bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Paxillin controls endothelial cell migration and tumor angiogenesis by altering neuropilin 2 expression
Authors: German Alexandra E. , Mammoto Tadanori , Jiang Elisabeth , Ingber Donald E. , Mammoto Akiko
Published: February 2014

Although a number of growth factors and receptors are known to control tumor angiogenesis, relatively little is known about the mechanism by which these factors influence the directional endothelial cell migration required for cancer microvessel formation. Recently, it has been shown that the focal adhesion protein paxillin is required for directional migration of fibroblasts in vitro. Here, we show that paxillin knockdown enhances endothelial cell migration in vitro and stimulates angiogenesis during normal development and in response to tumor angiogenic factors in vivo. Paxillin produces these effects by decreasing expression of neuropilin 2 (NRP2). Moreover, soluble factors secreted by tumors that stimulate vascular ingrowth, including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), also decrease endothelial cell expression of paxillin and NRP2, and overexpression of NRP2 reverses these effects. These results suggest that the VEGF–paxillin–NRP2 pathway could represent a new therapeutic target for cancer and other angiogenesis-related diseases.
α-Catenin cytomechanics – role in cadherin-dependent adhesion and mechanotransduction
Authors: Barry Adrienne K. , Tabdili Hamid , Muhamed Ismaeel , Wu Jun , Shashikanth Nitesh , Gomez Guillermo A. , Yap Alpha S. , Gottardi Cara J. , de Rooij Johan , Wang Ning , Leckband Deborah E.
Published: February 2014

The findings presented here demonstrate the role of α-catenin in cadherin-based adhesion and mechanotransduction in different mechanical contexts. Bead-twisting measurements in conjunction with imaging, and the use of different cell lines and α-catenin mutants reveal that the acute local mechanical manipulation of cadherin bonds triggers vinculin and actin recruitment to cadherin adhesions in an actin- and α-catenin-dependent manner. The modest effect of α-catenin on the two-dimensional binding affinities of cell surface cadherins further suggests that force-activated adhesion strengthening is due to enhanced cadherin–cytoskeletal interactions rather than to α-catenin-dependent affinity modulation. Complementary investigations of cadherin-based rigidity sensing also suggest that, although α-catenin alters traction force generation, it is not the sole regulator of cell contractility on compliant cadherin-coated substrata.
Transport and translation of MBP mRNA is differentially regulated by distinct hnRNP proteins
Authors: Torvund-Jensen Julie , Steengaard Jes , Reimer Lasse , Fihl Linda B. , Laursen Lisbeth S.
Published: February 2014

In the developing nervous system, abundant synthesis of myelin basic protein (MBP) in oligodendrocytes is required for formation of compact myelin sheaths around axons. The MBP mRNA is known to be transported into the processes of the oligodendrocyte. However, knowledge about the regulatory mechanisms that ensures tight temporal and spatial control of its translation within these processes is limited. Here, we have identified novel regions within the 3′-UTR of the MBP mRNA, responsible for the regulation of its translation, and we have demonstrated that each of the mRNA binding proteins hnRNP-A2, hnRNP-K, and hnRNP-E1 serve distinct functions to regulate controlled and localized protein synthesis. HnRNP-A2 is responsible for mRNA transport, not for translational inhibition. In contrast, hnRNP-K and hnRNP-E1 play opposite roles in translational regulation of the MBP mRNA. We have identified shared binding sites within the 3′-UTR, and show that translation is promoted by the exchange of inhibitory hnRNP-E1 with stimulatory hnRNP-K. We further show that this molecular switch of the MBP mRNP complex, regulating synthesis of MBP, is important for normal growth and extension of myelin sheets.
Non-muscle Mlck is required for β-catenin- and FoxO1-dependent downregulation of Cldn5 in IL-1β-mediated barrier dysfunction in brain endothelial cells
Authors: Beard Richard S. , Haines Ricci J. , Wu Kevin Y. , Reynolds Jason J. , Davis Stephanie M. , Elliott John E. , Malinin Nikolay L. , Chatterjee Victor , Cha Byeong J. , Wu Mack H. , Yuan Sarah Y.
Published: February 2014

Aberrant elevation in the levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-1β (IL-1β) contributes to neuroinflammatory diseases. Blood–brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction is a hallmark phenotype of neuroinflammation. It is known that IL-1β directly induces BBB hyperpermeability but the mechanisms remain unclear. Claudin-5 (Cldn5) is a tight junction protein found at endothelial cell–cell contacts that are crucial for maintaining brain microvascular endothelial cell (BMVEC) integrity. Transcriptional regulation of Cldn5 has been attributed to the transcription factors β-catenin and forkhead box protein O1 (FoxO1), and the signaling molecules regulating their nuclear translocation. Non-muscle myosin light chain kinase (nmMlck, encoded by the Mylk gene) is a key regulator involved in endothelial hyperpermeability, and IL-1β has been shown to mediate nmMlck-dependent barrier dysfunction in epithelia. Considering these factors, we tested the hypothesis that nmMlck modulates IL-1β-mediated downregulation of Cldn5 in BMVECs in a manner that depends on transcriptional repression mediated by β-catenin and FoxO1. We found that treating BMVECs with IL-1β induced barrier dysfunction concomitantly with the nuclear translocation of β-catenin and FoxO1 and the repression of Cldn5. Most importantly, using primary BMVECs isolated from mice null for nmMlck, we identified that Cldn5 repression caused by β-catenin and FoxO1 in IL-1β-mediated barrier dysfunction was dependent on nmMlck.
Interaction of Tris(2-aminoethyl)amine-based Ureas and Thiourea with Superoxide Anion and Peroxide Dianion through Multiple Hydrogen Bonding
Authors: Chikushi Natsuru , Nishikami Yuki , Nishide Hiroyuki
Published: February 2014

Tris(2-aminoethyl)amine-based urea and thiourea derivatives interacted with a superoxide anion (O2−) and peroxide dianion (O22−): The redox potential of oxygen was positively shifted with the molecules through their multiple-hydrogen-bond donor ability.
Electrochemical Properties of Heated Carbon Nanofibers for Lithium Ion Capacitor
Authors: Ahn Seong-Ki , Yang Jeong-Jin , Kim Hong-Il , Habazaki Hiroki , Park Soo-Gil
Published: February 2014

We have investigated the effects of heat treatment on the electrochemical properties of carbon nanofibers (CNFs) for use as an anode material in lithium ion capacitors. The CNFs were fabricated by liquid-phase carbonization on a porous alumina template that was anodized in oxalic acid at 40 V for 30 min and subjected to a pore-widening process in phosphoric acid at room temperature. The CNFs were heated at temperatures of 600, 1000, and 1400 °C to facilitate rearrangement of the carbon structure.
Reconstructive surgery for deep vein reflux
Authors: Perrin M.
Published: February 2014

DVR is defined as a reflux affecting the deep venous system. DVR essentially arises from two etiologies, primary deep valve incompetence (PDVI) and posthrombotic syndrome (PTS), knowing that axial reflux is correlated with severe chronic venous insufficiency. DVR correction aims at reducing the increased ambulatory venous pressure, which results from reflux in deep veins in orthodynamic conditions.

The results of DVR surgery are not easy to assess, as it is mostly combined with surgery for superficial venous system and/or perforators insufficiency.

In cases of primary insufficiency, valvuloplasty, the operation of choice, is credited at 5 years follow-up with a 70 % success rate in terms of clinical outcome and improved hemodynamic performance. In PTS, a meta-analysis of transpositions and transplants at more than 5 years estimates successful clinical outcome and improved hemodynamic performance at approximately 50 %. The Maleti neovalve construction technique has achieved by far better results.

Indications for DVR surgery are based on clinical, hemodynamic and imaging data. Etiology is a decisive factor in the choice of the technique.
A letter to the Master Clinician
Authors: Jhaveri Kenar D.
Published: February 2014

In this commentary, the author writes a letter to the Master Clinician about his concerns regarding the teaching responsibilities of current faculty members during ward rounds. This short essay highlights the transition that has been noticed in medical training in the last decade.
BioJS InterMineTable Component: A BioJS component for displaying data from InterMine compatible webservice endpoints
Authors: Kalderimis Alexis , Stepan Radek , Sullivan Julie , Lyne Rachel , Lyne Michael , Micklem Gos
Published: February 2014

Summary: The InterMineTable component is a reusable JavaScript component as part of the BioJS project. It enables users to embed powerful table-based query facilities in their websites with access to genomic data-warehouses such as http://www.flymine.org, which allow users to perform flexible queries over a wide range of integrated data types.

Availability: http://github.com/alexkalderimis/im-tables-biojs; http://github.com/biojs/biojs; http://dx.doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.8301.
FeatureViewer, a BioJS component for visualization of position-based annotations in protein sequences
Authors: Garcia Leyla , Yachdav Guy , Martin Maria-Jesus
Published: February 2014

Summary: FeatureViewer is a BioJS component that lays out, maps, orients, and renders position-based annotations for protein sequences. This component is highly flexible and customizable, allowing the presentation of annotations by rows, all centered, or distributed in non-overlapping tracks. It uses either lines or shapes for sites and rectangles for regions. The result is a powerful visualization tool that can be easily integrated into web applications as well as documents as it provides an export-to-image functionality.

Availability: https://github.com/biojs/biojs/blob/master/src/main/javascript/Biojs.FeatureViewer.js; http://dx.doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.7719
New Formulations for Choice Network Revenue Management
Authors: Talluri Kalyan
Published: February 2014

Models incorporating more realistic models of customer behavior, as customers choosing from an offer set, have recently become popular in assortment optimization and revenue management. The dynamic program for these models is intractable and approximated by a deterministic linear program called the choice deterministic linear program (CDLP), which has an exponential number of columns. Column generation has been proposed but finding an entering column is NP-hard when segment consideration sets overlap. In this paper we propose a new approach called segment-based deterministic concave program (SDCP) based on segments and their consideration sets. SDCP is a relaxation of CDLP and hence forms a looser upper bound on the dynamic program, but coincides with CDLP for the case of nonoverlapping segments. If the number of elements in a consideration set for a segment is not very large, SDCP can be applied to any discrete-choice model of consumer behavior. We tighten the SDCP bound by (i) simulations, called the randomized concave programming method, and (ii) by adding cuts to a recent compact formulation (SBLP) of the problem for a latent multinomial-choice model (MNL) of demand. This latter approach turns out to be very effective, essentially obtaining CDLP value, even for overlapping segments. By formulating the problem as a separation problem, we give insight into why CDLP is easy for the MNL with nonoverlapping consideration sets and why generalizations of MNL pose difficulties. Numerical conclusions that we derive from the present paper are the following: (a) The randomized linear programming approach that obtains significant tightening of the linear program upper bound under an older independent-class model seems to have relatively little effect for the choice case; (b) for the MNL choice model, the SBLP+ formulation we give here for overlapping segments is very fast and is potentially scalable to industrial-size problems.
Dynamic Pricing with Multiple Products and Partially Specified Demand Distribution
Authors: den Boer Arnoud V.
Published: February 2014

We study a dynamic pricing problem with multiple products and infinite inventories. The demand for these products depends on the selling prices and on parameters unknown to the seller. Their value can be learned from accumulating sales data using statistical estimation techniques. The quality of the parameter estimates is influenced by the amount of price dispersion; however, a large amount of variation in the selling prices can be costly since it means that suboptimal prices are used. The seller thus needs to balance optimizing the quality of the parameter estimates and optimizing instant revenue, i.e., exploitation and exploration.

In this study we propose a pricing policy for this dynamic pricing problem. The key idea is to use at each time period the price that is optimal with respect to current parameter estimates, with an additional constraint that ensures sufficient price dispersion. We measure the price dispersion by the smallest eigenvalue of the design matrix and show how a desired growth rate of this eigenvalue can be achieved by a simple quadratic constraint in the price-optimization problem. We study the performance of our pricing policy by providing bounds on the regret, which measures the expected revenue loss caused by using suboptimal prices.
Description of two new species Pericopini from Guatemala and critical review of some recent nomenclature changes in the genus Dysschema Hübner (Lepidoptera: Erebiidae: Arctiinae: Pericopini)
Authors: Laguerre Michel , Monzon Sierra José , De Souza Moraes Simeao
Published: February 2014

Two new species of Pericopini (Erebiidae, Arctiinae) are described from Guatemala: Gnophaela baileyi sp. nov. and Dysschema faustinoi sp. nov. Detailed species descriptions are based upon morphological and molecular characters as well as distributional data. Analyses of the CO1 locus (a 658 nucleotide sequence commonly referred to as a barcode) in 397 individuals of the genus Dysschema Hübner reveal that many taxonomic changes recently proposed by V. O. Becker are not supported by molecular data. Dysschema appears not to be a genus of wide ranging species but rather a complex of more localized species that require redefinition using more detailed morphological, molecular, and ecological data.
Performance of Microbial Fuel Cell for Wastewater Treatment and Electricity Generation
Authors: Yavari Z , Izanloo H , Naddafi K , Tashauoei H.R , Khazaei M
Published: February 2014

Renewable energy will have an important role as a resource of energy in the future. Microbial fuel cell (MFC) is a promising method to obtain electricity from organic matter and wastewater treatment simultaneously. In a pilot study, use of microbial fuel cell for wastewater treatment and electricity generation investigated. The bacteria of ruminant used as inoculums. Synthetic wastewater used at different organic loading rate. Hydraulic retention time was an effective factor in removal of soluble COD and more than 49% removed. Optimized HRT to achieve the maximum removal efficiency and sustainable operation could be regarded 1.5 and 2.5 hours. Columbic efficiency (CE) affected by organic loading rate (OLR) and by increasing OLR, CE reduced from 71% to 8%. Maximum voltage was 700mV. Since the microbial fuel cell reactor considered as an anaerobic process, it may be an appropriate alternative for wastewater treatment
A Reliability Based Model for Wind Turbine Selection
Authors: Rajeevan A.K. , Shouri P.V. , Nair Usha
Published: February 2014

A wind turbine generator output at a specific site depends on many factors, particularly cut- in, rated and cut-out wind speed parameters. Hence power output varies from turbine to turbine. The objective of this paper is to develop a mathematical relationship between reliability and wind power generation. The analytical computation of monthly wind power is obtained from weibull statistical model using cubic mean cube root of wind speed. Reliability calculation is based on failure probability analysis. There are many different types of wind turbines commercially available in the market. From reliability point of view, to get optimum reliability in power generation, it is desirable to select a wind turbine generator which is best suited for a site. The mathematical relationship developed in this paper can be used for site-matching turbine selection in reliability point of view.
Enhancement of Energy Efficiency and Food Product Quality Using Adsorption Dryer with Zeolite
Authors: Djaeni Moh , Sasongko S.B. , Van Boxtel A.J.B.
Published: February 2014

Drying is a basic operation in wood, food, pharmaceutical and chemical industry. Currently, several drying methods are often not efficient in terms of energy consumption (energy efficiency of 20-60%) and have an impact on product quality degradation due to the introduction of operational temperature upper 80oC. This work discusses the development of adsorption drying with zeolite to improve the energy efficiency as well as product quality. In this process, air as drying medium is dehumidified by zeolite. As a result humidity of air can be reduced up to 0.1 ppm. So, for heat sensitive products, the drying process can be performed in low or medium temperature with high driving force. The study has been conducted in three steps: designing the dryer, performing laboratory scale equipment (tray, spray, and fluidised bed dryers with zeolite), and evaluating the dryer performance based on energy efficiency and product quality. Results showed that the energy efficiency of drying process is 15-20% higher than that of conventional dryer. In additon, the dryer can speed up drying time as well as retaining product quality.
A Feasibility Study of Biogas Technology to Solving Peri-urban Sanitation Problems in Developing Countries. A Case for Harare, Zimbabwe
Authors: Sibanda G , Musademba D , Chihobo H.C. , Zanamwe L
Published: February 2014

This study investigated the feasibility of converting organic waste into energy using biogas technology to address sanitation problems in peri-urban suburbs of Harare, Zimbabwe. These suburbs with an estimated population of 156.975 are unique in that they are not connected to the Harare main water sewer system. A baseline survey was conducted to determine the quantity of biodegradable human and kitchen waste (N=60). Biodigester sizing and costing was done for various scenarios mainly household standalone, single centralised suburb and combined suburbs centralised biogas models. In addition potential biogas conversion to electricity was done for single centralised suburb and combined suburbs centralised biogas models. This was followed by a cost benefit analysis of employing combined suburbs biogas technology. A combined suburbs centralised biogas model was found to be the most feasible scenario producing 7378 m3 of biogas per day with electricity production capacity of 384 kW.There was a potential of wood savings of 6129 tonnes/year, paraffin savings of 2.556 tonnes/year and greenhouse benefits of 980 tonnes of CO2 equivalent emissions/ year and which would attract U$2940 from carbon credits sales per year. The study recommended the adoption of the biogas technology because of its potential toaddress both economic and sanitation challenges being faced by local authorities in developing countries particularly, improved hygienic conditions, energy supply chronic epidemics and sewer reticulation.
Pre-treatment of Used-Cooking Oil as Feed Stocks of Biodiesel Production by Using Activated Carbon and Clay Minerals
Authors: Syah Putra Rudy , Shabur Juliantoa Tatang , Hartono Puji , Dyah Puspitasaria Ratih , Kurniawan Angga
Published: February 2014

Many low-cost feedstock i.e. used-cooking oil (UCO) for the production of biodiesel fuel (BDF) has contained a large amount of water and high proportion of free fatty acids (FFAs). Therefore, a pre-treatment process to reduce the water content (<0.1 wt.%) and FFAs (<2.0 wt.%) were necessary in order to avoid an undesirable side reactions, such as saponification, which could lead to serious problem of product separation and low fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) yield. . In this study, a pre-treatment process of used cooking oil as a feedstock for the production of BDF by using various adsorbents such as Activated Carbon (AC) and various clay minerals, for example Smectite (S), Bentonite (B), Kaolinite (K), and Powdered Earthenware (PE) were evaluated. The oil obtained from pre-treatment was compared with oil without pre-treatment process. In this study, we reported a basic difference in material ability to the oil, depending on the adsorption condition with respect to the physico-chemical parameters, e.g. refractive index (R), density (ρ), FFAs, and water content (W). The results showed that the water content and FFAs in the oil has decreased when using AC as an adsorbent compared with clay minerals. However, the refractive index of oil has similar with the oil without pre-treatment process as well; meanwhile, the density of oil has increased after the pre-treatment process by using clay minerals.
Evaluation of Cathode Gas Composition and Temperature Influences on Alkaline Anion Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell (AAEMFC) Performance
Authors: Leyla Topal , Nunes Kirchner Carolina , Germer Wiebke , Zobel Marco , Dyck Alexander
Published: February 2014

The effects of different temperatures (55, 65, 75 and 85 °C) and cathode gas compositions (O2, synthetic air, air and 90% synthetic air+10% CO2) on alkaline anion exchange membrane fuel cell (AAEMFC) were evaluated. Membrane electrode assemblies (MEA) were fabricated using commercial anion exchange membrane (AEM) in OH- form and Pt catalyst. Polarization curves and voltage responses during constant current were performed in order to describe the influences of temperature and gas composition on the AAEMFC performance. The experimental results showed that the fuel cell performance increases with elevating temperatures for all applied gas compositions. Highest power density of 34.7 mW cm-2 was achieved for pure O2 as cathode feed. A decrease to 20.3 mW cm-2 was observed when cathode gas composition was changed to synthetic air due to reduction of the O2 partial pressure. The presence of CO2 in atmospheric air applied to the cathode stream caused a further drop of the maximum power density to 15.2 mW cm-2 driven by neutralization of OH- ions with CO2.
Improvement of the Performance of Graphite Felt Electrodes for Vanadium-Redox-Flow-Batteries by Plasma Treatment
Authors: Hammer Eva-Maria , Berger Benedikt , Komsiyska Lidiya
Published: February 2014

In the frame of the present contribution oxidizing plasma pretreatment is used for the improvement of the electrocatalytic activity of graphite felt electrodes for Vanadium-Redox-Flow-Batteries (VRB). The influence of the working gas media on the catalytic activity and the surface morphology is demonstrated. The electrocatalytical properties of the graphite felt electrodes were examined by cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The obtained results show that a significant improvement of the redox reaction kinetics can be achieved for all plasma modified samples using different working gasses (Ar, N2 and compressed air) in an oxidizing environment. Nitrogen plasma treatment leads to the highest catalytical activities at the same operational conditions. Through a variation of the nitrogen plasma treatment duration a maximum performance at about 14 min cm-2was observed, which is also represented by a minimum of 90 Ω in the charge transfer resistance obtained by EIS measurements. The morphology changes of the graphitized surface were followed using SEM.
Unbounded bivariant K-theory and correspondences in noncommutative geometry
Authors: Mesland Bram
Published: February 2014

By introducing a notion of smooth connection for unbounded

K
K

$KK$

-cycles, we show that the Kasparov product of such cycles can be defined directly, by an algebraic formula. In order to achieve this, it is necessary to develop a framework of smooth algebras and a notion of differentiable C*
-module. The theory of operator spaces provides the required tools.
Finally, the above mentioned

K
K

$KK$

-cycles with connection can be viewed as the morphisms in a category whose objects are spectral triples.
From trash to resource: a green approach to noble-metals dissolution and recovery
Authors: Serpe Angela , Artizzu Flavia , Espa Davide , Rigoldi Americo , Mercuri Maria Laura , Deplano Paola
Published: February 2014

A process based on the lixiviant properties of organic mixtures of dihalogen/S,S-ligands, N,N′-dimethyl-perhydrodiazepine-2,3-dithione (Me2dazdt) and tetraalkylthiuramdisulphide (Et4TDS) in the presence of diiodine, for gold recovery from the non-ferrous metal fraction of real shredded waste electric and electronic equipment (WEEE), is presented here. Selective dissolution of metals is achieved through a sequence of three steps where the oxidation of different kinds of metals is achieved by using: (1) refluxing water solutions of HCl 1:5 under Ar atmosphere (Sn, Zn, etc.); (2) water solutions of NH3/(NH4)2SO4 mixtures in the presence of H2O2 on the resting sample (Cu, Ag); and (3) acetone solutions of Me2dazdt or Et4TDS/I2 mixtures on the final residue (Au). Each step is followed by a further treatment for: (1) metal recovery, in the case of Au, Cu, Ag; and (2) inertization, in the case of heavy metals. As a whole, the process is very promising for effective recovery of gold and other valuable noble-metals and for using non harmful reagents in mild conditions.
Interaction of the human N-Ras protein with lipid raft model membranes of varying degrees of complexity
Authors: Vogel Alexander , Nikolaus Jörg , Weise Katrin , Triola Gemma , Waldmann Herbert , Winter Roland , Herrmann Andreas , Huster Daniel
Published: February 2014

Ternary lipid mixtures composed of cholesterol, saturated (frequently with sphingosine backbone), and unsaturated phospholipids show stable phase separation and are often used as model systems of lipid rafts. Yet, their ability to reproduce raft properties and function is still debated. We investigated the properties and functional aspects of three lipid raft model systems of varying degrees of biological relevance – PSM/POPC/Chol, DPPC/POPC/Chol, and DPPC/DOPC/Chol – using 2H solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, fluorescence microscopy, and atomic force microscopy. While some minor differences were observed, the general behavior and properties of all three model mixtures were similar to previously investigated influenza envelope lipid membranes, which closely mimic the lipid composition of biological membranes. For the investigation of the functional aspects, we employed the human N-Ras protein, which is posttranslationally modified by two lipid modifications that anchor the protein to the membrane. It was previously shown that N-Ras preferentially resides in liquid-disordered domains and exhibits a time-dependent accumulation in the domain boundaries of influenza envelope lipid membranes. For all three model mixtures, we observed the same membrane partitioning behavior for N-Ras. Therefore, we conclude that even relatively simple models of raft membranes are able to reproduce many of their specific properties and functions.
Intellectual History and Assyriology
Authors: Veldhuis Niek
Published: February 2014

The present article proposes to understand knowledge and knowledge traditions of ancient Mesopotamia as assets, deployed by actors in the social contexts in which they found themselves. This approach is illustrated with three examples from different periods of Mesopotamian history.
Acoustic impedance inversion with covariation approach
Authors: Yue Bi B. , Peng Zhen M.
Published: February 2014

This paper presents a novel covariation approach for seismic inversion under the assumption that the real seismic signals follow non-Gaussian α-stable distribution. To verify the correctness and effectiveness of the proposed method, two computer inversion simulation experiments on synthetic data inversion and real seismic acoustic impedance inversion are conducted using covariation, covariance and Bayesian methods. In the inversion experiment, covariation method performances better than the covariance and Bayesian, and the inverse results are very close to the true solutions. In the real seismic data inversion case, the sample quantile method was applied to estimate the characteristic exponent of a seismic trace from a nearby well before inversion. The estimated characteristic was applied in the 2D seismic impedance inversion where the moment p of the whole survey is set to be less than it. The results from the inversion of the 2D real data set are consistent with the well log interpretation.
The Relationship Between Propulsive Force in Tethered Swimming and 200-m Front Crawl Performance
Authors: Santos Karini B. , Bento Paulo C. B. , Pereira Gleber , Rodacki André L. F.
Published: February 2014

Santos, KB, Bento, PCB, Pereira, G, and Rodacki, ALF. The relationship between propulsive force in tethered swimming and 200-m front crawl performance. J Strength Cond Res 30(9): 2500–2507, 2016—The aims of this study were to determine whether propulsive force (peak force, mean force, impulse, and rate of force development) and stroke rate change during 2 minutes of front crawl tethered swimming and to correlate them with the stroke rate and swimming velocity in 200-m front crawl swimming. Twenty-one swimmers (21.6 ± 4.8 years, 1.78 ± 0.06 m, 71.7 ± 8.1 kg), with 200-m front crawl swimming performance equivalent to 78% of the world record (140.4 ± 10.1 seconds), were assessed during 2 minutes of maximal front crawl tethered swimming (propulsive forces and stroke rate) and 200-m front crawl swimming (stroke rate and clean velocity). Propulsive forces decreased between the beginning and the middle instants (∼20%; p ≤ 0.05) but remained stable between the middle and the end instants (∼6%; p > 0.05). The peak force was positively correlated with the clean velocity in the 200-m front crawl swimming (mean r = 0.61; p < 0.02). The stroke rates of the tethered swimming and 200-m front crawl swimming were positively correlated (r = 45; p≤ 0.01) at the middle instant. Therefore, the propulsive force and stroke rate changed throughout the 2 minutes of tethered swimming, and the peak force is the best propulsive force variable tested that correlated with 200-m front crawl swimming performance.
A Method to Estimate Carbon Dioxide Sequestration in Concrete Pavement Interiors
Authors: Haselbach Liv M. , Borden Robby , Gueneron Mylene
Published: February 2014

Ordinary Portland cement (OPC) is used in many pavements which reabsorb some of the CO2 emissions from the initial cement production over time in a process commonly referred to as carbonation. Estimating the extent of CO2 sequestration throughout pavements is crucial in understanding their true carbon footprints. Surface carbonation has been classically modeled with a front of extensive carbonation that slowly moves inward with rates on the order of millimeters per year, but provides little sequestration information beyond the front, which was usually assumed to be negligible. This work proposes an isopleth (chart with lines of similar characteristics) method for estimating average CO2 sequestration deeper within pavement samples based on quasi-steady-state equilibrium partitioning at various ages using material and chemical characteristics. Together with the surface carbonation model, the isopleths might provide more comprehensive carbon dioxide sequestration estimates. One inch (25.4 mm) deep hydrated cement samples were prepared, aged for several years with only their top surfaces exposed, and then analyzed for CO2 sequestration along their depths with thermal gravimetric analyses. The results indicate average interior CO2 sequestration levels exceeding 25 % based on moles of calcium in periods under three years, and even higher levels when samples are made with 25 % low calcium supplementary cementitious material. Similar tests on aged concrete samples would be needed to extrapolate the method to pavements.
Influence of Warm Mix Additive on Mechanistic, Economical, and Environmental Attributes of a Polymer-Modified Asphalt Mixture
Authors: Hajj Elie Y. , Souliman Mena I. , Cortez Edward M.
Published: February 2014

In the last decades, an extensive amount of experimental laboratory and field studies were conducted with different warm mix asphalt (WMA) technologies around the world. While good performance for the WMA mixtures has been reported, their use with polymer-modified asphalt binders is still creating a concern for some highway agencies. This paper summarizes the laboratory evaluation of one of those WMA products with a typical dense-graded polymer-modified asphalt mixture used in California and Nevada. The objective of this paper was to assess whether the investigated WMA additive negatively influence the outstanding performance and durability experienced by the state DOTs for the polymer-modified asphalt mixture. The WMA mixture was produced in the laboratory and compared to an HMA control mixture using identical aggregates, binder, and mix design. Overall, the presented results indicated that the use of the warm-mix additive at lower production and compaction temperatures resulted in a similar or better resistance to moisture damage, rutting, and fatigue cracking when compared to the conventional HMA. Preliminary calculations showed potential fuel savings as well as measurable energy savings and noteworthy reduction in CO2 emissions are anticipated with the use of the WMA additive compared to the conventional HMA.
A Statistical Approach to Tracing the Historical Development of Major and Minor Pitch Distributions, 1400-1750
Authors: Albrecht Joshua D. , Huron David
Published: February 2014

A large-scale study is reported whose purpose was to elucidate the historical development of the European major and minor modes. The study involved 455 musical works by 259 composers sampled across the years 1400 to 1750. Beginning with the period 1700-1750, a series of statistical studies was carried out on the distribution of scale tones, progressively moving backward in time. The method utilized a modified method of key determination – generalized to handle an arbitrary number of modal classifications. The results from cluster analyses on this data are consistent with the view that the modern major and minor modes have changed over time and were preceded by a system in which there were more than just two modes.
Changing Styles, Changing Corpora, Changing Tonal Models
Authors: White Christopher Wm.
Published: February 2014

This article explores the historical development of common-practice musical style and how that development might connect to the cognition of key within the history of Western European tonality. First, musical corpora of 19 composers were divided into three-chord progressions, and these progressions were tallied. The chord tallies were used for a cluster analysis and for measurements of inter-corpus cross entropy. The cluster analysis divided the corpora in ways that conform to historical and stylistic intuitions, and inter-corpus cross entropy was found to correlate with the years separating the corpora. These findings show that the chronological distance between two musical corpora seems to predict compositional similarity and that chord-progression norms are connected to specific historical situations. In order to model how these changes might affect the cognition of musical key, a corpus-sensitive key-finding algorithm was used to decode key within a famous example of musical ambiguity, the opening of Beethoven’s “Eroica” symphony. Each corpus-trained model created a slightly different key interpretation, suggesting that historically situated models of tonal cognition might indeed interpret the same stimulus differently.
The Tonal-Metric Hierarchy
Authors: Prince Jon B. , Schmuckler Mark A.
Published: February 2014

Despite the plethora of research on the role of tonality and meter in music perception, there is little work on how these fundamental properties function together. The most basic question is whether the two hierarchical structures are correlated – that is, do metrically stable positions in the measure preferentially feature tonally stable pitches, and do tonally stable pitches occur more often than not at metrically stable locations? To answer this question, we analyzed a corpus of compositions by Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, and Chopin, tabulating the frequency of occurrence of each of the 12 pitch classes at all possible temporal positions in the bar. There was a reliable relation between the tonal and metric hierarchies, such that tonally stable pitch classes and metrically stable temporal positions co-occurred beyond their simple joint probability. Further, the pitch class distribution at stable metric temporal positions agreed more with the tonal hierarchy than at less metrically stable locations. This tonal-metric hierarchy was largely consistent across composers, time signatures, and modes. The existence, profile, and constancy of the tonal-metric hierarchy is relevant to several areas of music cognition research, including pitch-time integration, statistical learning, and global effects of tonality.
Pathological grading for predicting metastasis in phaeochromocytoma and paraganglioma
Authors: Kimura Noriko , Takayanagi Ryoichi , Takizawa Nae , Itagaki Eiji , Katabami Takayuki , Kakoi Narihiko , Rakugi Hiromi , Ikeda Yukihiro , Tanabe Akiyo , Nigawara Takeshi , Ito Sadayoshi , Kimura Itaru , Naruse Mitsuhide , _ _
Published: February 2014

Phaeochromocytomas (PHEO) and paragangliomas are rare catecholamine-producing tumours. Although 10–30% of these tumours metastasise, histopathological criteria to discriminate malignant from benign tumours have not been established; therefore, reliable histopathological markers predicting metastasis are urgently required. A total of 163 tumours, including 40 metastatic tumours, collected by the Phaeochromocytoma Study Group in Japan (PHEO-J) were analysed using a system called grading system for adrenal phaeochromocytoma and paraganglioma (GAPP). The tumours were scored based on GAPP criteria as follows: histological pattern, cellularity, comedo-type necrosis, capsular/vascular invasion, Ki67 labelling index and catecholamine type. All tumours were scored from 0 to 10 points and were graded as one of the three types: well-differentiated (WD, 0–2 points), moderately differentiated (MD, 3–6 points) and poorly differentiated (PD, 7–10 points). GAPP scores of the non-metastatic and metastatic groups were 2.08±0.17 and 5.33±0.43 (mean±s.e.m., P<0.001) respectively. There was a significant negative correlation between the GAPP score and the interval until metastasis (r=−0.438, P<0.01). The mean number of years until metastasis after the initial operation was 5.5±2.6 years. The study included 111 WD, 35 MD and 17 PD types. The five-year survival of these groups was 100, 66.8 and 22.4% respectively. In addition, negative immunoreactivity for succinate dehydrogenase gene subunit B (SDHB) was observed in 13 (8%) MD or PD tumours and ten of the 13 (77%) had metastases. Our data indicate that a combination of GAPP classification and SDHB immunohistochemistry might be useful for the prediction of metastasis in these tumours.
MicroRNAs and post-transcriptional regulation of skeletal development
Authors: Gámez Beatriz , Rodriguez-Carballo Edgardo , Ventura Francesc
Published: February 2014

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have become integral nodes of post-transcriptional control of genes that confer cellular identity and regulate differentiation. Cell-specific signaling and transcriptional regulation in skeletal biology are extremely dynamic processes that are highly reliant on dose-dependent responses. As such, skeletal cell-determining genes are ideal targets for quantitative regulation by miRNAs. So far, large amounts of evidence have revealed a characteristic temporal miRNA signature in skeletal cell differentiation and confirmed the essential roles that numerous miRNAs play in bone development and homeostasis. In addition, microarray expression data have provided evidence for their role in several skeletal pathologies. Mouse models in which their expression is altered have provided evidence of causal links between miRNAs and bone abnormalities. Thus, a detailed understanding of the function of miRNAs and their tight relationship with bone diseases would constitute a powerful tool for early diagnosis and future therapeutic approaches.
A Theoretical study of the Thermoelectric Transport Coefficients of n-type PbTe
Authors: Al-Otaibi Jawaher , Srivastava Gyaneshwar P.
Published: February 2014

In this work we present a theoretical study of the transport coefficients of n-type PbTe. The electronic transport coefficients are calculated using the isotropic-nearly-free-electron approximation, including the effect of band non-parabolicity on electron-phonon scattering. The lattice thermal transport coefficient is computed by employing the isotropic continuum model for the dispersion relation for acoustic as well as optical phonon branches, an isotropic anharmonic continuum model for crystal anharmonicity, and the single-mode relaxation time scheme. The role of transverse optical (TO) phonon modes in anharmonic interactions will be discussed in detail.
Thermodynamic Stability of High-K Dielectric Metal Oxides ZrO2 and HfO2 in Contact with Si and SiO2
Authors: Gutowski Maciej , Jaffe John E. , Liu Chun-Li , Stoker Matt , Hegde Rama I. , Rai Raghaw S. , Tobin Philip J.
Published: February 2014

We present experimental results regarding the thermodynamic stability of the high-k dielectrics ZrO2 and HfO2 in contact with Si and SiO2. The HfO2/Si interface is found to be stable with respect to formation of silicides whereas the ZrO2/Si interface is not. The metal oxide/SiO2 interface is marginally unstable with respect to formation of silicates. Cross-sectional transmission electron micrographs expose formation of nodules, identified as silicides, across the polysilicon/ZrO2/Si interfaces but not for the interfaces with HfO2. For both ZrO2 and HfO2, the X-ray photoemission spectra illustrate formation of silicate-like compounds in the MO2/SiO2 interface.
Optoelectronic Properties and Applications of Rare-Earth-Doped GaN
Authors: Steckl A.J. , Zavada J.M.
Published: February 2014

As discussed in the accompanying articles in this issue ofMRS Bulletin, the optical properties of rare-earth (RE) elements have led to many important photonic applications, including solid-state lasers, components for telecommunications (optical-fiber amplifiers, fiber lasers), optical storage devices, and displays. In most of these applications, the host materials for the RE elements are various forms of oxide and nonoxide glasses. The emission can occur at visible or infrared (IR) wavelengths, depending on the electronic transitions of the selected RE element and the excitation mechanism. Until recently, the study of semiconductors doped with RE elements such as Pr and Er has concentrated primarily on the lowest excited state as an optically active transition. The presence of transitions at IR wavelengths (1.3 and 1.54 μm) that are coincident with minima in the optical dispersion and the loss of silica-based glass fibers utilized in telecommunications, combined with the prospect of integration with semiconductor device technology, has sparked considerable interest.

The status and prospects of obtaining stimulated emission in Si:Er are reviewed by Gregorkiewicz and Langer in this issue and by Coffa et al. in a previousMRS Bulletinissue. While great progress is being made in enhancing the emission intensity of Er-doped Si, it still experiences significant loss in luminescence efficiency at room temperature, as compared with low temperatures. This thermal quenching was shown by Favennec et al. to de crease with the bandgap energy of the semiconductor. Hence wide-bandgap semiconductors (WBGSs) are attractive candidates for investigation as hosts for RE doping.
A Postsurgical Obturator after Cleft Lip Repair in Patients with Holoprosencephaly
Authors: Acharya Bhavini S. , Chen Elizabeth A. , Lewis Regina L. , Teichgraeber John F. , Lypka Michael A.
Published: February 2014

Several factors affect healing of lip repair in children with complete cleft lip and palate in the immediate postoperative period. However, children with holoprosencephaly present a unique challenge. Because of their wide midline clefts and premaxillary agenesis they have protrusive positioning of their tongue, which can adversely affect the surgical result. In these cases we have found a postsurgical obturator made with hard-setting acrylic to be especially useful. Such an appliance may be used for the initial healing period (1–2 weeks). Two cases are presented here where such a device was used successfully.
Plant diversity in a nutshell: testing for small‐scale effects on trap nesting wild bees and wasps
Authors: Fabian Yvonne , Sandau Nadine , Bruggisser Odile T. , Aebi Alexandre , Kehrli Patrik , Rohr Rudolf P. , Naisbit Russell E. , Bersier Louis-Félix
Published: February 2014

Declining plant species richness in agro‐ecosystems and thus reduced habitat quality can have cascading effects on ecosystem functioning, leading to reduced pollination and biological control. Here we test if plant diversity can affect arthropod diversity and abundance on a very small scale, manipulating plant species richness (2, 6, 12 and 20 sown species) in small adjacent subplots (6 × 9 m) in 10 wildflower strips in an agricultural landscape. We simultaneously analyzed the effect of plant species richness, vegetation structure, and plant composition on the species richness and abundance of cavity‐nesting wild bees, wasps, their prey and natural enemies, and on the structure of their food webs. By separating the trap‐nesting species into functional groups according to their prey, we aimed to understand the underlying patterns for the effects of plant diversity. Increasing plant species richness had a significant effect only on spider‐predating wasps, the group of wasps trophically most distant from plants. In contrast, bees and food‐web structure were unaffected by plant diversity. Spider‐predating wasp abundance negatively correlated with the abundance of spiders, suggesting top‐down control. Interestingly, the abundance of spiders was the only variable that was strongly affected by plant composition. The hypothesis that the effect of plant diversity decreases with increasing trophic level is not supported by our study, and the mobility of species appears to play a greater role at this small spatial scale.
Using the International Classification of Functioning to Conceptualize Quality of Life Among Rehabilitation Services Recipients
Authors: Fleming Allison R. , Leahy Michael J.
Published: February 2014

Researchers and policy makers have proposed that quality of life (QOL) is an important and useful way to measure the impact of services, although practical application of QOL in rehabilitation has been limited. In this study, a comprehensive framework (the International Classification of Functioning [ICF]) is used to compare the relationship between QOL and function in key life areas in a sample of adults with disabilities receiving vocational services (n = 224). Results of a multiple regression analysis indicated that level of education, duration of disability, difficulty with social relationships and inclusion, the impact of the disability or health condition on the person or his or her family, and relational support and attitudes of family, friends, and acquaintances showed significant relationships with QOL. This study highlights the role of the social impact of disability on QOL and provides support for the use of the ICF for conceptualizing disability and its impact in a way that is inclusive of personal and environmental factors.