bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Superluminous supernovae: 56Ni power versus magnetar radiation
Authors: Dessart Luc , Hillier D. John , Waldman Roni , Livne Eli , Blondin Stéphane
Published: September 2012

Much uncertainty surrounds the origin of superluminous supernovae (SNe). Motivated by the discovery of the Type Ic SN 2007bi, we study its proposed association with a pair-instability SN (PISN). We compute stellar evolution models for primordial ∼200 M⊙ stars, simulating the implosion/explosion due to the pair-production instability, and use them as inputs for detailed non-local thermodynamic equilibrium time-dependent radiative transfer simulations that include non-local energy deposition and non-thermal processes. We retrieve the basic morphology of PISN light curves from red supergiant, blue supergiant and Wolf–Rayet (WR) star progenitors. Although we confirm that a progenitor 100 M⊙ helium core (PISN model He100) fits well the SN 2007bi light curve, the low ratios of its kinetic energy and 56Ni mass to the ejecta mass, similar to standard core-collapse SNe, conspire to produce cool photospheres, red spectra subject to strong line blanketing and narrow-line profiles, all conflicting with SN 2007bi observations. He-core models of increasing 56Ni-to-ejecta mass ratio have bluer spectra, but still too red to match SN 2007bi, even for model He125 – the effect of 56Ni heating is offset by the associated increase in blanketing. In contrast, the delayed injection of energy by a magnetar represents a more attractive alternative to reproduce the blue, weakly blanketed and broad-lined spectra of superluminous SNe. The extra heat source is free of blanketing and is not explicitly tied to the ejecta. Experimenting with an ∼9 M⊙ WR-star progenitor, initially exploded to yield an ∼1.6 B SN Ib/c ejecta but later influenced by tunable magnetar-like radiation, we produce a diversity of blue spectral morphologies reminiscent of SN 2007bi, the peculiar Type Ib SN 2005bf and superluminous SN 2005ap-like events.
Transitions in the Chinese market for refined petroleum products
Authors: Leung Guy C.K. , Li Raymond , Walls W.D.
Published: September 2012

China's rapidly rising crude oil consumption has been a cause of concern, both for China's own energy security and the effects this rising demand has on world oil markets. However, one must disaggregate the domestic Chinese demand for petroleum products to reveal what sort of policy options might be sensible. In this research, we provide a simple empirical characterisation of recent transitions in China's market for refined petroleum products. This study discusses the factors that affect the demand for various petroleum products to enhance our understanding of China's oil economy. Policy options currently being considered by China's leaders are discussed in light of our empirical findings.
The economics of Nigeria's petroleum products' subsidy removal debate: Who is right? Who is wrong?
Authors: Asekunowo Victor O.
Published: September 2012

The petroleum products' subsidy removal proposal slated to take effect from early 2012 in Nigeria has generated a lot war of words between governments in the country, the Nigerian Labour Congress and the civil society. This war of words has, on occasion, regrettably degenerated into violence, culminating in loss of lives and properties. This paper looks at the economics behind the positions taken by the groups on both sides of the divide. The review conducted revealed that the arguments presented by each side cannot be adjudged to have dwarfed the other. However, the review also revealed that the Nigerian poor, who probably due to initial distribution or some other vicissitudes of life, would suffer immeasurably if the subsidy is totally withdrawn. This paper therefore argued that a middle ground, partial withdrawal of subsidy policy must be adopted in which the administration of the scheme, if reformed, would make less targeting errors, i.e. subsidy should be better targeted. This way, the already unimpressive Human Development Index of Nigeria would not worsen.
Zamia grijalvensis sp. nov. (Zamiaceae, Cycadales) from Chiapas, Mexico with notes on hybridization and karyology
Authors: Pérez‐Farrera Miguel Ángel , Vovides Andrew P. , Martínez‐Camilo Rubén , Martínez‐Meléndez Nayely , Gómez‐Domínguez Héctor , Galicia‐Castellanos Sonia
Published: September 2012

Zamia grijalvensis, a new cycad species from Chiapas, México, is described and illustrated. This species is similar to Z. lacandona with respect to leaves, but differs in habit, morphology and colour of the female and male cones. The female cone of Z. grijalvensis is reddish brown to orange brown, whereas that of Z. lacandona is dark brown with lighter beige tomentum. The male cone of Z. grijalvensis is erect, whereas that of Z. lacandona is decumbent. The new species may be of natural hybrid origin and is discussed in the light of other findings among cycads. Preliminary diploid chromosome counts for Z. grijalvensis 2n = 19, 20 and karyotypes appear variable, as previously found in its congeners with wide distribution, such as Z. paucijuga and Z. prasina, both of which are characterised by high diploid numbers with a high number of telocentric and few metacentric chromosomes. These changes in chromosome number are probably the result of stressful environmental factors.
INSTITUTIONAL WAGE EFFECTS: REVISITING UNION AND BARGAINING COUNCIL WAGE PREMIA IN SOUTH AFRICA
Authors: BHORAT HAROON , GOGA SUMAYYA , VAN DER WESTHUIZEN CARLENE
Published: September 2012

The literature on the union wage gap in South Africa is extensive, spanning a range of data sets and methodologies. There is, however, little consensus on the appropriate method to correct for the endogeneity of union membership or the size of the union wage gap. Furthermore, there are very few studies on the bargaining council wage premium in South Africa because of lack of data on the coverage of employees under these agreements. Our study, using 2005 Labour Force Survey data, firstly reconsiders the union wage gap controlling for both firm‐level and job characteristics. When correcting for the endogeneity of union status through a two‐stage selection model and including firm size, type of employment, and non‐wage benefits, we find a much lower union wage premium for African workers in the formal sector than premiums reported in some previous studies. Secondly, our study estimates bargaining council wage premiums for the private and public sectors. We find that extension procedures are present in both private and public bargaining council systems but that unions negotiate for additional gains for their members at the plant level. Furthermore, there is some evidence that unions negotiate for awards for their members in the private sector irrespective of bargaining council coverage.
RISK–RETURN TRADE‐OFF AND BEHAVIOUR OF VOLATILITY ON THE SOUTH AFRICAN STOCK MARKET: EVIDENCE FROM BOTH AGGREGATE AND DISAGGREGATE DATA
Authors: MANDIMIKA NEVILLE ZIVANAYI , CHINZARA ZIVANEMOYO
Published: September 2012

The study analyses the nature and behaviour of volatility, the risk–return relationship and the long‐term trend of volatility on the South African equity markets using aggregate level, industrial level and sectoral level daily data for the period 1995‐2009. By employing dummy variables for the Asian and the sub‐prime financial crises and the 11 September political shock, the study further examines whether the long‐term trend of volatility structurally breaks during financial crises and major political shocks. Three time‐varying generalised autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity models were employed: one of them symmetric, and the other two asymmetric. Each of these models was estimated based on three error distributional assumptions. The findings of the study are as follows: First, volatility is largely persistent and asymmetric. Second, risk at both aggregate and disaggregate level is generally not a priced factor on the South Africa (SA) stock market. Third, the threshold autoregressive conditional heteroscedasticity (TARCH) model under the generalised error distribution is the most appropriate model for conditional volatility of the SA stock market. Fourth, volatility generally increases over time, and its trend structurally breaks during financial crises and major global shocks. The policy and investment implications of the findings are outlined.
Accelerating the CM method
Authors: Sutherland Andrew V.
Published: September 2012

Given a prime q and a negative discriminant D, the CM method constructs an elliptic curve E/Fq by obtaining a root of the Hilbert class polynomial HD(X) modulo q. We consider an approach based on a decomposition of the ring class field defined by HD, which we adapt to a CRT setting. This yields two algorithms, each of which obtains a root of HD mod q without necessarily computing any of its coefficients. Heuristically, our approach uses asymptotically less time and space than the standard CM method for almost all D. Under the GRH, and reasonable assumptions about the size of log q relative to ∣D∣, we achieve a space complexity of O((m+n)log q) bits, where mn=h(D) , which may be as small as O(∣D∣1/4 log q) . The practical efficiency of the algorithms is demonstrated using ∣D∣>1016 and q≈2256, and also ∣D∣>1015 and q≈233220. These examples are both an order of magnitude larger than the best previous results obtained with the CM method.
Methods for Improving Chucking Accuracy
Authors: Byun Jeongmin , Liu C. Richard
Published: September 2012

Since recent studies have demonstrated the benefits of hard turning over other abrasive machining processes as a finishing process in terms of surface integrity, a strong need has existed to improve the performance of chucking. It is because the poor repeatability and accuracy in the positioning of chucked workpieces became the major bottleneck in the implementation of finish hard turning for precision mechanical components. However, the understanding of chucking has not been adequate nor has any systematic method been reported for improving chucking accuracy. In this paper, all the major factors that affect the positioning accuracy and repeatability of a chucked workpiece have been identified by error budgeting and systematic measurements. In addition, the characteristics of these factors as well as their effect on chucking accuracy were investigated. From the results, a chucking error map that summarizes the relations between these factors and the positioning error of a chucked workpiece was developed. Then, a series of experiments were carried out to test the effectiveness of the error budget. The results demonstrated that the knowledge on these factors was accurate and it could be effectively used to improve the positioning accuracy and repeatability of a range of cylindrical workpieces in chucking. It was also shown that hard turning alone, without any extra machining process, could satisfy the same level of concentricity, which is currently achieved by finish grinding when chucking accuracy was improved by the method developed. Even if this study was originally intended for the implementation of finish hard turning for replacing finish grinding, the methods developed in this study can be used to improve the final form accuracy of cylindrical workpieces in other finishing processes including grinding, if any work holding devices similar to chucks are used to hold the workpieces. The methodology and the procedures for improving chucking accuracy are covered in a pending patent by the authors.
A Two-Phase Flow Approach for the Outlet of Lubricated Line Contacts
Authors: Bruyere V. , Fillot N. , Morales-Espejel G. E. , Vergne P.
Published: September 2012

In the classical Reynolds equation-based modeling of lubrication, the exit area is only considered through a pressure boundary condition which fails to predict the remaining amount of lubricant on each moving surface after the film rupture. A two-phase flow model using the Navier-Stokes equations and a diffuse interface approach is developed to analyze the lubricant behavior at the exit of rolling and sliding lubricated line contacts. After physical and numerical descriptions of the two-phase flow model, results are compared with experimental data from the literature. Good agreements are found concerning pressure profiles and meniscus exit abscissas. The model is then used to study in detail the flow behavior at the exit for different surface tensions. It is shown that when surface tension effects are important, recirculation areas occur downstream the air/oil meniscus. Sliding effects on fluid distribution are then investigated. Finally, an analytical approach is proposed, as a synthesis of the numerical results.
A Novel Comparison of Design-by-Analysis Methods
Authors: Stonehouse Mark , Seipp Trevor G. , Kanamaru Shinichiro , Morrison Shawn
Published: September 2012

There exist some atypical loads on pressure vessels during transportation. This is particularly true when the pressure vessel weighs over 500 tonnes. In this example vessel, the transportation was via rail on a “Schnabel car,” in which the vessel is suspended horizontally between the top nozzle and the skirt, and a significant axial compressive load is applied. During the evaluation of the stresses in the top head, a particularly novel situation was encountered which brought about some interesting issues with regards to the three design-by-analysis methods: elastic, limit load, and elastic-plastic. This paper discusses the comparison between all three of these design-by-analysis methods, and provides recommendations for which is most appropriate for this type of evaluation. Additional recommendations and warnings are provided for the use of the elastic and limit load methods as well.
Effect of Planetary Gear Carrier-Plate Cracks on Vibration Spectrum
Authors: Patrick Romano , Ferri Al , Vachtsevanos George
Published: September 2012

This paper examines the problem of identifying cracks in planetary gear systems through the use of vibration sensors on the stationary gearbox housing. In particular, the effect of unequal spacing of planet gears relative to the rotating carrier plate on various frequency components in the vibration spectra is studied. The mathematical analysis is validated with experimental data comparing the vibration signature of helicopter transmissions operating either normally or with damage, leading to shifts in the planet gear positions. The theory presented is able to explain certain features and trends in the measured vibration signals of healthy and faulty transmissions. The characterization offered may serve as a means of detecting damage in planetary gear systems.
Isochronous Stress–Strain Method With General State of Stress and Variable Loading Conditions for Creep Evaluation
Authors: Zhao Mingxin , Koves William
Published: September 2012

The isochronous stress–strain method for creep evaluation in pressure vessels is a very effective and efficient alternative analysis method to the rigorous time dependent numerical approach. However, the isochronous data are generated from uni-axial load-controlled constant stress state. Its constraints or limitations have not been systematically studied for general or three-dimensional state of stress and variable loading conditions. In reality, pressure components are subjected to complex and combined loading conditions that may vary during operation, resulting in general state of stress and nonconstant loads. In this study, the accuracy of the isochronous stress–strain method for general state of stress and the concept and application of differential isochronous stress–strain data for slowly time-varying loads are brought up and investigated, wherever the time-varying loads can be approximated by piecewise constant step functions. By introducing the differential curve, the isochronous method is expanded into certain nonconstant loading conditions.
Numerical Modeling of Copper Tube Extrusion: Process and Eccentricity Analysis
Authors: De Pari Luigi , Misiolek Wojciech Z.
Published: September 2012

In order to simulate copper extrusion more closely to industrial practices and to analyze the roots of the complicated issue of tube eccentricity, the material properties and the extrusion conditions were simulated using the finite element modeling (fem) software package, DEFORMTM-3D. This allowed prediction of stress, strain, strain rate, and temperature conditions within the billet during various processing conditions. These state variables were considered when ascertaining the influence of degree of billet upset and tool misalignment on tube eccentricity. It was found that under ideal upset conditions and perfect tool alignment, the tube eccentricity was minimized. If the piercer (or mandrel) was aligned with an initial angular or parallel misalignment that was still within tolerance the impact on eccentricity initially is minor in comparison to the eccentricity produced toward the end of extrusion, with the angular misalignment scenario being the more severe case. As a result, an angular misalignment is more detrimental than a parallel misalignment for tube preform eccentricity with the given forming parameters.
Investigation of Prismatic Daylight Collectors With Different Apexes
Authors: Jong-Woei Whang Allen , Lin Chia-Min , Yeh Shih-Chuan
Published: September 2012

Prismatic elements are widely used in daylight illumination systems. The characteristics of the light that emerges from the surface of a right-angled prism vary with the apex of the prism and the incident angle of the sunshine illuminating the surface of the prismatic daylight collector. This paper investigates the effect of the apex angle of a right-angled prismatic collector on the performance of the collector using a matrix ray-tracing model and the edge principle. It was found that the majority of the light emerges from the hypotenuse of the right-angled prism when sunshine is incident on the surface of the prismatic daylight collector; furthermore, the flux of the light emerging from the hypotenuse that directs illuminating space decreases as the apex of the right-angled prism is increased. The intensity distribution of the majority of the light emerging from the hypotenuse of a right-angled prism can be used to guide the design of natural light illumination systems and enhance their performance. The percentage of light emerging from the hypotenuse decreases with the number of prismatic elements because the relative area of the emerging light that reaches the adjacent prism increases with the number of prismatic elements. The analysis of the relative area of the hypotenuse, where the emerging light that reaches the adjacent prism according to the edge ray principle shows that the total area is constant when the number of prismatic elements is greater than 10; an economical prismatic daylight collector can be realized with less material due to the larger number of smaller prisms with the same apex.
Robustness for Intelligent Tooling While Forming Shallow Aluminum Pans
Authors: Emblom William J.
Published: September 2012

This study examines the robustness of stamp forming tooling. An oval pan was formed using tooling that included a flexible blank holder, active draw beads, and closed-loop control of both wrinkling and local punch forces. The results were compared to open-loop tests using the same tooling and earlier work that utilized tooling that produced similar pans but included a rigid blank holder. For the current study, robustness was defined as the ability to delay wrinkling or tearing. A description of the tooling design process is provided as well as a synopsis of the development of the control system for the tooling. Open-loop and closed-control tests using AL 6111-T4 blanks were performed in order to evaluate the ability to reject process disturbances and demonstrate improved robustness of the tooling. During open-loop tests, the current tooling was shown to be more robust than the earlier tooling with the rigid blank holder. Control of wrinkling eliminated one form of part failure while closed-loop control of local punch forces significantly improved the robustness of the tooling by delaying tearing.
Draft Genome Sequence of Pseudomonas sp. Strain Ag1, Isolated from the Midgut of the Malaria Mosquito Anopheles gambiae
Authors: Alvarez Celeste , Kukutla Phanidhar , Jiang Jinjin , Yu Wanqin , Xu Jiannong
Published: September 2012

A
Pseudomonas
sp. bacterium was isolated from the midguts of
Anopheles gambiae
mosquitoes. Here we present the annotated
Pseudomonas
sp. draft genome sequence as a contribution to the efforts of characterization of the mosquito gut microbiome.
Complete Genome Sequence of Klebsiella oxytoca E718, a New Delhi Metallo-β-Lactamase-1-Producing Nosocomial Strain
Authors: Liao Tsai-Lien , Lin Ann-Chi , Chen Elsa , Huang Tzu-Wen , Liu Yen-Ming , Chang Ya-Hui , Lai Jui-Fen , Lauderdale Tsai-Ling , Wang Jann-Tay , Chang Shan-Chwen , Tsai Shih-Feng , Chen Ying-Tsong
Published: September 2012

We report the complete genome sequence of
Klebsiella oxytoca
E718, a New Delhi metallo-β-lactamase-1 (NDM-1)-producing strain isolated from a renal transplant patient. The genome contains a 6,097,032-bp chromosome and two multidrug resistance plasmids with sizes of 324,906 bp and 110,781 bp.
Complete Genome Sequence of Mycobacterium massiliense
Authors: Raiol Tainá , Ribeiro Guilherme Menegói , Maranhão Andréa Queiroz , Bocca Anamélia Lorenzetti , Silva-Pereira Ildinete , Junqueira-Kipnis Ana Paula , Brigido Marcelo de Macedo , Kipnis André
Published: September 2012

Mycobacterium massiliense
is a rapidly growing bacterium associated with opportunistic infections. The genome of a representative isolate (strain GO 06) recovered from wound samples from patients who underwent arthroscopic or laparoscopic surgery was sequenced. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first announcement of the complete genome sequence of an
M. massiliense
strain.
Genome Sequence of Pectin-Degrading Alishewanella aestuarii Strain B11
T
, Isolated from Tidal Flat Sediment
Authors: Jung Jaejoon , Choi Sungjong , Chun Jongsik , Park Woojun
Published: September 2012

We present the genome sequence of
Alishewanella aestuarii
B11
T
(=KCTC 22051
T
=DSM 19476
T
). This species, isolated from tidal flat sediment, was reported to be a novel species.
A. aestuarii
is known to degrade pectin, an important component of plant cell wall. The presence of the genes related to pectin metabolism in this strain indicates its capability to utilize pectin.
Draft Genome Sequence of Tsukamurella sp. Strain 1534
Authors: Oulmi Lamia , Gorlas Aurore , Gimenez Grégory , Robert Catherine , Boulahrouf Abderrahmane , Raoult Didier , Roux Véronique
Published: September 2012

A draft genome sequence of
Tsukamurella
sp., an aerobic bacterium isolated from a human sputum specimen, is described here. A new virus or provirus, TPA4, was characterized.
Genome Sequence of the Thermostable-Agarase-Producing Marine Bacterium Catenovulum agarivorans YM01
T
, Which Reveals the Presence of a Series of Agarase-Encoding Genes
Authors: Shi Xiaochong , Yu Min , Yan Shulin , Dong Sujie , Zhang Xiao-Hua
Published: September 2012

Marine bacterium
Catenovulum agarivorans
YM01
T
can produce highly thermostable agarases. The draft genome of YM01
T
is about 5.36 Mb and harbors approximately 4,913 genes, including 15 agarase (2 α-agarase and 13 β-agarase)-encoding genes, which will provide references to functional characterization of various agarases from marine bacteria.
Genome Sequences of Brucella melitensis 16M and Its Two Derivatives 16M1w and 16M13w, Which Evolved
In Vivo
Authors: Ke Yuehua , Yuan Xitong , Wang Yufei , Bai Yaoxia , Xu Jie , Song Hongbin , Huang Liuyu , Chen Zeliang
Published: September 2012

Brucella melitensis
is an intracellular pathogen that induces chronic infection in humans. Here, we report the genome sequences of 16M and its two derivatives, 16M1w and 16M13w, which were allowed to adapt
in vivo
for 1 and 13 weeks, respectively. Our findings contribute to the investigation of adaptive mutations and mechanisms of chronic infection by
B. melitensis
.
Complete Genome Sequence of a Novel Porcine Sapelovirus Strain YC2011 Isolated from Piglets with Diarrhea
Authors: Chen Junwei , Chen Feng , Zhou Qingfeng , Li Wei , Song Yanhua , Pan Yongfei , Zhang Xiangbin , Xue Chunyi , Bi Yingzuo , Cao Yongchang
Published: September 2012

Sapelovirus is a member of the family
Picornaviridae
and is emerging as an enteric porcine, simian, and avian pathogen. Here, we report the genome sequence of a novel porcine sapelovirus strain YC2011 isolated from piglets with severe diarrhea. The availability of the genome sequence is helpful to further investigations of molecular characteristics and epidemiology of porcine sapelovirus.
Two simple clinical tests for predicting onset of medial tibial stress syndrome: shin palpation test and shin oedema test
Authors: Newman Phil , Adams Roger , Waddington Gordon
Published: September 2012

Objective

To examine the relationship between two clinical test results and future diagnosis of (Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome) MTSS in personnel at a military trainee establishment.

Design

Data from a preparticipation musculoskeletal screening test performed on 384 Australian Defence Force Academy Officer Cadets were compared against 693 injuries reported by 326 of the Officer Cadets in the following 16 months. Data were held in an Injury Surveillance database and analysed using χ2 and Fisher's Exact tests, and Receiver Operating Characteristic Curve analysis.

Main outcome measure

Diagnosis of MTSS, confirmed by an independent blinded health practitioner.

Results

Both the palpation and oedema clinical tests were each found to be significant predictors for later onset of MTSS. Specifically: Shin palpation test OR 4.63, 95% CI 2.5 to 8.5, Positive Likelihood Ratio 3.38, Negative Likelihood Ratio 0.732, Pearson χ2 p<0.001; Shin oedema test OR 76.1 95% CI 9.6 to 602.7, Positive Likelihood Ratio 7.26, Negative Likelihood Ratio 0.095, Fisher's Exact p<0.001; Combined Shin Palpation Test and Shin Oedema Test Positive Likelihood Ratio 7.94, Negative Likelihood Ratio <0.001, Fisher's Exact p<0.001. Female gender was found to be an independent risk factor (OR 2.97, 95% CI 1.66 to 5.31, Positive Likelihood Ratio 2.09, Negative Likelihood Ratio 0.703, Pearson χ2 p<0.001) for developing MTSS.

Conclusion

The tests for MTSS employed here are components of a normal clinical examination used to diagnose MTSS. This paper confirms that these tests and female gender can also be confidently applied in predicting those in an asymptomatic population who are at greater risk of developing MTSS symptoms with activity at some point in the future.
SINGULAR SWITCHED LINEAR SYSTEMS: SOME GEOMETRIC ASPECTS
Authors: DIEZ-MACHÍO H. , CLOTET J. , GARCÍA-PLANAS M. I. , MAGRET M. D. , MONTORO M. E.
Published: September 2012

We present a geometric approach to the study of singular switched linear systems, defining a Lie group action on the differentiable manifold consisting of the matrices defining their subsystems with orbits coinciding with equivalence classes under an equivalence relation which preserves reachability and derive miniversal (orthogonal) deformations of the system. We relate this with some new results on reachability of such systems.
SEMIQUANTUM SECRET SHARING USING TWO-PARTICLE ENTANGLED STATE
Authors: WANG JIAN , ZHANG SHENG , ZHANG QUAN , TANG CHAO-JING
Published: September 2012

We present a semiquantum secret sharing protocol by using two-particle entangled states in which quantum Alice shares a secret key with two classical parties, Bob and Charlie. Classical Bob and Charlie are restricted to measuring, preparing a particle in the computational basis, or reflecting the particles. None of them can acquire the secret unless they collaborate. We also show the protocol is secure against eavesdropping.
PHASE SENSITIVE AMPLIFICATION IN A TWO-PHOTON LASER
Authors: ANWAR JAVAID
Published: September 2012

A theory of two-photon phase-sensitive amplifier based on two-photon cascade is presented. The atomic coherence is produced by means of two dipole-allowed transitions driven by coherent fields; a practical alternative versus scheme employing coupling between dipole-forbidden levels. The regime of parameters under which a laser signal can be phase locked and amplified is discussed through the corresponding Fokker–Planck equation.
ON THE IMPOSSIBILITY TO EXTEND TRIPLES OF MUTUALLY UNBIASED PRODUCT BASES IN DIMENSION SIX
Authors: MCNULTY DANIEL , WEIGERT STEFAN
Published: September 2012

An analytic proof is given which shows that it is impossible to extend any triple of mutually unbiased (MU) product bases in dimension six by a single MU vector. Furthermore, the 16 states obtained by removing two orthogonal states from any MU product triple cannot figure in a (hypothetical) complete set of seven MU bases. These results follow from exploiting the structure of MU product bases in a novel fashion, and they are among the strongest ones obtained for MU bases in dimension six without recourse to computer algebra.
OSCILLATING CANTILEVER-DRIVEN ADIABATIC REVERSALS IN A PARAMAGNETIC ATOM WITH THE HYPERFINE INTERACTION
Authors: CHEMUDUPATI SRINIVASA K. C. , TSIFRINOVICH VLADIMIR I.
Published: September 2012

We have verified theoretically, an opportunity for the measurement of a nuclear spin state in a paramagnetic atom with oscillating cantilever-driven adiabatic reversals (OSCAR) technique in magnetic resonance force microscopy (MRFM), which has been applied for a single electron spin detection. We have developed a semi-classical approach, where the electron–nuclear spin system is treated as a quantum mechanical one while the motion of a ferromagnetic particle on the cantilever tip is considered classically. Our computations support the idea of the measurement of a nuclear spin state by detection of a single electron spin. The effect of magnetic noise is also discussed.
QUANTUM DISCORD FOR MULTIPARTITE COHERENT STATES INTERPOLATING BETWEEN WERNER AND GREENBERGER–HORNE–ZEILINGER STATES
Authors: DAOUD M. , LAAMARA R. AHL
Published: September 2012

The quantum discord is used as measure of quantum correlations for two families of multipartite coherent states. The first family interpolates between generalized GHZ states and generalized Werner states. The second one is an interpolation between generalized GHZ and the ground state of the multipartite quantum system. Two inequivalent ways to split the system in a pair of qubits are introduced. The explicit expressions of quantum quantum discord in multipartite coherent states are derived. Its evaluation uses the Koashi–Winter relation in optimizing the conditional entropy. The temporal evolution of quantum correlations (quantum discord and entanglement) is also discussed.
VOLTAGE CONTROL OF MAGNETISM IN MULTIFERROIC HETEROSTRUCTURES AND DEVICES
Authors: SUN NIAN X. , SRINIVASAN GOPALAN
Published: September 2012

Multiferroic materials and devices have attracted intensified recent interests due to the demonstrated strong magnetoelectric (ME) coupling in new multiferroic materials and devices with unique functionalities and superior performance characteristics. Strong ME coupling has been demonstrated in a variety of multiferroic heterostructures, including bulk magnetic on ferro/piezoelectric multiferroic heterostructures, magnetic film on ferro/piezoelectric slab multiferroic heterostructures, thin film multiferroic heterostructures, etc. Different multiferroic devices have been demonstrated, which include magnetic sensors, energy harvesters, and voltage tunable multiferroic RF/microwave devices which are compact, lightweight, and power efficient. In this progress report, we cover the most recent progress on multiferroic heterostructures and devices with a focus on voltage tunable multiferroic heterostructures and devices with strong converse ME coupling. Recent progress on magnetic-field tunable RF/microwave devices are also covered, including novel non-reciprocal tunable bandpass filters with ultra wideband isolation, compact, low loss and high power handling phase shifters, etc. These novel tunable multiferroic heterostructures and devices and tunable magnetic devices provide great opportunities for next generation reconfigurable RF/microwave communication systems and radars, Spintronics, magnetic field sensing, etc.
Castleman's Disease: A Case Report of the Unicentric Type
Authors: Gomez-Ramirez J. , Posada M. , Sanchez-Urdazpal L. , Martin-Perez E. , Del Campo L. , Garcia I. , Martin J. L. , Larrañaga E.
Published: September 2012

Castleman's disease, or angiofollicular lymph node hyperplasia, is a relatively rare disorder characterized by the benign proliferation of lymphoid tissue related to the chronic human herpes virus 8 (HHV-8) infection and the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Two clinical entities have been described: a unicentric presentation with the disease confined to a single anatomic lymph node and a multicentric presentation characterized by generalized lymphadenopathy and a more aggressive clinical course. Also, three histopathological subtypes have been described: hyaline-vascular, plasma cell, and a mixed variant. Preoperative diagnosis of hyaline-vascular Castleman's disease is difficult, and the definitive result is based on postoperative pathological findings. The gold standard therapy is the complete surgical excision.
Comparison Study of Metabolic Syndrome's Differences and Diagnostic Criteria's Applicability among Xingjiang Uighur, Kazak and Han Population
Authors: Jiang Sheng , Xie Zijing
Published: September 2012

Our paper is a study about metabolism syndrome (MS) incidence situations of different nationalities, including Uighur, Kazak and Han nationality in Xinjiang by means of a cross-sectional survey and compare differences and adaptabilities of applications of the diagnostic criteria for MS recommended by Adult Treatment Protocol III of National Cholesterol Education Program of America (ATP III), International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and Chinese Diabetes Society (CDS) in three groups of populations. Conclusion tell us, for Uighur population and Kazak population, IDF criterion and ATPIII criterion had a better consistence, and CDS criterion was worst. For Han population, CDS criterion and IDF criterion had a better consistence, and ATPIII criterion was worst. For the screening of MS incidence rate of Uighur and Kazak adult populations in Xinjiang region, ATPIII criterion was optimal, while CDS criterion was optimal for Han population. However, as for screening of clustering of multiple risk factors of MS, IDF criterion was better than other criteria for the three nationalities.
The Role of Health Literacy and Social Networks in Arthritis Patients' Health Information-Seeking Behavior: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Ellis Janette , Mullan Judy , Worsley Anthony , Pai Nagesh
Published: September 2012

Background. Patients engage in health information-seeking behaviour to maintain their wellbeing and to manage chronic diseases such as arthritis. Health literacy allows patients to understand available treatments and to critically appraise information they obtain from a wide range of sources. Aims. To explore how arthritis patients' health literacy affects engagement in arthritis-focused health information-seeking behaviour and the selection of sources of health information available through their informal social network. Methods. An exploratory, qualitative study consisting of one-on-one semi-structured interviews. Twenty participants with arthritis were recruited from community organizations. The interviews were designed to elicit participants' understanding about their arthritis and arthritis medication and to determine how the participants' health literacy informed selection of where they found information about their arthritis and pain medication. Results. Participants with low health literacy were less likely to be engaged with health information-seeking behaviour. Participants with intermediate health literacy were more likely to source arthritis-focused health information from newspapers, television, and within their informal social network. Those with high health literacy sourced information from the internet and specialist health sources and were providers of information within their informal social network. Conclusion. Health professionals need to be aware that levels of engagement in health information-seeking behaviour and sources of arthritis-focused health information may be related to their patients' health literacy.
Ethical Implications in the Use of Embryonic and Adult Neural Stem Cells
Authors: Ramos-Zúñiga Rodrigo , González-Pérez Oscar , Macías-Ornelas Ana , Capilla-González Vivian , Quiñones-Hinojosa Alfredo
Published: September 2012

The advent and growth of technological advances have led to new routes of knowledge. Thereby, we currently face new challenges. We have just started to get a glimpse of the structural and functional role of neural stem cells in differentiation and migration processes, the origin of synaptic networks, and subsequent readjustments in specific circuits. A whole range of treatment possibilities originates from this knowledge that potentially can be used for different neurological diseases in humans. Although this is an encouraging scenario, it implies that the human brain is the object of such study, as well as its potential manipulation and transplantation. It is, therefore, pertinent that ethical principles should be followed in such research to have proper balance between what can be done and what should be done, according to every specific context. Hence, it is wise to consider ethical implications in every research project, along with potential clinical applications, under the principle of causing no harm, following risk and benefit rules in decision making and with respect of the human condition as a priority.
Spontaneous Heterotopic Pregnancy, Simultaneous Ovarian, and Intrauterine: A Case Report
Authors: Basile Francesca , Di Cesare Cristina , Quagliozzi Lorena , Donati Laura , Bracaglia Marina , Caruso Alessandro , Paradisi Giancarlo
Published: September 2012

Spontaneous heterotopic pregnancy is a rare clinical condition in which intrauterine and extrauterine pregnancies occur at the same time. The occurrence of an ovarian heterotopic pregnancy is a singular event as it comprises only 2.3% of all heterotopic pregnancies, extremely rare among women who conceive naturally. A case of a 28-year old patient was treated for spontaneously conceived heterotopic pregnancy. The patient was admitted to our center with lower abdominal pain and amenorrhoea. A transvaginal ultrasound scan showed an ovarian and an intrauterine heterotopic pregnancy. This was managed laparoscopically. Considering spontaneous pregnancies, every physician treating women of reproductive age should be aware of the possibility of heterotopic pregnancy. It can occur in the absence of any predisposing risk factors; only with an early diagnosis and treatment the intrauterine pregnancies will reach viability with a great chance of a favorable obstetric outcome.
Mast Cell Leukaemia: c-KIT Mutations Are Not Always Positive
Authors: Joris Magalie , Georgin-Lavialle Sophie , Chandesris Marie-Olivia , Lhermitte Ludovic , Claisse Jean-François , Canioni Danielle , Hanssens Katia , Damaj Gandhi , Hermine Olivier , Hamidou Mohammed
Published: September 2012

Mast cell leukemia (MCL) is a rare and aggressive disease with poor prognosis and short survival time. D816V c-KIT mutation is the most frequent molecular abnormality and plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis and development of the disease. Thus, comprehensive diagnostic investigations and molecular studies should be carefully carried out to facilitate the therapeutic choice. A MCL patient’s case with rare phenotypic and genotypic characteristics is described with review of major clinical biological and therapeutic approaches in MCL.
Some Identities on Bernoulli and Hermite Polynomials Associated with Jacobi Polynomials
Authors: Kim Taekyun , Kim Dae San , Dolgy Dmitry V.
Published: September 2012

We investigate some identities on the Bernoulli and the Hermite polynomials arising from the orthogonality of Jacobi polynomials in the inner product space Pn.
PPARγin Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Annese Vito , Rogai Francesca , Settesoldi Alessia , Bagnoli Siro
Published: September 2012

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) is member of a family of nuclear receptors that interacts with nuclear proteins acting as coactivators and corepressors. The colon is a major tissue which expresses PPARγin epithelial cells and, to a lesser degree, in macrophages and lymphocytes and plays a role in the regulation of intestinal inflammation. Indeed, both natural and synthetic PPARγligands have beneficial effects in different models of experimental colitis, with possible implication in the therapy of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This paper will specifically focus on potential role of PPARγin the predisposition and physiopathology of IBD and will analyze its possible role in medical therapy.
The Effects of MHD Flow and Heat Transfer for the UCM Fluid over a Stretching Surface in Presence of Thermal Radiation
Authors: Abel M. Subhas , Tawade Jagadish V. , Shinde Jyoti N.
Published: September 2012

An analysis is performed to investigate the effect of MHD and thermal radiation on the two-dimensional steady flow of an incompressible, upper-convected Maxwells (UCM) fluid in presence of external magnetic field. The governing system of partial differential equations are transformed into a system of coupled nonlinear ordinary differential equations and is solved numerically by efficient shooting technique. Velocity and temperature fields have been computed and shown graphically for various values of physical parameters. For a Maxwell fluid, a thinning of the boundary layer and a drop in wall skin friction coefficient is predicted to occur for the higher elastic number which agrees with the results of Hayat et al. 2007 and Sadeghy et al. 2006. The objective of the present work is to investigate the effect of elastic parameterβ, magnetic parameterMn, Eckert numberEc, Radiation parameterN,and Prandtl numberPron flow and heat transfer charecteristics.
Direct Torque Control Induction Motor Drive with Improved Flux Response
Authors: Singh Bhoopendra , Jain Shailendra , Dwivedi Sanjeet
Published: September 2012

Accurate flux estimation and control of stator flux by the flux control loop is the determining factor in effective implementation of DTC algorithm. In this paper a comparison of voltage-model-based flux estimation techniques for flux response improvement is carried out. The effectiveness of these methods is judged on the basis of Root Mean Square Flux Error (RMSFE), Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) of stator current, and dynamic flux response. The theoretical aspects of these methods are discussed and a comparative analysis is provided with emphasis on digital signal processor (DSP) based controller implementation. The effectiveness of the proposed flux estimation algorithm is investigated through simulation and experimentally validated on a test drive.
Energy-Efficient Chain Formation Algorithm for Data Gathering in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Lim Se-Jung , Park Myong-Soon
Published: September 2012

In wireless sensor networks, since sensor nodes are distributed in inaccessible regions for data gathering, they need to be operated during an assigned time without battery recharging and relocation. For this reason, there has been abundant research on improving energy efficiency. PEGASIS, one of the well-known chain-based routing protocols for improving energy efficiency, builds a chain based on the greedy algorithm. However, due to long communication distance of some sensor nodes in a chain formed by the greedy algorithm, unbalanced energy consumption of sensor nodes occurs. Eventually, the network lifetime from this cause decreases. We propose energy efficient chain formation (EECF) algorithm to resolve the unbalanced energy consumption problem caused by long-distance data transmission of some nodes in a chain formed by the greedy algorithm. The simulation results are used to verify the energy consumption balance of sensor nodes and the whole network lifetime. In simulation, it is shown that EECF produces better results than the greedy algorithm.
Preparation and Properties of PTFE-PMMA Core-Shell Nanoparticles and Nanocomposites
Authors: Antonioli Diego , Laus Michele , Zuccheri Giampaolo , Kapeliouchko Valerj , Righetti Maria Cristina , Boarino Luca , Sparnacci Katia
Published: September 2012

The preparation of polytetrafluoroethylene-poly(methyl methacrylate) (PTFE-PMMA) core-shell particles was described, featuring controlled size and narrow size distribution over a wide compositional range, through a seeded emulsion polymerization starting from a PTFE seed of 26 nanometers. Over the entire MMA/PTFE range, the particle size increases as the MMA/PTFE ratio increases. A very precise control over the particle size can be exerted by properly adjusting the ratio between the monomer and the PTFE seed. Particles in the 80–240 nm range can be prepared with uniformity indexes suited to build 2D and 3D colloidal crystals. These core-shell particles were employed to prepare nanocomposites with different compositions, through an annealing procedure at a temperature higher than the glass transition temperature of the shell forming polymer. A perfect dispersion of the PTFE particles within the PMMA matrix was obtained and optically transparent nanocomposites were prepared containing a very high PTFE amount.
Effect ofHypericum perforatumExtract in an Experimental Model of Binge Eating in Female Rats
Authors: Micioni Di Bonaventura Maria Vittoria , Vitale Giovanni , Massi Maurizio , Cifani Carlo
Published: September 2012

Purpose. The present study evaluated the effect ofHypericum perforatumdry extract in an experimental model of binge eating (BE).Methods. BE for highly palatable food (HPF) was evoked in female rats by three 8-day cycles of food restriction/re-feeding and acute stress on the test day (day 25). Stress was induced by preventing access to HPF for 15 min, while rats were able to see and smell it.Hypericum perforatumdry extract was given by gavage.Results. Only rats exposed to both food restrictions and stress exhibited BE. The doses of 250 and 500 mg/kg ofHypericum perforatumextract significantly reduced the BE episode, while 125 mg/kg was ineffective. The same doses did not affect HPF intake in the absence of BE. The dose of 250 mg/kg did not significantly modify stress-induced increase in serum corticosterone levels, suggesting that the effect on BE is not due to suppression of the stress response The combined administration of 125 mg/kg ofHypericum perforatumtogether with Salidroside, active principle ofRhodiola rosea, produced a synergic effect on BE.Conclusions. The present results indicate for the first time thatHypericum perforatumextracts may have therapeutic properties in bingeing-related eating disorders.