bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Linearization schemes for Hermite matrix polynomials
Authors: Shayanfar Nikta , Fassbender Heike
Published: July 2015

The polynomial eigenvalue problem is to find the eigenpair of $(\lambda,x) \in \mathbb{C}\bigcup \{\infty\} \times \mathbb{C}^n \backslash \{0\}$ that satisfies $P(\lambda)x=0$, where $P(\lambda)=\sum_{i=0}^s P_i \lambda ^i$ is an $n\times n$ so-called matrix polynomial of degree $s$, where the coefficients $P_i, i=0,\cdots,s$, are $n\times n$ constant matrices, and $P_s$ is supposed to be nonzero. These eigenvalue problems arise from a variety of physical applications including acoustic structural coupled systems, fluid mechanics, multiple input multiple output systems in control theory, signal processing, and constrained least square problems. Most numerical approaches to solving such eigenvalue problems proceed by linearizing the matrix polynomial into a matrix pencil of larger size.

Such methods convert the eigenvalue problem into a well-studied linear eigenvalue problem, and meanwhile, exploit and preserve the structure and properties of the original eigenvalue problem. The linearizations have been extensively studied with respect to the basis that the matrix polynomial is expressed in. If the matrix polynomial is expressed in a special basis, then it is desirable that its linearization be also expressed in the same basis. The reason is due to the fact that changing the given basis ought to be avoided \cite{H1}. The authors in \cite{ACL} have constructed linearization for different bases such as degree-graded ones (including monomial, Newton and Pochhammer basis), Bernstein and Lagrange basis. This contribution is concerned with polynomial eigenvalue problems in which the matrix polynomial is expressed in Hermite basis. In fact, Hermite basis is used for presenting matrix polynomials designed for matching a series of points and function derivatives at the prescribed nodes.

In the literature, the linearizations of matrix polynomials of degree $s$, expressed in Hermite basis, consist of matrix pencils with $s+2$ blocks of size $n \times n$. In other words, additional eigenvalues at infinity had to be introduced, see e.g. \cite{CSAG}. In this research, we try to overcome this difficulty by reducing the size of linearization.
The reduction scheme presented will gradually reduce the linearization to its minimal size making use of ideas from \cite{VMM1}. More precisely, for $n \times n$ matrix polynomials of degree $s$, we present linearizations of smaller size, consisting of $s+1$ and $s$ blocks of $n \times n$ matrices. The structure of the eigenvectors is also discussed.
Modellierung der biochemischen, elektrischen und thermischen Prozesse auf Kläranlagen
Authors: Genzowsky Kristoffer , Leupolt Christine , Frehmann Torsten , Krost Gerhard , Gramlich Eric
Published: July 2015

Kläranlagen zeichnen sich durch einen nicht unerheblichen Verbrauch an elektrischer Energie aus; andererseits lässt sich der
Gehalt an organischen Stoffen des Abwassers für die dezentrale Erzeugung elektrischer Energie verwenden. Auf dem Gelände der
Kläranlage Bottrop sollen technisch und wirtschaftlich sinnvolle Kombinationen erneuerbarer Energien prototypisch installiert und
im Zusammenspiel untersucht werden. Durch Modellbildung und Simulation soll die Auslegung unterstützt und die Betriebsweise
optimiert werden.
State estimation in flash flood prediction for small rivers
Authors: Karimanzira Divas , Linke Hartmut , Rauschenbach Thomas , Pfützenreuter Torsten
Published: July 2015

Rainfall–runoff models are used as an integral part of flood warning systems. Especially in small river catchment areas with a fast
response to intense rain, an early enough triggering of warnings requires high quality weather forecasts as well as sufficiently
accurate models. A conceptual rainfall–runoff model proposed by Lorent/Gevers serves as core routine of a pilot flash flood warning
system for the Truse catchment in Thuringia (Germany). A moving horizon state estimator is used in order to enable this model for
online application.
Integrierte Materialflussanalyse und Prozessmodellierung als Planungshilfe im Wasser- und Energiesektor
Authors: Robleto Gloria , Henke Robert , Jumar Ulrich , Halang Wolfgang
Published: July 2015

Die integrierte Analyse von Wasser- und Energiesystemen kann einen Beitrag leisten, um wirksame Maßnahmen zur Ressourcenschonung und
Infrastrukturauslastung zu identifizieren und Auswirkungen planerischer Entscheidungen zu quantifizieren. In Anlehnung an die
mathematische Materialflussanalyse (MMFA) und auf Basis etablierter mathematischer Modellansätze werden die Möglichkeiten der MMFA und
Prozessmodellierung in sektorübergreifenden integrierten Infrastrukturen am Beispiel des Wasser- und Energiesektors vorgestellt.
Kinematic formulas for tensor valuations
Authors: Bernig Andreas , Hug Daniel
Published: July 2015

We prove new kinematic formulas
for tensor valuations and simplify previously known Crofton formulas by using the
recently developed algebraic theory of translation invariant valuations. The heart of the paper is the
computation of the Alesker–Fourier transform on the large class of spherical valuations, which is achieved by differential-geometric and
representation theoretical tools. We also describe in explicit form the product and convolution of tensor valuations.
Heat kernel
estimates for an operator with a singular drift and isoperimetric
inequalities
Authors: Grigor’yan Alexander , Ouyang Shunxiang , Röckner Michael
Published: July 2015

In the present paper we prove upper and lower bounds of the heat kernel for the operator

Δ
-

∇
⁡

(

|
x
|

-
α

)

⋅
∇

{\Delta-\nabla({|x|^{-\alpha}})\cdot\nabla}

in

ℝ
n

∖

{
0
}

{\mathbb{R}^{n}\setminus\{0\}}

, where

α
>
0

{\alpha>0}

. We obtain these bounds from an
isoperimetric inequality for a measure

e

-

|
x
|

-
α

⁢
d
⁢
x

{\mathrm{e}^{-{|x|^{-\alpha}}}dx}

on

ℝ
n

∖

{
0
}

{\mathbb{R}^{n}\setminus\{0\}}

. The latter amounts to a certain
functional isoperimetric inequality for the radial part of this measure.
Orientation, Evaluation, and Integration of Part-Time Nursing Faculty
Authors: S. Carlson Joanne
Published: July 2015

This study helps to quantify and describe orientation, evaluation, and integration practices pertaining to part-time clinical nursing faculty teaching in prelicensure nursing education programs. A researcher designed Web-based survey was used to collect information from a convenience sample of part-time clinical nursing faculty teaching in prelicensure nursing programs. Survey questions focused on the amount and type of orientation, evaluation, and integration practices. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze results. Respondents reported on average four hours of orientation, with close to half reporting no more than two hours. Evaluative feedback was received much more often from students than from full-time faculty. Most respondents reported receiving some degree of mentoring and that it was easy to get help from full-time faculty. Respondents reported being most informed about student evaluation procedures, grading, and the steps to take when students are not meeting course objectives, and less informed about changes to ongoing curriculum and policy.
IL17a and IL21 combined with surgical status predict the outcome of ovarian cancer patients
Authors: Chen Yu-Li , Chou Cheng-Yang , Chang Ming-Cheng , Lin Han-Wei , Huang Ching-Ting , Hsieh Shu-Feng , Chen Chi-An , Cheng Wen-Fang
Published: July 2015

Aside from tumor cells, ovarian cancer-related ascites contains the immune components. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether a combination of clinical and immunological parameters can predict survival in patients with ovarian cancer. Ascites specimens and medical records from 144 ovarian cancer patients at our hospital were used as the derivation group to select target clinical and immunological factors to generate a risk-scoring system to predict patient survival. Eighty-two cases from another hospital were used as the validation group to evaluate this system. The surgical status and expression levels of interleukin 17a (IL17a) and IL21 in ascites were selected for the risk-scoring system in the derivation group. The areas under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) curves of the overall score for disease-free survival (DFS) of the ovarian cancer patients were 0.84 in the derivation group, 0.85 in the validation group, and 0.84 for all the patients. The AUROC curves of the overall score for overall survival (OS) of cases were 0.78 in the derivation group, 0.76 in the validation group, and 0.76 for all the studied patients. Good correlations between overall risk score and survival of the ovarian cancer patients were demonstrated by sub-grouping all participants into four groups (P for trend <0.001 for DFS and OS). Therefore, acombination of clinical and immunological parameters can provide a practical scoring system to predict the survival of patients with ovarian carcinoma. IL17a and IL21 can potentially be used as prognostic and therapeutic biomarkers.
Engaged Scholarship: Reflections from a Multi-Talented, National Partnership Seeking to Strengthen Capacity for Sustainability
Authors: Reed Maureen G. , Godmaire H. , Guertin Marc-Andre , Potvin Dominique , Abernethy Paivi
Published: July 2015

This paper describes a national partnership of academic researchers, government representatives, and sustainability practitioners who sought to strengthen the capacity of 16 biosphere reserve organizations working across Canada to promote sustainability through collective learning and networking strategies. We begin by situating our work within traditions of community-engaged scholarship and appreciative inquiry, and then ask participants to reflect directly on the questions. We then draw attention to four key themes: building and maintaining trust; setting clear and confirmed expectations; establishing structured and multi-lateral facilitation; and finding the sweet spot for our collective practice. Our reflections address common themes of community-engaged scholarship, including addressing cross-cultural challenges and finding joy in working together.
Conversation with Randy Stoecker, University of Wisconsin-Madison
Authors: Khanenko-Friesen Natalia , Stoecker Randy
Published: July 2015

In the Exchanges, we present conversations with scholars and practitioners of community engagement, responses to previously published material, and other reflections on various aspects of community-engaged scholarship meant to provoke further dialogue and discussion. For our inaugural issue, we converse with Dr. Stoecker who offers his critique of the assumed meanings of four concepts of higher education community-engagement learning, service, community and change. He points out that all four are highly problematic and Â that their uncritical use often misleads and limits the scope, focus, and direction of community-engaged work.Â
Pediatric Psychopharmacology for Treatment of ADHD, Depression, and Anxiety
Authors: Southammakosane Cathy , Schmitz Kristine
Published: July 2015

The pediatric practitioner is often the first point-of-contact for children and adolescents suffering from mental illness. Part of the treatment planning for psychiatric diagnoses includes consideration of medication. Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, one of the most common diagnoses, is very responsive to stimulant medications; for children who are unable to tolerate stimulants or who do not achieve satisfactory symptom management, central α-agonists and atomoxetine are effective and generally well-tolerated alternative or augmentative agents. Depression and anxiety disorders are also frequently encountered in the pediatric office setting. The use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors is considered first-line psychopharmacology for depression and anxiety symptoms. Despite concerns for suicidal ideation related to this medication class, the benefits typically outweigh the risks. This review provides basic clinical pharmacology of stimulant and nonstimulant attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder medications and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors intended to serve as a primer for the general pediatrician.
Multifocal Lymphangioendotheliomatosis With Thrombocytopenia: Clinical Features and Response to Sirolimus
Authors: Droitcourt Catherine , Boccara Olivia , Fraitag Sylvie , Favrais Géraldine , Dupuy Alain , Maruani Annabel
Published: July 2015

Multifocal lymphangioendotheliomatosis with thrombocytopenia (MLT) is a recently described glucose transporter 1–negative multifocal vascular disorder with significant morbidity and mortality. However, data are lacking on the clinical spectrum, long-term prognosis, and treatment of MLT. It is often confused with multifocal infantile hemangioma, but the conditions must be differentiated for appropriate assessment and therapeutic management. Treatments for MLT have been disappointing, and the treatments classically used for infantile hemangioma are often ineffective. We report 3 newborn cases featuring various clinical and biological phenotypes of MLT: 1 patient had severe brain involvement and died early; another had no thrombocytopenia; and the third had nearly no skin involvement. Histologically, all were negative for glucose transporter 1 and positive for the lymphatic marker lymphatic vessel endothelial hyaluronan receptor 1 or D2-40 (∼38-kDa O-linked transmembrane sialoglycoprotein podoplanin). Two cases with severe gastrointestinal bleeding were treated with sirolimus 0.1 mg/k per day, which was efficient after the first month of treatment. MLT clinically presents in various forms, and when complicated by widespread or severe extracutaneous involvement, initial aggressive therapeutic intervention is justified. The pathogenesis of MLT remains unclear, but lymphatic differentiation is widely acknowledged. Because of its antiangiogenic properties, including anti-lymphangiogenesis, sirolimus offers an adequate and targeted therapeutic approach for MLT.
Statewide Medicaid Enhanced Prenatal Care Programs and Infant Mortality
Authors: Meghea Cristian I. , You Zhiying , Raffo Jennifer , Leach Richard E. , Roman Lee Anne
Published: July 2015

OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate whether participation in a statewide enhanced prenatal and postnatal care program, the Maternal Infant Health Program (MIHP), reduced infant mortality risk.

METHODS:

Data included birth and death records, Medicaid claims, and program participation. The study population consisted of Medicaid-insured singleton infants born between January 1, 2009, and December 31, 2012, in Michigan (n = 248 059). The MIHP participants were propensity score–matched with nonparticipants based on demographics, previous pregnancies, socioeconomic status, and chronic disease. Infant mortality, neonatal mortality, and postneonatal mortality analyses were presented by race.

RESULTS:

Infants with any MIHP participation had reduced odds of death in the first year of life compared with matched nonparticipants (odds ratio [OR] 0.73, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.63–0.84). Infant death odds were reduced both among black infants (OR 0.71, 95% CI 0.58–0.87) and infants of other races (OR 0.74, 95% CI 0.61–0.91). Neonatal death (OR 0.70, 95% CI 0.57–0.86) and postneonatal death odds (OR 0.78, 95% CI 0.63–0.96) were also reduced. Enrollment and screening in MIHP by the end of the second pregnancy trimester and at least 3 additional prenatal MIHP contacts reduced infant mortality odds further (OR 0.70, 95% CI 0.58–0.85; neonatal: OR 0.67, 95% CI 0.51–0.89; postneonatal: OR 0.74, 95% CI 0.56–0.98).

CONCLUSIONS:

A state Medicaid-sponsored population-based home-visitation program can be a successful approach to reduce mortality risk in a diverse, disadvantaged population. A likely mechanism is the reduction in the risk of adverse birth outcomes, consistent with previous findings on the effects of the program.
Caracterización hidroclimatológica y morfométrica de la cuenca del río San Julián (estado Vargas, Venezuela): aportes para la evaluación de la amenaza hidrogeomorfológica
Authors: Mendez William , Pacheco Henry , Cartaya Scarlet , Marcano Arismar , León Carolina
Published: July 2015

Con base en eventos registrados de movimientos en masa y crecidas, ocurridos en la cuenca del río San Julián y activados por lluvias extraordinarias, se realizó una caracterización hidroclimatológica y morfométrica del sistema, como aporte a la evaluación de la amenaza hidrogeomorfológica. En la metodología se consideró la fotointerpretación geomorfológica, las mediciones y los cálculos de parámetros morfométricos, así como la estimación del tiempo de concentración, la caracterización del régimen pluviométrico y el análisis de eventos extremos de precipitación. La cuenca analizada es un sistema cuyas respuestas hidrológicas están determinadas por sus características morfométricas, lo cual se evidencia en su corto tiempo de concentración, debido a su ubicación en un ambiente montañoso, y a las magnitudes de los eventos extremos de precipitación.
África al sur del Sahara: conflictos y degradación ambiental en el Sahel
Authors: Shmite Stella Maris , Nin María Cristina
Published: July 2015

El Sahel es una región ubicada al sur del desierto del Sahara, donde se conjugan múltiples problemáticas: sequías, degradación de suelos, presión demográfica, desnutrición, pobreza, migraciones, conflictos, refugiados, entre otras. Los cambios ambientales provocan un fuerte impacto en las dimensiones socioculturales, políticas y económicas, actúan como multiplicadores de las tensiones sociales y estimulan la inestabilidad política. El objetivo de este artículo es identificar estas problemáticas y analizar las variables ambientales, con el fin de abordar el contexto territorial. La investigación se orientó hacia la interpretación de diversas fuentes como cartografía, estadísticas y publicaciones académicas, que abren la posibilidad de mirar y comprender de manera integral la compleja trama de conflictos que perduran, así como los emergentes en este territorio transfronterizo de África.
Bulk superconductors textured and densified by Spark Plasma Sintering
Authors: Noudem J. G. , Dupont L. , Bernstein P.
Published: July 2015

In this contribution, we report progress in the preparation of superconducting materials made by Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS). On the one hand, the fabrication process was optimized in order to improve the texturing of Bi2Ca2Sr2CuO8 superconductor ceramics. The new process is referred to as “Spark Plasma Texturing” (SPT). During SPT, the bulk material is free to deform itself. As a result, an inter-grain preferential crystallographic orientation is generated, while materials processed by conventional SPS are usually quasi-isotropic. The crystallographic orientation causes a strong anisotropy in the magnetic properties of the Bi2Ca2Sr2CuO8 bulk.

On the other hand, superconducting MgB2 discs were consolidated using the rapid SPS process. MgB2 has not been yet been seriously considered as a superconductor that could be used for magnetic levitation. Here we present trapped field measurements as a function of the distance to the superconductor and field cooled levitation force measurements that suggests that it presents interesting characteristics for this application.
RECIDYVAI PO POODŽIO VENŲ VARIKOZĖS GYDYMO ENDOVASKULINIU LAZERIU
Authors: Markevičius Narimantas , Sudikas Saulius , Gutauskas Jonas , Gečas Gediminas
Published: July 2015

Tikslas. Nustatyti poodžio venų varikozės recidyvų dažnį, atsirandantį po endoveninės lazerinės chirurgijos operacijų. Tyrimo medžiaga ir metodai. Tyrimas retrospektyvinis, atliktas Vilniaus miesto klinikinėje ligoninėje. Buvo ištirti 2011–2013 m. lazeriu operuoti 555 pacientai (598 apatinės galūnės) C3–C4 pagal CEAP stadijos. Operacijos metu panaudotos lazerio energijos kiekis svyravo nuo 7 J iki 9 J vienam mm venos spindžio. Pacientai vertinti kliniškai ir dvigubu ultragarso skenavimu prieš operaciją ir 1–3 metai po jos. Vertinta veninė kraujotaka tik operuotoje galūnėje. Gydytos galūnės vertintos kaip atskiri atvejai. Rezultatai. Pacientai pasiskirstė: 102 vyrai (18 proc.) ir 453 moterys (82 proc.). Vidutinis pacientų amžius 49,7 m. (SD ±12,8 m.) – nuo 18 m. iki 87 m. Refliuksas prieš operaciją nustatytas vena saphena magna – 96 proc., vena saphena parva – 3 proc., abiejose – 1 proc. Atokiuoju laikotarpiu diagnozuoti 3 didžiosios poodžio venos recidyvai (0,5 proc.). Visi trys recidyvai pastebėti moterims (p > 0,05). Išvados. Didžiųjų komplikacijų po operacijos nepastebėta. Recidyvų dažnis sudarė 0,5 proc. Visais atvejais rekanalizavosi vena saphena magna ir visi recidyvai išsivystė moterims.
Age-related macular degeneration treatment: current view (literature review)
Authors: Kalesinskaitė Monika , Uljanionok Diana , Liutkevičienė Rasa
Published: July 2015

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) – is a damage of the macula, accompanied by a significant and irreversible loss of central vision. It is a major cause of blindness and visual impairment in older adults (>60 years). Damage of the retina always includes both eyes, though the intensity can vary. Early AMD is defined as the presence of drusen and retinal pigmentary abnormalities (RPE); late AMD includes dry AMD (geographic atrophy of the RPE in the absence of neovascular AMD) or neovascular AMD  (detachment of the retinal pigment epithelium, hemorrhages, and/or scars). Unfortunately, the etiology and pathogenesis of AMD aren’t fully understood up to now, so treatment options are limited and not always effective. This article briefly reviews the options of initial and late forms of AMD treatment
Musculoskeletal physiotherapy provided within a community health centre improves access
Authors: Perry Meredith , Featherston Sarah , McSherry Tom , Milne Georgia , Ruhen Tara , Wright Karen
Published: July 2015

This study assessed whether the provision of a musculoskeletal physiotherapy service within a Community Health Centre situated in a high deprivation area would change access rates. Retrospective data were collected from the health records of all patients referred for outpatient musculoskeletal physiotherapy at the Health Centre and at the city’s primary hospital. Age, sex, ethnicity, deprivation level at first consult, and overall appointment attendance rates from the Hospital service in 2009 were compared with data from 2010 to April 2012 for the two service sites. An increase in patients identifying themselves as Māori (> 120%) and Pacific Island (> 130%) attending their first physiotherapy consult was found. Difference in sex, age, ethnicity and deprivation level between patients attending the two sites was significant (p-value < 0.001). Patients who attended their first consultation predominantly identified themselves as European (Hospital; 69–71% and Health Centre; 20–22%) and as Māori (Hospital; 13% and Health Centre; 32–34%) respectively. Over 80% of the Health Centre’s attendees lived in a high deprivation area compared to less than 60% of patients attending the Hospital service. The placement of fully funded physiotherapy services within a high deprivation area improved access particularly for minority ethnic groups living in New Zealand.
Wykorzystanie metody refleksji strategicznej do oceny możliwości zmian potencjału konkurencyjności przedsiębiorstwa
Authors: Rawski Marek
Published: July 2015

The purpose of the paper is to show that the characteristics and properties of strategic reflection method (its third stage, to be precise) effectively identify potential opportunities to develop competitive business components according to the expectations formulated by stakeholders. Four groups are assessed: the owners of shares, customers, employees and suppliers. The paper's theses are examined, presenting a fragment analysis for the real case of  companies from the food industry that are active on the Polish market.
Organizowanie zespołu negocjacyjnego
Authors: Kozina Andrzej
Published: July 2015

The objective of the paper is to systematise the most important problems connected with organising a team representing a company within different types of negotiations (either internal or external ones) as well as to present the principles (recommendations, indications and rules) for solving such problems. Creating a negotiating team constitutes one of the most important activities performed within the process of negotiation planning in a company. The following problems concerning the organisation of a negotiating team are described along with the principles for solving those problems: 1) making decisions on appointing a negotiating team, 2) selecting its organisational form, 3) determining its size, 4) stating criteria for selecting members, 5) designating team roles, 6) assigning tasks and their division between team members, 7) delegating decision-making powers.
Patterns of Managing Secondary Schools under Reforms: Sociological Analysis Experience
Authors: Farkhatdinov Nail , Evstigneeva Nadezhda , Kurakin Dmitry , Malik Valeriya
Published: July 2015

The article provides results of a sociological study of management patterns applied to secondary schools in modern Russia. Focus groups with school principals were organized in eight pilot regions of Russia in October — November 2014. The project aimed at constructing a typology of management patterns, which we regard as a configuration of relations  associated with teaching process management. Four basic patterns were singled out: “authoritarian manager”, “democratic manager”, “authoritarian leader” and “democratic leader”. They were built together following the merge of two criteria: delegation regimes, i. e. steady patterns of interrelation between principals and other subjects and agents of management, as well as subjectivity of principals, i. e. their ability to independently determine and implement the organization’s mission. Each pattern is described based on the example of FGOS (Federal State Educational Standard) introduction in elementary schools. It is demonstrated that the choice of a specific management pattern is determined by a wide range of factors and is situational, i. e. depends on the goal and context of management activities. Potential of the identified management patterns is discussed in terms of efficient implementation of reforms.
International Berkeley: Past and Current Debates on the Role of International Students in an American University
Authors: Douglass John
Published: July 2015

The argument that cultural and other forms of diversity enhance the educational experience of all students is generally associated with post‑1960 efforts to expand the presence of disadvantaged groups on the campuses of America’s universities and colleges. Yet, in the case of UC Berkeley, arguments on the merits of cultural diversity have much earlier roots in the historical enrollment of international students. Debates in the late 1800s and early twentieth century revolved around the appropriateness of enrolling foreign students, particularly those from Asia. The result was an important intellectual discussion on the merits of diversity that was eventually reframed to focus largely on underrepresented domestic students. In this short essay, I discuss how the notion of diversity, and its educational benefits, first emerged as a value at UC Berkeley. I then briefly discuss the significant increase of international students at UC Berkeley and other public universities. Thus far, the primary impetus of this increase has been mostly financial Berkeley has faced significant public disinvestment, seeks new revenue sources, and can charge international students tuition rates similar to elite private colleges and universities. By targeting 20 percent of all undergraduates as international or out-of-state (US-resident non-Californians)—the majority international—the Berkeley campus is essentially diversifying its student body. How does having more globally inclusive enrollment fit into our contemporary ideas of diversity? I attempt a brief discussion of this question and the policy challenges generated by the dramatic increase in international students at the undergraduate level at Berkeley and other UC campuses.
Use of computer vision to determine leaf damage caused by Diaphania hyalinata in Santiago del Estero, Argentina
Authors: Larcher Ledda Inés , Biasoni Enrique Martín , Cattaneo Carlos Alberto , Helman Silvia Adriana , López Marcelo
Published: July 2015

Diaphania hyalinata (L.) is a major pest of agriculture for cucurbits that causes different percentages of defoliation. In this context and to determine precisely the consumed area during the larval stage, we developed a method that uses computer vision techniques. Programs use digitized images of the leaves before and after inserting the larvae to determine the consumed area. The programs work with binarized and thresholded images, first processing the leaf without damage, then the one that presents decrease in the surface, and the damaged area is found by relating the constituent elements of each image. Resulting values were similar to those mentioned and measured for this specie using other techniques. It is considered an important contribution for its accuracy and short time spent in processing.
Land Suitability Assessment For Effective Crop Production, a Case Study of Taita Hills, Kenya
Authors: Boitt Mark Kipkurwa , Mundia Charles Ndegwa , Pellikka Petri K.E
Published: July 2015

Agriculture is the backbone of Kenya’s economy. Agriculture in Kenya is characterized by low productivity due to low external inputs, lack of good farming practices, soil erosion, and other losses. In most farming regions of the country, agriculture depends entirely on rainfall which sometimes is scarce. The problem of selecting the correct land for the cultivation of certain crops is a long-standing and mainly empirical issue. The objective of this study is to extrapolate and generate a crop suitability map showing areas suitable for agricultural activities in Taita Hills in Kenya. It utilizes the information on environmental condition, altitude, rainfall and other relevant parameters of the case study where the variability of rainfall and recurrent droughts have a great impact on the lives of people whose livelihood is mainly dependent on subsistence agriculture. The methods used include development of elevation models, watershed mapping, climate variability mapping, soil erosion mapping that incorporates the revised universal soil loss empirical (RUSSLE) model and multi-criteria evaluation analysis. The analysis was done using the sum weighted overlay analysis of soil erodibility, slopes, vegetation index and rainfall availability in the modeling. Four categories were achieved and mapped out: most suitable, more suitable, less suitable and least suitable. The research implies that there can be both suitable areas and unsuitable areas for crops in Taita Hills. The study helps farmers to be aware of the environmental conditions of their agricultural land and the impacts that may arise due to varying climate conditions on their cropping patterns.
Development of an open source agricultural mobile data collector system
Authors: Szilágyi Róbert , Tóth Mihály
Published: July 2015

The information is important in every decision area. The Big Data philosophy lead to collect every possible data. Nowadays these applications are more and more successful in the following agricultural areas: different parts of food industry, extension services, precision agriculture. While studying the use of these new ICT technologies can be concluded that different types of services offer different possibilities. Firstly we compared the possible mainboards and sensors. General information about the existing mobile main boards. We compared the Atmel AVR, the Raspberry PI and the LEGO Mindstorms NXT. We choosed the Arduino system board. We described the main system architecture and connection possibilites. We found the temperature sensor widely useable. The software was also briefly mentioned. We can say there are several advantages of the Arduino. The whole system can be upgradeable, and there are several Arduino based mainboards and sensors too. Nowadays the block programming support are increasing (etc. MIT Appinventor), but there are disadvantages too. The system has several limitation: the number of the connected sensor, the connection type, the system energy supply, the data loss, the creation of user friendly interface and the system failure tolerability.
Hybrid modeling in CAD
Authors: Wypysiński Rafał
Published: July 2015

Computer aided 3D modeling is rapidly growing field of techniques. Various mod-eling techniques are continuously developed and improved – but hybrid modeling as combination of the best features seems to be worthy of interest. This article de-scribe main principle of full hybrid modeling with examples of practical applications.
Software for composites industry
Authors: Pest Artur
Published: July 2015

Composite materials play a significant role not only in the automotive, aerospace, aviation and nautical industry, but their presence is also important in the production of furniture and sports equipment as well as in the energy industry. In this article described are solutions for computer aided design, computer aided manufacturing and computer aided inspection on example of Delcam’s software for the industries that use composite materials.
Análise quantitativa do processo de erosão/deposição nas falésias da APA Tambaba e sua ocupação nos limites da APP
Authors: Aranha Thaís Regina Benevides Trigueiro , Silveira Thyago De Almeida , Diniz Júlio Mannuel Tavares , Sousa Edicarlos Pereira de , Wanderley José Alberto Calado
Published: July 2015

O litoral brasileiro é banhado pelo Oceano Atlântico e composto por diversas paisagens ao longo da costa. Entre elas encontram-se as falésias, que, por sua beleza, atraem a exploração turística o que, muitas vezes, compromete seu equilíbrio. Com a finalidade de proteger o meio ambiente das ações antrópicas, o poder público vem criando áreas para preservar e/ou conservar o meio ambiente, entre elas existem as APA e as APP. O objetivo do presente trabalho foi analisar a variabilidade espaço-temporal da linha de ruptura do relevo, na borda das falésias da APA Tambaba, entre os anos de 1985 e 2012; e identificar a existência de edificações dentro da APP no ano de 2012. Para tanto, foram utilizadas imagens do satélite Quickbird de 2012, do satélite IKONOS II de 2005 e fotos aéreas de 1985 para delimitação das linhas das falésias; o DSAS, que é uma extensão gratuita do ArcGIS, para obtenção de taxas de variação da linha de ruptura do relevo; e o software ArcGIS para delimitação e análise das APP. Como resultados, foram identificadas variações no movimento das linhas estudadas, tanto para erosão como para deposição nas falésias da APA Tambaba. No maior trecho da APA obteve-se uma média de -0,17m/ano para erosão e de 0,49m/ano para deposição, já no menor trecho a média de erosão foi -0,38m/ano e de deposição 0,14m/ano. Foi comprovada a existência de edificações irregulares correspondente a 22.818,91 m², o que equivale a aproximadamente 3% da área total da APP.
Características térmicas do solo observadas em cidades distintas do estado da Paraiba
Authors: Diniz Júlio Mannuel Tavares , Rafael Renata De Araújo , Fideles Filho José , Sousa Júnior José Raimundo de , Fernandes Almair De Albuquerque
Published: July 2015

A variação da temperatura do solo que uma planta consegue suportar é relativamente ampla, no entanto, seu desenvolvimento é seriamente comprometido a partir do momento em que solo passa a assumir temperaturas abaixo ou acima de certos valores limites. Até então, embora se saiba que a temperatura do solo é um dos fatores ambientais de maior importância para agricultura, poucos estudos acerca dessa variável foram realizados pela comunidade científica para os solos da região Nordeste do Brasil. Logo, o presente trabalho tem como objetivo o estudo das características térmicas do solo, a partir de dados coletados em duas cidades distintas do estado da Paraíba. Com base na análise dos resultados, verificou-se que o comportamento térmico do solo de ambas as cidades são bastante semelhantes, especialmente no que diz respeito às horas e aos meses de ocorrência das máximas e mínimas temperaturas. Á medida que se avança em profundidade constatou-se uma progressiva diminuição da variabilidade diária das temperaturas do solo. As estimativas da difusividade térmica do solo, obtidas mediante o emprego do método da amplitude e logarítmico, apresentaram satisfatória concordância.
Direct quantification of long‐term rock nitrogen inputs to temperate forest ecosystems
Authors: Morford Scott L. , Houlton Benjamin Z. , Dahlgren Randy A.
Published: July 2015

Sedimentary and metasedimentary rocks contain large reservoirs of fixed nitrogen (N), but questions remain over the importance of rock N weathering inputs in terrestrial ecosystems. Here we provide direct evidence for rock N weathering (i.e., loss of N from rock) in three temperate forest sites residing on a N‐rich parent material (820–1050 mg N kg−1; mica schist) in the Klamath Mountains (northern California and southern Oregon), USA. Our method combines a mass balance model of element addition/depletion with a procedure for quantifying fixed N in rock minerals, enabling quantification of rock N inputs to bioavailable reservoirs in soil and regolith. Across all sites, ~37% to 48% of the initial bedrock N content has undergone long‐term weathering in the soil. Combined with regional denudation estimates (sum of physical + chemical erosion), these weathering fractions translate to 1.6–10.7 kg·ha−1·yr−1 of rock N input to these forest ecosystems. These N input fluxes are substantial in light of estimates for atmospheric sources in these sites (4.5–7.0 kg·ha−1·yr−1). In addition, N depletion from rock minerals was greater than sodium, suggesting active biologically mediated weathering of growth‐limiting nutrients compared to nonessential elements. These results point to regional tectonics, biologically mediated weathering effects, and rock N chemistry in shaping the magnitude of rock N inputs to the forest ecosystems examined.
In-Situ Poisson's Ratio Determination From Interference Transient Well Test
Authors: Shahri Mojtaba P. , Miska Stefan Z.
Published: July 2015

Poisson's ratio is usually determined with well logging, fracturing data, and core samples. However, these methods provide us with a Poisson's ratio that is representative of only near-wellbore regions. In this paper, a technique is proposed by extending currently used pressure-transient-testing concepts to include reservoir stresses. More specifically, the interference well test is generalized to find not only conventional flow parameters such as reservoir transmissivity and storage capacity, but also the average in-situ Poisson's ratio. This is accomplished with the generalized diffusivity equation, which takes into account flow-induced stress changes.

First, a generalized diffusivity equation is formulated by considering a deformable porous medium. The main goal of the generalized diffusivity equation is to extend current well-testing methods to include both fluid-flow and rock-mechanics aspects, and to present a way to determine the rock-mechanics-related property, Poisson's ratio, from the interference-well test. The line-source solution to the diffusivity equation is used to modify the current interference well-test technique. A synthetic example is presented to show the main steps of the proposed transient well-testing analysis technique. In addition, application of the proposed method is illustrated with interference-well-test field data. With a Monte Carlo simulation, effects of uncertainty in the input data on the prediction of Poisson's ratio are investigated, as well. In addition, a coupled fluid-flow/geomechanical simulation is performed to show the validity of the proposed formulation and corresponding improvement over the current analytical approach.

One can put in practice an average in-situ value in different applications requiring accurate value of Poisson's ratio on the reservoir scale. Some examples of these include in-situ-stress-field determination, stress distribution and rock-mass deformation, and the next generation of coupled fluid-flow/geomechanical simulators. By use of Poisson's ratio that could capture flow-induced stress changes, we would be able to find the stress distribution caused by production/injection within the reservoir more precisely as well.
Production Scenarios for the Haynesville Shale Play
Authors: Gülen Gürcan , Ikonnikova Svetlana , Browning John , Smye Katie , Tinker Scott W.
Published: July 2015

The Haynesville shale gas play has significant potential, with an estimated original gas in place larger than that of the Barnett with roughly 63% of the Barnett's acreage. However, the drilling and completion costs of Haynesville are approximately three times as much compared with the Barnett. We present a production scenario for the Haynesville on the basis of wells existing by the end of 2012 and wells to be drilled over the next 3 decades and quantify uncertainties around it. The scenario is underpinned by geologic, engineering, and well-economics analyses, which reveal the important differences between the Haynesville and two other plays we analyzed previously, Barnett and Fayetteville. The production profiles are developed by use of data from 2,131 wells drilled between 2008 and 2011 in both Louisiana and Texas, and a transient-linear-flow model. We run sensitivity analyses on reasonable ranges for natural-gas price, remaining-developable acreage, improvements in technology and well-cost performance, and economic limit for shutting in a well. Our analysis indicates a cumulative production of roughly 46 Tcf in the base case, subject to many uncertainties.
Surface Treatments of Zirconia to Enhance Bonding Durability
Authors: Melo RM , Souza ROA , Dursun E , Monteiro EBC , Valandro LF , Bottino MA
Published: July 2015

This article reviewed the surface treatments used most often to improve adhesion between zirconia and adhesive cements, focusing on their capacity to provide long-term bonding. Traditional and new treatments for zirconia bonding were searched. Some new treatments were discussed along with topographical views of the modified zirconia. New methods, such as selective infiltration etching and the low-fusing glassy porcelain application are promising, but more research is needed.
Head Start at Ages 3 and 4 Versus Head Start Followed by State Pre-K
Authors: Jenkins Jade Marcus , Farkas George , Duncan Greg J. , Burchinal Margaret , Vandell Deborah Lowe
Published: July 2015

As policymakers contemplate expanding preschool opportunities for low-income children, one possibility is to fund 2, rather than 1 year of Head Start for children at ages 3 and 4. Another option is to offer 1 year of Head Start followed by 1 year of pre-K. We ask which of these options is more effective. We use data from the Oklahoma pre-K study to examine these two “pathways” into kindergarten using regression discontinuity to estimate the effects of each age 4 program, and propensity score weighting to address selection. We find that children attending Head Start at age 3 develop stronger prereading skills in a high-quality pre-kindergarten at age 4 compared with attending Head Start at age 4. Pre-K and Head Start were not differentially linked to improvements in children’s prewriting skills or premath skills. This suggests that some impacts of early learning programs may be related to the sequencing of learning experiences to more academic programming.
A Novel and Efficient Synthesis of Anti-Cancer Agent, Mereletinib
Authors: Liu Haidong , Lv Yongfeng , Li Yuan , Cai Jin , Chen Junqing , Qin Yu , Ji Min
Published: July 2015

A convenient route for the synthesis of a third-generation epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitor, mereletinib (AZD9291) using starting materials that are commercially available has been achieved through reactions that are readily conducted under mild conditions. Importantly, a 5 g scale synthesis was also accomplished and this method could therefore be useful in the synthesis of similar drugs.
Concise Total Synthesis of Aplysinellamides A and B
Authors: Gan Haifeng , Huang Yu , Feng Weiyang , Zhu Wentong , Guo Kai
Published: July 2015

Concise and efficient total syntheses of bromotyrosine-derived metabolites aplysinellamides A and B, isolated from Australian marine sponge Aplysinella sp., have been accomplished in seven steps. A condensation between cinnamic acid and Boc-D-lysine methyl ester was applied to form the amide skeleton as a key step.
Studies on Ambient Air Quality Status of Kolhapur City, Maharashtra, India during Year 2013
Authors: Mangalekar S.B. , Jadhav A.S. , Raut P.D.
Published: July 2015

Air pollution is an emerging public health problem in developing countries. Urban activities create more pollution in comparison to rural activities. This paper assesses the ambient air quality status in urban residential area of Kolhapur city. Three sites viz. Shivaji University (SU), Dabholkar Corner (DC) and Mahadwar Road (MR) were selected to spotlight an overview of the total air quality of this region under Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) sponsored National Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Project (NAAQM). The air quality was assessed based on measuring four air pollutants namely sulphur dioxide (SO2), oxides of nitrogen (NOx), Respirable Suspended Particulate Matter (RSPM) and Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM). From these three areas, two areas viz., Dabholkar Corner (DC) and Mahadwar Road (MR), the average concentrations of RSPM and SPM exceeded the prescribed limits of Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), New Delhi. The average concentrations of air pollutants at Dabholkar Corner and Mahadwar Road areas were higher than that of Shivaji University area. Apart from this the SO2 and NOx levels in all three areas remain under prescribed limits of CPCB, New Delhi. The average AQI of Dabholkar Corner and Mahadwar Road areas were found higher than the Shivaji University area. The AQI found to be less during rainy season (June to August). As per AQI calculated, the areas viz. Dabholkar Corner and Mahadwar Road have severe air pollution whereas the area Shivaji University has moderate air pollution.
Equilibrium Partitioning Approach to Define Sediment Quality Guideline of Some Metals in Chao Phraya Estuary, Thailand
Authors: Jiwarungrueangkul Thanakorn , Dharmavanij Sirichai , Sompongchaiyakul Penjai , Kornkanitnan Narumol
Published: July 2015

This study aims to define numerical sediment quality guideline (SQG) based on equilibrium partitioning approach that represents availability of metal in estuarine sediment. The labile-phase metal was used in calculating the partition coefficient caused by remobilization of this fraction in the sediment-interstitial water system as a result of changing physicochemical condition in sediment. In addition, the metal bound with sulphide fraction was taken into account in calculating the SQG since this fraction is potentially available to interstitial water when oxidation process occurs in anoxic sediment. The SQG values for Chao Phraya estuarine sediment for cadmium, copper, lead and zinc were found in the range of 1.2–3.1, 7–105, 23–86 and 16–125 mg/kg dry weight in <63 μm fraction and CaCO3 free basis, respectively. However, in order to support the calculated SQG value, toxicity test for metal using the same sediment should be further studied.
Prediction of Rain in Bihar, India, Based on Historical Rain Data
Authors: Sharan Anand M.
Published: July 2015

In this work the prediction of rain is based on average of three methods. In these methods, historical rain data of Bihar are selected for projection. These methods take into account the trends in rain pattern also.

The predicted results are quite close to the actual rain data for the year 2013. Based on this success, the forecast was made in December 2013 for the year 2014. This prediction was checked on September 1, 2014, and it was found that the predicted and the actual rainfall data for June, July and August of 2014 were close.

The advantage of this approach is that it gives farmers far more time than they get presently when preliminary predictions are announced by India Meteorological Department in April for each monsoon.