bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Magnetization of densely packed interacting magnetic nanoparticles with cubic and uniaxial anisotropies: A Monte Carlo study
Authors: Russier V. , de-Montferrand C. , Lalatonne Y. , Motte L.
Published: October 2013

The magnetization curves of densely packed single domain magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) are investigated by Monte Carlo simulations in the framework of an effective one spin model. The particles whose size polydispersity is taken into account are arranged in spherical clusters, and both dipole dipole interactions (DDI) and magnetic anisotropy energy (MAE) are included in the total energy. Having in mind the special case of spinel ferrites of intrinsic cubic symmetry, combined cubic and uniaxial magnetocrystalline anisotropies are considered with different configurations for the orientations of the cubic and uniaxial axes. It is found that the DDI together with a marked reduction of the linear susceptibility are responsible for a damping of the peculiarities due to the MAE cubic component on the magnetization. As an application, we show that the simulated magnetization curves compare well to experimental results for γ-Fe2O3 MNP for small to moderate values of the field.
Out-of-plane micro-force function generator based on polymeric thermal actuators for modifying micro-deformation
Authors: Wang Xinghua , Xiao Dingbang , Wu Xuezhong , Hou Zhanqiang , Chen Zhihua
Published: October 2013

Many micro-electro-mechanical multilayered structures are always subject to residual stress and cause deformation easily. The induced mechanical deformation will directly affect the performance of these devices. To improve the performance, this deformation should be controlled or eliminated. This letter proposed an out-of-plane micro-force function generator by employing polymer SU-8 thermal actuators array to modify the out-of-plane micro-deformation. The electro-thermal actuator tends to have relatively large displacement in actuation direction at low driving voltage (reaching as high as 2.94 μm in actuation direction at 6 V), and this proposed micro-force function generator is able to achieve accurate modifying of out-of-plane micro-deformation.
The genesis of collective health in Brazil
Authors: Vieira‐da‐Silva Ligia Maria , Pinell Patrice
Published: October 2013

During the 1970s in Brazil a social space directed towards health problems on the population level, called collective health, was created and institutionalised. To what extent did this Brazilian invention correspond to a specific socio‐historical practice? The works published on this topic have considered social medicine as a homogeneous phenomenon without empirically studying the specificities of national experiences. To bridge this gap, a historical study on the genesis of collective health in Brazil was carried out based on Bourdieu's field theory. The interaction between the paths of the founders and the conditions of historical possibilities were researched through documentary and bibliographical sources, as well as through in‐depth interviews of the founders. This social space originated from a meeting of agents with different social backgrounds but who interconnected, creating a structure that was independent of each agent considered individually. One of the components of this establishment was the joining of theoretical production and the implementation of health reforms that resulted in the organisation of a universal health system. This study attempts to show how the international political situation and the contradictions of the national crisis created a universe of possibilities, allowing for the genesis of this sui generis space in Brazil.
Income redistribution in 20 countries over time
Authors: Wang Chen , Caminada Koen , Goudswaard Kees
Published: October 2013

In most OECD countries, the gap between rich and poor has widened over the past decades. The present study analysed whether and to what extent direct taxes and social transfers contribute to this trend. The study contributes to the literature by disentangling several parts of fiscal redistribution in a comparative setting. We used micro‐data from the Luxembourg Income Study to examine household market inequality and redistribution from transfers and taxes for 20 countries from the mid‐1980s to the mid‐2000s. The contribution of each programme was estimated using a sequential accounting budget incidence decomposition technique. We observed a sizeable increase in primary household inequality, but tax‐benefit systems have offset two thirds of the average increase in primary income inequality. The public old‐age pensions attributed 60 per cent to the increase in redistribution, while social assistance accounted for 20 per cent. Direct taxes slowed down redistribution by 16 per cent.
Comptage des -chtoucas: la partie elliptique
Authors: Tuan Ngo Dac
Published: October 2013

We extend our previous work in collaboration with Ngô Bao Châu and give a fixed point formula for the elliptic part of moduli spaces of$G$-shtukas with arbitrary modifications. Our formula is similar to the fixed point formula of Kottwitz for certain Shimura varieties. Our method is inspired by that of Kottwitz and simpler than that of Lafforgue for the fixed point formula of the moduli space of Drinfeld$\text{GL} (r)$-shtukas.
Analytical Prediction of Fatigue Crack Growth Behavior Under Biaxial Loadings
Authors: Kannusamy Ragupathy , Ramesh K.
Published: October 2013

Aircraft and pressure vessel components experience stresses that are negative biaxial or multiaxial in nature. Biaxiality is defined as the ratio of stress applied parallel and normal to the crack front. In recent years, many experimental studies have been conducted on fatigue crack growth (FCG) under various biaxial loading conditions. Biaxial loadings affect crack front stresses and strains, fatigue crack growth rate and direction, and crack tip plastic zone size and shape. Many of these studies have focused on positive biaxial loading cases. No conclusive study has been reported out yet that accurately quantifies the influence of negative biaxiality on fatigue crack growth behavior. Lacking validation, implementation on real life problems remains questionable. To ensure safe and optimum designs, it is necessary to better understand and quantify the effect of negative biaxial loading on fatigue crack behavior. This paper presents the results of a study to quantify the effect of biaxial load cases ranging from B = −0.5 to 1.0 on fatigue crack growth behavior. Also, a simplified approach is presented to incorporate the effect of biaxiality into da/dN curves generated from uniaxial loading using an analytical approach without conducting expensive biaxial crack growth testing. Sensitivity studies were performed with existing test data available for AA2014-T6 aluminum alloy. Detailed elastic-plastic finite element analyses were performed using the different stress ranges and stress ratios with various crack sizes and shapes on notched and unnotched geometries. Constant amplitude loads were applied for the current work and comparison studies were made between uniaxial and different biaxial loading cases. It was observed from the study that negative biaxiality has a very pronounced effect on the crack growth rate and direction for AA2014-T6 if the externally applied load equal to 30% of the yield strength as compared with 40% of externally applied load for steel alloy quoted in the literature.
Experimental Investigation of a Tandem Cylinder System With a Yawed Upstream Cylinder
Authors: Wilkins Stephen J. , Hall Joseph W.
Published: October 2013

The unsteady flow field produced by a tandem cylinder system with the upstream cylinder yawed to the mean flow direction is investigated for upstream cylinder yaw angles from α=60 deg to α=90 deg. Multipoint fluctuating surface pressure and hot-wire measurements were conducted at various spanwise positions on both the upstream and downstream cylinders. The results indicate that yawing the front cylinder to the mean flow direction causes the pressure and velocity spectra on the upstream and downstream cylinders to become more broadband than for a regular tandem cylinder system, and reduces the magnitude of the peak associated with the vortex-shedding. However, spanwise correlation and coherence measurements indicate that the vortex-shedding is still present and was being obscured by the enhanced three-dimensionality that the upstream yawed cylinder caused. When the cylinder was yawed to α=60 deg, the pressure fluctuations became extremely broadband and exhibited shorter spanwise correlation.
Design for Manufacturing and Assembly Cost Estimate Methodology for Transportation Fuel Cell Systems
Authors: James Brian D. , Spisak Andrew B. , Colella Whitney G.
Published: October 2013

This article presents a design for manufacturing and assembly (DFMA) methodology for estimating the capital costs of new, emerging energy technologies built at varying rates of mass-production. The methodology consists of four major steps: (1) System Conceptual Design, (2) System Physical Design, (3) Cost Modeling, and (4) Continuous Improvement to Reduce Cost. The article describes the application of this methodology to a specific case study of automotive fuel cell systems (FCSs). Because any alternative automotive technology must compete with the very mature and widespread gasoline internal combustion engine, it is vitally important to identify the performance, design, and manufacturing conditions needed to reduce automotive FCS costs. Thus, a DFMA-style analysis is applied to the cost to manufacture a polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) FCS for cars, at varying rates of production (between 1,000 and 500,000 vehicles per year). The results of this kind of DFMA-style analysis can be used to elucidate key cost drivers at varying levels of production for new energy technologies.
Using 3D Modeling and Neural Networks to Predict Time-to-Heal for Chronic, Nonhealing Wounds
Authors: Chin Jessica S. , Zeid Ibrahim , Kamarthi Sagar
Published: October 2013

Chronic wound is an important national healthcare problem, compounded by the fact that patients with chronic diseases such as diabetes are always vulnerable to develop chronic wounds. Wound care research has two strands: clinical and computational. On the clinical side, research has been focusing on how to effectively treat wounds. This includes measuring wounds, tracking their progression with time, and assessing their health. On the computational side, little has been done to treat a wound as an engineering system that needs to be modeled and analyzed with the ultimate goal of predicting the progress of wound healing and determining the factors that influence wound healing.
Declining vision: saved by a tracheostomy
Authors: Hett Kirsty L , Chutter Lily J , Hassan Mohamed , Okosieme Onyebuchi E
Published: October 2013

A 37-year-old woman presented to our hospital with a history of headaches, blurred vision and declining visual acuity. She had a history of obstructive sleep apnoea associated with Treacher Collins syndrome, a rare congenital disorder characterised by craniofacial deformities and obstruction of the upper airways. On funduscopy we noted bilateral papilloedema and retinal haemorrhages. A CT scan of the brain excluded a space occupying lesion and contrast-enhanced CT did not show evidence of venous sinus thrombosis. The cerebrospinal fluid opening pressure on lumbar puncture was normal. We made a diagnosis of visual loss and papilloedema secondary to chronic CO2retention from obstructive sleep apnoea. Her vision and headaches improved remarkably following a permanent tracheostomy. This case highlights the association between obstructive sleep apnoea and papilloedema and shows that the associated visual loss can ultimately be restored with a tracheostomy.
Geography and soil chemistry drive the distribution of fungal associations in lady’s slipper orchid,Cypripedium acaule
Authors: Bunch William D. , Cowden Charles C. , Wurzburger Nina , Shefferson Richard P.
Published: October 2013

Mycorrhizal associations are required for the germination of orchids in nature. Recent studies reveal that distributions of arbuscular mycorrhizal and ectomycorrhizal fungal species are influenced by soil nutrient availability. However, it is unclear how soil nutrient availability influences mycorrhizal and root endophytic fungal association in orchids. Here we studied the pink lady’s slipper Cypripedium acaule Aiton, an orchid found typically in Pinus L. dominated forests of eastern North America, which associates with a diverse suite of fungi. We sampled 16 C. acaule populations across central and northern Georgia, USA. Soil samples were collected at the site of each plant and analyzed for organic matter, total carbon and nitrogen, calcium, ammonium, nitrate, and pH. Fungi present in the roots of each plant were identified from root samples using DNA analysis of key fungal barcoding genes. We then assessed the degree to which fungal associates corresponded to particular geographic, climatic, and soil factors via nonmetric multidimensional scaling. Our results indicate a broad association between geography, soil chemistry, and the distribution of root endophytic fungal associations in C. acaule. Importantly, this association may help explain why orchids with broad fungal associations are rare within landscapes. However, further research on the role of fungal availability in the soil is warranted.
Manganese dynamics in decomposing needle and leaf litter — a synthesis
Authors: Berg Björn , Erhagen Björn , Johansson Maj-Britt , Vesterdal Lars , Faituri Mikaeel , Sanborn Paul , Nilsson Mats
Published: October 2013

The aim of the present synthesis paper was to determine whether concentration changes and net release of manganese (Mn), as related to accumulated litter mass loss, are related to initial Mn concentration, mean annual temperature (MAT), mean annual precipitation (MAP), and tree genus or species. We also examined whether limit values for decomposition are related to initial litter Mn concentration, MAT, and MAP. We compiled 84 foliar litter decomposition studies, conducted mainly in boreal and temperate forest ecosystems, for which Mn dynamics had been well documented. Manganese concentration and amount were related to accumulated litter mass loss at each sampling time for each single study, as well as for (i) all studies combined (n = 748) and (ii) for species groups viz. Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) Karst.) (n = 284), pine (Pinus) species (n = 330), and deciduous species (n = 214). The changes in Mn concentration with accumulated mass loss followed quadratic functions showing significantly higher Mn concentrations for Norway spruce vs. Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) (p < 0.0001) and vs. deciduous species (p < 0.01), as well as significantly higher for deciduous species vs. Scots pine (p < 0.0001). Manganese release rates were different among the three species groups (p < 0.001). Still, rates were related to initial Mn concentrations (p < 0.001) for all litter types combined and for the three species groups. Norway spruce released Mn more slowly than pine and deciduous species. Rates were related to climatic factors for litter of Norway spruce and deciduous species. Limit values for all litter and for pine species separately were related to Mn (p < 0.001) and MAT (p < 0.001). For Norway spruce, limit values were related to MAT (p < 0.001) and MAP (p < 0.01). It appears that Norway spruce litter retains Mn more strongly in the litter structure, producing humus richer in Mn than does litter of pine and deciduous species.
Clear wood content in standing trees predicted from branch scar measurements with terrestrial LiDAR and verified with X-ray computed tomography
Authors: Stängle Stefan M. , Brüchert Franka , Kretschmer Ursula , Spiecker Heinrich , Sauter Udo H.
Published: October 2013

Knowledge about the wood quality of standing trees is crucial in that it serves as an excellent means for nearly all stages of the wood-supply chain. Better information about internal wood characteristics can be derived from the outside appearance by establishing a correlation between the bark characteristics of a stem and its internal quality. This paper presents an approach where the quality determination of standing trees using a terrestrial light detection and ranging (LiDAR) system is combined with the information about internal quality of logs using X-ray computed tomography (CT). Results show a high accuracy for branch scar measurements with terrestrial LiDAR and knot measurement with CT. A strong correlation between scar seal quotient and the amount of clear wood could be confirmed using European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) as an example. Quality grading of virtually segmented logs using terrestrial LiDAR and CT showed moderate correlation; 62.5% of the segments were allocated to the same grade by both approaches. In conclusion, terrestrial LiDAR in forest inventory could be used as an instrument to predict inner wood quality in greater detail by gathering data on the outer appearance and branch scars of standing trees. This additional knowledge has the potential to improve forest planning, bucking instructions, and a roundwood allocation that meets industry demand.
On Nonparametric Estimation: With a Focus on Agriculture
Authors: Färe Rolf , Grosskopf Shawna , Pasurka Carl , Martins-Filho Carlos
Published: October 2013

We review nonparametric estimation of efficiency and productivity, by which we mainly mean activity analysis, or data envelopment analysis (DEA). The review covers topics that we hope will be of special interest to those doing research in the realm of agriculture. We also include a brief appendix addressing nonparametric estimation from an econometric perspective.
In-Plane Distribution of Carbon Deposition on SOFCs
Authors: Nishimura Takashi , Kawabata Tsutomu , Tachikawa Yuya , Shiratori Yusuke , Taniguchi Shunsuke , Sasaki Kazunari
Published: October 2013

SOFC can directly utilize not only hydrogen but also various fuels such as city gas, kerosene, and others by internal reforming reaction on anodes. However, impurities and un-reformed hydrocarbon in fuels can cause degradation associated with e.g. carbon deposition. In this study, in-plane distribution of carbon deposition was evaluated using planar cells with an electrode area of 4 cm by 4 cm. The 2-dimensional distribution of deposited carbon has been visualized, where the carbon deposition was accelerated in the simultaneous presence of C3H8 and H2S as minor constituents in simulated pre-reformed CH4-based fuels.
Cross Validation of Current-Potential Sweep and Impedance Measurement of SOFCs and SOECs Implementing CO2/CO as Fuels
Authors: Chen Hao , Yan Jingbo , Dogdibegovic Emir , Zhou Xiao-Dong
Published: October 2013

The aim of this work is to diagnose the areal specific resistance (ASR) of a solid oxide electrochemical cell implementing a gaseous mixture of CO/CO2 at the negative electrode side. The cell was operated in either fuel cell or electrolyzer mode. Current-potential (i-E) sweep was carried out to investigate polarization behaviors of the electrochemical cells. The slope of i-E curve represents the total ASR of the cell, while the ASR of the constituents can be de obtained by deconvoluting impedance spectra. Cross validation of i-E sweep and impedance measurements enables us to further understand the electrochemical processes in CO2 reduction reaction, thus optimization of SOEC electrodes becomes possible.
Modeling and Optimizing Energy Utilization of Steel Production Process: A Hybrid Petri Net Approach
Authors: Wang Peng , Jiang Zeyi , Liu Zhitao , Fu Shanghong
Published: October 2013

The steel industry is responsible for nearly 9% of anthropogenic energy utilization in the world. It is urgent to reduce the total energy utilization of steel industry under the huge pressures on reducing energy consumption and CO2 emission. Meanwhile, the steel manufacturing is a typical continuous-discrete process with multiprocedures, multiobjects, multiconstraints, and multimachines coupled, which makes energy management rather difficult. In order to study the energy flow within the real steel production process, this paper presents a new modeling and optimization method for the process based on Hybrid Petri Nets (HPN) in consideration of the situation above. Firstly, we introduce the detailed description of HPN. Then the real steel production process from one typical integrated steel plant is transformed into Hybrid Petri Net model as a case. Furthermore, we obtain a series of constraints of our optimization model from this model. In consideration of the real process situation, we pick the steel production, energy efficiency and self-made gas surplus as the main optimized goals in this paper. Afterwards, a fuzzy linear programming method is conducted to obtain the multiobjective optimization results. Finally, some measures are suggested to improve this low efficiency and high whole cost process structure.
An Extremely Rare, Remote Intracerebral Metastasis of Oral Cavity Cancer: A Case Report
Authors: Leimert Mario , Juratli Tareq A. , Lindner Claudia , Geiger Kathrin D. , Gerber Johannes , Schackert Gabriele , Kirsch Matthias
Published: October 2013

Distant brain metastases from oral squamous cell carcinomas (OSCC) are extremely rare. Here we describe a case of a 53-year-old man with a primary OSCC who referred to the neurosurgical department because of epileptic seizures. MR imaging revealed an enhancing lesion in the right parietal lobe. A craniotomy with tumor removing was performed. Histopathological examination verified an invasive, minimally differentiated metastasis of the primary OSCC. The patient refused whole brain radiation therapy and died from pulmonary metastatic disease 10 months after the neurosurgical intervention without any cerebral recurrence. To the authors’ knowledge, only two similar cases have been previously reported.
The Vascularized Fibular Graft in the Pediatric Upper Extremity: A Durable, Biological Solution to Large Oncologic Defects
Authors: Zelenski Nicki , Brigman Brian E. , Levin L. Scott , Erdmann Detlev , Eward William C.
Published: October 2013

Skeletal reconstruction after large tumor resection is challenging. The free vascularized fibular graft (FVFG) offers the potential for rapid autograft incorporation as well as growing physeal transfer in pediatric patients. We retrospectively reviewed eleven pediatric patients treated with FVFG reconstructions of the upper extremity after tumor resection. Eight male and three female patients were identified, including four who underwent epiphyseal transfer. All eleven patients retained a functional salvaged limb. Nonunion and graft fracture were the most common complications relating to graft site (27%). Peroneal nerve palsy occurred in 4/11 patients, all of whom received epiphyseal transfer. Patients receiving epiphyseal transplant had a mean annual growth of 1.7 cm/year. Mean graft hypertrophy index increased by more than 10% in all cases. Although a high complication rate may be anticipated, the free vascularized fibula may be used to reconstruct large skeletal defects in the pediatric upper extremity after oncologic resection. Transferring the vascularized physis is a viable option when longitudinal growth is desired.
Air Embolism after Central Venous Catheter Removal: Fibrin Sheath as the Portal of Persistent Air Entry
Authors: Marco Meggiolaro , Roman-Pognuz Erik , Anna Baritussio , Alessio Scatto
Published: October 2013

Central venous catheterization is of common practice in intensive care units; despite representing an essential device in various clinical circumstances, it represents a source of complications, sometimes even fatal, related to its management. We report the removal of a central venous catheter (CVC) that had been wrongly positioned through left internal jugular vein. The vein presented complete thrombosis at vascular ultrasonography. An echocardiogram performed 24 hours after CVC removal showed the presence, apparently unjustified, of microbubbles in right chambers of the heart. A neck-thorax CT scan showed the presence of air bubbles within the left internal jugular vein, left innominate vein, and left subclavian vein. A vascular ultrasonography, focused on venous catheter insertion site, disclosed the presence of a vein-to-dermis fistula, as portal of air entry. Only after air occlusive dressing, we documented echographic disappearance of air bubbles within the right cardiac cavity. This report emphasizes possible air entry even many hours after CVC removal, making it mandatory to perform 24–72-hour air occlusive dressing or, when inadequate, to perform a purse string.
The Estrogen Receptor Joins Other Cancer Biomarkers as a Predictor of Outcome
Authors: Leslie Kimberly K. , Thiel Kristina W. , Reyes Henry D. , Yang Shujie , Zhang Yuping , Carlson Matthew J. , Kumar Nirmala S. , Dai Donghai D.
Published: October 2013

Endometrial cancer, the most common gynecologic malignancy in the United States, is on the rise, and survival is worse today than 40 years ago. In order to improve the outcomes, better biomarkers that direct the choice of therapy are urgently needed. In this review, we explore the estrogen receptor as the most studied biomarker and the best predictor for response for endometrial cancer reported to date.
A Green and Efficient Method for the Preparation of 3,4‐Dihydropyrimidin‐2(1H)‐ones Using Quaternary Ammonium‐Treated Clay in Water
Authors: Sayyahi Soheil , Jahanbakhshi Sedigheh , Dehghani Zahra
Published: October 2013

A variety of 3,4‐dihydropyrimidin‐2(1H)‐ones derivatives were synthesized via three‐component Biginelli reaction. The quaternary ammonium‐treated clay‐catalyzed process proved to be simple, efficient, and environmentally friendly.
A New Refinement of Generalized Hölder’s Inequality and Its Application
Authors: Tian Jingfeng
Published: October 2013

We present a new refinement of generalized Hölder’s inequality due to Vasić and Pečarić. Moreover, the obtained result is used to improve Beckenbach-type inequality due to Wang.
Heat Equations Associated with Weinstein Operator and Applications
Authors: Mejjaoli Hatem
Published: October 2013

We establish a characterization for the homogeneous Weinstein-Besov spaces via the Weinstein heat semigroup. Next, we obtain the generalized Sobolev embedding theorems.
The Association between Seasonal Variation in Vitamin D, Postural Sway, and Falls Risk: An Observational Cohort Study
Authors: Bird Marie-Louise , Hill Keith D. , Robertson Iain , Ball Madeleine J. , Pittaway Jane K. , Williams Andrew D.
Published: October 2013

Introduction. Low serum vitamin D levels are associated with increased postural sway. Vitamin D varies seasonally. This study investigates whether postural sway varies seasonally and is associated with serum vitamin D and falls.Methods. In a longitudinal observational study, eighty-eight independently mobile community-dwelling older adults (69.7±7.6 years) were evaluated on five occasions over one year, measuring postural sway (force platform), vitamin D levels, fall incidence, and causes and adverse outcomes. Mixed-methods Poisson regression was used to determine associations between measures.Results. Postural sway did not vary over the year. Vitamin D levels varied seasonally (P<0.001), peaking in summer. Incidence of falls (P=0.01) and injurious falls (P=0.02) were lower in spring, with the highest fall rate at the end of autumn. Postural sway was not related to vitamin D (P=0.87) or fall rates, but it was associated with fall injuries (IRR 1.59 (CI 1.14 to 2.24,P=0.007).Conclusions. Postural sway remained stable across the year while vitamin D varied seasonally. Participants with high values for postural sway demonstrated higher rates of injurious falls. This study provides important evidence for clinicians and researchers providing interventions measuring balance outcomes across seasons.
Effects of Climate Variability on Evaporation in Dongping Lake, China, during 2003–2010
Authors: Rong Yuan , Su Hongbo , Zhang Renhua , Duan Zheng
Published: October 2013

Based on two long-term, hourly (10:30–11:30 and 13:10–14:10) meteorological over-lake observations and data from Shenxian meteorological station, nearby Dongping Lake, the Penman-Monteith equation and reference evaporation ratio algorithm were used to calculate lake evaporation in Dongping Lake, China, from 2003 to 2010. The variation trend of evaporation of Dongping Lake was analyzed, and the influences that caused changes in lake evaporation were also discussed. The results show that (1) the total annual evaporation in Dongping Lake increased at 18.24 mm/a during 2003–2010. The major climatic factors accounting for this increase are the rising net radiation and the rising air temperature; (2) the total annual evaporation in a particular hour (13:10–14:10) in Dongping Lake increased at 4.55 mm/a during 2003–2010—the major climate factors that accounted for this increase are rising net radiation, followed by air temperature, wind velocity, and air humidity; (3) against the background of global warming, the climate of Dongping Lake tended to be dry during 2003–2010; the largest contribution to this comes from air temperature, followed by wind velocity and relative humidity; and (4) the monthly evaporation in Dongping Lake has seasonal variability.
Comment on “Adomian Decomposition Method for a Class of Nonlinear Problems”
Authors: Dalvandpour S. , Motamedinasab A.
Published: October 2013

Sánchez Cano in his paper “Adomian Decomposition Method for a Class of Nonlinear Problems” in application part pages 8, 9, and 10 had made some mistakes in context; in this paper we correct them.
Lamellar Keratoplasty: A Literature Review
Authors: Espandar Ladan , Carlson Alan N.
Published: October 2013

The concept of lamellar keratoplasty (LK) is not new. However, newer forms of lamellar keratoplasty techniques have emerged in the last decade or so revolving around the concept of targeted replacement of diseased corneal layers. These include anterior lamellar keratoplasty (ALK) techniques that aim to selectively replace diseased corneal stroma and endothelial keratoplasty techniques aiming to replaced damaged endothelium in endothelial disorders. Recent improvements in surgical instruments and introduction of new techniques as well as inherent advantages such as preservation of globe integrity and decreased graft rejection have resulted in the reintroduction of LK as an acceptable alternative to conventional PK. In this review, indications, benefits, limitations, and outcomes of various anterior and posterior lamellar keratoplasty techniques are discussed.
Influences of Holes Arrangement on Creep Characteristic of Nickel-Base Single Crystal Alloy Blade Cooling Holes
Authors: Li Lei , Ao Liangbo , Xie Gongnan , Wang Xinmei , Cao Gang
Published: October 2013

Film cooling technology is developed to enhance the temperature resistant of nickel-base single crystal alloy blade. The shape, dimension, and arrangement of cooling holes impact the blade strength and life grievously. In this paper, the influences of holes arrangement on creep characteristic of cooling holes in the plate sample are investigated. The constitutive model for creep considering both cavitation and degradation damage is developed to predict the creep behavior of cooling holes. Results show that there are stress interferences among cooling holes. The distance and radius of the cooling holes impact the creep behavior of cooling holes seriously. Decreasing horizontal distance of the holes results in creep time reducing. On the contrary, increasing the vertical distance of the holes makes the creep time reduced.
Temperature Matters! And Why It Should Matter to Tumor Immunologists
Authors: Repasky Elizabeth A. , Evans Sharon S. , Dewhirst Mark W.
Published: October 2013

A major goal of cancer immunotherapy is to stimulate the generation of long-lasting, tumor antigen–specific immune responses that recognize and destroy tumor cells. This article discusses advances in thermal medicine with the potential to improve cancer immunotherapy. Longstanding evidence indicates that survival benefits are accorded to individuals who achieve an increase in body temperature (i.e., fever) following infection. Furthermore, accumulating evidence indicates that physiologic responses to hyperthermia affect the tumor microenvironment through temperature-sensitive checkpoints that regulate tumor vascular perfusion, lymphocyte trafficking, inflammatory cytokine expression, tumor metabolism, and innate and adaptive immune function. Nevertheless, the influence of thermal stimuli on the immune system, particularly the antitumor immune response, remains incompletely understood. In fact, temperature is still rarely considered as a critical variable in experimental immunology. We suggest that more attention should be directed to the role of temperature in the regulation of the immune response and that thermal therapy should be tested in conjunction with immunotherapy as a multi-functional adjuvant that modulates the dynamics of the tumor microenvironment. Cancer Immunol Res; 1(4); 210–6. ©2013 AACR.
The Rockefeller Foundation, the Social Sciences, and the Humanities in the Cold War
Authors: Mueller Tim B.
Published: October 2013

This article surveys the activities and funding priorities of the Rockefeller Foundation (RF) during the first two decades of the Cold War, from the mid-1940s through the mid-1960s. Drawing on documents from the RF's own archive as well as Western government repositories, the article focuses on the foundation's support for research in the social sciences and the humanities. The article first gives an overview of RF policies and grants during the early Cold War and then discusses the political dimension of the foundation's philanthropic practices. The main part of the article looks in detail at two specific RF projects in the humanities and social sciences that exemplify the political and intellectual features of the early Cold War. The final section considers the nature of modernity, modernization, and the Cold War.
Crystal structure of c5321: a protective antigen present in uropathogenic Escherichia coli strains displaying an SLR fold
Authors: Urosev Dunja , Ferrer-Navarro Mario , Pastorello Ilaria , Cartocci Elena , Costenaro Lionel , Zhulenkovs Dmitrijs , Maréchal Jean-Didier , Leonchiks Ainars , Reverter David , Serino Laura , Soriani Marco , Daura Xavier
Published: October 2013

Background

Increasing rates of antimicrobial resistance among uropathogens led, among other efforts, to the application of subtractive reverse vaccinology for the identification of antigens present in extraintestinal pathogenic E. coli (ExPEC) strains but absent or variable in non-pathogenic strains, in a quest for a broadly protective Escherichia coli vaccine. The protein coded by locus c5321 from CFT073 E. coli was identified as one of nine potential vaccine candidates against ExPEC and was able to confer protection with an efficacy of 33% in a mouse model of sepsis. c5321 (known also as EsiB) lacks functional annotation and structurally belongs to the Sel1-like repeat (SLR) family. Herein, as part of the general characterization of this potential antigen, we have focused on its structural properties.

Results

We report the 1.74 Å-resolution crystal structure of c5321 from CFT073 E. coli determined by Se-Met SAD phasing. The structure is composed of 11 SLR units in a topological organisation that highly resembles that found in HcpC from Helicobacter pylori, with the main difference residing in how the super-helical fold is stabilised. The stabilising effect of disulfide bridges in HcpC is replaced in c5321 by a strengthening of the inter-repeat hydrophobic core. A metal-ion binding site, uncharacteristic of SLR proteins, is detected between SLR units 3 and 4 in the region of the inter-repeat hydrophobic core. Crystal contacts are observed between the C-terminal tail of one molecule and the C-terminal amphipathic groove of a neighbouring one, resembling interactions between ligand and proteins containing tetratricopeptide-like repeats.

Conclusions

The structure of antigen c5321 presents a mode of stabilization of the SLR fold different from that observed in close homologs of known structure. The location of the metal-ion binding site and the observed crystal contacts suggest a potential role in regulation of conformational flexibility and interaction with yet unidentified target proteins, respectively. These findings open new perspectives in both antigen design and for the identification of a functional role for this protective antigen.
Intracanal placement of calcium hydroxide: a comparison of specially designed paste carrier technique with other techniques
Authors: Tan Joseph Meng Ern , Parolia Abhishek , Pau Allan Kah Heng
Published: October 2013

Background

This study compared the effectiveness of a Specially Designed Paste Carrier technique with the Syringe-Spreader technique and the Syringe-Lentulo spiral technique in the intracanal placement of calcium hydroxide.

Methods

Three groups, each containing 15 single-rooted human anterior teeth were prepared using standardized Mtwo rotary instruments to a master apical file size 40 with 0.04 taper. Each group was filled with calcium hydroxide paste using: Syringe and #25 finger spreader (Group 1); Syringe and #4 rotary Lentulo spiral (Group 2), Specially Designed Paste Carrier (Group 3). Using pre-filling and post-filling radiographs in buccolingual and mesiodistal planes, the radiodensities at 1 mm, 3 mm, 5 mm, and 7 mm from the apical foramen were analyzed by ANOVA and Bonferroni post hoc tests.

Results

Overall, The Specially Designed Paste Carrier technique showed a statistically significantly higher mean radiodensity than the two other compared techniques. No significant difference was detected between the Syringe-Lentulo spiral and the Syringe-Spreader techniques.

Conclusion

The Specially Designed Paste Carrier technique was more effective than the Syringe-Spreader technique and the Syringe-Lentulo spiral technique in the intracanal placement of calcium hydroxide.
Investigating citrullinated proteins in tumour cell lines
Authors: Jiang Zhongmin , Cui Yazhou , Wang Lin , Zhao Yan , Yan Suhua , Chang Xiaotian
Published: October 2013

Background

The conversion of arginine into citrulline, termed citrullination, has important consequences for the structure and function of proteins. Studies have found PADI4, an enzyme performing citrullination, to be highly expressed in a variety of malignant tumours and have shown that PADI4 participates in the process of tumorigenesis. However, as citrullinated proteins have not been systematically investigated in tumours, the present study aimed to identify novel citrullinated proteins in tumours by 2-D western blotting (2-D WB).

Methods

Two identical two-dimensional electrophoresis (2-DE) gels were prepared using extracts from ECA, H292, HeLa, HEPG2, Lovo, MCF-7, PANC-1, SGC, and SKOV3 tumour cell lines. The expression profiles on a 2-DE gel were trans-blotted to PVDF membranes, and the blots were then probed with an anti-citrulline antibody. By comparing the 2-DE profile with the parallel 2-D WB profile at a global level, protein spots with immuno-signals were collected from the second 2-DE gel and identified using mass spectrometry. Immunoprecipitation was used to verify the expression and citrullination of the targeted proteins in tumour cell lines.

Results

2-D WB and mass spectrometry identified citrullinated α-enolase (ENO1), heat shock protein 60 (HSP60), keratin 8 (KRT8), tubulin beta (TUBB), T cell receptor chain and vimentin in these cell lines. Immunoprecipitation analyses verified the expression and citrullination of ENO1, HSP60, KRT8, and TUBB in the total protein lysates of the tumour cell lines.

Conclusions

The citrullination of these proteins suggests a new mechanism in the tumorigenic process.
Detection of Chlamydophila pneumoniae and human herpesvirus 8 in primary cutaneous anaplastic large-cell lymphoma: a case report
Authors: Borghi Alessandro , Caselli Elisabetta , Di Luca Dario , Sebastiani Adolfo , Perri Paolo , Seraceni Silva , Contini Carlo , Virgili Annarosa
Published: October 2013

Background

The etiology of primary cutaneous anaplastic large-cell CD30+ lymphoma is largely unknown, and although an infectious involvement has been suspected, the implication of infectious agents in its pathogenesis is still unclear.

Findings

We report the case of a HIV-negative patient referred to our hospital with a rapidly enlarging skin tumor on her upper eyelid. Surgical excision was performed and histological analysis evidenced a primary cutaneous anaplastic large-cell lymphoma. Due to the ocular localization and to the prominent angiogenic component of the lesion, molecular analyses for the detection of Chlamydophila pneumonia e and HHV8 were performed, revealing the presence of an infection by both pathogens in surgical biopsy and in peripheral blood mononuclear cells.

Conclusions

These findings suggest for the first time a possible association of C. pneumoniae and/or HHV8 infection, or both together, with primary cutaneous anaplastic large-cell lymphoma in non-immunocompromised and HIV-negative subjects. This potential pathogenic association, if confirmed, could provide potential indications for future therapy.
Serum arterial lactate concentration predicts mortality and organ dysfunction following liver resection
Authors: Wiggans Matthew G , Starkie Tim , Shahtahmassebi Golnaz , Woolley Tom , Birt David , Erasmus Paul , Anderson Ian , Bowles Matthew J , Aroori Somaiah , Stell David A
Published: October 2013

Background

The aim of this study was to determine if the post-operative serum arterial lactate concentration is associated with mortality, length of hospital stay or complications following hepatic resection.

Methods

Serum lactate concentration was recorded at the end of liver resection in a consecutive series of 488 patients over a seven-year period. Liver function, coagulation and electrolyte tests were performed post-operatively. Renal dysfunction was defined as a creatinine rise of >1.5x the pre-operative value.

Results

The median lactate was 2.8 mmol/L (0.6 to 16 mmol/L) and was elevated (≥2 mmol/L) in 72% of patients. The lactate concentration was associated with peak post-operative bilirubin, prothrombin time, renal dysfunction, length of hospital stay and 90-day mortality (P < 0.001). The 90-day mortality in patients with a post-operative lactate ≥6 mmol/L was 28% compared to 0.7% in those with lactate ≤2 mmol/L. Pre-operative diabetes, number of segments resected, the surgeon’s assessment of liver parenchyma, blood loss and transfusion were independently associated with lactate concentration.

Conclusions

Initial post-operative lactate concentration is a useful predictor of outcome following hepatic resection. Patients with normal post-operative lactate are unlikely to suffer significant hepatic or renal dysfunction and may not require intensive monitoring or critical care.
Severe burn and disuse in the rat independently adversely impact body composition and adipokines
Authors: Wade Charles E , Baer Lisa A , Wu Xiaowu , Silliman David T , Walters Thomas J , Wolf Steven E
Published: October 2013

Introduction

Severe trauma is accompanied by a period of hypermetabolism and disuse. In this study, a rat model was used to determine the effects of burn and disuse independently and in combination on body composition, food intake and adipokines.

Methods

Male rats were assigned to four groups 1) sham ambulatory (SA), 2) sham hindlimb unloaded (SH), 3) 40% total body surface area full thickness scald burn ambulatory (BA) and 4) burn and hindlimb unloaded (BH). Animals designated to the SH and BH groups were placed in a tail traction system and their hindlimbs unloaded. Animals were followed for 14 days. Plasma, urine, fecal and tissue samples were analyzed.

Results

SA had a progressive increase in body mass (BM), SH and BA no change and BH a reduction. Compared to SA, BM was reduced by 10% in both SH and BA and by 17% when combined in BH. Compared to SA, all groups had reductions in lean and fat body mass with BH being greater. The decrease in lean mass was associated with the rate of urinary corticosterone excretion. The loss in fat mass was associated with decreases in plasma leptin and adiponectin and an increase in ghrelin. Following the acute response to injury, BH had a greater food intake per 100 g BM. Food intake was associated with the levels of leptin, adiponectin and ghrelin.

Conclusions

The effects of the combination of burn and disuse in this animal model were additive, therefore in assessing metabolic changes with severe trauma both injury and disuse should be considered. Furthermore, the observed changes in adipokines, corticosterone and ghrelin provide insights for interventions to attenuate the hypermetabolic state following injury, possibly reducing catabolism and muscle loss and subsequent adverse effects on recovery and function.
A window into the Proterozoic: Integrating 3D seismic, gravity, and magnetic data to image subbasement structures in the southeast Fort Worth basin
Authors: Khatiwada Murari , Keller G. Randy , Marfurt Kurt J.
Published: October 2013

The Fort Worth basin (FWB) is one of the most fully developed shale gas fields in North America. Although there are hundreds of drilled wells in the basin, almost none of them reach the Precambrian basement. Imaged by perhaps 100 3D seismic surveys, the focus on the relatively shallow, flat-lying Barnett Shale objective has resulted in little published work on the basement structures underlying the Lower Paleozoic strata. Subtle folds and systems of large joints are present in almost all 3D seismic surveys in the FWB. At the Cambro-Ordovician Ellenburger level, these joints are often diagenetically altered and exhibit collapse features at their intersections. We discovered how the basement structures relate to overlying Paleozoic reservoirs in the Barnett Shale and Ellenburger Group. In support of our investigation, the Marathon Oil Company provided a high-quality, wide-azimuth, 3D seismic data near the southeast fringe of the FWB. In addition to the seismic volume, we integrated the seismic results with gravity, magnetic, well log, and geospatial data to understand the basement and subbasement structures in the southeast FWB. Major tectonic features including the Ouachita frontal thrust belt, Lampasas arch, Llano uplift, and Bend arch surround the southeast FWB. Euler deconvolution and integrated forward gravity modeling helped us extend our interpretation beyond the 3D seismic survey into a regional context.
A Tricky Situation: Deception in Cyberspace
Authors: MacEwan Neil
Published: October 2013

This article explores the current trends in deception-based cybercrime. Through the use of recent examples, it demonstrates that humanity continues to be the weakest link in the cyber security chain, and that deception of the human mind remains a key component of much criminal activity in cyberspace. It also detects signs of hardening in some regulators' attitudes towards human weakness and personal Internet insecurity, and an increase in the attribution of contributory fault to some of those deceived. Looking ahead, it concludes that such pressure towards increased individual vigilance in cyberspace will require some testing regulatory balances to be struck.
Desain dan Implementasi Sistem Kendali CNC Router Menggunakan PC untuk Flame Cutting Machine
Authors: Saputra Roni Permana , Muqorobin Anwar , Santoso Arif , Purwanto Teguh Pudji
Published: October 2013

This paper focuses on design of router control systems based on computer numerical control (CNC) using personal computer (PC) implemented in flame cutting machine (FCM). NC-Code entered into the computer translated to be a command signal sent by the PC to a microcontroller to control the end effector’s movement alongthe X and Y axis simultaneously based on linear and circular interpolations calculation on the PC. This control system is implemented on FCM by connecting the output control of the microcontroller with the driver actuator of the FCM in the form of a DC motor. The obtained result is in the form of a CNC router control system prototype to be implemented in the FCM which is capable to perform linear interpolation and circular interpolation.