bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A non‐collisional, accretionary Sveconorwegian orogen
Authors: Slagstad Trond , Roberts Nick M. W. , Marker Mogens , Røhr Torkil S. , Schiellerup Henrik
Published: September 2012

Terra Nova, 25, 30–37, 2013

The late Mesoproterozoic Sveconorwegian orogen in southwest Baltica is traditionally interpreted as the eastward continuation of the Grenville orogen in Canada, resulting from collision with Amazonia, forming a central part in the assembly of the Rodinia supercontinent. We challenge this conventional view based on results from recent work in southwest Norway demonstrating voluminous subduction‐related magmatism in the period 1050–1020 Ma, followed by geographically restricted high‐T/medium‐P metamorphism between 1035 and 970 Ma, succeeded by ferroan magmatism over large parts of south Norway in the period 990–920 Ma. This magmatic and metamorphic evolution may be better understood as reflecting a long‐lived accretionary margin, undergoing periodic compression and extension, than continent–continent collision. This study has implications for Grenville–Sveconorwegian correlations, comparisons with modern continental margins, Rodinia reconstructions and how we recognize geodynamic settings in ancient orogens.
Late primary cytomegalovirus infection presenting with acute inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy in a heart transplant recipient: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Hodowanec A.C. , Simon D.M.
Published: September 2012

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is well recognized as a cause of morbidity and mortality in heart transplant recipients. Primary CMV infection can occur early post transplant in at‐risk recipients with donor‐derived infection, or any time after transplantation in community‐acquired infection. We describe a unique case of primary CMV infection occurring 14 years after cardiac transplantation. In addition to end‐organ CMV disease, this patient developed a post‐infectious neurologic phenomenon, acute inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy. This entity has rarely been reported in the solid organ transplant population.
Molecular Epidemiology of Bat Lyssaviruses in Europe
Authors: McElhinney L. M. , Marston D. A. , Leech S. , Freuling C. M. , van der Poel W. H. M. , Echevarria J. , Vázquez‐Moron S. , Horton D. L. , Müller T. , Fooks A. R.
Published: September 2012

Bat rabies cases in Europe are principally attributed to two lyssaviruses, namely European bat lyssavirus type 1 (EBLV‐1) and European bat lyssavirus type 2 (EBLV‐2). Between 1977 and 2011, 961 cases of bat rabies were reported to Rabies Bulletin Europe, with the vast majority (>97%) being attributed to EBLV‐1. There have been 25 suspected cases of EBLV‐2, of which 22 have been confirmed. In addition, two single isolations of unique lyssaviruses from European insectivorous bats were reported in south‐west Russia in 2002 (West Caucasian bat virus) and in Germany in 2010 (Bokeloh bat lyssavirus). In this review, we present phylogenetic analyses of the EBLV‐1 and EBLV‐2 using partial nucleoprotein (N) gene sequences. In particular, we have analysed all EBLV‐2 cases for which viral sequences (N gene, 400 nucleotides) are available (n = 21). Oropharyngeal swabs collected from two healthy Myotis daubentonii during active surveillance programmes in Scotland and Switzerland also yielded viral RNA (EBLV‐2). Despite the relatively low number of EBLV‐2 cases, a surprisingly large amount of anomalous data has been published in the scientific literature and Genbank, which we have collated and clarified. For both viruses, geographical relationships are clearly defined on the phylogenetic analysis. Whilst there is no clear chronological clustering for either virus, there is some evidence for host specific relationships, particularly for EBLV‐1 where more host variation has been observed. Further genomic regions must be studied, in particular for EBLV‐1 isolates from Spain and the EBLV‐2 isolates to provide support for the existence of sublineages.
A Review of Simulation Modelling Approaches Used for the Spread of Zoonotic Influenza Viruses in Animal and Human Populations
Authors: Dorjee S. , Poljak Z. , Revie C. W. , Bridgland J. , McNab B. , Leger E. , Sanchez J.
Published: September 2012

Increasing incidences of emerging and re‐emerging diseases that are mostly zoonotic (e.g. severe acute respiratory syndrome, avian influenza H5N1, pandemic influenza) has led to the need for a multidisciplinary approach to tackling these threats to public and animal health. Accordingly, a global movement of ‘One‐Health/One‐Medicine’ has been launched to foster collaborative efforts amongst animal and human health officials and researchers to address these problems. Historical evidence points to the fact that pandemics caused by influenza A viruses remain a major zoonotic threat to mankind. Recently, a range of mathematical and computer simulation modelling methods and tools have increasingly been applied to improve our understanding of disease transmission dynamics, contingency planning and to support policy decisions on disease outbreak management. This review provides an overview of methods, approaches and software used for modelling the spread of zoonotic influenza viruses in animals and humans, particularly those related to the animal‐human interface. Modelling parameters used in these studies are summarized to provide references for future work. This review highlights the limited application of modelling research to influenza in animals and at the animal‐human interface, in marked contrast to the large volume of its research in human populations. Although swine are widely recognized as a potential host for generating novel influenza viruses, and that some of these viruses, including pandemic influenza A/H1N1 2009, have been shown to be readily transmissible between humans and swine, only one study was found related to the modelling of influenza spread at the swine‐human interface. Significant gaps in the knowledge of frequency of novel viral strains evolution in pigs, farm‐level natural history of influenza infection, incidences of influenza transmission between farms and between swine and humans are clearly evident. Therefore, there is a need to direct additional research to the study of influenza transmission dynamics in animals and at the animal‐human interface.
Performances of a large mass ZnMoO4 scintillating bolometer for a next generation 0νDBD experiment
Authors: Beeman J. W. , Bellini F. , Brofferio C. , Cardani L. , Casali N. , Cremonesi O. , Dafinei I. , Di Domizio S. , Ferroni F. , Gorello E. , Galashov E. N. , Gironi L. , Nagorny S. S. , Orio F. , Pavan M. , Pattavina L. , Pessina G. , Piperno G. , Pirro S. , Previtali E. , Rusconi C. , Shlegel V. N. , Tomei C. , Vignati M.
Published: September 2012

We present the performances of a 330 g zinc molybdate (ZnMoO4) crystal working as scintillating bolometer as a possible candidate for a next generation experiment to search for neutrinoless double beta decay of 100Mo. The energy resolution, evaluated at the 2615 keV γ-line of 208Tl, is 6.3 keV FWHM. The internal radioactive contaminations of the ZnMoO4 were evaluated as <6 μBq/kg (228Th) and 27±6 μBq/kg (226Ra). We also present the results of the α vs β/γ discrimination, obtained through the scintillation light as well as through the study of the shape of the thermal signal alone.
SCOTOGENIC A4 NEUTRINO MODEL FOR NONZERO θ13 AND LARGE δCP
Authors: MA ERNEST , NATALE ALEXANDER , RASHED AHMED
Published: September 2012

Assuming that neutrinos acquire radiative seesaw Majorana masses through their interactions with dark matter, i.e. scotogenic from the Greek "scotos" meaning darkness, and using the non-Abelian discrete symmetry A4, we propose a model of neutrino masses and mixing with nonzero θ13 and necessarily large leptonic CP violation, allowing both the normal and inverted hierarchies of neutrino masses, as well as quasi-degenerate solutions.
COMPUTING THE GIT-FAN
Authors: KEICHER SIMON
Published: September 2012

We present an algorithm to compute the GIT-fan of algebraic torus actions on affine varieties.
AN ADAPTIVE SYSTEM FOR PREDICTING FREEWAY TRAVEL TIMES
Authors: LU CHUNG-CHENG JASON
Published: September 2012

This paper presents an adaptive system that embeds a Bayesian inference-based dynamic model (BDM) for predicting real-time travel time on a freeway corridor. Bayesian forecasting is a learning process that revises sequentially the state of a priori knowledge of travel time based on newly available information. The prediction result is a posterior travel time distribution that can be employed to generate a single-value (typically but not necessarily the mean) travel time as well as a confidence interval representing the uncertainty of travel time prediction. To better track travel time fluctuations during nonrecurrent congestion due to unforeseen events (e.g., incidents, accidents, or bad weather), the BDM is integrated into an adaptive control framework that can automatically learn and adjust the system evolution noise level. The experimental results based on real loop detector data of a freeway stretch in Northern Taiwan suggest that the proposed method is able to provide accurate and reliable travel time prediction under both recurrent and nonrecurrent traffic conditions.
IS THERE TWO-WAY ASYNCHRONOUS INFORMATION TRANSMISSION BETWEEN STOCK MARKETS AND STOCK MESSAGE BOARDS?
Authors: DONG DAYONG , LI LIAOLIAO , YANG DAN , ZHU HUILIN , CAO QILIN , LU YONG
Published: September 2012

This study investigates asynchronous information transmission between stock returns and abnormal posting volume on the online stock message boards in China. Based on a robust GARCH model, the study finds that there are significant two-way volatility spillover effects: a positive volatility spillover effect from stock returns to abnormal message posting volume, and a negative volatility spillover effect from abnormal message posting volume to stock returns. The information exchange and communication on stock message boards have a certain role in stabilizing financial markets and improving investor's decision making on financial markets.
AN AGENT DECISION SUPPORT MODULE BASED ON GRANULAR ROUGH MODEL
Authors: EL-GHAMRAWY SALLY M. , ELDESOUKY ALI I.
Published: September 2012

A multi-agent system (MAS) is a branch of distributed artificial intelligence, composed of a number of distributed and autonomous agents. In a MAS, effective coordination is essential for autonomous agents to achieve their goals. Any decision based on a foundation of knowledge and reasoning can lead agents into successful cooperation; to achieve the necessary degree of flexibility in coordination, an agent must decide when to coordinate and which coordination mechanism to use. The performance of any MAS depends directly on the decisions made by the agents. The agents must therefore be able to make correct decisions. This paper proposes a decision support module in a distributed MAS that is concerned with two main decisions: the decision needed to allocate a task to specific agent/s and the decision needed to select the appropriate coordination mechanism when agents must coordinate with other agent/s to accomplish a specific task. An algorithm for the task allocation decision maker (TADM) and the coordination mechanism selection decision maker (CMSDM) algorithm are proposed that are based on the granular rough model (GRM). Furthermore, a number of experiments were performed to validate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithms; the efficiency of the proposed algorithms is compared with recent works. The preliminary results demonstrate the efficiency of our algorithms.
NONLINEAR ASSIGNMENT-BASED METHODS FOR INTERVAL-VALUED INTUITIONISTIC FUZZY MULTI-CRITERIA DECISION ANALYSIS WITH INCOMPLETE PREFERENCE INFORMATION
Authors: CHEN TING-YU
Published: September 2012

In the context of interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy sets, this paper develops nonlinear assignment-based methods to manage imprecise and uncertain subjective ratings under incomplete preference structures and thereby determines the optimal ranking order of the alternatives for multiple criteria decision analysis. By comparing each interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy number's score function, accuracy function, membership uncertainty index, and hesitation uncertainty index, a ranking procedure is employed to identify criterion-wise preference of alternatives. Based on the criterion-wise rankings and a set of known but incomplete information about criterion weights, a nonlinear assignment model is constructed to estimate criterion weights and to order the priority of various alternatives. Considering multiple criteria evaluation problems with preference conflict about criterion importance, an integrated nonlinear programming model is further established with regard to incomplete and inconsistent weight information. These proposed nonlinear assignment-based methods can obtain an aggregate ranking that effectively combines the relative performance of each alternative in each criterion. In addition, this overall ranking most closely agrees with the criterion-wise rankings. Finally, the feasibility of the proposed method is illustrated by a practical example of selecting a suitable bridge construction method.
PLAUSIBLE BINDING MODE OF THE ACTIVE α4β1 ANTAGONIST, MK-0617, DETERMINED BY DOCKING AND FREE ENERGY CALCULATIONS
Authors: CARLEVARO C. MANUEL , MARTINS-DA-SILVA JOÃO HERMÍNIO , SAVINO WILSON , CAFFARENA ERNESTO RAÚL
Published: September 2012

In the last years, the development of small molecule antagonists of VLA-4 for the treatment of diseases, where cell trafficking and activation are important, has increased considerably. Among them, the MK-0617 ligand has proven to be a highly potent and orally active α4β1 antagonist. However, the binding mode of this ligand in the integrin binding site remains unknown. Herein we report a thermodynamic analysis of the interaction between MK-0617 (and one of its isomers) and the VLA-4 protein using molecular docking and the free energy perturbation calculations, based on a comparative model of the α4β1 receptor. Initial complex coordinates were taken from molecular docking assays and submitted to alchemical transformations. Free energy of binding ΔΔG values, derived from experimental IC50values, were taken as a parameter for determining the most likely binding mode. In addition, molecular dynamics simulations of these ligands within the α4β1 binding site were carried out to elucidate the binding energy profile and identify the most significant residues. Our results indicate that MK-0617 fits within the binding site in a stretched conformation, pointing the carboxylate group towards the MIDAS ion. We observe that, despite the fact that the main contribution to the energetic binding process is due to the electrostatic ion contribution, the nonpolar contribution is not negligible. Additionally, a network of hydrogen bonds participate in stabilizing the ligand-receptor interaction.
NONLINEAR EXTENSIONS OF THE REPARAMETRIZATION ALGEBRA: ALGEBRAIC CONSTRUCTION, INVARIANTS AND ANOMALIES
Authors: BANDELLONI GIUSEPPE
Published: September 2012

We perform a class of nonlinear extensions of the reparametrization algebra at arbitrary dimensions. Our extended algebras reproduce in the one-dimensional limit the well-known [Formula: see text]-ones. We point out the existence of a family of reparametrization invariant functions for which this property is untouched by the extension procedure. This allows to calculate the improvement of the gravitational anomaly within the extended symmetry.
STABILITY OF RELATIVISTIC PLASMA-VACUUM INTERFACES
Authors: TRAKHININ YURI
Published: September 2012

We study the plasma-vacuum interface problem in relativistic magnetohydrodynamics for the case when the plasma density does not go to zero continuously, but jumps. In the vacuum region, we consider the Maxwell equations for electric and magnetic fields. We show that a sufficiently large vacuum electric field can make the planar interface violently unstable. By using a suitable secondary symmetrization of the vacuum Maxwell equations, we find a sufficient condition that precludes violent instabilities. Under this condition, we derive an energy a priori estimate in the anisotropic weighted Sobolev space [Formula: see text] for the variable coefficients linearized problem for nonplanar plasma-vacuum interfaces.
EFFECT OF BIDIRECTIONAL EXCITATIONS ON SEISMIC RESPONSE OF RC BUILDINGS
Authors: MWAFY AMAN M.
Published: September 2012

This paper investigates the effect of the horizontal and vertical components of ground motions (HGM and VGM, respectively) on the seismic response of Reinforced Concrete (RC) buildings designed to modern capacity design principles and located in the vicinity of active faults. Fiber-based analytical models are used to monitor the global and local response of twelve reference structures, including verifying the response modification factor and tracing the member shear supply-demand response using a ductility- and axial force-sensitive shear strength approach. The simulation models are subjected to near-field earthquake records with increasing severity up to collapse, including and excluding VGM. The results indicate that the lower the contribution of horizontal seismic forces to the seismic response, the higher is the significance of VGM. The fluctuation of axial forces in vertical structural members significantly increases when including VGM. This not only has direct consequences on tension and compression response but also has impact on shear capacity. The diverse range of buildings and performance criteria and large number of incremental dynamic analyses confirm the importance of including VGM in seismic design and assessment of contemporary RC buildings, and hence cast doubts on the reliability of pre-code structures located in the vicinity of active faults.
TSUNAMI FORCE ON BUILDINGS WITH OPENINGS AND PROTECTION
Authors: TRIATMADJA RADIANTA , NURHASANAH ANY
Published: September 2012

The force from a tsunami will damage buildings, such as houses, bridges, and many other coastal infrastructures. The impact and drag force of a tsunami depend on the scale and the characteristics of the tsunami as well as the infrastructures' characteristics.

This study was conducted using physical modeling to determine the effect of openings and protection on buildings to reduce the effects of a tsunami attack. The openings were symmetrical about the front and rear walls and were oriented in the direction of the tsunami. Barriers with dimensions that were the same width and three times higher than the building and of various lengths were used to simulate protection against a tsunami.

The results indicated that the force on the buildings depends on but is not linearly correlated to the opening. The barrier upstream of the building significantly reduced the force depending on its distance to the building and the surge Froude number; however, the openings still play an important role in reducing the force on a protected building. Simple equations for practical use are proposed to calculate the tsunami force on a building with openings with or without protection.
TENSOR PRODUCTS OF RANDOM UNITARY MATRICES
Authors: TKOCZ TOMASZ , SMACZYŃSKI MAREK , KUŚ MAREK , ZEITOUNI OFER , ŻYCZKOWSKI KAROL
Published: September 2012

Tensor products of M random unitary matrices of size N from the circular unitary ensemble are investigated. We show that the spectral statistics of the tensor product of random matrices becomes Poissonian if M = 2, N become large or M become large and N = 2.
Structural evolution of the Uşak–Güre supra-detachment basin during Miocene extensional denudation in western Turkey
Authors: Karaoğlu Özgür , Helvaci Cahit
Published: September 2012

The Uşak–Güre basin is a NE–SW-trending extensional basin located in the northern part of the Menderes Massif, in western Anatolia. The Uşak–Güre basin contains a Lower to Upper Miocene volcano-sedimentary succession that records the unroofing of the metamorphic rocks of the Menderes Metamorphic Core Complex. We propose a new structural mechanism based on geological mapping and detailed kinematic fault analysis from each of the evolutionary phases. We also propose that north- to NE-dipping low-angle detachment surfaces define the basin boundaries and have identified three stages of deformation throughout the Miocene: the Early Miocene deformation phase (D
2
) is characterized by low-angle normal faulting (Simav detachment fault) in the supra-detachment Uşak–Güre basin, which marks the initiation of the extensional tectonics during the latest Oligocene; the Middle Miocene deformation phase (D
3
) refers to volcano-tectonic activities during accumulation of the İnay Group; the Late Miocene deformation phase (D
4
) is related to late Miocene tectonic activity widely responsible for deposition of the Asartepe Formations and uplift of the metamorphic rocks in the Uşak basin margin. In addition, we propose that the eastern part of the Menderes Massif was delimited by the ‘Uşak–Muğla transtensional transfer zone’ from Middle Miocene time throughout the eastern part of the Menderes Metamorphic Core Complex.
3D structure and evolution of an oblique system of relaying folds: the Ainsa basin (Spanish Pyrenees)
Authors: Fernández O. , Muñoz J. A. , Arbués P. , Falivene O.
Published: September 2012

The structure of the Eocene Ainsa basin is dominated by kilometre-scale thrusts and folds that have trends at
c
. 70° to that of the main Pyrenean structures. Late uplift and erosion provide excellent exposure of this fold-and-thrust system and its growth strata. Field observations integrated with 2D seismic and well data support the 3D reconstructions presented in this paper. Structural reconstructions of pre- and syn-growth geometries contribute substantial improvements to the understanding of the structure of the area and provide a unique insight into the timing of Pyrenean structures. This study demonstrates that oblique features in the Ainsa basin can be grouped into two main systems: the La Fueba thrust system, an oblique-lateral ramp to one of the main Pyrenean thrusts, and the kilometre-scale folds of the Sobrabe system, a set of anticlines that grew as part of a relaying system of folds. In this study we propose a chronology of deformation based on the geometry of the basin fill, which has been used to frame the general tectonosedimentary evolution of the Ainsa basin. The relative timing of structures indicates that the La Fueba structures predate the Sobrarbe structures, which originated as orogen-parallel structures, and obliquity developed during the growth of these structures through clockwise vertical-axis rotation.
Provenance of the Highland Border Complex: constraints on Laurentian margin accretion in the Scottish Caledonides
Authors: Cawood P. A. , Merle R. E. , Strachan R. A. , Tanner P. W. G.
Published: September 2012

Contrasting tectonic models for the Highland Border Complex in the Scottish Caledonides view it either as part of the rifted Laurentian margin of the Iapetus Ocean or as an oceanic terrane. Detrital zircon data from sandstones of the complex yield age peaks at 2.8–2.6, 1.3 and 1.1–1.0 Ga and minor peaks at
c
. 1.7–1.9 Ga. These characteristics compare closely with those of the upper Dalradian Supergroup of the adjacent Grampian terrane, and with the record of eastern Laurentia. The data are also consistent with the Laurentian provenance indicated by palaeontological evidence from the complex, and field evidence for continuity with the Dalradian Supergroup. Detrital ages for the Cambrian Salterella Grit of the Caledonian foreland compare with those for approximately age-equivalent sandstones from the Highland Border Complex. Both were contemporaneous with the regressive Hawke Bay event, accounting for similarities in provenance, and further linking the Highland Border Complex to Laurentia. The Grampian terrane was being uplifted and shedding detritus throughout the Ordovician and Silurian. The absence of this event from the detrital zircon records of either the Midland Valley or Southern Upland terranes suggests that these blocks cannot have been in their current location relative to the Grampian terrane before the end of the Silurian.

Supplementary material:

The complete analytical dataset and cathodoluminescence images are available at
http://www.geolsoc.org.uk/SUP18531
.
Three-dimensional analysis of the Plio-Pleistocene seismic sequences in the Venice Lagoon (Italy)
Authors: Tosi Luigi , Teatini Pietro , Brancolini Giuliano , Zecchin Massimo , Carbognin Laura , Affatato Alessandro , Baradello Luca
Published: September 2012

Integrated seismic and well data provide for the first time a picture of the geological evolution of the Venice area over the last 5 Ma and a 3D subsoil model, which is fundamental to prediction of the anthropogenic uplift of Venice by seawater injection. A Pliocene southward prograding complex formed a shelf–slope system, whereas subsidence related to the Apennine foredeep development led to the establishment of a Early Pleistocene deep-water environment, favouring the accumulation of a thick turbidite succession. The NE progradation of the palaeo-Po river delta during the Middle Pleistocene promoted a drastic environmental revolution, followed by the deposition of cyclothems linked to glacio-eustatic changes.

Supplementary material:

Details of the seismic data and their relationship to the boreholes are available at
http://www.geolsoc.org.uk/SUP18537
.
Stretching lineations in high-pressure belts: the fingerprint of subduction and subsequent events (Malpica–Tui complex, NW Iberia)
Authors: Fernández Rubén Díez , Catalán José R. Martínez
Published: September 2012

The evolution of tectonic flow has been studied in an exposed continental subduction system of the Variscan belt, the Malpica–Tui Complex of NW Iberia, where structural data are used to establish the kinematics and flow geometry during the whole deformation history. Structural analysis reveals reorientation of successive lineations by subsequent deformation events, and especially by late strike-slip tectonics. Analysis of the deflection patterns in the lineation map permits us to establish the original trend of lineations. The data expose the role of thrust and nappe tectonics and non-coaxial deformation in the hinterland of a collisional belt showing a dominant orogen-parallel lineation pattern. Following oblique subduction, contractional ductile thrusts transported and emplaced a part of the subduction system onto the adjacent mainland following vectors normal to the orogenic trend. However, the finite stretching lineation in associated recumbent folds is oblique to the orogenic trend and suggests overprinting by dextral shearing, probably owing to lateral components of the Gondwana and Laurussia convergence. Subsequently, extensional structures dismembered the tectonic pile, moving the pieces obliquely with respect to the trend of the collisional belt. Orogen-parallel strike-slip shear zones later produced major reorientation of the pre-existing tectonic fabrics towards their shear planes.
Fault-related fluid flow history in shallow marine sediments from carbonate concretions, Crotone basin, south Italy
Authors: Balsamo F. , Storti F. , Gröcke D. R.
Published: September 2012

We present the results of a multidisciplinary study on the relationships between the structural architecture of an extensional fault system in poorly lithified shallow marine sands and the associated pattern of diagenetic carbonate concretions. Based on their shape, spatial distribution, cement texture and chemistry, and isotopic signature, carbonate concretions are grouped into (1) tabular (encompassing also nodular and lens-shaped) concretions developed within the fault zones, and (2) elongate and coalescent strata-bound concretions formed adjacent and mostly parallel to fault zones. Cement chemistry and morphology, as well as stable carbon–oxygen isotopic signatures, indicate that tabular concretions formed during early diagenesis in the vadose mixing marine–meteoric zone, possibly during coseismic rupture propagation and, in the interseismic periods, as a result of slow capillary suction along the low-permeability fault zones. On the other hand, elongate concretions formed after regional uplift and during telodiagenesis by precipitation from meteoric, phreatic water flowing parallel to the fault zones, which acted as a hydraulic barrier. The concretion patterns record the evolution of fluid flow orientation and the changing chemistry of fault-zone fluids, which were fundamentally driven by fault system propagation and resulting fault architecture during two major diagenetic stages.
Origin of an anhydrite sheath encircling a salt diapir and implications for the seismic imaging of steep-sided salt structures, Egersund Basin, Northern North Sea
Authors: Jackson Christopher A.-L. , Lewis Matthew M.
Published: September 2012

The ingress of meteoric fluids into the crests of salt structures typically results in the formation of anhydrite-dominated caprock. The migration of connate fluids up the margins of salt structures has also been documented, although the products related to this are rarely sampled in the deep subsurface. We use 3D seismic reflection and borehole data to document the geometry and lithology of a salt diapir. Seismic data suggest that a weld is developed along the diapir stem, although borehole data indicate that the stem consists of an inner,
c
. 1500 m thick, halite-dominated zone, and an outer,
c
. 250 m thick, anhydrite-dominated ‘sheath’. The anhydrite may have formed early in the basin history, as a depositional anhydrite or crestal caprock. An alternative interpretation is that the anhydrite represents ‘lateral caprock’, which formed late in the basin history in response to the migration of NaCl-poor fluid up the margins of the diapir and dissolution of halite. The possibility that lateral caprock may form adjacent to salt structures has implications for understanding the patterns and vigour of groundwater flow in sedimentary basins. Furthermore, our study shows the margins of steep-sided salt structures may be misidentified by several hundred metres if time-migrated seismic reflection data are used.
Evolution of the west Greenland margin: offshore thermostratigraphic data and modelling
Authors: McGregor E. D. , Nielsen S. B. , Stephenson R. A. , Clausen O. R. , Petersen K. D. , Macdonald D. I. M.
Published: September 2012

The origin and age of topography along the west Greenland margin is a matter of continued debate. Evidence for tectonically driven Neogene uplift has been argued from interpretations of offshore seismic surveys, onshore fission-track data and inferred episodes of cooling. Here, analysis of seismic reflection profiles and 1D modelling of exploration wells along the Greenland margin of Davis Strait demonstrate that the data are consistent with a model of ancient continental topography affected by late Cretaceous–early Palaeocene rifting followed by thermal subsidence where offshore Neogene tectonic uplift is not required. This interpretation for the offshore evolution of the west Greenland margin has implications for the adjacent onshore evolution and for other continental margins developed throughout the Atlantic–Arctic rift system.
First account of resistivity borehole micro-imaging (FMI) to assess the sedimentology and structure of the Preesall Halite, NW England: implications for gas storage and wider applications in CCS caprock assessment
Authors: Evans D. J. , Kingdon A. , Hough E. , Reynolds W. , Heitmann N.
Published: September 2012

UK future energy infrastructure will include solution-mined salt caverns in bedded halite deposits providing short to medium term, fast-cycle underground gas storage volumes. Assessing the stratigraphy, sedimentology and structure of halite beds is essential for understanding and developing gas storage caverns. This paper highlights perhaps the first application of Schlumberger’s FMI
TM
resistivity borehole imaging tool to characterize and provide a detailed understanding of bedded halites. Widely used in the hydrocarbons industry for over 20 years the potential value of such tools has yet to be fully recognized in the solution mining industry and is applied to the Triassic Preesall Halite in NW England with promising results. There may be wider applications in, for example, CCS caprock assessment.
Evidence for hyperextension along the pre-Caledonian margin of Baltica
Authors: Andersen Torgeir B. , Corfu Fernando , Labrousse Loic , Osmundsen Per-Terje
Published: September 2012

We propose that a mantle-peridotite-bearing mélange unit, which has been mapped for more than 400 km in southern Norway, represents vestiges of deep basin(s) formed by hyperextension of the Baltic margin during the inception of the Caledonian Wilson cycle. In the mélange, which occurs below the crystalline nappes of the Middle Allochthon in southern Norway, solitary mantle peridotites, detrital serpentinites, metabasalts, gabbros and deep basin sediments are interlayered and imbricated with allochthonous, coarse-grained siliclastic sediments and slivers of Proterozoic basement rocks. The siliciclastic sediments have detritus derived from Proterozoic rocks, similar to those of the large crystalline nappes and the autochthonous basement of Baltica. The mélange unit shares many similarities with the hyperextended Tethyan margin complexes that have been described from the Alps, the Pyrenees and several segments of the present-day passive ocean margins, and we interpret it to represent an ancient late Proterozoic to Palaeozoic analogue to present-day hyperextended passive margins. Regional maps show that the mélange continues into the central Scandinavian Caledonides and that this basin assemblage may have had a much wider geographical distribution. The new model suggests that a major reinterpretation of the Lower and Middle Allochthons of the Scandinavian Caledonides is required.
Circulating Biomarkers of Interstitial Lung Disease in Systemic Sclerosis
Authors: Lota Harpreet K. , Renzoni Elisabetta A.
Published: September 2012

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). Although a large proportion of SSc patients have only limited interstitial involvement with an indolent course, in a significant minority ILD is progressive, requiring prompt treatment and careful monitoring. One of the main challenges for the clinician treating this highly variable disease is the early identification of patients at risk of progressive ILD, while avoiding potentially toxic treatments in those whose disease is inherently stable. Easily available and repeatable biomarkers that allow estimation of the risk of ILD progression and early response to treatment are highly desirable. In this paper, we review the evidence for circulating biomarkers with potential roles in diagnosis, monitoring of disease activity, or determining prognosis. Peripheral blood biomarkers offer the advantages of being readily obtained, non-invasive, and serially monitored. Several possible candidates have emerged from studies performed so far, including SP-D, KL-6, and CCL18. Presently however, there are few prospective studies evaluating the predictive ability of prospective biomarkers after adjustment for disease severity. Future carefully designed, prospective studies of well characterised patients with ILD, with optimal definition of disease severity and outcome measures are needed.
A Higher-Order Hardy-Type Inequality in Anisotropic Sobolev Spaces
Authors: Secchi Paolo
Published: September 2012

We prove a higher-order inequality of Hardy type for functions in anisotropic Sobolev spaces that vanish at the boundary of the space domain. This is an important calculus tool for the study of initial-boundary-value problems of symmetric hyperbolic systems with characteristic boundary.
A Rapid Numerical Algorithm to Compute Matrix Inversion
Authors: Soleymani F.
Published: September 2012

The aim of the present work is to suggest and establish a numerical algorithm based on matrix multiplications for computing approximate inverses. It is shown theoretically that the scheme possesses seventh-order convergence, and thus it rapidly converges. Some discussions on the choice of the initial value to preserve the convergence rate are given, and it is also shown in numerical examples that the proposed scheme can easily be taken into account to provide robust preconditioners.
Brain Miffed by Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor
Authors: Savaskan Nic E. , Fingerle-Rowson Günter , Buchfelder Michael , Eyüpoglu Ilker Y.
Published: September 2012

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is a cytokine which also exhibits enzymatic properties like oxidoreductase and tautomerase. MIF plays a pivotal role in innate and acquired immunity as well as in the neuroendocrine axis. Since it is involved in the pathogenesis of acute and chronic inflammation, neoangiogenesis, and cancer, MIF and its signaling components are considered suitable targets for therapeutic intervention in several fields of medicine. In neurodegenerative and neurooncological diseases, MIF is a highly relevant, but still a hardly investigated mediator. MIF operates via intracellular protein-protein interaction as well as in CD74/CXCR2/CXCR4 receptor-mediated pathways to regulate essential cellular systems such as redox balance, HIF-1, and p53-mediated senescence and apoptosis as well as multiple signaling pathways. Acting as an endogenous glucocorticoid antagonist, MIF thus represents a relevant resistance gene in brain tumor therapies. Alongside this dual action, a functional homolog-annotated D-dopachrome tautomerase/MIF-2 has been uncovered utilizing the same cell surface receptor signaling cascade as MIF. Here we review MIF actions with respect to redox regulation in apoptosis and in tumor growth as well as its extracellular function with a focus on its potential role in brain diseases. We consider the possibility of MIF targeting in neurodegenerative processes and brain tumors by novel MIF-neutralizing approaches.
Dispersion Behavior of Gold-Nanocoated Dielectric Optical Fibers
Authors: Choudhury P. K.
Published: September 2012

Using a fairly rigorous approach, gold-nanocoated dielectric optical fibers are treated to evaluate the propagation characteristics corresponding to the transverse electric (TE) and hybrid EH modes, as supported by the guides with small and large dimensions. Situations with varying nanocoating thickness are considered for two different operating wavelengths. The results demonstrate a profound effect of the gold nanocoating on the propagation-related features—the number of existing modes decreases with increasing nanolayer thickness. Furthermore, the gold nanolayer also has effects on the modal propagation constants, which become more prominent with the increase in the order of modes. It has been found that, in fiber with smaller dimension, the EH11mode hardly exhibits any effect due to the variation in existing nanolayer coating corresponding to 850 nm wavelength. Almost similar situations are observed for the TE01mode in large core fiber operating at 1550 nm wavelength.
Power Allocation in the TV White Space under Constraint on Secondary System Self‐Interference
Authors: Cho Byungjin , Koufos Konstantinos , Ruttik Kalle , Jäntti Riku
Published: September 2012

The Electronic Communication Committee (ECC) in Europe proposed a location‐based transmission power allocation rule for secondary devices operating in the TV white space (TVWS). The further the secondary device is located from the TV cell border the higher transmission power level it can utilize. The Federal Communication Committee (FCC) in the US proposed a fixed transmission power allocation rule for all secondary transmitters. Both rules do not consider the secondary system’s self‐interference while setting the transmission power levels. In this paper, we propose a power allocation scheme for a cellular secondary system. Unlike the ECC and the FCC proposals we do the power allocation by considering the self‐interference. We define the power allocation scheme as an optimization problem. The sum cell border data rate of the secondary network is selected to be the optimization objective. We observe that the optimal transmission power levels become approximately
constant over the secondary deployment area. The FCC rule captures the general trend for cellular deployment in the TVWS, since it suggests the use of constant power. However, the transmission power should not be set equal to 4 W but according to the allowable generated interference at the borders of the TV and secondary cells.
Metadata for Approximate Query Answering Systems
Authors: Di Tria Francesco , Lefons Ezio , Tangorra Filippo
Published: September 2012

In business intelligence systems, data warehouse metadata management and representation are getting more and more attention by vendors and designers. The standard language for the data warehouse metadata representation is the Common Warehouse Metamodel. However, business intelligence systems include also approximate query answering systems, since these software tools provide fast responses for decision making on the basis of approximate query processing. Currently, the standard meta-model does not allow to represent the metadata needed by approximate query answering systems. In this paper, we propose an extension of the standard metamodel, in order to define the metadata to be used in online approximate analytical processing. These metadata have been successfully adopted in ADAP, a web-based approximate query answering system that creates and uses statistical data profiles.
Compatibility of Pretreated Coir Fibres (Cocos nuciferaL.) with Portland Cement to Produce Mineral Composites
Authors: Ferraz Joana M. , Del Menezzi Cláudio H. S. , Souza Mario R. , Okino Esmeralda Y. A. , Martins Sabrina A.
Published: September 2012

The objectives of the present work were to evaluate the chemical compatibility between coir (Cocos nuciferaL.) and cement and to study treatment methods to improve this compatibility. In the inhibition test, cement hydration temperature evolution was measured in the absence and presence of untreated and treated coir fibres (cold water, hot water and NaOH), besides the addition of 4% of CaCl2. The chemical characterization of untreated and treated coir fibres was done by determining the content of extractives, lignin, and holocellulose. The inhibition test graded the untreated fibre as “extreme inhibition,” ratifying the need to provide it a treatment. Treatments done on coir fibres affected positively the compatibility between cement and fibre, reducing the inhibition. The treatments reduced the lignin coir fibres’ and extractives proportion, whose variation was significantly correlated with the reduction of the inhibitory index. These results indicate a possibility for future incorporation of these fibres into the production of mineral composites.
The Effects of Gas Humidification with High-Flow Nasal Cannula on Cultured Human Airway Epithelial Cells
Authors: Chidekel Aaron , Zhu Yan , Wang Jordan , Mosko John J. , Rodriguez Elena , Shaffer Thomas H.
Published: September 2012

Humidification of inspired gas is important for patients receiving respiratory support. High-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) effectively provides temperature and humidity-controlled gas to the airway. We hypothesized that various levels of gas humidification would have differential effects on airway epithelial monolayers. Calu-3 monolayers were placed in environmental chambers at 37°C with relative humidity (RH) < 20% (dry), 69% (noninterventional comparator), and >90% (HFNC) for 4 and 8 hours with 10 L/min of room air. At 4 and 8 hours, cell viability and transepithelial resistance measurements were performed, apical surface fluid was collected and assayed for indices of cell inflammation and function, and cells were harvested for histology (n=6/condition). Transepithelial resistance and cell viability decreased over time (P<0.001) between HFNC and dry groups (P<0.001). Total protein secretion increased at 8 hours in the dry group (P<0.001). Secretion of interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-8 in the dry group was greater than the other groups at 8 hours (P<0.001). Histological analysis showed increasing injury over time for the dry group. These data demonstrate that exposure to low humidity results in reduced epithelial cell function and increased inflammation.
Mood Predicts Response to Placebo CPAP
Authors: Stepnowsky Carl J. , Mao Wei-Chung , Bardwell Wayne A. , Loredo José S. , Dimsdale Joel E.
Published: September 2012

Study Objectives. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy is efficacious for treating obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), but recent studies with placebo CPAP (CPAP administered at subtherapeutic pressure) have revealed nonspecific (or placebo) responses to CPAP treatment. This study examined baseline psychological factors associated with beneficial effects from placebo CPAP treatment.Participants. Twenty-five participants were studied with polysomnography at baseline and after treatment with placebo CPAP.Design. Participants were randomized to either CPAP treatment or placebo CPAP. Baseline mood was assessed with the Profile of Mood States (POMS). Total mood disturbance (POMS-Total) was obtained by summing the six POMS subscale scores, with Vigor weighted negatively. The dependent variable was changed in apnea-hypopnea index (ΔAHI), calculated by subtracting pre- from post-CPAP AHI. Negative values implied improvement. Hierarchical regression analysis was performed, with pre-CPAP AHI added as a covariate to control for baseline OSA severity.Results. Baseline emotional distress predicted the drop in AHI in response to placebo CPAP. Highly distressed patients showed greater placebo response, with a 34% drop (i.e., improvement) in AHI.Conclusion. These findings underscore the importance of placebo-controlled studies of CPAP treatment. Whereas such trials are routinely included in drug trials, this paper argues for their importance even in mechanical-oriented sleep interventions.
Free Triiodothyronine and Cholesterol Levels in Euthyroid Elderly T2DM Patients
Authors: Strollo F. , Carucci I. , Morè M. , Marico G. , Strollo G. , Masini M. A. , Gentile S.
Published: September 2012

Thyroid function regulates lipid metabolism. Despite the fact that T2DM is more prevalent in the elderly, often associates with thyroid dysfunction and increases cardiovascular risk bothper seand via high TC and LDL-C levels, the association of the latter with FT3and FT4levels has not yet been fully investigated in T2DM. While trying to fill this gap in 296 elderly outpatients with T2DM, we found that TC and LDL-C correlated negatively with FT4and positively with FT3. When divided according to treatment by oral hypoglycaemic agents (OHA) and insulin (IT), they reacted differently with respect to investigated associations: in the OHA’s TC and LDL-C correlated negatively with FT4and showed no association with FT3, whereas, in the IT’s TC and LDL-C correlated positively with FT3and negatively with FT4. When controlled for possible confounding factors, these associations did not change in the IT’s but were missing in the OHA’s. Recent literature reports upon complex hypothalamic and peripheral interactions between T2DM and thyroid, and suggests T3to enhance cholesterol synthesis and to have a role in insulin resistance states. Further investigations are needed to understand the intimate mechanisms of lipid metabolism in T2DM with respect to thyroid function.