bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Three-layered sandwich material for lightweight applications
Authors: Palkowski Heinz , Carradò Adele
Published: January 2014

Multifunctionality and the demand for improving the properties of construction materials make it necessary to leave the approach of monomaterials and combine them to fabricate composite structures, such as combinations of metals with polymers. This article focuses on metal–polymer–metal sandwich sheets. Bonding is improved using adhesive layers. These sandwich sheets are designed for their mechanical and thermal properties, working capacity and so on. A short background of composites structures, to be used in the automotive and aerospace industry, is presented. Moreover, fabricating processes and forming methods for composites are briefly introduced. Finally, a study of 316L/polypropylene/316L sandwich sheets, manufactured in a roll-bonding process and heating press process, is introduced. Their mechanical behavior and formability by deep drawing are discussed.
Numeric modelling of vertical drains: two- and three-dimensional analyses
Authors: Venda Oliveira Paulo J. , Cruz Rui F. P. M. L. , Lemos Luis. J. L. , Almeida e Sousa Jorge N. V.
Published: January 2014

This paper compares two-dimensional (2D) with three-dimensional (3D) water flow modelling used to predict the behaviour of an embankment built on a soft soil improved with prefabricated vertical drains. The three-dimensional analysis is performed considering the field pattern of the vertical drains, whereas in the two-dimensional analyses the verticals drains are simulated in two ways, using an equivalent overall permeability and considering the draining walls. The numerical predictions are compared with one another and with the field data in terms of settlement, horizontal displacement and excess pore pressure. The two-dimensional analyses provide similar results to the three-dimensional modelling in terms of settlement and horizontal displacement. Naturally, the time evolution of the excess pore pressure depends on the drainage conditions, which differ in the cases studied. In general, it is concluded that the use of two-dimensional modelling, employing an equivalent overall permeability, is sufficiently accurate for practical applications.
Reliability-based ultimate limit state design of spread footings on aggregate-pier-reinforced clay
Authors: Stuedlein Armin W. , Huffman Jonathan C. , Reddy Seth
Published: January 2014

This paper summarises the evaluation of previously existing and recently developed bearing capacity estimation methods for spread footings resting on aggregate pier reinforced clay. A load test database of full-scale footings resting on stone columns was used to generate an accurate ultimate limit state design model for bearing capacity and characterise the associated model uncertainty. Different levels of variability in area replacement ratio, slenderness ratio, length of pier, depth of footing embedment, and undrained shear strength, were incorporated in the resistance factor calibration in order to account for possible uncertainty in the load test database and future construction. Resistance factors were calibrated as a function of the ratio of dead to live load, reliability index, and total variability in the nominal bearing capacity. The operational factor of safety was computed for comparison to allowable stress design procedures and indicated that typical factors of safety associated with current practices can continue to be used for soil deposits with moderate variability.
Influence of the composition of powder-type SCC on conversion factors for compressive strength
Authors: Van Der Vurst Farid , Boel Veerle , Craeye Bart , Desnerck Pieter , De Schutter Geert
Published: January 2014

Depending on practical considerations and standards, different types of test specimens are used for the determination of the uniaxial compressive strength of concrete. Appropriate conversion factors, also referred to as shape factors, are needed to convert the compressive strength as determined on one type of specimen to the equivalent compressive strength of another type of specimen. As such shape factors for vibrated concrete are influenced by the composition of the concrete, questions arise concerning the factors that affect the shape factors for powder-type self-compacting concrete (SCC). This paper describes the findings of an extensive research programme performed by three laboratories on the influencing parameters of the shape factors for SCC. Concrete composition parameters such as powder content, cement/powder ratio, water/cement ratio and the type of coarse aggregates, cement, filler and plasticiser appear to have little effect on the experimentally obtained shape factors. Any possible influence on compressive strength was overshadowed by experimental scatter.
Evaluating the cumulative rainfall deviation approach for projecting groundwater levels under future climate
Authors: Emelyanova I. , Ali R. , Dawes W. , Varma S. , Hodgson G. , McFarlane D.
Published: January 2014

In south-western Australia (SWA) groundwater levels have been declining under the changing climate associated with a decline of rainfall. Possible future groundwater yields in SWA have been estimated under a range of climate change scenarios using a number of numerical groundwater models. For the Northern Perth Basin (NPB) in SWA, where no groundwater models were available, a relatively simple statistical method CDFM (Cumulative Deviation from Mean) has been applied using HARTT (Hydrograph Analysis and Rainfall Time Trends), an automated derivation of the CDFM. This study has evaluated the potential of the CDFM to project groundwater levels under various future climate scenarios in the NPB. Firstly, HARTT projections were validated by comparing with the modelled hydrographs in areas where numerical groundwater models were available. It was evident that HARTT may overestimate future declines or rises in groundwater levels depending on the time a new climate regime is imposed on the model. Secondly, HARTT was applied to suitable bores in the NPB under future climate scenarios. HARTT projected a slight decline under a drier future climate than under the historical future climate and a moderate or slight rise in groundwater levels under a wetter future climate. If historical climatic conditions continue until 2030, groundwater levels are expected to slightly rise in the NPB.
Assessing decentralised wastewater treatment technologies: correlating technology selection to system robustness, energy consumption and GHG emission
Authors: Chong Meng Nan , Ho Angel N. M. , Gardner Ted , Sharma Ashok K. , Hood Barry
Published: January 2014

In this study, we compared two different types of decentralised systems in South East Queensland (SEQ) designed to produce Class A+ recycled water, and assessed their system robustness to shock loads, energy consumption and fugitive greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. We found that through BioWin® modelling, the membrane reactor (MBR) system was relatively robust to hydraulic shock loads with tolerance up to 1.5 times of the design dry weather daily flow. However, the stability of nitrification process in MBR was significantly affected when the total nitrogen load in the influent increased by 30% while maintaining the constant inlet wastewater flow rate. For energy consumption, we found that the specific energy requirement for the MBR system was 6.1 kWh/kL of treated sewage, which was substantially higher than that for the other decentralised aerobic bio-filtration system (1.9 kWh/kL of treated sewage). We also used a mass balance approach to estimate the fugitive GHG emissions and concluded that electrical energy consumption data alone could substantially underestimate the overall GHG footprints for the decentralised systems. When the estimated CH4 fluxes were added to the energy consumption, the communal septic tanks with aerobic bio-filtration system generated a carbon dioxide equivalent footprint similar to that of the MBR system.
Assessment of future flood intensification in Central Vietnam using a super-high-resolution climate model output
Authors: Nam Do Hoai , Udo Keiko , Mano Akira
Published: January 2014

This paper presents an assessment of the changes in future floods. The ranked area-average heavy daily rainfall amounts simulated by a super-high-resolution (20 km mesh) global climate model output are corrected with consideration of the effects of the topography on heavy rainfall patterns and used as a basis to model design storm hyetographs. The rainfall data are then used as the input for a nearly calibration-free parameter rainfall–runoff model to simulate floods in the future climate (2075–2099) at the Upper Thu Bon River basin in Central Vietnam. The results show that although the future mean annual rainfall will not be considerably different compared to the present-day climate (1979–2003), extreme rainfall is projected to increase vigorously, leading to a similar order of intensification of future floods. It is very likely that the flood peak with a 25-year recurrence will increase approximately 42% relative to the present-day climate. The occurrence of floods with a 10-year recurrence may exceed those with a 25-year recurrence in the present-day climate. The projection results also exhibit insignificant uncertainties caused by an artificial neural network-based bias correction model. Additionally, the presented bias correction model shows advantages over a simple climatology scaling method.
Characterisation of Cancer Support and Rehabilitation Programmes: A Swedish Multiple Case Study
Authors: Berg Linda , Nolbris Margaretha Jenholt , Koinberg Ingalill , Melin-Johansson Christina , Möller Anders , Öhlén Joakim
Published: January 2014

Cancer support and rehabilitation are suggested to be an integral part of cancer care strategies. This study
focuses on comparativeness of cancer support and rehabilitation programmes. The aim of this study was to analyse
available cancer support and rehabilitation programmes in Sweden presented as complementary to cancer rehabilitation at
cancer clinics. A multiple case study design was chosen in order to inquire the small number of existing supportive and
rehabilitative cancer programmes. Based on the structures, processes and outcomes of the nine included programmes,
three types of cancer support and rehabilitation programmes were identified: multimodal rehabilitation, comprehensive
cancer support and art therapy. Cancer support and rehabilitation programmes offer a variety of activities and therapies
which are highly valuable and relevant for people with cancer. The typology of cancer support and rehabilitation
programmes and comparability between programmes need further inquiry.
Anti-individualism and rationality
Authors: Milojevic Miljana
Published: January 2014

Anti-individualists, which hold that subject's thoughts are not wholly
individuated by her intrinsic states, are accused of undermining subject?s
ability to reason well and that they do not capture correctly the epistemic
position of a thinking subject. These accusations are based on
anti-individualist's rejection of transparency of thought content which
allows that otherwise rational subjects may fail to make valid inferences,
may have contradictory beliefs, and may make invalid inferences. By
distinguishing between two kinds of anti-individualism, Fregean and
non-Fregean, Jessica Brown (2004) argues that while Fregean
anti-individualism better fits our intuitions about rationality it introduces
an unavoidable internal friction between the endorsement of Frege's principle
of content difference and rejection of transparency of difference of content,
which renders it untenable. In his 2008 paper Sanford Goldberg tries to
motivate these two principles on different grounds, thus providing an account
of anti-individualism which is completely compatible with Frege's principle
which should secure subject's rationality. We critically assess these claims
to conclude that attempts to reconcile traditional notion of rationality and
antiindividualism by way of saving validity of Frege's principle fail in
their intentions.
Is life in the state of nature solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short?
Authors: Zivanovic Igor
Published: January 2014

In this paper I intend to question Hobbes?s well known claim that the life in
the state of nature is ?solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short?. Without
leaving the framework of Hobbes?s materialism, naturalism and individualism,
then starting from the basic assumptions about human nature, I?ll try to show
that life in the state of nature would be far different from how it was
described by Hobbes. To achieve that I will try to show that the basic
Hobbes?s assumptions about human nature are too rigid and not entirely
factually based, though Hobbes insists that they are. For this reason, I
believe they are only partially justified. In accordance with the Hobbesian
naturalism some of the basic assumptions about human nature are reexamined
and amended with new information obtained in the natural and social sciences,
from biology to economics. On the basis of similar findings, some of the
underlying assumptions regarding Hobbes?s conception of the state of nature
as an ongoing conflict have been dropped. In the final part of the paper
Hobbesian views on property and property rights in the state of nature have
been critically evaluated. The implication of these analyses is that the
Hobbesian individuals wouldn?t choose to constitute the overwhelming state
apparatus.
Glycogen Synthase Kinase-3β Inhibition Ameliorates Cardiac Parasympathetic Dysfunction in Type 1 Diabetic Akita Mice
Authors: Zhang Yali , Welzig Charles M. , Picard Kristen L. , Du Chuang , Wang Bo , Pan Jen Q. , Kyriakis John M. , Aronovitz Mark J. , Claycomb William C. , Blanton Robert M. , Park Ho-Jin , Galper Jonas B.
Published: January 2014

Decreased heart rate variability (HRV) is a major risk factor for sudden death and cardiovascular disease. We previously demonstrated that parasympathetic dysfunction in the heart of the Akita type 1 diabetic mouse was due to a decrease in the level of the sterol response element–binding protein (SREBP-1). Here we demonstrate that hyperactivity of glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK3β) in the atrium of the Akita mouse results in decreased SREBP-1, attenuation of parasympathetic modulation of heart rate, measured as a decrease in the high-frequency (HF) fraction of HRV in the presence of propranolol, and a decrease in expression of the G-protein coupled inward rectifying K+ (GIRK4) subunit of the acetylcholine (ACh)-activated inward-rectifying K+ channel (IKACh), the ion channel that mediates the heart rate response to parasympathetic stimulation. Treatment of atrial myocytes with the GSK3β inhibitor Kenpaullone increased levels of SREBP-1 and expression of GIRK4 and IKACh, whereas a dominant-active GSK3β mutant decreased SREBP-1 and GIRK4 expression. In Akita mice treated with GSK3β inhibitors Li+ and/or CHIR-99021, Li+ increased IKACh, and Li+ and CHIR-99021 both partially reversed the decrease in HF fraction while increasing GIRK4 and SREBP-1 expression. These data support the conclusion that increased GSK3β activity in the type 1 diabetic heart plays a critical role in parasympathetic dysfunction through an effect on SREBP-1, supporting GSK3β as a new therapeutic target for diabetic autonomic neuropathy.
Decreasing Cx36 Gap Junction Coupling Compensates for Overactive KATP Channels to Restore Insulin Secretion and Prevent Hyperglycemia in a Mouse Model of Neonatal Diabetes
Authors: Nguyen Linda M. , Pozzoli Marina , Hraha Thomas H. , Benninger Richard K.P.
Published: January 2014

Mutations to the ATP-sensitive K+ channel (KATP channel) that reduce the sensitivity of ATP inhibition cause neonatal diabetes mellitus via suppression of β-cell glucose-stimulated free calcium activity ([Ca2+]i) and insulin secretion. Connexin-36 (Cx36) gap junctions also regulate islet electrical activity; upon knockout of Cx36, β-cells show [Ca2+]i elevations at basal glucose. We hypothesized that in the presence of overactive ATP-insensitive KATP channels, a reduction in Cx36 would allow elevations in glucose-stimulated [Ca2+]i and insulin secretion to improve glucose homeostasis. To test this, we introduced a genetic knockout of Cx36 into mice that express ATP-insensitive KATP channels and measured glucose homeostasis and islet metabolic, electrical, and insulin secretion responses. In the normal presence of Cx36, after expression of ATP-insensitive KATP channels, blood glucose levels rapidly rose to >500 mg/dL. Islets from these mice showed reduced glucose-stimulated [Ca2+]i and no insulin secretion. In mice lacking Cx36 after expression of ATP-insensitive KATP channels, normal glucose levels were maintained. Islets from these mice had near-normal glucose-stimulated [Ca2+]i and insulin secretion. We therefore demonstrate a novel mechanism by which islet function can be recovered in a monogenic model of diabetes. A reduction of gap junction coupling allows sufficient glucose-stimulated [Ca2+]i and insulin secretion to prevent the emergence of diabetes.
The Baf60c/Deptor Pathway Links Skeletal Muscle Inflammation to Glucose Homeostasis in Obesity
Authors: Meng Zhuo-Xian , Wang Lin , Xiao Yuanyuan , Lin Jiandie D.
Published: January 2014

Skeletal muscle insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes is associated with a shift from oxidative to glycolytic metabolism in myofibers. However, whether this metabolic switch is detrimental or adaptive for metabolic homeostasis has not been resolved. We recently demonstrated that the Baf60c/Deptor pathway promotes glycolytic metabolism in the muscle and protects mice from diet-induced insulin resistance. However, the nature of the signals that impinge on this pathway and the role of Baf60c in glucose homeostasis in the severe insulin-resistant state remain unknown. Here we show that expression of Baf60c and Deptor was downregulated in skeletal muscle in obesity, accompanied by extracellular signal–related kinase (ERK) activation. In cultured myotubes, inhibition of ERK, but not Jun NH2-terminal kinase and IκB kinase, blocked the downregulation of Baf60c and Deptor by the proinflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor-α. Treatment of obese mice with the ERK inhibitor U0126 rescued Baf60c and Deptor expression in skeletal muscle and lowered blood glucose. Transgenic rescue of Baf60c in skeletal muscle restored Deptor expression and Akt phosphorylation and ameliorated insulin resistance in ob/ob mice. This study identifies the Baf60c/Deptor pathway as a target of proinflammatory signaling in skeletal muscle that may link meta-inflammation to skeletal myofiber metabolism and insulin resistance.
Cdc2-Like Kinase 2 Suppresses Hepatic Fatty Acid Oxidation and Ketogenesis Through Disruption of the PGC-1α and MED1 Complex
Authors: Tabata Mitsuhisa , Rodgers Joseph T. , Hall Jessica A. , Lee Yoonjin , Jedrychowski Mark P. , Gygi Steven P. , Puigserver Pere
Published: January 2014

Hepatic ketogenesis plays an important role in catabolism of fatty acids during fasting along with dietary lipid overload, but the mechanisms regulating this process remain poorly understood. Here, we show that Cdc2-like kinase 2 (Clk2) suppresses fatty acid oxidation and ketone body production during diet-induced obesity. In lean mice, hepatic Clk2 protein is very low during fasting and strongly increased during feeding; however, in diet-induced obese mice, Clk2 protein remains elevated through both fed and fasted states. Liver-specific Clk2 knockout mice fed a high-fat diet exhibit increased fasting levels of blood ketone bodies, reduced respiratory exchange ratio, and increased gene expression of fatty acid oxidation and ketogenic pathways. This effect of Clk2 is cell-autonomous, because manipulation of Clk2 in hepatocytes controls genes and rates of fatty acid utilization. Clk2 phosphorylation of peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor γ coactivator (PGC-1α) disrupts its interaction with Mediator subunit 1, which leads to a suppression of PGC-1α activation of peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor α target genes in fatty acid oxidation and ketogenesis. These data demonstrate the importance of Clk2 in the regulation of fatty acid metabolism in vivo and suggest that inhibition of hepatic Clk2 could provide new therapies in the treatment of fatty liver disease.
The Extracellular Matrix Protein MAGP1 Supports Thermogenesis and Protects Against Obesity and Diabetes Through Regulation of TGF-β
Authors: Craft Clarissa S. , Pietka Terri A. , Schappe Timothy , Coleman Trey , Combs Michelle D. , Klein Samuel , Abumrad Nada A. , Mecham Robert P.
Published: January 2014

Microfibril-associated glycoprotein 1 (MAGP1) is a component of extracellular matrix microfibrils. Here we show that MAGP1 expression is significantly altered in obese humans, and inactivation of the MAGP1 gene (Mfap2−/−) in mice results in adipocyte hypertrophy and predisposition to metabolic dysfunction. Impaired thermoregulation was evident in Mfap2−/− mice prior to changes in adiposity, suggesting a causative role for MAGP1 in the increased adiposity and predisposition to diabetes. By 5 weeks of age, Mfap2−/− mice were maladaptive to cold challenge, uncoupling protein-1 expression was attenuated in the brown adipose tissue, and there was reduced browning of the subcutaneous white adipose tissue. Levels of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) activity were elevated in Mfap2−/− adipose tissue, and the treatment of Mfap2−/− mice with a TGF-β–neutralizing antibody improved their body temperature and prevented the increased adiposity phenotype. Together, these findings indicate that the regulation of TGF-β by MAGP1 is protective against the effects of metabolic stress, and its absence predisposes individuals to metabolic dysfunction.
Nanoparticles synthesis by electron beam radiolysis
Authors: Călinescu Ioan , Martin Diana , Ighigeanu Daniel , Gavrila Adina , Trifan Adrian , Patrascu Mariana , Munteanu Cornel , Diacon Aurel , Manaila Elena , Craciun Gabriela
Published: January 2014

Electron beam (EB) irradiation is a useful method to generate stable silver nanoparticles without the interference of inherent impurities generated from chemical reactions. Our experiments were carried out using linear electron beam accelerators with two different EB absorbed dose rates: 2 kGy min−1 and 7–8 kGy s−1, and with different absorbed dose levels. The optimum conditions for silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) generation by radiolysis, or by radiolysis combined with chemical reduction, were established. In order to obtain a good yield for AgNPs synthesized by radiolysis, a high dose rate is required, resulting in a rapid production process. At low absorbed dose rates, the utilization of a stabilization agent is advisable. By modifying the experimental conditions, the ratio between the chemical and radiolytic reduction process can be adjusted, thus it is possible to obtain nanoparticles with tailored characteristics, depending on the desired application.
Influence of vegetable oil on the synthesis of bioactive nanocarriers with broad spectrum photoprotection
Authors: Niculae Gabriela , Lacatusu Ioana , Badea Nicoleta , Meghea Aurelia , Stan Raluca
Published: January 2014

Due to their unique features, most nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) in association with vegetable oils that exhibit UV filtering properties and bioactivity could be used in many cosmetic formulations. Therefore, in this work, a new application of pomegranate seed oil (PSO) in the cosmetic sector was developed, based on the synthesis of bioactive lipid nanocarriers loaded with various UV filters by the hot high pressure homogenization technique. To get broad spectrum photoprotection, different UVA and UVB filters have been used (Avobenzone — AVO, Octocrylen-OCT, Bemotrizinol — BEMT). The influence of the solid lipids combined with PSO on the particle size, physical stability and entrapment efficiency was investigated using 8 nanocarrier systems. An improved physical stability and an appropriate size were obtained for NLCs prepared with Emulgade, carnauba wax and PSO (e.g. −30.9÷-36.9 mV and 160÷185 nm). NLCs showed an entrapment efficiency above 90% and assured slow release rates of UV filters, especially for BEMT (5%). The developed nanocarriers have been formulated into safe and effective sunscreens containing low amounts of synthetic UV filters coupled with a high percent of natural ingredients. The highest SPF of 34.3 was obtained for a cream comprising of 11% PSO and 3.7% BEMT
Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast immobilized on marrow stem sunflower and polyacrylamide hydrogels
Authors: Calinescu Ioan , Chipurici Petre , Alexandrescu Elvira , Trifan Adrian
Published: January 2014

Biocatalysts with microorganisms immobilized on solid carriers could provide the solution for development of continuous industrial processes for ethanol obtaining by fermentation of sugars. In this study, modified polyacrylamide hydrogels and marrow stem sunflower are used as supports for Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast immobilization. The obtained structures are used for fermentation of molasses in batch systems. The free yeast cells are used as reference. The modification of polyacrilamide matrix with (2-hydroxyethyl)methacrylate has a positive effect on structure pore uniformity and fermentation performance. The mechanical properties of the obtained biocatalysts are compared. The novel natural matrix has net superior compression strength.
Suppression of neurocan and enhancement of axonal density in rats after treatment of traumatic brain injury with scaffolds impregnated with bone marrow stromal cells
Authors: Mahmood Asim , Wu Hongtao , Qu Changsheng , Mahmood Selina , Xiong Ye , Kaplan David L. , Chopp Michael
Published: January 2014

Object

Neurocan is a major form of growth-inhibitory molecule (growth-IM) that suppresses axonal regeneration after neural injury. Bone marrow stromal cells (MSCs) have been shown to inhibit neurocan expression in vitro and in animal models of cerebral ischemia. Therefore, the present study was designed to investigate the effects of treatment of MSCs impregnated with collagen scaffolds on neurocan expression after traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Methods

Adult male Wistar rats were injured with controlled cortical impact and treated with saline, human MSCs (hMSCs) (3 × 106) alone, or hMSCs (3 × 106) impregnated into collagen scaffolds (scaffold + hMSCs) transplanted into the lesion cavity 7 days after TBI (20 rats per group). Rats were sacrificed 14 days after TBI, and brain tissues were harvested for immunohistochemical studies, Western blot analyses, laser capture microdissections, and quantitative real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) to evaluate neurocan protein and gene expressions after various treatments.

Results

Animals treated with scaffold + hMSCs after TBI showed increased axonal and synaptic densities compared with the other groups. Scaffold + hMSC treatment was associated with reduced TBI-induced neurocan protein expression and upregulated growth-associated protein 43 (GAP-43) and synaptophysin expression in the lesion boundary zone. In addition, animals in the scaffold + hMSC group had decreased neurocan transcription in reactive astrocytes after TBI. Reduction of neurocan expression was significantly greater in the scaffold + hMSC group than in the group treated with hMSCs alone.

Conclusions

The results of this study show that transplanting hMSCs with scaffolds enhances the effect of hMSCs on axonal plasticity in TBI rats. This enhanced axonal plasticity may partially be attributed to the downregulation of neurocan expression by hMSC treatment after injury.
Extraforaminal compression of the L-5 nerve root at the lumbosacral junction: clinical analysis, decompression technique, and outcome
Authors: Lee Seungcheol , Kang Ji Hoon , Srikantha Umesh , Jang Il-Tae , Oh Sung-Hun
Published: January 2014

Object

Extraforaminal compression of the L-5 nerve encompasses multiple pathological entities and may result from disc herniations as well as bony (osteophytes or sacral ala) or ligamentous (sacroiliac ligament and lumbosacral band) compression. Several other factors, such as disc space collapse or coronal wedging, can also contribute to narrowing of the extraforaminal space. The extraforaminal space at L5–S1 has unique anatomical features compared with the upper lumbar levels, which makes surgical access to this region difficult. Minimally invasive techniques offer easier access to the region. The purpose of this study was to analyze the contributing factors for extraforaminal compression of the L-5 nerve and assess clinical outcome following surgical decompression.

Methods

Fifty-two consecutive patients who underwent a minimally invasive far-lateral approach for extraforaminal compression of the L-5 nerve were retrospectively analyzed for clinical data, outcomes, and imaging features (type of disc prolapse, coronal wedging, degree of disc and facet degeneration, facet tropism, foraminal stenosis, osteophytes, and adjacent-level disease). The authors describe the surgical technique used in this study.

Results

The mean age of the patient sample was 57 years. Sixteen patients each had an extraforaminal ruptured disc or contained protrusion, and the remaining 20 patients had disc protrusions extending into the foraminal region or the lateral recess. Associated foraminal stenosis was found in 38.5%, and adjacent-level stenosis was noted in 22 cases (42.3%) and spondylolisthesis in 4 (7.7%). Osteophytes were noted in 18 cases. A coronal wedging angle ≥ 3° was found in 46.2%, and the laterality of wedging corresponded to the symptomatic side in 91% of cases. Fifteen patients (28.8%) complained of postoperative dysesthesias, which completely resolved in all cases within 6 months. The incidence of dysesthesias was more common in the ruptured disc group. There were no differences in clinical outcome among the different types of disc prolapses. The mean preoperative and postoperative visual analog scale scores were 7.6 and 3.6, respectively. The mean preoperative and postoperative Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) scores were 6.4 and 13.8, respectively. The mean JOA recovery rate was 86.1%. According to the Macnab functional grading system, 96% of the patients had excellent or good grades at follow-up.

Conclusions

A minimally invasive far-lateral approach to L5–S1 requires a good understanding of the regional anatomy and can provide good to excellent clinical results in properly selected cases. This approach is effective in decompressing the far-lateral and foraminal zones. Adequate preoperative diagnosis and tailoring the surgical procedure to address the relevant compressive element in each case is essential to achieving good clinical results.
Assessment of Genetic Diversity in Faba Bean Based on Single Nucleotide Polymorphism
Authors: Kaur Sukhjiwan , Cogan Noel , Forster John , Paull Jeffrey
Published: January 2014

Detection of genetic diversity is important for characterisation of crop plant collections in order to detect the presence of valuable trait variation for use in breeding programs. A collection of faba bean (Vicia faba L.) genotypes was evaluated for intra- and inter-population diversity using a set of 768 genome-wide distributed single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers, of which 657 obtained successful amplification and detected polymorphisms. Gene diversity and polymorphism information content (PIC) values varied between 0.022–0.500 and 0.023–1.00, with averages of 0.363 and 0.287, respectively. The genetic structure of the germplasm collection was analysed and a neighbour-joining (NJ) dendrogram was constructed. The faba bean accessions grouped into two major groups, with several additional smaller sub-groups, predominantly on the basis of geographical origin. These results were further supported by principal co-ordinate analysis (PCoA), deriving two major groupings which were differentiated on the basis of site of origin and pedigree relationships. In general, high levels of heterozygosity were observed, presumably due to the partially allogamous nature of the species. The results will facilitate targeted crossing strategies in future faba bean breeding programs in order to achieve genetic gain.
New Methods of Entropy-Robust Estimation for Randomized Models under Limited Data
Authors: Popkov Yuri , Popkov Alexey
Published: January 2014

The paper presents a new approach to restoration characteristics randomized models under small amounts of input and output data. This approach proceeds from involving randomized static and dynamic models and estimating the probabilistic characteristics of their parameters. We consider static and dynamic models described by Volterra polynomials. The procedures of robust parametric and non-parametric estimation are constructed by exploiting the entropy concept based on the generalized informational Boltzmann’s and Fermi’s entropies.
The Incidence of West Nile Disease in Russia in Relation to Climatic and Environmental Factors
Authors: Platonov Alexander , Tolpin Vladimir , Gridneva Kristina , Titkov Anton , Platonova Olga , Kolyasnikova Nadezhda , Busani Luca , Rezza Giovanni
Published: January 2014

Since 1999, human cases of West Nile fever/neuroinvasive disease (WND) have been reported annually in Russia. The highest incidence has been recorded in three provinces of southern European Russia (Volgograd, Astrakhan and Rostov Provinces), yet in 2010–2012 the distribution of human cases expanded northwards considerably. From year to year, the number of WND cases varied widely, with major WND outbreaks in 1999, 2007, 2010, and 2012. The present study was aimed at identifying the most important climatic and environmental factors potentially affecting WND incidence in the three above-mentioned provinces and at building simple prognostic models, using those factors, by the decision trees method. The effects of 96 variables, including mean monthly temperature, relative humidity, precipitation, Normalized Difference Vegetation Index, etc. were taken into account. The findings of this analysis show that an increase of human WND incidence, compared to the previous year, was mostly driven by higher temperatures in May and/or in June, as well as (to a lesser extent) by high August-September temperatures. Declining incidence was associated with cold winters (December and/or January, depending on the region and type of model). WND incidence also tended to decrease during year following major WND outbreaks. Combining this information, the future trend of WND may be, to some extent, predicted, in accordance with the climatic conditions observed before the summer peak of WND incidence.
Relating Built Environment to Physical Activity: Two Failures to Validate
Authors: Schopflocher Donald , VanSpronsen Eric , Nykiforuk Candace
Published: January 2014

The Irvine-Minnesota Inventory (IMI) is an audit tool used to record properties of built environments. It was designed to explore the relationships between environmental features and physical activity. As published, the IMI does not provide scoring to support this use. Two papers have since been published recommending methods to form scales from IMI items. This study examined these scoring procedures in new settings. IMI data were collected in two urban settings in Alberta in 2008. Scale scores were calculated using the methods presented in previous papers and used to test whether the relationships between IMI scales and walking behaviors were consistent with previously reported results. The scales from previous work did not show expected relationships with walking behavior. The scale construction techniques from previous work were repeated but scales formed in this way showed little similarity to previous scales. The IMI has great potential to contribute to understanding relationships between built environment and physical activity. However, constructing reliable and valid scales from IMI items will require further research.
What Makes Green Cities Unique? Examining the Economic and Political Characteristics of the Grey-to-Green Continuum
Authors: Runfola Daniel , Hughes Sara
Published: January 2014

In the United States, urbanization processes have resulted in a large variety—or “continuum”—of urban landscapes. One entry point for understanding the variety of landscape characteristics associated with different forms of urbanization is through a characterization of vegetative (green) land covers. Green land covers—i.e., lawns, parks, forests—have been shown to have a variety of both positive and negative impacts on human and environmental outcomes—ranging from increasing property values, to mitigating urban heat islands, to increasing water use for outdoor watering purposes. While considerable research has examined the variation of vegetation distribution within cities and related social and economic drivers, we know very little about whether or how the economic characteristics and policy priorities of green cities differ from those of “grey” cities—those with little green land cover. To address this gap, this paper seeks to answer the question how do the economic characteristics and policy priorities of green and grey cities differ in the United States? To answer this question, MODIS data from 2001 to 2006 are used to characterize 373 US cities in terms of their vegetative greenness. Information from the International City/County Management Association’s (ICMA) 2010 Local Government Sustainability Survey and 2009 Economic Development Survey are used to identify key governance strategies and policies that may differentiate green from grey cities. Two approaches for data analysis—ANOVA and decision tree analysis—are used to identify the most important characteristics for separating each category of city. The results indicate that grey cities tend to place a high priority on economic initiatives, while green cities place an emphasis on social justice, land conservation, and quality of life initiatives.
Preparation of Multifunctional Fe@Au Core-Shell Nanoparticles with Surface Grafting as a Potential Treatment for Magnetic Hyperthermia
Authors: Chung Ren-Jei , Shih Hui-Ting
Published: January 2014

Iron core gold shell nanoparticles grafted with Methotrexate (MTX) and indocyanine green (ICG) were synthesized for the first time in this study, and preliminarily evaluated for their potential in magnetic hyperthermia treatment. The core-shell Fe@Au nanoparticles were prepared via the microemulsion process and then grafted with MTX and ICG using hydrolyzed poly(styrene-alt-maleic acid) (PSMA) to obtain core-shell Fe@Au-PSMA-ICG/MTX nanoparticles. MTX is an anti-cancer therapeutic, and ICG is a fluorescent dye. XRD, TEM, FTIR and UV-Vis spectrometry were performed to characterize the nanoparticles. The data indicated that the average size of the nanoparticles was 6.4 ± 09 nm and that the Au coating protected the Fe core from oxidation. MTX and ICG were successfully grafted onto the surface of the nanoparticles. Under exposure to high frequency induction waves, the superparamagnetic nanoparticles elevated the temperature of a solution in a few minutes, which suggested the potential for an application in magnetic hyperthermia treatment. The in vitro studies verified that the nanoparticles were biocompatible; nonetheless, the Fe@Au-PSMA-ICG/MTX nanoparticles killed cancer cells (Hep-G2) via the magnetic hyperthermia mechanism and the release of MTX.
From Single Target to Multitarget/Network Therapeutics in Alzheimer’s Therapy
Authors: Zheng Hailin , Fridkin Mati , Youdim Moussa
Published: January 2014

Brain network dysfunction in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) involves many proteins (enzymes), processes and pathways, which overlap and influence one another in AD pathogenesis. This complexity challenges the dominant paradigm in drug discovery or a single-target drug for a single mechanism. Although this paradigm has achieved considerable success in some particular diseases, it has failed to provide effective approaches to AD therapy. Network medicines may offer alternative hope for effective treatment of AD and other complex diseases. In contrast to the single-target drug approach, network medicines employ a holistic approach to restore network dysfunction by simultaneously targeting key components in disease networks. In this paper, we explore several drugs either in the clinic or under development for AD therapy in term of their design strategies, diverse mechanisms of action and disease-modifying potential. These drugs act as multi-target ligands and may serve as leads for further development as network medicines.
Estimating Temperature Fields from MODIS Land Surface Temperature and Air Temperature Observations in a Sub-Arctic Alpine Environment
Authors: Williamson Scott , Hik David , Gamon John , Kavanaugh Jeffrey , Flowers Gwenn
Published: January 2014

Spatially continuous satellite infrared temperature measurements are essential for understanding the consequences and drivers of change, at local and regional scales, especially in northern and alpine environments dominated by a complex cryosphere where in situ observations are scarce. We describe two methods for producing daily temperature fields using MODIS “clear-sky” day-time Land Surface Temperatures (LST). The Interpolated Curve Mean Daily Surface Temperature (ICM) method, interpolates single daytime Terra LST values to daily means using the coincident diurnal air temperature curves. The second method calculates daily mean LST from daily maximum and minimum LST (MMM) values from MODIS Aqua and Terra. These ICM and MMM models were compared to daily mean air temperatures recorded between April and October at seven locations in southwest Yukon, Canada, covering characteristic alpine land cover types (tundra, barren, glacier) at elevations between 1,408 m and 2,319 m. Both methods for producing mean daily surface temperatures have advantages and disadvantages. ICM signals are strongly correlated with air temperature (R2 = 0.72 to 0.86), but have relatively large variability (RMSE = 4.09 to 4.90 K), while MMM values had a stronger correlation to air temperature (R2 = 0.90) and smaller variability (RMSE = 2.67 K). Finally, when comparing 8-day LST averages, aggregated from the MMM method, to air temperature, we found a high correlation (R2 = 0.84) with less variability (RMSE = 1.54 K). Where the trend was less steep and the y-intercept increased by 1.6 °C compared to the daily correlations. This effect is likely a consequence of LST temperature averages being differentially affected by cloud cover over warm and cold surfaces. We conclude that satellite infrared skin temperature (e.g., MODIS LST), which is often aggregated into multi-day composites to mitigate data reductions caused by cloud cover, changes in its relationship to air temperature depending on the period of aggregation.
Comparison of Classification Algorithms and Training Sample Sizes in Urban Land Classification with Landsat Thematic Mapper Imagery
Authors: Li Congcong , Wang Jie , Wang Lei , Hu Luanyun , Gong Peng
Published: January 2014

Although a large number of new image classification algorithms have been developed, they are rarely tested with the same classification task. In this research, with the same Landsat Thematic Mapper (TM) data set and the same classification scheme over Guangzhou City, China, we tested two unsupervised and 13 supervised classification algorithms, including a number of machine learning algorithms that became popular in remote sensing during the past 20 years. Our analysis focused primarily on the spectral information provided by the TM data. We assessed all algorithms in a per-pixel classification decision experiment and all supervised algorithms in a segment-based experiment. We found that when sufficiently representative training samples were used, most algorithms performed reasonably well. Lack of training samples led to greater classification accuracy discrepancies than classification algorithms themselves. Some algorithms were more tolerable to insufficient (less representative) training samples than others. Many algorithms improved the overall accuracy marginally with per-segment decision making.
Damage Evaluation Based on a Wave Energy Flow Map Using Multiple PZT Sensors
Authors: Liu Yaolu , Hu Ning , Xu Hong , Yuan Weifeng , Yan Cheng , Li Yuan , Goda Riu , Alamusi  , Qiu Jinhao , Ning Huiming , Wu Liangke
Published: January 2014

A new wave energy flow (WEF) map concept was proposed in this work. Based on it, an improved technique incorporating the laser scanning method and Betti’s reciprocal theorem was developed to evaluate the shape and size of damage as well as to realize visualization of wave propagation. In this technique, a simple signal processing algorithm was proposed to construct the WEF map when waves propagate through an inspection region, and multiple lead zirconate titanate (PZT) sensors were employed to improve inspection reliability. Various damages in aluminum and carbon fiber reinforced plastic laminated plates were experimentally and numerically evaluated to validate this technique. The results show that it can effectively evaluate the shape and size of damage from wave field variations around the damage in the WEF map.
Energy-Efficient Data Reduction Techniques for Wireless Seizure Detection Systems
Authors: Chiang Joyce , Ward Rabab
Published: January 2014

The emergence of wireless sensor networks (WSNs) has motivated a paradigm shift in patient monitoring and disease control. Epilepsy management is one of the areas that could especially benefit from the use of WSN. By using miniaturized wireless electroencephalogram (EEG) sensors, it is possible to perform ambulatory EEG recording and real-time seizure detection outside clinical settings. One major consideration in using such a wireless EEG-based system is the stringent battery energy constraint at the sensor side. Different solutions to reduce the power consumption at this side are therefore highly desired. The conventional approach incurs a high power consumption, as it transmits the entire EEG signals wirelessly to an external data server (where seizure detection is carried out). This paper examines the use of data reduction techniques for reducing the amount of data that has to be transmitted and, thereby, reducing the required power consumption at the sensor side. Two data reduction approaches are examined: compressive sensing-based EEG compression and low-complexity feature extraction. Their performance is evaluated in terms of seizure detection effectiveness and power consumption. Experimental results show that by performing low-complexity feature extraction at the sensor side and transmitting only the features that are pertinent to seizure detection to the server, a considerable overall saving in power is achieved. The battery life of the system is increased by 14 times, while the same seizure detection rate as the conventional approach (95%) is maintained.