bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fuzzy optimization of primal-dual pair using piecewise linear membership functions
Authors: Pandey D. , Kumar S.
Published: April 2012

Present paper improves the model of Bector and Chandra [Fuzzy Sets and
Systems, 125 (2002) 317-325] on duality in fuzzy linear programming by using
non-linear membership functions. Numerical problem discussed by these
authors has also been worked out through our non-linear model to demonstrate
improved optimality of the results.
Training Your Own
Authors: Corcoran Sean P. , Schwartz Amy Ellen , Weinstein Meryle
Published: April 2012

The New York City Leadership Academy represents a unique experiment by a large urban school district to train and develop its own school leaders. Its 14-month Aspiring Principals Program (APP) selects and prepares aspiring principals to lead low-performing schools. This study provides the first systematic evaluation of achievement in APP-staffed schools after 3 or more years. We examine differences between APP principals and those advancing through other routes, the extent to which APP graduates serve and remain in schools, and their relative performance in mathematics and English language arts. On balance, we find that APP principals performed about as well as other new principals. If anything, they narrowed the gap with comparison schools in English language arts but lagged behind in mathematics.
Sensitivity of the ice-shelf/ocean system to the sub-ice-shelf cavity shape measured by NASA IceBridge in Pine Island Glacier, West Antarctica
Authors: Schodlok Michael P. , Menemenlis Dimitris , Rignot Eric , Studinger Michael
Published: April 2012

Two high-resolution (1 km grid) numerical model simulations of the Amundsen Sea, West Antarctica, are used to study the role of the ocean in the mass loss and grounding line retreat of Pine Island Glacier. The first simulation uses BEDMAP bathymetry under the Pine Island ice shelf, and the second simulation uses NASA IceBridge-derived bathymetry. The IceBridge data reveal the existence of a trough from the ice-shelf edge to the grounding line, enabling warm Circumpolar Deep Water to penetrate to the grounding line, leading to higher melt rates than previously estimated. The mean melt rate for the simulation with NASA IceBridge data is 28 ma–1, much higher than previous model estimates but closer to estimates from remote sensing. Although the mean melt rate is 25% higher than in the simulation with BEDMAP bathymetry, the temporal evolution remains unchanged between the two simulations. This indicates that temporal variability of melting is mostly driven by processes outside the cavity. Spatial melt rate patterns of BEDMAP and IceBridge simulations differ significantly, with the latter in closer agreement with satellite-derived melt rate estimates of ~50ma–1 near the grounding line. Our simulations confirm that knowledge of the cavity shape and its time evolution are essential to accurately capture basal mass loss of Antarctic ice shelves.
3D ultrasound DICOM data of the thyroid gland
Authors: Darr A. , Schierz J.-H. , Schleußner E. , Wiegand S. , Opfermann T. , Freesmeyer M.
Published: April 2012

Purpose: It has recently become possible to generate and archive three-dimensional ultrasound (3D-US) volume data with the DICOM standard Enhanced Ultrasound Volume Storage (EUVS). The objective of this study was to examine the application of the EUVS standard based on the example of thyroid ultrasound. Patients, methods: 32 patients, who were referred for thyroid diagnosis, were given a 3D-US examination of the thyroid gland (GE Voluson E8, convex 3D probe RAB4–8-D). The 3D data sets were exported to EUVS. Necessary additions to DICOM entries and transformation into an established DICOM standard were carried out. The visual assessment and volume measurements were performed by two experts on nuclear medicine using standard software in our hospital. Results: In 24/32 (75%) of the patients, the whole organ was successfully recorded in a single 3D scan; in 8/32 (25%), only part of organ could be covered. In all cases, 3D-US data could be exported and archived. After supplementing the DICOM entry Patient Orientation and transformation into the DICOM PET format, 3D-US data could be displayed in the correct orientation and size at any viewing workstation and any web browser-based PACS viewer. Afterwards, 3D processing such as multiplanar reformation, volumetric measurements and image fusion with data of other cross sectional modalities could be performed. The intraclass correlation of the volume measurements was 0,94 and the interobserver variability was 5.7%. Conclusion: EUVS allows the generation, distribution and archiving of 3D-US data of the thyroid, facilitates a second reading by another physician and creates conditions for advanced 3D processing using routine software
Present Situation and Prospect of Medical Knowledge Based Systems in German-speaking Countries
Authors: Spitzer K. , Honekamp W. , Spreckelsen C.
Published: April 2012

Background: After a decrease of interest in classical medical expert systems, the publication activity concerning the medical application of Artificial Intelligence and the interest in medical decision support have markedly increased. Nonetheless, no systematic exploratory study has yet been carried out, which directly considers the actual fields of applications, exemplary approaches, obstacles, challenges, and future prospect as seen by pioneering users and developers in a given region.

Objectives: This paper reports the results of an online survey designed to fill this gap with the “Knowledge Based Systems” working group of the German Society for Medical Informatics, Biometry and Epidemiology (GMDS) in 2010.

Methods: The survey was based on an online questionnaire (5 single and multiple choice questions, 8 Likert-scaled items, 7 free text questions) consented to by the working group. The answers were analyzed by descriptive statistics and a qualitative analysis (bottom-up coding). All academic institutions of Medical Informatics in the German-speaking countries and contributors reporting KBS-related projects at the relevant scientific conferences and in a journal specialized in the field were invited to participate.

Results: The survey reached a response rate of 33.4%. The results show a gap between the reported obstacles of medical KBS (mainly low acceptance and rare use in clinical practice) and their future prospect as stated by the participants. Problems previously discussed in the literature like low acceptance, integration, and sustainability of KBS projects were confirmed. The current situation was characterized by naming exemplary existing systems and specifying promising fields of application.

Conclusions: The field of KBS in medicine is more diversified and has evolved beyond expectations in the German-speaking countries.
Bystander Effect on Brain Tissue of Mesoangioblasts Producing Neurotrophins
Authors: Su Tao , Scardigli Raffaella , Fasulo Luisa , Paradiso Beatrice , Barbieri Mario , Binaschi Anna , Bovolenta Roberta , Zucchini Silvia , Cossu Giulio , Cattaneo Antonino , Simonato Michele
Published: April 2012

Neurotrophic factors (NTFs) are involved in the regulation of neuronal survival and function and, thus, may be used to treat neurological diseases associated with neuronal death. A major hurdle for their clinical application is the delivery mode. We describe here a new strategy based on the use of progenitor cells called mesoangioblasts (MABs). MABs can be isolated from postnatal mesoderm tissues and, because of a high adhesin-dependent migratory capacity, can reach perivascular targets especially in damaged areas. We generated genetically modified MABs producing nerve growth factor (MABs-NGF) or brain-derived neurotrophic factor (MABs-BDNF) and assessed their bystander effects in vitro using PC12 cells, primary cultures, and organotypic cultures of adult hippocampal slices. MABs-NGF-conditioned medium induced differentiation of PC12 cells, while MABs-BDNF-conditioned medium increased viability of cultured neurons and slices. Slices cultured with MABs-BDNF medium also better retained their morphology and functional connections, and all these effects were abolished by the TrkB kinase blocker K252a or the BDNF scavenger TrkB-IgG. Interestingly, the amount of BDNF released by MABs-BDNF produced greater effects than an identical amount of recombinant BDNF, suggesting that other NTFs produced by MABs synergize with BDNF. Thus, MABs can be an effective vehicle for NTF delivery, promoting differentiation, survival, and functionality of neurons. In summary, MABs hold distinct advantages over other currently evaluated approaches for NTF delivery in the CNS, including synergy of MAB-produced NTF with the neurotrophins. Since MABs may be capable of homing into damaged brain areas, they represent a conceptually novel, promising therapeutic approach to treat neurodegenerative diseases.
La place de la petite ville dans la recherche géographique en France : de la simple monographie au territoire témoin
Authors: Édouard Jean-Charles
Published: April 2012

La recherche sur les petites villes en France a évolué depuis les années 1950. Le postulat de départ est que cette dernière a suivi les évolutions de la recherche en géographie de façon générale. Elle s’est d’abord focalisée sur des études monographiques, régionales et rurales, pour se préoccuper davantage, surtout dans les deux dernières décennies, de problématiques socioculturelles, dans un cadre de plus en plus urbain. Bien que restant le parent pauvre de la recherche en géographie urbaine, la petite ville a toujours été étudiée et elle est aujourd’hui de plus en plus choisie comme territoire d’étude sur des problématiques transversales de géographie et d’aménagement. De territoire « singulier », elle est progressivement devenue un territoire « témoin » en intégrant davantage les champs de questionnements plus habituels de la géographie des villes (stratégies économiques, mutations sociales, valorisation patrimoniale, politique culturelle, urbanité, etc.).
Visions ambiguës d'un pays disparu, le Brésil dans la Géographie universelle de Conrad Malte-Brun
Authors: Théry Hervé
Published: April 2012

Le chapitre consacré au Brésil dans la Géographie Universelle de Conrad Malte-Brun (1835) est une source précieuse sur un Brésil depuis longtemps disparu, encore largement inexploré, rural et esclavagiste. Bien que structuré en « tiroirs » traditionnels, le texte contient des notations originales, parfois franchement subjectives. De ce parcours thématique et régional d’un bout à l’autre du Brésil ressort l’impression d’une mosaïque brésilienne en trompe-l’œil, où les Indiens sont à la fois craints et méprisés, alors qu’une autre composante majeure de la population – les Noirs importés d’Afrique comme esclaves– est à peu près complètement absente.
Detection of Haemophilus parasuis isolates from South China by loop-mediated isothermal amplification and isolate characterisation
Authors: Zhang Jian-min , Shen Hai-yan , Liao Ming , Ren Tao , Guo Li-li , Xu Cheng-gang , Feng Sai-xiang , Fan Hui-ying , Li Jing-yi , Chen Ji-dang , Zhang Bin
Published: April 2012

Haemophilus parasuis is the etiological agent of Glässer’s disease, which is characterised by ﬁbrinous polyserositis, meningitis and polyarthritis, causing severe economic losses to the swine industry. In this study, a loop-mediated isothermal ampliﬁcation (LAMP) test was developed to improve the speciﬁcity, facility and speed of diagnosis of H. parasuis isolates. The LAMP assay rapidly ampliﬁed the target gene within 50 min incubation at 63 °C in a laboratory water bath. The LAMP amplicon could be visualised directly in the reaction tubes following the addition of SYBR Green I dye. The detection limit of this LAMP method was 10 CFU/mL, which was 10 times more sensitive than the earlier 16S rRNA polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test conducted by Oliveira, Galina and Pijoan (2001), and no cross-reactivity was observed from other non-H. parasuis strains. This LAMP test was evaluated further on 187 clinical specimens from pigs suspected of being infected with H. parasuis. Forty-three were found positive by bacterial isolation of H. parasuis, as well as by the 16S rRNA PCR and LAMP tests. The 43 H. parasuis isolates were classiﬁed into 9 serovars and had 37 genetic patterns when analysed by pulsed-ﬁeld gel electrophoresis (PFGE). This displayed that various H. parasuis serovars and genotypes were widely distributed in South China. Therefore, the speed, speciﬁcity and sensitivity of the LAMP test, the lack of a need for expensive equipment, and the visual readout showed great potential for a correct clinical diagnosis of H. parasuis in favour of controlling Glässer’s disease.
Work-related stress perception and hypertension amongst health workers of a mission hospital in Oyo State, south-western Nigeria
Authors: Owolabi Akinwumi O. , Owolabi Mojisola O. , OlaOlorun Akintayo D. , Olofin Ayo
Published: April 2012

Background: Globalisation and changes in the nature of work have resulted in increasing work-related stress in people in developing countries. Work stress is at present already acknowledged as one of the epidemics of modern working life. It is associated with a number of disease conditions, such as hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, affective disorders, depression, disturbed metabolism (risk of Type II diabetes) and musculoskeletal disorders.Objective: This study was a work site cross-sectional descriptive study carried out amongst the health workers at the Baptist Medical Centre Ogbomoso, Oyo State, south-western Nigeria. The aim of the study was to discern the prevalence of perceived work stress and to explore the relationship between perceived work stress and the presence of hypertension.Methods: A total of 324 consenting health workers of the institution were administered the job demand-control questionnaire to assess work stress. A standardised questionnaire was used to collect socio-demographic data and other personal data. Measurements of blood pressure, weight and height were carried out and body mass indices were calculated.Results: More than a quarter (26.2%) of the subjects perceived themself as stressed at work. The single largest group of hypertensive subjects was seen amongst subjects with work stress.Conclusion: A significant number of health workers in this study is afflicted by work-related stress and perceived work stress was found to be significantly associated with higher hypertension prevalence.
Labor Admission Test
Authors: Arulkumaran Sabaratnam , Talaulikar Vikram Sinai
Published: April 2012

Labor admission test (LAT) is performed at the onset of labor to establish fetal well-being in low-risk pregnancies and identify those fetuses who either may be hypoxic, needing delivery or at risk of developing hypoxia during labor so that additional measures of fetal surveillance can be instituted to prevent adverse outcomes. We searched the literature in Medline, Cochrane Library and PubMed using the words— cardiotocograph, cardiotocogram, nonstress test, vibroacoustic stimulus (VAS), amniotic fluid index (AFI), Doppler, labor admission test, labor admission cardiotocography (CTG) and reviewed four randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and three systematic reviews to summarize the current evidence regarding use of LAT. Although the existing RCTs and systematic reviews do not favor admission testing, we have critically reviewed the methodology used in some of these major studies. There is a need for robust RCTs with adequate sample size to evaluate the effectiveness of LAT. In clinical practice, while a normal admission CTG reassures the mother and the clinician about the health of the baby, an admission CTG with nonreassuring FHR pattern leads to careful review which may reveal a growth restricted or compromised fetus before onset of active labor when the risk of fetal hypoxia is higher with increasing frequency and duration of uterine contractions. Like in other obstetric interventions, the woman should be offered the choice of LAT after providing appropriate information and her informed decision should be respected.
First detection of tidal behaviour in polar mesospheric water vapour by ground based microwave spectroscopy
Authors: Hallgren K. , Hartogh P.
Published: April 2012

Abstract. Mesospheric water vapour has been observed above ALOMAR in northern Norway (69° N 16° E) by our group since 1995 using a 22 GHz ground based microwave spectrometer. A new instrument with higher sensitivity, providing a much better time resolution especially in the upper mesosphere, was installed in May 2008. The time resolution is high enough to provide observations of daily variations in the water vapour mixing ratio. We present the first ground based detections of tidal behaviour in the polar middle atmospheric water vapour distribution. Diurnal and semidiurnal variations of water vapour have been observed and due to the long chemical lifetime of water they are assumed to be caused by changing wind patterns which transport water-rich or poor air into the observed region. The detected tidal behaviour does not follow any single other dynamical field but is instead assumed to be a result of the different wind components. Both the diurnal and semidiurnal amplitude and phase components are resolved. The former shows a stable seasonal behaviour consistent with earlier observations of wind fields and model calculations, whereas the latter appears more complex and no regular behaviour has so far been observed.
Geophysical validation and long-term consistency between GOME-2/MetOp-A total ozone column and measurements from the sensors GOME/ERS-2, SCIAMACHY/ENVISAT and OMI/Aura
Authors: Koukouli M. E. , Balis D. S. , Loyola D. , Valks P. , Zimmer W. , Hao N. , Lambert J.-C. , Van Roozendael M. , Lerot C. , Spurr R. J. D.
Published: April 2012

Abstract. The main aim of the paper is to assess the consistency of five years of Global Ozone Monitoring Experiment-2/Metop-A (GOME-2) total ozone columns and the long-term total ozone satellite monitoring database already in existence through an extensive inter-comparison and validation exercise using as reference Brewer and Dobson ground-based measurements. The behaviour of the GOME-2 measurements is being weighed against that of GOME (1995–2011), Ozone Monitoring Experiment (OMI) (since 2004) and the Scanning Imaging Absorption spectroMeter for Atmospheric CartograpHY (SCIAMACHY) (since 2002) total ozone column products. Over the background truth of the ground-based measurements, the total ozone columns are inter-evaluated using a suite of established validation techniques; the GOME-2 time series follow the same patterns as those observed by the other satellite sensors and in particular, on the average, GOME-2 data underestimate GOME data by about 0.80%, and underestimate SCIAMACHY data by 0.37% with no seasonal dependence of the differences between GOME-2, GOME and SCIAMACHY. The latter is expected since the three data sets are based on similar DOAS algorithms. This underestimation of GOME-2 is within the uncertainty of the reference data used in the comparisons. Compared to the OMI sensor, on the average GOME-2 data underestimate OMI_DOAS (collection 3) data by 1.28%, without any significant seasonal dependence of the differences between them. The lack of seasonality might be expected since both GDP 4.4 and OMI_DOAS are DOAS-type algorithms and both consider the variability of the stratospheric temperatures in their retrievals. Compared to the OMI_TOMS (collection 3) data, no bias was found. We hence conclude that the GOME-2 total ozone columns are well suitable to continue the long-term global total ozone record with the accuracy needed for climate monitoring studies.
A reappraisal of the vital effect in benthic foraminifera on Mg/Ca ratios: species specific uncertainty relationships
Authors: Wit J. C. , de Nooijer L. J. , Barras C. , Jorissen F. , Reichart G. J.
Published: April 2012

Abstract. The reconstruction of past temperatures is often achieved through measuring the Mg/Ca value of foraminiferal test carbonate. The diversity in foraminiferal Mg/Ca-temperature calibrations suggests that there is also a biological control on this proxy. This study presents a new Mg/Ca-temperature calibration for the benthic foraminifer Bulimina marginata, based on cultures under a range of temperatures (4–14 ° C). Measured Mg/Ca values for B. marginata correlate well with temperature (Mg/Ca = 1.10 ± 0.10e0.045 ± 0.009T, R2=0.28, p<0.01). The inter-individual variability is, however, also significant (standard deviation is 10–35 % of the average). Before applying this or any calibration, the effect of the inter-individual variability on the accuracy of the Mg/Ca-temperature calibration has to be evaluated. The inter-individual variability is quantified and split in three components, namely (1) an analytical error; (2) an environmental effect and (3) a vital effect. The effect of inter-individual variability on the accuracy of Mg/Ca-temperature calibrations is depending on the sensitivity of the used calibration and the number of individuals measured (Temperature uncertainty = (0.33 · N−0.50)/sensitivity). The less sensitive a calibration, the greater is the impact of inter-individual variability. This can partly be circumvented by measuring more individuals. Differences in sensitivity may depend on the stability of the environment in which the foraminifera live and the concurring ecological strategy. This study shows the link between inter-individual variability en sensitivity and their influence on the accuracy of \\Mg/Ca-temperature calibrations.
Determinants and Implications of Weak Teachers Performance in Education Sector: A Case of Affiliated Schools from Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education, Multan Division (Pakistan)
Authors: Sattar Tehmina
Published: April 2012

Teachers are the foremost source of knowledge that assists the students to slot in  higher order thinking and construct their own knowledge. Teachers can play an imperative role in converting the raw information into useful knowledge for the students. The major obstructions that are related with weak teachers performance incorporate low level of motivation, inadequate incentives for teachers, lack of supervision, weak inspection system, unfortunate teachers training, scarce teachers qualification and decentralized teachers monitoring system. Additional blockades embrace passive and traditional teaching methods, teachers opposition to reforms, little emphasize on teaching practice and lack of future economic security for the teachers. The researcher interviewed N1=600 respondents through multistage sampling technique. Interview schedule was used as a tool for data collection process from n1=20 affiliated schools (out of N2=306 affiliated schools of BISE) from Multan district. The researcher institute that usage of obsolete teaching methodologies (like memorizing, individual work, repetition and cramming) has deteriorating influences on the students educational carrier. On the basis of the recent research being conducted the researcher concluded that cheating in examinations, lack of dedication to studies, overemphasize on memorizing and weak conceptualization of the students about the particular lesson are the major outcomes of weak teachers performance. Accordingly usage of modern teaching methodologies (such as direct instruction, cooperative learning, group work and discussion) can improve the quality of teachers instruction.
Further Examination of the Market Valuation of Environmental Capital Expenditures by Pulp and Paper Companies
Authors: Solheim Perry Warren
Published: April 2012

In this study I use the US pulp and paper industry to explore the equity market’s valuation of environmental capital expenditures. I replicate and extend a study by Clarkson, Li, and Richardson that bifurcates the industry into high and low polluting groups. As with their study, I find evidence indicating that the market values environmental capital expenditures by over-compliant firms while attaching no such value to the same expenditures by minimally compliant firms. I do not find that the market assesses unrecorded liabilities to firms that are minimally compliant. My extension also seeks to address two possible specification issues in the Clarkson, et. Al. approach.  The first, levels model they used is unbiased but inefficient.  Their model scaled by common shares outstanding attempts to rectify this inefficiency but may not be the optimal choice of scaling variable. My results suggest that a “Best Available Technology” approach to environmental regulation may carry additional incentives provided by the capital markets.
CMA Exam Review Courses
Authors: Barney Doug , Tschopp Daniel , Wells Steve
Published: April 2012

The National Association of Accountants, later renamed theInstitute of Management Accountants (IMA), started the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) certification program in 1972.  Since then the number of candidates seeking the CMA certificationhas grown, most notably in the last several years.  This growth is fueled by several factors, including:The IMA has expanded the base of prospective candidates by easing the international application process.Surveys repeatedly show that CMAs earn significantly more than their counterparts without CMAs, thus enticing more accountants to seek the CMA certification.The redesigned CMA exam identifies and tests competence on practical business topics, thus emphasizing the applicability of CMA knowledge.Recognition and acceptance of the CMA by the business community has grown dramatically in the last 40 years. CMA candidates have a number of exam preparation options, includingseveral CMA review course providers.  (called Providers hereafter in this article.)  This article is intended to be informative for those individuals seeking the CMA certification and wishing to prepare for the exam with a review course.  With the change in CMA exam format, a reexamination of Providers is certainly relevant, especially in light of the approaching 40 year anniversary of the CMA.
Teacher Education Program (B. Ed) in SAARC Countries
Authors: Ahmed Munir , Azeem Muhammad , Khalid Professor Dr. Ibrahim , Farrukh Professor Dr. Irshad Ahmad , Ahmed Dr. Fazal , Ahmed Mr. Shabbir
Published: April 2012

The objective of the study was to evaluate the present Pre-service Elementary Teacher Education Programs (B. Ed & equivalents) of SAARC Countries to reveal innovative ideas, which may be adopted and adapted in other countries including Pakistan. Reference books, journals, research papers, Encyclopedias of education, yearbooks, national educational policies, internet and such other resources were consulted to have an insight of these nations, their system of education and to retrieve salient features of a good Pre-service Elementary Teacher education program. Questionnaire named as “Questionnaire for Elementary Teacher Education program evaluation” was prepared, preened after pilot study at provincial capitals of Pakistan and presented to a team of local and foreign experts. Semi-structured interviews were also conducted to increase the quality and quantity of responses. In the light of high majority opinions criterion component were finalized. These components in the form of question were sent to the SAARC countries through the relevant Embassies, graduate facilitators, who on my behalf collected data. Collected data was sorted out and matched with the already developed criteria. Result revealed that Indian system of Teacher Education matches the criteria most. Pakistan has many mismatches but Elementary Teacher Education Program offered by the University of Education, Lahore and its associated colleges is bridging this gap successfully. Bhutan, Bangladesh and Maldives are showing improvements. The experiments of Sri Lanka & Nepal have many lessons to learn.
Interest Rate Transmission Effect on Money Supply: The Nigerian Experience
Authors: Thaddeus Ebiringa, Oforegbunam
Published: April 2012

This paper investigates the effect of interest indices on money supply. The motivation is to ensure stability in money supply through sustainable interest rate management.  The period 1990-2007 was covered. The Eviews software was used to carry out autoregressive analysis on the variable as well as an assessment of the effects on interest rate indices on money supply. The results among others show that minimum rediscount rate and savings rate have made significant positive impact on money supply. On the other hand, lending rate has made insignificant negative impact on money supply.   Based on the above results the conclusion of the study the inability of the monetary authority to narrow the gap between saving and lending rate remains a key to the problem of instability in money supply, hence concerted effort must by made to strengthen the capacity of regulatory authorities to use market based options monitor and control periodic volatility in money supply through an effective interest rate regimes.
Jewish migration, antiquity
Authors: Gruen Erich S.
Published: April 2012

A Roman army destroyed the Temple in Jerusalem in 70CE. For the Jews of antiquity the loss of the Temple not only constituted a devastating blow but signaled an enduring trauma. It has often been thought that this event triggered the major migration of Jews throughout the Mediterranean and shaped the consciousness of the Jewish diaspora for centuries to follow. To focus on the consequences of the Temple's destruction, however, overlooks a fact of immense significance: Jewish migration had a long history prior to Rome's crushing of Jerusalem. The record of Jewish experience included the notorious “Babylonian captivity” in the 6th centuryBCE, a serious dislocation from the homeland. Whatever the historicity of the alleged “Return” from that displacement, the migration was a fact, not to be reversed. Jews dwelled in Egypt in the 6th century, as papyri from a Jewish military colony at Elephantine reveal. And an archive of documents from Babylon attests to Jews in a variety of trades and professions there even after their supposed restoration to Judah.
A LiF Nanoparticle‐Modified Graphene Electrode for High‐Power and High‐Energy Lithium Ion Batteries
Authors: Wu Zhong‐Shuai , Xue Lili , Ren Wencai , Li Feng , Wen Lei , Cheng Hui‐Ming
Published: April 2012

Surface modification of carbon materials plays an important role in tailoring carbon surface chemistry to specify their electrochemical performance. Here, a surface modification strategy for graphene is proposed to produce LiF‐nanoparticle‐modified graphene as a high‐rate, large‐capacity pre‐lithiated electrode for high‐power and high‐energy lithium ion batteries. The LiF nanoparticles covering the active sites of the graphene surface provide an extra Li source and act as an effective solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) inhibiter to suppress LiFP6 electrolyte decomposition reactions, affect SEI components, and reduce their thickness. Consequently, the Li‐ion diffusion is greatly sped up and the thermodynamic stability of the electrode is significantly improved. This modified graphene electrode shows excellent rate capability and improved first‐cycle coulombic efficiency, cycling stability, and ultrahigh power and energy densities accessible during fast charge/discharge processes.
The rocky road to translation in spinal cord repair
Authors: Filli Linard , Schwab Martin E.
Published: April 2012

Over the past 2 decades, the biological understanding of the mechanisms underlying structural and functional repair of the injured central nervous system has strongly increased. This has resulted in the development of multiple experimental treatment strategies with the collective aim of enhancing and surpassing the limited spontaneous recovery occurring in animal models and ultimately humans suffering from spinal cord or brain injuries. Several of these experimental treatments have revealed beneficial effects in animal models of spinal cord injury. With the exception of neurorehabilitative therapies, however, therapeutic interventions that enhance recovery are currently absent within the clinical realm of spinal cord injury. The present review surveys the prospects and challenges in experimental and clinical spinal cord repair. Major shortcomings in experimental research center on the difficulty of closely modeling human traumatic spinal cord injury in animals, the small number of investigations done on cervical spinal injury and tetraplegia, and the differences in lesion models, species, and functional outcome parameters used between laboratories. The main challenges in the clinical field of spinal cord repair are associated with the standardization and sensitivity of functional outcome measures, the definition of the inclusion/exclusion criteria for patient recruitment in trials, and the accuracy and reliability of an early diagnosis to predict subsequent neurological outcome. Research and clinical networks were recently created with the goal of optimizing animal studies and human trials. Promising clinical trials are currently in progress. The time has come to translate the biologic–mechanistic knowledge from basic science into efficacious treatments able to improve the conditions of humans suffering from spinal cord injury. ANN NEUROL 2012;72:491–501
Changes in Biomechanical Strain and Morphology of Rat Calvarial Sutures and Bone After Tgf‐β3 Inhibition of Posterior Interfrontal Suture Fusion
Authors: Shibazaki‐Yorozuya Reiko , Wang Qian , Dechow Paul C. , Maki Koutaro , Opperman Lynne A.
Published: April 2012

Craniofacial sutures are bone growth fronts that respond and adapt to biomechanical environments. Little is known of the role sutures play in regulating the skull biomechanical environment during patency and fusion conditions, especially how delayed or premature suture fusion will impact skull biomechanics. Tgf‐β3 has been shown to prevent or delay suture fusion over the short term in rat skulls, yet the long‐term patency or its consequences in treated sutures is not known. It was therefore hypothesized that Tgf‐β3 had a long‐term impact to prevent suture fusion and thus alter the skull biomechanics. In this study, collagen gels containing 3 ng Tgf‐β3 were surgically placed superficial to the posterior interfrontal suture (IFS) and deep to the periosteum in postnatal day 9 (P9) rats. At P9, P24, and P70, biting forces and strains over left parietal bone, posterior IFS, and sagittal suture were measured with masticatory muscles bilaterally stimulated, after which the rats were sacrificed and suture patency analyzed histologically. Results demonstrated that Tgf‐β3 treated sutures showed less fusion over time than control groups, and strain patterns in the skulls of the Tgf‐β3‐treated group were different from that of the control group. Although bite force increased with age, no alterations in bite force were attributable to Tgf‐β3 treatment. These findings suggest that the continued presence of patent sutures can affect strain patterns, perhaps when higher bite forces are present as in adult animals. Anat Rec,, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Branch‐Based Model for the Diameters of the Pulmonary Airways: Accounting for Departures From Self‐Consistency and Registration Errors
Authors: Neradilek Moni B. , Polissar Nayak L. , Einstein Daniel R. , Glenny Robb W. , Minard Kevin R. , Carson James P. , Jiao Xiangmin , Jacob Richard E. , Cox Timothy C. , Postlethwait Edward M. , Corley Richard A.
Published: April 2012

We examine a previously published branch‐based approach for modeling airway diameters that is predicated on the assumption of self‐consistency across all levels of the tree. We mathematically formulate this assumption, propose a method to test it and develop a more general model to be used when the assumption is violated. We discuss the effect of measurement error on the estimated models and propose methods that take account of error. The methods are illustrated on data from MRI and CT images of silicone casts of two rats, two normal monkeys, and one ozone‐exposed monkey. Our results showed substantial departures from self‐consistency in all five subjects. When departures from self‐consistency exist, we do not recommend using the self‐consistency model, even as an approximation, as we have shown that it may likely lead to an incorrect representation of the diameter geometry. The new variance model can be used instead. Measurement error has an important impact on the estimated morphometry models and needs to be addressed in the analysis. Anat Rec,, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Conveying information effectively in a virtual world: Insights from synthesized task closure and media richness
Authors: Tan Wee‐Kek , Tan Chuan‐Hoo , Teo Hock‐Hai
Published: April 2012

Scholars and practitioners alike increasingly emphasize the importance of the virtual world as a new medium of communication. Key to the success of this digital medium is its ability to support information exchange when compared with face‐to‐face communication. Its potential is highlighted by the literature illustrating the inadequacy of traditional computer‐mediated communication (CMC) tools, such as e‐mail and video conferencing, to support communication among geographically dispersed coworkers. Many of the traditional CMC tools lack the needed support for effective information exchange to varying degrees. The emergence of a sophisticated virtual world, such as Second Life, has met this dearth. We draw on the theories of task closure and media richness to propose a parsimonious model of information exchange behavior in a virtual world context. Observations from a series of group‐based project discussion sessions in face‐to‐face and virtual world settings, respectively, suggest that the information exchange between coworkers in both settings could be similar. Specifically, virtual coworkers might be able to achieve task closure (i.e., the complete transmission of intended work‐related information) in the same way as their counterparts in the face‐to‐face context.
Simulation guidelines for incisions patterns on RF shields
Authors: Yao Zhen , Wu Yong , Chmielewski Thomas , Shvartsman Shmaryu , Eagan Timothy , Martens Michael , Brown Robert
Published: April 2012

A study is made and guidelines are found for optimizing slit patterns in radiofrequency (RF) shields. It is found that the gradient eddy currents can be effectively reduced by 1) placing a small number of azimuthal slits centered on “cold” bands outside of the central region of the RF shield and 2) restrictions on the lengths of the centralized axial slits. A simple “strip” model is presented to help understand the, perhaps counter‐intuitive, locations of the azimuthal cuts. Special consideration is given to hybrid MRI systems where there is a gap in the main‐magnet and gradient coils. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Concepts Magn Reson Part B (Magn Reson Engineering) 41B: 37–49, 2012
Design study to investigate the effect of curvature on gradient coil performance for localized regions of interest
Authors: Harris C.T. , Handler W.B. , Chronik B.A.
Published: April 2012

In this study, a boundary element method has been implemented to design and analyze the performance of curved gradient coil geometries as a function of the degree of curvature over all three axes, with designs varying continuously from planar to full cylindrical. It was found that there is a monotonic increase in gradient performance with degree of curvature with little gain beyond half‐cylindrical coil geometries for a specific region of interest located 10 cm above the coil surface. The efficiencies of the half‐cylindrical geometry coils are 0.76 mT m−1 A−1, 0.71 mT m−1 A−1, and 0.76 mT m−1 A−1 for the x‐, y‐, and z‐gradient axes, respectively, when scaled to 800 μH inductance. The gradient coils presented in this study would serve as anatomically specific gradient channels to be used in conjunction with larger, whole‐body coils to comprise a 6‐channel hybrid system. The function of these channels could include the ability to provide very high performance diffusion tensor imaging in a specified volume of tissue such as the breast, prostate, or posterior regions of the brain. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Concepts Magn Reson Part B (Magn Reson Engineering) 41B: 62–71, 2012
Building a reusable reverse logistics model and its optimization considering the decision of backorder/next arrival of goods
Authors: Lee Jeong‐Eun , Gen Mitsuo , Rhee Kyong‐Gu , Lee Hee‐Hyol
Published: April 2012

This paper deals with formulating a reusable reverse logistics model considering decisions on backorder/next arrival of goods. The optimization method for minimizing the transportation cost and minimizing the volume of backorder or next arrival of goods by Just In Time (JIT) delivery at the final delivery stage between the manufacturer and the processing center is proposed. The optimization algorithm proposed combines priority‐based encoding/decoding and the hybrid genetic algorithm with a fuzzy logic controller, and suboptimal delivery routes are determined. Based on a case study of a distilling and sales company in Busan in Korea, solution by the new model of the reusable reverse logistics of empty bottles is performed and the effectiveness of the proposed method is verified. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 95(5): 42–55, 2012; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.10387
Vibration mode observation of piezoelectric disk‐type resonator by high‐frequency laser Doppler vibrometer
Authors: Matsumura Takeshi , Esashi Masayoshi , Harada Hiroshi , Tanaka Shuji
Published: April 2012

For future mobile phones based on cognitive radio technology, a compact multiband RF front‐end architecture is strongly required, and an integrated multiband RF filter bank is a key component in it. Contour‐mode resonators are receiving increased attention for a multiband filter solution, because their resonance frequency is mainly determined by their size and shape, which are defined by lithography. However, spurious responses, including flexural vibration, are also excited due to the thin structure of the devices. To improve resonator performance and suppress spurious modes, visual observation with a laser probe system is very effective. In this paper, we prototyped a mechanically coupled disk‐array filter, which consists of a silicon disk and two disk‐type resonators of higher‐order wineglass mode, and observed its vibration modes using a high‐frequency laser Doppler vibrometer (UHF‐120, Polytec, Inc.). It was confirmed that the higher‐order wineglass mode vibration included a compound displacement, and that its out‐of‐plane vibration amplitude was much smaller than that of other flexural spurious modes. The observed vibration modes were compared with FEM (Finite Element Method) simulation results. In addition, it was also confirmed that fabrication error (e.g., misalignment) induced asymmetric vibration. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 95(5): 33–41, 2012; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.10406
Electrical properties of heat‐treated polylactic acid
Authors: Oi Toru , Shinyama Katsuyoshi , Fujita Shigetaka
Published: April 2012

Polylactic acid (PLA), a biodegradable plastic, has excellent electrical insulation properties at temperatures ranging from room temperature to around 70 °C. At temperatures higher than 70 °C, however, the insulation performance of PLA deteriorates due to its poor heat resistance. In this study, PLA was heat‐treated at 100 °C to endow it with greater heat resistance, and the effects of this heat treatment on the electrical properties of PLA were investigated. Before being subjected to heat treatment, the crystallinity (xc) of PLA was about 6%. After the heat treatment was begun, xc increased in proportion to the heat treatment time, such that measurements revealed that xc had increased to about 42% by 15 minutes after the start of the heat treatment. The temperature dependence of the insulation breakdown strength (EB) of heat‐treated PLA was investigated, and it was found that EB of heat‐treated PLA (PLA‐A) decreases at a more moderate rate at temperatures above 60 °C. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 180(1): 1–8, 2012; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.21272
ortho‐Olefination of Arylaldehyde O‐Methyloximes through Palladium‐Catalyzed C–H Activation
Authors: Xu Zhipeng , Xiang Biao , Sun Peipei
Published: April 2012

Palladium(II)‐catalyzed ortho‐olefination of arylaldehyde O‐methyloximes by using O‐methyloxime as a directing group gave 2‐alkenylarylaldehyde O‐methyloximes in moderate to good yields. After various reaction parameters (catalyst, oxidant, solvent, and reaction temperature) were examined, the optimal conditions for the reaction were identified. 2‐Alkenylarylaldehydes could be obtained conveniently by hydrolysis of the coupling products. The kinetic isotope effect (kH/kD) for the C–H bond activation was provided, and the possible mechanism of the reaction was proposed.
Diffusiophoresis of a polyelectrolyte in a salt concentration gradient
Authors: Liu Kuan‐Liang , Hsu Jyh‐Ping , Hsu Wei‐Lun , Yeh Li‐Hsien , Tseng Shiojenn
Published: April 2012

The diffusiophoresis of a polyelectrolyte subject to an applied salt concentration gradient is modeled theoretically. The entirely porous type of particle is capable of simulating entities such as DNA, protein, and synthetic polymeric particles. The dependence of the diffusiophoretic behavior of the polyelectrolyte on its physical properties, and the types of ionic species and their bulk concentrations are discussed in detail. We show that in addition to the effects coming from the polarization of double layer and the difference in the ionic diffusivities, the polarization of the condensed counterions inside the polyelectrolyte might also be significant. The last effect, which has not been reported previously, reduces both the electric force and the hydrodynamic force acting on the polyelectrolyte. Both the direction and the magnitude of the diffusiophoretic velocity of the polyelectrolyte are found to highly depend upon its physical properties. These results provide valuable references for applications such as DNA sequencing and catalytic nano‐ or micromotors.
Simulation of the effects of complex‐ formation equilibria in electrophoresis: I. Mathematical model
Authors: Hruška Vlastimil , Beneš Martin , Svobodová Jana , Zusková Iva , Gaš Bohuslav
Published: April 2012

Simul 5 Complex is a one‐dimensional dynamic simulation software designed for electrophoresis, and it is based on a numerical solution of the governing equations, which include electromigration, diffusion and acid–base equilibria. A new mathematical model has been derived and implemented that extends the simulation capabilities of the program by complexation equilibria. The simulation can be set up with any number of constituents (analytes), which are complexed by one complex‐forming agent (ligand). The complexation stoichiometry is 1:1, which is typical for systems containing cyclodextrins as the ligand. Both the analytes and the ligand can have multiple dissociation states. Simul 5 Complex with the complexation mode runs under Windows and can be freely downloaded from our web page http://natur.cuni.cz/gas. The article has two separate parts. Here, the mathematical model is derived and tested by simulating the published results obtained by several methods used for the determination of complexation equilibrium constants: affinity capillary electrophoresis, vacancy affinity capillary electrophoresis, Hummel–Dreyer method, vacancy peak method, frontal analysis, and frontal analysis continuous capillary electrophoresis. In the second part of the paper, the agreement of the simulated and the experimental data is shown and discussed.