bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis of Poly(1-vinyl-1,2,4-triazole) and Preparation of Proton Conducting Membrane for High Temperature Operation
Authors: Irfan Gustian , Sevim Unugur Celik , Bozkurt Ayhan
Published: February 2014

Polymer poly (1-vinyl-1,2,4-triazole) have been synthesized via free radical polymerization using the monomer 1-vinyl-1,2,4-triazole and the initiator azobisisobutyronitrile (AIBN) in toluene as solvent. Proton conducting membranes were prepared by adding nitrilotri (methyl triphosphonic acid) as a dopant into a solution of poly (1-vinyl-1,2,4-triazole) at various molar ratios. The mixture was cast in polished poly (tetrafluoroethylene), PTFE plates and the solvent was evaporated carefully at temperatures of 50 °C for 12 hours. Interaction between the polymer and the dopants have been studied through; FTIR spectrum, thermogravimetric analysis (TG), glass transition temperature using DSC and proton conductivity of membranes made using dielectric-impedance analyzer Novocontrol. Proton conductive membranes with molar ratio of 0.25 was obtained proton conductivity of 8.52 x 10-4 S/cm at 150 °C.
Application of Shot Peening and Shot Blasting to Increase Hardness and Depth of Nitride Hardened Layer to the Modified H13 Steel as Die Casting Die Materials
Authors: Mochtar Myrna Ariati , Aldila Rizki
Published: February 2014

In metal forming process by die casting method, nitriding plays an important role in increasing the surface hardness. The influence of shot peening and shot blasting to the modified. H13 tool steel before nitriding process has been studied. Nitriding has been done in a gas vacuum furnace, at temperature of 510°C for 5 hours. Shot peening was conducted by using steel balls with a pressure of 461 kPa. Shot blasting has been done after shot peening using SiC particles. Characterization of the sample surface before and after the variation process is focused on changing the microstructure, micro hardness distribution, depth and composition nitriding layer. It has been found that shot peening prior to nitriding increase the maximum surface hardness to 1196 HV and effective depth of diffusion layer to 72 μm. Meanwhile, the nitriding without any prior surface treatment produces a maximum hardness of HV 1101.4 with effective depth of diffusion layer of 54 μm. Shot peening prior to nitriding produces white layer thickness of 4.1 μm thicker compared to white layer developed in nitriding without shot peening which produces 3.7 μm. While on nitrided material without any preceded surface treatment did not reveal any white surface layer.
Effect of Equal Channel Angular Pressing and Post Heating on Microstructure and Hardness of Cu-Zn 70/30
Authors: Suryadi Suryadi , Napitupulu R.A.M. , Priadi Dedi , Suhadi Amin , Siradj Eddy S.
Published: February 2014

Severe plastic deformation (SPD) using various pass number of Equal Channel Angular Pressing (ECAP) experiment and followed heating at 400°C has been done for rod brass Cu-Zn 70/30 to investigate the operation on microstructure and hardness of the alloy. Optical microscopy and SEM are used to examine the microstructure change. Mechanical testing such as macro and micro hardness test is used in order to examine the change of mechanical properties. The grain structure of the alloy was refined from 34 μm to 2 μm after 4 passes ECAP and increased to 4 μm after post heating. The hardness of the alloy significantly increased from 78 Hv to 235 Hv after 4 passes and decreased to 135 Hv after post heating after ECAP. The microstructure and mechanical properties of the alloy was homogenous after 4 passes ECAP because the strain was found more homogenous.
Materials Selection in Appropriate Technology Four Focuses in Design Thinking
Authors: Sianipar Corinthias P.M. , Taufiq Husein , Estiningtyas Heny R. , Dowaki Kiyoshi , Adhiutama Akbar , Yudoko Gatot
Published: February 2014

Appropriate technology is widely recognized as a good solution in providing alternative technology for underdeveloped people who live in a very limited circumstance. However, it is often seen as an idea without clear explanation from engineering perspective. One of critical process in appropriate technology design process is materials selection. This study aims to provide applied logic for selecting materials in the design process. The logic is constructed by surveying previous notions from researchers. Reasoning techniques are explored by using design thinking. This study reveals that there are four focuses which must be applied to find sufficient materials for an appropriate technology. This study also concludes that, unlike pure engineering efforts which tend to substitute materials given in a technology design with locally available ones, appropriate technology start from existing resources to produce its design. It requires soft selection by involving local people in exploring any potential materials which already available in their own area. By looking at previous studies which tended to ignore the contribution from local people in exploring potential materials, this study embraces their involvement and then emcourages insights for further research around it.
Analysis of Micro-Channels Manufacturing of Acrylic Using Low Power CO2 Laser
Authors: Baskoro Ario Sunar , Siswanta Agus , Ismail K.G.S.
Published: February 2014

Several studies have demonstrated the ability of laser for micro-channels fabrication. There are some important aspects that must be considered to use laser for machining process, such as machining method, type of laser and interaction between laser and workpiece. In this research, CO2 laser machine was used as a tool to fabricate a micro-channes on acrylic. Some parameters that can influence the outcome of the cuts were setup, which are focus distance on Z axis, laser power, cutting speed, and the repetition of cutting process (number of pass). Cutting results were width and depth of cut. Observation was made by using digital microscope as measuring tool, and measurement result was analyzed by using Anova method. The results of the analysis shows that the parameter of laser power has a dominant influence on depth of cut, and then parameter of cutting speed and number of pass. By determining width and depth of the cut based on given parameters, it will be easier to take a shape and size on micro-channel fabrication.
Effectiveness of Myrmecodia Pendans Extract as Eco-Friendly Corrosion Inhibitor for Material API 5L Grade B in 3,5% NaCl Solution
Authors: Pradityana Atria , Sulistijono Sulistijono , Shahab Abdullah
Published: February 2014

The main objective of this research is to investigate the effectiveness of Myrmecodia Pendans (MP) wood extract as Eco friendly Corrosion Inhibitor on corrosion of material API 5L Grade B in 3,5% NaCl solution using potentiodynamic polarization curve, Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometer (GC-MS) and Electrochemical Impedance spectroscopy (EIS). MP usually called as sarang semut in Indonesia. We analyzed MP in different concentration of extract. By 500, 1000, 1500, 2000 and 2500 ppm. The experiment was started by extraction of the MP. According to the polarization potensiodynamic data, the rate corrosion could be decrease about 90,36% by concentration 500 ppm. In accordance with the data of the EIS, the same concentration of inhibitor produced 92.3% with charge transfer resistance of 595.6 Ω.cm2. It means MP extract could serve as an effective inhibitor for the corrosion. This is consistent with the initial hypothesis that MP contains antioxidant compounds that can inhibit oxidation thereby reducing the corrosion rate.
Crystal Structures and Thermal Properties of Bamboo Nanofiber Reinforced-Composite Friction Materials of Glass and Metal Wastes
Authors: Sutikno Sutikno , Edi Sukiswo Supeni , Saputra Dany Sigit
Published: February 2014

In Indonesia, a lot of wastes of glasses and metals have potency to be one of brake raw materials. For example, little bottles of used food packages are usually directly thrown into environment. The scraps of metal machining wastes are usually collected to be manufactured into other products. In this research, both wastes are used as fillers for brake friction materials, the effects of them on the thermal properties are studied in details. The glass wastes are crushed, grinded and filtered to simplify the mixing process with other raw materials when the fabrication of brake fiction materials done. During fabrication, samples are cured at 190°C for 3 hours. The samples are characterized using x-ray diffractometer and thermogravimetric analysis. Based on these characterizations, the increase of glass powders content plays role in increasing the percentage of crystalllinities. This is suspected the glass used as ingredient of friction material has crystalline structure. The glass waste quantity does not influence significantly on the thermal properties. During heating up to 1200°C, the mass loss occurs due to epoxy, bamboo fiber and styrene butadiene rubber decompose. The optimum composition is found at sample B2, a sample with lowest total mass loss (2 mg).
Study on PbSn Composites Produced by Powder Metallurgy as Core Bullet Projectile
Authors: Widyastuti Widyastuti , Setyowati Vuri Ayu , Akbar Taufik
Published: February 2014

PbSn composites have been prepared by powder metallurgy for Advance Energy Transfer Bullet Application. Sn compositions was variety 5, 10, 15wt%. The compacting pressure performed at 10, 15, and 20 MPa. Temperature and holding time of sintering constantly in 150OC for 2 hours. The microstructure and mechanical performance of PbSn composites are investigated by Scanning Electron microscope (SEM), and compression tests. The results show that the Pb-15%wtSn Composite which is compacted in 20 MPa has result greatest density which was 10.969 gr/cm3 and the smallest porosity (1.5%). Mechanical performance test of PbSn composite show the greatest hardness, compressive strength and modulus elasticity reach are 11.01 HV, 46.82 MPa and 34.96 GPa
New Technique for Conceptual Selection of Manufacturing Process and Material, Case Study: Metal Matrix Composite Component
Authors: Fatchurrohman N. , Sulaiman S. , Sapuan S.M. , Ariffin Mohd Khairol Anuar , Baharuddin B.T.H.T.
Published: February 2014

This article introduces a new technique involving concurrent engineering (CE) strategy and analytical network process (ANP) technique to form a ranking methodology as a part of the conceptual design selection (CS). The proposed method is referred as concurrent network (CN). The objective of this study is to simultaneously consider of all features of product elements by implementing CE strategy. Furthermore, CN enables interdependence and interrelationship analysis between product elements by application of ANP. In this study, CN is utilized for a conceptual design of metal matrix composite (MMC) component. The results show that by using CN, all important product parameters can be considered simultaneously during the CDS and the importance weights of manufacturing process parameters and material parameters which are related to MMC component performance are attained.
Quasi-Solid State DSSC Performance Enhancement by Bilayer Mesoporous TiO2 Structure Modification
Authors: Wahyuono Ruri A. , Risanti D.D.
Published: February 2014

Quasi-solid state dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSC) having bilayer structure were made by using nanocrystalline anatase-rutile TiO2 to enhance the photovoltaic performance. The bilayer structures were coated to FTO glass using doctor blade technique with total active area of 0.4 cm2. Cyanidin dye extracted from mangosteen pericarp was used as photosensitizer. Bilayer anatase-anatase was formed with surface area of 99.9 m2/g and pore volume of 0.23 cc/g while anatase-rutile structure has surface area of 103.5 m2/g and pore volume of 0.21 cc/g. Overall energy conversion efficiencies under illumination of 10 mW/cm2 of 0.461% and 0.1365% were achieved for DSSC employing anatase-anatase and anatase-rutile TiO2 structure, respectively. Both efficiencies were higher than that of monolayer anatase and rutile TiO2 structure whose efficiencies in the range of 0.02% to 0.037%. The photocurrent action spectra of bilayer structures performed high efficiency spectrum in the wavelength range of 420 480 nm owing to cyanidin effect of dye.
IgA Enhances NETosis and Release of Neutrophil Extracellular Traps by Polymorphonuclear Cells via Fcα Receptor I
Authors: Aleyd Esil , van Hout Miel W. M. , Ganzevles Sonja H. , Hoeben Kees A. , Everts Vincent , Bakema Jantine E. , van Egmond Marjolein
Published: February 2014

Polymorphonuclear cells (neutrophils) are the first cells that arrive at sites of infections. According to the current dogma, they are involved in eliminating bacteria, after which they die through apoptosis. We now demonstrate that enhanced IgA-induced phagocytosis of bacteria or beads by neutrophils led to increased cell death. Nuclear changes and positivity for the general cell death marker 7-aminoactinomycin D were observed, but the absence of annexin V membrane staining supported that neutrophils did not die via apoptosis, in contrast to neutrophils that had not phagocytosed bacteria. Moreover, increased release of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) was observed, which was most likely due to augmented production of reactive oxygen species after uptake of IgA-opsonized particles. Blocking the IgA Fc receptor FcαRI abrogated phagocytosis and NET formation. Thus, FcαRI triggering on neutrophils resulted in a rapid form of cell death that is referred to as NETosis, as it is accompanied by the release of NETs. As such, IgA may play a prominent role in mucosal inflammatory responses, where it is the most prominent Ab, because it enhanced both phagocytosis of bacteria and formation of NETs, which are effective mechanisms that neutrophils employ to eliminate pathogens.
Coexpression of TLR2 or TLR4 with HLA-DR Potentiates the Superantigenic Activities ofMycoplasma arthritidis–Derived Mitogen
Authors: Shio Marina T. , Hassan Ghada S. , Shah Waris A. , Nadiri Amal , El Fakhry Youssef , Li Hogmin , Mourad Walid
Published: February 2014

Mycoplasma arthritidis–derived mitogen (MAM) is a member of the superantigen family that structurally differs from other members while still capable of initiating cognate APC/T cell interaction. In addition to the critical role of MHC class II molecules, it has been suggested that TLR2 and TLR4 may cooperate with MHC class II during MAM-induced responses. In this study, we investigated the direct involvement of TLR2 and TLR4 in MAM binding and presentation to T cells. Our results showed that MAM fails to bind to TLR2- and TLR4-transfected cells. However, coexpression of TLR2 or TLR4 with HLA-DR significantly increases MAM binding and the subsequent T cell activation compared with cells expressing HLA-DR alone. The upregulated MAM binding and activity in HLA-DR/TLR–transfected cells is abrogated by an anti–HLA-DR Ab. Interestingly, we also found that MAM complexed with soluble HLA-DR is capable of binding to both TLR2 and TLR4. The enhancing effect of TLR2 or TLR4 on MAM-induced T cell proliferation was not due to TLR ligand contamination in the MAM preparation. Taken together, these results strongly suggest that binding of MAM to HLA-DR leads to a conformational change in MAM structure allowing its interaction with TLR2 and TLR4 and a better recognition by T cells.
Lymphatic Specific Disruption in the Fine Structure of Heparan Sulfate Inhibits Dendritic Cell Traffic and Functional T Cell Responses in the Lymph Node
Authors: Yin Xin , Johns Scott C. , Kim Daniel , Mikulski Zbigniew , Salanga Catherina L. , Handel Tracy M. , Macal Mónica , Zúñiga Elina I. , Fuster Mark M.
Published: February 2014

Dendritic cells (DCs) are potent APCs essential for initiating adaptive immunity. Following pathogen exposure, trafficking of DCs to lymph nodes (LNs) through afferent lymphatic vessels constitutes a crucial step in the execution of their functions. The mechanisms regulating this process are poorly understood, although the involvement of certain chemokines in this process has recently been reported. In this study, we demonstrate that genetically altering the fine structure (N-sulfation) of heparan sulfate (HS) specifically in mouse lymphatic endothelium significantly reduces DC trafficking to regional LNs in vivo. Moreover, this alteration had the unique functional consequence of reducing CD8+ T cell proliferative responses in draining LNs in an ovalbumin immunization model. Mechanistic studies suggested that lymphatic endothelial HS regulates multiple steps during DC trafficking, including optimal presentation of chemokines on the surface of DCs, thus acting as a co-receptor that may function “in trans” to mediate chemokine receptor binding. This study not only identifies novel glycan-mediated mechanisms that regulate lymphatic DC trafficking, but it also validates the fine structure of lymphatic vascular-specific HS as a novel molecular target for strategies aiming to modulate DC behavior and/or alter pathologic T cell responses in lymph nodes.
Candida-Elicited Murine Th17 Cells Express High CTLA-4 Compared with Th1 Cells and Are Resistant to Costimulation Blockade
Authors: Krummey Scott M. , Floyd Tamara L. , Liu Danya , Wagener Maylene E. , Song Mingqing , Ford Mandy L.
Published: February 2014

Effector and memory T cells may cross-react with allogeneic Ags to mediate graft rejection. Whereas the costimulation properties of Th1 cells are well studied, relatively little is known about the costimulation requirements of microbe-elicited Th17 cells. The costimulation blocker CTLA-4 Ig has been ineffective in the treatment of several Th17-driven autoimmune diseases and is associated with severe acute rejection following renal transplantation, leading us to investigate whether Th17 cells play a role in CD28/CTLA-4 blockade-resistant alloreactivity. We established an Ag-specific model in which Th1 and Th17 cells were elicited via Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Candida albicans immunization, respectively. C. albicans immunization elicited a higher frequency of Th17 cells and conferred resistance to costimulation blockade following transplantation. Compared with the M. tuberculosis group, C. albicans–elicited Th17 cells contained a higher frequency of IL-17+IFN-γ+ producers and a lower frequency of IL-10+ and IL-10+IL-17+ cells. Importantly, Th17 cells differentially regulated the CD28/CTLA-4 pathway, expressing similarly high CD28 but significantly greater amounts of CTLA-4 compared with Th1 cells. Ex vivo blockade experiments demonstrated that Th17 cells are more sensitive to CTLA-4 coinhibition and therefore less susceptible to CTLA-4 Ig. These novel insights into the differential regulation of CTLA-4 coinhibition on CD4+ T cells have implications for the immunomodulation of pathologic T cell responses during transplantation and autoimmunity.
Multiparametric Bioinformatics Distinguish the CD4/CD8 Ratio as a Suitable Laboratory Predictor of Combined T Cell Pathogenesis in HIV Infection
Authors: Buggert Marcus , Frederiksen Juliet , Noyan Kajsa , Svärd Jenny , Barqasho Babilonia , Sönnerborg Anders , Lund Ole , Nowak Piotr , Karlsson Annika C.
Published: February 2014

HIV disease progression is characterized by numerous pathological changes of the cellular immune system. Still, the CD4 cell count and viral load represent the laboratory parameters that are most commonly used in the clinic to determine the disease progression. In this study, we conducted an interdisciplinary investigation to determine which laboratory parameters (viral load, CD4 count, CD8 count, CD4 %, CD8 %, CD4/CD8) are most strongly associated with pathological changes of the immune system. Multiparametric flow cytometry was used to assess markers of CD4+ and CD8+ T cell activation (CD38, HLA-DR), exhaustion (PD-1, Tim-3), senescence (CD28, CD57), and memory differentiation (CD45RO, CD27) in a cohort of 47 untreated HIV-infected individuals. Using bioinformatical methods, we identified 139 unique populations, representing the “combined T cell pathogenesis,” which significantly differed between the HIV-infected individuals and healthy control subjects. CD38, HLA-DR, and PD-1 were particularly expressed within these unique T cell populations. The CD4/CD8 ratio was correlated with more pathological T cell populations (n = 10) and had a significantly higher average correlation coefficient than any other laboratory parameters. We also reduced the dimensionalities of the 139-unique populations by Z-transformations and principal component analysis, which still identified the CD4/CD8 ratio as the preeminent surrogate of combined T cell pathogenesis. Importantly, the CD4/CD8 ratio at baseline was shown to be significantly associated with CD4 recovery 2 y after therapy initiation. These results indicate that the CD4/CD8 ratio would be a suitable laboratory predictor in future clinical and therapeutic settings to monitor pathological T cell events in HIV infection.
Can a single low-intensity premature stimulus induce ventricular arrhythmias in the normal heart?
Authors: Rossi Stefano , Baruffi Silvana , Callegari Sergio , Carnevali Luca , Corradi Domenico , Miragoli Michele , Musso Ezio , Sgoifo Andrea , Trombini Mimosa , Macchi Emilio
Published: February 2014

Previously, we observed that a single low-intensity premature ventricular stimulation could occasionally induce spontaneous ectopic beats in normal rat hearts. Possible hypothesis for the arrhythmia is that a premature beat can encounter a zone of conduction block to initiate reentry. However, enhanced dispersion of repolarization, a necessary condition for initiation of reentry, is unlikely to be present in normal myocardium. Thus, the main objective of the present study was to perform detailed pace mapping measurements in normal ventricular myocardium with a view to identify pacing sites and critical coupling intervals which could induce spontaneous ectopic beats and to characterize the reentrant circuits.
Application of the multiuse encapsulator agent F-500 for environmental remediation
Authors: Pane Luigi , Giacco Elisabetta , Mariottini Gian Luigi
Published: February 2014

In the framework of the Risk Assessment procedure for the ecotoxicological evaluation of compounds used in the aquatic environment, tests with target species must be carried out. This paper reports the results concerning the evaluation of the acute toxicity of F-500 micelle encapsulator (Hazard Control Technologies Inc., Fayetteville, GA, USA) on cladocerans Daphnia magna, with the purpose to verify its compatibility for the aquatic environment and its adequacy for the remediation of soils polluted with hydrocarbons. The obtained results show that by adding F-500 to diesel-polluted soils, the toxicity on Daphnia magna decreases remarkably, indicating the usefulness of this compound to fight the environmental pollution consequent to hydrocarbon dumping.
A protocol combining current- and voltage-clamp provides a novel and useful three-dimensional representation of cardiac action potential
Authors: Zaniboni Massimiliano , Cacciani Francesca
Published: February 2014

A compact three-dimensional representation of cardiac action potential (AP) properties in terms of current source is presented here. The experimental protocol used to obtain such representation is based on the measure of instantaneous current-voltage relationships during the course of the AP. The procedure, which combines current- and voltage-clamps on patch clamped cardiac myocytes, has been previously applied to real cells, and then extended to computer simulations with cellular ventricular AP models. The three-dimensional AP representation allows to easily estimate membrane resistance during repolarization, a key factor for the modulation of ventricular repolarization. It also shows that, during late ventricular repolarization, membrane conductance becomes negative, i.e. repolarization is auto-regenerative. The novel AP representation is therefore a useful tool for both in vivo and in silico cardiac cellular electrophysiological investigations.
Monitoring magnesium efflux cyclic AMP-induced in HL60 cells by using a new hydroxyquinoline fluorescent chemosensor
Authors: Marraccini Chiara , Sargenti Azzurra , Merolle Lucia , Cappadone Concettina , Farruggia Giovanna , Iotti Stefano
Published: February 2014

Cellular homeostasis of magnesium is still unclear. Several studies documented the occurrence of fluxes of magnesium across the plasmamembrane within minutes from the application of metabolic or hormonal stimuli. These fluxes, however, result in limited variation of free Mg2+ intracellular concentration and large changes in total Mg content. It has been reported that a stimulation with cyclic AMP caused a movement of total magnesium within 10 min after treatment in cardiomyocytes. In this study we tested this hypothesis in HL60 leukemic cells, not excitable but highly proliferating cell model. We evaluated Mg flux by DCHQ5, the phenyl-derivative of hydroxyquinoline fluorescent probe family. We observed a drastic decrease of intracellular total magnesium in the first 3 min. We also verified that at least 10% of the total intracellular amount of magnesium moved in the supernatant of stimulated cells.
Magnesium intracellular content and distribution map in drug-resistant and -sensitive whole cells
Authors: Malucelli Emil , Lagomarsino Stefano , Merolle Lucia , Marraccini Chiara , Sargenti Azzurra , Cappadone Concettina , Farruggia Giovanna , Cedola Alessia , Fratini Michela , Notargiacomo Andrea , Iotti Stefano
Published: February 2014

Magnesium (Mg) plays crucial structural and regulatory roles within cells. Despite the extensive amount of data about the biochemistry of Mg, a complete picture of its regulation and cellular homeostasis is lacking. Thanks to recent improvements in third generation synchrotron X-ray sources, X-ray fluorescence microscopy (XRFM) is becoming a highly sensitive method for mapping elemental distributions in cells. XRFM maps the element content but not the concentration, which is a relevant variable in a biological context. We tackled this issue by combining XRFM with atomic force microscopy that was used to obtain morphological information of the sample. The aim of the present study was to compare the content and the distribution of Mg in drug-resistant and -sensitive tumor cell lines. Our data has shown a massive increase of Mg in LoVo drug-resistant cells. Moreover, the map of intracellular Mg showed marked differences in the pattern distribution between sensitive and resistant cells.
Cardiac regeneration by pharmacologically active microcarriers releasing growth factors and/or transporting adipose-derived stem cells
Authors: Savi Monia , Bocchi Leonardo , Fiumana Emanuela , Frati Caterina , Bonafé Francesca , Cavalli Stefano , Morselli Paolo Giovanni , Karam Jean-Pierre , Montero-Menei Claudia , Caldarera Claudio Marcello , Guarnieri Carlo , Muscari Claudio , Stilli Donatella , Quaini Federico , Musso Ezio
Published: February 2014

We tested the hypothesis that cardiac regeneration through local delivery of adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs), activation of resident cardiac stem cells via growth factors (GFs) [hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1):GFs] or both, are improved by pharmacologically active microcarriers (PAMs) interacting with cells/molecules conveyed on their surface. Rats with one-month old myocardial infarction were treated with ASCs, ASCs+PAMs, GF-releasing PAMs, ASCs+GF-releasing PAMs or vehicle. Two weeks later, hemodynamic function and inducibility of ventricular arrhythmias (VAs) were assessed. Eventually, the hearts were subjected to anatomical and immunohistochemical analyses. A significant ASCs engraftment and the largest improvement in cardiac mechanics occurred in ASC+GF-releasing PAM rats which by contrast were more vulnerable to VAs. Thus, PAMs may improve cell/GF-based cardiac regeneration although caution should be paid on the electrophysiological impact of their physical interaction with the myocardium.
Palaeontology, stratigraphy, and structure of the Jurassic rocks in Salmo map-area, British Columbia
Authors: Frebold H , Little H W
Published: February 2014

Additional ammonite horizons have been found recently in the Jurassic fossiliferous beds previously described in Salmo and Nelson areas, British Columbia (Frebold, 1959). The lowest fossiliferous Jurassic rocks occur in the Archibald formation. They contain
possibly Hettangian with Gyrophioceras? and lower Sinemurian with Arniotites kwakiutlrtnus. Another lower Sinemurian horizon occurs, locally at least, in the lowest member of th- mainly volcanic Elise formation. Lower Toarcian beds. containing Harpoceras cf. H. exaratum and Dactylioceras, occur in
the upper Elise and lower Hall formations. The sedimentary Hall formation contains also middle Bajocian, identified by Sonninia? and younger beds with Perisphinctes? It is apparently succeeded by a considerable thickness of volcanic and sedimentary rocks of the upper Rossland group. Some of the
ammonites are widespread in either Western or Arctic Canada. During part of the Early and Middle Jurassic the area belonged to an eugeosyncline. The end of the marine Jurassic transgressions in this part of southern British Columbia is still unknown. The main volcanic activity during which the rocks
of the Elise formation were formed book place between the early Sinemurian and early Toarcian. Early deformation, which resulted in folding and thrust faulting that dip gently east and southeast, was followed by granitic intrusion. Little is known of the sequence and origin of east-west and
north-south faults, but northwest- and northeast-striking faults are believed to be latest and seem to be a consequence of north-south compression.
Age determinations and geological studies, K-Ar isotopic ages, report 14
Authors: Wanless R K , Stevens R D , Lachance G R , DeLabio R N
Published: February 2014

Two hundred and thirty potassium-argon age determinations carried out on Canadian rocks and minerals are reported. Each age determination is accompanied by a description of the rock and mineral concentrate used; brief interpretative comments regarding the
geological significance of each age are also provided. The experimental procedures employed are described in brief outline and the constants used in the calculation of ages are listed. Two geological time-scales are reproduced in tabular form for ready reference and an index of all published
Geological Survey of Canada K-Ar age determinations by primary NTS quadrangle has been prepared.
Geological survey of Canada radiocarbon dates XV
Authors: Lowdon J A , Blake W , Fix R
Published: February 2014

This list includes 106 radiocarbon age determinations on 95 geological samples made by the Radiocarbon Dating Laboratory. They are on samples from various areas as follows: Newfoundland (island) (4); Newfoundland (Labrador) (11); Nova Scotia (1): New Brunswick
(10); Quebec (11); Ontario (6); Manitoba (4); Saskatchewan (8); Alberta (10); British Columbia (6); Northwest Territories - Arctic Archipelago (32); U. S. A. (2); Norway (1). Details of background and standard for the 2-litre and 5-litre counters during the period from December 19, 1973 to March 30,
1975 are summarized in Tables 1 and 2. Table 3 gives the number of counts used to determine average background and standard counting rates; Table 4 lists the number of different background and standard gas preparations used fOI· counting; and Table 5 provides a comparison of results from all
three counters on a single Douglas fir sample of known age
Roches et minéraux du collectionneur : Ottawa-North Bay, Ontario-Hull-Waltham, Québec
Authors: Sabina A P
Published: February 2014

Le présent ouvrage signale la présence de minéraux, de roches et de fossiles dans environ 200 emplacements faciles d'accès situés des deux côtés de la rivière des Outaouais, depuis Ottawa-Hull jusqu'à North Bay. On
peut s'y rendre en suivant la route 17 en Ontario et la route 8 au Québec. La plupart des emplacements où lon peut espérer découvrir des pièces intéressantes sont situés dans le comté de Renfrew (Ontario). On trouve dans ce secteur quantité de
minéraux; certains spécimens découverts dans quelques-uns de ces emplacements figurent actuellement dans les plus belles collections. Les exploi­tations de mines les plus anciennes remontent aux années 1880. On extrayait alors de l'apatite et du fer. On a par la suite
exploité des gisementsde corindon, de molybdénite, de zinc, de célestine, de grenat, de pyrite, de béryl, de marbre, de calcaire, de feldspath, de minéraux contenant des éléments rares et de dolomie. La seule mine exploitée actuellement est celle de la
Dominion Magnesium Limited, à Haley Station. Le district de Nipissing compte de nombreuses mines de feldspath abandonnées ainsi que des dépôts de cyanite, de grenat, de muscovite, de niobium et de brucite. Certains dépôts ne sont accessibles que par bateau. On a
autrefois exploité du mica, de lapatite, luranium, du plomb et du zinc, du feldspath, de la molybdénite et du calcaire dans la région située au nord de la rivière des Outaouais. Aujourd'hui, seule la mine de fer Hilton est en activité. On note en outre la présence
de brucite, de pyroaurite, de szàjbelyite, de cordiérite et d'amiante. Parmi les minéraux et les roches susceptibles d'être utilisés par les lapi­daires figurent le feldspath (péristérite, pierre de soleil), le quartz rose, le granite graphitique et le corindon du
comté de Renfrew; le feldspath (péristérite, amazonite), la jaspilite et le granite graphitique de la région de North Bay; la péristérite et la cordiérite du côté québécois de la rivière des Outaouais. On peut aussi recueillir des fossiles
de l 'Ordovicien dans de nombreuses tranchées et carrières des régions d'Ottawa-Pembroke et d'Aylmer.
A review of geophysical investigations at the site of Chalk River nuclear laboratories, Ontario
Authors: Thomas M D , Hayles J G
Published: February 2014

The site of the Chalk River Nuclear Laboratories was one of the first research areas located on crystalline rocks to be extensively investigated under the Canadian Nuclear Fuel Waste Management Program. A large contribution ta meeting the geoscientific objectives
of the program has been made using a suite of geophysical techniques. Many of them are standard, though sometimes modified in terms of instrumentation and! or experimental and! or analytical procedures, to meet the particular needs of the waste management program. Relative/y new techniques have also
been employed. Much of the early evaluation and development of the various techniques took place at the Chalk River site. Standard methods such as gravity, magnetics and seismic sounding have been used ta investigate bedrock structure, and the seismic method has also been used ta estimate overburden
thickness. Standard geophysical borehole logging has been used ta obtain in situ estimates of physical properties, ta locate fracture zones and ta make hale ta hale correlations that have helped define local structure. Several standard electrical ( e .g. resistivity) and electromagnetic ( e .g.
VLF-EM) techniques have proven success­ful in identifying water-filled fractures and faults. Relative/y new techniques introduced into the geophysics pro gram at Chalk River were: ground probing radar, ta investigate overburden; borehole TV and acoustic televiewer and VLF-EM, ta locale fractures;
studies of seismic tube-waves, well tides and temperature logs, ta investigate fracture location and permeability. Most of these methods have been very successful and are now routine/y employed at other research sites.
Radiocarbon dates from the western Basin of the Champlain Sea
Authors: Richard S H
Published: February 2014

The late S. H. Richard accumulated a large body of radiocarbon ages related to events in the western basin of the Champlain Sea. As interpreted by Richard, 1) ages greater than 12 ka are evidence that the Champlain Sea entered the Ottawa area via a calving bay
while ice remained in the upper reaches of St. Lawrence River valley, 2) ice contact deposits and till containing marine shells with ages ranging from 11. 0 to 11. 3 ka indicate a late readvance into the Champlain Sea, and 3) ages of freshwater shells and Holocene marine materials indicate that the
Champlain Sea regressed from the area at the beginning of Holocene.
Surficial geology field observations and photographs for the Breynat Point map area (NTS 85-B/15)
Authors: Oviatt N M , Paulen R C , Rufiange E
C
Published: February 2014

As part of the Geological Survey of Canada's Geo-mapping for Energy and Minerals (GEM) Program, surficial mapping was undertaken in the Breynat Point map area, National Topographic System (NTS) 85B/15. The Pine Point region is of very low relief and characterized
by black spruce bogs with local relief not exceeding 20 m. During Wisconsin time, the Breynat Point map sheet was actively and continuously glaciated by the Laurentide Ice Sheet. Multiple till units were observed in the open pits, however only the uppermost unit was mapped at surface. The map area
was completely inundated by proglacial Lake McConnell during deglaciation and glaciolacustrine sediments are the dominant materials that occur as beach ridges and littoral sediments. Beach ridges were reworked to form eolian dune ridges up to 15 m high. Raised strandlines formed by earlier phases of
Great Slave Lake mark the former isostatic rebound of the land surface. Organic deposits are extensive with mature peatlands and fens, which are underlain by discontinuous permafrost with active thermokarst. Abandoned open pits and waste piles pockmark the former Pine Point mining district. This
open file is to augment information available from Canadian Geoscience Map 114, and provides additional information on field observations made during the production of this map.
Autochthonous Blastomycosis of the Adrenal: First Case Report from Asia
Authors: Kumar Anil , Sreehari Sreekala , Velayudhan Kandan , Biswas Lalitha , Babu Rachana , Ahmed Shabeer , Sharma Neelakanta , Kurupath Vasanth P. , Jojo Annie , Dinesh Kavitha R. , Karim Shamsul , Biswas Raja
Published: February 2014

Systemic endemic mycoses, such as blastomycosis, are rare in Asia and have been reported as health risks among travelers who visit or reside in an endemic area. Adrenal involvement is rarely seen in blastomycosis and has never been reported from Asia. We report the first case of blastomycosis with bilateral involvement of the adrenals in a diabetic patient residing in the state of Arunachal Pradesh, India.
Application of RLEP Real-Time PCR for Detection of M. leprae DNA in Paraffin-Embedded Skin Biopsy Specimens for Diagnosis of Paucibacillary Leprosy
Authors: Yan Wen , Xing Yan , Yuan Lian Chao , De Yang Rong , Tan Fu Yue , Zhang Ying , Li Huan-Ying
Published: February 2014

The TaqMan real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay was evaluated systematically with respect to the standard curve, linear range, and used for detecting Mycobacterium leprae DNA in paraffin-embedded skin biopsy specimens from 60 confirmed leprosy patients and three healthy individuals and 29 other dermatoses and bacterial DNA from 21 different species. The test was further evaluated with 51 paucibacillary (PB) patients. The results showed that the test had good sensitivity (8 fg) and good specificity with no cross-reactivity with 21 other bacterial species and the control specimens, except one with Xanthomatosis. The real-time PCR detection rate for the 51 PB specimens was 74.5% (38 of 51). We conclude that the real-time PCR test is a useful adjunct test for diagnosing early stage or PB leprosy cases.
Obstetrics and Gynecology Residency Ultrasonography Program Curriculum
Authors: Mendez Melissa , Cardwell Michael S
Published: February 2014

Ultrasound skills—technical and interpretive—are essential to the practice of obstetrics and gynecology. The Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education provides guidance, though limited, on what an obstetrics and gynecology residency ultrasonography program curriculum should include. A review of several educational institutions’ approaches to the ultrasonography curriculum is presented. A detailed discussion of the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Paul L Foster School of Medicine, obstetrics and gynecology residency ultrasonography program curriculum is provided for additional consideration.

How to cite this article

Cardwell MS, Mendez M. Obstetrics and Gynecology Residency Ultrasonography Program Curriculum. Donald School J Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2014;8(1):16-21.
Pelvic Ultrasound Simulation Training Models and Case Scenarios
Authors: Plavsic Sanja Kupesic , Sarmiento Jorge , Stewart Kevan , Aguila Jorge , Bagherpour Arya
Published: February 2014

Pelvic ultrasound simulation training using high-fidelity mannequins can provide a safe and controlled learning environment to foster the ultrasound education of medical students, residents and faculty. The instruction can be tailored to the specific needs of the learners. Topics for instruction range from teaching basic anatomy and ultrasound scanning techniques to common and advanced obstetrics and gynecology disease presentations and pathological processes. Simulation can closely approximate patient encounters using case based scenarios which will aid in developing knowledge and skills that can be transferred to the clinical environment. The goal of simulation is to help the learners to become more confident and competent to care for their patients.

How to cite this article

Sarmiento J, Stewart K, Aguila J, Bagherpour A, Kupesic Plavsic S. Pelvic Ultrasound Simulation Training Models and Case Scenarios. Donald School J Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2014;8(1):22-30.
Determination of α-pinene-derived organic nitrate yields: particle phase partitioning and hydrolysis
Authors: Rindelaub J. D. , McAvey K. M. , Shepson P. B.
Published: February 2014

Abstract. The hydroxyl radical oxidation of α-pinene under high NOx conditions was studied in a photochemical reaction chamber to investigate organic nitrate (RONO2) production and partitioning between the gas and particle phases. We report an organic nitrate yield of 26 ± 7% from the oxidation of this monoterpene in the presence of nitric oxide (NO). However, the organic nitrate yield was found to be highly dependent on both chamber relative humidity (RH) and seed aerosol acidity, likely as a result of particle phase hydrolysis. The particle phase loss of organic nitrates perturbs the gas-particle equilibrium within the system, leading to decreased RONO2 yields in both the gas and particle phases at elevated RH and an apparent non-equilibrium partitioning mechanism. This resulted in smaller apparent partition coefficients of the total organic nitrate species under high chamber RH. The hydrolysis of particle phase organic nitrates at low chamber relative humidity in this study implies that aerosol partitioning of organic nitrates may be an important sink for atmospheric NOx and may have a significant impact on regional air quality.
Impact of nitrogen fertilization on carbon and water fluxes in a chronosequence of three Douglas-fir stands in the Pacific Northwest
Authors: Dou X. , Chen B. , Black T. A. , Jassal R. S. , Che M. , Liu Y.
Published: February 2014

Abstract. This study examined the response of carbon (C) sequestration and evapotranspiration (ET) to nitrogen (N) fertilization during the four post-fertilization years (2007–2010) in a Pacific Northwest chronosequence of three Douglas-fir stands 61, 22 and 10 yr old in 2010 (DF49, HDF11 and HDF00, respectively). An artificial neural network (ANN) for time series analysis was employed to identify and estimate the complex nonlinear relationships between C and water exchanges and environmental variables. To test the performance of the ANN model, it was trained against multi-year monthly climate variables and EC-measured C and water fluxes for 1998–2004 and the trained model was then verified using data obtained in 2005 and 2006. The optimized model which showed high reliability (linear regression analysis: for C and water fluxes, R2 > 0.93, slope = 0.96–0.99, p < 0.000) was then used to calculate the C and water fluxes for 2007–2010 assuming the three stands were not fertilized. The calculated C and water fluxes (for non-fertilized conditions) were compared with the measured fluxes (for fertilized conditions) to quantify the effects of fertilization during the post-fertilization four years. Results showed that N fertilization increased gross primary productivity of all three stands in all four years with the largest absolute increases in the 10 yr-old stand (HDF00) followed by the 22 yr-old stand (HDF11). Ecosystem respiration increased in all four years at HDF00, but decreased over the last three years at HDF88, and over all four years in the 61 yr-old stand (DF49). As a result, fertilization increased the net ecosystem productivity of all three stands with the average increase being the largest at HDF88 followed by DF49. In addition, fertilization caused a small increase in annual ET in all four years at DF49; a small increase in the first year and a decrease in the next three years at HDF88; and no consistent effect at HDF00. Consequently, fertilization exerted only a small impact on water use efficiency in the oldest stand (DF49) but a significant increase in the two younger stands (HDF00 and HDF88). Furthermore, N fertilization increased light use efficiency in all three stands, especially in the 10 yr-old stand.
Insights into oxygen transport and net community production in sea ice from oxygen, nitrogen and argon concentrations
Authors: Zhou J. , Delille B. , Brabant F. , Tison J.-L.
Published: February 2014

Abstract. We present the evolution of O2 standing stocks, saturation levels and concentrations in landfast sea ice, collected in Barrow (Alaska), from February to June 2009. The comparison of the standing stocks and saturation levels of O2 against those of N2 and Ar suggests that the dynamic of O2 in sea ice strongly depends on physical processes (gas incorporation and subsequent transport). We then discuss on the use of O2 / Ar and O2 / N2 to correct for the physical contribution and to determine the biological contribution (NCP) to O2 supersaturations. We conclude that O2 / Ar suits better than O2 / N2, because O2 / N2 is more sensitive due to the relative abundance of O2, N2 and Ar, and less biased when gas bubble formation and gas diffusion are maximized. We further estimate the NCP in the impermeable layers during ice growth and in the permeable layers during ice decay. Our results indicate that NCP contributed to a~release of carbon to the atmosphere in the upper ice layers, but to an uptake of carbon at sea ice bottom. Overall, seawater (rather than the atmosphere) may be the main supplier of carbon for sea ice microorganisms.
Judicial Perceptions of Media Portrayals of Offenders with High Functioning Autistic Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Berryessa Colleen M.
Published: February 2014

In recent years, sensational media reporting focusing on crimes committed by those diagnosed with or thought to have High Functioning Autistic Spectrum Disorders (hfASDs) has caused societal speculation that there is a link between the disorder and violent criminality. No research exists on how and if the judiciary understands and is affected by this coverage. Therefore this study aims to examine how judges perceive and are influenced by media attention surrounding hfASDs and criminality. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 21 California Superior Court Judges, including questions on media portrayal. Judges perceived general media portrayals of hfASDs in both positive and negative ways. However, almost all judges who had experienced media coverage surrounding hfASDs and criminality identified it as misleading and harmful to public perceptions of the disorder. These findings suggest judges are not exempt from media attention surrounding violence and hfASDs, and they recognize the potential adverse effects of this negative coverage. Although judges' report their opinions are not affected, the results demonstrate that judges are worried that the public and potentially other criminal justice actors are adversely affected and will continue to be moving forward.