bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular dynamics simulation of the molar volumes and solubility parameters of straight alkanes
Authors: Liu Xinjian , Rao Zhonghao , Huo Yutao
Published: December 2014

The straight chain n-alkanes used as core materials to fabricate nanoencapsulated and microencapsulated phase change of materials (PCM) have received much attention in recent years. The dissipative particle dynamics (DPD) simulation method has been emerged to investigate the encapsulated PCM from the perspective of mesoscopic. To obtain the Flory–Huggins and repulsion parameters, which is essential for the DPD study, the molar volume and solubility parameter of straight alkanes are investigated by using molecular dynamics (MD) simulation. The results showed that a linear relationship of molar volume (V) with carbon atom number (n) and simulation temperature (T) can be obtained as: V = -31.73 + 0.26T + 14.82n. A nonlinear relationship of solubility parameter (δ) with carbon atom number and simulation temperature can be described as: δ = 18.45-3.66 ×10-2n + 1.07T - 1.20 ×10-5n2- 9.60 ×10-2T2- 2.49 ×10-3nT. The equations can be used as a reference for the further DPD simulation in n-alkanes based PCM system.
Proximity effect enhancement induced by a superconducting anti-dot
Authors: Higuera Sindy J. , Joya Miryam R. , Barba-Ortega J.
Published: December 2014

In this work, we study the proximity and pinning effects of a rectangular superconducting anti-dot on the magnetization curve of a mesoscopic sample. We solve the nonlinear time-dependent Ginzburg–Landau equations for a superconducting rectangle in the presence of a magnetic field applied perpendicular to its surface. The pinning effects are determined by the number of vortices into the anti-dot. We calculate the order parameter, vorticity, magnetization and critical fields as a function of the external magnetic field. We found that the size and nature of the anti-dot strongly affect the magnetization of the sample. The results are discussed in framework of pinning and proximity effects in mesoscopic systems.
Study of electrical and magnetic properties of Ni–Zn–Mg ferrite system
Authors: Babu B. Rajesh , Prasad B. B. V. S. Vara , Prasad M. S. R.
Published: December 2014

Polycrystalline nickel–zinc ferrites of chemical formula Ni 0.65-x Mg x Zn 0.35 Fe 2 O 4 (x = 0.00 to 0.2 in steps of 0.04) have been prepared by conventional ceramic technique. Calcination and sintering of all samples have been carried out in air atmosphere at 950°C and 1250°C, respectively, followed by natural cooling to room temperature. All the samples were characterized by the X-ray diffraction (XRD) for structure determination. These samples were then investigated for their magnetic and electric properties, including saturation magnetization, Curie temperature, initial permeability measurements and DC electrical resistivity. Porosity was decreased drastically from 15% to 5% showed better quality of the sintered samples. There were increments in initial permeability and DC electrical resistivity throughout the series of samples. Variations in the observed properties as a function of magnesium concentration have been discussed in light of the existing understanding.
The Role of Context in Social Semantic Search and Decision Making
Authors: Kerschberg Larry
Published: December 2014

This paper is based on my Keynote Address at the Tools with AI conference on November 4, 2013. The talk focussed on some factors used to determine a user's context — those attributes, both tacit and explicit, which help to ascertain a user's intensions for a search request in order to make a decision. I also explored how social semantic search can assist in guiding the decision process, especially when the decision is of a personal nature, for example, in decisions involving health care, where there may be a number of avenues to pursue. I focussed on our patented-technology exemplified by the Knowledge Sifter system, and an application called Personal Health Explorer (PHE), a semantic recommender system that allows an individual to perform semantic search and discovery related to conditions and diseases contained in his personal health record (PHR). The PHE system consults authoritative ontologies and reputable information sources to provide semantically enhanced authoritative recommendations that can be stored in the individual's (PHR) for further research and consultation. The PHE is implemented using the Knowledge Sifter agent-based framework and Microsoft's HealthVault.
Learning Markov Network Structures Constrained by Context-Specific Independences
Authors: Edera Alejandro , Schlüter Federico , Bromberg Facundo
Published: December 2014

This work focuses on learning the structure of Markov networks from data. Markov networks are parametric models for compactly representing complex probability distributions. These models are composed by: a structure and numerical weights, where the structure describes independences that hold in the distribution. Depending on which is the goal of structure learning, learning algorithms can be divided into: density estimation algorithms, where structure is learned for answering inference queries; and knowledge discovery algorithms, where structure is learned for describing independences qualitatively. The latter algorithms present an important limitation for describing independences because they use a single graph; a coarse grain structure representation which cannot represent flexible independences. For instance, context-specific independences cannot be described by a single graph. To overcome this limitation, this work proposes a new alternative representation named canonical model as well as the CSPC algorithm; a novel knowledge discovery algorithm for learning canonical models by using context-specific independences as constraints. On an extensive empirical evaluation, CSPC learns more accurate structures than state-of-the-art density estimation and knowledge discovery algorithms. Moreover, for answering inference queries, our approach obtains competitive results against density estimation algorithms, significantly outperforming knowledge discovery algorithms.
A Reusable Methodology for the Instantiation of Social Recommender Systems
Authors: Quijano-Sánchez Lara , Recio-García Juan A. , Díaz-Agudo Belén
Published: December 2014

Social recommender systems exploit social knowledge available in social networks to provide accurate recommendations. However, their instantiation is not straightforward due to its complexity. To alleviate this development complexity, we propose a methodology based on templates that conceptualize the behavior of such applications and can be reused to create several social recommender applications in social networks. This development methodology comprises not only templates but also a generic architecture named arise and a collection of software components that provide the required functionality. We prove that our social templates speed up and facilitate the development process, and demonstrate the viability of our generic architecture in two different case studies.
Schwarzschild and Kerr solutions of Einstein's field equation: An Introduction
Authors: Heinicke Christian , Hehl Friedrich W.
Published: December 2014

Starting from Newton's gravitational theory, we give a general introduction into the spherically symmetric solution of Einstein's vacuum field equation, the Schwarzschild(–Droste) solution, and into one specific stationary axially symmetric solution, the Kerr solution. The Schwarzschild solution is unique and its metric can be interpreted as the exterior gravitational field of a spherically symmetric mass. The Kerr solution is only unique if the multipole moments of its mass and its angular momentum take on prescribed values. Its metric can be interpreted as the exterior gravitational field of a suitably rotating mass distribution. Both solutions describe objects exhibiting an event horizon, a frontier of no return. The corresponding notion of a black hole is explained to some extent. Eventually, we present some generalizations of the Kerr solution.
Intramolecular photoinduced electron transfer in cobalt(II) chlathrochelate-zinc porphyrin assemblies leading to long-lived Co(I) species
Authors: El Ghachtouli Sanae , Guillot Régis , Leibl Winfried , Aukauloo Ally
Published: December 2014

We report herein the synthesis and characterization of novel cobalt chlathrochelate-zinc porphyrin assemblies. X-ray data and electrochemical studies support the formation and maintenance of these structures both in solid and solution states. Light induced charge accumulation at the cobalt center was realized in the presence of a sacrificial electron donor. The photogenerated Co(I) species was stable in the ms time scale in aqueous medium.
OPTIMIZED NEURAL INCREMENTAL ATTRIBUTE LEARNING FOR CLASSIFICATION BASED ON STATISTICAL DISCRIMINABILITY
Authors: WANG TING , GUAN SHENG-UEI , MAN KA LOK , TING T. O. , LISITSA ALEXEI
Published: December 2014

Feature ordering is a significant data preprocessing method in incremental attribute learning (IAL), where features are gradually trained according to a given order. Previous research showed feature ordering is crucial to the IAL performance. It is relevant to each feature's discrimination ability, which can be calculated by single discriminability (SD). However, when feature dimensions increase, feature discrimination ability should also be calculated incrementally, because discrimination ability in lower dimensional spaces is different from that in higher spaces. Thus based on SD, accumulative discriminability (AD), a new statistical metric for incremental feature discrimination ability estimation, is designed. Moreover, a criterion that summarizes all the produced values of AD is employed to obtain the optimum feature ordering for classification problems based on neural networks by means of IAL. In addition, in order to reduce the time consumption, an effective feature ordering approach is developed. Compared with the feature ordering obtained by other approaches, the method outlined in this paper obtained good final classification results, which indicates that, firstly, feature discrimination ability should be incrementally estimated in IAL; and secondly, feature ordering derived by AD and its corresponding approaches are applicable with IAL.
DEVELOPING FUZZY BAYESIAN GAME MODEL FOR OPTIMIZING NEGOTIATION PRICE
Authors: LEU SOU-SEN , SON PHAM VU HONG , JUI-SHENG CHOU P. E. , NHUNG PHAM THI HONG
Published: December 2014

Construction procurement is a key business where price negotiation is commonly required to reach final contractual agreement. However, even simple negotiations often result in infeasible agreements. The uncertain and limited supplier information as well as complex correlations among various factors affecting supplier behaviors make the contractor difficult to decide the appropriate offer price (OP) and vice versa. This study proposes a novel Fuzzy Bayesian Game Model (FBGM) for improving the prediction effectiveness of negotiation behaviors. The performance of the proposed FBGM was evaluated in the case where an agent uses the counter-OP of an opponent to learn the negotiation strategy of the opponent. The validation analysis shows that the sequential updating process of FBGM significantly improves the estimation ability of negotiators. The proposed model also gives a comprehensive view of negotiation scenarios by considering all possible negotiation cases. Using FBGM, negotiators can apply flexible strategies to optimize their own profit with a reasonable negotiation time.
PI-SIGMA NEURAL NETWORK FOR A ONE-STEP-AHEAD TEMPERATURE FORECASTING
Authors: HUSAINI NOOR AIDA , GHAZALI ROZAIDA , NAWI NAZRI MOHD , ISMAIL LOKMAN HAKIM , DERIS MUSTAFA MAT , HERAWAN TUTUT
Published: December 2014

The main purpose of this study is to employ Pi-Sigma Neural Network (PSNN) for one-step-ahead temperature forecasting. In this paper, we evaluate the performances of PSNN by comparing the network model with widely used Multilayer Perceptron (MLP). PSNN which is a class of Higher Order Neural Networks (HONN), has a highly regular structure, needs much smaller number of weights and less training time. The PSNN is use to overcome the drawbacks of MLP, which can easily trapped into local minima and prone to overfit. Both network models were trained with standard backpropagation algorithm. Through 1012 experiments, it has been demonstrated that the PSNN has a high practicability and better temperature forecasting for one-step-ahead using historical temperature data of Batu Pahat region.
The Role of Modulation Function in Nonstationary Stochastic Earthquake Model
Authors: Greco Rita , Fiore Alessandra , Marano Giuseppe Carlo
Published: December 2014

In structural engineering earthquakes are often represented as random phenomena. Frequently, filtered white noise stochastic processes are adopted to properly model their frequency content. In order to model the time variation of earthquake intensity, these processes are assumed nonstationary, and time modulation functions (MFs) are used. For these, different shapes and formulas have been proposed in literature till now, but only few works have dealt with their comparison in terms of structural response. This paper focuses on this topic: at this aim, a simple linear single degree of freedom (SDoF) system, which represents a structure vibrating in its fundamental mode, is considered subject to a time modulated filtered stochastic process. Different shapes of the MF are considered and the influence on two structural response indices, i.e. the maximum displacement standard deviation and the failure probability, is investigated. A sensitivity analysis is finally performed by varying peak ground acceleration (PGA), Arias intensity and structural period.
Dynamic CRRA-utility indifference value in generalized Cox process model
Authors: Tian Kun , Xiong Dewen , Ye Zhongxing
Published: December 2014

We give the explicit form of the survival process of the default time [Formula: see text] modeled by the generalized Cox process model. Then we derive the dynamic CRRA-utility indifference value (UIV) Ct of the 𝔽-investors with respect to the 𝔾-investors and describe the dynamics of Ct by two BSDEs. Finally, we give an example in which we can give the explicit expression of Ct. For the generalized Cox process model we typically have that Ct ≥ 1 in contrast to the standard Cox process model.
The Dysfunctional Congress
Authors: Binder Sarah
Published: December 2014

Is the US Congress dysfunctional? The American public thinks so: In the summer of 2014, just 7% approved strongly of Congress ( Riffkin 2014 ). Still, legislative scholars disagree about the severity of Congress's legislative challenges. Is legislative deadlock a sign that Congress can no longer identify and resolve major public problems? Or are Congress's difficulties temporary and correctable? In this article, I review theoretical and empirical literatures on the dynamics of lawmaking and evaluate alternative methods for testing lawmaking theories. Finally, I draw on recent research to put contemporary stalemate into historical perspective. I argue that even when Congress and the president have reached agreement on the big issues of the day, Congress's problem-solving capacity appears to have fallen to new lows in recent years. Whether and how well our political system can or will self-correct in the coming years remains an open question.
Developing Programming Tools to Handle Traveling Salesman Problem by the Three Object-Oriented Languages
Authors: Ismkhan Hassan , Zamanifar Kamran
Published: December 2014

The traveling salesman problem (TSP) is one of the most famous problems. Many applications and programming tools have been developed to handle TSP. However, it seems to be essential to provide easy programming tools according to state-of-the-art algorithms. Therefore, we have collected and programmed new easy tools by the three object-oriented languages. In this paper, we present ADT (abstract data type) of developed tools at first; then we analyze their performance by experiments. We also design a hybrid genetic algorithm (HGA) by developed tools. Experimental results show that the proposed HGA is comparable with the recent state-of-the-art applications.
Distinct Lysosome Phenotypes Influence Inflammatory Function in Peritoneal and Bone Marrow-Derived Macrophages
Authors: Weber Kassandra , Schilling Joel D.
Published: December 2014

Lysosomes play a critical role in the degradation of both extracellular and intracellular material. These dynamic organelles also contribute to nutrient sensing and cell signaling pathways. Macrophages represent a heterogeneous group of phagocytic cells that contribute to tissue homeostasis and inflammation. Recently, there has been a renewed interest in understanding the role of macrophage autophagy and lysosome function in health and disease. Thioglycollate-elicited peritoneal and bone marrow-derived macrophages are commonly used ex vivo systems to study primary macrophage function. In this study, we reveal dramatic baseline differences in the lysosome morphology and function between these macrophage populations and provide evidence that these differences can be functionally relevant. Our results provide important insights into the diversity of lysosomes in primary macrophages and illustrate the importance of accounting for this in data interpretation.
Design of CDTA and VDTA Based Frequency Agile Filters
Authors: Pandey Neeta , Sayal Aseem , Choudhary Richa , Pandey Rajeshwari
Published: December 2014

This paper presents frequency agile filters based on current difference transconductance amplifier (CDTA) and voltage difference transconductance amplifier (VDTA). The proposed agile filter configurations employ grounded passive components and hence are suitable for integration. Extensive SPICE simulations using 0.25 μm TSMC CMOS technology model parameters are carried out for functional verification. The proposed configurations are compared in terms of performance parameters such as power dissipation, signal to noise ratio (SNR), and maximum output noise voltage.
Radial Basis Point Interpolation Method with Reordering Gauss Domains for 2D Plane Problems
Authors: Yi Shi-Chao , Chen Fu-jun , Yao Lin-Quan
Published: December 2014

We present novel Gauss integration schemes with radial basis point interpolation method (RPIM). These techniques define new Gauss integration scheme, researching Gauss points (RGD), and reconstructing Gauss domain (RGD), respectively. The developments lead to a curtailment of the elapsed CPU time without loss of the accuracy. Numerical results show that the schemes reduce the computational time to 25% or less in general.
Surgical Implications of Asymmetric Distribution of Dermal Collagen and Elastic Fibres in Two Orientations of Skin Samples from Extremities
Authors: Kumar Naveen , Kumar Pramod , Nayak Badagabettu Satheesha , Prasad Keerthana , Kudva Ranjini , Vasudevarao Raghuveer Coimbatore
Published: December 2014

Background. Clinically, scar related complications are observed to be dissimilar in different regions of the body. Unequal distribution of dermal collagen and elastic fibres in different orientations could be one of the multifocal causes of scar related complications, for which this evaluating study has been taken up. Materials and Method. 300 skin samples collected in horizontal and vertical orientations were studied histomorphometrically. This study involved image analysis of specially stained histological section using tissue-quant software. The outcome result was termed as quantitative fraction. From the result, various ratio values were also calculated for the ratio analysis. Results. The differences in the quantitative fraction of dermal elastic content between 2 directions were statistically significant at joint areas (shoulder joint, wrist, and ankle) (P<0.001) but for collagen, significant difference was observed at shoulder joint and wrist only. Dermis of the forearm and thigh did not show any differences in their collagen content, but for elastic, thigh did show a significant difference while forearm had no change between 2 directions. Conclusion. Analysis of unequal content of dermal element in two directions under the perspective of wound healing consequences is subjective depending upon the anatomical position and functional status of the areas.
Spectral Properties of Dyes with Interfragmental Charge Transfer: Solvatochromism and Solvatofluorochromism of 2-(3-Coumaroyl)-benzopyrylium Perchlorates
Authors: Sanin Edward V. , Novikov Alexander I. , Roshal Alexander D.
Published: December 2014

The paper deals with the spectral properties of dyes with interfragmental charge transfer, in particular, derivatives of 2-(3-coumaroyl)benzopyrylium (CBP) perchlorates. The positions of long-wavelength absorption and emission bands, quantum yields, and lifetimes of fluorescence were measured, mostly in aprotic solvents. Regression analysis of the relationship between the spectral characteristics of CBP and the main solvent parameters (polarity, polarisability, nucleophilicity, and electrophilicity) was carried out.
It was found that the characteristics of CBP depend mainly on two solvent parameters—polarity and/or nucleophilicity. An increase in these parameters results in a hypsochromic shift of absorption bands and a decrease of lifetimes and fluorescence intensity. The positions of the emission bands can demonstrate either hypsochromism or bathochromism, depending on the nature of the substituents. The solvatofluorochromic effects are not as strong as the solvatochromic ones. We believe that the spectral behaviour of CBP can be explained by cation depolarisation and by a decrease in the stability of nucleophilic complexes with solvent molecules that is associated with interfragmental charge transfer following excitation, relaxation, and radiative deactivation of the excited state.
Metastasis to Sartorius Muscle from a Muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer
Authors: Katafigiotis Ioannis , Athanasiou Antonios , Levis Panagiotis K. , Fragkiadis Evangelos , Sfoungaristos Stavros , Ploumidis Achilles , Michalinos Adamantios , Alamanis Christos , Felekouras Evangelos , Constantinides Constantinos A.
Published: December 2014

Bladder cancer constitutes the ninth most common cancer worldwide and approximately only 30% of cases are muscle invasive at initial diagnosis. Regional lymph nodes, bones, lung, and liver are the most common metastases from bladder cancer and generally from genitourinary malignancies. Muscles constitute a rare site of metastases from distant primary lesions even though they represent 50% of total body mass and receive a large blood flow. Skeletal muscles from urothelial carcinoma are very rare and up to date only few cases have been reported in the literature. We present a rare case of 51-year-old patient with metastases to sartorius muscle 8 months after the radical cystectomy performed for a muscle invasive bladder cancer.
Adult Alveolar Soft Part Sarcoma of the Head and Neck: A Report of Two Cases and Literature Review
Authors: Mullins Brandon T. , Hackman Trevor
Published: December 2014

Background. Alveolar soft part sarcomas (ASPS) of the head and neck are rare, aggressive soft-tissue malignancies. This study describes the clinical course and management of two patients presenting with ASPS in very rare head and neck locations, the larynx and parotid gland.Methods. We identified two patients presenting with ASPS of the head and neck and treated at the University of North Carolina. We compared our results to the literature from 1987 to 2013.Results. Patient ages at diagnosis were 27 and 39 with presenting symptoms of hoarseness and parotid swelling, respectively. Mean follow-up was 87 months. All patients received surgical resection and adjuvant radiotherapy. There were no recurrences or evidence of distant metastatic spread during the series. Disease-free survival time for the patients was 4 months and 168 months, respectively.Conclusions. Our study suggests that a combined-modality approach is important in the treatment of ASPS of the head and neck even in these rare locations. Continued research into new therapies is necessary to improve historically poor outcomes.
Efficient Bi-Iterative Method for Source Position and Propagation Speed Estimation Using TDOA Measurements
Authors: Zhu Guo-Hui , Feng Da-Zheng , Zhou Yan
Published: December 2014

This paper develops an efficient bi-iterative source location and propagation speed estimation method utilizing time difference of arrival (TDOA) measurements. The source location and propagation speed estimation is a nonlinear problem due to the nonlinearity in the TDOA measurement equations. The newly developed bi-iterative method computes the source location and propagation speed alternately. The asymptotic convergence of the new bi-iterative method is theoretically analyzed. First-order perturbation analysis is applied to the newly developed solution to derive its bias and variance. The first-order analytical results show that the proposed method provides approximately unbiased source position and propagation speed estimates for low noise levels and the accuracy of these estimates approaches the Cramer-Rao lower bound (CRLB). The extension of the new bi-iterative method to the more general situation where the sensor locations are subject to random errors is also presented. Simulation studies are given to show the good performance of the proposed method.
Bilateral Double Ureters with Bladder Neck Diverticulum in a Nigerian Woman Masquerading as an Obstetric Fistula
Authors: Morhason-Bello Imran O. , Adebayo Sikiru A. , Abdusalam Rukiyat A. , Bello Oluwasomidoyin O. , Odubamowo Kehinde H. , Lawal Olatunji O. , Olapade-Olaopa E. Oluwabunmi , Ojengbede Oladosu A.
Published: December 2014

A 43-year-old woman presented with 20-year history of leakage of urine per vaginam. She had one failed repair attempt. Pelvic examination with dye test showed leakage of clear urine suggestive of ureterovaginal fistula. The preoperative intravenous urogram revealed duplex ureter and cystoscopy showed normally cited ureteric orifices with two other ectopic ureteric openings and bladder diverticula. The definitive surgery performed was ureteric reimplantation (ureteroneocystostomy) of the two distal ureteric to 2 cm superiolateral to the two normal orifices and diverticuloplasty. There was resolution of urinary incontinence after surgery. Three months after surgery, she had urodynamic testing done (cystometry), which showed 220 mLs with no signs of instability or leakage during filling phase but leaked on coughing at maximal bladder capacity. This is to showcase some diagnostic dilemma that could arise with obstetric fistula, which is generally diagnosed by clinical assessment.
Prolonged Corrected QT Interval Is Predictive of Future Stroke Events Even in Subjects Without ECG-Diagnosed Left Ventricular Hypertrophy
Authors: Ishikawa Joji , Ishikawa Shizukiyo , Kario Kazuomi
Published: December 2014

We attempted to evaluate whether subjects who exhibit prolonged corrected QT (QTc) interval (≥440 ms in men and ≥460 ms in women) on ECG, with and without ECG-diagnosed left ventricular hypertrophy (ECG-LVH; Cornell product, ≥244 mV×ms), are at increased risk of stroke. Among the 10 643 subjects, there were a total of 375 stroke events during the follow-up period (128.7±28.1 months; 114 142 person-years). The subjects with prolonged QTc interval (hazard ratio, 2.13; 95% confidence interval, 1.22–3.73) had an increased risk of stroke even after adjustment for ECG-LVH (hazard ratio, 1.71; 95% confidence interval, 1.22–2.40). When we stratified the subjects into those with neither a prolonged QTc interval nor ECG-LVH, those with a prolonged QTc interval but without ECG-LVH, and those with ECG-LVH, multivariate-adjusted Cox proportional hazards analysis demonstrated that the subjects with prolonged QTc intervals but not ECG-LVH (1.2% of all subjects; incidence, 10.7%; hazard ratio, 2.70, 95% confidence interval, 1.48–4.94) and those with ECG-LVH (incidence, 7.9%; hazard ratio, 1.83; 95% confidence interval, 1.31–2.57) had an increased risk of stroke events, compared with those with neither a prolonged QTc interval nor ECG-LVH. In conclusion, prolonged QTc interval was associated with stroke risk even among patients without ECG-LVH in the general population.
Sound Synthesis of a Gaussian Quantum Particle in an Infinite Square
Well
Authors: Cádiz Rodrigo F. , Ramos Javier
Published: December 2014

This article describes a synthesis technique based on the sonification of the dynamic behavior of a quantum particle enclosed in an infinite square well. More specifically, we sonify the momentum distribution of a one-dimensional Gaussian bouncing wave packet model. We have chosen this particular case because of its relative simplicity and interesting dynamic behavior, which makes it suitable for a novel sonification mapping that can be applied to standard synthesis techniques, resulting in the generation of appealing sounds. In addition, this sonification might provide useful insight into the behavior of the quantum particle. In particular, this model exhibits quantum revivals, minimizes uncertainty, and exhibits similarities to the case of a classical bouncing ball. The proposed model has been implemented in real time in both the Max/MSP and the Pure Data environments. The algorithm is based on concepts of additive synthesis where each oscillator describes the eigenfunctions that characterize the state evolution of the wave packet. We also provide an analysis of the sounds produced by the model from both a physical and a perceptual point of view.
Cambarus (Puncticambarus) callainus, a new species of crayfish (Decapoda: Cambaridae) from the Big Sandy River basin in Kentucky, Virginia, and West Virginia, USA
Authors: THOMA ROGER F. , LOUGHMAN ZACHARY J. , FETZNER JAMES JR. W.
Published: December 2014

Cambarus (Puncticambarus) callainus, new species, is a stream-dwelling crayfish endemic to the Big Sandy River basin in Kentucky, Virginia, and West Virginia. Within the basin, C. callainus occurs in the Levisa, Tug, and Russell fork watersheds. The new species is morphologically and genetically most similar to Cambarus veteranus, which is endemic to the Upper Guyandotte River basin of West Virginia. The new species can be differentiated from C. veteranus by its more lanceolate rostrum (width less than 50% length), slightly more obtuse suborbital angle, and less well-defined lateral impression at the base of the chelae.
Hiding in plain sight: a new species of bent-toed gecko (Squamata: Gekkonidae: Cyrtodactylus) from West Timor, collected by Malcolm Smith in 1924
Authors: KATHRINER ANDREW , BAUER AARON M. , O’SHEA MARK , SANCHEZ CAITLIN , KAISER HINRICH
Published: December 2014

We describe a new species of bent-toed gecko from a single specimen initially collected in 1924 by Malcolm Smith on Timor Island in the Lesser Sunda Archipelago of Indonesia. Cyrtodactylus celatus sp. nov. is distinguished from all other congeners by the following combination of characters: small adult size; without spinose tubercles on the ventrolateral body fold and along the lateral margin of the tail; 16 longitudinal rows of tubercles at midbody; 42 ventral scales between the ventrolateral folds at midbody; no transversely enlarged, median subcaudal scales; 17 subdigital lamellae (seven basal + ten distal) under the fourth toe; no abrupt transition between postfemoral and ventral femoral scale series. The specimen is the earliest confirmed record of the genus Cyrtodactylus for Timor, and it is the first putatively endemic gecko species described from this island.
New species of Centroderes (Kinorhyncha: Cyclorhagida) from the Northwest Atlantic Ocean, life cycle, and ground pattern of the genus
Authors: NEUHAUS BIRGER , PARDOS FERNANDO , SØRENSEN MARTIN V. , HIGGINS ROBERT P.
Published: December 2014

Four new species of Centroderes are described from the Northwest Atlantic Ocean based on light microscopical observations of 153 adult and 26 juvenile specimens and on SEM investigations of 54 adult and 3 juvenile specimens. Centroderes barbanigra n. sp. and C. bonnyae n. sp. can be distinguished from all other species by the existence of a short lateroventral tube on segment 7. The latter species can be separated from the former by an acicular spine in the lateral accessory position on segment 8. The female of both C. readae n. sp. and C. spinosus possesses a female-specific, modified gland cell outlet on segments 7−9, but such an outlet is missing on segment 7 of all other species. The latter species is distinguished from the former by its robust lateroventral spine on segment 8 and by its lack of a laterodorsal sensory spot on segment 4, whereas the former species shows a midlateral sensory spot on segment 8. Centroderes drakei n. sp. agrees with the remaining American species in the possession of a laterodorsal sensory spot on segment 4; the former species can be distinguished from C. readae n. sp. by the lack of a sensory spot sublaterally on segment 1 and midlaterally on segment 8 as well as by the lack of a female-specific, modified gland cell outlet on segment 7; C. drakei n. sp. can be separated from C. barbanigra n. sp. and C. bonnyae n. sp. by its lack of a lateroventral tube on segment 7.        We report anomalies rarely noticed for Kinorhyncha, such as different developmental artifacts in several specimens and a potential tumour in one individual. Evidence is provided that species of Centroderes develop via at least two adult life history stages, but three or more adult stages exist in C. drakei n. sp.; this represents the first record of a more complicated life cycle in Kinorhyncha. This paper also contains the first report of spermatophores in cyclorhagid Kinorhyncha and in both female and male specimens. In addition, characters in the ground pattern of Centroderes are summarized.
Review of the Neotropical scale insects formerly assigned to Coelostomidiidae and here transferred to a new tribe within the Monophlebidae (Hemiptera: Sternorrhyncha: Coccoidea)
Authors: FOLDI I. , GULLAN P. J.
Published: December 2014

This study reviews the status of all Neotropical genera and species of Coelostomidiidae (Hemiptera: Coccoidea) and transfers them to the family Monophlebidae in the Cryptokermesini Foldi & Gullan tribe n. (the tribe Cryptokermini Tao & Hao is recognised here as a nomen nudum). This change of family placement for Neotropical taxa is based on the morphology of adult males, as supported by the phylogenetic study of Hodgson & Hardy (2013), and by unpublished DNA data. New diagnoses are provided for each of the four recognised genera of Cryptokermesini: Cryptokermes Hempel, Mimosicerya Cockerell, Neocoelostoma Hempel and Paracoelostoma Morrison. The genus Nautococcus Vayssière is considered here to be a junior synonym (syn. n.) of Mimosicerya and the type species of Nautococcus, N. schraderae Vayssière, thus becomes M. schraderae (Vayssière) comb. n. Cryptokermes mexicanus Morrison is transferred to Mimosicerya as M. mexicana (Morrison) comb. n. Also Cryptokermes mimosae Foldi does not fit the morphological concept of Cryptokermes and is excluded from this genus and revision, and from the new tribe; its taxonomic position is uncertain and requires further study. All type species of the Cryptokermesini, including N. schraderae (as M. schraderae), are redescribed and illustrated based on most female instars and available adult males, examined using optical and scanning electron microscopes. Adult males are described and illustrated only for M. schraderae and N. xerophila. Keys are provided to distinguish the Neotropical monophlebid tribes Cryptokermesini and Llaveiini and to recognise each cryptokermesine genus based on female instars and first-instar nymphs. The included species of Cryptokermesini and their known distributions are: Cryptokermes brasiliensis Hempel from Brazil and C. oaxaensis Foldi from Mexico; Mimosicerya hempeli (Cockerell) from Brazil, M. mexicana from Mexico, M. schraderae from Panama and M. williamsi Foldi from Venezuela; Neocoelostoma xerophila Hempel from Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay; and Paracoelostoma peruvianum Morrison from Peru. All these insects live exposed on their host plant, either inside a secreted test (as for female and immature male instars of Cryptokermes, Neocoelostoma and Paracoelostoma) or the strongly sclerotised derm of the preadult female protects the adult (as for all species of Mimosicerya). Adult females of Mimosicerya are pupillarial, remaining within the exuviae of the previous instar, whereas adult females of the other three genera either remain within their test (and some species may be pupillarial) or escape the test to oviposit. The morphology of the adult female and often the preadult female is strongly modified, with reduction of antennae and legs, and with legs lacking in some species.
The Effect of Global Warming on Severe Thunderstorms in the United States
Authors: Seeley Jacob T. , Romps David M.
Published: December 2014

How will warming temperatures influence thunderstorm severity? This question can be explored by using climate models to diagnose changes in large-scale convective instability (CAPE) and wind shear, conditions that are known to be conducive to the formation of severe thunderstorms. First, an ensemble of climate models from phase 5 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5) is evaluated on its ability to reproduce a radiosonde climatology of such storm-favorable conditions in the current climate’s spring and summer seasons, focusing on the contiguous United States (CONUS). Of the 11 climate models evaluated, a high-performing subset of four (GFDL CM3, GFDL-ESM2M, MRI-CGCM3, and NorESM1-M) is identified. Second, the twenty-first-century changes in the frequency of environments favorable to severe thunderstorms are calculated in these high-performing models as they are forced by the RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 emissions pathways. For the RCP8.5 scenario, the models predict consistent CONUS-mean fractional springtime increases in the range of 50%–180% by the end of the twenty-first century; for the summer, three of the four models predict increases in the range of 40%–120% and one model predicts a small decrease. This disagreement between the models is traced to divergent projections for future CAPE and boundary layer humidity in the Great Plains. This paper also explores the sensitivity of the results to the relative weight given to wind shear in determining how “favorable” a large-scale environment is for the development of severe thunderstorms, and it is found that this weighting is not the dominant source of uncertainty in projections of future thunderstorm severity.
Clinical Characteristics of Patients With Abnormal Ocular/Cervical Vestibular Evoked Myogenic Potentials in the Presence of Normal Caloric Responses
Authors: Iwasaki Shinichi , Fujimoto Chisato , Kinoshita Makoto , Kamogashira Teru , Egami Naoya , Yamasoba Tatsuya
Published: December 2014

Objective:

To investigate the clinical features and vestibular symptoms of patients with abnormal ocular vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (oVEMPs) and/or cervical VEMPs (cVEMPs) in the presence of normal caloric responses.

Study Design:

Retrospective chart review.

Setting:

Tertiary referral center.

Methods:

One thousand five hundred twenty-one consecutive patients with balance problems who underwent the caloric, cVEMP, and oVEMP tests were included, and patients who showed abnormal oVEMPs and/or cVEMPs in the presence of normal caloric responses were selected. Clinical characteristics, diagnoses, and vestibular symptoms of the patients were analyzed.

Results:

Of the 1521 patients, 227 (15%) were found to have abnormal oVEMPs and/or cVEMP responses with normal caloric responses. Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BBPV), Meniere’s disease, and vestibular migraine were the common diagnoses of these patients. Eighty-one patients (36%) could not be diagnosed with a recognizable disease. Multiple episodes of spinning vertigo with a duration of seconds to hours were their most common vestibular symptoms.

Conclusion:

BPPV, Meniere’s disease, and vestibular migraine are the most frequent diagnoses showing abnormal oVEMP and/or cVEMPs without canal paresis. Apart from these clinical entities, a portion of undiagnosed patients with multiple episodes of vertigo might have a disease that involves the otolith organs only.
The Quest for Hegemony and the Future of African Solutions to African Development Problems: Lessons from Headways in the African Security Sector
Authors: Amusan Lere , Oyewole Samuel
Published: December 2014

The problems of African development and integration with the world of globalisation have continued to attract concern in the policymaking cycle and the academic world, within and beyond the shores of the continent. Ever since the issues of economic development became the continent’s priority, a series of propositions have been advanced and considered. Against a background of post-colonial nationalism, most African leaders have preferred African solutions to African (development and security) problems, despite the region’s continuous reliance on external investment and markets. At the moment, however, this strategy is low priority. In consideration of this, a revival and new dimension of the African Solution (AS) Strategy is observed in this paper. In this regard, global, regional and sub-regional struggles for competitiveness and the resultant hegemonic traits are seen to dominate the unveiling of AS Strategy.
Role of Dentin MMPs in Caries Progression and Bond Stability
Authors: Mazzoni A. , Tjäderhane L. , Checchi V. , Di Lenarda R. , Salo T. , Tay F.R. , Pashley D.H. , Breschi L.
Published: December 2014

Dentin can be described as a biological composite with collagen matrix embedded with nanosized hydroxyapatite mineral crystallites. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and cysteine cathepsins are families of endopeptidases. Enzymes of both families are present in dentin and collectively capable of degrading virtually all extracellular matrix components. This review describes these enzymes and their presence in dentin, mainly focusing on their role in dentin caries pathogenesis and loss of collagen in the adhesive hybrid layer under composite restorations. MMPs and cysteine cathepsins present in saliva, mineralized dentin, and/or dentinal fluid may affect the dentin caries process at the early phases of demineralization. Changes in collagen and noncollagenous protein structure may participate in observed decreases in mechanical properties of caries-affected dentin and reduce the ability of caries-affected dentin to remineralize. These endogenous enzymes also remain entrapped within the hybrid layer during the resin infiltration process, and the acidic bonding agents themselves (irrespective of whether they are etch-and-rinse or self-etch) can activate these endogenous protease proforms. Since resin impregnation is frequently incomplete, denuded collagen matrices associated with free water (which serves as a collagen cleavage reagent for these endogenous hydrolase enzymes) can be enzymatically disrupted, finally contributing to the degradation of the hybrid layer. There are multiple in vitro and in vivo reports showing that the longevity of the adhesive interface is increased when nonspecific enzyme-inhibiting strategies are used. Different chemicals (i.e., chlorhexidine, galardin, and benzalkonium chloride) or collagen cross-linker agents have been successfully employed as therapeutic primers in the bonding procedure. In addition, the incorporation of enzyme inhibitors (i.e., quaternary ammonium methacrylates) into the resin blends has been recently promoted. This review will describe MMP functions in caries and hybrid layer degradation and explore the potential therapeutic role of MMP inhibitors for the development of improved intervention strategies for MMP-related oral diseases.
Charles Bonnet syndrome in older adults with age-related macular degeneration: Its relationship to depression and mild cognitive impairment
Authors: Boxerman Hana , Wittich Walter , Overbury Olga
Published: December 2014

Older adults are prone to have multiple chronic health conditions. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether older adults with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) who experience Charles Bonnet syndrome (CBS) are at a higher risk of developing depression and mild cognitive impairment (MCI). A total of 42 participants (31 females, 11 males; age: 68–99 years, M = 85.5 years; visual acuity [VA] in the better eye ranging from 20/70 to 20/1200) diagnosed with AMD were recruited in a vision rehabilitation center. They completed the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) in its blind version, the Geriatric Depression Scale, and responded to questions designed to determine whether they experienced visual hallucinations consistent with CBS. Participants were then categorized into whether or not they experienced CBS, were at risk of depression or were at risk of MCI. Participants in the group experiencing CBS did not statistically show a higher likelihood of developing depression and/or MCI than those without CBS. Overall, the risk of depression (30%) was consistent with previous studies. In our sample of 42 older adults with visual impairment, 62% failed the MoCA suggesting they were at risk of cognitive decline. Our study was not able to replicate previous reports of a possible relationship between CBS and MCI in older adults with AMD; however, the observed level of possible cognitive impairment warrants further investigation. Future studies should include participants with other ocular pathologies to investigate whether a relationship among CBS, MCI, and/or depression may exist independently of AMD.
Instrumented Mouthguard Acceleration Analyses for Head Impacts in Amateur Rugby Union Players Over a Season of Matches
Authors: King Doug , Hume Patria A. , Brughelli Matt , Gissane Conor
Published: December 2014

Background:

Direct impacts with the head (linear acceleration or pressure) and inertial loading of the head (rotational acceleration or strain) have been postulated as the 2 major mechanisms of head-related injuries such as concussion. Although data are accumulating for soccer and American football, there are no published data for nonhelmeted collision sports such as rugby union.

Purpose:

To quantify head impacts via instrumented mouthguard acceleration analyses for rugby union players over a season of matches.

Study Design:

Descriptive epidemiology study.

Methods:

Data on impact magnitude and frequency were collected with molded instrumented mouthguards worn by 38 premier amateur senior rugby players participating in the 2013 domestic season of matches.

Results:

A total of 20,687 impacts >10 g (range, 10.0-164.9 g) were recorded over the duration of the study. The mean ± SD number of impacts per player over the duration of the season of matches was 564 ± 618, resulting in a mean ± SD of 95 ± 133 impacts to the head per player, per match over the duration of the season of matches. The impact magnitudes for linear accelerations were skewed to the lower values ( Sp = 3.7 ± 0.02; P < .001), with a mean linear acceleration of 22.2 ± 16.2 g. Rotational accelerations were also skewed to the lower values ( Sp = 2.0 ± 0.02; P < .001), with a mean rotational acceleration of 3902.9 ± 3948.8 rad/s2.

Conclusion:

The acceleration magnitudes and number of head impacts in amateur rugby union players over a season of matches, measured via instrumented mouthguard accelerations, were higher than for most sports previously reported. Mean linear acceleration measured over a season of matches was similar to the mean linear accelerations previously reported for youth, high school, and collegiate American football players but lower than that for female youth soccer players. Mean rotational acceleration measured over a season of matches was similar to mean rotational accelerations for youth, high school, and collegiate American football players but less than those for female youth soccer players, concussed American collegiate players, collegiate American football players, and professional American football players.