bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Geographic differences in effects of experimental warming on ant species diversity and community composition
Authors: Pelini S. L. , Diamond S. E. , Nichols L. M. , Stuble K. L. , Ellison A. M. , Sanders N. J. , Dunn R. R. , Gotelli N. J.
Published: October 2014

Ecological communities are being reshaped by climatic change. Losses and gains of species will alter community composition and diversity but these effects are likely to vary geographically and may be hard to predict from uncontrolled “natural experiments”. In this study, we used open‐top warming chambers to simulate a range of warming scenarios for ground‐nesting ant communities at a northern (Harvard Forest, MA) and southern (Duke Forest, NC) study site in the eastern US. After 2.5 years of experimental warming, we found no significant effects of accumulated growing degree days or soil moisture on ant diversity or community composition at the northern site, but a decrease in asymptotic species richness and changes in community composition at the southern site. However, fewer than 10% of the species at either site responded significantly to the warming treatments. Our results contrast with those of a comparable natural experiment conducted along a nearby elevational gradient, in which species richness and composition responded strongly to changes in temperature and other correlated variables. Together, our findings provide some support for the prediction that warming will have a larger negative effect on ecological communities in warmer locales at lower latitudes and suggest that predicted responses to warming may differ between controlled field experiments and unmanipulated thermal gradients.
From Ischemic Conditioning to ‘Hyperconditioning’: Clinical Phenomenon and Basic Science Opportunity
Authors: Whittaker Peter , Przyklenk Karin
Published: October 2014

Thousands of articles have been published on the topic of ischemic conditioning. Nevertheless, relatively little attention has been given to assessment of conditioning's dose-response characteristics. Specifically, the consequences of multiple conditioning episodes, what we will term “hyperconditioning”, have seldom been examined. We propose that hyperconditioning warrants investigation because it; (1) may be of clinical importance, (2) could provide insight into conditioning mechanisms, and (3) might result in development of novel models of human disease. The prevalence of angina pectoris and intermittent claudication is sufficiently high and the potential for daily ischemia-reperfusion episodes sufficiently large that hyperconditioning is a clinically relevant phenomenon. In basic science, attenuation of conditioning-mediated infarct size reduction found in some studies after hyperconditioning offers a possible means to facilitate further discernment of cardioprotective signaling pathways. Moreover, hyperconditioning's impact extends beyond cytoprotection to tissue structural elements. Several studies demonstrate that hyperconditioning produces collagen injury (primarily fiber breakage). Such structural impairment could have adverse clinical consequences; however, in laboratory studies, selective collagen damage could provide the basis for models of cardiac rupture and dilated cardiomyopathy. Accordingly, we propose that hyperconditioning represents the dark, but potentially illuminating, side of ischemic conditioning - a paradigm that merits attention and prospective evaluation.
College Students' Cheating Behaviors
Authors: Küçüktepe Seval Eminoglu
Published: October 2014

I explored the reasons given by college students for cheating during scholastic examinations. The participants were 26 students from Marmara University in Turkey. It was observed that most of the students identified cheating as taking reminder notes into an examination, getting help
during the examination, or theft of knowledge. The tendency to cheat in a variety of ways was found to be high, particularly with regard to the preparation of cheating materials before the examination. While some students justified helping friends they are close to or who they observe as having
difficulties, others considered it immoral and refused to be involved in the activity of cheating. Lastly, students generally did not feel regret if the examination consisted of questions where the answers depend solely on memorization or if there was a common belief that the lesson would
have no use for their future career or lives.
Impact of Use of Technology in Mathematics Lessons on Student Achievement and Attitudes
Authors: Eyyam Ramadan , Yaratan Hüseyin S.
Published: October 2014

Technology use in classrooms in today's world is believed to have a positive impact on students' success and their attitudes towards lessons. In this study we investigated students' attitudes towards technology use in class and whether the use of technology improved their academic achievement.
A quasiexperimental research design was used and we assigned 3 groups as experimental groups (n = 41) and 2 as control groups (n = 41). Mathematics was selected as the subject to be studied. All groups completed a pretest and a posttest. For the experimental groups, lessons were
designed using several technological tools, whereas lessons for control groups were taught using traditional teaching methods. At the end of the study, the experimental groups completed a scale to investigate the preferences and attitudes of the students in regard to technology-based instruction.
One-way ANCOVA was used to evaluate the differences in posttest results, which revealed that the mathematics posttest results of the students who were instructed using technology were significantly higher than the posttest results of the groups who were instructed without technology. Results
showed that students had a positive attitude towards technology use. The implications for curriculum designers and teachers are discussed.
Territorial'noe planirvanie v Rossii
Authors: Zivanovic Zora
Published: October 2014

Territorial'noe planirovanie v Rossii imeet dolguju tradiciju. Odnako, posle
raspada SSSR nekotoroe vremja nabljudalas' tendencija otricanija vaznosti
razrabotki planovyh dokumentov i ih znacenija dlja upravlenija processom
razvitija. Diskontinuitet, nastupivsij v rezul'tate etoj tendencii, privel k
nekotoroj nestabil'nosti territorial'nogo planirovanija v segodnjasnej Rossii.
Povtornaja aktualizacija dejatel'nosti v oblasti razrabotki planovyh
dokumentov, svjazana s prinjatiem ?Gradostroitel'nogo kodeksa? 2004 g. Eta
dejatel'nost' zatrudnena nedostatkom relevantnyh kadrov, otsutstviem jasnoj
teoriko-metodologiceskoj osnovy, neopredelennym otnoseniem k suscestvujuscim
social'no-ekonomiceskim strategijam razvitija i dr. Nesmotrja na neprostye
uslovija, v poslednie neskol'ko let, nabljudaetsja burnoe razvitie
territorial'nogo planirovanija na vseh territorial'nyh urovnjah. Mezdu tem, po
ocenkam specialistov, kolicestvo ne soprovozdaetsja sootvetstvujuscim
kacestvom.
Nature as an inspiration and a context for learning and teaching
Authors: Andjelkovic Sladjana , Stanisavljevic-Petrovic Zorica
Published: October 2014

This paper is a position of contextual and holistic approach, and on the
principles of constructivist theory examines the role of natural resources in
the teaching and learning process. In the center of interest by the
possibility of establishing a partnership relationship with nature in the
process of teaching and learning, where nature appears as an asset, source
and target classes. The aim is to get through the display and analysis of
theoretical approaches to nature as a context for learning and teaching
perceive from the perspective of affirmation contextual, holistic, active,
investigative approach to teaching. This will promote new teaching strategies
in order to change the classical approach to teaching and learning process
and open up new opportunities to increase the share of after-school space in
order to create teaching situations. Results of the analysis of theoretical
starting points in particular knowledge of the value of contextual and
holistic learning, achieving partnership with nature, in favor of modern
theories in which it promotes active student positions close to reality in
the process of construction of knowledge systems.
Role of local community in tourism development: Case study village Zabrega
Authors: Belij Маrija , Veljkovic Јоvana , Pavlovic Sanja
Published: October 2014

Studies and researches on the role of a local community in tourism
development of rural areas emphasize the significance of inhabitants?
attitudes about the state and perspectives of this activity. In this context,
in the professional literature, the term CBT (community-based tourism) is
used, which implies the involvement of local communities and planning of
tourism development. The aim of the study is to determine the local
population?s influence on starting an initiative for a tourist arranging of
the village Zabrega in the Municipality of Paracin, especially the sacral
objects in the Crnica River Gorge. The following methods were applied: method
of direct observation, analysis, synthesis, interview and survey in which the
questions were of a closed and open type. Results of the research survey were
analyzed in the software package for statistical processing and analysis of
the data SPSS 20.00. It has been stated that the population has a positive
attitude about the Society Petrus, which is the main organizer of the
activities when the prosperity of the village Zabrega is in question, and
that the local community is interested in engaging in the tourist activities,
as demonstrated by numerous practical examples.
Limitations in development of planned and alternative types of tourism in the ”Stara planina” nature park and tourist region
Authors: Samardzic Ivan
Published: October 2014

Great Serbian natural resources can be used to develop tourism which follows
the principles of sustainable development. Water resources: rivers, lakes,
then spas, mountains, etc. can be used in the right way, for development of
tourism, local community affirmation as well as the entire country, and of
course with the appropriate investments and responsible policy development
which can bring huge material use to the entire society. Stara Planina area
has defined tourism with emphasis on winter tourism through the planning
documents (development of ski centers and appropriate infrastructure).
Alternative to this type of tourism is sustainable tourism which includes:
agricultural and food production and livestocking, ethno and ecotourism, spa
and lake tourism, revitalization of cultural goods and monuments of national
construction and their use, domestic production, beekeeping, medical herbs
collection, fishing and hunting tourism, etc. Basic goal is to upgrade
quality of the environment as well as minimizing negative effects to the
environment, and to remove those effects where possible. Assessment of the
terrain situation could give recommendations for development of the
sustainable tourism.
Effects of aqueous plant extracts and inorganic fertilizer on the germination, growth and development of maize (Zea mays L.)
Authors: Chukwuka Kanayo , Obiakara Maxwell , Ogunsumi Israel
Published: October 2014

Screen house experiments were carried out to examine the effects of aqueous
leaf extracts of Tithonia diversifolia (Ti) and Vernonia amygdalina (Ve), as
well as NPK fertilizer (15-15-15) on the germination, growth and development
of maize. Fresh leaves were collected, washed with tap water, chopped and
pounded, soaked in distilled water and filtered. The two filtrates were used
to prepare extracts at 50 and 100% w/v. Four maize seeds were placed in Petri
dishes laid out in a completely randomized design with five replicates. In
every Petri dish 10 ml of extract per treatment was added. A control
experiment with distilled water was also set up. Also, in a completely
randomized design with four replicates, 4-week-old potted maize plants were
treated with 500 ml of each extract as well as with 1.52 g of NPK fertilizer.
The results showed that the germination percentage of the seeds followed the
order Ti50 - Control - Ve50. The seeds treated with aqueous extracts of T.
diversifolia and V. amygdalina at 100% w/v produced lower but equal
germination percentage. The seedling radicle growth was significantly
inhibited by the aqueous extracts of Ti100, Ve50 and Ve100 (p?0.05). The
inhibition was dose-dependent and more pronounced in seeds treated with
extracts of V. amygdalina. The aqueous extract of T. diversifolia (50% w/v)
and control influenced radicle growth substantially. All the extracts
inhibited the plumule development compared to the control. On the other hand,
growth, development and yield were not significantly affected by the plant
extracts.
Effects of different temperatures and hormone treatments on breaking dormancy in potato tubers
Authors: Tavakoli Khadige , Razavi Alireza , Sohani Alireza
Published: October 2014

Mini propagation is a new method to produce potato. A factorial experiment
based on completely randomized block design with three replications was
conducted to investigate the effect of two temperature levels (18 and 25?C)
and six hormone treatments (H1: 0% of ethanol + 0 mg/l of gibberellic acid,
H2: 0% of ethanol + 10 mg/l of gibberellic acid, H3: 0.5% of ethanol + 0 mg/l
of gibberellic acid, H4: 0.5% of ethanol + 10 mg/l of gibberellic acid, H5:
0.5% of ethanol + 20 mg/l of gibberellic acid, H6: 0.5% of ethanol + 30 mg/l
of gibberellic acid) on mini tubers of two varieties of potato (Agria and
Sant?). The longest sprouts were about 14.13 mm long and they were produced
by Sant? variety at 18?C and H1 hormone level. Sprouting percentage was
higher in Sant? (75.69%) than in Agria (59.72%). The highest average
percentage of sprouted tubers (95%) was achieved at the temperature of 18?C
and with H4 hormone treatment. Sant? had the shortest dormancy duration by
using H1 hormone level at 18?C. Applying H6 hormone level at 18?C produced
more sprouts per tuber in Sant?. Sant? was better than Agria with or without
hormone treatment in respect of all measured traits. Higher GA concentration
accelerates tuber sprouting in both varieties.
Evaluation of the nutritional quality of wheat bread prepared with quinoa, buckwheat and pumpkin seed blends
Authors: Milovanovic Mirjana , Demin Mirjana , Vucelic-Radovic Biljana , Zarkovic Branka , Stikic Radmila
Published: October 2014

The purpose of this research was to blend quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.),
buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum M?ench) and pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo L.) seed
kernels at 40% level with wheat flour and to examine the effect of this blend
on nutritional and sensory quality and also energy values of the pan bread.
Hydrothermal preparation of these supplements is included. Chemical
composition of the investigated materials, wheat bread and supplemented
bread, was determined using relevant AOAC methods. Chemical composition of
supplemented bread with an increase in protein, oil and crude fiber was
superior in comparison with control wheat bread. Sensory properties of
supplemented bread such as specific volume, appearance, crust and crumb
texture, aroma-odor and color were evaluated and found excellent.
Rural women farmers’ assessment of credit oriented self-help groups in Delta State, Nigeria
Authors: Ofuoku Albert , Albert Carol
Published: October 2014

This study was conducted to analyze the perception of the rural woman about
credit oriented self-help group in Delta State, Nigeria. A sample size of 110
respondents was used for the study and data were collected from them with the
use of structured interview schedule and questionnaires. Data were analyzed
using descriptive statistics and linear regression equation model as the lead
equation. It was revealed that the women farmers subscribed to self-help
groups in order to be able to have access to credit (mean = 3.78),
information (mean = 3.55), extension services (mean = 3.45). The respondents
were satisfied with their respective self-help groups. However, they had some
challenges such as inadequate access to extension services (mean = 3.55) and
lack of commitment by the leaders (mean = 3.22) and members (mean = 3.19).
Educational level and frequency of extension contact of the respondents were
found to influence their perception on self-help groups at 5% level of
significance. It is recommended that governmental and non-governmental
organizations, and university agricultural extension departments should carry
out a campaign on workshops for these groups on commitment and extension
agencies should diversify their focus to include selfhelp groups and
activities.
Direct pulp capping using biodentine
Authors: Popovic-Bajic Marijana , Danilovic Vesna , Prokic Branislav , Prokic Bogomir , Jokanovic Vukoman , Zivkovic Slavoljub
Published: October 2014

Introduction. Direct pulp capping is therapeutic method of applying
medication on exposed pulp in order to allow bridge formation and healing
process. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of Biodentine on
exposed dental pulp of Vietnamese pigs. Material and Methods. The study was
conducted on 20 teeth of Vietnamese pigs (Sus scrofa domesticus). On buccal
surfaces of incisors, canines and first premolars, class V cavities were
prepared and pulp was exposed. In the experimental group (six incisors, two
canines and two premolars) the perforation was covered with Biodentine?
(Septodont, Saint-Maur-des-Fosses, France). In the control group, the
perforation was covered with MTA? (Dentsply Tulsa Dental, Johnson City, TN,
USA). All cavities were restored with glass ionomer cement (GC Fuji VIII, GC
Corporation, Tokyo, Japan). Observation period was 28 days. After sacrificing
the animals, histological preparations were done to analyze the presence of
dentin bridge, an inflammatory reaction of the pulp, pulp tissue
reorganization and the presence of bacteria. Results. Dentin bridge was
observed in all teeth (experimental and control groups). Inflammation of the
pulp was mild to moderate in both groups. Neoangiogenesis and many
odontoblast like cells responsible for dentin bridge formation were detected.
Necrosis was not observed in any case, neither the presence of Gram-positive
bacteria in the pulp. Conclusion. Histological analysis indicated favorable
therapeutic effects of Biodentine for direct pulp capping in teeth of
Vietnamese pigs. Findings were similar with Biodentine and MTA.
PD-L1–Driven Tolerance Protects Neurogenin3-Induced Islet Neogenesis to Reverse Established Type 1 Diabetes in NOD Mice
Authors: Li Rongying , Lee Jeongkyung , Kim Mi-sun , Liu Victoria , Moulik Mousumi , Li Haiyan , Yi Qing , Xie Aini , Chen Wenhao , Yang Lina , Li Yimin , Tsai Tsung Huang , Oka Kazuhiro , Chan Lawrence , Yechoor Vijay
Published: October 2014

A breakdown in self-tolerance underlies autoimmune destruction of β-cells and type 1 diabetes. A cure by restoring β-cell mass is limited by the availability of transplantable β-cells and the need for chronic immunosuppression. Evidence indicates that inhibiting costimulation through the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway is central to immune tolerance. We therefore tested whether induction of islet neogenesis in the liver, protected by PD-L1–driven tolerance, reverses diabetes in NOD mice. We demonstrated a robust induction of neo-islets in the liver of diabetic NOD mice by gene transfer of Neurogenin3, the islet-defining factor, along with betacellulin, an islet growth factor. These neo-islets expressed all the major pancreatic hormones and transcription factors. However, an enduring restoration of glucose-stimulated insulin secretion and euglycemia occurs only when tolerance is also induced by the targeted overexpression of PD-L1 in the neo-islets, which results in inhibition of proliferation and increased apoptosis of infiltrating CD4+ T cells. Further analysis revealed an inhibition of cytokine production from lymphocytes isolated from the liver but not from the spleen of treated mice, indicating that treatment did not result in generalized immunosuppression. This treatment strategy leads to persistence of functional neo-islets that resist autoimmune destruction and consequently an enduring reversal of diabetes in NOD mice.
Develop Electricity Projects and Transmission lines in a 'War Footing'
Authors: Thanju Jeewan Prasad
Published: October 2014

Not available. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hn.v14i0.11243Hydro Nepal JournalJournal of Water, Energy and EnvironmentVol. 14, 2014, JanuaryPage:7-7
Hydropower Development in Nepal: Five Month Reflections
Authors: Butler Christopher
Published: October 2014

Not Available.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hn.v14i0.11244
What’s Ailing Indian Energy Markets?
Authors: Thapa Bishal
Published: October 2014

Not Available.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hn.v14i0.11245
Rationale of Pancheshwar Multipurpose Project for Reduction of Energy Crisis and Mitigating the Impacts of Mahakali Flood and Subsequent Economic Development of Nepal and India
Authors: Kunwar Moti Bahadur
Published: October 2014

The proposed 315m high dam Pancheshwar Multipurpose Project (PMP) is a bi-national scheme on the Mahakali River that forms the border between Nepal and India. In the first week of July 2013, flooding on the Mahakali River caused extensive damages in district headquarter of Darchula district of Nepal and downstream area. The implementation of the proposed Pancheshwar Multipurpose Project (6480+240 MW) could solve the current energy crisis, provide flood control, and generate reliable source of revenue from the export of hydropower for both Nepal and India. However, despite the possible advantages, PMP is still only a plan 18 years after its initiation with the 1996 Mahakali Treaty ratified by the Nepalese parliament. Therefothere, Pancheshwar Multipurpose Project should be jointly developed as soon as possible for the mutual benefit of both nations.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hn.v14i0.11247HYDRO Nepal JournalJournal of Water Energy and EnvironmentVolume: 14, 2014, JanuaryPage: 16-20
Creative Destruction and the HIDCL
Authors: Butler Christopher
Published: October 2014

Not Available.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hn.v14i0.11248HYDRO Nepal JournalJournal of Water Energy and EnvironmentVolume: 14, 2014, JanuaryPage: 21-22
Prediction of Turbine Needed For Future Hydropower Projects in Nepal
Authors: Panta Subash , Lamsal Manish , Thapa Bhola , Thapa Biraj Singh
Published: October 2014

As Nepal holds significant potential for a prosperous future market in hydropower and associated business developments, the Turbine Testing Lab (TTL) at Kathmandu University, Nepal has carried out a project that focuses on scientific studies to identify optimal turbine requirements for various hydropower projects. We collected and analyzed basic design data available from different sources to identify the turbine design specifications for the upcoming hydropower projects. As a result, we developed a computer program as a tool to support this work. Findings from the current studies have shown that up to 60% of the 13000 MW capacity hydropower projects under survey stage in Nepal would need Francis type of turbine with unit size below 5 MW. This finding is also supportive to establish a basis for developing turbine manufacturing and maintenance competence in Nepal from business perspectives.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hn.v14i0.11250HYDRO Nepal JournalJournal of Water, Energy and EnvironmentVolume: 14, 2014 JanuaryPage: 23-26
Numerical Modeling of Nonuniform Flow in Settling Basins
Authors: Nøvik Hanne , Dudhraj Abha , Olsen Nils ReidarBøe , Bishwakarma Meg Bahadur , Lia Leif
Published: October 2014

The settling basins for hydropower plants are designed to remove suspended sediments from the waterflow. The inlet geometry of the settling basin may cause formation of recirculation zones and high turbulence, which may lead to diminished trap efficiency, and as a consequence, turbine erosion. Most analytic approaches for calculating the trap efficiency of settling basins are based on the assumption of a uniform flow; hence, simplified one-dimensional equations are used to determine the velocity distribution and the turbulence characteristics of the flow. However, the velocity field in settling basins is often unevenly distributed, and the simplified equations are not always applicable. This study describes a new method for improving the assessment of settling basin performance. The idea is to extract values for the velocity distribution and the turbulence characteristics along the settling basins from computational fluid dynamic (CFD) models. The extracted CFD values are then used as input parameters to the standard analytical approaches for calculation of settling basin trap efficiency. This promising method is tested on a case study of a physical model of the settling basin for the Lower Manang Marsyangdi Hydropower Project in Nepal. The CFD calculations turn out to provide additional information to the sedimentation calculations in settling basins, and are useful for the assessment of different design alternatives at an early stage.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hn.v14i0.11251HYDRO Nepal JournalJournal of Water, Energy and EnvironmentVolume: 14, 2014, JanuaryPage: 27-35
Norwegian Design Principle for High Pressure Tunnels and Shafts: Its Applicability in the Himalaya
Authors: Panthi Krishna Kanta
Published: October 2014

Cost effective, safe and long term sustainable hydropower development is key for the lasting economic growth in the Himalayan region. Increasing pressure towards the use of renewal and environmentally friendly energy for industrial growth and daily household use will force the Himalayan region to exploit hydropower energy more extensively. The traditionally used design approach of fully lined underground waterway system is costly and financially unfeasible as well as an obstacle to attract investment in the hydropower sector in the Himalaya. Hence, more innovative solutions are needed to make hydro generated energy more cost effective and as a sustainable energy solution in the long term. This paper briefly describes the geological set-up of Scandinavia, history of Norwegian Hydropower and reviews the design principle used to develop the underground waterway system in Norway. Brief comments are also made on the applicability of these principles in the Himalayan region. It is anticipated that more discussions will be made in the future on the geo-tectonic environment of the Himalaya and suitability of Norwegian design principle in the Himalayan region.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hn.v14i0.11254HYDRO Nepal JournalJournal of Water, Energy and EnvironmentVolume: 14, 2014 JanuaryPage: 36-40
Foreign Direct Investment in Nepal’s Hydropower Development
Authors: Gangol Pradeep
Published: October 2014

The fund for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) is globally limited and overstretched. Therefore, Nepal needs to go the extra mile in offering a competitive investment environment to attract FDI flows into Nepal’s hydropower development. It literally means that our investment policies and laws should be more competitive compared to that of other countries like Vietnam, Cambodia and Bangladesh etc.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hn.v14i0.11256HYDRO Nepal JournalJournal of Water, Energy and EnvironmentVolume: 14, 2014, JanuaryPage: 41-42
Cross-border Downstream Benefit Sharing in Reservoir Type Hydropower Projects: Case of Budhi Gandaki Storage Project in Nepal
Authors: Upadhyay Surya Nath , Gaudel Prakash
Published: October 2014

This paper analyses the role of the principle of downstream benefit sharing under international water law regime in the management of cross-border water courses. This paper argues that the principle of downstream benefit sharing may play a key role in wiping away the long-existing distrust between countries as well as hold the potential to usher in a new phase of cooperation between riparian neighboring countries, such as Nepal and India. If pursued in good faith the downstream benefit principle would enjoin erstwhile losers of the vast potential to a cooperative mechanism where they could find themselves in a win-win situation. The Budhi Gandaki Storage Project presents a unique opportunity for employing this new paradigm of cooperation between two countries: Nepal and India. In this paper, we present the example of India that is facing a water and energy crisis for which it may ease to a considerable extent its problem by depending on Nepal for these resources. Downstream benefit sharing may provide India an opportunity to gain the confidence of the Nepalese people for developing many hydro projects with or without water augmentation resulting into multiple benefits downstream in India. Employing the downstream benefit sharing principle might requirere visiting treaties like Gandak Project Agreement.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hn.v14i0.11267HYDRO Nepal JournalJournal of Water, Energy and EnvironmentVolume: 14, 2014, JanuaryPage: 59-64
Sustainability of Bhutan's Hydropower
Authors: Chhopel Gongsar Karma
Published: October 2014

Bhutan’s river potential for hydropower has been estimated at ~30,000 MW, the majority of which is concentrated in the Wangchhu, Punatsangchhu, Mangdechhu and Drangmechhu river basins. Hydropower forms the backbone of Bhutan’s socio-economic strength: Ninety nine percentage of its electricity supply comes from hydropower generation and hydropower alone contributes of national revenue. Bhutan has been cast as a model in South Asia for its environmental conservation policy. However, the impacts of climate change are becoming evident in the form of fast-retreating glaciers and erratic precipitation patterns that will prove to be costly for the hydropower sector as the country continues to bank on this renewable natural resource.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hn.v14i0.11272 HYDRO Nepal JournalJournal of Water, Energy and EnvironmentVolume: 14, 2014, JanuaryPage: 73-76
Mechanism of Early-Onset Breakdown at On-Ramp Bottlenecks on Shanghai, China, Expressways
Authors: Sun Jian , Zhao Li , Zhang H. Michael
Published: October 2014

The mechanism of early-onset breakdowns was studied at on-ramp bottlenecks on expressways in Shanghai, China. From four on-ramp breakdown events captured on video, key parameters were extracted: prequeue flow, queue-discharge flow, speed variation per minute, lane change (LC) times in the mainline lanes and the acceleration lane, LC types, and LC locations (longitudinal and lateral). A total of 1,583 LC samples were analyzed. The findings showed a great difference in LC patterns when breakdowns occurred earlier than normal (i.e., before the bottleneck reaches expected capacity). In the case of an early breakdown, most LCs were forced LCs that occurred near the downstream end of the bottleneck, which spread laterally rather quickly. In contrast, in normal breakdowns in the United States, LCs were mostly free LCs that occurred evenly along the bottleneck longitudinally but were concentrated in rightmost lanes laterally.
Use of Probe Vehicle Data to Determine Joint Probability Distributions of Vehicle Location and Speed on an Arterial Road
Authors: Cao Peng , Miwa Tomio , Morikawa Takayuki
Published: October 2014

Monitoring traffic conditions over large road networks is a significant challenge for many transportation authorities. However, the rich data from probe vehicles that have become available in recent years can assist with such traffic monitoring. Hydrodynamic theory and horizontal queuing theory are used to derive the joint probability distribution function of vehicle location and speed on an arterial road for undersaturated and congested traffic conditions. Specifically considered are the effects of signal controllers (including deceleration, acceleration, and queuing) on the distributions of location and speed. This probabilistic model is parameterized by link parameters (red signal time, cycle time, and critical flow density), driving behavior (average deceleration and acceleration, average speed, and variation of arrival flow and dissipating flow), and traffic state (arrival flow density) obtained from historical probe data (for location and speed) with maximum likelihood estimates. In a numerical experiment with data collected from private cars in Toyota City, Japan, for the 2011 Green Project, the Kolmogorov–Smirnov test validates the use of the proposed distributions of vehicle location and speed.
Real-Time Prediction of Near-Future Traffic States on Freeways Using a Markov Model
Authors: Noroozi Reza , Hellinga Bruce
Published: October 2014

A method is proposed to predict the state of traffic for the near future. Traffic conditions are assumed to follow a stochastic process. A Markov model is developed to characterize the transition between traffic states. Unlike previous models in the literature, the state transition probability matrix is assumed to be a function of traffic variables; therefore, the proposed Markov model considers time-varying covariates. The base transition matrix and the effect of each covariate are calibrated to a data set for an urban expressway in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, by using maximum likelihood estimation. Using the transition probabilities of the Markov model, the proposed procedure constructs the empirical distribution of travel speed. The procedure, which can be applied in real time, uses both the empirical distribution of travel speed for different traffic conditions and the predicted transition matrix for the near future. Therefore, the proposed method enables the prediction of both the expected speed value and its distribution for the near future. Finally, a procedure is proposed to improve the prediction results of any travel time prediction method. This procedure uses a short-memory time series model by incorporating the predicted transition probabilities of the proposed Markov model. An evaluation using field data demonstrates this improvement for a simple time series model.
Traffic Flow Prediction Using Optimal Autoregressive Moving Average with Exogenous Input-Based Predictors
Authors: Wu Cheng-Ju , Schreiter Thomas , Horowitz Roberto , Gomes Gabriel
Published: October 2014

Traffic management centers want to improve the performance of road networks and reduce congestion by actively managing the infrastructure of a freeway corridor. A promising avenue for proactive traffic management is the prediction of near-future traffic conditions in real time by using a traffic flow model. Important calibration parameters of such a model include boundary flows (i.e., amount of traffic expected to enter the network during the prediction horizon). A boundary flow prediction method is proposed that combines the most recent traffic data with historical traffic data. An autoregressive moving average with an exogenous input (ARMAX) model is estimated online with the most recent vehicle detector station data. An optimal multiple-step-ahead predictor of traffic demand is obtained from the estimated ARMAX model by solving a corresponding Bezout equation for each predictor. Results obtained with empirical data collected along a freeway mainline and an on-ramp indicate that this method outperforms prediction methods that rely on only the historical average of the data, especially during days with unusual traffic flow demands, such as a Super Bowl Sunday. The simplicity and robustness make this method useful in practical applications.
Multiscale Traffic Flow Modeling in Mixed Networks
Authors: Joueiai Mahtab , van Lint Hans , Hoogendoom Serge P.
Published: October 2014

Multiscale traffic flow modeling, which combines traffic models of different scales (e.g., of network and traffic representation), offers many opportunities for the simulation and evaluation of traffic measures and policies in large networks. For example, macroscopic continuum models of traffic flow could be used to simulate the propagation of traffic on large freeway corridors and networks efficiently and parsimoniously, whereas microscopic models of traffic flow could be used to simulate those parts of the network where more detail (e.g., lateral behavior) is required, such as at intersections and toll plazas. One key requirement of such a multiscale framework is related to the interface between models of different scales. This interface should ensure consistency in (a) vehicle conservation and (b) vehicle and traveler properties that must be transported over this interface (e.g., vehicle type, occupancy, and destination). In the approach presented, both types of consistency problems can be solved simultaneously, and this approach is illustrated with an integrated example. This multiscale modeling framework enables the coupling of any macroscopic model with any microscopic model (and vice versa) without putting constraints on the internal structure or parameterization in either model.
HGF/Met Axis in Heart Function and Cardioprotection
Authors: Gallo Simona , Sala Valentina , Gatti Stefano , Crepaldi Tiziana
Published: October 2014

Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and its tyrosine kinase receptor (Met) play important roles in myocardial function both in physiological and pathological situations. In the developing heart, HGF influences cardiomyocyte proliferation and differentiation. In the adult, HGF/Met signaling controls heart homeostasis and prevents oxidative stress in normal cardiomyocytes. Thus, the possible cardiotoxicity of current Met-targeted anti-cancer therapies has to be taken in consideration. In the injured heart, HGF plays important roles in cardioprotection by promoting: (1) prosurvival (anti-apoptotic and anti-autophagic) effects in cardiomyocytes, (2) angiogenesis, (3) inhibition of fibrosis, (4) anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory signals, and (5) regeneration through activation of cardiac stem cells. Furthermore, we discuss the putative role of elevated HGF as prognostic marker of severity in patients with cardiac diseases. Finally, we examine the potential of HGF-based molecules as new therapeutic tools for the treatment of cardiac diseases.
The Q-Exponential Decay of Subjective Probability for Future Reward: A Psychophysical Time Approach
Authors: Takahashi Taiki , Tokuda Shinsuke , Nishimura Masato , Kimura Ryo
Published: October 2014

This study experimentally examined why subjective probability for delayed reward decays non-exponentially (“hyperbolically”, i.e., q ˂ 1 in the q-exponential discount function) in humans. Our results indicate that nonlinear psychophysical time causes hyperbolic time-decay of subjective probability for delayed reward. Implications for econophysics and neuroeconomics are discussed.
Conventional Point-Velocity Records and Surface Velocity Observations for Estimating High Flow Discharge
Authors: Corato Giovanni , Ammari Abdelhadi , Moramarco Tommaso
Published: October 2014

Flow velocity measurements using point-velocity meters are normally obtained by sampling one, two or three velocity points per vertical profile. During high floods their use is inhibited due to the difficulty of sampling in lower portions of the flow area. Nevertheless, the application of standard methods allows estimation of a parameter, α, which depends on the energy slope and the Manning roughness coefficient. During high floods, monitoring of velocity can be accomplished by sampling the maximum velocity, umax, only, which can be used to estimate the mean flow velocity, um, by applying the linear entropy relationship depending on the parameter, M, estimated on the basis of historical observed pairs (um, umax). In this context, this work attempts to analyze if a correlation between α and M holds, so that the monitoring for high flows can be addressed by exploiting information from standard methods. A methodology is proposed to estimate M from α, by coupling the “historical” information derived by standard methods, and “new” information from the measurement of umax surmised at later times. Results from four gauged river sites of different hydraulic and geometric characteristics have shown the robust estimation of M based on α.
Insight into Rotational Effects on a Wind Turbine Blade Using Navier–Stokes Computations
Authors: Herráez Iván , Stoevesandt Bernhard , Peinke Joachim
Published: October 2014

Rotational effects are known to influence severely the aerodynamic performance of the inboard region of rotor blades. The underlying physical mechanisms are however far from being well understood. The present work addresses this problem using Reynolds averaged Navier–Stokes computations and experimental results of the MEXICO (Model Experiments in Controlled Conditions) rotor. Four axisymmetric inflow cases with wind speeds ranging from pre-stall to post-stall conditions are computed and compared with pressure and particle image velocimetry (PIV) experimental data, obtaining, in general, consistent results. At low angles of attack, the aerodynamic behavior of all of the studied blade sections resembles the one from the corresponding 2D airfoils. However, at high angles of attack, rotational effects lead to stall delay and/or lift enhancement at inboard positions. Such effects are shown to occur only in the presence of significant radial flows. Interestingly, the way in which rotational effects influence the aerodynamics of the MEXICO blades differs qualitatively in certain aspects from the descriptions found in the literature about this topic. The presented results provide new insights that are useful for the development of advanced and physically-sound correction models.
New Roles for Pharmacists in Community Mental Health Care: A Narrative Review
Authors: Rubio-Valera Maria , Chen Timothy , O'Reilly Claire
Published: October 2014

Medicines are a major treatment modality for many mental illnesses, and with the growing burden of mental disorders worldwide pharmacists are ideally positioned to play a greater role in supporting people with a mental illness. This narrative review aims to describe the evidence for pharmacist-delivered services in mental health care and address the barriers and facilitators to increasing the uptake of pharmacist services as part of the broader mental health care team. This narrative review is divided into three main sections: (1) the role of the pharmacist in mental health care in multidisciplinary teams and in supporting early detection of mental illness; (2) the pharmacists’ role in supporting quality use of medicines in medication review, strategies to improve medication adherence and antipsychotic polypharmacy, and shared decision making; and (3) barriers and facilitators to the implementation of mental health pharmacy services with a focus on organizational culture and mental health stigma. In the first section, the review presents new roles for pharmacists within multidisciplinary teams, such as in case conferencing or collaborative drug therapy management; and new roles that would benefit from increased pharmacist involvement, such as the early detection of mental health conditions, development of care plans and follow up of people with mental health problems. The second section describes the impact of medication review services and other pharmacist-led interventions designed to reduce inappropriate use of psychotropic medicines and improve medication adherence. Other new potential roles discussed include the management of antipsychotic polypharmacy and involvement in patient-centered care. Finally, barriers related to pharmacists’ attitudes, stigma and skills in the care of patients with mental health problems and barriers affecting pharmacist-physician collaboration are described, along with strategies to reduce mental health stigma.
Neuroprotective Role of Liver Growth Factor “LGF” in an Experimental Model of Cerebellar Ataxia
Authors: Calatrava-Ferreras Lucía , Gonzalo-Gobernado Rafael , Reimers Diana , Herranz Antonio , Jiménez-Escrig Adriano , Díaz-Gil Juan , Casarejos María , Montero-Vega María , Bazán Eulalia
Published: October 2014

Cerebellar ataxias (CA) comprise a heterogeneous group of neurodegenerative diseases characterized by a lack of motor coordination. They are caused by disturbances in the cerebellum and its associated circuitries, so the major therapeutic goal is to correct cerebellar dysfunction. Neurotrophic factors enhance the survival and differentiation of selected types of neurons. Liver growth factor (LGF) is a hepatic mitogen that shows biological activity in neuroregenerative therapies. We investigate the potential therapeutic activity of LGF in the 3-acetylpiridine (3-AP) rat model of CA. This model of CA consists in the lesion of the inferior olive-induced by 3-AP (40 mg/kg). Ataxic rats were treated with 5 µg/rat LGF or vehicle during 3 weeks, analyzing: (a) motor coordination by using the rota-rod test; and (b) the immunohistochemical and biochemical evolution of several parameters related with the olivo-cerebellar function. Motor coordination improved in 3-AP-lesioned rats that received LGF treatment. LGF up-regulated NeuN and Bcl-2 protein levels in the brainstem, and increased calbindin expression and the number of neurons receiving calbindin-positive projections in the cerebellum. LGF also reduced extracellular glutamate and GABA concentrations and microglia activation in the cerebellum. In view of these results, we propose LGF as a potential therapeutic agent in cerebellar ataxias.
Protein/Arabinoxylans Gels: Effect of Mass Ratio on the Rheological, Microstructural and Diffusional Characteristics
Authors: Berlanga-Reyes Claudia , Carvajal-Millan Elizabeth , Hicks Kevin , Yadav Madhav , Rascón-Chu Agustín , Lizardi-Mendoza Jaime , Toledo-Guillén Alma , Islas-Rubio Alma
Published: October 2014

Wheat bran arabinoxylan (WBAX) gels entrapping standard model proteins at different mass ratios were formed. The entrapment of protein affected the gel elasticity and viscosity values, which decreased from 177 to 138 Pa. The presence of protein did not modify the covalent cross-links content of the gel. The distribution of protein through the network was investigated by confocal laser scanning microscopy. In mixed gels, protein aggregates forming clusters were detected at protein/polysaccharide ratios higher than 0.25. These clusters were not homogeneously distributed, suggesting that WBAX and protein are located in two different phases. The apparent diffusion coefficient (Dm) of proteins during release from mixed gels was investigated for mass ratios of 0.06 and 0.12. For insulin, Dm increased significantly from 2.64 × 10−7 to 3.20 × 10−7 cm2/s as the mass ratio augmented from 0.06 to 0.12. No significant difference was found for Dm values of ovalbumin and bovine serum albumin released from the mixed gels. The results indicate that homogeneous protein/WBAX gels can be formed at low mass ratios, allowing the estimation of Dm by using an analytical solution of the second Fick’s law.
SMR-Based Adaptive Mobility Management Scheme in Hierarchical SIP Networks
Authors: Choi KwangHee , Gil Joon-Min
Published: October 2014

In hierarchical SIP networks, paging is performed to reduce location update signaling cost for mobility management. However, the cost efficiency largely depends on each mobile node’s session-to-mobility-ratio (SMR), which is defined as a ratio of the session arrival rate to the movement rate. In this paper, we propose the adaptive mobility management scheme that can determine the policy regarding to each mobile node’s SMR. Each mobile node determines whether the paging is applied or not after comparing its SMR with the threshold. In other words, the paging is applied to a mobile node when a mobile node’s SMR is less than the threshold. Therefore, the proposed scheme provides a way to minimize signaling costs according to each mobile node’s SMR. We find out the optimal threshold through performance analysis, and show that the proposed scheme can reduce signaling cost than the existing SIP and paging schemes in hierarchical SIP networks.