bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimisation of a concentration measurement sensor for nano sized zero valent iron using numerical simulation
Authors: Li Hua , Banucu Remus , Buchau André , Klaas Norbert , Rucker Wolfgang M.
Published: March 2015

The concentration of nano sized zero valent iron (nZVI) is an important criterion for the in‐situ remediation of ground water contaminations. To measure the magnetic susceptibility of nZVI, two specified cylindrical coils with the desired measuring range and the corresponding post‐processing algorithm (PPA) are presented to determine the concentration change of nZVI during the remediation process. To accurately calculate the concentration of nZVI, numerical simulations are required to evaluate the actual magnetic susceptibility of nZVI filled in the column and the change of the self‐inductance of each coil because of nZVI. To improve the efficiency of the presented algorithm, an optimal frequency for the measurement is determined by taking into account the equivalent capacitance of the coil and the cable. Moreover, two special boundary conditions for the efficient calculation of the parasitic capacitances are presented. Finally, two experiments have been performed to verify the developed sensor and the measurement method.
Systematic functional genomics resource and annotation for poplar
Authors: Si Jingna , Zhao Xiyang , Zhao Xinyin , Wu Rongling
Published: March 2015

Poplar, as a model species for forestry research, has many excellent characteristics. Studies on functional genes have provided the foundation, at the molecular level, for improving genetic traits and cultivating elite lines. Although studies on functional genes have been performed for many years, large amounts of experimental data remain scattered across various reports and have not been unified via comprehensive statistical analysis. This problem can be addressed by employing bioinformatic methodology and technology to gather and organise data to construct a Poplar Functional Gene Database, containing data on 207 poplar functional genes. As an example, the authors investigated genes of Populus euphratica involved in the response to salt stress. Four small cDNA libraries were constructed and treated with 300 mM NaCl or pure water for 6 and 24 h. Using high‐throughput sequencing, they identified conserved and novel miRNAs that were differentially expressed. Target genes were next predicted and detailed functional information derived using the Gene Ontology database and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis. This information provides a primary visual schema allowing us to understand the dynamics of the regulatory gene network responding to salt stress in Populus.
Microwave sensor for non‐invasive glucose measurements design and implementation of a novel linear
Authors: Baghbani Rasool , Rad Masoomeh Ashoori , Pourziad Ali
Published: March 2015

In this paper, a novel non‐invasive sensor for the measurement of the glucose concentrations in blood is presented. By using a microstrip band pass filter, a wireless sensor is achieved. In the introduced design, the thumb is placed on the structure of the filter as a superstrate. The response of the filter is dependent on the permittivity of the superstrate. A compact size, linearity and cost effectiveness are the most important advantages of the proposed sensor. The linear behaviour of the filter in terms of the frequency is investigated and for a linear behaviour, a certain frequency for operation is selected. The introduced sensor can be used by diabetics for continuous self‐monitoring of the glucose level. The structure of the proposed sensor is designed on the low‐cost substrate, FR4, by compact dimensions of 50 mm × 40 mm × 1.6 mm. A prototype of the proposed filter was fabricated and the performance of the filter was investigated, experimentally.
Design of coplanar waveguide band‐pass filter for S‐band application
Authors: Mondal Pratik , Ghosh Amit , Parui Susanta Kumar
Published: March 2015

Coplanar waveguide (CPW) has a huge demand for designing band‐pass filter (BPF). In this study, the filter designed by open‐ended CPW series stub which acts as a resonant circuit thus giving a band‐pass response. As the number of open stub discontinuity is increased, the frequency response and roll‐off rate of the proposed BPF has improved gradually. Electromagnetic simulated and measured results show a very good agreement with each other. The proposed filter is designed to obtain a frequency range of 1.97–4 GHz (S‐band) having rising edge and falling edge selectivities of 35.9 and 45.7 dB/GHz, respectively.
Metallic tube‐tolerant ternary dynamic content‐addressable memory based on carbon nanotube transistors
Authors: Hellkamp Daniel , Nepal Kundan
Published: March 2015

The design of a dynamic content‐addressable memory (DCAM) cell using carbon nanotube (CNT) field effect transistors is explored. A four CNTFET design is presented and the functionality of a ternary DCAM cell using SPICE simulation is verified. Using an array of asymmetrically correlated tube technique, it is demonstrated how the presented design could be made functional even in the presence of metallic CNTs.
Cauliflower‐like tin sulphide nanoparticles: an amazing material for adsorption of methylene blue dye
Authors: Mohebbi Sajjad , Mikaeily Sheyda , Judy Azar Amir Reza
Published: March 2015

The removal of MB dye from an aqueous solution onto cauliflower‐like SnS nanoparticles was investigated. Adsorption parameters including contact time, solution temperature, amount of adsorbent, pH solution and the concentration of substrate were evaluated. The obtained data revealed that SnS nanoparticles are capable of adsorbing organic dyes during several seconds. The cauliflower‐like morphology of the nanoparticles, confirmed by scanning electron microscopy, was an important factor for the rapid adsorption of MB dye on nanoparticles. It was found that each particle has been made of several discs with a thickness of 25 nm. This structural property plays an important role in the adsorption. The nanoparticles were reused 18 times without any significant decrease in their adsorption capability.
Delayed Onset of Subdural Hematoma following Epidural Catheter Breakage
Authors: Ishikawa Yoshimoto , Imagama Shiro , Ito Zenya , Ando Kei , Gotoh Momokazu , Nishiwaki Kimitoshi , Nagao Yoshimasa , Ishiguro Naoki
Published: March 2015

Study Design

Case report.

Objectives

To describe a case of delayed-onset spinal hematoma following the breakage of a spinal epidural catheter.

Methods

The authors describe the clinical case review.

Results

A 64-year-old woman had undergone epidural anesthesia 18 years before she was referred to our hospital because of lower-back pain and lower neurologic deficit with leg pain. The clinical examination showed the presence of a fragment of an epidural catheter in the thoracolumbar canal, as assessed by computed tomography, and a spinal hematoma that compressed the spinal cord at the same spinal level, as assessed by magnetic resonance imaging. Surgical removal of the epidural catheter and decompression surgery were performed. The patient exhibited substantial clinical improvement 1 month after surgery; she achieved a steady gait without the need for a cane and had no leg pain.

Conclusion

This is the first report of delayed onset of spinal hematoma following the breakage of an epidural catheter. Generally, when the breakage of an epidural catheter occurs without symptoms, follow-up alone is recommended. However, because spinal hematoma might exhibit a late onset, the possibility of this complication should be considered when deciding whether to remove the catheter fragment. We believe that in our patient, there could be a relationship between the catheter fragment and subdural hematoma, and catheter breakage could have been a risk factor for the spinal hematoma.
A Fundamental Equation of State for 1,1,1,3,3-Pentafluoropropane (R-245fa)
Authors: Akasaka Ryo , Zhou Yong , Lemmon Eric W.
Published: March 2015

A new fundamental equation of state explicit in the Helmholtz energy is presented for 1,1,1,3,3-pentafluoropropane (R-245fa), based on recent experimental data for vapor pressures, densities, and sound speeds. The functional form uses Gaussian bell-shaped terms, according to recent trends in the development of accurate equations of state. The independent variables of the equation of state are temperature and density. The equation is valid for temperatures between the triple point (170.0 K) and 440 K, and for pressures up to 200 MPa. Estimated uncertainties in this range are 0.1% for vapor pressures, 0.1% for saturated liquid densities, 0.1% for liquid densities below 70 MPa, 0.2% for densities at higher pressures, 0.3% for vapor densities, 0.3% for liquid sound speeds, and 0.1% for vapor sound speeds. The uncertainties in the critical region are higher for all properties except vapor pressures. The equation shows reasonable extrapolation behavior at extremely low and high temperatures, and at high pressures.
Study of self-calibrating MEMS accelerometers
Authors: Chen Weiping , Li Xiangyu , Liu Xiaowei , Yin Liang
Published: March 2015

Micro-electromechanical System(MEMS) accelerometers are widely used in a number of inertial navigation systems and vibration detection system thanks to their small size, low cost and low power consumption. In order to improve their performance, the accelerometers have been designed to compensate the zero-bias caused by process variations. A new method of self-calibration sensitivity applies a self-test structure to simulate standard acceleration; depending on the standard and real-time values of the accelerometer’s output and by adjustment of the time division feedback, the scale factor of capacitive accelerometers can be flexibly adjusted to achieve sensitivity in self-calibrating MEMS accelerometers. Moreover, this research also uses the following: a PID feedback structure to improve the stability of the closed-loop system; a correlated double sampling (CDS) circuit to attenuate noise, which can eliminate zero drift caused by offset voltage of the pre-amplifier; a time division multiplexing electrostatic force feedback circuit to achieve the operation of a closed-loop micro-accelerometer. The structure can completely avoid electrostatic feedback coupling with a capacitance change detection circuit, which can also improve the bandwidth and stability of the accelerometer. By means of capacitance compensation array the zero-bias performance of accelerometers can be improved. The bias stability of the accelerometer can be reduced from 173mg to 31mg by testing.
Small membranes under negative surface tension
Authors: Avital Yotam Y. , Farago Oded
Published: March 2015

We use computer simulations and a simple free energy model to study the response of a bilayer membrane to the application of a negative (compressive) mechanical tension. Such a tension destabilizes the long wavelength undulation modes of giant vesicles, but it can be sustained when small membranes and vesicles are considered. Our negative tension simulation results reveal two regimes—(i) a weak negative tension regime characterized by stretching-dominated elasticity and (ii) a strong negative tension regime featuring bending-dominated elastic behavior. This resembles the findings of the classic Evans and Rawicz micropipette aspiration experiment in giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs) [E. Evans and W. Rawicz, Phys, Rev. Lett. 64, 2094 (1990)]. However, in GUVs the crossover between the two elasticity regimes occurs at a small positive surface tension, while in smaller membranes it takes place at a moderate negative tension. Another interesting observation concerning the response of a small membrane to negative surface tension is related to the relationship between the mechanical and fluctuation tensions, which are equal to each other for non-negative values. When the tension decreases to negative values, the fluctuation tension γ drops somewhat faster than the mechanical tension τ in the small negative tension regime, before it saturates (and becomes larger than τ) for large negative tensions. The bending modulus exhibits an “opposite” trend. It remains almost unchanged in the stretching-dominated elastic regime, and decreases in the bending-dominated regime. Both the amplitudes of the thermal height undulations and the projected area variations diverge at the onset of mechanical instability.
Increasing the sampling efficiency of protein conformational transition using velocity-scaling optimized hybrid explicit/implicit solvent REMD simulation
Authors: Yu Yuqi , Wang Jinan , Shao Qiang , Shi Jiye , Zhu Weiliang
Published: March 2015

The application of temperature replica exchange molecular dynamics (REMD) simulation on protein motion is limited by its huge requirement of computational resource, particularly when explicit solvent model is implemented. In the previous study, we developed a velocity-scaling optimized hybrid explicit/implicit solvent REMD method with the hope to reduce the temperature (replica) number on the premise of maintaining high sampling efficiency. In this study, we utilized this method to characterize and energetically identify the conformational transition pathway of a protein model, the N-terminal domain of calmodulin. In comparison to the standard explicit solvent REMD simulation, the hybrid REMD is much less computationally expensive but, meanwhile, gives accurate evaluation of the structural and thermodynamic properties of the conformational transition which are in well agreement with the standard REMD simulation. Therefore, the hybrid REMD could highly increase the computational efficiency and thus expand the application of REMD simulation to larger-size protein systems.
Amphoteric doping of praseodymium Pr3+ in SrTiO3 grain boundaries
Authors: Yang H. , Lee H. S. , Kotula P. G. , Sato Y. , Ikuhara Y. , Browning N. D.
Published: March 2015

Charge compensation in rare-earth Praseodymium (Pr3+) doped SrTiO3 plays an important role in determining the overall photoluminescence properties of the system. Here, the Pr3+ doping behavior in SrTiO3 grain boundaries (GBs) is analyzed using aberration corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy. The presence of Pr3+ induces structural variations and changes the statistical prevalence of the GB structures. In contrast to the assumption that Pr3+ substitutes on the Sr site in the bulk, Pr3+ is found to substitute on both Sr and Ti sites inside the GBs, with the highest concentration at the Ti sites. This amphoteric doping behavior in the boundary plane is further confirmed by first principles theoretical calculations.
Vortices in an annular Josephson ladder
Authors: Lee K. H.
Published: March 2015

We present numerically the static vortex configurations in an annular Josephson ladder subject to a transverse magnetic field. When the applied magnetic field is small, the supercurrents flow only along the angular direction. In that case, the phases of the inner and outer rings are coupled each other with the same winding numbers of vorticity. Such a phase-locking remains until the magnetic field reaches a certain high value over which Josephson vortices begin to appear between the two rings. The flux imbalance of the inner and outer rings leads to the different winding numbers of vorticity and the appearance of vortices in some plaquettes. The vortex configurations for a given magnetic field are found not to be unique but to exhibit other excited states of vortices with the higher energies and lower probabilities of occurrence.
Interfacial and electrical properties of InGaAs metal-oxide-semiconductor capacitor with TiON/TaON multilayer composite gate dielectric
Authors: Wang L. S. , Xu J. P. , Liu L. , Lu H. H. , Lai P. T. , Tang W. M.
Published: March 2015

InGaAs metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOS) capacitors with composite gate dielectric consisting of Ti-based oxynitride (TiON)/Ta-based oxynitride (TaON) multilayer are fabricated by RF sputtering. The interfacial and electrical properties of the TiON/TaON/InGaAs and TaON/TiON/InGaAs MOS structures are investigated and compared. Experimental results show that the former exhibits lower interface-state density (1.0 × 1012 cm−2 eV−1 at midgap), smaller gate leakage current (9.5 × 10−5 A/cm2 at a gate voltage of 2 V), larger equivalent dielectric constant (19.8), and higher reliability under electrical stress than the latter. The involved mechanism lies in the fact that the ultrathin TaON interlayer deposited on the sulfur-passivated InGaAs surface can effectively reduce the defective states and thus unpin the Femi level at the TaON/InGaAs interface, improving the electrical properties of the device.
The tunneling magnetoresistance current dependence on cross sectional area, angle and temperature
Authors: Zhang Z. H. , Bai Lihui , Hu C.-M. , Hemour S. , Wu K. , Fan X. L. , Xue D. S. , Houssameddine D.
Published: March 2015

The magnetoresistance of a MgO-based magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ) was studied experimentally. The magnetoresistance as a function of current was measured systematically on MTJs for various MgO cross sectional areas and at various temperatures from 7.5 to 290.1 K. The resistance current dependence of the MTJ was also measured for different angles between the two ferromagnetic layers. By considering particle and angular momentum conservation of transport electrons, the current dependence of magnetoresistance can be explained by the changing of spin polarization in the free magnetic layer of the MTJ. The changing of spin polarization is related to the magnetoresistance, its angular dependence and the threshold current where TMR ratio equals zero. A phenomenological model is used which avoid the complicated barrier details and also describes the data.
Assessment of tillage effects on soil quality of pastures in South Africa with indexing methods
Authors: Swanepoel P. A. , du Preez C. C. , Botha P. R. , Snyman H. A. , Habig J.
Published: March 2015

Soil quality of pastures changes through time because of management practices. Excessive soil disturbance usually leads to the decline in soil quality, and this has resulted in concerns about kikuyu (Pennisetum clandestinum)–ryegrass (Lolium spp.) pasture systems in the southern Cape region of South Africa. This study aimed to understand the effects of tillage on soil quality. The soil management assessment framework (SMAF) and the locally developed soil quality index for pastures (SQIP) were used to assess five tillage systems and were evaluated at a scale inclusive of variation in topography, pedogenic characteristics and local anthropogenic influences. Along with assessment of overall soil quality, the quality of the physical, chemical and biological components of soil were considered individually. Soil physical quality was largely a function of inherent pedogenic characteristics but tillage affected physical quality adversely. Elevated levels of certain nutrients may be warning signs to soil chemical degradation; however, tillage practice did not affect soil chemical quality. Soil disturbance and the use of herbicides to establish annual pastures has lowered soil biological quality. The SQIP was a more suitable tool than SMAF for assessing soil quality of high-input, dairy-pasture systems. SQIP could facilitate adaptive management by land managers, environmentalists, extension officers and policy makers to assess soil quality and enhance understanding of processes affecting soil quality.
Mitochondrial and plastid genome architecture: Reoccurring themes, but significant differences at the extremes
Authors: Smith David Roy , Keeling Patrick J.
Published: March 2015

Mitochondrial and plastid genomes show a wide array of architectures, varying immensely in size, structure, and content. Some organelle DNAs have even developed elaborate eccentricities, such as scrambled coding regions, nonstandard genetic codes, and convoluted modes of posttranscriptional modification and editing. Here, we compare and contrast the breadth of genomic complexity between mitochondrial and plastid chromosomes. Both organelle genomes have independently evolved many of the same features and taken on similar genomic embellishments, often within the same species or lineage. This trend is most likely because the nuclear-encoded proteins mediating these processes eventually leak from one organelle into the other, leading to a high likelihood of processes appearing in both compartments in parallel. However, the complexity and intensity of genomic embellishments are consistently more pronounced for mitochondria than for plastids, even when they are found in both compartments. We explore the evolutionary forces responsible for these patterns and argue that organelle DNA repair processes, mutation rates, and population genetic landscapes are all important factors leading to the observed convergence and divergence in organelle genome architecture.
Le Macrologus de Saint-Laurent de Liège
Authors: Lowagie Julien
Published: March 2015

Le Macrologus est une lexicographie encyclopédique inédite rédigée dans la deuxième moitié du XVe siècle. Ce texte associe des traités de grammaires et un lexique alphabétique composé selon un principe de compilation cumulative explicite. L’objectif est de mieux le situer, et surtout la partie lexicale, par rapport aux traditions littéraires médiévales que sont l’encyclopédisme et la lexicographie. Face à l’amplitude de l’œuvre, notre analyse s’est portée sur un corpus de notices constitué des lemmes se référant aux oiseaux. Grâce à ce corpus plus restreint, nous avons pu étudier les sources qui servent de socle à la composition des notices. Un premier relevé des citations explicites permet de constater quelles sont les œuvres sur lesquelles s’appuie l’auteur anonyme du Macrologus. Une comparaison avec les sources annoncées dans le prologue démontre que, dans la pratique, le projet respecte en grande partie le cadre fixé par son auteur. Ensuite, une analyse plus poussée des passages non attribués permet de mettre en avant le Catholicon de Jean Balbi de Gênes comme inspiration principale du Macrologus et de mieux en saisir la méthode de compilation. Enfin, le dernier point abordé concerne des ajouts issus d’une révision de l’œuvre. Ceux-ci contiennent notamment des passages puisés dans les textes humanistes contemporains à la rédaction.
Mapping endangered areas for pest risk analysis.
Authors: Baker R. , Eyre D. , Brunel S. , Dupin M. , Reynaud P. , Jarošík V.
Published: March 2015

This chapter provides guidance on mapping risks posed by invasive alien species to support pest risk analysis (PRA), the process required to justify phytosanitary measures. Because pest risk mapping can be challenging and resource-intensive, the situations in which risk maps are particularly useful are highlighted. The procedures described focus on mapping areas where the pest can establish and potentially cause the greatest harm. In the first stage of risk mapping, the factors that might influence the potential distribution and impacts of an invasive alien species are identified and the data are assembled and mapped. In the second stage, the maps of each factor are combined using matrix rules to generate areas of potential establishment and highest risk. These general procedures are illustrated with two examples. Risk maps for the western corn rootworm, a maize pest that has invaded Europe, are based on the combination of maps of climatic suitability, the presence of sandy soils, the distribution of grain and forage maize and the value of these commodities in Europe. Uncertainty is estimated by varying the classification of climatic suitability to obtain the worst, best and most likely scenarios. Risk maps for the common water hyacinth, an invasive plant on the Iberian Peninsula, are based on maps of climatic suitability, the distribution of suitable wetland habitats and areas of conservation importance. The chapter concludes by summarizing some of the major challenges that remain to enhance the production of risk maps for PRA and their interpretation by risk managers.
Following the transportation trail to anticipate human-mediated invasions in terrestrial ecosystems.
Authors: Colunga-Garcia M. , Haack R. A.
Published: March 2015

Freight transportation is an important pathway for introduction and dissemination of invasive alien species. Identifying the final destination of imports is critical in determining the likelihood of introduction by invasive alien species. In this chapter, we used the Freight Analysis Framework (FAF) database to model freight transport of imports to the USA with urban areas as their final destination. We also used FAF-based projections for the year 2040 for 20 pathways consisting of four commodities from five world regions of origin. After modelling the final distribution of imports among urban areas in the USA, we characterized the distribution patterns of imports and assessed the introduction potential of invasive alien species to urban forests. Freight pattern analyses were conducted for one category of agricultural products and three categories of imports whose products or packaging materials are associated with invasive alien species: wood products, non-metallic mineral products and machinery. We found that the type of import and the world region of origin greatly influenced the final distribution of imported products. A simple pest risk assessment model for invasive alien species in urban forests was built based on the percentage of forestland and volume of imports for each urban area. We found that several urban areas are potentially highly vulnerable to introductions from invasive alien species, regardless of import pathway. We conclude that inclusion of freight movement information is critical for proper risk assessment of invasive alien species.
Simulation modelling of long-distance windborne dispersal for invasion ecology.
Authors: Parry H. R. , Eagles D. , Kriticos D. J.
Published: March 2015

We present a method to simulate atmospheric dispersal events in invasion ecology using examples of two economically important and highly mobile insect species: the bird cherry-oat aphid, Rhopalosiphum padi (which vectors yellow dwarf viruses to maize, barley, oats and wheat); and the biting midge, Culicoides imicola (which vectors bluetongue virus to a wide range of domestic and wild ruminants). We demonstrate this method using two available atmospheric trajectory modelling tools: HYSPLIT and PMTRAJ.
Predicting the economic impacts of invasive species: the eradication of the giant sensitive plant from Western Australia.
Authors: Cook D. C. , Sheppard A. , Liu Shuang Liu Shuang , Lonsdale W. M.
Published: March 2015

Economic analyses can facilitate biosecurity investment decisions in relation to pest risk management. The term biosecurity here refers to activities intended to prevent or control the introduction and spread of alien species that have a net negative effect on social welfare as determined by economic, environmental and social capital. The aim of the chapter is to demonstrate a model that indicates an appropriate level of funding that decision makers should allocate to specific pest management activities based on anticipated returns. We demonstrate the model with a recently introduced weed species to Western Australia, Mimosa pigra. This weed has been targeted for eradication and the analysis described here estimates the amount biosecurity managers should spend on eradication before costs begin to outweigh the likely returns.
Critical Notice: Paul Russell’s The Riddle of Hume’s Treatise: Skepticism, Naturalism, and Irreligion (OUP 2008)
Authors: Campbell Joe
Published: March 2015

In The Riddle of Hume’s Treatise: Skepticism, Naturalism, and Irreligion (2008), Paul Russell makes a strong case for the claim that “The primary aim of Hume’s series of skeptical arguments, as developed and distributed throughout the Treatise, is to discredit the doctrines and dogmas of Christian philosophy and theology with a view toward redirecting our philosophical investigations to areas of ‘common life, ’ with the particular aim of advancing ‘the science of man’”; (2008, 290). Understanding Hume in this way, according to Russell, sheds light on the “ultimate riddle”; of the Treatise: “is it possible to reconcile Hume’s (extreme) skeptical principles and conclusions with his aim to advance the ‘science of man’”; (2008, 3)? Or does Hume’s skepticism undermine his “secular, scientific account of the foundations of moral life in human nature”; (290)? Russell’s controversial thesis is that “the irreligious nature of Hume’s fundamental intentions in the Treatise”; is essential to solving the riddle (11). Russell makes a compelling case for Hume’s irreligion as well as his atheism. Contrary to this interpretation I argue that Hume is an irreligious theist and not an atheist.
Chechen women in war and exile: changing gender roles in the context of violence
Authors: Szczepanikova Alice
Published: March 2015

The article analyzes Chechen women's everyday experiences of war and violence and outlines their multiple effects on women's roles and identities. Particular attention is paid to how these effects are shaped by generational differences. The study is based on 35 oral history interviews with Chechen women in Austria, Germany, and Poland. The experience of two Russo–Chechen wars reinforced domesticated forms of femininity. It also exposed women to intensified nonmilitary forms of gendered violence. At the same time, some of the traditional roles were transformed, for example, when women became the main breadwinners for their families. Women's heightened realization of their importance in securing the well-being of their families and communities empowered them and created a sense of solidarity and responsibility reaching beyond their households. This has generated a level of insecurity among some sections of Chechen society and the Moscow-backed Chechen administration of Ramzan Kadyrov puts considerable effort in instructing women about their “proper place.” In exile, women's ability to continue fulfilling their gendered responsibilities in a new environment serves as an important coping mechanism. Different generations of women adopt distinct adaptation strategies that relate to their roles during the war as well as to the conditions of their socialization.
Recognizing Potential Buprenorphine Medication Misuse: Product Packaging Does Not Degrade with Laundering
Authors: Gunderson Erik W.
Published: March 2015

Background

Expanded office-based buprenorphine opioid dependence treatment is associated with medication misuse and diversion consequences. Recurrent early refill requests may indicate misuse or diversion, although further research is needed on how to effectively recognize and address the issue in clinical practice. In the current study, patient report of damaged medication from laundering prompted evaluation of laundering on degradation of buprenorphine-containing product packages and contents.

Methods

Four buprenorphine product packaging approaches were assessed: 3 buprenorphine/naloxone placebo demonstration products (Suboxone and Bunavail film in foil wrappers and Zubsolv tablet in a blister pack) and Rexam-manufactured Screw-Loc closure pill container filled with a chewable aspirin as a surrogate for generic buprenorphine and buprenorphine/naloxone products. Two experimental laundering conditions, wash machine alone (W) and washer/dryer (W+D), were compared with unlaundered control (C) condition. Standard laundering settings were based on patient presentation. Products from the 2 experimental conditions and the control condition were labeled A, B, or C with counterbalanced assignment prior to visual examination of packaging and contents by the investigator who was blinded to condition.

Results

Packaging and contents remained intact for all products across experimental conditions, with only minor cosmetic effects compared with control. The W+D Suboxone film had 1–2 mm curling of the wrapper corners. Zubsolv blister packs had slight paper label fading (W+D > W). Bunavail W+D foil had an indentation outlining the inner film. The W+D bottle tablet had a ˜1 mm nick on one edge. No other differences were noted. After implementing more structured treatment and reviewing the results with the patient, he endorsed fabricating the laundering story to get additional medication.

Conclusions

Laundering is an unlikely cause of damaged buprenorphine-containing medication packaged in foil wrappers (Suboxone, Bunavail), blister pack (Zubsolv), or prescription pill bottle (generic buprenorphine or buprenorphine/naloxone products). Patient reports of such may indicate medication misuse or diversion.
Азербайджанская Демократическая Республика и Горская республика: проекты образования единого государства
Authors: гызы Алиева Севиндж Исрафил
Published: March 2015

На протяжении 1917–1920 годов Азербайджан и Горская республика провозгласили образование собственной государственности, отделение от России, защищали свою территориальную целостность, суверенность, отстаивали свою независимостьи при этом тяготели к сближению друг с другом, вынашивая проекты создания общего государства. Важную роль в этом сыграли как деятели Горской республики и Азербайджанской Демократической Республики, так и позиция азербайджанской общественности и турецкого командования на Северном Кавказе.
Religious outbidding in Chechnya
Authors: Whitmeyer Kevin
Published: March 2015

An underexplored dynamic in the study of the conflict in Chechnya is the role of religion within Chechen society and the ideological competition that ensued between the radical Salafi insurgents and the Sufi establishment. Ahmad Kadyrov, the former grand mufti and ruler of Chechnya, played a key role in the conflict when he turned against the insurgency in part due to his concern over the pervasiveness of Salafism in the republic. His son and the current ruler, Ramzan Kadyrov, has re-Islamized Chechnya – albeit in a direction he sees fit. Religion is an important source of contention in the conflict, thus it would be beneficial for scholarship to examine more closely Ramzan Kadyrov’s Sufi alternative to radical Salafism. This paper seeks to examine the competition that took place between these two ideologies and factions. First, an overview of the relevant concepts will be discussed. Then a brief history of religion and conflict in the region, followed by an examination of the effects that the collapse of the Soviet Union had on religious networks, will be presented. Next an inspection of the Kadyrovs’ vision of Islam will be studied. Then a contextualization of Chechen Sufism and Salafism, especially the theology of the Caucasus Emirate, will be established. Finally, the theories of outbidding will be applied to the ideological conflict that has been taking place in the republic, showing how the ruling regime has successfully implemented its strategy to the detriment of the insurgency.
RiboTools: a Galaxy toolbox for qualitative ribosome profiling analysis
Authors: Legendre Rachel , Baudin-Baillieu Agnès , Hatin Isabelle , Namy Olivier
Published: March 2015

Motivation: Ribosome profiling provides genome-wide information about translational regulation. However, there is currently no standard tool for the qualitative analysis of Ribo-seq data. We present here RiboTools, a Galaxy toolbox for the analysis of ribosome profiling (Ribo-seq) data. It can be used to detect translational ambiguities, stop codon readthrough events and codon occupancy. It provides a large number of plots for the visualisation of these events.

Availability and implementation: RiboTools is available from https://testtoolshed.g2.bx.psu.edu/view/rlegendre/ribo_tools as part of the Galaxy Project, under the GPLv3 licence. It is written in python2.7 and uses standard python libraries, such as matplotlib and numpy.

Contact:  olivier.namy@igmors.u-psud.fr

Supplementary Information:  Supplementary data are available from Bioinformatics online.
First Report of Tomato chlorotic spot virus in Hoya wayetii and Schlumbergera truncata
Authors: Baker Carlye A. , Adkins Scott
Published: March 2015

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of TCSV infection of H. wayetii and S. truncata from any location, although other tospoviruses are known to infect these and related plant species. The identification of these two diverse plant species as the first reported natural ornamental hosts of TCSV has implications for TCSV epidemiology and management in ornamental and vegetable crops, which frequently share production space.

Accepted by publication 15 January 2015. Published 25 February 2015.
Didymella bryoniae Isolates from Watermelon Seedlings in Florida Transplant Houses and Their Sensitivity to Boscalid
Authors: Hendricks Katherine E. , Roberts Pamela D.
Published: March 2015

The purpose of this study was to examine why gummy stem blight was not being controlled in watermelon fields without a previous history of boscalid use and whether boscalid resistance could have originated from the transplants. The study evaluated Didymella bryoniae isolates collected from three Florida transplant houses for resistance to boscalid and compared the molecular mechanism of this resistance to that in the literature on isolates from North and South Carolina and Georgia.

Accepted by publication 16 February 2015. Published 25 February 2015.
Rhizopus oryzae Associated with Melanagromyza splendida and Stem Disease of Sunflowers (Helianthus annuus) in California
Authors: Mathew Febina M. , Prasifka Jarrad R. , Gaimari Stephen D. , Shi Li , Markell Samuel G. , Gulya Thomas J.
Published: March 2015

In September 2012, a female parental line in a Yolo Co., California, sunflower seed-production field began displaying external stem symptoms that could not be attributed to any known disease. Symptoms appeared to be associated with tunneling caused by an unidentified insect. Stems were collected, and Rhizopus oryzae (causal agent of Rhizopus head rot) and a minute fly, Melanagromyza splendida, were identified as the causal agent and associated insect, respectively. Further, R. oryzae was isolated from intact fly puparia. All commercial hybrids evaluated in the greenhouse were susceptible to stem infection by R. oryzae isolates. Yield implications and geographic distribution of this novel stem disease are unknown. This is the first report of R. oryzae causing stem disease in sunflowers, and of its association with M. splendida.

Accepted for publication 10 January 2015. Published 25 March 2015.
The Treatment of Mueller-Weiss Disease: A Systematic Approach
Authors: Mayich D. Joshua
Published: March 2015

Mueller-Weiss disease (MWD), which involves dorsolateral fragmentation and collapse of the navicular, leads to functional misalignment and painful deformities. The successful treatment of MWD hinges on a detailed and through assessment of the patient to establish the modality of treatment that best suits the patient. In cases where operative management is indicated, proceeding to recreate a relatively pain-manageable (or where possible pain free), well-aligned, plantegrade foot is the goal. This can be performed technically by (1) determining as to which joints are involved/arthritic, and ensuring to address them; (2) establishing the amount of bone loss present, and planning to reconstitute this with graft material; (3) preparing the graft bed adequately and diligently to optimize the healing environment for the graft material; (4) providing a biomechanically sound treatment strategy that provides stability while the graft material heals; (5) and using orthopaedic principles while also remaining flexible. This is important because there is considerable variability in the anatomy and characteristics of MWD. Because of this, no single strategy is likely the “correct” method. Although the supporting literature remains sparse, when these principles are followed and postoperative complications can be avoided, significant improvements in function have been demonstrated and can be anticipated.

Level of Evidence: Diagnostic Level 5. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Potential Role of Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms of XRCC1, XRCC3, and RAD51 in Predicting Acute Toxicity in Rectal Cancer Patients Treated With Preoperative Radiochemotherapy
Authors: Osti Mattia F. , Nicosia Luca , Agolli Linda , Gentile Giovanna , Falco Teresa , Bracci Stefano , Di Nardo Francesco , Minniti Giuseppe , De Sanctis Vitaliana , Valeriani Maurizio , Maglio Marianna , Borro Marina , Simmaco Maurizio , Enrici Riccardo M.
Published: March 2015

Objectives:

To investigate the association between polymorphisms of DNA repair genes and xenobiotic with acute adverse effects in locally advanced rectal cancer patients treated with neoadjuvant radiochemotherapy.

Methods:

Sixty-seven patients were analyzed for the current study. Genotypes in DNA repair genes XRCC1 (G28152A), XRCC3 (A4541G), XRCC3 (C18067T), RAD51 (G315C), and GSTP1 (A313G) were determined by pyrosequencing technology.

Results:

The observed grade ≥3 acute toxicity rates were 23.8%. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy were interrupted for 46 and 14 days, respectively, due to critical complications. Four patients were hospitalized, 6 patients had been admitted to the ER, and 5 patients received invasive procedures (2 bladder catheters, 2 blood transfusions, and 1 growth factor therapy).

RAD51 correlated with acute severe gastrointestinal toxicity in heterozygosity (Aa) and homozygosity (AA) (P=0.036). Grade ≥3 abdominal/pelvis pain toxicity was higher in the Aa group (P=0.017) and in the Aa+AA group (P=0.027) compared with homozygous (aa) patients. Acute skin toxicity of any grade occurred in 55.6% of the mutated patients versus 22.8% in the wild-type group (P=0.04) for RAD51. XRCC1 correlated with skin toxicity of any grade in the Aa+AA group (P=0.03) and in the Aa group alone (P=0.044). Grade ≥3 urinary frequency/urgency was significantly higher in patients with AA (P=0.01), Aa (P=0.022), and Aa+AA (P=0.031) for XRCC3 compared with aa group.

Conclusions:

Our study suggested that RAD51, XRCC1, and XRCC3 polymorphisms may be predictive factors for radiation-induced acute toxicity in rectal cancer patients treated with preoperative combined therapy.
Long-term Outcomes after Off-Pump or Conventional Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting within a Veteran Population
Authors: Emerson Dominic A. , Hynes Conor F. , Trachiotis Gregory D.
Published: March 2015

Objective

Recently published data indicate that outcomes for off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (OPCABG) may be inferior to conventional CABG (cCABG) within the Veteran population, but this has been only partly addressed within high-volume off-pump centers. Here, we seek to examine the long-term outcomes for these patients within the Veteran population at a single institution well experienced with OPCABG.

Methods

With the use of a preexisting in-house database, all patients who had undergone isolated CABG from 2000 to 2011 (n = 1125) were identified. From these data, 18 demographic and risk factors were compared and used to create a propensity score, which was used for matching between groups (OPCABG vs cCABG). The primary end point examined was death. Survival was analyzed using the Kaplan-Meier method and the log-rank test. Groups were compared using a Student t test or Fisher exact test, where appropriate.

Results

Unmatched OPCABG and cCABG groups were found to have significant differences in risk factors, with the OPCABG being a higher-risk population by ejection fraction, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease status, age, and renal function, among others (all P < 0.05). Kaplan-Meier analysis of the unmatched groups demonstrated an increased mortality rate within the higher-risk OPCABG group ( P = 0.0002). With the use of propensity score matching, 337 OPCABG patients were then matched to 337 cCABG controls. Comparison of demographic and risk factors between these matched groups did not demonstrate any statistically significant difference. When Kaplan-Meier analysis was performed for the matched groups, there was no statistically significant difference in survival. In addition, in the matched data set, OPCABG patients had a shorter average length of stay (8.2 vs 9.7 days, P = 0.022), shorter operative time (205 vs 270 minutes, P < 0.001), and lower rate of bleeding complications (0.9% vs 3.6%, P = 0.032).

Conclusions

In this high-volume off-pump center, matched OPCABG survival is similar to cCABG. Although recent data indicate that OPCABG survival may be worse than that of cCABG within the entire Veteran population, in centers well experienced with OPCABG, this does not seem to hold true. In addition, the benefit of decreased length of stay and lower morbidity rates seems to be significant. Further study of the long-term outcomes of OPCABG in high-volume Veteran's centers is warranted.
Prevalence, Natural History, and Outcome of Acute Fluid Collection and Pseudocyst in Children With Acute Pancreatitis
Authors: Bolia Rishi , Srivastava Anshu , Yachha Surender Kumar , Poddar Ujjal , Kumar Sheo
Published: March 2015

Objective:

Recent years have witnessed an increase in acute pancreatitis (AP) in children; however, the natural history of acute fluid collection (AFC) and pseudocyst is largely unknown. We evaluated the frequency, clinical characteristics, and natural history of pseudocysts in children with AP.

Methods:

Children with AP admitted at Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences from 2001 to 2011 were enrolled and studied until complete resolution. Subjects with inadequate follow‐up, recurrent AP, and chronic pancreatitis were excluded.

Results:

Of the 58 children (43 boys, median age 14 [1–18] years) with AP, 34 (58.6%) and 22 (38%) developed AFC and pseudocyst, respectively. No difference in age (12 [4–18] vs 13 [1–16] years), etiology (idiopathic 64% vs 47% and traumatic 27.2% vs 22.2%), and systemic complications (pulmonary [18% vs 11%], renal [22.7% vs 11%], and shock [13.6% vs 10%]) was observed between children with and without pseudocyst. A total of 11 of the 22 subjects with pseudocyst underwent drainage, the commonest symptom requiring drainage being gastric outlet obstruction [n = 5] and infection [n = 2]. The 11 of the 22 children with AP and pseudocyst (size 6.4 [3–14.4] cm) showed spontaneous resolution (disappearance [n = 9] and significant reduction in size [n = 2]) during 110 (25–425) days. Symptomatic pseudocysts requiring drainage were more often secondary to traumatic AP (6/6 vs 2/14 [idiopathic], P = 0.0007) than asymptomatic pseudocysts resolving spontaneously. Overall, only 26.4% (9/34) children with AFC required drainage because of symptomatic pseudocyst.

Conclusions:

Among children with AP, 58.6% developed AFC and 38% developed pseudocysts. Only patients with symptomatic pseudocyst need drainage, and asymptomatic pseudocyst can be safely observed irrespective of size and duration of collection.