bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Iterative Method for the Least-Squares Problems of a General Matrix Equation Subjects to Submatrix Constraints
Authors: Dai Li-fang , Liang Mao-lin , Shen Yong-hong
Published: November 2013

An iterative algorithm is proposed for solving the least-squares problem of a general matrix equation∑i=1t‍MiZiNi=F, whereZi(i=1,2,…,t) are to be determined centro-symmetric matrices with given central principal submatrices. For any initial iterative matrices, we show that the least-squares solution can be derived by this method within finite iteration steps in the absence of roundoff errors. Meanwhile, the unique optimal approximation solution pair for given matricesZ~ican also be obtained by the least-norm least-squares solution of matrix equation∑i=1t‍MiZ-iNi=F-, in whichZ-i=Zi-Z~i,  F-=F-∑i=1t‍MiZ~iNi. The given numerical examples illustrate the efficiency of this algorithm.
Nickel and Zinc Removal from Acid Mine Drainage: Roles of Sludge Surface Area and Neutralising Agents
Authors: Olds William E. , Tsang Daniel C. W. , Weber Paul A. , Weisener Chris G.
Published: November 2013

During acid mine drainage (AMD) treatment by alkaline reagent neutralisation, Ni and Zn are partially removed via sorption to Fe and Al hydroxide precipitates. This research evaluated the effect of surface area of precipitates, formed by neutralisation of AMD using three alkalinity reagents (NaOH, Ca(OH)2, and CaCO3), on the sorption of Ni and Zn. The BET surface area of the precipitates formed by neutralisation of AMD with NaOH (173.7 m2 g−1) and Ca(OH)2 (168.2 m2 g−1) was an order of magnitude greater than that produced by CaCO3 neutralisation (16.7 m2 g−1). At pH 6.5, the residual Ni concentration was 0.32 and 0.41 mg L−1 for NaOH and Ca(OH)2 neutralised AMD, respectively, resulting in up to 60% lower Ni concentrations than achieved by CaCO3 neutralisation which had no effect on Ni removal. The residual Zn concentration was even more dependent on precipitate surface area for NaOH and Ca(OH)2 neutralised AMD (0.33 and 1.02 mg L−1), which was up to 85% lower than the CaCO3 neutralised AMD (2.20 mg L−1). These results suggest that the surface area of precipitated flocs and the selection of neutralising reagent critically affect the sorption of Ni and Zn during AMD neutralisation.
New Gronwall-Bellman Type Inequalities and Applications in the Analysis for Solutions to Fractional Differential Equations
Authors: Zheng Bin , Feng Qinghua
Published: November 2013

Some new Gronwall-Bellman type inequalities are presented in this paper. Based on these inequalities, new explicit bounds for the related unknown functions are derived. The inequalities established can also be used as a handy tool in the research of qualitative as well as quantitative analysis for solutions to some fractional differential equations defined in the sense of the modified Riemann-Liouville fractional derivative. For illustrating the validity of the results established, we present some applications for them, in which the boundedness, uniqueness, and continuous dependence on the initial value for the solutions to some certain fractional differential and integral equations are investigated.
Product Selection and Components Replenishment Model of ATO Manufacturer under Heterogeneous Demand
Authors: Li Yuyu , Huang Bo
Published: November 2013

How to satisfy customers’ heterogeneous demands by limited models of product is the key problem in an ATO (Assemble-to-Order) manufacturer’s operations management. Based on the condition that customers’ demands depend on their types which follow uniform distribution, we develop an inventory model to study how an ATO manufacturer selects the products from the candidate products in a same product family and determines components replenishment quantities, in order to maximize its profit. We get the optimal set of products which an ATO manufacturer should assemble, as well as the components replenishment quantities through theoretical, numerical, and case analyses. Furthermore, we propose an algorithm to obtain the optimal solution on the set of products and the components replenishment quantities. We found that an ATO manufacturer should make the performance and qualities of products over a certain level, and determine the optimal selling duration of products according to their selling prices and qualities, as well as the purchase prices and holding costs of their components. This paper offers consultation for ATO manufacturers to make policies on product selection and components replenishment.
Activity-Guided Isolation of Bioactive Constituents with Antinociceptive Activity fromMuntingia calaburaL. Leaves Using the Formalin Test
Authors: Mohamad Yusof Mohd. Izwan , Salleh Mohd. Zaki , Lay Kek Teh , Ahmat Norizan , Nik Azmin Nik Fatini , Zakaria Zainul Amiruddin
Published: November 2013

The present study was conducted to determine the antinociceptive potential of methanol extract ofMuntingia calaburaL. (MEMC) and to isolate and identify the bioactive compound(s) responsible for the observed antinociceptive activity. The MEMC and its partitions (petroleum ether (PEP), ethyl acetate (EAP), and aqueous (AQP) partitions), in the dose range of 100, 500, and 1000 mg/kg, were tested using the formalin-induced nociceptive test. The PEP, which exerted the most effective activity in the respective early and late phase, was further subjected to the fractionation procedures and yielded seven fractions (labelled A to G). These fractions were tested, at the dose of 300 mg/kg, together with distilled water or 10% DMSO (negative controls); morphine and aspirin (positive controls) for potential antinociceptive activity. Of all fractions, Fraction D showed the most significant antinociceptive activity, which is considered as equieffective to morphine or aspirin in the early or late phase, respectively. Further isolation and identification processes on fraction D led to the identification of three known and one new compounds, namely, 5-hydroxy-3,7,8-trimethoxyflavone (1), 3,7-dimethoxy-5-hydroyflavone (2), 2′,4′-dihydroxy-3′-methoxychalcone (3), andcalaburone(4). At the dose of 50 mg/kg, compound3exhibited the highest percentage of antinociceptive activity in both phases of the formalin test. In conclusion, the antinociceptive activity of MEMC involved, partly, the synergistic activation of the flavonoid types of compounds.
Polylactic Acid (PLA) Composite Films Reinforced with Wet Milled Jute Nanofibers
Authors: Baheti Vijay , Militky Jiri , Ul Hassan S. Z.
Published: November 2013

In the present study, waste jute fibers formed in textile industries were wet pulverized to nanoscale using high energy planetary ball milling. The rate of refinement of uncleaned jute fibers having noncellulosic contents was found slower than the cleaned jute fibers. This behavior is attributed to the strong holding of fiber bundles by noncellulosic contents which offered resistance to the defibrillation during wet milling. In addition, the pulverization of fibers in the presence of water prevents the increase in temperature of mill which subsequently avoided the sticking of material on the milling container. After three hours milling, the diameter of nanofibers was observed around 50 nm. In the further stage, obtained nanofibers were incorporated under 1 wt%, 5 wt%, and 10 wt% loading into polylactic acid composite films. The potentials of jute nanofibers were investigated for improvement in mechanical and barrier properties of films. The maximum improvement in mechanical properties was observed in case of 5 wt% composite film where Young’s modulus was increased to 3.3 GPa from 1.0 GPa as compared with neat PLA film.
Empirical Study of Decomposition ofCO2Emission Factors in China
Authors: Ning Yadong , Zhang Yonghong , Ding Tao , Tonooka Yutaka
Published: November 2013

China’s CO2emissions increase has attracted world’s attention. It is of great importance to analyze China’s CO2emission factors to restrain the CO2rapid growing. The CO2emissions of industrial and residential consumption sectors in China during 1980–2010 were calculated in this paper. The expanded decomposition model of CO2emissions was set up by adopting factor-separating method based on the basic principle of the Kaya identities. The results showed that CO2emissions of industrial and residential consumption sectors increase year after year, and the scale effect of GDP is the most important factor affecting CO2emissions of industrial sector. Decreasing the specific gravity of secondary industry and energy intensity is more effective than decreasing the primary industry and tertiary industry. The emissions reduction effect of structure factor is better than the efficiency factor. For residential consumption sector, CO2emissions increase rapidly year after year, and the economy factor (the increase of wealthy degree or income) is the most important factor. In order to slow down the growth of CO2emissions, it is an important way to change the economic growth mode, and the structure factor will become a crucial factor.
Strong Convergence of a Monotone Projection Algorithm in a Banach Space
Authors: Lv Songtao
Published: November 2013

In this paper, a common solution problem is investigated based on a Bregman projection. Strong convergence of the monotone projection algorithm for monotone operators and bifunctions is obtained in a reflexive Banach space.
Topological Excitations in Quantum Spin Systems
Authors: Chaudhury Ranjan , Paul Samir K.
Published: November 2013

The origin and significance of topological excitations in quantum spin models in low dimensions are presented in detail. Besides a general review, our own work in this area is described in great depth. Apart from theoretical analysis of the existence and properties of spin vortices and antivortices, the possible experimental consequences and signatures are also highlighted. In particular, the distinguishing features between the even and odd charged topological excitations are brought out through a detailed analysis of the topological term in the quantum action. Moreover, an interesting symmetry property is predicted between the excitations from a ferromagnetic model and an antiferromagnetic model. Through a novel approach of ours, a bridge is established between field theoretical formalism and the well-known statistical mechanical treatment of Berezinskii-Kosterlitz-Thouless (BKT) transition involving these topological excitations. Furthermore, a detailed phenomenological analysis of the experimentally observed static and dynamic magnetic properties of the layered magnetic materials, possessing XY anisotropy in the in-plane spin-spin couplings, is undertaken to test the theoretical predictions regarding the behaviour of these excitations. The importance and the crucial role of quantum spin fluctuations in these studies are also brought out very clearly by our analysis.
Silicone-Induced Granuloma after Injection for Cosmetic Purposes: A Rare Entity of Calcitriol-Mediated Hypercalcemia
Authors: Agrawal Nidhi , Altiner Sinan , Mezitis Nicholas H. E. , Helbig Sina
Published: November 2013

Hypercalcemia is often a clue to the presence of unsuspected illness. We present an interesting case of an HIV-positive transgender female with a rare cause of silicone-induced granulomatous hypercalcemia. Although there have been a few case reports of silicone injections in dialysis patients causing hypercalcemia, this metabolic derangement secondary to silicone granulomas continues to be a unique entity with an unclear pathophysiology. We present a 45-year-old transgender HIV-positive female, with extensive silicone injections who presented with symptomatic hypercalcemia. Workup for malignancy and hyperparathyroidism was negative. 1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D level and 24-hour urine calcium level were elevated. CT scan showed extensive high-density reticulonodular densities in the buttocks and gluteal muscle fascia extending upwards to the lumbar region, along with prominent external iliac and inguinal lymph nodes. Nuclear imaging showed diffuse heterogeneity and increased uptake in the buttocks, most consistent with granuloma calcifications, and an inguinal lymph node biopsy confirmed a foreign body giant cell reaction. The patient was started on prednisone and this resulted in decrease in serum and urinary calcium levels. Physicians should have a high index of suspicion for silicone-induced hypercalcemia considering the growing prevalence of body contour enhancement with injections, implants, and fillers using this material.
Adaptive Robust Motion Control of Direct-Drive DC Motors with Continuous Friction Compensation
Authors: Yao Jianyong , Yang Guichao , Jiao Zongxia , Ma Dawei
Published: November 2013

Uncertainties including the structured and unstructured, especially the nonlinear frictions, always exist in physical servo systems and degrade their tracking accuracy. In this paper, a practical method named adaptive robust controller (ARC) is synthesized with a continuous differentiable friction model for high accuracy motion control of a direct-drive dc motor, which results in a continuous control input and thus is more suitable for application. To further reduce the noise sensitivity and improve the tracking accuracy, a desired compensation version of the proposed adaptive robust controller is also developed and its stability is guaranteed by a proper robust law. The proposed controllers not only account for the structured uncertainties (e.g., parametric uncertainties) but also for the unstructured uncertainties (e.g., unconsidered nonlinear frictions). Furthermore, the controllers theoretically guarantee a prescribed output tracking transient performance and final tracking accuracy in both structured and unstructured uncertainties while achieving asymptotic output tracking in the absence of unstructured uncertainties, which is very important for high accuracy control of motion systems. Extensive comparative experimental results are obtained to verify the high-performance nature of the proposed control strategies.
Efficient and Secure Resource Management in Home M2M Networks
Authors: Lai Yue , Kang Jiawen , Yu Rong
Published: November 2013

In recent years, M2M networking is an active research topic in both academic and industrial fields. Home M2M networks, as an important branch of M2M networks, have attracted wide concerns for home application. In this paper, we first present a brief overview of home M2M networks. Then we introduce a hierarchical architecture of home M2M networks and describe the approach of devices management and services discovery. After that, we focus on the security authentication with centralized node and an improved method of available bandwidth measurement. With the centralized node, our system is more efficient and secure, because of efficient resource management and users' anonymity protection. Compared to existing bandwidth measurement methods, our method takes up less additional bandwidth, saves more time, and has a higher accuracy for measurement. Experiments are carried out to demonstrate the effectiveness and accuracy of the proposed scheme.
Incidence and Clinical Significance ofDe NovoDonor Specific Antibodies after Kidney Transplantation
Authors: Lionaki Sophia , Panagiotellis Konstantinos , Iniotaki Aliki , Boletis John N.
Published: November 2013

Kidney transplantation has evolved over more than half a century and remarkable progress has been made in patient and graft outcomes. Despite these advances, chronic allograft dysfunction remains a major problem. Among other reasons,de novoformation of antibodies against donor human leukocyte antigens has been recognized as one of the major risk factors for reduced allograft survival. The type of treatment in the presence of donor specific antibodies (DSA) posttransplantation is largely related to the clinical syndrome the patient presents with at the time of detection. There is no consensus regarding the treatment of stable renal transplant recipients with circulatingde novoDSA. On the contrast, in acute or chronic allograft dysfunction transplant centers use various protocols in order to reduce the amount of circulating DSA and achieve long-term graft survival. These protocols include removal of the antibodies by plasmapheresis, intravenous administration of immunoglobulin, or depletion of B cells with anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies along with tacrolimus and mycophenolate mofetil. This review aims at the comprehension of the clinical correlations ofde novoDSA in kidney transplant recipients, assessment of their prognostic value, and providing insights into the management of these patients.
Weighted Complex Network Analysis of Pakistan Highways
Authors: Mohmand Yasir Tariq , Wang Aihu
Published: November 2013

The structure and properties of public transportation networks have great implications in urban planning, public policies, and infectious disease control. This study contributes a weighted complex network analysis of travel routes on the national highway network of Pakistan. The network is responsible for handling 75 percent of the road traffic yet is largely inadequate, poor, and unreliable. The highway network displays small world properties and is assortative in nature. Based on the betweenness centrality of the nodes, the most important cities are identified as this could help in identifying the potential congestion points in the network. Keeping in view the strategic location of Pakistan, such a study is of practical importance and could provide opportunities for policy makers to improve the performance of the highway network.
The Investigation on Color Purity of Blue Organic Light-Emitting Diodes (BOLED) by Hole-Blocking Layer
Authors: Chen Kan-Lin , Huang Chien-Jung , Chen Wen-Ray , Kang Chih-Chieh , Lan Wen-How , Lee Yu-Chen
Published: November 2013

Organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) with triple hole-blocking layer (THBL) structure, which consist of 2,9-dimethyl-4,7-diphenyl-1,10-phenanthroline (BCP), 4,4′-bis(2,2′diphenyl vinil)-1,1′-biphenyl (DPVBi), and (4,4′-N,N′-dicarbazole)biphenyl (CBP), have been fabricated. Regardless of applied voltage variation, the luminous efficiency of the OLEDs with THBL structure was increased by 41% as compared with the dual hole-blocking layer (DHBL) structure. The CIE coordinates of (0.157, 0.111) of device with THBL structure are close to pure blue emission than that of other devices of DHBL. There is a coordinate with the slight shift of±Δx,y= (0.001, 0.008) for the device with THBL structure during the applied voltage of 6–9 V. The results indicate that the excitons can be effectively confined in the emitting layer of device, leading to an enhancement of luminance efficiency and more stable coordinate.
Verification of Data Races in Concurrent Interrupt Handlers
Authors: Tchamgoue Guy Martin , Kim Kyong Hoon , Jun Yong-Kee
Published: November 2013

Data races are common in interrupt-driven programs and have already led to well-known real-world problems. Unfortunately, existing dynamic tools for reporting data races in interrupt-driven programs are not only unsound, but they also fail to verify the existence of data races in such programs. This paper presents an efficient and scalable on-the-fly technique that precisely detects, without false positives, apparent data races in interrupt-driven programs. The technique combines a tailored lightweight labeling scheme to maintain logical concurrency between the main program and every instance of its interrupt handlers with a precise detection protocol that analyzes conflicting shared memory accesses by storing at most two accesses for each shared variable. We implemented a prototype of this technique, called iRace, on top of the Avrora simulation framework. An empirical evaluation of iRace revealed the presence of data races in some existing TinyOS components and applications with a worst-case slowdown of only about 6 times on average and an increased average memory consumption of only about 20% in comparison with the original program execution. The evaluation also proved that the labeling scheme alone generates an average runtime overhead of only about 0.4x while consuming only about 12% more memory than the original program execution.
Understanding Acupuncture Based on ZHENG Classification from System Perspective
Authors: Fang Junwei , Zheng Ningning , Wang Yang , Cao Huijuan , Sun Shujun , Dai Jianye , Li Qianhua , Zhang Yongyu
Published: November 2013

Acupuncture is an efficient therapy method originated in ancient China, the study of which based on ZHENG classification is a systematic research on understanding its complexity. The system perspective is contributed to understand the essence of phenomena, and, as the coming of the system biology era, broader technology platforms such as omics technologies were established for the objective study of traditional chinese medicine (TCM). Omics technologies could dynamically determine molecular components of various levels, which could achieve a systematic understanding of acupuncture by finding out the relationships of various response parts. After reviewing the literature of acupuncture studied by omics approaches, the following points were found. Firstly, with the help of omics approaches, acupuncture was found to be able to treat diseases by regulating the neuroendocrine immune (NEI) network and the change of which could reflect the global effect of acupuncture. Secondly, the global effect of acupuncture could reflect ZHENG information at certain structure and function levels, which might reveal the mechanism of Meridian and Acupoint Specificity. Furthermore, based on comprehensive ZHENG classification, omics researches could help us understand the action characteristics of acupoints and the molecular mechanisms of their synergistic effect.
Biliopancreatic Diversion: The Effectiveness of Duodenal Switch and Its Limitations
Authors: Anderson Blaire , Gill Richdeep S. , de Gara Christopher J. , Karmali Shahzeer , Gagner Michel
Published: November 2013

The prevalence of morbidly obese individuals is rising rapidly. Being overweight predisposes patients to multiple serious medical comorbidities including type two diabetes (T2DM), hypertension, dyslipidemia, and obstructive sleep apnea. Lifestyle modifications including diet and exercise produce modest weight reduction and bariatric surgery is the only evidence-based intervention with sustainable results. Biliopancreatic diversion (BPD) produces the most significant weight loss with amelioration of many obesity-related comorbidities compared to other bariatric surgeries; however perioperative morbidity and mortality associated with this surgery are not insignificant; additionally long-term complications including undesirable gastrointestinal side effects and metabolic derangements cannot be ignored. The overall quality of evidence in the literature is low with a lack of randomized control trials, a preponderance of uncontrolled series, and small sample sizes in the studies available. Additionally, when assessing remission of comorbidities, definitions are unclear and variable. In this review we explore the pros and cons of BPD, a less well known and perhaps underutilized bariatric procedure.
Risk of Hepatitis B Transmission After Amniocentesis in Chronic Hepatitis B Carriers
Authors: Alexander James M. , Ramus Ronald , Jackson Gregory , Sercely Barbara , Wendel George D.
Published: November 2013

Objective: To measure the risk of perinatal transmission of HBV in chronic carriers who undergo amniocentesis.

Methods: This was a prospective, longitudinal study from 1990 to 1995 ofwomen who were HBV carriers and underwent amniocentesis. The infants of these women were followed from birth to one year of age. Maternal data examined included HBV antigen and antibody status, liver function tests (LFTs) and the amniocentesis report.

Results: Twenty‐eight women were identified. Two of 28 neonates were stillborn unrelated to hepatitis. Five infants were lost to follow‐up leaving 21 mother‐child pairs to evaluate. All 21 women were chronic HBV carriers at the time of amniocentesis for delivery. No mother had abnormal LFTs, and only one of 21 women was positive for hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg). Thirteen amniocenteses were for advanced maternal age, and four were for abnormal maternal serum alphafetoprotein (MSAFP) screening. None of the amniocenteses were recorded as bloody, and the placenta was anterior in 6 of 21 procedures. None of the 21 infants (95% CI: 0–16.8%) were
positive for HbsAg during the first month of life or at 12 months of age. All infants received HBV vaccine and HBIG immunoprophylaxis.

Conclusion: The risk of transmission of HBV to the fetus after amniocentesis in women who are HBV carriers is low. Immunoprophylaxis in these infants was successful. Infect. Dis. Obstet. Gynecol. 7:283–286; 1999.
Nonclinical Evaluation of the Serum Pharmacodynamic Biomarkers HGF and Shed MET following Dosing with the Anti-MET Monovalent Monoclonal Antibody Onartuzumab
Authors: Mai Elaine , Zheng Zhong , Chen Youjun , Peng Jing , Severin Christophe , Filvaroff Ellen , Romero Mally , Mallet William , Kaur Surinder , Gelzleichter Thomas , Nijem Ihsan , Merchant Mark , Young Judy C.
Published: November 2013

Onartuzumab, a humanized, monovalent monoclonal anti-MET antibody, antagonizes MET signaling by inhibiting binding of its ligand, hepatocyte growth factor (HGF). We investigated the effects of onartuzumab on cell-associated and circulating (shed) MET (sMET) and circulating HGF in vitro and nonclinically to determine their utility as pharmacodynamic biomarkers for onartuzumab. Effects of onartuzumab on cell-associated MET were assessed by flow cytometry and immunofluorescence. sMET and HGF were measured in cell supernatants and in serum or plasma from multiple species (mouse, cynomolgus monkey, and human) using plate-based immunoassays. Unlike bivalent anti-MET antibodies, onartuzumab stably associates with MET on the surface of cells without inducing MET internalization or shedding. Onartuzumab delayed the clearance of human xenograft tumor-produced sMET from the circulation of mice, and endogenous sMET in cynomolgus monkeys. In mice harboring MET-expressing xenograft tumors, in the absence of onartuzumab, levels of human sMET correlated with tumor size, and may be predictive of MET-expressing tumor burden. Because binding of sMET to onartuzumab in circulation resulted in increasing sMET serum concentrations due to reduced clearance, this likely renders sMET unsuitable as a pharmacodynamic biomarker for onartuzumab. There was no observed effect of onartuzumab on circulating HGF levels in xenograft tumor-bearing mice or endogenous HGF in cynomolgus monkeys. Although sMET and HGF may serve as predictive biomarkers for MET therapeutics, these data do not support their use as pharmacodynamic biomarkers for onartuzumab. Mol Cancer Ther; 13(2); 540–52. ©2013 AACR.
White Matter Injury and Autistic-Like Behavior Predominantly Affecting Male Rat Offspring Exposed to Group B Streptococcal Maternal Inflammation
Authors: Bergeron J.D.L. , Deslauriers J. , Grignon S. , Fortier L.C. , Lepage M. , Stroh T. , Poyart C. , Sébire G.
Published: November 2013

The impact of the group B streptococcus (GBS)-induced maternal inflammation on offspring's brain has not yet been investigated despite GBS being one of the most frequent bacteria colonizing or infecting pregnant women. According to our hypothesis GBS-induced maternal immune activation plays a role in offspring perinatal brain damage and subsequent neurodisabilities such as autism. Using a new preclinical rat model of maternal inflammation triggered by inactivated GBS, we demonstrated placental, neuropathological and behavioral impacts on offspring. GBS-exposed placentas presented cystic lesions and polymorphonuclear infiltration located within the decidual/maternal side of the placenta, contrasting with macrophagic infiltration and necrotic areas located in the labyrinth/fetal compartment of the placenta after lipopolysaccharide-induced maternal inflammation. Brain damage featured lateral ventricles widening, predominately in the male, reduction of periventricular external capsules thickness, oligodendrocyte loss, and disorganization of frontoparietal subcortical tissue with no glial proliferation. Autistic hallmarks were found in offspring exposed to GBS, namely deficits in motor behavior, social and communicative impairments, i.e. profound defects in the integration and response to both acoustic and chemical signals that are predominant modes of communication in rats. Surprisingly, only male offspring were affected by these combined autistic-like traits. Our results show for the first time that materno-fetal inflammatory response to GBS plays a role in the induction of placental and cerebral insults, remarkably recapitulating cardinal features of human autism such as gender dichotomy and neurobehavioral traits. Unlike other models of prenatal inflammatory brain damage (induced by viral/toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3) or Gram-negative/TLR4), maternal inflammation resulting from GBS/TLR2 interactions induced a distinctive pattern of chorioamnionitis and cerebral injuries. These results also provide important evidence that beyond genetic influences, modifiable environmental factors play a role in both the occurrence of autism and its gender imbalance.
Dietary Reconstruction of Pliocene Parapapio whitei from Makapansgat, South Africa, Using Dental Microwear Texture Analysis
Authors: Williams Frank L’Engle
Published: November 2013

PlioceneParapapio whiteifossils from Makapansgat have yielded stable isotope values suggesting some foraging on C4plants and possibly underground storage organs (USOs). Dental microwear texture analysis onPp. whitei(M 3147, MP 62, MP 223 and MP 239) from Makapansgat Members 3-4 is performed to examine whether tooth surface damage from mastication agrees with prior dietary inferences from isotopes. The enamel surface texture ofPp. whiteiis relatively complex, resemblingLophocebus albigenaandCebus apella,and lacks the anisotropy ofTrachypithecus cristatusandAlouatta palliata. The textural fill volume ofPp.whiteiis distinct from extant forest primates suggesting extremes in hard-object consumption. Grit adhering to USOs is offered as an explanation for these enamel textural properties, corroborating the inference thatPp. whiteisupplemented its diet with terrestrial resources.
Improvement of fibrin clot structure after factor VIII injection in haemophilia A patients treated on demand
Authors: Mikovic Danijela , Elezovic Ivo , Zabczyk Michael , Hutenby Kjell , Antovic Jovan P. , Antovic Aleksandra
Published: November 2013

Patients with haemophilia A have seriously impaired thrombin generation due to an inherited deficiency of factor (F)VIII, making them form unstable fibrin clots that are unable to maintain haemostasis. Data on fibrin structure in haemophilia patients remain limited. Fibrin permeability, assessed by a flow measurement technique, was investigated in plasma from 20 patients with severe haemophilia A treated on demand, before and 30 minutes after FVIII injection. The results were correlated with concentrations of fibrinogen, FVIII and thrombin-activatable fibrinolysis inhibitor (TAFI), and global haemostatic markers: endogenous thrombin potential (ETP) and overall haemostatic potential (OHP). Fibrin structure was visualised using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The permeability coefficient Ks decreased significantly after FVIII treatment. Ks correlated significantly with FVIII levels and dosage, and with ETP, OHP and levels of TAFI. SEM images revealed irregular, porous fibrin clots composed of thick and short fibers before FVIII treatment. The clots had recovered after FVIII replacement almost to levels in control samples, revealing compact fibrin with smaller intrinsic pores. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first description of fibrin porosity and structure before and after FVIII treatment of selected haemophilia patients. It seems that thrombin generation is the main determinant of fibrin structure in haemophilic plasma.
‘VASPFix’ for measurement of VASP phosphorylation in platelets and for monitoring effects of P2Y12 antagonists
Authors: Dovlatova Natalia , White Ann E. , Dhillon Kiren , Heptinstall Stan , Fox Susan C. , Glenn Jacqueline R.
Published: November 2013

Vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein (VASP) is phosphorylated and dephosphorylated consequent to increases and decreases in cyclic nucleotide levels. Monitoring changes in VASP phosphorylation is an established method for indirect measurement of cyclic nucleotides. Here we describe the use of an innovative cocktail, VASPFix, which allows sensitive and reproducible measurement of phosphorylated VASP (VASP-P) in a simple, single-step procedure using cytometric bead technology. Frozen VASPFix-treated samples are stable for at least six months prior to analysis. We successfully used VASPFix to measure VASP-P in platelets in both platelet-rich plasma and blood in response to compounds that increase (dibutyryl cAMP, adenosine, iloprost, PGE1) and decrease (ADP, PGE1) cAMP, and to determine the effects of certain receptor antagonists on the results obtained. The change in VASP-P brought about by adding ADP to PGE1-stimulated platelets is a combination of the effect of ADP at the P2Y12 receptor and of PGE1 at both IP and EP3 receptors. For iloprost-stimulated platelets EP3 receptors are not involved. A procedure in which iloprost, ADP and VASPFix were used to determine effectiveness of clopidogrel and prasugrel in patients was compared with an established commercial procedure that uses PGE1 and ADP; the latter produced higher platelet reactivity values that were the result of PGE1 interacting with platelet EP3 receptors. We conclude that VASPFix can be used both as a research tool and for clinical investigations and provides better specificity for P2Y12 receptor inhibition. The latter confers a distinct advantage over existing methods used to monitor effects of P2Y12 antagonists on platelet function.
A new solifugae species of Mummucina Roewer, 1934 (Solifugae, Mummuciidae) from the Northwest of Argentina
Authors: REYES GONZÁLEZ , XIMENA ANDREA , CORRONCA JOSÉ ANTONIO
Published: November 2013

A new species of Mummuciidae, Mummucina puna sp. nov. (male and female) from Northwest Puna eco-region of Salta province, Argentina, is described and illustrated. A key and distribution map of known species of the genus Mummucina are provided.
Application of Statistical Models to the Prediction of Seasonal Rainfall Anomalies over the Sahel
Authors: Badr Hamada S. , Zaitchik Benjamin F. , Guikema Seth D.
Published: November 2013

Rainfall in the Sahel region of Africa is prone to large interannual variability, and it has exhibited a recent multidecadal drying trend. The well-documented social impacts of this variability have motivated numerous efforts at seasonal precipitation prediction, many of which employ statistical techniques that forecast Sahelian precipitation as a function of large-scale indices of surface air temperature (SAT) anomalies, sea surface temperature (SST), surface pressure, and other variables. These statistical models have demonstrated some skill, but nearly all have adopted conventional statistical modeling techniques—most commonly generalized linear models—to associate predictor fields with precipitation anomalies. Here, the results of an artificial neural network (ANN) machine-learning algorithm applied to predict summertime (July–September) Sahel rainfall anomalies using indices of springtime (April–June) SST and SAT anomalies for the period 1900–2011 are presented. Principal component analysis was used to remove multicollinearity between predictor variables. Predictive accuracy was assessed using repeatedk-fold random holdout and leave-one-out cross-validation methods. It was found that the ANN achieved predictive accuracy superior to that of eight alternative statistical methods tested in this study, and it was also superior to that of previously published predictive models of summertime Sahel precipitation. Analysis of partial dependence plots indicates that ANN skill is derived primarily from the ability to capture nonlinear influences that multiple major modes of large-scale variability have on Sahelian precipitation. These results point to the value of ANN techniques for seasonal precipitation prediction in the Sahel.
Emergence and Equilibration of Jets in Beta-Plane Turbulence: Applications of Stochastic Structural Stability Theory
Authors: Constantinou Navid C. , Farrell Brian F. , Ioannou Petros J.
Published: November 2013

Stochastic structural stability theory (S3T) provides analytical methods for understanding the emergence and equilibration of jets from the turbulence in planetary atmospheres based on the dynamics of the statistical mean state of the turbulence closed at second order. Predictions for formation and equilibration of turbulent jets made using S3T are critically compared with results of simulations made using the associated quasi-linear and nonlinear models. S3T predicts the observed bifurcation behavior associated with the emergence of jets, their equilibration, and their breakdown as a function of parameters. Quantitative differences in bifurcation parameter values between predictions of S3T and results of nonlinear simulations are traced to modification of the eddy spectrum which results from two processes: nonlinear eddy–eddy interactions and formation of discrete nonzonal structures. Remarkably, these nonzonal structures, which substantially modify the turbulence spectrum, are found to arise from S3T instability. Formation as linear instabilities and equilibration at finite amplitude of multiple equilibria for identical parameter values in the form of jets with distinct meridional wavenumbers is verified, as is the existence at equilibrium of finite-amplitude nonzonal structures in the form of nonlinearly modified Rossby waves. When zonal jets and nonlinearly modified Rossby waves coexist at finite amplitude, the jet structure is generally found to dominate even if it is linearly less unstable. The physical reality of the manifold of S3T jets and nonzonal structures is underscored by the existence in nonlinear simulations of jet structure at subcritical S3T parameter values that are identified with stable S3T jet modes excited by turbulent fluctuations.
Hydrological Climate-Impact Projections for the Rhine River: GCM–RCM Uncertainty and Separate Temperature and Precipitation Effects*
Authors: Bosshard Thomas , Kotlarski Sven , Zappa Massimiliano , Schär Christoph
Published: November 2013

Climate change is expected to affect the hydrological cycle, with considerable impacts on water resources. Climate-induced changes in the hydrology of the Rhine River (Europe) are of major importance for the riparian countries, as the Rhine River is the most important European waterway, serves as a freshwater supply source, and is prone to floods and droughts. Here regional climate model data from the Ensemble-Based Predictions of Climate Changes and their Impacts (ENSEMBLES) project is used to drive the hydrological model Precipitation–Runoff–Evapotranspiration–Hydrotope (PREVAH) and to assess the impact of climate change on the hydrology in the Rhine basin. Results suggest increases in monthly mean runoff during winter and decreases in summer. At the gauge Cologne and for the period 2070–99 under the A1B scenario of the Special Report on Emissions Scenarios, projected decreases in summer vary between −9% and −40% depending on the climate model used, while increases in winter are in the range of +4% to +51%. These projected changes in mean runoff are generally consistent with earlier studies, but the derived spread in the runoff projections appears to be larger. It is demonstrated that temperature effects (e.g., through altered snow processes) dominate in the Alpine tributaries, while precipitation effects dominate in the lower portion of the Rhine basin. Analyses are also presented for selected extreme runoff indices.
Modeling and Analysis of Internal-Tide Generation and Beamlike Onshore Propagation in the Vicinity of Shelfbreak Canyons
Authors: Zhang Weifeng G. , Duda Timothy F. , Udovydchenkov Ilya A.
Published: November 2013

A hydrostatic numerical model with alongshore-uniform barotropic M2 tidal boundary forcing and idealized shelfbreak canyon bathymetries is used to study internal-tide generation and onshore propagation. A control simulation with Mid-Atlantic Bight representative bathymetry is supported by other simulations that serve to identify specific processes. The canyons and adjacent slopes are transcritical in steepness with respect to M2 internal wave characteristics. Although the various canyons are symmetrical in structure, barotropic-to-baroclinic energy conversion rates Cυ are typically asymmetrical within them. The resulting onshore-propagating internal waves are the strongest along beams in the horizontal plane, with the stronger beam in the control simulation lying on the side with higher Cυ. Analysis of the simulation results suggests that the cross-canyon asymmetrical Cυ distributions are caused by multiple-scattering effects on one canyon side slope, because the phase variation in the spatially distributed internal-tide sources, governed by variations in the orientation of the bathymetry gradient vector, allows resonant internal-tide generation. A less complex, semianalytical, modal internal wave propagation model with sources placed along the critical-slope locus (where the M2 internal wave characteristic is tangent to the seabed) and variable source phasing is used to diagnose the physics of the horizontal beams of onshore internal wave radiation. Model analysis explains how the cross-canyon phase and amplitude variations in the locally generated internal tides affect parameters of the internal-tide beams. Under the assumption that strong internal tides on continental shelves evolve to include nonlinear wave trains, the asymmetrical internal-tide generation and beam radiation effects may lead to nonlinear internal waves and enhanced mixing occurring preferentially on one side of shelfbreak canyons, in the absence of other influencing factors.
Balancing Priorities, Aligning Interests
Authors: Harrison Tom , Kostka Genia
Published: November 2013

Debates about how to respond to climate change have largely focused on the difficulties in agreeing on national targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. By assuming that the main obstacle to emissions reduction lies in the inability to reach agreement internationally, the current debate underplays the challenges of building the state capacity that will be needed to ensure mitigation takes place. The implementation of mitigation strategies is far from straightforward. It requires careful balancing of competing priorities and deliberate strategies to bring different interest groups on board. We analyze the way this balancing act has been carried out in promoting energy efficiency measures in China and India. The balancing act has been done differently as each country has tailored its approach to the specific context of competing priorities and differing state capacity. We encapsulate these differences by referring to China’s approach as “state-signaling” and India’s approach as a “market-plus” approach. China’s approach is more explicitly statist than India’s, but in both countries, the state plays a central role in building the support base for its policies through processes that we describe as the bundling of policies and interests. These bundling strategies are used to help build informal coalitions in favor of energy efficiency measures.
Measures of Reliance and Compliance in Aided Visual Scanning
Authors: Meyer Joachim , Wiczorek Rebecca , Günzler Torsten
Published: November 2013

Objective:

We study the dependence or independence of reliance and compliance as two responses to alarms to understand the mechanisms behind these responses.

Background:

Alarms, alerts, and other binary cues affect user behavior in complex ways. The suggestion has been made that there are two different responses to alerts—compliance (the tendency to perform an action cued by the alert) and reliance (the tendency to refrain from actions as long as no alert is issued). The study tests the degree to which these two responses are indeed independent.

Method:

An experiment tested the effects of the positive and negative predictive values of the alerts (PPV and NPV) on measures of compliance and reliance based on cutoff settings, response times, and subjective confidence.

Results:

For cutoff settings and response times, compliance was unaffected by the irrelevant NPV, whereas reliance depended on the irrelevant PPV. For subjective estimates, there were no significant effects of the irrelevant variables.

Conclusion:

Results suggest that compliance is relatively stable and unaffected by irrelevant information (the NPV), whereas reliance is also affected by the PPV. The results support the notion that reliance and compliance are separate, but related, forms of trust.

Application:

False alarm rates, which affect PPV, determine both the response to alerts (compliance) and the tendency to limit precautions when no alert is issued (reliance).
Correcting the democratic deficit in the CETA negotiations: Civil society engagement in the provinces, municipalities, and Europe
Authors: Trew Stuart
Published: November 2013

The federal government claims that the Canada-EU Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) negotiations have been the most transparent and participatory in Canadian history. Labour, environmental, social justice, and other civil society groups that are critical of the proposed agreement for various reasons would argue that their perspectives have been excluded from the official federal dialogue. This article looks at some of the efforts of non-governmental (civil society) actors, and in particular the Trade Justice Network and its member organizations, to affect the CETA negotiations in other ways, with an emphasis on contact with provincial governments, municipalities, European decision makers, and other non-governmental groups in Canada and Europe. It is argued that the exclusion of critical views shows an inherent democratic deficit in the CETA negotiations that privileges corporate insiders at the expense of civil society, the public, and even elected officials. Notwithstanding this deficit, the success of the civil society campaigns can be seen in the problem areas delaying a successful conclusion of negotiations, including new public procurement restrictions for Canadian municipalities and pharmaceutical patent term extensions. For the Trade Justice Network, these areas also help explain how the agreement narrows the fields of economic, environmental, and social governance in Canada.
Canadian sub-federal governments and CETA: Overarching themes and future trends
Authors: Kukucha Christopher J
Published: November 2013

Canadian provinces and territories have gained increasing relevance in matters of international trade over the last several decades. The possibility of a Canada–European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement, however, marks the first time that sub-federal governments in Canada have been directly involved in specific areas of negotiations. The significance of this development, examined in this series of policy papers, can be organized under five overarching themes: 1) the negotiation, ratification, and implementation of foreign trade agreements; 2) the need to distinguish between process activity and actual policy outcomes; 3) the ongoing relevance of Canadian federalism; 4) the impact of non-governmental actors, especially civil society; and 5) the differing interpretations of academics, practitioners, business, and societal groups.
“Everywhere there are grim question marks”: Critical remembrance and volume 1 of International Journal
Authors: Broadhead Lee-Anne
Published: November 2013

This article revisits volume 1 of International Journal to illustrate the power of “critical remembrance” to deepen the discourse about and sharpen the debate over contemporary global issues and Canada’s potential as a force for peace and progress. Setting the origins of the journal in historical context, the article considers the immediate postwar mood of its contributors and their myriad suggestions for Canada’s appropriate role. The article concludes with a plea for “historical literacy” as an indispensable starting point for reimagining the world in which we live.