, and suppliers to cooperate over the Internet. MIDAS aims to achieve high customer satisfaction by supporting the build-to-order customization model and to reduce inventory carrying costs and logistics administration costs at the manufacturer by supporting the just-in-time manufacturing model. It allows a manufacturer to choose from the MIDAS Registry, suppliers of components, and negotiate based on the prices, availability, and delivery times of those components. The manufacturer can use one of several strategies to aggregate customers’ orders before processing them, and one of several strategies to accumulate suppliers’ quotes before deciding on a particular supplier. The paper presents an evaluation of these strategies in terms of the customer’s satisfaction, as measured by the customer response time, and the manufacturer’s gain, as measured by the number of orders aggregated or the best price ratio.
Supplier Selection by the Pair of AR-NF-IDEA Models
Authors: Saen Reza , Gershon Mark
Published: February 2012

Supplier selection is the process by which suppliers are reviewed, evaluated, and chosen to become part of a company’s supply chain. To select the best suppliers in the presence of cardinal data, ordinal data, nondiscretionary factors, and weight restrictions, this paper proposes a new model considering all of these assumptions. A numerical example demonstrates the application of the proposed method.
The Open System for Master Production Scheduling
Authors: Lee Hyoung-Gon , Schuster Edmund W. , Allen Stuart J. , Kar Pinaki
Published: February 2012

Commonly provided by ERP vendors, master production scheduling (MPS) systems often strive to meet the needs of a large user base while limiting software functionality. Subsequently, business process reengineering becomes the means for firms to adapt to MPS software packages. This article develops a flexible approach for MPS delivery as an alternative to packaged software. The article examines the general case of open system architecture to deliver a specific master scheduling model to end-users. The open system approach fulfills a goal to standardize and speed the process of modeling in practice by creating a supply network for mathematical models that is searchable across the Internet with precision. The value lies on quickly putting state-of-the-art modeling in the hands of many users with no local computer implementation other than downloading an Excel spreadsheet.
Discrete Combat Models
Authors: Fox William P.
Published: February 2012

Lanchester’s equations and their solutions, as continuous differential equations, have been studied for years. This article introduces a new approach with the use of the discrete form of Lanchester’s equations, using dynamical systems or difference equations. It begins with Lanchester’s square law and develops a generalized analytical solution for the discrete model that can be built by knowing only the kill rates and the initial force sizes of the combatants. It then forms the condition of parity (a draw) to develop a simple relationship of these variables to determine who wins the engagement. This article illustrates these models and their solutions using historic combat examples. It also illustrates that current counter-insurgency combat models can be built and solved using various forms of difference equations.
Numerical Studies on Reformulation Techniques for Continuous Network Design with Asymmetric User Equilibria
Authors: Ban Xuegang (Jeff) , Ferris Michael , Liu Henry X.
Published: February 2012

In this article, we aim to find the most effective reformulation techniques to solve the MPCC (mathematical program with complementarity constraints) model that we proposed recently for continuous network design problems under asymmetric user equilibria. The MPCC model is based on a link-node nonlinear complementarity formulation for asymmetric user equilibria. By applying various reformulation techniques for the lower level nonlinear complementarity, the original bilevel formulation can be converted to a single level nonlinear programming problem. We show that certain reformulations are more effective than others to solve the proposed MPCC model. Recommendations are thus provided on how to choose a reformulation of the continuous network design problem that can be solved effectively and/or efficiently.
Optimizing Cash Management for Large Scale Bank Operations
Authors: Frost Mark , Kennington Jeff , Madhavan Anusha
Published: February 2012

The Federal Reserve System (Fed) provides currency services to banks, including sorting currency into fit and non-fit bills and repackaging bills for redistribution. To reduce the cost of currency management operations, many banks make Fed deposits and withdrawals of the same denomination each week. In July 2007, the Fed introduced fees for making both deposits and withdrawals during a given Monday through Friday. Recognizing an opportunity, Fiserv Corporation initiated a project to optimize bank vault inventories across time and space. This article presents the integer programming model developed to assist Fiserv clients reduce the logistics cost component of cash management. The model is implemented in software using OPL. The underlying configuration is a time-space multi-commodity network with a fixed-charge cost structure. The authors report on a successful pilot study and present an efficient heuristic procedure that can be used to reduce computational solution times from hours to a few minutes.
Effect of moisture stress at different growth stages of tomato plant (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) on yield and quality of fruits
Authors: Vijitha R. , Mahendran S.
Published: February 2012

There is a need to utilize the water efficiently and effectively because water availability is scarce in the dry zone of Sri Lanka. An experiment was conducted to determine the changes in fruit quality of tomato cv. KC-1 with moisture stress viz., determine the vitamin C, total soluble solids (TSS) and acid contents of tomato fruits during fruit ripening stage. Also, investigated in the present study was to find out the most critical stage/s of the plant growth to moisture stress in order to sustain the yield by efficient water management. Experiment was conducted at the agronomy farm of the Faculty of Agriculture, Eastern University, Sri Lanka. The experimental design was randomized complete block design with five treatments and four replications. Moisture stress was imposed during vegetative, flowering, early fruiting and fruit ripening stages of tomato for a period of four days in each growth stages. The control plants were watered daily to the field capacity. The stress cycle was single in which water was withheld completely at once. The result showed that moisture stress at fruit ripening stage reduced the vitamin C contents of fruits. The TSS and acid contents of the fruits were slightly affected by moisture stress when the stress was imposed during the fruit ripening stage but they were not significant. Vitamin C, TSS and acid contents of fruits were unaffected by moisture stress given during vegetative, flowering and early fruiting stages. Moisture stress reduced the yield of tomato and the stress during the flowering stage showed the highest yield reduction compared to the other growth stages. Hence, the flowering stage is the most critical stage of growth of tomato to moisture stress for the fruit yield.Keywords: Tomato, Growth stages, Moisture stress, Fruit quality, Yield.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/josuk.v5i0.4086 J Sci.Univ.Kelaniya 5 (2010): 1-11
Simulation of nitrate leaching in Yala season in Batticaloa - A modeling approach
Authors: Bawatharani T. , Mowjood M.I.M. , Dayawansa N.D.K. , Kumaragamage D.
Published: February 2012

The leaching behaviour of NO3--N was evaluated through field experiments with those predicted by LEACHM-N, a uni-dimensional, water flow, solute transport and plant uptake model. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the application of LEACHM-N for predicting nitrate leaching in Batticaloa during Yala 2005. Field experiments were carried out from April 12th 2005 to June 30th 2005. The experimental treatments were 3 nitrogen rates (0, 70 and 140 kg N/ha) together with 3 irrigation rates (7, 14 and 30 mm) which resulted in 9 treatment combinations. The treatments were arranged in a split plot design in 3 replicates. Twenty seven cylindrical lysimeters with 1 m height and 50 cm diameter were built in at the experimental site. Outlets from each lysimeters were fixed with outflow pipes, directed to an underground sampling point, from where the water samples were collected. Red onion (Allium cepa; var. Vethalan) was planted in the lysimeters. Nitrogen fertilizer was applied 3 times during the cropping season. Irrigation water was delivered using a micro sprinkler system. Leachates from individual outlets were collected separately and NO3--N was determined spectrophotometrically by the Cadmium reduction method. A moderately good agreement has been found out in between the measured and the predicted NO3--N losses, but the model overestimated the losses. The treatment combination 140 kg N/ha with 30 mm of irrigation showed better simulation accuracy. It was also found out that the model was unable to predict preferential flow.Keywords: LEACHM-N, leaching, sandy regosols,Yala, lysimeter, preferential flowDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/josuk.v5i0.4089 J Sci.Univ.Kelaniya 5 (2010): 33-45
Revision ofSpeolepta(Diptera: Mycetophilidae), with descriptions of new Nearctic and Oriental species
Authors: Ševčík Jan , Kjærandsen Jostein , Marshall Stephen A.
Published: February 2012

The cave-living and monobasic fungus gnat genusSpeoleptaEdwards is reviewed with a description of the first Nearctic species,Speolepta vockerothisp. nov., from Canada (caves in Ontario and British Columbia) and the United States (Alaska). Its morphology, life history, and biology are documented and compared with the single European speciesSpeolepta leptogaster(Winnertz). A further new species,Speolepta orientalissp.nov., is described based on a single male from northern Vietnam, representing the first record of this genus from the Oriental Region.
Revision of the Nearctic species of Cerodontha (Icteromyza) (Diptera: Agromyzidae)
Authors: Boucher Stéphanie
Published: February 2012

Nine species of Icteromyza Hendel, a subgenus of Cerodontha Rondani, were previously known in the Nearctic: Cerodontha (Icteromyza) atrissima Spencer, Cerodontha (Icteromyza) capitata (Zetterstedt), Cerodontha (Icteromyza) churchillensis Spencer, Cerodontha (Icteromyza) fuscifrons Spencer, Cerodontha (Icteromyza) lineella (Zetterstedt), Cerodontha (Icteromyza) longipennis (Loew), Cerodontha (Icteromyza) montanoides Spencer, Cerodontha (Icteromyza) pilosa Boucher, and Cerodontha (Icteromyza) temeculensis Spencer. Three new species are here described for this region: Cerodontha (Icteromyza) griffonensissp. nov.; Cerodontha (Icteromyza) vockerothisp. nov.; Cerodontha (Icteromyza) woodisp. nov. Species descriptions and illustrations, additional notes, and a new identification key for the Nearctic species of Cerodontha (Icteromyza) are provided.
Parallel evolution in Patagonian Pinacocerus and Australian Yumbera (Diptera: Dolichopodidae: Sympycninae), with the description of new species
Authors: Bickel Daniel J.
Published: February 2012

Pinacocerus Van Duzee and Yumbera Bickel are reviewed. Pinacocerus is found in Chile and Argentina and comprises two species, Pinacocerus nodicornis Van Duzee and Pinacocerus candiptorumsp. nov. from Chile. Yumbera comprises six species, five from eastern mainland Australia and Yumbera trisignatasp. nov. from Tasmania. The two genera show remarkable parallel evolution in modification of the male antenna.
Mucormycosis of the Hard Palate Masquerading As Carcinoma
Authors: Manjunatha Bhari Sharanesha , Das Nagarajappa , Sutariya Rakesh V. , Ahmed Tanveer
Published: February 2012

A growing number of medically compromised patients are encountered by dentists in their practices. Opportunistic fungal infections such as mucormycosis usually occur in immunocompromised patients but can infect healthy individuals as well. Mucormycosis is an acute opportunistic, uncommon, frequently fatal fungal infection, caused by a saprophytic fungus that belongs to the class of phycomycetes. Among the clinical differential diagnosis we can consider squamous cell carcinoma. Such cases present as chronic ulcers with raised margins causing exposure of underlying bone. There is a close histopathological resemblance between mucormycosis and aspergillosis. Microscopically, aspergillosis has septate branching hyphae, which can be distinguished from mucormycotic hyphae by a smaller width and prominent acute angulations of branching hyphae. A definitive diagnosis of mucormycosis can be made by tissue biopsy that identifies the characteristic hyphae, by positive culture or both. The culture of diseased tissue may be negative and histopathologic examination is essential for early diagnosis. Mucormycosis was long regarded as a fatal infection with poor prognosis. However with early medical and surgical management survival rates are now thought to exceed 80%. In the present case, the fungus was identified by hematoxylin and eosin stain and confirmed by Grocott’s silver methenamine special staining technique. Removal of the necrotic bone, which acted as a nidus of infection, was done. Post-operatively patient was advised an obturator to prevent oronasal regurgitation. Since mucormycosis occurs infrequently, it may pose a diagnostic and therapeutic dilemma for those who are not familiar with its clinical presentation.
Retinal Arterial plaques in Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome
Authors: Venkatesh Pradeep , Pathak Harish , Garg Satpal
Published: February 2012

The authors report the unusual observation discrete plaque like excrescencies along the retinal arterial wall in a young patient with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. Though bilateral, in the right eye there was severe arteriolar narrowing and so these plaques were less identifiable. Fluorescein angiography did not reveal any arteriolar occlusion or areas of capillary occlusion in both eyes. There were no other signs of HIV associated microangiopathy and the patient did not have any concurrent cardiovascular or hematological abnormality. The cause of these plaques remains unexplained and we conjecture that they could represent macro immunecomplex deposition along the arteriolar walls.
Canadian groundwater inventory: regional hydrogeological characterization of the Annapolis Valley aquifers
Authors: Rivard C , Paradis D , Paradis S
J , Bolduc A , Morin R H , Liao S , Pullan S , Gauthier M -J , Trépanier S , Blackmore A , Spooner I , Deblonde C , Boivin R , Fernandes R A , Castonguay S , Hamblin T , Michaud Y , Drage J , Paniconi C
Published: February 2012

The Annapolis-Cornwallis Valley Aquifer Study was a regional hydrogeological study focusing on major aquifer units of the most important agricultural area of Nova Scotia. The study area covered 2100 km2, and included sedimentary rocks of the Wolfville and
Blomidon formations, as well as part of the North and South mountains bordering the valley. The surficial sediment cover is mainly composed of glacial tills, but sand and gravel units are also present in the eastern part of the valley. The main objectives of this project were to improve the general
understanding of groundwater flow dynamics and to provide baseline information and tools for a regional groundwater resource assessment.
The main bedrock aquifers of the Valley are located in the Wolfville and Blomidon formations, which are composed of lenticular bodies of sandstone, conglomerate, shale and siltstone in variable proportions. The aquifers are often confined and the flow is topographically-driven. Their hydraulic
conductivities are in the range of 10-6-10-5 m/s. Good aquifers, though limited in extent, can also be found in the sand and gravel units, with hydraulic conductivities on the order of 10-4 m/s. Groundwater recharge was estimated to range between 115 and 224 mm/a over the entire study area. The
vulnerability study showed that bedrock aquifers are typically less vulnerable than surficial aquifers, with the Wolfville Formation being the most vulnerable bedrock formation. Groundwater of the Valley is generally of good quality, although nitrate levels are of concern in several
areas.
Rock-Eval/TOC data for selected samples from northeast British Columbia boreholes (map areas 94-G to 94-J)
Authors: Obermajer M , Lane L S , Osadetz K G
Published: February 2012

Over 400 Rock-Eval/TOC analyses are given for samples from 53 petroleum exploration wells from Northeast British Columbia.
Recurrence rates and b values for global in-slab earthquakes
Authors: Bent A L , Greene H
Published: February 2012

The b value, a measure of the relative number of large and small earthquakes, for the Cascadia subduction zone off the coast of southern British Columbia is low (0.44-0.74) when compared to other seismic zones in Canada and to global averages (0.65-1.1.0). The
hazard for this region is dominated by in-slab earthquakes, or those that occur within the subducting slab rather than at the slab interface. It has not been known whether the low b value is a characteristic of in-slab earthquakes or whether Cascadia is truly anomalous. This study evaluates
in-slab earthquakes worldwide and finds that on average the b values are comparable to those for other types of earthquakes and suggests that Cascadia is unusual. These results are based on earthquakes of magnitude 5.5 or greater obtained from a global database, which has sufficient information to
separate in-slab events from slab interface and shallow crustal earthquakes in the same subduction zone. Regional databases would be useful for extending the magnitude range studied but generally do not have the resolution required to reliably separate the events. We compare the b values and
magnitude 7 recurrence intervals to physical properties of the subduction zones, such as age, dip angle and rate of subduction and find no obvious correlations.
Core, petrographic, and rock petrophysical evaluation of the Blue Fiord Formation from wells in the Canadian Arctic Islands
Authors: Wendte J C
Published: February 2012

This report summarizes the lithology, depositional aspects, diagenesis, and reservoir quality of limestones and dolostones of the Late Silurian to earliest Middle Devonian Blue Fiord Formation from the subsurface of the Canadian Arctic Islands. The report focuses
on two key aspects. Firstly, the report provides a summary of the depositional facies and diagenetic paragenesis of limestones from the Bent Horn Oil Field on Cameron Island. Secondly, the report provides a detailed summary and interpretation of diagenetic aspects as well as an appraisal of porosity
and permeability of dolostones from the three wells on Banks Island.
Forgiveness in the intertestamental period
Authors: Lee Sang-Mong , Hughes Gerald T. , Viljoen Francois P.
Published: February 2012

The article suggests answers to the following questions: what are the characteristics of God�s forgiveness in the intertestamental literature and what connection do these characteristics have with the Old Testament? Important passages in the late Second Temple period that expose the characteristics of God�s forgiveness, such as certain Qumran texts (1QH 12:35�37, 1QH 13:2 and the Damascus Document 14:18�19), the writings of Philo and Josephus, the Apocrypha and the Pseudepigrapha, are investigated for this purpose.
Dust aerosol impact on North Africa climate: a GCM investigation of aerosol-cloud-radiation interactions using A-Train satellite data
Authors: Gu Y. , Liou K. N. , Jiang J. H. , Su H. , Liu X.
Published: February 2012

Abstract. The climatic effects of dust aerosols in North Africa have been investigated using the atmospheric general circulation model (AGCM) developed at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). The model includes an efficient and physically based radiation parameterization scheme developed specifically for application to clouds and aerosols. Parameterization of the effective ice particle size in association with the aerosol first indirect effect based on ice cloud and aerosol data retrieved from A-Train satellite observations have been employed in climate model simulations. Offline simulations reveal that the direct solar, IR, and net forcings by dust aerosols at the top of the atmosphere (TOA) generally increase with increasing aerosol optical depth. When the dust semi-direct effect is included with the presence of ice clouds, positive IR radiative forcing is enhanced since ice clouds trap substantial IR radiation, while the positive solar forcing with dust aerosols alone has been changed to negative values due to the strong reflection of solar radiation by clouds, indicating that cloud forcing associated with aerosol semi-direct effect could exceed direct aerosol forcing. With the aerosol first indirect effect, the net cloud forcing is generally reduced in the case for an ice water path (IWP) larger than 20 g m−2. The magnitude of the reduction increases with IWP. AGCM simulations show that the reduced ice crystal mean effective size due to the aerosol first indirect effect results in less OLR and net solar flux at TOA over the cloudy area of the North Africa region because ice clouds with smaller size trap more IR radiation and reflect more solar radiation. The precipitation in the same area, however, increases due to the aerosol indirect effect on ice clouds, corresponding to the enhanced convection as indicated by reduced OLR. Adding the aerosol direct effect into the model simulation reduces the precipitation in the normal rainfall band over North Africa, where precipitation is shifted to the south and the northeast produced by the absorption of sunlight and the subsequent heating of the air column by dust particles. As a result, rainfall is drawn further inland to the northeast. This study represents the first attempt to quantify the climate impact of the aerosol indirect effect using a GCM in connection with A-Train satellite data. The parameterization for the aerosol first indirect effect developed in this study can be readily employed for application to other GCMs.
A fast and precise chemiluminescence ozone detector for eddy flux and airborne application
Authors: Zahn A. , Weppner J. , Widmann H. , Schlote-Holubek K. , Burger B. , Kühner T. , Franke H.
Published: February 2012

Abstract. A commercially available dry chemiluminescence (CI) instrument for fast and precise measurement of ozone (O3) is specified. The sensitivity is ~9000 counts s−1 per ppbv of ozone. Its precision is entirely determined by the number of photons reaching the detector (being a photomultiplier), i.e. is quantum-noise limited. The relative precision (ΔO3/O3 in %) thus follows Poisson statistics and scales with the square root of the measurement frequency f and with the inverse O3 mixing ratio: ΔO3/O3 ∝ f0.5 · O3−0.5. At typical O3 mixing ratios between 10 and 100 ppbv (and 1 bar), the precision is 0.3–1.0% at f = 10 Hz. The maximum measurement frequency is 50 Hz. The mechanical and electronic set-up as well as the instrument performance is described. Recommendations on the adequate inlet tube configuration (inlet tube length, sampling flow) and on the way of calibration at stationary ground-based platforms and onboard aircraft are given.
Measuring variations of δ18O and δ2H in atmospheric water vapour using laser spectroscopy: an instrument characterisation study
Authors: Aemisegger F. , Sturm P. , Graf P. , Sodemann H. , Pfahl S. , Knohl A. , Wernli H.
Published: February 2012

Abstract. Variations of stable water isotopes in water vapour have become measurable at a measurement frequency of about 1 Hz in recent years using novel laser spectroscopic techniques. This enables us to perform continuous measurements for process-based investigations of the atmospheric water cycle at the time scales relevant for synoptic meteorology. An important prerequisite for the interpretation of data from automated field measurements lasting for several weeks or months is a detailed knowledge about instrument properties and the sources of measurement uncertainty. We present here a comprehensive characterisation and comparison study of two commercial laser spectroscopic systems based on cavity ring-down spectroscopy (Picarro) and off-axis integrated cavity output spectroscopy (Los Gatos Research). The uncertainty components of the measurements were first assessed in laboratory experiments, focussing on the effects of (i) water vapour mixing ratio, (ii) measurement stability, (iii) uncertainties due to calibration and (iv) response times of the isotope measurements due to adsorption-desorption processes on the tubing and measurement cavity walls. Based on the experience from our laboratory experiments we set up a one-week field campaign for comparing measurements of the ambient isotope signals of the two laser spectroscopic systems. The optimal calibration strategy determined for both instruments was applied as well as the correction functions for water vapour mixing ratio effects. The root mean square difference between the isotope signals from the two instruments during the field deployment was 2.3‰ for δ2H, 0.5‰ for δ18O and 3.1‰ for deuterium excess. These uncertainty estimates from field measurements compare well to those found in the laboratory experiments. The present quality of measurements from laser spectroscopic instruments combined with a calibration system opens new possibilities for investigating the atmospheric water cycle and the land-atmosphere moisture fluxes.
RECCAP uncertainty
Authors: Enting I. G. , Rayner P. J. , Ciais P.
Published: February 2012

Abstract. Characterisation of regional carbon budgets and processes (the overall task addressed in this series of articles) is inherently a statistical task. In full form this means that almost all quantities used or produced are realizations or instances of probability distributions. We usually compress the description of these distributions by using some kind of location parameter (e.g. the mean) and some measure of spread or uncertainty (e.g. the standard deviation). Characterising and calculating these uncertainties, and their structure in space and time, is as important as the location parameter but uncertainties are both harder to calculate and harder to interpret. In this paper we describe the various classes of uncertainty that arise in a process like RECCAP and describe how they interact in formal estimation procedures. We also point out the impact these uncertainties will have on the various RECCAP synthesis activities.
Assessing climate model software quality: a defect density analysis of three models
Authors: Pipitone J. , Easterbrook S.
Published: February 2012

Abstract. A climate model is an executable theory of the climate; the model encapsulates climatological theories in software so that they can be simulated and their implications investigated. Thus, in order to trust a climate model one must trust that the software it is built from is built correctly. Our study explores the nature of software quality in the context of climate modelling. We performed an analysis of defect reports and defect fixes in several versions of leading global climate models by collecting defect data from bug tracking systems and version control repository comments. We found that the climate models all have very low defect densities compared to well-known, similarly sized open-source projects. We discuss the implications of our findings for the assessment of climate model software trustworthiness.
Floodwater utilisation values of wetland services – a case study in Northeastern China
Authors: Lü S. B. , Xu S. G. , Feng F.
Published: February 2012

Abstract. Water plays a significant role in wetlands. Floodwater utilisation in wetlands brings a wide range of wetland services, from goods production and water regulation to animal protection and aesthetics related to water supply in wetlands. In this study, the floodwater utilisation values of wetland services were estimated within the Momoge wetland and Xianghai wetland in western Jilin province of northeastern China. From 2003 to 2008, the floodwater diverted from the Nenjiang and Tao'er River is 381 million m3, which translates into a monetary value of approximately 1.35 billion RMB in 2008 (RMB: Chinese Currency, RMB 6.80 = US$ 1), and the ratio of economic value, eco-environmental value, and social value is 1:12:2. Besides the monetary value of the water itself, excessive floodwater utilisation may bring losses to wetlands; the threshold floodwater utilisation volumes in wetlands are discussed. Floodwater utilisation can alleviate water shortages in wetlands, and the evaluation of floodwater utilisation in wetland services in monetary terms is a guide for the effective use of the floodwater resources and for the conservation of wetlands.
On closure parameter estimation in chaotic systems
Authors: Hakkarainen J. , Ilin A. , Solonen A. , Laine M. , Haario H. , Tamminen J. , Oja E. , Järvinen H.
Published: February 2012

Abstract. Many dynamical models, such as numerical weather prediction and climate models, contain so called closure parameters. These parameters usually appear in physical parameterizations of sub-grid scale processes, and they act as "tuning handles" of the models. Currently, the values of these parameters are specified mostly manually, but the increasing complexity of the models calls for more algorithmic ways to perform the tuning. Traditionally, parameters of dynamical systems are estimated by directly comparing the model simulations to observed data using, for instance, a least squares approach. However, if the models are chaotic, the classical approach can be ineffective, since small errors in the initial conditions can lead to large, unpredictable deviations from the observations. In this paper, we study numerical methods available for estimating closure parameters in chaotic models. We discuss three techniques: off-line likelihood calculations using filtering methods, the state augmentation method, and the approach that utilizes summary statistics from long model simulations. The properties of the methods are studied using a modified version of the Lorenz 95 system, where the effect of fast variables are described using a simple parameterization.
A multi-decadal meridional displacement of the Subpolar Front in the Newfoundland Basin
Authors: Núñez-Riboni I. , Bersch M. , Haak H. , Jungclaus J. H. , Lohmann K.
Published: February 2012

Abstract. Observations since the 1950s show a multi-decadal cycle of a meridional displacement of the Subpolar Front (SPF) in the Newfoundland Basin (NFB) in the North Atlantic. The SPF displacement is associated with corresponding variations in the path of the North Atlantic Current. We use the ocean general circulation model MPIOM with enhanced horizontal and vertical resolutions and forced with NCEP/NCAR reanalysis data to study the relation of the SPF displacement to atmospheric forcing, intensities of the subpolar gyre (SPG) and Meridional Overturning Circulation (MOC), and Labrador Sea Water (LSW) volume. The simulations indicate that the SPF displacement is associated with a circulation anomaly between the SPG and the subtropical gyre (STG), an inter-gyre gyre with a multi-decadal time scale. A sensitivity experiment indicates that both wind stress curl (WSC) and heat fluxes (which match LSW changes) contribute to the circulation anomalies in the frontal region and to the SPF displacement. An anticyclonic inter-gyre gyre is related to negative WSC and LSW anomalies and to a SPF north of its climatological position, indicating an expanding STG. A cyclonic inter-gyre gyre is related to positive WSC and LSW anomalies and a SPF south of its climatological position, indicating an expanding SPG. Therefore, the mean latitudinal position of the SPF in the NFB (a "SPF index") could be an indicator of the amount of LSW in the inter-gyre region. Spreading of LSW anomalies intensifies the MOC, suggesting our SPF index as predictor of the MOC intensity at multi-decadal time scales. The meridional displacement of the SPF has a pronounced influence on the meridional heat transport, both on its gyre and overturning components.
Characterization of Lactococcus strains and their using in dairy technology
Authors: Hladí­ková Zuzana , Smetanková Jana , Greif Gabriel , Greifová Mária
Published: February 2012

Lactococcus lactis species is one of the most important groups of lactic acid bacteria that are used in the dairy industry. Lactococci are generally found on plants and the skins of animals. Special interest is placed on the study of Lactococcus lactis ssp. lactis and Lactococcus lactis ssp. cremoris, as they are the strains used as starter cultures in industrial dairy fermentation. The major functions of this species in dairy fermentation are the production of lactic acid, formation of flavour and aroma compounds, development of ripened cheese texture and antimicrobial activity against spoilage bacteria and moulds.
Effect of different environmental factors on the growth dynamics of Staphylococcus aureus in model medium
Authors: Studeničová Adriana , Medveďová Alžbeta , Valí­k Ľubomí­r
Published: February 2012

As the strains of S. aureus growing during fermentation of raw milk cheeses are exposed to the competitive growth of lactic acid bacteria and their metabolites, in this work, we characterized the growth of the strain S. aureus 2064 isolated from such environment against of water activity values and incubation temperature. Water activity of the tested media was adjusted by NaCl in the range from 0 % to 20.72 % and the experiments were carried out at 37 °C. It was found that the strain under study showed growth until NaCl concentration of 19.95 % in PCA broth. The complete growth cessation of S. aureus 2064 was observed at NaCl concentration higher than 20.72 %. The effect of water activity on the S. aureus 2064 lag-phase duration was described by the modified Davey model with discrepancy of 24.6 %. The growth rate dependence on water activity was described more precisely and reliably by Gibson model that provided the following validation indices: bias factor 0.999 and discrepancy factor 9.6 %. Based on the results we can conclude that secondary models used in this work were suitable to predict growth of S. aureus 2064, originally the ewes´cheese isolate.
The Challenge of Globalization for the Logistics Industry: Evidence from Indonesia
Authors: Tongzon Jose
Published: February 2012

Trade liberalization is increasingly accompanied by efforts to liberalize logistics services as nations have realized the importance of logistics services in achieving economic progress and integration. However, liberalization also brings with it costs and challenges. In this light, this article tries to assess the progress in implementing the liberalization commitments and their implications on the logistics sector using Indonesia as a case study. The implementation of Indonesia's liberalization commitments has been slow and cautious. Substantial barriers to trade in logistics services still exist, constraining the path toward economic progress and integration. Its logistics sector is also unlikely to benefit from trade liberalization, except in the maritime, air transport, and cargo-handling services. Indonesia's experience could be applicable to emerging nations that are in the process of liberalizing their respective logistics services industries, as this study contributes to the understanding of the liberalization process.
The Effect of Risk Aversion on Manufacturer Advertising in a Two-Stage Supply Chain
Authors: Liang Donghan , Li Gang , Sun Linyan , Gao Jie , Sun Xinyu
Published: February 2012

We consider a supply chain system with a risk-neutral manufacturer as the leader and a risk-averse retailer as the follower with uncertain demand. At the beginning of the game, the manufacturer makes efforts on advertising and then the retailer decides its order quantity before demand realization. The retailer's risk aversion is modeled by the Value-at-Risk (VaR) approach with the downside risk constraint. The analysis of equilibrium strategies indicates some characteristics of the game are different from those under risk-neutral assumptions. We find that the manufacturer can effectively prevent the risk-averse retailer from downsizing the order quantity through advertising. In order to explain the difference, we investigate the impacts of risk aversion on the manufacturer's advertising decision and the retailer's ordering decision. We find that the retailer with moderate degree of risk aversion orders a larger volume and receives greater advertising support from the manufacturer. Moreover, the feasible combinations of target profit and downside risk for moderate risk aversion are discussed to derive the relationship of the two parameters. In addition, we make a simple analysis of the situation with two independent retailers who have heterogeneous degrees of risk aversion.
Influence of Phosphorus Levels and Phosphorus Solubilizing Fungi on Yield and Nutrient Uptake by Wheat under Sub-Humid Region of Rajasthan, India
Authors: Sharma Amita , Rawat U. S. , Yadav B. K.
Published: February 2012

The aim of the present study was to assess the influence of phosphorus levels and phosphorus solubilizing fungi on yield and nutrient uptake by wheat. The dry matter production by wheat at tillering, ear emergence, and harvest was significantly higher with 90 kg P2O5 ha−1and was at par with 60 kg P2O5 ha−1. Application ofAspergillus awamorigave the highest dry matter accumulation at tillering, ear emergence, and harvest stage of crop growth. Increasing levels of phosphorus increased the grain and straw yield significantly up to 60 kg P2O5 ha−1of wheat crop. However, the maximum grain and straw yield were obtained at 90 kg P2O5 ha−1, which was at par with 60 kg P2O5 ha−1. The combined application of 60 kg P2O5 ha−1withA. awamorirecorded significantly higher grain and straw yield. Increasing level of P application (0 to 90 kg P2O5 ha−1) and inoculation withA. awamoriandA. nigersignificantly increased uptake of N, P, and K in wheat at all stages of crop growth. The maximum nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium uptake was recorded at harvest (grain and straw) followed by ear emergence and tillering when seeds were inoculated withAspergillus awamori.
Effect of Nitrogen Sources on Microbial Biomass Nitrogen under Different Soil Types
Authors: El-Sharkawi Haytham M.
Published: February 2012

Knowledge to increase the microbial biomass nitrogen (MBN) as a bulk of free-living microbes in paddy soil is limited. The potential benefit of these microorganisms was evaluated, in this study, under different nitrogen sources and two paddy soils. The results revealed that pots treated with organic matter recorded the maximum value of the total N uptake and MBN, followed by the Urea treated pots. Pots amended with sludge exhibited a higher microbial N forming ability than those amended with straw compost under both soils. But ammonium concentration in soil increased with straw compost application. Under fresh soil treatment, microbial N uptake rate and proportion of plant nitrogen derived from microbial nitrogen sources () were higher than autoclaved soil. A positive correlation was found between the and the total N in rice shoot in both soils. Finally, we can say that MBN was governed not only by the soil nitrogen content but also by the type of the nitrogen source. The addition of sludge to fresh soil increased total MBN and consequently could be indirectly beneficial to rice production especially in poor soils. Thus, soil microbes contribute to plant growth by serving the available nitrogen during the season.
Assessment of Two-Equation Turbulence Models and Validation of the Performance Characteristics of an Experimental Wind Turbine by CFD
Authors: Sagol Ece , Reggio Marcelo , Ilinca Adrian
Published: February 2012

The very first step in the simulation of ice accretion on a wind turbine blade is the accurate prediction of the flow field around it and the performance of the turbine rotor. The paper addresses this prediction using RANS equations with a proper turbulence model. The numerical computation is performed using a commercial CFD code, and the results are validated using experimental data for the 3D flow field around the NREL Phase VI HAWT rotor. For the flow simulation, a rotating reference frame method, which calculates the flow properties as time-averaged quantities, has been used to reduce the time spent on the analysis. A basic grid convergence study is carried out to select the adequate mesh size. The two-equation turbulence models available in ANSYS FLUENT are compared for a 7 m/s wind speed, and the one that best represents the flow features is then used to determine moments on the turbine rotor at five wind speeds (7 m/s, 10 m/s, 15 m/s, 20 m/s, and 25 m/s). The results are validated against experimental data, in terms of shaft torque, bending moment, and pressure coefficients at certain spanwise locations. Streamlines over the cross-sectional airfoils have also been provided for the stall speed to illustrate the separation locations. In general, results have shown good agreement with the experimental data for prestall speeds.
Ulam-Hyers-Rassias Stability of a Hyperbolic Partial Differential Equation
Authors: Lungu Nicolaie , Crăciun Cecilia
Published: February 2012

We consider a nonlinear hyperbolic partial differential equation in a general form. Using a Gronwall-type lemma we prove results on the Ulam-Hyers stability and the generalised Ulam-Hyers-Rassias stability of this equation.
The Influence of Incretin Mimetics on Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Diabetes
Authors: Kinalska Ida , Bednarska-Chabowska Dorota , Adamiec-Mroczek Joanna , Hak Lukasz
Published: February 2012

The authors discuss the strategy of use of incretin hormones in type 2 diabetes treatment in the context of cardiovascular complications. The results of the phase III study on human GLP-1 (Glucagon-like peptide-1) analogue-liraglutide have been presented under common acronym LEAD (Liraglutide-Effect and Action In Diabetes). The liraglutide therapy improved glycemic control with low hypoglycemia risk and decreased glycated hemoglobin by an average 1,13%. Decreases in systolic pressure and significant body weight loss were observed. Not only did the index describing beta cells function HOMA-B improve but also did the ratio of insulin to proinsulin. Summing up, incretin hormones beneficially influence blood glucose level, moreover, their use decreases blood pressure and body weight which might indicate their positive influence on cardiovascular system in diabetic patients.
Physicochemical Changes during Vermicomposting of Water Hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) and Grass Clippings
Authors: Ansari Abdullah Adil , Rajpersaud Jerome
Published: February 2012

The present study was aimed at large scale processing of organic waste (grass-T1, water hyacinth-T2, water hyacinth + grass-T3) in three different combinations through biodung and vermicomposting. The results indicated that the pre-digestion of organic waste through anaerobic and aerobic decomposition was most effective in T3. The temperature of the biodung units rose to a maximum of °C and then declined gradually to a constant temperature of °C, bringing about reduction of organic waste free from harmful microbes. The temperature during the process of vermicomposting was observed to be °C in T1 followed by °C in T2 and °C in T3. The pH in three units was near neutral (). C : N ratio was reduced to the required level (). Vermicomposting in T3 resulted in high productivity of vermicompost followed by T2 and T1 which was due to preferential palatability of earthworms Eisenia foetida towards mixed composting material in T3. The results indicated that the vermicompost is highly rich in nutrient and the percentages of these nutrients in the compost vary as the process proceeded until their ideal concentrations for the promotion of plant growth reached.
Low back pain: Epidemiology of consultations
Authors: Jöud Anna , Petersson Ingemar F. , Englund Martin
Published: February 2012

Objective

Low back pain (LBP) affects most people at some stage in life. However, the burden on the health care system is unclear. We studied: 1) the 1‐year consultation prevalence, 2) the rate of first‐time consultation for LBP and the relationship of the frequency to other musculoskeletal conditions, and 3) the health care utilization of patients with LBP compared to the general population.

Methods

Using the health care register in Southern Sweden (population 1.2 million), including diagnoses (International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, Tenth Revision) by physicians, we identified all patients who in 2009 were diagnosed with LBP, defined as lumbago with sciatica, low back pain, or other/unspecified dorsalgia. We defined first‐time consultation as a consultation in 2009 without a record of an LBP diagnosis in 2004–2008. Standardized health care utilization ratios were calculated for LBP patients compared to the general population seeking care.

Results

The 1‐year consultation prevalence of LBP in the population was 3.8% (4.3% for women, 3.3% for men) and increased with age. LBP had been recorded in 17.1% of all patients (16.5% for women, 18.0% for men) who had been diagnosed with any musculoskeletal condition. The rate of first‐time consultation was 238 per 10,000 adults (265 for women, 209 for men). The health care utilization ratios in female and male patients with LBP were 1.74 (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.73–1.75) and 1.81 (95% CI 1.80–1.82), respectively.

Conclusion

LBP, diagnosed in every sixth patient who consulted due to a musculoskeletal problem, is a public health concern that needs structured management. Patients with LBP consume close to twice as much health care as the general population and this warrants more awareness.
Is ultrasound a validated imaging tool for the diagnosis and management of synovitis in juvenile idiopathic arthritis? A systematic literature review
Authors: Collado Paz , Jousse‐Joulin Sandrine , Alcalde María , Naredo Esperanza , D'Agostino Maria Antonietta
Published: February 2012

Objective

Ultrasound (US) has been shown to be a sensitive tool for evaluating synovitis in rheumatoid arthritis. However, the validity of US has not yet been established in juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). The purpose of this study was to assess the validity of US for detecting synovitis for both diagnosis and followup in JIA.

Methods

A systematic literature search in Embase and PubMed was performed before February 25, 2011. Selection criteria included original articles on children, JIA, US, Doppler, synovitis, and management published in the English language. Data were extracted from the articles meeting the inclusion criteria, particularly those focused on the US definition of synovitis, scoring systems used, and metric properties studied. The type and number of joints tested, study design, and quality of the studies were assessed.

Results

Twenty studies were identified using US to assess synovitis in JIA. The knee was the joint most commonly studied in these articles. There was heterogeneity regarding the US definition and quantification of synovitis. Synovitis was commonly assessed by using gray scale and only a few studies included the Doppler technique. Construct validity was reported in 80% of articles, including the clinical examination as the main comparator. US demonstrated higher sensitivity in detecting synovitis as compared to clinical examination. Few studies reported US reliability and responsiveness in JIA.

Conclusion

US is a valuable tool for detecting synovitis in JIA, and demonstrated higher sensitivity in assessing synovitis as compared to clinical examination. However, further studies are needed for evaluating the reliability and responsiveness to assess synovitis changes over time.