bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do public work schemes deter or encourage outmigration? Empirical evidence from China
Authors: Chau Nancy H , Kanbur Ravi , Qin Yu
Published: March 2014

How does the introduction of rural public work schemes impact individual incentives to migrate? This paper examines this question in the context of rural public work program (Yigong-daizhen) in China, and unveils empirical evidence that suggest that the introduction of Yigong-daizhen projects in fact stimulates outmigration at the village level, after controlling for village characteristics, project types and province fixed effects. By furthermore accounting for the endogeneity of Yigong-daizhen placement using propensity score matching method, the impact of such projects is found to be consistent with the OLS estimation. These results are consistent with household migration behavior in the presence of significant cost of migration, and credit market imperfection.

JEL codes

H43; J61; O15
Joint estimation of modal attenuation and velocity from multichannel surface wave data
Authors: Misbah Amr S. , Strobbia Claudio L.
Published: March 2014

We evaluated a method for the simultaneous analysis of velocity and attenuation of multichannel surface wave data. It allowed us to estimate the phase velocity and attenuation curves using an array of receivers, possibly unevenly spaced, and a set of multiple shots at different locations. After reviewing the properties of surface waves in dissipative media, the estimation algorithm was evaluated. It was based on the estimation of the complex wavenumber of multiple normal modes. It can be considered as a high-resolution subspace-based method able to deal with irregularly sampled multichannel-multishot data. The interference between multiple modes was considered without the need of a prior specific multimode Rayleigh spreading function, so that multiple modal attenuation curves can be extracted. The validity of the approach was tested using synthetic data, with small and large mode interference, as well as with multimode real data. The benefits and the robustness of the proposed method were particularly relevant with data with multiple modes. The possibility of considering multiple shot points into a receiver array allowed the increase of the modal resolution without increasing the receiver aperture, thus without compromising the lateral resolution. The estimation of the modal attenuation coefficient enabled the estimation of the subsurface material damping ratio, and the definition of a dissipative propagation model.
Dopamine transporter occupancy by methylphenidate and impulsivity in adult ADHD
Authors: Crunelle Cleo L. , van den Brink Wim , Dom Geert , Booij Jan
Published: March 2014

Impulsivity is a multidimensional construct, including impulsive decision-making and impulsive action, representing relatively independent neurocircuitries. ADHD is treated with methylphenidate, a drug that binds to dopamine transporters. This study in 24 adult male patients with ADHD shows that dopamine transporter occupancy by methylphenidate in the putamen correlates with improvements in cognitive but not in motor impulsivity.
Pointwise multipliers for Campanato spaces on Gauss measure spaces
Authors: Liu Liguang , Yang Dachun
Published: March 2014

In this paper, the authors characterize pointwise multipliers for Campanato spaces on the Gauss measure space (ℝn,| · |,γ), which includes BMO(γ) as a special case. As applications, several examples of the pointwise multipliers are given. Also, the authors give an example of a nonnegative function in BMO(γ) but not in BLO(γ).
On the Signatures of Ordered System Lifetimes
Authors: Balakrishnan N. , Volterman William
Published: March 2014

The idea of the system signature is extended here to the case of ordered system lifetimes arising from a test of coherent systems with a signature. An expression is given for the computation of the ordered system signatures in terms of the usual system signature for system lifetimes. Some properties of the ordered system signatures are then established. Closed-form expressions for the ordered system signatures are obtained in some special cases, and some illustrative examples are presented.
Coexistence and Noncoexistence of Markovian Viruses and their Hosts
Authors: Björnberg Jakob E. , Broman Erik I.
Published: March 2014

Examining possibilities for the coexistence of two competing populations is a classic problem which dates back to the earliest ‘predator-prey’ models. In this paper we study this problem in the context of a model introduced in Björnberg et al. (2012) for the spread of a virus infection in a population of healthy cells. The infected cells may be seen as a population of ‘predators’ and the healthy cells as a population of ‘prey’. We show that, depending on the parameters defining the model, there may or may not be coexistence of the two populations, and we give precise criteria for this.
On Simple Ruin Expressions in Dependent Sparre Andersen Risk Models
Authors: Albrecher Hansjörg , Boxma Onno J. , Ivanovs Jevgenijs
Published: March 2014

In this note we provide a simple alternative probabilistic derivation of an explicit formula of Kwan and Yang (2007) for the probability of ruin in a risk model with a certain dependence between general claim interoccurrence times and subsequent claim sizes of conditionally exponential type. The approach puts the type of formula in a general context, illustrating the potential for similar simple ruin probability expressions in more general risk models with dependence.
The length-force behavior and operating length range of squid muscle varies as a function of position in the mantle wall
Authors: Thompson Joseph T. , Shelton Ryan M. , Kier William M.
Published: March 2014

Hollow cylindrical muscular organs are widespread in animals and are effective in providing support for locomotion and movement, yet are subject to significant non-uniformities in circumferential muscle strain. During contraction of the mantle of squid, the circular muscle fibers along the inner (lumen) surface of the mantle experience circumferential strains of 1.3 to 1.6 times greater than fibers along the outer surface of the mantle. This transmural gradient of strain may require the circular muscle fibers from near the inner and outer surfaces of the mantle to operate in different regions of the length-tension curve during a given mantle contraction cycle. We tested the hypothesis that circular muscle contractile properties vary transmurally in the mantle of the Atlantic longfin squid, Doryteuthis pealeii (Lesueur, 1821). We found that both the length-twitch force and length-tetanic force relationships of the obliquely striated, central mitochondria poor (CMP), circular muscle fibers varied with radial position in the mantle wall. CMP circular fibers near the inner surface of the mantle produced higher force, relative to maximum isometric tetanic force, P0, at all points along the ascending limb of the length-tension curve than CMP circular fibers near the outer surface of the mantle. The mean ± s.d. maximum isometric tetanic stresses at L0 (the preparation length that produced the maximum isometric tetanic force) of 212 ± 105 kN m-2 and 290 ± 166 kN m-2 for the fibers from the outer and inner surfaces of the mantle, respectively, did not differ significantly (p=0.29). The mean twitch:tetanus ratios for the outer and inner preparations, 0.60 ± 0.085 and 0.58 ± 0.10, respectively, did not differ significantly (p=0.67). The circular fibers did not exhibit length-dependent changes in contraction kinetics when given a twitch stimulus. As the stimulation frequency increased, L0 was about 1.06 times longer than LTW, the mean preparation length that yielded maximum isometric twitch force. Sonomicrometry experiments revealed that the CMP circular muscle fibers operated in vivo primarily along the ascending limb of the length-tension curve. The CMP fibers functioned routinely over muscle lengths at which force output ranged from only 85% to 40% of P0, and during escape jets from 100% to 30% of P0. Our work shows that the functional diversity of obliquely striated muscles is much greater than previously recognized.
Experimental and Numerical Studies on the Seismic Performance of RC Interior Beam-Column Joints
Authors: Meas Kimreth , Li Bing , Pham Thanh Phuong
Published: March 2014

This paper presents the results from Finite Element (FE) simulation on six Reinforced Concrete (RC) beam-column jointsand experimental study. The joints investigate dhave additional, vertically distributed reinforcement along the beams and lateral cyclic loading is applied, with constant axial force. Experimental results provide insight into the joint behaviour under conventional and unconventional displacement histories in terms of hysteresis loop, crack pattern and joint shear stress. The FE numerical models are validated by comparing the numerical results with experimental results obtained from six tested specimens and two specimens from previous studies. Parametric studies are performed to investigate the complex behaviour of the joints under the influence of axial loads as well as the numbers of vertically distributed reinforcement layers.
Modelling of Steel-Concrete Composite Structures in Fire Using OpenSees
Authors: Jiang Jian , Usmani Asif , Li Guo-Qiang
Published: March 2014

This paper presents the extension of the structural analysis software framework OpenSees for modeling steel framed composite structures subjected to fire including the development of a geometrically nonlinear shell element. The new shell element is formed by a combination of membrane elements and Mindlin plate bending elements using a general total Lagrangian formulation. The MITC technique (Mixed Interpolation of Tensorial Components) is applied to alleviate shear locking problems and the addition of drilling degrees of freedom is included. A new thermal load class was created to define the temperature distribution through the thickness of the shell section. The two-dimensional OpenSees material, DruckerPrager, was modified to model the concrete in the composite deck slab at elevated temperature with temperature-dependent material properties according to the Eurocode 2. A three-dimensional finite element model of a composite structure was built in OpenSees, consisting of a flat reinforced concrete slab modeled by the developed shell element as well as concrete ribs and beams/columns modeled by three-dimensional beam elements. These components were connected by rigid link elements to model composite action. The performance of the developed model is verified and validated by a series of analytical solutions and experimental results respectively. Among these are: one-way bending of steel plates; fire tests on simply supported composite beams; and reinforced concrete slabs where membrane actions are investigated. Cardington restrained beam test and British Steel Corner test are also modeled. The reasonable agreement achieved between OpenSees predictions and experimental measurements shows the validity of the developed OpenSees extension to model composite structures in fire. The horizontal displacement of the column at floor level was modeled for the first time with reasonable agreement. This work is part of a wider project which, upon completion, will provide a user-friendly open-source computational platform for structural fire engineering analyses from fire dynamic simulation through to heat transfer analysis and mechanical analysis.
Caesar on religio
Authors: North John
Published: March 2014

In the course of his famous account of the Gallic Wars, Julius Caesar breaks off and digresses for a few chapters (6.11−28) on the religious customs of the Gauls and the Germans. This paper argues that, while there may not be too much to be learned from the digression about its ostensible subjects, it gives us a unique opportunity to assess whether Caesar had a conception of a ‘religion’ as such, of an area of religious activities and ideas within different societies, which would have enabled him to write a comparison between Roman religious life, about which as pontifex maximus he knew a good deal, and those of these other societies about which he knew at least a little. The conclusion is that he has no such conception; that his account allows no sharp distinction between the religious and non-religious areas of Gallic, German or Roman life. Rather he reveals an evolutionary perspective in which the superiority of Rome over the Gauls, and of Gauls over Germans, provide the central message he succeeds, consciously or not, in conveying.
Supplemental Persuasive Analogies in PGM V.70–95
Authors: Jendza Craig
Published: March 2014

This analysis of PGM V. 70 - 95 suggests that the persuasive analogy at the heart of the spell, “let the eye of the thief be struck and let it swell up until it betrays him”, is reinforced by a system of supplemental persuasive analogies, consisting of similar transformations in the magical ingredients (materia magica), the syllables of the incantation (voces magicae), and the graphic arrangement of magical vowels (carmina figurata). By comparing these techniques with those found in other spells and in the Hellenistic technopaignia pattern poems, we can more accurately pinpoint the significance of each technique within a given spell. In addition to providing a model for determining supplemental persuasive analogies in other spells, this study proposes that a convergence of numerous analogies indicates a high level of theoretical expertise for the magician, presenting scholars with a method for ascertaining the learnedness of individual practitioners.
Trade, societal interests, and political parties
Authors: Hwang Wonjae , Down Ian
Published: March 2014

We argue that international trade affects party systems but that this impact is conditioned on the types of societal interests trade brings about. When factor mobility is high, trade promotes class-based grievances that are unlikely to affect the structure of the party system. However, when factor mobility is low, trade will increase the diversity of group interests and policy preferences, thereby pressuring structural change in the party system. A consequence is an increase in the effective number of political parties. The empirical analysis supports these expectations. This paper contributes to our understanding of the political impact of economic liberalization on representative democracy.
The complexity of ELF
Authors: Baird Robert , Baker Will , Kitazawa Mariko
Published: March 2014

This paper sets out theoretical approaches to language that guide the authors' research in the field, but which have been under-represented in literature. As the English as a lingua franca field of enquiry grows, this article provides needed dialogue, consideration, and reflection over how we conceptualise our subject matter, our roles, and our rhetorical stances. This paper proposes the usefulness of considering the complexity of language, not as something that gets in the way of empiricism or clarity, but as something that makes ELF researchers perfectly positioned to investigate and contribute to wider understandings of language. Complexity theory is drawn upon as a conceptual tool that can be useful in guiding our thinking about the dynamic nature of language, which, in turn, is considered in relation to the reasons why language is complex, namely its roles in relation to practices and contextualisation. Having established our approaches to the complexity of the language in ELF scenarios, we propose implications for ELF researchers' treatment of speakers, language, and ideology.
Foreword
Authors: Clarke Andrew
Published: March 2014

Foreword to Volume 1, Issue 1.
Attaining Universal Justice
Authors: Kirby Michael
Published: March 2014

This article starts with a demonstration of the importance attached to universal human rights and justice following the adoption of the Charter of the United Nations, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and subsequent treaties. Instead of focusing on national concerns, it turns to address the even greater difficulties of securing human rights and justice at a global level. It does so by reference to particular challenges presented to two bodies on which the author serves: the Eminent Persons Group on the Future of the Commonwealth of Nations, and the UNDP Global Commission on HIV and the Law. Whilst securing advances are difficult and sometimes messy, the article concludes on a positive note in relation to the role of lawyers in advancing universal global human rights and justice.
Before 1979
Authors: Edwards-Ingram Ywone
Published: March 2014

Before the living history museum of Colonial Williamsburg started its concerted interpretation of slavery in 1979, the African American coachmen were already representing the past and implicating black history and slavery in this restored eighteenth-century capital of Virginia. Various records of photographs, postcards, letters, newspaper clippings, oral history accounts, visitor observations, and corporate papers provide a window to understand the social climates of the museum’s period in the 1930s to the 1970s. This body of evidence supports the contention that the coachmen were visible and influenced public history within and outside the museum.
Avoidable Hospitalizations in Youth With Kidney Failure After Transfer to or With Only Adult Care
Authors: Samuel Susan M. , Nettel-Aguirre Alberto , Soo Andrea , Hemmelgarn Brenda , Tonelli Marcello , Foster Bethany
Published: March 2014

OBJECTIVE:

Hospital admissions for ambulatory care–sensitive conditions (also called avoidable hospitalizations) are a measure of quality and access to outpatient care. We determined if young patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) are at increased risk of avoidable hospitalizations.

METHODS:

A national organ failure registry was used to identify patients with ESRD onset at <22 years of age between April 1, 2001, and March 31, 2010, who had received care in an adult care facility after age 15 years. The cohort was linked to the national hospitalizations database to identify avoidable hospitalizations relevant for young patients with ESRD. Patients were followed up until death, loss to follow-up, or study end. Two groups were studied: (1) patients transferred from pediatric to adult care; and (2) patients receiving ESRD care exclusively in adult centers. We determined the association between overall and avoidable hospitalization rates and both age and transfer status by using Poisson regression models.

RESULTS:

Our cohort included 349 patients. Among the 92 (26.4%) patients transferred to adult care during the study period, avoidable hospitalization rates were highest during the period 3 to <4 years after transfer (rate ratio: 3.19 [95% confidence interval: 1.42–7.18]) compared with the last year in pediatric care. Among the 257 (73.6%) patients who received ESRD care exclusively in adult centers, avoidable hospitalization rates increased with age.

CONCLUSIONS:

Among those who were transferred to adult care, avoidable hospitalization rates increased after transfer. Avoidable hospitalization rates increased with age in ESRD patients who received care in adult centers. Young patients with ESRD are at increased risk of avoidable hospitalizations.
The International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health: progress and opportunities
Authors: Ferreira Luana Talita Diniz , Castro Shamyr Sulyvan de , Buchalla Cassia Maria
Published: March 2014

The International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health is a tool used to monitor individuals from a broad perspective, which considers not only their health but also the biopsychosocial aspects involved in the health-disease process. It offers a range of categories to describe the aspects of human functioning that interfere with the performance of activities, as well as the environmental aspects that facilitate or hamper participation, integration and consequently quality of life. This paper reports some of the experiments in the use of this classification as a way to foster its use and show the broad range of possibilities offered by this tool. The disclosure of usage strategies will make it more well-known and adopted, opening up new perspectives for the health care segment.
Combate ao Tabagismo no Brasil: a importância estratégica das ações governamentais
Authors: Silva Sandra Tavares da , Martins Mariana Campos , Faria Franciane Rocha de , Cotta Rosângela Minardi Mitre
Published: March 2014

O Brasil é referência mundial no combate ao tabagismo e desenvolve ações por meio do Programa Nacional de Controle do Tabagismo e outros Fatores de Risco de Câncer (PNCTOFR). Com objetivo de apresentar as ações do PNCTOFR identificando as evidências de sua eficácia na redução da prevalência do tabagismo no Brasil, foi realizado este estudo bibliográfico. Utilizou-se documentos disponibilizados nos portais eletrônicos do Inca, da Política Nacional de Promoção da Saúde, do Observatório da Política Nacional de Controle do Tabaco e das Organizações Mundial da Saúde e Pan-Americana de Saúde, além das bases de dados Lilacs, PubMed Central,SciELO, ScienceDirect. O referencial para análise das ações foram as áreas/dimensões propostas pela International Union for Health Promotion and Education. A restrição da disponibilidade, controle do marketing e comercialização, atividades educativas nas escolas, atendimento na atenção primária à saúde a profissionais da área e à população em geral, controle do consumo em locais públicos e de trabalho são algumas das ações que contribuíram para redução na prevalência de tabagismo no Brasil, de 32,7% em 1997 para 14,8% em 2011. Os resultados apontam para a eficácia das ações do PNCTOFR, mas o tabagismo ainda é problema de saúde pública e precisa ser desnormatizado.
Greenhouse gas emissions from shale gas and coal for electricity generation in South Africa
Authors: Cohen Brett , Winkler Harald
Published: March 2014

There is increased interest, both in South Africa and globally, in the use of shale gas for electricity and

energy supply. The exploitation of shale gas is, however, not without controversy, because of the reported

environmental impacts associated with its extraction. The focus of this article is on the greenhouse gas

footprint of shale gas, which some literature suggests may be higher than what would have been expected

as a consequence of the contribution of fugitive emissions during extraction, processing and transport.

Based on some studies, it has been suggested that life-cycle emissions may be higher than those from

coal-fired power. Here we review a number of studies and analyse the data to provide a view of the likely

greenhouse gas emissions from producing electricity from shale gas, and compare these emissions to

those of coal-fired power in South Africa. Consideration was given to critical assumptions that determine the

relative performance of the two sources of feedstock for generating electricity – that is the global warming

potential of methane and the extent of fugitive emissions. The present analysis suggests that a 100-year time

horizon is appropriate in analysis related to climate change, over which period the relative contribution is

lower than for shorter periods. The purpose is to limit temperature increase in the long term and the choice

of metric should be appropriate. The analysis indicates that, regardless of the assumptions about fugitive

emissions and the period over which global warming potential is assessed, shale gas has lower greenhouse

gas emissions per MWh of electricity generated than coal. Depending on various factors, electricity from

shale gas would have a specific emissions intensity between 0.3 tCO

2

/MWh and 0.6 tCO

2

/MWh, compared

with about 1 tCO

2

/MWh for coal-fired electricity in South Africa.
Kinetics of carbothermic reduction of synthetic chromite
Authors: Wang Y. , Wang L. , Yu J. , Chou K.C.
Published: March 2014

In order to optimize the current reduction process of chromite, a good
knowledge of reduction mechanism involved is required. The basic component in
chromite ore is FeCr2O4, thus, kinetic investigation of synthetic FeCr2O4
with different amount of carbon were carried out in the temperature range of
1473K to 1673K under both isothermal and non-isothermal mode. The iron can be
easily reduced compared with chromium. And higher reduction degree of
chromite can be achieved by increasing temperature and carbon content. With
the supporting of X-ray Diffraction and Scanning Electron Microscope methods,
the formation of metallic products followed the sequence: Fe-C alloy,
(Fe,Cr)7C3and Fe-Cr-C alloy. Kinetics analysis showed that the first stage
was controlled by nucleation with an apparent activation energy of 120kJ/mol,
while the chromium reduction was controlled by crystallochemical
transformation with an apparent activation energy of 288kJ/mol.
Diabetes Induces Lysine Acetylation of Intermediary Metabolism Enzymes in the Kidney
Authors: Kosanam Hari , Thai Kerri , Zhang Yanling , Advani Andrew , Connelly Kim A. , Diamandis Eleftherios P. , Gilbert Richard E.
Published: March 2014

Cells in which insulin is not required for glucose uptake are susceptible to the long-term complications of diabetes. Even in these tissues, however, the major perturbations that would otherwise be engendered by the greatly increased intracellular glucose concentration are mollified by adaptive changes in the enzymes of intermediary metabolism. These include allosteric regulation, product inhibition, and covalent modification as well as alterations in gene transcription. More recently, advances in proteomic technology have shown that reversible acetylation of the ε-amino group of lysine provides an additional means of modulating protein function and, in particular, enzyme activity. Here, we explored the extent of protein acetylation in an organ susceptible to the long-term complications of diabetes, examining the kidneys of rats with streptozotocin-induced diabetes and kidney cells exposed to high glucose. Using high-resolution mass spectrometry coupled with immunoaffinity enrichment, we identified 47 lysine-acetylated proteins in the kidneys of diabetic rats compared with 11 in control kidneys. Bioinformatic interrogation of the acetylome from diabetic animals showed a predominance of metabolic pathway involvement including the citrate acid cycle, glycolysis/gluconeogenesis, and metabolism of branched chain amino acids. Increased lysine acetylation was also noted in mesangial and tubular cells exposed to 25 mmol/L compared with 5.6 mmol/L glucose. These findings highlight acetylation as a posttranslational modification affecting numerous proteins. Current drug discovery efforts to develop small molecule inhibitors and activators of various lysine acetylases and deacetylases offer a new potential strategy to reduce the likelihood of diabetes complications.
Bilirubin and Progression of Nephropathy in Type 2 Diabetes: A Post Hoc Analysis of RENAAL With Independent Replication in IDNT
Authors: Riphagen Ineke J. , Deetman Petronella E. , Bakker Stephan J.L. , Navis Gerjan , Cooper Mark E. , Lewis Julia B. , de Zeeuw Dick , Lambers Heerspink Hiddo J.
Published: March 2014

Bilirubin, a potent endogenous antioxidant, was found to protect against the development of diabetic nephropathy (DN) in rodents. In humans, cross-sectional studies found an inverse relation between bilirubin and DN. We prospectively investigated whether bilirubin is associated with progression of DN toward end-stage renal disease (ESRD). To this end, we performed a post hoc analysis in the Reduction of Endpoints in NIDDM with the Angiotensin II Antagonist Losartan (RENAAL) trial with independent replication in the Irbesartan Diabetic Nephropathy Trial (IDNT). Subjects with type 2 diabetes and nephropathy with alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and bilirubin levels <1.5 times the upper limit of normal were included. The renal end point was defined as the composite of confirmed doubling of serum creatinine or ESRD. Bilirubin was inversely associated with the renal end point in RENAAL independent of age, sex, race, BMI, smoking, total cholesterol, diastolic blood pressure, HbA1c, treatment, estimated glomerular filtration rate, albumin-to-creatinine ratio, and AST. These results were confirmed in IDNT. This study indicates an independent inverse association of bilirubin with progression of nephropathy in RENAAL and IDNT. These data suggest a protective effect of bilirubin against progression of nephropathy in type 2 diabetes. The well-established role of bilirubin as an antioxidant is a potential explanation for the findings.
Does an observer belong in physics?
Authors: Novotný Jan
Published: March 2014

In this paper we comment on the opinions of great philosophers from various epochs on the relationship between computers and the human mind. We ponder over whether we might be able to gain an understanding of the human mind and a perception of the world from the scientific point of view. We focus on the relationship between these two issues.
The place of culture-based reasons in public debates
Authors: Alvarez Allen
Published: March 2014

The question of how society should deal with social conflicts arising from cultural differences persists. Should we adopt an exclusivist approach by excluding reasons based on specific cultural traditions (culture-based reasons) from public debates about social policy, especially because these reasons do not appeal to the public at large? Or should we resort to an inclusivist approach by including reasons based on cultural traditions in public debate to give recognition to the diverse cultural identities of those who practice these traditions? While these two approaches assign different roles to cultural traditions in public debate, both seem to welcome compromise between conflicting parties. This paper reviews contending normative approaches for dealing with conflicts in multicultural societies and explores the place of culture-based reasons in public debates designed to resolve conflicts.
Dry or picturesque? The use of figurative language in Israeli supreme court verdicts
Authors: Kayam Orly , Galily Yair
Published: March 2014

The legal language of lawyers and judges is generally dry and factual but an examination of the rulings of Israeli Supreme Court justices shows that at least some of them use very picturesque speech to support their positions. This paper describes the use of figurative language as employed by Israeli Supreme Court justices in their writing of verdicts. Examples of the use of metaphors, metonymy, word play, imagery, oxymorons, parables and allegory are cited and discussed.
On diversity within operators’ EEG responses to LED-produced alternate stimulus in SSVEP BCI
Authors: Byczuk M. , Poryzała P. , Materka A.
Published: March 2014

This work is an attempt to identify causes of the widely observed fact that performance of Brain-Computer Interface systems based on Steady-State Visual Evoked Potentials varies between different users. The efficient LED-produced alternate stimulus systems are taken into account. The effect of stimulus color and flickering frequency on measured SSVEP response at first and second harmonics is investigated for 10 women and 11 men. The experimental setup is described, measurement procedure, signal processing and analysis algorithms are outlined. The results are presented and discussed. One of the early conclusions drawn from this extensive research is that the promising strategy of SSVEP-based BCI system optimization for best performance can be through stimulus adjustment to each individual user.
G-PAS 2.0 – an improved version of protein alignment tool with an efficient backtracking routine on multiple GPUs
Authors: Frohmberg W. , Kierzynka M. , Blazewicz J. , Wojciechowski P.
Published: March 2014

Several highly efficient alignment tools have been released over the past few years, including those taking advantage of GPUs (Graphics Processing Units). G-PAS (GPU-based Pairwise Alignment Software) was one of them, however, with a couple of interesting features that made it unique. Nevertheless, in order to adapt it to a new computational architecture some changes had to be introduced. In this paper we present G-PAS 2.0 - a new version of the software for performing high-throughput alignment. Results show, that the new version is faster nearly by a fourth on the same hardware, reaching over 20 GCUPS (Giga Cell Updates Per Second).
Efficient alternatives to PSI-BLAST
Authors: Startek M. , Lasota S. , Sykulski M. , Bułak A. , Noé L. , Kucherov G. , Gambin A.
Published: March 2014

In this paper we present two algorithms that may serve as efficient alternatives to the well-known PSI BLAST tool: SeedBLAST and CTX-PSI Blast. Both may benefit from the knowledge about amino acid composition specific to a given protein family: SeedBLAST uses the advisedly designed seed, while CTX-PSI BLAST extends PSI BLAST with the context-specific substitution model. The seeding technique became central in the theory of sequence alignment. There are several efficient tools applying seeds to DNA homology search, but not to protein homology search. In this paper we fill this gap. We advocate the use of multiple subset seeds derived from a hierarchical tree of amino acid residues. Our method computes, by an evolutionary algorithm, seeds that are specifically designed for a given protein family. The seeds are represented by deterministic finite automata (DFAs) and built into the NCBI-BLAST software. This extended tool, named SeedBLAST, is compared to the original BLAST and PSI-BLAST on several protein families. Our results demonstrate a superiority of SeedBLAST in terms of efficiency, especially in the case of twilight zone hits. The contextual substitution model has been proven to increase sensitivity of protein alignment. In this paper we perform a next step in the contextual alignment program. We announce a contextual version of the PSI-BLAST algorithm, an iterative version of the NCBI-BLAST tool. The experimental evaluation has been performed demonstrating a significantly higher sensitivity compared to the ordinary PSI-BLAST algorithm.
SAW sensor for detection of hydrocarbons. Numerical analysis and experimental results
Authors: Hejczyk T. , Urbańczyk M. , Wituła R. , Maciak E.
Published: March 2014

The paper presents the results of numerical analyses of the SAW gas sensor in the steady and non-steady state. The effect of SAW velocity changes vs. the surface electrical conductivity of the sensing layer is predicted. The conductivity of the porous sensing layer above the piezoelectric waveguide depends on the profile of the diffused gas molecule concentration inside the layer. Knudsen’s model of gas diffusion was used. Numerical results for the gases CH4, C2H4, C3H8, C6H6 in the steady state and CH4 in the non-steady state in the WO3 sensing layer have been shown. The results of numerical analyzes allow to select the sensor design conditions, including the morphology of the sensor layer, its thickness and operating temperature. Some numerical results were verified in experimental studies concerning methane.
The study of electronic voltage transducers operation in conditions of dips and interruptions of measured voltage
Authors: Kaczmarek M. , Szczesny A. , Nowicz R.
Published: March 2014

The aim of the paper is to present a response on dips and on interruptions of the measured voltage by means of electronic voltage transducers and inductive voltage transformers. Results of laboratory studies show high overvoltages generated in both a primary and secondary side of inductive VTs during the above mentioned conditions. Overvoltages in secondary circuits may damage measuring or protection apparatus connected to the secondary side of the VT. Using electronic voltage transducers enables users to avoid these problems.
SI-Studio – environment for SI circuits design automation
Authors: Szczęsny S. , Naumowicz M. , Handkiewicz A.
Published: March 2014

The current work is an answer to the problem of designing switched-current (SI) circuits, which is usually a complex issue in the field of microelectronics. The mentioned task is a source of many mistakes and takes a lot of time for designers, therefore authors of the article decided to propose a software solution. This article presents an environment for design automation of analogue circuits in the switched currents technique. It points out the utility advantages of the described tools, which make the work of a VLSI designer much easier, moreover offering a possibility to parameterise the design process considering power consumption, chip area usage and its working speed. It also presents results of an automatic generation of a filter pair circuit, as well as a DCT circuit - automatically generated with the proposed SI-Studio software tools.
The Danish Version of the Modified Constant-Murley Shoulder Score: Reliability, Agreement, and Construct Validity
Authors: Moeller Anders D. , Thorsen Rikke R. , Torabi Tina P. , Bjoerkman Anne-Sofie D. , Christensen Elsebeth H. , Maribo Thomas , Christiansen David H.
Published: March 2014

Study Design

Test-retest study.

Objectives

To assess the reliability, agreement, and validity of the Danish version of the modified Constant-Murley score (CMS).

Background

Modified CMS guidelines were published in 2008. These modifications have recently been translated and cross-culturally adapted into a Danish version. However, the reliability and the validity of this version have yet to be established.

Methods

A total of 45 patients with shoulder impingement syndrome were examined by 2 raters using the modified version of the CMS and a questionnaire that included the Oxford shoulder score. Both raters had a minimum of experience using the CMS. Intrarater and interrater agreement and reliability were examined and compared. Construct validity was assessed by the correlation between the scores of the CMS and the Oxford shoulder score.

Results

The minimal detectable change was estimated to be 13 and 11 points for raters A and B, respectively. The intraclass correlation coefficient was 0.93 for rater A and 0.95 for rater B. Interrater comparison demonstrated a minimal detectable change of 12 points and an intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.94. The correlation coefficient between the CMS and the Oxford shoulder score was 0.76.

Conclusion

The intrarater and interrater reliability and agreement of the Danish version of the modified CMS were found to be acceptable, and construct validity was confirmed. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2014;44(5):336–340. Epub 27 March 2014. doi:10.2519/jospt.2014.5008
Compression fracture in the middle of a chronic instrumented fusion that developed into pseudarthrosis after balloon kyphoplasty
Authors: Pirris Stephen M. , Kimes Sherri M.
Published: March 2014

There are only 2 documented cases of vertebral compression fractures occurring within a solid lumbar fusion mass: one within the fusion mass after hardware removal and the other within the levels of the existing instrumentation 1 year postoperatively. The authors report a case of fracture occurring in a chronic (> 30 years) solid instrumented fusion mass in a patient who underwent kyphoplasty. The pain did not improve after the kyphoplasty procedure, and the patient developed a posterior cleft in the fusion mass postoperatively. The patient, a 46-year-old woman, had undergone a T4–L4 instrumented fusion with placement of a Harrington rod when she was 12 years old. Adjacent-segment breakdown developed, and her fusion was extended to the pelvis, with pedicle screws placed up to L-3 to capture the existing fusion mass. Almost 2 years after fusion extension, she fell down the stairs and suffered an L-2 compression fracture, which is when kyphoplasty was performed without pain relief, and she then developed a cleft in the posterior fusion mass that was previously intact. She refused further surgical options. This case report is meant to alert surgeons of this possibility and allow them to consider the rare occurrence of fracture within the fusion mass when planning extension of chronic spinal fusions.
Editorial: Special Issue on Algorithms for Sequence Analysis and Storage
Authors: Mäkinen Veli
Published: March 2014

This special issue of Algorithms is dedicated to approaches to biological sequence analysis that have algorithmic novelty and potential for fundamental impact in methods used for genome research.
Can Biomarker Assessment on Circulating Tumor Cells Help Direct Therapy in Metastatic Breast Cancer?
Authors: Turner Natalie , Pestrin Marta , Galardi Francesca , De Luca Francesca , Malorni Luca , Di Leo Angelo
Published: March 2014

Circulating tumor cell (CTC) count has prognostic significance in metastatic breast cancer, but the predictive utility of CTCs is uncertain. Molecular studies on CTCs have often been limited by a low number of CTCs isolated from a high background of leukocytes. Improved enrichment techniques are now allowing molecular characterisation of single CTCs, whereby molecular markers on single CTCs may provide a real-time assessment of tumor biomarker status from a blood test or “liquid biopsy”, potentially negating the need for a more invasive tissue biopsy. The predictive ability of CTC biomarker analysis has predominantly been assessed in relation to HER2, with variable and inconclusive results. Limited data exist for other biomarkers, such as the estrogen receptor. In addition to the need to define and validate the most accurate and reproducible method for CTC molecular analysis, the clinical relevance of biomarkers, including gain of HER2 on CTC after HER2 negative primary breast cancer, remains uncertain. This review summarises the currently available data relating to biomarker evaluation on CTCs and its role in directing management in metastatic breast cancer, discusses limitations, and outlines measures that may enable future development of this approach.
Endothelialization of Novel Magnesium-Rare Earth Alloys with Fluoride and Collagen Coating
Authors: Zhao Nan , Workman Benjamin , Zhu Donghui
Published: March 2014

Magnesium (Mg) alloys are promising scaffolds for the next generation of cardiovascular stents because of their better biocompatibility and biodegradation compared to traditional metals. However, insufficient mechanical strength and high degradation rate are still the two main limitations for Mg materials. Hydrofluoric acid (HF) treatment and collagen coating were used in this research to improve the endothelialization of two rare earth-based Mg alloys. Results demonstrated that a nanoporous film structure of fluoride with thickness of ~20 µm was formed on the Mg material surface, which improved the corrosion resistance. Primary human coronary artery endothelial cells (HCAECs) had much better attachment, spreading, growth and proliferation (the process of endothelialization) on HF-treated Mg materials compared to bare- or collagen-coated ones.
Microfiber Optical Sensors: A Review
Authors: Lou Jingyi , Wang Yipei , Tong Limin
Published: March 2014

With diameter close to or below the wavelength of guided light and high index contrast between the fiber core and the surrounding, an optical microfiber shows a variety of interesting waveguiding properties, including widely tailorable optical confinement, evanescent fields and waveguide dispersion. Among various microfiber applications, optical sensing has been attracting increasing research interest due to its possibilities of realizing miniaturized fiber optic sensors with small footprint, high sensitivity, fast response, high flexibility and low optical power consumption. Here we review recent progress in microfiber optical sensors regarding their fabrication, waveguide properties and sensing applications. Typical microfiber-based sensing structures, including biconical tapers, optical gratings, circular cavities, Mach-Zehnder interferometers and functionally coated/doped microfibers, are summarized. Categorized by sensing structures, microfiber optical sensors for refractive index, concentration, temperature, humidity, strain and current measurement in gas or liquid environments are reviewed. Finally, we conclude with an outlook for challenges and opportunities of microfiber optical sensors.
Co-Administration of Molecular Adjuvants Expressing NF-Kappa B Subunit p65/RelA or Type-1 Transactivator T-bet Enhance Antigen Specific DNA Vaccine-Induced Immunity
Authors: Shedlock Devon , Tingey Colleen , Mahadevan Lavanya , Hutnick Natalie , Reuschel Emma , Kudchodkar Sagar , Flingai Seleeke , Yan Jenny , Kim Joseph , Ugen Kenneth , Weiner David , Muthumani Kar
Published: March 2014

DNA vaccine-induced immunity can be enhanced by the co-delivery of synthetic gene-encoding molecular adjuvants. Many of these adjuvants have included cytokines, chemokines or co-stimulatory molecules that have been demonstrated to enhance vaccine-induced immunity by increasing the magnitude or type of immune responses and/or protective efficacy. In this way, through the use of adjuvants, immune responses can be highly customizable and functionally tailored for optimal efficacy against pathogen specific (i.e., infectious agent) or non-pathogen (i.e., cancer) antigens. In the novel study presented here, we examined the use of cellular transcription factors as molecular adjuvants. Specifically the co-delivery of (a) RelA, a subunit of the NF-κB transcription complex or (b) T-bet, a Th1-specific T box transcription factor, along with a prototypical DNA vaccine expressing HIV-1 proteins was evaluated. As well, all of the vaccines and adjuvants were administered to mice using in vivo electroporation (EP), a technology demonstrated to dramatically increase plasmid DNA transfection and subsequent transgene expression with concomitant enhancement of vaccine induced immune responses. As such, this study demonstrated that co-delivery of either adjuvant resulted in enhanced T and B cell responses, specifically characterized by increased T cell numbers, IFN-γ production, as well as enhanced antibody responses. This study demonstrates the use of cellular transcription factors as adjuvants for enhancing DNA vaccine-induced immunity.