bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ℒ1 adaptive control of a nonlinear aeroelastic system despite gust load
Authors: Lee Keum W , Singh Sahjendra N
Published: July 2012

The development of a control system for the suppression of aeroelastic vibration of a two-dimensional nonlinear wing-flap system based on the ℒ1 adaptive control theory is the subject of this paper. The prototypical aeroelastic wing section model considered here includes structural nonlinearity, parameter uncertainties and gust loads. For the purpose of control, a single trailing-edge control surface is used. The uncontrolled aeroelastic model exhibits limit cycle oscillations beyond a critical free-stream velocity. An ℒ1 adaptive law is developed for the suppression of aeroelastic oscillations using the pitch angle and pitch rate feedback. The control system includes a state predictor. The adaptation gain and the parameter of a filter are properly chosen to satisfy desirable performance bounds on the system trajectories. Simulation results are presented which show that the control system suppresses the oscillatory responses of the system in the presence of large parameter uncertainties and triangular, sinusoidal, and exponential gust loads.
Differences in the Prevalence and Impact of Risk Factors for General Recidivism Between Different Types of Juveniles Who Have Committed Sexual Offenses (JSOs) and Juveniles Who Have Committed Nonsexual Offenses (NSOs)
Authors: van der Put Claudia E. , van Vugt Eveline S. , Stams Geert Jan J.M. , Deković Maja , van der Laan Peter H.
Published: July 2012

To date, there is surprisingly little research on differences in the prevalence and impact of risk factors for general recidivism between juveniles who have committed sexual offenses (JSO) and juveniles who have committed nonsexual offenses (NSO). Therefore, we examined differences in the prevalence and impact of dynamic risk factors for general delinquency between youth with nonsexual offenses (NSO, n = 504), youth with misdemeanor sexual offenders (MSO, n = 136), youth with felony sexual offenders (FSO, n = 116) and youth with offenses against much younger children (CSO, n = 373). The sample consisted of boys with a mean age of 15.3 years ( SD = 1.5). The prevalence of dynamic risk factors for general delinquency was significantly lower in JSOs than in NSOs. More serious sexual offenses were associated with a lower prevalence of dynamic risk factors. In contrast, the impact of most dynamic risk factors on general recidivism proved to be significantly larger among JSOs compared to NSOs. The relative importance of the dynamic risk factors varied for each type of JSO, resulting in differences in the dynamic risk profiles of the various types of JSOs.
Input-based tasks and the acquisition of vocabulary and grammar: A process-product study
Authors: Shintani Natsuko
Published: July 2012

The study reported in this article investigated the use of input-based tasks with young, beginner learners of English as a second language by examining both learning outcomes (i.e. acquisition) and the interactions that resulted from implementing the tasks. The participants were 15 learners, aged six, with no experience of second language (L2) learning. The target features were 36 vocabulary items (24 nouns and 12 adjectives) and plural -s. The input-based instruction consisted of three listen-and-do tasks, which were repeated nine times over a five-week period. The analysis of the process features found that even though the tasks did not require language production, the learners contributed actively. The tasks resulted in naturalistic conversation, negotiation of meaning, and ‘focus on form’, all of which have been claimed to facilitate acquisition. The input-based group improved significantly in both their receptive and productive knowledge of the vocabulary items and in their receptive knowledge of plural -s over time. They also outperformed a control group. The study shows that listen-and-do tasks can create contexts for the incidental acquisition of both vocabulary and grammar and are effective for implementing task-based instruction for young beginner learners.
Creating Housing Unit Frames from Address Databases
Authors: Eckman Stephanie , English Ned
Published: July 2012

Survey researchers increasingly look to commercially available address databases to create survey frames. These databases offer obvious cost and speed advantages over in-field listing of housing units but rely on geocoding to associate the addresses with census geographies such as tracts and blocks. While much recent research has looked at the coverage of frames derived from these databases, none has specifically explored the contributions of geocoding to frame coverage. Nationally, 83.3% of all residential addresses on the January 2010 Valassis database geocode precisely enough that they are likely to be placed in the correct block. Among the city-style addresses, 93.9% geocode at this level. Comparing the counts of addresses on the database to housing unit counts from the 2010 Census, we find that the national net coverage rate for in-person surveys can vary from 86.7% to 92.3%, depending on which addresses a survey uses on its frame.
Putting the Family Into the Military Mission
Authors: Weber Christina D.
Published: July 2012

What are the challenges of doing feminist research within a military institution? This became the guiding force of my research with the Midwest Family Program of the National Guard (MWFP). This article examines both my experiences as a feminist scholar conducting research in a military institution as well as the gendered tensions within the MWFP. While in the field, my research shifted from a traditional ethnographic study to a deeply personal autoethnographic project. Analyzing my interviews, documents from MWFP, and published books by military wives, I consider how hegemonic masculinity and emphasized femininity shape the MWFP and public discourses of the military family. Simultaneously, I reflect on my own relationship with social power as an academic conducting research on a military institution. What my analysis exposes is how the National Guard relies on a complementary set of gender identities, at both the individual and institutional-level, reinforcing the position of hegemonic masculinity in society.
Carotid Doppler Velocity Measurements and Anatomic Stenosis
Authors: Beach Kirk W. , Leotta Daniel F. , Zierler R. Eugene
Published: July 2012

Background: Duplex ultrasound with Doppler velocimetry is widely used to evaluate the presence and severity of internal carotid artery stenosis; however, a variety of velocity criteria are currently being applied to classify stenosis severity. The purpose of this study is to compare published Doppler velocity measurements to the severity of internal carotid artery stenosis as assessed by x-ray angiography in order to clarify the relationship between these 2 widely used approaches to assess carotid artery disease. Methods: Scatter diagrams or “scattergrams” of correlations between Doppler velocity measurements and stenosis severity as assessed by x-ray contrast angiography were obtained from published articles for native and stented internal carotid arteries. The scattergrams were graphically digitized, combined, and segmented into categories bounded by 50% and 70% diameter reduction. These data were combined and divided into 3 sets representing different velocity parameters: (1) peak systolic velocity, (2) end-diastolic velocity, and (3) the internal carotid artery to common carotid artery peak systolic velocity ratio. The horizontal axis of each scattergram was transformed to form a cumulative distribution function, and thresholds were established for the stenosis categories to assess data variability. Results: Nineteen publications with 22 data sets were identified and included in this analysis. Wide variability was apparent between all 3 velocity parameters and angiographic percent stenosis. The optimal peak systolic velocity thresholds for stenosis in stented carotid arteries were higher than those for native carotid arteries. Within each category of stenosis, the variability of all 3 velocity parameters was significantly lower in stented arteries than in native arteries. Conclusion: Although Doppler velocity criteria have been successfully used to classify the severity of stenosis in both native and stented carotid arteries, the relationship to angiographic stenosis contains significant variability. This analysis of published studies suggests that further refinements in Doppler velocity criteria will not lead to improved correlation with carotid stenosis as demonstrated by angiography.
Splenic Artery Embolization as a Treatment Option for Chronic Pancytopenia Secondary to Hypersplenism
Authors: Mousa Albeir , Armbruster Jennifer , Adongay Joseph , AbuRahma Ali F.
Published: July 2012

It is well known that splenectomy is the standard of care in the management of clinically significant hypersplenism; however, some patients are found to be unacceptably high risk to tolerate open or even laparoscopic surgery. We present a 62-year-old female with significant comorbidities who was declared a very high risk for any open surgical intervention. She underwent splenic artery embolization with remarkable improvement of her platelet count. Her postoperative course was uneventful and the patient was discharged from the hospital on the fifth hospital day.
Combination of rTMS and Treadmill Training Modulates Corticomotor Inhibition and Improves Walking in Parkinson Disease
Authors: Yang Yea-Ru , Tseng Chin-Yen , Chiou Shin-Yi , Liao Kwong-Kum , Cheng Shih-Jung , Lai Kuan-Lin , Wang Ray-Yau
Published: July 2012

Background. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) of the brain has been shown to modulate cortical excitability. Combinations of rehabilitation therapies with rTMS might enhance the therapeutic effects. Objective. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of high-frequency rTMS followed by treadmill training on cortical inhibition and walking function in individuals with Parkinson disease (PD). Methods. A total of 20 patients with PD were randomized into an experimental group and a control group. Participants received rTMS (experimental group) or sham rTMS (control group) followed by treadmill training (30 minutes) for 12 sessions over 4 weeks. Repetitive TMS was applied at a 5-Hz frequency over the leg area of the motor cortex contralaterally to the more affected side for 6 minutes. Outcomes, including corticomotor inhibition and walking performance, were measured before and after training. Results. The results showed significant time effects on almost all corticomotor and functional variables. There are significant interaction effects between group and time of evaluation on the motor threshold, duration of the cortical silent period, and short interval intracortical inhibition of the contralateral hemisphere relatively to the more affected side as well as on the fast walking speed and timed up and go. Conclusions. The findings suggested that combination of rTMS and treadmill training enhances the effect of treadmill training on modulation of corticomotor inhibition and improvement of walking performance in those with PD.
Statins in acute coronary syndrome: very early initiation and benefits
Authors: Angeli Fabio , Reboldi Gianpaolo , Mazzotta Giovanni , Garofoli Marta , Cerasa Maria Francesca , Verdecchia Paolo
Published: July 2012

The use of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase (statins) is associated with a marked reduction in morbidity and mortality in patients at high cardiovascular risk or with established cardiovascular disease. In the last decade, several randomized controlled studies have demonstrated the benefit of statins in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). These studies showed that use of statins in patients with ACS is associated with a significant reduction of the risk of recurrent cardiovascular events. Current American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association (ACC/AHA) guidelines recommend (Level of Evidence 1A) the use of statin therapy before hospital discharge for all patients with ACS regardless of the baseline low-density lipoprotein. Although there is no consensus on the preferable time of administration of statins during ACS, some clinical trials and pooled analyses provided substantial support for the institution of an early initiation to improve strategies that target the pathophysiologic mechanism operating during myocardial infarction. In particular, recent findings suggested that the earlier the treatment is started after the diagnosis of ACS the greater the expected benefit. Experimental studies with statins in ACS have shown several other effects that could extend the clinical benefit beyond the lipid profile modification itself. In particular, statins demonstrated the ability to induce anti-inflammatory effects, modulate endothelium and inhibit the thrombotic signaling cascade. Given these recognized potential benefit, statins should conceivably modulate the pathophysiological processes involved in the very early phase of plaque rupture and coronary thrombosis.
Advances in oral anticoagulation treatment: the safety and efficacy of rivaroxaban in the prevention and treatment of thromboembolism
Authors: Turpie Alexander G.G.
Published: July 2012

Arterial and venous thromboembolic diseases are a clinical and economic burden worldwide. In addition to traditional agents such as vitamin K antagonists and heparins, newer oral agents – such as the factor Xa inhibitors rivaroxaban, apixaban, and edoxaban, and the direct thrombin inhibitor dabigatran – have been shown to be effective across several indications. Rivaroxaban has been shown to have predictable pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties, including a rapid onset of action. In addition, there is no requirement for routine coagulation monitoring; and no dose adjustment is necessary for age alone, sex, or body weight. Rivaroxaban has successfully met primary efficacy and safety endpoints in large, randomized phase III trials across several indications, including: prevention of venous thromboembolism in orthopedic patients undergoing elective hip or knee replacement surgery; treatment of deep vein thrombosis and secondary prevention of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism; stroke prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation; and secondary prevention of acute coronary syndrome. Rivaroxaban and the other newer oral anticoagulants are likely to improve outcomes in the prevention and treatment of thromboembolic events, and will offer patients and physicians alternative treatment options.
High GATA2 expression is a poor prognostic marker in pediatric acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Luesink Maaike , Hollink Iris H. I. M. , van der Velden Vincent H. J. , Knops Ruth H. J. N. , Boezeman Jan B. M. , de Haas Valérie , Trka Jan , Baruchel Andre , Reinhardt Dirk , van der Reijden Bert A. , van den Heuvel-Eibrink Marry M. , Zwaan C. Michel , Jansen Joop H.
Published: July 2012

In acute myeloid leukemia (AML), aberrant expression and mutations of transcription factors have been correlated with disease outcome. In the present study, we performed expression and mutation screening of GATA2, which is an essential transcription factor for regulation of myeloid lineage determination, in de novo pediatric AML patients. GATA2 mutations were detected in 5 of 230 patients, representing a frequency of 2.2% overall and 9.8% in cytogenetically normal AML. GATA2 expression analysis demonstrated that in 155 of 237 diagnostic samples (65%), GATA2 expression was higher than in normal BM. In complete remission, normalization of GATA2 expression was observed, whereas GATA2 expression levels stayed high in patients with resistant disease. High GATA2 expression at diagnosis was an independent poor prognostic factor for overall survival (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.7, P = .045), event-free survival (HR = 2.1, P = .002), and disease-free survival (HR = 2.3, P = .004). The prognostic impact of GATA2 was particularly evident in specific AML subgroups. In patients with French-American-British M5 morphology, inv(16), or high WT1 expression, significant differences in survival were observed between patients with high versus normal GATA2 expression. We conclude that high GATA2 expression is a novel poor prognostic marker in pediatric AML, which may contribute to better risk-group stratification and risk-adapted therapy in the future.
Commitment to glycolysis sustains survival of NO-producing inflammatory dendritic cells
Authors: Everts Bart , Amiel Eyal , van der Windt Gerritje J. W. , Freitas Tori C. , Chott Robert , Yarasheski Kevin E. , Pearce Erika L. , Pearce Edward J.
Published: July 2012

TLR agonists initiate a rapid activation program in dendritic cells (DCs) that requires support from metabolic and bioenergetic resources. We found previously that TLR signaling promotes aerobic glycolysis and a decline in oxidative phosphorylation (OXHPOS) and that glucose restriction prevents activation and leads to premature cell death. However, it remained unclear why the decrease in OXPHOS occurs under these circumstances. Using real-time metabolic flux analysis, in the present study, we show that mitochondrial activity is lost progressively after activation by TLR agonists in inflammatory blood monocyte–derived DCs that express inducible NO synthase. We found that this is because of inhibition of OXPHOS by NO and that the switch to glycolysis is a survival response that serves to maintain ATP levels when OXPHOS is inhibited. Our data identify NO as a profound metabolic regulator in inflammatory monocyte–derived DCs.
Two anatomically distinct niches regulate stem cell activity
Authors: Ema Hideo , Suda Toshio
Published: July 2012

The niche microenvironment controls stem cell number, fate, and behavior. The bone marrow, intestine, and skin are organs with highly regenerative potential, and all produce a large number of mature cells daily. Here, focusing on adult stem cells in these organs, we compare the structures and cellular components of their niches and the factors they produce. We then define the niche as a functional unit for stem cell regulation. For example, the niche possibly maintains quiescence and regulates fate in stem cells. Moreover, we discuss our hypothesis that many stem cell types are regulated by both specialized and nonspecialized niches, although hematopoietic stem cells, as an exception, are regulated by a nonspecialized niche only. The specialized niche is composed of 1 or a few types of cells lying on the basement membrane in the epithelium. The nonspecialized niche is composed of various types of cells widely distributed in mesenchymal tissues. We propose that the specialized niche plays a role in local regulation of stem cells, whereas the nonspecialized niche plays a role in relatively broad regional or systemic regulation. Further work will verify this dual-niche model to understand mechanisms underlying stem cell regulation.
A novel SYBR-based duplex qPCR for the detection of gene dosage: detection of an APC large deletion in a familial adenomatous polyposis patient with an unusual phenotype
Authors: Torrezan Giovana Tardin , da Silva Felipe Cavalcanti Carneiro , Krepischi Ana Cristina Victorino , dos Santos Érika Maria Monteiro , Rossi Benedito Mauro , Carraro Dirce Maria
Published: July 2012

Background

Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) is a hereditary colorectal cancer syndrome caused by a loss of function of the APC gene. Large deletions in APC are a common cause of FAP; despite the existence of a variety of gene dosage detection methodologies, most are labor intensive and time and resource consuming.

Methods

We describe a new duplex qPCR method for gene dosage analysis based on the coamplification of a target and a reference gene in a SYBR Green reaction, followed by a comparison of the ratio between the target and the reference peaks of the melting curve for the test (patient) and control samples. The reliability of the described duplex qPCR was validated for several genes (APC, HPRT1, ATM, PTEN and BRCA1).

Results

Using this novel gene dosage method, we have identified an APC gene deletion in a FAP patient undergoing genetic testing. Comparative genomic hybridization based on microarrays (aCGH) was used to confirm and map the extent of the deletion, revealing a 5.2 MB rearrangement (5q21.3-q22.3) encompassing the entire APC and 19 additional genes.

Conclusion

The novel assay accurately detected losses and gains of one copy of the target sequences, representing a reliable and flexible alternative to other gene dosage techniques. In addition, we described a FAP patient harboring a gross deletion at 5q21.3-q22.3 with an unusual phenotype of the absence of mental impairment and dysmorphic features.
Identification of BIRC6 as a novel intervention target for neuroblastoma therapy
Authors: Lamers Fieke , Schild Linda , Koster Jan , Speleman Frank , Øra Ingrid , Westerhout Ellen M , van Sluis Peter , Versteeg Rogier , Caron Huib N , Molenaar Jan J
Published: July 2012

Background

Neuroblastoma are pediatric tumors of the sympathetic nervous system with a poor prognosis. Apoptosis is often deregulated in cancer cells, but only a few defects in apoptotic routes have been identified in neuroblastoma.

Methods

Here we investigated genomic aberrations affecting genes of the intrinsic apoptotic pathway in neuroblastoma. We analyzed DNA profiling data (CGH and SNP arrays) and mRNA expression data of 31 genes of the intrinsic apoptotic pathway in a dataset of 88 neuroblastoma tumors using the R2 bioinformatic platform (http://r2.amc.nl). BIRC6 was selected for further analysis as a tumor driving gene. Knockdown experiments were performed using BIRC6 lentiviral shRNA and phenotype responses were analyzed by Western blot and MTT-assays. In addition, DIABLO levels and interactions were investigated with immunofluorescence and co-immunoprecipitation.

Results

We observed frequent gain of the BIRC6 gene on chromosome 2, which resulted in increased mRNA expression. BIRC6 is an inhibitor of apoptosis protein (IAP), that can bind and degrade the cytoplasmic fraction of the pro-apoptotic protein DIABLO. DIABLO mRNA expression was exceptionally high in neuroblastoma but the protein was only detected in the mitochondria. Upon silencing of BIRC6 by shRNA, DIABLO protein levels increased and cells went into apoptosis. Co-immunoprecipitation confirmed direct interaction between DIABLO and BIRC6 in neuroblastoma cell lines.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that BIRC6 may have a potential oncogenic role in neuroblastoma by inactivating cytoplasmic DIABLO. BIRC6 inhibition may therefore provide a means for therapeutic intervention in neuroblastoma.
Effectiveness of a long-term use of a minimalist footwear versus habitual shoe on pain, function and mechanical loads in knee osteoarthritis: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Trombini-Souza Francis , Fuller Ricardo , Matias Alessandra , Yokota Mariane , Butugan Marco , Goldenstein-Schainberg Claudia , Sacco Isabel C N
Published: July 2012

Background

Recent studies have shown an important reduction of joint overload during locomotion in elderly women with knee osteoarthritis (OA) after short-term use of minimalist shoes. Our aim is to investigate the chronic effect of inexpensive and minimalist footwear on the clinical and functional aspects of OA and gait biomechanics of elderly women with knee OA.

Methods/Design

Fifty-six elderly women with knee OA grade 2 or 3 (Kellgren and Lawrence) are randomized into blocks and allocated to either the intervention group, which will use flexible, non-heeled shoes— Moleca®—for six months for at least six hours daily, or the control group, which could not use these shoes. Neither group is undergoing physical therapy treatment throughout the intervention period. Moleca® is a women’s double canvas, flexible, flat walking shoe without heels, with a 5-mm anti-slip rubber sole and a 3-mm internal wedge of ethylene vinyl acetate. Both groups will be followed for six months and will be assessed at baseline condition, after three months, and after six months (end of intervention). All the assessments will be performed by a physiotherapist that is blind to the group allocation. The primary outcome is the pain Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis (WOMAC) score. The secondary outcomes are global WOMAC score; joint stiffness and disability WOMAC scores; knee pain with a visual analogue scale; walking distance in the six-minute walk test; Lequesne score; amount and frequency (number of days) of paracetamol (500 mg) intake over six months; knee adduction moment during gait; global medical assessment score; and global patient auto-assessment score. At baseline, all patients receive a diary to record the hours of daily use of the footwear intervention; every two weeks, the same physiotherapist makes phone calls to all patients in order to verify adherence to treatment. The statistical analysis will be based on intention-to-treat analysis, as well as general linear models of analysis of variance for repeated measure to detect treatment–time interactions (α = 5%).

Discussion

This is the first randomized, clinical trial protocol to assess the chronic effect of minimalist footwear on the clinical and functional aspects and gait biomechanics of elderly women with knee osteoarthritis. We expect that the use of Moleca® shoes for six months will provide pain relief, reduction of the knee adduction moment when walking, and improve joint function in elderly women with knee OA, and that the treatment, thus, can be considered another inexpensive and easy-to-use option for conservative OA treatment.

Trial registration

NCT01342458
Quantum dot-aluminum phthalocyanine conjugates perform photodynamic reactions to kill cancer cells via fluorescence resonance energy transfer
Authors: Li Lei , Zhao Jin-Feng , Won Nayoun , Jin Ho , Kim Sungjee , Chen Ji-Yao
Published: July 2012

Sulfonated aluminum phthalocyanines (AlPcSs), commonly used photosensitizers for photodynamic therapy of cancers (PDT), were conjugated with amine-dihydrolipoic acid-coated quantum dots (QDs) by electrostatic binding, achieving 70 AlPcSs per QD. The AlPcS-QD conjugates can utilize the intense light absorptions of conjugated QDs to indirectly excite AlPcSs producing singlet oxygen via fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET), demonstrating a new excitation model for PDT. The AlPcS-QD conjugates easily penetrated into human nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells and carried out the FRET in cells, with efficiency around 80%. Under the irradiation of a 532-nm laser, which is at the absorption region of QDs but not fit for the absorption of AlPcSs, the cellular AlPcS-QD conjugates can destroy most cancer cells via FRET-mediated PDT, showing the potential of this new strategy for PDT.
Immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome in HIV-infected patients with and without prior tuberculosis
Authors: Kumar S Ramesh , Gopalan Narendran , Patrawalla Paru , Menon Pradeep , Mayer Kenneth , Swaminathan Soumya
Published: July 2012

We conducted a nested case-control study in a cohort of patients initiating antiretroviral therapy (ART) to identify risk factors and common manifestations of immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) and to validate the Robertson criteria for IRIS prediction. HIV-infected patients at the Tuberculosis Research Centre clinics, Chennai and Madurai, India, initiating ART between July 2004 and June 2005 were prospectively studied. Of 97 patients (62% men, median age 32 years, median CD4 count 63 cells/μL) included, 34 developed IRIS. IRIS was more common in patients with a prior history of tuberculosis (74% versus 52%, P = 0.04), median time to development was 46 days and the sensitivity and specificity of the Robertson criteria to predict IRIS were 91% and 22%, respectively. In this population, IRIS was a common event, more so among patients with prior tuberculosis, and neither the rate of CD4 increase nor the Robertson criteria were useful in predicting its development.
Technical and Economic Assessment of Hybrid Energy Systems in South-West Nigeria
Authors: Adaramola M.S. , Oyewola O.M. , Paul S.S.
Published: July 2012

The technical and economic assessment of using hybrid energy system for electricity generation in rural communities in the south-west of Nigeria is investigated in this study. Renewable resources (wind and solar data) in Ibadan located on the latitude of 7.43 °N and longitude 3.91 °E are used. Hybrid Optimization Model for Electric Renewable software has been employed to carry out the present study. It was found that Wind-PV-Generator-Battery hybrid system is most suitable option as stand-alone electricity generating system in Ibadan. The optimal simulation results indicate that the levelised cost of energy for this hybrid energy system varies between $0.437/kWh and $0.606/kWh depending on the diesel price. These costs are significantly lower than the cost of using diesel generator only (without battery) which varies between $0.607 and $0.940 per kWh. It was further observed that there is a significant reduction in emission produced if hybrid energy system is used instead of only generator based energy system. The most suitable hybrid systems in other locations in southwest Nigeria can be identified from the optimal energy system plots provided.
Sequence Filling Patterns and Petroleum Implications of Lower Cretaceous Series in South Tamtsag Depression
Authors: Chen Wei , Liu Dameng , Dong Li , Zhang Keming
Published: July 2012

Sequence stratigraphic study of Lower Cretaceous strata in the South Tamtsag Depression of Mongolia identifies one second-order and four third-order sequences. These sequences are controlled by syndepositional fault activities at the slope-break zone of the lacustrine basin. At the initial rift stage of the basin, creation of accommodation space outpaced sediment accumulation and the lake level fell below the structural slope-break zone. Sequences formed in this stage can be divided into lowstand, transgressive and highstand system tracts. At the main rift stage, lake level did not fall below the structural slope-break zone and sequences formed in this stage consist of transgressive and regressive system tracts. Vertical stacking patterns within sequences are expressed by cyclic occurrences of alluvial fan, fan delta and delta deposits in the gentle slope belt located in the western part of the basin, and fan delta, nearshore subaqueous fan and lake deposits in the steep slope belt in the eastern part of the basin. The distribution of sandstone units in the sequences, which are the major target reservoirs, can be easily recognized through the combination of sedimentology analysis and interpretation of seismic reflection profiles. The slope-break zone of the lacustrine basin, which can be identified from seismic reflection profiles, played critical roles on the thickness and lateral extension of the sandbodies in the basin, and thus is the main controlling factor of petroleum reservoirs in the basin. Because mudstone and oil shale developed during the transgressive system tracts are hydrocarbon source rocks and cap rocks, deltaic sandstone units and incision channel fills are the most important petroleum reservoirs in the Tamtsag basin. Finally, this paper divides four types of subtle traps according to the petroleum accumulation model for future exploration.
Geochemical Characteristics and Oil-Source Correlation of Oil-Sand Extracts of Kelatuo Anticline in the Northern Kashi Sag, NW Tarim Basin, China
Authors: Cui Jingwei , Wang Tieguan , Zou Caineng , Li Meijun , Li Ningxi , Hu Jian
Published: July 2012

The Kashi Sag is an area with abundant gas/oil shows in the Tarim Basin of China. Identification of the sources of its oil and gas sources is important for petroleum exploration. We have applied molecular comparisons of oil sand extracts and two sets of potential source rocks from the Kashi Sag to appraise the source of the oil. The oil sand we studied is from the north limb of the Kelatuo Anticline. One of the potential source rocks is a Middle and Lower Jurassic silt-sand mudstone from Kuzigongsu Profile in the northern part of the basin, and the other is a Lower Carboniferous black shale from the Xilibili Profile in the southern part. The molecular source indicators used are the steranes, terpanes, and sesquiterpenoids in the saturated hydrocarbon fraction and the triaromatic steroids in the aromatic hydrocarbon fraction. Because great differences exist between the molecular compositions of the oil-sand extract and the Middle and Lower Jurassic mudstone, whereas the extract and the Lower Carboniferous black shale are similar, we conclude that the black shale of the Xilibili Profile in the southern part of the basin is the source rock of the sand oil.
Reservoir Characterization Using a Streamline-Assisted Ensemble Kalman Filter with Covariance Localization
Authors: Jung SeungPil , Choe Jonggeun
Published: July 2012

Ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF) is a recursive data process algorithm that uses continuous updating. It has been proven that EnKF is an efficient method for data assimilation, uncertainty assessment, and large scale problems in many engineering fields. However, there are two common limitations-filter divergence and overshooting/undershooting. These are due to reduction of cross-covariance between model parameters and measurements. We propose a streamline-assisted ensemble Kalman filter (SL EnKF) that uses covariance localization according to the types of well and measurement data. This method enables selective updates of permeability, therefore, providing more reliable permeability field estimations than the standard EnKF without overshooting/undershooting or filter divergence. In addition, it gives efficient uncertainty evaluations by considering the performances of each ensemble member.
The Differences of Physical Properties of Coal Reservoirs and Their Origin Mechanism between Zhijin and Panxian Areas, Western Guizhou, China
Authors: Li Song , Tang Dazhen , Xu Hao , Yang Zi
Published: July 2012

Western Guizhou has abundant coal resources, and it is considered as the most prospective area for coalbed methane (CBM) production in Southern China. To explore the potential of CBM production in this area, this study systematically addressed the differences of physical properties of coal reservoirs in the two typical areas (Zhijin and Panxian) of Western Guizhou, and on the base of that, deeply analyzed the forming mechanism of their differences. The results show that: the coal reservoirs in the Zhijin area are mainly high and medium rank coals with low porosity and poor permeability, and the pore structure is mainly dominated by micropores and transition pores; while the coal reservoirs in the Panxian area are mainly low and medium rank coals with high porosity and favorable permeability, and the pore structure is dominated by macropores and mesopores. The Langmuir volume and pressure of coal reservoirs in the Zhijin area are higher than those in the Panxian area, which indicates that coal reservoirs in the Zhijin area have much better adsorption capacity. The differences of physical properties of coal reservoirs in Western Guizhou are primarily controlled by the evolution degree of coal reservoirs. The evolution degree is dominated by the depositional and burial history as well as the tectonic thermal events afterwards: the depositional and burial history determines the difference of coal ranks between Zhijin and Panxian areas; while the tectonic thermal events are the main controlling factors of the internal differences of the coal ranks. Resulting from the various depositional and burial history or tectonic thermal events, different evolution process and physical-chemical structure generate, which in return determine the physical properties of coal reservoirs in Western Guizhou.
Study of the Structures of Carbon Foams Synthesized Using Non-Ionic Surfactants
Authors: Garcia-Cuello Vanessa S. , Giraldo Liliana , Moreno-Piraján Juan C.
Published: July 2012

Non-ionic nonylphenol ethoxylate surfactants containing 4, 6, 9 or 12 ethylene oxide residues per mole of nonylphenol were successfully used as templates for the synthesis of large-pore mesoporous carbon foams. The effects of surfactant type, foam resin precursor (phenol/formaldehyde/ethanol), temperature, thermal stability and the number of ethylene oxide residues per mole of nonylphenol on the resulting mesoporous carbon foams were studied in detail. The mesoporous carbon foams were characterized using several techniques, including scanning electron microscopy and nitrogen adsorption/desorption analysis. The present work showed that the number of ethylene oxide units on the surfactant template strongly affected the pore diameter and that the pore diameter, in turn, depended strongly on the heating time and temperature.
Adsorption Properties of Coriander Seed Powder (Coriandrum Sativum): Extraction and Pre-concentration of Pb(II), Cu(II) and Zn(II) Ions from Aqueous Solution
Authors: Rao Rifaqat Ali Khan , Kashifuddin M.
Published: July 2012

Coriander seed powder has been shown to exhibit a remarkable adsorption potential towards Pb(II), Cu(II) and Zn(II) ions from aqueous solution, with the adsorption capacities following the order Pb(II) > Cu(II) > Zn(II). The influences of pH, initial metal ion concentration, adsorbent dosage and contact time on the process were investigated. The adsorption data at different temperatures were well fitted by the Langmuir, Freundlich, Temkin and Dubinin–Radushkevich (D–R) model isotherms. The kinetic data obeyed the pseudo-second-order kinetic model. The thermodynamic parameters showed that the adsorption of Pb(II) ions was endothermic and spontaneous. Competitive adsorption in the Pb(II)–Cu(II) and Pb(II)–Zn(II) systems was also studied. The breakthrough capacities of Pb(II), Cu(II) and Zn(II) ions in single metal ion systems were higher than in multi-metal ion systems. The analytical application of the adsorption process was demonstrated by the removal of Pb(II) ions from the wastewater derive from the manufacture of lead acid batteries. Excellent results were obtained when desorption of the studied metal ion from very dilute solution was effected by column methods. Hence, these methods were further utilized for the extraction and pre-concentration of Pb(II), Cu(II) and Zn(II) ions from very dilute synthetic mixtures of these metal ions prepared in doubly distilled water as well as in tap water to enable their subsequent determination by atomic absorption spectrometry.
A Comparative Study of the Effects of Different Chemical Agents on the Pore-Size Distributions of Macadamia Nutshell-Based Activated Carbons Using Different Models
Authors: Okhovat Ahmad , Ahmadpour Ali
Published: July 2012

The effects of the chemical activation agent and the chemical/nutshell ratio (ranging from 15–500 mass%) on the pore-size distribution (PSD) of macadamia nutshell-based activated carbons have been investigated in this study. The adsorption isotherm data of two series of activated carbons prepared from macadamia nutshell by chemical activation with potassium hydroxide and zinc chloride were used. The three widely used models of Dubinin–Stoeckli, Stoeckli and Horvath–Kawazoe were applied for characterizing these porous solids.

Although the results showed some differences amongst these models arising from the fundamental assumptions on which they are based, in general they were comparable. Thus, at the same chemical ratio, samples activated by ZnCl2 showed more adsorption capacity than those from KOH. Moreover, the pore volumes increased as the impregnation ratio in each series increased. In addition, with increasing impregnation ratio (up to 100%) in the ZnCl2 series, the micropores were widened and a further increase in ZnCl2 content caused the micropores to change to mesopores. In the KOH series, increasing KOH created more micropores in the carbon structure over the whole range of chemical/nutshell ratio studied.
Functional Morphology at the Mall
Authors: Hippensteel Scott P.
Published: July 2012

The primary decorative flooring tile in the Southpark Mall in Charlotte, North Carolina, is fossiliferous limestone that contains Jurassic ammonoids and belemnoids. Visible in these tiles are more than 500 ammonoids, many of which have been cross sectioned equatorially perpendicular to the plane of coiling. Upper-level undergraduate students from UNC Charlotte used this data set to measure ammonoid coiling geometry and, thus, coiling strategy, and their findings were compared with earlier reported research presented in highly respected paleobiology journals. This example of urban paleobiology utilized a large, easily accessible, and readily available fossil data set to introduce functional morphology of coiled cephalopods. Similar data sets are available in public buildings around the United States, providing a valuable fossil resource at a time when shrinking academic budgets would prohibit purchasing such a collection (and many collections have not been updated in decades). As students compared their results with those previously published by professional paleontologists, they were exposed to the methods and limits of the scientific method in the historical sciences, as well as the dangers of poor sample selection.
The Painted Gulag: Kazuki Yasuo and The Siberia Within Me
Authors: Barshay Andrew E.
Published: July 2012

This essay explores the work of the Japanese painter Kazuki Yasuo (1911–1974), who was captured by Soviet forces at the end of World War II and spent eighteen months in a series of labor camps in Siberia. Particular emphasis is given to the link between image and word that emerged in his work as Kazuki struggled to come to terms with his memories of captivity.
How could we improve the increased cardiovascular mortality in patients with overt and subclinical hyperthyroidism?
Authors: Biondi Bernadette
Published: July 2012

Over the past five years several meta-analyses have evaluated the cardiovascular mortality in patients with hyperthyroidism. They assessed various studies in which different inclusion criteria were used for the analysis of the cardiovascular mortality. More selective criteria have been used in recent meta-analyses. Only prospective cohort studies were included and only cohorts using second and third generation TSH assays were chosen. In addition, only the studies where the TSH evaluation was repeated during the follow-up were selected. The results of these recent meta-analyses provide evidence that overt and subclinical hyperthyroidism, particularly in patients with undetectable serum TSH, may increase the cardiovascular mortality. However, still today, the results remain inconclusive and not sufficient enough to recommend treatment for patients with low-detectable serum TSH. The high cardiovascular risk and mortality in presence of thyroid hormone excess suggest that this dysfunction is an important health problem and requires guidelines for the treatment of patients at high cardiovascular risk. Rigorous studies are necessary to evaluate the effects of the various causes of hyperthyroidism on the clinical outcomes. Randomized controlled clinical trials are needed to assess the benefits of treatment to improve the cardiovascular mortality and morbidity of mild and overt hyperthyroidism.
Quality Improvement Initiative to Reduce Serious Safety Events and Improve Patient Safety Culture
Authors: Muething Stephen E. , Goudie Anthony , Schoettker Pamela J. , Donnelly Lane F. , Goodfriend Martha A. , Bracke Tracey M. , Brady Patrick W. , Wheeler Derek S. , Anderson James M. , Kotagal Uma R.
Published: July 2012

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

Many thousands of patients die every year in the United States as a result of serious and largely preventable safety events or medical errors. Safety events are common in hospitalized children. We conducted a quality improvement initiative to implement cultural and system changes with the goal of reducing serious safety events (SSEs) by 80% within 4 years at our large, urban pediatric hospital.

METHODS:

A multidisciplinary SSE reduction team reviewed the safety literature, examined recent SSEs, interviewed internal leaders, and visited other leading organizations. Senior hospital leaders provided oversight, monitored progress, and helped to overcome barriers. Interventions focused on: (1) error prevention; (2) restructuring patient safety governance; (3) a new root cause analysis process and a common cause database; (4) a highly visible lessons learned program; and (5) specific tactical interventions for high-risk areas. Our outcome measures were the rate of SSEs and the change in patient safety culture.

RESULTS:

SSEs per 10 000 adjusted patient-days decreased from a mean of 0.9 at baseline to 0.3 (P < .0001). The days between SSEs increased from a mean of 19.4 at baseline to 55.2 (P < .0001). After a worsening of patient safety culture outcomes in the first year of intervention, significant improvements were observed between 2007 and 2009.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our multifaceted approach was associated with a significant and sustained reduction of SSEs and improvements in patient safety culture. Multisite studies are needed to better understand contextual factors and the significance of specific interventions.
Controlled Synthesis of Si Nanopillar Arrays for Photovoltaic and Plasmonic Applications
Authors: Gautam Umesh , Wang Jun , Dachhepati Dilip , Mottaghian Seyyedsadegh , Bayat Khadijeh , Baroughi Mahdi Farrokh
Published: July 2012

This paper focuses on developing a robust process to independently control the geometrical parameters of Si nano-pillar (NP) arrays. These parameters include height and diameter of NPs, spacing between them, and the shape of the NPs. We have shown that the diameter, height, and spacing of NPs can be independently engineered by controlling the diameter of nano-beads through synthesis procedure, duration of isotropic SiO2 etching and duration of anisotropic Si etching, respectively.
The role of the uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) on the development of obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Brondani Letícia de Almeida , Assmann Taís Silveira , Duarte Guilherme Coutinho Kullmann , Gross Jorge Luiz , Canani Luís Henrique , Crispim Daisy
Published: July 2012

It is well established that genetic factors play an important role in the development of both type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) and obesity, and that genetically susceptible subjects can develop these metabolic diseases after being exposed to environmental risk factors. Therefore, great efforts have been made to identify genes associated with DM2 and/or obesity. Uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) is mainly expressed in brown adipose tissue, and acts in thermogenesis, regulation of energy expenditure, and protection against oxidative stress. All these mechanisms are associated with the pathogenesis of DM2 and obesity. Hence, UCP1 is a candidate gene for the development of these disorders. Indeed, several studies have reported that polymorphisms -3826A/G, -1766A/G and -112A/C in the promoter region, Ala64Thr in exon 2 and Met299Leu in exon 5 of UCP1 gene are possibly associated with obesity and/or DM2. However, results are still controversial in different populations. Thus, the aim of this study was to review the role of UCP1 in the development of these metabolic diseases.