bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Imaging The Pre-khuff: Changing The Game With Innovative Seismic Technology
Authors: van der Molen Matthijs , Harvey Craig , Molinaro Matteo , Navarro-Luna Rafael , Stigborg Patrik
Published: March 2015

This paper describes how QSUI was able to overcome some of the significant geophysical challenges associated with Pre-Khuff exploration. On legacy seismic data, strong multiples from the layered carbonate overburden overwhelm the relatively weak primary reflections from the deep Pre-Khuff clastics. In order to identify and understand the main generators of coherent seismic noise, Qatar Shell Upstream International (QSUI) has undertaken seismic modeling using VSP data, legacy shot records and full-waveform synthetic modeling. Results of this work informed the reprocessing of existing seismic and the design of a 3D Ocean Bottom Cable (OBC) seismic survey.

The acquisition of dual component (2C) Wide-Azimuth (WAZ) OBC data, together with state-of-the art in-house seismic processing led to a break-through in seimsic imaging of the Pre-Khuff reservoir layers. This has demonstrated that the geologic intervals below the Hercynian unconformity exhibit a steeper dip compared to the overlying Khuff and younger sediments, as expected by the geologists and observed in neighboring countries.

Introduction

Qatar Shell Upstream International B.V. (75%) and Petrochina (25%) have signed an EPSA with the State of Qatar for exploring Block D acreage for Pre-Khuff hydrocarbons. The Block D license is operated by Qatar Shell Upstream International B.V. and covers an onshore and shallow offshore/transition zone area of 8,089 km2 adjacent to Ras Laffan Industrial City in the North-East of the country (Fig. 1).
Utilising Integrated Natural Gas Liquids (NGL) and Nitrogen Rejection unit (NRU) technology in Qatar on the Barzan Gas Project
Authors: Al-Kaabi Saad Mo
Published: March 2015

Integrated Natural Gas Liquids/Nitrogen Rejection Unit (NGL/NRU) technology will be utilised for the first time in Qatar on the Barzan Gas Project, which is a joint venture project between Qatar Petroleum (QP) and ExxonMobil Barzan Limited.

The North Field Reservoir, which supplies the Barzan Gas Project, contains a high content of inerts, e.g., nitrogen and helium. One challenge was to identify a technology to achieve the required specifications of the sales gas by rejecting the inerts from the feed gas.

RasGas initiated a study to evaluate process licensors' capability to supply an integrated process design for recovering NGL and rejecting nitrogen for the Barzan Gas Project. The requirements are to recover the NGL product stream, containing 95% of the incoming ethane content and essentially 100 per cent of the propane and heavier (C3+) hydrocarbons. One primary component of the technology is to reject nitrogen from the gas stream to achieve an acceptable BTU content and Wobbe Index to meet QP sales gas specifications.

To achieve the above requirements, Chart Energy and Chemicals Inc, as a technology licensor, demonstrated the ability to provide an integrated NGL/NRU licensed process with the following merits:Utilises a proven Brazed Aluminum Heat Exchanger (BAHX) supplier.Takes advantage of the available feed pressure to minimise overall energy consumption without requiring excessiveAluminum / surface area.Utilises high efficiency compression to meet final sales gas delivery requirements.Minimises footprint and plant congestion by installing equipment within sealed cold boxes.Provides a simple exchanger arrangement for easy conversion to various modes of operation.

Introduction

Natural gas is considered a valuable source of clean energy, as it emits lower quantities of greenhouse gases than other fossil fuels, and is also used as a feedstock to chemical plants. 'In addition, when comparing natural gas with other hydrocarbon energy sources, it is the most hydrogen-rich and has higher energy conversion efficiencies '(1).

Natural gas consists primarily of methane as the main element, but it also contains considerable amounts of light and heavier hydrocarbons as well as contaminating compounds of carbon dioxide, nitogen, mercury, helium and hydrogen sulfide (CO2, N2, Hg, He, H2S, etc). Before transporting the gas over long distances to end users, it is necessary to remove all impurities to achieve the required product specifications.
Low Sal/High Sal?: A New Promising Approach of EOR in Carbonate Reservoirs
Authors: Jabbar Muhammad Yousuf
Published: March 2015

Enhanced oil recovery (EOR), also referred to tertiary oil recovery, is becoming more critical in the industry as oil production from natural reservoirs is declining and its consumption is increasing. Conventional methods of oil production recover less than 30% of initial oil in place; therefore, EOR techniques are becoming more attractive to recover additional oil from the reservoirs.

EOR is generally achieved by injecting either miscible or immiscible fluids into the reservoir including CO2 injection; others are thermal treatment, chemical/surfactant injection, ASP (alkaline-surfactant-polymer) injection and recently low salinity water injection (which is also called dynamic water, smart water and designer water). The main parameters to influence here is pressure, viscosity reduction and interfacial tension reduction, which all contribute to the increase of capillary number and therefore enhance the amount of recoverable oil. Despite some technological challenges, harsh reservoir conditions (carbonate complexity, high-pressure, high-temperature, high-salinity), stringent regulations, and costly implementation that kept oil companies away from using EOR techniques, it is expected that EOR will grow in the next few years and perform extremely well in the world market. However, some challenges remain in understanding the best EOR technique to be used for specific reservoir and what controlling parameters one should focus on for designing the best production/recovery scenario. However with the continuous increase of oil prices and world demand for oil, EOR is quickly becoming more feasible. It is also of interest because of current rising government interest and investment, new innovative technologies, and the availability of required materials such as CO2 and sea water. The market will continue to grow as more countries begin to see EOR results and as it becomes more feasible and common to oil producers.
Cracking Shale: Prospects in India vis-a-vis Global Scenario
Authors: Aslam Usman Syed
Published: March 2015

Conventional sources are expensive, polluting or drying up. Shale gas has proven to be a game changer in the US energy market, significantly reducing the country's dependence on Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG). China has auctioned the first batch of shale blocks and expected to start production by 2016. Where does India stand in the energy hunger race although having estimated reserves that could yield as high as 529 tcf of shale gas that satisfies the domestic need?

Being the world's fourth largest energy consumer, it's our paramount interest to reduce our import dependency and to work on domestically viable solutions. With this motto, public and private ventures of over billions of dollars are in a continuous race of mapping out these reserves accurately that has proven India's strand as a potentially viable shale rich basin. Technical, safety, and environmental standards for hydro-fracturing process including prevention of collateral damage to other geological resources, sourcing water and disposal thereof has to be taken into consideration. Shale gas exploration and development can bring about a revolution upgrading our shale gas reserve potential with further exploratory drilling. The industry and the government need to join hands to come up with a shale gas exploration policy that not only encourages foreign investment but also enhances domestic economic growth.

Thus, to arrange the puzzle, the author has compared the database available for Indian shale gas reserves with its counterparts and these studies strongly suggest that India could be a future shale destination. As we are in the initial stages of exploration, this paper would illustrate the possibility of shale gas commercialization, the challenges in its findings and economical implications as a replacement of conventional domestic needs.
Van Wyk Grumbach Syndrome-A rare case report
Authors: Ashraf Fatema , Nandi Eva Rani , Akhter Pervin , Yasmin Nilofer
Published: March 2015

Van Wyk and Grumbach syndrome is a rare condition characterized by breast development, uterine bleeding and multicystic ovaries in the presence of long-standing primary hypothyroidism. The patient with this syndrome was admitted in Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College Hospital in November 2013. Here this rare and interesting case was reported.Journal of Current and Advance Medical Research 2015;2(1):24-27DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jcamr.v2i1.22586
National Livestock Policy of Nepal: Needs and Opportunities
Authors: Pradhanang Upendra , Pradhanang Soni , Sthapit Arhan , Krakauer Nir , Jha Ajay , Lakhankar Tarendra
Published: March 2015

This paper describes Nepal’s national livestock policies and considers how they can be improved to help meet the pressing national challenges of economic development, equity, poverty alleviation, gender mainstreaming, inclusion of marginalized and underprivileged communities, and climate vulnerability. Nepal is in the process of transforming its government from a unitary system to a federal democratic structure through the new constitution expected by 2015, offering the opportunity to bring a new set of priorities and stakeholders to policymaking. Nepal’s livestock subsector comes most directly within the purview of the National Agricultural Policy 2004, Agro-Business Policy, 2006 and Agricultural Sectoral Operating Policies of the Approach Paper to 13th Plan, 2012/13–2015/16 policy instruments. We systematically review these and other livestock-related national policies through analysis of their Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats (SWOT). We conclude with the need to formulate a separate, integrated national livestock policy so that Nepal can sustainably increase livestock productivity and achieve diversification, commercialization and competitiveness of the livestock subsector within the changing national and international contexts.
Characteristics of Organic and Elemental Carbon in PM2.5 and PM0.25 in Indoor and Outdoor Environments of a Middle School: Secondary Formation of Organic Carbon and Sources Identification
Authors: Xu Hongmei , Guinot Benjamin , Shen Zhenxing , Ho Kin , Niu Xinyi , Xiao Shun , Huang Ru-Jin , Cao Junji
Published: March 2015

Secondary organic carbon (SOC) formation and its effects on human health require better understanding in Chinese megacities characterized by a severe particulate pollution and robust economic reform. This study investigated organic carbon (OC) and elemental carbon (EC) in PM2.5 and PM0.25 collected 8–20 March 2012. Samples were collected inside and outside a classroom in a middle school at Xi’an. On average, OC and EC accounted for 20%–30% of the particulate matter (PM) mass concentration. By applying the EC-tracer method, SOC’s contribution to OC in both PM size fractions was demonstrated. The observed changes in SOC:OC ratios can be attributed to variations in the primary production processes, the photochemical reactions, the intensity of free radicals, and the meteorological conditions. Total carbon (TC) source apportionment by formula derivation showed that coal combustion, motor vehicle exhaust, and secondary formation were the major sources of carbonaceous aerosol. Coal combustion appeared to be the largest contributor to TC (50%), followed by motor vehicle exhaust (25%) and SOC (18%) in both size fractions.
Towards Achieving the Full Clinical Potential of Proton Therapy by Inclusion of LET and RBE Models
Authors: Jones Bleddyn
Published: March 2015

Despite increasing use of proton therapy (PBT), several systematic literature reviews show limited gains in clinical outcomes, with publications mostly devoted to recent technical developments. The lack of randomised control studies has also hampered progress in the acceptance of PBT by many oncologists and policy makers. There remain two important uncertainties associated with PBT, namely: (1) accuracy and reproducibility of Bragg peak position (BPP); and (2) imprecise knowledge of the relative biological effect (RBE) for different tissues and tumours, and at different doses. Incorrect BPP will change dose, linear energy transfer (LET) and RBE, with risks of reduced tumour control and enhanced toxicity. These interrelationships are discussed qualitatively with respect to the ICRU target volume definitions. The internationally accepted proton RBE of 1.1 was based on assays and dose ranges unlikely to reveal the complete range of RBE in the human body. RBE values are not known for human (or animal) brain, spine, kidney, liver, intestine, etc. A simple efficiency model for estimating proton RBE values is described, based on data of Belli et al. and other authors, which allows linear increases in α and β with LET, with a gradient estimated using a saturation model from the low LET α and β radiosensitivity parameter input values, and decreasing RBE with increasing dose. To improve outcomes, 3-D dose-LET-RBE and bio-effectiveness maps are required. Validation experiments are indicated in relevant tissues. Randomised clinical studies that test the invariant 1.1 RBE allocation against higher values in late reacting tissues, and lower tumour RBE values in the case of radiosensitive tumours, are also indicated.
Pediatric Integrative Medicine in Residency (PIMR): Description of a New Online Educational Curriculum
Authors: McClafferty Hilary , Dodds Sally , Brooks Audrey , Brenner Michelle , Brown Melanie , Frazer Paige , Mark John , Weydert Joy , Wilcox Graciela , Lebensohn Patricia , Maizes Victoria
Published: March 2015

Use of integrative medicine (IM) is prevalent in children, yet availability of training opportunities is limited. The Pediatric Integrative Medicine in Residency (PIMR) program was designed to address this training gap. The PIMR program is a 100-hour online educational curriculum, modeled on the successful Integrative Medicine in Residency program in family medicine. Preliminary data on site characteristics, resident experience with and interest in IM, and residents’ self-assessments of perceived knowledge and skills in IM are presented. The embedded multimodal evaluation is described. Less than one-third of residents had IM coursework in medical school or personal experience with IM. Yet most (66%) were interested in learning IM, and 71% were interested in applying IM after graduation. Less than half of the residents endorsed pre-existing IM knowledge/skills. Average score on IM medical knowledge exam was 51%. Sites endorsed 1–8 of 11 site characteristics, with most (80%) indicating they had an IM practitioner onsite and IM trained faculty. Preliminary results indicate that the PIMR online curriculum targets identified knowledge gaps. Residents had minimal prior IM exposure, yet expressed strong interest in IM education. PIMR training site surveys identified both strengths and areas needing further development to support successful PIMR program implementation.
Spatial Distribution of Lead in Sacramento, California, USA
Authors: Solt Michael , Deocampo Daniel , Norris Michelle
Published: March 2015

Chronic exposure to lead remains a health concern in many urban areas; Sacramento, California is one example, with state surveillance data showing nearly 3% of screened children reported with blood lead levels over 4.5 μg/dL in 2009. To investigate the environmental exposure, 91 soil samples were collected and analyzed by ICP-AES and ICP-MS for 14 elements. An additional 28 samples were collected from areas of focus and analyzed by hand-held X-ray fluorescence spectrometry for Pb and Zn. Analysis of the metals data revealed non-normal distributions and positive skewness, consistent with anthropogenic input. In addition, high correlation coefficients (≥0.75) of metal concentrations in Cd-Pb, Cd-Zn, Pb-Zn, and Sb-Sn pairs suggest similarities in the input mechanisms. Semivariograms generated from Pb and associated metals reveal these metals to exhibit spatial correlation. A prediction map of lead concentrations in soil was generated by ordinary kriging, showing elevated concentrations in soil located in the central, older area of Sacramento where historic traffic density and industrial activity have been historically concentrated. XRF analysis of Pb and Zn from additional samples verifies elevated concentrations in the central areas of Sacramento as predicted.
Community Trial on Heat Related-Illness Prevention Behaviors and Knowledge for the Elderly
Authors: Takahashi Noriko , Nakao Rieko , Ueda Kayo , Ono Masaji , Kondo Masahide , Honda Yasushi , Hashizume Masahiro
Published: March 2015

This study aims to explore whether broadcasting heat health warnings (HHWs), to every household and whether the additional home delivery of bottled water labeled with messages will be effective in improving the behaviors and knowledge of elderly people to prevent heat-related illness. A community trial on heat-related-illness-prevention behaviors and knowledge for people aged between 65 and 84 years was conducted in Nagasaki, Japan. Five hundred eight subjects were selected randomly from three groups: heat health warning (HHW), HHW and water delivery (HHW+W), and control groups. Baseline and follow-up questionnaires were conducted in June and September 2012, respectively. Of the 1524 selected subjects, the 1072 that completed both questionnaires were analyzed. The HHW+W group showed improvements in nighttime AC use (p = 0.047), water intake (p = 0.003), cooling body (p = 0.002) and reduced activities in heat (p = 0.047) compared with the control, while the HHW group improved hat or parasol use (p = 0.008). An additional effect of household water delivery was observed in water intake (p = 0.067) and cooling body (p = 0.095) behaviors. HHW and household bottled water delivery improved heat-related-illness-prevention behaviors. The results indicate that home water delivery in addition to a HHW may be needed to raise awareness of the elderly.
The Components of Self-Perceived Health in the Kailali District of Nepal: A Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Freidoony Leila , Chhabi Ranabhat , Kim Chang , Park Myung , Kim Chun-Bae
Published: March 2015

Self-perceived health is a health measure with well-established links with mortality, healthcare services utilization, and future health. Various components of self-perceived health have been identified in different populations. In this study, we aimed to investigate the components of self-perceived health in a Nepali population. This was a cross-sectional survey conducted in the Kailali district of Nepal in 2014. The sample was initially consisted of 309 households, representative of the population of one municipality and one village; however, 304 participants were included in the analyses. Information on socio-demographic characteristics, health condition, satisfaction with healthcare services, psychological factors, and health behaviors was extracted. Logistic regression analyses were carried out to identify putative components of self-perceived health. Among the 304 respondents, 244 (80.3%) and 60 (19.7%) perceived their health as good and poor, respectively. Middle age and lower satisfaction with healthcare services were associated with worse self-perceived health, accounting for 10.3% of variance. No regular exercise, drinking, smoking, and being unhappy were also related with worse self-perceived health, after adjustment for age and satisfaction level. In the final model, however, drinking status did not significantly contribute. Our findings support previous findings that individuals with positive health behaviors and psychological wellbeing are more likely to perceive their health better. This study may direct public health policies toward more targeted interventions.
Polyoxygenated Cembrane Diterpenoids from the Soft Coral Sarcophyton ehrenbergi
Authors: Cheng Shi-Yie , Wang Shang-Kwei , Hsieh Mu-Keng , Duh Chang-Yih
Published: March 2015

Five new polyoxygenated cembranoids, named (+)-1,15-epoxy-2-methoxy-12-methoxycarbonyl-11E-sarcophytoxide (1), (+)-2-epi-12-methoxycarbonyl-11E-sarcophine (2), 3,4-epoxyehrenberoxide A (3), ehrenbergol D (4) and ehrenbergol E (5), were obtained from the soft coral Sarcophyton ehrenbergi. The structures of 1–5 were established on the basis of comprehensive NMR and HR-ESI-MS analyses and by comparison with reported data in the literature. Compounds 4 and 5 showed moderate cytotoxicity against P-388 (mouse lymphocytic leukemia) cancer cell line with EC50 values of 2.0 and 3.0 μM, respectively. Compound 2 exhibited slight antiviral activity against HCMV (human cytomegalovirus) with IC50 values of 25.0 μg/mL.
Microstructure Evolution and Mechanical Properties Improvement in Liquid-Phase-Sintered Hydroxyapatite by Laser Sintering
Authors: Duan Songlin , Feng Pei , Gao Chengde , Xiao Tao , Yu Kun , Shuai Cijun , Peng Shuping
Published: March 2015

CaO-Al2O3-SiO2 (CAS) as a liquid phase was introduced into hydroxyapatite (HAp) to prepare bone scaffolds. The effects of the CAS content (1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 wt%) on microstructure and mechanical properties of HAp ceramics were investigated. The optimal compression strength, fracture toughness and Vickers hardness reached 22.22 MPa, 1.68 MPa·m1/2 and 4.47 GPa when 3 wt% CAS was added, which were increased by 105%, 63% and 11% compared with those of HAp ceramics without CAS, respectively. The improvement of the mechanical properties was attributed to the improved densification, which was caused by the solid particle to rearrange during liquid phase sintering. Moreover, simulated body fluid (SBF) study indicated the HAp ceramics could maintain the mechanical properties and form a bone-like apatite layer when they were immersed in SBF. Cell culture was used to evaluate biocompatibility of the HAp ceramics. The results demonstrated MG-63 cells adhered and spread well.
GaN Micromechanical Resonators with Meshed Metal Bottom Electrode
Authors: Ansari Azadeh , Liu Che-Yu , Lin Chien-Chung , Kuo Hao-Chung , Ku Pei-Cheng , Rais-Zadeh Mina
Published: March 2015

This work describes a novel architecture to realize high-performance gallium nitride (GaN) bulk acoustic wave (BAW) resonators. The method is based on the growth of a thick GaN layer on a metal electrode grid. The fabrication process starts with the growth of a thin GaN buffer layer on a Si (111) substrate. The GaN buffer layer is patterned and trenches are made and refilled with sputtered tungsten (W)/silicon dioxide (SiO2) forming passivated metal electrode grids. GaN is then regrown, nucleating from the exposed GaN seed layer and coalescing to form a thick GaN device layer. A metal electrode can be deposited and patterned on top of the GaN layer. This method enables vertical piezoelectric actuation of the GaN layer using its largest piezoelectric coefficient (d33) for thickness-mode resonance. Having a bottom electrode also results in a higher coupling coefficient, useful for the implementation of acoustic filters. Growth of GaN on Si enables releasing the device from the frontside using isotropic xenon difluoride (XeF2) etch and therefore eliminating the need for backside lithography and etching.
QSAR-Assisted Virtual Screening of Lead-Like Molecules from Marine and Microbial Natural Sources for Antitumor and Antibiotic Drug Discovery
Authors: Pereira Florbela , Latino Diogo , Gaudêncio Susana
Published: March 2015

A Quantitative Structure-Activity Relationship (QSAR) approach for classification was used for the prediction of compounds as active/inactive relatively to overall biological activity, antitumor and antibiotic activities using a data set of 1746 compounds from PubChem with empirical CDK descriptors and semi-empirical quantum-chemical descriptors. A data set of 183 active pharmaceutical ingredients was additionally used for the external validation of the best models. The best classification models for antibiotic and antitumor activities were used to screen a data set of marine and microbial natural products from the AntiMarin database—25 and four lead compounds for antibiotic and antitumor drug design were proposed, respectively. The present work enables the presentation of a new set of possible lead like bioactive compounds and corroborates the results of our previous investigations. By other side it is shown the usefulness of quantum-chemical descriptors in the discrimination of biologically active and inactive compounds. None of the compounds suggested by our approach have assigned non-antibiotic and non-antitumor activities in the AntiMarin database and almost all were lately reported as being active in the literature.
Stride Segmentation during Free Walk Movements Using Multi-Dimensional Subsequence Dynamic Time Warping on Inertial Sensor Data
Authors: Barth Jens , Oberndorfer Cäcilia , Pasluosta Cristian , Schülein Samuel , Gassner Heiko , Reinfelder Samuel , Kugler Patrick , Schuldhaus Dominik , Winkler Jürgen , Klucken Jochen , Eskofier Björn
Published: March 2015

Changes in gait patterns provide important information about individuals’ health. To perform sensor based gait analysis, it is crucial to develop methodologies to automatically segment single strides from continuous movement sequences. In this study we developed an algorithm based on time-invariant template matching to isolate strides from inertial sensor signals. Shoe-mounted gyroscopes and accelerometers were used to record gait data from 40 elderly controls, 15 patients with Parkinson’s disease and 15 geriatric patients. Each stride was manually labeled from a straight 40 m walk test and from a video monitored free walk sequence. A multi-dimensional subsequence Dynamic Time Warping (msDTW) approach was used to search for patterns matching a pre-defined stride template constructed from 25 elderly controls. F-measure of 98% (recall 98%, precision 98%) for 40 m walk tests and of 97% (recall 97%, precision 97%) for free walk tests were obtained for the three groups. Compared to conventional peak detection methods up to 15% F-measure improvement was shown. The msDTW proved to be robust for segmenting strides from both standardized gait tests and free walks. This approach may serve as a platform for individualized stride segmentation during activities of daily living.
A Solid-State Thin-Film Ag/AgCl Reference Electrode Coated with Graphene Oxide and Its Use in a pH Sensor
Authors: Kim Tae , Hong Sung , Yang Sung
Published: March 2015

In this study, we describe a novel solid-state thin-film Ag/AgCl reference electrode (SSRE) that was coated with a protective layer of graphene oxide (GO). This layer was prepared by drop casting a solution of GO on the Ag/AgCl thin film. The potential differences exhibited by the SSRE were less than 2 mV for 26 days. The cyclic voltammograms of the SSRE were almost similar to those of a commercial reference electrode, while the diffusion coefficient of Fe(CN)63− as calculated from the cathodic peaks of the SSRE was 6.48 × 10−6 cm2/s. The SSRE was used in conjunction with a laboratory-made working electrode to determine its suitability for practical use. The average pH sensitivity of this combined sensor was 58.5 mV/pH in the acid-to-base direction; the correlation coefficient was greater than 0.99. In addition, an integrated pH sensor that included the SSRE was packaged in a secure digital (SD) card and tested. The average sensitivity of the chip was 56.8 mV/pH, with the correlation coefficient being greater than 0.99. In addition, a pH sensing test was also performed by using a laboratory-made potentiometer, which showed a sensitivity of 55.4 mV/pH, with the correlation coefficient being greater than 0.99.
Sparse Component Analysis Using Time-Frequency Representations for Operational Modal Analysis
Authors: Qin Shaoqian , Guo Jie , Zhu Changan
Published: March 2015

Sparse component analysis (SCA) has been widely used for blind source separation(BSS) for many years. Recently, SCA has been applied to operational modal analysis (OMA), which is also known as output-only modal identification. This paper considers the sparsity of sources’ time-frequency (TF) representation and proposes a new TF-domain SCA under the OMA framework. First, the measurements from the sensors are transformed to the TF domain to get a sparse representation. Then, single-source-points (SSPs) are detected to better reveal the hyperlines which correspond to the columns of the mixing matrix. The K-hyperline clustering algorithm is used to identify the direction vectors of the hyperlines and then the mixing matrix is calculated. Finally, basis pursuit de-noising technique is used to recover the modal responses, from which the modal parameters are computed. The proposed method is valid even if the number of active modes exceed the number of sensors. Numerical simulation and experimental verification demonstrate the good performance of the proposed method.
Livelihood Strategies in Shaxi, Southwest China: Conceptualizing Mountain–Valley Interactions as a Human–Environment System
Authors: Huber Franz , Morlok Michael , Weckerle Caroline , Seeland Klaus
Published: March 2015

This paper investigates the socio-ecological differences and interactions between upland and lowland areas in Shaxi Valley, Yunnan Province, Southwest China. As an analytical tool we used an extended Human–Environment System Framework by focusing particularly on the dynamics and sustainability of livelihood strategies and mountain–valley interactions. Drawing from household surveys conducted in two mountain and two valley communities in 2005 and 2009, we show that the distinct income gap between mountain and valley households in 2005 ceased to exist in 2009. The main drivers for this development are the local tourist industry, persistent demand for forest resources, as well as local off-farm and seasonal migrant employment.
Using Urban-Carrying Capacity as a Benchmark for Sustainable Urban Development: An Empirical Study of Beijing
Authors: Wei Yigang , Huang Cui , Lam Patrick , Sha Yong , Feng Yong
Published: March 2015

Sustainable urban development has been receiving growing concerns from both city managers and urban residents across the world. As a yardstick of sustainability, urban carrying capacity (UCC) is an important conceptual underpinning that guides local governments in promoting sustainable urban development. However, existing studies still lack consensus not only on the theoretical aspects, but also on the methodological issues for UCC monitoring and evaluation. A knowledge gap exists, which this paper fills. This study aims to develop a practical UCC assessment framework to guide urban development towards achieving sustainability. The quantitative-based assessment framework provides a set of measurable indicators and benchmarks for city managers to conduct routine monitoring on progress toward urban sustainability, and helps identify deficient areas, which urgently need resource allocation to improve UCC. Focusing on a case study of Beijing, this study demonstrates that the framework is useful in promoting urban sustainability. This framework provides rich implications for other city prototypes in China as the nation marches into the next phase of development.
Genetic Diversity of Koala Retroviral Envelopes
Authors: Xu Wenqin , Gorman Kristen , Santiago Jan , Kluska Kristen , Eiden Maribeth
Published: March 2015

Genetic diversity, attributable to the low fidelity of reverse transcription, recombination and mutation, is an important feature of infectious retroviruses. Under selective pressure, such as that imposed by superinfection interference, gammaretroviruses commonly adapt their envelope proteins to use alternative receptors to overcome this entry block. The first characterized koala retroviruses KoRV subgroup A (KoRV-A) were remarkable in their absence of envelope genetic variability. Once it was determined that KoRV-A was present in all koalas in US zoos, regardless of their disease status, we sought to isolate a KoRV variant whose presence correlated with neoplastic malignancies. More than a decade after the identification of KoRV-A, we isolated a second subgroup of KoRV, KoRV-B from koalas with lymphomas. The envelope proteins of KoRV-A and KoRV-B are sufficiently divergent to confer the ability to bind and employ distinct receptors for infection. We have now obtained a number of additional KoRV envelope variants. In the present studies we report these variants, and show that they differ from KoRV-A and KoRV-B envelopes in their host range and superinfection interference properties. Thus, there appears to be considerable variation among KoRVs envelope genes suggesting genetic diversity is a factor following the KoRV-A infection process.
DYNAMIC AMPLIFICATION FACTOR FOR BRIDGES WITH SPAN LENGTH FROM 10 TO 35 METERS
Authors: Paeglite Ilze , Paeglitis Ainars , Smirnovs Juris
Published: March 2015

Heavy traffic on the bridge cause not only static effects, but also dynamic effects. These effects can be indicated by different dynamic parameters like – natural frequency, bridge logarithmical decrement, bridge acceleration and dynamic amplification factor (DAF). Dynamic amplification factor is the most widely used parameter, because it shows amplification of the static effects on the bridge structure. Results show that for bridges road surface condition is a very important factor. If road surface contains ice bumps or potholes then heavy traffic driving with low speed can decrease load carrying capacity of a bridge.
Comparison of Primary Hip Spica with Crossed Retrograde Intramedullary Rush Pins for the Management of Diaphyseal Femur Fractures in Children: A Prospective, Randomized Study
Authors: Ruhullah Mohammad , Shah Sanjay , Singh Hare Ram , Shrestha Dipak
Published: March 2015

Introduction: Femoral fractures are common in children between 2 and 12 years of age, and 75% of the lesions affect the femoral shaft. We compared primary hip spica with closed reduction and fixation with retrogradely crossed Rush pins for diaphyseal femur fracture in 25 children of age group 3 to 13 years randomly distributed in each group.Methods: Fifty children with femoral fractures were evaluated; 25 of them underwent conservative treatment using immediate hip spica (group A) and 25 were treated with crossed retrograde Rush pins (group B). The patients ages ranged from 3 to 13 years (mean age 5.6Â±3.57 yrs).Results: Mean clinico-radiological consolidation was within 15 weeks in group A and 12 weeks in group B. Mean duration of weight bearing 7 weeks in group B and 14 weeks in group A. Mean hospital stay were 8 days in group B and 4 days in group A. Mean follow up period in group A was 16 months and group B was 17 months. Complications like angulation, shortening, infection were compared. Bursitis and penetration of pins at the site of Rush pin insertion is complication associated with this method of treatment.Â Conclusions: Intra-medullary crossed Rush pinning is an effective method of paediatric diaphyseal femur fracture fixation as compared to primary hip spica in terms of early weight bearing and restoration of normal anatomy.
Effect of Dual Blockade of Renin-Angiotensin System on Proteinuria
Authors: Hasani Eqerem , Idrizi Alma , Barbullushi Myftar
Published: March 2015

Aim: Aim of the study was the evaluation of the effect of dual blockade of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) on proteinuria. Material and Methods: Sixty patients, included in the study, were treated with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor and angiotensin receptor blocker for a period of 3 months. Results: The dual blockade of RAS resulted with decrease of proteinuria, a slight increase of serum creatinine and was not associated with a lowering of blood pressure.Conclusion: Combined therapy with ACE-I and ARB results in a more complete blockade of the RAS than monotherapy. In proteinuric nephropathies it reduces significantly baseline proteinuria.
The Impact of the Depth of Embryo Replacement into the Uterine Cavity under Transabdominal Ultrasound Guidance on In Vitro Fertilization and Embryo Transfer Outcome
Authors: Ivanovski Mitko , Popovska Slavjanka
Published: March 2015

Aim: The aim of the present study was to determine the importance of the depth of embryo replacement into the uterine cavity (upper or lower half endometrial cavity) on the implantation clinical pregnancy rates.Material and Methods: In this prospective observational were included 160 patients underwent controlled ovarian hyperstimulation followed by IVF/ICSI and embryo transfer. On the day of embryo transfer under direct transabdominal ultrasound guidance, the transfer catheter was advanced to a defined distance from the uterine fundus, up to the point estimated for transfer: 10 Â± 2.5 mm (Group A) and 15 Â± 2.5 mm (Group B).Results: In total, 160 patients, aged 24-42 years were included in the study. Overall clinical pregnancy rate were 41.2%. Analysis of our results demonstrated that pregnancy rate is significantly influenced by transfer distance from the fundus where theÂ  pregnancy rate decreases from 48.7% in group B to 34.5%Â  in group A (p<0.05). There was not significantly difference in abortion rate between the two groups.Conclusion: In conclusion, our results suggest that depth of embryo replacement inside the uterine cavity may influence the pregnancy rates and should be considered as an important factor to improve the success of IVF cycles.
Fractional Flow Reserve Method in Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory without Cardiosurgical Backup: Initial Experiences
Authors: Simic Ivan , Zdravkovic Vladimir , Vucic Rada , Iric-Cupic Violeta , Davidovic Goran , Ignjatovic Vladimir , Bankovic Dragic
Published: March 2015

Background: Coronary artery disease is the most common cause of death in a modern world. This dictates the development a network of Catheterization laboratories without cardiosurgical capabilities.Aim: We postulate that the most valuable tool in the decision process on myocardial revascularization is fractional flow reserve (FFR), especially when we deal with borderline coronary lesions.Material and Methods: A total of 72 patients with 94 intermediate coronary stenosis (30%-70% diameter reduction) were included in this study. We tested FFR and angiography based decision model on myocardial revascularization.Results: Â Mean FFR value on left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) was lower than in others two arteries (p=0.017). FFR after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) was significantly better (p<0.0001). The decision for PCI predominates before FFR diagnostics, but after FFR the decision is quite opposite. There is a weak negative correlation between FFR and diameter of stenosis assessed by angiography (r= - 0.245 p=0.038) and positive correlation between diameter of stenosis assessed by angiography and by quantitative coronary angiography (QCA) (r=0.406 p<0.0005).Conclusion: Â Our results strongly suggest that FFR is necessary tool in centers without possibilities of heart team onsite consultation and that prevents numerous unnecessary PCI.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in Never-Smoking Bricklayers
Authors: Minov Jordan , Karadzinska-Bislimovska Jovanka , Vasilevska Kristin , Risteska-Kuc Snezana , Stoleski Saso , Mijakoski Dragan
Published: March 2015

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) due to occupational exposures remains an important public health problem taking significant toll on the global burden of the disease.Aim: In order to assess chronic prevalence and characteristics of COPD in bricklaying we performed a cross-sectional study including 47 never-smoking male bricklayers (aged 34 to 57 years) and an equal number of never-smoking male office workers studied as a control.Methods: Evaluation of examined subjects consisted of completion of a questionnaire, baseline spirometry, and bronchodilator reversibility testing.Results: We found higher prevalence of respiratory symptoms in bricklayers with significant difference for cough and phlegm. Majority of the chronic respiratory symptoms in bricklayers were work-related. The mean values of all measured spirometric parameters in bricklayers were significantly lower than in office workers. The prevalence of COPD was significantly higher in bricklayers than in office workers (14.9% vs. 4.3%, P = 0.034). COPD in both examined groups was close related to age over 45 years, while in bricklayers significant association was registered for duration of occupational exposure longer than 20 years and work-related respiratory symptoms.Conclusion: Our findings support data about relationship between occupational exposure to inorganic dust and fumes in construction workers and persistent airflow limitation.
Sleep Organisation in Depression and Schizophrenia: Index of Endogenous Periodicity of Sleep as a State Marker [Retracted]
Authors: Ilankovic Andrej , Damjanovic Aleksandar , Ilankovic Vera , Milovanovic Srdjan , Petrovic Dusan , Ilankovic Nikola
Published: March 2015

Background: Sleep disorders are frequent symptoms described in psychiatric patients with major depression or schizophrenia. These patients also exhibit changes in the sleep architecture measured by polysomnography (PSG) during sleep. The aim of the present study was to identify potential biomarkers that would facilitate the diagnosis based on polysomnography (PSG) measurements.Subjects and Methods: 30 patients with schizophrenia, 30 patients with major depression and 30 healthy control subjects were investigated in the present study. The mean age in the group with schizophrenia was 36.73 (SD 6.43), in the group of patients with depression 40.77 (SD 7.66), in the healthy controls group 34.40 (SD 5.70). The gender distribution was as follows: 18 male, 12 female in the group with schizophrenia; in the group of patients with depression 11 male, 19 female; in the control group 16 male and 14 female. All subjects underwent polysomnography (PSG) for a minimum time of 8 hours according to the criteria of Rechtschaffen & Kales (1968). The following polysomnographic (PSG) parameters were analyzed: sleep latency (SL), total sleep time (TST), waking time after sleep onset (WTASO), number of awakenings (NAW), slow wave sleep (SWS), rapid eye movement sleep (REM), rapid eye movement sleep latency (REML), first REM period (REM 1), and first NREM period (NREM 1). We tested the potential of multiple sleep variables to predict diagnosis in different groups by using linear discriminate analysis (LDA).Results: There were significant differences in polysomnography (PSG) variables between healthy control subjects and psychiatric patients (total sleep time, sleep latency, number of awakenings, time of awakening after sleep onset, REM 1 latency, REM 1 and index of endogenous periodicity). Importantly, LDA was able to predict the correct diagnosis in 88% of all cases.Conclusions: The presented analysis showed commonalities and differences in polysomnography (PSG) changes in patients with major depressive disorder and in patients with schizophrenia. Our results underline the potential of polysomnography (PSG) measurements to facilitate diagnostic processes.
Role of CYP2C9, VKORC1 and Calumenin Genotypes in Monitoring Warfarin Therapy: An Egyptian Study
Authors: Zohir Naguib , Afifi Reham , Ahmed Asmaa , Aly Zinab , Elsobekey Mehry , Kareem Heba , Helmy Rehab
Published: March 2015

Background: Oral anticoagulant therapy is conditioned by environmental and genetic factors.Objectives: To verify the effect of the calumenin, cytochrome P-450 variants and VKORC1 genetic polymorphisms on the response to warfarin therapy and warfarin dose adjustment.Patients and Methods: We selected fifty warfarin treated patients with dose adjusted at INR value between 2 and 3. PCR-RFLP is used for of calumenin gene polymorphism. Insitu Hybridization was used for identification of VKORC1 promoter and CYP2C9 variants polymorphisms.Results: The warfarin dose in the patients with Calumenin and CYP2C9 genetic polymorphism was lower than the wild type gene. The warfarin dose in the patients with VKORC1 variants was statistically lower compared to that of the wild-type. The presence of combined CYP2C9 genetic variants and VKORC1 polymorphism was associated with lower warfarin dose than that the wild types.Conclusion: Calumenin (CALU) might be a new genetic factor involved in the pharmacogenetics of anticoagulant therapy.
The Value of Imaging Methods in the Diagnosis of the Renal Cell Carcinoma Combined with Renal Tuberculosis â€“ Case Report
Authors: Tsocheva Tania , Djerassi Regina , Vlahova Aleksandrina , Liubomirova Mila , Bogov Boris
Published: March 2015

We describe a case of renal cell carcinoma which causes difficulties to set diagnosis with imaging methods. The histological examination revealed renal cell carcinoma associated with epithelioid cell granuloma with caseous necrosis. Granulomatous inflammation is characterized by the accumulation of epithelioid histiocytes and multinucleated giant cells. The cause of granuloma formation can be infectious or non-infectious. Granulomatous response in renal cell carcinoma is rare. This case shows that for accurate diagnosis for suspected tumor is necessary to be used combination of complex imaging - triplex ultrasound, CEUS, CT and histological examination.
Androgen Secreting Steroid Cell Tumor of the Ovary Represented with Postmenopasal Bleeding and Extensive Hirsutism
Authors: Georgievska Jadranka , Antovska Vesna , Basheska Neli , Aleksioska Natasha
Published: March 2015

Introduction: Steroid cell tumors of the ovary present less than 0.1% of all ovarian tumors and belong in the group of sex cord-stromal tumors.Case description: We present a case of 69-year-old woman investigated because of postmenopausal bleeding, a 5-year history of excessive hirsutism, baldness and acne. The evaluation revealed elevated serum testosterone, but ultrasound detected a 2 cm-mass of the left ovary. The patient underwent hysterectomy and bilateral adnexectomy. The histopathology diagnosis was steroid cell tumor, not otherwise specified. Postoperative chemotherapy was administered at the discretion of the radio-oncologist. At the last follow-up 48 months after surgery, the hirsutism was completely resolved, the serum testosterone was within the normal range and there was no evidence of recurrence.Conclusion: In adult patients with hirsutism and elevated serum testosterone a possibility of a presence of an ovarian steroid cell tumor should be considered. Surgery is the main treatment of such patients.
Functional Foods in Macedonia: Consumersâ€™ Perspective and Public Health Policy
Authors: Spiroski Igor , Gjorgjev Dragan , Milosevic Jasna , Kendrovski Vladimir , Naunova-Spiroska Daniela , Barjolle Dominique
Published: March 2015

Background: The objective of our study was to explore the knowledge, attitudes and practices of Macedonian consumers towards functional foods, to predict future trends and to assess the national public health policies encompassing the functional foods market.Methods: Total of 518 respondents aged 18+, from all regions in the country participated in the study. They were sampled through three-staged national representative sampling procedures. The questionnaire comprised questions regarding the level of information about functional foods, trust in health claims, frequency of consumption and knowledge and attitudes related to those foods. Statistical significance was determined at p<0.05.Results: Respondents aged 18-34 were more informed compared to the total population (22 and 16 % respectively, p<0.05). Most of the consumers consume these products once a day. Employed consumers were willing to increase daily consumption from 3 to 18 % (p<0.05). On average 65.1% of the statements assessing knowledge were answered correctly. On a scale from -3 to +3 functional foods were considered as very healthy (mean=2.03, SD=1.42).Conclusion: On average, Macedonian consumers have a positive attitude and high expectations of functional foods. Public health policies still lag when compared to comprehensive approach of the food industry in market placement of these products.