bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Capital Flows: The South African Experience
Authors: Rangasamy Logan
Published: April 2014

There has been a significant rise in the empirical work distinguishing between episodes of sharp slowdowns and surges in capital inflows. Much of this analysis has centred on gaining a better understanding of the cyclical behaviour of capital flows. This paper continues in this vein by identifying capital flow episodes for South Africa and analyses the nature and main drivers of cross‐border flows during these episodes. This paper makes two major contributions to the empirical work on South African capital flows. First, specific attention is given to some pertinent measurement issues in the identification of capital flow episodes for South Africa. The post capital account liberalisation period (post‐1995‐period) is delineated into a “normal” period (when capital inflows were close to historical averages) and an “abnormal” period (when capital inflows deviated significantly from the historical average). Second, the paper identifies some defining characteristics during these two periods. In this regard, the behaviour of domestic and foreign agents as drivers of capital flows and the probability of capital flow reversals across asset classes are given particular attention. Although these issues have significant policy implications, they have, to date, been given limited attention in the empirical work on South African capital flows.
Selective regulation of the chitin‐induced defense response by the Arabidopsis receptor‐like cytoplasmic kinase PBL27
Authors: Shinya Tomonori , Yamaguchi Koji , Desaki Yoshitake , Yamada Kenta , Narisawa Tomoko , Kobayashi Yoshihiro , Maeda Kanako , Suzuki Maruya , Tanimoto Takumi , Takeda Jun , Nakashima Masato , Funama Ryota , Narusaka Mari , Narusaka Yoshihiro , Kaku Hanae , Kawasaki Tsutomu , Shibuya Naoto
Published: April 2014

Recognition of microbe‐associated molecular patterns (MAMPs) initiates pattern‐triggered immunity in host plants. Pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) and receptor‐like cytoplasmic kinases (RLCKs) are the major components required for sensing and transduction of these molecular patterns. However, the regulation of RLCKs by PRRs and their specificity remain obscure. In this study we show that PBL27, an Arabidopsis ortholog of OsRLCK185, is an immediate downstream component of the chitin receptor CERK1 and contributes to the regulation of chitin‐induced immunity in Arabidopsis. Knockout of PBL27 resulted in the suppression of several chitin‐induced defense responses, including the activation of MPK3/6 and callose deposition as well as in disease resistance against fungal and bacterial infections. On the other hand, the contribution of PBL27 to flg22 signaling appears to be very limited, suggesting that PBL27 selectively regulates defense signaling downstream of specific PRR complexes. In vitro phosphorylation experiments showed that CERK1 preferentially phosphorylated PBL27 in comparison to BIK1, whereas phosphorylation of PBL27 by BAK1 was very low compared with that of BIK1. Thus, the substrate specificity of the signaling receptor‐like kinases, CERK1 and BAK1, may determine the preference of downstream RLCKs.
The Impact of R&D Activities on Exports of German Business Services Enterprises: First Evidence from a Continuous Treatment Approach
Authors: Fryges Helmut , Vogel Alexander , Wagner Joachim
Published: April 2014

This study uses newly available representative data from German business services firms and a continuous treatment approach based on the generalised propensity score to test for a causal effect of R&D activities (measured by the share of engineers and natural scientists in all employees) on the share of exports in total sales. We find evidence for a positive and statistically significant but small causal effect. This result is in line with the (non‐causal) results reported in Innovation, Globalization and Firm Dynamics. Lessons for Enterprise Policy, New York, Routledge, 2014 and 137, based on regression models with and without control for unobserved time‐invariant firm characteristics. The bottom line, then, is that R&D activity does matter for success of German business services firms on export markets – but not much.
Neurokinin‐1 receptor expression and antagonism by the NK‐1R antagonist maropitant in canine melanoma cell lines and primary tumour tissues
Authors: Borrego J. F. , Huelsmeyer M. K. , Pinkerton M. E. , Muszynski J. L. , Miller S. A. K. , Kurzman I. D. , Vail D. M.
Published: April 2014

We interrogated the neurokinin‐1 receptor (NK‐1R)/substance P (SP) pathway in canine melanoma tumour tissues and cell lines. NK‐1R messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein expression were observed in the majority of tumour tissues. Immunohistochemical assessment of archived tissue sections revealed NK‐1R immunoreactivity in 11 of 15 tumours, which may have diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic utility. However, we were unable to identify a preclinical in vitro cell line or in vivo xenograft model that recapitulates NK‐1R mRNA and protein expression documented in primary tumours. While maropitant inhibited proliferation and enhanced apoptosis in cell lines, in the absence of documented NK‐1R expression, this may represent off‐target effects. Furthermore, maropitant failed to suppress tumour growth in a canine mouse xenograft model derived from a cell line expressing mRNA but not protein. While NK‐1R represents a novel target, in the absence of preclinical models, in‐species clinical trials will be necessary to investigate the therapeutic potential for antagonists such as maropitant.
On the Performance of Air-Lift Pumps: From Analytical Models to Large Eddy Simulation
Authors: Wahba E. M. , Gadalla M. A. , Abueidda D. , Dalaq A. , Hafiz H. , Elawadi K. , Issa R.
Published: April 2014

The present study investigates a hierarchy of models for predicting the performance of air-lift pumps. Investigated models range from simplified one-dimensional analytical models to large eddy simulation (LES). Numerical results from LES and from two different analytical models are validated against experimental data available from the air-lift pump research program at Alexandria University. Present LES employs the volume of fluid (VOF) method to model the multiphase flow in the riser pipe. In general, LES is shown to provide fairly accurate predictions for the air-lift pump performance. Moreover, numerical flow patterns in the riser pipe are in good qualitative and quantitative agreement with their corresponding experimental patterns and with flow pattern maps available in the literature. On the other hand, analytical models are shown to provide results that are of surprisingly comparable accuracy to LES in terms of predicting the pump performance curve. However, due to the steady one-dimensional nature of these models, they are incapable of providing information about the different flow patterns developing in the riser pipe and the transient nature of the pumping process.
Pressure Gradient Effects on Smooth and Rough Surface Turbulent Boundary Layers—Part I: Favorable Pressure Gradient
Authors: Hyun Shin Ju , Jin Song Seung
Published: April 2014

The effects of the pressure gradient and surface roughness on turbulent boundary layers have been experimentally investigated. In Part I, smooth- and rough-surface turbulent boundary layers with and without favorable pressure gradients (FPG) are presented. All of the tests have been conducted at the same Reynolds number (based on the length of the flat plate) of 900,000. Streamwise time-mean and fluctuating velocities have been measured using a single-sensor hot-wire probe. For smooth surfaces, the FPG decreases the mean velocity defect and increases the wall shear stress; however, the friction coefficient hardly changes due to the increased freestream velocity. The FPG effect on the streamwise normal Reynolds stress has been examined. The FPG increases the streamwise normal Reynolds stress for y less than 0.6 times the boundary layer thickness. With the zero pressure gradient (ZPG), the roughness increases the mean velocity defect throughout the boundary layer and increases the normal Reynolds stress for y greater than twice the average roughness height. The roughness effect on the mean velocity defect is stronger under the FPG than under the ZPG for y less than 30 times the average roughness height. For y less than 25 times the average roughness height, the roughness effect of increasing normal Reynolds stress is also stronger under the FPG than under the ZPG. Consequently, for a rough surface, the FPG increases the integrated streamwise turbulent kinetic energy, friction coefficient, roughness Reynolds number, and roughness shift. Furthermore, the FPG increases the roughness effects on the integral boundary layer parameters—the boundary layer thickness, momentum thickness, ratio of the displacement thickness to the boundary layer thickness, and shape factor. Thus, the FPG augments the roughness effects on turbulent boundary layers.
Flexible Pipes: Influence of the Pressure Armor in the Wet Collapse Resistance
Authors: Gay Neto Alfredo , de Arruda Martins Clóvis
Published: April 2014

When submitted to high external pressure, flexible pipes may collapse. If the external sheath is damaged, all the external pressure is directly applied on the internal polymeric layer that transmits the loading to the carcass layer, which can fail due to this effect, leading to wet collapse. This failure mode must be taken into account in a flexible pipe design. A model can be set up neglecting the influence of the pressure armor, but this assumption may underestimate the wet collapse pressure value. This work aims to include the pressure armor effect in the numerical prediction of wet collapse. The main contribution of the pressure armor to the flexible pipe resistance to collapse is to be a constraint to the radial displacement of the carcass and the internal polymeric layers. Two models were developed to find the wet collapse pressure in flexible pipes. A first study was done using a ring approximation three-dimensional (3D) finite element method (FEM) model. Comparisons are made with more simplified models using a 3D FEM equivalent ring approximation. The aim is to clarify the mechanical behavior of the pressure armor in the wet collapse scenario. Parametric studies of initial ovalization of carcass and initial gaps and interference between polymeric layer and pressure armor are made and discussed.
Dry Sliding Wear Studies of Copper-Based Powder Metallurgy Brake Materials
Authors: Kwabena Gyimah Glenn , Huang Ping , Chen Dong
Published: April 2014

The paper focuses on a novel friction material on Cu-based powder metal material. Several elements, such as Al, SiO2, Fe, graphite, Sn, Mn, and MoS2 were added to the Cu and were developed by PM techniques. The aim of the experiment was to study the effect of increasing Sintering temperature on mechanical and tribological characteristics of the novel train brake pads. The materials prepared were sintered at three different temperatures (850 °C, 900 °C, and 950 °C). A high pressure pad-on-disk braking tester was developed to test the wear behavior of these materials without lubrication. Wear was measured by microscopic examination of the pad after the tribometer test. The tests showed that the coefficient of friction, wear rate and wear number were improved immensely by high temperature sintering. This means that, the level of the sintering temperature has significant effect on the performance of the braking material. Thereby, the tribological and the mechanical properties of the novel material were found to be temperature sensitive.
Tribological Investigation of Nanographite Platelets as Additive in Anti-Wear Lubricant: A Top-Down Approach
Authors: Vidal Flavio A. C. , Ávila Antonio F.
Published: April 2014

A top-down approach is employed to investigate the tribological effect of adding nanographite platelets (NGPs) to mineral base oil (MBO). The performance of the NGP-modified MBO was evaluated by examining the friction and anti-wear properties. Four different types of NGPs produced by two different processes were employed. The optimal NGP-modified MBO attained a significant wear and friction reduction when compared with the MBO without NGPs. The process used to exfoliate the graphite nanoplatelet samples provided better wear properties because of the graphene layers' smoother sliding mechanism. Graphene layers seeped inside the groove marks to keep the friction coefficient low.
Dynamic Reprogramming of Signaling Upon Met Inhibition Reveals a Mechanism of Drug Resistance in Gastric Cancer
Authors: Lai Andrea Z. , Cory Sean , Zhao Hong , Gigoux Mathieu , Monast Anie , Guiot Marie-Christine , Huang Sidong , Tofigh Ali , Thompson Crista , Naujokas Monica , Marcus Victoria A. , Bertos Nicholas , Sehat Bita , Perera Rushika M. , Bell Emily S. , Page Brent D. G. , Gunning Patrick T. , Ferri Lorenzo E. , Hallett Michael , Park Morag
Published: April 2014

Understanding how inhibitors rewire the Met receptor pathway points to a strategy for more effective gastric cancer treatment.
L[i]nc to Dendritic Cell Activation
Authors: Mueller Kristen L.
Published: April 2014

A long noncoding RNA regulates dendritic cell differentiation and function.
Unacceptably High Error Rates in Vitek 2 Testing of Cefepime Susceptibility in Extended-Spectrum-β-Lactamase-Producing Escherichia coli
Authors: Rhodes Nathaniel J. , Richardson Chad L. , Heraty Ryan , Liu Jiajun , Malczynski Michael , Qi Chao , Scheetz Marc H.
Published: April 2014

While a lack of concordance is known between gold standard MIC determinations and Vitek 2, the magnitude of the discrepancy and its impact on treatment decisions for extended-spectrum-β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing
Escherichia coli
are not. Clinical isolates of ESBL-producing
E. coli
were collected from blood, tissue, and body fluid samples from January 2003 to July 2009. Resistance genotypes were identified by PCR. Primary analyses evaluated the discordance between Vitek 2 and gold standard methods using cefepime susceptibility breakpoint cutoff values of 8, 4, and 2 μg/ml. The discrepancies in MICs between the methods were classified per convention as very major, major, and minor errors. Sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values for susceptibility classifications were calculated. A total of 304 isolates were identified; 59% (179) of the isolates carried
bla
CTX-M
, 47% (143) carried
bla
TEM
, and 4% (12) carried
bla
SHV
. At a breakpoint MIC of 8 μg/ml, Vitek 2 produced a categorical agreement of 66.8% and exhibited very major, major, and minor error rates of 23% (20/87 isolates), 5.1% (8/157 isolates), and 24% (73/304), respectively. The sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values for a susceptibility breakpoint of 8 μg/ml were 94.9%, 61.2%, 72.3%, and 91.8%, respectively. The sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values for a susceptibility breakpoint of 2 μg/ml were 83.8%, 65.3%, 41%, and 93.3%, respectively. Vitek 2 results in unacceptably high error rates for cefepime compared to those of agar dilution for ESBL-producing
E. coli
. Clinicians should be wary of making treatment decisions on the basis of Vitek 2 susceptibility results for ESBL-producing
E. coli
.
The Low Keratin Affinity of Efinaconazole Contributes to Its Nail Penetration and Fungicidal Activity in Topical Onychomycosis Treatment
Authors: Sugiura Keita , Sugimoto Noriaki , Hosaka Shinya , Katafuchi-Nagashima Maria , Arakawa Yoshio , Tatsumi Yoshiyuki , Jo Siu William , Pillai Radhakrishnan
Published: April 2014

Onychomycosis is a common fungal nail disease that is difficult to treat topically due to the deep location of the infection under the densely keratinized nail plate. Keratin affinity of topical drugs is an important physicochemical property impacting therapeutic efficacy. To be effective, topical drugs must penetrate the nail bed and retain their antifungal activity within the nail matrix, both of which are adversely affected by keratin binding. We investigated these properties for efinaconazole, a new topical antifungal for onychomycosis, compared with those of the existing topical drugs ciclopirox and amorolfine. The efinaconazole free-drug concentration in keratin suspensions was 14.3%, significantly higher than the concentrations of ciclopirox and amorolfine, which were 0.7% and 1.9%, respectively (
P
< 0.001). Efinaconazole was released from keratin at a higher proportion than in the reference drugs, with about half of the remaining keratin-bound efinaconazole removed after washing. In single-dose
in vitro
studies, efinaconazole penetrated full-thickness human nails into the receptor phase and also inhibited the growth of
Trichophyton rubrum
under the nail. In the presence of keratin, efinaconazole exhibited fungicidal activity against
Trichophyton mentagrophytes
comparable to that of amorolfine and superior to that of ciclopirox. In a guinea pig onychomycosis model with
T. mentagrophytes
infection, an efinaconazole solution significantly decreased nail fungal burden compared to that of ciclopirox and amorolfine lacquers (
P
< 0.01). These results suggest that the high nail permeability of efinaconazole and its potent fungicidal activity in the presence of keratin are related to its low keratin affinity, which may contribute to its efficacy in onychomycosis.
Synergistic Activity of the Tyrocidines, Antimicrobial Cyclodecapeptides from Bacillus aneurinolyticus, with Amphotericin B and Caspofungin against Candida albicans Biofilms
Authors: Troskie Anscha Mari , Rautenbach Marina , Delattin Nicolas , Vosloo Johan Arnold , Dathe Margitta , Cammue Bruno P. A. , Thevissen Karin
Published: April 2014

Tyrocidines are cationic cyclodecapeptides from
Bacillus aneurinolyticus
that are characterized by potent antibacterial and antimalarial activities. In this study, we show that various tyrocidines have significant activity against planktonic
Candida albicans
in the low-micromolar range. These tyrocidines also prevented
C. albicans
biofilm formation
in vitro
. Studies with the membrane-impermeable dye propidium iodide showed that the tyrocidines disrupt the membrane integrity of mature
C. albicans
biofilm cells. This membrane activity correlated with the permeabilization and rapid lysis of model fungal membranes containing phosphatidylcholine and ergosterol (70:30 ratio) induced by the tyrocidines. The tyrocidines exhibited pronounced synergistic biofilm-eradicating activity in combination with two key antifungal drugs, amphotericin B and caspofungin. Using a
Caenorhabditis elegans
infection model, we found that tyrocidine A potentiated the activity of caspofungin. Therefore, tyrocidines are promising candidates for further research as antifungal drugs and as agents for combinatorial treatment.
Characteristics of Escherichia coli Sequence Type 131 Isolates That Produce Extended-Spectrum β-Lactamases: Global Distribution of the
H
30-Rx Sublineage
Authors: Peirano Gisele , van der Bij Akke K. , Freeman Joshua L. , Poirel Laurent , Nordmann Patrice , Costello Michael , Tchesnokova Veronika L. , Pitout Johann D. D.
Published: April 2014

We designed a study to describe the characteristics of sequence type 131 (ST131) lineages, including the
H
30-Rx sublineage, among a global collection of extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing
Escherichia coli
isolates from 9 countries collected from 2000 to 2011. A total of 240 nonrepeat isolates from Canada, the United States, Brazil, the Netherlands, France, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), India, South Africa, and New Zealand were included. Established PCR, sequencing, and typing methods were used to define ST131 lineages,
H
30 and
H
30-Rx phylogenetic groups,
gyrA
and
parC
mutations, virotypes, and plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance determinants. The majority of the isolates produced CTX-M-15 with
aac(6′)-lb-cr
, belonged to phylogenetic group B2, and were positive for the
H
30 lineage with the
gyrA1AB
and
parC1aAB
mutations. ST131 showed 15 distinct pulsotypes; 43% of the isolates belonged to four pulsotypes, with a global distribution. Seventy-five percent of the ST131 isolates belonged to
H
30-Rx; this sublineage was present in all the countries and was associated with multidrug resistance,
bla
CTX-M-15
,
aac(6′)-lb-cr
, and virotypes A and C. The
H
41 lineage was negative for the ST131
pabB
allele-specific PCR. The multidrug-resistant
H
30-Rx sublineage poses an important public health threat due to its global distribution, association with virotype C, and high prevalence among ST131 isolates that produce CTX-M-15.
Polymorphisms in Pf
mdr1
, Pf
crt
, and Pf
nhe1
Genes Are Associated with Reduced
In Vitro
Activities of Quinine in Plasmodium falciparum Isolates from Western Kenya
Authors: Cheruiyot Jelagat , Ingasia Luicer A. , Omondi Angela A. , Juma Dennis W. , Opot Benjamin H. , Ndegwa Joseph M. , Mativo Joan , Cheruiyot Agnes C. , Yeda Redemptah , Okudo Charles , Muiruri Peninah , Bidii Ngalah S. , Chebon Lorna J. , Angienda Paul O. , Eyase Fredrick L. , Johnson Jacob D. , Bulimo Wallace D. , Andagalu Ben , Akala Hoseah M. , Kamau Edwin
Published: April 2014

In combination with antibiotics, quinine is recommended as the second-line treatment for uncomplicated malaria, an alternative first-line treatment for severe malaria, and for treatment of malaria in the first trimester of pregnancy. Quinine has been shown to have frequent clinical failures, and yet the mechanisms of action and resistance have not been fully elucidated. However, resistance is linked to polymorphisms in multiple genes, including multidrug resistance 1 (Pf
mdr1
), the chloroquine resistance transporter (Pf
crt
), and the sodium/hydrogen exchanger gene (Pf
nhe1
). Here, we investigated the association between
in vitro
quinine susceptibility and genetic polymorphisms in Pf
mdr1
codons 86 and 184, Pf
crt
codon 76, and Pf
nhe1
ms4760 in 88 field isolates from western Kenya.
In vitro
activity was assessed based on the drug concentration that inhibited 50% of parasite growth (the IC
50
), and parasite genetic polymorphisms were determined from DNA sequencing. Data revealed there were significant associations between polymorphism in Pf
mdr1
-86Y, Pf
mdr1
-184F, or Pf
crt
-76T and quinine susceptibility (
P
< 0.0001 for all three associations). Eighty-two percent of parasites resistant to quinine carried mutant alleles at these codons (Pf
mdr1
-86Y, Pf
mdr1
-184F, and Pf
crt
-76T), whereas 74% of parasites susceptible to quinine carried the wild-type allele (Pf
mdr1
-N86, Pf
mdr1
-Y184, and Pf
crt
-K76, respectively). In addition, quinine IC
50
values for parasites with Pf
nhe1
ms4760 3 DNNND repeats were significantly higher than for those with 1 or 2 repeats (
P
= 0.033 and
P
= 0.0043, respectively). Clinical efficacy studies are now required to confirm the validity of these markers and the importance of parasite genetic background.
The
mecA
Homolog
mecC
Confers Resistance against β-Lactams in Staphylococcus aureus Irrespective of the Genetic Strain Background
Authors: Ballhausen Britta , Kriegeskorte André , Schleimer Nina , Peters Georg , Becker Karsten
Published: April 2014

In staphylococci, methicillin resistance is mediated by
mecA
-encoded penicillin-binding protein 2a (PBP2a), which has a low affinity for beta-lactams. Recently, a novel PBP2a homolog was described as being encoded by
mecC
, which shares only 70% similarity to
mecA
. To prove that
mecC
is the genetic determinant that confers methicillin resistance in
Staphylococcus aureus
, a
mecC
knockout strain was generated. The
S. aureus
Δ
mecC
strain showed considerably reduced oxacillin and cefoxitin MICs (0.25 and 4 μg/ml, respectively) compared to those of the corresponding wild-type methicillin-resistant
S. aureus
(MRSA) strain (8 and 16 μg/ml, respectively). Complementing the mutant in
trans
with wild-type
mecC
restored the resistance to oxacillin and cefoxitin. By expressing
mecC
and
mecA
in different
S. aureus
clonal lineages, we found that
mecC
mediates resistance irrespective of the genetic strain background, yielding oxacillin and cefoxitin MIC values comparable to those with
mecA
. In addition, we showed that
mecC
expression is inducible by oxacillin, which supports the assumption that a functional beta-lactam-dependent regulatory system is active in MRSA strains possessing staphylococcal cassette chromosome
mec
(SCC
mec
) type XI. In summary, we showed that
mecC
is inducible by oxacillin and mediates beta-lactam resistance in SCC
mec
type XI-carrying strains as well as in different
S. aureus
genetic backgrounds. Furthermore, our results could explain the comparatively low MICs for clinical
mecC
-harboring
S. aureus
isolates.
Chronicity of Dermal Leishmaniasis Caused by Leishmania panamensis Is Associated with Parasite-Mediated Induction of Chemokine Gene Expression
Authors: Navas Adriana , Vargas Deninson Alejandro , Freudzon Marina , McMahon-Pratt Diane , Saravia Nancy Gore , Gómez María Adelaida
Published: April 2014

Chronic tegumentary leishmaniasis is characterized by a scarcity of parasites in lesions and a heightened inflammatory response. Deregulated and hyperactive inflammation contributes to tissue damage and parasite persistence. The mechanisms by which immune cells are recruited to the lesion and their relationship to clinical outcomes remain elusive. We examined the expression levels of chemokines and their receptors in relation to clinical outcome in dermal leishmaniasis caused byLeishmania (Viannia) panamensis. Primary macrophages from healthy donors were infected withL. panamensisstrains isolated from self-healing patients (n= 4) and those presenting chronic disease (n= 5). A consistent pattern of upregulation of neutrophil (cxcl1,cxcl2,cxcl5, andcxcl8/il-8) and monocyte (ccl2,ccl7,ccl8,cxcl3, andcxcl10) chemotactic chemokines andccr1andccr5receptor genes, evaluated by reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (qRT-PCR), was observed upon infection with strains from patients with chronic dermal leishmaniasis; induction of CXCL5 and CCL8 was corroborated at the protein level. No apparent upregulation was elicited in macrophages infected with strains from self-healing patients. Expression levels ofccl8,cxcl2,cxcl3, andcxcl5in lesion biopsy specimens from patients with chronic cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) were compared to those in biopsy specimens from Montenegro skin tests of individuals with asymptomatic infection. Increased expression levels ofcxcl5(P< 0.05),ccl8, andcxcl3were corroborated in chronic CL lesions. Our study revealed a dichotomy in macrophage chemokine gene expression elicited byL. panamensisstrains from patients with self-healing disease and those presenting chronic disease, consistent with parasite-mediated hyperactivation of the inflammatory response driving chronicity. The predominant upregulation of neutrophil and monocyte chemoattractants indicates novel mechanisms of sustained inflammatory activation and may provide new therapeutic targets against chronic dermal leishmaniasis.
Axial compression stress path tests on artificial frozen soil samples in a triaxial device at temperatures just below 0 °C
Authors: Yamamoto Yuko , Springman Sarah M.
Published: April 2014

This paper aims to assess the characteristics of the strength and creep properties of frozen soil under triaxial stress conditions at temperatures close to the thawing point. A series of triaxial constant rate of strain (CRS) and constant stress creep (CSC) tests was carried out in axial compression on artificially frozen soil samples at temperatures between –3.0 and –0.3 °C. Acoustic emissions, with a frequency range of 100–1000 kHz, were measured using a wide-band piezoelectric sensor to understand the mechanisms of the deformation behaviour and microstructural effects that control the response of the frozen soil specimens during the tests, especially at yield and approaching failure. The test results showed that the influence of a temperature increase close to the thawing point led to reduced shear strength and increased minimum axial strain rate. The test results were compared with data from similar experiments on artificial frozen and alpine permafrost specimens obtained from a past research project. It was observed that the acoustic emission response indicates a change in the physical process of deformation between microcrack formation and the reorientation of ice granules, depending on the strain rate.
Analysis of the internal stability of granular soils using different methods
Authors: Moraci N. , Mandaglio M.C. , Ielo D.
Published: April 2014

The knowledge of the internal stability of granular soils is a key factor in the design of granular or geotextile filters. To evaluate the internal stability of granular soils, different semi-empirical methods are generally used. Nevertheless, the results of these methods, on the same soil, can lead to different internal stability evaluations. In this paper, to evaluate the reliability of the semi-empirical methods available in literature, the internal stability of different granular soils, reconstituted by the authors and by other researchers, has been studied by means of theoretical and experimental approaches. In particular, the theoretical analysis of the internal stability was performed using the Simulfiltr method, developed recently by the authors, while the experimental evaluation of the internal stability was carried out by means of long-term filtration tests. The comparison of the internal stability analysis performed by means of semi-empirical, theoretical, and experimental methods showed that the semi-empirical methods are not always reliable. Therefore, on the base of these results, a new chart, in terms of minimum slope Smin (%) of the grain-size distribution and of average value of finer percentage F, has been proposed to evaluate the internal stability of granular soils.
Overexpression of the putative extracytoplasmic function sigma (σ) factor FujE enhances FK506 production in Streptomyces sp. strain KCCM 11116P
Authors: Lee Sung-Kwon , Yang Seung Hwan , Kang Choong-Min , Mo SangJoon , Suh Joo-Won
Published: April 2014

The role of the putative extracytoplasmic function sigma (σ) factor FujE, which has not been characterized as a member of the FK506 biosynthetic gene cluster, on FK506 production was identified by gene deletion, overexpression, and transcription analysis experiments in Streptomyces sp. strain KCCM 11116P. Inactivation of fujE had no effect on FK506 production, growth, or morphological differentiation. Overexpression of fujE with integrative vectors increased FK506 production by 2.87-fold (24.5 ± 1.4 mg·L–1) compared with the wild type (8.5 ± 0.5 mg·L–1). Semiquantitative reverse transcription – polymerase chain reaction analysis indicated that the overexpression of fujE stimulates the transcription of the FK506 biosynthetic genes. These results demonstrated that fujE is a new member of the FK506 biosynthetic gene cluster.
Low temperature specific heat anomaly in electron doped R2-xCexCuO4 superconductors
Authors: Mohapatra S. P. , Rout G. C.
Published: April 2014

The electron doped rare earth copper oxide superconductors R 2-x Ce x CuO 4 exhibit anomalous heavy fermion behavior at low temperature with large Sommerfeld specific heat coefficient which is different from the conventional heavy fermion systems. The system is described by a model Hamiltonian consisting of staggered magnetic field in the two sub-lattices of the copper sites in presence of hybridization between the localized 4f electrons of Nd atom and the conduction electrons as well as the f-electron kinetic energy term. The Hamiltonian is solved by Zubarev's Green's function technique and the sub-lattice magnetization is calculated and solved self-consistently. The entropy and specific heat are calculated from the free energy of the system. The temperature dependent entropy and specific heat are numerically evaluated by successive differentiations of sub-lattice magnetization and temperature dependent entropy. It is observed that when the position of the f-level of Nd atom is of the order of hybridization strength, the sub-lattice magnetization is destroyed drastically at lower temperatures. As a result, the specific heat exhibits a large enhancement at low temperatures suggesting the enhancement of the electron density of states and the effective mass of the itinerant electrons exhibiting the heavy fermion character. Similarly, the specific heat shows anomalously sharp jump near the Néel temperature.
INFLUENCE OF POST ANNEALING ON SOL–GEL DEPOSITED ZnO THIN FILMS
Authors: BHADANE HEMALATA , SAMUEL EDMUND , GAUTAM DINESH KUMAR
Published: April 2014

The effect of annealing temperature on sol–gel deposited ZnO thin films have been studied. The average crystallite size determined from XRD shows that the deposited films are nanocrystalline. FTIR confirms deposition of ZnO thin films. The transmittance of annealed ZnO thin films is greater than 80% in visible region with bandgap ranging from 3.25–3.19 eV. The films annealed at 450°C temperature shows lower resistivity value of 527.241 Ωm. The deposited nanocrystalline films are suitable for biosensing applications due to its higher surface area.
Vibration and Stability Analysis of Axially Moving Beams with Variable Speed and Axial Force
Authors: Özhan Bozkurt Burak
Published: April 2014

The well-known vibration model of axially moving beam is considered. Both axial moving speed and axial force are assumed to vary harmonically. The Method of Multiple Time Scales (a perturbation method) is used. The natural vibrations of beam are considered for different values of beam parameters. Resonances are obtained for seven different conditions. Solvability conditions for each resonance case are found analytically. Effects of transport velocity, axial force, rigidity and damping are discussed. Stability analysis are obtained for principal parametric resonances. Stable and unstable regions are obtained regarding velocity and force effects separately and together.
Damage–Rupture Process of Concrete Dams Under Strong Earthquakes
Authors: Chen Hou-Qun , Li De-Yu , Guo Sheng-Shan
Published: April 2014

A new concept for establishing the damage model for high concrete dams under earthquakes based on damage mechanics is presented in this paper. Unlike the conventional approach of considering the residual deformation by means of plastic-damage coupling, the proposed approach relates the degraded apparent elastic moduli of loading and unloading directly to the material experimental data. As such, the nonlinear analysis of the seismic response of dam-foundation systems is simplified and more reasonable, with no recourse to plastic-damage coupling. To verify the proposed approach of damage–rupture process for high concrete dams, the seismic behaviors of the Koyna gravity dam in India and the Shapai RCC arch dam in China both subjected to strong earthquakes were examined. It is demonstrated that the proposed approach can be reliably used to study the damage–rupture behavior of concrete dams under strong earthquakes.
A Tabu Search for Multi-Objective Single Row Facility Layout Problem
Authors: Lenin N. , Siva Kumar M. , Ravindran D. , Islam M. N.
Published: April 2014

This paper addresses the problem of multi-objective facility layout planning. The aim is to solve the single row facility layout problems (SRFLP) and find the linear machine sequence which minimizes the following: The total investment cost of machines; the total material handling cost; the total number of machines in the final sequence; and the total flow distance of the products in units. The tabu search algorithm (TSA) which has now become a very useful tool in solving a variety of combinatorial optimization problems is made use of here. TSA is developed to determine the product sequence based on which a common linear machine sequence is found out for multi-products with different machine sequences. We assume that, limited number of duplicate machine types available for job. The results are compared with other approaches and it shows the effectiveness of the TSA approach as a practical decision support tool to solve problems in SRFLP.
Experimental Investigation on the Effect of Tool Geometry and Cutting Conditions Using Tool Wear Prediction Model for End Milling Process
Authors: Kalidass S. , Palanisamy P.
Published: April 2014

Tool wear of a cutting tool has a significant impact on the tool life and surface quality of the finished product. Tool wear is influenced by many factors such as cutting parameters, tool geometry, coating type, work piece material, chatter, and cutting condition. In the present work, the design of experiments (DOE) technique has been used for four factors at five levels to conduct experiments. Tool wear is taken as the response variable measured during end milling, while helix angle, spindle speed, feed and depth of cut are taken as the input parameters. The material and tool selected for this study are AISI 304 stainless steel and uncoated solid carbide end mill cutter respectively. The tool wear was measured using tool maker's microscope. The experimental values are used in six sigma software for finding the coefficients to develop the regression model. The direct and interaction effect of the machining parameter with tool wear were analyzed using contour graphs, which helped to select process parameters for reducing tool wear and also ensure quality of milling.
Optimization of Cutting Conditions in Milling Process to Minimize Tool Wear Using Selected Soft Computing Techniques: A Comparative Study
Authors: Pare Vikas , Agnihotri Geeta , Murali Krishna Chimata
Published: April 2014

The life of a tool is very significant in metal cutting because production time is a waste whenever a tool is replaced or reset. Because of prolonged use, cutting tools blunt and their effectiveness decreases over time. It is necessary to replace, index or resharpen, and reset the tool after certain time. Tool life is a measure of the length of time a tool will cut effectively. The life of a cutting tool is mostly affected by many factors, such as, the tool wear, material removal rate, microstructure of the material being cut, setup rigidity, and cutting fluid quality. In this paper, up-milling and down-milling are compared with respect to different input parameters mainly cutting speed, feed, and number of teeth, rake angle, and helix angle. A relationship between tool wear and these input parameters is established by using regression analysis and soft computing techniques are applied to minimize the tool wear. Five selected soft computing techniques viz. (i) Genetic Algorithm (GA), (ii) Simulated Annealing (SA), (iii) Hybrid GA with Pattern Search (PS), (iv) Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), and (v) Threshold Acceptance Algorithm (TAA), are used for optimization of tool wear. The results obtained from each of them are also analyzed. The effect of input parameters on tool wear, the way it is different for up-milling and down-milling is addressed for each case with the help of five selected soft computing techniques. The results indicate that the tool wear is least in case of down-milling when compared to up-milling and hybrid GA gave the best results.
Launch Effort and NPD Success: A Study of Technology Intensive Companies in Finland
Authors: Haverila Matti J. , Ashill Nicholas
Published: April 2014

In this paper, we present an exploratory investigation of the types of product launch tactics managers use in technology-intensive companies in Finland and explore the role that such tactics play in differentiating between successful and unsuccessful NPD outcomes. Our findings indicate that managers perceive two types of tactical product launch tactics during the NPD process, which we label "promotions and sales-distribution effort" and "production start-up effort". All tactical launch effort variables are positively related to NPD success. This study identifies similarity in the way of how managers conceptualize the launch effort in successful and unsuccessful NPD projects.
Performance improvement of Sn–Co alloy film anodes for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Li Peng , Chen Yun , Zeng Duoqing , Xiao Qizhen , Li Zhaohui , Lei Gangtie
Published: April 2014

Three sets of Sn – Co alloy films were electrochemically deposited onto nodule-type Cu foil in aqueous solution. The results of X-ray diffraction (XRD), atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) proved that the electrochemical current density and the depositing time had influence on the structure and the morphology of the alloy films. The electrochemical properties of the Sn – Co alloy film electrodes for lithium-ion battery were investigated by galvanostatic charge-discharge test and cyclic voltammetry (CV). The Sn – Co alloy with the thickness of 0.8 μm created at the current density of 15 mA cm-2 presents excellent electrochemical performance with the discharge capacity of 949.3 mAh g-1 at the first cycle and 661.1 mAh g-1 after 70 cycles. The high coulombic efficiency of almost 100% can be observed at different current rate. The improved performance is attributed to the structure of Cu foil, the optimized Co content and thickness of the alloy film, which were beneficial to strengthen the adhesion of the active materials to the current collector, shorten diffusion length of lithium ions and reduce the electrical resistance.
Mission Accomplished: An Introduction to Formal Methods in Mobile Robot Motion Planning and Control
Authors: Lin Hai
Published: April 2014

A new trend in the robotic motion planning literature is to use formal methods, like model checking, reactive synthesis and supervisory control theory, to automatically design controllers that drive a mobile robot to accomplish some high level missions in a guaranteed manner. This is also known as the correct-by-construction method. The high level missions are usually specified as temporal logics, particularly as linear temporal logic formulas, due to their similarity to human natural languages. This paper provides a brief overview of the recent developments in this newly emerged research area. A number of fundamental topics, such as temporal logic, model checking, bisimulation quotient transition systems and reachability controller design are reviewed. Additionally, the key challenges and possible future directions in this area are briefly discussed with references given for further reading.
Restructuring the Tridiagonal and Bidiagonal QR Algorithms for Performance
Authors: Van Zee Field G. , van de Geijn Robert A. , Quintana-Ortí Gregorio
Published: April 2014

We show how both the tridiagonal and bidiagonal QR algorithms can be restructured so that they become rich in operations that can achieve near-peak performance on a modern processor. The key is a novel, cache-friendly algorithm for applying multiple sets of Givens rotations to the eigenvector/singular vector matrix. This algorithm is then implemented with optimizations that: (1) leverage vector instruction units to increase floating-point throughput, and (2) fuse multiple rotations to decrease the total number of memory operations. We demonstrate the merits of these new QR algorithms for computing the Hermitian eigenvalue decomposition (EVD) and singular value decomposition (SVD) of dense matrices when all eigenvectors/singular vectors are computed. The approach yields vastly improved performance relative to traditional QR algorithms for these problems and is competitive with two commonly used alternatives---Cuppen’s Divide-and-Conquer algorithm and the method of Multiple Relatively Robust Representations---while inheriting the more modest
O
(
n
) workspace requirements of the original QR algorithms. Since the computations performed by the restructured algorithms remain essentially identical to those performed by the original methods, robust numerical properties are preserved.
Polymetros
Authors: Bengler Ben , Bryan-Kinns Nick
Published: April 2014

A beautiful collaborative music-making system enchants both novices and professionals alike.
Algorithm 939
Authors: Gil Amparo , Segura Javier , Temme Nico M.
Published: April 2014

Methods and an algorithm for computing the generalized MarcumQ–function (Qμ(x,y)) and the complementary function (Pμ(x,y)) are described. These functions appear in problems of different technical and scientific areas such as, for example, radar detection and communications, statistics, and probability theory, where they are called the noncentral chi-square or the noncentral gamma cumulative distribution functions.

The algorithm for computing the Marcum functions combines different methods of evaluation in different regions: series expansions, integral representations, asymptotic expansions, and use of three-term homogeneous recurrence relations. A relative accuracy close to 10−12can be obtained in the parameter region (x,y,μ) ∈ [0,A] ×[0,A] × [1,A],A= 200, while for larger parameters the accuracy decreases (close to 10−11forA= 1000 and close to 5 × 10−11forA= 10000).
Design leadership for mergers and acquisitions
Authors: Kumar Janaki , Haine Philip , Brown Michael
Published: April 2014

This forum is dedicated to maximizing the success of HCI practitioners within the frenetic world of product and service design. It focuses on UX strategy approaches, leadership, management techniques, and above all the challenge of bringing HCI to peer-level status with longstanding business disciplines such as marketing and engineering. ---
Daniel Rosenberg, Editor
Demo hour
Authors: Karagozler M. Emre , Poupyrev Ivan , Fedder Gary K. , Suzuki Yuri , Yao Lining , Niiyama Ryuma , Ou Jifei , Follmer Sean , Ishii Hiroshi , Brosz John , Nacenta Miguel A. , Pusch Richard , Carpendale Sheelagh , Hurter Christophe , Rekimoto Jun
Published: April 2014

UIST is a premier forum for innovations in the software and hardware of human-computer interfaces. The UIST demo program enables attendees to experience firsthand the most interesting next-generation user interface technologies. The UIST 2013 demo program featured technologies ranging from energy-harvesting interactive paper to pneumatically actuated materials, providing attendees a vivid preview of some of the interactive systems that might shape our daily lives in the future. ---Per Ola Kristensson and T. Scott Saponas, UIST 2013 Demo Chairs
Fast, cheap, and powerful user research
Authors: McGinn Jennifer , LaRoche Christopher
Published: April 2014

Whether you have to recruit fellow employees or leverage your wider personal networks, there is no longer any excuse to skip this vital step.
On Fractional SIRC Model withSalmonellaBacterial Infection
Authors: Rihan Fathalla A. , Baleanu Dumitru , Lakshmanan S. , Rakkiyappan R.
Published: April 2014

We propose a fractional order SIRC epidemic model to describe the dynamics ofSalmonellabacterial infection in animal herds. The infection-free and endemic steady sates, of such model, are asymptotically stable under some conditions. The basic reproduction numberℛ0is calculated, using next-generation matrix method, in terms of contact rate, recovery rate, and other parameters in the model. The numerical simulations of the fractional order SIRC model are performed by Caputo’s derivative and using unconditionally stable implicit scheme. The obtained results give insight to the modelers and infectious disease specialists.
Synthesis of Na‐Doped Lithium Metatitanate and Its Absorption for Carbon Dioxide
Authors: Zhirong Liu , Huan Zhang , Yun Wang , Xinxing Zhan
Published: April 2014

Na‐doped lithium metatitanate (Na‐doped Li2TiO3) absorbent was doped with Na2CO3 and lithium metatitanate (Li2TiO3) was prepared by a solid‐state reaction method from mixture of TiO2 and Li2CO3. The Na‐doped lithium metatitanate was characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and surface area. Carbon dioxide absorption on Na‐doped lithium metatitanate was investigated using TG‐DTA. The results reveal an increase of the CO2 absorption capacity of the Na‐doped materials with respect to pure Li2TiO3. XRD patterns of the doped samples suggest a limited substitution of Li by Na atoms within the Li2TiO3 structure. The results of experimental and modeling work were summarized to better understand the relationship between the sorbent microstructure and carbon dioxide absorption kinetics.