bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Tiger Sulfide Chimney, Yonaguni Knoll IV Hydrothermal Field, Southern Okinawa Trough, Japan: The First Reported Occurrence of Pt–Cu–Fe‐Bearing Bismuthinite and Sn‐Bearing Chalcopyrite in an Active Seafloor Hydrothermal System
Authors: Gena Kaul , Chiba Hitoshi , Kase Katsuo , Nakashima Kazuo , Ishiyama Daizo
Published: October 2013

A sulfide chimney ore sampled from the flank of the active Tiger vent area in the Yonaguni Knoll IV hydrothermal field, south Okinawa trough, consists of anhydrite, pyrite, sphalerite, galena, chalcopyrite and bismuthinite. Electron microprobe analysis indicates that the chalcopyrite contains up to 2.4 wt% Sn, whereas bismuthinite contains up to 1.7 wt% Pt, 0.8 wt% Cu and 0.5 wt% Fe. The Sn‐rich chalcopyrite and Pt–Cu–Fe‐bearing bismuthinite are the first reported occurrence of such minerals in an active submarine hydrothermal system. The results confirm that Sn enters the chalcopyrite as a solid solution towards stannite by the coupled substitution of Sn4+Fe2+ for Fe3+Fe3+, whereas Pt, Cu and Fe enter the bismuthinite structure as a solid solution during rapid nucleation. The fluid inclusions homogenization temperatures in anhydrite (220–310°C) and measured end‐member temperature of the vent fluids on‐site (325°C) indicate that Sn‐bearing chalcopyrite and Pt–Cu–Fe‐bearing bismuthinite express the original composition of the minerals that precipitated as metastable phases at a temperature above 300°C. The result observed in this study implies that sulfides in ancient volcanogenic massive sulfide deposits have similar trace element distribution during nucleation but it is remobilised during diagenesis, metamorphism or supergene enrichment processes.
A Comparative Study for3DSurface Modeling of Coal Deposit by Spatial Interpolation Approaches
Authors: Dag Ahmet , Ozdemir Ali Can
Published: October 2013

The planning stages of mining require comprehensive and detailed analyses. The proper determination of the orebody boundary is one of the most important points to provide optimum model structure and projections. The limits can be determined by different methods based on the site geology. Although some three dimensional (3D) models were proposed for providing detailed information concerning a mine deposit, developing a solid model via a3Dapproach is novelty. In other words, surface modeling should be performed for creating a solid model and determining limits of the deposit. In this way, sensible generation of the surface model can be achieved. This study investigated the estimation capability of the polynomial approach, which is a novel spatial interpolation method, for modeling a coal deposit surface. The performance of the proposed model was compared with some conventional methods in the literature. The results showed that the polynomial interpolation method is an effective method to employ for surface modeling of a mine deposit.
Calcium and Magnesium‐bearing Sabugalite from the Tono Uranium Deposit, Central Japan
Authors: Nakata Masataka , Sasao Eiji , Komuro Kosei
Published: October 2013

Calcium and magnesium‐bearing sabugalite occurs as aggregations of yellowish platy crystals in veinlets or druses in conglomerate from the oxidized parts of the Tono uranium deposit, Central Japan. X‐ray powder diffractometry of this mineral has reflections consistent with previous powder diffraction data of sabugalite. It is included in the monoclinic system with space group C2/m and calculated cell parameters of a = 19.68Å, b = 9.89Å, c = 9.82Å α = γ = 90°, β‐96.93° and V = 1897.83Å3. Chemical analysis yields a formula of (Ca0.10 Mg0.09)Σ0.19Al0.53(UO2)2.04((PO4)1.99(AsO4)0.01)Σ2.00·11.22H2O. EMPA mapping shows that the mineral is compositionally uniform with no micron‐scale layering. Charge of cations including Ca and Mg in the cation‐H2O layer is 1.98 being identical to that of autunite group minerals. This suggests that the charge balance in the cation‐H2O layer of the mineral could be made by the alkaline earth or alkaline elements rather than by hydrogen ions.
Trade with Time Zone Differences: Factor Market Implications
Authors: Kikuchi Toru , Marjit Sugata , Mandal Biswajit
Published: October 2013

The main purpose of this study is to illustrate, with a simple two‐factor (skilled and unskilled labor) model, how a time‐saving improvement in business‐services trade benefitting from differences in time zones can have an impact on national factor markets. In doing so, we intend to capture the situation where the night‐shift work in one country is replaced by the day‐shift work in another country. In other words, we will show that trade with time zone differences will result in shifts of the relative supplies and demands for skilled labor around the globe.
Microcredit, Labor, and Poverty Impacts in Urban Mexico
Authors: Niño‐Zarazúa Miguel
Published: October 2013

Improved household accessibility to credit is a significant determinant of intra‐household allocation of labor resources with important implications for productivity, income, and poverty status. However, credit accessibility could also have wider impacts on poverty if it leads to new hires outside the household. This paper contributes to the existing literature on microcredit in two important ways. First, it investigates the routes through which microcredit reaches those in poverty outside the household. We test whether by lending to the vulnerable non‐poor microcredit can indirectly benefit poor laborers through increased employment. Second, we conduct the study in the context of urban poverty Mexico. This is relevant when considering that labor often represents the only source of livelihoods to the extreme urban poor. Our findings point to significant trickle‐down effects of microcredit that benefit poor laborers; however, these effects are only observed after loan‐supported enterprising households achieve earnings well above the poverty line.
Care dependency in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and heart failure – a secondary data analysis of German prevalence studies
Authors: Köberich Stefan , Lohrmann Christa , Dassen Theo
Published: October 2013

Aim

The aim of this study was to compare the degree of care dependency between hospitalised patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) and patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Methods

Secondary data analysis of five German prevalence studies from 2007 to 2011. Care dependency was measured using the Care Dependency Scale.

Results

Hospitalised patients with CHF or COPD are to a limited extent care dependent, and their overall care dependency does not differ (p = 0.56). Care dependency items with the lowest mean were mobility, hygiene, getting (un)dressed, continence, avoidance of danger and daily activities. Patients with CHF or COPD did not differ statistically significantly in those items. Only the items ‘eating and drinking’ almost achieved statistical significance (p = 0.06).

Conclusion

Patients with CHF or COPD did not differ in levels of care dependency. Both patient populations are restricted in engaging in activities potentially associated with physical condition and possibly influenced by perceived dyspnoea. Furthermore, comorbidities like incontinence and cognitive impairment seem to play an important role regarding the degree of care dependency.
Spontaneous Clearance of Hepatitis B Surface Antigenemia After Long‐term Hemodialysis
Authors: Patel Chinmay , Monga Divya , Alexander Mohini , Magoon Sandeep , Bernstein David , Wagner John D. , Mattana Joseph
Published: October 2013

Persistent infection with the hepatitis B virus (HBV) [as indicated by chronic HBV surface antigenemia (HBsAg)] continues to be an important problem in end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) patients and specifically in those receiving maintenance hemodialysis (HD). Patients on HD who are HBsAg‐positive for a year have little chance of ever eliminating the virus; hence, clearance of HBsAg is a rare event in long‐term HD patients. We report the case of a 62‐year‐old diabetic woman who was HBsAg‐positive at the time she started HD and remained so until 10 years later when she became HBsAg‐negative followed by the development of hepatitis B surface antibody (anti‐HBs). Prior to her seroconversion, she suffered a persistent infection of her HD arteriovenous graft (AVG) that required prolonged antibiotics and several surgical procedures. We speculate that this immune stimulation contributed to her seroconversion.
The novel HLA‐A*26:89 allele identified by sequence‐based typing
Authors: Jiao S.‐X. , Chi X.‐Y. , Hu B. , Wang M.‐M. , Feng Z.‐H.
Published: October 2013

The novel allele A*26:89 was identified in a Chinese individual by sequence‐based typing.
Characterization of mannose‐binding lectin (MBL) variants by allele‐specific sequencing of MBL2 and determination of serum MBL protein levels
Authors: Adamek M. , Heyder J. , Heinold A. , Fiedler G. , Opelz G. , Tran T. H.
Published: October 2013

Mannose‐binding lectin (MBL) is a major component of the lectin pathway of complement activation. High and low MBL levels have been associated with susceptibility and severity of a variety of infectious and autoimmune diseases. Several single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the promoter region and exon 1 of the MBL2 gene are responsible for variations in serum MBL levels. We developed a sequence‐based typing method for allele‐specific MBL2 genotyping and measured serum MBL protein levels in 24 German blood donors. We identified the common MBL2 haplotypes including five promoter polymorphisms in linkage with the Q allele and correlated serum MBL levels with the respective genotypes. The genotyping method presented here could provide a basis for confirmatory studies in larger cohorts.
Randomizing Roaches: Exploring the ‘Bugs’ of Randomization in Experimental Design
Authors: Wagler Amy , Wagler Ron
Published: October 2013

Understanding the roles of random selection and random assignment in experimental design is a central learning objective in most introductory statistics courses. This article describes an activity, appropriate for a high school or introductory statistics course, designed to teach the concepts, values and pitfalls of random selection and assignment using the not‐easily‐forgotten Madagascar hissing cockroach. Evidence is summarized demonstrating conceptual gains for students performing the Randomizing Roaches activity, and follow‐up activities are suggested.
A case of Mycobacterium mucogenicum infection in a liver transplant recipient and a review of the literature
Authors: Maybrook R.J. , Campsen J. , Wachs M.E. , Levi M.E.
Published: October 2013

Bacterial, viral, and fungal infections can be devastating in a postoperative liver transplant recipient on multidrug immunosuppressive therapy. Various atypical (nontuberculous mycobacteria [NTM]) mycobacterial infections have been reported in the solid organ transplant population, but to our knowledge, no cases of Mycobacterium mucogenicum infections have been reported. Here, we report a case of a patient with end‐stage liver disease secondary to primary biliary cirrhosis, model for end‐stage liver disease score of 29, who underwent deceased‐donor orthotopic liver transplantation, with her postoperative course complicated by multiple pleural effusions and peritonitis. Despite numerous courses of antibiotics, her condition did not improve. Acid‐fast bacilli cultures grew M. mucogenicum, which was then treated with appropriate antimicrobical therapy. M. mucogenicum, a rapidly growing NTM that can be present in water contamination, should be recognized as a potential source of infection, especially in the immunocompromised population.
Clinical comparison of theTonoVet®rebound tonometer and theTono‐PenVet®applanation tonometer in dogs and cats with ocular disease: glaucoma or corneal pathology
Authors: von Spiessen Lena , Karck Julia , Rohn Karl , Meyer‐Lindenberg Andrea
Published: October 2013

Objective

To compare theTonoVet®rebound tonometer with theTono‐PenVet®applanation tonometer in a larger number of glaucomatous eyes and to evaluate the effect of different corneal pathologies on both tonometers.

Procedure

In 26 eyes with clinical signs of glaucoma, intraocular pressure (IOP) was measured using theTonoVet®followed by theTono‐PenVet®. In 29 eyes with focal corneal pathology (e.g., corneal scarring, edema, pigmentation), both tonometers were used successively to measureIOPin one unaffected area of the cornea, as well as on the lesion itself. Impact on measurement results was assessed comparing the deviation inIOPreadings of each tonometer between the two localizations. Statistical data analysis included pairedt‐tests and regression analysis usingsassoftware (version 9.2;SAS Institute,Cary,NC).

Results

In glaucomatous eyes, theTonoVet®consistently yielded higher values ofIOPthan theTono‐PenVet®as can be quantified by the regression equationIOP(TonoVet®) [mmHg] = 1.12 * IOP(Tono‐PenVet®) [mmHg] + 11.5 withR2 = 0.91 andP < 0.0001. Depending on the type and degree of corneal pathology, the deviation inIOPresulting from measurements on altered cornea ranged from −6 to 16 mmHg for theTonoVet®and −7 to 20 mmHg for theTono‐PenVet®, respectively. On average, the effect of corneal disease onIOPmeasurements was lower for theTonoVet®by 1.14 mmHg.

Conclusions

Rebound tonometry appears to be a valuable alternative to established applanation tonometry in patients with ocular disease such as glaucoma and corneal disorders. In patients suffering from glaucoma, the same type of tonometer should be used for follow‐up examinations, as measurement results of theTonoVet®and theTono‐PenVet®differ substantially with increasingIOP. Corneal pathology has considerable influence on both tonometers with the degree of over‐ or underestimation ofIOPdepending on the alteration of biomechanical properties of the cornea inflicted by various corneal pathologies.
Weed seed decay in conventional and diversified cropping systems
Authors: Gómez R , Liebman M , Munkvold G
Published: October 2013

Diversified cropping systems can have high soil microbial biomass and thus strong potential to reduce the weed seedbank through seed decay. This study, conducted in Iowa, USA, evaluated the hypothesis that weed seed decay is higher in a diversified 4‐year maize–soyabean–oat/lucerne–lucerne cropping system than in a conventional 2‐year maize–soyabean rotation. Mesh bags filled with either Setaria faberi or Abutilon theophrasti seeds and soil were buried at two depths in the maize phase of the two cropping systems and sampled over a 3‐year period. Setaria faberi seed decay was consistently greater at 2 cm than at 20 cm burial depth and was higher in the more diverse rotation than in the conventional rotation in 1 year. Abutilon theophrasti seeds decayed very little in comparison with seeds of S. faberi. Separate laboratory and field experiments confirmed differences in germination and seed decay among the seed lots evaluated each year. Fusarium, Pythium, Alternaria, Cladosporium and Trichoderma were the most abundant genera colonising seeds of both species. A glasshouse experiment determined a relationship between Pythium ultimum and S. faberi seed decay. Possible differences in seed susceptibility to decay indicate the need to evaluate weed seedbank dynamics in different cropping systems when evaluating overall population dynamics and formulating weed management strategies.
Altered TGF‐β signaling in fetal fibroblasts: What is known about the underlying mechanisms?
Authors: Walraven Mariëlle , Gouverneur Mirella , Middelkoop Esther , Beelen Rob H. J. , Ulrich Magda M. W.
Published: October 2013

Scarless wound healing is a unique and intrinsic capacity of the fetal skin that is not fully understood. Further insight into the underlying mechanisms of fetal wound healing may lead to new therapeutic approaches promoting adult scarless wound healing. Differences between fetal and adult wound healing are found in the extracellular matrix, the inflammatory reaction and the levels of growth factors present in the wound. This review focuses specifically on transforming growth factor β (TGF‐β), as this growth factor is prominently involved in wound healing and fibroblast‐to‐myofibroblast differentiation.

Although fetal fibroblasts do respond to TGF‐β, they lack a proliferative and a contractile response and display short‐lived myofibroblast differentiation, autocrine response, and collagen up‐regulation in comparison with adult fibroblasts. Curiously, prolonged TGF‐β activation is associated with fibrosis, and therefore, this short‐lived response in fetal fibroblasts might contribute to scarless healing. This review gives an overview of the current knowledge on TGF‐β signaling and the intracellular TGF‐β signaling pathway in fetal fibroblasts. Furthermore, this review also describes the various components that regulate the cellular TGF‐β response and hypothesizes about the possible roles these components might play in the altered response of fetal fibroblasts to TGF‐β.
Evaluation of clinical and laboratory correlates of sickle leg ulcers
Authors: Madu Anazoeze Jude , Ubesie Agozie , Madu Kenechi Anthony , Okwor Bismarck , Anigbo Chukwudi
Published: October 2013

The exact mechanism for the occurrence of sickle leg ulcers (SLUs) has not been fully explained, although, popular opinion supports a multifactorial etio‐pathogenetic process. Leg ulceration in sickle cell is a chronic and debilitating condition which is difficult to treat and may worsen the psychosocial impact of this illness. This study aims to evaluate the laboratory and clinical correlates of SLUs. One hundred sixty‐seven patients who had been diagnosed with sickle cell anemia (homozygous S) had their steady‐state hemoglobin concentration (Hb), hematocrit, white cell count, platelet count, serum bilirubin, and aspartate transaminase (AST) as well as frequency of crisis per annum evaluated with respect to their relationship to the occurrence of leg ulcers. They were aged 6–53 years (mean age 24.3 years), and prevalence of leg ulcer was found to be 2.75 per 1000 (2.54 per 1000 in females and 2.83 per 1000 in males). The independent sample t‐test showed a significant difference in the serum AST levels in those with SLU (p = 0.029), though a positive correlation did not exist. Other predictors of disease severity found to have positive relationship with each other were the AST and total serum bilirubin 0.207 (p = 0.012); Hb and age 0.130 (p = 0.035); Hb and white cell count −0.159 (p = 0.010), white cell count and age −0.113 (p = 0.018). SLUs do not occur in patients with severe disease in sickle cell. The clinical and laboratory indicators of severe sickle cell disease do not correlate positively with the occurrence of SLU. Serum AST may have a relationship with leg ulceration in these patients. Environmental factors most likely play a major part in the etiopathogenesis of leg ulcer and this may require further studies in different sociocultural settings.
Chronic venous leg ulcer treatment: Future research needs
Authors: Lazarus Gerald , Valle M. Fran , Malas Mahmoud , Qazi Umair , Maruthur Nisa M. , Doggett David , Fawole Oluwakemi A. , Bass Eric B. , Zenilman Jonathan
Published: October 2013

The prevalence and costs of chronic venous ulcer care in the US are increasing. The Johns Hopkins University Evidence‐Based Practice Center recently completed a systematic review of the comparative effectiveness of advanced wound dressings, antibiotics, and surgical management of chronic venous ulcers. Of 10,066 citations identified in the literature search, only 66 (0.06%) met our liberal inclusion criteria for providing evidence on the effectiveness of interventions for chronic venous ulcers. Based on review of those studies, members of our team and a panel of informed stakeholders identified important research gaps and methodological deficiencies and prioritized specific future research needs. Based on that review, we provide the results of our assessment of future research needs for chronic venous ulcer care. Advanced wound dressings were considered to have the highest priority for future research, followed by venous surgery and antibiotics. An imperative from our assessment is that future research evaluating interventions for chronic venous ulcers meet quality standards. In a time of increasing cost pressure, the wound care community needs to develop high‐quality evidence to justify the use of present and future therapeutic modalities.
Simultaneous irrigation and negative pressure wound therapy enhances wound healing and reduces wound bioburden in a porcine model
Authors: Davis Kathryn , Bills Jessica , Barker Jenny , Kim Paul , Lavery Lawrence
Published: October 2013

Infected foot wounds are one of the most common reasons for hospitalization and amputation among persons with diabetes. The objective of the study was to investigate a new wound therapy system that employs negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) with simultaneous irrigation therapy. For this study, we used a porcine model with full‐thickness excisional wounds, inoculated with Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Wounds were treated for 21 days of therapy with either NPWT, NPWT with simultaneous irrigation therapy using normal saline or polyhexanide biguanide (PHMB) at low or high flow rates, or control. Data show that NPWT with either irrigation condition improved wound healing rates over control‐treated wounds, yet did not differ from NPWT alone. NPWT improved bioburden over control‐treated wounds. NPWT with simultaneous irrigation further reduced bioburden over control and NPWT‐treated wounds; however, flow rate did not affect these outcomes. Together, these data show that NPWT with simultaneous irrigation therapy with either normal saline or PHMB has a positive effect on bioburden in a porcine model, which may translate clinically to improved wound healing outcomes.
Hyperbaric oxygen treatment reduces neutrophil‐endothelial adhesion in chronic wound conditions through S‐nitrosation
Authors: Kendall Alexandra C. , Whatmore Jacqueline L. , Winyard Paul G. , Smerdon Gary R. , Eggleton Paul
Published: October 2013

Hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) therapy is an effective treatment for diabetic chronic wounds. HBO reduces inflammation and accelerates wound healing, by mechanisms that remain unclear. Here we examined a mechanism by which HBO may reduce neutrophil recruitment, through changes in endothelial and neutrophil adhesion molecule expression and function. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells and neutrophils were exposed to selected chronic wound conditions, comprising hypoxia in the presence of lipopolysaccharide and tumor necrosis factor‐alpha, and then treated with HBO. We observed neutrophil adhesion to endothelial cells following treatment with chronic wound conditions, which was reversed by HBO treatment. This was partly explained by reduced expression of endothelial intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 and vascular cell adhesion molecule‐1 by HBO. No changes in neutrophil adhesion molecule expression (CD18, CD11b, CD62L, CD31) were observed following HBO treatment. However, HBO decreased hydrogen peroxide generation by neutrophils, and induced nitrous oxide–related protein modifications. The transnitrosating agent S‐nitroso‐L‐cysteine ethyl ester (600 μM) also reduced neutrophil adhesion to human umbilical vein endothelial cell monolayers, and the iNOS inhibitor 1400W (10 μM) and HgCl2, which promotes the decomposition of S‐nitrosothiols (1 mM), reversed the effect of HBO, suggesting that S‐nitrosation may inhibit neutrophil‐endothelial cell adhesion. This study indicates that HBO could reduce inflammation in wounds through reduced neutrophil recruitment, mediated by S‐nitrosation.
Microdeformation in wound healing
Authors: Wiegand Cornelia , White Richard
Published: October 2013

Mechanical forces greatly influence cellular organization and behavior. Cells respond to applied stress by changes in form and composition until a suitable state is reestablished. However, without any mechanical stimuli cells stop proliferating, discontinue migration, go into cell‐cycle arrest, and eventually die. Hence, one can assume that pathologies closely depending on cell migration like cancer or atherosclerosis might be governed by biophysical parameters. Moreover, mechanical cues will have fundamental effects in wound healing. Especially negative pressure wound therapy has the potential to endorse wound healing by induction of both macrodeformation (wound contraction) and microdeformation (tissue reactions at microscopic level). So far, the capacity for researchers to study the link between mechanical stimulation and biological response has been limited by the lack of instrumentation capable of stimulating the tissue in an appropriate manner. However, first reports on application of micromechanical forces to wounds elucidate the roles of cell stretch, substrate stiffness, and tissue deformation during cell proliferation and differentiation. This review deals with their findings and tries to establish a link between the current knowledge and the questions that are essential to clinicians in the field: What is the significance of mirodeformations for wound healing? Does “dead space” impede propagation of mechanical cues? How can microdeformations induce cell proliferation? What role do fibroblasts, myofibroblasts, and mesenchymal stem cells play in chronic wounds with regard to micromechanical forces?
Antimicrobial effects of coprisin on wounds infected with Staphylococcus aureus in rats
Authors: Lee Jingoo , Han Seon‐Young , Ji Ae‐Ri , Park Jin‐Kyu , Hong Il‐Hwa , Ki Mi‐Ran , Lee Eun‐Mi , Kim Ah‐Young , Lee Eun‐Joo , Hwang Jae‐Sam , Lee Juneyoung , Lee Dong Gun , Jeong Kyu‐Shik
Published: October 2013

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are naturally produced antibiotics that play important roles in host defense mechanisms. These proteins are found in variety of animal and plant species. The antibiotic effects of AMPs are gaining attention for use in human medicine. In this study, the antimicrobial effects of coprisin, a novel AMP isolated from the dung beetle (Copris tripartitus), were evaluated. The peptide was used to treat rats with wounds infected with Staphylococcus aureus. Coprisin accelerated wound closure both grossly and microscopically compared with the untreated group. Additionally, treatment with this peptide decreased phosphorylated‐Smad2/3 (p‐Smad2/3) levels, a downstream factor of the transforming growth factor‐β signaling pathway which is believed to inhibit reepithelization, in the nucleus and cytoplasm of regenerating cells. Moreover, increased cell populations and angiogenesis were observed in lesions treated with coprisin, suggesting that this peptide promotes wound healing via its antimicrobial activity against S. aureus. Our results demonstrated that coprisin is a potential therapeutic agent that can possibly replace traditional antibiotics and overcome microbial resistance.
Internal Corrosion Direct Assessment for Hydrocarbon Service Petroleum Pipelines
Authors: Teevens Patrick J. , Khera Ashish , Zhu Zhenjin
Published: October 2013

Contaminants such as CO2, H2S and O2 in water-wet liquid and gas pipelines create an aggressive environment conducive to facilitating internal corrosion. During pipeline operations, solids deposition, water accumulation, bacterial activities and improper chemical inhibition aggravate the internal corrosion attack. For assessing the threat of internal corrosion, the petroleum industry currently has only three integrity validation tools at its disposal. These are Pressure Testing, In-line Inspection (ILI) and Internal Corrosion Direct Assessment (ICDA). To enhance pipeline integrity for piggable and non-piggable pipelines, NACE International has developed and published a variety of industry consensus Standard Practices for the ICDA protocols to predict time-dependent internal corrosion threats for various petroleum products in both offshore and onshore under sweet or sour environments. These NACE International ICDA Standards include:

• SP0206-2006 “ICDA Methodology for Pipelines Carrying Normally Dry Natural Gas (DG-ICDA)”[1]

• SP0208-2008 “ICDA Methodology for Liquid Petroleum Pipelines (LP-ICDA)”[2]

• SP0110-2010 “Wet Gas ICDA Methodology for Pipelines (WG-ICDA)”[3]

• Multiphase flow (MP-ICDA) is under development with TG-426 and will be released in 2013.

• Process Piping (PP-ECDA, Above Ground) is in its early stages of development with the release not likely before 2015.

• Process Piping (PP-ECDA, Buried) is in its early stages of development with the release not likely before 2015.

• Process Piping (PP-ICDA) for various service environments is in its early stages of development with the release not likely before 2015.

All ICDA protocols are a structured, iterative integrity assessment process, consisting of the following four steps: Preassessment, Indirect Inspection, Detailed Examination and Postassessment. Most importantly, unlike ILI and pressure testing, all the ICDA standards require a mandatory root cause analysis and a go forward mitigation plan to arrest the corrosion processes being encountered. This paper reviews the following case studies: LP-ICDA for a crude oil pipeline and WG-ICDA for a high pressure gas pipeline with free water and condensate. ICDA is applicable for dry gas systems too but due to limiting length of this paper, the dry gas case study is not detailed. This paper will be useful for the pipeline operators to provide guidance in identifying locations at which corrosion activity has occurred, is occurring, or may likely occur in the future under a series of pre-defined operating conditions.
Smart Pigging in High Pressure Gas Pipeline Practical Problems and Solutions: A Case Study
Authors: Nagaraj Jegadeesh
Published: October 2013

Smart pigs, also known as inline inspection (ILI) tools or intelligent pigs, are electronic devices designed to flow on the inside of a gas transmission pipeline, usually while the line is in service, to inspect a pipeline for various types of anomalies that can increase the risks of pipeline failure. This paper describes various problems faced on in service pigging in gas pipelines even after getting data by typical pipeline questionnaire as per NACE RP0102. Problems and solution starting from Launching, crossing SV stations, tap off Point flow tees and Receiving at Pig Receiver including data retrieval from smart pig.

First of all, different segment thickness and anomalies of entire length of pipeline will be studied before launch of the tool, because this is important input in ILI tool design in terms of OD and percentage flexibility of pig while run. API 1163 will considered as a master standard for smart pig applications in pipelines.

Smart pigging is done once in 10 years interval as per Indian regulation and data recorded in this inspection is important risk assessment input in Pipeline Integrity Management and for deciding life of pipeline. This paper describes various problem faced in pigging i.e. Pig struck before Launching in Launcher, Pig struck at Sectionalization Valve station, Pig stopped in Pipeline without any reason, Pig struck at Flow Tee before Receiver, Pig barrel opening a Hazardous activity, Failure of Data retrieval from smart pig after receiving, Re-run of smart pig and how fluctuating flow rates in different region of pipelines will affect running a pig. This paper deals pig retrieval methods used in different struck ups and various aspects to be considered while planning to run a smart pig.

This paper also deals problem faced i.e. magnetized pipe and difficulty in welding after retrieving struck up pigs by hot tapping and stoppling methods and how it was solved. Smart pigging, when properly applied, can serve as a superior inspection tool for many risks of concern over other integrity inspection methods. A proper smart pigging program can play a vital role in integrity management (“IM”) and smooth operation of pipeline without any flow interruption to downstream customers. The downstream customers of different industry which serves to run day to day life of society like Power Plants, City Gas Distribution (CGD) Companies, Refineries, Fertilizers, Ceramics, Dairy units etc will not be interrupted while run a smart pig to avoid consequences and give better service as a Pipeline operator.

Smart pig, performance specification shall be qualified by the service provider by any one of the methodologies i.e. verified historical data, Large scale tests from real or artificial anomalies, small scale tests, modeling, and/or analyses. Pipeline operator may ensure final documents and other requirements as per API1163 standards.
Advanced NDT in Relation to Structural Integrity of Pipelines
Authors: Michiels Stijn , Verhagen Ben
Published: October 2013

Knowing the real condition of your asset is a must for every owner. Standard NDT methods as RT, UT, MT, PT, and ET are well known to screen the integrity of pipelines. An aspect that is known as well is that each NDT technique has his proper working area. All NDT techniques have their inherent limitations; therefore more and more advanced NDT (ANDT) techniques are created to replace conventional techniques and supplementary fill in the voids where the conventional techniques are limited.

Vinçotte is a global player in developing advanced NDT systems for both Pre-service and In-service pipeline examination. Our goal is always creating inspection solutions providing a greater flexibility while keeping a high quality level. In this paper several ANDT techniques (corrosion mapping, mechanized UT weld inspection, 3D laser,..) in relation to the structural integrity will be described.
Risk and Challenges in Speedy Commencement of Natural Gas Supplies for Last Mile Consumer Connectivity Projects
Authors: Prasad Asim
Published: October 2013

Over the years the natural gas pipeline industry in India has witnessed significant growth in all three segments namely domestic gas production / gas import, development of pipeline infrastructure for gas transmission and actual usage by end consumers. This is manifested by the fact that in the last five years the gas consumption in the country has increased by over 50 %. Natural gas is the fuel of choice due to controllability and flexibility in use, low emission of CO2 and other pollutants, efficiency in transportation and distribution. Due to this, natural gas the cleanest fossil fuel is emerging as the most sought for fuel across the globe. Last Mile Consumer Connectivity are small pipeline projects that are executed to commence natural gas supplies to prospective customers who come forward to sign firm contractual agreement for commencing gas supplies. These projects are extremely important as the connectivity’s leading to start of commercial supplies by different segments of customers for diversified application generates revenue for the company apart from intensifying economic activities for wealth creation of shareholders. It is experienced that such projects encounters risks and challenges both in the internal and external environment which are either known-known, known-unknown or unknown-unknown. This retards the project progress leading to resource idling. The risks are in different areas related to gas marketing, project execution, operations, economic and regulatory risk. Such risks ultimately affect the company’s net profit, due to delay in commencement of commercial supplies. This in turn retards economic development and wealth creation of shareholders. Efforts has been made to draw and consolidate examples from the experience gained in execution of these projects with respect to the types of risks and challenges being encountered under different phases of value chain, situations, along with measures taken to counter the same. Even though such situations are encountered tactfully leading to successful commencement of gas supplies, the question still remains as to what are the best practices for speedy execution for these projects. The aim of this paper is to provide vivid description and insights into the different types of risks and challenges encountered under the Last Mile Connectivity Value Chain and the best practices adapted for speedy commencement of gas supplies to customers.
Slurry Pipelines: An Economic Solution to Transportation of Minerals and Materials
Authors: Gupta Amit
Published: October 2013

Slurry pipelines find a special place in industrial applications which require transportation of solid particles through a pipeline. Flow-ability of these solid particles is achieved by mixing and suspending them in water or other carrier fluids. Slurry pipelines are characterized with cost effectiveness for long distances, reliability, low maintenance, low air & noise pollution. Importantly it is eco-friendly and does not affect the environment.

Over the past 5 decades, slurry pipelines have proven its effectiveness in cost saving for long distance transportation, safe handling and high reliability. Since the inception of long slurry pipelines in 1957 in Ohio to transport coal, gradually over the period, new technologies in slurry transportation has made it possible to transport minerals and materials over long distances safely and effectively. Many materials such as coal, iron concentrate, phosphate concentrate, copper concentrate, zinc concentrate, lead concentrate, nickel concentrate and limestone have been transported successfully over long distances.

The long distance slurry pipelines have certain disadvantages in terms of high initial capital investment, the carrier fluid availability, and importantly it is feasible in areas wherein rail and road transport is not well developed. Most of the mineral concentrates require a beneficiation step that involves grinding of the ore to a very fine size in order to achieve good recovery. This is a wet process and the size of the product is generally suitable for long-distance pipeline transportation. In particular for coal transportation, the drying cost is add-on cost. These all requirements contribute to the transportation cost and make it uneconomical for short distances. Therefore for slurry pipelines to be economic, the distance of transportation will have to be long.

In recent times, polyethylene pipes have proven to be very cost effective to transport copper, iron ore, phosphates and gold concentrates. They have high resistance to slurry abrasion, prolonged wear life, high ductility and toughness properties. Pumps are developed to handle high pressures of up to 250 bars and facilitated pumping of solid concentration of 60 to 65% weight. Some alternate carrier fluids result in higher concentrate carrying capacity.

Slurry pipelines have proven its high economy and feasibility to operate over long distances. With many developments underway, slurry pipelines will pave way to decrease the load and dependency on rail and roads.
Daily dose monitoring with atlas‐based auto‐segmentation on diagnostic quality CT for prostate cancer
Authors: Li Wen , Vassil Andrew , Zhong Yahua , Xia Ping
Published: October 2013

Purpose:

To evaluate the feasibility of daily dose monitoring using a patient specific atlas‐based autosegmentation method on diagnostic quality verification images.

Methods:

Seven patients, who were treated for prostate cancer with intensity modulated radiotherapy under daily imaging guidance of a CT‐on‐rails system, were selected for this study. The prostate, rectum, and bladder were manually contoured on the first six and last seven sets of daily verification images. For each patient, three patient specific atlases were constructed using manual contours from planning CT alone (1‐image atlas), planning CT plus first three verification CTs (4‐image atlas), and planning CT plus first six verification CTs (7‐image atlas). These atlases were subsequently applied to the last seven verification image sets of the same patient to generate the auto‐contours. Daily dose was calculated by applying the original treatment plans to the daily beam isocenters. The autocontours and manual contours were compared geometrically using the dice similarity coefficient (DSC), and dosimetrically using the dose to 99% of the prostate CTV (D99) and the D5 of rectum and bladder.

Results:

The DSC of the autocontours obtained with the 4‐image atlases were 87.0% ± 3.3%, 84.7% ± 8.6%, and 93.6% ± 4.3% for the prostate, rectum, and bladder, respectively. These indices were higher than those from the 1‐image atlases (p < 0.01) and comparable to those from the 7‐image atlases (p > 0.05). Daily prostate D99 of the autocontours was comparable to those of the manual contours (p = 0.55). For the bladder and rectum, the daily D5 were 95.5% ± 5.9% and 99.1% ± 2.6% of the planned D5 for the autocontours compared to 95.3% ± 6.7% (p = 0.58) and 99.8% ± 2.3% (p < 0.01) for the manual contours.

Conclusions:

With patient specific 4‐image atlases, atlas‐based autosegmentation can adequately facilitate daily dose monitoring for prostate cancer.
Gravitational-Wave Limits from Pulsar Timing Constrain Supermassive Black Hole Evolution
Authors: Shannon R. M. , Ravi V. , Coles W. A. , Hobbs G. , Keith M. J. , Manchester R. N. , Wyithe J. S. B. , Bailes M. , Bhat N. D. R. , Burke-Spolaor S. , Khoo J. , Levin Y. , Osłowski S. , Sarkissian J. M. , van Straten W. , Verbiest J. P. W. , Wang J.-B.
Published: October 2013

Testing Black Holes

Gravitational waves, predicted by General Relativity, are expected to be produced when very massive bodies, such as black holes, merge together.

Shannon
et al.

(p.
334
) used data from the Parkes Pulsar Timing Array project to estimate the gravitational wave background produced by pairs of supermassive black holes (those with masses between 10
6
and 10
11
that of the Sun) in merging galaxies. The results can be used to test models of the supermassive black hole population.
Probing the Limits of Genetic Recoding in Essential Genes
Authors: Lajoie M. J. , Kosuri S. , Mosberg J. A. , Gregg C. J. , Zhang D. , Church G. M.
Published: October 2013

Changing the Code

Easily and efficiently expanding the genetic code could provide tools to genome engineers with broad applications in medicine, energy, agriculture, and environmental safety.

Lajoie
et al.

(p.
357
) replaced all known UAG stop codons with synonymous UAA stop codons in
Escherichia coli
MG1655, as well as release factor 1 (RF1; terminates translation at UAG), thereby eliminating natural UAG translation function without impairing fitness. This made it possible to reassign UAG as a dedicated codon to genetically encode nonstandard amino acids while avoiding deleterious incorporation at native UAG positions. The engineered
E. coli
incorporated nonstandard amino acids into its proteins and showed enhanced resistance to bacteriophage T7. In a second paper,

Lajoie
et al.

(p.
361
) demonstrated the recoding of 13 codons in 42 highly expressed essential genes in
E. coli.
Codon usage was malleable, but synonymous codons occasionally were nonequivalent in unpredictable ways.
Long-Range Balanced Electron- and Hole-Transport Lengths in Organic-Inorganic CH
3
NH
3
PbI
3
Authors: Xing Guichuan , Mathews Nripan , Sun Shuangyong , Lim Swee Sien , Lam Yeng Ming , Grätzel Michael , Mhaisalkar Subodh , Sum Tze Chien
Published: October 2013

Unrestricted Travel in Solar Cells

In the past 2 years, organolead halide perovskites have emerged as a promising class of light-harvesting media in experimental solar cells, but the physical basis for their efficiency has been unclear (see the Perspective by

Hodes

). Two studies now show, using a variety of time-resolved absorption and emission spectroscopic techniques, that these materials manifest relatively long diffusion paths for charge carriers energized by light absorption.

Xing
et al.

(p.
344
) independently assessed (negative) electron and (positive) hole diffusion lengths and found them well-matched to one another to the ~100-nanometer optical absorption depth.

Stranks
et al.

(p.
341
) uncovered a 10-fold greater diffusion length in a chloride-doped material, which correlates with the material's particularly efficient overall performance. Both studies highlight effective carrier diffusion as a fruitful parameter for further optimization.
Sleep: The Brain's Housekeeper?
Authors: Underwood Emily
Published: October 2013

One of the core purposes of sleep may be to clear metabolic trash from the brain, according to a paper published in
Science
this week.
Antigenicity of Recombinant Maltose Binding Protein-Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis Fusion Proteins with and without Factor Xa Cleaving
Authors: Gurung Ratna B. , Begg Douglas J. , Purdie Auriol C. , Bannantine John P. , Whittington Richard J.
Published: October 2013

Mycobacterium avium
subsp.
paratuberculosis
causes Johne's disease (JD) in ruminants. Proteomic studies have shown that
M. avium
subsp.
paratuberculosis
expresses certain proteins when exposed to
in vitro
physiological stress conditions similar to the conditions experienced within a host during natural infection. Such proteins are hypothesized to be expressed
in vivo
, are recognized by the host immune system, and may be of potential use in the diagnosis of JD. In this study, 50 recombinant maltose binding protein (MBP)-
M. avium
subsp.
paratuberculosis
fusion proteins were evaluated using serum samples from sheep infected with
M. avium
subsp.
paratuberculosis
, and 29 (58%) were found to be antigenic. Among 50 fusion proteins, 10 were evaluated in MBP fusion and factor Xa-cleaved forms. A total of 31 proteins (62%) were found to be antigenic in either MBP fusion or factor Xa-cleaved forms. Antigenicity after cleavage and removal of the MBP tag was marginally enhanced.
Higher Specificity of Nucleic Acid Sequence-Based Amplification Isothermal Technology than of Real-Time PCR for Quantification of HIV-1 RNA on Dried Blood Spots
Authors: Mercier-Delarue Severine , Vray Muriel , Plantier Jean Christophe , Maillard Theodora , Adjout Zidan , de Olivera Fabienne , Schnepf Nathalie , Maylin Sarah , Simon Francois , Delaugerre Constance
Published: October 2013

Dried blood spots (DBS) are widely proposed as a plasma surrogate for monitoring antiretroviral treatment efficacy based on the HIV-1 RNA level (viral load [VL]) in resource-limited settings. Interfering coamplification of cell-associated HIV-1 DNA during reverse transcription (RT)-PCR can be avoided by using nucleic acid sequence-based amplification (NASBA) technology, which is based on an RNA template and isothermic conditions. We analyzed VL values obtained with DBS and plasma samples by comparing isothermic NASBA (NucliSENS EasyQ HIV-1 V2.0; bioMérieux) with real-time RT-PCR (Cobas TaqMan HIV-1 V2.0; Roche). Samples from 197 HIV-1-infected patients were tested (non-B subtypes in 51% of the cases). Nucleic acid extractions were performed by use of NucliSENS EasyMAG (bioMérieux) and Cobas AmpliPrep (Roche) before the NASBA and RT-PCR quantifications, respectively. Both quantification assays have lower limits of detection of 20 (1.3) and 800 (2.9) log
10
copies/ml (log) in plasma and DBS, respectively. The mean (DBS minus plasma) differences were −0.39 and −0.46 log, respectively, for RT-PCR and NASBA. RT-PCR on DBS identified virological failure in 122 of 126 patients (sensitivity, 97%) and viral suppression in 58 of 70 patients (specificity, 83%), yielding 12 false-positive results (median, 3.2 log). NASBA on DBS identified virological failure in 85 of 96 patients (sensitivity, 89%) and viral suppression in 95 of 97 patients (specificity, 98%) and yielded 2 false-positive results (3.0 log for both). Both technologies detected HIV-1 RNA in DBS at a threshold of 800 copies/ml. This higher specificity of NASBA technology could avoid overestimation of poor compliance or the emergence of resistance when monitoring antiretroviral efficacy with the DBS method.
Role of
pncA
and
rpsA
Gene Sequencing in Detection of Pyrazinamide Resistance in Mycobacterium tuberculosis Isolates from Southern China
Authors: Tan Yaoju , Hu Zuqiong , Zhang Tianyu , Cai Xingshan , Kuang Haobin , Liu Yanwen , Chen Junyu , Yang Feng , Zhang Ke , Tan Shouyong , Zhao Yanlin
Published: October 2013

We sequenced
pncA
and
rpsA
genes plus flanking regions of 161
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
isolates and found 10 new
pncA
and 3 novel
rpsA
mutations in pyrazinamide-resistant strains determined by the Bactec MGIT 960 system. The 3′ end of
rpsA
might be added as the target of molecular detection of pyrazinamide susceptibility.