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In recent decades, reverse flow analysis in mixed convection flow has attracted the attention of many researchers owing to its applications in the design of medical and engineering systems. The presence of reverse flow is unfavorable in many respects; therefore, it is crucial to find values of critical parameters affecting the reverse flow to eliminate it. In this paper, the thermal and hydrodynamic behavior of MWCNT-Fe3O4 hybrid nanofluid is explored in a vertical cylindrical annulus and in the adjacency of radial magnetic field by achieving the results of the exact solution. Furthermore, the effective factors on the reverse flow are investigated, considering the effects of wall movement and suction/injection on it. The range of changes of the governing parameters includes constant velocity of cylinders’ walls A=0−10, B=0−10, Mixed convection parameter η=-1500−1500, dimensionless temperature difference ratio ξ=0−1, Hartman number Ha=0−50, Suction/injection S=-6−6, nanocomposite particles concentration φ=0−0.3% and radios ratio λ=2−10. The results reveal that hybrid nanofluid enhances the heat transfer rate. Moreover, by changing the above-mentioned parameters and selecting the appropriate values for them, the flow, heat transfer and occurrence of reverse flow can be optimally controlled. Meanwhile, such parameters as Ha, S and ξ perform better in eliminating reverse flow. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although physics is a pre-requisite for dental students prior to matriculation it is not tested on the Dental Admissions Test (DAT). The concepts of physics are found throughout the dental profession, and by testing it on the DAT dental students will be better equipped to relate physics to their field and help advance it. The purpose of this paper is to make the argument for why it should be tested, as well as eliminating some of the superfluous topics on the DAT (ecology, environmental sciences, and plant physiology). This paperwill focus on a few of concepts already taught in dentistry, and explore how physics principles apply to several of them. We want to emphasize the importance of physics and how testing even the most basic concepts will help prepare students to "think outside the box". Classical physics, specifically Newtonian Mechanics, has several applications in nearly all areas of dentistry: restorative, orthodontics, prosthodontics, and surgery. The testing of basic formulas studied in the pre-requisite physics classeswill help ease the transition from college to dental school. Modern physics, namely Quantum Mechanics, also plays a significant role in current dental diagnostics and therapeutics. Additionally, with the development of the Integrated National Board Dental Examination (INBDE) as a replacement for the old NBDE part 1 and 2, there are topics tested that specifically focus on physics: Foundational Knowledge Areas 2 and 3. Thus, it is critical that the student dentist be familiar with these concepts. It is important to note that scientific changes occurring in the health sciences almost mandates students be familiar with concepts rooted in physics. It is then proposed that physics be incorporated into the exam, either with the natural sciences or within the quantitative reasoning section, in addition to eliminating topics not relevant to the dental field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper challenges the perspective of modern homo oeconomicus towards self-interest and egoism. This old perspective relays upon basic causal and deterministic assumptions derived from (neuro)biological and philosophical approaches which are incompatible with the non-linear nature of and the self-organising capability of living systems. We therefore propose a new concept, which explores the two dimensions of information: a causal and a 'non'-causal dimension. It is shown in this contribution, how the 'non'-causal dimension deals with the future, by following a mathematically imaginary dimension, and thereby covering rich phenomenal experiences. We propose a novel system model, which recognises both, the real world and the imagined future world. This model explains the appearance of the stream of human consciousness, enabling our development by enfolding of our potentialities. This paper provides the fundament for a new interpretation of neurobiological concepts about our self-understanding by covering valued real and imaginary dimensions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adaptive management and related fields have theorized new governance strategies that embrace complexity and are able to respond effectively to changing and unpredictable biophysical dynamics. However, this body of work pays inadequate attention to important on-the-ground realities, including feasibility of implementation and the power dynamics embedded in multi-scalar systems of environmental governance. This paper presents findings from a research project on challenges to adaptive management in the variable wetland ecosystem of the Okavango Delta, Botswana. Many residents of this rural region rely on transitional agricultural practices, shifting between dryland and floodplain farming in response to dynamic precipitation and flooding patterns. Higher than average floods in 2009–2011 inundated many floodplain fields past the point of production, causing farmers to shift to the dryland for multiplem seasons. At the same time, the highly centralized Government of Botswana began to implement stricter regulations over floodplain resources, which stemmed in part from a new adaptive management plan developed for the region. As a result, many farmers felt pressured by the government to abandon transitional livelihood practices and to shift permanently to dryland agriculture even though many preferred to continue floodplain farming. This loss of a responsive livelihood strategy will likely result in decreased long-term adaptive capacity for many residents. Drawing on these findings, this paper advances the argument that if adaptive management is to become a viable option for communities in changing environments, more attention must be given to the role of unequal power relations in multi-scalar systems of environmental governance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Performance of 4 atmospheric correction methods evaluated on Sentinel-2 images. • 4 dates, 6 plots and 9 spectral bands assessed. • Results suggest the suitability of the applied corrections. • Minor differences observed between the four methods (MAJA, SEN2COR, 6S, iCOR). Abstract Atmospheric correction of optical satellite imagery is an essential pre-processing for modelling biophysical variables, multi-temporal analysis, and digital classification processes. Sentinel-2 products available for users are distributed by the European Space Agency (ESA) as Top Of Atmosphere reflectance values in cartographic geometry (Level-1C product). In order to obtain Bottom Of Atmosphere reflectance images (Level-2A product) derived from this Level-1C products, ESA provides the SEN2COR module, which is implemented in the Sentinel Application Platform. Alternatively, ESA recently distributes Level-2A products processed by SEN2COR with a default configuration. On the other hand, the conversion from Level-1C to Level-2A product can be generated using alternative atmospheric correction methods, such as MAJA, 6S, or iCOR. In this context, this paper aims to evaluate the quality of Level-2A products obtained through different methods in Mediterranean shrub and grasslands by comparing data obtained from Sentinel-2 imagery with field spectrometry data. For that purpose, six plots with different land covers (asphalt, grass, shrub, pasture, and bare soil) were analyzed, by using synchronous imagery to fieldwork (from July to September 2016). The results suggest the suitability of the applied atmospheric corrections, with coefficients of determination higher than 0.90 and root mean square error lower than 0.04 achieving a relative error in bottom of atmosphere reflectance of only 2–3%. Nevertheless, minor differences were observed between the four tested methods, with slightly varying results depending on the spectral band and land cover. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a biophysical method to characterize single bacterium in water by using an on-chip optofluidic immersion refractometer. Water safety is a major factor in the well-being of people, but the presence of bacteria such as Escherichia coli ( E. coli ), bacillus subtilis , Shigella flexneri and vibrio cholera in drinking water can lead to infectious diseases such as typhoid fever. Hence, it is crucial to detect and identify bacteria to prevent bacterial outbreaks. In this paper, an optofluidic immersion refractometer is developed to measure three biophysical parameters, i.e. size, shape and refractive index. The refractive index of a single bacterium is measured in high sensitivity of 0.005 RIU. This system is an innovative method to allow on-site real-time detection of single bacterium in water. It significantly reduces the amount of detection time and do not require trained personnel or additional chemical and biological reagents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The assessment of land use change (LUC) proposals aimed at improving environmental conditions requires information regarding the relationship between actions and outcomes. Yet such information is often limited in detail, especially in developing country contexts. This paper demonstrates an approach to the estimation of farm level biophysical relationships between proposed LUC activities and their impacts on soil erosion, air quality and biodiversity in the context of a payment for environmental services (PES) auction in Sichuan Province, China. Because data at the farm level are unavailable, the models are based on divergences of each farm''s biophysical conditions from well-established regional averages. This paper focuses on the estimation of the farm-to-region divergence factors and the development of environmental outcome predictions that reflect the relative ecological significance of alternative LUC proposals. The strengths and weaknesses of the biophysical models are also discussed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: While the recent emergence of a global land rush has initiated large debates and conflicts over the use and access to land, further investigation into the underlying drivers is required to enhance the understanding of the potential trajectories of the land grab phenomenon. This paper takes a biophysical perspective and explores how declining fossil stocks and a global transition towards renewable energies ultimately drive the land rush. The paper addresses, in qualitative terms, how societal needs for land change with different patterns of societal energy metabolism. The potential spatial expansions of renewables are illustrated in quantitative terms, based on the power density concept and energy provision forecasts for the year 2020. The transition from an energy system based on fossils stocks, with high power densities, to one based on renewables, with low power densities, drastically boosts societal demand for land. This drives the land rush directly through land acquisitions for the expansion of energy systems. The energy transition also drives the land rush indirectly, in particular through food security threats motivated by the growing competition over farmland uses and changes in crop supply. Although currently fossil stocks are still relatively abundant, future declines are expected to trigger the demand for land to even greater extents. Given the inevitability of the energy transition, we believe that the land rush will have persistence, bearing long-term consequences for land use and struggles over access to land. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstracts of papers for the session on Homeland Security at the 55th Annual Meeting of the Health Physics Society on June 29, 2010 are presented including the papers entitled "Global Nuclear Detection Architecture (GNDA)," by R. Passow, T. Albert, J. Zabko and M. Wittrock, "Deconstruction of Drums Containing International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Conditioned Sealed Products," by J. Tompkins and "An Alternative Approach to Operational Risk Management for Radiation Emergencies," by E. Daxon and J. Cuellar.

Abstracts of papers for the American Academy of Health Physics' (AAHP) special session on Radiation Dose Reconstruction for Epidemiology at the 55th Annual Meeting of the Health Physics Society on June 29, 2010 are presented including the papers entitled "The Needs of a 'Customer' of Dose Reconstruction," by E. Gilbert, "Radiation Dose Reconstruction: Principles and Practices - A New NCRP Report," by B. Napier and "Errors and Uncertainties in Radiation Dose Reconstruction for Epidemilogy: Approaches and Challenges," by D. Strom.

This paper treats rational expressions of building performance in order to better support dialogues between stakeholders. These expressions are based on the notion of objectively quantifiable performance measures, which are introduced through a set of “performance indicators”. The indicators can be used to quantify expectations and fulfillments in structured dialogues between different stakeholders. The focus of the paper is on the introduction of two types of indicators: (1) based on normative models in biophysics and physiology and (2) based on empiricist models of Environment–Behavior studies. The treatment is positioned to support rational decision making during different stages of building delivery and use. The focus of this paper is specifically on informing decisions during design evolution, and facility and portfolio management phases of a building''s lifecycle. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A review of the operational health physics papers published in Health Physics and Operational Radiation Safety over the past fifteen years indicated seventeen general categories or areas into which the topics could be readily separated. These areas include academic research programs, use of computers in operational health physics, decontamination and decommissioning, dosimetry, emergency response, environmental health physics, industrial operations, medical health physics, new procedure development, non-ionizing radiation, radiation measurements, radioactive waste disposal, radon measurement and control, risk communication, shielding evaluation and specification, staffing levels for health physics programs, and unwanted or orphan sources. That is not to say that there are no operational papers dealing with specific areas of health physics, such as power reactor health physics, accelerator health physics, or governmental health physics. On the contrary, there have been a number of excellent operational papers from individuals in these specialty areas and they are included in the broader topics listed above. A listing and review of all the operational papers that have been published is beyond the scope of this discussion. However, a sampling of the excellent operational papers that have appeared in Health Physics and Operational Radiation Safety is presented to give the reader the flavor of the wide variety of concerns to the operational health physicist and the current areas of interest where procedures are being refined and solutions to problems are being developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While the concept of the Anthropocene reflects the past and present nature, scale and magnitude of human impacts on the Earth System, its true significance lies in how it can be used to guide attitudes, choices, policies and actions that influence the future. Yet, to date much of the research on the Anthropocene has focused on interpreting past and present changes, while saying little about the future. Likewise, many futures studies have been insufficiently rooted in an understanding of past changes, in particular the long-term co-evolution of bio-physical and human systems. The Anthropocene perspective is one that encapsulates a world of intertwined drivers, complex dynamic structures, emergent phenomena and unintended consequences, manifest across different scales and within interlinked biophysical constraints and social conditions. In this paper we discuss the changing role of science and the theoretical, methodological and analytical challenges in considering futures of the Anthropocene. We present three broad groups of research questions on: (1) societal goals for the future; (2) major trends and dynamics that might favor or hinder them; (3) and factors that might propel or impede transformations towards desirable futures. Tackling these questions requires the development of novel approaches integrating natural and social sciences as well as the humanities beyond what is current today. We present three examples, one from each group of questions, illustrating how science might contribute to the identification of desirable and plausible futures and pave the way for transformations towards them. We argue that it is time for debates on the sustainability of the Anthropocene to focus on opportunities for realizing desirable and plausible futures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ICT-enabled virtual and remote labs have become a platform augmenting user engagement in blended education scenarios enhancing University education in rural India. A novel trend is the use of remote laboratories as learning and teaching tools in classrooms and elsewhere. This paper reports case studies based on our deployment of 20 web-based virtual labs with more than 170+ online experiments in Biotechnology and Biomedical engineering discipline with content for undergraduate and postgraduate education. Via hands-on workshops and direct feedback using questionnaires, we studied the role of remote lab experiments as learning and teaching tools. Although less reliable than direct feedback, we also included online feedback to perceive blended and remote learning styles among various users. Student and teacher user groups suggested significant usage adaptability of experimental process and indicated usage of remote labs as supplementary tools for complementing laboratory education. Usage analysis implicated the role of online labs as interactive textbooks augmenting student interaction and positive correlates to learning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The world׳s eel fisheries are in a state of crisis. While an increasing number of studies have documented the biophysical dynamics of the decrease in eel populations in Canada and around the world, studies documenting fishing practices, fisheries management, and the impact of eel declines on the livelihoods of fishermen are still rare. This paper aims to contribute to this discussion by examining the American eel ( Anguilla rostrata ) fishery in the St. Lawrence River Estuary, positioning it within larger historical, economic, and socio-environmental contexts. More particularly, it explores the issues these fishermen face as a consequence of the declining eel population, changing management practices, global trends in eel commercialization, and initiatives taken to promote eel fishing and the landscape that surrounds it as an important component of natural and cultural heritage. It is argued that these changes, many of which have been amplified by neoliberal policy shifts, have contributed to the marginalization of eel fishers and are making their future increasingly uncertain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines vulnerability to climate change in the context of multiple stressors through a case study of Funafuti, Tuvalu. Climate change research in Pacific Islands has largely focused on biophysical changes such as sea-level rise. Less is known about how livelihoods are affected and what adaptation options are realistic. The research employs a vulnerability framework to identify where climate fits in the suite of forces (socioeconomic, cultural, environmental) already affecting livelihoods. The participatory approach includes semi-structured interviews with community members, initially without reference to climate. Key areas of concern to people in Funafuti are economic, food, water and overcrowding, rather than climate change. Vulnerability to changing climatic conditions is evident in water, land, and food through the interaction of non-climatic forces (e.g. overcrowding, urbanization, few economic opportunities, changing land use, and shifting cultural norms), and climatic forces (e.g. dry spells, extreme sea-levels, strong winds and changing marine conditions). Adaptations, beyond bearing the effects and sharing the burden, are mainly reactive and short-term. Future changes in climate will be experienced in the context of these multiple, interacting forces, and adaptation initiatives will need to be designed in light of these. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adaptive governance focuses our attention on the relationships between science and management, whereby the so-called ‘gaps’ between these groups are seen to hinder effective adaptive responses to biophysical change. Yet the relationships between science and governance, knowledge and action, remain under theorized in discussions of adaptive governance, which largely focuses on abstract design principles or preferred institutional arrangements. In contrast, the metaphor of co-production highlights the social and political processes through which science, policy, and practice co-evolve. Co-production is invoked as a normative goal ( Mitchell et al., 2004 ) and analytical lens ( Jasanoff, 2004a,b ), both of which provide useful insight into the processes underpinning adaptive governance. This paper builds on and integrates these disparate views to reconceptualize adaptive governance as a process of co-production. I outline an alternative conceptual framing, ‘co-productive governance’, that articulates the context, knowledge, process, and vision of governance. I explore these ideas through two cases of connectivity conservation, which draws on conservation science to promote collaborative cross-scale governance. This analysis highlights the ways in which the different contexts of these cases produced very different framings and responses to the same propositions of science and governance. Drawing on theoretical and empirical material, co-productive governance moves beyond long standing debates that institutions can be rationally crafted or must emerge from context resituate adaptive governance in a more critical and contextualized space. This reframing focuses on the process of governance through an explicit consideration of how normative considerations shape the interactions between knowledge and power, science and governance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstracts of papers for the Environmental/Radon Section's special session on Radioecology at the 55th Annual Meeting of the Health Physics Society on June 30, 2010 are presented including the papers entitled "Radioecology: Pressing Forward," by J. Whicker, F. Whicker and D. Breshears, "Recent Advances in Radioecology," J. Garnier-Laplace, R. Gilbin, F. Alonzo and T. Hinton and "The Need for Transparency in Choosing Transfer Factors for Radioecological and Radiological Assessments," by K. Higley.

Abstract: Marine social-ecological systems are complex, inter-connected, and highly dynamic, in particular when forced with global changes. However, their human social components are often treated separately from their biophysical components, and by different scientific disciplines. To help bridge these gaps, and to explore conceptual, comparative, and governance issues relating to marine social-ecological systems and global change, an international symposium was held on “Coping with global change in marine social-ecological systems”. This short paper provides an introduction to this topic, and briefly describes nine papers which arose from this symposium and which comprise this special issue of Marine Policy. It is concluded that good progress is being made towards studying marine social and ecological systems as coupled systems, but that many issues remain to challenge natural scientists, social scientists, and humanists to work together. These include incorporating multi-stakeholder participation, the need for a long-term perspective, and development of flexible livelihood and governance strategies. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this paper a full description of the mechanistic model of the cells irradiation is presented. The model is based on the computational Quasi-Markov Chain Monte Carlo method with a stochastic tree of probabilities and using the biophysical input. The biophysics of the cells is described by the probabilities and probability distributions provided as an input. Many biophysical aspects are implemented into the model, i.e. the adaptive response effect or the bystander effect. It results in the sigmoidal relationships for carcinogenic risk as a function of the irradiation. The methodology used makes the model universal and practical for the simulations of general processes. However, the presented theoretical model does not describe the real cells and tissues. Also the exposure geometry, type of radiation as well as microdosimetry are not taken into account in this model. The model is focused mainly on the creation of general and maximal wide mathematical description of irradiated hypothetical cells treated as complex physical systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This paper aims to advance two objectives: (1) identify and explore greenhouse gas emissions from urban areas in Asia at the regional level; and (2) explore covariates of urban greenhouse gas emissions. We use the Emissions Database for Global Atmospheric Research estimates for carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, and sulfur hexafluoride from 14 source activities for the year 2000, which are allocated on a 1/10° global grid. We extract emissions for 3535 urban extents all with populations over 50,000, accounting for approximately 91% of the region''s urban population. We use regression analysis to associate emissions with urban area and growth, economic, and biophysical characteristics. Our findings suggest that urban areas account for between 30 and 38% of total anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions for the region and that emission per capita averages from urban areas are lower than those at the national level. Important covariates for total urban greenhouse gas emissions include population size, density and growth rate, income per capita, development status and elevation. This is a first and preliminary assessment of regional baseline trends using these data and this top-down analysis. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This controlled, randomized, in vitro study evaluated the shear bond strength of several seventh generation bonding agents on the dentin of primary teeth. Six different adhesives were used: Xeno IV, Clearfil S3 Bond, Adper Prompt-L-Pop, AdheSE One, Bond Force, and Optibond (control). Ninety primary teeth were prepared by wet grinding with a 320-grit silicon carbide paper on a polishing wheel running at 110 RPM. After 24 hours of storage in water, shear bond strengths of each group were determined. The mean shear bond strength of the tested adhesive systems to primary dentin was 12.27 MPa. One-way ANOVA testing showed a statistically significant difference between adhesive products (P< 0.001). Tukey HSD post hoc tests were used to assess which means were significantly different from one another. There was no statistically significant difference between the fifth generation adhesive system (Optibond) and the two seventh generation systems (Xeno IV and Bond Force), with Optibond exhibiting a lower mean shear bond strength compared to Bond Force. Within the limitations of this study, there is a significant difference between seventh generation bonding materials. Bond Force and Optibond appear to exhibit higher shear bond strengths than the other products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The application of cleaning and polishing agents to a patient's dentition is a routine part of many dental practices. This study measured the surface roughness and surface gloss of tooth enamel, composite resin, and dental porcelain restorative materials when exposed to a paste-free prophylaxis polishing cup as well as a conventional prophylaxis polishing paste. Samples of human tooth enamel, a composite resin restorative material, and dental porcelain were prepared by a series of polishing papers to produce a flat smooth surface. The baseline average surface roughness (Ra) was measured using a contact stylus profilometer, and the surface gloss was measured with a glossmeter. The test samples were subjected to a standardized polishing routine using a paste-free prophylaxis polishing cup and a fine- or coarse-particle prophylaxis paste. Post-treatment surface roughness and gloss measurements were compared using a paired t statistical test. The conventional prophylaxis pastes increased surface roughness and decreased the gloss of the composite resin and tooth enamel test groups. The paste-free cups did not significantly affect the surface roughness of the enamel or the restorative materials. Dental porcelain surface roughness essentially was not affected by the application of paste-free cups and the fine and coarse pastes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The modeling of the electrical activity of the heart is of great medical and scientific interest as it provides a way to better understand the underlying biophysical phenomena, supports the development of new techniques for diagnoses and serves as a platform for drug tests. At cellular level, the electrical activity of cardiac myocytes may be simulated by solving a system of ordinary di_erential equations (ODEs) describing the electrical behavior of the cell membrane. Because the biophysical processes underlying this phenomenon are non-linear and change very rapidly, the ODE system is challenging to solve numerically. Furthermore, the implementation of these models is a hard task. This paper presents a tool to describe models using Ordinary Differential Equations. It is based on CellML standard and automatically generates C++ source-code, with numerical methods to solve the model''s equations. The aim of this work is to present a numerical method with adaptive time step based on the Euler Method and Second Order Runge-Kutta method. The proposed method accelerated the execution and kept numerical errors under control. Preliminary results suggest this adaptive method is up to 25 times faster than the explicit Euler method with fixed time step. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Copyright of Revista Odonto Ciencia is the property of EDIPUCRS - Editora Universitaria da PUCRS and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Abstract: The most common challenges and obstacles encountered by construction organizations during the process of implementing and using environmental management systems are related to the inherent peculiarities of the construction sector. Several studies have shown that one of the issues involving the greatest level of uncertainty is the identification and assessment of environmental impacts. In order to improve the identification of the significance of environmental impacts of construction projects and sites, which will lead to greater efficiency and robustness in environmental management systems, this paper extends the systematic approach for identifying and assessing potential adverse environmental impacts at the pre-construction stage presented in Gangolells et al. (2009) by introducing the assessment of the concerns of interested parties. By considering concerns amongst internal and external interested parties, one can assess the significance of environmental impacts taking into account not only the severity of the impacts but also local perceptions and international challenges, thereby ensuring that the determination of the impacts’ significance is appropriate to the particular socioeconomic and biophysical environments surrounding construction sites. In order to quantitatively measure concerns among internal and external interested parties for each of the 37 environmental impacts related to a construction project, we developed corresponding indicators and assessment scales with the help of a panel of experts. A series of χ 2 tests conducted over 76 new-start construction projects clearly revealed that the severity of environmental impacts is not correlated with the concerns of interested parties. The development of a formal quantitative method and the subsequent definition of a threshold make it possible to obtain advance knowledge of the significance – and, therefore, the acceptability – of each potential environmental impact for a particular construction project. A total score for each construction project alternative is also obtained, so the improved methodology provides a consistent basis for comparing construction companies and construction sites. Finally, two case studies are presented in order to demonstrate the benefits of the improved methodology. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper outlines concepts of mechanics used in orthopaedics. These concepts are then demonstrated (assuming only a basic understanding of physics) with relevance to the hip and knee, and used to explain some common conditions. Some equations are used in this article for completeness; they are not essential to understanding the core principles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The amount of land consumption required for housing and transport severely conflicts with both the necessity and the legal obligation to maintain the ecological potential afforded by open spaces to meet the needs of current and future generations with regards to the protection of resources and climate change. Owing to an increasing intensity of soil use, soil conditions appear to have deteriorated in most city regions around the world, namely their filter and runoff regulating functions are impaired by land surfacing. As such soil functions depend on the soil''s biophysical properties and the degree of imperviousness, the impact on the water balance caused by urban growth varies considerably. In response to the demand for sustainably secure urban water resources, it needs to be assessed exactly how land surfacing affects the functions concerned. Analysing and evaluating urban land use change on the long-term water balance should improve our understanding of the impact of urbanisation on the water household. Therefore, this paper analyses the impact of urban land use change and land surfacing on the long-term urban water balance over a 130-year trajectory by using simple model approaches that are based on data available to the public. The test site is the city of Leipzig. In particular, attention is to be paid to estimating changes of evapotranspiration, direct runoff and groundwater recharge. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Copyright of Physiotherapy / Fizjoterapia is the property of Physiotherapy and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Land use patterns influence the long-term productivity of agro-ecosystems and result from socio-economic as well as biophysical and climatic drivers. This paper qualitatively examines how past demographic and political-economic changes in southern Romania twice led to vulnerable socio-economic and agro-ecological systems. Drawing on this case study, we establish broad-brush hypotheses identifying some of the potential causes of vulnerability. We suggest that vulnerable systems appear more likely to occur when socio-political uncertainty combines with a lack of off-farm employment in regions where there are abundant natural capital stocks that can be quickly liquidated. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The paper presents a design methodology and a case study for monocular head-mounted displays (HMDs), wherein a user can simultaneously and easily see the physical world by looking through and/or around the display. The design approach is user-focused because of the complexity of the human visual system, and because HMDs are very task, user, and context specific. A literature review of factors related to HMD design is given. This includes considerations for basic optical design, the human visual system, and head and neck biomechanics. General HMD design guidelines are given based on these considerations. For the specific case study on fire-fighting, it is recommended that the HMD be mounted at 15° to 45° below the Frankfurt plane, with a 15° to 40° field of view. A resolution of 20-60 px/deg should be focused at 1 m or farther. The neck joint torque due to the HMD should not exceed about 1 Nm. This equates to a typical maximum weight of 0.5 to 1 kg depending on the mounting location. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The past decade has seen substantial growth in research into how changes in the biomechanical and biophysical properties of cells and subcellular structures influence, and are influenced by, the onset and progression of human diseases. This paper presents an overview of the rapidly expanding, nascent field of research that deals with the biomechanics and biophysics of cancer cells. The review begins with some key observations on the biology of cancer cells and on the role of actin microfilaments, intermediate filaments and microtubule biopolymer cytoskeletal components in influencing cell mechanics, locomotion, differentiation and neoplastic transformation. In order to set the scene for mechanistic discussions of the connections among alterations to subcellular structures, attendant changes in cell deformability, cytoadherence, migration, invasion and tumor metastasis, a survey is presented of the various quantitative mechanical and physical assays to extract the elastic and viscoelastic deformability of cancer cells. Results available in the literature on cell mechanics for different types of cancer are then reviewed. Representative case studies are presented next to illustrate how chemically induced cytoskeletal changes, biomechanical responses and signals from the intracellular regions act in concert with the chemomechanical environment of the extracellular matrix and the molecular tumorigenic signaling pathways to effect malignant transformations. Results are presented to illustrate how changes to cytoskeletal architecture induced by cancer drugs and chemotherapy regimens can significantly influence cell mechanics and disease state. It is reasoned through experimental evidence that greater understanding of the mechanics of cancer cell deformability and its interactions with the extracellular physical, chemical and biological environments offers enormous potential for significant new developments in disease diagnostics, prophylactics, therapeutics and drug efficacy assays. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This paper describes the development and use of an instrument mechanically to impact bovine articular cartilage and record the event using a piezoelectric accelerometer, as well as to carry out post-impact characterization of the tissue. Two levels of impact (low: 6 cm drop height, 18.4 N tup; high: 10 cm drop height, 27.8 N tup) were chosen such that the former did not show gross damage upon inspection, while the latter showed substantial gross damage. Peak stress, time to peak stress, and impact duration were taken from data recorded by the instrument. Three cartilage biomechanical properties (aggregate modulus, Poisson's ratio, and permeability) were acquired by creep indentation, and tissue morphology rated on a standardized scale was also determined. When subjected to the high level of impact, articular cartilage showed statistically significant (p < 0.05) differences in all three impact metrics and morphology. This high level of impact also resulted in a 37 per cent decrease in the aggregate modulus of the tissue. Lower drop heights resulted in more consistent impact curves, demonstrated less standard deviation, and did not change the biomechanical properties of the tissues. With the instrument and techniques described in this study, articular cartilage can be subjected to specific levels of impact in order to study injury biomechanics of the tissue at specific levels of mechanical damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents results of estimated radiation risks of non-cancer thyroid diseases in the people from Kaluga and Bryansk regions of the Russian Federation exposed in their childhood to radioiodine as a result of the Chernobyl accident. This work was carried out under the Joint Medical Research Project on non-cancer thyroid diseases conducted by Sasakawa Memorial Health Foundation and the Medical Radiological Research Center of the Russian Academy of Medical Sciences. The subjects were 2,457 people who underwent health examinations from 1997 to the end of 1999 who had individual radiometric thyroid data obtained between May and June 1986 and were aged 10 y or less at the time of exposure. The thyroid absorbed doses from incorporated 131I were estimated on the basis of measurements of exposure dose rate in the vicinity of the subject's thyroid and liver. A compartment model accounting for 131I metabolism in humans and cows was used. The estimated dose varied from 0 to 6 Gy, and its distribution was approximately lognormal with a mean of 0.132 Gy and standard deviation of 0.45 Gy. The prevalence of diffuse goiter in males showed a significant dose-response (p = 0.03) with an estimated odds ratio 1.36 at 1 Gy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper studies a steady axisymmetric flow in a constricted rigid tube. A shear-thinning fluid modelling the deformation-dependent viscosity of the blood is proposed. The motion equation is written in vorticity-streamfunction formulation and is solved numerically by a finite difference scheme. The flow pattern with the distributions of pressure and shear stress at the wall are computed. The dependence of the flow on the dimensionless parameters has been investigated and differences from the Newtonian case are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the authors extend their study of wall mechanics given in Part 1 to the overall problem of fluid-solid interactions in arterial flows. Fluid-solid coupling has become a specific topic in computational methods and applied mechanics. In this review, firstly, the effects of elasticity of blood vessels on wave propagation and local flow patterns in large arteries are discussed. Then, numerical techniques are reviewed together with the alternative coupled methods available in fluid--wall models. Finally, a novel numerical alogorithm combining two commercial codes for coupled solid/fluid problems is presented. As a consequence of the present studies, wall effects are now able to be included in predictions of haemodynamics in a clinical context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The structural response of a large artery is characteristically complex and includes the highly non-linear, history-dependent response of a nonhomogeneous anisotropic structure undergoing finite deformations. The mechanics of the arterial wall has been studied for nearly two centuries. The goals of such research range from the desire to have a basic knowledge and understanding of the mechanics and physiology of this complex structure to the need for data and methods for the design of arterial prostheses. In this paper, the models for arterial wall behaviour are critically reviewed. Firstly, the structure and general characteristics of the arterial wall are discussed. This is followed by a comprehensive review of the constitutive laws. Finally, structural analyses of the arterial wall by mathematical and numerical methods are discussed. Predictions using the authors' preferred models give focus to important issues, and in Part 2 the review and predictions are extended to the fluid solid coupled situation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper is centered on a social innovation design project which is being developed in the village of Azaruja, in the southeast of Portugal. The objective is to build a co-creative action with the local people, anchored on a local natural resource - cork - which is peeled from the cork oaks that characterize the place landscape. This project is focused on the labour activities related with cork that define the people and the place, which is understood in the present investigation in all its complexity, combining human, biophysical, geographical, economic, political, social, cultural, historical and ecological dimensions. The paper begins with Hannah Arendt'svita activaconcept, which is crucial in distinguishing between the notions oflabour,workandaction. This is followed by some considerations about design anthropology in order to understand the methodology used in the co-creation process. Finally, the case study is described and examined its co-design methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The carotid sinus is a dilated area at the base of the internal carotid artery of humans and is located immediately superior to the bifurcation of the internal and external carotid arteries. It is widely accepted, in the fields of medicine and physiology, to function as a baroreceptor in its central control role. This paper presents a hypothesis challenging this paradigm - that the carotid sinus functions by detecting oscillations at the vessel wall which result from shear stress due to vortical flow. This is contrary to conventional thinking which presumes that the carotid sinus responds to blood pressure or wall pressure. Our hypothesis is based on anatomy, physiology and physical properties of fluid which make the sinus the area of highest vorticity. Utilizing magnetic resonance angiograms of undiseased carotid vessels, we computed the oscillatory shear index (OSI) via a computational fluid dynamics simulation of flow. This region of highest OSI coincides with the area where the nerve to the carotid sinus lies within the vessel wall. Accordingly, the hypothesis is that the carotid sinus acts as a mechanotransducer of wall shear stress oscillation and not as a baroreceptor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents abstracts of papers related to academic accreditation of health physics programs under ASC ABET 2000. They include "ABET and Health Physics Accreditation," "Accreditation of Academic Health Physics Programs-The Program Evaluators' Perspective," "The Health Physics ABET Accreditation Experience at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas," "The Health Physics ABET Accreditation Experience at Oregon State University," and "The Idaho State University ABET Accreditation Experience."

Abstracts of papers for the second special session on Radiological Incident Consequence Management at the 55th Annual Meeting of the Health Physics Society on June 30, 2010 are presented including the papers entitled "Recent Research to Improve Response Planning for the Aftermath of a Nuclear Detonation," by B. Buddemeier, "Assessment of External Dose from Nuclear Fallout," by B. Hunt and T. Kraus and "10 Point Monitoring Strategy," by R. Stump.

Abstracts of papers for the first special session on Radiological Incident Consequence Management at the 55th Annual Meeting of the Health Physics Society on June 30, 2010 are presented including the papers entitled "Field Test of Thermo Mobile Detection System (MDS) Via Vehicle, Boat, and Helicopter," by E. Baldini, "The Empire 09 Full-Scale Exercise," by D. Blumenthal and "A State Perspective on Nuclear Detonation Preparedness and Consequence Management," by J. Lanza.

The article informs that organizers of meetings related to health physics are invited to send announcements and calls for papers to the News Editor of the periodical "Health Physics" well in advance. Societies may also submit forward schedules. A list of meetings is maintained with the journal issue in which a notice appeared in brackets.