bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Features of system for water recirculation in thermal power plant ‘Morava’ on the right bank of River Velika Morava
Authors: Andjelic L. , Pavlovic M. , Babovic B.
Published: January 2014

The thermal power plant ‘Morava’, with a productive force of 125 MW, is located on the right bank of the River Velika Morava, near the city of Svilajnac, Serbia. This power plant uses coal for production. Ash and slag from the coal are burned and go to a landfill by hydraulic transport. The ratio of the liquid/solid mixture is 10:1. Towards the reduction of water quantity taken from the Velika Morava river for hydraulic transport, it's provided to build a water recirculation system for overflow and drainage water from landfill to power plant. In this paper, the results of the hydraulic study of water balance in landfill is shown. The goal of this study is to assess the water quantity in landfill, which can then be reused for hydraulic transport. For dimensioning of drainage system and overflow building on landfill, it was necessary to perform detailed analysis of rainfall and filtration throw landfill. With results of water quantity in drainage system, and overflow water, all parts of the recirculation system of water, from landfill to power plant, was performed. Also, in this paper are the data of hydraulic transport of mixture of water and ash/slag.
Processing of DTS monitoring results: automated detection of illicit connections
Authors: Vosse Mats , Schilperoort Rémy , de Haan Cornelis , Nienhuis Jaap , Tirion Marcel , Langeveld Jeroen
Published: January 2014

Fibre-optic Distributed Temperature Sensing (DTS) is a widely used technique. The technique measures temperature with a high resolution and high frequency along cables with lengths up to kilometers. This paper focuses on the application of DTS in sewer systems with the aim of locating illicit connections, and especially on an automated way to analyze the large amount of data.

The automated procedure scans the data for sudden temperature changes that are not caused by rainfall. These changes are marked as possible illicit connections when temperature changes are significantly larger than noise levels in the measurements. By adding artificial spills to field measurements it is concluded that the procedure works for the defined spills. Also when applied to field measurements it is concluded that the automated procedure produces good results.
A new inventory system to estimate greenhouse gas emissions from domestic wastewater treatment plant
Authors: Sairan F. M. , Md Din M. F. , Nor-Anuar A.
Published: January 2014

Domestic wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) is one of the entities that emit the greenhouse gas (GHG) to the environment because of microbial breakdown of the organics in human waste, and the use of electricity to operate the treatment plant itself. The first GHG inventory in Malaysia has provided a good foundation for the development of a more comprehensive national inventory. However, due to the lack of detail data from actual plant, Malaysia can only produce imprecise estimates for domestic wastewater. Therefore, there is a need to develop a proper database since based on various real plant characteristics and operating conditions, the actual values of GHG emissions from domestic wastewater in Malaysia could be different from other countries. In this study, a new inventory system has been developed to estimate GHG emissions by domestic WWTP, resulting from direct and indirect activities. Referring to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change approach in 2006, the inventory is started for Imhoff tanks, which constitute 12 percent of all domestic treatment plants in Malaysia. The inventory gives preliminary overview on estimation of GHG emissions from onsite domestic treatment plant when treating wastewater for different Population Equivalent (PE) and Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) loading.
The use of primary and secondary treated municipal wastewater for cucumber irrigation in hydroponic system
Authors: Pilatakis G. , Manios T. , Tzortzakis N.
Published: January 2014

Municipal wastewater may be used in agriculture but requires a careful monitoring of several hygiene parameters. The impact of direct application of treated wastewater in plant growth and development in hydroponically grown cucumber was studied. Cucumber seedlings used under 5 treatments of nutrient solution, which were basic nutrient solution (control), primary (PA) and secondary (SA) wastewater with or without nutrient solution enrichment (NS). The use of PA ± NS reduced plant height, leaf number and flowers produced as well as leaf size in cucumber plants but increased stem diameter. When SA ± NS used, no similar changes observed. The increased fruit number and fresh weight, when PA and SA used, resulted in increased yields as marked at the first week. The NS enrichment in PA reduced (up to 25%) plant yield while no differences observed in total fruit number among the treatments. No differences observed in plant biomass, root length and leaf chlorophyll levels among the treatments. The leaf photosynthetic rate and stomatal conductance increased in plant grown in PA ± NS and SA, but they did not differ in SA ± NS. The use of wastewater resulted in disease spread in roots and fruits (by cross-contamination). Further exploitation is necessary for microbial load reduction with wastewater application.
Modelling of pressurised water supply networks that may exhibit transient low pressure – open channel flow conditions
Authors: Nyende-Byakika Stephen , Ndambuki Julius M. , Ngirane-Katashaya Gaddi
Published: January 2014

On account of an ever increasing scarcity of potable water, ineffective water distribution networks (WDNs) and growing demand, several water distribution systems exhibit intermittent flow behaviour, either inevitably or under the deliberate action of operators, when they are expanded beyond their design capacities. This tendency is generally undesirable due to the fact that it leads to reduced service levels and consumer dissatisfaction. Moreover, due to inadequate system pressures and insufficient flows, the analysis of intermittent flow behaviour requires unconventional approaches, ultimately complicating network management. In this paper, a description is given, of tools that were developed to aid the analysis of WDNs during situations of low or non-existent pressures. Testing of the tools revealed that they could represent network behaviour fairly accurately.
Portfolio optimization with structured products under return constraint
Authors: Baweja Meena , Saxena Ratnesh
Published: January 2014

A new approach for optimizing risk in a portfolio of financial instruments
involving structured products is presented. This paper deals with a
portfolio selection model which uses optimization methodology to minimize
conditional Value-at-Risk (CVaR ) under return constraint. It focuses on
minimizing CVaR rather than on minimizing value-at-Risk VaR, as portfolios
with low CVaR necessarily have low VaR as well. We consider a simple
investment problem where besides stocks and bonds, the investor can also
include structured products into the investment portfolio. Due to possible
intermediate payments from structured product, we have to deal with a
re-investment problem modeled as a linear optimization problem.
Effect of excimer laser fluence on the surface structuring of Ti under vacuum condition
Authors: Umm-i-Kalsoom  , Bashir Shazia , Ali Nisar , Yousaf Daniel
Published: January 2014

The effect of variation of excimer laser fluences on the surface structuring of titanium (Ti) targets has been investigated. The KrF excimer laser (λ = 248 nm, t = 20 ns, repetition rate 20 Hz) has been employed for this purpose. The targets were irradiated for various laser fluences ranging from 0.86 J cm−2 to 1.27 J cm−2 under vacuum condition. Various diagnostic techniques like scanning electron microscope (SEM), atomic force microscope (AFM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) have been utilized to investigate the surface topography and structural changes of laser ablated targets. SEM analysis reveals the formation of laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS) at the central ablated region. The periodicity of LIPSS increases from 5 μm to 88 μm with the increase of fluence from 0.86 J cm−2 to 1.27 J cm−2. The formation of grains is observed at the peripheral ablated region for all laser fluences. Reduction in grain size from 7.7 μm to 3.8 μm is observed with increasing fluence from minimum to maximum value. AFM analysis exhibits the growth of several numbers of bumps and protrusions on irradiated targets. The height of bumps is reduced from 100 nm to 40 nm with increasing fluence. XRD analysis shows that no new phases were formed under vacuum condition for all fluence values. However, an alteration in the peak intensity, crystallinity, and d-spacing for various diffraction planes of Ti has been observed after irradiation.
A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial of Normal Saline, Lactated Ringer's, and Hypertonic Saline Nasal Irrigation Solution after Endoscopic Sinus Surgery
Authors: Low Tsu-Hui , Woods Charmaine M. , Ullah Shahid , Carney A. Simon
Published: January 2014

Background

Nasal douching is commonly performed after endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS). There is a lack of studies comparing the clinical effect of various douching solutions after ESS. This study investigated the clinical effects of normal saline, lactated Ringer's, and hypertonic saline nasal douching solutions after ESS.

Methods

Adult patients (41.8 ± 12.9 years) undergoing bilateral ESS for chronic rhinosinusitis at a single tertiary referral center e blindly randomized to one of the three study solutions and reviewed on postoperative weeks 1, 3, and 6. The 20-item Sino-Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT-20) scores, visual analog scale (VAS) symptom scores, digital video capture of the sinus cavities, and mucociliary clearance (MCC) times were performed at each visit. The mucosa appearances were scored by a second investigator, blinded to the douching solution.

Results

Seventy-four patients were recruited. All groups showed an improvement with treatment in SNOT-20 scores and VAS scores, as well as endoscopic evaluation of mucosa appearance over time. There was no improvement of MCC during the treatment period. Irrigation with lactated Ringer's solution resulted in better symptom scores in SNOT-20 (p < 0.05) and VAS (p < 0.05), compared with irrigation with normal saline or hypertonic saline solutions. Patients receiving hypertonic saline solutions had less polypoidal mucosa at week 6.

Conclusion

Douching with lactated Ringer's solution after ESS results in better improvement in sinonasal symptoms, compared with normal saline or hypertonic saline solutions.
Cross-Validation of the Recumbent Stepper Submaximal Exercise Test to Predict Peak Oxygen Uptake in Older Adults
Authors: Herda Ashley A. , Lentz Angela A. , Mattlage Anna E. , Sisante Jason-Flor , Billinger Sandra A.
Published: January 2014

Background

Submaximal exercise testing can have a greater application in clinical settings because peak exercise testing is generally not available. In previous work, a prediction equation was developed to estimate peak oxygen consumption (V̇o2) using a total body recumbent stepper (TBRS) and the Young Men's Christian Association (YMCA) protocol in adults who were healthy.

Objective

The purpose of the present study was to cross-validate the TBRS peak V̇o2 prediction equation in older adults.

Design

A cross-sectional study was conducted.

Methods

Thirty participants (22 female, 8 male; mean age=66.8 years, SD=5.52; mean weight=68.51 kg, SD=13.39) who previously completed a peak exercise test and met the inclusion criteria were invited to participate in the cross-validation study. Within 5 days of the peak V̇o2 test, participants completed the TBRS submaximal exercise test. The TBRS submaximal exercise test equation was used to estimate peak V̇o2. The variables in the equation included age, weight, sex, watts (at the end of the submaximal exercise test), and heart rate (at the end of the submaximal exercise test).

Results

A strong correlation was found between the predicted peak V̇o2 and the measured peak V̇o2. The difference between the values was 0.9 mL·kg−1·min−1, which was not statistically different. The standard error of the estimate was 4.2 mL·kg−1·min−1.

Limitations

The sample included individuals who volunteered to perform a peak exercise test, which may have biased the results toward those willing to exercise to fatigue.

Conclusion

The data suggest the TBRS submaximal exercise test and prediction equation can be used to predict peak V̇o2 in older adults. This finding is important for health care professionals wanting to provide information to their patients or clients regarding their fitness level.
Coronary Artery Calcium Scoring by Cardiac CT as A Screening Tool in 40-45 Years Age Group – Predictor of Future Risk for Cardiovascular Events- Systemic Review
Authors: Kumar S , Sharma S
Published: January 2014

No abstract available.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njr.v3i2.9604   Nepalese Journal of Radiology Vol.3(2)July-Dec, 2013: 31-36
Scope of Breast Imaging in Developing Countries
Authors: Hari S , Srivastava A , Thulkar A
Published: January 2014

No abstract available.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njr.v3i2.9605    Nepalese Journal of Radiology Vol.3(2)July-Dec, 2013: 11-30
Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Metal on Metal Implants: A Breakthrough
Authors: Pilania K , Jankharia B
Published: January 2014

Background: Metal-on-metal (MoM) hip replacement, a durable alternative to conventional metal -on-polyethylene hip replacement, is increasingly common nowadays. There is a 4-8% incidence of pain and complications which usually go undetected on radiographs. MRI has a vast potential for early diagnosis in these cases. Aim: To evaluate the feasibility of MR imaging in MoM hips and to review the MR imaging features of various complications associated with metal on metal hip implants. Materials and Methods: 41 patients with 52 replaced hips using MoM prostheses underwent MRI on a 1.5T scanner using standard clinical protocols optimized to minimize metallic susceptibility artifact, known as metal artefact reduction sequences (MARS). A standardized reporting was done with specific comment on periprosthetic osteolysis, loosening, periprosthetic soft tissue mass, gluteal muscle atrophy, iliopsoas atrophy, muscle edema, muscle/ tendon tear and lymphadenopathy. Results: Diagnostic images were obtained in all patients. Of the 52 hips, 32 had total hip replacement (THR) and 20 had resurfacing. The following abnormalities were found. Periprosthetic osteolysis (5), Periprosthetic soft tissue mass (24), Gluteal muscle atrophy – moderate to severe (15), Iliopsoas atrophy (15), Muscle edema (0), Muscle / tendon tear (0), Lymphadenopathy (5). Conclusion: MRI on a 1.5T scanner is a viable technique to image the MoM hip and shows well the various complications associated with post arthroplasty hips. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njr.v3i2.9607 Nepalese Journal of Radiology Vol.3(2)July-Dec, 2013: 49-56
The Role of Ultrasound in Ovulation Detection Compared To BBT and Other Methods
Authors: Poonam Dr. , Suman S , Gupta MK , Rauniyar RK
Published: January 2014

Background: The detection of timing of ovulation is an important step in the evaluation and management of subfertility. Ultrasonography plays a vital role in monitoring follicular growth. Aims: To assess the value of ultrasound scanning of the ovaries in the periovulatory period to detect ovulation and to correlate the results with basal body temperature (BBT) chart and other presumptive evidences of ovulation. Methods: In this prospective study, a total of 60 subfertile patients were selected from the outpatient department of obstetrics and gynaecology, BPKIHS, Dharan. BBT charting, midcycle abdominal pain record & premenstrual endometrial biopsy were performed in all patients i.e. in spontaneous ovulating and anovulating (induced later). Ultrasonographic periovulatory follicular tracking was usually started around 10th day of the cycle. The results were then correlated with BBT mainly and also with mittelschmerz and endometrial biopsy. Results: In this series fifty five patients, who demonstrated sixty ovulations (with failed inductions in five patients) were monitored for hundred ten cycles. The mean preovulatory follicular diameter was 20.55 mm and 21.76 mm in spontaneous and induced cycles respectively. Majority (36%) demonstrated ovulation by disappearance of follicles accompanied by increase in the amount of fluid in the pouch of Douglas (POD). In this study five cases (14.2%) out of thirty five showing biphasic BBT were anovulatoty. Whereas five cases out of twenty one showing monophasic BBT were ovulating. Amongst the inconclusive group, one (25%) patient was ovulating and the rest four (75%) were anovulatoty. Only 35% patients experienced midcycle pain. Ipsilateral pain was commoner (16.6%) than contralateral (6.6%) and central pain (11.6%). Conclusion: Ultrasonographic follicular tracking is a reliable method of ovulation detection. Ovulation precedes the initial rise in temperature in most women confirming the limited value of the rise in BBT as a predictor of ovulation.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njr.v3i2.9608 Nepalese Journal of Radiology Vol.3(2)July-Dec, 2013: 57-64
Frame-based cranial reconstruction
Authors: Hochfeld Mascha , Lamecker Hans , Thomale Ulrich-W. , Schulz Matthias , Zachow Stefan , Haberl Hannes
Published: January 2014

The authors report on the first experiences with the prototype of a surgical tool for cranial remodeling. The device enables the surgeon to transfer statistical information, represented in a model, into the disfigured bone. The model is derived from a currently evolving databank of normal head shapes. Ultimately, the databank will provide a set of standard models covering the statistical range of normal head shapes, thus providing the required template for any standard remodeling procedure as well as customized models for intended overcorrection. To date, this technique has been used in the surgical treatment of 14 infants (age range 6–12 months) with craniosynostosis. In all 14 cases, the designated esthetic result, embodied by the selected model, has been achieved, without morbidity or mortality.

Frame-based reconstruction provides the required tools to precisely realize the surgical reproduction of the model shape. It enables the establishment of a self-referring system, feeding back postoperative growth patterns, recorded by 3D follow-up, into the model design.
Neuroprotective Strategies for Traumatic Brain Injury: Improving Clinical Translation
Authors: Kabadi Shruti , Faden Alan
Published: January 2014

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) induces secondary biochemical changes that contribute to delayed neuroinflammation, neuronal cell death, and neurological dysfunction. Attenuating such secondary injury has provided the conceptual basis for neuroprotective treatments. Despite strong experimental data, more than 30 clinical trials of neuroprotection in TBI patients have failed. In part, these failures likely reflect methodological differences between the clinical and animal studies, as well as inadequate pre-clinical evaluation and/or trial design problems. However, recent changes in experimental approach and advances in clinical trial methodology have raised the potential for successful clinical translation. Here we critically analyze the current limitations and translational opportunities for developing successful neuroprotective therapies for TBI.
Synthesis and Antimicrobial Evaluation of Some Novel Thiazole, Pyridone, Pyrazole, Chromene, Hydrazone Derivatives Bearing a Biologically Active Sulfonamide Moiety
Authors: Darwish Elham , Fattah Azza , Attaby Fawzy , Al-Shayea Oqba
Published: January 2014

This study aimed for the synthesis of new heterocyclic compounds incorporating sulfamoyl moiety suitable for use as antimicrobial agents via a versatile, readily accessible N-[4-(aminosulfonyl)phenyl]-2-cyanoacetamide (3). The 2-pyridone derivatives were obtained via reaction of cyanoacetamide with acetylacetone or arylidenes malononitrile. Cycloaddition reaction of cyanoacetamide with salicyaldehyde furnished chromene derivatives. Diazotization of 3 with the desired diazonium chloride gave the hydrazone derivatives 13a–e. Also, the reactivity of the hydrazone towards hydrazine hydrate to give Pyrazole derivatives was studied. In addition, treatment of 3 with elemental sulfur and phenyl isothiocyanate or malononitrile furnished thiazole and thiophene derivatives respectively. Reaction of 3 with phenyl isothiocyanate and KOH in DMF afforded the intermediate salt 17 which reacted in situ with 3-(2-bromoacetyl)-2H-chromen-2-one and methyl iodide afforded the thiazole and ketene N,S-acetal derivatives respectively. Finally, reaction of 3 with carbon disulfide and 1,3-dibromopropane afforded the N-[4-(aminosulfonyl) phenyl]-2-cyano-2-(1,3-dithian-2-ylidene)acetamide product 22. All newly synthesized compounds were elucidated by considering the data of both elemental and spectral analysis. The compounds were evaluated for both their in vitro antibacterial and antifungal activities and showed promising results.
The Bioconcentration and Degradation of Nonylphenol and Nonylphenol Polyethoxylates by Chlorella vulgaris
Authors: Sun Hong-Wen , Hu Hong-Wei , Wang Lei , Yang Ying , Huang Guo-Lan
Published: January 2014

Nonylphenol polyethoxylates (NPnEOs), a major class of nonionic surfactants, can easily enter into aquatic environments through various pathways due to their wide applications, which leads to the extensive existence of their relative stable metabolites, namely nonylphenol (NP) and mono- to tri-ethoxylates. This study investigated the bioconcentration and degradation of NP and NPnEO oligomers (n = 1–12) by a green algae, Chlorella vulgaris. Experimental results showed that C. vulgaris can remove NP from water phase efficiently, and bioconcentration and degradation accounted for approximately half of its loss, respectively, with a 48 h BCF (bioconcentration factor) of 2.42 × 103. Moreover, C. vulgaris could concentrate and degrade NPnEOs, distribution profiles of the series homologues of the NPnEOs in algae and water phase were quite different from the initial homologue profile. The 48 h BCF of the NPnEO homologues increased with the length of the EO chain. Degradation extent of total NPnEOs by C. vulgaris was 95.7%, and only 1.1% remained in water phase, and the other 3.2% remained in the algal cells. The algae removed the NPnEOs mainly through degradation. Due to rapid degradation, concentrations of the long chain NPnEO homologous in both water (n ≥ 2) and the algal phase (n ≥ 5) was quite low at the end of a 48 h experiment.
Re-Evaluation of Binding Properties of Recombinant Lymphocyte Receptors NKR-P1A and CD69 to Chemically Synthesized Glycans and Peptides
Authors: Rozbeský Daniel , Krejzová Jana , Křenek Karel , Prchal Jan , Hrabal Richard , Košek Milan , Weignerová Lenka , Fiore Michele , Dumy Pascal , Renaudet Olivier , Křen Vladimír
Published: January 2014

The binding of monosaccharides and short peptides to lymphocyte receptors (human CD69 and rat NKR-P1A) was first reported in 1994 and then in a number of subsequent publications. Based on this observation, numerous potentially high-affinity saccharide ligands have been synthesized over the last two decades in order to utilize their potential in antitumor therapy. Due to significant inconsistencies in their reported binding properties, we decided to re-examine the interaction between multiple ligands and CD69 or NKR-P1A. Using NMR titration and isothermal titration calorimetry we were unable to detect the binding of the tested ligands such as N-acetyl-d-hexosamines and oligopeptides to both receptors, which contradicts the previous observations published in more than twenty papers over the last fifteen years.
Crystal Growth and Spectroscopic Investigations of Tm3+:Li3Ba2Gd3(MoO4)8 Crystal
Authors: Song Mingjun , Wang Lintong , Zhang Nana , Tai Xishi , Wang Guofu
Published: January 2014

Tm3+:Li3Ba2Gd3(MoO4)8 crystal has been grown by the top seeded solution growth (TSSG) method from a Li2MoO4 flux. The room temperature polarized absorption spectra, fluorescence spectra, and fluorescence decay curves of the crystal were measured. Based on the Judd-Ofelt (J-O) theory, the main spectroscopic parameters of the crystal, including the spontaneous emission probabilities, fluorescence branching ratios, and radiative lifetimes were calculated and analyzed. The broad and strong absorption bands of the crystal show that it can be efficiently pumped by the diode laser, while the large emission cross-sections of the 3F4 → 3H6 transition indicate that the crystal is a promising candidate for tunable and short pulse lasers.
Thiopeptide Antibiotics: Retrospective and Recent Advances
Authors: Just-Baringo Xavier , Albericio Fernando , Álvarez Mercedes
Published: January 2014

Thiopeptides, or thiazolyl peptides, are a relatively new family of antibiotics that already counts with more than one hundred different entities. Although they are mainly isolated from soil bacteria, during the last decade, new members have been isolated from marine samples. Far from being limited to their innate antibacterial activity, thiopeptides have been found to possess a wide range of biological properties, including anticancer, antiplasmodial, immunosuppressive, etc. In spite of their ribosomal origin, these highly posttranslationally processed peptides have posed a fascinating synthetic challenge, prompting the development of various methodologies and strategies. Regardless of their limited solubility, intensive investigations are bringing thiopeptide derivatives closer to the clinic, where they are likely to show their veritable therapeutic potential.
Haloperoxidase Mediated Quorum Quenching by Nitzschia cf pellucida: Study of the Metabolization of N-Acyl Homoserine Lactones by a Benthic Diatom
Authors: Syrpas Michail , Ruysbergh Ewout , Blommaert Lander , Vanelslander Bart , Sabbe Koen , Vyverman Wim , De Kimpe Norbert , Mangelinckx Sven
Published: January 2014

Diatoms are known to produce a variety of halogenated compounds, which were recently shown to have a role in allelopathic interactions between competing species. The production of these compounds is linked to haloperoxidase activity. This research, has shown that this system may also be involved in diatom-bacteria interactions via the H2O2 dependent inactivation of a type of quorum sensing (QS) molecule, i.e., N-β-ketoacylated homoserine lactones (AHLs), by a natural haloperoxidase system from the benthic diatom Nitzschia cf pellucida. The AHL degradation pathway towards corresponding halogenated derivatives was elucidated via HPLC-MS analysis and the synthesis of a broad series of novel halogenated AHL analogues as reference compounds. Furthermore, their biological activity as quorum sensing modulators was directly compared and evaluated against a series of naturally occurring β-keto-AHLs. It has been demonstrated that the loss of the QS activity results from the final cleavage of the halogenated N-acyl chain of the signal molecules.
Oxylipin Diversity in the Diatom Family Leptocylindraceae Reveals DHA Derivatives in Marine Diatoms
Authors: Nanjappa Deepak , D'Ippolito Giuliana , Gallo Carmela , Zingone Adriana , Fontana Angelo
Published: January 2014

Marine planktonic organisms, such as diatoms, are prospective sources of novel bioactive metabolites. Oxygenated derivatives of fatty acids, generally referred to as oxylipins, in diatoms comprise a highly diverse and complex family of secondary metabolites. These molecules have recently been implicated in several biological processes including intra- and inter-cellular signaling as well as in defense against biotic stressors and grazers. Here, we analyze the production and diversity of C20 and C22 non-volatile oxylipins in five species of the family Leptocylindraceae, which constitute a basal clade in the diatom phylogeny. We report the presence of species-specific lipoxygenase activity and oxylipin patterns, providing the first demonstration of enzymatic production of docosahexaenoic acid derivatives in marine diatoms. The differences observed in lipoxygenase pathways among the species investigated broadly reflected the relationships observed with phylogenetic markers, thus providing functional support to the taxonomic diversity of the individual species.
Discovery of Novel Diterpenoids from Sinularia arborea
Authors: Chen Kuan-Hua , Dai Chang-Feng , Hwang Tsong-Long , Chen Chun-Yu , Li Jan-Jung , Chen Jih-Jung , Wu Yang-Chang , Sheu Jyh-Horng , Wang Wei-Hsien , Sung Ping-Jyun
Published: January 2014

Two novel diterpenoids, sinularbols A (1) and B (2), which were found to possess a new carbon skeleton were isolated from the soft coral Sinularia arborea. The structures of compounds 1 and 2 were elucidated by spectroscopic methods and 2 displayed a moderately inhibitory effect on the generation of superoxide anion by human neutrophils.
“Norm-Oriented Interpretation Learning” and Resource Use: The Concept of “Open-Didactic Exploration” as a Contribution to Raising Awareness of a Responsible Resource Use
Authors: Bliesner Anna , Liedtke Christa , Welfens Maria , Baedeker Carolin , Hasselkuß Marco , Rohn Holger
Published: January 2014

It is widely accepted that environmental awareness is essential, yet does not inevitably lead to responsible use of resources. Additional factors on the individual level include the meaning constructed by the term “resources” and the individual and social norms that influence the relevant behavior. Current didactic concepts do not take into account such aspects. Therefore, this article uses a didactic-psychological approach for designing an educational concept for raising awareness for a responsible use of natural resources. Combining insights of environmental psychology and of constructivist didactics, a general principal of “norm-oriented interpretation learning” is outlined to enrich the didactic debate on responsible and efficient resource use. Based on the presentation of a qualifying module for resource efficiency consultants as a practical example of resource education, a new didactical approach, namely “open-didactic exploration” (short form: ODE) is introduced. The article discusses the theory-based elements of ODE and illustrates a step by step process for designing educational materials. This adds to the theoretical debate about a didactic design for resource oriented education. Furthermore, this method can be directly used by practitioners developing education and training material (e.g., teachers, trainers in vocational education). The Wuppertal Institute developed and applied this method in numerous projects. The conclusion and outlook discusses future expectations and scope of the introduced ODE method as a contribution to foster “norm-oriented interpretation learning”, suggesting perspectives for further development.
A Smart Kitchen for Ambient Assisted Living
Authors: Blasco Rubén , Marco Álvaro , Casas Roberto , Cirujano Diego , Picking Richard
Published: January 2014

The kitchen environment is one of the scenarios in the home where users can benefit from Ambient Assisted Living (AAL) applications. Moreover, it is the place where old people suffer from most domestic injuries. This paper presents a novel design, implementation and assessment of a Smart Kitchen which provides Ambient Assisted Living services; a smart environment that increases elderly and disabled people’s autonomy in their kitchen-related activities through context and user awareness, appropriate user interaction and artificial intelligence. It is based on a modular architecture which integrates a wide variety of home technology (household appliances, sensors, user interfaces, etc.) and associated communication standards and media (power line, radio frequency, infrared and cabled). Its software architecture is based on the Open Services Gateway initiative (OSGi), which allows building a complex system composed of small modules, each one providing the specific functionalities required, and can be easily scaled to meet our needs. The system has been evaluated by a large number of real users (63) and carers (31) in two living labs in Spain and UK. Results show a large potential of system functionalities combined with good usability and physical, sensory and cognitive accessibility.
Statistical Tools Applied in the Characterisation and Evaluation of a Thermo-Hygrometric Corrective Action Carried out at the Noheda Archaeological Site (Noheda, Spain)
Authors: Valero Miguel , Merello Paloma , Navajas Ángel , García-Diego Fernando-Juan
Published: January 2014

The Noheda archaeological site is unique and exceptional for its size, and the quality and conservation condition of the Roman mosaic pavement covering its urban pars. In 2008 a tent was installed as protection from rain and sun. Being of interest to characterise the microclimate of the remains, six probes with relative humidity and temperature sensors were installed in 2013 for this purpose. Microclimate monitoring allowed us to check relative humidity differences resulting from the groundwater level, as well as inner sensors reaching maximum temperatures higher than the outdoors ones as a consequence of the non-ventilated tent covering the archaeological site. Microclimatic conditions in the archaeological site were deemed detrimental for the conservation of the mosaics. Thus, in summer 2013, expanded clay and geotextile were installed over the mosaics as a corrective action. The outcomes of this study have proven the effectiveness of this solution to control temperature and relative humidity, helping to configure a more stable microclimate suitable for preservation of the mosaic.
Manufacture of Radio Frequency Micromachined Switches with Annealing
Authors: Lin Cheng-Yang , Dai Ching-Liang
Published: January 2014

The fabrication and characterization of a radio frequency (RF) micromachined switch with annealing were presented. The structure of the RF switch consists of a membrane, coplanar waveguide (CPW) lines, and eight springs. The RF switch is manufactured using the complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) process. The switch requires a post-process to release the membrane and springs. The post-process uses a wet etching to remove the sacrificial silicon dioxide layer, and to obtain the suspended structures of the switch. In order to improve the residual stress of the switch, an annealing process is applied to the switch, and the membrane obtains an excellent flatness. The finite element method (FEM) software CoventorWare is utilized to simulate the stress and displacement of the RF switch. Experimental results show that the RF switch has an insertion loss of 0.9 dB at 35 GHz and an isolation of 21 dB at 39 GHz. The actuation voltage of the switch is 14 V.
Wireless Displacement Sensing Enabled by Metamaterial Probes for Remote Structural Health Monitoring
Authors: Ozbey Burak , Unal Emre , Ertugrul Hatice , Kurc Ozgur , Puttlitz Christian , Erturk Vakur , Altintas Ayhan , Demir Hilmi
Published: January 2014

We propose and demonstrate a wireless, passive, metamaterial-based sensor that allows for remotely monitoring submicron displacements over millimeter ranges. The sensor comprises a probe made of multiple nested split ring resonators (NSRRs) in a double-comb architecture coupled to an external antenna in its near-field. In operation, the sensor detects displacement of a structure onto which the NSRR probe is attached by telemetrically tracking the shift in its local frequency peaks. Owing to the NSRR’s near-field excitation response, which is highly sensitive to the displaced comb-teeth over a wide separation, the wireless sensing system exhibits a relatively high resolution (<1 µm) and a large dynamic range (over 7 mm), along with high levels of linearity (R2 > 0.99 over 5 mm) and sensitivity (>12.7 MHz/mm in the 1–3 mm range). The sensor is also shown to be working in the linear region in a scenario where it is attached to a standard structural reinforcing bar. Because of its wireless and passive nature, together with its low cost, the proposed system enabled by the metamaterial probes holds a great promise for applications in remote structural health monitoring.
Making Migrants Visible in Post-MDG Debates
Authors: Thieme Susan , Ghimire Anita
Published: January 2014

While it is still a matter of global dialogue whether and how migration will feature in the post-2015 framework, remittance-dependent countries like Nepal clearly back migration in their post-Millennium Development Goal (MDG) discussions. We argue that a broader concept of mobility has to be integrated into those debates. This understanding would go beyond remittance-intense migration to include the increasing diversity of migration patterns and related commodification services, the close linkages between internal and international mobility, and the unequal access to and benefits of mobility, all of which calls for a more fundamental human rights perspective to be integrated into post-MDG-debates.
Diversity-oriented synthesis of dihydrobenzoxazepinones by coupling the Ugi multicomponent reaction with a Mitsunobu cyclization
Authors: Moni Lisa , Banfi Luca , Basso Andrea , Brambilla Alice , Riva Renata
Published: January 2014

An operationally simple protocol for the synthesis of 2,3-dihydrobenzo[f][1,4]oxazepin-3-ones, based on an Ugi reaction of an ortho-(benzyloxy)benzylamine, glycolic acid, an isocyanide and an aldehyde, followed by an intramolecular Mitsunobu substitution was developed. The required ortho-(benzyloxy)benzylamines have been in situ generated from the corresponding azides, in turn prepared in high yields from salicylic derivatives.
Épargner les revenus tirés des ressources naturelles dans les pays en développement : principes et règles de politiques
Authors: Collier Paul
Published: January 2014

De nombreux pays pauvres sont en train de découvrir la valeur des ressources naturelles non renouvelables. À la différence de la plupart des autres sources de recettes fiscales, les recettes publiques provenant de la déplétion de ces ressources sont à la fois non durables et volatiles. Chacune de ces caractéristiques implique que le taux d’épargne adéquat pour les recettes tirées des ressources naturelles devrait différer de celui des autres recettes. En outre, une découverte est une « nouvelle », exigeant une transition pour sortir d’une situation qui est soudainement devenue sous-optimale. Il est prévisible que ces transitions entraînent des coûts qui eux-mêmes vont peser sur le taux d’épargne optimal. Bien que ces caractéristiques soient connues depuis longtemps, de manière étonnante, les implications sur le comportement d’épargne optimal sont restées peu étudiées. A fortiori , on a également peu étudié les conséquences pour les règles susceptibles d’assurer la réalisation pratique de ces fondements analytiques. Notre analyse se déroule en quatre étapes. Dans la section 1, nous exposons comment l’épargne devrait répondre de façon optimale à la trajectoire de déplétion connue d’une ressource naturelle limitée. Dans la section 2, nous présentons la volatilité des recettes dans le cadre d’ajustements des coûts des dépenses. Dans la section 3, nous abordons les implications des coûts de transition. Enfin, dans la section 4, nous détaillons les implications pour les règles et les institutions budgétaires. Nous soutenons que lorsque les recettes provenant de ressources en voie d’épuisement sont importantes, l’optimisation budgétaire exige que les règles intra-temporelles traditionnellement intégrées dans le budget annuel soient complétées par des règles inter-temporelles. Ces règles protègent l’allocation budgétaire efficace que doivent réaliser les budgets intégrés conçus à cette fin dans les circonstances courantes.
La géopolitique de l'aide internationale et du terrorisme transnational
Authors: Azam Jean-Paul , Thelen Véronique
Published: January 2014

Cet article présente quelques résultats de Azam et Thelen (2008, 2010, 2012), qui illustrent comment l’aide internationale est utilisée par les pays riches pour acheter les services des gouvernements bénéficiaires dans le but de protéger ou de promouvoir leurs intérêts économiques et politiques. En particulier, ces résultats montrent que l’aide internationale est efficace pour contrôler le nombre d’attaques terroristes transnationales provenant des pays bénéficiaires, alors qu’elle l’est moins en ce qui concerne le nombre d’attaques dans les pays hôtes. En revanche, ils montrent que les interventions militaires, saisies ici par la présence de soldats américains sur le terrain, sont contre-productives, accroissant en fait le nombre d’attaques aussi bien par pays source que par pays hôte. Classification JEL : D74, F35, H11, I21, O19.
L'évènement culturel en régie directe, un levier pour l'attractivité durable du territoire ? Analyse des conditions managériales de succès
Authors: Soldo Edina , Arnaud Charlène , Keramidas Olivier
Published: January 2014

L’un des problèmes inhérents à la gestion des administrations contemporaines décentralisées relève d’une modification profonde de leurs modes d’action (Divay et Mazouz, 2008). On constate notamment une intégration croissante des politiques et actions culturelles dans les stratégies territoriales et ce, afin de répondre à la volonté des territoires de s’inscrire dans un processus d’attractivité durable. Afin d’atteindre cette finalité stratégique, de plus en plus de territoires optent pour la mise en œuvre d’évènements, notamment culturels, considérés comme des objectifs intermédiaires. Cette ruée vers la ville festive et évènementielle marque un changement dans le management territorial qui s’oriente de plus en plus vers un management de projet et questionne tout à la fois la conception de la stratégie autour de l’évènement ainsi que sa mise en œuvre au sein de l’organisation et sur le territoire. Ainsi le cas de la saison « Picasso-Aix 2009 » permet ici, à travers une étude de cas unique et exemplaire, de s’interroger sur les conditions managériales qui permettent de maximiser les potentialités de l’évènement culturel en tant que levier d’attractivité territoriale durable. Résumé pour les praticiens Cette recherche met en exergue les risques d’une « événementialisation » de la culture et des territoires et questionne les modalités de management d’un évènement culturel à l’échelon intercommunal (éléments relatifs à la stratégie territoriale) et produit en régie directe par les services d’une intercommunalité (éléments relatifs aux modalités de gestion interne). Au-delà d’une monographie éclairante, cet article propose une boîte à outil de facteurs clés de succès génériques dans laquelle les praticiens peuvent piocher afin de construire leur portefeuille d’évènements culturels à l’échelle territoriale, en termes d’élaboration stratégique ainsi que de gestion de projet et de parties prenantes.
Aperiodic ICIC-Oriented CSI Reporting for LTE Networks
Authors: González David González , García-Lozano Mario , Boqué Silvia Ruiz
Published: January 2014

Interference mitigation has been identified as an important challenge for cellular technologies based on Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access (OFDMA) such as the Long Term Evolution (LTE) system of the Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP). In this context, Intercell Interference Coordination (ICIC) techniques have received much attention by the research community, as they are a good approach to address this issue. In particular, static solutions enjoy acceptance due to their low complexity and ease of implementation. ICIC mechanisms are not standardized in LTE, which just provides certain support so that every vendor/operator configures its particular ICIC option. Hence, their interworking with other important network functionalities such as Channel State Information (CSI) feedback must be carefully considered. This chapter provides an overview on the relationship between ICIC and CSI in LTE and introduces a novel mechanism to improve such interworking. The novel scheme is feasible and easy-to-implement and it is especially effective for Non-Real Time services. It provides gains in terms of system capacity, cell edge performance, and energy efficiency with respect to 3GPP LTE mechanisms and previous proposals.
Distributed Antenna Systems for Enhanced Video Transmission in LTE Public Safety Networks
Authors: Yaacoub Elias , Zorba Nizar , Dawy Zaher
Published: January 2014

In this chapter, Long Term Evolution (LTE) for public safety is investigated. Particularly, Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS) are studied, and their impact on LTE public safety networks is analyzed. Furthermore, resource allocation algorithms for the purpose of real-time video transmission, in both the Uplink (UL) and Downlink (DL) directions, are proposed, and a proportional fair scheduling algorithm, applicable in both the UL and DL directions, is presented. The proposed algorithms are compared in several scenarios with and without distributed antenna systems. In addition, Quality of Experience (QoE) metrics are used to measure the quality of the video transmissions, and joint uplink/downlink quality metrics, tailored to video transmission over public safety networks, are presented. Simulation results show large enhancements in video quality due to the application of DAS with smart resource allocation in LTE public safety networks.
Collaborative Mobile Clusters
Authors: Chang Zheng , Ristaniemi Tapani
Published: January 2014

Future wireless communication systems are expected to offer several gigabits data rate. It can be anticipated that the advanced communication techniques can enhance the capability of mobile terminals to support high data traffic. However, aggressive technique induces high energy consumption for the circuits of terminals, which drain the batteries fast and consequently limit user experience in future wireless networks. In order to solve such a problem, a scheme called collaborative mobile cluster is foreseen as one of the potential solutions to reduce energy consumption per node in a network by exploiting collaboration within a cluster of nearby mobile terminals. This chapter provides a detailed analysis of the energy consumption of a terminal joining the cluster and also analyzes the conditions for energy savings opportunities.
Energy Efficient Schemes for Base Station Management in 4G Broadband Systems
Authors: Bousia Alexandra , Kartsakli Elli , Antonopoulos Angelos , Alonso Luis , Verikoukis Christos
Published: January 2014

Reducing the energy consumption in wireless networks has become a significant challenge, not only because of its great impact on the global energy crisis, but also because it represents a noteworthy cost for telecommunication operators. The Base Stations (BSs), constituting the main component of wireless infrastructure and the major contributor to the energy consumption of mobile cellular networks, are usually designed and planned to serve their customers during peak times. Therefore, they are more than sufficient when the traffic load is low. In this chapter, the authors propose a number of BSs switching off algorithms as an energy efficient solution to the problem of redundancy of network resources. They demonstrate via analysis and by means of simulations that one can achieve reduction in energy consumption when one switches off the unnecessary BSs. In particular, the authors evaluate the energy that can be saved by progressively turning off BSs during the periods when traffic decreases depending on the traffic load variations and the distance between the BS and their associated User Equipments (UEs). In addition, the authors show how to optimize the energy savings of the network by calculating the most energy-efficient combination of switched off and active BSs.