bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Challenges in Seismic Imaging and Reservoir Characterization of Presalt Oilfields in Offshore Brazil
Authors: Penna Rodrigo , Camargo Gisele , Johann Paulo Roberto , Dias Roberto
Published: May 2013

Until very recently, the petroleum system of Brazilian presalt reservoirs could not count on good enough seismic imaging to support the seismic interpretation.

In the 90's, the decision of Petrobras to expand its exploration frontiers towards the sedimentary basins of EspÍrito Santo and Santos brought forth new efforts to improve the existing 2D seismic imaging. The favorable outcome of this campaign motivated the 2001 decision to acquire a 3D program covering potential exploratory leads.

In 2005, Petrobras and its partners began exploratory drilling in presalt reservoirs, culminating in the discovery of the Lula-Iracema (2006) and Sapinhoá (2008) fields and other areas: Iara, Carioca, Júpiter, etc.

In 2008, as a consequence of these results, Petrobras started oil production from the Brazilian presalt province.

In 2008-2009 a high density 3D seismic program was acquired over these areas and state-of-the-art seismic processing technology was applied in Santos and Campos basin.

In 2010-2011 a full-azimuth acquisition project took place east of Iara area (circular streamer acquisition), an orthogonal OBC project was acquired in Campos basin and also some borehole seismic projects (walkaway, walkaround and 3D VSP) were performed in Santos basin.

The seismic processing flow evolved from building isotropic velocity models to anisotropic ones, with the use of in-depth imaging techniques such as TTI PSDM. An important processing challenge has been to improve the interbed multiples attenuation. Moreover, the seismic data processing and full-azimuth 3D VSP have been enhanced by focusing on improved imaging and characterization of Brazilian presalt reservoirs. Several processing methodologies were used, including in-house algorithms/workflows in addition to service companies' solutions.

The seismic characterization of the presalt reservoirs has made extensive use of inversion techniques, seismic facies and seismic attributes extraction from the inverted data with very good results. The results of elastic inversions are still a challenge. Another major challenge will be the implementation of 4D seismic technology for monitoring the behavior of fluid motion and pressure variation in the Brazilian presalt reservoirs.
Development of Double Joint Welding Procedure for X90 Grade Seamless Pipes in Riser Applications
Authors: Vickers Mark , Hisamune Nobuyuki , Mruczek Mark F. , Hamada Masahiko , Nakamura Jun , Fukuba Tetsuya , Nagayama Hiroyuki
Published: May 2013

With the increasing strong demand for the development of oil and gas fields in ultra-deepwater, offshore applications with higher strength are required for the reduction of construction costs. Riser system costs are particularly sensitive to increases in the depth of water. Ultra-high strength seamless pipes of X90 and X100 grades have been developed for deepwater or ultra-deepwater applications.

Girth welding procedures need to be developed whilst considering the material properties of both the heat affected zone (HAZ) and the weld metal for ultra-high strength pipes. Double jointing with submerged arc welding (SAW) in particular is one of the most important process due to the high productivity and quality of the welding. However, there is little information about girth SAW joints in pipes above X90 grade.

In addition, fatigue properties of parent pipe and welding joints are required for riser systems as cyclic stress is applied marine phenomena.

This paper describes developed welding procedures and test results of material properties of X90-grade double joints by using SAW. Welds were made with typical welding parameters for riser productions. In order to assess the applicability of double joints for riser applications, high cycle fatigue testing and fatigue crack growth rate testing was conducted. This work was performed with Engineering Critical Assessment (ECA) for riser applications by using the material and fatigue properties of X90 parent pipe and welding joints.
Intelligent Software Agents: Sensor Integration and Response
Authors: Lee Ronald W , Kulesz James J
Published: May 2013

In a post Macondo world the buzzwords are Integrity Management and Incident Response Management. The twin processes are not new but the opportunity to link the two is novel. Intelligent software agents can be used with sensor networks in distributed and centralized computing systems to enhance real-time monitoring of system integrity as well as manage the follow-on incident response to changing, and potentially hazardous, environmental conditions. The software components are embedded at the sensor network nodes in surveillance systems used for monitoring unusual events. When an event occurs, the software agents establish a new concept of operation at the sensing node, post the event status to a " blackboard" for software agents at other nodes to " see", and then react quickly and efficiently to monitor the scale of the event.

The technology addresses a current challenge in sensor networks that prevents a rapid and efficient response when a sensor measurement indicates that an event has occurred. By using intelligent software agents - which can be stationary or mobile, interact socially, and adapt to changing situations - the technology offers features that are particularly important when systems need to adapt to active circumstances. For example, when a release is detected, the local software agent collaborates with other agents at the node to exercise the appropriate operation, such as: targeted detection, increased detection frequency, decreased detection frequency for other non-alarming sensors, and determination of environmental conditions so that adjacent nodes can be informed that an event is occurring and when it will arrive. The software agents at the nodes can also post the data in a targeted manner, so that agents at other nodes and the command center can exercise appropriate operations to recalibrate the overall sensor network and associated intelligence systems.

The paper describes the concepts and provides examples of real-world implementations including the Threat Detection and Analysis System (TDAS) at the International Port of Memphis and the Biological Warning and Incident Characterization System (BWIC) Environmental Monitoring (EM) Component. Technologies developed for these 24/7 operational systems have applications for improved real-time system integrity awareness as well as provide incident response (as needed) for production and field applications.
Geophysical maps and geological sections of the Labrador Sea
Authors: Srivastava S P
Published: May 2013

The lithology, stratigraphy, and depositional environments of Mesozoic-Cenozoic strata on the Labrador Shelf are described using offshore well data. Bathymetry, gravity, magnetic anomaly, depth to basement, and sediment thickness of the Labrador Sea are presented
at a scale of 1:2 000 000.
Safety and Efficacy of Memantine Extended-Release in the Management of Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Corbett Anne , Francis Paul , Ballard Clive
Published: May 2013

Alzheimer's disease (AD) affects the majority of the 35 million people with dementia worldwide. Four pharmacological treatment options are available for this patient group, of which memantine is licensed for treatment of people with moderate to severe stages of the condition. Memantine acts through its function as an NMDA-glutamate receptor blocker and has an established safety profile. The evidence supporting its efficacy in people with AD includes a number of large randomized clinical trials showing benefit to cognition, function, and overall clinical outcome. Additional favorable health economics analyses have confirmed the clinical and cost-effectiveness of this drug. More recently an extended-release formulation has been developed. This review outlines the key evidence base supporting memantine as a treatment for moderate to severe AD, in addition to discussing the conditions under which it may provide additional value in combination with other drugs. The review also discusses the use of memantine to address behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) arising in people with AD and the limited evidence around its use in AD in people with Down's syndrome. Finally the review considers the potential value of the extended release formulation in AD.
Genomics Insights: Inter-Laboratory Variability in Array-Based RNA Quantification Methods
Authors: Wong Victoria Y. , Duval Manuel X.
Published: May 2013

Ribonucleic acids (RNA) are hypothesized to have preceded their derivatives, deoxyribonucleic acids (DNA), as the molecular media of genetic information when life emerged on earth. Molecular biologists are accustomed to the dramatic effects a subtle variation in the ribose moiety composition between RNA and DNA can have on the stability of these molecules. While DNA is very stable after extraction from biological samples and subsequent treatment, RNA is notoriously labile. The short half-life property, inherent to RNA, benefits cells that do not need to express their entire repertoire of proteins. The cellular machinery turns off the production of a given protein by shutting down the transcription of its cognate coding gene and by either actively degrading the remaining mRNA or allowing it to decay on its own. The steady-state level of each mRNA in a given cell varies continuously and is specified by changing kinetics of synthesis and degradation. Because it is technically possible to simultaneously measure thousands of nucleic acid molecules, these quantities have been studied by the life sciences community to investigate a range of biological problems. Since the RNA abundance can change according to a wide range of perturbations, this makes it the molecule of choice for exploring biological systems; its instability, on the other hand, could be an underestimated source of technical variability. We found that a large fraction of the RNA abundance originally present in the biological system prior to extraction was masked by the RNA labeling and measurement procedure. The method used to extract RNA molecules from cells and to label them prior to hybridization operations on DNA arrays affects the original distribution of RNA. Only if RNA measurements are performed according to the same procedure can biological information be inferred from the assay read out.
The Picard group of a noncommutative algebraic torus
Authors: Berest Yuri , Ramadoss Ajay C. , Tang Xiang
Published: May 2013

Let

A_q := \mathbb{C}\langle x^{\pm 1}, y^{\pm 1}\rangle/(xy-qyx)

. Assuming that

q

is not a root of unity, we compute the Picard group

\operatorname{Pic}(A_q)

of the algebra

A_q

, describe its action on the space

\mathcal{R}(A_q)

of isomorphism classes of rank 1 projective modules and classify the algebras Morita equivalent to

A_q

. Our computations are based on a ‘quantum’ version of the Calogero–Moser correspondence relating projective

A_q

-modules to irreducible representations of the double affine Hecke algebras

{\mathbb H}_{t, q^{-1/2}}(S_n)

at

t = 1

. We show that, under this correspondence, the action of

\operatorname{Pic}(A_q)

on

\mathcal{R}(A_q)

agrees with the action of

\operatorname{SL}_2(\mathbb{Z})

on

{\mathbb H}_{t, q^{-1/2}}(S_n)

constructed by Cherednik [C1], [C2]. We compare our results with the smooth and analytic cases. In particular, when

|q| \ne 1

, we find that

\operatorname{Pic}(A_q) \cong \operatorname{Auteq} (\mathscr{D}^{\mathrm{b}}(X))/{\mathbb{Z}}

, where

\mathscr{D}^{\mathrm{b}}(X)

is the bounded derived category of coherent sheaves on the elliptic curve

X = \mathbb{C}^*/ {\mathbb{Z}}

.
Organic and inorganic markers and stable C-, N-isotopic compositions of tropical coastal aerosols from megacity Mumbai: sources of organic aerosols and atmospheric processing
Authors: Aggarwal S. G. , Kawamura K. , Umarji G. S. , Tachibana E. , Patil R. S. , Gupta P. K.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. To better understand the sources of PM10 samples in Mumbai, India, aerosol chemical composition, i.e., total carbon (TC), organic carbon (OC), elemental carbon (EC), water-soluble organic carbon (WSOC), and inorganic ions were studied together with specific markers such as methanesulfonate (MSA), oxalic acid (C2), azelaic acid (C9), and levoglucosan. The results revealed that biofuel/biomass burning and fossil fuel combustion are the major sources of the Mumbai aerosols. Nitrogen-isotopic (δ15N) composition of aerosol total nitrogen, which ranged from 18.1 to 25.4‰, also suggests that biofuel/biomass burning is a predominate source in both the summer and winter seasons. Aerosol mass concentrations of major species increased 3–4 times in winter compared to summer, indicating enhanced emission from these sources in the winter season. Photochemical production tracers, C2 diacid and nssSO42−, do not show diurnal changes. Concentrations of C2 diacid and WSOC show a strong correlation (r2 = 0.95). In addition, WSOC to OC (or TC) ratios remain almost constant for daytime (0.37 ± 0.06 (0.28 ± 0.04)) and nighttime (0.38 ± 0.07 (0.28 ± 0.06)), suggesting that mixing of fresh secondary organic aerosols is not significant and the Mumbai aerosols are photochemically well processed. Concentrations of MSA and C9 diacid present a positive correlation (r2 = 0.75), indicating a marine influence on Mumbai aerosols in addition to local/regional influence. Backward air mass trajectory analyses further suggested that the Mumbai aerosols are largely influenced by long-range continental and regional transport. Stable C-isotopic ratios (δ13C) of TC ranged from −27.0 to −25.4‰, with slightly lower average (−26.5 ± 0.3‰) in summer than in winter (−25.9 ± 0.3‰). Positive correlation between WSOC/TC ratios and δ13C values suggested that the relative increment in 13C of wintertime TC may be caused by prolonged photochemical processing of organic aerosols in this season. This study suggests that in winter, the tropical aerosols are more aged due to longer residence time in the atmosphere than in summer aerosols. However, these conclusions are based on the analysis of a limited number of samples (n=25) and more information on this topic may be needed from other similar coastal sites in future.
Hygroscopic properties of organic aerosol particles emitted in the marine atmosphere
Authors: Wonaschütz A. , Coggon M. , Sorooshian A. , Modini R. , Frossard A. A. , Ahlm L. , Mülmenstädt J. , Roberts G. C. , Russell L. M. , Dey S. , Brechtel F. J. , Seinfeld J. H.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. During the Eastern Pacific Emitted Aerosol Cloud Experiment (E-PEACE), a plume of organic aerosol was produced and emitted into the marine atmosphere from aboard the research vessel R/V Point Sur. In this study, the hygroscopic properties and the chemical composition of the plume were studied at plume ages between 0 and 4 h in different meteorological conditions. In sunny conditions, hygroscopic growth factors (GFs) at a relative humidity (RH) of 92% were low, but increased at higher plume ages: from 1.05 to 1.09 for 30 nm and from 1.05 to 1.1 for 150 nm dry size (contrasted by an average marine background GF of 1.6). Simultaneously, ratios of oxygen to carbon (O:C) increased from < 0.001 to 0.2, water-soluble organic mass (WSOM) concentrations increased from 2.42 to 4.96 μg m−3, and organic mass fractions decreased slightly (~ 0.97 to ~ 0.94). New particles were produced in large quantities (several 10 000 cm−3), which lead to substantially increased cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) concentrations at supersaturations between 0.07–0.88%. High-resolution aerosol mass spectrometer (AMS) spectra show that the organic fragment m/z 43 was dominated by C2H3O+ in the small particle mode and by C3H7+ in the large particle mode. In the marine background aerosol, GFs for 150 nm particles at 40% RH were found to be enhanced at higher organic mass fractions. An average GF of 1.06 was observed for aerosols with an organic mass fraction of 0.53, a GF of 1.04 for an organic mass fraction of 0.35.
A novel Whole Air Sample Profiler (WASP) for the quantification of volatile organic compounds in the boundary layer
Authors: Mak J. E. , Su L. , Guenther A. , Karl T.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. The emission and fate of reactive VOCs is of inherent interest to those studying chemical biosphere-atmosphere interactions. In-canopy VOC observations are obtainable using tower-based samplers, but the lack of suitable sampling systems for the full boundary layer has limited the data characterizing the vertical structure of such gases above the canopy height and still in the boundary layer. This is the important region where many reactive VOCs are oxidized or otherwise removed. Here we describe an airborne sampling system designed to collect a vertical profile of air into a 3/8" OD tube 150 m in length. The inlet ram air pressure is used to flow sampled air through the tube, which results in a varying flow rate based on aircraft speed and altitude. Since aircraft velocity decreases during ascent, it is necessary to account for the variable flow rate into the tube. This is accomplished using a reference gas that is pulsed into the air stream so that the precise altitude of the collected air can be reconstructed post-collection. The pulsed injections are also used to determine any significant effect from diffusion/mixing within the sampling tube, either during collection or subsequent extraction for gas analysis. This system has been successfully deployed, and we show some measured vertical profiles of isoprene and its oxidation products methacrolein and methyl vinyl ketone from a mixed canopy near Columbia, Missouri.
Comparative magnetotail flapping: an overview of selected events at Earth, Jupiter and Saturn
Authors: Volwerk M. , André N. , Arridge C. S. , Jackman C. M. , Jia X. , Milan S. E. , Radioti A. , Vogt M. F. , Walsh A. P. , Nakamura R. , Masters A. , Forsyth C.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. A comparison of magnetotail flapping (the up-and-down wavy motion) between the Earth and the two giant planets Jupiter and Saturn has been performed through investigation of the current sheet normal of the magnetotail. Magnetotail flapping is commonly observed in the Earth's magnetotail. Due to single spacecraft missions at the giant planets, the normal is determined through minimum variance analysis of magnetometer data during multiple intervals when the spacecraft crossed through the current sheet. It is shown that indeed a case can be made that magnetotail flapping also occurs at Jupiter and Saturn. Calculations of the wave period using generic magnetotail models show that the observed periods are much shorter than their theoretical estimates, and that this discrepancy can be caused by unknown input parameters for the tail models (e.g., current sheet thickness) and by possible Doppler shifting of the waves in the spacecraft frame through the fast rotation of the giant planets.
MAPPING AND ASSESSING LAND USE/ LAND COVER CHANGE IN MUHARRAQ ISLAND BASED ON GIS AND REMOTE SENSING INTEGRATION
Authors: Modara M. , Ait Belaid M. , Al-Jenaid S.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. In this study, Remote Sensing (RS) and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) techniques were integrated to map out and assess the changes of Land Use/Land Cover (LULC) maps in Muharraq Governorate (Island), in the Kingdom of Bahrain, from 1951 to 2008. The datasets used are: analogue topographic maps for the years of 1951, 1970, 1977, 1985 and 1994, Aerial photographs taken in the years of 1961, 2001, and finally IKONOS Satellite imagery, taken in 2008 with ground spatial resolution of 1 m. The methodology adopted was based on the Collection of datasets mentioned above; Map scanning; Geo-referencing and/or Ortho-rectification, Visual interpretation, and Results output. Visual interpretation was done and eight LULC maps (Classifications) were produced. The results showed that the total area of Muharraq has increased from 13 km2 in 1951 to 56 km2 in 2008. Accordingly, urban areas increased from 2.3 to 9.7 km2 and industrial area from 0.0 to 14.0 km2. Similarly, the length of coastal line has increased from 35.0 to 166.0 km and finally, the road network from 11.5 to 450.5 km.
Speedup and fracturing of George VI Ice Shelf, Antarctic Peninsula
Authors: Holt T. O. , Glasser N. F. , Quincey D. J. , Siegfried M. R.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. George VI Ice Shelf (GVIIS) is located on the Antarctic Peninsula, a region where several ice shelves have undergone rapid breakup in response to atmospheric and oceanic warming. We use a combination of optical (Landsat), radar (ERS 1/2 SAR) and laser altimetry (GLAS) datasets to examine the response of GVIIS to environmental change and to offer an assessment on its future stability. The spatial and structural changes of GVIIS (ca. 1973 to ca. 2010) are mapped and surface velocities are calculated at different time periods (InSAR and optical feature tracking from 1989 to 2009) to document changes in the ice shelf's flow regime. Surface elevation changes are recorded between 2003 and 2008 using repeat track ICESat acquisitions. We note an increase in fracture extent and distribution at the south ice front, ice-shelf acceleration towards both the north and south ice fronts and spatially varied negative surface elevation change throughout, with greater variations observed towards the central and southern regions of the ice shelf. We propose that whilst GVIIS is in no imminent danger of collapse, it is vulnerable to ongoing atmospheric and oceanic warming and is more susceptible to breakup along its southern margin in ice preconditioned for further retreat.
Cardiac Autonomic Dysfunction in the Early Phase after Left Ventricular Assist Device Implant: Implications for Surgery and Follow-Up?
Authors: Compostella Leonida , Russo Nicola , Setzu Tiziana , Tursi Vincenzo , Bottio Tomaso , Tarzia Vincenzo , Compostella Caterina , Covolo Elisa , Livi Ugolino , Gerosa Gino , Sani Guido , Bellotto Fabio
Published: May 2013

Purpose

In congestive heart failure (CHF) patients, a profound cardiac autonomic derangement, clinically expressed by reduced heart rate variability (HRV), is present and is related to the degree of ventricular dysfunction. Implantation of a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) can progressively improve HRV, associated with an increased circulatory output. Data from patients studied at different times after LVAD implantation are controversial. The aims of this study were to assess cardiac autonomic function in the early phases after axial-flow LVAD implantation, and to estimate the potential relevance of recent major surgical stress on the autonomic balance.

Methods

HRV (time-domain; 24-h Holter) was evaluated in 14 patients, 44.8 ± 25.8 days after beginning of Jarvik-2000 LVAD support; 47 advanced stage CHF, 24 cardiac surgery (CS) patients and 30 healthy subjects served as control groups. Inclusion criteria: sinus rhythm, stable clinical conditions, no diabetes or other known causes of HRV alteration.

Results

HRV was considerably reduced in LVAD patients in the early phases after device implantation in comparison to all control groups. A downgrading of HRV parameters was also present in CS controls. Circadian oscillations were highly depressed in LVAD and CHF patients, and slightly reduced in CS patients.

Conclusions

In CHF patients supported by a continuous-flow LVAD, a profound cardiac dysautonomia is still evident in the first two months from the beginning of circulatory support; the degree of cardiac autonomic imbalance is even greater in comparison to advanced CHF patients. The recent surgical stress could be partly linked to these abnormalities.
Chronic Pelvic Pain and Quality of Life in Women with and without Endometriosis
Authors: Centini Gabriele , Lazzeri Lucia , Dores Daniela , Pianigiani Luca , Iannone Piergiorgio , Luisi Stefano , Petraglia Felice , Zupi Errico
Published: May 2013

Purpose

To determine the impact of chronic pelvic pain on quality of life in women with or without endometriosis

Methods

A total of 162 women with chronic pelvic pain were enrolled in a cross-sectional study and divided into two groups: 84 with endometriosis, 78 without endometriosis. Assessment of dysmenorrhea, non -menstrual pain, dyspareunia and diffuse abdominal pain by a visual analog scale, assessment of quality of life by SF-36.

Results

The endometriosis group showed more dysmenorrhea but less dyspareunia and non-menstrual pain than women affected by other diseases. Pain had a negative influence on quality of life in both groups, but the endometriosis group showed a greater negative impact in all areas of SF-36, yet only in three (physical role, physical pain and mental role) was the difference statistically significant.

Conclusions

Endometriosis impacts quality of life more than other forms of chronic pelvic pain. Interventions aimed at improving quality of life specifically designed for patients with chronic pelvic pain in general, and with endometriosis in particular, should be developed, tested, and integrated into the routine care regimen provided for these patients.
The Role of 3.0T MRI in the Assessment of Deep Endometriosis Located on the Uterosacral Ligaments
Authors: Manganaro Lucia , Vinci Valeria , Bernardo Silvia , Storelli Paola , Fuggetta Eliana , Sollazzo Paolo , Ticino Adele , Sergi Maria Eleonora , Brunelli Roberto , Panici Pierluigi Benedetti , Porpora Maria Grazia
Published: May 2013

Purpose

To assess the diagnostic accuracy of 3.0T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in assessing the involvement of uterosacral ligaments (USLs) in deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE).

Methods

Between July 2010 and July 2012, 42 women, aged between 19 and 45 years (mean age 28 years), with a diagnosis of cystic ovarian endometriosis and scheduled for laparoscopic treatment, underwent pre-operative 3.0-T MRI examination. USL was considered normal when it was not visible or when it was thin and regular.

Results

We found USL involvement in 20/42 cases: 4/20 had bilateral involvement, 16/20 had monolateral involvement; in the right ligament in 9/16 cases and in the left in 7/16. Asymmetric morphology was found in 17 patients with an arciform shape associated with increased thickness of the ligament. A thickness >3 mm was considered positive. These patients also presented thickening of the torus uterinus region. In three cases complete cul de sac obliteration led to loss of tissue plane which hindered identification of the USLs. Comparison with laparoscopy findings enabled us to achieve the following statistical values: 94.7% sensitivity, 91.3% specificity, 90.0% positive predictive value, 95.4% negative predictive value, and 93% diagnostic accuracy.

Conclusions

Optimal visualization of USLs was obtained on para-axial scans on T2W and T1W sequences which allowed an optimal anatomic visualization. In our study we demonstrated that 3.0T imaging enabled an optimal assessment of USL involvement to select patients for the correct kind of surgery or follow-up of these patients.
Characteristics of blooming, floral nectaries and nectar of Malus sargentii Rehd.
Authors: Weryszko-Chmielewska Elżbieta , Dmitruk Marta
Published: May 2013

In the years 2007-2008, the flowering biology of Malus sargentii, an ornamental apple tree native to Japan, was studied in the conditions of Lublin (Poland). The daily rate of flower opening, flowering duration and flower visitation by insects were determined. The amount of nectar produced per flower and sugar content in the nectar were investigated. The size of nectaries and the micromorphology of their surface were examined using light and scanning electron microscopy. It was found that the greatest amount of flowers opened between 11.00 and 13.00. During this time, the largest number of insects was observed in the flowers. Bees (90%) were predominant among the insects, with a much smaller number of bumblebees (6%) and butterflies (4%). The flower life span was 5 days. Over this period, the flower produced, on the average, 0.71 mg of nectar with an average sugar content of 32%. The nectaries of Malus sargentii are orange-yellow coloured and they represent the hypanthial type. Due to the protrusion of the nectariferous tissue, they are classified as automorphic nectaries. The surface of the epidermal cells of the nectary was distinguished by distinct cuticle folds. A small number of stomata were located only in the basal part of the nectary. At the beginning of flowering, all stomata were closed, but secretion traces were observed near well-developed outer cuticular ledges.
Effects of mycorrhization and phosphorus nutrition on nutrient uptake, growth and flowering of China aster (Callistephus chinensis (L.) Nees) cultivated on ebb-and-flow benches
Authors: Nowak Joanna
Published: May 2013

The effects were investigated of phosphorus nutrition and AMF inoculation on nutritional status, growth, and flowering of China aster (Callistephus chinensis (L.) Nees) 'Milady' during cultivation on ebb-and-flow benches. Two P treatments of 8.68 and 43.40 mg × dm-3 were applied. One month after inoculation the roots of inoculated plants were infected by mycorrhizal fungi. The control plants had no root infection. The mycorrhizal fungal colonization in plants that were fertilized at 8.68 and 43.40 mg × dm-3 P was 67% and 60%, respectively. Slightly increased P content was detected in leaves of mycorrhizal plants grown under low P level. Mycorrhization did not affect leaf P content of plants grown in high P level. Increased Mg content was measured in leaves of mycorrhizal plants grown under both P levels. Mycorrhizal and nonmycorrhizal plants did not differ with regard to leaf N, K, and Ca contents. P nutrition did not also affect the contents of these elements in leaf tissue. Mycorrhization decreased the pH and lowered salt accumulation in growing media. Significantly lower shoot biomass, plant height, shoot number were recorded in all plants inoculated with AMF. Mycorrhization also delayed flowering of China aster; the high P level slightly accelerated it. Mycorrhizal plants had fewer flower buds and flowers than nonmycorrhizal ones. The high P level increased the number of flowers of nonmycorrhizal plants only.
Flowering and fruit set of six cultivars of highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum L.) in the conditions of the Lublin Region
Authors: Bożek Małgorzata
Published: May 2013

The results presented in this paper relate to the time and duration of flowering of highbush blueberry as well as fruit set in the conditions of flower isolation and free visitation by pollinating insects. Observations were carried out in the years 2001- 2004 at a plantation located in Niemce near the city of Lublin. Six cultivars: 'Bluecrop', 'Bluejay', 'Croatan', 'Darrow', 'Northland' and 'Spartan', were covered by the study. The flowering period of the studied highbush blueberry cultivars was in May in three years of study, whereas in 2004 in May and June. Depending on the year, it lasted from 14 up to 21 days, on the average. Significant differences were found in the life span of a single flower which, depending on the cultivar and conditions prevailing during flowering, bloomed from 5 up to 10 days (the average for all the years for all the cultivars). With free access of pollinating insects, highbush blueberry set an average of 92 false-berries per 100 flowers, whereas only 40 during spontaneous self-pollination under the isolating cover. In each year of study, irrespective of atmospheric conditions prevailing during flowering as well as the time and duration of flowering, fruit set of the investigated cultivars in flowers freely accessible to pollinating insects should be considered to be good or very good.
Growth and yield of cucumber under no-tillage cultivation using rye as a cover crop
Authors: Jelonkiewicz Małgorzata , Borowy Andrzej
Published: May 2013

In the first two years of study, method of cultivation did not affect the emergence of cucumber seedlings. In the third year, a drought occurring during the spring was the cause of poor seedling emergence on no-tilled plots. Six weeks after seed sowing, the shoots of cucumbers grown on the no-tilled plots were much shorter, especially in the last study year. At the time of cucumber seed sowing, no-tilled soil contained less phosphorus and potassium and in the middle of the fructification period the content of these elements in cucumber leaves was higher under no-tillage cultivation. Additional spring fertilization of rye with ammonium nitrate resulted in a higher N-NO3 content in soil and later in a higher nitrogen content of cucumber leaves. The content of calcium and magnesium in soil and than in cucumber leaves was independent of the cultivation method. In the first two years, method of cultivation did not affect the yield of cucumber fruits and in the third year the yield was much lower under no-tillage because of poor seedling emergence. Moreover, in the third year the fruits were smaller and dry matter content of the fruit was significantly higer under no-tillage cultivation.
The effect of foliar feeding of potassium salts and urea in spinach on gas exchange, leaf yield and quality
Authors: Borowski Edward , Michałek Sławomir
Published: May 2013

In a pot experiment conducted in a phytotron, the effectiveness of foliar feeding of different potassium salts, with and without the addition of 0.5% CO(NH2)2, in spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) was investigated. Potassium was applied 3 times in the form of 1% solutions KCl, KNO3, K2SO4 and C6H5K3O7•H2O, compared to water as the control treatment. The obtained results show that foliar feeding of potassium salts in spinach is an efficient method of supplementing the level of K+ in plants during vegetation. Plants fed with KNO3 had the highest content of potassium in leaves, and those fertilized with K2SO4, C6H5K3O7 × H2O and KCl had an only slightly lower potassium content. The application of potassium salts resulted in more intensive gas exchange in leaves (stomatal conductance, photosynthesis, transpiration) and, as a consequence of that, increased leaf yield. Potassium nitrate and citrate influenced most effectively the abovementioned processes. The treatment of spinach with potassium salts resulted in an increased content of protein, chlorophyll, carotenoids, nitrates and iron as well as a decreased content of vitamin C and calcium in leaves.
Flowering biology and nectary structure of Melissa officinalis L.
Authors: Chwil Mirosława
Published: May 2013

The present study on lemon balm (Melissa officinalis L.) covered flowering biology, monitoring of pollinating insects and floral nectary structure. The micromorphology of epidermal cells of the nectary was investigated using scanning electron microscopy. The nectariferous tissues were observed using light microscopy based on semi-thin sections. Lemon balm flowered from the second decade of June until September. Buds opened from early morning hours until noon. Flowers lived for 24 hours, on the average. Their primary pollinator was the honey bee. The beginning of nectar secretion was found to be at the bud swell stage. The automorphic nectary forms a disc with four protrusions at the base of the nectary. Three smaller ones and one larger than the other ones were distinguished among them. No stomata were found on the lower protuberances, whereas on the highest part anomocytic stomata were present, the number of which was 15. The stomata exhibited different development stages and they were situated above other epidermal cells. In their outline, they were ellipsoidally shaped (18 × 23 µm) and they had average-sized cuticular ledges. They produced a smooth cuticle and wax granules. In cross section, the nectary tissues were composed of a singlelayered epidermis and 9 - 11 layers of the nectary parenchyma. Their thickness was 198 µm. In longitudinal section, the height of the nectary was within a range of 354 - 404 µm. The epidermal cells produced thin outer cell walls. Some of them were completely filled with strongly stained cytoplasm, whereas others showed a high degree of vacuolisation. But the nectary parenchyma cells were marked by poorly stained cytoplasm, a large nucleus and vacuolisation of varying degree.
Floral, resin-secreting trichomes in Maxillaria dichroma Rolfe (Orchidaceae: Maxillariinae)
Authors: Stpiczyńska Małgorzata , Davies Kevin L.
Published: May 2013

Resin-secreting, sunken, glandular trichomes have been described from the vegetative organs of Maxillaria and certain related taxa. However, until now, these hairs have not been recorded for Maxillaria flowers, nor have they been examined at the ultrastructural level for any part of the plant. Here for the first time, these hairs are described using LM, SEM and TEM, and their possible functions discussed.
The influence of meteorological conditions on the start of the hazel (Corylus L.) pollen season in Lublin, 2001-2009
Authors: Piotrowska Krystyna , Kaszewski Bogusław M.
Published: May 2013

Early spring flowering plants show large differences in the start dates of pollen emission due to high weather variability in the preceding period. In the present study, the influence of meteorological conditions on the start date of the hazel pollen season in Lublin in the years 2001-2009 was investigated. The aeropalynological study was carried out by the volumetric method using a Lanzoni VPPS 2000 sampler. The start of the hazel pollen season was determined using the 98% method. The differences in particular years of the study were over two months. Hazel pollen grains were recorded earliest in 2007, since from 13 January, and latest in 2003, from 18 March. It was found that accumulated 5-day mean temperature before the season affects the onset of the pollen season. As a result of multiple regression analysis, a statistical model was derived, which shows with great accuracy the relationship of the start of the hazel pollen season with total precipitation and the number of winter days.
Effect of colour and size grading of China aster (Callistephus chinensis Nees) seeds on their germination
Authors: Rosińska Agnieszka , Rosiński Grzegorz , Hołubowicz Roman
Published: May 2013

Seeds of 3 commercial China aster (Callistephus chinensis Nees) lots were divided by hand into 3 grades with different colours: dark brown, brown and light brown, and 2 grades with a different size: length below 3.9 mm (small) and above 3.9 mm (large). The colour grading was done based on the Royal Horticultural Society Colour Chart and size grading was done by hand for each seed. Then, seeds were routinely germinated based on the International Seed Testing Association (ISTA) rules. The size of seeds had no effect on their germination. The dark brown seeds germinated better than the light brown ones. Removing light brown seeds from the China aster seed lot improved their germination.
Weed infestation of a winter wheat canopy under the conditions of application of different herbicide doses and foliar fertilization
Authors: Kraska Piotr , Okoń Sylwia , Pałys Edward
Published: May 2013

The present study was carried out in the years 2006-2008 in the Bezek Experimental Farm (University of Life Sciences in Lublin). A two-factor field experiment was set up according to a randomized block design, in three replications. The experimental field was situated on medium heavy mixed rendzina developed from chalk rock with medium dusty loam granulometric composition. The soil was characterised by neutral pH, a very high content of P (342.1) and K (278.9) along with a very low level of magnesium (16.0 mg × kg-1 of soil) and organic carbon (over 3.5%). The aim of this research was to compare the effect of three herbicide doses and two foliar fertilizers applied in a winter wheat canopy on weed infestation. The herbicides Mustang 306 SE 0.4 l × ha-1 and Attribut 70 WG 60 g × ha-1 were applied at full recommended doses as well as at doses reduced to 75% and 50%. Foliar fertilizers Insol 3 (1 1 × ha-1) and FoliCare (20 kg × ha-1) were applied at full recommended doses twice in the growing season BBCH* development stage 23-25* and 33-35*). The control was not treated with the herbicides and foliar fertilizers. The weed infestation level was determined by means of the quantitative gravimetric method at two dates: the first one 6 weeks after herbicide application and the second one - before harvest. The number of weed individuals was counted; species composition and air-dry biomass of aboveground parts were estimated from randomly selected areas of 1 m × 0.25 m at four sites on each plot. Galium aparine and Apera spica-venti plants were sampled for molecular analysis 6 weeks after herbicide application (the treatments with the full herbicide dose, a 50% dose and the control without herbicides). The density of weeds and weed air-dry weight were statistically analysed by means of variance analysis, and the mean values were estimated with Tukey's confidence intervals (p=0.05). It was found that the number of weeds and air-dry weight of weeds in the control treatment were significantly higher in comparison with the herbicide treated plots. The application of different herbicide doses did not differentiate significantly the weed infestation level in the winter wheat canopy. Galium aparine, Papaver rhoeas, Viola arvensis and Apera spica-venti were dominant weed species in the winter wheat canopy. Foliar application of fertilizers did not influence the weed infestation level in the crop canopy. Molecular analysis showed that herbicide application did not affect genetic variation in the populations of Galium aparine and Apera spica-venti.
The Effects of Consumption L-Arabinose on Metabolic Syndrome in Humans
Authors: Ziming  , Dianpeng Li  , Haiying Jiang  , Guiyun Qian  , Weiguo Sui  , Guimian Zou  , Hourui Zhang
Published: May 2013

On the basis of results in rat, L-arabinose decreased total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), fasting glucose, systolic blood pressure, increased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDLC), and enhanced the glucose tolerance. The primary purposes of the present study was to determine the effects of consumption L-arabinose on metabolic syndrome in humans.All volunteers received L-Arabinose by dissolving it in water. The volunteers didn’t change the diet habits and lifestyles during the whole experiment. The trial lasted for 6 months, and experimental indicators were assayed every two months, which including weight, waist circumference, blood pressure, TG, TC, HDLC, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLC), fasting plasma glucose, erum uric acid, serum creatinine (Scr), bloodurea nitrogen (BUN), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). Our results showed that the L-arabinose decreased waist circumference, TC, fasting glucose, serum uric acid, ALT and slightly increased HDLCand slightly decreased diastolic blood pressure after 6 months. A tendency for decreased waist circumference, TC, fasting glucose, serum uric acid, ALT after 2, 4 and 6 months of treatment with L-arabinose was observed. In addition, L-arabinose decreased TC, LDLC and body weight. No effects on Scr, BUN, AST. In conclusions, L-arabinosewould reduce most the metabolic syndrome risk factors(decreased circumference, TC, fasting glucose, and so on), and treat the metabolic syndrome as a whole.The present study would provides strong evidence that long-term received L-arabinose would be manage metabolic syndrome.
Radicalization and Terrorism: Research within the Australian Context
Authors: Rahimullah Riyad Hosain , Larmar Stephen , Abdalla Mohamad
Published: May 2013

Terrorism perpetrated by some Muslims has become a global phenomenon that has significantly impacted many nations. In the post-September 11 era, Australia has experienced threat of terrorist attacks from organisations including Al-Qaeda and Jemaah Islamiah. In response to this phenomenon the Australian government has heightened security measures and engaged various strategies to counter-radicalization. While the growing body of global research focussing on radicalization and terrorism may inform such strategies, research within the Australian context would provide a cogent platform for assisting in the response to terrorism at a national level. This paper provides discussion focussing on the paucity in literature on the question of radicalization and terrorism. Furthermore, significant gaps in the literature are highlighted and future research recommendations are suggested that would assist in broadening current understanding of the processes of radicalization and terrorism.
A Multistate Markov Model Based on CD4 Cell Count for HIV/AIDS Patients on Antiretroviral Therapy (ART)
Authors: Grover Gurprit , Gadpayle Adesh Kumar , Swain Prafulla Kumar , Deka Barnali
Published: May 2013

The main purpose of this study is to assess the impact of Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) by using a multistate Markov model to estimate transition intensities and transition probabilities among various states (transient as well as absorbing) of the AIDS patients. A total of 580 AIDS patients were included in this study who are undergoing Antiretroviral Therapy treatment in the ART centre in New Delhi during the period of April 2004 to April 2011. The patients are classified in different states on the basis of their available CD4 cell counts. The authors also estimated the mean sojourn time and total length of stay in each state before absorption, and also examined the effects of explanatory variables (i.e Age, Sex, Mode of transmission) on the rates of transition using Cox’s proportional hazard model.
Shape‐Memory Microfluidics
Authors: Balasubramanian Aditya , Morhard Robert , Bettinger Christopher J
Published: May 2013

Materials with embedded vascular networks afford rapid and enhanced control over bulk material properties including thermoregulation and distribution of active compounds such as healing agents or stimuli. Vascularized materials have a wide range of potential applications in self‐healing systems and tissue engineering constructs. Here, the application of vascularized materials for accelerated phase transitions in stimuli‐responsive microfluidic networks is reported. Poly(ester amide) elastomers are hygroscopic and exhibit thermo‐mechanical properties (Tg≈ 37 °C) that enable heating or hydration to be used as stimuli to induce glassy‐rubbery transitions. Hydration‐dependent elasticity serves as the basis for stimuli‐responsive shape‐memory microfluidic networks. Recovery kinetics in shape‐memory microfluidics are measured under several operating modes. Perfusion‐assisted delivery of stimulus to the bulk volume of shape‐memory microfluidics dramatically accelerates shape recovery kinetics compared to devices that are not perfused. The recovery times are 4.2 ± 0.1 h and 8.0 ± 0.3 h in the perfused and non‐perfused cases, respectively. The recovery kinetics of the shape‐memory microfluidic devices operating in various modes of stimuli delivery can be accurately predicted through finite element simulations. This work demonstrates the utility of vascularized materials as a strategy to reduce the characteristic length scale for diffusion, thereby accelerating the actuation of stimuli‐responsive bulk materials.