bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Uncertainty Considerations in the Dynamic Loading and Failure of Spur Gear Pairs1
Authors: Alemayehu Fisseha M. , Ekwaro-Osire Stephen
Published: June 2013

Gears and gear systems, like any other mechanical system, are subjected to design parameter, and loading uncertainties emanating from inherent randomness, manufacturing, and assembly errors. The traditional deterministic approach to the design of such systems overlooks these uncertainties. This work presents a novel probabilistic multibody dynamic analysis (PMBDA) that enhances the deterministic design practice of gears and gear systems. A contact based, rigid multibody spur gear pair model with random loading, and design parameters has been developed. An advanced mean based on fast probability integration method was implemented to perform a reliability analysis of performance measurements: dynamic factor, root bending stress, and fatigue life of gears. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis of these performance functions to several random variables was also determined. In addition to revealing system reliability or probability of failure, the PMBDA approach also helps designers to consider certain variables critically.
Disassembly Process Information Model for Remanufacturing
Authors: Feng Shaw C. , Kramer Thomas , Sriram Ram D. , Lee Hanmin , Joung Che B. , Ghodous Parisa
Published: June 2013

Disassembly is essential to dismantle a product for remanufacturing during maintenance or at the end of service life. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has developed an information model for describing disassembly processes. A disassembly process includes many subprocesses, such as separation, cleaning, repair, replacement, and inspection. This paper describes a disassembly process information model with the following key components: workpiece, material content, equipment, and workflow. The workflow aspect supports the modeling of operations, operation sequences, branching an operation into multiple ones, and joining multiple operations into one. The model provides a foundation for computer-aided disassembly software systems development.
Three-Dimensional Fully Parameterized Triangular Plate Element Based on the Absolute Nodal Coordinate Formulation
Authors: Mohamed Abdel-Nasser A.
Published: June 2013

In this work, a new three-dimensional fully parameterized triangular plate element based on the absolute nodal coordinate formulation (ANCF) is introduced. This plate element has 12 coordinates per node; therefore, it can be used in thick plate applications. The proposed 12 shape functions are obtained by adding three shape functions to the nine shape functions that were previously used with the ANCF thin triangular plate element. Unlike the existing ANCF thin triangular plate element, which allows only the use of classical Kirchoff's plate theory, the fully parameterized ANCF triangular plate element proposed in this work allows for the use of a general continuum mechanics approach and also allows for a straight forward implementation of general nonlinear constitutive equations. Moreover, all deformation modes including thickness deformation can be captured using the fully parameterized ANCF triangular plate element proposed in this paper. The numerical results obtained in this investigation show that in case of negligible deformation, the fully parameterized ANCF triangular plate element behaves like a rigid body. Moreover, it is found that there is a good agreement between the solutions obtained using the proposed fully parameterized ANCF triangular plate element and the theoretical model in the case of small deformations. Furthermore, it is shown that the results of the proposed element agree well with the results obtained using the existing fully parameterized ANCF rectangular plate element when large deformation conditions are applied. The twist behavior of the proposed element is verified by comparison with the results obtained using a conventional nonlinear rectangular plate element.
An algorithm to calculate a collapsed arc dose matrix in volumetric modulated arc therapy
Authors: Arumugam Sankar , Xing Aitang , Jameson Michael , Holloway Lois
Published: June 2013

Purpose:

The delivery of volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) is more complex than other conformal radiotherapy techniques. In this work, the authors present the feasibility of performing routine verification of VMAT delivery using a dose matrix measured by a gantry mounted 2D ion chamber array and corresponding dose matrix calculated by an inhouse developed algorithm.

Methods:

Pinnacle, v9.0, treatment planning system (TPS) was used in this study to generate VMAT plans for a 6 MV photon beam from an Elekta‐Synergy linear accelerator. An algorithm was developed and implemented with inhouse computer code to calculate the dose matrix resulting from a VMAT arc in a plane perpendicular to the beam at isocenter. The algorithm was validated using measurement of standard patterns and clinical VMAT plans with a 2D ion chamber array. The clinical VMAT plans were also validated using ArcCHECK measurements. The measured and calculated dose matrices were compared using gamma (γ) analysis with 3%/3 mm criteria and γ tolerance of 1.

Results:

The dose matrix comparison of standard patterns has shown excellent agreement with the meanγ pass rate 97.7 (σ = 0.4)%. The validation of clinical VMAT plans using the dose matrix predicted by the algorithm and the corresponding measured dose matrices also showed good agreement with the mean γ pass rate of 97.6 (σ = 1.6)%. The validation of clinical VMAT plans using ArcCHECK measurements showed a mean pass rate of 95.6 (σ = 1.8)%.

Conclusions:

The developed algorithm was shown to accurately predict the dose matrix, in a plane perpendicular to the beam, by considering all possible leaf trajectories in a VMAT delivery. This enables the verification of VMAT delivery using a 2D array detector mounted on a treatment head.
Tissue segmentation of head and neck CT images for treatment planning: A multiatlas approach combined with intensity modeling
Authors: Fortunati Valerio , Verhaart René F. , van der Lijn Fedde , Niessen Wiro J. , Veenland Jifke F. , Paulides Margarethus M. , van Walsum Theo
Published: June 2013

Purpose:

Hyperthermia treatment of head and neck tumors requires accurate treatment planning, based on 3D patient models that are derived from segmented 3D images. These segmentations are currently obtained by manual outlining of the relevant tissue regions, which is a tedious and time‐consuming procedure (∼8 h) limiting the clinical applicability of hyperthermia treatment. In this context, the authors present and evaluate an automatic segmentation algorithm for CT images of the head and neck.

Methods:

The proposed method combines anatomical information, based on atlas registration, with local intensity information in a graph cut framework. The method is evaluated with respect to ground truth manual delineation and compared with multiatlas‐based segmentation on a dataset of 18 labeled CT images using the Dice similarity coefficient (DSC), the mean surface distance (MSD), and the Hausdorff surface distance (HSD) as evaluation measures. On a subset of 13 labeled images, the influence of different labelers on the method's accuracy is quantified and compared with the interobserver variability.

Results:

For the DSC, the proposed method performs significantly better for the segmentation of all the tissues, except brain stem and spinal cord. The MSD shows a significant improvement for optical nerve, eye vitreous humor, lens, and thyroid. For the HSD, the proposed method performs significantly better for eye vitreous humor and brainstem. The proposed method has a significantly better score for DSC, MSD, and HSD than the multiatlas‐based method for the eye vitreous humor. For the majority of the tissues (8/11) the segmentation accuracy of the proposed method is approaching the interobserver agreement. The authors' method showed better robustness to variations in atlas labeling compared with multiatlas segmentation. Moreover, the method improved the segmentation reproducibility compared with human observer's segmentations.

Conclusions:

In conclusion, the proposed framework provides in an accurate automatic segmentation of head and neck tissues in CT images for the generation of 3D patient models, which improves reproducibility, and substantially reduces labor involved in therapy planning.
Diagnosing Madness
The Book of Woe
The DSM and the Unmaking of Psychiatry

by Gary Greenberg

Blue Rider Press (Penguin), New York, 2013. 411 pp. $28.95, C$31. ISBN 9780399158537.
Authors: Licinio Julio
Published: June 2013

Greenberg provides an insider's critique of the fifth edition of the
Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders
(DSM-5) and the current state of psychiatry.
A Theory of City Size
Authors: Batty Michael
Published: June 2013

A theory explaining how the attributes of cities scale with city size may help to inform urban planning.

[Also see Report by
Bettencourt
]
Seeing the Reaction
Authors: Giessibl Franz J.
Published: June 2013

A molecule is imaged at atomic resolution as it undergoes a chemical reaction.

[Also see Report by

de Oteyza
et al.

]
Critical Mass in Graphene
Authors: Fuhrer Michael S.
Published: June 2013

Contact with a layer of boron nitride provides a route to control the electronic properties of graphene.

[Also see Report by

Hunt
et al.

]
The Us2 Gene Product of Herpes Simplex Virus 2 Is a Membrane-Associated Ubiquitin-Interacting Protein
Authors: Kang Ming-Hsi , Roy Bibhuti B. , Finnen Renée L. , Le Sage Valerie , Johnston Susan M. , Zhang Hui , Banfield Bruce W.
Published: June 2013

The
Us2
gene encodes a tegument protein that is conserved in most members of the
Alphaherpesvirinae
. Previous studies on the pseudorabies virus (PRV) Us2 ortholog indicated that it is prenylated, associates with membranes, and spatially regulates the enzymatic activity of the MAP (mitogen-activated protein) kinase ERK (extracellular signal-related kinase) through direct binding and sequestration of ERK at the cytoplasmic face of the plasma membrane. Here we present an analysis of the herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV-2) Us2 ortholog and demonstrate that, like PRV Us2, HSV-2 Us2 is a virion component and that, unlike PRV Us2, it does not interact with ERK in yeast two-hybrid assays. HSV-2 Us2 lacks prenylation signals and other canonical membrane-targeting motifs yet is tightly associated with detergent-insoluble membranes and localizes predominantly to recycling endosomes. Experiments to identify cellular proteins that facilitate HSV-2 Us2 membrane association were inconclusive; however, these studies led to the identification of HSV-2 Us2 as a ubiquitin-interacting protein, providing new insight into the functions of HSV-2 Us2.
Human Papillomavirus Type 58 Genome Variations and RNA Expression in Cervical Lesions
Authors: Li Yang , Wang Xiaohong , Ni Ting , Wang Fenfen , Lu Weiguo , Zhu Jun , Xie Xing , Zheng Zhi-Ming
Published: June 2013

Human papillomavirus type 58 (HPV58) is relatively prevalent in China and other Asian countries. In this study, the HPV58 genome in cervical lesions was decoded from five grade 2 or 3 cervical intraepithelial neoplasia lesion (CIN2/3) samples and five cervical cancer tissues using rolling-circle amplification of total cell DNA and deep sequencing and verified by whole-genome cloning and sequencing. HPV58 isolates from China feature a total of 52 nucleotide substitutions (0.66%) from the reference HPV58 sequence, which appear mainly in two regions, with 12 from nucleotides (nt) 3430 to 4136 covering the E2/E4/E5 open reading frames (ORFs) and 13 from nt 4621 to 5540 covering the L2 ORF; these could be grouped as HPV58 Chinese Zhejiang-1, -2, and -3 (CNZJ-1, -2, and -3) according to their sequence similarities and restriction enzyme digestion. Phylogenetically, CNZJ-3 is similar to the reference HPV58 sublineage A1 sequence. The other two are close to sublineage A2. Analysis of cervical lesion-derived RNA revealed abundant HPV58 early transcripts spliced at the E6 and E1/E2 ORFs, where two 5′ splice sites at nt 232 and nt 898 and two 3′ splice sites at nt 510 and nt 3355 can be identified. Thus, our study represents the first genome-wide analysis of HPV58 and its expression in cervical lesions.
The Receptor Binding Domain of the New Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus Maps to a 231-Residue Region in the Spike Protein That Efficiently Elicits Neutralizing Antibodies
Authors: Mou Huihui , Raj V. Stalin , van Kuppeveld Frank J. M. , Rottier Peter J. M. , Haagmans Bart L. , Bosch Berend Jan
Published: June 2013

The spike (S) protein of the recently emerged human Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) mediates infection by binding to the cellular receptor dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP4). Here we mapped the receptor binding domain in the S protein to a 231-amino-acid fragment (residues 358 to 588) by evaluating the interaction of spike truncation variants with receptor-expressing cells and soluble DPP4. Antibodies to this domain—much less so those to the preceding N-terminal region—efficiently neutralize MERS-CoV infection.
Primary Human Leukocyte Subsets Differentially Express Vaccinia Virus Receptors Enriched in Lipid Rafts
Authors: Byrd Daniel , Amet Tohti , Hu Ningjie , Lan Jie , Hu Sishun , Yu Qigui
Published: June 2013

Poxviruses, including vaccinia virus (VV) and canarypox virus (ALVAC), do not indiscriminately infect all cell types of the primary human leukocytes (PHLs) that they encounter but instead demonstrate an extremely strong bias toward infection of monocytes and monocyte lineage cells. We studied the specific molecular events that determine the VV tropism for major PHL subsets including monocytes, B cells, neutrophils, NK cells, and T cells. We found that VV exhibited an extremely strong bias of cell surface protein-dependent binding to monocytes, B cells, and activated T cells to a similar degree and to neutrophils to a much lesser extent. Resting T cells and resting NK cells exhibited only trace amounts of VV binding. Activated T cells, however, became permissive to VV binding, infection, and replication, while activated NK cells still resisted VV binding. VV binding strongly colocalized with lipid rafts on the surfaces of all VV binding-susceptible PHL subsets, even when lipid rafts were relocated to cell uropods upon cell polarization. Immunosera raised against detergent-resistant membranes (DRMs) from monocytes or activated T cells, but not resting T cells, effectively cross-blocked VV binding to and infection of PHL subsets. CD29 and CD98, two lipid raft-associated membrane proteins that had been found to be important for VV entry into HeLa cells, had no effect on VV binding to and infection of primary activated T cells. Our data indicate that PHL subsets express VV protein receptors enriched in lipid rafts and that receptors are cross-presented on all susceptible PHLs.
Roles of p53 in Herpes Simplex Virus 1 Replication
Authors: Maruzuru Yuhei , Fujii Hikaru , Oyama Masaaki , Kozuka-Hata Hiroko , Kato Akihisa , Kawaguchi Yasushi
Published: June 2013

p53 is a critical factor in the cellular response to a broad range of stress factors through its ability to regulate various cellular pathways. In this study, tandem affinity purification of transiently expressed herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) regulatory protein ICP22 coupled with mass spectrometry-based proteomics technology and subsequent analyses showed that ICP22 interacted with p53 in HSV-1-infected cells. In p53
−/−
cells, replication of wild-type HSV-1 was reduced compared to that in parental p53
+/+
cells, indicating that p53 had a positive effect on HSV-1 replication. In contrast, the levels of viral replication of an ICP22-null mutant virus were similar in both p53
−/−
and p53
+/+
cells. At 2 h postinfection, the level of expression of ICP27, an essential viral regulatory protein, in p53
−/−
cells infected with wild-type HSV-1 or the ICP22-null mutant virus was lower than in p53
+/+
cells. In contrast, at 18 h postinfection, the level of expression of ICP0, a critical viral regulatory protein, in p53
−/−
cells infected with the ICP22-null mutant virus was higher than in p53
+/+
cells, although the levels of ICP0 expression in p53
−/−
and p53
+/+
cells infected with wild-type HSV-1 were almost identical. These results suggested that p53 overall promoted HSV-1 replication and that p53 played both positive and negative roles in HSV-1 replication: upregulating ICP27 expression very early in infection and downregulating ICP0 expression later in infection, which was antagonized by ICP22.
ETHICAL, SOCIAL, ENVIRONMENTAL, AND LEGAL ASPECTS OF NANOTECHNOLOGIES: A READING FROM MEXICO
Authors: DELGADO-RAMOS GIAN CARLO
Published: June 2013

The capacity to manipulate matter at the atoms scale promises such a potential that, both positive and eventual negative aspects of nanotechnology are part of current debate. Nano-applications promise to revolutionize healthcare, energy production, agriculture, environmental remediation solutions, and most of manufacturing processes; in fact some earliest products are already hitting the market. At the same time socioeconomic, legal, environmental and ethical aspects stand as issues of legitimate public concern that policy makers are faced to address. It is a context in which an open, constructive, and permanent dialogue among diverse social actors seems to be needed in order to avoid or reduce unnecessary costs and probable risks, while promoting benefits. This paper offers an overview of such aspects from Mexican perspective. After a general introduction, it describes and contrasts the promotion of nanoscience and nanotechnology worldwide and in Mexico. A brief discussion on legal aspects follows, including intellectual rights and patenting challenges ahead. Finally the need of an ad hoc regulatory framework takes us to discuss the relevance of a social dialogue and management as a democratic way of promoting a responsible development of nanotechnologies.
Synthesis and Electrochemical Properties of Platinum-Based Films Used as Cathode Materials in the Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Hien Pham Thi , Phung Le My Loan , Thoa Nguyen Thi Phuong , Hoang Nguyen Thai
Published: June 2013

Comparative investigation of platinum (Pt) and platinum/carbon nanotube (Pt/CNT) films used as cathodes in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSCs) has been carried out. Nanostructured Pt films on a conductive glass substrate were prepared by polyol reduction (PR-Pt), electrodeposition (ED-Pt) and thermal decomposition (TD-Pt). The morphology, crystal structure and electrochemical behavior of the synthesized films were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). DSCs using the synthesized Pt-based cathodes were characterized by I-V curve measurement. DSCs with TD-Pt counter electrode show the best performance with stable photovoltaic characteristics. The energy conversion efficiency (h) of DSCs used synthesized cathode materials decreased in the order TD-Pt>ED-Pt>PR-Pt. Energy conversion efficiency (h) of 5% and more can be obtained for DSCs with ED-Pt and TD-Pt counter electrodes, while the DSCs based on PR-Pt attained efficiency less than 3%. The highest catalytic activity for triiodide/iodide (I3
-/I-) redox reaction was observed for the ED-Pt film, that exhibits highest peak current densities and lowest charge transfer resistance. Meanwhile the reduction of I3
- ions may occur on the TD-Pt film with the lowest overpotential and less irreversible, compared with ED-Pt and PR-Pt electrode. The synthesized Pt/CNT film showed comparatively high catalytic performance for I3
-/I- redox reaction; however its adhesion to the glass substrate is poor for the DSCs fabrication.
Kinetics of Oxidation of H2 and Reduction of H2O in Ni-YSZ based Solid Oxide Cells
Authors: Ebbesen Sune Dalgaard , Mogensen Mogens
Published: June 2013

Reduction of H2O and oxidation of H2 was studied in a Ni-YSZ electrode supported Solid Oxide Cells produced at DTU Energy conversion (former Risø DTU). Polarisation (i-V) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopic characterisation show that the kinetics for reduction of H2O is slower compared to oxidation of H2. The kinetic differences cannot be explained by the reaction mechanisms which are similar in the two cases but are rather an effect of the thermodynamics. The preliminary analysis performed in this study show that the slow kinetic for reduction is partly related to the endothermic nature of the reaction, cooling the active electrode, thereby leading to slower kinetics at low current densities. Likewise, the increased kinetic for oxidation was found to be related to the exothermic nature of the reaction, heating the active electrode, and thereby leading to faster kinetics. At higher current densities an increase caused by diffusion becomes more pronounced.
Crossover in a Homogeneous-Catalyst Reactor
Authors: Newman John
Published: June 2013

A single catalyst can serve a dual role if it can be oxidized at the anode and reduced at the cathode. In an undivided cell, some of the oxidized species may reach the cathode, and some of the reduced species may reach the anode, and these two species may also react with each other in the middle of the cell. These processes reduce the current efficiency. Quantification of these losses can be related to the thickness of the cell, the diffusion coefficients, and the homogeneous rate constants. The energy efficiency of the cell is also addressed.
Carbachol-induced MUC17 endocytosis is concomitant with NHE3 internalization and CFTR membrane recruitment in enterocytes
Authors: Pelaseyed Thaher , Gustafsson Jenny K. , Gustafsson Ida J. , Ermund Anna , Hansson Gunnar C.
Published: June 2013

We have reported that transmembrane mucin MUC17 binds PDZ protein PDZK1, which retains MUC17 apically in enterocytes. MUC17 and transmembrane mucins MUC3 and MUC12 are suggested to build the enterocyte apical glycocalyx. Carbachol (CCh) stimulation of the small intestine results in gel-forming mucin secretion from goblet cells, something that requires adjacent enterocytes to secrete chloride and bicarbonate for proper mucin formation. Surface labeling and confocal imaging demonstrated that apically expressed MUC17 in Caco-2 cells and Muc3(17) in murine enterocytes were endocytosed upon stimulation with CCh. Relocation of MUC17 in response to CCh was specific as MUC3 and MUC12 did not relocate following CCh stimulation. MUC17 colocalized with PDZK1 under basal conditions, while MUC17 relocated to the terminal web and into early endosomes after CCh stimulation. CCh stimulation concomitantly internalized the Na+/H+ exchanger 3 (NHE3) and recruited cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) to the apical membranes, a process that was important for CFTR-mediated bicarbonate secretion necessary for proper gel-forming mucin unfolding. The reason for the specific internalization of MUC17 is not understood, but it could limit the diffusion barrier for ion secretion caused by the apical enterocyte glycocalyx or alternatively act to sample luminal bacteria. Our results reveal well-orchestrated mucus secretion and trafficking of ion channels and the MUC17 mucin.
Differential regulation of muscarinic M2 and M3 receptor signaling in gastrointestinal smooth muscle by caveolin-1
Authors: Bhattacharya Sayak , Mahavadi Sunila , Al-Shboul Othman , Rajagopal Senthilkumar , Grider John R. , Murthy Karnam S.
Published: June 2013

Caveolae act as scaffolding proteins for several G protein-coupled receptor signaling molecules to regulate their activity. Caveolin-1, the predominant isoform in smooth muscle, drives the formation of caveolae. The precise role of caveolin-1 and caveolae as scaffolds for G protein-coupled receptor signaling and contraction in gastrointestinal muscle is unclear. Thus the aim of this study was to examine the role of caveolin-1 in the regulation of Gq- and Gi-coupled receptor signaling. RT-PCR, Western blot, and radioligand-binding studies demonstrated the selective expression of M2 and M3 receptors in gastric smooth muscle cells. Carbachol (CCh) stimulated phosphatidylinositol (PI) hydrolysis, Rho kinase and zipper-interacting protein (ZIP) kinase activity, induced myosin phosphatase 1 (MYPT1) phosphorylation (at Thr696) and 20-kDa myosin light chain (MLC20) phosphorylation (at Ser19) and muscle contraction, and inhibited cAMP formation. Stimulation of PI hydrolysis, Rho kinase, and ZIP kinase activity, phosphorylation of MYPT1 and MLC20, and muscle contraction in response to CCh were attenuated by methyl β-cyclodextrin (MβCD) or caveolin-1 small interfering RNA (siRNA). Similar inhibition of PI hydrolysis, Rho kinase, and ZIP kinase activity and muscle contraction in response to CCh and gastric emptying in vivo was obtained in caveolin-1-knockout mice compared with wild-type mice. Agonist-induced internalization of M2, but not M3, receptors was blocked by MβCD or caveolin-1 siRNA. Stimulation of PI hydrolysis, Rho kinase, and ZIP kinase activities in response to other Gq-coupled receptor agonists such as histamine and substance P was also attenuated by MβCD or caveolin-1 siRNA. Taken together, these results suggest that caveolin-1 facilitates signaling by Gq-coupled receptors and contributes to enhanced smooth muscle function.
Neuropsychiatric Symptoms of Dementia: Consent, Quality of Life, and Dignity
Authors: Passmore Michael J.
Published: June 2013

Degenerative forms of dementia are progressive, incurable, fatal, and likely to cause suffering in conjunction with personal incapacity. Timely diagnostic disclosure and counseling can facilitate important advance care planning. The risk of harm associated with neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) of dementia often has to be balanced against the risk of harm associated with medication management of NPS. A palliative care framework can help preserve autonomy, quality of life, comfort, and dignity for patients with NPS.
Self-Healing of Ionomeric Polymers with Carbon Fibers from Medium-Velocity Impact and Resistive Heating
Authors: Sundaresan Vishnu Baba , Morgan Andrew , Castellucci Matt
Published: June 2013

Self-healing materials science has seen significant advances in the last decade. Recent efforts have demonstrated healing in polymeric materials through chemical reaction, thermal treatment, and ultraviolet irradiation. The existing technology for healing polymeric materials through the aforementioned mechanisms produces an irreversible change in the material and makes it unsuitable for subsequent healing cycles. To overcome these disadvantages, we demonstrate a new composite self-healing material made from an ionomer (Surlyn) and carbon fiber that can sustain damage from medium-velocity impact and heal from the energy of the impact. Furthermore, the carbon fiber embedded in the polymer matrix results in resistive heating of the polymer matrix locally, melts the ionomer matrix around the damage, and heals the material at the damaged location. This paper presents methods to melt-process Surlyn with carbon fiber and demonstrates healing in the material through medium-velocity impact tests, resistive heating, and imaging through electron and optical microscopy. A new metric for quantifying self-healing in the sample, called width-heal ratio, is developed, and we report that the Surlyn-carbon fiber-based material under an optimal rate of heating and at the correct temperature has a width-heal ratio of >0.9, thereby demonstrating complete recovery from the damage.
Bacteriological Safety of Blood Collected for Transfusion at University of Gondar Hospital Blood Bank, Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Wondimu Hailegebriel , Addis Zelalem , Moges Feleke , Shiferaw Yitayal
Published: June 2013

Background. Transfusion associated bacterial infection has remained more frequent with a sever risk of morbidity and mortality. This study assessed the bacteriological safety of blood collected for transfusion.Method. A cross-sectional study was conducted at University of Gondar hospital blood bank from December 2011 to June 2012. Bacterial isolation, identification, and antimicrobial susceptibility tests were done as per the standard procedure. Chi-square test andPvalue were used to assess associations between risk factors and the bacterial isolation rate.Results. Twenty-one (15.33%) blood units were found contaminated with bacteria, and 95.24% contamination was due to external sources. The commonly isolated bacteria wereStaphylococcus aureus, Coagulase negativeStaphylococci,Escherichia coli,Klebsiellaspecies,Streptococcispecies,Enterobacterspecies, andCitrobacterspecies. All of the bacteria isolated were 100% sensitive to Gentamicin, Chloramphenicol, Amoxicillin, and Doxycycline. Multiple antimicrobial resistances were observed in 66.7% of the isolates. Not using glove by phlebotomist, touching disinfected phlebotomy site and double puncture at the same hand or both hands of a donor were found to be risk factors for bacterial contamination.Conclusion. Bacterial contamination of blood to be transfused is a common problem in the hospital. So attention should be given to activities performed at the blood bank for safe transfusion practices.
Enhanced Removal of a Pesticides Mixture by Single Cultures and Consortia of Free and ImmobilizedStreptomycesStrains
Authors: Fuentes María S. , Briceño Gabriela E. , Saez Juliana M. , Benimeli Claudia S. , Diez María C. , Amoroso María J.
Published: June 2013

Pesticides are normally used to control specific pests and to increase the productivity in crops; as a result, soils are contaminated with mixtures of pesticides. In this work, the ability ofStreptomycesstrains (either as pure or mixed cultures) to remove pentachlorophenol and chlorpyrifos was studied. The antagonism among the strains and their tolerance to the toxic mixture was evaluated. Results revealed that the strains did not have any antagonistic effects and showed tolerance against the pesticides mixture. In fact, the growth of mixed cultures was significantly higher than in pure cultures. Moreover, a pure culture (Streptomycessp. A5) and a quadruple culture had the highest pentachlorophenol removal percentages (10.6% and 10.1%, resp.), whileStreptomycessp. M7 presented the best chlorpyrifos removal (99.2%). Mixed culture of allStreptomycesspp. when assayed either as free or immobilized cells showed chlorpyrifos removal percentages of 40.17% and 71.05%, respectively, and for pentachlorophenol 5.24% and 14.72%, respectively, suggesting better removal of both pesticides by using immobilized cells. These results reveal that environments contaminated with mixtures of xenobiotics could be successfully cleaned up by using either free or immobilized cultures ofStreptomyces, throughin situorex situremediation techniques.
Pelvic Mass 21 Years after Total Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Miller Joe , Tarter Thomas H.
Published: June 2013

Background. Long-term urologic complications after total hip arthroplasty are rare, and reports in the urologic literature are scant. We present a recent case and review the relevant literature.Case. A 77-year-old man was referred to the urology clinic for a single episode of gross painless hematuria, abnormal urine cytology, and pelvic mass. He had a significant smoking history. Surgical history included right total hip arthroplasty 21 years prior.Results. Pelvic ultrasound revealed a large mass abutting the right bladder wall. Subsequent computed tomography indicated that the mass was extrinsic to the bladder. Results of computed tomography-guided biopsy of the mass were consistent with foreign body granuloma. Surveillance imaging confirmed no growth or progression, and intervention was deferred.Conclusion. Long-term complications of total hip arthroplasty may present with signs and symptoms of urologic disease. Reports in the urologic literature are rare.
Joy, Exercise, Enjoyment, Getting out: A Qualitative Study of Older People's Experience of Cycling in Sydney, Australia
Authors: Zander Alexis , Passmore Erin , Mason Chloe , Rissel Chris
Published: June 2013

Introduction. Cycling can be an enjoyable way to meet physical activity recommendations and is suitable for older people; however cycling participation by older Australians is low. This qualitative study explored motivators, enablers, and barriers to cycling among older people through an age-targeted cycling promotion program.Methods. Seventeen adults who aged 50–75 years participated in a 12-week cycling promotion program which included a cycling skills course, mentor, and resource pack. Semistructured interviews at the beginning and end of the program explored motivators, enablers, and barriers to cycling.Results. Fitness and recreation were the primary motivators for cycling. The biggest barrier was fear of cars and traffic, and the cycling skills course was the most important enabler for improving participants’ confidence. Reported outcomes from cycling included improved quality of life (better mental health, social benefit, and empowerment) and improved physical health.Conclusions. A simple cycling program increased cycling participation among older people. This work confirms the importance of improving confidence in this age group through a skills course, mentors, and maps and highlights additional strategies for promoting cycling, such as ongoing improvement to infrastructure and advertising.
The Prevalence of Social Engagement in the Disabled Elderly and Related Factors
Authors: Kimura Midori , Yamazaki Sachiko , Haga Hiroshi , Yasumura Seiji
Published: June 2013

The purpose of this study is to explore the prevalence and related factors of social engagement in the disabled elderly. Participants were 86 elderly ranging from 65 to 84 years of age with disability dwelling in Fukushima City, Fukushima Prefecture, Japan. Among them, socially engaged elderly were 23 people (26.7% of the participants). Seventeen of the 23 socially engaged elderly were mildly disabled (32.7% of the mild disability group). Four were moderately disabled (20.0% of the moderate disability group), and 2 were severely disabled elderly (14.3% of the severe disability group). Factors related to social engagement in the disabled elderly were examined using multiple logistic regression analysis. Results showed that self-rated health and psychological independence were significantly associated with social engagement in the disabled elderly. This result did not change even after adjusting for disability status level. These findings suggest that support in psychological aspects, such as self-rated health and psychological independence, may promote social engagement in the disabled elderly.
Prediction of Soil Organic Carbon for Ethiopian Highlands Using Soil Spectroscopy
Authors: Amare Tadele , Hergarten Christian , Hurni Hans , Wolfgramm Bettina , Yitaferu Birru , Selassie Yihenew G.
Published: June 2013

Soil spectroscopy was applied for predicting soil organic carbon (SOC) in the highlands of Ethiopia. Soil samples were acquired from Ethiopia’s National Soil Testing Centre and direct field sampling. The reflectance of samples was measured using a FieldSpec 3 diffuse reflectance spectrometer. Outliers and sample relation were evaluated using principal component analysis (PCA) and models were developed through partial least square regression (PLSR). For nine watersheds sampled, 20% of the samples were set aside to test prediction and 80% were used to develop calibration models. Depending on the number of samples per watershed, cross validation or independent validation were used. The stability of models was evaluated using coefficient of determination (R2), root mean square error (RMSE), and the ratio performance deviation (RPD). The R2 (%), RMSE (%), and RPD, respectively, for validation were Anjeni (88, 0.44, 3.05), Bale (86, 0.52, 2.7), Basketo (89, 0.57, 3.0), Benishangul (91, 0.30, 3.4), Kersa (82, 0.44, 2.4), Kola tembien (75, 0.44, 1.9), Maybar (84. 0.57, 2.5), Megech (85, 0.15, 2.6), and Wondo Genet (86, 0.52, 2.7) indicating that the models were stable. Models performed better for areas with high SOC values than areas with lower SOC values. Overall, soil spectroscopy performance ranged from very good to good.
Companding Realizations of the Nonlinear Energy Operator
Authors: Demartinos Andreas-Christos , Kasimis Chrysostomos , Laoudias Costas , Psychalinos Costas
Published: June 2013

Realizations of the nonlinear energy operator (NEO), using the concept of companding filtering, are introduced and compared in this work. For this purpose, the Log-Domain and Sinh-Domain filtering techniques have been followed. Both topologies are constructed from differentiator and multiplier blocks which have been realized through the utilization of nonlinear transconductor cells. Both of the proposed topologies offer the capability of ultra-low voltage operation, thanks to the employment of MOS transistors in the weak inversion. Considering a single power supply voltage of 0.5 V, the behavior of the proposed NEO realizations has been simulated using the Analog Design Environment of the Cadence software and the design kit of the TSMC 130 nm process. Comparison results show that the Sinh-Domain realization offers a more power efficient design than that offered by the Log-Domain realization.
Ultrasonic Assessment of Females with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Proved by Nerve Conduction Study
Authors: Ajeena Ihsan M. , Al-Saad Raed H. , Al-Mudhafar Ahmed , Hadi Najah R. , Al-Aridhy Sawsan H.
Published: June 2013

Introduction. Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the most commonly diagnosed entrapment neuropathy of the upper extremity. The objective of this study was to diagnose CTS and to assess its severity using high resolution ultrasound (HRUS) depending on the results of nerve conduction study (NCS).Methods. A prospective cross-sectional study, in which HRUS was performed at 63 wrists of 35 female patients with different severity of CTS (as proved by NCS). Furthermore, 40 healthy volunteers (80 wrists) underwent the same tests as the patients and have been chosen to match the patients in gender, age, and body mass index (BMI). The cross section area (CSA) of the median nerve (MN) was obtained using HRUS at the carpal tunnel inlet by direct tracing method.Results.There was a significant difference in the CSA of the MN at the tunnel inlet in CTS patients when compared with the control group. In fact, the CSA of the control group showed a significant difference from each of patients subgroups. Furthermore, a significant difference in the CSA was seen in between these subgroups. In conclusion, the US examination of the MN seems to be a promising method in diagnosing and grading of carpal tunnel syndrome.
Using Better Management Thinking to Improve Conservation Effectiveness
Authors: Black Simon A. , Groombridge Jim J. , Jones Carl G.
Published: June 2013

The current paradigm for effective management in biodiversity conservation programmes is dominated by three broad streams of thinking: (i) traditional “command-and-control” approaches which are commonly observed in, but are not exclusive to, bureaucratic government-administered conservation, (ii) more recent notions of “adaptive management,” and (iii) emerging “good practice” management frameworks for conservation. Other variations on these themes suggested by the literature tend to endorse additions or enhancement to one or more of these approaches. We argue that instead a more fundamental alternative approach to conservation management is required, based on “systems thinking.” The systems thinking approach should encompass (i) an understanding of natural systems, (ii) a sense of how human behaviour is influenced, (iii) an understanding of how knowledge should inform decision-making and problem solving, and (iv) an approach based on an understanding of variation in natural systems. Our argument is that the current paradigms of conservation management fail to address these four fundamentals and therefore do not represent the most effective way to manage conservation programmes. We suggest that the challenge for the conservation community is so great that conservation managers should seriously consider better ways of designing and managing programmes, setting goals, making decisions, and encouraging learning and improvement.
Predicting the DPP-IV Inhibitory ActivitypIC50Based on Their Physicochemical Properties
Authors: Gu Tianhong , Yang Xiaoyan , Li Minjie , Wu Milin , Su Qiang , Lu Wencong , Zhang Yuhui
Published: June 2013

The second development program developed in this work was introduced to obtain physicochemical properties of DPP-IV inhibitors. Based on the computation of molecular descriptors, a two-stage feature selection method called mRMR-BFS (minimum redundancy maximum relevance-backward feature selection) was adopted. Then, the support vector regression (SVR) was used in the establishment of the model to map DPP-IV inhibitors to their corresponding inhibitory activity possible. The squared correlation coefficient for the training set of LOOCV and the test set are 0.815 and 0.884, respectively. An online server for predicting inhibitory activity pIC50of the DPP-IV inhibitors as described in this paper has been given in the introduction.
The effect of dabigatran on the activated partial thromboplastin time and thrombin time as determined by the Hemoclot thrombin inhibitor assay in patient plasma samples
Authors: Butler Jenny , Malan Erica , Chunilal Sanjeev , Tran Huyen , Hapgood Greg
Published: June 2013

Dabigatran is an oral direct thrombin inhibitor that does not require routine laboratory monitoring. However, an assessment of its anticoagulant effect in certain clinical settings is desirable. We examined the relationship between dabigatran levels, as determined by the Hemoclot thrombin inhibitor assay (HTI), the thrombin time (TT) and the activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) using different reagents. We describe these parameters with the clinical outcomes of patients receiving dabigatran. Seventy-five plasma samples from 47 patients were analysed. The HTI assay was established to measure dabigatran level. aPTTs were performed using TriniCLOT aPTT S reagent (TC) and three additional aPTT reagents. From linear regression lines, we established the aPTT ranges corresponding to the therapeutic drug levels for dabigatran (90–180 ng/ml). The aPTT demonstrated a modest correlation with the dabigatran level (r= 0.80) but the correlation became less reliable at higher dabigatran levels. The therapeutic aPTT ranges for reagents were clinically and statistically different compared with our reference reagent (46–54 s (TC) vs 51–60 s (SP), 54–64 s (SS) and 61–71 s (Actin FS) (p<0.05)). The TT was sensitive to the presence of dabigatran with a level of 60 ng/ml resulting in a TT > 300 s. In conclusion, the aPTT demonstrated a modest correlation with the dabigatran level and was less responsive with supra-therapeutic levels. aPTT reagents differed in their responsiveness, suggesting individual laboratories must determine their own therapeutic range for their aPTT reagent. The TT is too sensitive to quantify dabigatran levels, but a normal TT suggests minimal or no plasma dabigatran.
A New Risk Scheme to Predict Ischemic Stroke and Other Thromboembolism in Atrial Fibrillation: The ATRIA Study Stroke Risk Score
Authors: Singer Daniel E. , Chang Yuchiao , Borowsky Leila H. , Fang Margaret C. , Pomernacki Niela K. , Udaltsova Natalia , Reynolds Kristi , Go Alan S.
Published: June 2013

Background

More accurate and reliable stroke risk prediction tools are needed to optimize anticoagulation decision making in patients with atrial fibrillation (
AF
). We developed a new
AF
stroke prediction model using the original
A
nticoagulation and
R
isk
F
actors in
A
trial
F
ibrillation (
ATRIA
)
AF
cohort and externally validated the score in a separate, contemporary, community‐based inception
AF
cohort,
ATRIA
–
C
ardiovascular
R
esearch
N
etwork (
CVRN
) cohort.

Methods and Results

The derivation
ATRIA
cohort consisted of 10 927 patients with nonvalvular
AF
contributing 32 609 person‐years off warfarin and 685 thromboembolic events (
TE
s). The external validation
ATRIA
‐
CVRN
cohort included 25 306
AF
patients contributing 26 263 person‐years off warfarin and 496
TE
s. Cox models identified 8 variables, age, prior stroke, female sex, diabetes mellitus, heart failure, hypertension, proteinuria, and
eGFR
<45 mL/min per 1.73 m
2
or end‐stage renal disease, plus an age×prior stroke interaction term for the final model. Point scores were assigned proportional to model coefficients. The c‐index in the
ATRIA
cohort was 0.73 (95%
CI
, 0.71 to 0.75), increasing to 0.76 (95%
CI
, 0.74 to 0.79) when only severe events were considered. In the
ATRIA
‐
CVRN
, c‐indexes were 0.70 (95%
CI
, 0.67 to 0.72) and 0.75 (95%
CI
, 0.72 to 0.78) for all events and severe events, respectively. The C‐index was greater and net reclassification improvement positive comparing the
ATRIA
score with the
CHADS
2
or CHA
2
DS
2
‐VASc scores.

Conclusions

The
ATRIA
stroke risk score performed better than existing risk scores, was validated successfully, and showed improvement in predicting severe events, which is of greatest concern. The
ATRIA
score should improve the antithrombotic decision for patients with
AF
and should provide a secure foundation for the addition of biomarkers in future prognostic models.
Introduction The Longevity of Rupture: 1967 in Art and its Histories
Authors: Lenssen Anneka , Ramadan Dina , Rogers Sarah A. , Shabout Nada
Published: June 2013

This introductory essay by members of the Association for Modern and Contemporary Art of the Arab World, Iran, and Turkey provides a quick overview of the significance of the 1967 defeat of Arab military forces by the Israeli army for the historiography of modern and contemporary Arab art. It then details a recent turn to more critical engagement with that historiographic framework, as exemplified by the 2012 conference The Longevity of Rupture: 1967 in Art and its Histories, and introduces the four articles published in ARTMargins that came out of the conference.
Nuns fret not…
Authors: Kovitz Kasper
Published: June 2013

Nun's Fret Not is a photomontage project that tells the story of a nun who, following an epiphany, embarks with her convent on becoming a “missionary artist” through a study-by-mail artist's course, and her subsequent disillusionment. A continuation of the work begun in icehouse in 2010, it re-contextualizes Kovitz's previous art work into a meta-narrative that examines recurrent themes in his art practice: artist and audience, success and obscurity, art market and art education, dominant cultures and subcultures. All characters in this project share the same face– the face of Litmus– an alter ego Kovitz made for his work based on an FBI shooting target. In the next installment of this project the nun will undergo a sex change and become a capitalist…