bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Scale Inhibitor Squeeze Treatment Design in an Acid Stimulated Carbonate Reservoir
Authors: Vazquez O. , Mackay E. , Myles Jordan
Published: May 2015

The aim of this paper is to describe a methodology to simulate scale squeeze treatments in acid stimulated carbonate reservoir. Acid stimulation treatments refer to matrix acidizing, which aims to improve productivity in tight carbonate reservoirs. They generally show a high porosity, but very low permeability. Matrix acidizing treatments have been applied successfully in numerous occasions, they consist of the injection of an acid, generally, hydrochloric acid, mainly because of the high reactivity with carbonate formations. When the acid is injected into the formation, a number of wormholes or highly conductive channels are formed, which are the result of two very distinctive, but interconnected processes. On the one hand, there are chemical reactions between the carbonate minerals and the acid and on the other hand, there are the fluid dynamics of the injected acid, i.e. the fluid loss from wormhole to formation and the fluid distribution in possibly highly complex wormhole geometries. There have been numerous studies investigating the geometry of the wormhole growth pattern in radial and linear laboratory experiments, as well as stochastic simulation. They concluded that wormholes grow in a certain pattern in both axial and angular directions. Although the exact wormhole pattern will strongly depend on the permeability anisotropy and heterogeneity, it is reasonable to assume that the dominant wormholes are expected to grow symmetrically, and that the region dominated by each wormhole is approximately 90° around the wellbore.

To simulate squeeze treatments in an acid stimulated well with a corresponding wormhole pattern, as described above, a reservoir simulator is used. The reservoir simulator describes the pressure field and consequently the propagation of scale inhibitor (SI) along the wormholes, but also into the matrix. The final step is to determine how deep the SI propagates into the matrix, which was used to determine fully a specialized near wellbore model for scale treatment design.
Research on 3D Modeling Method Based on Hybrid Octree Structure
Authors: Yujian Wang , Shaowei Tan , Weiwei Dong , Wenpeng Jing
Published: May 2015

With studying deeply of the three-dimensional modeling method, this paper proposed a hybrid data model
which based on Octree,the four fork tree and NURBS. The characteristic of fast convergence of Octree is used to segment
the 3D entity. Describe the irregular surface of entity by NURBS, and restructure the local mesh surface. The model uses
the mixture data structure of Octree and four fork tree to restructure mesh surface gradually. The storage structure is the
Octree structure type; establish Hash table based on octal prefix code. Finally, an experimental model system is designed
by using OpenGL. The feasibility and effectiveness of the algorithm has been verified.
Isolation of culturable endophytic bacteria from Moso bamboo (Phyllostachys edulis) and 16S rDNA diversity analysis
Authors: Yuan Zong-Sheng , Liu Fang , Zhang Guo-Fang
Published: May 2015

We analyzed culturable endophytic bacteria from Moso bamboo (Phyllostachys
edulis) using traditional bacterial isolation and culture methods and then
studied the colony characteristics and diversity with a 16S rDNA sequence
analysis. We isolated 82 endophytic bacteria strains belonging to 47 species
in 26 genera from the root, rhizome, stem and leaves of Moso bamboo species
from populations on Wuyi Mountain, and in the Jiangle and Changting regions.
There were significant differences in the composition of the culturable
endophytic bacteria isolated from the different areas and from different
tissues. The dominant bacteria strains from the Wuyi Mountain samples were
Arthrobacter, Staphylococcus, Bacillus and Enterobacter, while the dominant
bacteria from the Jiangle samples were Bacillus, Staphylococcus and
Curtobacterium, and the dominant bacteria in the Changting samples were
Alcaligenes, Pseudomonas, Staphylococcus and Bacillus. Our results
demonstrate the abundant diversity of endophytic bacteria in Moso bamboo.
Model-driven Java code refactoring
Authors: Hamioud Sohaib , Atil Fadila
Published: May 2015

Refactoring is an important technique for restructuring code to improve its
design and increase programmer productivity and code reuse. Performing
refactorings manually, however, is tedious, time consuming and error-prone.
Thus, providing an automated support for them is necessary. Unfortunately
even in our days, such automation is still not easily achieved and requires
formal specifications of the refactoring process. Moreover, extensibility and
tool development automation are factors that should be taken into
consideration when designing and implementing automated refactorings. In this
paper, we introduce a model-driven approach where refactoring features, such
as code representation, analysis and transformation adopt models as
first-class artifacts. We aim at exploring the value of model transformation
and code generation when formalizing refactorings and developing tool
support. The presented approach is applied to the refactoring of Java code
using a prototypical implementation based on the Eclipse Modeling Framework,
a language workbench, a Java metamodel and a set of OMG standards.
External relationships and marketing practices in Serbian firms: The intangible capital perspective
Authors: Mitic Sanja
Published: May 2015

This paper presents selected results of research on intangible capital in
Serbian firms. The results are part of a broader research project, based on a
survey of a sample of Serbian firms. The focus of the project is the
various forms of intangible capital, and in this paper we analyse whether and
to what degree firms build up their brand capital and increase marketing
competencies, and what kind of external relationships they experience. The
results provide the first insight into the development of the marketing
resources of Serbian firms and show that this element of intangibles is
gradually improving but still is at a low level. We find significant
differences in the use of marketing resources between firms in regard to
their size, international market experience, and ownership type. A more
significant development of brand capital, external relationships, and
marketing innovations and competencies is found in larger firms, firms with
considerable international business experience compared to firms primarily
oriented to the domestic market, and in foreign-owned firms. After
identifying the strengths and weaknesses of marketing practices in Serbian
enterprises we suggest some measures for overcoming the analyzed constraints
in order to improve firms? market positioning, especially in foreign
markets.
Transfer of performance appraisal practices from MNC parent to subsidiaries in Serbia
Authors: Ratkovic Tatjana , Orlic Ranko
Published: May 2015

This paper seeks to address one of central issues in the international human
resource management literature regarding the extent to which foreign
subsidiaries of multinational companies (MNCs) tend to implement performance
appraisal practices and policies of the parent company versus those of local
companies in the host country. The study conducted in 65 subsidiaries of
foreign- owned multinational companies in Serbia found that performance
appraisal practices in MNC subsidiaries in this transition country closely
resemble parent company practices. The conclusion drawn from the study is
that the transfer depends mainly on dependence on parent inputs, the degree
of parental control, and subsidiary age, implying that MNCs need to take
these variables into consideration when deciding whether to transfer their
performance appraisal practices to their subsidiaries in this transition
country or to accept local practices.
The pursuit of a remedy for gender inequality in wider Europe: Comparison of policies and indices in the EU, Nordic countries, and south east Europe
Authors: Kovacevic Jasna , Sehic Dzevad
Published: May 2015

This paper explores the differences between gender regimes in Europe, with an
emphasis on EU policies, the Nordic women-friendly welfare states, and the
former socialist policies of South Eastern European (SEE) countries. The main
premise is that culture and differing institutionalization of gender equality
contribute to different perceptions of women?s role in society and to a
different perception of gender equality in general. The paper examines the
theoretical standpoints and historical background of different gender regimes
in Europe. Gender equality indices are analyzed in order to investigate if
any patterns exist among European countries with distinct cultural,
political, and social backgrounds. Nordic countries are overachievers in
gender equality in Europe, mainly due to the prevailing egalitarianism and
institutionalization of women-friendly welfare policies, which can serve as a
good benchmark for wider Europe, especially for countries from South East
Europe. However, cultural differences exist between Scandinavian and other
European countries, which cannot be considered homogeneous. The paper raises
important issues of gender equality such as multiculturalism and immigration,
questioning to what extent future EU enlargements will increase the risk of
greater gender inequality in the EU.
Some results on exhaustiveness in asymmetric metric spaces
Authors: Toyganözü Zeynep , Pehlivan Serpil
Published: May 2015

We introduce here the notion of exhaustiveness, which is related with the
notion of equicontinuity, in asymmetric metric spaces. We give the relation
between equicontinuity and exhaustiveness in such spaces and some theorems
and results about it. We show that in the asymmetric situation forward
convergence does not imply backward convergence (or vice versa), the limit of
a sequence of exhaustive functions may not be continuous, also may not be
unique. Also, we prove a type of Ascoli theorem using the notion of
exhaustiveness in the asymmetric case. Finally, following Caserta and Kocinac
[3], we will investigate some properties of a statistical version of
exhaustiveness in asymmetric metric spaces.
Isoperimetric-type inequalities for subharmonic functions on the polydisk, capacity, transportation approach, and related problems
Authors: Mateljevic Miodrag
Published: May 2015

nema
On completing triangles in Teichmüller space
Authors: Yao Guowu
Published: May 2015

Let T(?) be the universal Teichm?ller space. Three points [f], [g] and [h] in
T(?) are called to form a completing triangle if each pair of them has a
unique geodesic joining them. Recently, Z. Zhou and L. Liu constructed two
Strebel points [f] and [g] such that [id], [f] and [g] form a non-completing
triangle. The computation in their construction is lengthy and complicated.
In this note, it is shown that their results can be obtained in much simpler
a way. Indeed, the current theory of Teichm?ller spaces allows us to give
more information on triangles in an infinite-dimensional Teichm?ller space.
Our method is self-contained and applies for general Teichm?ller spaces.
Coefficient estimates for certain subclasses of analytic and bi-univalent functions
Authors: Sun Yong , Jiang Yue-Ping , Rasila Antti
Published: May 2015

For ? ? 0 and 0 ? ? < 1 < ?, we denote by K(?,?,?) the class of normalized
analytic functions satisfying the two sided-inequality ? < K (Zf'(z)/f(z)
+ z2f''(z)/f(z))<? (z ? U), where U is the open unit disk. Let K? (?, ?, ?)
be the class of bi-univalent functions such that f and its inverse f-1
both belong to the class K(?, ?, ?). In this paper, we establish bounds
for the coefficients, and solve the Fekete-Szeg? problem, for the class
K((?,?,?). Furthermore, we obtain upper bounds for the first two
Taylor-Maclaurin coefficients of the functions in the class K? (?,?,?)
Early Detection and Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes Reduce Cardiovascular Morbidity and Mortality: A Simulation of the Results of the Anglo-Danish-Dutch Study of Intensive Treatment in People With Screen-Detected Diabetes in Primary Care (ADDITION-Europe)
Authors: Herman William H. , Ye Wen , Griffin Simon J. , Simmons Rebecca K. , Davies Melanie J. , Khunti Kamlesh , Rutten Guy E.H.M. , Sandbaek Annelli , Lauritzen Torsten , Borch-Johnsen Knut , Brown Morton B. , Wareham Nicholas J.
Published: May 2015

OBJECTIVE

To estimate the benefits of screening and early treatment of type 2 diabetes compared with no screening and late treatment using a simulation model with data from the ADDITION-Europe study.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We used the Michigan Model, a validated computer simulation model, and data from the ADDITION-Europe study to estimate the absolute risk of cardiovascular outcomes and the relative risk reduction associated with screening and intensive treatment, screening and routine treatment, and no screening with a 3- or 6-year delay in the diagnosis and routine treatment of diabetes and cardiovascular risk factors.

RESULTS

When the computer simulation model was programmed with the baseline demographic and clinical characteristics of the ADDITION-Europe population, it accurately predicted the empiric results of the trial. The simulated absolute risk reduction and relative risk reduction were substantially greater at 5 years with screening, early diagnosis, and routine treatment compared with scenarios in which there was a 3-year (3.3% absolute risk reduction [ARR], 29% relative risk reduction [RRR]) or a 6-year (4.9% ARR, 38% RRR) delay in diagnosis and routine treatment of diabetes and cardiovascular risk factors.

CONCLUSIONS

Major benefits are likely to accrue from the early diagnosis and treatment of glycemia and cardiovascular risk factors in type 2 diabetes. The intensity of glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol treatment after diagnosis is less important than the time of its initiation. Screening for type 2 diabetes to reduce the lead time between diabetes onset and clinical diagnosis and to allow for prompt multifactorial treatment is warranted.
Corrosion behavior of Haynes® 230® nickel-based super-alloys for integrated coal gasification combined cycle syngas plants: A plant exposure study
Authors: Lee Sungkyu , Kim Min Jung , Lee Jieun , Kang Suk-Hwan , Lee Seung-Jong , Yongin Yongseung Yun
Published: May 2015

The corrosion behavior of commercially available Haynes® 230® nickel-based alloy samples was investigated by exposure to coal-gasifying integrated coal gasification combined cycle pilot plant facilities affiliated with the Institute for Advanced Engineering (2.005 MPa and 160-300 °C). The morphological and microstructural analyses of the exposed samples were conducted using scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analysis on the external surface of the recovered corrosion test samples to obtain information of the corrosion scale. These analyses based on the pre- and post-exposure corrosion test samples combined with thermodynamic Ellingham-Pourbaix stability diagrams provided preliminary insight into the mechanism of the observed corrosion behavior prevailing in the piping materials that connected the particulate removal unit and water scrubber of the integrated coal gasification combined cycle pilot plant. Uniform material wastage was observed after 46 hours of operation, and a preliminary corrosion mechanism was suggested: the observed material waste and corrosion behavior of the Haynes® 230® nickel-based alloy samples cut off from the coal syngas integrated coal gasification combined cycle plant were explained by the formation of discontinuous (complex) oxide phases and subsequent chlorine-induced active oxidation under the predominantly reducing environment encountered. This contribution continues the already published studies of the Fe-Ni-Cr-Co alloy Haynes® 556®.
Production of nano-sized grains in powder metallurgy processed pure aluminum by equal channel angular densification (ECAD) and equal channel angular pressing (ECAP)
Authors: İpekçi Melih Turan , Güral Ahmet , Tekeli Süleyman
Published: May 2015

In this study, pure aluminum powders were turned into bulk material using equal channel angular densification (ECAD)/equal channel angular pressing (ECAP) and further deformed up to 16 passes at 100 °C. For comparison, pure aluminum powders were also compacted in a mold without ECAD/ECAP process at the same temperature. The microstructures were characterized using TEM for grain size and shape measurements. In general, the grains were finer in the specimens processed by ECAD/ECAP than in the compacted specimen without ECAD/ECAP process. The high density which is very close to the full density of pure aluminum (2.7 g × cm-3) was reached at the second pass of ECAD/ECAP. By the application of ECAD/ECAP process, severe plastic deformation enabled particles to be compacted into fully dense materials at much lower temperatures and shorter times, compared to the conventional sintering process. The ECAD/ECAP process was shown to provide an effective method for producing nano-sized grain and nearly full densification in aluminum powder.
Pediatric hydrocephalus: systematic literature review and evidence-based guidelines. Part 5: Effect of valve type on cerebrospinal fluid shunt efficacy
Authors: Baird Lissa C. , Mazzola Catherine A. , Auguste Kurtis I. , Klimo Paul , Flannery Ann Marie
Published: May 2015

Object

The objective of this systematic review was to examine the existing literature to compare differing shunt components used to treat hydrocephalus in children, find whether there is a superior shunt design for the treatment of pediatric hydrocephalus, and make evidence-based recommendations for the selection of shunt implants when placing shunts.

Methods

Both the US National Library of Medicine PubMed/MEDLINE database and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews were queried using MeSH headings and key words chosen to identify publications comparing the use of shunt implant components. Abstracts of these publications were reviewed, after which studies meeting the inclusion criteria were selected. An evidentiary table was compiled summarizing the selected articles and quality of evidence. These data were then analyzed by the Pediatric Hydrocephalus Systematic Review and Evidence-Based Guidelines Task Force to consider evidence-based treatment recommendations.

Results

Two hundred sixty-nine articles were identified using the search parameters, and 43 articles were recalled for full-text review. Of these, 22 papers met the study criteria for a comparison of shunt components and were included in the evidentiary table. The included studies consisted of 1 Class I study, 11 Class II studies, and 10 Class III studies. The remaining 21 articles were excluded.

Conclusions

An analysis of the evidence did not demonstrate a clear advantage for any specific shunt component, mechanism, or valve design over another.

Recommendation: There is insufficient evidence to demonstrate an advantage for one shunt hardware design over another in the treatment of pediatric hydrocephalus. Current designs described in the evidentiary tables are all treatment options. Strength of Recommendation: Level I, high degree of clinical certainty.

Recommendation: There is insufficient evidence to recommend the use of a programmable valve versus a nonprogrammable valve. Programmable and nonprogrammable valves are both options for the treatment of pediatric hydrocephalus. Strength of Recommendation: Level II, moderate degree of clinical certainty.
Pediatric hydrocephalus: systematic literature review and evidence-based guidelines. Part 10: Change in ventricle size as a measurement of effective treatment of hydrocephalus
Authors: Nikas Dimitrios C. , Post Alexander F. , Choudhri Asim F. , Mazzola Catherine A. , Mitchell Laura , Flannery Ann Marie
Published: May 2015

Object

The objective of this systematic review is to answer the following question: Does ventricle size after treatment have a predictive value in determining the effectiveness of surgical intervention in pediatric hydrocephalus?

Methods

The US National Library of Medicine PubMed/MEDLINE database and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews were searched using MeSH headings and key words relevant to change in ventricle size after surgical intervention for hydrocephalus in children. An evidentiary table was assembled summarizing the studies and the quality of evidence (Classes I–III).

Results

Six articles satisfied inclusion criteria for the evidentiary tables for this part of the guidelines. All were Class III retrospective studies.

Conclusions

Recommendation: There is insufficient evidence to recommend a specific change in ventricle size as a measurement of the effective treatment of hydrocephalus and as a measurement of the timing and effectiveness of treatments including ventriculoperitoneal shunts and third ventriculostomies. Strength of Recommendation: Level III, unclear clinical certainty.
Four-Component Reaction of Alkyl Isocyanide, Acetylenic Esters, Phenols and Pyrrole; Synthesis of Dialkyl 2-[(alkylimino)(1H-pyrrol-2-yl)methyl]-3-(aryloxy) Succinate
Authors: Shams Nasim , Mosslemin Mohammad Hossein , Anaraki-Ardakani Hossein , Zarenezhad Elham
Published: May 2015

A new series of dialkyl 2-[(alkylimino)(1H-pyrrol-2-yl)methyl]-3-(aryloxy)succinate derivatives have been synthesised using alkyl isocyanids, acetylenic esters, phenols with electron-withdrawing groups and pyrrole in CH2Cl2 at ambient temperature.
Synthesis of α-Hydroxyl Amides via Direct Amidation of Lactic Acid at Solvent- and Catalyst-Free Conditions
Authors: Huang Meiying , Zhong Shanshan , Xu Mengli , Liu Yunyun
Published: May 2015

The efficient synthesis of α-hydroxy-amides has been achieved by the direct amidation of lactic acid using primary amines. The reactions proceed smoothly under solvent-free conditions without using any catalyst. In general, good to excellent yields of products are obtained.
An Efficient Synthesis of 2,4-Difluoro-3,5-Dichlorobenzoic Acid
Authors: Zhou Weiyou , Yu Shuitao , Xia Zhengjun , Zhang Mingguang , Lin Song , Chen Zaixin
Published: May 2015

2,4-Difluoro-3,5-dichlorobenzoic acid, as a key intermediate for preparing quinolone-3-carboxylic acids, was synthesised from the commercially available 2,4-difluoro-3-chlorobenzoic acid in excellent yield by a reaction sequence involving nitration, selective reduction, diazotisation and chlorination.
A New Flavonoid Glycoside and Potential Antifungal Activity of Isolated Constituents from the Flowers of Lilium Lancifolium
Authors: Xu Haifeng , Zhao Bo , Wang Yafei , Lin Ningning , Wang Libing , Song Tiejun , Yang Huijun
Published: May 2015

Lancifolide A, 4′,7-dimethoxyisorhamnetin-3-O-α-l-rhamnosyl (1å2)[α-l-arabinosyl (1å6)]-β-d-glucopyranoside, a new flavonoid glycoside, has been isolated from the flowers of Lilium lancifolium, along with five known flavonoid glycosides, which were reported to be obtained for the first time from this plant. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic methods and from literature values. All components were tested for antifungal activity.
Development of a Concise Synthesis of the Flavonoid Chrysin
Authors: Wang Qian , Cui Wei , Yang Jian , Yang Bo
Published: May 2015

Two novel routes for the synthesis of the flavonoid chrysin are described. In the first, 3,5-dimethoxyphenol (taxicatigenin) was converted to 2-hydroxy-4,6-dimethoxyacetophenone and then by condensation with benzaldehyde to 2′-hydroxy-4′,6′-dimethoxychalcone. The latter was cyclised with iodine and demethylated with pyridine hydrochloride to form chrysin in 50% overall yield. In the second route, taxicatigenin was acylated with cinnamoyl chloride to form a chalcone under special conditions. This was then converted to chrysin in 42% and 56% overall yield, respectively. Several disadvantages of previous syntheses like long reaction time, tedious work-up and low overall yield have been overcome.
Microwave-Assisted Synthesis of Bidentate Chiral Unsymmetrical Urea Derivatives of P-tert-butylcalix[4]Arene and their Anion Recognition Properties
Authors: Wang Xiaohong , Zhao Zhigang , Chen Bailing , Li Xiaoxiao , Liu Min
Published: May 2015

Four new derivatives of p-t-butylcalix[4]arene containing two (1,3-distal) chiral unsymmetrical urea moieties at the lower rim were synthesised in four steps. Their anion recognition properties toward MeCO2−, H2PO4−, NO3−, I−, Br−, Cl− were assessed by UV-Vis titration spectroscopy. All the receptors showed the strongest recognition ability for MeCO2−, one of them having an association constant of 3139 M-1. 1H NMR studies of this receptor complex confirmed its tight binding of MeCO2−.
High Regio- and Diastereo-Selective Synthesis of 1,5-Dicarbonyls by Michael Addition
Authors: Cheng Dong , Meng Xiangzhen , Yu Chang , Yang Zhaoqing , Guo Hui
Published: May 2015

On the basis of the reaction of (E)-4-methyl-1-phenylpent-2-en-1-one with chalcone and derivatives in ionic liquids [BMIM]PF6, highly regio-and diastereo-selective syntheses of 1,5-dicarbonyls have been achieved.
Alantolactone pyrazoline analogue inhibits cancer cell proliferation and induces apoptosis in non-small cell lung carcinoma cells
Authors: Lv Jing , Cao Ming-Qin , Yu Jian-Chun
Published: May 2015

The aim of the current study was to evaluate the anticancer and apoptotic effects of alantolactone pyrazoline analogue in human non-small cell lung cancer (NCI-H460) cells. MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetra-zolium bromide) assay was used to evaluate the cell viability while as fluorescence microscopy was used to assess the effect on apoptosis, cellular and nuclear morphology. Flow cytometry evaluated the effect of APA on cell cycle arrest in these cells. The results revealed that APA induced potent, time and dose-dependent cytotoxic effects on the growth of NCI-H460 cells. It also inhibited colony forming tendency as well as cell invasion capability of these cancer cells. APA induced dose-dependent nuclear and cellular morphological effects including chromatin condensation and DNA fragmentation. Flow cytometry revealed that the anticancer effects of APA might be due to its cell cycle arrest inducing tendency in G0/G1 phase of the cell cycle.
Assessment of medical students’ proficiency in dermatology: Are medical students adequately prepared to diagnose and treat common dermatologic conditions in the United States?
Authors: Ulman Catherine A , Binder Stephen Bruce , Borges Nicole J.
Published: May 2015

This study assessed whether a current medical school curriculum is adequately preparing medical students to diagnose and treat common dermatologic conditions. A 15-item anonymous multiple choice quiz covering fifteen diseases was developed to test students’ ability to diagnose and treat common dermatologic conditions. The quiz also contained five items that assessed students’ confidence in their ability to diagnose common dermatologic conditions, their perception of whether they were receiving adequate training in dermatology, and their preferences for additional training in dermatology. The survey was performed in 2014, and was completed by 85 students (79.4%). Many students (87.6%) felt that they received inadequate training in dermatology during medical school. On average, students scored 46.6% on the 15-item quiz. Proficiency at the medical school where the study was performed is considered an overall score of greater than or equal to 70.0%. Students received an average score of 49.9% on the diagnostic items and an average score of 43.2% on the treatment items. The findings of this study suggest that United States medical schools should consider testing their students and assessing whether they are being adequately trained in dermatology. Then schools can decide if they need to re-evaluate the timing and delivery of their current dermatology curriculum, or whether additional curriculum hours or clinical rotations should be assigned for dermatologic training.
Dynamic Simulation of the Green Roofs Impact on Building Energy Performance, Case Study of Antananarivo, Madagascar
Authors: Rakotondramiarana Hery , Ranaivoarisoa Tojo , Morau Dominique
Published: May 2015

Green roofs improve building energy performance and constitute an alternative to sustainable buildings. A green roof model is dynamically coupled with a building thermal model to assess its energy performance that takes into account the indoor air temperature dynamic changes. Under the climate conditions in Antananarivo, we compared green and conventional roofs. The present study shows that green roofs protect the roof structure under extreme temperature and large temperature fluctuations. For the case of Antananarivo, the amplitude of the temperature fluctuations at the top face of the support is reduced by 28 °C when using green roof. The impact of the green roof on indoor air temperature and energy demand is investigated. The vegetation decreases the maximum indoor air temperature and improves the building thermal comfort during summer days. It has no effect on the minimum indoor air temperature, but additional soil thickness can increase it. In addition, a global sensitivity analysis, which is carried out on the proposed model without considering any specific weather data, allows us to identify the most influential parameters on the energy demand. It has been found that green roofs have almost insignificant thermal impact in insulated buildings; however, their potential prevails over the building envelope and weather characteristics in the case of non-insulated building.
Maximum Entropy Applied to Inductive Logic and Reasoning
Authors: Landes Jürgen , Williamson Jon
Published: May 2015

This editorial explains the scope of the special issue and provides a thematic introduction to the contributed papers.
Principles Relevant to Health Research among Indigenous Communities
Authors: O'Donahoo Francis , Ross Kirstin
Published: May 2015

Research within Indigenous communities has been criticised for lacking community engagement, for being exploitative, and for poorly explaining the processes of research. To address these concerns, and to ensure ‘best practice’, Jamieson, et al. (2012) recently published a summary of principles outlined by the NHMRC (2003) in “one short, accessible document”. Here we expand on Jamieson et al.’s paper, which while commendable, lacks emphasis on the contribution that communities themselves can make to the research process and how culturally appropriate engagement, can allow this contribution to be assured, specifically with respect to engagement with remote communities. Engagement started before the research proposal is put forward, and continued after the research is completed, has integrity. We emphasise the value of narratives, of understanding cultural and customary behaviours and leadership, the importance of cultural legitimacy, and of the need for time, not just to allow for delays, but to ensure genuine participatory engagement from all members of the community. We also challenge researchers to consider the outcomes of their research, on the basis that increasing clinical evidence does not always result in better outcomes for the community involved.
Adult Psychotic Symptoms, Their Associated Risk Factors and Changes in Prevalence in Men and Women Over a Decade in a Poor Rural District of Kenya
Authors: Jenkins Rachel , Othieno Caleb , Ongeri Linnet , Ogutu Bernards , Sifuna Peter , Kingora James , Kiima David , Ongecha Michael , Omollo Raymond
Published: May 2015

There have been no repeat surveys of psychotic symptoms in Kenya or indeed subSaharan Africa. A mental health epidemiological survey was therefore conducted in a demographic surveillance site of a Kenyan household population in 2013 to test the hypothesis that the prevalence of psychotic symptoms would be similar to that found in an earlier sample drawn from the same sample frame in 2004, using the same overall methodology and instruments. This 2013 study found that the prevalence of one or more psychotic symptoms was 13.9% with one or more symptoms and 3.8% with two or more symptoms, while the 2004 study had found that the prevalence of single psychotic symptoms in rural Kenya was 8% of the adult population, but only 0.6% had two symptoms and none had three or more psychotic symptoms. This change was accounted for by a striking increase in psychotic symptoms in women (17.8% in 2013 compared with 6.9% in 2004, p < 0.001), whereas there was no significant change in men (10.6% in 2013 compared with 9.4% in 2004, p = 0.582). Potential reasons for this increase in rate of psychotic symptoms in women are explored.
Traffic, Air Pollution, Minority and Socio-Economic Status: Addressing Inequities in Exposure and Risk
Authors: Pratt Gregory , Vadali Monika , Kvale Dorian , Ellickson Kristie
Published: May 2015

Higher levels of nearby traffic increase exposure to air pollution and adversely affect health outcomes. Populations with lower socio-economic status (SES) are particularly vulnerable to stressors like air pollution. We investigated cumulative exposures and risks from traffic and from MNRiskS-modeled air pollution in multiple source categories across demographic groups. Exposures and risks, especially from on-road sources, were higher than the mean for minorities and low SES populations and lower than the mean for white and high SES populations. Owning multiple vehicles and driving alone were linked to lower household exposures and risks. Those not owning a vehicle and walking or using transit had higher household exposures and risks. These results confirm for our study location that populations on the lower end of the socio-economic spectrum and minorities are disproportionately exposed to traffic and air pollution and at higher risk for adverse health outcomes. A major source of disparities appears to be the transportation infrastructure. Those outside the urban core had lower risks but drove more, while those living nearer the urban core tended to drive less but had higher exposures and risks from on-road sources. We suggest policy considerations for addressing these inequities.
Purchasing Power Parity in Transition Countries: Panel Stationary Test with Smooth and Sharp Breaks
Authors: Bahmani-Oskooee Mohsen , Chang Tsangyao , Wu Tsung-Pao
Published: May 2015

This study examines whether the long-run purchasing power parity (PPP) holds in transition economies (Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania and Russia) using monthly data over the 1995–2011 period. We apply a recently introduced panel stationary test, which accounts for sharp breaks and smooth shifts. The results indicate that the PPP holds only in two countries (i.e., Lithuania and Poland).
A Solid-State NMR Study of Selenium Substitution into Nanocrystalline Hydroxyapatite
Authors: Kolmas Joanna , Kuras Marzena , Oledzka Ewa , Sobczak Marcin
Published: May 2015

The substitution of selenium oxyanions in the hydroxyapatite structure was examined using multinuclear solid-state resonance spectroscopy (ssNMR). The study was supported by powder X-ray diffractometry (PXRD) and wavelength dispersion X-ray fluorescence (WD-XRF). Samples of pure hydroxyapatite (HA300) and selenate (HA300-1.2SeO4) or selenite (HA300-1.2SeO3) substituted hydroxyapatites were synthesized using the standard wet method and heated at 300 °C to remove loosely bonded water. PXRD data showed that all samples are single-phase, nanocrystalline hydroxyapatite. The incorporation of selenite and selenate ions affected the lattice constants. In selenium-containing samples the concentration of Se was very similar and amounted to 9.55% and 9.64%, for HA300-1.2SeO4 and HA300-1.2SeO3, respectively. PXRD and ssNMR data showed that the selenite doping significantly decreases the crystallite size and crystallinity degree. 31P and 1H NMR experiments demonstrated the developed surface hydrated layer in all samples, especially in HA300-1.2SeO3. 1H NMR studies showed the dehydroxylation of HA during the selenium oxyanions substitution and the existence of hydrogen bonding in structural hydroxyl group channels. 1H→77Se cross polarization NMR experiments indicated that selenites and selenates are located in the crystal lattice and on the crystal surface.
Stayin’ Alive—Organoplatinum Complexes
Authors: Klein Axel
Published: May 2015

Starting very early, with the findings of Zeise, or Pope and Peachey, organoplatinum complexes were studied intensely in the 1970s and 1980s and were found to be quite stable and very versatile. From then on, the number of publications on organoplatinum complexes has more than doubled in each subsequent decade, and organoplatinum complexes have stretched into many fields of application today. This introduction to the Special Issue on “Organoplatinum Complexes” spans from the history of organoplatinum complexes to the seven manuscripts published in the frame of this Special Issue, representing some of these fields.
Clinical Characteristics, Treatments, and Prognosis of Atopic Eczema in the Elderly
Authors: Tanei Ryoji
Published: May 2015

Atopic eczema (AE) in the elderly is gradually increasing and has been added to the classification of AE in recent years. This investigation retrospectively analyzed 60 patients with elderly AE. Among the clinical characteristics, a male predominance, existence of several patterns of onset and clinical course, and associations with immunoglobulin (Ig)E-allergic-status and asthmatic complication were observed. The highest positive-rate and positive-score for serum-specific IgE against Dermatophagoides farinae were 83.8% and 2.65 in patients with IgE-allergic AE, and a lower incidence of lichenified eczema in the elbow and knee folds were observed. In terms of treatments and outcomes, clinical improvement and clinical remission were observed in 80.8% and 36.5% of cases, respectively, using standard treatments and combined therapy with oral corticosteroid in severe cases. As for complications and final prognosis, most elderly AE patients reached the end of life with AE, but patients with IgE-allergic AE showed significantly lower incidences of complications of malignancy and death from malignancy. These results indicate that AE in the elderly represents a new subgroup of AE with specific features.
Biomarkers of Renal Disease and Progression in Patients with Diabetes
Authors: Hojs Radovan , Ekart Robert , Bevc Sebastjan , Hojs Nina
Published: May 2015

Diabetes prevalence is increasing worldwide, mainly due to the increase in type 2 diabetes. Diabetic nephropathy occurs in up to 40% of people with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. It is important to identify patients at risk of diabetic nephropathy and those who will progress to end stage renal disease. In clinical practice, most commonly used markers of renal disease and progression are serum creatinine, estimated glomerular filtration rate and proteinuria or albuminuria. Unfortunately, they are all insensitive. This review summarizes the evidence regarding the prognostic value and benefits of targeting some novel risk markers for development of diabetic nephropathy and its progression. It is focused mainly on tubular biomarkers (neutrophil-gelatinase associated lipocalin, kidney injury molecule 1, liver-fatty acid-binding protein, N-acetyl-beta-d-glucosaminidase), markers of inflammation (pro-inflammatory cytokines, tumour necrosis factor-α and tumour necrosis factor-α receptors, adhesion molecules, chemokines) and markers of oxidative stress. Despite the promise of some of these new biomarkers, further large, multicenter prospective studies are still needed before they can be used in everyday clinical practice.
Freshwater Ammonia-Oxidizing Archaea Retain amoA mRNA and 16S rRNA during Ammonia Starvation
Authors: French Elizabeth , Bollmann Annette
Published: May 2015

In their natural habitats, microorganisms are often exposed to periods of starvation if their substrates for energy generation or other nutrients are limiting. Many microorganisms have developed strategies to adapt to fluctuating nutrients and long-term starvation. In the environment, ammonia oxidizers have to compete with many different organisms for ammonium and are often exposed to long periods of ammonium starvation. We investigated the effect of ammonium starvation on ammonia-oxidizing archaea (AOA) and bacteria (AOB) enriched from freshwater lake sediments. Both AOA and AOB were able to recover even after almost two months of starvation; however, the recovery time differed. AOA and AOB retained their 16S rRNA (ribosomes) throughout the complete starvation period. The AOA retained also a small portion of the mRNA of the ammonia monooxygenase subunit A (amoA) for the complete starvation period. However, after 10 days, no amoA mRNA was detected anymore in the AOB. These results indicate that AOA and AOB are able to survive longer periods of starvation, but might utilize different strategies.
An Insight to High Humidity-Caused Friction Modulation of Brake by Numerical Modeling of Dynamic Meniscus under Shearing
Authors: Chen Liangbiao , Chen Gang , Chang James
Published: May 2015

To obtain an insight to high humidity-caused friction modulation in brake pad-rotor interface, the adhesion phenomenon due to a liquid bridge is simulated using an advanced particle method by varying the shearing speed of the interface. The method, called generalized interpolation material point for fluid-solid interactions (GIMP-FSI), was recently developed from the material point method (MPM) for fluid-solid interactions at small scales where surface tension dominates, thus suitable for studying the partially wet brake friction due to high humidity at a scale of 10 m. Dynamic capillary effects due to surface tension and contact angles are simulated. Adhesion forces calculated by GIMP-FSI are consistent with those from the existing approximate meniscus models. Moreover, the numerical results show that capillary effects induce modulations of adhesion as slip speed changes. In particular, the adhesion modulation could be above 30% at low speed. This finding provides insights into how the high humidity-caused friction could cause modulations of brake, which are unable to be achieved by conventional models. Therefore, the numerical analysis helps to elucidate the complex friction mechanisms associated with brakes that are exposed to high humidity environments.
Field Performance of Recycled Plastic Foundation for Pipeline
Authors: Kim Seongkyum , Lee Kwanho
Published: May 2015

The incidence of failure of embedded pipelines has increased in Korea due to the increasing applied load and the improper compaction of bedding and backfill materials. To overcome these problems, a prefabricated lightweight plastic foundation using recycled plastic was developed for sewer pipelines. A small scale laboratory chamber test and two field tests were conducted to verify its construction workability and performance. From the small scale laboratory chamber test, the applied loads at 2.5% and 5.0% of deformation were 3.45 kgf/cm2 and 5.85 kgf/cm2 for Case S1, and 4.42 kgf/cm2 and 6.43 kgf/cm2 for Case S2, respectively. From the first field test, the vertical deformation of the recycled plastic foundation (Case A2) was very small. According to the analysis based on the PE pipe deformation at the connection (CN) and at the center (CT), the pipe deformation at each part for Case A1 was larger than that for Case A2, which adopted the recycled lightweight plastic foundation. From the second field test, the measured maximum settlements of Case B1 and Case B2 were 1.05 cm and 0.54 cm, respectively. The use of a plastic foundation can reduce the settlement of an embedded pipeline and be an alternative construction method.
Protein-Carbohydrate Interactions as Part of Plant Defense and Animal Immunity
Authors: De Schutter Kristof , Van Damme Els
Published: May 2015

The immune system consists of a complex network of cells and molecules that interact with each other to initiate the host defense system. Many of these interactions involve specific carbohydrate structures and proteins that specifically recognize and bind them, in particular lectins. It is well established that lectin-carbohydrate interactions play a major role in the immune system, in that they mediate and regulate several interactions that are part of the immune response. Despite obvious differences between the immune system in animals and plants, there are also striking similarities. In both cases, lectins can play a role as pattern recognition receptors, recognizing the pathogens and initiating the stress response. Although plants do not possess an adaptive immune system, they are able to imprint a stress memory, a mechanism in which lectins can be involved. This review will focus on the role of lectins in the immune system of animals and plants.
Four New Triterpenoids from Callicarpa kwangtungensis
Authors: Zhou Guo-Ping , Yu Yan , Yuan Ming-Ming , Ji Tengfei , Fu Hui-Zheng , Zhong Rui-Jian
Published: May 2015

Four new triterpenoids which were identifed as 2α,3β,6β,19α-tetrahydroxy- oleanolic acid 28-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (1), 2-O-β-D-glucopyranosyloxy-3α,19α-di-hydroxyoleanolic acid (2), 2-O-β-D-glucopyranosyloxy-3α,19α-dihydroxyursolic acid (3), 2α,3α,6β,19α-tetrahydroxyursolic acid 28-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (4), were isolated from the aerial parts of Callicarpa kwangtungensis together with three known triterpenoids identified as 2α,3β,21β-trihydroxyursolic acid 28-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (5), 2α,3α,19α,23-tetrahydroxyoleanolic acid 28-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (6), 2α,3α,19α,23-tetrahydroxyursolic acid 28-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (7). Their structures were elucidated by the combination of mass spectrometry (MS), one and two-dimensional NMR experiments.
Gaseous Mediators Nitric Oxide and Hydrogen Sulfide in the Mechanism of Gastrointestinal Integrity, Protection and Ulcer Healing
Authors: Magierowski Marcin , Magierowska Katarzyna , Kwiecien Slawomir , Brzozowski Tomasz
Published: May 2015

Nitric oxide (NO) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) are known as biological messengers; they play an important role in human organism and contribute to many physiological and pathophysiological processes. NO is produced from l-arginine by constitutive NO synthase (NOS) and inducible NOS enzymatic pathways. This gaseous mediator inhibits platelet aggregation, leukocyte adhesion and contributes to the vessel homeostasis. NO is known as a vasodilatory molecule involved in control of the gastric blood flow (GBF) and the maintenance of gastric mucosal barrier integrity in either healthy gastric mucosa or that damaged by strong irritants. Biosynthesis of H2S in mammals depends upon two enzymes cystathionine-β-synthase and cystathionine γ-lyase. This gaseous mediator, similarly to NO and carbon monoxide, is involved in neuromodulation, vascular contractility and anti-inflammatory activities. For decades, H2S has been known to inhibit cytochrome c oxidase and reduce cell energy production. Nowadays it is generally considered to act through vascular smooth muscle ATP-dependent K+ channels, interacting with intracellular transcription factors and promote sulfhydration of protein cysteine moieties within the cell, but the mechanism of potential gastroprotective and ulcer healing properties of H2S has not been fully explained. The aim of this review is to compare current results of the studies concerning the role of H2S and NO in gastric mucosa protection and outline areas that may pose new opportunities for further development of novel therapeutic targets.