bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Forensic casework in contemporary perspective
Authors: Ubelaker Douglas H.
Published: February 2013

Recent developments have changed forensic casework in largely positive ways. New technology, expanded databases, enhanced statistical treatment and improved laboratory procedures enable better interpretation of evidentiary analysis and more thoughtful summaries presented in reports and testimony. Increased scrutiny has focused attention on the need for advancement in forensic science through research and structural adjustments.
Palynofacies from Bathonian (Middle Jurassic) ore-bearing clays at Gnaszyn, Kraków-Silesia Homocline, Poland, with special emphasis on sporomorph eco-groups
Authors: Gedl Przemysław , Ziaja Jadwiga
Published: February 2013

Gedl, P. and Ziaja, J. 2012. Palynofacies from Bathonian (Middle Jurassic) ore-bearing clays at Gnaszyn, Kraków- Silesia Homocline, Poland, with special emphasis on sporomorph eco-groups. Acta Geologica Polonica, 62(3), 325-349. Warszawa.

The palynological organic matter of dark clays from Bathonian ore-bearing clays exposed at Gnaszyn (Częstochowa, Kraków-Silesia Homocline, Poland) consists of high proportions of land-derived particles; aquatic elements (mainly dinoflagellate cysts) are comparatively rare. Terrestrial particles include black opaque phytoclasts, dark brown phytoclasts, cuticle remains and subordinate sporomorphs. The latter are represented by eighty-four taxa of spores and pollen grains. They represent various groups of plants, including Bryophyta, Sphenophyta, Lycophyta, Pteridophyta, Pteridospermophyta, Cycadophyta or Ginkgophyta and Coniferophyta. The most frequent sporomorphs in almost all samples from Gnaszyn are Callialasporites (Araucariaceae), Cerebropollenites and Perinopolleniteselatoides (Taxodiaceae) pollen grains, fern spores with triradiate tetrad mark, bisaccate pollen grains belonging to conifers (Pinaceae or Podocarpaceae) and also to Pteridospermophyta. Quantitative analysis of the palynofacies shows fluctuations of particular element ratios, which correlate with lithology. Clay intervals that contain siderite concretion levels yielded lower amounts of cuticles in relation to sporomorphs (mainly pollen grains) and dinoflagellate cysts. Intervals of monotonous clays and silts are characterized by a higher ratio of cuticles in relation to other elements, especially dinoflagellate cysts. Also, quantitative analysis of the sporomorphs shows changes in frequency of the representatives of various plant communities, which coexisted during the Jurassic: Upland, Lowland, River, Pioneer, Coastal and Tidally-influenced. These changes might have reflected sealevel fluctuations, which affected vegetation growing on adjacent land. However, the dominance of Callialasporites pollen grains, which belong to the Coastal community, indicates that the Gnaszyn assemblage was mainly influenced by the seashore vegetation. The high frequency of Araucariaceae pollen grains and the presence of ferns representing the Osmundaceae, Cyatheaceae, Dicksoniaceae, Schizeaceae, Gleicheniaceae and Matoniaceae indicate a warm climate without large seasonal amplitudes during the deposition of the Gnaszyn succession.
Cast Steels for Creep-Resistant Parts Used in Heat Treatment Plants
Authors: Drotlew A. , Garbiak M. , Piekarski B.
Published: February 2013

Creep-resistant parts of heat treatment furnaces are in most cases made from high-alloyed chromium-nickel and nickel-chromium iron alloys, both cast and wrought. This paper presents the types of casting alloys used for this particular purpose, since the majority of furnace components are made by the casting process. Standards were cited which give symbols of alloy grades used in technical specifications by the domestic industry. It has been indicated that castings made currently are based on a wider spectrum of the creep-resistant alloy grades than the number of alloys covered by the standards. Alloy grades recommended by the technical literature for individual parts of the furnace equipment were given. The recommendations reflect both the type of the technological process used and the technical tasks performed by individual parts of the furnace equipment. Comments were also made on the role of individual alloying elements in shaping the performance properties of castings.
Stress Rupture Test of MAR-M509 Alloy with Structure Refined by Rapid Resolidification
Authors: Mróz M. , Orłowicz W. , Tupaj M. , Trytek A.
Published: February 2013

This study presents results of stress rupture test of MAR-M-509 cobalt alloy samples, as-cast and after surface refining with a concentrated stream of heat. Tests were conducted on samples of MAR-M-509 alloy castings, obtained using the lost-wax method. Casting structure refining was performed with the GTAW method in argon atmosphere, using the current I = 200 A and electrical arc scanning velocity vs = 100, 150, 200 and 250 mm/min. The effect of rapid resolidification of the MAR-M-509 alloy on the microstructure was examined and significant improvement in stress rupture test was observed
Re-expansion of an Atelectatic Lung through Flexible Bronchoscopy in a Child with Dermatomyositis and Celiac Disease
Authors: Selimović Amina , Rančić Milan , Mujičić Ermina , Mesihović Dinarević Senka , Hasanović Aida , Ristić Siniša , Svetozarević Zoran
Published: February 2013

This paper describes the utility of flexible bronchoscopy in a sick child diagnosed with dermatomyositis, celiac disease. Mucus plug is a common medical cause of lung atelectasis. Due to deteriorated respiratory condition, the child was highly febrile, cyanotic, liver 6-7 cm, palpable under the right rib arch. We described a child with dermatomyositis and lung atelectasis. Atelectasis causes difficulty breathing and decreased oxygen saturation, so the child was intubated and put on a complete mechanical ventilation.

Before intubation, the number of respirations exceeded 40/min, O2 saturation on the pulse oximeter fell under 73%. Pulse rate was 173/min, blood pressure 94/37 mmHg. Before intubation, the gas analysis of blood showed: Ph below 7.30 and pCO2 9 kPa, pO2 in the blood below 4.9 kPa. After flexible bronchoscopy was performed, therapeutic and diagnostic, lung re-expansion was enabled. After performed bronchoalveolar lavage with 0.9% NaCL 1 ml per kg TT, twice repeated, corticosteroids were introduced at the site of the changed mucus membrane. Mechanical ventilation parameters: Fio2, number of respirations and inspiratory pressure decreased. Values of gas analysis: ph improvement above 7.30 Pco2 3.6kPa, pO2 in the blood 11. O2 saturation 95%, pulse rate 120/min. The five-year-old child patient was extubated five days after bronchoscopy and was transferred to the standard Pulmonology Ward. Blood derivatives were obtained on several occasions. The condition improved, methotrexat therapy was introduced, with corticosteroids once a week, 3x40 mg i.v., on other week days Pronison 5 mg 4x1.
Effects of sugars on the growth and chlorophyll content in excised tulip stem in the presence of Indole-3-acetic acid
Authors: Węgrzynowicz-Lesiak Elżbieta , Saniewski Marian , Góraj Justyna , Horbowicz Marcin , Miyamoto Kensuke , Ueda Junichi
Published: February 2013

The purpose of this study was to clarify the effect of sucrose on auxin-induced growth of stem excised from growing tulips and excised directly from cooled and not cooled bulbs, and on the growth of excised IV internode from growing plants in the presence of auxin. In all cases flower bud was replaced by IAA (indole-3- acetic acid, 0.1%, w/w in lanolin) and basal part of excised segments of stem was kept in distilled water or in solution of various sugars at different concentrations. IAA-induced growth of excised stems isolated from growing tulips was inhibited by sucrose at concentrations of 5.0% and 10.0%, but sucrose at 1.25% and 2.5% did not. Sucrose at all concentrations used evidently delayed senescence and increased chlorophyll contents in excised stems in the presence of IAA. Sucrose induced stiffing in isolated stems in the presence of IAA, and much less infective by pathogen in comparison to stem treated with IAA only. Mannitol and sorbitol at concentrations of 5.0% and 10.0% substantially inhibited IAA-induced growth of stem segments. Stem segments excised from cooled and not cooled tulip bulbs were more sensitive than those isolated from growing shoots due to application of sucrose and glucose; more inhibitory effect was observed. Sucrose at concentrations of 5.0% and 10.0% only slightly inhibited growth of IV internode treated with IAA and all concentrations of sucrose (1.25%, 2.5%, 5.0% and 10.0%) substantially increased chlorophyll content. The possible mode of actions of sucrose interacting with auxin to regulate stem growth is also discussed although sugar response is complicated by the fact that plants have multiple sugar-response pathways.
Reuse of effluent water obtained in different textile finishing processes
Authors: ERDUMLU Nazan , OZIPEK Bulent , YILMAZ Goncagul , TOPATAN Ziynet
Published: February 2013

The use of clean water in textile finishing is both common and very expensive. Effluent water subjected to advanced methods of physical, chemical, and biological treatment could be used for this purpose. However, information obtained from industry and the literature shows that effluent water obtained from different finishing processes may be reused without being totally purified. In this paper, a method is proposed to determine the viability of reusing effluent water obtained from different textile finishing processes of cotton fabrics after just basic treatments. These treatments include; filtering, airing, pH regulating and ion exchange. Effluent water obtained in different textile finishing processes was analysed in terms of pH value, COD (Chemical Oxygen Demand), SS (Suspended Solids), colour, hardness and conductivity. Effluent water for treatment and the process where the treated water was reused were determined by means of the proposed method, based on a multiple criteria decision making approach. A laboratory scale trial was conducted to investigate the efficiency of treatment.
Evaluation of production effectiveness in garment companies through key performance indicators
Authors: Spahija S. , Shehi E. , Guxho G.
Published: February 2013

Key Performance Indicators help an organisation to improve productivity and to evaluate its success. Improved
productivity is an essential part of increasing the value-added services that companies can offer to clients and
hence their competitiveness. By using Key Performance Indicators, a company can establish baseline figures
against a number of important areas. They can be considered like a health check on a company or a diagnosis
of where a company can improve its performance. The definition of what they are and how they are measured
does not change often, but Key Performance Indicators may change as the organisation's goals change. In this
paper we present and discuss the way to establish Key Performance Indicators to evaluate the production
effectiveness of garment companies. The KPIs are being tested in several garment companies in Albania and
actually implemented in 25 companies.
Common Malocclusion Problems and their Management: A Hospital based study
Authors: Uddin Helal , Ahmed Ziauddin , Das Nitish Krishna , Saha Arup Kumar , Babu Mohammad Rakibul Islam , Khan Abu Mohammad Shareeful Alam
Published: February 2013

Aims: Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry concerned with the prevention, interception and correction of malocclusion. The present study aimed at the common malocclusion problems and their management in Bangladeshi population. It was also aimed to align for aesthetics reason, functional efficiency and structural balance. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out among 120 respondents having malocclusions. Students, especially young women and urban residents were selected as the main respondents of our series which reflected its aesthetic value against malocclusion Results: Mean age of the respondents was 22.22±9.07 years with a male and female ratio of 1:3.1. Among the respondents, 37.5% were within the 11 to 20 years age group with a past (21.0%) and present (7.5%) history of finger sucking habit and abnormal over jet (71.7%) and over bite (55.8%). Mean over jet and overbite were 4.4 ±3.47 (range, -2 to 12) mm and 3.47±1.98 (range, 0 to 7) mm, respectively. Angles classification revealed type 1, type 2 (division 1), type 2 (division 2) and type 3 were 55.0%, 28.3%, 3.3% and 13.3%, respectively, and based on skeletal relationships, type 1, type 2 and type 3 were 64.2%, 25.0% and 10.8%, respectively. Of all patients, 66.7% had convex, 22.5% straight and 10.8% had concave face profiles. They also had 44.2% competent, 36.7% incompetent and 19.2% habitual competent anterior lip seals. Conclusions: Smile is a global language though many of our patients are deprived of both socially and economically, especially young women from this language. With growing importance imposed on preventive orthodontic treatment and proper oral health education, incidence of malocclusion can be reduced. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cdcj.v10i1.13827 City Dent. Coll. J Volume-10, Number-1, January-2013
Practice and Knowledge of Health Personnel on Impact of Medical Wastes in Upazilla Health Complexes under Dhaka Division in Bangladesh
Authors: Polan Mohammad Ali Akbor , Noman Nahid Al , Jan Chowdhury Moin , Hasan Md Riasat , Saito Takashi
Published: February 2013

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 42 health personnel and people without a medical background but concerned with the waste management. They were interviewed through pretested semistructured questionnaires at their working places of the upazilla health complexes at Sreepur, Kapasia, Kaligonj, Shivaloya, Saturia, Savar and Dhamrai under Dhaka division of Bangladesh. A total of 6 respondents (2 doctors, 2 nurses and 2 support staff) from each of the upazillas were recruited. Upazilla health complexes were running with average bed occupancy of ?10/day and where ?10 health personnel were working. The objective of this study was to assess the practice and knowledge on impact of the medical wastes of the health personnel working in the health complexes. The distribution of the respondents by their responses regarding environmental impact of medical wastes were recorded, analyzed and tabulated. Hundred percent (100.0%) respondents said about pollution of air, 89.7% said about pollution of surface water, 69.0% said about pollution of ground water, 58.6% said about open dump with infectious agents, soil pollution, 48.3% said about enhance spread of infectious diseases by rodent, 34.5% said about litter and leachate, 20.7% said about production of methane and greenhouse gases and 10.3% said about raised environmental temperature due to the increase of greenhouse gases. Regarding the knowledge of environmental impact of medical wastes, doctors and nurses were found to be more knowledgeable than the support staff. The difference was found to be statistically significant. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cdcj.v10i1.13830 City Dent. Coll. J Volume-10, Number-1, January-2013
Preventive Practice on Hepatitis B Virus Infection among Dentists in Selected Hospitals at Dhaka City, Bangladesh
Authors: Solaiman Faisal , Ahmed Shamim , Akhter Syeda Mahmuda , Saha Arup Kumar , Uddin Helal , Azad Md Abul Kalam , Haque ASM Rafiul
Published: February 2013

Aims: The study was carried out among 120 dentists working in the selected hospitals of Dhaka city to find out the preventive practice on hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. Methods: A descriptive type of cross-sectional study was carried out involving 120 dentists working in the selected hospitals of Dhaka city from December 2011 to March 2012 to quantify the preventive practice on HBV infection through a pretested semi-structured questionnaire. Results were analyzed by using the software SPSS 16.0 version (Chicago). Then analyzed data were presented according to the variables of the study showing percentage relationship between variables using appropriate statistical method.Results: Mean age of the dentists was 26.43±6.29 (range, 25-45) years where 74.17% were male and 25.83% were female. Among 120 respondents, 20.83% obtained BDS degree along with a postgraduate training (PGT) in any of the respective fields of dentistry. Others obtained MS in dentistry (21.67%), MPH in dentistry (10.83%), PhD in dentistry (9.17%), DDS in dental surgery (10%) and FCPS in dentistry (6.67%). Academic positions of the respondents were 33.33%, assistant professors, 26.67% associate professors, 19.17% medical officers, and 17.5% were lecturers. Majority (93.3%) dentists knew about HBV transmission, prevention, symptoms, risks, and concurrences. Out of them, 87.5% reported having been tested for HBV which was associated with their designations (p=0.013) and more than 75% reported having been vaccinated against HBV. Conclusions: A high level of knowledge and attitude towards practice in the prevention of HBV was found to be very good among the dentists of Dhaka city though seemed it was not always possible to take precaution for handling emergency patients. Further broad scale studies would be needed to have decisive results. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cdcj.v10i1.13831 City Dent. Coll. J Volume-10, Number-1, January-2013
Filicide et destruction du lien fraternel
Authors: Jaïtin Rosa , Robert Philippe
Published: February 2013

Résumé Les auteurs définissent l’inceste fraternel comme une forme de meurtre du lien fraternel lié aux désirs filicides des parents, portés par la mère dans le lien de filiation. Pour cela ils font appel à la mythologie sociétale et familiale et à l’anthropologie, pour signifier ces actes filicides difficilement représentables. Ils seraient liés à la difficulté des familles pour construire un roman qui permettrait de donner sens à la déliaison filiative. Deux exemples cliniques qui illustrent la triple dimension, transgénérationnelle, intergénérationnelle et intrapsychique, permettent de mettre en évidence la complexité des actes filicides.
Jovens e Forças Armadas: contornos de uma nova relação num contexto de profissionalização
Authors: Cardoso António Ideias , Madeira Isabel , Marques Francisco Sousa , Vilhena Cristina Poças , Baptista Luís Vicente , Resende José Manuel , Ferreira Paulo Antunes
Published: February 2013

Nas sociedades actuais qualquer instituição, entre elas a militar, não é mais julgada pelo que se propõe fazer, mas pelo que efectivamente faz. Tratadas pela sociedade e pelo mercado como qualquer outra instituição, as Forças Armadas estão, assim, mais sujeitas ao escrutínio e controlo social. Cultivar a legitimidade tornou-se cada vez mais uma necessidade, tendo em vista a prevenção de possíveis situações de banalização institucional. Além desta atitude de cariz pró-activo, os pressupostos da profissionalização, enquanto novo modelo de organização, também lhes exigem uma permanente capacidade para conseguir obter os recursos humanos necessários ao desenvolvimento das suas missões. Para contribuir para a construção de estratégias solidificadas de intervenção neste domínio, torna-se necessário recolher elementos que permitam traçar um diagnóstico da situação, o que implica, forçosamente, considerar como objecto de análise as inter-relações estabelecidas entre as Forças Armadas e a sociedade envolvente. É neste quadro que se insere este estudo, que, a coberto da realização do Dia da Defesa Nacional, procura apreender e caracterizar o que pensa das Forças Armadas e das suas ofertas de emprego um dos segmentos populacionais mais importantes no contexto da profissionalização, ou seja, a população jovem.
“No trilho da negligência…” configurações exploratórias de violência contra pessoas idosas
Authors: Gil Ana Paula , Fernandes Ana Alexandre
Published: February 2013

A violência contra as pessoas idosas está associada às condições de vulnerabilidade física e psicológica das pessoas que envelhecem tornando-as susceptíveis a situações de dependência extrema face a família e outros. A violência na esfera familiar e institucional tem vindo a apresentar contornos preocupantes na sociedade portuguesa. Esta perspectiva foi assumida pelos participantes de um grupo focal no âmbito de um estudo empírico que envolveu profissionais de saúde, acção social e representantes policiais, que a partir das suas práticas profissionais admitiram a existência de situações de violência contra os mais velhos. Os resultados deste estudo dão relevância a dois tipos de problemas: a negligência associada aos cuidados na dependência e o abuso financeiro. Este estudo permitiu também evidenciar alguns dilemas e contradições com que os profissionais se confrontam no quotidiano num campo de intervenção onde existem divergências claras de interpretação que podem influenciar o conhecimento sobre o mesmo.
Da ética artificial e da moral de estado
Authors: Dores António Pedro
Published: February 2013

A crise civilizacional que se sente estarmos a viver ainda não está a ser acompanhada por um questionamento moral que é de esperar vir a ocorrer, no quadro de um processo de transformação mais vivo e abrangente do que aquele que hoje já vivemos. Este artigo procura abrir brechas para os debates que irão emergir, procurando encontrar formas racionais de articular as mudanças sociais em curso e as mudanças necessárias à actualização da teoria social.
Proximité au trafic routier et pollution de l’air en Ile-de-France
Authors: Honoré Cécile , Dugay Fabrice , Pernot Pierre
Published: February 2013

En Ile-de-France, la pollution en proximité au trafic routier constitue une problématique cruciale, particulièrement en cœur d’agglomération. Airparif, association agréée de surveillance de la qualité de l’air en Ile-de-France, assure le suivi quotidien et au long cours des polluants réglementés via : un réseau de mesure, constitué de stations de fond et de proximité au trafic; un inventaire des émissions polluantes, avec un traitement spécifique des émissions du trafic routier; des systèmes de modélisation et de cartographie de la qualité de l’air intégrant la proximité au trafic routier.Parmi les polluants fortement émis par le trafic routier, le benzène et le CO ne sont plus problématiques en Ile-de-France; en revanche, dioxyde d’azote (NO2) et particules connaissent des dépassements très intenses des valeurs limites réglementaires en proximité au trafic routier; pour NO2, les dépassements ont également lieu en fond. De plus, les niveaux sont stables en proximité au trafic. Cela conduit de façon récurrente à plus de trois millions d’habitants potentiellement exposés à des niveaux critiques de pollution atmosphérique. Un des enjeux futurs de la surveillance de la qualité de l’air est la caractérisation fine des niveaux, notamment en proximité au trafic routier. Les développements actuels concernent la modélisation haute résolution des concentrations; la cartographie intégrant sorties de modèles et observations. Ceci afin d’améliorer l’évaluation de l’exposition des populations dans les études santé environnement menées par les acteurs de la santé; de renforcer l’appui aux pouvoirs publics pour la gestion de la qualité de l’air.
Pollution atmosphérique en milieu urbain : de sa régulation à sa surveillance
Authors: Lestel Laurence
Published: February 2013

Au début du XIXe siècle, les pollutions sont visibles et industrielles. Malgré l’effort de mesures de la qualité de l’air intérieur, il n’y a eu alors ni mesure ni même définition de grilles de qualité pour l’air extérieur. Les réponses sont techniques (essai de diminution de l’émission de fumées) et réglementaires. Elles ne prennent pas en compte les pollutions d’autres secteurs d’activités (usages urbains, transports) dues à l’accroissement de l’usage du charbon. En France, les premières analyses systématiques de l’air atmosphérique sont celles de l’Observatoire de Montsouris à partir de 1876. Petit à petit, la réglementation incorpore des limites de rejets, d’abord pour les fumées noires industrielles (1934 dans le département de la Seine) puis pour les rejets des véhicules automobiles (décrets nationaux de 1969). Les épisodes de hausse de mortalité résultant de la combinaison d’événements météorologiques particuliers et d’émissions de gaz conduisent à la mise en place de réseaux de surveillance, en 1954 à Paris grâce aux efforts du Laboratoire d’hygiène de la ville de Paris, et du Laboratoire central de la Préfecture de Police, puis dans l’ensemble des grandes villes et zones industrielles de France à partir de 1973. L’organisation de ces réseaux de surveillance a été renforcée par la loi sur l’air de 1996.
Adolescent Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Management Dilemma
Authors: Singh Richa , Yadav Poonam , Parveen Roohi
Published: February 2013

Since the description by Stein and Leventhal the enigma of polycystic ovarian syndrome keeps on unfolding day by day. Recently due to changes in lifestyle the incidence of adolescent PCOS is on rise and form the basis of metabolic and endocrinological diseases in later life. Hence, it is of utmost importance to recognize the pathology at earliest and treat it before the features become resistant.

How to cite this article

Singh R, Yadav P, Parveen R. Adolescent Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Management Dilemma. J South Asian Feder Obst Gynae 2012;4(3):123-125.
Assessment of atmospheric processes driving ozone variations in the subtropical North Atlantic free troposphere
Authors: Cuevas E. , González Y. , Rodríguez S. , Guerra J. C. , Gómez-Peláez A. J. , Alonso-Pérez S. , Bustos J. , Milford C.
Published: February 2013

Abstract. An analysis of the 22-yr ozone (O3) series (1988–2009) at the subtropical high mountain Izaña~station (IZO; 2373 m a.s.l.), representative of free troposphere (FT) conditions, is presented. Diurnal and seasonal O3 variations as well as the O3 trend (0.19 ± 0.05 % yr−1 or 0.09 ppbv yr−1), are assessed. A climatology of O3 transport pathways using backward trajectories shows that higher O3 values are associated with air masses travelling above 4 km altitude from North America and North Atlantic Ocean, while low O3 is transported from the Saharan continental boundary layer (CBL). O3 data have been compared with PM10, 210Pb, 7Be, potential vorticity (PV) and carbon monoxide (CO). A clear negative logarithmic relationship was observed between PM10 and surface O3 for all seasons. A similar relationship was found between O3 and 210Pb. The highest daily O3 values (90th percentile) are observed in spring and in the first half of summer time. A positive correlation between O3 and PV, and between O3 and 7Be is found throughout the year, indicating that relatively high surface O3 values at IZO originate from the middle and upper troposphere. We find a good correlation between O3 and CO in winter, supporting the hypothesis of long-range transport of photochemically generated O3 from North America. Aged air masses, in combination with sporadic inputs from the upper troposphere, are observed in spring, summer and autumn. In summer time high O3 values seem to be the result of stratosphere-to-troposphere (STT) exchange processes in regions neighbouring the Canary Islands. Since 1995–1996, the North Atlantic Oscillation has changed from a predominantly high positive phase to alternating between negative, neutral or positive phases. This change results in an increased flow of the westerlies in the mid-latitude and subtropical North Atlantic, thus favouring the transport of O3 and its precursors from North America, and a higher frequency of storms over North Atlantic, with a likely higher incidence of STT processes in mid-latitudes. These processes lead to an increase of tropospheric O3 in the subtropical North Atlantic region after 1996 that has been reflected in surface O3 records at IZO.
New financial statement reporting requirements for healthcare entities and insurers
Authors: Reinstein Alan , Churyk Natalie Tatiana
Published: February 2013

Since 2010, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued several Accounting Standards Updates [ASUs] and other Authoritative Standards that affect Health Care Entities and Insurers, requiring them to more consistently account for and disclose their reporting of charitable and other costs. Also, in light of the main portions of Obama Care becoming effective in 2014, the FASB required such entities to more consistently and broadly disclose how they account for their bad debts, especially since the new law will limit such payments in the future. This article summarizes the provisions of the new Standards and provides examples of their application, in order to help health care entities and insurers understand the new provisions and implications.
Linking Deep Earth and Surface Processes
Authors: Cloetingh Sierd , Willett Sean D.
Published: February 2013

One of the important developments in Earth science over the past decade has been recognition of the significance of linking deep Earth dynamic processes with surface and near‐surface geologic processes [e.g., Braun, 2010]. Deep Earth research, encompassing fields such as seismology and mantle geodynamics, has traditionally operated distinctly from fields focusing on dynamics of the Earth's surface, such as sedimentology and geomorphology. However, these endeavors have in common the study of Earth's topography and the prediction of changes in its surface. Observables from surface studies, such as basin stratigraphy, geomorphology of landscapes, changes in surface elevation, and changes in sea level, provide some of the principal constraints on geodynamic and tectonic models. Conversely, deep geodynamic processes give rise to the topography, erosion, and sediment generation that are the basis of surface geology. Surface manifestations of deep geodynamic processes have significant societal impact by creating natural hazards, such as earthquakes and mass movements, and controlling the distribution of natural resources such as fossil fuels or geothermal energy. The relevance of research conducted in both the deep Earth and surface regimes is thus enhanced through a focus on their interaction.
Efficient capture of carbon dioxide with novel mass‐transfer intensification device using ionic liquids
Authors: Zhang Liang‐Liang , Wang Jie‐Xin , Liu Zhi‐Ping , Lu Ying , Chu Guang‐Wen , Wang Wen‐Chuan , Chen Jian‐Feng
Published: February 2013

A novel mass‐transfer intensified approach for CO2capture with ionic liquids (ILs) using rotating packed bed (RPB) reactor was presented. This new approach combined the advantages of RPB as a high mass‐transfer intensification device for viscous system and IL as a novel, environmentally benign CO2capture media with high thermal stability and extremely low volatility. Amino‐functionalized IL (2‐hydroxyethyl)‐trimethyl‐ammonium (S)−2‐pyrrolidinecarboxylic acid salt ([Choline][Pro]) was synthesized to perform experimental examination of CO2capture by chemical absorption. In RPB, it took only 0.2 s to reach 0.2 mol CO2/mol IL at 293 K, indicating that RPB was kinetically favorable to absorption of CO2in IL because of its efficient mass‐transfer intensification. The effects of operation parameters on CO2removal efficiency and IL absorbent capacity were studied. In addition, a model based on penetration theory was proposed to explore the mechanism of gas–liquid mass transfer of ILs system in RPB. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical EngineersAIChE J, 59: 2957–2965, 2013
Proactive fault‐tolerant model predictive control
Authors: Lao Liangfeng , Ellis Matthew , Christofides Panagiotis D.
Published: February 2013

Fault‐tolerant control methods have been extensively researched over the last 10 years in the context of chemical process control applications, and provide a natural framework for integrating process monitoring and control aspects in a way that not only fault detection and isolation but also control system reconfiguration is achieved in the event of a process or actuator fault. But almost all the efforts are focused on the reactive fault‐tolerant control. As another way for fault‐tolerant control, proactive fault‐tolerant control has been a popular topic in the communication systems and aerospace control systems communities for the last 10 years. At this point, no work has been done on proactive fault‐tolerant control within the context of chemical process control. Motivated by this, a proactive fault‐tolerant Lyapunov‐based model predictive controller (LMPC) that can effectively deal with an incipient control actuator fault is proposed. This approach to proactive fault‐tolerant control combines the unique stability and robustness properties of LMPC as well as explicitly accounting for incipient control actuator faults in the formulation of the MPC. Our theoretical results are applied to a chemical process example, and different scenaria were simulated to demonstrate that the proposed proactive fault‐tolerant model predictive control method can achieve practical stability and efficiently deal with a control actuator fault. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 59: 2810–2820, 2013
The Glasgow Prognostic Score (GPS) as a novel and significant predictor of extranodal natural killer/T‐cell lymphoma, nasal type
Authors: Li Ya‐Jun , Jiang Wen‐Qi , Huang Jia‐Jia , Xia Zhong‐Jun , Huang Hui‐Qiang , Li Zhi‐Ming
Published: February 2013

The Glasgow Prognostic Score (GPS), an inflammation‐based prognostic score including C‐reactive protein and albumin, shows significant prognostic value in several types of solid tumors. The prognostic value of GPS in lymphoma remains unclear. We performed this study to evaluate the prognostic significance of GPS in extranodal natural killer (NK)/T‐cell lymphoma (ENKL). We retrospectively analyzed 164 patients with newly diagnosed ENKL. The prognostic value of GPS was evaluated and compared with that of International Prognostic Index (IPI), Prognostic Index for Peripheral T‐cell lymphoma unspecified (PIT), and Korean Prognostic Index (KPI). Patients with higher GPS tended to have more adverse clinical characteristics, lower rates of complete remission (P < 0.001), inferior progression‐free survival (PFS, P < 0.001), and inferior overall survival (OS, P < 0.001). Multivariate analysis demonstrated that high GPS, age > 60 years, and elevated LDH were independent adverse predictors of OS. GPS was found superior to IPI, PIT, and KPI in discriminating patients with different outcomes in low‐risk groups (all P < 0.05). GPS is an independent predictor of survival outcomes in ENKL. Inflammatory response might play an important role in the progression of ENKL and survival of patients with ENKL. Am. J. Hematol. 88:394–399, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Young Australian adults with NF1 have poor access to health care, high complication rates, and limited disease knowledge
Authors: Oates Emily C. , Payne Jonathan M. , Foster Sheryl L. , Clarke Nigel F. , North Kathryn N.
Published: February 2013

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a multisystem disease associated with a lifelong risk of debilitating and potentially life‐limiting complications, however many adults with NF1 have no regular health surveillance. We interviewed and examined 17 young adults with NF1 between the ages of 25 and 33. Most had not been assessed for NF1‐related complications within the previous 8 years, including patients with known serious vascular complications, for example, renal artery stenosis. Acute and/or chronic pain, particularly back and plexiform‐related pain were common symptoms, and despite a significant impact on quality of life, was untreated in most instances. Symptom and examination‐directed imaging revealed serious complications in 41% of the cohort. These included severe spinal cord compression (two cases), a highly SUV avid lesion suggestive of malignancy (one case), and a Juvenile Pilocytic Astrocytoma in a patient without any previous NF1‐related complications. Few study participants had a good understanding of NF1, its associated risks and complications, and many had not sought appropriate medical advice as questions or problems arose. NF1‐related cognitive deficits in some participants, and the lack of a clear source of expert medical advice for adults with NF1 likely contributed to poor health surveillance and management in this population. Overall, these findings suggest that many Australian adults with NF1 are at risk of serious and life‐threatening medical complications, but are not accessing and receiving adequate health care. Access to multidisciplinary adult clinics that specialize in NF1 may address many of the unmet health needs of young adults with NF1. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Protein Organic Chemistry and Applications for Labeling and Engineering in Live‐Cell Systems
Authors: Takaoka Yousuke , Ojida Akio , Hamachi Itaru
Published: February 2013

The modification of proteins with synthetic probes is a powerful means of elucidating and engineering the functions of proteins both in vitro and in live cells or in vivo. Herein we review recent progress in chemistry‐based protein modification methods and their application in protein engineering, with particular emphasis on the following four strategies: 1) the bioconjugation reactions of amino acids on the surfaces of natural proteins, mainly applied in test‐tube settings; 2) the bioorthogonal reactions of proteins with non‐natural functional groups; 3) the coupling of recognition and reactive sites using an enzyme or short peptide tag–probe pair for labeling natural amino acids; and 4) ligand‐directed labeling chemistries for the selective labeling of endogenous proteins in living systems. Overall, these techniques represent a useful set of tools for application in chemical biology, with the methods 2–4 in particular being applicable to crude (living) habitats. Although still in its infancy, the use of organic chemistry for the manipulation of endogenous proteins, with subsequent applications in living systems, represents a worthy challenge for many chemists.
Biodegradation paths of Mater‐Bi®/kenaf biodegradable composites
Authors: Re Giada Lo , Morreale Marco , Scaffaro Roberto , La Mantia Francesco P.
Published: February 2013

Composites obtained from biodegradable polymers and natural–organic fillers are attracting increasing interest, thanks to the environmental advantages they promise. On the other hand, the real biodegradation performance of a biodegradable polymer/natural organic filler composite should be assessed by performing specific biodegradation tests. These are often carried out under laboratory conditions, but more realistic conditions should be taken into account. In this work, a systematic study on the biodegradation of kenaf fiber‐filled Mater‐Bi® composites in different environments is presented, and some interesting parameters for the understanding of the optimum way to obtain a fast degradation of the composites can be extrapolated. In particular, it was found that the presence of the fibers, the environmental conditions, and the manufacturing procedures of the composites can significantly affect the biodegradation behavior. The results can be used to determine the most suitable disposal environments for biodegradation of Mater‐Bi®‐based wastes. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Document clustering using the LSI subspace signature model
Authors: Zhu W.Z. , Allen R.B.
Published: February 2013

We describe the latent semantic indexing subspace signature model (LSISSM) for semantic content representation of unstructured text. Grounded on singular value decomposition, the model represents terms and documents by the distribution signatures of their statistical contribution across the top‐ranking latent concept dimensions. LSISSM matches term signatures with document signatures according to their mapping coherence between latent semantic indexing (LSI) term subspace and LSI document subspace. LSISSM does feature reduction and finds a low‐rank approximation of scalable and sparse term‐document matrices. Experiments demonstrate that this approach significantly improves the performance of major clustering algorithms such as standard K‐means and self‐organizing maps compared with the vector space model and the traditional LSI model. The unique contribution ranking mechanism in LSISSM also improves the initialization of standard K‐means compared with random seeding procedure, which sometimes causes low efficiency and effectiveness of clustering. A two‐stage initialization strategy based on LSISSM significantly reduces the running time of standard K‐means procedures.
Facile Synthesis and Photophysical Properties of Sphere–Square Shape Amphiphiles Based on Porphyrin–[60]Fullerene Conjugates
Authors: Wang Chien‐Lung , Zhang Wen‐Bin , Yu Xinfei , Yue Kan , Sun Hao‐Jun , Hsu Chih‐Hao , Hsu Chain‐Shu , Joseph Jojo , Modarelli David A. , Cheng Stephen Z. D.
Published: February 2013

Molecules constructed from a combination of zero‐dimensional ([60]fullerene (C60)) and two‐dimensional (porphyrin (Por)) nanobuilding blocks represent an intriguing category of sphere–square “shape amphiphiles”. These sphere–square shape amphiphiles possess interesting optoelectronic properties. To efficiently synthesize a large variety of C60–Por shape amphiphiles, a facile route based on Steglich esterification was developed. The synthetic strategy enables the preparation of hydroxy‐functionalized Por precursors (9, 10, 11, 12) with high purity in a one‐pot procedure. All of the C60–Por shape amphiphiles (1, 2, 3, 4, 5) can be readily synthesized in good yields through subsequent Steglich esterification with a highly soluble carboxylic acid derivative of methanofullerene (13). Photophysical studies indicated weak electronic coupling between the C60 and Por moieties and suggest an edge‐to‐face alignment for the moieties. The fluorescence of electronically excited Por portions of each amphiphile was efficiently quenched, which was indicative of electron transfer from 1Por to the C60 group(s). Increasing the number of C60 groups on the shape amphiphiles led to more pronounced quenching of the Por fluorescence, which indicated the potential for more effective generation of charge‐separated species, C60−.Por+., from the photoexcited C60–Por shape amphiphiles.
The Broad Autism Phenotype Questionnaire: Prevalence and Diagnostic Classification
Authors: Sasson Noah J. , Lam Kristen S. L. , Childress Debra , Parlier Morgan , Daniels Julie L. , Piven Joseph
Published: February 2013

The Broad Autism Phenotype Questionnaire (BAPQ) was administered to a large community‐based sample of biological parents of children with autism (PCAs) and comparison parents (CPs) (n = 1,692). Exploratory factor analysis and internal consistency parameters confirmed a robust three‐factor structure of the BAPQ, corresponding to the proposed aloof, pragmatic language and rigidity subscales. Based upon the distribution of Broad Autism Phenotype (BAP) features in the general population, new normative cutoff values for BAPQ subscales were established that provide increased specificity relative to those previously reported, and thus enhance the utility of the BAPQ for diagnostically classifying the BAP. These cutoffs were also used to estimate prevalence of the BAP and its three components, with rates ranging between 14–23% for PCAs and between 5–9% for CPs. Analysis of patterns of BAP characteristics within family members revealed that BAP features were more likely to co‐occur in PCAs relative to CPs. Collectively, these findings extend the utility of the BAPQ and provide additional evidence that it is an efficient and reliable tool for disaggregating the heterogeneity of autism through the identification of meaningful subgroups of parents. Autism Res 2013, 6: 134–143. © 2013 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Application of hybrid SiO2‐coated CdTe nanocrystals for sensitive sensing of Cu2+ and Ag+ ions
Authors: Cao Yongqiang , Zhang Aiyu , Ma Qian , Liu Ning , Yang Ping
Published: February 2013

A new ion sensor based on hybrid SiO2‐coated CdTe nanocrystals (NCs) was prepared and applied for sensitive sensing of Cu2+ and Ag+ for the selective quenching of photoluminescence (PL) of NCs in the presence of ions. As shown by ion detection experiments conducted in pure water rather than buffer solution, PL responses of NCs were linearly proportional to concentrations of Cu2+ and Ag+ ions < 3 and 7 uM, respectively. Much lower detection limits of 42.37 nM for Cu2+ and 39.40 nM for Ag+ were also observed. In addition, the NC quenching mechanism was discussed in terms of the characterization of static and transient optical spectra. The transfer and trapping of photoinduced charges in NCs by surface energy levels of CuS and Ag2S clusters as well as surface defects generated by the exchange of Cu2+ and Ag+ ions with Cd2+ ion in NCs, resulted in PL quenching and other optical spectra changes, including steady‐state absorption and transient PL spectra. It is our hope that these results will be helpful in the future preparation of new ion sensors. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
From Oxide‐Supported Palladium to Intermetallic Palladium Phases: Consequences for Methanol Steam Reforming
Authors: Lorenz Harald , Rameshan Christoph , Bielz Thomas , Memmel Norbert , Stadlmayr Werner , Mayr Lukas , Zhao Qian , Soisuwan Soipatta , Klötzer Bernhard , Penner Simon
Published: February 2013

This Minireview summarizes the fundamental results of a comparative inverse‐model versus real‐model catalyst approach toward methanol steam reforming (MSR) on the highly CO2‐selective H2‐reduced states of supported Pd/ZnO, Pd/Ga2O3, and Pd/In2O3 catalysts. Our model approach was extended to the related Pd/GeO2 and Pd/SnO2 systems, which showed previously unknown MSR performance. This approach allowed us to determine salient CO2‐selectivity‐guiding structural and electronic effects on the molecular level, to establish a knowledge‐based approach for the optimization of CO2 selectivity. Regarding the inverse‐model catalysts, in situ X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (in situ XPS) studies on near‐surface intermetallic PdZn, PdGa, and PdIn phases (NSIP), as well as bulk Pd2Ga, under realistic MSR conditions were performed alongside catalytic testing. To highlight the importance of a specifically prepared bulk intermetallicoxide interface, unsupported bulk intermetallic compounds of PdxGay were chosen as additional MSR model compounds, which allowed us to clearly deduce, for example, the water‐activating role of the special Pd2Ga‐β‐Ga2O3 intermetallicoxide interaction. The inverse‐model studies were complemented by their related “real‐model” experiments. Structure–activity and structure–selectivity correlations were performed on epitaxially ordered PdZn, Pd5Ga2, PdIn, Pd3Sn2, and Pd2Ge nanoparticles that were embedded in thin crystalline films of their respective oxides. The reductively activated “thin‐film model catalysts” that were prepared by sequential Pd and oxide deposition onto NaCl(001) exhibited the required large bimetaloxide interface and the highly epitaxial ordering that was required for (HR)TEM studies and for identification of the structural and catalytic (bi)metalsupport interactions. To fully understand the bimetalsupport interactions in the supported systems, our studies were extended to the MeOH‐ and formaldehyde‐reforming properties of the clean supporting oxides. From a direct comparison of the “isolated” MSR performance of the purely bimetallic surfaces to that of the “isolated” oxide surfaces and of the “bimetaloxide contact” systems, a pronounced “bimetaloxide synergy” toward optimum CO2 activity/selectivity was most evident. Moreover, the system‐specific mechanisms that led to undesired CO formation and to spoiling of the CO2 selectivity could be extracted.