bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Passive Microwave-Derived Early Melt Onset Records on Arctic Sea Ice
Authors: Bliss Angela , Miller Jeffrey , Meier Walter
Published: February 2017

Two long records of melt onset (MO) on Arctic sea ice from passive microwave brightness temperatures (Tbs) obtained by a series of satellite-borne instruments are compared. The Passive Microwave (PMW) method and Advanced Horizontal Range Algorithm (AHRA) detect the increase in emissivity that occurs when liquid water develops around snow grains at the onset of early melting on sea ice. The timing of MO on Arctic sea ice influences the amount of solar radiation absorbed by the ice–ocean system throughout the melt season by reducing surface albedos in the early spring. This work presents a thorough comparison of these two methods for the time series of MO dates from 1979 through 2012. The methods are first compared using the published data as a baseline comparison of the publically available data products. A second comparison is performed on adjusted MO dates we produced to remove known differences in inter-sensor calibration of Tbs and masking techniques used to develop the original MO date products. These adjustments result in a more consistent set of input Tbs for the algorithms. Tests of significance indicate that the trends in the time series of annual mean MO dates for the PMW and AHRA are statistically different for the majority of the Arctic Ocean including the Laptev, E. Siberian, Chukchi, Beaufort, and central Arctic regions with mean differences as large as 38.3 days in the Barents Sea. Trend agreement improves for our more consistent MO dates for nearly all regions. Mean differences remain large, primarily due to differing sensitivity of in-algorithm thresholds and larger uncertainties in thin-ice regions.
Spectral-Spatial Response for Hyperspectral Image Classiﬁcation
Authors: Wei Yantao , Zhou Yicong , Li Hong
Published: February 2017

This paper presents a hierarchical deep framework called Spectral-Spatial Response (SSR) to jointly learn spectral and spatial features of Hyperspectral Images (HSIs) by iteratively abstracting neighboringregions. SSRformsadeeparchitectureandisabletolearndiscriminativespectral-spatial features of the input HSI at different scales. It includes several existing spectral-spatial-based methods as special scenarios within a single uniﬁed framework. Based on SSR, we further propose the Subspace Learning-based Networks (SLN) as an example of SSR for HSI classiﬁcation. In SLN, the joint spectral and spatial features are learned using templates simply learned by Marginal Fisher Analysis (MFA) and Principal Component Analysis (PCA). An important contribution to the success of SLN is the exploitation of label information of training samples and the local spatial structure of HSI. Extensive experimental results on four challenging HSI datasets taken from the Airborne Visible-Infrared Imaging Spectrometer (AVIRIS) and Reﬂective Optics System Imaging Spectrometer (ROSIS) airborne sensors show the implementational simplicity of SLN and verify the superiority of SSR for HSI classiﬁcation.
Molecular Imprinting Technology in Quartz Crystal Microbalance (QCM) Sensors
Authors: Emir Diltemiz Sibel , Keçili Rüstem , Ersöz Arzu , Say Rıdvan
Published: February 2017

Molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) as artificial antibodies have received considerable scientific attention in the past years in the field of (bio)sensors since they have unique features that distinguish them from natural antibodies such as robustness, multiple binding sites, low cost, facile preparation and high stability under extreme operation conditions (higher pH and temperature values, etc.). On the other hand, the Quartz Crystal Microbalance (QCM) is an analytical tool based on the measurement of small mass changes on the sensor surface. QCM sensors are practical and convenient monitoring tools because of their specificity, sensitivity, high accuracy, stability and reproducibility. QCM devices are highly suitable for converting the recognition process achieved using MIP-based memories into a sensor signal. Therefore, the combination of a QCM and MIPs as synthetic receptors enhances the sensitivity through MIP process-based multiplexed binding sites using size, 3D-shape and chemical function having molecular memories of the prepared sensor system toward the target compound to be detected. This review aims to highlight and summarize the recent progress and studies in the field of (bio)sensor systems based on QCMs combined with molecular imprinting technology.
Modifying Bananas: From Transgenics to Organics?
Authors: Dale James , Paul Jean-Yves , Dugdale Benjamin , Harding Robert
Published: February 2017

Bananas are one of the top ten world food crops. Unlike most other major food crops, bananas are difficult to genetically improve. The challenge is that nearly all banana cultivars and landraces are triploids, with high levels of male and female infertility. There are a number of international conventional breeding programs and many of these are developing new cultivars. However, it is virtually impossible to backcross bananas, thus excluding the possibility of introgressing new traits into a current cultivar. The alternative strategy is to “modify” the cultivar itself. We have been developing the capacity to modify Cavendish bananas and other cultivars for both disease resistance and enhanced fruit quality. Initially, we were using transgenes; genes that were derived from species outside of the Musa or banana genus. However, we have recently incorporated two banana genes (cisgenes) into Cavendish; one to enhance the level of pro-vitamin A and the other to increase the resistance to Panama disease. Modified Cavendish with these cisgenes have been employed in a field trial. Almost certainly, the next advance will be to edit the Cavendish genome, to generate the desired traits. As these banana cultivars are essentially sterile, transgene flow and the outcrossing of modified genes into wild Musa species. are highly unlikely and virtually impossible in other triploid cultivars. Therefore, genetic changes in bananas may be compatible with organic farming.
Screening of Tree Species for Improving Outdoor Human Thermal Comfort in a Taiwanese City
Authors: Lin Yu-Hao , Tsai Kang-Ting
Published: February 2017

Tropical cities can use urban greening designs featuring trees that provide shade and cooling in hot outdoor environments. The cooling effect involves numerous tree characteristics that are not easy to control during planting design, such as the canopy size and the optical properties of leaves. Planting the appropriate tree species dominates the cooling effects and the human thermal environment. Based on environmental and plant data, including the tree species, crown diameter of trees, physiologically equivalent temperature (PET), and sky view factor (SVF) in an outdoor space, a series of hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) procedures was implemented to identify the tree species that are appropriate for improving thermal comfort. The results indicated strong correlations between SVF, average crown diameter, and PET. SVF decreased as the average crown diameter increased. For the average crown diameter of trees in an area wider than 1.5 m, the cooling effect was especially dominated by the tree species. Therefore, 15 species were screened by HCA procedures, based on a similar cooling effect. These species had various cooling effects, and were divided into four categories. Tree species, such as Spathodea campanulata and Cinnamomum camphora, had the appropriate crown diameter and cooling effect for the most comfortable thermal environment.
The Role of Analytical Frameworks for Systemic Research Design, Explained in the Analysis of Drivers and Dynamics of Historic Land-Use Changes
Authors: Coral Claudia , Bokelmann Wolfgang
Published: February 2017

Analytical frameworks provide the basic vocabulary of concepts and terms that may be used to construct the kinds of causal explanations expected of a theory. In addition, framework-based approaches are applied as a way of dealing with the complexity that arises in situations involving human interactions with the environment. This paper presents an example of an application of the “Analytical Framework for a Systemic Analysis of Drivers and Dynamics of Historical Land-Use Changes” with the purpose of showing the role of the selected analytical framework in the design of systemic research, namely as it is conceived and as it develops over time. This analytical framework helps to organize research by linking the theoretical questions to the empirical analysis, while serving as a platform for the construction of theoretical explanations, which represent the flow of knowledge in various contexts and conditions. In the context of systems research, the combination of an analytical framework with grounded theory approaches may allow researchers to achieve both creative thinking and novel outcomes, without losing a certain degree of coherence. We also hope to understand the real motives behind decision-making and dynamics of space and time in order to support the design of policies that take into account local differences.
Influence of DPH1 and DPH5 Protein Variants on the Synthesis of Diphthamide, the Target of ADPRibosylating Toxins
Authors: Mayer Klaus , Schröder Anna , Schnitger Jerome , Stahl Sebastian , Brinkmann Ulrich
Published: February 2017

The diphthamide on eukaryotic translation elongation factor 2 (eEF2) is the target of ADPribosylating toxins and ‐derivatives that serve as payloads in targeted tumor therapy. Diphthamide is generated by seven DPH proteins; cells deficient in these (DPHko) lack diphthamide and are toxin‐resistant. We have established assays to address the functionality of DPH1 (OVCA1) and DPH5 variants listed in dbSNP and cosmic databases: plasmids encoding wildtype and mutant DPHs were transfected into DPHko cells. Supplementation of DPH1 and DPH5 restores diphthamide synthesis and toxin sensitivity in DPH1ko and DPH5ko cells, respectively. Consequently, the determination of the diphthamide status of cells expressing DPH variants differentiates active and compromised proteins. The DPH1 frameshift variant L96fs* (with Nterminal 96 amino acids, truncated thereafter) and two splice isoforms lacking 80 or 140 amino acids at their N‐termini failed to restore DPH1ko deficiency. The DPH1 frameshift variant R312fs* retained some residual activity even though it lacks a large C‐terminal portion. DPH1 missense variants R27W and S56F retained activity while S221P had reduced activity, indicated by a decreased capability to restore diphthamide synthesis. The DPH5 nonsense or frameshift variants E60*, W136fs* and R207* (containing intact N‐termini with truncations after 60, 136 or 207 amino acids, respectively) were inactive: none compensated the deficiency of DPH5ko cells. In contrast, missense variants D57G, G87R, S123C and Q170H as well as the frequently occurring DPH5 isoform delA212 retained activity. Sensitivity to ADP‐ribosylating toxins and tumor‐targeted immunotoxins depends on diphthamide which, in turn, requires DPH functionality. Because of that, DPH variants (in particular those that are functionally compromised) may serve as a biomarker and correlate with the efficacy of immunotoxin‐based therapies.
Les émissions de médaillons impériaux et le monnayage festif de Gordien III (238-244 apr. J.-C.)
Authors: Bardin Thomas
Published: February 2017

An argued classification of imperial medallions requires a systematic comparison with all monetary denominations. The reign of Gordian III is a privileged field of investigation, combining a wide corpus of medallions and a relatively well-known structure of the regular monetary issues. This new perspective, drawing from a new classification based on busts and not only the legends of reverses, identifies a multiplicity of connections with the coinage, highlighting the existence of significant ceremonial – medallic – issues.
Donativa, thésaurisation et corpus monétaire : à propos d’aurei lyonnais inédits (275- 281) du trésor de Fontaine-la-Gaillar
Authors: Gricourt Daniel , Hollard Dominique , Blet-Lemarquand Maryse
Published: February 2017

L’atelier de Lyon et les donativa impériaux constituent deux axes majeurs de l’oeuvre de Pierre Bastien. À partir du trésor en cours d’étude de Fontaine-la-Gaillarde, le monnayage d’or frappé à Lyon entre 274 et 281 est réexaminé. Nous recourons à cet effet aux aurei d’Aurélien, Tacite et Probus présents dans ce dépôt, dont quelques-uns sont inédits. L’émission d’or d’Aurélien, sa place dans le corpus lyonnais ainsi que la composition du métal employé, font l’objet d’une recherche particulière (analyses IRAMAT). L’existence au sein de l’ensemble numismatique bourguignon de témoins de donativa successifs effectués entre 260 et 281 conduit à s’interroger sur le profil du thésauriseur gallo-romain.
The Gold Coinage of Carausius
Authors: Moorhead Sam
Published: February 2017

It is almost thirty years since Pierre Bastien’s assistant, Hélène Huvelin, produced the last major corpus of the gold aurei of Carausius. At least three more coins have been discovered since 1985 and this article provides an updated catalogue for the 26 coins for which we have full records. A revised chronology for the coins is also provided, often with the gold coins being linked to silver and bronze issues. There is also a consideration of the mints, weights, die analysis and find-spots, hence summarising our present knowledge of the gold coinage of Carausius.
The Coinage of Corcyra under the Severans
Authors: Calomino Dario
Published: February 2017

This paper considers the civic coinage of Corcyra from Septimius Severus to Caracalla, proposing a chronological arrangement of the coin production in three main phases and providing a historical commentary. The analysis of fabric and style of the coins, combined with the study of dies, shows that a remarkable change occurred in the mint during the reign of Severus, probably as a result of the turnover of workforce within the workshop. The main bulk of output is represented by the coinage of Plautilla, which marks the transition between an earlier phase in which the mint seems to have been influenced by a Corinthian or Peloponnesian workshop and a later one which saw the employment of much more skilled engravers, probably in cooperation with the mint of Nicopolis in Epirus.
L’histoire de France en « vignettes » : deux siècles de circulation fiduciaire
Authors: Baubeau Patrice
Published: February 2017

Fiduciary money data allow us an original glimpse on French history, thanks to their accuracy and density. They are used here to propose a panoramic view over the last two centuries and feed reflexion on monetary crises and banknotes evolution.
Causes of ecological gradients in leaf margin entirety: Evaluating the roles of biomechanics, hydraulics, vein geometry, and bud packing
Authors: Givnish Thomas J. , Kriebel Ricardo
Published: February 2017

PREMISE OF THE STUDY:

A recent commentary by Edwards et al. (Am. J. Bot. 103: 975–978) proposed that constraints imposed by the packing of young leaves in buds could explain the positive association between non‐entire leaf margins and latitude but did not thoroughly consider alternative explanations.

METHODS:

We review the logic and evidence underlying six major hypotheses for the functional significance of marginal teeth, involving putative effects on (1) leaf cooling, (2) optimal support and supply of the areas served by major veins, (3) enhanced leaf‐margin photosynthesis, (4) hydathodal function, (5) defense against herbivores, and (6) bud packing.

KEY RESULTS:

Theoretical and empirical problems undermine all hypotheses except the support–supply hypothesis, which implies that thinner leaves should have non‐entire margins. Phylogenetically structured analyses across angiosperms, the El Yunque flora, and the genus Viburnum all demonstrate that non‐entire margins are indeed more common in thinner leaves. Across angiosperms, the association of leaf thickness with non‐entire leaf margins is stronger than that of latitude.

CONCLUSION:

We outline a synthetic model showing how biomechanics, hydraulics, vein geometry, rates of leaf expansion, and length of development within resting buds, all tied to leaf thickness, drive patterns in the distribution of entire vs. non‐entire leaf margins. Our model accounts for dominance of entire margins in the tropics, Mediterranean scrub, and tundra, non‐entire margins in cold temperate deciduous forests and tropical vines and early‐successional trees, and entire leaf margins in monocots. Spinose‐toothed leaves should be favored in short‐statured evergreen trees and shrubs, primarily in Mediterranean scrub and related semiarid habitats.
Modeling of the growth of GaAs–AlGaAs core–shell nanowires
Authors: Zhang Qian , Voorhees Peter W , Davis Stephen H
Published: February 2017

Heterostructured GaAs–AlGaAs core–shell nanowires with have attracted much attention because of their significant advantages and great potential for creating high performance nanophotonics and nanoelectronics. The spontaneous formation of Al-rich stripes along certain crystallographic directions and quantum dots near the apexes of the shell are observed in AlGaAs shells. Controlling the formation of these core–shell heterostructures remains challenging. A two-dimensional model valid on the wire cross section, that accounts for capillarity in the faceted surface limit and deposition has been developed for the evolution of the shell morphology and concentration in AlxGa1−xAs alloys. The model includes a completely faceted shell–vapor interface. The objective is to understand the mechanisms of the formation of the radial heterostructures (Al-rich stripes and Al-poor quantum dots) in the nanowire shell. There are two issues that need to be understood. One is the mechanism responsible for the morphological evolution of the shells. Analysis and simulation results suggest that deposition introduces facets not present on the equilibrium Wulff shapes. A balance between diffusion and deposition yields the small facets with sizes varying slowly over time, which yield stripe structures, whereas deposition-dominated growth can lead to quantum-dot structures observed in experiments. There is no self-limiting facet size in this case. The other issue is the mechanism responsible for the segregation of Al atoms in the shells. It is found that the mobility difference of the atoms on the {112} and {110} facets together determine the non-uniform concentration of the atoms in the shell. In particular, even though the mobility of Al on {110} facets is smaller than that of Ga, Al-rich stripes are predicted to form along the {112} facets when the difference of the mobilities of Al and Ga atoms is sufficiently large on {112} facets. As the size of the shell increases, deposition becomes more important. The Al-poor dots are obtained at the apices of {112} facets, if the attachment rate of Al atoms is smaller there.
Effect of Strain Rate on Tension Response of Filled Silicone Rubber
Authors: Guo Ling Mei , Lv Yan An , Deng Zhi Fang , Wang Yang
Published: February 2017

Uniaxial tension tests for filled silicone rubber were performed at high strain rates using a split Hopkinson tension bar system. Quasi-static tension tests were carried out using an Instron-E3000 material test system. The grip fixture was designed to reliably connect the tensile specimen with the incident/transmitted bars. The method to increase the signal-noise ratio of the stress pulse in the transmitted bar was proposed. The effect of specimen gage length-to-width ratio on the stress-strain responses was experimentally studied. The suitable specimen geometry was determined by means of experimental investigation and finite element analysis. The automated grid method was used to capture the deformation information of the tensile specimen. Experiments indicate that the tension responses of silicone rubber exhibit the apparent hyper-elastic and rate-dependent characteristics. The values of tensile modulus increase with the increase of strain rate. The stress at a given elongation increases with the increase of strain rate.
Control Strategy for VSC-HVDC under Unbalanced Grid Voltages
Authors: Li Dan , Cai Ting Ting
Published: February 2017

This paper describes the use of an unbalanced control strategy to solve the faults occur in AC grid side of High voltage direct current based on Voltage Source Converter (VSC-HVDC) system. This method divides the voltage and current parameters into negative-sequence and positive-sequence. It can be obtained that the negative-sequence appears as double-frequency component in the positive-sequence synchronous reference frame; while, it appears as dc component in the negative-sequence synchronous reference frame. To mitigate the unfavourable impact of the unbalance fault, such as the DC link ripples, the dual vector control algorithm in dq synchrounous reference frame is designed. Simulation results demonstrate the validity and the effectiveness of the proposed control scheme.
Experimental Study on Dynamic Behavior of High Precision Servo Motor for Machine Tools
Authors: Yamazaki Takanori
Published: February 2017

In the field of machining industries it is always required to improve the accuracy of precise products, die and molds. The feed drive system for the machine tools consists of an AC servo motor, an amplifier and rolling elements etc. It is well known that the nonlinear behaviors of the rolling elements influence the motion accuracy of the feed drive system. However, in spite of the analysis of static behaviors have been done, the dynamic behaviors are not so examined. Our special interest is how to control the nonlinear behaviors of the rolling elements and to operate the feed drive system with high accuracy. In order to model the nonlinear behaviors of the feed drive system, we measure the transient response when the step inputs of microscopic displacement are input to the AC servo motor and the detail analysis will be done. Experimental results show that the step responses become slow as the input displacement becomes microscopic. It means that with the ball bearing built into the AC servo motor used to feed driving system have the nonlinear behavior in microscopic displacement range.
Design of Longitudinal Axial Flow Threshing and Separating Device of Maize Grain Combine Harvester
Authors: Zhang Kun , Cao Shu Kun , Chen Xiu Sheng , Cao Chong , Wu Chang Zhong
Published: February 2017

Harvesting grain directly has been the development trend of modern maize combine harvester. To satisfy the demand of harvesting grain straightly type maize combine harvester for large feeding rate, low damage rate, high threshing rate, the longitudinal axial flow threshing and separating device was designed. It could also increase the separating rate of grain and miscellaneous, and reduce the burden of cleaning device. Threshing gap was adjustable in the range of 30 to 60mm, which reduced the incidence of jam faults effectively in the threshing process. Spiral blade on feeder, threshing rasp-bar and separating nail were replaceable, which improved the efficiency for threshing and separating.
An Experimental Study of Process Parameters on Friction Stir Welded Aluminum Alloy 2219 Joint Properties
Authors: No Koo Kil , Yoo Joon Tae , Yoon Jong Hoon , Lee Ho Sung
Published: February 2017

Aluminum alloy 2219 is widely used in aerospace applications since it has a unique combination of good weldability and high specific strength. Furthermore, it can provide a high strength after heat treatment with superior properties in cryogenic environment so they have been widely used for cryogenic fuel tank of space launch vehicles. It is known that solid state welding like friction stir welding can improve the joint properties of this alloy. Friction stir welding is a solid state welding technology which two materials are welded together by the frictional heat due to the rotation of the tool. In this study, friction stir welding was performed on aluminum alloy 2219 sheets. The range of welding parameter is four rotation speeds from 350 to 800 rpm and six travel speeds from 120 to 420 mm/min. The results include the microstructural change after friction stir welding. The microstructure was characterized and material in the stirred zone experience sufficient deformation and heat input which cause the complete dynamic recrystallization. The present work represents the strength at each process condition and the optimum friction stir welding process parameters. The optimum weld efficiency obtained in this study was 76.5 %.
Disassembly Processing Information Management System of Automotive Products Based on Disassembly Level Planning
Authors: Zhong Jun , Bao Hong , Wang Yan
Published: February 2017

As the current regulatory requirements of automobile disassembly and recycling are becoming strict increasingly, it is necessary to focus on environmental protection in the processing and information management system of disassembly and recycling. This paper studies on the information management method and system implementation of disassembly and recycling processing of automotive products. Firstly, the concept of parts-disassembly level is put forward and the level planning model is built together with the confirmed methods of parts-disassembly level scheme by LCIA. Then, a management system platform for disassembly process of automotive products is developed. Finally, the feasibility and availability of this system is verified by the application example of the disassembly level for a certain type automobile.
Singlet Oxygen Production of Photocatalytic Ir(III) Complex Impregnated unto Zeolite NaY Supercages
Authors: Trinidad Lawrence John Paulo L. , Usman Ken Aldren S. , Payawan Jr. Leon M.
Published: February 2017

Trivalent iridium complexes have been recently studied due to the extent of its overlap with the solar spectrum as well as the accessibility of its ligand-ligand charge transfer (LLCT) transition in the UV region. Entrapment of the complex inside faujasitic zeolite NaY converts the dye molecule into a heterogeneous catalyst that has greater stability and usability than the free complex. Ship-in-a-bottle assemblies of trisphenanthroline iridium (III) complex unto zeolite NaY were found to produce singlet oxygen upon illumination. The possible use of these solid-state catalyst for waste water treatment was examined by using 9,10-dimethylanthracene (DMA) as a chemical trap for singlet oxygen. The degradation spectra was observed to be pseudo-first order with respect to DMA. Varying the time of illumination showed that the amount of DMA degraded was directly dependent on the length of UV irradiation.
Calvin’s views on church governance
Authors: Smit C.J.
Published: February 2017

This article investigates whether the church was seen by Calvin as a mere human community based on laws, an association functioning on the basis of a constitution, or as a dynamic domain of the governance of Jesus Christ which functions on the basis of the Word through his Spirit.   According to Calvin the church is a new order ordained by Christ in which He never delegated his authority to his officers. He Himself, as the Head, remains the sole bearer of authority. Nevertheless, they receive full power, as representatives of Christ, to minister his Word and to administer the sacraments in his church. As such the church received the power to teach (“potestas docenda”), to govern (“potestas gubernatio”) and to make laws (“potestas regiminis”). This competence (“potestas”) is, however, exercised particularly as a ministry (“ministe- rium”) because it rests on God’s Word and is only ministered in conjunction with it. In the procedure of church governance Calvin considered faith and love as two key concepts.   In order to give a practical foundation to a spiritual mode of governance in the church as God’s new order in the world, a church order is needed which is founded in the Word. This church order must aim at the protection of the governance of the Spirit in the church.   For Calvin church government is, therefore, primarily a process of governing the heart – the hearts of those among whom God’s new order in the world exists.
Calvin’s view on church discipline and unity: a South African perspective
Authors: Strauss P.J.
Published: February 2017

The reformer John Calvin, born in 1509, considers discipline and unity as two essential aspects of the Christian church. According to him, the bond of church discipline is a way to unite church members in the truth of the Word and the Christian faith based thereupon. If discipline is exercised with exaggerated strictness and without compassion, tolerance and love, it can break the unity. Because church unity is essentially a unity of faith, or a unity in the truth of the Word, discipline can sever adulterated elements that threaten the unity from the church. Discipline, if correctly ap- plied, builds the unity of the church as a unity in religious truths.
The influence of Calvin’s theology on the Conventus of Reformational Churches in Southern Africa
Authors: Smit C.J.
Published: February 2017

The need for an ecumenical body for reformational churches in Southern Africa has been felt since the early 1990s. The key matter explored in this article is the question whether the composition and modus operandi of the Conventus reflect a trend in the ecumenical movement in which Calvin’s theological approach to ecumenism is clearly discernible. To answer the question, Calvin’s view of church unity and ecumenism is briefly outlined. Secondly, the “Calvinist” way of composition and functioning of the Conventus, because of the nature of this publication which is initiated by the Conventus, are traced and placed on record.  Calvin was a fervent champion of church unity. To him ecume- nism was a “sine qua non”. He was even prepared to overlook serious disagreements in the debate for the sake of unity in the reformational community. Scrutiny of the composition, goals and functioning of the Conventus clearly reveals the impact of Calvinist approach to ecumenism.
The Leuenberg Agreement and Movement 1 1 : one important step forward towards the unity of protestant churches
Authors: Lubinetzki V.
Published: February 2017

The article deals with the Leuenberg Agreement of 1973 and the ecumenical development among its signatory churches during the following decades. After some historical and statistical remarks regarding the origin, growth, and further development of the Leuenberg Movement/Community of Protestant Churches in Europe (CPCE), the theological method and work of the Movement (CPCE) is presented through a few examples from the so-called Leuenberg documents. Specific attention is given to the theological reasoning through which achievement of full fellowship of pulpit and altar between most of the protestant churches in Europe was achieved over the years. From a personal (and European) point of view, some of the major achievements and benefits of “Leuenberg” are highlighted, as are several drawbacks, shortcomings and chal- lenges over the last 35 years and through to the present times.
Nieuwe en oude dingen
Authors: Mc Loud Willie S.
Published: February 2017

No abstract available.
Evaluation of Outcome of Transpedicular Decompression and Instrumented Fusion in Thoracic and Thoracolumbar Tuberculosis
Authors: Jain Akshay , Jain R.K. , Kiyawat Vivek
Published: February 2017

Study Design

Retrospective analysis.

Purpose

We evaluated the functional, neurological, and radiological outcome in patients with thoracic and thoracolumbar tuberculosis operated through the transpedicular approach.

Overview of Literature

For surgical treatment of thoracic and thoracolumbar tuberculosis, the anterior approach has been the most popular because it allows direct access to the infected tissue, thereby providing good decompression. However, anterior fixation is not strong, and graft failure and loss of correction are frequent complications. The transpedicular approach allows circumferential decompression of neural elements along with three-column fixation attained via pedicle screws by the same approach.

Methods

A total of 47 patients were diagnosed with tuberculosis of the thoracic or thoracolumbar region from August 2012 to August 2013. Of these, 28 patients had progressive neurological deterioration or increasing back pain despite conservative measures and underwent transpedicular decompression and pedicle screw fixation with posterior fusion. Antituberculosis therapy was given till signs of radiological healing were evident (9–16 months). Functional outcome (visual analog scale [VAS] score for back pain), neurological recovery (Frankel grading), and radiological improvement were evaluated preoperatively, immediate postoperatively, and at 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year.

Results

Mean VAS score for back pain improved from 8.7 preoperatively to 1.1 at 1 year follow-up. Frankel grading preoperatively was grade B in 7, grade C in 11, and Grade D in 10 patients, which improved to grade D in 6 and grade E in 22 patients at the last follow-up. Radiological healing was evident in the form of reappearance of trabeculae formation, resolution of pus, fatty marrow replacement, and bony fusion in all patients. Mean correction of segmental kyphosis postoperatively was 10.5°. Mean loss of correction at final follow-up was 4.1°.

Conclusions

Transpedicular decompression with instrumented fusion is a safe and effective approach for management of patients with thoracic and thoracolumbar tuberculosis.
Preoperative Magnetic Resonance Imaging Evaluation in Patients with Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis
Authors: Lee Choon Sung , Hwang Chang Ju , Kim Nam Heun , Noh Hyun Min , Lee Mi Young , Yoon So Jung , Lee Dong-Ho
Published: February 2017

Study Design

Retrospective case series.

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to examine the incidence of neural axis abnormalities and the relevant risk factors in patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS).

Overview of Literature

The use of preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to assess the whole spine in patients with idiopathic scoliosis is controversial, and indications for such MRI evaluations have not been definitively established. However, we routinely use whole-spine MRI in patients with scoliosis who are scheduled to undergo surgical correction.

Methods

A total of 378 consecutive patients with presumed AIS who were admitted for spinal surgery were examined for neural axis abnormalities using MRI. To differentiate patients with normal and abnormal MRI findings, the following clinical parameters were evaluated: age, sex, menarcheal status, rotation angle (using a scoliometer), coronal balance, shoulder height difference, and low back pain. We radiographically evaluated curve type, thoracic or thoracolumbar curve direction, curve magnitude and flexibility, apical vertebral rotation, curve length, coronal balance, sagittal balance, shoulder height difference, thoracic kyphosis, and the Risser sign.

Results

Neural axis abnormalities were detected in 24 patients (6.3%). Abnormal MRI findings were significantly more common in males than in females and were associated with increased thoracic kyphosis. However, there were no significant differences in terms of the other measured parameters.

Conclusions

Among the patients with presumed AIS who received preoperative whole-spine MRI, 6.3% had neural axis abnormalities. Males and patients with increased thoracic kyphosis were at a higher risk.
Prevalence of Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis in Patients with Spinal Disorders
Authors: Toyoda Hiromitsu , Terai Hidetomi , Yamada Kentaro , Suzuki Akinobu , Dohzono Sho , Matsumoto Tomiya , Nakamura Hiroaki
Published: February 2017

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) in patients with spinal diseases determined by roentgen images of the whole spine.

Overview of Literature

Although several studies have investigated the prevalence of DISH in healthy subjects, no detailed data have been reported on the prevalence of DISH in patients with degenerative spinal disorders.

Methods

Standing whole-spine roentgen images of 345 consecutive patients who underwent surgery in our hospital were obtained. Patients aged <18 years or with congenital spinal disease, metastatic spinal tumors, or inflammatory spinal disease were excluded. In total, 281 patients were eligible for inclusion. The presence of DISH was assessed according to Resnick's criteria and Mata's scoring system. The prevalence, location, and numbers of fused vertebral bodies of DISH were recorded.

Results

DISH was present in 25.6% of patients (72/281). The prevalence of DISH in the 41–49, 50–59, 60–69, 70–79, and ≥80 year age groups was 8.3% (2/24), 9.8% (5/51), 16.0% (12/75), 49.5% (48/97), and 33.3% (4/12), respectively; the prevalence increased with age. The average number of fused vertebral bodies was 7.5. More than 80% of DISH was located from T7 to T11, and more than 95% of DISH was located at T9/10. Patients with DISH were significantly older (71.1 years vs. 60.9 years, p<0.05), and men were more likely to have DISH than women (p<0.05).

Conclusions

In patients with degenerative spinal diseases with DISH, fused vertebrae were found most frequently in the lower thoracic spine, and their prevalence increased with age. DISH may be an age-related skeletal disorder with a higher overall prevalence in patients with spinal disorders than that in healthy subjects.
Histopathological Analysis of Ligamentum Flavum in Lumbar Spinal Stenosis and Disc Herniation
Authors: Altun Idiris , Yüksel Kasım Zafer
Published: February 2017

Study Design

Histopathological analyses were performed in ligamentum flavum (LF) hypertrophy patients with lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) and lumbar disc herniation (LDH).

Purpose

The aim of the present study was to evaluate histopathological changes in LF patients with LSS and LDH.

Overview of Literature

LSS is the most common spinal disorder in elderly patients. This condition causes lower back and leg pain and paresis, and occurs as a result of degenerative changes in the lumbar spine, including bulging of the intervertebral discs, bony proliferation of the facet joints, and LF thickening; among these, LF thickening is considered a major contributor to the development of LSS.

Methods

A total of 71 patients operated with the surgical indications of LSS and LDH were included. LF samples were obtained from 31 patients who underwent decompressive laminectomy for symptomatic degenerative LSS (stenotic group) and from 40 patients who underwent lumbar discectomy for LDH (discectomy group). LF materials were examined histopathologically, and other specimens were examined for collagen content, elastic fiber number and array, and presence of calcification.

Results

The stenotic and discectomy groups did not differ with regard to mean collagen concentration or mean elastic fiber number (p=0.430 and p=0.457, respectively). Mean elastic fiber alignment was 2.36±0.99 in the stenotic group and 1.38±0.54 in the discectomy group (p<0.001). Mean calcification was 0.39±0.50 in the stenotic group, whereas calcification was not detected (0.00±0.00) in the discectomy group; a statistically significant difference was detected (p<0.001) between groups.

Conclusions

LF hypertrophy in spinal stenosis may occur as a result of elastic fiber misalignment along with the development of calcification over time. Further studies determining the pathogenesis of LSS are needed.
Seasonal variability in methane and nitrous oxide fluxes from tropical peatlands in the Western Amazon basin
Authors: Teh Yit Arn , Murphy Wayne A. , Berrio Juan-Carlos , Boom Arnoud , Page Susan E.
Published: February 2017

Abstract. Here we report methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O) fluxes from lowland tropical peatlands in the Pastaza-Marañón foreland basin (PMFB) in Peru, one of the largest peatland complexes in the Amazon basin. Trace gas fluxes were sampled from the most numerically-dominant peatland vegetation types in the region: forested vegetation, forested (short pole) vegetation, Mauritia flexuosa-dominated palm swamp, and mixed palm swamp. Data were collected in both wet and dry seasons over the course of four field campaigns from 2012 to 2014. Peatlands in the PMFB were large and regionally significant sources of atmospheric CH4, emitting 36.05 ± 3.09 mg CH4-C m−2 d−1. CH4 emissions varied significantly among vegetation types and between seasons. CH4 fluxes were greatest for mixed palm swamp (52.0 ± 16.0 mg CH4-C m−2 d−1), followed by M. flexuosa palm swamp (36.7 ± 3.9 mg CH4-C m−2 d−1), forested (short pole) vegetation (31.6 ± 6.6 mg CH4-C m−2 d−1), and forested vegetation (29.8 ± 10.0 mg CH4-C m−2 d−1). CH4 fluxes also showed marked seasonality, with divergent seasonal flux patterns among ecosystems. Forested vegetation and mixed palm swamp showed significantly higher dry season (47.2 ± 5.4 mg CH4-C m−2 d−1 and 85.5 ± 26.4 mg CH4-C m−2 d−1, respectively) compared to wet season emissions (6.8 ± 1.0 mg CH4-C m−2 d−1 and 5.2 ± 2.7 mg CH4-C m−2 d−1, respectively). In contrast, forested (short pole) vegetation and M. flexuosa palm swamp showed the opposite trend, with dry season fluxes of 9.6 ± 2.6 and 25.5 ± 2.9 mg CH4C m−2 d−1, respectively, versus wet season fluxes of 103.4 ± 13.6 and 53.4 ± 9.8 mg CH4-C m−2 d−1, respectively. Nitrous oxide fluxes were negligible (0.70 ± 0.34 µg N2O-N m−2 d−1), and did not vary significantly among ecosystems or between seasons.
Algorithms for Optimization of Branching Gravity-Driven Water Networks
Authors: Dardani Ian , Jones Gerard F.
Published: February 2017

Abstract. The design of a water network requires the selection of pipe diameters that satisfy pressure and flow requirements while optimizing for cost. This work focuses on the design of moderate-scale branching Gravity-Driven Water Networks (GDWNs), in contrast to large urban-scale looping networks, where budgets are highly constrained and where PVC pipe is typically used. In order to help designers of GDWNs select an appropriate design approach for a given network problem, three cost-minimization algorithms are developed and compared on five GDWN test cases. Two algorithms, a backtracking algorithm and a genetic algorithm, use a set of discrete pipe diameters, while a new calculus-based algorithm produces a continuous-diameter solution, which is mapped onto a discrete-diameter solution. The backtracking algorithm produced the overall lowest-cost solutions with relative efficiency for the test cases, while the calculus-based algorithm produced slightly higher-cost results but with greater scalability to networks with more links. Furthermore, the new calculus-based algorithm’s continuous-diameter and mapped solutions provided lower and upper bounds, respectively, on the discrete-diameter global optimum cost, where the mapped solutions were typically within one diameter size of the global optimum. Overall, the genetic algorithm as implemented did not produce results, which deemed it compelling over deterministic methods as applied to GDWNs. However, for more complex networks and problem formulations, a genetic algorithm may be more advantageous, particularly if it incorporates improvements reported in the literature.
TARANIS XGRE and IDEE Detection Capability of Terrestrial Gamma-Ray Flashes and Associated Electron Beams
Authors: Sarria David , Lebrun Francois , Blelly Pierre-Louis , Chipaux Remi , Laurent Philippe , Sauvaud Jean-Andre , Devoto Pierre , Pailot Damien , Baronick Jean-Pierre , Lindsey-Clark Miles
Published: February 2017

Abstract. With a launch expected in 2018, the TARANIS micro-satellite is dedicated to the study of transient phenomena observed in association with thunderstorms. On-board the spacecraft, XGRE and IDEE are two instruments dedicated to study Terrestrial Gamma-ray Flashes (TGFs) and associated electron beams (TEBs). XGRE can detect electrons (energy range: 1 MeV to 10 MeV) and X/gamma-rays (energy range: 20 keV to 10 MeV), with a very high counting capability (about 10 million counts per second), and the ability to discriminate one type of particle from the other. The IDEE instrument is focused on electrons in the 80 keV to 4 MeV energy range, with the ability to estimate their pitch angles. Monte-Carlo simulations of the TARANIS instruments, using a preliminary model of the spacecraft, allow sensitive area estimates for both instruments. It leads to an averaged effective area of 425 cm2 for XGRE to detect X/gamma rays from TGFs, and the combination of XGRE and IDEE gives an average effective area of 255 cm2 to detect electrons/positrons from TEBs. We then compare these performances to RHESSI, AGILE, and Fermi GBM, using performances extracted from literature for the TGF case, and with the help of Monte-Carlo simulations of their mass models for the TEB case. Combining these data with with the help of the MC-PEPTITA Monte-Carlo simulations of TGF propagation in the atmosphere, we build a self-consistent model of the TGF and TEB detection rates of RHESSI, AGILE, and Fermi. It can then be used to estimate that TARANIS should detect about 225 TGFs/year and 25 TEBs/year.
Landscape-scale water balance monitoring with an iGrav
superconducting gravimeter in a field enclosure
Authors: Güntner Andreas , Reich Marvin , Mikolaj Michal , Creutzfeldt Benjamin , Schroeder Stephan , Wziontek Hartmut
Published: February 2017

Abstract. In spite of the fundamental role of the landscape water balance for the Earth’s water and energy cycles, monitoring the water balance and its components beyond the point scale is notoriously difficult due to the multitude of flow and storage processes and their spatial heterogeneity. Here, we present the first field deployment of an iGrav superconducting gravimeter (SG) in a minimized enclosure for long-term integrative monitoring of water storage changes. Results of the field SG on a grassland site under wet-temperate climate conditions were compared to data provided by a nearby SG located in the controlled environment of an observatory building. The field system proves to provide gravity time series that are similarly precise as those of the observatory SG. At the same time, the field SG is more sensitive to hydrological variations than the observatory SG. We demonstrate that the gravity variations observed by the field setup are almost independent of the depth below the terrain surface where water storage changes occur (contrary to SGs in buildings), and thus the field SG system directly observes the total water storage change, i.e., the water balance, in its surroundings in an integrative way. We provide a framework to single out the water balance components actual evapotranspiration and lateral subsurface discharge from the gravity time series on annual to daily time scales. With about 99 % and 85 % of the gravity signal due to local water storage changes originating within a radius of 4000 and 200 meter around the instrument, respectively, this setup paves the road towards gravimetry as a continuous hydrological field monitoring technique at the landscape scale.