bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The nature of the conflict in Ezra-Nehemiah1
Authors: Van Wyk Wouter C. , Breytenbach A. P.B.
Published: June 2013

The text of Ezra-Nehemiah relects a severe conlict situaion in post-exilic Judaean society. However, the text is unclear about crucial issues such as the identity of the parties involved, the aims of the different parties, and even the roots of the conlict. A close analysis of the text reveals that what is portrayed as an external conlict clearly has a serious internal dimension too. The heart of the conlict lies not so much in disputes over land and building rights, but rather in the central issue of access to the community of returned exiles.
Die boek Openbaring - brandpunte in die teologiese debat
Authors: Viljoen D. A. , Van Aarde Andries G.
Published: June 2013

The Book of Revelation - current interests in the theological debate. This aricle argues that the insights of academic research conducted within the framework of the believing community are not limited exclusively to an academic debate, but have implicaions for the proclamation of the church. The article illustrates this by surveying the scholarly Contributions of Elisabeth Schüssler Fiorenza and Fredeick J Murphy with regard to current popular interests in the Book of Revelaion. It addresses issues such as genre, the interrelaionship between history and eschatology, and authorship. The aricle aims to create an awareness of moralistic preaching and the misuse of Scripture.
Design and construction considerations for light steel structures
Authors: De Vos G. P.J. , Van Rensburg B. W.J.
Published: June 2013

Many alternative structural systems have recently been proposed in South Africa in an attempt to reduce costs of lightweight steel structures. Most of these comprise premanufactured components which are bolted together on site. Large industrial type structures are usually constructed with hot-rolled steel profiles, so that, apart from the architect, a structural engineer, manufacturer and contractor would be required. As an alternative to these existing practices, this article proposes design and construction techniques that may reduce the cost of the structure and at the same time create employment for emerging contractors. The proposed construction method consists of the welding together of lightweight profiles on site. For the structure the following is proposed: short pile  footings to provide partial fixidity to the structure, effective and lightweight compositions of cold-formed thin-walled profiles for structural elements, and stressed skin diaphragm design wherein the cladding, purlins and structural elements work together as one unit. Alternative portal frame configurations were analysed and designed to form larger structures, which indicates the versatility of the proposed construction concept. The article further illustrates that the utilization of the proposed construction method results in more economical structures and discusses applications of the principles on a number of real structures.
C.G.S. de Villiers: Wetenskaplike en kultuurmens
Authors: De Kock J. M. , De Kock C. , De Kock J. C.
Published: June 2013

Geen abstrak
Waarheen met Die Suid-Afrikaanse Tydskrif vir Natuurwetenskap en Tegnologie?
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: June 2013

Geen Abstrak
Logistics management: its origin, conceptual evolution and meaning as a contemporary field of study
Authors: Pienaar W. J.
Published: June 2013

This article traces the origin of the word logistics, outlines its conceptual evolution, and explains the meaning thereof as a field of study in a contemporary management context. The contextual development of the concept is traced from its origin in Greek, along with its successive adoption in Late Latin, French and Dutch, up to its contemporary usage in Afrikaans. The article describes the establishment of the word logistique in French as a military concept during the Napoleonic wars, and its later extension to commercial usage subsequent to the Second World War. The development of the concept in a commercial context since then is detailed. Contemporary descriptions of logistics relating to its meaning in a commercial sense are discussed. Thereafter the article offers a contemporary definition of logistics in a business management context. It indicates how effective business logistics adds value. Finally the primary activities that form part of the logistics supply chain of products are briefly discussed.
An analysis of some factors that influence Tswana-speaking learners’ achievement in mathematics
Authors: Maree J. G.
Published: June 2013

Inadequate achievement in mathematics is a common phenomenon, especially among black learners where the problem is becoming critical. Tswana learners in the Mafikeng region find themselves in an educational situation that does not always promote the optimal actualisation of their personal potential. An outcome of this situation is inadequate achievement in mathematics. The aim of this study has inter alia been the exploration of the inadequate achievement in mathematics of Tswana learners in the Mafikeng region by administering a Diagnostic Test and a Learner Questionnaire. The cognitive and affective facets of the Tswana learner’s achievement in mathematics were measured. A remedial strategy specifically aimed at the Tswana learner in the Mafikeng region was subsequently devised.
Endemic dental fluorosis associated with relatively low fluoride concentrations in the southern Free State, South Africa
Authors: Zietsman S.
Published: June 2013

Isolated high fluoride concentrations in the groundwater out of the rocks of the Tarkastad Formation were reported many years ago. The endemicity of dental fluorosis in the region underlain by these rocks, however, was not studied. This article reports on the first fluorosis study in this region. The pupils of 10 farm schools in the southern Free State constituted the sample. The teeth of 594 children of all ages were clinically and photographically examined. The drinking water was sampled at 245 sources on 203 farms. Ion specific analysis was used to determine the fluoride content of the water. Spatially generalized, it is a relatively low-fluoride area, but central statistics do not adequately describe the fluoride content of the water. Spatial variation characterizes the fluoride content of the groundwater. The fluorosis prevalence in the study area (>62%) was surprisingly high and the community fluorosis index was 1,5. The severity of fluorosis was predominantly low, but 4,6% of the children displayed loss of enamel. Spatial variation characterizes the occurrence of fluorosis in the area. The spatial variation pattern in the occurrence of fluorosis is only partially explained by that in the fluoride content of the drinking water. The optimum cariostatic concentration interval for South Africa might not be appropriate for this region.
A review of the determination of the early bactericidal activity of various antituberculosis agents
Authors: Donald P. R. , Sirgel F. A. , Venter A. , Fourie P. B. , Parkin D. P. Parkin , Seifart H. I. , Van de Wal B. W. , Maritz J. S.
Published: June 2013

The early bactericidal activity (EBA) of an antituberculosis agent is the daily decline in log10 colony forming units of M tuberculosis per ml of sputum during the first two days of treatment with the agent. It reflects the capacity of an agent to kill the actively metabolising organisms in tuberculosis lung cavities. It offers a relatively cheap means to evaluate the antituberculosis activity of an agent in a small group of patients within a matter of months. This article summarizes the authors’ experience in seven published EBA studies and identifies sources of variation in the procedure. The patients who participated in these studies had a mean age of 33 years, a mean weight of 50 kg and there was extensive or massive involvement of the lungs in 55% of patients. The highest EBA values (0,50-0,66) were found in groups of patients receiving isoniazid and the lowest values (0,05 and 0,09 respectively), in patients receiving  the aminoglycosides amikacin and paromomycin in a dose of 15 mg/kg body weight. The variation in EBA in 248 patients was 0,0312 and the variation ascribable to the process of sputum production and collection was 0,0233. This implies that the different aspects of sputum production and collection involved in obtaining a representative sputum sample are responsible for most of the variation in EBA results. The selection of patients for inclusion in EBA studies and their ability to co-operate in producing a representative sputum specimen are of critical importance in the successful completion of EBA studies.
The Effects of Probiotics on Symptoms and Immunoglobulin Levels of Patients with Irritable Bowel Syn-drome
Authors: Viljoen M. , Panzer A. , Koorts A. , Henn P. , Van den Bogaerde J. B.
Published: June 2013

The medicinal use of natural plant materials and food supplements is gaining in popularity. The Food Directorate of the Department of Health considers probiotics as a food supplement. In this double blind controlled pilot study the effects of probiotic treatment (Lactoba-cillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium longum and bifidum) were evaluated on the symptoms and immunoglobulin levels of patients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Twenty-four patients who fulfilled the Drossman criteria for the diagnosis of IBS were randomised to receive either probiotics or a placebo for 28 days. Immunoglobulins IgG, IgA and IgM were measured and symptoms were rated (according to a clinically recognised questionnaire serving as a rating scale for gastrointestinal symptoms in patients with IBS) before and after treatment. The improvement in symptoms was statistically highly significant in the probiotic group (p = 0.0001, paired t-test). Some patients treated with placebo decided that the treatment was ineffective and stopped taking it. The 7 who completed the trial showed an improvement in symptoms, but this was only marginally significant (p = 0.0473, paired t-test). Serum immunoglobulin levels did not differ significantly. Larger studies to confirm the beneficial effects of probiotic bacteria on the symptoms of patients with IBS are indicated.
The production of hydrotalcite from magnesite ore as non-toxic heat stabiliser for polyvinyl chloride
Authors: Van der Laan J. , Vorster O. C.
Published: June 2013

In recent years polyvinyl chloride (PVC) processors had to submit to worldwide pressure to convert to environmentally friendly stabilisers such as hydrotalcite (HT), since most of the heat stabilisers currently in use contain heavy metals such as lead, cadmium or barium – these being highly toxic. The presently used HT production process is, however, very expensive as it involves the recovering of magnesium from seawater magnesia. The purpose of this study was to prove that it is indeed possible to produce cost effective and non-toxic HT from an alternative source. During this study the costing and heat stabilising ability of the hydrotalcite produced from magnesite was compared to that of commercially available heat stabilisers. The effect of the pre-mixing process, as well as the influence of particle size distribution was also investigated. A cost comparative and stabilising efficiency study indicated the cost effectiveness of HT produced from magnesite ore, in comparison with other commercially available stabilisers. The use of HT as produced from magnesite ore would indeed assist in the worldwide changeover to environmentally friendly stabilisers.
Source attribution of insoluble light-absorbing particles in seasonal snow across northern China
Authors: Zhang R. , Hegg D. A. , Huang J. , Fu Q.
Published: June 2013

Abstract. Seasonal snow samples obtained at 46 sites in 6 provinces of China in January and February 2010 were analyzed for a suite of chemical species and these data are combined with previously determined concentrations of insoluble light-absorbing particles (ILAP), including all particles that absorb light in the 650–700 nm wavelength interval. The ILAP, together with 14 other analytes, are used as input to a positive matrix factorization (PMF) receptor model to explore the sources of ILAP in the snow. The PMF analysis for ILAP sources is augmented with backward trajectory cluster analysis and the geographic locations of major source areas for the three source types. The two analyses are consistent and indicate that three factors/sources were responsible for the measured light absorption of snow: a soil dust source, an industrial pollution source, and a biomass and / or biofuel burning source. Soil dust was the main source of the ILAP, accounting for ~53% of ILAP on average.
Identification of humic-like substances (HULIS) in oxygenated organic aerosols using NMR and AMS factor analyses and liquid chromatographic techniques
Authors: Paglione M. , Kiendler-Scharr A. , Mensah A. A. , Finessi E. , Giulianelli L. , Sandrini S. , Facchini M. C. , Fuzzi S. , Schlag P. , Piazzalunga A. , Tagliavini E. , Henzing J. S. , Decesari S.
Published: June 2013

Abstract. The atmospheric organic aerosol composition is characterized by a great diversity of functional groups and chemical species challenging simple classification schemes. Traditional off-line chemical methods identified chemical classes based on the retention behavior on chromatographic columns and absorbing beds. Such approach led to the isolation of complex mixtures of compounds such as the humic-like substances (HULIS). More recently, on-line aerosol mass spectrometry (AMS) was employed to identify chemical classes by extracting fragmentation patterns from experimental data series using statistical methods (factor analysis), providing simplified schemes for oxygenated organic aerosols (OOAs) classification on the basis of the distribution of oxygen-containing functionalities. The analysis of numerous AMS datasets suggested the occurrence of very oxidized OOAs which were postulated to correspond to the HULIS. However, only a few efforts were made to test the correspondence of the AMS classes of OOAs with the traditional classification from the off-line methods. In this paper, we consider a case study representative for polluted continental regional background environments. We examine the AMS factors for OOAs identified by positive matrix factorization (PMF) and compare to chemical classes of water-soluble organic carbon (WSOC) analysed off-line on a set of filters collected in parallel. WSOC fractionation was performed by means of factor analysis applied to H-NMR spectroscopic data, and by applying an ion-exchange chromatographic method for direct quantification of HULIS. Results show that the very oxidized low-volatility OOAs from AMS correlate with the NMR factor showing HULIS features and also with true "chromatographic" HULIS. On the other hand, UV/VIS-absorbing polyacids (or HULIS sensu stricto) isolated on ion-exchange beds were only a fraction of the AMS and NMR organic carbon fractions showing functional groups attributable to highly substituted carboxylic acids, suggesting that unspeciated low-molecular weight organic acids contribute to HULIS in the broad sense.
High levels of ultraviolet radiation observed by ground-based instruments below the 2011 Arctic ozone hole
Authors: Bernhard G. , Dahlback A. , Fioletov V. , Heikkilä A. , Johnsen B. , Koskela T. , Lakkala K. , Svendby T. M.
Published: June 2013

Abstract. Greatly increased levels of ultraviolet (UV) radiation were observed at thirteen Arctic and sub-Arctic ground stations in the spring of 2011 when the ozone abundance in the Arctic stratosphere dropped to the lowest amounts on record. Measurements of the noontime UV Index (UVI) during the low-ozone episode exceeded the climatological mean by up to 77% at locations in the western Arctic (Alaska, Canada, Greenland) and by up to 161% in Scandinavia. The UVI measured at the end of March at the Scandinavian sites was comparable to that typically observed 15–60 days later in the year when solar elevations are much higher. The cumulative UV dose measured during the period of the ozone anomaly exceeded the climatological mean by more than two standard deviations at 11 sites. Enhancements beyond three standard deviations were observed at seven sites and increases beyond four standard deviations at two sites. At the western sites, the episode occurred in March when the Sun was still low in the sky, limiting absolute UVI anomalies to less than 0.5 UVI units. At the Scandinavian sites, absolute UVI anomalies ranged between 1.0 and 2.2 UVI units. For example, at Finse, Norway, the noontime UVI on 30 March was 4.7 while the climatological UVI is 2.5. Although a UVI of 4.7 is still considered moderate, UV levels of this amount can lead to sunburn and photokeratitis during outdoor activity when radiation is reflected upward by snow towards the face of a person or animal. At the western sites, UV anomalies can be well explained with ozone anomalies of up to 41% below the climatological mean. At the Scandinavian sites, low ozone can only explain a UVI increase by 50–60%. The remaining enhancement was mainly caused by the absence of clouds during the low-ozone period.
Feldspar minerals as efficient deposition ice nuclei
Authors: Yakobi-Hancock J. D. , Ladino L. A. , Abbatt J. P. D.
Published: June 2013

Abstract. Mineral dusts are well known to be efficient ice nuclei, where the source of this efficiency has typically been attributed to the presence of clay minerals such as illite and kaolinite. However, the ice nucleating abilities of the more minor mineralogical components have not been as extensively examined. As a result, the deposition ice nucleation abilities of 24 atmospherically-relevant mineral samples have been studied, using a continuous flow diffusion chamber at −40.0 ± 0.3 °C. The same particle size (200 nm) and particle preparation procedure were used throughout. The ice nucleation behaviour of the pure minerals is compared to that of complex mixtures, such as Arizona Test Dust (ATD) and Mojave Desert Dust (MDD), and to lead iodide, which has been previously proposed for cloud seeding. Lead iodide was the most efficient ice nucleus (IN), requiring a critical relative humidity with respect to ice (RHi) of 122.0 ± 2.0% to activate 0.1% of the particles. MDD (RHi 126.3 ± 3.4%) and ATD (RHi 129.5 ± 5.1%) have lower but comparable activity. From a set of clay minerals (kaolinite, illite, montmorillonite), non-clay minerals (e.g. hematite, magnetite, calcite, cerussite, quartz), and feldspar minerals (orthoclase, plagioclase) present in the atmospheric dusts it was found that the feldspar minerals (particularly orthoclase), and not the clays, were the most efficient ice nuclei. Orthoclase and plagioclase were found to have critical RHi values of 127.1 ± 6.3% and 136.2 ± 1.3%, respectively. The presence of feldspars (specifically orthoclase) may play a significant role in the IN behaviour of mineral dusts despite their lower percentage in composition relative to clay minerals.
The impact of hazards on the urban tissue – 3-D representation and digital databases
Authors: Bostenaru-Dan M. , Panagopoulos T. , Gociman C. O. , Armas I. , Dill A. , Chiriloae A. , Florescu T.
Published: June 2013

Abstract. The focus of this ongoing research is the 3-D modelling of changes in the urban tissue by catastrophic events. For this purpose protected areas in the centre of Bucharest were considered. The principle idea was to establish a reasonable amount of 3-D city models in GIS and CAD and examine how they can be useful in and used for sustainable development decisions, in the case of protection against hazards.
Seasonal forecasts of droughts in African basins using the Standardized Precipitation Index
Authors: Dutra E. , Di Giuseppe F. , Wetterhall F. , Pappenberger F.
Published: June 2013

Abstract. Vast parts of Africa rely on the rainy season for livestock and agriculture. Droughts can have a severe impact in these areas, which often have a very low resilience and limited capabilities to mitigate drought impacts. This paper assesses the predictive capabilities of an integrated drought monitoring and seasonal forecasting system (up to 5 months lead time) based on the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI). The system is constructed by extending near-real-time monthly precipitation fields (ECMWF ERA-Interim reanalysis and the Climate Anomaly Monitoring System–Outgoing Longwave Radiation Precipitation Index, CAMS-OPI) with monthly forecasted fields as provided by the ECMWF seasonal forecasting system. The forecasts were then evaluated over four basins in Africa: the Blue Nile, Limpopo, Upper Niger, and Upper Zambezi. There are significant differences in the quality of the precipitation between the datasets depending on the catchments, and a general statement regarding the best product is difficult to make. The generally low number of rain gauges and their decrease in the recent years limits the verification and monitoring of droughts in the different basins, reinforcing the need for a strong investment on climate monitoring. All the datasets show similar spatial and temporal patterns in southern and north-western Africa, while there is a low correlation in the equatorial area, which makes it difficult to define ground truth and choose an adequate product for monitoring. The seasonal forecasts have a higher reliability and skill in the Blue Nile, Limpopo and Upper Niger in comparison with the Zambezi. This skill and reliability depend strongly on the SPI timescale, and longer timescales have more skill. The ECMWF seasonal forecasts have predictive skill which is higher than using climatology for most regions. In regions where no reliable near-real-time data is available, the seasonal forecast can be used for monitoring (first month of forecast). Furthermore, poor-quality precipitation monitoring products can reduce the potential skill of SPI seasonal forecasts in 2 to 4 months lead time.
Brief Communication: A new perspective on the Australian rip current hazard
Authors: Brander R. , Dominey-Howes D. , Champion C. , Del Vecchio O. , Brighton B.
Published: June 2013

Abstract. Rip currents are strong, narrow offshore flows of water which occur on many of the world's beaches and represent a serious hazard to bathers. In Australia, rip currents account for an average of 21 confirmed human fatalities per year. Based on an analysis of the longest existing data records, rip currents account for more human fatalities in Australia on average each year than bushfires, floods, and cyclones combined. This finding raises important questions regarding the levels of attention placed on the low intensity, but high frequency rip current hazard in relation to high profile and episodic natural hazards.
Crimes Against Humanity in the Modern Age
Authors: Sadat Leila Nadya
Published: June 2013

Despite the promises made after World War II to eliminate the commission of
atrocities, crimes against humanity persist with horrifying ubiquity. Yet the
absence of a consistent definition and uniform interpretation of crimes against
humanity has made it difficult to establish the theory underlying such crimes and
to prosecute them in particular cases. In the 1990s, several ad hoc international
criminal tribunals were established to respond to the commission of atrocity
crimes,1 including crimes against humanity, in specific
regions of the world in conflict. Building on this legacy, in 1998 a new
institution—the International Criminal Court(ICC)— was established to take up the
task of defining crimes against humanity and other atrocity crimes and preventing
and punishing their commission.
Dangerous Departures
Authors: O’Connell Mary Ellen
Published: June 2013

Daniel Bethlehem has proposed a series of principles relating to a state’s
use of military force against nonstate actors (NSAs). He believes that his
proposals will lead to the formulation of a “clear set of principles that
effectively address the specific operational circumstances faced by states.” While
Bethlehem’s intentions may be laudable, his effort is founded on the misconception
that the international legal system lacks sufficiently clear principles to govern
the use of military force against NSAs. The system already has such principles, as
this comment will show.
Self-Defense Against Nonstate Actors: Reflections on the “Bethlehem
Principles”
Authors: Wilmshurst Elizabeth , Wood Michael
Published: June 2013

Daniel Bethlehem has set down sixteen principles relevant to the scope of a
state’s right of self-defense against an imminent or actual armed attack by
nonstate actors “with the intention of stimulating a wider debate.” While these
principles “are published under [the author’s] responsibility alone,” they have
“nonetheless been informed by detailed discussions over recent years with foreign
ministry, defense ministry, and military legal advisers from a number of states
who have operational experience in these matters.”
The “ARA Libertad”
Authors: Kraska James
Published: June 2013

On December 15, 2012, the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea
(Tribunal or ITLOS) ordered Ghana to resupply and, upon payment
of security, to refuel and release the Argentine naval frigate ARA
Libertad, which was being held by authorities in the Ghanaian
port of Tema. The Tribunal ordered release of the vessel in response to
Argentina’s request for provisional measures under Article 290(5) of the United
Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (Convention or
UNCLOS). The Tribunal accepted Argentina’s prima facie showing
that the Libertad, a tall, three-masted sailing ship
commissioned in the Argentine Navy being used as a training vessel for officer
cadets, qualifies as a “warship” under Article 29 of UNCLOS,
and was therefore entitled to immunity and release to avoid irreparable harm to
Argentina pending the final outcome of the case (paras. 93–95).
Pringle V. Ireland. Case C-370/12
Authors: Herrmann Christoph W.
Published: June 2013

In the judgment Pringle v. Ireland, the full Court
of Justice of the European Union (Court or ECJ) upheld the validity of the
decision of the European Council enabling the simplified amendment of the Treaty
on the Functioning of the European Union(TFEU). In its Decision 2011/199/EU, the
Council had provided for the establishment of a permanent European Stability
Mechanism (ESM) by those member states of the European Union (Union or EU) that
had adopted the euroas their common currency and legal tender. The Court also
found in this judgment that those member states had not violated EU law by
negotiating and concluding the Treaty Establishing the European Stability
Mechanism (ESM Treaty). The Court based the latter finding on the long-awaited
clarification of the scope and content of the TFEU’s “no-bailout clause” (Art.
125(1)), which had been the subject of intense controversies among legal scholars,
in particular in Germany.
Prosecutor v. Taylor
Authors: Mariniello Triestino
Published: June 2013

On April 26, 2012, Trial Chamber II (Chamber) of the Special Court for Sierra
Leone (Special Court or Court) in The Hague convicted former Liberian president
Charles Ghankay Taylor of crimes against humanity and war crimes committed from
November 30, 1996, to January 18, 2002, in the territory of Sierra Leone during
its civil war. Specifically, Taylor was found guilty of the crimes against
humanity of murder, rape, sexual slavery, enslavement and other inhumane acts, and
the war crimes of committing acts of terror, murder, outrages upon personal
dignity, cruel treatment, pillage, and conscripting or enlisting children under
the age of fifteen years into armed forces or groups or using them to participate
actively in hostilities. In a separate judgment rendered on May 30, 2012, the
Chamber sentenced Taylor to a single term of fifty years for all the counts on
which the accused had been convicted.
QUANTITATIVE CHARACTERIZATION OF MICROSTRUCTURE OF PURE COPPER PROCESSED BY ECAP
Authors: Šedivý Ondřej , Beneš Viktor , Ponížil Petr , Král Petr , Sklenička Václav
Published: June 2013

Orientation imaging microscopy (OIM) allows to measure crystallic orientations at the surface of the material. Digitalized data representing the orientations are processed to recognize the grain structure and they are visualized in crystal orientation maps. Analysis of the data firstly consists in recognition of grain boundaries followed by identification of grains themselves. Knowing the grain morphology it is possible to characterize the homogeneity of the structure and estimate structural parameters related to the physical properties of the material. The paper describes methods of imaging and quantitative characterization of the grain boundary structure in metals based on data from electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD).
Steatohepatitic Hepatocellular Carcinoma, a Morphologic Indicator of Associated Metabolic Risk Factors: A Study From India
Authors: Jain Deepali , Nayak Nabeen C. , Kumaran Vinay , Saigal Sanjiv
Published: June 2013

Context.—The common risk factors for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) include persistent viral infection with either hepatitis B or C virus, alcohol abuse, hemochromatosis, and metabolic syndrome. Steatohepatitic (SH) HCC has been recently recognized as a special morphologic variant of HCC associated with metabolic risk factors.

Objective.—To assess the SH pattern in HCC cases of various etiologies in Indian patients and to further correlate this morphology with the presence of metabolic risk factors.

Design.—A total of 101 cases of HCC with various etiologies in explanted livers from adults were included in the study. Morphologic examination was performed to identify SH lesions within the tumor and in the nontumorous liver parenchyma. Correlation of nontumor and tumor SH morphology with clinically identifiable metabolic risk factors and with non-SH type of HCC was performed.

Results.—The SH variant of HCC was identified in 19 livers (18.8%). Most SH-HCC cases were associated with metabolic risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemias. Comparison of SH-HCC with non–SH-HCC was statistically significant in terms of presence of metabolic risk factors.

Conclusions.—Steatohepatitic morphology in HCC is frequent in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease–associated cirrhosis (P = .009) and is significantly associated with metabolic risk factors (P = .03). By recognizing SH pattern, one may predict associated metabolic diseases and determine the prognosis both in pretransplant and posttransplant patients.
Laboratory Performance in Albumin and Total Protein Measurement Using a Commutable Specimen: Results of a College of American Pathologists Study
Authors: Lo Stanley F. , Miller W. Greg , Doumas Basil T.
Published: June 2013

Context.—Discrepant results for serum constituents were observed among peer groups in the College of American Pathologists Comprehensive Chemistry Survey.

Objectives.—To assess the performance of serum albumin and total protein measurement procedures and to evaluate the commutability of the conventional survey specimens.

Design.—A fresh frozen, off-the-clot serum sample was included along with 4 conventional survey specimens. The fresh frozen, off-the-clot serum sample was prepared in a manner expected to confer commutability with native clinical samples.

Results.—For the fresh frozen, off-the-clot serum sample, the mean values for 17 peer-groups were −0.07 to 0.32 g/dL from the bromocresol green albumin designated comparison method, whereas 4 VITROS (Ortho Clinical Diagnostics, Rochester, New York) peer groups differed by −0.29 to −0.37 g/dL (15 of 21 differences [71%] had P < .001). For bromocresol purple albumin methods, the mean differences from the designated comparison method from 8 peer groups were 0.25 to 0.47 g/dL (all had P < .001). For total protein methods, 23 peer group mean values were −0.07 to 0.15 g/dL from the reference measurement procedure (12 of 24 [50%] had P < .001). The Beckman (Fullerton, California) Synchron LX20 had a bias of −0.30 g/dL (P <.001). The commutability of the conventional specimens was acceptable for 23 of 24 bromocresol green method-material combinations (96%) and 13 of 16 bromocresol purple albumin method-material combinations (81%). All (100%) of the 36 method-material combinations had acceptable commutability for total protein.

Conclusions.—One (2.2%) of the instrument systems (Synchron) using bromocresol green and none (0%) of the instrument systems using bromocresol purple had satisfactory total-error performance for albumin measurement. Differences in results between bromocresol green and bromocresol purple methods precluded using common reference intervals for interpreting results for serum albumin. Eight of 9 instrument systems (86.5%) had satisfactory total-error performance for total protein measurement.
Structural Dependence of Source-and-Drain Series Resistance on Saturation Drain Current for Sub-20 nm Metal–Oxide–Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistors
Authors: Yoon JongChul , Hiroki Akira , Kobayashi Kazutoshi
Published: June 2013

The structural dependence of series-resistance effects on the saturation current is investigated in sub-20 nm metal–oxide–semiconductor field-effect transistors (MOSFETs). For planer bulk, silicon-on-insulator (SOI), and multi gate (MG) MOSFETs, the reduction rate of the saturation current is calculated using an analytical current model in high-performance (HP), low-operating-power (LOP), and low-standby-power (LSTP) technologies. In HP technology, the reduction rates are 29.0, 25.3, and 22.1% for bulk, SOI, and MG MOSFETs, respectively. In LOP technology, the reduction rates are 23.8, 21.5, and 20.7% for bulk, SOI, and MG MOSFETs, respectively. In LSTP technology, the reduction rates are about 17% for all devices. In HP technology, the ratio of the series resistance to the channel resistance is the dominant factor for the reduction rate. In LOP technology, the ratio of the over drive voltage to the supply voltage is the dominant factor. In LSTP technology, both the resistance and voltage ratios are the dominant factors.
Electrodeposition of Ga–O Thin Films from Aqueous Gallium Sulfate Solutions
Authors: Vequizo Junie Jhon M. , Ichimura Masaya
Published: June 2013

Ga–O based thin films were electrodeposited on fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO)-coated glass substrate at room temperature from aqueous gallium sulfate solution with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Effects of different deposition parameters such as deposition voltage, amount of H2O2 and deposition time were investigated and presented. Nearly smooth and crack-free morphologies were attained at -1.0 V vs SCE deposition potential. As-deposited films showed O to Ga ratio of 2.0, which signified GaOOH formation. Thermal annealing of the as-deposited films in ambient air at 500–600 °C reduced the O/Ga ratio closer to stoichiometric gallium oxide (Ga2O3) and retained the morphology of Ga–O thin films. As-prepared films with ∼0.2 µm thickness had 80% transparency in the visible wavelength range.
Fractionated Stereotactic Radiosurgery Treatment Results for Skull Base Chordomas
Authors: Zorlu F. , Gultekin M. , Cengiz M. , Yildiz F. , Akyol F. , Gurkaynak M. , Ozyigit G.
Published: July 2013

Chordomas are uncommon neoplasms and there is still controversy regarding establishment of diagnosis and management. The aim of this study was to evaluate efficacy and toxicity of fractionated stereotactic radiosurgery (FSRS) in skull base chordomas. There were 4 female (36%) and 7 male (64%) patients. FSRS was delivered with CyberKnife (Accuray Inc., Sunnyvale, CA). The median tumor volume was 14.7 cc (range, 3.9–40.5 cc). The median marginal tumor dose was 30 Gy (range, 20–36 Gy) in a median 5 fractions (range, 3–5 fractions). The median follow-up time was 42 months (range, 17–63 months). At the time of analysis, 10 (91%) patients were alive and 1 (9%) had died due to tumor progression. Of 10 patients, 8 (73%) had stable disease and the remaining 2 (18%) had progressive disease. The actuarial overall survival (OS) after FSRS was 91% at two-years. Two patients developed radiation-induced brain necrosis as a complication in the 8th and 28th months of follow-up, respectively. Our results with robotic FSRS in skull base chordomas are promising for selected patients. However, due to the slow growth pattern of skull base chordomas, a longer follow-up is required to determine exact treatment results and late morbidity.
Ion Radiography as a Tool for Patient Set-Up & Image Guided Particle Therapy: A Monte Carlo Study
Authors: Depauw Nicolas , Dias Marta F. , Rosenfeld Anatoly , Seco Joao C.
Published: July 2013

This study investigate the use of ion radiography as a tool for patient set-up and tumor tracking capabilities for image guided particle therapy (IGPT) using Monte Carlo simulations. One pediatric, two lung and one liver cancer patients were considered in this study. For each patient, 230 and 330 MeV proton, and 500 MeV/nucleon carbon ion pencil beams were simulated through their computed tomography (CT) data set using GEANT4.9.0. Energy, position and direction cosines of each particle were recorded in front and behind the patient. Ion radiographs were subsequently reconstructed using a dedicated in-house software. The image quality was assessed by evaluating the contrast-to-noise ratio of the tumor and its surrounding tissue. In the lung and liver cases, each CT phase of the breathing cycle was treated individually and dynamic sequences were later produced to appreciate tumor motion. Reconstructed radiographs show high spatial resolution. This allows for excellent imaging capabilities in pediatric patients, comparable to X-ray imaging at a fraction of the imaging dose. There is clear visualization of the tumor edges in the lung due to the great contrast-to-noise ratio between the tumor and its surrounding tissues; tumor motion is observed and comparable to 4D CT data thus allowing for on-line tumor tracking during ion radiotherapy. Conversely, tumor edge detection is difficult in liver, and fiducial markers are required to attempt indirect tumor tracking for IGPT. Ion radiographs with high spatial resolution can be generated using the PR-creator software resulting in pediatric patient set-up capabilities at a fraction of the current imaging dose, as well as the capacity to track moving targets in order to achieve IGPT.
Dry‐Type Artificial Muscles Based on Pendent Sulfonated Chitosan and Functionalized Graphene Oxide for Greatly Enhanced Ionic Interactions and Mechanical Stiffness
Authors: Jeon Jin‐Han , Cheedarala Ravi Kumar , Kee Chang‐Doo , Oh Il‐Kwon
Published: June 2013

Biopolymer‐based artificial muscles are promising candidates for biomedical applications and smart electronic textiles due to their multifaceted advantages like natural abundance, eco‐friendliness, cost‐effectiveness, easy chemical modification and high electical reactivity. However, the biopolymer‐based actuators are showing relatively low actuation performance compared with synthetic electroactive polymers because of inadequate mechanical stiffness, low ionic conductivity and ionic exchange capacity (IEC), and poor durability over long‐term activation. This paper reports a high‐performance electro‐active nano‐biopolymer based on pendent sulfonated chitosan (PSC) and functionalized graphene oxide (GO), exhibiting strong electro‐chemo‐mechanical interations with ionic liquid (IL) in open air environment. The proposed GO‐PSC‐IL nano‐biopolymer membrane shows an icnreased tensile strength and ionic exchange capacity of up to 44.8% and 83.1%, respectively, and increased ionic conductivity of over 18 times, resulting in two times larger bending actuation than the pure chitosan actuator under electrical input signals. Eventually, the GO‐PSC‐IL actuators could show robust and high‐performance actuation even at the very low applied voltages that are required in realistic applications.
Highly Fluorescent and Photostable Probe for Long‐Term Bacterial Viability Assay Based on Aggregation‐Induced Emission
Authors: Zhao Engui , Hong Yuning , Chen Sijie , Leung Chris W. T. , Chan Carrie Y. K. , Kwok Ryan T. K. , Lam Jacky W. Y. , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: June 2013

Long‐term tracking of bacterial viability is of great importance for monitoring the viability change of bacteria under storage, evaluating disinfection efficiency, as well as for studying the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of antibacterials. Most of the conventional viability dyes, however, suffer from high toxicity and/or poor photostability, making them unsuitable for long‐term studies. In this work, an aggregation‐induced emission molecule, TPE‐2BA, which can differentiate dead and living bacteria and serve as a highly fluorescent and photostable probe for long‐term viability assay. TPE‐2BA is a cell‐impermeable DNA stain that binds to the groove of double‐stranded DNA. Bacteria with compromised membrane open the access for TPE‐2BA to reach DNA, endowing it with strong emission. The feasibility of using TPE‐2BA for screening effective bactericides is also demonstrated. Plate count experiment reveals that TPE‐2BA poses negligible toxicity to bacteria, indicating that it is an excellent probe for long‐term bacterial viability assay.
Nanodevices for Cellular Interfaces and Electrophysiological Recording
Authors: Yang Long , Li Yuanchang , Fang Ying
Published: June 2013

Advances in nanomaterials and nanotechnologies offer important opportunities for cellular interfaces. This Research News highlights some recent progress on cellular electrophysiology enabled by using nanostructures as active elements of bioelectronic devices. We begin with a brief description of signal transduction mechanism at device‐cell interfaces and then explain the challenges of currently available techniques. Next, specific examples with substantial potential in both extracellular and intracellular electrophysiological recording are given to illustrate the remarkable power of nanostructures and their devices. We will conclude with a discussion of some exciting directions that are currently being pursued in flexible, 3D bioelectronics.
Recent Progress in Supercapacitors: From Materials Design to System Construction
Authors: Wang Yonggang , Xia Yongyao
Published: June 2013

Supercapacitors are currently attracting intensive attention because they can provide energy density by orders of magnitude higher than dielectric capacitors, greater power density, and longer cycling ability than batteries. The main challenge for supercapacitors is to develop them with high energy density that is close to that of a current rechargeable battery, while maintaining their inherent characteristics of high power and long cycling life. Consequently, much research has been devoted to enhance the performance of supercapacitors by either maximizing the specific capacitance and/or increasing the cell voltage. The latest advances in the exploration and development of new supercapacitor systems and related electrode materials are highlighted. Also, the prospects and challenges in practical application are analyzed, aiming to give deep insights into the material science and electrochemical fields.
Overcoming the “Light‐Soaking” Issue in Inverted Organic Solar Cells by the Use of Al:ZnO Electron Extraction Layers
Authors: Trost Sara , Zilberberg Kirill , Behrendt Andreas , Polywka Andreas , Görrn Patrick , Reckers Philip , Maibach Julia , Mayer Thomas , Riedl Thomas
Published: June 2013

A common phenomenon of organic solar cells (OSCs) incorporating metal‐oxide electron extraction layers is the requirement to expose the devices to UV light in order to improve device characteristics – known as the so‐called “light‐soaking” issue. This behaviour appears to be of general validity for various metal‐oxide layers, various organic donor/acceptor systems, and regardless if single junction devices or multi stacked cells are considered. The requirement of UV exposure of OSCs may impose severe problems if substrates with limited UV transmission, UV blocking filters or UV to VIS down‐conversion concepts are applied. In this paper, we will demonstrate that this issue can be overcome by the use of Al doped ZnO (AZO) as electron extraction interlayer. In contrast to devices based on TiOx and ZnO, the AZO devices show well‐behaved solar cell characteristics with a high fill factor (FF) and power conversion efficiency (PCE) even without the UV spectral components of the AM1.5 solar spectrum. As opposed to previous claims, our results indicate that the origin of s‐shaped characteristics of the OSCs is the metal‐oxide/organic interface. The electronic structures of the TiOx/fullerene and AZO/fullerene interfaces are studied by photoelectron spectroscopy, revealing an electron extraction barrier for the TiOx/fullerene case and facilitated electron extraction for AZO/fullerene. These results are of general relevance for organic solar cells based on various donor acceptor active systems.
The duplication 17p13.3 phenotype: Analysis of 21 families delineates developmental, behavioral and brain abnormalities, and rare variant phenotypes
Authors: Curry Cynthia J. , Rosenfeld Jill A. , Grant Erica , Gripp Karen W. , Anderson Carol , Aylsworth Arthur S. , Saad Taha Ben , Chizhikov Victor V. , Dybose Giedre , Fagerberg Christina , Falco Michelle , Fels Christina , Fichera Marco , Graakjaer Jesper , Greco Donatella , Hair Jennifer , Hopkins Elizabeth , Huggins Marlene , Ladda Roger , Li Chumei , Moeschler John , Nowaczyk Malgorzata J.M. , Ozmore Jillian R. , Reitano Santina , Romano Corrado , Roos Laura , Schnur Rhonda E. , Sell Susan , Suwannarat Pim , Svaneby Dea , Szybowska Marta , Tarnopolsky Mark , Tervo Raymond , Tsai Anne Chun‐Hui , Tucker Megan , Vallee Stephanie , Wheeler Ferrin C , Zand Dina J. , Barkovich A. James , Aradhya Swaroop , Shaffer Lisa G. , Dobyns William B.
Published: June 2013

Chromosome 17p13.3 is a gene rich region that when deleted is associated with the well‐known Miller–Dieker syndrome. A recently described duplication syndrome involving this region has been associated with intellectual impairment, autism and occasional brain MRI abnormalities. We report 34 additional patients from 21 families to further delineate the clinical, neurological, behavioral, and brain imaging findings. We found a highly diverse phenotype with inter‐ and intrafamilial variability, especially in cognitive development. The most specific phenotype occurred in individuals with large duplications that include both the YWHAE and LIS1 genes. These patients had a relatively distinct facial phenotype and frequent structural brain abnormalities involving the corpus callosum, cerebellar vermis, and cranial base. Autism spectrum disorders were seen in a third of duplication probands, most commonly in those with duplications of YWHAE and flanking genes such as CRK. The typical neurobehavioral phenotype was usually seen in those with the larger duplications. We did not confirm the association of early overgrowth with involvement of YWHAE and CRK, or growth failure with duplications of LIS1. Older patients were often overweight. Three variant phenotypes included cleft lip/palate (CLP), split hand/foot with long bone deficiency (SHFLD), and a connective tissue phenotype resembling Marfan syndrome. The duplications in patients with clefts appear to disrupt ABR, while the SHFLD phenotype was associated with duplication of BHLHA9 as noted in two recent reports. The connective tissue phenotype did not have a convincing critical region. Our experience with this large cohort expands knowledge of this diverse duplication syndrome. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.