bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical Study on Heat Distribution and Transfer Characteristics of a
Manifold in a Coal Mine VAM TFRR Oxidation Bed
Authors: Li Zongli , Liu Yongqi , Han Jinhui , Wang Zhiming
Published: September 2015

A thermal flow-reversal reactor is candidate for utilizing low concentration ventilation air methane. In this
paper, a numerical study is performed by using the FLUENT software to explore the details of the transient preheating
and starting process of the thermal flow-reversal reactor oxidation bed. The bed was heated by hot gas, which was
transported and distributed through the holes of manifolds to the middle of the bed. The homogeneous porous media and
coupled heat transfer models were chosen; and the mass and heat flow distributions passing through the holes, the heat
transfer on the outer surface of the manifold and the temperature distribution of the bed were calculated. The results
indicate that the heat of the hot gas passing through the holes decreases gradually along the direction of the hot gas
flowing in the manifold, causing the temperature of the bed decrease accordingly. The calculated temperatures of the
oxidation bed are compared with the tested results. The maximum error between the calculation and the test was 8.9%.
Experiment on the Influence of Vertical Heterogeneity of Reservoir on the
Steam Drive Effect
Authors: Jin Pang , Yixing Yue , Xu Peng , Guiping Chen , lu Li
Published: September 2015

This paper carried out experimental studies on the influence of vertical heterogeneity of reservoir on the steam
drive effect after multiple-round steam stimulations. Taking the actual productive process of a heavy oil reservoir as an
example, a physical model for the vertical heterogeneity was established. First, under the initial reservoir conditions, conduct
multiple rounds of steam stimulations to obtain the initial reservoir conditions of steam drive, and then carry out
physical simulation of steam drive, including the simulation of the horizontal reservoir and the tilted one. The development
of temperature field and the oil-water output changes indicate that when the steam drive is conducted after the steam
stimulations, the steam advances along the high permeability layer with better steam stimulation effect, once it gets a
breakthrough, the swept volume will not change. For the tilted reservoir, due to the beneficial effects of the gravity drainage,
its displacement effect is better than the horizontal one, which provides an important basis for the adjustment of layers
and the section of methods of gas injection when the steam simulation is converted into steam drive.
Productivity Prediction Model of Vertical Artificial Fracture Well and
Analysis of Influence Factor in Low Permeability Reservoir
Authors: Zhang Chengli , Liang Dezhi , Yin Daiyin , Song Guoliang
Published: September 2015

Based on the analysis of seepage mechanism of fracturing wells in low permeability reservoir, this paper
establishes the capacity model of the vertical fractured well production under the factors of Start-up pressure gradient,
pressure sensitive effect and the artificial fracture length. The numerical simulation is compiled and software calculates
the capacity model by using numerical simulation. This simulation technique verifies the validity of the model and
numerical method. On this basis, we study the influence of the included angle of artificial fracture and well array
direction, artificial fracture length, start-up pressure gradient and production pressure difference to the capacity of the oil
well.
The Pre-Adoption Evaluation Method for Environmental Protection#
Authors: Xiaoyan Xv , Lu Dao
Published: September 2015

Urban planning is the space expression of urban resource configuration. Its central goal is using the effective resource
with the lowest ecological cost in exchange for the greatest economic benefits. The current city’s expansion which is
dominated by the development, is too fast, which has overlooked the balance between planning and environmental protection.
The contradiction between urban development and environmental protection is becoming more and more acute. In the current
urban planning practice, planning is required due to lack of effective analysis and evaluation for environmental problems. Related
researches regard "environmental impact assessment (EIA)" as the central content of the planning. The article summarized
some methods of "the pre-adoption evaluation" that are related to environmental impact assessment; and try to put forward
the basic train of thought which is according to "the pre-adoption evaluation" for urban planning.
The Mechanical Property of Bidirectional Geogrid and its Application
Research in Retaining Wall Design
Authors: Qingbiao Wang , Cong Zhang , Tiantian Wang , Yun Bai , Rongshan LÜ , Lei Xu , Junxian Zhang , Zhongjing Hu , Fei Xie , Tao Zheng , Zhen Chen , Lingyu Tang , Hui Wang
Published: September 2015

The introduction and rise of new geotechnical composite material greatly promote the development of civil engineering
construction. Studying the mechanical properties of bidirectional geogrid and determining the reinforced soil retaining
wall design calculation based on the friction reinforcement theory provide theoretical basis and research foundation
for its application in the practical engineering. The mechanical properties of bidirectional geogrid are analyzed in
depth through theoretical analysis, experimental research and numerical simulation. The mechanical property tests in light
of different affecting factors are studied and the application of geogrid material in the reinforced soil retaining wall is
simulated, thus yielding the conclusions as follows: (1) Study the mechanical properties in different temperature, loading
and packing with the help of indoor pullout test and analyze the main factors affecting the mechanical properties of the
geogrids in theory. (2) Analyze the reinforced soil retaining wall with friction reinforcement principle. Determine the calculation
method of soil pressure and reinforcement and the check formula of the overall stability of the whole wall design
and calculate the geogrid reinforced soil retaining wall in theory. (3) Simulate the bidirectional geogrid reinforced soil retaining
wall with FLAC3D and analyze the force of the retaining wall. Study the stress-strain curve according to the parameters
of reinforced geogrid and retaining wall and analyze the overall force to guide the safety of the site construction. (4)
Apply to the reinforced soil the retaining wall design. Thus the result is achieved that bidirectional geogrid is simple in
construction, excellent in performance and economic in cost and has a good application prospect and social benefit.
Research on Charging and Discharging Dispatching Strategy for Electric
Vehicles
Authors: Yong Wang , Haihong Bian , Chunning Wang
Published: September 2015

The popularity of electric vehicles may lead to negative effects on the power system if the charging procedures
of plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs) are uncoordinated. In order to solve the problem, the hierarchical and zonal
dispatching architecture and a new bi-level optimization model are respectively presented for the charging/discharging
schedules of the PEVs. The upper level model is devoted to minimizing the system load variance so as to implement peak
load shifting by optimizing the dispatching plan of all periods for each electric vehicle aggregator (EVA), and the lower
one is aimed at tracing the dispatching scheme determined by the upper decision-maker through presenting an optimal
schedule of charging and discharging for electric vehicles in the charging areas. Two highly efficient commercial solvers,
AMPL/IPOPT and AMPL/CPLEX respectively, are employed to solve the developed optimization problem. Finally, the
testing IEEE system consisting of 5 agents and 30 nodes is adopted to illustrate the characteristics of the model and
solving method presented in this paper.
An economic order quantity model with ramp type demand rate, constant deterioration rate and unit production cost
Authors: Manna Prasenjit , Manna Swapan , Giri Bibhas
Published: September 2015

We have developed an order level inventory system for deteriorating items
with demand rate as a ramp type function of time. The finite production rate
is proportional to the demand rate and the deterioration rate is independent
of time. The unit production cost is inversely proportional to the demand
rate. The model with no shortages case is discussed considering that: (a) the
demand rate is stabilized after the production stopping time and (b) the
demand is stabilized before the production stopping time. Optimal costs are
determined for two different cases.
A new approach to the logistic modeling population having harvesting factor
Authors: Ho Chao-Pao , Lin Che-Hao
Published: September 2015

The present paper deals with the logistic equation having harvesting factor
by a new approach. This approach is an attempt to sketch the solutions to the
model Rahmani Doust and Saraj (1).
Evaluation of the safety of long-term, daily oral administration of grapiprant, a novel drug for treatment of osteoarthritic pain and inflammation, in healthy dogs
Authors: Rausch-Derra Lesley C. , Huebner Margie , Rhodes Linda
Published: September 2015

OBJECTIVE To investigate the safety of daily oral administration of grapiprant to dogs.

ANIMALS Thirty-six 9-month-old Beagles of both sexes.

PROCEDURES Dogs were randomly assigned to groups that received grapiprant via oral gavage at 0, 1, 6, or 50 mg/kg (total volume, 5 mL/kg), q 24 h for 9 months. Each group contained 4 dogs of each sex (ie, 8 dogs/group), except for the 50 mg/kg group, which included 4 additional dogs that were monitored for an additional 30 days after treatment concluded (recovery period). All dogs received ophthalmologic, ECG, and laboratory evaluations before treatment began (baseline) and periodically afterward. All dogs were observed daily. Dogs were euthanized at the end of the study for necropsy and histologic evaluation.

RESULTS All dogs remained clinically normal during treatment, with no apparent changes in appetite or demeanor. Emesis and soft or mucoid feces that occasionally contained blood were observed in all groups, although these findings were more common in dogs that received grapiprant. In general, clinicopathologic findings remained within baseline ranges. Drug-related changes in serum total protein and albumin concentrations were detected, but differences were small and resolved during recovery. No drug-related gross or microscopic pathological changes were detected in tissue samples except mild mucosal regeneration in the ileum of 1 dog in the 50 mg/kg group.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Results suggested the safety of long-term oral administration of grapiprant to dogs. Efficacy of grapiprant in the treatment of dogs with osteoarthritis needs to be evaluated in other studies.
Bactericidal effects of various concentrations of enrofloxacin, florfenicol, tilmicosin phosphate, and tulathromycin on clinical isolates of Mannheimia haemolytica
Authors: Blondeau Joseph M. , Shebelski Shantelle D. , Hesje Christine K.
Published: September 2015

OBJECTIVE To determine bactericidal effects of enrofloxacin, florfenicol, tilmicosin, and tulathromycin on clinical isolates of Mannheimia haemolytica at various bacterial densities and drug concentrations.

SAMPLE 4 unique isolates of M haemolytica recovered from clinically infected cattle.

PROCEDURES Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and mutant prevention concentration (MPC) were determined for each drug and isolate. Mannheimia haemolytica suspensions (106 to 109 CFUs/mL) were exposed to the determined MIC and MPC and preestablished maximum serum and tissue concentrations of each drug. Log10 reduction in viable cells (percentage of cells killed) was measured at various points.

RESULTS Bacterial killing at the MIC was slow and incomplete. After 2 hours of isolate exposure to the MPC and maximum serum and tissue concentrations of the tested drugs, 91% to almost 100% cell killing was achieved with enrofloxacin, compared with 8% growth to 93% cell killing with florfenicol, 199% growth to 63% cell killing with tilmicosin, and 128% growth to 43% cell killing with tulathromycin over the range of inoculum tested. For all drugs, killing of viable organisms was evident at all bacterial densities tested; however, killing was more substantial at the MPC and maximum serum and tissue drug concentrations than at the MIC and increased with duration of drug exposure. Rank order of drugs by killing potency was enrofloxacin, florfenicol, tilmicosin, and tulathromycin.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Findings suggested that antimicrobial doses that equaled or exceeded the MPC provided rapid killing of M haemolytica by the tested drugs, decreasing opportunities for antimicrobial-resistant subpopulations of bacteria to develop during drug exposure.
Use of indocyanine green and sodium fluorescein for anterior segment angiography in ophthalmologically normal cats
Authors: Pirie Chris G. , Alario Anthony
Published: September 2015

OBJECTIVE To assess and compare results of anterior segment angiography of ophthalmologically normal cats following IV injection with indocyanine green and sodium fluorescein dyes.

ANIMALS 10 client-owned cats.

PROCEDURES Anterior segment angiography was performed in anesthetized cats following administration of 0.25% indocyanine green (1.0 mg/kg, IV) or 10% sodium fluorescein (20 mg/kg, IV) solution. All cats received both treatments. Imaging (1 eye/cat) was performed with a full-spectrum digital single-lens reflex camera equipped with an adaptor (1 image/s for 30 seconds) immediately following IV dye injection and 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 minutes after injection. Onset and duration of arterial, capillary, and venous phases of iris vasculature were identified and compared statistically between treatments. Degree of iridal pigmentation, leakage of dye from iris vasculature, and image quality were subjectively assessed.

RESULTS No differences were found in onset or duration of vascular phases between treatments. Visibility of the iris vasculature was not impaired by poor or moderate iridal pigmentation with either method. Indocyanine green provided subjectively better vascular detail and image contrast than sodium fluorescein. No vascular dye leakage was observed following indocyanine green administration. Leakage of dye from blood vessels in the stroma (in 10 cats) and presence of dye in the anterior chamber (in 5 cats) were detected after sodium fluorescein administration.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Images obtained with either fluorescent dye were considered to be of diagnostic quality. Lack of leakage following indocyanine green administration suggested this treatment may have better diagnostic utility for anterior segment angiography. The photographic equipment used provided a cost-effective alternative to existing imaging systems.
Anti-bovine herpesvirus and anti-bovine viral diarrhea virus antibody responses in pregnant Holstein dairy cattle following administration of a multivalent killed virus vaccine
Authors: Smith Billy I. , Rieger Randall H. , Dickens Charlene M. , Schultz Ronald D. , Aceto Helen
Published: September 2015

OBJECTIVE To determine the effect of a commercially available multivalent killed virus vaccine on serum neutralizing (SN) and colostrum neutralizing (CN) antibodies against bovine herpesvirus (BHV) type 1 and bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) types 1 and 2 in pregnant dairy cattle.

ANIMALS 49 Holstein dairy cattle.

PROCEDURES 25 cattle were vaccinated (IM injection) at least 60 days prior to calving (ie, at the end of the lactation period or according to the expected calving date for heifers) and again 5 weeks later. The remaining 24 cattle were not vaccinated (control group). Titers of SN antibodies were measured at the 5-week time point. Titers of SN and CN antibodies were measured at parturition.

RESULTS 5 weeks after initial vaccination, titers of SN antibodies against BHV-1 and BVDV types 1 and 2 were 1:512, 1:128, and 1:2,048, respectively, in vaccinates and 1:64, 1:128, and 1:64, respectively, in unvaccinated controls. Equivalent SN antibody titers at parturition were 1:256, 1:64, and 1:512, respectively, in vaccinates and 1:128, 1:128, and 1:64, respectively, in controls. Median titers of CN antibodies against BHV-1 and BVDV types 1 and 2 were 1:1,280, 1:10,240, and 1:20,480, respectively, in vaccinates and 1:80, 1:1,280, and 1:2,560, respectively, in controls.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Titers of antibodies against viral respiratory pathogens were significantly enhanced in both serum (BHV-1 and BVDV type 2) and colostrum (BHV-1 and BVDV types 1 and 2) in cattle receiving a killed virus vaccine (with no adverse reactions) before parturition. To maximize protection of bovine neonates, this method of vaccination should be considered.
Small water reservoirs – their function and construction / Małe zbiorniki wodne – ich funkcje i konstrukcje
Authors: Mioduszewski Waldemar
Published: September 2015

Small water reservoirs play important role in rural areas. They used to be very popular, but most of them have been devastated in the last century. It is worth to restore them and to construct new ones. Very small reservoirs (ponds) can be constructed in economical and cost efficient way by individual farmers. In regard to damming below 1.0 m and to reservoirs situated outside protected areas, the permission for construction and the environmental impact assessment is not required. However, one should always keep in mind that even the smallest construction is the work of engineering and should be performed in accordance with the current standards. The increase of available water resources and improvement of water quality demand various measures including those aimed at reducing and limiting water runoff and pollutants transport from the river basins. One of the methods to improve the structure of water balance and the amount of water in rivers is the construction of a large number of small reservoirs, wetland reconstruction etc. Such reservoirs may be divided to: recreational, floristic and faunistic conservation sites, swimming pools, water quality protection (constructed wetlands) and infiltration reservoirs. Reservoirs can have many functions of the economic and natural character. If they are designed and constructed properly they can be a valuable element of the natural landscape in rural areas. Basic data for designing of small reservoirs serving mainly recreational (decorative) purposes and those used for water treatment and ground water recharge are given in the paper
Changes in the concentration of selected water quality parameters in Lake Starzec in the vegetation periods / Zmiany stężenia wybranych wskaźników jakości wody w jeziorze Starzyc w okresach wegetacyjnych
Authors: Wesołowski Piotr , Brysiewicz Adam
Published: September 2015

Studies were carried out in the years 2008-2010 in Lake Starzyc, zachodniopomorskie voivodship. The aim was to determine differences in the concentrations of selected water quality parameters between particular months of the vegetation seasons 2008-2010. Monthly mean concentrations of dissolved oxygen between April and October were by 1.91 g O2m-3 higher in surface than in near-bottom water layer. Differences in the concentration of dissolved oxygen were also noted between particular months. Recorded concentrations fell within the range required for lake waters of the first and second water quality. Concentrations of mineral nitrogen in the years 2008-2010 corresponded to those of the third class of water quality and phosphorus concentrations exceeded this standard. Concentrations of ammonium ions did not exceed the values permitted for the second water quality class.
The relationship between the liquid limit of clayey soils, external specific surface area and the composition of exchangeable cations / Zależność granicy płynności od zewnętrznej powierzchni właściwej i składu kationów w naturalnym kompleksie wymiennym
Authors: Olchawa Andrzej , Gorączko Aleksandra
Published: September 2015

The liquid limit - wL, the external surface area - Se, the concentration of exchangeable cations - Zi and the cation exchange capacity - CEC of seventeen clayey soils were determined. Finding the correlation between the liquid limit, external specific surface area and exchangeable cation concentration was the aim of this study. Experimental study performed using soils of the external surface area within the range of 4.1 to 118.5 m2·g-1. The relative content of sodium cation (i.e. Na+/CEC) varying between 0.03 and 1.0. Obtained results point to statistically significant relationship between these three properties. The greatest predictive power of linear regression was found for soils of external specific surface area larger than 60 m2·g-1. For the soils of comparable external surface area, the liquid limit increase with increasing the ratio of the content of sodium cation to the cation exchange capacity - Na+/CEC. For the soils of comparable composition of exchangeable cations the liquid limit increase with increasing the external surface area. These relationships indicates that interparticle forces have a prominent role in determining liquid limit of clayey soils.
Comparison of machine learning methods for runoff forecasting in mountainous watersheds with limited data / Porównanie metod uczenia maszynowego do prognozowania spływu w zlewniach górskich na podstawie ograniczonych danych
Authors: Adamowski Jan , Prasher Shiv O.
Published: September 2015

Runoff forecasting in mountainous regions with processed based models is often difficult and inaccurate due to the complexity of the rainfall-runoff relationships and difficulties involved in obtaining the required data. Machine learning models offer an alternative for runoff forecasting in these regions. This paper explores and compares two machine learning methods, support vector regression (SVR) and wavelet networks (WN) for daily runoff forecasting in the mountainous Sianji watershed located in the Himalayan region of India. The models were based on runoff, antecedent precipitation index, rainfall, and day of the year data collected over the three year period from July 1, 2001 and June 30, 2004. It was found that both the methods provided accurate results, with the best WN model slightly outperforming the best SVR model in accuracy. Both the WN and SVR methods should be tested in other mountainous watershed with limited data to further assess their suitability in forecasting.
From the Editors (ENG): De Ethica. A Journal of Philosophical, Theological and Applied Ethics
Authors: Agnafors Marcus
Published: September 2015

No abstract available.
The Scope of the Global Institutional Order: Can Pogge Survive Cohen’s Critique of Rawls?
Authors: Gray Kevin W.
Published: September 2015

In this paper, I develop a critique of Thomas Pogge”s attempt in Realizing Rawls to expand the scope of the Original Position. I argue that Pogge is guilty of assuming the same arbitrary boundary between public and private behaviours made by Rawls. To actualize this critique, I take G. A. Cohen’s critique of John Rawls, found in its fullest form in Rescuing Justice and Equality, alongside Thomas Pogge”s attempt, in Realizing Rawls, to expand the scope of the Original Position. Cohen argues that the boundary Rawls wishes to draw between the public and private cannot be coherently maintained in the application of the Difference Principle. I argue that if this claim is true, then Pogge”s attempt to expand the scope of Rawls” Theory of Justice to the international arena is actually considerably more radical than Pogge intended. Not only do we need to worry about the justice of institutions in international law, but we now need to worry about the justice of individual actions inside a system of global justice. I conclude by considering some objections against Cohen”s, and thus, my position.
From the Editors (GER): De Ethica. A Journal of Philosophical, Theological and Applied Ethics
Authors: Agnafors Marcus
Published: September 2015

No abstract available.
Intracellular Mono-ADP-Ribosylation in Signaling and Disease
Authors: Bütepage Mareike , Eckei Laura , Verheugd Patricia , Lüscher Bernhard
Published: September 2015

A key process in the regulation of protein activities and thus cellular signaling pathways is the modification of proteins by post-translational mechanisms. Knowledge about the enzymes (writers and erasers) that attach and remove post-translational modifications, the targets that are modified and the functional consequences elicited by specific modifications, is crucial for understanding cell biological processes. Moreover detailed knowledge about these mechanisms and pathways helps to elucidate the molecular causes of various diseases and in defining potential targets for therapeutic approaches. Intracellular adenosine diphosphate (ADP)-ribosylation refers to the nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+)-dependent modification of proteins with ADP-ribose and is catalyzed by enzymes of the ARTD (ADP-ribosyltransferase diphtheria toxin like, also known as PARP) family as well as some members of the Sirtuin family. Poly-ADP-ribosylation is relatively well understood with inhibitors being used as anti-cancer agents. However, the majority of ARTD enzymes and the ADP-ribosylating Sirtuins are restricted to catalyzing mono-ADP-ribosylation. Although writers, readers and erasers of intracellular mono-ADP-ribosylation have been identified only recently, it is becoming more and more evident that this reversible post-translational modification is capable of modulating key intracellular processes and signaling pathways. These include signal transduction mechanisms, stress pathways associated with the endoplasmic reticulum and stress granules, and chromatin-associated processes such as transcription and DNA repair. We hypothesize that mono-ADP-ribosylation controls, through these different pathways, the development of cancer and infectious diseases.
Hair Dye–DNA Interaction: Plausible Cause of Mutation
Authors: Maiti Swati , Sinha Sudarson , Singh Mukesh
Published: September 2015

Hair dye is one of the most popular cosmetic products which are used more widely and frequently to improve an individual’s appearance. Although the genotoxic effects of dye ingredients are widely reported, hair dye in its usable form is not reported extensively. In this contribution, we report the possible mode of interaction of hair dye with DNA which leads to genotoxicity. The effect of dye DNA interaction was studied on the most popular and globally used hair dye with Calf Thymus DNA and plasmid DNA. This interaction of dye DNA was studied by spectroscopic analyses and gel electrophoresis. The result had shown positive interaction of dye with DNA. Gel electrophoresis study confirms the binding of dye with DNA which results in linearization and fragmentation of the plasmid DNA. Dye–DNA interaction causes fragmentation and oxidation of DNA in absence of any catalyst, implies high toxicity of commercial hair dyes. Thus, it can be deduced from the present studies that hair dye in its usable form may lead to its penetration through skin affecting genomic DNA possesses genotoxic property and can be treated as one of the most common mutagen.
Expected Utility and Entropy-Based Decision-Making Model for Large Consumers in the Smart Grid
Authors: Gao Bingtuan , Wu Cheng , Wu Yingjun , Tang Yi
Published: September 2015

In the smart grid, large consumers can procure electricity energy from various power sources to meet their load demands. To maximize its profit, each large consumer needs to decide their energy procurement strategy under risks such as price fluctuations from the spot market and power quality issues. In this paper, an electric energy procurement decision-making model is studied for large consumers who can obtain their electric energy from the spot market, generation companies under bilateral contracts, the options market and self-production facilities in the smart grid. Considering the effect of unqualified electric energy, the profit model of large consumers is formulated. In order to measure the risks from the price fluctuations and power quality, the expected utility and entropy is employed. Consequently, the expected utility and entropy decision-making model is presented, which helps large consumers to minimize their expected profit of electricity procurement while properly limiting the volatility of this cost. Finally, a case study verifies the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed model.
Bayesian Inference on the Memory Parameter for Gamma-Modulated Regression Models
Authors: Andrade Plinio , Rifo Laura , Torres Soledad , Torres-Avilés Francisco
Published: September 2015

In this work, we propose a Bayesian methodology to make inferences for the memory parameter and other characteristics under non-standard assumptions for a class of stochastic processes. This class generalizes the Gamma-modulated process, with trajectories that exhibit long memory behavior, as well as decreasing variability as time increases. Different values of the memory parameter influence the speed of this decrease, making this heteroscedastic model very flexible. Its properties are used to implement an approximate Bayesian computation and MCMC scheme to obtain posterior estimates. We test and validate our method through simulations and real data from the big earthquake that occurred in 2010 in Chile.
Ultrasound Detection of Scatterer Concentration by Weighted Entropy
Authors: Tsui Po-Hsiang
Published: September 2015

Ultrasound backscattering signals depend on the microstructures of tissues. Some studies have applied Shannon entropy to analyze the uncertainty of raw radiofrequency (RF) data. However, we found that the sensitivity of entropy in detecting various scatterer concentrations is limited; thus, we propose a weighted entropy as a new information entropy-based approach to enhance the performance of scatterer characterization. A standard simulation model of ultrasound backscattering was used to generate backscattered RF signals with different number densities of scatterers. The RF signals were used to estimate the weighted entropy according to the proposed algorithmic scheme. The weighted entropy increased from 0.08 to 0.23 (representing a dynamic range of 0.15) when the number density of scatterers increased from 2 to 32 scatterers/mm2. In the same range of scatterer concentration, the conventional entropy increased from 0.16 to 0.19 (a dynamic range of 0.03). The results indicated that the weighted entropy enables achieving a more sensitive detection of the variation of scatterer concentrations by ultrasound.
Rotor Design for Diffuser Augmented Wind Turbines
Authors: Hjort Søren , Larsen Helgi
Published: September 2015

Diffuser augmented wind turbines (DAWTs) can increase mass flow through the rotor substantially, but have often failed to fulfill expectations. We address high-performance diffusers, and investigate the design requirements for a DAWT rotor to efficiently convert the available energy to shaft energy. Several factors can induce wake stall scenarios causing significant energy loss. The causality between these stall mechanisms and earlier DAWT failures is discussed. First, a swirled actuator disk CFD code is validated through comparison with results from a far wake swirl corrected blade-element momentum (BEM) model, and horizontal-axis wind turbine (HAWT) reference results. Then, power efficiency versus thrust is computed with the swirled actuator disk (AD) code for low and high values of tip-speed ratios (TSR), for different centerbodies, and for different spanwise rotor thrust loading distributions. Three different configurations are studied: The bare propeller HAWT, the classical DAWT, and the high-performance multi-element DAWT. In total nearly 400 high-resolution AD runs are generated. These results are presented and discussed. It is concluded that dedicated DAWT rotors can successfully convert the available energy to shaft energy, provided the identified design requirements for swirl and axial loading distributions are satisfied.
ANN-Based Prediction and Optimization of Cooling System in Hotel Rooms
Authors: Moon Jin , Kim Kyungjae , Min Hyunsuk
Published: September 2015

This study aimed at developing an artificial-neural-network (ANN)-based model that can calculate the required time for restoring the current indoor temperature during the setback period in accommodation buildings to the normal set-point temperature in the cooling season. By applying the calculated time in the control logic, the operation of the cooling system can be predetermined to condition the indoor temperature comfortably in a more energy-efficient manner. Three major steps employing the numerical computer simulation method were conducted for developing an ANN model and testing its prediction performance. In the development process, the initial ANN model was determined to have input neurons that had a significant statistical relationship with the output neuron. In addition, the structure of the ANN model and learning methods were optimized through the parametrical analysis of the prediction performance. Finally, through the performance tests in terms of prediction accuracy, the optimized ANN model presented a lower mean biased error (MBE) rate between the simulation and prediction results under generally accepted levels. Thus, the developed ANN model was proven to have the potential to be applied to thermal control logic.
Climate Change Preparedness: A Knowledge and Attitudes Study in Southern Nigeria
Authors: Ojomo Edema , Elliott Mark , Amjad Urooj , Bartram Jamie
Published: September 2015

Global climate change is projected to adversely impact freshwater resources, and in many settings these impacts are already apparent. In Nigeria, these impacts can be especially severe because of limited adaptive capacity. Understanding the knowledge and attitudes of current and future Nigerian decision-makers is important to preparing Nigeria for climate change impacts. This paper examines the knowledge and attitudes of university students and government officials about the causes, effects, and priority given to climate change in Nigeria. Paper surveys were distributed to 379 study participants in Akwa Ibom and Lagos states of Nigeria. The findings reveal that approximately 90% of study participants believe that human activities are a significant cause of climate change, with no significant difference between ministry officials’ and students’ responses. Participants were less knowledgeable about the effects of climate change on Nigeria as a whole, but more aware of impacts relevant to Southern Nigeria, where study sites were located. Personal experience seemed to play a role in the knowledge and attitudes of respondents. Due to the varied climate of the country, campaigns to ensure comprehensive knowledge of climate change impacts to the entire country may be helpful.
Epigenetic Therapy for Solid Tumors: Highlighting the Impact of Tumor Hypoxia
Authors: Ramachandran Shaliny , Ient Jonathan , Göttgens Eva-Leonne , Krieg Adam , Hammond Ester
Published: September 2015

In the last few decades, epigenetics has emerged as an exciting new field in development and disease, with a more recent focus towards cancer. Epigenetics has classically referred to heritable patterns of gene expression, primarily mediated through DNA methylation patterns. More recently, it has come to include the reversible chemical modification of histones and DNA that dictate gene expression patterns. Both the epigenetic up-regulation of oncogenes and downregulation of tumor suppressors have been shown to drive tumor development. Current clinical trials for cancer therapy include pharmacological inhibition of DNA methylation and histone deacetylation, with the aim of reversing these cancer-promoting epigenetic changes. However, the DNA methyltransferase and histone deacetylase inhibitors have met with less than promising results in the treatment of solid tumors. Regions of hypoxia are a common occurrence in solid tumors. Tumor hypoxia is associated with increased aggressiveness and therapy resistance, and importantly, hypoxic tumor cells have a distinct epigenetic profile. In this review, we provide a summary of the recent clinical trials using epigenetic drugs in solid tumors, discuss the hypoxia-induced epigenetic changes and highlight the importance of testing the epigenetic drugs for efficacy against the most aggressive hypoxic fraction of the tumor in future preclinical testing.
Development of an Interview Guide Identifying the Rehabilitation Needs of Women from the Middle East Living with Chronic Pain
Authors: Zander Viktoria , Eriksson Henrik , Christensson Kyllike , Müllersdorf Maria
Published: September 2015

The purpose of this study was to develop an interview guide for use by primary healthcare professionals to support them in identifying the rehabilitation needs of forced resettled women from the Middle East living with chronic pain. Previous findings together with the existing literature were used as the basis for developing the interview guide in three steps: item generation, cognitive interviews, and a pilot study. The study resulted in a 16-item interview guide focusing on patients’ concerns and expectations, with consideration of pre-migration, migration, and post-migration factors that might affect their health. With the help of the guide, patients were also invited to identify difficulties in their daily activities and to take part in setting goals and planning their rehabilitation. The current interview guide provides professional guidance to caretakers, taking a person-centered participative point of departure when meeting and planning care, for and together, with representatives from dispersed ethnic populations in Sweden. It can be used together with the patient by all staff members working in primary healthcare, with the aim of contributing to continuity of care and multi-professional collaboration.
Physical Growth, Biological Age, and Nutritional Transitions of Adolescents Living at Moderate Altitudes in Peru
Authors: Cossio-Bolaños Marco , Campos Rossana , Andruske Cynthia , Flores Antonio , Luarte-Rocha Cristian , Olivares Pedro , Garcia-Rubio Javier , De Arruda Miguel
Published: September 2015

Background: Peru is experiencing a stage of nutritional transition where the principal characteristics are typical of countries undergoing development. Objectives: The objectives of this study were the following: (a) compare physical growth patterns with an international standard; (b) determine biological age; and (c) analyze the double nutritional burden of adolescents living at a moderate altitude in Peru. Design: Weight, standing height, and sitting height were measured in 551 adolescents of both sexes (12.0 to 17.9 years old) from an urban area of Arequipa, Peru (2328 m). Physical growth was compared with the international standard of the CDC-2000. Biological age was determined by using a non-invasive transversal technique based on years from age at peak height velocity (APHV). Nutritional state was determined by means of weight for age and height for age. Z scores were calculated using international standards from the CDC-2000. Results: Body weight for both sexes was similar to the CDC-2000 international standards. At all ages, the girls’ height (p < 0.05) was below the standards. However, the boys’ height (p < 0.05) was less at ages, 15, 16, and 17. Biological age showed up in girls at age 12.7 years and for boys at 15.2 years. Stunted growth (8.7% boys and 18.0% girls) and over weight (11.3% boys and 8.8% girls) occurred in both groups. A relationship existed in both sexes between the categories of weight for the age and stunted growth by sex. Conclusions: Adolescents living at a moderate altitude exhibited stunted linear growth and biological maturation. Furthermore, adolescents of both sexes showed the presence of the double nutritional burden (stunted growth and excessive weight).
Blood Cadmium Is Associated with Osteoporosis in Obese Males but Not in Non-Obese Males: The Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2008–2011
Authors: Choi Won-Jun , Han Sang-Hwan
Published: September 2015

Osteoporosis in males is becoming an important health concern in an aging society. The aim of this study was to investigate the associations between cadmium exposure and osteoporosis by considering the effect of obesity in aged males using a representative sample of the Korean population. Using the fourth and fifth Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data, 1098 males over 50 years of age were analyzed. The blood cadmium concentration was measured. The bone mineral density in the total hip, femur neck, and lumbar spine was measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. T-scores to determine the presence of osteoporosis were calculated using a Korean reference. Subjects were stratified into two groups according to obesity status (body mass index <25 kg/m2 and ≥25 kg/m2). In comparison with obese subjects with blood cadmium <1.00 μg/L, those with blood cadmium >1.50 μg/L had odds ratios of 4.57 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.49–14.01) and 5.71 (95% CI 1.99–16.38) at the femur neck and any site, respectively, after adjusting for potential confounders such as age, serum creatinine, vitamin D deficiency, smoking, alcohol drinking, and physical activity level. However, this association was not significant in non-obese males. In conclusion, the effect of cadmium on osteoporosis was different by obesity status in aged males.
Positive Alpha and Negative Beta (A Strategy for Counteracting Systematic Risk)
Authors: Noddeboe Erik , Faergemann Hans
Published: September 2015

Undiversifiable (or systematic risk) has long been an enemy of investors. Many countercyclical strategies have been developed to counter this. However, like all insurance types, these strategies are generally costly to implement, and over time can significantly reduce portfolio returns in long and extended bull markets. In this paper, we discuss an alternative technique, founded on the premise of physiological bias and risk-aversion. We take a behavioral discussion in order to contextualize the insurance like characteristics of option pricing and discuss how this can lead to a mispricing of the asymmetric relationship between the VIX and the S&P 500. To test this, we perform studies in which we find statistical inefficiencies, thereby making it possible to implement a method of hedging index option premium in a way that has displayed no monthly drawdowns in bullish periods, while still providing large returns in major sell-offs. The three versions of the strategy discussed have negative betas to the S&P 500, while exhibiting similar risk-adjusted excess returns over both bull and bear markets. Further, the performance generated over the entire period, for all three strategies, is highly statistically significant. The results challenge the weak form of the Efficient Market Hypothesis and provide evidence that the methods of hedging could be a valuable addition to an equity rich portfolio for the purpose of counteracting systematic risk.
Focus on Pivotal Role of Dietary Intake (Diet and Supplement) and Blood Levels of Tocopherols and Tocotrienols in Obtaining Successful Aging
Authors: Rondanelli Mariangela , Faliva Milena , Peroni Gabriella , Moncaglieri Francesca , Infantino Vittoria , Naso Maurizio , Perna Simone
Published: September 2015

Numerous specific age-related morbidities have been correlated with low intake and serum levels of tocopherols and tocotrienols. We performed a review in order to evaluate the extant evidence regarding: (1) the association between intake and serum levels of tocopherols and tocotrienols and age-related pathologies (osteoporosis, sarcopenia and cognitive impairment); and (2) the optimum diet therapy or supplementation with tocopherols and tocotrienols for the treatment of these abnormalities. This review included 51 eligible studies. The recent literature underlines that, given the detrimental effect of low intake and serum levels of tocopherols and tocotrienols on bone, muscle mass, and cognitive function, a change in the lifestyle must be the cornerstone in the prevention of these specific age-related pathologies related to vitamin E-deficient status. The optimum diet therapy in the elderly for avoiding vitamin E deficiency and its negative correlates, such as high inflammation and oxidation, must aim at achieving specific nutritional goals. These goals must be reached through: accession of the elderly subjects to specific personalized dietary programs aimed at achieving and/or maintaining body weight (avoid malnutrition); increase their intake of food rich in vitamin E, such as derivatives of oily seeds (in particular wheat germ oil), olive oil, hazelnuts, walnuts, almonds, and cereals rich in vitamin E (such as specific rice cultivar rich in tocotrienols) or take vitamin E supplements. In this case, vitamin E can be correctly used in a personalized way either for the outcome from the pathology or to achieve healthy aging and longevity without any adverse effects.
Usefulness of Photodynamic Therapy as a Possible Therapeutic Alternative in the Treatment of Basal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Savoia Paola , Deboli Tommaso , Previgliano Alberto , Broganelli Paolo
Published: September 2015

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common cancer in individuals with fair skin type (I–II) and steadily increasing in incidence (70% of skin malignancy). It is locally invasive but metastasis is usually very rare, with an estimated incidence of 0.0028%–0.55%. Conventional therapy is surgery, especially for the H region of the face and infiltrative lesions; in case of inoperable tumors, radiotherapy is a valid option. Recently, topical photodynamic therapy (PDT) has become an effective treatment in the management of superficial and small nodular BCC. PDT is a minimally invasive procedure that involves the administration of a photo-sensibilizing agent followed by irradiation at a pre-defined wavelength; this determines the creation of reactive oxygen species that specifically destroy target cells. The only major side effect is pain, reported by some patients during the irradiation. The high cure rate and excellent cosmetic outcome requires considering this possibility for the management of patients with both sporadic and hereditary BCC. In this article, an extensive review of the recent literature was made, in order to clarify the role of PDT as a possible alternative therapeutic option in the treatment of BCC.
Similar Comparative Low and High Doses of Deltamethrin and Acetamiprid Differently Impair the Retrieval of the Proboscis Extension Reflex in the Forager Honey Bee (Apis mellifera)
Authors: Thany Steeve , Bourdin Céline , Graton Jérôme , Laurent Adèle , Mathé-Allainmat Monique , Lebreton Jacques , Le Questel Jean-Yves
Published: September 2015

In the present study, the effects of low (10 ng/bee) and high (100 ng/bee) doses of acetamiprid and deltamethrin insecticides on multi-trial learning and retrieval were evaluated in the honey bee Apis mellifera. After oral application, acetamiprid and deltamethrin at the concentrations used were not able to impair learning sessions. When the retention tests were performed 1 h, 6 h, and 24 h after learning, we found a significant difference between bees after learning sessions when drugs were applied 24 h before learning. Deltamethrin-treated bees were found to be more sensitive at 10 ng/bee and 100 ng/bee doses compared to acetamiprid-treated bees, only with amounts of 100 ng/bee and at 6 h and 24 h delays. When insecticides were applied during learning sessions, none of the tested insecticides was able to impair learning performance at 10 ng/bee or 100 ng/bee but retention performance was altered 24 h after learning sessions. Acetamiprid was the only one to impair retrieval at 10 ng/bee, whereas at 100 ng/bee an impairment of retrieval was found with both insecticides. The present results therefore suggest that acetamiprid and deltamethrin are able to impair retrieval performance in the honey bee Apis mellifera.