bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Atypical Gunshot Wound from a Home‐Made Zip Gun—The Value of a Thorough Scene Investigation*
Authors: Cunliffe Clare H. , Denton J. Scott
Published: February 2008

Abstract: Zip guns and the atypical gunshot wounds they produce are rare in forensic pathology. Because of this, investigators and forensic pathologists may be unfamiliar with their construction, appearance, and the wounds associated with them. A 43‐year‐old mechanic, with a history of depression was found dead in a washroom stall at work with an atypical gunshot wound of the head. Upon initial investigation, no weapon was found at the scene. Due to the nature of the scene, and the unusual characteristics of the wound, the manner of death was at first thought to be a homicide. Subsequently, a simple zip gun, which had been overlooked during the scene investigation, was discovered by a co‐worker while he was cleaning the stall. Examination of the wound revealed evidence of contact range firing. A markedly deformed bullet was recovered from the head, consistent with the use of the home‐made gun. These findings, along with further police investigation and review of the past medical history, indicated that the manner of death was a suicide.
Migrant Deaths Along the California–Mexico Border: An Anthropological Perspective*
Authors: Hinkes Madeleine J.
Published: February 2008

Abstract:  California shares a 150‐mile international border with Mexico. Traditionally, this border has seen non‐stop illegal migration. In the 1990s, the Border Patrol began a concerted effort to establish and maintain control of the border, beginning in urban San Diego. This heightened law enforcement presence, known as Operation Gatekeeper, changed the westernmost segment of the border from the most permeable to the least permeable. This enforcement pushed migrants into more dangerous crossing areas in eastern San Diego and Imperial Counties, making their trip longer and more physically challenging as they made their way through treacherous mountains, deserts, and irrigation canals. Death rates soared. Political decisions impacted human lives and the caseloads of forensic anthropologists in jurisdictions along the border. Bodies decompose rapidly here, and there are minimal sources of antemortem data. Many of these migrants are never identified. This paper, and this symposium, is an attempt to bring this situation to the notice of other anthropologists and to discuss cooperative means of addressing the issue of identification.
Selection of an Adhesive Tape Suitable for Forensic Fiber Sampling
Authors: De Wael Kris , Gason Fabrice G. C. S. J. , Baes Christiaan A. V.
Published: February 2008

Abstract: Five commercial adhesive tapes were tested for fiber uptake and saturation, for recovery and for ease of analysis. On the basis of the results, a high tack adhesive tape has been selected to be used for forensic fiber sampling. This adhesive tape is used as sampling material in two different micro trace kits. The first tape lifting kit is used mainly for the sampling of cars and the second is a 1:1 tape lifting kit for the collection of fibers on a corpse.
Implantation of scleral‐fixated posterior chamber intraocular lenses in adults
Authors: Kjeka Ole , Bohnstedt Jesper , Meberg Kyrre , Seland Johan H.
Published: February 2008

Purpose:  To report the results of transscleral fixation of posterior chamber intraocular lenses in adults.

Methods:  We carried out a retrospective analysis of 91 eyes of 81 patients who underwent implantation of posterior chamber lenses with transscleral sutures between 1997 and 2006. The mean age of the patients was 62 years (range 19–94 years). Sixty‐eight eyes (74.7%) were aphakic at the time of surgery. In 10 patients (11.0%) an intracapsular cataract extraction and in six patients (6.6%) a pars plana lensectomy was performed prior to the fixation of the posterior chamber intraocular lens. In seven eyes (7.7%) a previously implanted IOL was removed. The mean follow‐up was 36 months (range 6–116 months).

Results:  The mean preoperative best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 0.37 (range counting fingers to 1.0), which improved to 0.5 (range light perception to 1.0) postoperatively. At the end of follow‐up, BCVA was unchanged or improved in 81 eyes (89.0%), reduced by 2 Snellen lines in four eyes (4.4%), and between finger counting and light perception in four eyes (4.4%). The most serious complication was suprachoroidal haemorrhage, which occurred in two eyes. Retinal detachment occurred in three eyes, all of which successfully reattached after surgery. Suture erosion or spontaneous dislocation caused by suture degradation or breakage was not seen.

Conclusions:  Secondary implantation of posterior chamber intraocular lenses with transscleral fixation is a reasonably safe procedure in adults, with relatively few serious complications. Even in patients with longterm follow‐up, suture breakage was not seen.
Allergic and photoallergic contact dermatitis from ketoprofen: results of (photo) patch testing and follow‐up of 42 patients*
Authors: Devleeschouwer Veerle , Roelandts Rik , Garmyn Marjan , Goossens An
Published: February 2008

Background:  Photoallergic contact dermatitis from topical ketoprofen (KP), a nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory agent, is a well‐known side effect.

Objectives:  To investigate photo‐contact allergic reactions to KP and other nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), sunscreens, and fragrance components as well as the presence of prolonged photosensitivity related to it.

Patients/Methods:  From June 1993 to June 2007, 42 patients were patch tested and photopatch tested with the ingredients of a KP preparation and other relevant substances. A questionnaire was performed in order to determine the importance of prolonged photosensitivity; 40/42 did respond.

Results:  38 patients showed photo‐contact reaction, 1 photoaggravated reaction, and 3 contact allergic (CA) reaction to KP. Simultaneous photo‐contact allergic reactions were frequently observed not only to structurally related but also to non‐structurally related NSAIDs and sunscreens. Simultaneous CA to fragrance components was common. 1/3 of the patients reported prolonged photosensitivity, i.e. from 1 up to 14 years after having stopped KP application.

Conclusions:  The history is often not a good guidance to determine KP‐related (photo) allergic contact dermatitis and the severe clinical symptoms sometimes require hospitalization, and/or systemic corticosteroids. As for the association between KP and sunscreen intolerance (being 1 of the possible causal factors for recurrent dermatitis), routine standard photopatch testing with KP might be indicated.
Burkitt lymphoma/leukaemia transformed from a precursor B cell: clinical and molecular aspects
Authors: Hassan Rocio , Felisbino Fabricio , Stefanoff Claudio Gustavo , Pires Virginia , Klumb Claudete E. , Dobbin Jane , Seuánez Héctor N. , Renault Ilana Zalcberg
Published: February 2008

Burkitt lymphoma/leukaemia (BL/L) is a heterogeneous disease with respect to epidemiological patterns and cell origin. The occurrence of BL/L with an immature phenotype raises the question whether this phenotype might be a consequence of early B‐cell transformation or, alternatively, a secondary feature of transformed, mature B cells. It also poses important clinical questions regarding diagnosis and therapeutic procedures. Here we describe the case of a 4‐yr‐old child with BL/L and FAB L3 morphology, with phenotypic and genotypic characteristics of a CD10+ precursor B‐cell acute lymphoid leukaemia (ALL) associated with t(8;14)(q24;q32). Molecular analysis showed expression of RAG1 and RAG2 and an unmutated VDJCμ immunoglobulin rearrangement coinciding with a lack of AICDA expression, indicating an immature B‐cell origin. His clinical response suggested that FAB L3 ALL with MYC rearrangement and an aberrant precursor B‐cell phenotype is clinically similar to BL/L. Moreover, short, intensive chemotherapeutic protocols seemed to be beneficial. This case also allowed us to refine the description of cellular and molecular variants of BL/L regarding the cell origin and pathogenesis of this biologically heterogeneous disease.
Congenital dyserythropoietic anaemia, type I, in a Caucasian patient with retinal angioid streaks (homozygous arg1042trp mutation in codanin‐1)
Authors: Tamary H. , Offret H. , Dgany O. , Foliguet B. , Wickramasinghe S. N. , Krasnov T. , Rumilly F. , Goujard C. , Fénéant‐Thibault M. , Cynober T. , Delaunay J.
Published: February 2008

A congenital dyserythropoietic anaemia (CDA) was recognised in a French Caucasian male patient. Blood smears showed a pronounced aniso‐poikilocytosis. Bone marrow light microscopy showed signs of dyserythropoesis, but no internuclear chromatin bridges. Electron microscopy disclosed erythroblast nuclei with the Swiss cheese aspect and the presence of cytoplasmic organelles, assessing the diagnosis of CDA I. The presence of internuclear chromatin bridges may thus be missing in CDA I. The patient proved to be homozygous for the Arg1042Trp mutation in codanin‐1 (the ‘Bedouin mutation’). By the age of 25, the patient’s vision started to deteriorate as a result of retinal angioid streaks and macular abnormalities. Evolution was controlled and the patient, being nearly 50 yr old now, still has a partial use of his eyes. This second case of retinal angioid streaks reported in CDA I adds to the non‐haematological features likely to be associated with this condition.
Genomic tissue typing and optimal antithymocyte globuline dose using unrelated donors results in similar survival and relapse as HLA‐identical siblings in haematopoietic stem‐cell transplantation for leukaemia
Authors: Remberger Mats , Mattsson Jonas , Hausenberger Dan , Schaffer Marie , Svahn Britt‐Marie , Ringdén Olle
Published: February 2008

Sixty‐one leukaemia patients treated with haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) from a genomic human leucocyte antigen (HLA)‐A, ‐B and –DRβ1 matched unrelated donor (MUD) were compared with 121 patients with an HLA‐identical sibling donor. All patients received conventional conditioning. We selected all patients with unrelated donors who received optimal antithymocyte globuline (ATG) dose, 6 mg/kg. One hundred and seven patients received stem cells from peripheral blood and 75 patients received bone marrow (BM) cells. The incidences of acute graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD) grades II–IV were 33.4% and 34.7% in the MUD and sibling group, respectively. After year 2001, the incidence of chronic GVHD was similar in the two groups (27.8% vs. 25.8%). There was no difference in overall survival (60% vs. 60%), transplant‐related mortality (18.6% vs. 16.6%) and relapse (23% vs. 26.4%) between the two groups. Conclusion: Haematopoietic stem cell transplantation with unrelated donors results in similar GVHD, relapse and survival as compared to using sibling donors. Reasons for this may be improved tissue‐typing techniques and supportive care and optimisation of the ATG dose.
Slp1 and Slp2‐a Localize to the Plasma Membrane of CTL and Contribute to Secretion from the Immunological Synapse
Authors: Holt Oliver , Kanno Eiko , Bossi Giovanna , Booth Sarah , Daniele Tiziana , Santoro Alessandra , Arico Maurizio , Saegusa Chika , Fukuda Mitsunori , Griffiths Gillian M.
Published: February 2008

Rab27a is required for polarized secretion of lysosomes from cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) at the immunological synapse. A series of Rab27a‐interacting proteins have been identified; however, only Munc13‐4 has been found to be expressed in CTL. In this study, we screened for expression of the synaptotagmin‐like proteins (Slps): Slp1/JFC1, Slp2‐a/exophilin4, Slp3‐a, Slp4/granuphilin, Slp5 and rabphilin in CTL. We found that both Slp1 and Slp2‐a are expressed in CTL. Isoforms of Slp2‐a in CTL showed variation of the linker region but conserved the C2A and C2B and Slp homology (SHD) domains. Both Slp1 and Slp2‐a interact with Rab27a in CTL, and Slp2‐a, but not Slp1, is rapidly degraded when Rab27a is absent. Slp2‐a contains PEST‐like sequences within its linker region, which render it susceptible to degradation. Both Slp1 and Slp2‐a localize predominantly to the plasma membrane of both human and mouse CTLs, and we show that Slp2‐a can focus tightly at the immunological synapse formed with a target cell. Individual knockouts of either Slp2‐a or Slp1 fail to impair CTL‐mediated killing of targets; however, overexpression of a dominant‐negative construct consisting of the SHD of Slp2‐a, which is 56% identical to that of Slp1, reduces target cell death, suggesting that both Slp1 and Slp2‐a contribute to secretory lysosome exocytosis from CTL. These results suggest that both Slp1 and Slp2‐a may form part of a docking complex, capturing secretory lysosomes at the immunological synapse.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE: Serial Estimation of Th1:Th2 Cytokines Profile in Women Undergoing In‐Vitro Fertilization‐Embryo Transfer
Authors: Kalu Emmanuel , Bhaskaran Shree , Thum Meen Yau , Vishwanatha Radhika , Croucher Carolyn , Sherriff Elizabeth , Ford Brian , Bansal Amolak S.
Published: February 2008

Problem

To investigate changes in the ratio of T‐cell subpopulations expressing intracellular T helper1 (Th1) and T helper 2 (Th2) cytokines in women with a history of recurrent failed implantation under going in‐vitro fertilization (IVF)‐embryo transfer.

Method of study

Twenty‐eight peripheral blood samples were obtained at two time points, from 14 women undergoing IVF treatment; eight women with a history of recurrent failed implantation, who did not get pregnant in the index IVF cycle and six who had one or more previous successful IVF pregnancy and who became pregnant in the index IVF cycle. The proportion of lymphocytes expressing interferon‐gamma (IFN‐γ), tumour necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α), and interleukin 4 (IL‐4) and the Th1:Th2 ratios of IFN‐γ:IL‐4, and TNF‐α:IL‐4 in T helper cells was measured by flow cytometry, in samples obtained before commencing IVF treatment and in samples obtained after ovarian stimulation (on the day of oocyte retrieval).

Results

In samples collected during oocyte retrieval, women with a history of recurrent failed implantation had a higher IFN‐γ:IL‐4 and TNF‐α:IL‐4 ratio than the control group, (18.6 ± 9.3 versus 6.47 ± 1.68, P = 0.009) and (39.1 ± 15.7 versus 11.53 ± 3.76, P = 0.001) respectively. In women with a history of recurrent failed implantation the ratio of IFN‐γ:IL‐4 and TNF‐α:IL‐4 at oocyte retrieval was higher than pre‐treatment ratios (18.6 ± 9.3 versus 12.01 ± 9.8, P = 0.018) and 39.10 ± 15.7 versus 18.66 ± 11.42, P = 0.010) respectively, showing a Th1 bias. In women with a successful IVF the converse was true; the ratio at oocyte retrieval was significantly lower than pre‐treatment ratios (6.47 ± 1.68 versus 9.37 ± 6.8, P = 0.035) and 11.53 ± 3.76 versus 18.60 ± 12.9, P = 0.027) respectively, representing a Th2 bias.

Conclusion

Women with a history of unexplained recurrent failed IVF treatment have a Th1 bias and this polarization is more enhanced following hormonal manipulations during IVF treatment. Comparing pre‐treatment ratios of IFN‐γ:IL‐4 and TNF‐α:IL‐4 to ratios obtained at oocyte retrieval may be clinically useful. Women with recurrent failed IVF have increasing ratios.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE: Investigation of Recombinant Mouse Sperm Protein Izumo as a Potential Immunocontraceptive Antigen
Authors: Wang De‐Gang , Huang Tian‐Hua , Xie Qing‐Dong , An Gang
Published: February 2008

Problem

To determine if the recombinant mouse Izumo (mIzumo) could be used as a potential immunocontraceptive antigen.

Method of study

The recombinant mIzumo fused with 6His tag (6His‐mIzumo) was purified by immobilized Ni2+ affinity chromatography. Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and Western blot were used to detect anti‐6His‐mIzumo activities of serum from the mice immunized with 6His‐mIzumo. Inhibition of the anti‐6His‐mIzumo antibody on mouse sperm–egg fusion in vitro was performed using the zona free oocytes and acrosome reacted sperm. Fertility of the 6His‐mIzumo immunized male and female mice was compared with control mice.

Results

The recombinant mIzumo was successfully produced. Female and male mice inoculated with 6His‐mIzumo developed a specific serum antibody and the highest antibody titer lasted at least 6 weeks. The serum anti‐6His‐mIzumo antibody almost completely blocked mouse sperm–egg fusion in vitro. However, there was no significant reduction in fertility for both male and female mice immunized with 6His‐mIzumo compared with control mice.

Conclusion

The circulated anti‐mIzumo antibody can block mouse sperm–egg fusion in vitro but has no effect on fertility in vivo. It seems that application of Izumo as a candidate antigen in development of contraceptive vaccine needs further investigation.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE: Prednisolone Suppresses NK Cell Cytotoxicity In Vitro in Women With a History of Infertility and Elevated NK Cell Cytotoxicity
Authors: Thum Meen‐Yau , Bhaskaran Shree , Abdalla Hossam I , Ford Brian , Sumar Nazira , Bansal Amolak
Published: February 2008

Problem

To evaluate the effect of prednisolone on NK cell cytotoxicity in vitro environment and also to compare the effect of prednisolone versus immunoglobulin‐G (IVIG) on NK cell cytotoxicity using in vitro co‐culture with K562 cells.

Method of study

The following is a prospective observational study, between August 2006 and February 2007, was carried out on blood samples from 110 patients with a history of recurrent miscarriage or recurrent failed implantation. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells containing NK cells were isolated and co‐cultured with target cell K562 in three different effector‐to‐target (E:T) ratios of 50:1, 25:1 and 12.5:1. Prednisolone or IVIG was then added to the tube with E:T ratio of 50:1 to assess suppressive effect. The percentage killing was recorded and statistical analysis performed using Student’s t–test.

Results

In the experiments with an E:T ratio of 50:1 without prednisolone or IVIG in the co‐culture, the mean target cell killing percentage was 26.4%. In cultures using the same E:T ratio, this killing percentage was significantly reduced in the presence of IVIG (9.9%) or prednisolone (13.6%), (P < 0.001 in both analyses). On comparing the reduction in killing percentage of target cells by prednisolone versus IVIG, a slightly lower reduction in the prednisolone co‐culture was noted but this was not statistically significant (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

The results of this study show that prednisolone is able to suppress the cytolytic activity of the NK cell. Prednisolone and IVIG are almost equally effective in suppressing in vitro NK cell cytolytic activity.
Non‐surgical periodontal treatment of cyclosporin A‐induced gingival overgrowth: immunohistochemical results
Authors: Aimetti M , Romano F , Marsico A , Navone R
Published: February 2008

Aim:  The present study was planned to analyze the effects of a 12‐month non‐surgical periodontal treatment on histologic and immunohistochemical features of cyclosporin A (CsA)‐induced gingival overgrowth (GO).

Materials and methods:  Gingival samples were collected from 21 liver transplant subjects exhibiting CsA‐induced GO prior to, and 12 months after non‐surgical periodontal therapy including oral hygiene instructions, scaling and 2‐month recall appointments, and also from 18 healthy control subjects. Gingival biopsy specimens were stained with hematoxylin–eosin and monoclonal antibodies for vimentin, CD3 (T‐lymphocytes), CD20 (B‐lymphocytes), CD34 (endothelium) and Ki‐67 (fibroblasts proliferation rate), using a streptavidin‐biotin‐peroxidase complex method.

Results:  Total inflammatory cells, gingival vessels and fibroblast proliferation rate demonstrated significant reduction after non‐surgical periodontal treatment (P < 0.0001) in overgrown gingiva, while B‐ and T‐lymphocytes remained nearly unchanged (P = 0.61 and 0.33, respectively). At the 12‐month evaluation no significant differences were found when comparing the gingival biopsies from CsA‐treated patients and those from healthy controls (P > 0.05).

Conclusions:  Control of clinical inflammation by means of non‐surgical periodontal treatment results both in lowering of inflammatory infiltrate and in changes in connective tissue composition. Thus, plaque‐induced inflammation would seem to modulate the drug‐gingival tissue interaction.

Clinical relevance:  A strict plaque control program play a pivotal role in the management of transplant patients exhibiting cyclosporin A‐GO.
α‐Lipoic acid treatment of 31 patients with sore, burning mouth
Authors: Steele JC , Bruce AJ , Drage LA , Rogers RS
Published: February 2008

Objective:  To review a series of patients with sore, burning mouth treated with α‐lipoic acid between 2000 and May 2006 and subjectively evaluate improvement in symptoms.

Design:  Retrospective review of medical records of 195 consecutive patients who sought treatment for sore, burning mouth. Treatment of 47 patients was a prescription/recommendation for α‐lipoic acid. Of these patients, 35 were available for follow‐up.

Setting:  Tertiary care academic medical center.

Subjects:  Ambulatory patients given prescription /recommendation for α‐lipoic acid 600 mg per day, in divided doses.

Main Outcome Measure:  Reported improvement in symptoms documented in medical records and at follow‐up (visits or telephone interviews).

Results:  Thirty‐one of the 35 patients (66% of all 47) actually took α‐lipoic acid as recommended. No patient reported a complete alleviation of symptoms. Six (19%) of these 31 patients felt mostly better, five (16%) felt somewhat better, and 14 (45%) reported no difference. Two patients (7%) reported a worsening of symptoms and four (13%) did not know whether there had been improvement.

Conclusion:  Eleven of 31 patients (35%) reported benefit from taking α‐lipoic acid. Because we examined only a small number of patients and relied on a subjective outcome assessment, further larger studies using a prospective, randomized, controlled, and double‐blind structure are warranted.
Obesity – a social and physical risk
Authors: Parlesak Alexandr , Krömker Dörthe
Published: February 2008

Overweight and obesity are an accepted cause of numerous metabolic disor‐ders. The obvious strategies for prevention and therapy of increased fat body mass (reduction of energy intake, increase of physical activity) fail in most cases, especially with respect to their sustainability. The lack of success of programs developed so far for prevention and therapy of obesity suggests the existence of poorly‐understood regulatory mechanisms leading to the imbalance between energy uptake and energy expenditure. Besides physiological factors,such as dysregulated levels of hunger‐controlling or satiation‐mediating hormones, the composition of the intestinal flora and synthetic compounds with hormone‐like activity have been suggested as triggers of the development of obesity.

Along with biological and metabolic parameters, scientists have focused more and more on psychological and sociological factors in the development of a strategy for the prevention of obesity. Important factors in this context are the motivation and ability to self‐regulation and aspects of the socio‐cultural context. Consequently, the real challenge in reducing the prevalence of obesity is not only the identification of relevant parameters but also the assessment of proportionality of these factors. To achieve this goal, borders of disciplines dealing with obesity development (nutrition, medicine, kinematics, psychology, sociology) need to be overcome. Common models must be developed that facilitate the assessment of both the importance of single factors and their relationship to each other.
The Effects of Federalism on Productivity in Chinese Firms
Authors: Dougherty Sean M. , McGuckin Robert H.
Published: February 2008

This study offers empirical evidence about how the structure of government and private ownership affected productivity in Chinese firms. It uses the microdata of China's last decennial industrial census, covering all of the 23,000 large and medium-sized industrial firms operating in China during 1995. The results show that government decentralization – ‘federalism’ – played an important role in improving the performance of not just collective firms, but also state-owned and mixed public/private ownership firms. This result is strongly confirmatory of much of the recent theoretical work on transition economies that posits a key role for government in the efficient operation of markets.
Mapping Nursing Interventions From a Hospital Information System to the Nursing Interventions Classification (NIC)
Authors: Coenen Amy , Ryan Polly , Sutton Janice
Published: February 2008

TOPIC. Using the Nursing Interventions Classifications (NIC) as a standard to classify interventions identified in a hospital intervention system.

SOURCES. Literature and the authors experience with standardized data systems for nursing.

PURPOSE. To describe the processes used and the issues that arose as interventions from a hospital nursing information system were mapped to interventions in the NIC.

CONCLUSIONS. The NIC provided a standard for the classification of nursing interventions from a hospital information system resulting in data that could be compared across sites. Ongoing testing of nursing intervention classifications is recommended.
Comparison of the abilities of centipedegrass (Eremochloa ophiuroides Hack.) and zoysiagrass (Zoysia japonica Steud.) to purify liquid animal waste
Authors: Takada‐Oikawa Naoko , Kawanabe Sukeo , Oshida Toshio , Ukiya Yuya
Published: February 2008

In the land application system to purify liquid animal waste, the introduction of vegetation has further increased treatment ability. Although the vegetation beds were covered with zoysiagrass (Zoysia japonica Steud.), we introduced centipedegrass (Eremochloa ophiuroides Hack.) into an experimental bed in order to promote the purification activity of secondary treatment after primary treatment during a midsummer period because centipedegrass thrives even in hotter conditions and to compare its purification ability with that of zoysiagrass. The results showed that the centipedegrass bed had a higher purification ability than zoysiagrass beds in a hot season. The drainage material purified through the centipedegrass bed demonstrated lower values of turbidity, electric conductivity, chemical oxygen demand, total phosphorus, total nitrogen and ammonium‐nitrogen, and higher concentrations of nitrate‐nitrogen than that purified through the zoysiagrass bed during the middle vegetative stage when the centipedegrass reached the highest biomass. These results suggested that nitrification had occurred vigorously in the centipedegrass plot. It was suggested that the higher nitrogen purification ability of the centipedegrass was linked to both better absorption of nitrogen and nitrification.
Seasonal changes in herbage production and soil phosphorus contents in Japanese lawngrass (Zoysia japonica Steud.) and tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea Schreb.) pastures
Authors: Kaneko Makoto , Kurokawa Yuzo , Tanaka Haruo , Suzuki Sohzoh , Itabashi Hisao
Published: February 2008

Seasonal changes in the above‐ground phosphorus (P), soil total P (TP), soil Olsen P (OP) and soil microbial biomass P (MBP) were investigated for 2 years in Japanese lawngrass (Zy) and tall fescue (Tf) pastures on Japanese Andosol, with the goal of clarifying P characteristics in the Zy pasture in comparison with the Tf pasture. The soil P attributes were measured in two soil layers (root mat layer, 0–2.5 cm depth; under layer, 5–10 cm depth). The P concentration of the above‐ground herbage in the Zy pasture, which was higher than the standard value and similar to those in the Tf pasture, might have contributed to the large amounts of the above‐ground P mass. The lack of plowing management and the coverage with Japanese lawngrass might have changed soil TP. The TP, the OP and the OP/TP in the Zy pasture were higher than those in the Tf pasture, and the TP, the OP and the OP/TP at the root mat layer were higher than those at the under layer. A large amount of the TP and high P availability in the soil caused the large amounts of OP. Soil pH, soil microorganisms and MBP might have affected soil P availability in the Zy pasture. Plant litter in the root mat layer of the Zy pasture may have increased soil P accumulation and its availability, which might be reasons for the high P uptake in the present study. Japanese lawngrass pasture may be a system with improved soil P utilization efficiency based on P cycling.
Is cattle grazing an effective deterrent against sika deer (Cervus nippon) intrusion into pastures?
Authors: Tsukada Hideharu , Fukasawa Michiru , Kosako Takami
Published: February 2008

We tested whether grazing by cattle is effective for deterring persistent sika deer intrusion into two pastures (HB and DB) in Tochigi, Japan. The relative abundance of deer appearance at the pastures (RAIdeer), as evaluated by camera trapping, was compared at various cattle stocking densities (CSD) in HB (0–2.5 cow‐days ha−1 camera‐day−1) and DB (0–14.3 cow‐day ha−1 camera‐day−1). For controlling the several factors affecting RAIdeer, the least‐squares means (LSM) of RAIdeer in HB and the adjusted values of RAIdeer (adjRAIdeer) in HB and DB were calculated using ancova. In HB, a significant positive correlation was observed between RAIdeer and CSD (r = 0.295, P < 0.001), but not between adjRAIdeer and CSD (r = 0.101, P = 0.15). The LSM of the RAIdeer was significantly (P < 0.05) higher during the grazing period (May–October) than during the nongrazing period. In DB, there was no significant correlation between the RAIdeer and CSD (r = –0.023, P = 0.76) or between the adjRAIdeer and CSD (r = –0.118, P = 0.13). These results suggest that the increment of cattle stocking density will not deter sika deer from intruding into a permanent pasture that has been persistently grazed by cattle. Grazing cattle is not sufficient for preventing pasture damage by sika deer.
NEOGENE OIL AND GAS RESERVOIRS IN THE PROGRESO BASIN, OFFSHORE ECUADOR AND PERU: IMPLICATIONS FOR PETROLEUM EXPLORATION AND DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Deckelman J. A. , Connors F. X. , Shultz A. W. , Glagola P. A. , Menard W. M. , Schwegal S. R. , Shearer J. N.
Published: February 2008

The Progreso Basin is an Oligocene to Recent forearc basin of pull‐apart/translational origin. In Peru, the basin contains proven petroleum reservoir sandstones of Early Miocene age at the Albacora field and the Barracuda‐4 well. In Ecuador, Middle Miocene sandstones tested oil at well Golfo de Guayaquil‐1, and Middle/Upper Miocene and Pliocene (?) sandstones produce gas at the Amistad field. Neogene sandstones are dominated by litharenites and feldspathic litharenites derived from uplifted and eroded Andean, Amotape (metamorphic), and oceanic crustal terranes. These are interpreted to have been deposited in neritic, brackish/coastal, and continental environments with locally steep gradients. The oil‐producing sandstones at Golfo de Guayaquil‐1 (∼12,300 to 12,418 ft RKB) and a gas‐producing sandstone of anomalously high porosity and permeability at Amistad‐1 (9,870 to 9,895 ft RKB) are of interpreted fluvio‐deltaic origin.

Sidewall core and wireline log data indicate that reservoir storage capacity is good to very good. Porosity ranges from 15% to 30%, and is consistently greater than 20% where overburden is less than 10,000 ft. Compaction is the principal porosity occluding mechanism; sequential precipitation of authigenic chlorite, clinoptilolite (zeolite), and authigenic calcite has occluded porosity to a variable extent. Porosity preservation is assisted by disequlibrium compaction related to overpressuring throughout the basin.

Reservoirs at the Amistad field have variable flow capacity. While the permeability of many sandstones is less than 20 mD, other sandstones, with probable Darcy‐scale permeability, have sustained commercial flows of gas since the onset of production in 2002. The flow capacity of offshore Peruvian reservoirs is limited. The most productive well at the Albacora field flowed at an average rate of only 451 b/d oil prior to abandonment.

DST data from the Amistad field and the interpreted fluvio‐deltaic environment of deposition of some sandstones indicate that stratigraphic compartmentalization can be expected locally. Structural compartmentalization due to faulting occurs at Albacora field and is likely in other tectonically active areas. The sands are multistoried; they are interbedded with mudrocks and they typically are on the order of 100 ft or less in thickness.

Gross‐sand thickness decreases westward and reservoir‐presence risk increases westward due to a number of factors including increasing distance from the sediment source; erosion of Miocene strata and complete truncation of Pliocene strata at an intra‐Pleistocene unconformity; onlap of the Neogene sequence onto the accretionary complex; and the presence of local bathymetric highs related to active mud diapirism.
RESERVOIR POTENTIAL OF A LACUSTRINE MIXED CARBONATE / SILICICLASTIC GAS RESERVOIR: THE LOWER TRIASSIC ROGENSTEIN IN THE NETHERLANDS
Authors: Palermo D. , Aigner T. , Geluk M. , Poeppelreiter M. , Pipping K.
Published: February 2008

The Lower Triassic Rogenstein Member of the Buntsandstein Formation produces gas at the De Wijk and Wanneperveen fields, NE Netherlands and consists mainly of claystones with intercalated oolitic limestone beds. The excellent reservoir properties of the oolites (φ= 20‐30%; k = 5‐4000 mD) are predominantly controlled by depositional facies. Oolitic limestones are interpreted as the storm and wave deposits of a shallow, desert lake located in the Central European Buntsandstein Basin.

The vertical sequence of lithofacies in the Rogenstein Member indicates cyclic changes of relative lake level. The reservoir rock is vertically arranged in a three‐fold hierarchy of cycles, recognised both in cores and wireline logs. These cycles are a key to understanding the distribution of reservoir facies, and are used as the basis for a high‐resolution sequence stratigraphic correlation of the reservoir units.

Slight regional‐scale thickness variations of the Rogenstein Member (in the order of tens of metres) are interpreted as the effects of differential subsidence associated with the inherited Palaeozoic structural framework. The depositional basin can be subdivided into subtle palaeo‐highs and ‐lows which controlled facies distribution during Rogenstein deposition. Oolitic limestones show their greatest lateral extent and thickest development in the Middle Rogenstein during large‐scale maximum flooding.

Potential reservoir rocks (decimetre to metres thick) are present in the NE Netherlands, in particular in the Lauwerszee Trough and the Lower Saxony Basin, where abundant gas shows of 200 ‐ 4000 ppm CH4 have been recorded. Preserved primary porosity is interpreted to be a result of rapid burial in subtle depositional palaeo‐lows in this area. The thickest, amalgamated oolite intervals (tens of metres thick) occur in the eastern part of the Central Netherlands Basin. Because of poor reservoir properties, other areas appear to be less promising in terms of Rogenstein exploration potential.
Prevalence of Bacterial Pathogens and their Anti‐microbial Resistance in Tilapia and their Pond Water in Trinidad
Authors: Newaj‐Fyzul A. , Mutani A. , Ramsubhag A. , Adesiyun A.
Published: February 2008

In Trinidad, Tilapia (Oreonchromis spp.) is one of the most important fresh water food fish and the number of farms has been increasing annually. A study was conducted in the local tilapia industry to determine the microbial quality of pond water, prevalence of bacterial pathogens and their anti‐microbial resistance using the disk diffusion method. Seventy‐five apparently healthy fish and 15 pond water samples from three of the four commercial tilapia fish farms in the country were processed. The 202 bacterial isolates recovered from fish slurry and 88 from water, belonged to 13 and 16 genera respectively. The predominant bacteria from fish slurry were Pseudomonas spp. (60.0%), Aeromonas spp. (44.0%), Plesiomonas (41.3%) and Chromobacterium (36.0%) (P < 0.05; χ2) compared with isolates from pond water where Bacillus spp. (80.0%), Staphylococcus spp., Alcaligenes spp. and Aeromonas spp. (60.0%) were most prevalent (P < 0.05; χ2). Using eight anti‐microbial agents, to test bacteria from five genera (Aeromonas, Chromobacterium, Enterobacter, Plesiomonas and Pseudomonas), 168 (97.1%) of 173 bacterial isolates from fish slurry exhibited resistance to one or more anti‐microbial agents compared with 47 (90.4%) of 52 from water (P > 0.05; χ2). Resistance was high to ampicillin, 90.2% (158 of 173), erythromycin, 66.5% (115 of 173) and oxytetracycline, 52.6%, (91 of 173) but relatively low to chloramphenicol, 9.8% (17 of 173) and sulphamethoxazole/trimethoprim, 6.4% (11 of 173) (P < 0.05; χ2). For pond water isolates, the frequency of resistance across bacterial genera ranged from 75% (nine of 12) for Chromobacter spp. to 100% found amongst Enterobacter spp. (six of six), Plesiomonas spp. (nine of nine) and Pseudomonas spp. (eight of eight) (P < 0.05; χ2). Resistance was generally high to ampicillin, 78.8% (41 of 52), erythromycin, 51.9% (27 of 52) and oxytetracycline, 34.5% (18 of 52) but low to sulphamethoxazole/trimethoprim, 7.7% (four of 52) and norfloxacin, 3.8% (two of 52) (P < 0.05; χ2). It was concluded that the rather high prevalence of bacterial pathogens in tilapia along with their high prevalence of resistance to anti‐microbial agents might pose therapeutic problems as well as health risk to consumers. The microbial presence and their anti‐microbial resistance in the tilapia industry are being reported for the first time in the country.
Study of the Rate Limiting Step of the Cathodic Process in Anode Supported Solid Oxide Fuel Cell
Authors: Carpanese M. P. , Cerisola G. , Viviani M. , Piccardo P. , Vladikova D. , Stoynov Z. , Barbucci A.
Published: February 2008

The oxygen reduction (OR) mechanism at the Sr-doped LaMnO3 (LSM) and yttria stabilized zirconia (YSZ) composite cathode for high temperature solid oxide fuel cells is still uncertain, despite of the great deal of work carried out over the last years about this system. In previous works, we tested a half-cell (with a YSZ electrolyte pellet) in a typical three-electrode configuration: It was observed that the portion of the composite cathode volume involved in the reaction depends on the operating temperature. Moreover, we analyzed part of the impedance data by the differential impedance analysis, which does not need a preliminary working hypothesis. The results suggested that significant limitations in the oxygen ion transport occur in the LSM pure material, which are not observed in the composite YSZ/LSM cathode. In this study, we investigate the behavior of the LSM/YSZ system in a Ni/YSZ cermet anode-supported half-cell with yttria stabilized zirconia (8YSZ) electrolyte and a screen printed LSM/YSZ composite cathode. The aim is to individuate and characterize the cathodic contribution from the overall impedance response, varying the partial pressure of the reactant gases, to obtain additional information about the OR mechanism from the p(O2) dependence. By a possible interpretation of the oxygen reaction mechanism, a comparative study of the cathode behavior with previous results is performed.
Control-Oriented Modeling and Analysis of Air Management System for Fuel Reforming Fuel Cell Vehicle
Authors: Romani Nicolas , Godoy Emmanuel , Beauvois Dominique , Le Lay Vincent
Published: February 2008

With the purpose of meeting the specifically restrictive requirements of fuel reforming fuel cell vehicle, this paper brings into focus the issues of the transient operation of fuel cell systems and presents a control-oriented dynamic model of fuel cell air management system, suited for multivariable controller design, system optimization, and supervisory control strategy. In a first step, the dual analytical approach based on lumped and distributed parameter models is detailed: The partial differential equations deduced from mass/energy conservation laws and inertial dynamics are reduced to ordinary differential equations using spatial discretization and then combined with semiempirical actuator models to form the overall air system model. In a second step, a classical approach is followed to obtain a local linearization of the model. A validation of both nonlinear and linearized versions is performed by computational fluid dynamics simulations and experiments on a dedicated air system test bench. Thanks to dynamic analysis (pole/zero map), operating point impact and model order reduction are investigated. Finally, the multiinput multioutput state-space model—which balances model fidelity with model simplicity—can be coupled with reformer, stack, and thermal models to understand the system complexity and to develop model-based control methodologies.
Design by Analysis: Direct Route for Cases With Pressure and Thermal Action
Authors: Rauscher Franz
Published: February 2008

This paper focuses on the usage of direct route for design by analysis, which is included in the new European standard for unfired pressure vessels (CEN, 2002, “Unfired Pressure Vessels-Part 3: Design,” European Committee for Standardization No. EN 13445-3, Current Issue 14-2005). The direct route addresses failure modes directly, having, therefore, advantages in comparison to the traditional method, which is stress categorization. Special attention is given to the progressive plastic deformation design check (PD-DC) with space and time-dependent temperature distribution and the fatigue design check (F-DC) with stress components, which do not vary simultaneously. As a simple demonstration example, a nozzle with cold media injection is used to show how the direct route can be applied in such cases. This example is analyzed with abruptly changing injection temperature, which makes a transient thermal analysis necessary. In the case of the PD-DC, Melan’s shakedown theorem and cycling of a finite element model with a linear-elastic ideal-plastic material model are used. In the case of the F-DC, some problems are discussed: One of them is cycle counting in the case of nonproportional loading, and the other one is the use of structural stresses and stress concentration factors.
A New Approach for Bimaterial Interface Fracture Toughness Evaluation
Authors: Wang John Jy-An , Wright Ian G. , Lance Michael J. , Liu Ken C.
Published: February 2008

A material configuration of central importance in composite materials or in protective coating technology is a thin film of one material deposited onto a substrate of a different material. Fabrication of such a structure inevitably gives rise to stress in the film due to lattice mismatch, differing coefficient of thermal expansion, chemical reactions, or other physical effects. Therefore, in general, the weakest link in this composite system often resides at the interface between the thin film and the substrate. In order to make multilayered electronic devices and structural composites with long-term reliability, the fracture behavior of the material interfaces must be known. This project offers an innovative testing procedure of using a spiral notch torsion bar method for the determination of interface fracture toughness that is applicable to thin coating materials in general. The feasibility study indicated that this approach for studying thin film interface fracture is repeatable and reliable, and the demonstrated test method closely adheres to and is consistent with classical fracture mechanics theory.
Investigation of Fatigue Crack Propagation in Line Pipes Containing an Angled Surface Flaw
Authors: Bian Lichun , Taheri Farid
Published: February 2008

The angled crack problem has been given special attention in the recent years by fracture mechanics investigators due to its close proximity to realistic conditions in engineering structures. In the present paper, an investigation of fatigue crack initiation and propagation in line pipes containing an inclined surface crack is presented. The inclined angle of the surface crack with respect to the axis of loading varies between 0deg and 90deg. Based on the concept of the effective stress intensity factor range Δkeff, the rate of fatigue crack propagation db∕dN is postulated to be a function of the effective strain energy density factor range ΔSeff. This concept is applied to predict the crack growth due to fatigue loading. Furthermore, the threshold condition for nongrowth of the initial crack was established and assessed based on the experimental data.
Proposition of Helical Thread Modeling With Accurate Geometry and Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Fukuoka Toshimichi , Nomura Masataka
Published: February 2008

Distinctive mechanical behavior of bolted joints is caused by the helical shape of thread geometry. Recently, a number of papers have been published to elucidate the strength or loosening phenomena of bolted joints using three-dimensional finite element analysis. In most cases, mesh generations of the bolted joints are implemented with the help of commercial software. The mesh patterns so obtained are, therefore, not necessarily adequate for analyzing the stress concentration and contact pressure distributions, which are the primary concerns when designing bolted joints. In this paper, an effective mesh generation scheme is proposed, which can provide helical thread models with accurate geometry to analyze specific characteristics of stress concentrations and contact pressure distributions caused by the helical thread geometry. Using the finite element (FE) models with accurate thread geometry, it is shown how the thread root stress and contact pressure vary along the helix and at the nut loaded surface in the circumferential direction and why the second peak appears in the distribution of Mises stress at thread root. The maximum stress occurs at the bolt thread root located half a pitch from nut loaded surface, and the axial load along engaged threads shows a different distribution pattern from those obtained by axisymmetric FE analysis and elastic theory. It is found that the second peak of Mises stress around the top face of nut is due to the distinctive distribution pattern of σz.
Burst Analysis of Cylindrical Shells
Authors: Xue Liping , Widera G. E. O. , Sang Zhifu
Published: February 2008

The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate that the burst pressure of a cylindrical shell subjected to internal pressure can be accurately predicted by using finite element method. The computer software ANSYS (Swanson Analysis System Inc., 2003, “Engineering Analysis Systems User's Manual”) is employed to perform a static, nonlinear analysis (both geometry of deformation and material behavior) using three-dimensional 20 node structural solid elements. The “Newton–Raphson method” and the “arclength method” are both employed to solve the nonlinear equations. A comparison with various empirical equations shows that the static finite element method simulation using the arclength method can be employed with sufficient accuracy to predict the burst pressure of a cylindrical shell. It is also shown that the Barlow equation is a good predictor of burst pressure of cylindrical shells.
Minimum Material Design for Propane Cylinder End Closures
Authors: Kisioglu Y. , Brevick J. R. , Kinzel G. L.
Published: February 2008

This study addresses the design of DOT-4BA refillable cylinders using both experimental and numerical approaches. Using traditional design methods, these cylinders often experience buckling on the bottom end closure during pressure testing. A finite element analysis (FEA) design tool was developed using axisymmetric material nonlinear conditions to predict the buckling of the cylinder bottom end closures. The FEA model was also used to evaluate the influence of variations in end-closure geometry, material thickness, and strength on buckling. In addition, an optimization algorithm was employed to minimize end-closure material (weight) without buckling when they are subjected to their specified test pressure. Experimental studies were conducted via hydrostatic pressure tests with water at the R&D laboratories of a cylinder manufacturer. The axisymmetric nonlinear FEA models were developed successfully, and the obtained results are compared with experimental test results from cylinder manufacturer case studies.